Utility vehicle having vehicle control module

Abstract

To improve performance of a utility vehicle of a vehicle control module in some utility vehicle types.SOLUTION: The utility vehicle comprises: an electric motor configured to supply a motive force to the utility vehicle; a lithium-ion battery pack connected to the electric motor by a first voltage and having a DC / DC converter operated to supply power of the first voltage to the electric motor in order to drive the utility vehicle and configured to output power of a second voltage; and a vehicle control module (VCM) connected to the lithium-ion battery pack and the DC / DC converter, and configured to operate by the second voltage and control at least some operations of the utility vehicle.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to utility vehicles. Specifically, but not by way of limitation, the present invention relates to a utility vehicle equipped with a vehicle control module. Regarding. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0002] Utility vehicles are an area of ​​interest. Some existing systems are limited in some applications. For example, there are various shortcomings, drawbacks and shortcomings associated with some utility vehicle configurations. In this way, the vehicle control module can improve the performance of the utility vehicle. Therefore, there is a need for further contributions in this field. [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] One embodiment of the present invention is a unique utility vehicle. Apparatus, system, device, hardware, method and method for utility vehicles Further embodiments, aspects, features, aspects, benefits, and advantages are set forth in the specification. This will be apparent from the description and drawings set forth herein.

[0004] The description herein is based on the several figures, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout. This is done with reference to the attached drawings, which are [Brief description of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] 1 shows a schematic illustration of an exemplary vehicle system according to an illustrative embodiment of the present application; [Diagram 2]FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of an example subsystem of a vehicle control system according to an illustrative embodiment of the present application. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 shows an illustration of an example architecture for a subsystem of a vehicle control system having an electronic battery control module connected to a lithium-ion battery pack. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 shows an illustration of an example architecture for a subsystem of a vehicle control system having an electronic battery control module connected to a lithium-ion battery pack. [Diagram 5] 1 shows an illustration of an exemplary Lithium / AC vehicle control system architecture having an electronic battery control module connected to a Lithium-Ion battery pack, in which the vehicle control module outputs signals to multiple DC powered loads. [Figure 6] 1 shows an illustration of an exemplary Lithium / AC vehicle control system architecture having an electronic battery control module connected to a Lithium-ion battery pack in which a user display receives power via an auxiliary DC / DC converter. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of an example subsystem of a vehicle control system according to an illustrative embodiment of the present application. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of an example architecture for a subsystem of a vehicle control system having an electronic battery control module connected to a lithium-ion battery pack. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of an example architecture for a subsystem of a vehicle control system having an electronic battery control module connected to a lithium-ion battery pack. [Figure 10] 1 shows an illustration of an exemplary Lithium / AC vehicle control system architecture having an electronic battery control module connected to a Lithium-Ion battery pack, in which the vehicle control module outputs signals to multiple DC powered loads. [Figure 11]1 shows an illustration of an exemplary Lithium / AC vehicle control system architecture having an electronic battery control module connected to a Lithium-Ion battery pack, in which the user display receives power via an auxiliary DC / DC converter.

[0006] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain embodiments according to the present invention, are presented in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. For the purposes of illustrating the invention, the drawings will be better understood when read together with the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the arrangements and instrumentalities shown in the attached drawings. It should be understood that this is not possible. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0007] Certain terms are used in the above description for convenience but are not intended to be limiting. ”, “lower”, “top”, “bottom”, “first”, and words such as "second" refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The term includes the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof and words of similar import. The words "a" and "one" refer to one or more unless specifically stated otherwise. A list of two or more items may follow, e.g., "A, B or C The phrase "at least one of" refers to any one of A, B, or C. "a" or "b" refers to any one of the above individually as well as any combination thereof.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary vehicle system 10 according to an illustrative embodiment of the present application. As shown, the exemplary vehicle system 10 includes an associated vehicle control system 14. A utility vehicle 12 may be provided. A variety of different types of vehicles may be used in this manner. The utility vehicle 12 can be used as a The vehicle may be electrically powered, e.g., by electricity, battery, internal combustion engine, or other power source, in addition to other power sources. Electrified or powered by the use of combustion engines, renewable energy sources, and / or combinations thereof In one particular embodiment, the utility vehicle 12 may be a vehicle that Power is supplied to the motor of the utility vehicle 12 which generates the driving force to move the utility vehicle 12. and / or one or more of the utility vehicles 12. A lithium ion battery pack configured to power the above electrical device. Additionally, the utility vehicle 12 may be adapted for a variety of different types of applications and / or uses. For example, in some embodiments, the utility vehicle 12 Alternatively or additionally, according to other embodiments, the vehicle is an electric golf car or cart. The utility vehicles 12 may be fully autonomous vehicles, relatively small all-terrain utility vehicles, Neighborhood vehicles, or any other light utility vehicles similarly classified. Thus, in the specification describing a "utility vehicle," The following description should not be construed as limiting and may apply more broadly than that described herein. It is possible.

[0009] A vehicle control system that may be positioned within and / or around the utility vehicle 12. System 14 may utilize a variety of different types of hardware and / or software. Further, the vehicle control system 14 may include, for example, at least one of the following: A variety of different computer-based applications, including those illustrated in Figures 2-6 In addition, according to some embodiments, the vehicle control system may be configured to Stem 14 provides various computer software applications, components, Executing or relying on programs, objects, modules and / or data structures Furthermore, various applications, components, programs, The objects and / or modules may be implemented in one or more of the vehicle control systems 14. on a processor on the vehicle, or on another device or web connected to the vehicle control system 14 It can be run on a network of servers.

[0010] According to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle control system 14 includes a processing device 16, an input The input / output device 18, memory 20, and arithmetic logic 22 are also included as shown. The vehicle control system 14 may communicate with one or more external devices 2, as described in more detail below. 4. The input / output device 18 allows the vehicle control system 14 to communicate with an external device. to communicate with the device and / or to receive / communicate commands and / or information; The device may be any type of device that allows the user to For example, the input / output device 18 may be a network adapter, a network card, or Ports (e.g. USB ports, serial ports, parallel ports, VGA, VDI, H It can be a USB 3.0, ... / Output device 18 may be comprised of hardware, software, and / or firmware. The input / output device 18 may be any of these adapters, cards, or It is contemplated that the present invention may include more than one of the ports. For example, the vehicle control system 14 may support, among other things, one or more communication protocols. By using the wireless protocol or data stream on The device may include or be connected to one or more transceivers configured to communicate with This can be done.

[0011] The external device 24 allows data to be input or output from the vehicle control system 14. The device may be any type of device. A few non-limiting examples are given below. The external device 24 can then be a mobile device, another computer, a server, a printer, Displays, alarms, light indicators, keyboards, mice, mouse buttons, or It may also be a touch screen display. For example, it is contemplated that the external device 24 may be integrated into the vehicle control system 14. For example, The vehicle control system 14 may be a smartphone, a laptop computer, or a tablet. Additionally, in some embodiments, the display of the external device 24 may be a The play, if any, is integrated into the vehicle control system 14 as a unit or For example, smartphones, laptop computers, or to match the general design of some external devices 24 such as tablet computers, etc. Additionally, more than one external device may be in communication with the vehicle control system 14. It is conceivable that it may exist.

[0012] The processing device 16 is of the programmable type, a dedicated hard-wired state machine, or a combination thereof, and further, may be multi-processors, arithmetic logic units, may comprise ALUs, central processing units (CPUs), or the like. Regarding the form of the processing device 16 having multiple processing units, it is possible to use a distributed, pipelined Multiplexed and / or parallel processing may be utilized as appropriate. 6 may be dedicated to performing the operations described herein itself, or It may be made available for one or more additional uses. In a dedicated form: The processing device 16 operates by programming instructions (software or flash) stored in a memory 20. Executes algorithms according to operational logic 22 defined by a software program (such as firmware) Alternatively or additionally, the processing device 16 may be a programmable type for processing data. The operational logic 22 for the The processing device 16 is defined by input / output devices 18, external devices 24, or any other type of suitable for processing signals received from The above components can be used to provide the desired output signal. Such components may be digital circuits, analog circuits, or a combination of both. It is possible.

[0013] The memory 20 may be one or more of a variety of types, such as solid state, electromagnetic, optical, or a combination of these types. According to some embodiments, the memory 20 may be of a random RAM devices, secondary levels of memory (e.g. cache memory) non-volatile or back-up memory (e.g., programmable memory or flash memory) flash memory), read-only memory, or a combination thereof. In addition, the memory 20 may be volatile, non-volatile, or a hybrid of these types. Some or all of the memory 20 may be portable, e.g., disk, tape, memory stick, etc. The memory 20 may be a tick, a cartridge, or the like. The data that is manipulated by the arithmetic logic 22 of the processing device 16, for example, as shown in one embodiment In addition to or instead of storing programming instructions that define the arithmetic logic 22 to be determined, Instead, a data representing signals received and / or transmitted to the input / output device 18 is used. As shown in FIG. 1, in some embodiments, this memory 20 may be included in and / or connected to processing device 16. The library 20 may, for example, collect, among other data, information about one or more utility vehicles 12 It is possible to store various data including at least data related to setting control. In addition to the memory 20, the vehicle system 10 may store, anywhere in the vehicle system 10, For example, the external device 24 may have other memory arranged in the CPU. cache memory, as well as any storage capacity used as virtual memory (e.g., or other computer connected to the vehicle system 10). Cut.

[0014] The external device 24 may have one or more similar characteristics to the vehicle control system 14 described above. It is possible to limit the external devices 24 to any particular type of device. Data from external device 24 may be transmitted to the vehicle control system using any of a variety of techniques. For example, the data may be transmitted over a wired or wireless link. and / or a memory module (e.g. a USB stick) can be inserted into an external device. The external device 24 can be connected to the vehicle control system 14. 24 to the vehicle control system 14. A combination of the above is also possible.

[0015] According to some embodiments, the utility vehicle 12 may be connected to one or more networks. The device may be configured to communicate information externally via an external device 24, including a Each of the or more networks is configured to transmit and / or receive data. Among the networks, for example, wireless LAN (i.e., Wi-Fi), wideband Area Networks (WANs), Cellular Networks (e.g. 3G, 4G Long Range LTE, 5G, etc.) and / or Internet One or more computer networks, such as a local area network (LAN). The network may include, or be in operative communication with, a

[0016] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the utility vehicle 12 includes a telematics system. Navigation systems, which may also be referred to as telematics systems and / or individual telematics systems and may be equipped with or connected to a GPS positioning system (NPS). According to this embodiment, the NPS is a global positioning system mounted externally to the utility vehicle 12. A GPS positioning system and / or an electronic leveling device connected to the utility vehicle 12. According to such an embodiment, the NPS may collect, for example, among other data: electronically communicate with the vehicle control system 14 for the purpose of providing and / or receiving information, including geographic location data; In addition, in some embodiments, other additional information may be connected to the NPS and The vehicle control system 14 may transmit the signal to or from the vehicle control system 14. "Telematics" is the transfer of information from remote communication devices to remote objects. It includes the integrated use of communications and information technologies to store and receive. Telematics includes navigation and positioning information provision, navigation and positioning information provision, communication, exchange of information between a central location and vehicles, and management and monitoring of vehicle operations may include any one or more of the following: Communication can take place over cellular networks, but also over other types of data transmission. Reception is also possible.

[0017] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle control system 14 further includes, for example, A display 26 positioned for viewing by a user or operator of the utility vehicle 12. In some embodiments, the display 26 may be a touch screen. Visual display devices, such as clean interactive displays (especially For example, monitors, liquid crystal display (LCD) panels, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays The display may be a display panel (such as a display unit) that displays the current state of the utility vehicle 12. Real-time updated information on the location, as well as other utility vehicles A variety of information can be displayed, including information relating to

[0018] In various embodiments, a vehicle control system for an electric or gas utility vehicle 12 The 14 can have several subsystems, including but not limited to: Not limited to, but includes electronic vehicle control modules, motor controllers (e.g., utility vehicles) (For utility vehicles with electric motors for propulsion or motive power on both sides) Utility control module / unit (ECU) (e.g., similarly or alternatively, (for a utility vehicle having an engine for propulsion or motive power of the vehicle 12), Electronic Battery Control Module (BCM), also known as Battery Management System (BMS), A battery charger, a user display, and a wireless connection module, In some embodiments, for example, Ingersoll Rand PLC Club Car LLC, a member of the Group, offers a range of sports cars, such as the Golf Providing information about local environments such as courses and individual holes on golf courses; For example, geodes that prevent utility vehicles from driving on the green or in the pond, etc. It can be used in conjunction with an electronic vehicle control module to provide fencing, and This may include the use of GPS and telematics systems or devices. The Visage Display Unit (VDU) can be considered The wireless connection module may be capable of or may comprise: The system may be based on a common standard, which may be based, for example, but is not limited to, an automotive industry standard. Signal bus / protocol (LIN, CAN, FlexRay, etc.) or dedicated network In some embodiments, the BM The S or BCM is part of a lithium ion battery pack. BMS or BCM is a VDU (Visage Display Unit) power supply, DC / DC power supply, auxiliary 12V Includes DC / DC power supplies, main power enables and motor control power supplies.

[0019] In the illustrated embodiment, the utility vehicle 12 includes a vehicle control module (VCM). In some embodiments, the VCM controls all vehicle subsystems and electrical An independent supervisory authority configured and responsible for supervisory control and monitoring of operational components. In some embodiments, the VCM performs other actions. The lithium-ion battery pack can be configured to control the following functions: 28V or other voltage, and connects the power of the first voltage to an electric motor. The system operates to supply electric motors for driving utility vehicles. The vehicle 12 may include a second battery having a lower voltage than the first voltage, for example as part of a lithium ion battery pack. The DC / DC converter may be configured to output power at a voltage. In the embodiment, the second voltage is 12V. VCM is connected to a DC / DC converter. and configured to receive power from the DC / DC converter and operate at a second voltage. and is configured to control at least some operation of the utility vehicle 12.

[0020] In one form, the VCM is a closed loop subsystem for charging a vehicle battery. The utility vehicle 12 provides communication, control and monitoring. The charger is connected to the lithium-ion battery pack under the control of the VCM. The device is configured to charge an UM-ion battery pack.

[0021] In electric utility vehicles, the VCM is a hardware-based discrete input. The charger is configured to detect the connection of the charger via the The VCM communicates with the motor controller to, for example, prevent vehicle motion while charging. The VCM detects that the vehicle is in charging mode and turns off power to the controller logic board. The battery control module is configured to notify the battery control module on a separate data bus of the charging mode. When the battery control module is in the Based on the algorithm, the device broadcasts the requested charging current value on the data bus. The VCM is a battery, e.g., a lithium-ion battery pack, in one form. The lithium ion battery pack includes one or more lithium ion battery cells. The charger outputs the requested charging current value via the data bus to charge the Issues a command to turn on the charger. The requested charging current value can be, for example, one or may vary at different points or times throughout the charging cycle based on further parameters. For example, a requested magnitude of current can be calculated using stored equations and stored rules. The power supply to the VCM or the charger is based on at least one of the lookup tables. The requested current can be based on one or more of several parameters. Also, for example, temperature such as battery temperature, how fully charged the battery pack is, The limiting current may be set based on the desired battery life or The battery life is determined based on charge cycle life and / or other parameters. When the charging current value of the module changes, the new or changed current value is broadcast on the data bus. The charger is broadcast and the VCM does not allow new charges to be applied until the VCM determines that charging is complete. The charger may be commanded to output a new or changed charging current value.

[0022] The VCM may be, for example, disposed as part of or considered as part of the motor controller. The present invention is configured to perform vehicle power bus pre-charging such that a capacitor back that can be used for charging the vehicle power bus is pre-charged. The VCM may be configured, for example, before the utility vehicle is driven or when the electric motor is activated. The VCM may be configured to pre-charge the capacitor bank before the power supply is turned on. Vehicle subsystem components including a power controller and a battery control module; Data bus communication allows vehicle / battery power contactor welding to be detected and To prevent this, all vehicle / battery power contactors are prioritized (sequenced) In some embodiments, this sequencing is configured to perform a pre-charge sequence. For example, in some embodiments, the lithium ion battery pack is , which is used to precharge the motor controller's capacitor bank. After the contactors are disconnected, they are inspected to see if they have closed unintentionally, e.g., welded closed. For example, in regard to Figure 4, the main contactor is connected to the lithium-ion battery. This is checked by subtracting the Vout of the pack from the Vcap of the capacitor bank. If the delta or difference is greater than a threshold, e.g., a predetermined threshold, then the contactor is not welded closed. If Δ is not greater than the threshold, the weld check has failed, which means that the main This means that the contactor is welded. Next, check contactor B. The threshold is calculated by subtracting Vm from Vcap. This delta or difference is then equal to a threshold, e.g., a predetermined threshold. If Δ is not greater than the threshold, the contactor is not welded closed. The contactor check has failed, meaning that contactor B is welded.

[0023] In the illustrated embodiment, there are three contactors: a main contactor and a In some embodiments, the contactors A and B are lithium-ion. In other embodiments, more or less Alternatively or different contactors may be employed. For example, some embodiments may use a main It can have only contactor A and B, or only one or both of contactors A and B. Other embodiments may include a main contactor as well as a contactor A. and B.

[0024] The VCM may have one or more outputs, such as discrete outputs (e.g., on or off). off), analog output (e.g. variable voltage and / or current output), and vehicle accessory For example, but not limited to, each of the above may be provided by, for example, VCM. Powered by the second power supply of V, headlights, taillights, brake lights, horn, All vehicle accessories including relay control for one-time running lights and customer added accessories The output from the VCM is configured to provide a data bus control (e.g., digital output). The force may be used, for example and without limitation, to contact the contactors A, B and main contacts described above. Control alternative and / or additional components such as the BCM and MCU. It can be either directly or indirectly through other subsystems. In some operations, the VCM may be used to shut down the main power output, for example, when the main power output is disconnected or when a welded When the check is complete, the main DC / DC converter is disabled. The VCM can output commands to control the contactors and converters to and / or additionally, after the main power output of the pack is disconnected via a contactor, Turn on the main DC / DC converter to discharge the HV capacitor in the MCU. In some configurations, the VCM is driven by the MCU. The wheel speed can be monitored via an encoder that operates the If motion is detected while the motor is off, the VCM will operate the MCU in regenerative braking mode. It can output a command to control all contactors to the closed position so that Any control mode of the VCM requires direct I / O (separate and dedicated discrete or can occur either on a digital signal (analog signal) or on the in-vehicle network communication bus.

[0025] In some embodiments, the VCM may be implemented as, for example, hardware, software, or a Firmware configurations can be used to configure unique lighting behaviors. For example: Daytime running lights are turned on by the VCM when the vehicle is moving forward or backward. and can be turned off when the vehicle is stopped, which It is possible to reduce power consumption in vehicle applications. The CM may additionally or alternatively implement alternating wig wag headlight operation. The headlights can be configured to be controlled for this purpose.

[0026] In some embodiments, the utility vehicle 12 stores utility vehicle configuration information The one or more memories are configured to store The memory is accessible to the VCM and, in some embodiments, is part of the VCM. Examples of configuration information include maximum speed, headlight operation, and multiple utility vehicle components. The operation of one or more of the components and / or the accessories that are factory-installed. For example, the utility vehicle 12 may include a non-volatile memory that stores initial factory configuration settings or programming. The non-volatile memory may comprise a persistent non-volatile memory, e.g. It can be a one-time programmable memory such as a PROM, or an EPR. It may be ROM or EEPROM, or may be other types of non-volatile memory. During initial vehicle programming at the factory, the vehicle configuration and settings can be In one embodiment, the active configuration memory or a memory area. In some embodiments, the active configuration memory further comprises: , customer configuration settings, e.g., changes or additions made by the customer of the electric utility vehicle 12 The persistent non-volatile memory also stores the configuration settings that were configured in the utility while it was in the factory. For example, tire size on the vehicle 12 (which may affect, for example, the top speed) This provides a permanent record of configuration and settings, including any changes that may be made to the configuration.

[0027] In some embodiments, the VCM performs multi-level fault management / storage monitoring. It is configured to manage and implement vehicle response and ensure safe vehicle operation. VCM control allows independent control of all subsystems coordinated to operate in parallel. The fault vehicle responses controlled may include, but are not limited to, complete vehicle shutdown, vehicle minimum There may be high speed reductions and / or user information / warnings (both visual and / or audible) do.

[0028] VCM supports multiple vehicle operating modes and It is configured to provide a timeout that optimizes battery life. , including but not limited to, standby mode, active mode, during which the utility The vehicle 12 can be driven in the active mode, charging mode, towing mode, and and / or a loading mode, as well as a low power mode. M is the battery control module power supply and main contact that receives commands via the data bus. The VCM control of the turbine is based on the vehicle operating mode.

[0029] In some embodiments, the VCM is connected to a vehicle system data bus component. The authentication of the client is performed by a seed-key algorithm. For example, the VCM may be connected to a network (e.g., a CAN or other network or communication bus / and (c) authenticating a vehicle system data bus component via a protocol. .

[0030] In some embodiments, the VCM may include, but is not limited to, a wireless connection to a data bus. Module, data bus connected diagnostic tool, and / or data bus connected computer Vehicle computer from multiple sources using multiple protocols including computers or controllers configured to monitor, control and coordinate component software updates do.

[0031] In some embodiments, the VCM may include, for example, a wireless connectivity module, a GPS, a geofence, your transaction data, and / or one or more other devices and / or data sources. Based on commands received from the source, the system performs supervisory control of the maximum speed and permitted heading of the vehicle. It is configured to:

[0032] In some embodiments, the VCM may display some or all of the vehicle status information. The control and data bus transmission is configured to:

[0033] In one aspect of the present application, an electric motor configured to provide motive power to a utility vehicle is provided. a motor; and a lithium ion battery pack connected to the electric motor at a first voltage, a power supply for supplying power at a first voltage to the electric motor to drive the utility vehicle; a DC / DC converter operable to output power at a second voltage; a lithium ion battery pack and a second voltage and configured to control at least some operation of the utility vehicle. and a vehicle control module (VCM) configured to: There is a vehicle.

[0034] A feature of the present application is that the second voltage is lower than the first voltage.

[0035] Another feature of the present application is a device that is communicatively connected to the VCM and the lithium ion battery pack. and configured to charge the lithium ion battery pack under control of the VCM. It has the distinctive feature of being equipped with a special charger.

[0036] According to another aspect of the present application, the VCM may further transmit a request to the charger. A unit that supplies the current to the lithium ion battery to charge the lithium ion battery. The device is characterized in that it is configured to emit a signal.

[0037] In another aspect of the present application, the requested current is determined based on at least one parameter. The characteristic of this type of sensor is that it changes size in response to the sensor data.

[0038] In another aspect of the present application, the requested magnitude of current is determined according to stored equations and and a stored lookup table. It has the characteristic that it is supplied to the jar.

[0039] According to another aspect of the present application, the VCM further comprises a capacitor bank. and pre-charging the capacitor bank prior to driving the utility vehicle. It has the following characteristics.

[0040] According to another aspect of the present application, the lithium ion battery pack comprises a lithium ion battery cell. a motor controller connected to the electric motor; and configured to control electrical flow from an ion battery cell to the motor controller. a contactor, the VCM performing a test to determine whether the contactor is in a closed position. The present invention has a feature that the present invention is configured to carry out the following steps.

[0041] In another aspect of the present application, the VCM is adapted to determine whether the contactor is welded in the closed position. The device is characterized in that it is configured to perform a test to determine whether or not the device is

[0042] In another aspect of the present application, the utility vehicle includes at least one power supply that operates at the second voltage. and the VCM is connected to at least one accessory. The control circuit is configured to control the above.

[0043] In another aspect of the present application, the VCM includes a controller for controlling the at least one accessory. Therefore, at least one of the following shall be provided: discrete output, analog output, and data bus signal. The device is characterized in that it is configured to supply one

[0044] In another aspect of the present application, the VCM may provide power of the second voltage to the at least one The present invention has the feature that it is configured to supply the above-mentioned accessories.

[0045] Another feature of the present application is a daytime running light, and the VCM is turning on said daytime running lights when said utility vehicle is moving and The utility vehicle is configured to turn off the daytime running lights when the utility vehicle is stopped. It has the characteristic that it is accomplished.

[0046] Another feature of the present application is a daytime running light, and the VCM is The daytime running lights are turned on when the utility vehicle is moving forward or backward. It has the characteristic that it is configured to

[0047] Another feature of the present application is a headlight, wherein the VCM is configured to control the headlights to perform waggle headlight operation. , it has the following characteristics.

[0048] Another feature of the present application is that the device further includes a non-volatile memory for storing initial factory configuration settings. It has the characteristic of being able to

[0049] In another aspect of the present application, the non-volatile memory is a one-time programmable memory. There is a characteristic that.

[0050] Another feature of the present application further includes a method for selecting one of the initial factory configuration settings and the customer selected configuration settings. The device is characterized by having an active configuration memory that stores at least one

[0051] In another aspect of the present application, the VCM includes a multi-level fault management / storage monitoring process. and / or configured to perform the functions described above, and The present invention has a feature that the present invention is configured to enable independent control.

[0052] In another aspect of the present application, the VCM is adapted to optimize vehicle response and / or stabilize It has the following features:

[0053] In another aspect of the present application, the VCM may include a complete vehicle shutdown, reduced maximum vehicle speed, and / or a fault vehicle response including user information / warnings; It has the following characteristics.

[0054] As another feature of the present application, the VCM saves energy, improves safety, and and configured to produce a plurality of vehicle operating modes selected to optimize battery life. It has the characteristic that it is.

[0055] In another aspect of the present application, the VCM may provide the utility vehicle with a plurality of operating modes. The plurality of operating modes may include one or more of the following: Standby mode, active mode, charging mode, towing mode, loading mode, and / or It has the feature of having a low power mode.

[0056] Another feature of the present application is to provide a power supply for a power supply that is connected to the power supply of the power supply. The present invention has a feature that it is configured to control.

[0057] Another feature of the present application is a system including a data bus and a battery control module. The VCM receives commands over a data bus based on a vehicle operating mode. The control module is configured to control a power supply and / or a main contactor. There is.

[0058] Other features of the present application further include a vehicle system data bus component and network a vehicle system data bus component connected to the vehicle system data bus via the network; The VCM is connected to the vehicle data base via the network. The feature is that the authentication method is configured to authenticate the service component.

[0059] In another aspect of the present application, the VCM uses a seed key algorithm to and configured to authenticate the vehicle data bus component via a network. It has the following characteristics.

[0060] In another aspect of the present application, the VCM is adapted to receive vehicle component software from multiple sources. and a software update control system for controlling and coordinating software updates for the multiple sources. Examples include wireless connection modules connected to the data bus and diagnostic tools connected to the data bus. and at least one computer connected to a data bus. do.

[0061] Another feature of the present application further includes a wireless connection module configured to provide wireless connectivity. The VCM is configured to: , configured to perform supervisory control of the maximum speed and permitted orientation of the vehicle. .

[0062] In another aspect of the present application, the VCM controls and digitizes vehicle status display information. The present invention is characterized in that it is configured to provide a .tabasu transmission.

[0063] In another aspect of the present application, the VCM controls all vehicle status display information. and configured to provide data bus transmission.

[0064] Another aspect of the present application is an electric vehicle configured to provide motive power to a utility vehicle. a battery pack connected to the electric motor at a first voltage via a main power output. a power supplying unit that supplies power at a first voltage to the electric motor to drive the utility vehicle; and operable to output power to an auxiliary output at a second voltage lower than said first voltage. The ion battery pack includes a DC / DC converter configured as a a power inverter connected to said utility vehicle and configured to operate at said second voltage; a vehicle control module (VCM) configured to control both the vehicle and the vehicle components; There is a utility vehicle called

[0065] According to another aspect of the present application, the battery pack is a lithium ion battery pack; and a voltage regulator connected to the VCM and the lithium-ion battery pack and under the control of the VCM; a charger configured to charge the lithium ion battery pack, M supplies the current requested by the charger to the lithium ion battery. and configured to issue a command to charge the lithium ion battery using the request A stored magnitude current is determined by a stored equation and a stored look-up table. The VCM or the charger is supplied based on at least one of the above. do.

[0066] Another feature of the present application further includes a motor configured to adjust the electric motor. The battery pack includes a control unit (MCU) for selecting a circuit path to a main power output. a battery contactor configured to selectively open and close the battery pack; and a and a motor contact that is controllable between a closed state and an open state by the motor control unit. and configured to control electrical flow from a battery cell to the motor controller. and the motor contactor, and the VCM is determining whether the contactor is in a welded condition for a contactor including a power contactor; The test is characterized in that it is configured to perform an inspection.

[0067] In another aspect of the present application, the MCU includes a capacitor bank, and the VCM includes and issuing a command useful for connecting the MCU to the battery pack via a second auxiliary output. and the second auxiliary output is configured to be capacitively charged before the utility vehicle is driven. configured to provide a pre-charge voltage higher than the second voltage useful for pre-charging a battery bank. It has the characteristic that it can be

[0068] In another aspect of the present application, the utility vehicle is at least one each having one accessory, and the VCM is configured to control at least one accessory. the VCM is configured to supply power at the second voltage to the at least one accessory. The VCM also includes a discrete ( configured to provide at least one of a discrete output, an analog output, and a data bus signal It has the characteristic that it is.

[0069] In another aspect of the present application, the at least one accessory is a pair of headlights. The VCM controls the headlights to perform an alternating wigwag headlight operation. It has the characteristic that it is configured to

[0070] In another aspect of the present application, the VCM includes a multi-level fault management / supervision Visual processing and / or implementation and independent control of all vehicle subsystems and / or accessories The VCM may be configured to enable a complete vehicle shutdown, a reduction in maximum vehicle speed, and / or a fault vehicle response including user information / warning, The CM may be configured to operate the utility vehicle in one or more of a plurality of operating modes. The multiple operation modes include a standby mode, an active mode, and a Active mode, charging mode, towing mode, loading mode, and / or low power mode. , it has the following characteristics.

[0071] Other features of the present application further include a vehicle system data bus component and network a vehicle system data bus component connected to the vehicle system data bus component via the network; The VCM is connected to the vehicle system data through the network. and the VCM is configured to authenticate the VCM using a seed key algorithm. and communicating said vehicle system data bus components over said network using said algorithm. The present invention has the feature that it is configured to authenticate.

[0072] In another aspect of the present application, the VCM receives vehicle components from at least one source. configured to monitor, control and coordinate component software updates; The vehicle component software updates include BMS, MCU, and disk and updating at least one of the play control units based on a plurality of sources. Examples of such devices include wireless connection modules connected to a data bus, diagnostic tools connected to a data bus, and at least one computer connected to a data bus. .

[0073] Another feature of the present application further includes a wireless connection module configured to provide wireless connectivity. The VCM is configured to: and performing supervisory control of a maximum speed and permissible heading of the vehicle, the VCM being configured to configured to provide control and data bus transmission of status display information, and M is configured to provide control and data bus transmission of all vehicle status display information It has the characteristic that it is.

[0074] As yet another aspect of the present application, there is provided a utility vehicle having wheels for rolling transportation. The apparatus includes a vehicle, the utility vehicle having at least one of the wheels. an electric motor and an electric motor control unit (MCU) configured to provide motive power to and supplying power of a first voltage to the electric motor via a main power output for power transmission. A battery pack connected to a battery management system (BMS) configured to an auxiliary power output configured to provide an output power at a second voltage lower than the first voltage; a power supply unit connected to the battery pack and the auxiliary power output, and connected to the MCU and the BMS; a vehicle control module (VCM) configured to communicate with said utility vehicle; and the VCM configured to monitor and control the VCM.

[0075] The present application is characterized in that the VCM communicates with the MCU and the BMS via a network connection. and the BMS communicates with an internal DC / DC converter used to power the auxiliary power output. a DC step-down converter, and the utility vehicle receives a second auxiliary power source from the BMS; The main DC / DC converter is configured to be enabled by a signal at the output. The operation of the main DC / DC converter is controlled by the VCM. It has the following characteristic.

[0076] Another feature of the present application further comprises a power supply for supplying power to the battery pack for charging. the VCM communicates with the BMS and the the VCM communicates with the MCU over a second communication bus, and the VCM communicates with the charger over a second communication bus; It has the following characteristics.

[0077] Another feature of the present application is that the main power source from the battery pack is in an OFF condition. The VCM disables the main DC / DC converter when commanded to do so. (disabled), the MCU has a capacitor bank, and the BMS a third auxiliary power output configured to supply power at a voltage higher than the voltage of the MCU; The capacitor bank is precharged by power delivered from the third auxiliary power output. and the VCM is configured to transmit power from the third auxiliary power output to the MCU. The device is characterized in that it is configured to control the supply of

[0078] Another feature of the present application is further comprising: a power supply provided from the battery pack via the main power output; at least one battery contactor configured to regulate the power supplied thereto; The MCU detects that both the battery contactor and the main contactor are closed and When the battery pack supplies power via the main power output, The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for controlling a main contactor in serial electrical communication with a contactor. There are signs.

[0079] According to another aspect of the present application, the VCM includes: configured to issue at least one command on the communication bus to actuate the contactor. The VCM is connected to at least one of the main contactor and the battery contactor. The present invention is characterized in that the method is configured to start a welding check of the contactor including the contactor. do.

[0080] Another feature of the present application is a power supply that is in electrical communication with the BMS via a second auxiliary power output. a main DC / DC converter in a pre-determined state during said welding check; Disabling the main DC / DC converter via the second auxiliary power output. It has the characteristic that it is configured to

[0081] In another aspect of the present application, the MCU includes a capacitor bank, and the VCM includes , enables the DC / DC converter when the main power via the main power output is OFF (enabled) to allow power to be dissipated from the capacitor bank; It has the following characteristics.

[0082] Another feature of the present application further includes a method for manufacturing at least one wheel of the plurality of wheels. a wheel sensor configured to detect a movement of a main a second auxiliary power output configured to power an MCU remote from the power supply, The CM is configured to detect when the main power via the main power output is OFF, and detects when the wheel sensor via the main power output of the battery pack. A battery container configured to move between an open state and a closed state to regulate the power of the battery. a power supply for receiving power from the main power output and for providing power to the MCU; and the VCM has a main contactor configured to supply a When the main power is off and the wheel sensor detects motion, the battery The switch is characterized in that it is configured to close the terry contactor and the main contactor.

[0083] Another feature of the present application further comprises a power supply having a voltage level higher than the second voltage level. a third auxiliary power source configured to provide a second auxiliary power source and electrically connected to the display unit; an output and further configured to provide power at a voltage level higher than the second voltage level. and a fourth auxiliary power output electrically connected to the main DC / DC converter. the main DC / DC converter is further electrically connected to the main power output. It has the characteristic that it is.

[0084] The present invention is described in what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments. Although it has been apparent that the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is intended to be within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. It is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements falling within the scope of the present invention. The broadest interpretation should be given to encompass all modifications and equivalent structures permitted under the law. Furthermore, in the above description, it is preferable to Or use of the term preferred means that the feature so described may be more desirable. indicates that it is necessary, but may nevertheless not be required, and Any embodiment lacking it may be considered within the scope of the invention. It should be understood that the claims are defined by the claims. "a," ​​"an," "at least one," "at least When the term "at least a portion" is used, the term "at least a portion" is used in the claims. Unless specifically expressed, it is not intended that the claims be limited to any single recited item. Furthermore, the terms "at least a portion" and / or "a portion" may be used interchangeably. When the phrase "Company" is used, the reference is to the subject matter covered by the It may include a portion and / or the entirety of the target item.

Claims

1. A utility vehicle, an electric motor configured to provide motive power to the utility vehicle; a first voltage via a main power output connected to the electric motor; a first voltage operable to power the electric motor to drive the first a DC / DC converter configured to output power from the auxiliary output at a second voltage lower than the voltage of the power supply; a ion battery pack including a a first input connected to the DC / DC converter and configured to operate at the second voltage; a vehicle control module configured to control components of the utility vehicle; (VCM) and A utility vehicle equipped with

2. 2. The utility vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the battery pack is a lithium ion battery pack. a battery pack, the battery pack being communicatively connected to the VCM and the lithium ion battery pack, A charger configured to charge the lithium ion battery pack under the control of the VCM. the VCM controls the charger to supply a requested current to the rechargeable battery. and configured to issue a command to a lithium-ion battery to charge the lithium-ion battery. and the requested magnitude of current is calculated based on a stored equation and a stored lookup table. The power supply is supplied to the VCM or the charger based on at least one of the input tables. , utility vehicles.

3. 2. The utility vehicle of claim 1, further comprising a step of adjusting said electric motor. a motor control unit (MCU) configured to connect the battery pack to a main power output; a battery contactor configured to selectively open and close a circuit path of the battery pack; and is controllable between a closed state and an open state by the motor control unit. and configured to control electrical flow from a battery cell to a motor controller. and a motor contactor, and the VCM is Conducting testing on contactors containing contactors to determine if the contactors are in a welding condition 4. A utility vehicle configured to:

4. 4. The utility vehicle of claim 3, wherein the MCU comprises a capacitor bank; The VCM is also useful for connecting the MCU to the battery pack via a second auxiliary output. and the second auxiliary output is configured to issue a command for the utility vehicle to be driven. providing a precharge voltage higher than the second voltage useful for precharging the capacitor bank before it is turned on; 4. A utility vehicle configured to supply

5. 2. The utility vehicle of claim 1, wherein the utility vehicle is and the VCM controls the at least one accessory. the VCM is configured to provide power at the second voltage to the at least one accessory. and the VCM is configured to control the at least one accessory. Providing at least one of a discrete output, an analog output, and a data bus signal A utility vehicle configured to:

6. 6. The utility vehicle of claim 5, wherein the at least one accessory comprises a pair of headlights. and the VCM controls the headlights to alternate wigwag headlights.

1. A utility vehicle configured to perform a site operation.

7. 10. The utility vehicle of claim 1, wherein the VCM is a multi-level fault management system. Performs monitoring and / or execution in the storage and / or memory of all vehicle subsystems and / or associated The VCM is configured to allow independent control of vehicle accessories, and the VCM may be configured to perform complete vehicle shutdown, vehicle to cause a fault vehicle response including both maximum speed reduction and / or user information / warning and wherein the VCM is configured to control one or more of a plurality of operating modes for the utility vehicle. is configured to provide more than one operational mode, the multiple operational modes being standby, bi mode, active mode, charging mode, towing mode, loading mode, and / or low Utility vehicle with power mode.

8. 10. The utility vehicle of claim 1, further comprising a vehicle system data bus component. a vehicle system data bus component and a network, The VCM is connected to the VCM via a network, and the VCM is connected to the VCM via the network. The VCM is configured to authenticate vehicle system data bus components. a key algorithm is used to communicate with the vehicle system data bus via the network; A utility vehicle configured to authenticate a component.

9. 2. The utility vehicle of claim 1, wherein the VCM comprises at least one source. Provides supervisory control and coordination for vehicle component software updates The vehicle component software update includes a BMS, CU, and / or display control unit. The multiple sources include a wireless connection module connected to a data bus, a diagnostic tool connected to the data bus; and at least one of a computer connected to the data bus. Utility vehicle.

10. 10. The utility vehicle of claim 9, further configured to provide wireless connectivity. a wireless connection module connected to the VCM; and configured to perform supervisory control of a maximum speed and permissible heading of the vehicle based on a command. The VCM is configured to provide control and data bus transmission of vehicle status display information. The VCM also controls all vehicle status display information and data bus transfer.

1. A utility vehicle configured to provide:

11. An apparatus comprising a utility vehicle having wheels for rolling transportation, the vehicle comprising: Utility vehicles are an electric motor configured to provide motive power to at least one of the wheels; and an electric motor control unit (MCU); providing power at a first voltage via a main power output to the electric motor for powering a transport; a battery management system (BMS) configured to: a battery pack including an auxiliary power output configured to provide an output power at a second voltage; a power supply connected to the auxiliary power output and configured to communicate with the MCU and the BMS; a vehicle control module (100) configured to monitor and control the utility vehicle; VCM) and An apparatus having the above configuration.

12. 12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the VCM is connected to the MCU and the preceding and communicating with the BMS, the BMS determining whether the internal a second DC / DC step-down converter, and the utility vehicle receives a second DC / DC step-down converter from the BMS; a main DC / DC converter configured to be enabled by a signal on the auxiliary power output; and the operation of the main DC / DC converter is controlled by the VCM. Place.

13. 13. The device of claim 12, further comprising: a power supply for charging the battery pack. the VCM communicates with the BMS and The VCM communicates with the MCU and the VCM communicates with the charger over a second communication bus. ,Device.

14. 14. The device according to claim 13, wherein the main power source from the battery pack is OFF. When a command is received to achieve a condition, the VCM turns the main DC / DC converter the MCU has a capacitor bank, and the BMS has a voltage higher than the second voltage. a third auxiliary power output configured to supply a power of a voltage The battery bank is configured to be precharged with power delivered from the third auxiliary power output. The VCM is also configured to control power delivery from the third auxiliary power output to the MCU. The apparatus is configured as follows.

15. 12. The device of claim 11, wherein the BMS further comprises: At least one battery configured to regulate the power provided by the battery pack. The MCU controls both the battery contactor and the main contactor. When the battery pack is powered via the main power output, Configured to control the main contactor which is in serial electrical communication with the battery contactor. A device that is made up of:

16. 16. The device according to claim 15, wherein the BMS is a control circuit for controlling the main contactor. and at least one command on a communication bus to activate the battery contactor. The VCM is configured to generate a voltage between the main contactor and the battery contactor. and initiating a welding check of at least one of the contactors. A device.

17. 17. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising: a power supply for connecting the BMS to the power supply via a second auxiliary power output. a main DC / DC converter in communication with the VCM during the welding check; configured to disable the main DC / DC converter via the second auxiliary power output The device to be used.

18. 12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the MCU comprises a capacitor bank and the VC M is a DC / DC converter that is turned on when the main power via the main power output is OFF. The apparatus is configured to be enabled to dissipate power from the capacitor bank.

19. 12. The apparatus of claim 11, further comprising: a steering mechanism for at least one of the plurality of wheels. a wheel sensor configured to detect a movement of the wheel; a second auxiliary power output configured to supply power to an MCU remote from the main power source; The VCM is configured to: The battery is configured to monitor a sensor via a main power output of the battery pack. A battery configured to move between an open state and a closed state to regulate power over a contactor, and further receiving power from the main power output and providing power to the MCU and the VCM has a main contactor configured to supply the main power When the main power through the output is OFF and the wheel sensor detects motion, An apparatus configured to close the battery contactor and the main contactor.

20. 20. The apparatus of claim 19, further comprising: a first input voltage level higher than the second input voltage level. a third auxiliary device configured to supply power and electrically connected to the display unit; a power output and further configured to provide power at a voltage level higher than the second voltage level. a fourth auxiliary power output configured to be electrically connected to the main DC / DC converter; the main DC / DC converter further electrically connects to the main power output. The device that is connected.

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