On-vehicle device, control method and program

By implementing a power management system that adjusts power supply modes based on occupant presence, the on-vehicle device reduces power consumption, ensures timely system startup, and maintains safety functions in vehicles equipped with audio and video output devices.

JP2025038051AInactive Publication Date: 2025-03-18TOYOTA JIDOSHA KK
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2024217088
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-12-11
Publication Date
2025-03-18
Estimated Expiration
Not applicable · inactive patent

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The challenge is to reduce power consumption in vehicles equipped with various electronic devices, such as audio and video output devices, while ensuring timely startup and maintaining safety functions during vehicle operation and disembarkation.

Method used

An on-vehicle device that dynamically manages power supply modes, switching between 'ride mode' and 'dismount mode' based on occupant presence, allows power to be supplied only to necessary components during these periods, thereby reducing overall power consumption.

Benefits of technology

This approach effectively reduces power consumption by limiting power supply to only essential devices during specific periods, while ensuring rapid system startup and maintaining safety functions during vehicle use and disembarkation.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

To reduce consumption power in a vehicle.SOLUTION: An on-vehicle device, which is loaded on a vehicle having a voice output device that outputs voice, supplies power to the voice output device in a first period of time during which a trigger which allows an occupant to get on the vehicle is sensed and then first operation of turning on power of the vehicle is performed, and supplies power to the voice output device, in a second period of time during which second operation of turning off the power of the vehicle is performed and then it is sensed that the occupant has gotten off. Further, the on-vehicle device senses a vehicle approaching from a rear side of the vehicle in the second period of time, and when a door of the vehicle is locked, outputs notification relating to a reason why the door of the vehicle was locked, through the voice output device, on the basis of the sensed result.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2
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Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to power supply control for a vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] With the increase in electronic devices installed in vehicles, reducing power consumption has become an issue. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a car navigation device equipped with a display for displaying images and an amplifier for outputting audio. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2014-142360 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure aims to reduce power consumption in a vehicle. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] One aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure is an in-vehicle device mounted on a vehicle having an audio output device that outputs audio and a video output device that outputs video, which supplies power to the audio output device during a first period from detecting a trigger that an occupant enters the vehicle to a first operation that powers on the vehicle, and supplies power to the audio output device and the video output device during a second period from a second operation that powers off the vehicle to detecting that the occupant has disembarked.

[0006] One aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure is a control method for controlling a vehicle having an audio output device that outputs audio and a video output device that outputs video, the control method supplying power to the audio output device during a first period from detecting a trigger that an occupant enters the vehicle to a first operation to power on the vehicle, and supplying power to the audio output device and the video output device during a second period from a second operation to power off the vehicle to detecting that the occupant has disembarked.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to execute the above-described control method, or a computer-readable storage medium non-transiently storing the program. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to reduce power consumption in a vehicle. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating components of a vehicle according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining functional modules included in a control device 201. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the transition of power supply modes when riding. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the transition of power supply modes when a user gets off the vehicle. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining components to which power is supplied in each power supply mode. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating components of a voice input / output device 206. [Figure 8] 5 is a process flowchart of the in-vehicle device when getting in the vehicle. [Figure 9] 11 is a flowchart showing a process performed by the in-vehicle device when disembarking. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] In a typical automobile, three types of power modes are used: a mode that cuts off the power, a mode that turns on only the accessory power, and a mode that turns on all power. The accessory power is a power source for operating peripheral devices that are not directly related to the running of the vehicle. In general, the supply of these power sources is started when an operation is performed to start up the vehicle system (ignition operation).

[0011] However, when the power-on is linked to the startup of the vehicle system, inconveniences may occur. For example, if there is a vehicle component that takes time to start, there may be a waiting time between the startup operation and the component becoming available. Also, when the vehicle system is stopped, the function for supporting safety when getting off the vehicle may also be stopped. The in-vehicle device according to the present disclosure solves such problems.

[0012] An in-vehicle device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is an in-vehicle device mounted on a vehicle having an audio output device that outputs audio and a video output device that outputs video, and is characterized in that the device supplies power to the audio output device during a first period from when a trigger is detected that an occupant enters the vehicle until a first operation is performed to power on the vehicle, and supplies power to the audio output device and the video output device during a second period from when a second operation is performed to power off the vehicle until it is detected that the occupant has disembarked.

[0013] The first period is a period from when a trigger that an occupant gets into the vehicle is detected to when an operation to turn on the power supply of the vehicle system is performed, that is, a period during which the vehicle system is waiting for the occupant to get in. The power supply of the vehicle system may be a power supply for operating an accessory or a power supply for driving the vehicle. The trigger for an occupant getting into the vehicle may be generated, for example, when the vehicle door is unlocked or opened, or when a sensor detects that an occupant has gotten into the vehicle. In the first period, by supplying power to the audio output device, it becomes possible to start up in advance vehicle components that require time to start up, such as an amplifier.

[0014] The second period is a period from when the power supply of the vehicle system is cut off to when it is detected that the occupant has exited the vehicle, that is, a period during which the system is waiting for the occupant to exit the vehicle. The occupant's exit can be determined based on, for example, the locked or open state of the vehicle doors. Alternatively, the system can be determined based on the result of sensing the occupant. During the second period, by continuing to supply power to the audio output device and the video output device, it becomes possible to provide a function for ensuring safety when getting off the vehicle, such as a function for detecting a vehicle approaching from behind and sounding an alarm when the door is opened.

[0015] Note that "power supply" is not limited to a case where the in-vehicle device directly supplies power to the target device. For example, it also includes a case where the in-vehicle device instructs the target device connected to a specific power line (e.g., a battery line) to receive power supply from the power line (indirect power supply).

[0016] Specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the hardware configuration, module configuration, functional configuration, and the like described in each embodiment are not intended to limit the technical scope of the disclosure to only those.

[0017] First Embodiment An overview of a vehicle system according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. The vehicle system according to this embodiment includes a vehicle 10.

[0018] The vehicle 10 is a connected car having a communication function with an external network. The vehicle 10 includes a DCM (Data Communication Module) 100, an in-vehicle device 200, and an electronic control The system includes a unit 300 (also called an Electronic Control Unit, ECU). Although a single ECU 300 is illustrated in FIG. 1, the vehicle 10 may include a plurality of ECUs 300.

[0019] The DCM 100 is a device that performs wireless communication with an external network. The DCM 100 functions as a gateway for connecting components of the vehicle 10 (hereinafter, vehicle components) to the external network. For example, the DCM 100 provides access to the external network for the in-vehicle device 200 and the ECU 300 of the vehicle 10. This allows the in-vehicle device 200 and the ECU 300 to communicate with external devices connected to the network via the DCM 100.

[0020] The in-vehicle device 200 is a device (for example, a car navigation device) that provides information to a vehicle occupant. The in-vehicle device 200 is also called a car navigation device, an infotainment device, or a head unit. The in-vehicle device 200 can provide navigation and entertainment to a vehicle occupant. The in-vehicle device 200 may download traffic information, road map data, music, moving images, and the like via the DCM 100.

[0021] 2 is a diagram illustrating components of a vehicle 10 according to this embodiment. The vehicle 10 according to this embodiment includes a DCM 100, an in-vehicle device 200, and a plurality of ECUs 300A, 300B, . . . (hereinafter collectively referred to as ECUs 300). The ECU 300 may include a plurality of ECUs that supervise different vehicle components. Examples of the plurality of ECUs include a body ECU, an engine ECU, a hybrid ECU, and a powertrain ECU. The ECU 300 may be divided into functional units. For example, the ECU may be divided into an ECU that executes a security function, an ECU that executes an automatic parking function, and an ECU that executes a remote control function.

[0022] In this embodiment, the ECU 300 is exemplified by a verification ECU 300A and a body ECU 300B. The verification ECU 300A is an ECU that manages the security of the vehicle. The verification ECU 300A generates a signal that permits locking and unlocking of the vehicle and starting of the vehicle system by communicating with a smart key (key fob) held by the user of the vehicle. The body ECU 300B is an ECU that controls various components of the vehicle body. In this embodiment, the body ECU 300B can lock and unlock the doors of the vehicle 10 based on a signal transmitted from the verification ECU 300A.

[0023] First, the DCM 100 will be described. The DCM 100 includes a control device 101, a storage device 102, a CAN communication module 103, an input / output device 104, a wireless communication module 105, and a GPS module 106.

[0024] The control device 101 is a calculation unit that executes a predetermined program to realize various functions of the DCM 100. The control device 101 may be realized by, for example, a CPU.

[0025] The control device 101 performs a function of mediating communication between an external network and components (vehicle components) of the vehicle 10. For example, When a vehicle component needs to communicate with an external network, the control device 101 performs a function of relaying data transmitted from that vehicle component to the external network, and also performs a function of receiving data transmitted from the external network and forwarding that data to an appropriate vehicle component.

[0026] Furthermore, the control device 101 can execute functions unique to the control device itself. For example, the control device 101 is configured to be able to execute a monitoring function and a telephone function of a security system, and can make a security report, an emergency report, or the like, based on a trigger that occurs inside the vehicle.

[0027] Here, a description will be given of functions executed by the control device 101. The control device 101 is configured to be able to execute the following exemplary functions. Each function can be realized by the control device 101 executing a program stored in a storage unit such as a ROM.

[0028] (1) Data relay function The control device 101 can relay data transmitted and received between vehicle components. For example, the control device 101 receives a message sent by a first device connected to the in-vehicle network, and executes a process of transferring the message to a second device connected to the in-vehicle network as necessary. The first and second devices may be the ECU 300 or other vehicle components. In addition, when a message addressed to an external network is received from a vehicle component, the relay unit relays the message to the external network. In addition, the relay unit receives data transmitted from the external network and transfers the data to an appropriate vehicle component.

[0029] (2) Emergency call function When an abnormality occurs in the vehicle 10, the control device 101 can make an emergency call to an operator outside the vehicle. Examples of the abnormality include a traffic accident or a vehicle breakdown. When a predetermined trigger occurs, such as pressing a call button provided in the vehicle or deploying an airbag, the control device 101 starts a connection with the operator and enables a call between the vehicle occupant and the operator. When making an emergency call, the control device 101 may transmit vehicle location information to the operator. The vehicle location information can be acquired from the GPS module 106.

[0030] (3) Security monitoring function The control device 101 can perform security monitoring processing. For example, based on data received from the ECU 300 that manages the electronic lock of the vehicle, the control device 101 detects that the vehicle has been unlocked without following a normal procedure, and transmits a security notification to a predetermined device. Note that the security notification may include location information of the vehicle. The location information of the vehicle can be acquired from the GPS module 106.

[0031] Although three types of functions are exemplified here as functions provided by the DCM 100, the DCM 100 may provide other functions.

[0032] The storage device 102 is a memory device including a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device. The auxiliary storage device stores an operating system (OS), various programs, various tables, etc., and by loading the programs stored therein into the main storage device and executing them, it is possible to realize various functions that meet specific purposes, as described below.

[0033] The CAN communication module 103 is an interface unit for connecting the DCM 100 to an in-vehicle network. A number of vehicle components, including the driver, driver's license, and driver's license, are connected to each other via an in-vehicle network bus. For example, the in-vehicle network standard is CAN (Controller Area Network). In addition, when the in-vehicle network uses multiple standards, the CAN communication module 103 may have multiple interface devices that match the standards of the communication destination. As a communication standard other than CAN, for example, Ethernet (registered trademark) can be exemplified.

[0034] The input / output device 104 is a unit for inputting and outputting information, and specifically includes a help button that is pressed in an emergency, a microphone, a speaker, and the like.

[0035] The wireless communication module 105 includes an antenna and a communication module for wireless communication. The antenna is an antenna element for inputting and outputting wireless signals. In this embodiment, the antenna is adapted for mobile communication (e.g., mobile communication such as 3G, LTE, and 5G). The antenna may be configured to include multiple physical antennas. For example, when performing mobile communication using radio waves in a high frequency band such as microwaves and millimeter waves, multiple antennas may be distributed and arranged to stabilize communication. The communication module is a module for performing mobile communication.

[0036] The GPS module 106 includes a GPS antenna and a positioning module for determining position information. The GPS antenna is an antenna that receives positioning signals transmitted from positioning satellites (also called GNSS satellites). The positioning module is a module that calculates position information based on the signals received by the GPS antenna.

[0037] The DCM 100 may be configured to operate independently of other components of the vehicle 10. For example, the DCM 100 may be equipped with an auxiliary battery so that the DCM 100 can operate independently without relying on an external power source. With this configuration, even if other components of the vehicle 10 malfunction (e.g., power supply failure) due to a traffic accident or the like, it becomes possible to make an emergency call or the like.

[0038] Next, the in-vehicle device 200 will be described. The in-vehicle device 200 is a device that provides information to the passengers of the vehicle 10, and is also called a car navigation system, an infotainment system, or a head unit. The in-vehicle device 200 can provide navigation and entertainment to the passengers of the vehicle. The in-vehicle device 200 may also have a function of downloading traffic information, road map data, music, videos, and the like by communicating with an external network of the vehicle 10. The in-vehicle device 200 may also be a device that cooperates with a smartphone or the like.

[0039] The in-vehicle device 200 also functions as a front end of the DCM 100. For example, when the DCM 100 executes a predetermined process (for example, an emergency call), the in-vehicle device 200 inputs and outputs information related to the process (for example, displaying the call status of an operator, etc.).

[0040] The in-vehicle device 200 can be configured by a general-purpose computer. That is, the in-vehicle device 200 can be configured as a computer having a processor such as a CPU or a GPU, a main storage device such as a RAM or a ROM, and an auxiliary storage device such as an EPROM, a hard disk drive, or a removable medium. The auxiliary storage device stores an operating system (OS), various programs, various tables, etc., and by executing the programs stored therein, various functions that match a predetermined purpose, as described below, can be realized. However, some or all of the functions may be realized by a hardware circuit such as an ASIC or an FPGA.

[0041] The in-vehicle device 200 includes a control device 201 , a storage device 202 , a CAN communication module 203 , a display device 204 , a wireless communication module 205 , and an audio input / output device 206 .

[0042] The control device 201 is a calculation unit that executes a predetermined program to realize various functions of the in-vehicle device 200. The control device 201 may be realized by, for example, a CPU or the like.

[0043] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of functional modules included in the control device 201. As shown in FIG. The control device 201 is configured to have two functional modules: a power management unit 2011 and a function execution unit 2012. Each functional module may be realized by executing a stored program by a CPU.

[0044] The power management unit 2011 controls the power supply. Here, the problems with power supply in the prior art and the solution in this embodiment will be described. In the following description, the accessory power source refers to a power source for operating peripheral devices that are not directly related to the running of the vehicle. The accessory power source is supplied, for example, when the engine is stopped. Also, the ignition power source refers to a power source supplied while the vehicle is running (for example, when the engine is running). Each power source is supplied by a power line of a different system. In the following description, the power supply mode is a mode for supplying power to multiple vehicle components. Conventional vehicles have the following three power supply modes: 1. Parking Mode 2. Normal mode (ACC) 3. Normal mode (IG)

[0045] The parking mode is a power supply mode when the vehicle is parked, i.e., the vehicle's driving system is shut down and the doors are locked. In the parking mode, power is not supplied except to vehicle components that require a constant power supply (e.g., DRAM for memory backup, DCM for wireless communication, modules that perform CAN communication, etc.). The normal mode (ACC) is a power supply mode in which only the accessory power is supplied, and can be entered by, for example, a user of the vehicle performing a predetermined operation. The normal mode (IG) is a power supply mode in which both the accessory power supply and the ignition power supply are supplied. When the vehicle 10 is running, the power supply mode is the normal mode.

[0046] 4(A) is a diagram for explaining power supply control in a vehicle according to the conventional technology. In a conventional vehicle, the power supply mode remains in the parking mode until an occupant gets in and performs an operation to start up the vehicle system (for example, an ignition ignition operation, a main switch depression operation, etc.). In other words, during this period, power is not supplied to most of the vehicle components.

[0047] However, in such a configuration, there may be cases where the vehicle system cannot provide services promptly after it is started. For example, it is known that in-vehicle devices that provide infotainment functions and audio output devices including amplifiers require a certain amount of time to start up. In particular, audio amplifiers require time for the circuits and elements to stabilize. Therefore, in this embodiment, a power supply mode in which power is supplied only to a specific device when it is detected that a passenger has boarded the vehicle is added, and the in-vehicle device 200 controls the switching of the power supply mode. Such a power supply mode is called a "boarding mode."

[0048] In this embodiment, the in-vehicle device 200 (and the vehicle components that operate in the added power supply mode) is supplied with a separate power supply (a power supply directly connected to a battery; hereinafter, referred to as a battery power supply) that can be used before the vehicle system is started. The in-vehicle device 200 can operate a specific vehicle component (regardless of the startup state of the vehicle system) using the battery power supply. The in-vehicle device 200 has a sub-board that runs on battery power in addition to a main board that runs on accessory power, and the power management unit 2011 is configured to be able to operate with low power by the sub-board.

[0049] FIG. 4(B) is a diagram for explaining the riding mode. As shown in the figure, the in-vehicle device 200 (power management unit 2011) according to this embodiment switches the power mode to the riding mode when it detects that an occupant has boarded the vehicle 10. In this embodiment, the riding mode is a mode in which power is supplied to three items, namely, the "main board of the in-vehicle device 200," the "wireless communication module," and the "audio output device," in addition to the power supply targets in the parking mode. By switching the power mode to the riding mode, the main system of the in-vehicle device 200 can be started in advance, preparation for wireless communication (for example, connection with a smartphone) can be performed, and the audio output device (amplifier, etc.) can be started. Note that, when the vehicle system is started, the accessory power and ignition power are supplied as in the conventional manner.

[0050] The above-mentioned problem may also occur when a passenger gets off the vehicle. FIG. 5(A) is a diagram illustrating the problem. For example, when an occupant performs an operation to shut off the power supply to the vehicle system, the power supply mode transitions to the parking mode, and the power supply to most of the vehicle components is stopped. For this reason, it is not possible to provide functions to support the safety of the occupant during the period from when the vehicle system is shut down until the occupant has completely dismounted from the vehicle. For example, such a function includes a function to monitor a vehicle approaching from behind and output an alarm when the door is opened (dismount support function). Therefore, in this embodiment, a power supply mode in which power is supplied only to a specific device during the period from when the power supply of the vehicle system is shut off until the occupant gets off the vehicle is added, and the in-vehicle device 200 controls the switching of the power supply mode. Such a power supply mode is called a "get-off mode."

[0051] FIG. 5(B) is a diagram for explaining the dismounting mode. As shown in the figure, the in-vehicle device 200 (power management unit 2011) according to this embodiment switches the power mode to the dismounting mode when the occupant performs an operation to cut off the power supply of the vehicle system (an operation to stop the vehicle system). In this embodiment, the dismounting mode is a mode in which power is supplied to the video output device in addition to the power supply targets in the ride mode. That is, in the dismounting mode, power is supplied to both the audio output device and the video output device. The dismounting mode continues until the occupant dismounts from the vehicle. The end of the dismounting mode can be, for example, the timing when the vehicle door is opened or the timing when the vehicle door is locked.

[0052] Figure 6 shows a table showing the vehicle components that are powered in each power mode.

[0053] Returning to FIG. 3, the explanation will be continued. The function execution unit 2012 executes various functions provided by the in-vehicle device 200. The functions provided by the in-vehicle device 200 include, for example, the following. - Device link function This function connects to the vehicle occupants' devices (such as smartphones) and allows them to play music and videos, mirror the screen, etc. -Exit assistance function This function detects another vehicle approaching from the rear of the vehicle based on sensor data output by a sensor possessed by the vehicle 10, and outputs an alarm when the door is opened. The sensor may be, for example, a radar sensor or the like installed facing the rear of the vehicle. Audio Features This is a function that plays music stored in a storage device. -TV / Radio function This function allows you to receive radio and digital television broadcasts. Navigation features This function provides route navigation based on map data stored in a storage device. -External monitor function This function outputs images acquired from the external camera 305 of the vehicle 10 to a display device, and performs monitoring when parking, etc. These functions can be activated based on an operation on the display device 204 (touch panel), for example.

[0054] Returning to FIG. 2, the explanation will be continued. The storage device 202 is a means for storing information, and is configured with storage media such as RAM, a magnetic disk, a flash memory, etc. The storage device 202 stores various programs executed by the control device 201, data used by the programs, etc.

[0055] The CAN communication module 203 is a communication interface that connects the in-vehicle device 200 to a bus of an in-vehicle network.

[0056] The display device 204 is a means for accepting input operations performed by the user and presenting information to the user. Specifically, it is composed of a touch panel and its control means, and a liquid crystal display and its control means. In this embodiment, the touch panel and the liquid crystal display are composed of a single touch panel display. Note that the video output device in this disclosure can be the display device 204 or a display that the display device 204 has.

[0057] The wireless communication module 205 is a module that communicates with a mobile terminal (such as a smartphone) carried by a vehicle occupant. The wireless communication module 205 can communicate using wireless communication standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) and Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0058] The audio input / output device 206 is a unit for inputting and outputting audio. Fig. 7 is a diagram for explaining components of the audio input / output device 206. As shown in the figure, the audio input / output device 206 includes a unit (amplifier 206A) for amplifying audio, a speaker 206B for outputting audio, a microphone 206C for inputting audio, and the like. Note that the audio output device in this disclosure may be the amplifier 206A, or a combination of the amplifier 206A and the speaker 206B, etc. Also, the audio input device in this disclosure may be the microphone 206C.

[0059] Next, the ECU 300 and its peripheral components will be described. The ECU 300 is an electronic control unit that controls components of the vehicle 10. The vehicle 10 may include a plurality of ECUs 300. The plurality of ECUs 300 each control components of a different system, such as an engine system, an electrical system, and a powertrain system. The ECU 300 has a function of generating a prescribed message and periodically transmitting and receiving the message via an in-vehicle network.

[0060] Like the DCM 100, the ECU 300 can be configured as a computer having a processor such as a CPU or GPU, a main storage device such as a RAM or ROM, and an auxiliary storage device such as an EPROM, a disk drive, or removable media.

[0061] The vehicle 10 according to this embodiment includes a verification ECU 300A and a body ECU 300B.

[0062] The body ECU 300B is a computer that controls the body of the vehicle. The body ECU 300B has a function of locking and unlocking the doors of the vehicle by controlling a door lock motor 303, which will be described later. The body ECU 300B may further have a function of controlling elements associated with the vehicle body, such as power window control, seat adjustment, anti-theft, seat belt control, and headlight control. The body ECU 300B can also obtain the open / closed state of the doors of the vehicle 10 via a door sensor 304, which will be described later.

[0063] The door lock motor 303 is an actuator that locks and unlocks the doors (including the doors for getting in and out, the rear gate, and the trunk) of the vehicle 10. The door lock motor 303 operates based on a signal transmitted from the body ECU 300B. The door sensor 304 is a sensor that senses whether a plurality of doors of the vehicle 10 are open or closed.

[0064] The verification ECU 300A communicates with a smart key (key fob) carried by a vehicle occupant, and determines whether a person with a valid right is getting into the vehicle. A main switch 301 and a transceiver 302 are connected to the verification ECU 300A.

[0065] The main switch 301 is a hardware switch for starting a vehicle system, and is typically a push switch. The main switch 301 is also called an ignition switch. The transceiver 302 includes a means for receiving radio waves in a high frequency band (RF band) transmitted from the smart key, and a means for transmitting radio waves in a low frequency band (LF band) for searching (polling) the smart key. The RF band is, for example, a frequency of 100 MHz to 1 GHz. The LF band is, for example, a frequency of 100 KHz to 300 KHz. The means for receiving radio waves in the RF band is built in somewhere inside the vehicle cabin. The means for transmitting radio waves in the LF band is, for example, built in the center console or near the steering wheel inside the vehicle cabin.

[0066] When the smart key transmits a signal (lock / unlock signal) for locking or unlocking the vehicle doors, the matching ECU 300A receives the lock / unlock signal via the transceiver 302 and performs authentication. Specifically, it determines whether or not the key ID included in the lock / unlock signal matches a key ID pre-stored in the matching ECU 300A. If the authentication is successful, the matching ECU 300A transmits a signal for locking or unlocking the doors to the body ECU 200B in accordance with the lock / unlock signal.

[0067] Furthermore, when a lock / unlock switch provided on a door of the vehicle 10 is pressed, the verification ECU 300A performs polling via the transceiver 302 to confirm the presence of the key and performs authentication. If the authentication is successful, the verification ECU 300A transmits a signal for locking or unlocking the door to the body ECU 200B.

[0068] When the main switch 301 is pressed, the verification ECU 300A performs polling via the transceiver 302 to confirm the presence of the key and perform authentication. The CU 300A transmits a signal to the ECUs (engine ECU, hybrid ECU, etc.) that manage the driving system to instruct the system to start up, thereby starting up the hybrid system, starting the engine, etc.

[0069] The network bus is a communication bus that constitutes an in-vehicle network. In this example, one bus is illustrated, but the vehicle 10 may have two or more communication buses. The multiple communication buses may be connected to each other by the DCM 100 or a gateway that manages the multiple communication buses.

[0070] Next, a description will be given of a process for controlling the power supply mode by the in-vehicle device 200. Fig. 8 is a flowchart of the process executed by the in-vehicle device 200 (power supply manager 2011). The process shown in the figure starts when the vehicle 10 is in a parked state. In this example, it is assumed that power is supplied to the vehicle components shown in FIG. 6 in each power supply mode.

[0071] When the vehicle 10 is parked, the power supply mode is "parking mode." That is, power is supplied only to the DRAM for backing up memory and the module for performing CAN communication.

[0072] First, in step S11, it is determined whether or not the doors of the vehicle 10 are unlocked. Whether or not the doors of the vehicle 10 are unlocked can be determined based on a signal (door opening / closing signal) sent from the body ECU 300B to the network bus. If the doors are not unlocked, the process waits and repeats the same process. If the doors are unlocked, the process proceeds to step S12.

[0073] In step S12, the power supply mode is changed to the riding mode. This starts the power supply to the predetermined vehicle components. In the example shown in Fig. 6, the power supply is started to the main board of the in-vehicle device 200, the module for wireless communication, and the audio output device. This allows preparation for wireless connection (for example, connection with a smartphone carried by a passenger) and startup of amplifier 206A to be started in advance. In this step, the power supply manager 2011 may instruct each vehicle component to receive power from a specific power supply line (a power supply line through which battery power is supplied). This type of operation is also included in the "power supply".

[0074] In step S13, it is determined whether a predetermined time (for example, 60 seconds) has elapsed while the power supply mode remains in the riding mode. If the determination in this step is affirmative, the process proceeds to step S14, where the power supply mode is switched to the power saving mode. The power saving mode is a mode for reducing power consumption. If the vehicle system does not start even after a certain time has elapsed since the power supply mode was switched to the riding mode, it is preferable to stop the started power supply in order to reduce the power consumption of the battery. For example, if the vehicle system does not start within 60 seconds after the door is opened, the power supply to the amplifier 206A may be cut off by instructing the amplifier 206A to shut down.

[0075] In step S15, it is determined whether or not the main switch 301 of the vehicle has been pressed. Whether or not the main switch 301 of the vehicle has been pressed can be determined based on a signal output by the verification ECU 300A. If the determination in this step is positive, the process proceeds to step S16. If the determination is negative, the process returns to step S13.

[0076] In step S16, the power supply mode is changed to the normal mode (IG). This causes power supply to be newly started to the video output device, the audio input device, and the outside camera. Power will continue to be supplied to vehicle components that are currently powered. Depending on the type of vehicle, it may be possible to select a mode in which only accessory power is supplied without starting the engine, etc., by changing the way the main switch 301 is pressed. In such a case, either the "normal mode (ACC)" or the "normal mode (IG)" can be selected according to the operation performed by the occupant.

[0077] Next, the process executed by the in-vehicle device 200 (power management unit 2011) when the vehicle 10 stops and the passenger gets off will be described with reference to Fig. 9. The process shown in the figure is started when the power supply mode is in the normal mode (IG) and the vehicle 10 is stopped.

[0078] When the power supply mode is in "normal mode (IG)", power is supplied to all vehicle components shown in FIG.

[0079] First, in step S21, it is determined whether or not the main switch 301 of the vehicle 10 has been pressed. Whether or not the main switch 301 of the vehicle 10 has been pressed can be determined based on a signal output by the verification ECU 300A. If the main switch 301 has not been pressed, the process waits and repeats the same process. If the main switch 301 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S22.

[0080] In a conventional vehicle, the power supply mode is changed to the parking mode at this point, but in this embodiment, the in-vehicle device 200 changes the power supply mode to the disembarking mode in step S22. This allows power to be continuously supplied to predetermined vehicle components under the control of the in-vehicle device 200. In the example shown in Fig. 6, power is continuously supplied to the main board, the module for wireless communication, the audio output device, and the video output device of the in-vehicle device 200. This allows both the audio output function and the video output function to remain available, making it possible to provide the exit support function.

[0081] The disembarkation assistance function is a function that notifies the occupant that opening the door is dangerous (or locks the door) when another vehicle is approaching from behind the vehicle 10. By continuing to supply power to both the audio output device and the video output device, it is possible to notify the occupant by video or audio. For example, if an occupant attempts to open a door when another vehicle is approaching from behind the vehicle 10, a warning can be issued by video and audio. In addition, after locking the relevant door, the reason why the door is locked can be notified by video and audio.

[0082] In step S23, it is determined whether a predetermined time (for example, 120 seconds) has elapsed while the power supply mode remains in the dismount mode. If the determination in this step is affirmative, the process proceeds to step S24, where the power supply mode is switched to the power saving mode. If the passenger does not get off the vehicle even after a certain time has elapsed since the power supply mode was switched to the get-off mode, it is preferable to stop the power supply that has started in order to reduce the power consumption of the battery. For example, if the doors are not locked within 120 seconds after the main switch 301 of the vehicle is pressed, the power to the audio output device and the video output device may be cut off.

[0083] In step S25, it is determined whether the vehicle doors are locked. Whether the vehicle doors are locked can be determined based on a signal output by the verification ECU 300A. If the determination in this step is positive, the process proceeds to step S26. If the determination is negative, the process returns to step S23.

[0084] In step S26, the in-vehicle device 200 changes the power supply mode to the parking mode, whereby power supply is stopped except for the minimum necessary vehicle components.

[0085] As described above, the vehicle 10 of this embodiment has a power supply mode (normal mode (IG)) for when the vehicle is traveling, a power supply mode (normal mode (ACC)) for supplying only accessory power, and a power supply mode that is used when getting on and off the vehicle. This makes it possible to supply power to certain vehicle components (for example, an audio output device including amplifier 206A) until the passenger has completed their ride, thereby enabling quick provision of service. In addition, it becomes possible to supply power to certain vehicle components (e.g., audio output devices and video output devices) until the occupants have completed disembarking from the vehicle, thereby ensuring safety when disembarking.

[0086] In the past, when trying to provide these functions while getting on or off the vehicle, it was necessary to turn on the accessory power supply of the vehicle. However, when the accessory power supply is turned on, all vehicle components connected to the corresponding power supply system are started, resulting in a large power consumption. In contrast, in this embodiment, power can be supplied only to the minimum necessary vehicle components, thereby reducing power consumption.

[0087] (Modification of the first embodiment) In the first embodiment, when the door of the vehicle 10 is unlocked, it is determined that an occupant gets into the vehicle, but it may be detected by other methods. For example, it may be detected that an occupant has gotten into the vehicle or is about to get into the vehicle by a sensor, a camera, or the like. Also, it may be determined that an occupant is about to get into the vehicle when a terminal carried by the occupant is detected.

[0088] In the first embodiment, the door opening / closing signal is used as a method for detecting that an occupant has exited the vehicle, but exit may be detected by other methods. For example, a sensor, a camera, or the like may be used to detect that an occupant has exited the vehicle or is about to exit the vehicle. Furthermore, it may be determined that an occupant has exited the vehicle when the doors of the vehicle 10 are locked.

[0089] (Other variations) The above-described embodiment is merely an example, and the present disclosure can be modified and implemented as appropriate without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. For example, the processes and means described in this disclosure can be freely combined and implemented as long as no technical contradiction occurs.

[0090] Furthermore, a process described as being performed by one device may be shared and executed by multiple devices. Alternatively, a process described as being performed by different devices may be executed by one device. In a computer system, the hardware configuration (server configuration) by which each function is realized can be flexibly changed.

[0091] The present disclosure can also be realized by supplying a computer program implementing the functions described in the above embodiments to a computer, and having one or more processors of the computer read and execute the program. Such a computer program may be provided to the computer by a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium connectable to the system bus of the computer, or may be provided to the computer via a network. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium may be, for example, any type of disk, such as a magnetic disk (floppy disk, hard disk drive (HDD), etc.), an optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD disk, Blu-ray disk, etc.), a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), an EPROM, an EEPROM, a magnetic This includes cards, flash memory, optical cards, and any type of medium suitable for storing electronic instructions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0092] 10. Vehicle 100··DCM 200...In-vehicle equipment 300A···Matching ECU 300B···Body ECU 101, 201...Control device 102,202...Storage device 103,203···CAN communication module 104 Input / Output Device 105,205 Wireless communication module 106 GPS module 206 Audio input / output device

Claims

1. An in-vehicle device that is mounted on a vehicle having an audio output device that outputs audio, supplying power to the audio output device during a first period from when a trigger is detected that an occupant gets into the vehicle to when a first operation is performed to turn on a power source of the vehicle; supplying power to the audio output device during a second period from when a second operation for cutting off the power supply of the vehicle is performed until when it is detected that the occupant has dismounted from the vehicle; During the second period, a vehicle approaching from behind the vehicle is further sensed; and when the vehicle doors are locked based on a result of the sensing, outputting a notification relating to a reason why the vehicle doors are locked via the audio output device. In-vehicle device.

2. The first period begins when the doors of the vehicle are unlocked. The in-vehicle device according to claim 1 .

3. If a timeout occurs without the first operation being performed after the trigger is detected, the power supply to the audio output device is cut off. The in-vehicle device according to claim 1 .

4. The second period ends when a door of the vehicle is opened. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 1 .

5. The second period ends when an operation to lock the doors of the vehicle is performed. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 1 .

6. The vehicle further includes a video output device that outputs a video. supplying power to the audio output device and the video output device during the second period; During the second period, a vehicle approaching from behind the vehicle is further sensed; when the doors of the vehicle are locked based on a result of the sensing, outputting a notification relating to a reason why the doors of the vehicle are locked via the audio output device or the video output device. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 1 .

7. when a timeout occurs without detecting the occupant getting out of the vehicle after the second operation is performed, power is cut off to the audio output device and the video output device. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 6.

8. During the first period, power is not supplied to the video output device. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 6 or 7.

9. The audio output device includes an amplifier. The vehicle-mounted device according to claim 1 .

10. and when the doors of the vehicle are locked based on a result of the sensing, outputting an alarm via the audio output device or the video output device. The vehicle-mounted device according to any one of claims 6 to 8.

11. A control method for controlling a vehicle having an audio output device that outputs audio, comprising: supplying power to the audio output device during a first period from when a trigger is detected that an occupant gets into the vehicle to when a first operation is performed to turn on a power source of the vehicle; supplying power to the audio output device during a second period from when a second operation for cutting off the power supply of the vehicle is performed until when it is detected that the occupant has dismounted from the vehicle; During the second period, a vehicle approaching from behind the vehicle is further sensed; and when the vehicle doors are locked based on a result of the sensing, outputting a notification relating to a reason why the vehicle doors are locked via the audio output device. Control methods.

12. The first period begins when the doors of the vehicle are unlocked. The control method according to claim 11.

13. If a timeout occurs without the first operation being performed after the trigger is detected, the power supply to the audio output device is cut off.

13. A control method according to claim 11 or 12.

14. The second period ends when a door of the vehicle is opened or when an operation to lock the door of the vehicle is performed. A control method according to any one of claims 11 to 13.

15. The vehicle further includes a video output device that outputs a video. supplying power to the audio output device and the video output device during the second period; During the second period, a vehicle approaching from behind the vehicle is further sensed; when the doors of the vehicle are locked based on a result of the sensing, outputting a notification relating to a reason why the doors of the vehicle are locked via the audio output device or the video output device. A control method according to any one of claims 11 to 14.

16. when a timeout occurs without detecting the occupant getting out of the vehicle after the second operation is performed, power is cut off to the audio output device and the video output device. The control method according to claim 15.

17. During the first period, power is not supplied to the video output device.

17. A control method according to claim 15 or 16.

18. The audio output device includes an amplifier.

18. A control method according to any one of claims 11 to 17.

19. and outputting an alarm via the audio output device or the video output device when the doors of the vehicle are locked based on a result of the sensing.

18. A control method according to any one of claims 15 to 17.

20. A program for causing a computer to execute the control method according to any one of claims 11 to 19.

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