Power supply system, vehicle control device, and program for vehicle
The control system stabilizes power flow in vehicles with solar panels by adjusting solar converter and auxiliary equipment operation during fluctuations, reducing strain on the bidirectional converter and maintaining power balance.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2024017779
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-02-08
- Publication Date
- 2025-08-21
AI Technical Summary
Existing power supply systems in vehicles with solar panels and bidirectional converters experience frequent switching of power supply direction due to fluctuations in solar power generation and auxiliary equipment consumption, leading to strain on the bidirectional converter.
A control system that manages power flow between a solar converter, battery, and auxiliary equipment group using a bidirectional converter, maintaining a consistent magnitude relationship by adjusting power direction and consumption through specific control during fluctuations, including switching modes for the solar converter and auxiliary devices.
Reduces the load on the bidirectional converter by minimizing frequent power direction switches and maintaining power balance during fluctuations, ensuring efficient power distribution.
Smart Images

Figure 2025122364000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[Technical Field]
[0001] The present invention relates to a power supply system, a vehicle control device, and a vehicle program. [Background technology]
[0002] The vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a solar panel, an auxiliary machine, a drive battery, and a control device. The auxiliary machine receives power generated by the solar panel. The drive battery is a high-voltage battery that supplies power to the vehicle's drive source. The drive battery is located on a branch path that branches off from the power supply path that runs from the solar panel to the auxiliary machine. When the solar panel generates a large amount of power, the control device switches the power supply path so that the power generated by the solar panel is supplied not only to the auxiliary machine but also to the drive battery. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]
[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-083248 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]
[0004] In a technology such as that described in Patent Document 1, a bidirectional converter capable of switching the power supply direction is sometimes employed in the branch path before reaching the drive battery. This bidirectional converter may then be controlled as follows depending on the magnitude relationship between the power generated by the solar panel and the power consumed by the auxiliary equipment. Specifically, when the power generated by the solar panel is in excess of the power consumed by the auxiliary equipment, the power generated by the solar panel is supplied to the drive battery. On the other hand, when the power generated by the solar panel is insufficient to meet the power consumed by the auxiliary equipment, power is supplied from the drive battery to the auxiliary equipment. When such a control method is employed, fluctuations in the power generated by the solar panel or the power consumed by the auxiliary equipment can cause the magnitude relationship between the power generated and the power consumed to frequently change. In this case, the power supply direction of the bidirectional converter must be frequently switched, placing a strain on the bidirectional converter. [Means for solving the problem]
[0005] A power supply system for solving the above problem includes a solar panel, a solar converter capable of converting and outputting the output power of the solar panel, a group of accessories that receives the output power of the solar converter, a battery, a bidirectional converter capable of voltage-converting the output power of the battery and supplying it to the group of accessories, and also capable of voltage-converting the output power of the solar converter and supplying it to the battery, and a control device that controls the solar converter, the group of accessories, and the bidirectional converter, and when the output power of the solar converter is greater than the power consumption of the group of accessories, the control device transfers power from the solar converter to the battery. On the other hand, when the output power of the solar converter is smaller than the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group, switching control is executed to control the bidirectional converter so that power is directed from the battery to the auxiliary equipment group, and during a period in which a predetermined fluctuation condition is satisfied as a condition indicating that at least one of the output power of the solar panel and the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group fluctuates greatly, specific control is executed to control one or more selected from the solar converter, the auxiliary equipment group, and the bidirectional converter so that the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter and the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group is maintained constant.
[0006] A vehicle control device for solving the above problem is applied to a vehicle equipped with a solar panel, a solar converter capable of converting and outputting the output power of the solar panel, a group of accessories that receives the output power of the solar converter, a battery, and a bidirectional converter that is capable of voltage-converting the output power of the battery and supplying it to the group of accessories, and that is also capable of voltage-converting the output power of the solar converter and supplying it to the battery, and is a control device that controls the solar converter, the group of accessories, and the bidirectional converter, and when the output power of the solar converter is greater than the power consumption of the group of accessories, the control device controls the solar converter to convert the power from the solar converter to the battery. On the other hand, when the output power of the solar converter is smaller than the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group, switching control is executed to control the bidirectional converter so that power is directed from the battery to the auxiliary equipment group, and during a period in which a predetermined fluctuation condition is satisfied as a condition indicating that there is a large fluctuation in at least one of the output power of the solar panel and the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group, specific control is executed to control one or more selected from the solar converter, the auxiliary equipment group, and the bidirectional converter so that the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter and the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group is maintained the same.
[0007] A vehicle program for solving the above problem is applied to a vehicle including a solar panel, a solar converter capable of converting and outputting the output power of the solar panel, a group of accessories that receives the output power of the solar converter, a battery, a bidirectional converter capable of voltage-converting the output power of the battery and supplying it to the group of accessories, and capable of voltage-converting the output power of the solar converter and supplying it to the battery, and a control device that controls the solar converter, the group of accessories, and the bidirectional converter, and the control device controls the solar converter, the group of accessories, and the bidirectional converter, and when the output power of the solar converter is greater than the power consumption of the group of accessories, the control device controls the solar converter to supply a power to the front of the group of accessories. The bidirectional converter is controlled so that power is directed to the battery, while, when the output power of the solar converter is smaller than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group, switching control is executed to control the bidirectional converter so that power is directed from the battery to the auxiliary machinery group, and during a period in which a predetermined fluctuation condition is satisfied as a condition indicating that at least one of the output power of the solar panel and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group fluctuates greatly, specific control is executed to control one or more selected from the solar converter, the auxiliary machinery group, and the bidirectional converter so that the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group is maintained constant. [Effects of the Invention]
[0008] According to the above technical concepts, the load on the bidirectional converter can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawings]
[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a vehicle. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a processing routine executed by the control device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0010] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a power supply system, a vehicle control device, and a vehicle program will be described with reference to the drawings. <Overall structure> 1, a vehicle 10 includes a power supply system 10A. The power supply system 10A includes a first battery 60, a second battery 40, a solar panel 20, a solar converter 30, a bidirectional converter 50, and an auxiliary machinery group 70.
[0011] The first battery 60 is a secondary battery. The first battery 60 is a high-voltage battery for propelling the vehicle 10. The first battery 60 supplies power to one or more motors for propelling the vehicle 10. The rated voltage of the first battery 60 is, for example, about 200V to 250V.
[0012] The second battery 40 is a secondary battery. The second battery 40 is a battery for the auxiliary machinery group 70. The rated voltage of the second battery 40 is lower than that of the first battery 60. The rated voltage of the second battery 40 is, for example, about 12 [V] to 48 [V].
[0013] The solar panel 20 is configured as a panel by arranging a plurality of solar cells that generate electricity when irradiated with sunlight. The solar panel 20 is installed on the roof of the vehicle 10, for example.
[0014] The solar converter 30 is electrically connected to the solar panel 20. The solar converter 30 is a circuit that converts the voltage of the DC power input from the solar panel 20 and outputs the converted voltage. The solar converter 30 can either step down or step up the output power of the solar panel 20.
[0015] The auxiliary group 70 is a group of multiple auxiliary devices 71. Note that FIG. 1 shows one of the multiple auxiliary devices 71 as a representative. Details of the auxiliary device 71 will be described later. The auxiliary group 70 is electrically connected to the solar converter 30. The auxiliary group 70 is supplied with output power from the solar converter 30.
[0016] The power path from the solar panel 20 via the solar converter 30 to the auxiliary machinery group 70 is referred to as the first path L1. The first battery 60 is located on the second path L2, which is a power path branching off from the first path L1. The second battery 40 is located on the third path L3, which is a power path branching off from the first path L1. In other words, the second battery 40 is electrically connected to both the solar converter 30 and the auxiliary machinery group 70. The second battery 40 can be charged with the output power of the solar converter 30. The second battery 40 can discharge its own stored power to the auxiliary machinery group 70.
[0017] The bidirectional converter 50 is located midway along the second path L2. That is, the bidirectional converter 50 is electrically connected to both the solar converter 30 and the auxiliary machinery group 70. The bidirectional converter 50 is also electrically connected to the first battery 60. The bidirectional converter 50 is a circuit that converts the voltage of DC power input thereto and outputs the converted power. The bidirectional converter 50 is also a circuit that can switch the direction of power supply. The bidirectional converter 50 is capable of converting the voltage of the output power of the solar converter 30 and supplying the converted power to the first battery 60. Specifically, the bidirectional converter 50 is capable of boosting the output power of the solar converter 30 and supplying it to the first battery 60. The bidirectional converter 50 is also capable of converting the voltage of the output power of the first battery 60 and supplying it to the auxiliary machinery group 70. Specifically, the bidirectional converter 50 is capable of lowering the output power of the first battery 60 and supplying it to the auxiliary machinery group 70.
[0018] <Auxiliary> The auxiliary device 71 is a device that does not require a voltage as high as the output voltage of the first battery 60 to operate. The auxiliary device 71 includes an auxiliary device ECU 71A and a target device 71B that operates in response to a command signal from the auxiliary device ECU 71A. One example of the auxiliary device 71 is an electric power steering device that adjusts the steering angle of the steered wheels of the vehicle 10. Other examples of the auxiliary device 71 include a display device, an audio device, an air conditioning device, lighting devices such as room lights and headlights, a wiper device, and surrounding monitoring devices such as a camera and radar. Note that some types of auxiliary device 71 include an input device, such as an input switch, that allows a user to instruct the operation of the auxiliary device 71. The input device outputs a signal in response to a user's operation to a control device 90, which will be described later.
[0019] The auxiliary ECU 71A is a computer equipped with a processing circuit. The processing circuit includes a CPU and a memory. The memory pre-stores various programs describing processes to be executed by the CPU and various data necessary for the CPU to execute the programs. The auxiliary ECU 71A controls the target device 71B based on a command signal from a control device 90 (described later). The auxiliary ECU 71A switches between a sleep state and an active state. In the sleep state, the auxiliary ECU 71A pauses various processes and waits for an activation command from the control device 90. In the sleep state, the auxiliary ECU 71A consumes less power per unit time than in the active state. When in the active state, the auxiliary ECU 71A controls the target device 71B. Some auxiliary ECUs 71A can operate the target device 71B in different power modes. The power modes include a normal power mode and a power saving mode. In the power saving mode, the target device 71B consumes less power per unit time than in the normal power mode. In the following, among the auxiliary machinery group 70, the auxiliary machinery 71 whose power mode can be switched will be referred to as a switchable auxiliary machinery.
[0020] Some of the multiple accessories 71 are various sensors. Examples of the various sensors are a first sensor 101, multiple second sensors 102, and a temperature sensor 103. Note that FIG. 1 shows one of the multiple second sensors 102 as a representative. The first sensor 101 repeatedly detects the output current and output voltage of the solar converter 30 at a predetermined detection period. The second sensor 102 is provided for each accessory 71. The second sensor 102 repeatedly detects the current flowing through the corresponding accessory 71 and the voltage applied to the corresponding accessory 71 at a predetermined detection period. The temperature sensor 103 repeatedly detects the temperature of the second battery 40 at a predetermined detection period. Note that there are various other sensors that serve as the accessories 71. An example of another sensor is a sensor that detects the steering angle of the steering wheel. The various sensors repeatedly output signals corresponding to the information they detect to a control device 90, which will be described later.
[0021] <Control device> The power supply system 10A includes a control device 90. The control device 90 is a computer equipped with a processing circuit. The processing circuit includes a CPU 91 and a memory 92. The memory 92 pre-stores various vehicle programs W, which describe the processes to be executed by the CPU 91, and various data necessary for the CPU 91 to execute the programs W. The control device 90 constantly acquires signals from the various sensors and input devices described above. The control device 90 calculates necessary parameters based on the acquired information. For example, the control device 90 calculates the output power of the solar converter 30 based on the detection signal of the first sensor 101. The control device 90 also calculates the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 based on the detection signals of multiple second sensors 102. The power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 refers to the sum of the power consumption of all the auxiliary machinery 71. The control device 90 repeatedly calculates the output power of the solar converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 at a predetermined calculation interval.
[0022] The control device 90 controls the solar converter 30, the bidirectional converter 50, and the auxiliary machinery group 70 by having the CPU 91 execute the program W stored in the memory 92. When controlling the solar converter 30, the bidirectional converter 50, and the auxiliary machinery group 70, the control device 90 basically performs basic control dedicated to each of them, as described below.
[0023] <Basic control for solar converters> First, we will explain the PV characteristic line, which is the premise of basic control for the solar converter 30. Consider an orthogonal coordinate system with the output voltage of the solar converter 30 on the X axis and the output power of the solar converter 30 on the Y axis. In this orthogonal coordinate system, the PV characteristic line represents the correspondence between the output voltage and output power of the solar converter 30 that the solar converter 30 can achieve depending on the current power generation status of the solar panel 20. The PV characteristic line basically has a mountain-shaped distribution. That is, the PV characteristic line has a maximum point where the output power of the solar converter 30 changes from increasing to decreasing as the output voltage of the solar converter 30 increases. The output power at this maximum point is referred to as the maximum power. In basic control for the solar converter 30, the control device 90 controls the solar converter 30 so that the output power of the solar converter 30 becomes maximum power. Specifically, the control device 90 searches for the output voltage that will obtain the maximum power at the current time every predetermined period, such as one minute. The control device 90 then controls the solar converter 30 for a certain period of time so as to output this output voltage, and ultimately the maximum power. The control device 90 repeats searching for the maximum power and controlling the solar converter 30 in accordance with the search results.
[0024] <Basic control for bidirectional converters> The basic control for the bidirectional converter 50 is control related to the output voltage of the bidirectional converter 50. In this basic control, when the destination of the power supply from the bidirectional converter 50 is the first battery 60, the control device 90 boosts the output voltage of the solar converter 30 to a voltage approximately equal to the rated voltage of the first battery 60 and outputs it to the first battery 60. On the other hand, when the destination of the power supply from the bidirectional converter 50 is the auxiliary machinery group 70, the control device 90 lowers the output voltage of the first battery 60 to a voltage approximately equal to the rated voltage of the second battery 40 and outputs it to the auxiliary machinery group 70.
[0025] <Basic control for auxiliary equipment> The control device 90 can grasp the auxiliary devices 71 currently being requested to operate and the designated power mode based on signals from various input devices and sensors. In basic control for the auxiliary devices 71, the control device 90 controls the auxiliary devices 71 currently being requested to operate in the requested power mode. The control device 90 essentially controls each auxiliary device 71 by outputting a command signal to the auxiliary device 71 currently being requested to operate. Note that, hereinafter, a detailed description of the output of a command signal by the control device 90 to control each auxiliary device 71 will be omitted.
[0026] <Switching control for bidirectional converters> The control device 90 constantly performs switching control when controlling the bidirectional converter 50. The switching control is control for switching the direction of power supply by the bidirectional converter 50. In the switching control, the control device 90 switches the direction of power supply by the bidirectional converter 50 depending on the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 at that time. When the output power of the solar converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70, the control device 90 controls the bidirectional converter 50 so that power is directed from the solar converter 30 to the first battery 60. On the other hand, when the output power of the solar converter 30 is less than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70, the control device 90 controls the bidirectional converter 50 so that power is directed from the first battery 60 to the auxiliary machinery group 70.
[0027] <Specific Control> The control device 90 can execute specific control in addition to the basic control for each device. The control device 90 executes the specific control during a period when a predetermined variation condition is satisfied. When executing the specific control, the control device 90 suspends the basic control for the solar converter 30 or the auxiliary equipment 71 as necessary. Note that the control device 90 continues the switching control and basic control for the bidirectional converter 50 even during a period when the variation condition is satisfied. The variation condition in this embodiment is predetermined as a condition indicating large fluctuations in the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group 70. Specifically, the variation condition is that the difference between the maximum and minimum power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group 70 during a unit period is equal to or greater than a specified value. The unit period is predetermined. The unit period is, for example, several seconds. The specified value is predetermined. The specified value is a value that can identify a situation in which the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group 70 is so large that the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group 70 changes. The control device 90 stores the unit period and the specified value in advance.
[0028] In the specific control, the control device 90 controls the solar converter 30, the auxiliary machinery group 70, and the bidirectional converter 50 so as to maintain the same magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70. Note that the control device 90 of this embodiment executes the specific control on the condition that the temperature of the second battery 40 is outside a predetermined range. The predetermined range is determined in advance as a temperature range in which the charging and discharging performance of the second battery 40 does not deteriorate. The control device 90 pre-stores an allowable lower limit value, which is the lower limit of the predetermined range, and an allowable upper limit value, which is the upper limit of the predetermined range. The allowable lower limit value can be set to, for example, a temperature below freezing. The allowable upper limit value can be set to, for example, a temperature above 50 degrees.
[0029] The specific control includes a first specific control and a second specific control. The control device 90 performs the first specific control if the output power of the solar converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 at the time when the state switches from a state where the variation condition is not satisfied to a state where it is satisfied. The first specific control is a control for maintaining a state where the output power of the solar converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70. On the other hand, the control device 90 performs the second specific control if the output power of the solar converter 30 is less than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 at the time when the state switches from a state where the variation condition is not satisfied to a state where it is satisfied. The second specific control is a control for maintaining a state where the output power of the solar converter 30 is less than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70.
[0030] The first specified control includes a first specified control for the bidirectional converter 50 and a first specified control for the auxiliary device 71. In the first specified control for the bidirectional converter 50, the control device 90 controls the bidirectional converter 50 so that the amount of power supplied from the bidirectional converter 50 to the first battery 60 is smaller than in a state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied, while maintaining the control of the output voltage related to the basic control for the bidirectional converter 50. In the first specified control for the auxiliary device 71, the control device 90 controls the auxiliary device group 70 so that the power consumption of the auxiliary device group 70 is smaller than in a state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. In other words, when the first specified control for the bidirectional converter 50 is being executed, the power supplied from the bidirectional converter 50 to the first battery 60 is smaller than when the first specified control for the bidirectional converter 50 is not being executed. Furthermore, when the first specified control for the auxiliary device 71 is being executed, the power consumption of the auxiliary device group 70 is smaller than when the basic control for the auxiliary device 71 is being executed.
[0031] The second specified control includes a second specified control for the solar converter 30 and a second specified control for the auxiliary device 71. In the second specified control for the solar converter 30, the control device 90 controls the solar converter 30 so that the output power of the solar converter 30 is smaller than when the variation condition is not satisfied. In the second specified control for the auxiliary device 71, the control device 90 controls the auxiliary device group 70 so that the power consumption of the auxiliary device group 70 is larger than when the variation condition is not satisfied. In other words, when the second specified control for the solar converter 30 is being executed, the output power of the solar converter 30 is smaller than when the basic control for the solar converter 30 is being executed. Furthermore, when the second specified control for the auxiliary device 71 is being executed, the power consumption of the auxiliary device group 70 is larger than when the basic control for the auxiliary device 71 is being executed.
[0032] <Processing routine> The control device 90 executes the program W to repeat a series of processing routines described below. As a result, the control device 90 performs specific control as necessary. This processing routine is repeatedly executed while the control device 90 is operating. Therefore, even when the vehicle 10 is stopped or parked, the following series of processing routines are repeatedly executed as long as the control device 90 is supplied with enough power to operate the control device 90.
[0033] As shown in FIG. 2, when the control device 90 starts the processing routine, it first executes the processing of step S10. In step S10, the control device 90 determines whether the fluctuation condition is satisfied. Specifically, the control device 90 monitors the transition of the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 from the start of the processing of step S10 until a unit period has elapsed. The control device 90 then identifies the maximum and minimum values of the power consumption during the unit period. The control device 90 then determines whether a difference value, which is a value obtained by subtracting the minimum value from the maximum value, is equal to or greater than a specified value. If the difference value is less than the specified value, the control device 90 determines that the fluctuation condition is not satisfied (step S10: NO). In this case, the control device 90 executes the processing of step S10 again. The control device 90 repeats the processing of step S10 until the difference value becomes equal to or greater than the specified value, i.e., until the fluctuation condition is satisfied. If the fluctuation condition is satisfied (step S10: YES), the control device 90 proceeds to step S20. The situation in which the determination in step S10 becomes YES is a situation in which the state in which the variable condition is not satisfied has been switched to a state in which the variable condition is satisfied.
[0034] In step S20, the control device 90 determines whether the temperature of the second battery 40 is outside a predetermined range. The control device 90 compares the latest value of the temperature of the second battery 40 with the allowable lower limit value and the allowable upper limit value. If the temperature of the second battery 40 is equal to or greater than the allowable lower limit value and equal to or less than the allowable upper limit value (step S20: NO), the control device 90 returns to the processing of step S10.
[0035] On the other hand, if the temperature of the second battery 40 is lower than the allowable lower limit or higher than the allowable upper limit (step S20: YES), the control device 90 proceeds to step S30. If the determination in step S20 is YES, the necessary conditions for executing the specific control are satisfied.
[0036] In step S30, the control device 90 determines whether the output power of the solar converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70. The control device 90 compares the latest value of the output power of the solar converter 30 with the latest value of the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70. Here, at the time when step S30 is reached, the control device 90 is performing basic control for the solar converter 30. Therefore, the output power of the solar converter 30 at this time is the maximum power of the current PV characteristic line. If the output power of the solar converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 (step S30: YES), the control device 90 proceeds to step S40. Note that after the determination of step S10 becomes YES, the control device 90 promptly performs the processes of step S20 and this step S30. In other words, the timing at which the control device 90 performs the process of this step S30 corresponds to the timing at which the state where the variation condition is not satisfied changes to the state where the variation condition is satisfied.
[0037] In step S40, the control device 90 starts the first specified control for the bidirectional converter 50. Here, when the process proceeds to step S40, the destination of power supplied by the bidirectional converter 50 is the first battery 60, taking into account the switching control for the bidirectional converter 50. In the first specified control for the bidirectional converter 50, the control device 90 controls the bidirectional converter 50 so that the power supplied from the bidirectional converter 50 to the first battery 60 is smaller than before the first specified control was executed, and therefore compared to a state in which the variation condition is not satisfied. After starting the first specified control for the bidirectional converter 50 in step S40, the control device 90 proceeds to step S50.
[0038] In step S50, the control device 90 determines whether the difference value calculated in the most recent processing of step S10 is equal to or greater than a set value. The set value is predetermined as a value that can determine whether the fluctuation in power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 is significantly large. The control device 90 stores the set value in advance. If the difference value is less than the set value (step S50: NO), the control device 90 skips the processing of step S60, which will be described later, and proceeds to step S70. On the other hand, if the difference value is equal to or greater than the set value (step S50: YES), the control device 90 proceeds to step S60.
[0039] In step S60, the control device 90 starts the first specific control for the auxiliary device 71. At this time, the control device 90 suspends the basic control for the auxiliary device 71. In the first specific control for the auxiliary device 71, the control device 90 controls all switchable auxiliary devices 71, among the auxiliary devices 71 for which operation is currently requested, in a power saving mode. Furthermore, in the first specific control for the auxiliary device 71, the control device 90 controls all auxiliary devices 71, among the auxiliary devices 71 for which operation is currently requested, except for the switchable auxiliary devices, in a normal manner. When the control device 90 starts the first specific control for the auxiliary device 71, the switchable auxiliary devices are switched from the normal power mode to the power saving mode. Accordingly, the power consumption of the auxiliary device group 70 is reduced by the number of auxiliary devices 71 that have switched to the power saving mode. As a result, while the first specific control for the auxiliary device 71 is being executed, the power consumption of the auxiliary device group 70 is reduced compared to before the execution of the first specific control, i.e., compared to a state in which the variable condition was not satisfied. That is, in the first specific control for the auxiliary equipment 71, the control device 90 controls the auxiliary equipment group 70 so that the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group 70 is smaller than in a state where the variable condition is not satisfied. Note that, while the first specific control for the auxiliary equipment 71 is being executed, the control device 90 displays on the display device that each auxiliary equipment 71 is being operated in a power saving mode from the viewpoint of component protection. In step S60, the control device 90 starts the first specific control for the auxiliary equipment 71, and then proceeds to step S70.
[0040] In step S70, the control device 90 determines whether the termination condition is satisfied. The termination condition is that the difference between the maximum and minimum values of the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 during the unit period is less than a specified value. Due to the relationship between the termination condition and the variation condition, the control device 90 performs a determination in which the affirmative and negative results are interchanged for the processing of step S10. As in step S10, the control device 90 monitors the transition in the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 from the time the processing proceeds to step S70 until the unit period has elapsed. The control device 90 then determines whether the termination condition is satisfied based on the difference between the maximum and minimum values of the power consumption ascertained from this transition. If the termination condition is not satisfied (step S70: NO), the control device 90 performs the processing of step S70 again. The control device 90 repeats the processing of step S70 until the termination condition is satisfied. If the termination condition is satisfied (step S70: YES), the control device 90 proceeds to step S80. The situation in which the determination in step S70 becomes YES is a situation in which the state in which the variable condition was satisfied has switched to a state in which the variable condition is not satisfied.
[0041] In step S80, the control device 90 ends all specific controls that are being executed. Then, the control device 90 resumes each basic control that was interrupted in conjunction with the execution of the specific controls. After this, the control device 90 executes the process of step S10 again.
[0042] Now, in step S30, if the output power of the solar converter 30 is equal to or less than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 (step S30: NO), the control device 90 advances the process to step S140.
[0043] In step S140, the control device 90 starts the second specific control for the solar converter 30. At this time, the control device 90 suspends the basic control for the solar converter 30. In the second specific control for the solar converter 30, the control device 90 controls the solar converter 30 so that the output power of the solar converter 30 becomes the specific power. In this embodiment, the specific power is half the maximum power related to the basic control for the solar converter 30 that was executed immediately before. As can be seen from the magnitude relationship between the maximum power and the specific power, in the second specific control for the solar converter 30, the control device 90 controls the solar converter 30 so that the output power of the solar converter 30 becomes smaller than before the second specific control was executed, i.e., compared to a state in which the fluctuation condition was not satisfied. After starting the second specific control for the solar converter 30 in step S140, the control device 90 proceeds to step S150.
[0044] In step S150, the control device 90 performs the same process as in step S50. If the difference value is less than the set value (step S150: NO), the control device 90 skips the process of step S160, which will be described later, and proceeds to step S70. On the other hand, if the difference value is equal to or greater than the set value (step S150: YES), the control device 90 proceeds to step S160.
[0045] In step S160, the control device 90 starts the second specific control for the auxiliary device 71. At this time, the control device 90 suspends the basic control for the auxiliary device 71. In the second specific control for the auxiliary device 71, the control device 90 controls the auxiliary devices 71 for which operation is currently requested as requested, and also controls the auxiliary ECUs 71A of all auxiliary devices 71 for which operation is not requested to be activated. In other words, when the control device 90 starts the second specific control for the auxiliary device 71, all auxiliary ECUs 71A that were in the sleep state are switched to the activated state. Accordingly, the power consumption of the auxiliary device group 70 increases by the number of auxiliary ECUs 71A that are switched to the activated state. As a result, while the second specific control for the auxiliary device 71 is being executed, the power consumption of the auxiliary device group 70 increases compared to before the second specific control was executed, i.e., compared to a state in which the variable condition was not satisfied. That is, in the second specific control for the auxiliary equipment 71, the control device 90 controls the auxiliary equipment group 70 so that the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group 70 is greater than in a state where the variation condition is not satisfied. In step S160, when the control device 90 starts the second specific control for the auxiliary equipment 71, the control device 90 proceeds to step S70. Then, the control device 90 performs the processes of steps S70 and S80.
[0046] <Operation of the embodiment> The control device 90 executes the above processing routine, thereby realizing the following first or second mode.
[0047] The first mode will be described. Now, assume that the temperature of the second battery 40 is outside the predetermined range, and the state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied changes to the state where it is satisfied (step S10: YES, step S20: YES). At this time, assume that the output power of the solar converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 (step S30: YES). In this case, the bidirectional converter 50 is configured to supply power to the first battery 60 in the switching control settings for the bidirectional converter 50. Under these circumstances, the control device 90 performs a first specific control for the bidirectional converter 50 (step S40). That is, the control device 90 reduces the power supplied from the bidirectional converter 50 to the first battery 60. As a result, power accumulates between the solar converter 30 and the bidirectional converter 50, creating a situation where additional power can be supplied to the auxiliary machinery group 70. Furthermore, if the fluctuation in the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 is considerably large (step S50: YES), the control device 90 performs a first specific control for the auxiliary machinery 71 (step S60). That is, the control device 90 switches the auxiliary machinery 71, whose power mode is switchable, to the power saving mode. As a result, the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 decreases. In this way, by performing each first specific control, the margin for supplying additional power to the auxiliary machinery group 70 increases while the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 decreases. Accordingly, even if the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 fluctuates, the difference between the output power of the solar converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 increases to a degree that prevents the magnitude relationship between the output power and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 from being reversed. Therefore, while the fluctuation condition is satisfied, the output power of the solar converter 30 remains greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70. Furthermore, in the setting of the switching control for the bidirectional converter 50, the supply destination of power from the bidirectional converter 50 is maintained to the first battery 60. If the determination in step S50 is NO, the following is achieved by the control device 90 only performing the first specific control for the bidirectional converter 50, out of the first specific control for the bidirectional converter 50 and the first specific control for the auxiliary device 71.That is, even if the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 fluctuates, the difference between the output power of the solar converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 becomes large enough to prevent the magnitude relationship between the output power and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 from being reversed.
[0048] The second mode will be described. Now, assume that the temperature of the second battery 40 is outside the predetermined range, and the fluctuation condition is switched from an unsatisfied state to a satisfied state (step S10: YES, step S20: YES). At this time, assume that the output power of the solar converter 30 is smaller than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 (step S30: NO). In this case, the bidirectional converter 50 is configured to supply power to the auxiliary machinery group 70 in accordance with the switching control settings for the bidirectional converter 50. Under these circumstances, the control device 90 performs a second specific control for the solar converter 30 (step S140). Specifically, the control device 90 reduces the output power of the solar converter 30 below the maximum power of the PV characteristic line. Furthermore, if the fluctuation in the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 is significantly large (step S150: YES), the control device 90 performs a second specific control for the auxiliary machinery 71 (step S160). Specifically, the control device 90 activates each auxiliary machinery ECU 71A that was in a sleep state. As a result, the power consumption of the auxiliary group 70 increases. In this way, by performing each second specified control, the output power of the solar converter 30 decreases while the power consumption of the auxiliary group 70 increases. Accordingly, even if the power consumption of the auxiliary group 70 fluctuates, the difference between the output power of the solar converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary group 70 increases to the extent that the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary group 70 does not reverse. Therefore, during the period in which the fluctuation condition is satisfied, the output power of the solar converter 30 remains smaller than the power consumption of the auxiliary group 70. Furthermore, in the setting of the switching control for the bidirectional converter 50, the power supply destination of the bidirectional converter 50 is maintained to be the auxiliary group 70. Note that if the determination in step S150 is NO, the following is achieved by the control device 90 only performing the second specified control for the solar converter 30, out of the second specified control for the solar converter 30 and the second specified control for the auxiliary 71. That is, even if the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 fluctuates, the difference between the output power of the solar converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 becomes large enough to prevent the magnitude relationship between the output power and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 from being reversed.
[0049] <Effects of the embodiment> (1) As described in the operation of the above embodiment, in the configuration of this embodiment, the devices are controlled so that the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 is maintained during the period in which the fluctuation condition is satisfied. Therefore, the likelihood that the power supply destination of the bidirectional converter 50 will remain the same during the period in which the fluctuation condition is satisfied increases. Therefore, even under conditions in which the power supply destination of the bidirectional converter 50 would frequently switch in the past, the load on the bidirectional converter 50 can be minimized.
[0050] (2) For example, if the travel route of the vehicle 10 alternately includes straight roads and curves, the electric power steering device is repeatedly driven and stopped. In this case, the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 may fluctuate significantly. Furthermore, for example, the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 may fluctuate significantly due to repeated on / off of the air conditioner or the headlights. By adopting a fluctuation condition that uses the degree of fluctuation in the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 as an index, as in the present embodiment, it is possible to capture situations such as those described above in which the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 fluctuates significantly. This makes it possible to minimize the load on the bidirectional converter 50 when the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 fluctuates significantly.
[0051] (3) When the temperature of the second battery 40 is within a predetermined range, the second battery 40 performs sufficient charging and discharging functions. In this case, when the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 fluctuates, the excess or deficiency in the power supply from the solar converter 30 relative to the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 can be compensated for by charging and discharging the second battery 40. This allows the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 to be maintained. On the other hand, if the temperature of the second battery 40 is excessively low or high, the charging and discharging performance of the second battery 40 may deteriorate. Under such circumstances, the charging and discharging of the second battery 40 may not be able to fully compensate for the excess or deficiency in power due to fluctuations in the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70. In this embodiment, each specific control is performed only under such circumstances. Here, performing each specific control imposes control constraints different from those under normal circumstances, which may have various effects, such as changing other controls performed in conjunction with basic control. With the configuration of this embodiment, it is possible to avoid unnecessary increases in the number of times that specific control is performed.
[0052] (4) As described in the first aspect of the operation of the above embodiment, in the configuration of this embodiment, if the output power of the solar converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 at the time when the state switches to one in which the fluctuation condition is satisfied, the power supplied from the bidirectional converter 50 to the first battery 60 is reduced. This increases the margin for supplying additional power to the auxiliary machinery group 70, as described in the operation of the above embodiment. Here, because the solar converter 30 outputs the maximum power of the PV characteristic line, it is difficult for the solar converter 30 itself to further increase its output power. In the configuration of this embodiment, even under such circumstances, the output power of the bidirectional converter 50 can be adjusted to increase the margin for supplying power to the auxiliary machinery group 70. This configuration of this embodiment is suitable for maintaining a state in which the output power of the solar converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70.
[0053] (5) As described in the first mode of operation of the above embodiment, in the configuration of this embodiment, if the output power of the solar converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 at the time of switching to a state in which the fluctuation condition is satisfied, and if the fluctuation in the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 is significantly large, the auxiliary machinery 71, whose power mode can be switched, is switched to the power saving mode. As a result, the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 decreases. In this configuration of this embodiment, even if the fluctuation in the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 is significantly large, it is possible to reliably maintain a state in which the output power of the solar converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70. Furthermore, by switching the auxiliary machinery 71 to the power saving mode only when the fluctuation in the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 is significantly large, it is possible to minimize the opportunities for forcing a change in the operating mode of the auxiliary machinery 71.
[0054] (6) As described in the second mode of operation of the above embodiment, in the configuration of this embodiment, if the output power of the solar converter 30 is smaller than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 at the time of switching to a state in which the fluctuation condition is satisfied, the output power of the solar converter 30 is reduced. This configuration of this embodiment is suitable for maintaining a state in which the output power of the solar converter 30 is smaller than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70.
[0055] (7) As described in the second aspect of the operation of the above embodiment, in the configuration of this embodiment, if the output power of the solar converter 30 is smaller than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 at the time when the state where the fluctuation condition is satisfied is switched to, and if the fluctuation in the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 is significantly large, the auxiliary machinery ECU 71A, which was in a sleep state, is activated. As a result, the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 increases. With this configuration of this embodiment, even if the fluctuation in the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 is significantly large, the state where the output power of the solar converter 30 is smaller than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 can be reliably maintained. Furthermore, if the auxiliary machinery ECU 71A is simply activated as a measure to maintain this magnitude relationship, the target device 71B is not started or the operating mode of the target device 71B is not changed, and therefore the behavior of the vehicle 10 is not substantially changed. Therefore, there is no impact on the user.
[0056] <Example of change> The above embodiment can be modified as follows: The above embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other within the scope of technical compatibility.
[0057] With regard to step S40, the content of the first specific control for the bidirectional converter 50 is not limited to the example of the above embodiment. The first specific control for the bidirectional converter 50 only needs to control the bidirectional converter 50 so that the power supplied from the bidirectional converter 50 to the first battery 60 is smaller than in a state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. The first specific control for the bidirectional converter 50 only needs to reduce one or more selected from the current and the voltage supplied from the bidirectional converter 50 to the first battery 60.
[0058] With regard to step S60, the content of the first specific control for the auxiliary device 71 is not limited to the example in the above embodiment. The first specific control for the auxiliary device 71 only needs to control the auxiliary device group 70 so that the power consumption of the auxiliary device group 70 is lower than when the variable condition is not satisfied. For example, a switchable auxiliary device to be switched to the power saving mode may be selected from among multiple switchable auxiliary devices that are operating at the time of execution of step S60. At this time, the power consumption of each auxiliary device 71 may be taken into consideration. Selecting a switchable auxiliary device with high power consumption as the device to be switched to the power saving mode is advantageous for reducing the power consumption of the auxiliary device group 70. Furthermore, for example, the number of auxiliary devices 71 to be controlled to the power saving mode may be increased or decreased during execution of the first specific control for the auxiliary device 71.
[0059] In the first specific control for the auxiliary device 71, the operation of the auxiliary device 71 itself may be stopped. For example, the situation in which the first specific control for the auxiliary device 71 is performed may be when the vehicle is parked. In such a situation, monitoring the outside or inside of the vehicle with a camera may not be necessary. In this case, the camera may be stopped.
[0060] The order of the processing of step S40 and the processing of step S60 may be reversed. Also, the processing of step S50 may be eliminated. After eliminating the processing of step S50, either the processing of step S40 or the processing of step S60 may be eliminated. In short, it is sufficient that the processing is designed so that when the determination of step S30 is YES, the output power of the solar converter 30 can be maintained in a state greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70.
[0061] Regarding the processing after the determination of step S30 becomes YES, to maintain the state in which the output power of the solar converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70, the solar converter 30 may be controlled instead of or in addition to controlling the bidirectional converter 50 and the auxiliary machinery group 70. For example, suppose that the basic control for the solar converter 30 is configured to set the output power of the solar converter 30 to a value lower than the maximum power of the PV characteristic line. In this case, further increase in the output power of the solar converter 30 is permitted. In such a case, increasing the output power of the solar converter 30 can maintain the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70. Such control of the solar converter 30 may be employed as the first specific control. In other words, the first specific control is not limited to the example of the above embodiment. The first specific control may be any control that can maintain the state in which the output power of the solar converter 30 is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70. Then, by controlling one or more selected from the solar converter 30, the auxiliary equipment group 70, and the bidirectional converter 50 using the first specific control, it is possible to maintain the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group 70 during the period in which the fluctuation condition is satisfied.
[0062] With regard to step S140, the content of the second specific control for the solar converter 30 is not limited to the example of the above embodiment. The second specific control for the solar converter 30 only needs to control the solar converter 30 so that the output power of the solar converter 30 is lower than when the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. The specific power related to the second specific control for the solar converter 30 may be set to a value other than half the maximum power of the PV characteristic line. As with the above modified example of step S60, for example, the specific power may be increased or decreased during execution of the second specific control for the solar converter 30.
[0063] With regard to step S160, the content of the second specific control for the auxiliary device 71 is not limited to the example in the above embodiment. The second specific control for the auxiliary device 71 only needs to control the auxiliary device group 70 so that the power consumption of the auxiliary device group 70 is greater than when the variable condition is not satisfied. For example, among the switchable auxiliary devices that are operating at the time of execution of step S160, those operating in the power saving mode may be switched to the normal power mode. Also, as with the above modified example of step S60, for example, the number of auxiliary device ECUs 71A that are controlled to be activated may be increased or decreased during execution of the second specific control for the auxiliary device 71.
[0064] The order of the processing of step S140 and the processing of step S160 may be reversed. Also, the processing of step S150 may be eliminated. After eliminating the processing of step S150, either the processing of step S140 or the processing of step S160 may be eliminated. In short, it is sufficient if the processing is designed so that when the determination of step S30 is NO, the output power of the solar converter 30 can be maintained in a state smaller than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70.
[0065] Regarding the processing after the determination in step S30 becomes NO, to maintain the state in which the output power of the solar converter 30 is smaller than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70, the bidirectional converter 50 may be controlled instead of or in addition to controlling the solar converter 30 and the auxiliary machinery group 70. The control of the bidirectional converter 50 may be employed as the second specific control. That is, like the first specific control, the second specific control is not limited to the example of the above embodiment. The second specific control may be any control that can maintain the state in which the output power of the solar converter 30 is smaller than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70. The magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 may be maintained during the period in which the fluctuation condition is satisfied by controlling one or more selected from the solar converter 30, the auxiliary machinery group 70, and the bidirectional converter 50 using the second specific control.
[0066] The determination content of step S30 is not limited to the example of the above embodiment. In other words, the method of determining whether to execute the first specific control or the second specific control is not limited to the example of the above embodiment. For example, in step S30, whether to execute the first specific control or the second specific control may be determined based on the time of day. Here, at night, the vehicle 10 is driven with the headlights on. Therefore, at night, the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 is likely to be large. From this perspective, at night, the output power of the solar converter 30 is likely to be lower than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70. Therefore, even if the control content is not significantly changed from the basic control when executing the specific control, it is likely that the output power of the solar converter 30 can be maintained lower than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70. Therefore, in step S30, whether the time is nighttime or daytime may be determined. Then, if it is nighttime, the second specific control may be executed, and if it is daytime, the first specific control may be executed. From a similar perspective, in step S30, whether to execute the first specific control or the second specific control may be determined based on, for example, the weather. That is, when it is raining, the vehicle 10 is driven with the wipers operating, which is likely to increase the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70. Therefore, in step S30, the determination may be made such that the second specific control is performed when it is raining and the first specific control is performed when it is sunny. In this manner, the determination content in step S30 can be changed as appropriate. Regardless of the determination method used in step S30, as long as only one of the first specific control and the second specific control is continued during the period in which the variation condition is satisfied, the direction of power supply by the bidirectional converter 50 is maintained the same during that period. Therefore, the burden on the bidirectional converter 50 can be reduced.
[0067] The process of step S30 may be omitted. The first specific control may be always performed when the determinations of step S10 and step S20 are YES. Even in this case, the direction of power supply by the bidirectional converter 50 can be maintained constant by continuing the first specific control until the determination of step S70 is YES, i.e., throughout the period in which the fluctuation condition is satisfied. From a similar perspective, the second specific control may be always performed when the determinations of step S10 and step S20 are YES. In short, it is sufficient to continue only one of the first specific control and the second specific control during the period in which the fluctuation condition is satisfied.
[0068] The process of step S20 may be omitted. For example, if the capacity of the second battery 40 is relatively small, and the determination in step S10 is YES, the first specific control or the second specific control may be performed regardless of the temperature of the second battery 40.
[0069] If the process of step S20 is eliminated, the temperature sensor 103 may be eliminated. The variation condition for step S10 is not limited to the example described in the above embodiment. A variation condition different from that described in the above embodiment may be adopted to detect a state in which the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70 fluctuates significantly. Furthermore, for example, due to fluctuations in the amount of solar radiation, the power generated by the solar panel 20, and therefore the output power of the solar panel 20, may fluctuate within a short period of time. In light of this, a variation condition indicating a large fluctuation in the output power of the solar panel 20 may be adopted as the variation condition. When adopting a variation condition related to the solar panel 20, for example, it is possible to set the condition such that the difference between the maximum and minimum values of the output power of the solar panel 20 during a unit period is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value. The variation condition may take into account both the output power of the solar panel 20 and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70, or only one of them. The variation condition may be one that indicates a large fluctuation in at least one of the output power of the solar panel 20 and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70. If the variation condition is changed from that described in the above embodiment, the termination condition may be changed accordingly.
[0070] The content of each basic control is not limited to the examples in the above embodiment. Regardless of the content of the basic control, it is sufficient that the first specific control and the second specific control are configured to maintain the same magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter 30 and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group 70.
[0071] In order to limit the charge / discharge amount of the second battery 40 according to the temperature of the second battery 40, it is possible to set a limit on the magnitude of the output power of the solar converter 30 when the temperature of the second battery 40 is outside a predetermined range. The basic control, the first specific control, and the second specific control may be performed under such a limit.
[0072] The configuration of the auxiliary device 71 is not limited to the example of the above embodiment. For example, the auxiliary device 71 may be capable of switching between three or more power modes. The auxiliary device 71 may be configured to operate by receiving the output power of the solar converter 30.
[0073] Depending on the configuration of the path from the solar panel 20 to the solar converter 30, AC power may be input to the solar converter 30. In this case, the solar converter 30 may be configured to convert AC to DC and output the converted power. In other words, the solar converter 30 is not limited to converting voltage, but may also convert DC and AC or rectify voltage or current depending on the circuit configuration around the solar converter 30.
[0074] The bidirectional converter 50 may be configured with multiple converters. A group of these multiple converters may perform functions such as voltage conversion and switching the direction of power supply between the first battery 60, the auxiliary machinery group 70, and the solar converter 30.
[0075] The overall configuration of the vehicle 10 and therefore the power supply system 10A is not limited to the example of the above embodiment. For example, the second battery 40 may be eliminated. The control device 90 may be configured with multiple information processing devices that individually control each device, such as the auxiliary machinery group 70, the solar converter 30, and the bidirectional converter 50. The information processing device is a computer equipped with a processing circuit including a CPU and memory. Even if the control device 90 is configured with multiple information processing devices, the various processes and controls described in the above embodiment and modified example can be realized as long as these multiple information processing devices are able to exchange information with each other.
[0076] The configuration of the processing circuit of the control device 90 is not limited to the example in the above embodiment. The processing circuit may have any one of the following configurations (a) to (c). (a) The processing circuitry includes one or more processors that perform various processes according to a computer program. The processor includes a CPU and memory such as RAM and ROM. The memory stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to perform processes. Memory, i.e., computer-readable media, includes any available media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.
[0077] (b) The processing circuitry includes one or more dedicated hardware circuits for performing various processes, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or an FPGA.
[0078] (c) The processing circuitry includes a processor that executes some of the various processes in accordance with a computer program, and a dedicated hardware circuit that executes the remaining processes among the various processes.
[0079] <Additional Notes> The above-described embodiment and modified examples include the configurations described in the following supplementary notes. [Appendix 1] A solar panel, a solar converter capable of converting and outputting the output power of the solar panel, a group of accessories supplied with the output power of the solar converter, a battery, a bidirectional converter capable of voltage-converting the output power of the battery and supplying it to the group of accessories, and capable of voltage-converting the output power of the solar converter and supplying it to the battery, and a control device that controls the solar converter, the group of accessories, and the bidirectional converter, wherein the control device controls the solar converter, the group of accessories, and the bidirectional converter, and when the output power of the solar converter is greater than the power consumption of the group of accessories, the control device controls the solar converter to direct power from the solar converter to the battery. While controlling the bidirectional converter, if the output power of the solar converter is smaller than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group, switching control is performed to control the bidirectional converter so that power is directed from the battery to the auxiliary machinery group, and during a period in which a predetermined fluctuation condition is satisfied as a condition indicating that at least one of the output power of the solar panel and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group fluctuates significantly, specific control is performed to control one or more selected from the solar converter, the auxiliary machinery group, and the bidirectional converter so that the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter and the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group is maintained constant.
[0080] [Appendix 2] The power supply system described in [Appendix 1], wherein the fluctuation condition is that the difference between the maximum and minimum values of the power consumption of the auxiliary group during a unit period is equal to or greater than a predetermined specified value.
[0081] [Appendix 3] When the battery is a first battery, the power supply system described in [Appendix 1] or [Appendix 2] is provided with a second battery capable of charging and discharging the output power of the solar converter, and a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the second battery, and the control device executes the specific control under the necessary condition that the temperature of the second battery is outside a predetermined range.
[0082] [Appendix 4] The power supply system according to any one of [Appendix 1] to [Appendix 3], wherein, if the output power of the solar converter is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group at the timing when the state switches from one in which the fluctuation condition is not satisfied to one in which the fluctuation condition is satisfied, the bidirectional converter is controlled in the specific control so that the power supplied from the bidirectional converter to the battery is smaller than that in the state in which the fluctuation condition is not satisfied.
[0083] [Appendix 5] A power supply system described in any one of [Appendix 1] to [Appendix 4], wherein, when the output power of the solar converter is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group at the time when the fluctuation condition switches from a state in which it is not satisfied to a state in which it is satisfied, the auxiliary machinery group is controlled in the specific control so that the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group is smaller than when the fluctuation condition is not satisfied.
[0084] [Appendix 6] A power supply system described in any one of [Appendix 1] to [Appendix 5], wherein, if the output power of the solar converter is smaller than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group at the time when the fluctuation condition switches from a state in which it is not satisfied to a state in which it is satisfied, the specific control controls the solar converter so that the output power of the solar converter is smaller than the state in which the fluctuation condition is not satisfied.
[0085] [Appendix 7] A power supply system described in any one of [Appendix 1] to [Appendix 6], wherein, when the output power of the solar converter is smaller than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group at the time when the fluctuation condition switches from a state in which it is not satisfied to a state in which it is satisfied, the auxiliary machinery group is controlled in the specific control so that the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group is greater than when the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. [Explanation of symbols]
[0086] W…Program 10...Vehicle 10A...Power supply system 20...Solar panel 30...Solar converter 40...Second battery 50...Bidirectional converter 60...1st battery 70…Auxiliary equipment group 90...Control device 101...First sensor 102...Second sensor 103...Temperature sensor
Claims
1. Solar panels and a solar converter capable of converting and outputting the output power of the solar panel; a group of auxiliary machines that receive the output power of the solar converter; A battery, a bidirectional converter capable of converting the voltage of the output power of the battery and supplying the converted power to the auxiliary machinery group, and capable of converting the voltage of the output power of the solar converter and supplying the converted power to the battery; a control device that controls the solar converter, the auxiliary machinery group, and the bidirectional converter, The control device When the output power of the solar converter is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group, the bidirectional converter is controlled so that power is directed from the solar converter to the battery, and when the output power of the solar converter is less than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group, the bidirectional converter is controlled so that power is directed from the battery to the auxiliary machinery group, During a period in which a predetermined fluctuation condition is satisfied as a condition indicating that fluctuation in at least one of the output power of the solar panel and the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group is large, specific control is executed to control one or more selected from the solar converter, the auxiliary equipment group, and the bidirectional converter so that the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter and the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group remains the same. Power supply system.
2. The fluctuation condition is that the difference between the maximum and minimum values of the power consumption of the auxiliary machine group during a unit period is equal to or greater than a predetermined specified value. The power supply system according to claim 1 .
3. When the battery is a first battery, a second battery capable of charging and discharging the output power of the solar converter; and a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the second battery; The control device executes the specific control on the condition that the temperature of the second battery is outside a predetermined range. The power supply system according to claim 1 .
4. If the output power of the solar converter is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group at the timing when the state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied is switched to a state where the fluctuation condition is satisfied, the bidirectional converter is controlled in the specific control so that the power supplied from the bidirectional converter to the battery is smaller than that in the state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. The power supply system according to claim 1 .
5. If the output power of the solar converter is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group at the timing when the state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied is switched to the state where the fluctuation condition is satisfied, the auxiliary machinery group is controlled in the specific control so that the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group is smaller than that in the state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. The power supply system according to claim 1 .
6. If the output power of the solar converter is smaller than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group at the timing when the state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied is switched to a state where the fluctuation condition is satisfied, the specific control controls the solar converter so that the output power of the solar converter is smaller than that in the state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. The power supply system according to claim 1 .
7. If the output power of the solar converter is smaller than the power consumption of the auxiliary machine group at the timing when the state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied is switched to the state where the fluctuation condition is satisfied, the auxiliary machine group is controlled in the specific control so that the power consumption of the auxiliary machine group is larger than that in the state where the fluctuation condition is not satisfied. The power supply system according to claim 1 .
8. Solar panels and a solar converter capable of converting and outputting the output power of the solar panel; a group of auxiliary machines that receive the output power of the solar converter; A battery, a bidirectional converter capable of voltage-converting the output power of the battery and supplying the voltage-converted output power of the solar converter to the battery, A control device for controlling the solar converter, the auxiliary machinery group, and the bidirectional converter, When the output power of the solar converter is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group, the bidirectional converter is controlled so that power is directed from the solar converter to the battery, and when the output power of the solar converter is less than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group, the bidirectional converter is controlled so that power is directed from the battery to the auxiliary machinery group, During a period in which a predetermined fluctuation condition is satisfied as a condition indicating that fluctuation in at least one of the output power of the solar panel and the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group is large, specific control is executed to control one or more selected from the solar converter, the auxiliary equipment group, and the bidirectional converter so that the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter and the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group remains the same. Vehicle control device.
9. Solar panels and a solar converter capable of converting and outputting the output power of the solar panel; a group of auxiliary machines that receive the output power of the solar converter; A battery, a bidirectional converter capable of converting the voltage of the output power of the battery and supplying the converted power to the auxiliary machinery group, and capable of converting the voltage of the output power of the solar converter and supplying the converted power to the battery; a control device that controls the solar converter, the auxiliary machinery group, and the bidirectional converter, The control device executes switching control to control the bidirectional converter so that power is directed from the solar converter to the battery when the output power of the solar converter is greater than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group, and to control the bidirectional converter so that power is directed from the battery to the auxiliary machinery group when the output power of the solar converter is less than the power consumption of the auxiliary machinery group; During a period in which a predetermined fluctuation condition is satisfied as a condition indicating that fluctuation in at least one of the output power of the solar panel and the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group is large, specific control is executed to control one or more selected from the solar converter, the auxiliary equipment group, and the bidirectional converter so that the magnitude relationship between the output power of the solar converter and the power consumption of the auxiliary equipment group is maintained constant. Vehicle program.
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