Equipment and Programs

Abstract

A dark current is prevented in a power supply control device that transmits a sounding signal to an in-vehicle network when noise occurs in the power supply voltage and supplies power to an external device when a response signal is received. [Solution] The power supply control device has a signal inspection function that inspects signals flowing through the in-vehicle network when noise is detected in the in-vehicle power supply, a sounding function that sends a sounding signal to the in-vehicle network when the signal inspection function detects a signal from the in-vehicle network, a power supply determination function that determines whether a power supply condition is met based on a response signal that flows through the in-vehicle network after the sounding signal is sent, and a power supply control function that supplies power from the in-vehicle power supply to an external device when the power supply determination function determines that the power supply condition is met.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a power supply control device and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] Recent vehicles, such as automobiles, are equipped with OBD (On-Board Device) systems that can be connected to a network such as CAN (called an "in-vehicle network") that connects one or more computers (for example, engine ECUs). In many cases, an on-board connector has not only a terminal (sometimes referred to as a "signal terminal") for transmitting and / or receiving signals to an on-board network, but also a terminal (sometimes referred to as a "power terminal") for connecting to a vehicle power source (sometimes referred to as an "on-board power source") such as a car battery or alternator. Therefore, it is possible to supply power to external devices from the power terminal.

[0003] However, if power is supplied to external devices from an on-board power supply regardless of the vehicle's state, the battery may run out if the vehicle is parked for a long period of time, etc. For this reason, power supply control devices that control the power supply to external devices depending on the vehicle's state have been proposed (for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses a power supply control device that supplies power to an external device when it detects noise on the power supply voltage due to an alternator or the like. Patent Document 2 discloses a power supply control device that transmits a response request signal to an in-vehicle network when it detects noise on the power supply voltage, and supplies power to an external device when it receives a response output signal in response to the signal (for example, a response output signal from an engine ECU). Patent Document 2 controls the power supply using not only noise on the power supply voltage but also the response output signal, thereby making it possible to more accurately determine the state of the vehicle. Patent Document 2 further discloses cutting off the power supply when it is no longer possible to receive a response output signal from the in-vehicle network. Patent Document 2 also considers the possibility of transmitting a response request signal triggered by CAN wake-up instead of noise on the power supply voltage. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-222084 [Patent Document 2] Patent Publication No. 2012-148717 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The inventors discovered that even when the key is not inserted (e.g., when a gasoline-powered vehicle is parked with the engine off and no passengers inside), noise may occur in the power supply voltage for some reason, affecting the vehicle's current consumption. For example, some modern vehicles and car accessories (e.g., security-related electrical components) operate even when a gasoline-powered vehicle is parked with the engine off and no passengers inside, and power supply voltage noise may occur when such external devices operate. When the power supply control device in Cited Document 2 detects such noise, it transmits a response request signal to the in-vehicle network, waking up some or all of the systems connected to the in-vehicle network (e.g., body ECUs, etc.), increasing the current flowing through the devices connected to the in-vehicle network. If such noise occurs frequently, the battery may run down, even when a gasoline-powered vehicle is parked with the engine off and no passengers inside.

[0007] Furthermore, when the ignition is turned off, the engine ECU normally does not transmit a response signal to an external signal. Therefore, it is possible to detect that the ignition is off by the response signal from the engine ECU. However, the inventors have discovered that there are some vehicles, such as imported vehicles and recent vehicles, that continue to transmit a response signal to an external signal for a while even after the ignition is turned off, and that this poses a problem in that it is not possible to accurately determine the ignition off state by the response signal alone.

[0008] Although it is conceivable to directly monitor the ignition switch using an external input line, it is difficult for an ordinary user without specialized knowledge to carry out such wiring.

[0009] This application discloses inventions that address some or all of the above problems or other issues. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] This application discloses, for example, the inventions described in the following configuration examples.

[0011] <Configuration example 1> Detecting noise in a power supply supplied from a vehicle, and transmitting a sounding signal to the in-vehicle network when detecting a signal flowing through the in-vehicle network; A power supply control device characterized by having a power supply control function that starts supplying power to an external device based on power supplied from the vehicle when predetermined power supply conditions are met based on a response signal flowing through the in-vehicle network after the sounding signal is sent.

[0012] This configuration detects noise from the onboard power supply and transmits a sounding signal to the onboard network when a signal from the onboard network is detected. This prevents the sounding signal from waking up a computer on the onboard network, which is advantageous compared to unconditionally transmitting a sounding signal when noise from the onboard power supply is detected, thereby reducing the vehicle's current consumption. In particular, it reduces dark current, which typically flows when the vehicle is asleep, such as when a gasoline-powered vehicle is parked with the engine off and no passengers inside, and when the ignition switch is in the OFF position, thereby preventing the so-called dead battery. This configuration is particularly effective in vehicles with onboard computers that wake up when a sounding signal is transmitted through the onboard network. This configuration is particularly effective in vehicles in which multiple onboard computers wake up when a sounding signal is transmitted through the onboard network. In particular, the sounding signal may be transmitted when a signal from the in-vehicle network is detected after noise from the in-vehicle power supply is detected. The sounding signal may be transmitted, for example, when a signal is detected that indicates that all or some of the computers connected to the in-vehicle network (e.g., body ECUs) are already awake. This more effectively prevents a sleeping computer from being woken up by the sounding signal. The sounding signal may not be transmitted, for example, when a signal indicating that all or some of the computers connected to the in-vehicle network are asleep is detected, or when only a signal not indicating that all or some of the computers connected to the in-vehicle network are awake is being transmitted. This more effectively prevents a sleeping computer from being woken up by the sounding signal.

[0013] Furthermore, in configuration example 1, in addition to detecting noise from the onboard power supply and signals flowing through the onboard network, power is supplied to external devices when it is determined that the power supply conditions are met based on the response signal flowing through the onboard network after sending a sounding signal. Therefore, even if noise occurs in the power supply voltage for some reason while the vehicle is in a sleep state (for example, the ignition switch is not turned on), it is possible to control the power supply to external devices appropriately depending on the state of the vehicle, etc.

[0014] The power source supplied from the vehicle may be, for example, a power source directly or indirectly connected to the vehicle's battery or alternator. Power source noise may be, for example, noise generated by power generation accompanying engine rotation, such as alternator noise, spike noise generated when the plug is ignited, such as ignition noise, or voltage drop noise caused by inrush current to various devices in the vehicle when starting the engine or when the ignition switch is switched to the IG or ACC position, or when the doors are unlocked. The in-vehicle network may be, for example, CAN or FlexRay. Signals flowing through the in-vehicle network may be obtained from a connector for detachably connecting power supply control devices or other devices. The connector may be a signal It is preferable that the connector has a signal terminal and a power terminal. It is preferable that both the power supplied from the vehicle and the signal of the in-vehicle network be obtained from the connector. In this way, both the noise of the in-vehicle power supply and the signal of the in-vehicle network can be obtained from a single connector. It is preferable that the connector be an OBD connector.

[0015] Furthermore, if no data appears on the in-vehicle network within a certain period of time (e.g., about 1 second) after noise is detected in the power supply supplied from the vehicle, the power supply control device should be set to go into sleep mode. This is advantageous as it also reduces the current consumed by the device. It is also advantageous to check the in-vehicle network signal for only a certain period of time after noise is detected in the power supply supplied from the vehicle, and to stop checking after the certain period of time has elapsed. During this certain period of time, if there is no response even though data continues to flow on the in-vehicle network after the sounding signal is sent, it is advisable to retry a few times and then sound out again when the next noise signal is detected. (For example, in a vehicle in which the CAN starts operating when the ignition switch is in the ACC position, after noise is detected in the ACC position, there is no response when the engine ECU is sounded. If sounding continues until the ignition is turned on (for example, the ignition switch is in the IG position), the vehicle will not enter sleep mode even if the ignition switch is then turned off because there is a sounding. If sounding is performed again after noise is detected, a sounding can be made again with the engine start noise when the ignition switch is changed from the ACC position to the IG position, and a response can be received. Since there is no sounding even when the ignition switch is changed from the ACC position to the OFF position, the vehicle can enter sleep mode.) It is even better if the power supply determination function checks the in-vehicle network signal only for a certain period of time after the sounding signal is sent, and does not check after that certain period of time has passed.

[0016] The power supply condition may be, for example, a condition related to information contained in the response signal or characteristics of the response signal (e.g., frequency, frequency, amplitude, parameters, identification information, number of identification information, etc.). The power supply condition may be determined based on the response signal or a signal flowing on the in-vehicle network (e.g., if the external device is a radar detector, the power supply condition may be a signal flowing on the in-vehicle network when the ignition switch is in the IG position; if the external device is a navigation system, the power supply condition may be a signal flowing on the in-vehicle network when the ignition switch is in the ACC position; or if the external device is a security-related device, the power supply condition may be detection of a door lock signal from a remote control). The power supply control function may control the start of power supply from the in-vehicle power supply to the external device when it determines that the power supply condition is met. The power supply control function may determine that the power supply condition is met, for example, when there is a response signal indicating that the vehicle's ignition switch is in the IG position or that the vehicle is running (e.g., when the engine speed is not 0 rpm), or when it is estimated that such a response signal is present. The power supply should be turned off when it is detected that the engine speed has reached 0 rpm (the engine has stopped). However, in the case of an idle-stop vehicle, there is a problem in that the power to the external device is turned off every time the vehicle stops (idling stop) at an intersection, etc., so it is preferable to set or determine whether the vehicle is an idle-stop vehicle, and in the case of an idle-stop vehicle, it is preferable not to determine that the power supply condition is met when the engine speed is 0 rpm. The external device should be a device that is not intended to be used in any state other than the above. For example, a radar detector is not intended to be used in any state other than these, so if the external device is a radar detector, it is preferable to supply power only in the above state, thereby effectively reducing the current used. The power supply control function should determine that the power supply condition is met, for example, when there is or is estimated to be a response signal indicating that the vehicle is in the ignition-on state (e.g., the ignition switch is in the ACC or IG position). The external device should be a device that is intended to be used in these states.For example, a navigation system may be used even in the ACC state, so if the external device is a navigation system, power supply can be provided only in the above state, thereby effectively reducing the current consumption.

[0017] The power control device may have a connector that can be detachably connected to the in-vehicle network. The power control device may have a connector or cable that can be detachably connected to an external device. The power control device may have hardware or software such as a switch for switching between supplying and cutting off power to the external device. The power control device may be a power adapter. The power control device may have a storage medium that stores data and programs such as power supply conditions for realizing each function of the power control device. The storage medium may be a volatile or non-volatile storage medium. The volatile medium may be, for example, a RAM. The non-volatile medium may be, for example, an EEPROM. The power control device may have a control unit such as a CPU for executing the program and / or realizing each function of the power control device.

[0018] <Configuration example 2> The power supply control device, wherein the power supply determination function determines whether the power supply conditions are met based on parameters of the response signal.

[0019] This can advantageously facilitate and accurately determine whether the power supply condition is met. For example, the power supply determination function can determine that the power supply condition is met when a response signal including a specific parameter is detected. For example, if it is known that a response signal including a specific parameter is sent to the in-vehicle network in response to a sounding signal when the vehicle is in a specific state (e.g., the ignition is on), it can determine that the power supply condition is met when the specific parameter is detected, thereby enabling power to be supplied to the external device only when the vehicle is in the specific state.

[0020] The parameter may be, for example, the content of data contained in the signal. For example, in packet communication, the parameter may be the state of a specific bit in the packet. For example, if it is known that a response signal with a specific bit (e.g., the fifth bit of the fifth byte in the data portion of the packet) set to "1" is transmitted for a specific vehicle model when the vehicle is in a specific state, then if it is determined that the power supply condition is met when a signal with the specific bit set to "1" is detected, power can be supplied to an external device when the vehicle is in the specific state.

[0021] In another aspect, the power supply determination function may determine whether the power supply condition is satisfied based on the period of the response signal. For example, it may determine that the power supply condition is satisfied when the response signal is detected at a short period similar to that obtained when the engine is running, or when the detection frequency of the response signal is as high as that when the engine is running. For example, in a vehicle in which the period of an engine ECU signal is shorter than that of other signals, it may be determined that the period or frequency is the same as that when the engine ECU is awake. This advantageously allows control of power supply to external devices when the engine ECU is awake.

[0022] <Configuration example 3> The power supply control device, wherein the power supply determination function determines whether the power supply conditions are met based on identification information of the response signal.

[0023] This arrangement is advantageous because it makes it possible to further simplify and accurately determine whether the power supply conditions are met. For example, it is advantageous to determine whether the power supply conditions are met based on whether a signal containing specific identification information is flowing through the in-vehicle network. For example, when a signal containing specific identification information is flowing through the in-vehicle network, it is advantageous to determine whether the power supply conditions are met. The determination of whether the power supply conditions are met may be made by determining that the power supply conditions are met when the conditions of configuration example 3 are met, or may be made when other conditions (for example, the conditions of configuration example 2) are met simultaneously. The identification information may be, for example, information for identifying the computer that sent the response signal. For example, in a specific vehicle model, when the vehicle is in a specific state, a specific identification information may be used. If it is known that a signal having different identification information flows through the in-vehicle network, detecting a signal including the identification information can determine that the power supply condition is met, thereby enabling power supply to an external device when the vehicle is in the specific state. Alternatively, for example, if it is known that a signal having second identification information flows through the in-vehicle network in response to a sounding signal having first identification information when the vehicle is in a specific state, detecting a signal including the second identification information can determine that the power supply condition is met, thereby enabling power supply to an external device when the vehicle is in the specific state. The first identification information and the second identification information may be the same or different. It is preferable that the first identification information and the second identification information have a certain relationship. For example, depending on the manufacturer or type of vehicle, a response signal having an identification number obtained by adding "8" to the identification number of the sounding signal may be output. For such manufacturers and vehicles, adding "8" to the first identification information can be used as the second identification information. For example, it is preferable that the power supply condition is met when second identification information having this certain relationship is detected. If this unrelated second identification information is detected, it is advisable not to determine that the power supply condition is met.

[0024] <Configuration Example 4> The power supply control device, wherein the power supply determination function determines whether or not a power supply condition is met based on the number of pieces of identification information in the response signal.

[0025] This can advantageously facilitate and accurately determine whether the power supply condition is met. For example, it can be determined that the power supply condition is met when the number of types of identification information included in the response signal transmitted through the in-vehicle network is equal to or greater than a certain number. The determination that the power supply condition is met can be made by determining that the power supply condition is met when the condition of Configuration Example 4 is met, or by determining that the power supply condition is met when other conditions (e.g., the conditions of Configuration Examples 2 and 3) are met simultaneously. For example, if it is known that for a specific vehicle model, the number of pieces or types of identification information will be equal to or greater than a certain number when the vehicle is in a specific state, it can be determined that the power supply condition is met when the number is equal to or greater than the certain number, thereby enabling power to be supplied to an external device when the vehicle is in the specific state.

[0026] <Configuration example 5> a power supply condition setting function for setting the power supply conditions; a set condition storage function that stores the power supply conditions set by the power supply condition setting function, The power supply control device, wherein the power supply determination function determines whether the power supply conditions are met based on the power supply conditions stored in the set condition storage function.

[0027] This is advantageous because it makes it possible to set the power supply conditions. For example, even if the specifications of the in-vehicle network (for example, the specifications for what signals flow through the in-vehicle network depending on the vehicle state, etc.) change due to a new release or model change, the condition setting function can be used to set the power supply conditions for the new release or other vehicle model, making it possible to flexibly accommodate vehicles of various models and manufacturers.

[0028] <Configuration Example 6> The power supply control device, wherein the power supply condition setting function sets the power supply conditions based on a user operation.

[0029] This is advantageous because the user can arbitrarily set the power supply conditions. For example, if the user wants to use a power supply control device in a newly released vehicle model, the user can obtain the power supply conditions for the newly released vehicle model from, for example, the manufacturer of the power supply control device, and set the power supply conditions using the power supply condition setting function. The method of obtaining the power supply conditions can be, for example, downloading them from a website. It is recommended to distribute media such as a hard disk or SD card.

[0030] <Configuration Example 7> The power supply control device, wherein the power supply condition setting function sets the power supply conditions based on an operation performed by a user on the external device.

[0031] This configuration allows the power supply conditions to be set by operating the external device, improving user convenience and operability. Furthermore, since the power supply control device does not need to have any operating components, the power supply control device can be made smaller and less expensive. The external device may have a user interface for operation, such as an output device such as an LCD monitor or an input device such as a touch panel. The power supply condition setting function may display a screen on the output device of the external device for receiving input for setting the power supply conditions. Power terminals are often located in places that are difficult for users to access, while external devices are often located in places that are easy for users to access. Therefore, particularly when the power supply control device is installed near the power terminals, configuration example 7 is advantageous because the user does not have to operate the device in a difficult-to-access location.

[0032] <Configuration Example 8> a first information storage function that stores information about a signal flowing through the in-vehicle network when the vehicle is in a first state; a second information storage function that stores information about signals flowing through the in-vehicle network when the vehicle is in a second state different from the first state; and The power supply control device, wherein the power supply condition setting function sets the power supply conditions based on information stored in a first information storage function and information stored in a second information storage function.

[0033] This makes it possible to automatically set the power supply conditions based on the information stored in the first information storage function and the information stored in the second information storage function. For example, the first state may be an ignition-on state (e.g., an ignition switch in the IG position), and the second state may be an ignition-off state (an ignition switch in the OFF or ACC position).

[0034] The first information storage function may store information about all signals flowing through the in-vehicle network in the first state. The second information storage function may store information about all signals flowing through the in-vehicle network in the second state. In particular, the storage times in the first state and the second state may be the same. For example, determining the power supply conditions using information about the difference between the information in the first information storage function and the information in the second information storage function is preferable because it makes it easier to determine the power supply conditions. In particular, determining the power supply conditions using identification information about the difference between the information in the first information storage function and the information in the second information storage function is preferable because it makes it easier to determine the power supply conditions. Specifically, for example, it is preferable to use the identification information remaining when excluding the identification information of all signals flowing in the first state from the identification information of all signals flowing in the second state. For example, the power supply determination function may determine that the power supply conditions are met when the response signal includes the above-mentioned "remaining identification information." It is conceivable that there may be a plurality of "remaining identification information." In such a case, it is preferable to use, for example, the identification information of a signal with a short period. By doing so, for example, in a vehicle in which the engine ECU signal has a shorter period than other signals, it is possible to more reliably control the supply of power to external devices when the engine ECU is awake. Here, the case where identification information is used as the information to be stored in the first and second information storage functions has been described, but other parameters (e.g., data content) may be used instead of the identification information. For details about the parameters and data content, see the above description.

[0035] For example, the power supply control device may learn in the following manner: (1) instruct the user to place the vehicle in a first state (e.g., ACC), then (2) ask the user to confirm that the vehicle has been placed in the first state, (3) store information about signals flowing through the in-vehicle network when the operation is detected in a first information storage function, and (4) instruct the user to place the vehicle in a second state (e.g., ignition on), then (5) ask the user to confirm that the vehicle has been placed in the second state, and (6) store information about signals flowing through the in-vehicle network when the operation is detected in a second information storage function. Displaying these instructions and accepting operations may be performed using an external device, which can simplify the power supply control device. For example, in (1), instruct the user to connect the power supply control device to the in-vehicle network in the first state, and / or, in (2) and (5), the power supply control device may automatically detect that the vehicle has been placed in the first and second states, respectively, which can facilitate user operation. The second state may be determined by transmitting a sounding signal from the power supply control device to the in-vehicle network and receiving a response signal in response to the sounding signal. The above procedure may be modified as appropriate.

[0036] <Configuration Example 9> a power supply condition storage function for storing a plurality of the power supply conditions; a power supply condition selection function for selecting one of the power supply conditions stored by the power supply condition storage function; The power supply control device, wherein the power supply determination function determines whether the power supply condition is satisfied based on the power supply condition selected by the power supply condition selection function.

[0037] In this way, one of a plurality of power supply conditions can be selected, and power is supplied to the external device when the selected power supply condition is met. This advantageously allows for more flexible power supply control depending on, for example, a plurality of types of vehicles having different specifications (e.g., specifications regarding what signals are transmitted to the in-vehicle network depending on the vehicle state, etc.). For example, if conditions for determining the vehicle state are determined depending on the vehicle model or manufacturer, the conditions for each vehicle model or manufacturer can be stored as power supply conditions, and power supply conditions can be selected depending on the vehicle model or manufacturer. This advantageously allows power to be supplied to the external device depending on the vehicle state for vehicles of a plurality of types of vehicle models or manufacturers. The power supply condition selection function may allow selection of a plurality of power supply conditions. In this case, for example, power supply may be started when any one selected power supply condition is met, or when all or two or more selected power supply conditions are met.

[0038] <Configuration Example 10> a switch capable of selecting one or more first switching states corresponding to one or more of the power supply conditions and one or more second switching states; It also has a first special power supply function, When the switch selects one of the first switching states, when the power supply determination function determines that the power supply condition corresponding to the selected first switching state is established, the power supply control function supplies power to the external device; A power supply control device characterized in that, when the switch selects one of the second switching states, the first special power supply function supplies power from the on-board power source to the external device regardless of whether the power supply determination function determines whether the power supply conditions are met.

[0039] In this way, by setting the switch to the second changeover state, the user can ensure power supply to the external device regardless of the success or failure determination by the power supply determination function. As a result, even when using the power supply control device in a vehicle (for example, a newly released model) in which the power supply conditions are not stored or set in the power supply control device, the user can ensure power supply to the external device by setting the switch to the second changeover state. Therefore, it is possible to avoid the situation where power cannot be supplied because the power supply conditions are not stored or set. This is advantageous because it prevents the dilemma of not being able to set the power supply conditions due to the switch being set to the default value. The switch may be, for example, a DIP switch.

[0040] <Configuration Example 11> a power supply control device further comprising a second special power supply function that supplies power from the on-board power source to the external device when there is a transition from a disconnected state in which power supply to the external device is not possible by the power supply control function to a connected state in which power supply to the external device is possible by the power supply control function, regardless of whether the power supply condition is satisfied by the power supply determination function.

[0041] This configuration advantageously ensures power supply to external devices when transitioning from a disconnected state to a connected state, regardless of the success / failure determination by the power supply determination function. This configuration advantageously ensures power supply to external devices by transitioning the power supply control device from a disconnected state to a connected state, even when the power supply control device is used in a vehicle in which the power supply conditions are not stored by the condition storage function (e.g., a newly released vehicle model or a vehicle from a new manufacturer). This advantageously prevents the dilemma of power supply not being possible because the power supply conditions are not set, or power supply conditions not being able to be set because the power supply conditions are not being supplied. The disconnected state may be a state in which the power supply control device is disconnected from the in-vehicle network, and the connected state may be a state in which the power supply control device is connected to the in-vehicle network. The transition from the disconnected state to the connected state may be effected, for example, by inserting the power supply control device's connector into the in-vehicle network connector. In this case, to reduce current consumption due to the continued connection state, a timer of several minutes may be used to automatically transition to the disconnected state. Furthermore, enabling or disabling the timer setting may be selectable using a dip switch or the like. The disconnected state may be a state in which the battery is dead, and the connected state may be a state in which the battery is not dead.

[0042] In configuration example 10 and / or 11 (particularly configuration example 10 and / or 11 that cites any of configuration examples 5 to 9), when power is being supplied from the on-board power source to an external device regardless of the success / failure judgment by the power supply judgment function, if the power supply condition setting function accepts a setting operation, the power supply condition setting will be performed when there is a high probability that it is necessary, which improves user convenience.

[0043] <Configuration Example 12> The power supply control device according to claim 1, wherein the sounding signal includes identification information for identifying a computer connected to the in-vehicle network.

[0044] In this way, for example, a computer on the in-vehicle network can be designated by the identification information of the sounding signal, and the success or failure of the power supply conditions can be determined based on the response signal issued by the designated computer. If the sounding signal includes an identification number for identifying the computer on the in-vehicle network that is operating to supply power to the external device, it is possible to accurately determine when to supply power to the external device. For example, if a sounding signal having identification information designating an engine ECU is used, and it is determined that the power supply conditions are met when a response signal is received from the engine ECU, it is possible to control power supply to the external device when the engine ECU is awake.

[0045] <Configuration Example 13> the sounding function repeatedly transmits the sounding signal to the in-vehicle network; the power supply determination function determines whether a power-cutting condition is met based on the response signal flowing through the in-vehicle network after transmitting any of the sounding signals; The power supply control device is characterized in that the power supply control function cuts off the power supply from the vehicle power supply to the external device when the power cut-off determination function determines that the power cut-off condition is met.

[0046] This configuration makes it possible to cut off the power supply from the on-board power supply to the external device (for example, to terminate the power supply) based on the response signal. For example, the power supply may be cut off when the response signal cannot be detected. The sounding function may, for example, repeatedly transmit a sounding signal when a response signal flowing through the on-board network is detected after the sounding signal is transmitted. The sounding function may, for example, repeatedly transmit a sounding signal when a response signal flowing through the on-board network is detected within a certain period of time after the sounding signal is transmitted. The interval between repetitions of the sounding signal may be a certain period of time. In order to appropriately monitor the vehicle state and appropriately control the power supply, the certain period of time may be approximately 10 milliseconds to 1 second. Each sounding signal may have the same configuration (for example, the same waveform, frequency, amplitude, parameters, etc.).

[0047] The power-cutting condition may be different from the power-supply condition. The power-supply determination function may determine that the power-cutting condition is met, for example, when a signal of a specific parameter or identification number cannot be detected. The power-supply determination function may determine that the power-cutting condition is met, for example, when a signal of a specific parameter or identification number cannot be detected for a certain period of time or longer. A more specific manner of determining whether the power-cutting condition is met may be the same or similar to the manner described above for determining whether the power-supply condition is met.

[0048] <Configuration Example 14> A continuous inspection function that constantly checks the signals of the in-vehicle network, a vehicle state determination function that determines the state of the vehicle based on the signal detected by the continuous inspection function; A power supply control device having a second power supply control function that controls power supply from the on-board power supply to an external device based on a determination made by the vehicle state determination function.

[0049] This configuration can advantageously control the power supply to the external device depending on the vehicle state determined based on the signal from the in-vehicle network. The vehicle state determination function can determine the vehicle state based on, for example, parameters (e.g., data content, identification information, number of pieces of identification information, etc.) of the signal from the in-vehicle network. For example, if it is known that a signal containing a specific parameter flows through the in-vehicle network only when the vehicle is in a specific state (e.g., the ignition is on), the second power supply control function can supply power to the external device when detecting a signal containing the parameter, thereby enabling power supply to the external device when the vehicle is in the specific state. Furthermore, by cutting off the power supply to the external device when not detecting a signal containing the parameter, it is possible to cut off the power supply to the external device when the vehicle is not in the specific state. This configuration can advantageously cut off the power supply when the ignition is off, even for imported vehicles and recent vehicles that respond to external signals for a while even after the ignition is off. Furthermore, in vehicles with an idle-stop feature, even if the vehicle stops idling at an intersection or other location, power continues to be supplied as long as the ignition is on, which eliminates the problem of external devices being turned off each time the vehicle stops idling. Continuous inspections can be performed by constantly checking the signals of the in-vehicle network. For example, the signals of the in-vehicle network can be checked regardless of whether noise is detected in the in-vehicle power supply.

[0050] The invention of Configuration Example 14 may be a configuration example that refers to any of Configuration Examples 1 to 13, or may be an independent configuration example that refers to none of Configuration Examples 1 to 13. Configuration Example 14, which does not refer to Configuration Example 1, is advantageous because it does not require the transmission of a sounding signal and can reliably prevent the problem of increased current consumption due to the sounding signal waking up the computer.

[0051] <Configuration Example 15> The power supply control device includes: a communication program for controlling communication of information between the in-vehicle network and the external device; Program update function and the external device has an update information input function for receiving update information from an external device, and a display program for displaying the information received from the power supply control device; When the update information input function receives the input of the update information, the program update function updates the communication program and the display program as a set.

[0052] In this way, it is preferable that the acquisition of information from the in-vehicle network and the program for displaying that information can be updated as a set. For example, if the power supply control device acquires information on engine speed, vehicle speed, and water temperature from the in-vehicle network and provides it to an external device, and the external device displays the engine speed, vehicle speed, and water temperature information, it is preferable that the communication program and the display program can be updated as a set by using update information for additionally displaying outside air temperature information, so that the power supply control device acquires information on engine speed, vehicle speed, water temperature, and outside air temperature from the in-vehicle network and provides it to the external device, and the external device displays the engine speed, vehicle speed, water temperature, and outside air temperature information.

[0053] The update information may be commands, programs, and / or data for updating the communication program and the display program. The update information may be provided, for example, by downloading it from the website of the power supply control device manufacturer. The update information input function may be a function for inputting the update information to an external device via a wired or wireless connection. For example, the update information may be input by inserting a medium such as an SD card that stores the update information into the external device.

[0054] In the configuration example 15, the power supply control device has a program update function, but the program update function may be provided in an external device or in other devices. For example, the following configuration example 15' is a configuration example of a variation of the configuration example 15. <Configuration Example 15'> A power supply control device according to any one of configuration examples 1 to 14, which has a communication program for controlling communication of information between the in-vehicle network and the external device; an external device having an update information input function for receiving update information from an external device and a display program for displaying the information received from the power supply control device; Program update function and When the update information input function receives the input of the update information, the program update function updates the communication program and the display program as a set. A system characterized by:

[0055] <Configuration Example 16> A program for causing a computer to realize the functions of the electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 15 and 15'.

[0056] The configurations described in the above-mentioned configuration examples may be combined to the extent that no contradictions occur. Furthermore, the components described in the configuration examples may be arbitrarily combined to the extent that no contradictions occur to create a new configuration example. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0057] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a vehicle 1 equipped with a power supply control device 30 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows the OBD connector 6 and the power control unit 30. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows the system configuration of the power supply control device 30 of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a timing chart of transmission and reception of sounding signals and response signals to the in-vehicle network 7 and power supply to the radar detector 20 in a conventional power supply control device. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows a timing chart of transmission and reception of sounding signals and response signals to the in-vehicle network 7 and power supply to the radar detector 20 in the power supply control device 30 of the first embodiment. [Figure 6]FIG. 6 shows the identification information and the number of identification information contained in signals flowing through the in-vehicle network 7 depending on the state of the vehicle in a particular vehicle model (vehicle B). [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows a system configuration of a power supply control device 30 according to a fourth modified embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0058] FIG. 1 shows a vehicle 1 equipped with a power supply control device 30 according to a first embodiment. The vehicle 1 in FIG. 1 is driven by an engine 2. The rotating shaft of the engine 2 is connected to an alternator 3 by a belt or the like. The alternator 3 generates AC power by rotating an armature. The generated AC power is rectified to DC, and the DC output terminal is connected to the positive terminal of a car battery 4. Note that the alternator 3 is not necessarily directly connected to the engine 2. Some recent vehicles are known to control the timing of power generation by the alternator 3 under the control of an ECM (engine control module). The positive terminal of the car battery 4 is connected to a power terminal of an OBD connector 6 (pin 16 in FIG. 2(b) described later). The power supply control device 30 is connected to the OBD connector 6, and a radar detector 20, which is an external device, is further connected to the power supply control device 30.

[0059] In this embodiment, the vehicle's ignition switch can be switched to one of four positions: OFF, ACC, IG, and start-start. When the ignition switch is in the OFF or ACC position, the vehicle is in the "ignition off" state (the engine will not start). When the ignition switch is in the IG or start-start position, the vehicle is in the "ignition on" state (the engine can be started).

[0060] An engine sensor 12 and an engine sensor 13 are connected to the engine 2. The engine sensor 12 is a sensor that measures the rotation speed of the engine 2, and the engine sensor 13 is a sensor that measures the temperature of the engine 2 (for example, the engine coolant temperature, engine oil temperature, intake air temperature, etc.). The tire 8 is the front tire, and the rotation sensor 10 is a sensor that detects the rotation of the tire 8. The tire 9 is the rear tire, and the rotation sensor 11 is a sensor that detects the rotation of the tire 9.

[0061] The in-vehicle network 7 is connected to multiple on-board computers 5. For example, the on-board computer 5 is connected to a rotation sensor 10, a rotation sensor 11, and various other sensors (not shown), and the on-board computer 5 is also connected to an engine sensor 12, an engine sensor 13, and various other sensors (not shown). The multiple on-board computers 5 include multiple computers (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "engine-related computers") such as an engine ECU that activates only when the ignition is on, and multiple computers (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "non-engine-related computers") that activate when the ignition switch is in the ACC position or when a door is opened or closed. The rotation sensors 10, 11, engine sensors 12, 13, etc. and the on-board computer 5 are powered on and start operating when the ignition key of the vehicle 1 is turned to the ACC or IG position. The detection results of the rotation sensors 10, 11, engine sensors 12, 13, etc. detected by each on-board computer 5 are transmitted to the in-vehicle network 7. Each on-board computer 5 also determines the state of the engine and the state of the vehicle based on the detection results from various sensors. The state of the vehicle includes whether it is running on battery power or in idling stop mode.

[0062] The in-vehicle network 7 is a CAN.

[0063] The radar detector 20 detects radar waves emitted by speed enforcement devices, and if the radar detector has a radio receiving function, it receives as many radio waves as possible that it can receive.If the radar detector has a GPS receiving function, it notifies the driver of information such as nearby fixed enforcement devices that are registered in the device and enforcement areas where enforcement has been conducted in the past, thereby encouraging the driver to drive safely.

[0064] Figure 2 shows the OBD connector 6 and power control device 30. The OBD connector 6 has the same shape and pin arrangement as the DTC (SAE J1962 standard), regardless of the communication standard. Figure 2(b) shows the pin arrangement of the OBD connector 6. There are two types of OBD connectors: Type A and Type B. Type A connectors are installed within 1 foot (approximately 30 cm) of the vehicle's instrument panel (near the steering column) and are accessible from the driver's seat. Type B connectors are installed within 2.5 feet (approximately 75 cm) of the vehicle's instrument panel (near the center console, for example) and are accessible from either the driver's or passenger's seat. The pin arrangement of the OBD connector 6 shown in Figure 2(b) (the presence or absence of pins at each position) can be used to determine the type of in-vehicle network 7. The presence of pin 7 on the OBD connector 6 indicates a connection to the K-Line. The presence of pins 6 and 14 on the OBD connector 6 indicates a connection to the CAN. Pin 16 is a power terminal, and is connected to an on-board power source, that is, an alternator 3 and / or a car battery 4. Terminals of the OBD connector 6 other than Pin 16 will be referred to as signal terminals hereinafter.

[0065] The power supply control device 30 has a box-shaped housing 51. The housing 51 is made of a material with appropriate strength, such as plastic. The housing 51 has connection parts 52, 53 and a DIP switch 54 on its front, rear, side and back surfaces, respectively.

[0066] The connection part 52 has a shape and structure that allows for detachable attachment of the OBD connector 6. The connection part 52 has terminals that correspond to the pins of the OBD connector 6.

[0067] The connection part 53 has a shape and structure that allows the connection part 22 at one end of the cable 21 of the radar detector 20 to be detachably and rotatably attached. The radar detector 20, which is an external device, is connected to the other end of the cable 21. Because the connection part 22 can be detachably attached to the connection part 22, it is possible to save space inside the vehicle by removing the cable 21 when the external device is not in use. The ability of the connection part 22 to rotate freely relative to the connection part 53 improves the convenience of routing the cable 21, etc.

[0068] FIG. 2(c) shows the dip switch 54 on the back of the power supply control device 30. The dip switch 54 has four setting switches (numbered 1 to 4) for setting the operation of the control unit 31. Depending on the ON / OFF state of each switch, the dip switch 54 can take 16 different switching states. Switching states 1 to 8, which correspond to the values ​​0 to 7 of the dip switches numbered 1 to 3, are called first switching states, and the on / off state of the dip switch numbered 4 is called second switching state. The user can select one of switching states 1 to 8 depending on the model (or manufacturer) of the vehicle in which the power supply control device 30 is installed, etc.

[0069] 3 shows the system configuration of the power supply control device 30. The power supply control device 30 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, a noise detection unit 33, and a power supply switching unit .

[0070] The control unit 31 is configured as a computer equipped with a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, various peripheral circuits, an interface, etc. The control unit 31 is configured as a computer including an OS recorded in a ROM and a program storage unit. The control unit 31 is connected to a signal terminal of the OBD connector 6 and a control unit 23 of the radar detector 20, and can control the transmission and reception of signals between the in-vehicle network 7 and the radar detector 20. The control unit 31 is further connected to a noise detection unit 33 and a power supply switching unit 34, and transmits an ON signal / OFF signal (described later) to the power supply switching unit 34 based on a signal from the noise detection unit 33.

[0071] The storage unit 32 is configured by an EEPROM, which is a non-volatile memory, and has a program storage unit 32a and a data storage unit 32b.

[0072] The program storage unit 32a stores various programs required to realize various functions (described later) of the power supply control device 30. The programs in the program storage unit 32a include a communication program for controlling communication between the in-vehicle network 7 and the radar detector 20. The communication program is a program for realizing the communication control function described later.

[0073] The data storage unit 32b stores various data necessary for the operation of the power supply control device 30. The data storage unit 32b includes a power supply condition storage unit 32b1.

[0074] The power supply condition storage unit 32b1 stores a plurality of power supply conditions and / or power cut-off conditions. The plurality of power supply conditions include first to eighth power supply conditions corresponding to the switching states 1 to 8, respectively. The plurality of power supply conditions and the plurality of power cut-off conditions may be different, but are the same in the first embodiment.

[0075] The first to eighth power supply conditions are information for determining whether the ignition of a vehicle is on for eight types of vehicle models (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "vehicle models A to H") made by different manufacturers, etc. For example, in vehicle model A, if a response signal having an identification number "xx8" is output from the in-vehicle network 7 in response to a sounding signal having identification information "xx0" when the ignition is on, the power supply condition storage unit 32b1 stores "xx8," which is the identification number of the response signal, as the first power supply condition. For example, in vehicle model B, if a response signal having an identification number other than "xx8" (for example, "xyz") is output from the in-vehicle network 7 in response to a sounding signal having identification information "xx0" when the ignition is on, the power supply condition storage unit 32b1 stores "xyz," which is the identification number of the response signal, as the second power supply condition.

[0076] The power supply condition storage unit 32b1 can further store a plurality of power cut-off conditions. In the first embodiment, the first to eighth power supply conditions are used as the first to eighth power cut-off conditions, so the power cut-off condition is not stored.

[0077] The noise detection unit 33 has an AC component passing circuit 41, a filter 42, an amplifier circuit 43, a rectifier circuit 44, and a DC conversion circuit 45, and detects noise from the power supply voltage. The noise is, for example, noise that occurs when the vehicle 1 is started and is superimposed on the power supply voltage. In the case of a vehicle 1 having an engine 2, the noise that occurs when the vehicle 1 is started and detected by the noise detection unit 33 is noise that includes a voltage drop that occurs when the engine 2 is started. Note that if the vehicle 1 is a hybrid vehicle that is driven by a motor instead of the engine 2 and is running on battery power, or an electric vehicle, the noise that occurs when the vehicle 1 is started and detected by the noise detection unit 33 may be noise that includes a voltage drop that occurs when the power supply to the vehicle 1 is turned on.

[0078] The AC component passing circuit 41 is connected to the power terminal (Pin 16) of the OBD connector 6, and removes DC voltage components from the output voltage of the car battery 4 or the like, and passes only AC components. The filter 42 is a filter that extracts only signals in the target frequency band to be detected from the AC components output from the AC component passing circuit 41. The AC component passing circuit 41 selects one of a low-pass filter, a band-pass filter, and a high-pass filter depending on the target frequency to be detected. The frequency of the voltage drop at engine start-up is narrow, for example, on the order of microseconds, and the frequency is high. Whether the vehicle 1 has an engine 2 or is an electric vehicle, noise including the voltage drop is in a low frequency band, so it can be detected with a single filter. The following describes the case where the target frequency to be detected is the frequency of the voltage drop at engine start-up (when the vehicle 1 is driven by a motor rather than the engine 2 (when a hybrid vehicle is running on battery power or an electric vehicle), this is when the motor starts up).

[0079] The signal in the frequency band to be detected output from filter 42 is amplified by amplifier circuit 43, rectified by rectifier circuit 44, converted to a DC voltage by DC conversion circuit 45, and output as a control signal to control unit 31. By using a filter that can detect low-frequency noise including voltage drop in filter 42, noise detection unit 33 can accurately detect the start of vehicle 1 having engine 2, and can also accurately detect the start of vehicle 1 of an electric vehicle. Note that if the output of amplifier circuit 43 is also connected to the A / D port of control unit 31 (for example, input to the CPU via a comparator instead of DC conversion), the threshold level (voltage) and detection frequency can be set arbitrarily.

[0080] The power supply switching unit 34 is composed of a relay switch that operates in response to a power supply control signal from the control unit 31. The power supply control signal is either an ON signal that is higher than a specified threshold value or an OFF signal that is lower than a specified threshold value. The power supply switching unit 34 is connected to the power supply terminal (Pin 16) of the OBD connector 6 and the radar detector 20, and supplies power from the power supply terminal (Pin 16) to the radar detector 20 when it receives an ON signal from the control unit 31, and cuts off the power supply from the power supply terminal (Pin 16) to the radar detector 20 when it receives an OFF signal from the control unit 31.

[0081] The radar detector 20 has a control unit 23, a storage unit 24, and an interface unit 25. The control unit 23 is configured as a computer equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, various peripheral circuits, etc. The control unit 23 executes an OS recorded in the ROM and programs stored in the storage unit 24 to realize various functions of the radar detector 20. The various functions of the radar detector 20 include detecting radar waves and displaying the detection results and various information received from the power supply control device 30 (e.g., the engine speed, vehicle speed, water temperature, etc. of the vehicle 1). The storage unit 24 stores programs and data for realizing these various functions. The interface unit 25 includes output devices and input devices for inputting and outputting information. The output devices include audio output devices (e.g., speakers) and image output devices (e.g., LCD monitors) for outputting the above information. The input devices include input operation devices such as a touch panel for user input and operation, a reading device for reading information stored in a storage medium such as an SD card, and a communication device for downloading information from the Internet, etc. The programs in the storage unit 24 include a display program for displaying various information received from the power supply control device 30 (for example, the engine speed, vehicle speed, water temperature, etc. of the vehicle 1) on the image output device.

[0082] The functions of the power supply control device 30 will be described below.

[0083] The power supply control device 30 has a power supply condition storage function, a noise detection function, a signal inspection function, a transmission / reception function, a power supply judgment function, a power cut-off judgment function, a power supply control function, a power supply condition setting function, a connection judgment function, and first and second special power supply functions.

[0084] The power supply condition storage function is a function in which the power supply condition storage unit 32b1 stores the first to eighth power supply conditions.

[0085] The noise detection function is a function in which the control unit 31 detects noise in the power supply voltage based on a signal from the noise detection unit 33.

[0086] The signal inspection function is a function in which, when the control unit 31 detects noise by the noise detection function, the control unit 31 inspects whether or not there is a signal flowing on the in-vehicle network 7 via the signal terminal.

[0087] The transmission / reception function is a function in which the control unit 31 communicates with the in-vehicle network 7 and the radar detector 20 in accordance with the communication program in the program storage unit 32a. The transmission / reception function includes a first sounding function, a second sounding function, and a communication function.

[0088] The first sounding function is a function in which the control unit 31 transmits a sounding signal to the in-vehicle network 7 via the signal terminal when the control unit 31 detects, by the signal inspection function, that a signal is flowing on the in-vehicle network 7. The sounding signal is a signal including an identification number (e.g., "xx0") that identifies a specific in-vehicle computer 5 (e.g., engine ECU) connected to the in-vehicle network 7.

[0089] The second sounding function is a function in which the control unit 31 repeatedly transmits a sounding signal to the in-vehicle network 7 via the signal terminal at regular time intervals (for example, 10 milliseconds to 1 second) from the time the power supply determination function described below determines that the power supply conditions are met until the power cut-off determination function described below determines that the power cut-off conditions are met.

[0090] The communication function is a function in which the control unit 31 transmits and receives signals between the in-vehicle network 7 and the radar detector 20 in accordance with a communication program stored in the program storage unit 32a. Using the communication function, the control unit 31 transmits an inquiry signal to the in-vehicle network 7 inquiring about, for example, engine RPM, vehicle speed, and water temperature, receives a response signal output from the in-vehicle network 7 indicating the engine RPM, vehicle speed, and water temperature, and transmits the response signal to the radar detector 20. The transmission and reception of the signals is performed at regular time intervals (for example, 10 milliseconds to 1 second). The inquiry signal includes identification information (for example, "xx0") for specifying a specific computer such as an engine ECU connected to the in-vehicle network 7, and the response signal includes identification information (for example, "xx8") for specifying the computer that transmitted the response signal.

[0091] The power supply determination function is a function in which the control unit 31 determines whether the power supply conditions are met using the first to eighth power supply conditions specified by the state of the DIP switch 54. Specifically, the control unit 31 inspects the signal flowing through the in-vehicle network 7 via the signal terminal for a certain period of time (e.g., about 0.5 seconds) after the sounding function transmits a sounding signal, and determines that the power supply conditions are met if the detected signal satisfies the first to eighth power supply conditions specified by the state of the DIP switch 54. Otherwise, the control unit 31 determines that the power supply conditions are met. For example, when the DIP switch 54 is in the first switching state, the first power supply condition is specified, so that if a signal (response signal) including identification information "xx8" is detected within the certain period of time, the control unit 31 determines that the power supply conditions are met, and otherwise, the control unit 31 determines that the power supply conditions are met.

[0092] The power-cutoff determination function is a function in which the control unit 31 determines whether the power-cutoff conditions are met. Specifically, the control unit 31 checks the signal flowing through the in-vehicle network 7 via the signal terminal for a certain period of time (for example, about 0.5 seconds) after the transmission of a sounding signal by the second sounding function, and if the detected signal satisfies the first to eighth power-supply conditions specified by the state of the DIP switch 54, it determines that the power-cutoff conditions are not met, and otherwise determines that the power-cutoff conditions are met. For example, since the first power-supply condition is specified when the DIP switch 54 is in the first switching state, if a signal (response signal) containing the identification information "xx8" is detected within the certain period of time, the control unit 31 It is determined whether the power-off condition is not satisfied, and in other cases, it is determined whether the power-off condition is satisfied.

[0093] The power supply control function is a function in which the control unit 31 controls the power supply to the radar detector 20 by sending an ON signal to the power supply switching unit 34 when the power supply determination function determines that the power supply condition is met, and by sending an OFF signal to the power supply switching unit 34 when the power cut-off determination function determines that the power cut-off condition is met. By sending an ON signal to the power supply switching unit 34, the power supply switching unit 34 turns ON and power is supplied to the radar detector 20 from the power terminal of the OBD connector 6. By sending an OFF signal to the power supply switching unit 34, the power supply switching unit 34 turns OFF and power supply from the power terminal of the OBD connector 6 to the radar detector 20 is cut off.

[0094] 4 and 5 show timing charts of transmission and reception of sounding signals and response signals to the in-vehicle network 7 and power supply to the radar detector 20 in a conventional power supply control device (FIG. 4) and the power supply control device 30 of the first embodiment (FIG. 5). "CANBUS" in the diagram corresponds to the in-vehicle network 7. The power supply control device of the conventional technology (FIG. 4) differs from the power supply control device 30 in that it does not have a signal inspection function, and the first sounding function sends a sounding signal when the noise inspection function detects noise in the power supply.

[0095] As shown in Figure 4(a), in "1. Normal operation," when a door is opened or closed or the ignition switch is turned to the ACC position, a non-engine computer (shown as "CAN" in the figure) wakes up, and some data appears on the in-vehicle network. When the power supply control device (Figure 4) detects this data, it sends a sounding signal ("ID:xx0") to the engine ECU on the network (*1). However, when the ignition is off, the engine ECU does not return a response signal on the network (*2), so power is not supplied to the radar detector 20. While the non-engine computer is awake, some signal (other CAN data) output by the non-engine computer or the like continues to flow through the in-vehicle network 7.

[0096] When the ignition switch is turned to the IG position or the engine is started, the noise detection function detects the resulting power supply noise (*3). This causes the first sounding function to send a sounding signal to the in-vehicle network 7 (*4), and the engine computer then outputs the response signal to the in-vehicle network 7. The power supply determination function receives this response signal (*5) and determines that the power supply conditions are met, causing the power supply control function to start supplying power to the radar detector 20 from the power terminal (*6). Thereafter, the second sounding function repeatedly sends sounding signals (*7), and while the response signal is received from the in-vehicle network 7 (*8), the power supply determination function determines that the power cut-off conditions are not met, so power supply to the radar detector 20 continues. However, when the ignition is turned off, the engine computer becomes inactive and no response signal to the sounding signal is output (*9). This causes the power cut-off determination function to determine that the power cut-off conditions are met, and the power supply control function cuts off power supply to the radar detector 20 (*10).

[0097] In contrast, in the case of "2. Noise detected during sleep (vehicle)", as shown in Figure 4(b), when the noise inspection function detects power supply noise (*11) that has occurred for some reason, the first sounding function sends a sounding signal to the in-vehicle network 7 (*12), but since the engine computer is asleep, no response signal is output to the in-vehicle network 7, and therefore the power supply judgment function does not determine that the power supply conditions are met, and power is not supplied to the radar detector 20. However, the transmission of the sounding signal in *12 wakes up the non-engine computer (*13), which results in unnecessary current consumption. The wake-up state of the non-engine computer continues for a certain period of time, so the amount of current consumption is not small. Also, as shown in the figure, the power supply noise causes the sounding signal to be sent, and the power supply noise causes the non-engine computer to If the computer wakes up(*13) repeatedly, the current consumption will increase, and it may even cause the battery to run out while the car is parked, for example.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 5, in the power supply control device 30, when the noise inspection function detects power supply noise (*21) that has occurred for some reason, the signal inspection function inspects the signal flowing through the in-vehicle network 7 (*22).

[0099] At this time, if the non-engine computer is awake, the signal inspection function detects a signal from the in-vehicle network 7, as shown in Figures 5(a) and 5(b), and the first sounding function sends a sounding signal to the in-vehicle network 7 (*23).

[0100] 5(a), when the ignition is on, a response signal is output in response to the sounding signal of *23 (*24), so the power supply determination function determines that the power supply condition is met, and the power supply control function starts supplying power to the radar detector 20 (*25). Thereafter, the second sounding function repeatedly transmits the sounding signal (*26), and while the response signal is received from the in-vehicle network 7 (*27), the power supply determination function determines that the power cut-off condition is not met, so power supply to the radar detector 20 continues, but when the ignition is off, the engine computer goes to sleep and no response signal is output in response to the sounding signal (*28), so the power cut-off determination function determines that the power cut-off condition is met, and the power supply control function cuts off power supply to the radar detector 20 (*29).

[0101] On the other hand, if the ignition is off, as shown in Figure 5(b), no response signal is output (*30) to the sounding signal *23, so the power supply determination function does not determine that the power supply conditions are met, and power is not supplied to the radar detector 20 by the power supply control function.

[0102] Furthermore, even if the noise inspection function detects power supply noise (*21), when the non-engine computer is in sleep mode, the signal inspection function will not detect a signal from the in-vehicle network 7, and therefore, as shown in Figure 5(c), the first sounding function will not send a sounding signal.

[0103] As shown in Figures 5(a) and 5(b), in the power supply control device 30, the first sounding function sends a sounding signal when the non-engine computer is awake (*23), but because the non-engine computer is already awake, the problem of increased current consumption does not occur. As shown in Figure 5(c), the sounding signal is not sent when the non-engine computer is asleep. Therefore, the sending of the sounding signal (*12) as shown in Figure 4(c) wakes up the non-engine computer (*13), thereby avoiding the problem of increased current consumption.

[0104] The power supply condition setting function sets power supply conditions based on information from the radar detector 20, and the set condition storage function stores the power supply conditions set by the power supply condition setting function in the power supply condition storage unit 32b1. The set condition storage function performs storage by rewriting any of the first to eighth power supply conditions with a power supply condition based on information from the radar detector 20. As a result, even if the user's vehicle does not support any of the switching states 1 to 8, the user can use the power supply condition setting function to store the power supply conditions for the user's vehicle in the power supply condition storage unit 32b1 and switch the DIP switch 54 to the rewritten switching state 1 to 8, thereby controlling the power supply of the radar detector 20 using the power supply control function. Instead of switching between the switching states 1 to 8, it is also possible to store the power supply conditions in another switching state selectable by the DIP switch 54 (for example, switching state 10). This eliminates the need for a function to return the switching states 1 to 8 to their original settings.

[0105] The user can set the power supply conditions using the power supply condition setting function by inputting the power supply conditions from the radar detector 20. The power supply conditions may be input to the radar detector 20, for example, by inputting the power supply conditions posted on the website of the manufacturer of the power supply control device 30 using the input operation device of the interface unit 25, or by reading the power supply conditions from a medium such as an SD card using a reading device of the interface unit 25. The control unit 31 receives the power supply conditions input from the radar detector 20 via the connection units 22, 53, and stores the received power supply information in the power supply condition storage unit 32b1 in the above manner.

[0106] Which of the first to eighth power supply conditions is to be rewritten can be selected by operating the input operation device of the interface unit 25. The control unit 31 outputs a guide screen or the like for making the selection from the output device of the radar detector 20, and determines which of the first to eighth power supply conditions is to be rewritten based on information input to the input operation device of the radar detector 20.

[0107] The first special power supply function is a function in which, when the DIP switch 54 is in the second switching state, the control unit 31 supplies power to the radar detector 20 from the power terminal of the OBD connector 6, regardless of whether the power supply condition is met by the power supply determination function. Because the power supply control device 30 has the first special power supply function, the user can receive power supply to the radar detector 20 simply by connecting the power supply control device 30 to the OBD connector 6 and the radar detector 20 and setting the DIP switch 54 to the second switching state. Therefore, the user can use the radar detector 20 even if they do not know the appropriate DIP switch 54 setting for their vehicle or if their vehicle does not support any of the switching states 1 to 8. Furthermore, while the radar detector 20 is receiving power via the first special power supply function, the user can also set the power supply conditions using the power supply condition setting function. This prevents the dilemma of being unable to supply power because the power supply conditions are not stored or set, or being unable to set the power supply conditions because power is not being supplied.

[0108] The connection determination function is a function by which the control unit 31 determines whether to transition from a disconnected state, in which the power supply control function is unable to supply power to an external device, to a connected state, in which the power supply control function is able to supply power to an external device. Specifically, the disconnected state is a state in which the connection unit 52 is not inserted into the OBD connector 6, and the connected state is a state in which the connection unit 52 is inserted into the OBD connector 6. The control unit 31 determines whether to transition from the disconnected state to the connected state by, for example, detecting the voltage at the power terminal of the OBD connector 6.

[0109] The second special power supply function supplies power to the radar detector 20 from the power terminal of the OBD connector 6 when the control unit 31 determines using the connection determination function that the control unit 31 has transitioned from a disconnected state to a connected state, regardless of whether the power supply determination function determines whether the power supply conditions are met. The power supply control device 30 has the second special power supply function, allowing the user to receive power supply to the radar detector 20 by switching the power supply control device 30 from a disconnected state to a connected state. This allows the user to use the radar detector 20 even if the user does not know the appropriate DIP switch 54 setting for their vehicle or if their vehicle does not support any of the switch states 1 to 8. Furthermore, the user can set the power supply conditions using the power supply condition setting function while power is being supplied to the radar detector 20 using the second special power supply function. This prevents the dilemma of being unable to supply power because the power supply conditions are not stored or set, or being unable to set the power supply conditions because power is not being supplied.

[0110] The program update function is a function in which the control unit 31 updates the communication program in the program storage unit 32a and the display program in the storage unit 24 as a set based on update information input to the radar detector 20. For example, if the communication program before the update was and water temperature, the control unit 31 transmits the inquiry signal regarding the engine speed, vehicle speed, and water temperature to the in-vehicle network 7, and the control unit 31 receives a response signal indicating the engine speed, vehicle speed, and water temperature output from the in-vehicle network 7 and transmits the response signal to the radar detector 20. If the display program is a program that realizes a display function in which the control unit 23 displays the engine speed, vehicle speed, and water temperature on the image display device of the radar detector 20 based on the response signal received from the power supply control device 30, the control unit 31 updates the update program input to the radar detector 20 by the program update function. Based on the information, the communication program is updated to a program that realizes the function of the control unit 31 sending an inquiry signal regarding the engine speed, vehicle speed, water temperature, and outside air temperature to the in-vehicle network 7, and the control unit 31 receiving a response signal indicating the engine speed, vehicle speed, water temperature, and outside air temperature output from the in-vehicle network 7 and transmitting it to the radar detector 20, and the display program is updated to a program that realizes the function of the control unit 23 displaying the engine speed, vehicle speed, water temperature, and outside air temperature on the image display device of the radar detector 20 based on the above response signal received from the power supply control device 30.

[0111] Update information is input to the radar detector 20 by reading update information from a medium such as an SD card using a reading device of the interface unit 25, or by downloading update information from the Internet using a communication device of the interface unit 25.

[0112] The above describes preferred embodiments, but the shapes, dimensions, materials, operating modes, control modes, control parameters, operating modes, etc. of the devices, systems, programs, functions, or their elements, components, etc. in the above embodiments are described as examples, and these can be modified as exemplified below.

[0113] <First modified embodiment> For example, in the above first embodiment, the power supply determination function determines whether the power supply condition is met when the response signal to the sounding signal sent by the first sounding function contains specific identification information, but the power supply determination function may also determine whether the power supply condition is met based on the number of identification information pieces in the response signal or other parameters.

[0114] 6 shows the identification information (some of which are shown as "example IDs" in the figure) and the number of identification information (shown as "number of IDs" in the figure) contained in signals flowing through the in-vehicle network 7 depending on the state of the vehicle in a specific model of vehicle (shown as "vehicle B" in the figure). Note that vehicle B is a hybrid vehicle, which has two states: IG on (on mode), in which power is supplied to electrical components but the vehicle cannot run, and Ready, in which the vehicle can run.

[0115] As shown in the figure, in vehicle B, a signal having the identification information "BB2" is output only when the ignition switch is in the IG position and when it is Ready, so the power supply determination function, similar to the first embodiment described above, can determine whether the power supply conditions are met based on the identification information (determine whether the power supply conditions are met when a signal having the identification information "BB2" is detected).

[0116] (First Modification-1 Determining whether power supply conditions are met based on the number of pieces of identification information) However, even if such an appropriate signal (a signal with identification information "BB2") is unknown, when the ignition switch is in the IG position or in Ready, the number of identification information pieces is clearly greater than in other states, and when the number of identification information pieces is a certain number or more (for example, 50 or more), it is possible to determine that the ignition switch is in the IG position or Ready. Utilizing this, in the power supply control device 30 of the first modified embodiment-1, the power supply determination function determines that the power supply condition is met when the number of identification information pieces is a certain number or more, and determines that the power cut-off condition is met when the number of identification information pieces is less than the certain number.

[0117] (First Modification-2: Determining whether power supply conditions are met based on response signal parameters) Furthermore, the signal having the identification information “AA1” is output not only when the ignition switch is in the IG position or Ready state, but also during wake-up, ACC, and for a period of time after the ignition is turned off. However, the D5 bit in the fifth byte of this signal changes state (from “0” to “1”) only when the ignition is on. Therefore, the power supply determination function can determine whether the power supply condition is met when the D5 bit in the fifth byte of the signal having the identification information “AA1” is “1.” Taking advantage of this, in the power supply control device 30 of the first modified embodiment-2, the power supply determination function determines whether the power supply condition is met when the D5 bit in the fifth byte of the signal having the identification information “AA1” is “1,” and determines whether the power cut-off condition is met when the D5 bit is “0.” In the first modified embodiment-2, the power supply determination function may determine whether the power supply condition and the power cut-off condition are met based on other parameters of the response signal.

[0118] <Second modified embodiment> In the first embodiment, it may be possible to selectively determine whether the power supply conditions are met based on the number of pieces of identification information and / or the parameters of the response signal. For example, one or more of the first to eighth power supply conditions may be the information described in the first embodiment (information for determining whether the power supply conditions are met based on the identification information), one or more may be the information for determining whether the power supply conditions are met based on the number of pieces of identification information described in the first modified example-1, and one or more may be the information for determining whether the power supply conditions are met based on the parameters of the response signal described in the first modified example-2. In this way, it becomes possible to more appropriately determine the vehicle state (whether the ignition switch is in the IG position or Ready) and supply power according to the vehicle type, etc., and to support a wider range of vehicle types.

[0119] <Third transformation> The power supply control device 30 of the third modified embodiment has, in addition to the functions of the power supply control device 30 of the first embodiment, a constant inspection function, a vehicle state determination function, and a second power supply control function.

[0120] The constant check function is a function in which the control unit 31 checks the signals of the in-vehicle network 7 at all times.

[0121] The vehicle state determination function is a function in which the control unit 31 determines the state of the vehicle based on the signal detected by the continuous inspection function. The specific manner of determination is the same as in the first modified embodiment, first modified embodiment-1, or first modified embodiment-2. For example, in a vehicle of a specific model, if the identification information and the number of pieces of identification information included in the signal flowing through the in-vehicle network 7 according to the vehicle state are as shown in Figure 6, the continuous inspection function determines that "the ignition switch is in the IG position or Ready" when any of the following (1) to (3) is true: (1) If a signal with the identification information "BB2" is detected (2) When the number of identifying information is a certain number or more (for example, 50 or more) (3) When the D5 bit of the 5th byte of the signal with the identification information "AA1" is "1"

[0122] The second power supply control function is a function in which the control unit 31 controls the power supply from the power terminal of the OBD connector 6 to the radar detector 20 when the constant inspection function determines that the ignition switch is in the IG position or Ready state, and cuts off the power supply from the power terminal of the OBD connector 6 to the radar detector 20 when it determines that the state is any other than that.

[0123] The power supply condition storage function in the third modified embodiment stores, as all or part of the first to eighth power supply conditions, one or more pieces of information for determining the vehicle state in the above modes (1) to (3) for one or more types of vehicle in the power supply condition storage unit 32b1. Therefore, when the user sets the dip switch 54 corresponding to the vehicle owned by the user, the power supply control device 30 in the third modified embodiment can perform power supply control according to the state of the vehicle owned by the user. become.

[0124] In the third modified embodiment, even for imported vehicles and recent vehicles that respond to external signals for a while after the ignition is turned off, power supply can be cut off when the ignition is off. Also, in vehicles with an idle stop function, even when the vehicle is stopped at an intersection or the like, power supply continues as long as the ignition switch is in the IG position or Ready position, which is advantageous in that it eliminates the problem of external devices being turned off each time the vehicle is stopped.

[0125] <Third Transformation-1> In the third modified embodiment, even if the noise detection function, signal inspection function, first and second sounding functions, power supply determination function, power cutoff determination function, and power supply control function are omitted, the above-mentioned power supply control can be performed using the constant inspection function, vehicle state determination function, and second power supply control function. Utilizing this, the power supply control device 30 of the third modified embodiment-1 does not have the noise detection function, signal inspection function, first and second sounding functions, power supply determination function, power cutoff determination function, and power supply control function. This simplifies the functions of the power supply control device 30 and reduces its cost.

[0126] <Fourth transformation> 7 shows the system configuration of a fourth modified power supply control device 30. As shown in the figure, the fourth modified power supply control device 30 has a first information storage unit 32b2 and a second information storage unit 32b3 in addition to the system configuration of the first embodiment.

[0127] The power supply control device 30 of the fourth modified embodiment further has first and second information storage functions and a second power supply condition setting function in addition to the functions of the power supply control device 30 of the third modified embodiment-1.

[0128] The first information storage function is a function by which the control unit 31 stores in the first information storage unit 32b2 the identification information contained in all signals flowing through the in-vehicle network when the vehicle is in a first state (for example, ignition off state = ignition switch is in the OFF position or ACC position). The second information storage function is a function by which the control unit 31 stores in the second information storage unit 32b3 the identification information contained in all signals flowing through the in-vehicle network when the vehicle is in a second state (for example, ignition on state = ignition switch is in the IG, Ready, etc. state).

[0129] The second power supply condition setting function is a function for setting power supply conditions based on the identification information stored in the first information storage unit 32b2 and the second information storage unit 32b3. Specifically, the second power supply condition setting function stores, as a power supply condition, the identification information that is the difference between all the identification information stored in the first information storage unit 32b2 and all the identification information stored in the second information storage unit 32b3 (i.e., the identification information that is stored in the second information storage unit 32b3 but is not stored in the first information storage unit 32b2) in the power supply condition storage unit 32b1.

[0130] More specifically, the first information storage function (1) instructs the user to put the vehicle into a first state, then (2) asks the user to confirm that the vehicle has been put into the first state, and (3) stores in the first information storage function information about signals flowing through the in-vehicle network when the operation is detected. The second information storage function (4) instructs the user to put the vehicle into a second state (e.g., ignition on), then (5) asks the user to confirm that the vehicle has been put into the second state, and (6) stores in the second information storage function information about signals flowing through the in-vehicle network when the operation is detected. The display of these instructions and the acceptance of operations are performed through the input and output of information to and from the input / output device of the radar detector 20. This advantageously simplifies the power supply control device 3 while making it easier for the user to perform operations for storing information using the first and second information storage functions. For example, (1) In (4), the user may be instructed to put the vehicle into the first or second state via the LCD monitor, speaker, etc. of the radar detector 20. In (2) and (5), it is preferable for the power supply control device 30 to automatically detect that the vehicle has entered the first or second state, respectively, as this makes user operation easier. Whether the vehicle has entered the first or second state may be determined by transmitting a sounding signal from the power supply control device 30 to the in-vehicle network 7 and determining whether a response signal can be detected. The order and content of the above steps (1) to (6) may be changed as appropriate.

[0131] The vehicle state determination function of the power supply control device 30 in the fourth modified embodiment determines that the vehicle state is "ignition switch is in the IG position or Ready" when a signal including identification information stored in the power supply condition memory unit 32b1 by the second power supply condition setting function is flowing through the in-vehicle network 7.

[0132] In the fourth variant, identification information is used as the information to be stored in the first and second information storage functions, but a variant in which other parameters (for example, the content of the data or the number of identification information) are used instead of identification information may also be used.

[0133] <Fourth Transformation-1> In the power supply control device 30 of the fourth modified embodiment-1, when there are multiple pieces of differential identification information, the second power supply condition setting function stores the identification information of the signal with the shortest period as the power supply condition in the power supply condition storage unit 32b1. For example, since the signal of the engine ECU has a short period, the fourth modified embodiment-1 is advantageous in that it can more reliably control the power supply to external devices when the engine ECU is awake. In the above-described embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7 , the noise detection unit 33 detects noise by inputting the signal from the DC conversion circuit 45 to the control unit 31 via the AC component passing circuit 41, filter 42, amplifier circuit 43, rectifier circuit 44, and DC conversion circuit 45. However, for example, the DC conversion circuit 45 may be omitted, and the output of the rectifier circuit 44 may be input to the control unit 31. This makes it possible to distinguish between noise generated when the starter motor is started, voltage drop noise caused by an inrush current due to the vehicle's hazard lights flashing when the doors are locked, and noise caused by a voltage drop caused by an inrush current when the ignition is turned on. Alternatively, the output of the amplifier circuit 43 may be input to the control unit 31. This makes it possible to distinguish between noise types based on the frequency superimposed on the power supply and the power supply level. <Other variations> It is desirable for the in-vehicle network to be CAN, but it may also be a network based on the vehicle manufacturer's proprietary standard, LIN (Local Interconnect Network), BEAN (Body Electronics Area Network), FlexRay for high-speed control, or MOST (Media Oriented System Transport) for information. [Explanation of symbols]

[0134] 1. Vehicle 2. Engine 3. Alternator 3. Power supply control device 4. Car battery 5. On-board computer 6···OBD connector 7. In-vehicle network 8. Tires 9. Tires 10. Rotation sensor 11. Rotation sensor 12 Engine Sensor 13 Engine Sensor 20. Radar detector 21 Cable 22 Connection 23 Control unit 24...Storage section 25 Interface section 30 Power supply control device 31 Control unit 32...Storage section 32a Program memory section 32b Data storage section 32b1···Power Supply Women's Rights Memory Section 32b2...1st information storage section 32b3...Second information storage section 33 Noise detection unit 34 Power supply switching unit 41...Component passing circuit 42 Filter 43 Amplification circuit 44... Rectifier circuit 45...Conversion circuit 51... Enclosure 52 Connection 53 Connection 54 Dip switch

Claims

1. A power supply control device that controls power supply to an external device based on a power source supplied from a vehicle, a sounding function for transmitting a sounding signal to the in-vehicle network; a power supply determination function that determines whether a power supply condition and a power cut-off condition are satisfied based on the number of pieces of identification information included in a response signal that flows through the in-vehicle network after the sounding signal is transmitted; the power supply determination function has a function of determining that the power supply condition is met when the number of the identification information is equal to or greater than a certain number, and determining that the power blocking condition is met when the number of the identification information is less than the certain number, The power supply control function has a function of starting power supply to the external device from a power source supplied from the vehicle when the power supply determination function determines that the power supply condition is met, and cutting off power supply to the external device when the power cut-off condition is met. A power supply control device characterized by:

2. 2. The power supply control device according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined number is a number indicating whether the number of pieces of identification information is 50 or more.

3. 3. The power supply control device according to claim 1, wherein the power supply determination function has a function of determining that the power supply condition is met when the number of types of identification information included in the response signal is equal to or greater than the certain number.

4. The power supply determination function determines whether the power supply condition and the power cut-off condition are met based on the number of pieces of identification information, and also 4. The power supply control device according to claim 1, further comprising a function of determining whether the power supply conditions and the power cut-off conditions are met based on a parameter of a response signal, the function being capable of determining whether the power supply conditions and the power cut-off conditions are met based on a parameter indicating the state of a specific bit in the data portion of a packet of a signal having specific identification information.

5. a power supply condition storage function for storing a plurality of the power supply conditions and / or power cut-off conditions; a power supply condition selection function for selecting one of the plurality of power supply conditions stored by the power supply condition storage function; 5. The power supply control device according to claim 1, wherein the power supply determination function determines whether the power supply condition and the power cut-off condition are met based on the power supply condition selected by the power supply condition selection function.

6. the power supply condition storage function stores a plurality of power supply conditions including power supply conditions corresponding to each of the switching states; the power supply control device selects one of the switching states according to a switching state of a switch consisting of a plurality of setting switches for setting the operation of the control unit, 6. The power supply control device according to claim 5, wherein the power supply condition selection function selects one of the power supply conditions designated by the state of the switch.

7. the power supply control device is connected to an external device via an interface unit, The power supply condition stored in the power supply condition storage function can be selected by operating an input operation device of the interface unit to be rewritten, 7. The power supply control device according to claim 6, wherein the control unit outputs a guide screen from an output device of the external device, and determines which of the power supply conditions to rewrite based on information input to an input operation device of the external device.

8. further having a function of transitioning the power supply control device to a sleep state; The power supply control device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the power supply control device checks the signal of the in-vehicle network only for the certain period of time, stops checking the signal of the in-vehicle network after the certain period of time has elapsed, and transmits the sounding signal again when the next power supply noise is detected.

9. the power supply conditions include conditions related to information included in a response signal or characteristics of the response signal; If the external device is a radar detector, it is determined that the power supply condition is met when the ignition switch is in the IG position or when there is a response signal indicating that the vehicle is running, If the external device is a navigation system, it is determined that the power supply condition is met when there is a response signal indicating that the ignition switch is in the ACC position or the IG position, If the external device is a security-related device, the power supply condition is that a door lock signal is detected from the remote control.

9. The power supply control device according to claim 1, wherein the power supply control device is a power supply control device.

10. A program for causing a computer to realize the functions of the power supply control device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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