Vehicle air conditioning control system

Abstract

The system appropriately controls the vehicle's air conditioning based on weather information obtained from the vehicle's parking location when the user starts driving the vehicle. [Solution] A vehicle air conditioning control system for controlling the air conditioning inside a vehicle, comprising: a weather information acquisition unit that acquires weather information based on the vehicle's parking location information when the vehicle's ignition is turned ON or when a vehicle door that is locked while the vehicle's ignition is OFF is unlocked from the outside; and an air conditioning control unit that controls the vehicle's air conditioning based on the weather information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle air conditioning control system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2024-169679 is known as a technical document related to a vehicle air conditioning control system. This publication discloses a vehicle air conditioning control device with improved operability using a touch panel display.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, it is practiced to store the air conditioning settings from the previous vehicle travel and reflect the stored air conditioning settings in the next travel. However, in practice, conditions such as weather and temperature change, so users often had to reconfigure the air conditioning.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] One aspect of the present invention is a vehicle air conditioning control system that controls air conditioning inside a vehicle, comprising: a weather information acquisition unit that acquires current weather information based on the parking position information of the vehicle when the ignition of the vehicle is turned ON, or when a locked vehicle door is unlocked from the outside while the vehicle ignition is OFF; and an air conditioning control unit that controls the air conditioning of the vehicle based on the weather information.

[0006] In a vehicle air conditioning control system according to one aspect of the present invention, the system further comprises a parking location determination unit that determines whether or not the vehicle is parked in a commercial facility parking lot based on the vehicle's parking location information, and a user proposal unit that, if the vehicle is parked in a commercial facility parking lot, proposes to the vehicle user an air conditioning control system in a cargo bed temperature reduction mode. The air conditioning control unit may then execute the air conditioning control system in a cargo bed temperature reduction mode if the user approves the air conditioning control system in a cargo bed temperature reduction mode. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to each aspect of the present invention, the vehicle's air conditioning can be appropriately controlled based on weather information obtained from the vehicle's parking location information when the user starts driving the vehicle. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram of a vehicle air conditioning control system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] (a) This flowchart shows an example of the parking position information transmission process of a vehicle air conditioning control system. (b) This flowchart shows an example of the air conditioning control process of a vehicle air conditioning control system. [Figure 3] This flowchart shows an example of the process for proposing air conditioning control based on the schedule information of a vehicle air conditioning control system. [Figure 4] This flowchart shows an example of the process for suggesting a cargo bed temperature reduction mode in a vehicle air conditioning control system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0010] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing a vehicle air conditioning control system 100 according to one embodiment. The vehicle air conditioning control system 100 shown in Figure 1 comprises an air conditioning control ECU 10 [Electronic Control Unit] located inside the vehicle, a group of sensors connected to the air conditioning control ECU 10, and related external devices.

[0011] The air conditioning control ECU 10 is an electronic control unit having a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a memory unit. The memory unit consists of, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory). The air conditioning control ECU 10 implements various functions by, for example, executing a program stored in the memory unit using the CPU. The air conditioning control ECU 10 may be composed of multiple electronic units, or it may be part of another ECU.

[0012] As shown in Figure 1, the air conditioning control ECU 10 is connected to the GNSS receiver 1, map database 2, ignition switch 3, door sensor 4, solar radiation sensor 5, learning database 6, communication module 7, air conditioner 8, and HMI 9 [Human Machine Interface].

[0013] The GNSS receiver 1 measures the vehicle's position information (e.g., the vehicle's latitude and longitude) by receiving signals from positioning satellites. The GNSS receiver 1 may also be part of a GPS (Global Positioning System) system. The GNSS receiver 1 transmits the measured vehicle position information to the air conditioning control ECU 10.

[0014] Map Database 2 is a database that stores map information. Map Database 2 is formed in a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) installed in a vehicle. Map Database 2 contains location information for commercial facility parking lots, etc. Map Database 2 may also contain the location information of the user's home and the location information of the user's workplace.

[0015] The ignition switch 3 is a switch device that starts and stops the vehicle's power source and detects whether it is in an ON state (ignition ON) or an OFF state (ignition OFF). The ignition switch 3 detects whether the ignition is ON or OFF based on the user's operation of the vehicle's key or start button. Specifically, when the ignition switch 3 is detected as ON, the vehicle's electronic control system becomes operational, and electric actuators such as the air conditioner can also fully accept control. On the other hand, while the ignition switch 3 is OFF, it is determined that the engine is not running, and power consumption is reduced by limiting the operation of each device, such as the air conditioner, to a minimum standby state.

[0016] The door sensor 4 is a sensor that detects whether or not a vehicle door has been unlocked from the outside, or whether it has been opened or closed. The door sensor 4 notifies the air conditioning control ECU 10 of the door operation status.

[0017] The solar radiation sensor 5 is a sensor that detects the intensity of sunlight on the vehicle. The solar radiation sensor 5 is installed in a location in the vehicle interior where direct sunlight is likely to enter, such as near the windshield or on the dashboard inside the vehicle. The solar radiation sensor 5 acquires the amount of sunlight radiated as an analog or digital signal, for example, and notifies the air conditioning control ECU 10 of this information.

[0018] The learning database 6 is a memory unit that stores past weather information and the user's air conditioning operation history associated with that weather information. The user is, for example, the vehicle driver. If the vehicle is an autonomous vehicle that does not require a driver, the user may be an occupant. More details about weather information will be described later. The user's air conditioning operation history is the history of operations performed by the user, such as temperature settings, airflow settings, and airflow direction adjustments.

[0019] The learning database 6 may store air conditioning operation histories in association with season information. The learning database 6 may accumulate histories of approvals and rejections for air conditioning setting proposals made to the user. The learning database 6 may learn user preferences and tendencies by associating outside air temperature, solar radiation amount, and number of occupants.

[0020] Specifically, the learning database 6 may systematically organize time-series recorded data such as outside air temperature, solar radiation amount, number of occupants, and user operation patterns, and record how the user tends to make air conditioning settings under similar environments. Various parameters including detailed operation states and usage scenes, such as "dehumidification intensity preferred on rainy days" and "cooling level preferred immediately after starting operation on holidays", can be associated with each other. The learning database 6 may record individual operation tendencies, for example, that the user prefers to maximize the air volume when the outside air temperature exceeds 30°C on sunny days, or prefers to turn on mild heating in a slightly chilly environment of around 18°C on rainy days. The learning database 6 may further record information in combination with the user's schedule information, such as preferring a slightly cooler setting to relax before returning home, or prioritizing dehumidification settings to avoid fogging before going to work.

[0021] The communication module 7 is a module that enables information transmission and reception between the vehicle and an external server (for example, the server of the weather information analysis center 50) or the user's smartphone 60. The communication module 7 may be configured to connect to a wireless communication network as a DCM [Data Communication Module].

[0022] The communication module 7 transmits parking position information from the vehicle parked with the ignition turned off according to an instruction from the air conditioning control ECU 10 to the server of the weather information analysis center 50. The communication module 7 may be configured to communicate with the server of the weather information analysis center 50 via a plurality of servers. The communication module 7 acquires weather information corresponding to the parking position of the vehicle with the ignition turned on and optimal air conditioning setting information corresponding to the weather through communication with the server of the weather information analysis center 50. The acquisition source of the weather information is not limited to the weather information analysis center 50, and the weather information may be acquired from a public institution or a company that handles weather information.

[0023] The air conditioner 8 is an air conditioning device for controlling the temperature, humidity, and airflow in the vehicle cabin. The air conditioner 8 controls the temperature and humidity in the vehicle cabin by sending cold air, hot air, and the like into the vehicle cabin from an outlet provided in the vehicle cabin. For the configuration of the air conditioner 8, various known configurations of vehicle air conditioners can be adopted.

[0024] The HMI 9 is an interface device for inputting and outputting information between the air conditioning control ECU 10 and the driver. The HMI 9 includes, for example, a display, a speaker, and the like provided in the vehicle cabin. The HMI 9 performs image output on the display and audio output from the speaker in response to a control signal from the air conditioning control ECU 10. The HMI 9 may include buttons, a touch panel display, and may also include a voice recognition device that recognizes the user's voice.

[0025] Next, the functional configuration of the air conditioning control ECU 10 will be described. The air conditioning control ECU 10 includes a parking position determination unit 11, a weather information acquisition unit 12, a user proposal unit 13, and an air conditioning control unit 14.

[0026] The parking position determination unit 11 determines the vehicle's parking position based on the vehicle's current location information when the vehicle's ignition is turned OFF. The vehicle's current location information is obtained from the GNSS receiver unit 1. The parking position determination unit 11 transmits the vehicle's parking position information to the weather information analysis center 50 via the communication module 7.

[0027] Furthermore, the parking location determination unit 11 may determine the type of parking location of the vehicle based on a comparison of the vehicle's current location information with the map database 2. Specifically, the parking location determination unit 11 takes vehicle location and parking location coordinate information acquired by positioning satellites, etc., as input and compares it with type data such as facilities and homes registered in the area in the map database 2 to determine the type of parking location, such as a parking lot for a commercial facility, a home, or an office.

[0028] The weather information acquisition unit 12 acquires current weather information based on the vehicle's parking location information. The weather information acquisition unit 12 acquires weather information for the area including the vehicle's parking location from, for example, the weather information analysis center 50. The weather information includes weather information and temperature information. The weather information may also include humidity information. The weather information may include multiple parameters such as solar radiation and the presence or absence of rainfall or snowfall. The weather information may also include forecast information for weather and temperature.

[0029] The weather information acquisition unit 12 acquires weather information from the weather information analysis center 50, for example, when the vehicle ignition is turned ON or when a vehicle door that is locked while the vehicle ignition is OFF is unlocked from the outside.

[0030] If the parking location determination unit 11 has already transmitted parking location information to the weather information analysis center 50 when the vehicle is parked, the weather information acquisition unit 12 does not need to transmit the parking location information to the weather information analysis center 50 again when the vehicle starts moving. In this case, the weather information acquisition unit 12 only needs to send a request for transmission of weather information to the weather information analysis center 50. Alternatively, the weather information acquisition unit 12 may transmit the parking location information to the weather information analysis center 50 when the vehicle starts moving and acquire weather information corresponding to the parking location information.

[0031] Alternatively, the vehicle air conditioning control system 100 may acquire information on air conditioning settings corresponding to weather information from the weather information analysis center 50, rather than weather information itself. In this case, the server of the weather information analysis center 50 functions as the weather information acquisition unit 12. In other words, the server of the weather information analysis center 50 also constitutes part of the vehicle air conditioning control system 100.

[0032] The user suggestion unit 13 makes suggestions for air conditioning settings to the user based on the various information acquired. Specifically, the user suggestion unit 13 refers to acquired weather information, historical data from the learning database 6, and the user's schedule information acquired from the user's smartphone 60, etc., and proposes appropriate air conditioning setting options to the user. The user's schedule information consists of appointments and event information that the user manages on a daily basis using their smartphone 60, etc.

[0033] The user suggestion unit 13 may select candidate air conditioning settings based on rules, or it may automatically generate appropriate candidate air conditioning settings using a machine learning algorithm such as deep learning. The user suggestion unit 13 proposes air conditioning settings to the user via the HMI9's display and speaker.

[0034] The user suggestion unit 13 may suggest air conditioning settings to the user based solely on weather information. For example, when the weather is sunny, the user suggestion unit 13 may suggest controlling the temperature to a comfortable setting of approximately 20-24°C to improve comfort inside the vehicle. Furthermore, it may suggest setting the humidity lower to prevent stuffiness inside the vehicle and ensure comfort. In addition, it may suggest setting the airflow to medium-high to effectively remove excess heat from the outside and maintain an optimal temperature inside the vehicle. Furthermore, it may suggest controlling the airflow direction to send air both towards the face and feet to distribute the cool air evenly and improve comfort while driving.

[0035] Furthermore, the user suggestion section 13 may suggest, for example, maintaining a comfortable temperature setting of approximately 20-24°C during rainy weather to ensure comfort inside the vehicle even in humid environments. In addition, it may suggest using a dehumidification mode to effectively expel moisture from inside the vehicle and prevent fogging of the windshield. Moreover, it may suggest setting the airflow to medium to control the exhaust of moisture appropriately, and directing the airflow mainly towards the driver's face to ensure clear visibility necessary for safe driving.

[0036] User suggestion section 13 suggests, for example, that in cold conditions such as snowfall, the temperature be controlled to a warmer setting of approximately 22-26°C to warm the driver's body and maintain comfort inside the vehicle. Furthermore, it suggests setting the humidity to a lower level to prevent fogging while maintaining a warm environment. Additionally, it may suggest setting the fan speed to medium to high to quickly raise the temperature inside the vehicle, and directing the airflow towards the windshield and the driver's face to ensure a clear view at all times.

[0037] User suggestion section 13 suggests, for example, maintaining a comfortable temperature of approximately 20-24°C to ensure comfort inside the vehicle even in strong winds outside. In addition, it may suggest stabilizing the interior environment by adjusting humidity while appropriately taking in outside air. Furthermore, it may suggest setting the airflow to medium to mitigate the effects of strong winds outside, and directing the airflow from the footwell to create a sense of stability inside the vehicle, thereby improving comfort and safety while driving.

[0038] More specifically, if the currently acquired weather information is sunny with a temperature of 28 degrees Celsius, and the learning database 6 has recorded data of a past operation where the user set the air conditioning temperature to 20 degrees Celsius and the fan speed to high when the weather was sunny with a temperature of 28 degrees Celsius, the user suggestion unit 13 may suggest to the user that they set the air conditioning temperature to 20 degrees Celsius and the fan speed to high. Furthermore, the user suggestion unit 13 may also suggest air conditioning settings to the user based on the season and sunlight conditions (for example, whether the driver is exposed to sunlight of a certain intensity or whether sunlight is entering the vehicle interior). The user can approve or reject the suggested proposal, and the result is stored again in the learning database 6 and used to improve the accuracy of future suggestions.

[0039] The user suggestion unit 13 may not only suggest temperature adjustments inside the vehicle, but may also have the function of presenting special air conditioning control modes according to the vehicle's parking position and the user's behavior. One example of this is the suggestion of a cargo area temperature reduction mode.

[0040] Specifically, the user suggestion unit 13 focuses on cases where the parking location determination unit determines that it is a parking lot of a commercial facility, and if it estimates that the user is likely to purchase fresh food or refrigerated goods, it announces the relevant mode. In this case, the commercial facility may be limited to stores where food products can be purchased, such as supermarkets. However, since the items that the user wants to keep refrigerated are not limited to food products, there is no need to excessively restrict the commercial facility.

[0041] Here, the user suggestion unit 13 may propose a cargo bed temperature reduction mode at an appropriate timing that reflects past data, such as by prioritizing the use of the cargo bed if past shopping operation history and the user's cargo area usage status have been registered in advance from the learning database 6. If the user suggestion unit 13 obtains information about the user's shopping plans or the user's regular grocery purchase schedule from the user's smartphone 60, it may propose a cargo bed temperature reduction mode based on that information. Furthermore, the user suggestion unit 13 may continuously improve its accuracy by accumulating data on situations where the temperature of the cargo bed tends to rise during long-term parking, and making earlier suggestions in similar environments in the future.

[0042] The user suggestion unit 13 may suggest air conditioning settings to the user based on the user's schedule information and the current time obtained from the user's smartphone 60 or an external server (including a cloud server). The current time can be obtained from the timer of the air conditioning control ECU 10.

[0043] The user suggestion unit 13 compares the acquired schedule information with the current time to determine when it is necessary to suggest air conditioning control. For example, if the user has scheduled to go to work early in the morning, the user suggestion unit 13 will suggest appropriate heating and cooling settings to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the vehicle when the user departs. The user suggestion unit 13 may also suggest setting the humidity low to prevent discomfort caused by morning humidity. The user suggestion unit 13 may also suggest setting the airflow to a medium level to create a gentle environment. The user suggestion unit 13 may also suggest directing airflow towards the user's face to improve visibility.

[0044] The user suggestion unit 13 may, for example, suggest the following various heating and cooling settings to adjust the interior of the vehicle comfortably and efficiently when the user is returning home. The user suggestion unit 13 may suggest setting the temperature to a comfortable level slightly lower than the outside temperature to keep the interior cool and ensure comfort upon returning home. Furthermore, it may suggest setting the humidity to a lower level to maintain a consistently comfortable environment. It may also suggest setting the fan speed to medium to high to quickly adjust the interior temperature, and sending air to the feet and face to appropriately balance the overall temperature.

[0045] User suggestion section 13, for example, if the user has a schedule that involves long hours of driving during a vacation, suggests maintaining the temperature at a comfortable setting of approximately 20-24°C to ensure a consistently comfortable environment inside the vehicle. In addition, it may suggest adjusting the humidity appropriately according to the outside air conditions to maintain comfort inside the vehicle. Furthermore, it may suggest setting the airflow to a moderate level and blowing air in all directions to maintain a uniform temperature inside the vehicle and ensure a comfortable journey.

[0046] User suggestion section 13 suggests, for example, that in winter when the outside temperature is low, the interior temperature of the vehicle be set to match the outside temperature, slightly higher (approximately 22-26°C), to keep the interior warm even when it is cold outside and ensure a comfortable ride. Furthermore, to prevent the dryness characteristic of winter, it may also be suggested to maintain appropriate humidity while adjusting with the outside air. Additionally, it may be suggested to set the fan speed to medium to high in order to quickly warm the interior of the vehicle, and to direct the airflow towards the windshield and the user's face to prevent fogging and effectively warm the user's body.

[0047] Furthermore, if the user has registered a plan to go to a sports facility, the user suggestion unit 13 will propose measures such as increased airflow and dehumidification settings to keep the vehicle cool, anticipating the high body temperature after exercise. Since these suggestions are most needed just before the user actually uses the vehicle, the user suggestion unit is configured to monitor the difference between the scheduled time and the current time to determine the optimal timing.

[0048] The user suggestion unit 13 can make suggestions based on weather information and the user's schedule information. For example, the user suggestion unit 13 will suggest set temperatures and other settings based on actual weather information, while adhering to the suggested air conditioning settings policy in the schedule information described above. The user can approve or reject the suggestions from a user interface such as the HMI 9. For example, the user can input their response by touch or other operations or by voice input.

[0049] The air conditioning control unit 14 controls the air conditioning inside the vehicle by controlling the air conditioner 8. The air conditioning control unit 14 performs various controls on the air conditioner 8 unit, such as the operating mode (cooling, heating, dehumidification, fan, etc.), set temperature, airflow volume, outlet selection, and airflow direction switching. The air conditioning control unit 14 can also control the start and stop of special air conditioning control modes, such as a cargo bed temperature reduction mode. In this case, the air conditioner 8 is assumed to have a structure that can send temperature-adjusted air to the cargo bed. The air conditioner 8 may have an outlet that corresponds to the cargo bed of the vehicle.

[0050] The air conditioning control unit 14 controls the air conditioning inside the vehicle based on the weather information acquired by the weather information acquisition unit 12. For example, if the user suggestion unit 13 makes an air conditioning setting suggestion based on the weather information and the user approves it, the air conditioning control unit 14 executes air conditioning control based on the air conditioning setting approved by the user.

[0051] Furthermore, when the air conditioning control unit 14 receives approval information for "start cargo bed temperature reduction mode" from the user suggestion unit 13, it applies air conditioning settings that prioritize cooling the cargo area and trunk based on the approval information. Specifically, the control may involve opening the electric flaps of the air conditioner vents located near the cargo area to concentrate the cool air, or selecting an air outlet temperature several degrees lower than the standard temperature setting to focus cooling towards the cargo area. In cargo bed temperature reduction mode, the temperature is controlled to be about 3°C ​​lower than the normal cabin temperature setting, maintaining a predetermined temperature difference to preserve the quality of fresh food. The cargo bed temperature reduction mode protects fresh food and refrigerated items by operating for a certain period of time, and can be switched back to normal mode immediately if the user deems it unnecessary. The air conditioning control unit 14 autonomously monitors this series of processes and optimizes the control intensity according to the driving environment, such as balancing it with fuel efficiency (or electricity efficiency, in the case of electric vehicles) while understanding the progress of temperature changes.

[0052] The air conditioning control unit 14 may automatically control the air conditioning inside the vehicle without making any suggestions to or obtaining approval from the user. If the air conditioning control unit 14 starts automatic air conditioning control, it may notify the user of the air conditioning settings via the HMI 9.

[0053] The air conditioning control unit 14 starts automatic air conditioning control when the vehicle ignition is turned ON (or immediately before getting in, based on an external unlocking signal from the door sensor). For example, if the weather is sunny and the outside temperature is extremely high, the air conditioning control unit 14 prioritizes strong cooling from the initial stage, and if the intensity of sunlight detected by the solar radiation sensor 5 is high, it sets the system to balance face-facing airflow and foot-level airflow. On the other hand, if the weather is cloudy, the temperature is low, and rain is expected, the air conditioning control unit 14 may appropriately insert a dehumidification mode at the same time as heating to prevent fogging of the windows. The air conditioning control unit 14 may also automatically start air conditioning settings similar to those suggested by the user suggestion unit 13 described above, in accordance with weather information.

[0054] Furthermore, the air conditioning control unit 14 may automatically control the air conditioning by referring to the records in the learning database 6. For example, when the ignition is turned ON or the doors are unlocked, the air conditioning control unit 14 obtains the weather conditions (temperature, weather, etc.) in which the vehicle is currently located, and then refers to the learning database 6 to search for how the user operated the air conditioning in the past under similar or identical weather conditions. If the air conditioning control unit 14 has a history of the user having increased the cooling and set the fan speed to maximum in a sunny environment with strong sunlight and an outside temperature exceeding 30°C, it will automatically start air conditioning control under similar weather conditions, using that operation pattern as a candidate.

[0055] If the user tends to get hot easily, the air conditioning control unit 14 will accumulate a tendency for the user to prefer a higher cooling level in the learning database 6. The more this tendency is repeated, the more reliable the system becomes in the data, allowing it to perform more accurate air conditioning control. Alternatively, if the air conditioning control unit 14 has a history of the user frequently using the dehumidification mode when the outside temperature is low due to rain, it will prioritize using the dehumidification mode when similar conditions recur.

[0056] Furthermore, the air conditioning control unit 14 may estimate the solar radiation conditions received by the user based on the detection results output from the solar radiation sensor 5. Specifically, if the solar radiation sensor 5 detects high sunlight intensity (solar radiation amount), the air conditioning control unit 14 may determine that strong direct sunlight is entering the vehicle interior and may increase the airflow and prioritize strengthening the cooling mode to reduce the user's perceived temperature and heat load. High sunlight intensity refers to an intensity above a preset solar radiation judgment threshold. The unit of intensity is W / m 2 Any unit can be used, such as lux (lx). The solar radiation threshold can be defined, for example, as 500 W or more per square meter, or 50,000 lux or more. The air conditioning control unit 14 can also make adjustments, such as changing the distribution of the vehicle's face vents and foot vents to focus cooling on the upper body area where the user feels the most heat.

[0057] Conversely, if the solar radiation sensor 5 detects low sunlight intensity (for example, below the solar radiation threshold), the air conditioning control unit 14 may determine that the influence of external direct sunlight and radiant heat is small and switch to a control system that suppresses the airflow rate and temperature settings to avoid performing excessively strong cooling or heating. This optimizes energy consumption while reducing the burden of solar radiation on occupants while they are in the vehicle.

[0058] Furthermore, the air conditioning control unit 14 may automatically start air conditioning control based on the user's schedule information and the current time. In this case, the air conditioning settings can be the same as those suggested by the user suggestion unit 13 described above.

[0059] Furthermore, the air conditioning control unit 14 can also be linked with information on the number of occupants and seat positions. For example, if seat sensors installed in the vehicle detect that multiple occupants are present, it can automatically adjust the airflow volume and direction to meet the individual needs of each occupant, enabling advanced distributed control such as providing focused heating and cooling to the rear seats. The learning database 6 also records patterns such as wanting to cool only the rear seats more strongly. The air conditioning control unit 14 can perform air conditioning control by comprehensively taking into account this information obtained from the in-vehicle cameras and seat sensors.

[0060] Next, the control method of the vehicle air conditioning control system 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 2(a) is a flowchart showing an example of the parking position information transmission process of the vehicle air conditioning control system 100. The parking position information transmission process shown in Figure 2(a) is executed when the vehicle ignition is ON.

[0061] As shown in the flowchart in Figure 2(a), the air conditioning control ECU 10 first determines in step S10 whether or not the vehicle's ignition has been turned off. If the air conditioning control ECU 10 determines that the ignition has been turned off (S10: YES), it proceeds to the next step S11. On the other hand, if the air conditioning control ECU 10 determines that the ignition is not turned off (S10: NO), it terminates the current parking location information transmission process.

[0062] In step S11, the air conditioning control ECU 10 transmits the vehicle's parking location information to the weather information analysis center. This prepares the system for acquiring weather information and air conditioning-related information from an external source when the vehicle starts moving. After that, the air conditioning control ECU 10 terminates its processing.

[0063] Figure 2(b) is a flowchart showing an example of the air conditioning control process of the vehicle air conditioning control system 100. The air conditioning control process is executed, for example, when the vehicle ignition is OFF. If the processing start condition is set to when the vehicle ignition is ON, step S20 can be omitted.

[0064] As shown in the flowchart in Figure 2(b), the air conditioning control ECU 10 first determines in step S20 whether or not the vehicle's ignition has been turned ON. Instead of determining whether the vehicle's ignition has been turned ON, the determination condition may also be that a locked vehicle door has been unlocked from the outside.

[0065] If the air conditioning control ECU 10 determines that the ignition is ON (S20: YES), it proceeds to step S21. On the other hand, if the air conditioning control ECU 10 determines in step S20 that the ignition is NOT ON (S20: NO), it terminates the current air conditioning control process.

[0066] In step S21, the air conditioning control ECU 10 receives weather information or air conditioning setting information based on parking location information from the weather information analysis center 50. Subsequently, in step S22, the air conditioning control ECU 10 refers to past learning data (past weather conditions and corresponding user operation history) and determines the current intensity of direct sunlight based on the detection results of the solar radiation sensor 5. The air conditioning control ECU 10 integrates this information and calculates the appropriate air conditioning settings inside the vehicle.

[0067] Subsequently, in step S23, the air conditioning control ECU 10 starts controlling the air conditioning inside the vehicle. The air conditioning control ECU 10 sends a control signal to the air conditioner 8 to perform appropriate air conditioning settings based on various conditions, including weather information. After that, the air conditioning control ECU 10 finishes the current air conditioning control process.

[0068] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the air conditioning control proposal process according to the schedule information of the vehicle air conditioning control system 100. The start conditions can be the same as those in Figure 2(b).

[0069] As shown in the flowchart in Figure 3, the air conditioning control ECU 10 first determines in step S30 whether the vehicle's ignition is ON or OFF. If the air conditioning control ECU 10 determines that the ignition is ON (S30: YES), it proceeds to step S31. On the other hand, if the air conditioning control ECU 10 determines in the first step S30 that the ignition is NOT ON (S30: NO), it terminates the current air conditioning control proposal process.

[0070] In step S31, the air conditioning control ECU 10 refers to the user's schedule information obtained from the user's smartphone 60 or an external server. Then, in step S32, the air conditioning control ECU 10 determines whether it is the right time to suggest air conditioning settings.

[0071] If the air conditioning control ECU 10 determines that it is not the right time to make a suggestion (S31: NO), it terminates the current air conditioning control suggestion process. On the other hand, if the air conditioning control ECU 10 determines that it is the right time to make a suggestion (S31: YES), it proceeds to step S33. In step S33, the air conditioning control ECU 10 creates appropriate air conditioning settings according to the user's schedule information and proposes them to the user. The air conditioning control ECU 10 makes the suggestion to the user via the HMI 9 by displaying images and text and / or outputting audio.

[0072] Subsequently, in step S34, the air conditioning control ECU 10 determines whether the user has approved the proposal. If the proposal is rejected (S34: NO), the air conditioning control ECU 10 terminates the air conditioning control proposal process without applying the proposal. If the proposal is approved (S34: YES), the air conditioning control ECU 10 proceeds to step S35.

[0073] In step S35, the air conditioning control ECU 10 starts the air conditioning control approved by the user. The air conditioning control unit 14 executes the air conditioning control approved by the user by controlling the air conditioner 8.

[0074] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the cargo bed temperature reduction mode proposal process of the vehicle air conditioning control system 100. The cargo bed temperature reduction mode proposal process is executed when the vehicle ignition is turned from OFF to ON.

[0075] As shown in the flowchart in Figure 4, the air conditioning control ECU 10 first determines in step S40 whether or not the vehicle is parked in the commercial facility's parking lot. If the air conditioning control ECU 10 determines that the vehicle is not parked in the commercial facility's parking lot (S40: NO), it considers that the need for the cargo bed temperature reduction mode is low and terminates the cargo bed temperature reduction mode proposal process. If the air conditioning control ECU 10 determines that the vehicle is parked in the commercial facility's parking lot (S40: YES), it proceeds to step S41.

[0076] In step S41, the air conditioning control ECU 10 proposes to the user that they start air conditioning control in cargo bed temperature reduction mode. The user proposal unit 13 makes the proposal to the user via the HMI 9 by displaying images and text and / or outputting audio.

[0077] Next, in step S42, the air conditioning control ECU 10 determines whether the user has approved the proposal. If the proposal is rejected (S42: NO), the air conditioning control ECU 10 terminates the cargo bed temperature reduction mode proposal process without applying the proposal. If the proposal is approved (S42: YES), the air conditioning control ECU 10 proceeds to step S43.

[0078] In step S43, the air conditioning control ECU 10 starts air conditioning control in cargo bed temperature reduction mode. The air conditioning control unit 14 automatically adjusts the airflow, airflow direction, and cooling level to focus on cooling the area around the cargo compartment, managing it so that fresh food and other items can be kept cool.

[0079] As described above, the vehicle air conditioning control system 100 according to this embodiment can appropriately control the vehicle's air conditioning based on weather information obtained from the vehicle's parking location information when the user starts driving the vehicle. Furthermore, in the vehicle air conditioning control system 100, the air conditioning control unit 14 refers to the detection results of the solar radiation sensor 5 and can finely switch the degree of cooling or heating according to the intensity of solar radiation. This makes it possible to perform precise air conditioning control that simultaneously considers the user's perceived temperature and energy saving, such as executing stronger cooling earlier in situations with strong direct sunlight and suppressing excessive air conditioning operation in situations where the effect of solar radiation is small.

[0080] Furthermore, the vehicle air conditioning control system 100 can automatically reflect the user's preferences and tendencies under similar environmental conditions by referring to past weather information and the user's air conditioning operation history stored in the learning database 6. This allows the system to calculate the optimal control plan based not only on real-time weather information, but also on the user's history regarding the amount of sunlight they receive and their preferred room temperature, and personalization can be further enhanced as the system learns more.

[0081] Furthermore, the vehicle air conditioning control system 100 can determine whether the vehicle is parked in a commercial facility based on parking location information, and if it is determined to be a commercial facility, it can suggest to the user an air conditioning control mode that lowers the temperature of the cargo area. As a result, it can provide convenient and practical added services, such as focusing on cooling the cargo area to help maintain the quality of goods when there is a high possibility of carrying fresh food for shopping.

[0082] Furthermore, the vehicle air conditioning control system 100 compares the user's schedule information obtained from the user's smartphone 60 with the current time, and the user suggestion unit makes air conditioning control suggestions at the appropriate time. This allows the system to adjust the temperature and airflow according to specific planned activities such as before departure or after exercise, or to prioritize dehumidification, thus preparing the environment the user desires even before boarding. When the user approves, the air conditioning control unit 14 immediately executes the suggested content, making it possible to efficiently create a comfortable in-vehicle environment without the need for conventional manual operation, leading to improved user convenience and satisfaction.

[0083] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. The present invention can be implemented in various forms, starting with the embodiments described above, by making various changes and improvements based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

[0084] The vehicle air conditioning control system 100 does not need to have a door sensor 4 if it does not use door release as a condition for judgment. The vehicle air conditioning control system 100 does not necessarily need to suggest or automatically start air conditioning settings considering the sunlight conditions. In this case, the vehicle air conditioning control system 100 does not need to have a sunlight sensor 5. The vehicle air conditioning control system 100 does not necessarily need to suggest or automatically start air conditioning settings considering the user's past operation history. In this case, the vehicle air conditioning control system 100 does not need to have a learning database 6. The vehicle air conditioning control system 100 does not necessarily need to suggest or automatically start air conditioning settings considering the user's schedule information. In this case, the communication module 7 does not need to acquire the user's schedule information. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0085] 1...GNSS receiver, 2...Map database, 3...Ignition switch, 4...Door sensor, 5...Sun radiation sensor, 6...Learning database, 7...Communication module, 8...Air conditioner, 9...HMI, 10...Air conditioning control ECU, 11...Parking position determination unit, 12...Weather information acquisition unit, 13...User suggestion unit, 14...Air conditioning control unit, 50...Weather information analysis center, 60...Smartphone, 100...Vehicle air conditioning control system.

Claims

1. A vehicle air conditioning control system that controls the air conditioning inside a vehicle, A weather information acquisition unit acquires current weather information based on the vehicle's parking location information when the vehicle's ignition is turned from OFF to ON, or when the vehicle's doors, which are locked while the vehicle's ignition is OFF, are unlocked from the outside. An air conditioning control unit controls the air conditioning of the vehicle based on the weather information, A vehicle air conditioning control system equipped with the following features.

2. The vehicle air conditioning control system according to claim 1, wherein the air conditioning control unit controls the air conditioning of the vehicle in accordance with the solar radiation conditions for the user of the vehicle, based on the detection results of the solar radiation sensor of the vehicle.

3. The system further includes a learning database that records past weather information and the vehicle's air conditioning operation history by the vehicle's user associated with that weather information. The vehicle air conditioning control system according to claim 1, wherein the air conditioning control unit controls the air conditioning of the vehicle based on past weather information and the air conditioning operation history.

4. A parking location determination unit that determines whether or not the vehicle is parked in the parking lot of a commercial facility based on the vehicle's parking location information, If the vehicle is parked in a commercial facility parking lot, a user suggestion unit proposes to the user of the vehicle an air conditioning control mode for reducing the cargo bed temperature, Furthermore, The vehicle air conditioning control system according to claim 1, wherein the air conditioning control unit executes the air conditioning control for the cargo bed temperature reduction mode when the user approves the air conditioning control for the cargo bed temperature reduction mode.

5. The system further includes a user suggestion unit that obtains the vehicle user's schedule information by communicating with the vehicle user's smartphone or an external server, and makes suggestions for air conditioning control to the vehicle user based on the vehicle user's schedule information and the current time. The vehicle air conditioning control system according to claim 1, wherein the air conditioning control unit executes the air conditioning control when the user approves the proposal.

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