Vehicle control devices, control methods, and control programs

Abstract

To improve passenger convenience or energy efficiency in vehicle power control. [Solution] The control device of the vehicle 100 includes a control unit that controls the on / off switching of power supply to at least some of the vehicle's electrical equipment and the on / off switching of at least some in-vehicle functions that the vehicle's occupants can perceive as operating. When the control unit detects that the driver's side door of the vehicle has been opened while the power supply to the electrical equipment is on and an in-vehicle function is on, it changes the in-vehicle function to off while keeping the power supply to the electrical equipment on.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a vehicle control device, a control method, and a control program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a vehicle power supply device is known that cuts off power supply to devices related to vehicle security when it is detected that the vehicle is located at a predetermined position, the ignition switch is off, and the vehicle door is locked (Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the vehicle power supply device described in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to turn off the ignition switch in order to cut off the power supply to on-vehicle devices excluding the devices related to security. Therefore, the vehicle power supply device described in Patent Document 1 has room for improvement in terms of occupant convenience or power consumption efficiency.

[0005] In view of the above problems, an object of the present disclosure is to improve occupant convenience or power consumption efficiency in relation to vehicle power control.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] The gist of the present disclosure is as follows.

[0007] (1) A vehicle control device, The vehicle comprises a control unit that controls the on / off switching of power supply to at least some of the electrical equipment of the vehicle and the on / off switching of at least some in-vehicle functions whose operation can be recognized by the occupants of the vehicle, The control unit is a control device that, when the power supply to the electrical equipment is on and the in-vehicle function is on, detects that the driver's side door of the vehicle has been opened, changes the in-vehicle function to the off state while keeping the power supply to the electrical equipment on. (2) The control device according to (1) above, wherein at least some of the electrical equipment includes equipment that realizes at least some of the in-vehicle functions. (3) The control device according to (1) or (2) above, wherein when the power supply to the electrical equipment is on and the in-vehicle function is on, the control unit detects that a door other than the driver's seat of the vehicle has been opened, and maintains the power supply to the electrical equipment and the in-vehicle function in the on state. (4) The control device according to any one of (1) to (3) above, wherein the control unit, when it is detected that the driver's side door of the vehicle has been opened while the power supply to the electrical equipment is off, changes the power supply to the electrical equipment and the in-vehicle function to ON. (5) The control device according to any one of (1) to (4) above, wherein when the power supply to the electrical equipment is turned off, the control unit detects that a door other than the driver's seat of the vehicle has been opened, and changes the power supply to the electrical equipment to turn on and turns off the in-vehicle function. (6) The control device according to any one of (1) to (5) above, wherein when the power supply to the electrical equipment is on and the in-vehicle function is off, the control unit detects that the driver's side door of the vehicle has been opened, and changes the in-vehicle function to be on while keeping the power supply to the electrical equipment on. (7) The control device according to any one of (1) to (6) above, wherein when the power supply to the electrical equipment is on and the in-vehicle function is off, the control unit detects that a door other than the driver's seat of the vehicle has been opened, and maintains the power supply to the electrical equipment on and maintains the in-vehicle function off. (8) The control device according to any one of (1) to (7) above, wherein if the power supply to the electrical equipment is on and the power supply to the equipment that drives the vehicle is stopped for a predetermined period of time or longer, the control unit changes the power supply to the electrical equipment to off, regardless of whether the in-vehicle function is on or off. (9) The control device according to any one of (1) to (8) above, wherein when the power supply to the electrical equipment is on and the in-vehicle function is on, and a lock operation of the vehicle from outside the vehicle is detected, the control unit changes the in-vehicle function to the off state while keeping the power supply to the electrical equipment on. (10) The control device according to any one of (1) to (9) above, wherein the control unit, when it is detected that the vehicle's push switch has been operated while the power supply to the electrical equipment is off, changes the power supply to the electrical equipment and the in-vehicle function to ON. (11) The control device according to any one of (1) to (10) above, wherein the in-vehicle function includes at least one of an infotainment function, an air conditioning function, and a lighting function. (12) The control unit comprises a power management unit that manages the on / off switching of the power supply to the electrical equipment, and a function management unit that manages the on / off switching of the in-vehicle functions, The control device according to any one of (1) to (11) above, wherein the function management unit sets the in-vehicle function to off when the power supply to the electrical equipment is set to off by the power management unit. (13) The control unit comprises a power management unit that manages the on / off switching of the power supply to the electrical equipment, and a function management unit that manages the on / off switching of the in-vehicle functions, The control device according to any one of (1) to (11) above, wherein the power supply management unit and the function management unit synchronously output signals indicating changes when changing the on / off state of the power supply to the electrical equipment and the on / off state of the in-vehicle functions. (14) A method for controlling a vehicle, Controlling the on / off switching of power supply to at least some of the electrical equipment of the vehicle and the on / off switching of at least some in-vehicle functions whose operation can be perceived by the occupants of the vehicle, A control method that includes, when the power supply to the electrical equipment is on and the in-vehicle function is on, and it is detected that the driver's side door of the vehicle has been opened, changing the in-vehicle function to the off state while keeping the power supply to the electrical equipment on. (15) A vehicle control program, Controlling the on / off switching of power supply to at least some of the electrical equipment of the vehicle and the on / off switching of at least some in-vehicle functions whose operation can be perceived by the occupants of the vehicle, When the power supply to the electrical equipment is on and the in-vehicle function is on, and it is detected that the driver's side door of the vehicle has been opened, the power supply to the electrical equipment is kept on while the in-vehicle function is turned off. A control program that causes a computer to execute a command. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, the convenience of the occupants or the energy efficiency will be improved with respect to the vehicle's power control. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the vehicle control system. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the ECU. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows the switching of the power supply status to electrical equipment in the power management unit. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows the switching behavior of the operating state of in-vehicle functions in the function management unit. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows the process flow for controlling power and functions when the power supply state to electrical equipment is in the power-off state. [Figure 6]Figure 6 is a diagram showing the flow of processing for controlling power and functions when the power supply state to electrical equipment is in a vehicle power-on state and the operation state of in-vehicle functions is in a second visual recognition off state. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a diagram showing the flow of processing for controlling power and functions when the power supply state to electrical equipment is in a vehicle power-on state and the operation state of in-vehicle functions is in a first visual recognition on state. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a time chart illustrating the open / closed state of doors other than the driver's seat door, and the like. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a time chart similar to Figure 8, illustrating the open / closed state of doors other than the driver's seat door, and the like. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a time chart similar to Figure 8, illustrating the open / closed state of doors other than the driver's seat door, and the like. [Modes for Carrying Out the Invention]

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same reference numerals are assigned to similar constituent elements.

[0011] <Configuration of Vehicle Control System> With reference to Figure 1, the configuration of a vehicle control system 1 including a control device according to one embodiment will be described. The control device controls on / off of power supply to electrical equipment of the vehicle 100, and also controls on / off of some in-vehicle functions whose operation can be recognized by an occupant of the vehicle 100. Figure 1 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the vehicle control system 1.

[0012] The vehicle control system 1 is mounted on the vehicle 100. In the present embodiment, the vehicle 100 may be an electric vehicle (BEV, PHEV, HEV) that is at least partially driven by electric power, or may be a vehicle driven by an internal combustion engine.

[0013] As shown in Figure 1, in this embodiment, the vehicle control system 1 includes a plurality of electrical devices. The electrical devices include a door sensor 11, a brake sensor 12, a push switch 13, a lock sensor 14, a display 21, a speaker 22, an air conditioner (hereinafter referred to as "air conditioner") 23, lights 24, drive equipment 25, an electronic control unit (hereinafter referred to as "ECU") 30, and other electrical devices 40. These electrical devices are communicated with each other, for example, via an in-vehicle network 5. The in-vehicle network 5 is, for example, a network compliant with a standard such as CAN (Controller Area Network). Alternatively, these electrical devices may be directly connected to each other via signal lines, at least partially without going through the in-vehicle network 5.

[0014] The door sensor 11 is a sensor that detects the opening and closing of each door of the vehicle 100. The door sensor 11 includes a sensor that detects the opening and closing of the driver's side door and sensors that detect the opening and closing of each of the other doors. The door sensor 11 transmits a signal representing the open / closed state of each door to the ECU 30 at predetermined intervals, for example, via the in-vehicle network 5. The door sensor 11 may also transmit a signal representing the change in the open / closed state to the ECU 30 when there is a change in the open / closed state of the door (for example, when a closed door is opened).

[0015] The brake sensor 12 is a sensor that detects the amount the driver presses the brake pedal of the vehicle 100. The brake sensor 12 transmits a signal representing the amount the brake pedal is pressed to the ECU 30 at predetermined intervals, for example, via the in-vehicle network 5. The brake pedal press amount information is used not only for controlling the power supply of the vehicle 100, but also for controlling the operation of the vehicle 100.

[0016] The push switch 13 is a switch operated by the occupant. The push switch 13 is operated by the occupant to control the power supply of the vehicle 100. The push switch 13 is located, for example, on the instrument panel of the vehicle 100. In particular, the push switch 13 is located in a position where it can be operated by a driver seated in the driver's seat. When the push switch 13 is operated (for example, when the push switch 13 is pressed), the push switch 13 sends a push operation signal to the ECU 30, for example via the in-vehicle network 5, indicating that the push switch 13 has been operated.

[0017] The lock sensor 14 is a sensor that detects the lock operation of the vehicle 100 by the user. In particular, in this embodiment, the lock sensor 14 detects the lock operation performed by the user from outside the vehicle. For example, the lock sensor 14 outputs an output indicating that a lock operation has been performed when the key of the vehicle 100 is inserted into and turned in the key cylinder provided on the door of the vehicle 100, when the approach of a user's hand or the like is detected by the touch sensor provided on the door handle of the vehicle 100, or when a signal instructing to lock the vehicle 100 is received from the electronic key of the vehicle 100. The lock sensor 14 transmits a lock operation signal indicating that a lock operation has been performed to the ECU 30, for example, via the in-vehicle network 5.

[0018] The display 21 is a display device that displays images. The display 21 is any type of display device, such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The display 21 receives an image signal from the ECU 30 via the in-vehicle network 5 and displays an image according to this image signal. The speaker 22 is an audio output device that outputs sound. The speaker 22 receives an audio signal from the ECU 30 via the in-vehicle network 5 and outputs sound according to this audio signal. The display 21 and speaker 22 realize an infotainment function that provides information and entertainment to the occupants. In addition, the vehicle control system 1 may be equipped with other electrical equipment besides the display 21 and speaker 22 to realize the infotainment function. In particular, in this embodiment, the display 21 and speaker 22 display an image and output sound when they receive an image signal and an audio signal from the ECU 30 when power is supplied to the display 21 and speaker 22. On the other hand, when power is not supplied to the display 21 and speaker 22, even if they receive image signals and audio signals from the ECU 30, they will not display images or output audio.

[0019] The air conditioner 23 is an air conditioning control device that controls the air conditioning inside the vehicle 100. The air conditioner 23 includes, for example, a compressor and a blower fan. The air conditioner 23 receives control signals from the ECU 30, for example, via the in-vehicle network 5, and operates the compressor and blower fan according to these control signals. The air conditioner 23 provides an air conditioning function that controls the air conditioning inside the vehicle 100. When power is supplied, the air conditioner 23 controls the operation of the compressor and blower fan, etc., when it receives control signals from the ECU 30.

[0020] The light 24 is an illumination device that illuminates the exterior or the interior of the vehicle 100. The light 24 includes a headlight that illuminates the front of the vehicle, and position lights provided at the front and rear of the vehicle 100. In addition, the light 24 includes an interior light that illuminates the cabin of the vehicle 100. The light 24 receives a control signal from the ECU 30 via, for example, the in-vehicle network 5, and operates the headlight, the position lights, and the interior light in accordance with this control signal. The light 24 realizes an illumination function for illuminating the exterior or the interior of the vehicle 100. When power is supplied and a control signal is received from the ECU 30, the light 24 controls the operation of the headlight, the interior light, and the like.

[0021] The drive device 25 is an electrical device that constitutes an apparatus for driving the vehicle 100. For example, when the vehicle 100 is driven by an internal combustion engine, the drive device 25 includes spark plugs that ignite the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber, injectors that supply the air-fuel mixture into the combustion chamber, and the like. When the vehicle 100 is driven by an electric motor, the drive device 25 includes the electric motor, an inverter, a DC / DC converter, and the like. The drive device 25 receives a drive signal from the ECU 30 via, for example, the in-vehicle network 5, and operates the internal combustion engine or the electric motor in accordance with this drive signal.

[0022] The other electrical devices 40 include electrical devices other than the door sensor 11, the brake sensor 12, the push switch 13, the lock sensor 14, the display 21, the speaker 22, the air conditioner 23, the light 24, the drive device 25, and the ECU 30. The other electrical devices 40 include any sensors, any actuators, and the like mounted on the vehicle 100. For example, the other electrical devices 40 include an on-board camera that captures images of the front and rear of the vehicle 100, a millimeter wave radar or LiDAR that detects objects in front of and behind the vehicle 100, an automatic door opening and closing device for when the door of the vehicle 100 is a sliding door, a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the battery, a water pump used for battery cooling water, and the like.

[0023] <Outline of ECU> The ECU 30 functions as a control device that executes multiple control functions in the vehicle 100. The ECU 30 also functions as a control device that controls the display on the vehicle 100's display and limits control functions based on power consumption. In the example shown in Figure 1, the vehicle control system 1 has one ECU 30, but it may have multiple ECUs 30, each dedicated to a specific function. The ECU 30 includes a communication interface 31, a storage unit 32, and a processor 33. The communication interface 31, storage unit 32, and processor 33 may be separate circuits or may be configured as a single integrated circuit.

[0024] The communication interface 31 is a circuit for connecting the ECU 30 to the in-vehicle network 5. The communication interface 31 transmits signals received from the door sensor 11, brake sensor 12, push switch 13, and lock sensor 14 to the processor 33. The communication interface 31 also transmits signals output from the processor 33 to the display 21, speaker 22, air conditioner 23, lights 24, drive unit 25, and other electrical equipment 40.

[0025] The storage unit 32 stores data. The storage unit 32 includes, for example, at least one of volatile semiconductor memory, non-volatile semiconductor memory, hard disk drive (HDD), and solid state drive (SSD). The storage unit 32 stores programs executed by the processor 33. The storage unit 32 also stores data transmitted from various sensors.

[0026] The processor 33 has one or more CPUs (Central Processing Units) and their peripheral circuits. The processor 33 may further have other arithmetic circuits such as logical operation units or numerical operation units. The processor 33 executes computer programs stored in the storage unit 32.

[0027] Figure 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of the ECU 30. As shown in Figure 2, the processor 33 comprises a power management unit 331 and a function management unit 332. Each of these parts of the processor 33 is, for example, a functional module realized by a computer program running on the processor 33. Alternatively, each part of the processor 33 may be implemented in the ECU 30 as an independent integrated circuit, microprocessor, or firmware. The power management unit 331 and the function management unit 332 function as control units that control the on / off switching of power supply to the electrical equipment of the vehicle 100 and the on / off switching of in-vehicle functions.

[0028] The power management unit 331 manages the on / off switching of power supply from the power source to at least some of the electrical equipment of the vehicle 100. In this embodiment, the power management unit 331 manages the on / off switching of power supply to all of the electrical equipment of the vehicle 100. In particular, in this embodiment, the power management unit 331 manages the on / off switching of power supply to the drive equipment 25 and to electrical equipment other than the drive equipment 25 (door sensor 11, display 21, etc.).

[0029] Figure 3 is a diagram showing how the power supply state to electrical equipment is switched by the power management unit 331. As shown in Figure 3, the power management unit 331 switches the power supply state to electrical equipment between three states: power off state P1, vehicle power on state P2, and drive power on state P3.

[0030] In the power-off state P1, the power management unit 331 basically does not supply power to the electrical equipment. Therefore, in the power-off state P1, the power management unit 331 does not supply power to the display 21, speaker 22, air conditioner 23, lights 24, drive equipment 25, ECU 30, and other electrical equipment 40. Specifically, in the power-off state P1, the power management unit 331, for example, opens the contacts of a relay circuit provided between the electrical equipment and the battery, thereby disconnecting the connection between the electrical equipment and the battery. However, even in the power-off state P1, the power management unit 331 does supply power to a very small number of electrical equipment, such as electrical equipment related to security when parked and electrical equipment for maintaining standby status. Therefore, the power management unit 331 supplies power to the electrical equipment for maintaining standby status, such as the door sensor 11, brake sensor 12, push switch 13, lock sensor 14, and part of the ECU 30.

[0031] In the vehicle power-on state P2, the power management unit 331 supplies power to the electrical equipment excluding the drive unit 25. Therefore, in the vehicle power-on state P2, the power management unit 331 supplies power to the door sensor 11, brake sensor 12, push switch 13, lock sensor 14, as well as the display 21, speaker 22, air conditioner 23, lights 24, ECU 30, and other electrical equipment 40. Specifically, in the vehicle power-on state P2, the power management unit 331, for example, closes the contacts of the relay circuit provided between the electrical equipment excluding the drive unit 25 and the battery, thereby connecting these electrical equipment to the battery. On the other hand, in the vehicle power-on state P2, the power management unit 331, for example, opens the contacts of the relay circuit provided between the drive unit 25 and the battery, thereby disconnecting the connection between the drive unit 25 and the battery.

[0032] In the drive power-on state P3, the power management unit 331 supplies power to the electrical equipment, including the drive device 25. Therefore, in the drive power-on state P3, the power management unit 331 supplies power to all electrical equipment, including the drive device 25. Specifically, in the drive power-on state P3, the power management unit 331, for example, closes the contacts of the relay circuit provided between all electrical equipment, including the drive device 25, and the battery, thereby connecting these electrical equipment to the battery.

[0033] The power management unit 331 switches the power supply state to the electrical equipment based on signals from the door sensor 11, brake sensor 12, push switch (PS) 13, and lock sensor 14. When the power supply state is in the power-off state P1, the power management unit 331 switches the power supply state to the vehicle power-on state P2 when the door sensor 11 detects the opening operation of the driver's door or a door other than the driver's door, or when the push switch 13 detects operation of the push switch 13 by an occupant, thereby changing the power supply to the electrical equipment excluding the drive equipment 25 to ON.

[0034] Furthermore, when the power supply state is in the power-off state P1, the power management unit 331 switches the power supply state to the drive power-on state P3 when the brake sensor 12 detects that the brake pedal is depressed and the push switch 13 detects that the occupant has operated the push switch 13, thereby changing the power supply to the electrical equipment, including the drive equipment 25. In addition, when the power supply state is in the vehicle power-on state P2, the power management unit 331 switches the power supply state to the drive power-on state P3 when the brake sensor 12 detects that the brake pedal is depressed and the push switch 13 detects that the occupant has operated the push switch 13, thereby changing the power supply to the electrical equipment, including the drive equipment 25.

[0035] Furthermore, when the power supply state is in the drive power ON state P3, the power management unit 331 switches the power supply state to the vehicle power ON state P2 when it detects that the push switch 13 has been operated by an occupant, thereby turning off the power supply to the drive equipment 25. In addition, when the power supply state is in the vehicle power ON state P2, the power management unit 331 switches the power supply state to the power OFF state when a predetermined first reference time has elapsed since the vehicle power ON state P2 was switched, or when a second reference time (shorter than the first reference time) has elapsed since the lock sensor 14 detected a lock operation from outside the vehicle, thereby turning off the power supply to the electrical equipment, including the drive equipment 25.

[0036] The function management unit 332 controls the on / off status of at least some of the in-vehicle functions that the occupants of the vehicle 100 can recognize (hereinafter also simply referred to as "recognizable in-vehicle functions"). In-vehicle functions that the occupants of the vehicle 100 can recognize include, for example, infotainment functions, air conditioning functions, and lighting functions. For infotainment functions, the occupants can recognize their operation when the display 21 is displayed or when sound is output from the speaker 22. For air conditioning functions, the occupants can recognize their operation when air is blown from the vents. Furthermore, for lighting functions, the occupants can recognize their operation when the headlights or interior lights are turned on. In-vehicle functions that the occupants of the vehicle 100 can recognize their operation may also include functions other than these infotainment functions, air conditioning functions, and lighting functions.

[0037] In this embodiment, when the infotainment function is turned on, an image is displayed on the display 21 and sound is output from the speaker 22. On the other hand, when the infotainment function is turned off, no image is displayed on the display 21 and no sound is output from the speaker 22 (however, warning sounds, etc., may be output from a sound output device other than the speaker 22). Also, when the air conditioning function is turned on, the air conditioner 23 (compressor, blower fan, etc.) operates according to the room temperature inside the vehicle 100 and the target temperature. On the other hand, when the air conditioning function is turned off, the air conditioner stops. In addition, when the lighting function is turned on, the headlights, interior lights, etc. are turned on as needed. On the other hand, when the lighting function is turned off, the headlights, interior lights, etc. are turned off.

[0038] On the other hand, in-vehicle functions that the occupants of vehicle 100 cannot perceive as operating (hereinafter also simply referred to as "unperceivable in-vehicle functions") include, for example, a safe exit assist function and a battery temperature control function. The safe exit assist function is a function that sounds an alarm or stops the door opening operation if, for example, another vehicle or bicycle is detected diagonally behind vehicle 100 by the millimeter-wave radar at the rear of vehicle 100 when the vehicle 100 is being opened. The battery temperature control function is a function that controls the supply of coolant to the battery so that the battery temperature is maintained within an appropriate temperature range. The operation of the electrical equipment that implements these functions (radar sensor, battery temperature sensor, water pump for coolant, etc.) cannot be perceived by the user.

[0039] Figure 4 shows the switching behavior of the operating state of the in-vehicle function in the function management unit 332. As shown in Figure 4, the function management unit 332 switches the operating state of the in-vehicle function between four states: first visibility off state F1, second visibility off state F2, first visibility on state F3, and second visibility on state F4.

[0040] In the first visibility-off state F1 and the second visibility-off state F2, the function management unit 332 turns off recognizable in-vehicle functions. Therefore, the function management unit 332 turns off the infotainment function, air conditioning function, and lighting function. On the other hand, in the first visibility-off state F1 and the second visibility-off state F2, the function management unit 332 turns on unrecognizable in-vehicle functions. Therefore, the function management unit 332 turns on the safe exit assist function and the battery temperature control function. The function management unit 332 basically sets the operating state of the in-vehicle functions to the first visibility-off state F1 when the power supply state to the electrical equipment is in the power-off state P1. Therefore, when the operating state of the in-vehicle functions is set to the first visibility-off state F1 by the function management unit 332, power is basically not supplied to the electrical equipment. Therefore, in the first visibility-off state F1, power is not supplied to the electrical equipment that realizes unrecognizable in-vehicle functions, so unrecognizable in-vehicle functions are not actually executed.

[0041] In the first visibility-on state F3 and the second visibility-on state F4, the function management unit 332 turns on both recognizable and unrecognizable in-vehicle functions. Therefore, the function management unit 332 turns on the infotainment function, air conditioning function, and lighting function, and also turns on the safe exit assist function and the battery temperature control function.

[0042] The function management unit 332 switches the operating state of the in-vehicle functions based on the power supply status to the electrical equipment in the power management unit 331, as well as signals from the door sensor 11, push switch 13, and lock sensor 14. When the operating state of the in-vehicle functions is in the first visible off state F1, that is, when the power supply status to the electrical equipment is in the power off state P1, the function management unit 332 switches the operating state of the in-vehicle functions to the second visible off state F2 when the door sensor 11 detects the opening operation of a door other than the driver's seat, and the power supply status to the electrical equipment is switched from the power off state P1 to the vehicle power on state P2. Therefore, the function management unit 332 keeps the recognizable in-vehicle functions off. At this time, since the power supply status to the electrical equipment has been switched to the vehicle power on state P2, power is supplied to the electrical equipment excluding the drive equipment 25, but the recognizable in-vehicle functions remain off.

[0043] Furthermore, when the operating state of an in-vehicle function is in the first visibility-off state F1, the function management unit 332 switches the operating state of the in-vehicle function to the first visibility-on state F3 when the door sensor 11 detects the opening operation of the driver's side door or when the push switch 13 detects the operation of the push switch 13, and the power supply state to the electrical equipment is switched from the power-off state P1 to the vehicle power-on state P2. Thus, the function management unit 332 switches the recognizable in-vehicle function to the ON state. At this time, since the power supply state to the electrical equipment has been switched to the vehicle power-on state P2, power is supplied to the electrical equipment excluding the drive equipment 25, and the recognizable in-vehicle function is turned on.

[0044] Furthermore, when the operating state of an in-vehicle function is in the first visibility-off state F1, the function management unit 332 switches the operating state of the in-vehicle function to the second visibility-on state F4 when the power supply state to the electrical equipment is switched from the power-off state P1 to the drive power-on state P3. Therefore, the function management unit 332 switches the recognizable in-vehicle function to the ON state. At this time, since the power supply state to the electrical equipment has been switched to the drive power-on state P3, power is supplied to the electrical equipment, including the drive equipment 25, and the recognizable in-vehicle function is turned ON.

[0045] Furthermore, when the operating state of an in-vehicle function is in the second visibility-off state F2, the function management unit 332 switches the operating state of the in-vehicle function to the first visibility-on state F3 when the door sensor 11 detects the opening operation of the driver's side door or when the push switch 13 detects the operation of the push switch 13. Thus, the function management unit 332 switches the recognizable in-vehicle function to ON. At this time, since the power supply state to the electrical equipment is already set to the vehicle power ON state P2, power is supplied to the electrical equipment excluding the drive equipment 25, and the recognizable in-vehicle function is turned ON.

[0046] In addition, when the operating state of an in-vehicle function is in the second visibility-off state F2, the function management unit 332 switches the operating state of the in-vehicle function to the second visibility-on state F4 when the power supply state to the electrical equipment is switched from the vehicle power-on state P2 to the drive power-on state P3. Therefore, the function management unit 332 switches the recognizable in-vehicle function to the ON state. At this time, since the power supply state to the electrical equipment has been switched to the drive power-on state P3, power is supplied to the electrical equipment, including the drive equipment 25, and the recognizable in-vehicle function is turned on.

[0047] Furthermore, when the operating state of an in-vehicle function is in the first visually recognized ON state F3, the function management unit 332 switches the operating state of the in-vehicle function to the second visually recognized ON state F4 when the power supply state to the electrical equipment is switched from the vehicle power ON state P2 to the drive power ON state P3. Therefore, the function management unit 332 maintains that the recognizable in-vehicle function remains ON. When the operating state of an in-vehicle function is in the second visually recognized ON state F4, the operating state of the in-vehicle function does not switch even if the driver's door is opened or locked from outside the vehicle. In addition, when the operating state of an in-vehicle function is in the second visually recognized ON state F4, the function management unit 332 switches the operating state of the in-vehicle function to the first visually recognized ON state F3 when the power supply state to the electrical equipment is switched from the drive power ON state P3 to the vehicle power ON state P2. In this case as well, the function management unit 332 maintains that the recognizable in-vehicle function remains ON.

[0048] Furthermore, when the operating state of an in-vehicle function is in the first visible ON state F3, the function management unit 332 switches the operating state of the in-vehicle function to the second visible OFF state F2 if the door sensor 11 detects the driver's side door being opened or the lock sensor 14 detects a lock operation from outside the vehicle. Thus, the function management unit 332 switches off recognizable in-vehicle functions while keeping unrecognizable in-vehicle functions ON.

[0049] In addition, when the operating state of an in-vehicle function is in the first visible on state F3 or the second visible off state F2, the function management unit 332 switches the operating state of the in-vehicle function to the first visible off state F1 when the power supply state to the electrical equipment is switched from the vehicle power on state P2 to the power off state P1. Therefore, the function management unit 332 turns off the recognizable in-vehicle function.

[0050] In the above embodiment, when the power supply state to the electrical equipment is the vehicle power ON state P2 and the operating state of the in-vehicle function is the second visibility OFF state F2, the power supply to the electrical equipment that realizes the recognizable in-vehicle function is turned ON, but the recognizable in-vehicle function is turned OFF. For example, in this case, the power supply to the display 21 and speaker 22 is turned ON, but the display 21 does not display anything, and there is no sound output from speaker 22. However, turning off the recognizable in-vehicle function may also be done by stopping the power supply to the electrical equipment that realizes the recognizable in-vehicle function. In this case, when the power supply state to the electrical equipment is the vehicle power ON state P2 and the operating state of the in-vehicle function is the second visibility OFF state F2, the power supply to the electrical equipment that realizes the recognizable in-vehicle function is stopped, while power is supplied to the electrical equipment that realizes the unrecognizable in-vehicle function.

[0051] <Flowchart> Next, with reference to Figures 5 to 7, the control flow by the power management unit 331 and the function management unit 332 (i.e., the control unit) will be explained. Figure 5 is a diagram showing the processing flow for controlling power and function when the power supply state to the electrical equipment is in the power-off state P1 (and therefore, when the operating state of the in-vehicle function is in the first visibility-off state F1). The processing shown in Figure 5 is executed by the processor 33 (in particular, the power management unit 331 and the function management unit 332) at regular time intervals.

[0052] When processing begins, as shown in Figure 5, the power management unit 331 first determines whether the brake pedal has been detected to be depressed by the brake sensor 12 and whether the push switch 13 has been operated (step S11). If it is determined in step S11 that both the brake pedal being depressed and the push switch 13 being operated have been detected, the power management unit 331 switches the power supply state to the electrical equipment to the drive power ON state P3 (step S12). In addition, the function management unit 332 switches the operating state of the in-vehicle function to the second visibility ON state F4 in conjunction with the power supply state to the electrical equipment being switched to the drive power ON state P3 (step S13).

[0053] If it is determined in step S11 that at least one of the following has not been detected: the brake pedal being pressed or the push switch 13 being operated, the power management unit 331 determines whether the driver's side door has been opened by the door sensor 11 and whether the push switch 13 has been operated (step S14). If it is determined in step S14 that the driver's side door has been opened or the push switch 13 has been operated, the power management unit 331 switches the power supply state to the electrical equipment to the vehicle power ON state P2 (step S15). In addition, the function management unit 332 switches the operating state of the in-vehicle function to the first visibility ON state F3 in conjunction with the power supply state to the electrical equipment being switched to the vehicle power ON state P2 (step S16).

[0054] On the other hand, if in step S14 it is determined that neither the driver's side door opening operation nor the operation of the push switch 13 has been detected, the power management unit 331 determines whether or not the door sensor 11 has detected the opening operation of a door other than the driver's side (step S17). If in step S17 it is determined that the opening operation of a door other than the driver's side has been detected, the power management unit 331 switches the power supply state to the electrical equipment to the vehicle power ON state P2 (step S18). In addition, the function management unit 332 switches the operating state of the in-vehicle function to the second visibility OFF state F2 in conjunction with the power supply state to the electrical equipment being switched to the vehicle power ON state P2 (step S19).

[0055] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S17 that no opening operation of any door other than the driver's door has been detected, the power management unit 331 maintains the power supply state to the electrical equipment in the power-off state P1 (step S20). Accordingly, the function management unit 332 maintains the operating state of the in-vehicle functions in the first visibility-off state F1 (step S21).

[0056] Figure 6 shows the flow of processing for controlling power and functions when the power supply state to the electrical equipment is in the vehicle power-on state P2 and the operating state of the in-vehicle functions is in the second visibility-off state F2. The processing shown in Figure 6 is executed by the processor 33 (particularly the power management unit 331 and the function management unit 332) at regular time intervals. Steps S31 to S36 in Figure 6 are the same as steps S11 to S16 in Figure 5, so their explanation is omitted.

[0057] In step S34, if it is determined that neither the driver's door opening operation nor the operation of the push switch 13 has been detected, the power management unit 331 determines whether the power-off condition has been met (step S37). Specifically, the power management unit 331 determines whether a first reference time has elapsed since the power supply state to the electrical equipment was switched to the vehicle power-on state P2, and whether a second reference time has elapsed since the lock operation was detected. If it is determined in step S37 that the power-off condition has been met, the power management unit 331 switches the power supply state to the electrical equipment to the power-off state P1 (step S38). In addition, the function management unit 332 switches the operating state of the in-vehicle function to the first visibility-off state F1 in conjunction with the power supply state to the electrical equipment being switched to the power-off state P1 (step S39).

[0058] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S37 that the power-off condition is not met, the power management unit 331 maintains the power supply state to the electrical equipment in the vehicle power-on state P2 (step S40). Also, the function management unit 332 maintains the operating state of the in-vehicle functions in the second visibility-off state F2 (step S41).

[0059] Figure 7 shows the flow of processing for controlling power and functions when the power supply state to the electrical equipment is in the vehicle power-on state P2 and the operating state of the on-board functions is in the first visibility-on state F3. The processing shown in Figure 7 is executed by the processor 33 (particularly the power management unit 331 and the function management unit 332) at regular time intervals. Steps S51 to S53 in Figure 7 are the same as steps S11 to S13 in Figure 5, and steps S57 to S59 in Figure 7 are the same as steps S37 to S39 in Figure 6, so their explanation is omitted.

[0060] If, in step S51, it is determined that at least one of the following has not been detected: the brake pedal being pressed or the push switch 13 being operated, the power management unit 331 determines whether the door sensor 11 has detected the driver's side door being opened and whether the lock sensor 14 has detected the lock from outside the vehicle (step S54). If, in step S54, it is determined that the driver's side door has been opened or that the lock from outside the vehicle has been detected, the power management unit 331 maintains the power supply state to the electrical equipment in the vehicle power ON state P2 (step S55). The function management unit 332 also switches the operating state of the in-vehicle function to the second visibility OFF state F2 (step S56). On the other hand, if, in step S54, it is determined that neither the driver's side door being opened nor the push switch 13 being operated has been detected, the power management unit 331 determines whether the power OFF condition has been met (step S57).

[0061] If it is determined in step S57 that the power-off condition is not met, the power management unit 331 maintains the power supply state to the electrical equipment in the vehicle power-on state P2 (step S60). Also, the function management unit 332 maintains the operating state of the in-vehicle functions in the first visibility-on state F3 (step S61).

[0062] <Effects> In the above embodiment, when the power supply to the electrical equipment is on (vehicle power on state P2) and the in-vehicle function is on (first visibility on state F3), and the door sensor 11 detects that the driver's side door of the vehicle 100 has been opened, the power supply to the electrical equipment remains on (vehicle power on state P2) while the recognizable in-vehicle function is changed to off (second visibility off state F2). As a result, when the driver's side door is opened, the recognizable in-vehicle function is turned off and the display 21 and lights turn off, so the user can recognize that the power control of the vehicle 100 is being performed appropriately, improving user convenience. In addition, since the user often gets out of the vehicle 100 when the driver's side door is opened, the in-vehicle function is not unnecessarily kept on, thus improving energy efficiency. Furthermore, although the recognizable in-vehicle function is turned off, the inability to recognize in-vehicle function remains on, so functions that are useful to the user when getting out of the vehicle, such as the safe exit assist function, remain on, which also improves user convenience.

[0063] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the electrical equipment to which power is supplied when the vehicle power is on state P2 includes equipment that realizes a recognizable in-vehicle function. Therefore, when it is detected that the driver's side door of the vehicle 100 has been opened, power is supplied to the corresponding electrical equipment, while the in-vehicle function realized by that electrical equipment is turned off. This prevents the configuration of the power supply mechanism (for example, the configuration of the relay circuit) from becoming complicated due to the large number of states that the power management unit 331 switches between. As mentioned above, turning off a recognizable in-vehicle function may also be done by stopping the power supply to the electrical equipment that realizes the recognizable in-vehicle function.

[0064] In addition, in the above embodiment, when the power supply to the electrical equipment is on (vehicle power on state P2) and a visible in-vehicle function is on (first visible on state F3), if the door sensor 11 detects that a door other than the driver's door of the vehicle 100 has been opened, the power supply to the electrical equipment remains on (vehicle power on state P2) and the recognizable in-vehicle function remains on (first visible on state F3). When a door other than the driver's door is opened, there is a high possibility that the driver will not get out of the vehicle, and this prevents the in-vehicle function from being turned off even though the driver has not gotten out, which would reduce user convenience. Alternatively, when it is detected that a door other than the driver's door has been opened, the power supply to the electrical equipment may remain on (vehicle power on state P2) while the recognizable in-vehicle function is turned off (second visible off state F2), similar to when the driver's door is opened.

[0065] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, when the power supply to the electrical equipment is off (power off state P1), and the door sensor 11 detects that the driver's side door of the vehicle 100 has been opened, the power supply to the electrical equipment and the recognizable in-vehicle functions are switched on (vehicle power on state P2 and first visibility on state F3). Also, when the power supply to the electrical equipment is on (vehicle power on state P2) and the recognizable in-vehicle functions are off (second visibility off state F2), and the door sensor 11 detects that the driver's side door of the vehicle 100 has been opened, the power supply to the electrical equipment remains on (vehicle power on state P2) while the recognizable in-vehicle functions are switched on (first visibility on state F3). As a result, the power supply and in-vehicle functions are switched on simply by the driver opening the driver's side door to get in, thereby improving driver convenience. In these cases, the power supply to the electrical equipment and the on / off status of at least one of the recognizable in-vehicle functions do not need to be changed in response to the operation of opening the driver's side door.

[0066] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, when the power supply to the electrical equipment is off (power off state P1), if the door sensor 11 detects that a door other than the driver's seat of the vehicle 100 has been opened, the power supply to the electrical equipment is changed to on (vehicle power on state P2), while the recognizable in-vehicle functions remain off (second visibility off state F2). Also, when the power supply to the electrical equipment is on (vehicle power on state P2) and the recognizable in-vehicle functions are off (second visibility off state F2), if the door sensor 11 detects that a door other than the driver's seat of the vehicle 100 has been opened, the power supply to the electrical equipment is kept off (vehicle power on state P2), while the recognizable in-vehicle functions remain off (second visibility off state F2). Since it is unlikely that a driver will get in when a door other than the driver's seat is opened, unnecessary activation of in-vehicle functions and increased power consumption are suppressed. In these cases, both the power supply to the electrical equipment and the recognizable in-vehicle functions may be turned on or kept off in response to the opening operation of a door other than the driver's door.

[0067] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, if the power supply to the electrical equipment is turned on and the power supply to the drive equipment 25 that drives the vehicle 100 is stopped (vehicle power on state P2) continues for a predetermined first reference time or longer, the power supply to the electrical equipment is changed to off (power off state P1) regardless of whether the on-board function is on or off. This prevents the power supply to the electrical equipment from remaining on unnecessarily. Note that the power supply to the electrical equipment does not necessarily need to be switched on or off depending on the length of time the vehicle power on state P2 continues.

[0068] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, when the power supply to the electrical equipment is on (vehicle power on state P2) and a visible in-vehicle function is on (first visible on state F3), if a lock operation of the vehicle 100 is detected from outside the vehicle 100, the power supply to the electrical equipment remains on (vehicle power on state P2) while the visible in-vehicle function is changed to off (second visible off state F2). As a result, when a lock operation is performed, the recognizable in-vehicle function is turned off and the display 21 and lights turn off, so the user can recognize that the power control of the vehicle 100 is being performed appropriately, improving user convenience. Also, since the user is often out of the vehicle 100 when a lock operation is performed from outside the vehicle, the power consumption is improved because the in-vehicle function is not unnecessarily kept on. Furthermore, although the recognizable in-vehicle function is turned off, the unrecognizable in-vehicle function remains on, so functions that are useful to the user when getting out of the vehicle, such as the safe exit assist function, remain on, which also improves user convenience. In such cases, when a lock operation is detected, the power supply to the electrical equipment may be switched off, or visible in-vehicle functions may remain turned on.

[0069] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, when the push switch 13 of the vehicle 100 is detected to have been operated while the power supply to the electrical equipment is off (power off state P1), the power supply to the electrical equipment and the visible in-vehicle functions are changed to on (vehicle power on state P2 and first visible on state F3). This ensures that the power supply and in-vehicle functions are turned on when the driver intends to turn on the power, thereby improving driver convenience. In such cases, it is not necessary for at least one of the on / off states of the power supply to the electrical equipment and the recognizable in-vehicle functions to be changed in response to the operation of the push switch 13.

[0070] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, when the power supply to the electrical equipment is turned off by the power management unit 331 (power off state P1), the visible in-vehicle functions are set to off (first visibility off state F1).

[0071] Here, we consider the case where the power supply to the electrical equipment is turned off by the power management unit 331 (power off state P1), and a visible in-vehicle function is set to ON. Figure 8 is a time chart showing the open / closed state of the doors other than the driver's seat, the power supply state by the power management unit, the state of the visible in-vehicle function by the function management unit, and the state of the display 21 screen in such a case.

[0072] As shown in Figure 8, when the opening operation of a door other than the driver's seat is detected, the power management unit 331 switches the power supply state to the electrical equipment from the power-off state P1 to the vehicle power-on state P2. At this time, the function management unit 332 has set the visible in-vehicle function to ON (for example, the first visibility-on state), so the screen display on the display 21 is activated. Immediately after that, the function management unit 332 switches the visible in-vehicle function to OFF (second visibility-off state) because the power supply state to the electrical equipment has been switched from the power-off state P1 to the vehicle power-on state P2, and as a result the screen display on the display 21 stops. Therefore, when the power supply to the electrical equipment is set to OFF (power-off state P1) by the power management unit 331, if the visible in-vehicle function is set to ON, the visible in-vehicle function such as the display 21 will be activated temporarily, causing discomfort to the occupant.

[0073] In contrast, in this embodiment, when the power supply to the electrical equipment is turned off by the power management unit 331 (power off state P1), visible in-vehicle functions are set to off (first visibility off state). Figure 9 is a time chart similar to Figure 8, showing the opening and closing states of doors other than the driver's seat in such a case. As shown in Figure 9, in this embodiment, even when the power supply state to the electrical equipment is switched from the power off state P1 to the vehicle power on state P2 by the power management unit 331, the function management unit 332 sets the operating state of the in-vehicle functions to the first visibility off state F1, so that visible in-vehicle functions such as the display 21 are temporarily suppressed from operating.

[0074] Furthermore, the power management unit 331 and the function management unit 332 may be configured to output synchronous signals indicating changes when switching the power supply to electrical equipment on or off, or when switching visible in-vehicle functions on or off. Figure 10 is a time chart similar to Figure 8, showing the open / closed status of doors other than the driver's seat, when the power management unit 331 and the function management unit 332 are configured in this way. As shown in Figure 10, even in this configuration, the temporary operation of visible in-vehicle functions such as the display 21 is suppressed.

[0075] While preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications and changes can be made within the scope of the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0076] 1. Vehicle control system 30 ECU 33 processors 100 vehicles 331 Power management section 332 Function Management Department

Claims

1. A vehicle control device, The vehicle includes a control unit that controls the on / off switching of power supply to at least some of the electrical equipment of the vehicle and the on / off switching of at least some in-vehicle functions whose operation can be perceived by the occupants of the vehicle, The control unit is a control device that, when the power supply to the electrical equipment is on and the in-vehicle function is on, detects that the driver's side door of the vehicle has been opened, changes the in-vehicle function to the off state while keeping the power supply to the electrical equipment on.

2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein at least some of the electrical equipment includes equipment that realizes at least some of the in-vehicle functions.

3. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein when the power supply to the electrical equipment is on and the in-vehicle function is on, the control unit detects that a door other than the driver's seat of the vehicle has been opened, and maintains the power supply to the electrical equipment and the in-vehicle function in the on state.

4. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit, when it detects that the driver's side door of the vehicle has been opened while the power supply to the electrical equipment is off, switches the power supply to the electrical equipment and the in-vehicle function to ON.

5. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein when the control unit detects that a door other than the driver's seat of the vehicle has been opened while the power supply to the electrical equipment is off, it switches the power supply to the electrical equipment to on and turns off the in-vehicle function.

6. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein when the control unit detects that the driver's side door of the vehicle has been opened while the power supply to the electrical equipment is on and the in-vehicle function is off, the control unit changes the in-vehicle function to on while maintaining the power supply to the electrical equipment on.

7. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein when the control unit detects that a door other than the driver's seat of the vehicle has been opened while the power supply to the electrical equipment is on and the in-vehicle function is off, the control unit maintains the power supply to the electrical equipment on and the in-vehicle function is off.

8. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein if the power supply to the electrical equipment is on and the power supply to the equipment that drives the vehicle is stopped for a predetermined period of time or longer, the control unit changes the power supply to the electrical equipment to off, regardless of whether the in-vehicle function is on or off.

9. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein when the power supply to the electrical equipment is on and the in-vehicle function is on, and a lock operation of the vehicle from outside the vehicle is detected, the control unit changes the in-vehicle function to the off state while keeping the power supply to the electrical equipment on.

10. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit, when it detects that the vehicle's push switch has been operated while the power supply to the electrical equipment is off, changes the power supply to the electrical equipment and the in-vehicle function to ON.

11. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the in-vehicle function includes at least one of an infotainment function, an air conditioning function, and a lighting function.

12. The control unit comprises a power management unit that manages the on / off switching of power supply to the electrical equipment, and a function management unit that manages the on / off switching of the in-vehicle functions. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the function management unit sets the in-vehicle function to off when the power supply to the electrical equipment is set to off by the power management unit.

13. The control unit comprises a power management unit that manages the on / off switching of power supply to the electrical equipment, and a function management unit that manages the on / off switching of the in-vehicle functions. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the power supply management unit and the function management unit synchronously output signals indicating changes when changing the on / off state of the power supply to the electrical equipment and when changing the on / off state of the in-vehicle functions.

14. A method for controlling a vehicle, Controlling the on / off switching of power supply to at least some of the electrical equipment of the vehicle and the on / off switching of at least some in-vehicle functions whose operation can be perceived by the occupants of the vehicle, A control method that includes, when the power supply to the electrical equipment is on and the in-vehicle function is on, and it is detected that the driver's side door of the vehicle has been opened, changing the in-vehicle function to the off state while keeping the power supply to the electrical equipment on.

15. A vehicle control program, Controlling the on / off switching of power supply to at least some of the electrical equipment of the vehicle and the on / off switching of at least some in-vehicle functions whose operation can be perceived by the occupants of the vehicle, When the power supply to the electrical equipment is on and the in-vehicle function is on, and it is detected that the driver's side door of the vehicle has been opened, the power supply to the electrical equipment is kept on while the in-vehicle function is turned off. A control program that causes a computer to execute a command.

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