DC / DC converter system, operation instruction circuit, and method for controlling DC / DC converter system

Abstract

To provide a DC / DC converter system capable of backing up output between respective DC / DC converters while reducing wiring for large current by supplying power from the respective DC / DC converters to respective corresponding loads depending on high power load requests of the loads.SOLUTION: A DC / DC converter system comprises: a first bypass switch that is connected between a first output voltage terminal to which a first load is connected and a second output voltage terminal to which a second load is connected, is turned on to establish conduction between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal, and is turned off to establish interception between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal; and an operation instruction unit that, in response to a load request, controls power supply from a main DC / DC converter and a sub DC / DC converter to the first load and the second load and controls ON / OFF of the first bypass switch.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a DC / DC converter system, an operation instruction circuit, and a control method for a DC / DC converter system. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there is a load driving system that drives two DC / DC converters in parallel (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] In such a conventional load driving system, the output current of each DC / DC converter is detected and controlled so as to share the output current of each DC / DC converter equally.

[0004] As described above, this conventional load drive system only controls the output current of each DC / DC converter whose outputs are commonly connected so as to be shared equally, but does not supply power to each load corresponding to each DC / DC converter.

[0005] In other words, conventional load drive systems are unable to reduce the amount of wiring required for large currents by supplying power from each DC / DC converter to the corresponding load in response to the increased power demands of the vehicle loads, and they are not able to back up output between each DC / DC converter. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication 2014-183705 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a DC / DC converter system that can supply power from each DC / DC converter to each corresponding load in response to the increased power demands of the load, thereby reducing wiring for large currents, while backing up output between each DC / DC converter. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A DC / DC converter system according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: A DC / DC converter system that receives a power supply voltage from a power supply battery and supplies power in response to a plurality of load requests, a main DC / DC converter that outputs a first voltage from an output section to a first load; one or more sub DC / DC converters that output a second voltage from an output section to a second load; a first bypass switch connected between a first output voltage terminal to which the first load is connected and a second output voltage terminal to which the second load is connected, and configured to establish conduction between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal when turned on and to cut off conduction between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal when turned off; an operation instruction unit that controls the supply of power from the main DC / DC converter and the sub DC / DC converter to the first load and the second load in response to a load request, and controls the on / off of the first bypass switch. It is characterized by:

[0009] In the DC / DC converter system, The operation instruction unit is When an abnormality occurs in either the main DC / DC converter or the sub DC / DC converter, the first bypass switch is turned on to supply power to the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal from the other of the main DC / DC converter and the sub DC / DC converter, which is normal. It is characterized by:

[0010] In the DC / DC converter system, The operation instruction unit is When the main DC / DC converter and the sub DC / DC converter are normal, the first bypass switch is turned off to supply power from the main DC / DC converter to the first output voltage terminal and to supply power from the sub DC / DC converter to the second output voltage terminal. It is characterized by:

[0011] In the DC / DC converter system, The operation instruction unit is In response to the load request, the first bypass switch is turned on to supply power from the main DC / DC converter and the sub DC / DC converter to the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal. It is characterized by:

[0012] In the DC / DC converter system, The operation instruction unit is When the first bypass switch is controlled to be on, In response to an increase in the load request, after driving one of the main DC / DC converter and the sub DC / DC converter, the other of the main DC / DC converter and the sub DC / DC converter is further driven. It is characterized by:

[0013] In the DC / DC converter system, The operation instruction unit is One of the main DC / DC converter and the sub DC / DC converter is diode rectified and then synchronously rectified, and the other of the main DC / DC converter and the sub DC / DC converter is diode rectified and then synchronously rectified. It is characterized by:

[0014] In the DC / DC converter system, The operation instruction unit is When the first bypass switch is controlled to be on, The main DC / DC converter and the sub DC / DC converter are driven simultaneously.

[0015] In the DC / DC converter system, The operation instruction unit is The main DC / DC converter and the sub DC / DC converter are simultaneously diode rectified and then simultaneously synchronously rectified. It is characterized by:

[0016] In the DC / DC converter system, The main DC / DC converter has the same current supply capacity as the sub DC / DC converter.

[0017] In the DC / DC converter system, The main DC / DC converter has a different current supply capacity from the sub DC / DC converter. It is characterized by:

[0018] In the DC / DC converter system, a sub DC / DC converter that outputs a third voltage from an output section to a third load; a second bypass switch connected between the second output voltage terminal and a third output voltage terminal to which the third load is connected, and configured to establish conduction between the second output voltage terminal and the third output voltage terminal when turned on and to cut off conduction between the second output voltage terminal and the third output voltage terminal when turned off, The operation instruction unit controls the supply of power from the main DC / DC converter and the sub DC / DC converter to the first to third loads in response to a load request, and controls the on / off of the first and second bypass switches. It is characterized by:

[0019] In the DC / DC converter system, The DC / DC converter system is characterized in that it is installed in an automobile equipped with an automatic driving function.

[0020] A method for controlling a DC / DC converter system according to one aspect of the present invention includes the steps of: A control method for a DC / DC converter system which receives a power supply voltage from a power supply battery and supplies power in response to a plurality of load requests, the control method comprising: a main DC / DC converter which outputs a first voltage from an output unit to a first load; one or more sub DC / DC converters which output a second voltage from an output unit to a second load; a first bypass switch which is connected between a first output voltage terminal to which the first load is connected and a second output voltage terminal to which the second load is connected, the first bypass switch being turned on to establish conduction between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal and being turned off to interrupt conduction between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal; and an operation instruction unit, the operation instruction unit controls driving of the main DC / DC converter and the sub DC / DC converter in response to the load request; The operation instruction unit controls the supply of power from the main DC / DC converter and the sub DC / DC converter to the first load and the second load in response to a load request, and controls the on / off of the first bypass switch. It is characterized by:

[0021] An operation instruction circuit according to one aspect of the present invention includes: An operation instruction circuit for use in a DC / DC converter system which receives a power supply voltage from a power supply battery and supplies power in response to a plurality of load requests, the operation instruction circuit comprising: a main DC / DC converter which outputs a first voltage from an output unit to a first load; one or more sub DC / DC converters which output a second voltage from an output unit to a second load; and a first bypass switch which is connected between a first output voltage terminal to which the first load is connected and a second output voltage terminal to which the second load is connected, the first bypass switch being turned on to establish conduction between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal and being turned off to interrupt conduction between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal, Controlling the driving of the main DC / DC converter and the sub DC / DC converter in response to the load request; According to a load request, the supply of power from the main DC / DC converter and the sub DC / DC converter to the first load and the second load is controlled, and the first bypass switch is turned on / off. It is characterized by: Effect of the Invention

[0022] A DC / DC converter system according to one aspect of the present invention is a DC / DC converter system that receives a power supply voltage from a power supply battery and supplies power in response to a plurality of load requests, and includes: a main DC / DC converter that outputs a first voltage from an output unit to a first load; one or more sub DC / DC converters that output a second voltage from the output unit to a second load; a first bypass switch that is connected between a first output voltage terminal to which the first load is connected and a second output voltage terminal to which the second load is connected, and that establishes conduction between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal when turned on and cuts conduction between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal when turned off; and an operation instruction unit that controls the supply of power from the main DC / DC converter and the sub DC / DC converter to the first load and the second load in response to the load requests, and controls the on / off of the first bypass switch.

[0023] As a result, with the DC / DC converter system according to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to supply power from each DC / DC converter to each corresponding load in response to the increased power demands of the loads, thereby reducing wiring for large currents and backing up output between each DC / DC converter. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a DC / DC converter system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the output characteristics of the DC / DC converter system 100 shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0025] A DC / DC converter system according to the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. EXAMPLES

[0026] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a DC / DC converter system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the output characteristics of the DC / DC converter system 100 shown in Fig. 1.

[0027] [DC / DC converter system] The DC / DC converter system 100 shown in FIG. 1 is configured to supply power from a power supply battery BS to a plurality of vehicle loads (a first vehicle load LOAD1, a second vehicle load LOAD2, and a third vehicle load LOAD3) using a plurality of DC / DC converters X1, X2, and X3 in response to a plurality of load requirements of the plurality of vehicle loads (a first vehicle load LOAD1, a second vehicle load LOAD2, and a third vehicle load LOAD3).

[0028] This DC / DC converter system 100 is mounted, for example, on an automobile (not shown) equipped with an automatic driving function and is applied to supply power to the automobile. The power supply battery BS and the load battery BOUT are mounted on the automobile.

[0029] It should be noted that this DC / DC converter system 100 can be applied to other devices such as drones in addition to automobiles.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 1, for example, this DC / DC converter system 100 includes a main DC / DC converter (first DC / DC converter) X1, a sub DC / DC converter (second DC / DC converter) X2, a sub DC / DC converter (third DC / DC converter) X3, a first fuse F1, a second fuse F2, a third fuse F3, an output fuse FOUT, a first inverter (motor inverter) INV1, a second inverter (pump inverter) INV2, a first bypass switch (relay) SWa, a second bypass switch (relay) SWb, and an operation instruction unit (operation instruction circuit) ECU.

[0031] 1 shows two sub DC / DC converters X2 and X3 as an example, the DC / DC converter system 100 may include one or three or more sub DC / DC converters. Also, the circuit configuration of the main DC / DC converter and the circuit configuration of the sub DC / DC converter may be interchanged.

[0032] For example, as shown in FIG. 1, a first vehicle load (first load) LOAD1 is connected between the first output voltage terminal TOUT1 and the ground terminal.

[0033] In addition, this first vehicle load LOAD1 includes, for example, an engine control unit (ECU) of an automobile corresponding to an operation instruction unit ECU, which is distinguished from this first vehicle load LOAD1 in FIG. 1, and a telematics control unit (TCU).

[0034] For example, as shown in FIG. 1, a second vehicle load (second load) LOAD2 is connected between the second output voltage terminal TOUT2 and the ground terminal.

[0035] The second vehicle load LOAD2 includes, for example, the windshield wipers, the heater, the air conditioner, the lamps, the navigation system, and the like of the automobile.

[0036] For example, as shown in FIG. 1, a third vehicle load (third load) LOAD3 is connected between the third output voltage terminal TOUT3 and the ground terminal.

[0037] The third vehicle load LOAD3 includes, for example, a wiper, a heater, an air conditioner, a lamp, a navigation system, and the like of the automobile.

[0038] Furthermore, for example, as shown in FIG. 1, a battery BOUT is connected between the first output voltage terminal TOUT1 and the ground terminal.

[0039] [1st, 2nd, 3rd fuses, output fuse] The first fuse F1 is connected between the output part X1a (common contact NX) of the first DC / DC converter X1 and the first output voltage terminal TOUT1.

[0040] Moreover, the second fuse F2 is connected between the output part X2a of the second DC / DC converter X2 and the second output voltage terminal TOUT2.

[0041] Moreover, the third fuse F3 is connected between the output part X3a of the second DC / DC converter X3 and the third output voltage terminal TOUT3.

[0042] In addition, the output fuse FOUT is connected between the common contact NX and the first output voltage terminal TOUT1.

[0043] This output fuse FOUT has a breaking capacity greater than, for example, the breaking capacity of the first to third fuses F1, F2, and F3.

[0044] [First and second inverters] The first inverter INV1 supplies electric power to the motor M that drives the engine of the above-mentioned automobile, based on the power supply voltage VB.

[0045] The second inverter INV2 supplies electric power to the electric oil pump EOP of the vehicle described above based on the power supply voltage VB.

[0046] [1st and 2nd bypass switches] The first bypass switch SWa is connected between a first output voltage terminal TOUT1 (common terminal NX) to which a first vehicle load Load1 is connected and a second output voltage terminal TOUT2 to which a second vehicle load Load2 is connected.

[0047] When the first bypass switch SWa is turned on, it establishes conduction between the first output voltage terminal TOUT1 and the second output voltage terminal TOUT2, and when it is turned off, it disconnects the first output voltage terminal TOUT1 and the second output voltage terminal TOUT2.

[0048] As described later, the first bypass switch SWa is controlled to be turned on / off by the operation command unit ECU.

[0049] In addition, the second bypass switch SWb is connected between the second output voltage terminal TOUT2 and the third output voltage terminal TOUT3.

[0050] When the second bypass switch SWb is turned on, it establishes conduction between the second output voltage terminal TOUT2 and the third output voltage terminal TOUT3, and when it is turned off, it disconnects the second output voltage terminal TOUT2 and the third output voltage terminal TOUT3.

[0051] As described later, the second bypass switch SWb is controlled to be turned on / off by the operation command unit ECU.

[0052] [Main DC / DC converter] As shown in FIG. 1, for example, the main DC / DC converter X1 is supplied with a power supply voltage VB from a power supply battery BS via first and second input parts.

[0053] The main DC / DC converter X1 has an output section X1a electrically connected to a first output voltage terminal TOUT1 via a common contact NX and an output fuse FOUT.

[0054] The main DC / DC converter X1 outputs a first output voltage VO1 from an output section X1a. [Sub DC / DC converter] The sub DC / DC converter X2 is adapted to receive a power supply voltage VB from a power supply battery BS via first and second input sections, for example, as shown in FIG.

[0055] The sub-DC / DC converter X2 has an output section X2a electrically connected to a second output voltage terminal TOUT2.

[0056] Further, the sub DC / DC converter X3 is adapted to receive a power supply voltage VB from a power supply battery BS via first and second input parts, for example, as shown in FIG.

[0057] The sub DC / DC converter X3 has an output section X3a electrically connected to a third output voltage terminal TOUT3.

[0058] The above-mentioned main DC / DC converter X1 may be configured to have the same current supply capacity as these sub DC / DC converters X2 and X3.

[0059] However, the main DC / DC converter X1 may be set to have a different current supply capacity from these sub DC / DC converters X2, X3.

[0060] Of the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3, the DC / DC converter with the higher current supply capacity is cooled, for example, by a water-cooling method, while the DC / DC converter with the lower current supply capacity is cooled, for example, by an air-cooling method.

[0061] [Operation instruction section] Moreover, an operation instruction unit (operation instruction circuit) ECU controls a vehicle (automobile) on which the DC / DC converter system 100 is mounted.

[0062] In particular, this operation instruction unit ECU outputs control signals for setting output voltages to a first control unit (not shown) of the main DC / DC converter X1, a second control unit (not shown) of the sub DC / DC converter X2, and a third control unit (not shown) of the sub DC / DC converter X3 in response to load requirements, thereby controlling the driving of the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2 and X3.

[0063] Furthermore, the operation instruction unit ECU is configured to control the on / off of the first bypass switch SWa and the second bypass switch SWb according to the load request and the states of the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2 and X3.

[0064] That is, the operation instruction unit ECU controls the supply of power from the main and sub DC / DC converters X1, X2, X3 to the first to third vehicle loads LOAD1, LOAD2, LOAD3 according to the load request and the states of the main and sub DC / DC converters X1, X2, X3, and also controls the on / off of the first and second bypass switches SWa, SWb.

[0065] For example, when an abnormality occurs in either the main DC / DC converter X1 or the sub DC / DC converter X2, the operation instruction unit ECU turns on the first bypass switch SWa to supply power to the first output voltage terminal TOUT1 and the second output voltage terminal TOUT2 from the other normal one of the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converter X2.

[0066] As a result, even if an abnormality occurs in either the main DC / DC converter X1 or the sub DC / DC converter X2, power can be supplied to the first and second output voltage terminals TOUT1, TOUT2.

[0067] Furthermore, when an abnormality occurs in either the main DC / DC converter X1 or the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3, the operation instruction unit ECU may turn on the first and second bypass switches SWa, SWb to supply power to the first, second and third output voltage terminals TOUT1, TOUT2, TOUT3 from a normal DC / DC converter out of the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3.

[0068] As a result, even if an abnormality occurs in either the main DC / DC converter X1 or the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3, power can be supplied to the first, second, and third output voltage terminals TOUT1, TOUT2, and TOUT3 for backup.

[0069] Furthermore, for example, when the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 are normal, the operation instruction unit ECU turns off the first and second bypass switches SWa, Swb to supply power from the main DC / DC converter X1 to the first output voltage terminal TOUT1 and to supply power from the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 to the second and third output voltage terminals TOUT2, TOUT3.

[0070] As a result, when the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 are normal, each DC / DC converter can supply power to the corresponding first, second and third vehicle loads LOAD1, LOAD2 and LOAD3.

[0071] Also, for example, the operation instruction unit ECU may turn on the first bypass switch SWa in response to load requests from the first and second vehicle loads LOAD1 and LOAD2 to supply power from the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converter X2 to the first output voltage terminal TOUT1 and the second output voltage terminal TOUT2.

[0072] Furthermore, for example, the operation instruction unit ECU may turn on the first and second bypass switches SWa, SWb in response to load requests from the first, second and third vehicle loads LOAD1, LOAD2 and LOAD3 to supply power from the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 to the first, second and third output voltage terminals TOUT1, TOUT2, TOUT3.

[0073] As a result, when the load requirement of the vehicle load corresponding to a certain DC / DC converter is heavy, the DC / DC converter can be backed up by another DC / DC converter.

[0074] Furthermore, for example, as shown in FIG. 2, when the operation instruction unit ECU controls the first and second bypass switches SWa, SWb to be on, in response to an increase in load request (increase in output current), it drives either the main DC / DC converter X1 or the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 (the first converter), and then further drives the remaining ones (the second and third converters) of the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3.

[0075] More specifically, the operation instruction ECU performs diode rectification on the main DC / DC converter X1 and one of the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 (the first converter) and then performs synchronous rectification on the remaining main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 (the second and third converters) (Figure 2).

[0076] That is, the operation instruction unit ECU may sequentially control the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 to supply power to the first to third vehicle loads LOAD1 to LOAD3.

[0077] Also, for example, as shown in FIG. 2, when the operation instruction unit ECU controls the first and second bypass switches SWa and SWb to be on, it drives the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2 and X3 simultaneously.

[0078] More specifically, the operation instruction ECU simultaneously performs diode rectification on the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2 and X3 (three converters) and then simultaneously performs synchronous rectification on them (FIG. 2).

[0079] That is, the operation instruction unit ECU may perform balance control of the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 to supply power to the first to third vehicle loads LOAD1 to LOAD3.

[0080] The sequential control and the balance control by the operation command unit ECU described above are selected in consideration of efficiency and the like according to the load request.

[0081] For example, the operation instruction unit ECU may set the second and third output voltages VO2, VO3 output by the main and sub DC / DC converters X1, X2, X3 from each output unit X1a, X2a, X3a based on each wiring resistance value from each output unit X1a, X2a, X3a of the main and sub DC / DC converters X1, X2, X3 to each output voltage terminal TOUT1-TOUT3, so that the first to third output voltages VOUT1-VOUT3 become preset target voltages.

[0082] In addition, the operation instruction unit ECU may transmit information related to the wiring resistance value, for example, via CAN communication to the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2 and X3 to set the first to third output voltages VO1, VO2, and VO3.

[0083] Next, an example of a control method for the DC / DC converter system 100 having the above configuration will be described.

[0084] As described above, the operation instruction unit ECU outputs control signals for setting output voltages to a first control unit (not shown) of the main DC / DC converter X1, a second control unit (not shown) of the sub DC / DC converter X2, and a third control unit (not shown) of the sub DC / DC converter X3 in accordance with load requirements, thereby controlling the drive of the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2 and X3.

[0085] Furthermore, the operation instruction unit ECU controls the on / off of the first bypass switch SWa and the second bypass switch SWb according to the load request and the states of the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2 and X3.

[0086] That is, the operation instruction unit ECU controls the supply of power from the main and sub DC / DC converters X1, X2, X3 to the first to third vehicle loads LOAD1, LOAD2, LOAD3 according to the load request and the states of the main and sub DC / DC converters X1, X2, X3, and also controls the on / off of the first and second bypass switches SWa, SWb.

[0087] For example, when an abnormality occurs in either the main DC / DC converter X1 or the sub DC / DC converter X2, the operation instruction unit ECU turns on the first bypass switch SWa to supply power to the first output voltage terminal TOUT1 and the second output voltage terminal TOUT2 from the other normal one of the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converter X2.

[0088] As a result, even if an abnormality occurs in either the main DC / DC converter X1 or the sub DC / DC converter X2, power can be supplied to the first and second output voltage terminals TOUT1, TOUT2 for backup.

[0089] Furthermore, if an abnormality occurs in either the main DC / DC converter X1 or the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3, the operation instruction unit ECU turns on the first and second bypass switches SWa, SWb to supply power to the first, second and third output voltage terminals TOUT1, TOUT2, TOUT3 from the normal DC / DC converter out of the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3.

[0090] As a result, even if an abnormality occurs in either the main DC / DC converter X1 or the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3, power can be supplied to the first, second, and third output voltage terminals TOUT1, TOUT2, and TOUT3.

[0091] Furthermore, for example, when the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 are normal, the operation instruction unit ECU turns off the first and second bypass switches SWa, Swb to supply power from the main DC / DC converter X1 to the first output voltage terminal TOUT1 and to supply power from the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 to the second and third output voltage terminals TOUT2, TOUT3.

[0092] As a result, when main DC / DC converter X1 and sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 are in a normal state, each DC / DC converter can supply power to its corresponding vehicle load.

[0093] Also, for example, the operation instruction unit ECU turns on the first bypass switch SWa in response to the load requests of the first, second and third vehicle loads LOAD1, LOAD2, to supply power from the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converter X2 to the first output voltage terminal TOUT1 and the second output voltage terminal TOUT2.

[0094] Furthermore, for example, the operation instruction unit ECU turns on the first and second bypass switches SWa, SWb in response to the load requests of the first, second and third vehicle loads LOAD1, LOAD2 and LOAD3, and supplies power from the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 to the first, second and third output voltage terminals TOUT1, TOUT2, TOUT3.

[0095] As a result, when the load requirement of the vehicle load corresponding to a certain DC / DC converter is heavy, the DC / DC converter can be backed up by another DC / DC converter.

[0096] Furthermore, for example, as shown in FIG. 2, when the operation instruction unit ECU controls the first and second bypass switches SWa, SWb to be on, in response to an increase in load request (increase in output current), it drives one of the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 (the first converter), and then further drives the remaining of the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 (the second and third converters).

[0097] More specifically, the operation instruction ECU performs diode rectification and then synchronous rectification on one of the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 (the first converter), and then performs diode rectification and then synchronous rectification on the remaining one of the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 (the second and third converters) (Figure 2).

[0098] That is, the operation command unit ECU sequentially controls the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3 to supply power to the first to third vehicle loads LOAD1 to LOAD3.

[0099] Also, for example, as shown in FIG. 2, when the operation instruction unit ECU controls the first and second bypass switches SWa, SWb to be on, it simultaneously drives the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2, X3.

[0100] More specifically, the operation instruction ECU simultaneously performs diode rectification on the main DC / DC converter X1 and the sub DC / DC converters X2 and X3 (three converters) and then simultaneously performs synchronous rectification on them (Figure 2).

[0101] In addition, in the control by the operation instruction unit ECU described above, as an example, three DC / DC converters are used, but the same explanation can be applied to two DC / DC converters or four or more DC / DC converters.

[0102] As described above, a DC / DC converter system according to one aspect of the present invention is a DC / DC converter system that receives a power supply voltage from a power supply battery and supplies power in response to a plurality of load requests, and includes: a main DC / DC converter that outputs a first voltage from an output unit to a first load; one or more sub DC / DC converters that output a second voltage from the output unit to a second load; a first bypass switch that is connected between a first output voltage terminal to which the first load is connected and a second output voltage terminal to which the second load is connected, and that establishes conduction between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal when turned on and cuts conduction between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal when turned off; and an operation instruction unit that controls the supply of power from the main DC / DC converter and the sub DC / DC converter to the first load and the second load in response to the load requests, and controls the on / off of the first bypass switch.

[0103] As a result, with the DC / DC converter system according to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to supply power from each DC / DC converter to each corresponding load in response to the increased power demands of the loads, thereby reducing wiring for large currents and backing up output between each DC / DC converter.

[0104] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 100 DC / DC Converter System BS power supply battery X1 Main DC / DC converter (first DC / DC converter) X2 Sub DC / DC converter (second DC / DC converter) X3 Sub DC / DC Converter (Third DC / DC Converter) F1 No. 1 Fuse F2 Second Fuse F3 Third Fuse FOUT Output fuse INV1 First inverter (motor inverter) INV2 Second inverter (pump inverter) ECU operation instruction section (operation instruction circuit) X1a Output section X2a Output section X3a Output Section NX common contact LOAD1 First vehicle load (first load) LOAD2 Second vehicle load (second load) LOAD3 Third vehicle load (third load) SWa First bypass switch (relay) SWb Second bypass switch (relay) TOUT1 First output voltage terminal TOUT2 Second output voltage terminal TOUT3 Third output voltage terminal

Claims

1. 1. A DC / DC converter system that receives a power supply voltage from a power supply battery, and supplies power to a plurality of loads including a first load and a second load in accordance with an output current supplied to the plurality of loads, comprising: a first DC / DC converter having a first output section connected to a first output voltage terminal to which the first load is connected, and outputting a first voltage from the first output section; a second DC / DC converter having a second output section connected to a second output voltage terminal to which the second load is connected, and outputting a second voltage from the second output section; a first bypass switch connected between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal, and configured to establish conduction between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal when turned on and to cut off conduction between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal when turned off; an operation instruction unit that controls supply of power from the first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter to the first load and the second load in accordance with the output current, and controls on / off of the first bypass switch, The operation instruction unit is When the first bypass switch is controlled to be on, supplying power to the plurality of loads by sequential control in which, in accordance with an increase in the output current, one of the first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter is driven, and then the other of the first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter is further driven; Or, When the first bypass switch is controlled to be on, power is supplied to the plurality of loads by a balance control in which the first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter are simultaneously driven; The sequential control and the balance control by the operation instruction unit are selected according to the output current.

1. A DC / DC converter system comprising:

2. The operation instruction unit is When an abnormality occurs in either the first DC / DC converter or the second DC / DC converter, the first bypass switch is turned on to supply power to the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal from the other of the first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter, which is normal.

2. The DC / DC converter system according to claim 1 .

3. The operation instruction unit is When the first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter are normal, the first bypass switch is turned off to supply power from the first DC / DC converter to the first output voltage terminal and to supply power from the second DC / DC converter to the second output voltage terminal.

3. The DC / DC converter system according to claim 1, wherein the first and second inputs are connected to the first and second inputs.

4. The operation instruction unit is The first bypass switch is turned on in response to the output current, and power is supplied from the first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter to the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal.

2. The DC / DC converter system according to claim 1 .

5. In the sequential control, the operation instruction unit One of the first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter is diode rectified and then synchronously rectified, and the other of the first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter is diode rectified and then synchronously rectified.

2. The DC / DC converter system according to claim 1 .

6. The operation instruction unit, in the balance control, The first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter are simultaneously diode-rectified and then simultaneously synchronously rectified.

2. The DC / DC converter system according to claim 1 .

7. 7. The DC / DC converter system according to claim 1, wherein the first DC / DC converter has the same current supply capability as the second DC / DC converter.

8. The first DC / DC converter has a different current supply capability from the second DC / DC converter.

7. The DC / DC converter system according to claim 1, wherein the first and second inputs are connected to the first and second inputs.

9. a third DC / DC converter having a third output section connected to a third output voltage terminal to which a third load included in the plurality of loads is connected, and outputting a third voltage from the third output section; a second bypass switch connected between the second output voltage terminal and the third output voltage terminal, and configured to establish conduction between the second output voltage terminal and the third output voltage terminal when turned on and to cut off conduction between the second output voltage terminal and the third output voltage terminal when turned off; The operation instruction unit controls supply of power from the first DC / DC converter, the second DC / DC converter, and the third DC / DC converter to the first to third loads in accordance with the output current, and controls on / off of the first and second bypass switches.

9. The DC / DC converter system according to claim 1, wherein the first and second inputs are connected to the first and second inputs.

10. An automobile with an autonomous driving function, equipped with a DC / DC converter system described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A control method for a DC / DC converter system which receives a power supply voltage from a power supply battery and supplies power in accordance with an output current supplied to a plurality of loads including a first load and a second load, the control method comprising: a first DC / DC converter having a first output unit connected to a first output voltage terminal to which the first load is connected and which outputs a first voltage from the output unit; a second DC / DC converter which outputs a second voltage from the output unit; a first bypass switch connected between the first output voltage terminal to which the first load is connected and a second output voltage terminal to which the second load is connected, the first bypass switch being turned on to establish conduction between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal and being turned off to interrupt conduction between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal; and an operation instruction unit, the operation instruction unit controls supply of power from the first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter to the first load and the second load in accordance with the output current, and controls on / off of the first bypass switch, The operation instruction unit is When the first bypass switch is controlled to be on, supplying power to the plurality of loads by sequential control in which, in accordance with an increase in the output current, one of the first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter is driven, and then the other of the first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter is further driven; Or, When the first bypass switch is controlled to be on, power is supplied to the plurality of loads by a balance control in which the first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter are simultaneously driven; The sequential control and the balance control by the operation instruction unit are selected according to the output current.

2. A method for controlling a DC / DC converter system comprising:

12. An operation instruction circuit applied to a DC / DC converter system which receives a power supply voltage from a power supply battery and supplies power in accordance with an output current supplied to a plurality of loads including a first load and a second load, the operation instruction circuit comprising: a first DC / DC converter having a first output section connected to a first output voltage terminal to which the first load is connected and outputting a first voltage from the first output section; a second DC / DC converter having a second output section connected to a second output voltage terminal to which the second load is connected and outputting a second voltage from the second output section; and a first bypass switch connected between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal, and configured to establish conduction between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal when turned on and to interrupt conduction between the first output voltage terminal and the second output voltage terminal when turned off, a control circuit for controlling a supply of power from the first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter to the first load and the second load in accordance with the output current, and for controlling on / off of the first bypass switch; The operation instruction circuit includes: When the first bypass switch is controlled to be on, supplying power to the plurality of loads by sequential control in which, in accordance with an increase in the output current, one of the first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter is driven, and then the other of the first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter is further driven; Or, When the first bypass switch is controlled to be on, power is supplied to the plurality of loads by a balance control in which the first DC / DC converter and the second DC / DC converter are simultaneously driven; The sequential control and the balance control by the operation instruction circuit are selected according to the output current. An operation instruction circuit comprising:

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