vehicle

Abstract

To enable an electric power conversion system that can easily produce heat along with operation of a launch controller to be properly cooled.SOLUTION: A vehicle V, which is configured to actuate a launch controller when a predetermined actuation condition is satisfied, comprises an electric motor 20 that drives a driving wheel in accordance with electric power that is supplied through an electric power converter 50, a temperature regulation circuit 60 through which a temperature regulating medium circulates to regulate a temperature of the electric power converter 50, and a control device ECU. The temperature regulation circuit 60 has a second pump 621 that pressure-feeds the temperature regulating medium. The control device ECU is configured to control the second pump 621, which when the condition for actuating the launch controller is satisfied, controls the second pump 621 so that flow volumes of the pump become larger than when the condition for actuating the launch controller is not satisfied.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, as specific measures against global climate change, efforts have been actively made to realize a low-carbon society or a decarbonized society. In vehicles such as automobiles, reduction of CO2 emissions and improvement of energy efficiency are required, and the electrification of the drive source has been rapidly progressing. Specifically, the development of vehicles (hereinafter also referred to as "electric vehicles") equipped with a power source such as a battery or a generator, an electric motor as a drive source, and a power conversion device that controls the power supplied from the power source to the electric motor has been promoted.

[0003] There are also vehicles equipped with a function called "launch control" in which various controls for quickly starting a stopped vehicle are executed (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In an electric vehicle having an electric motor as a drive source, when the launch control is activated, the amount of heat generated by the power conversion device increases, and the power conversion device tends to become high in temperature. When the power conversion device becomes high in temperature, it may lead to a failure of the power conversion device, so it is necessary to appropriately cool the power conversion device. However, in the prior art, there was room for improvement from the viewpoint of appropriately cooling the power conversion device that tends to generate heat when the launch control is activated.

[0006] The present invention provides a vehicle that enables proper cooling of a power converter, which tends to generate heat when the launch control is activated. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention A power converter that controls the power supplied to the electric motor, The electric motor drives the drive wheels in accordance with the power supplied via the power converter, A temperature control circuit in which a temperature control medium circulates to control the temperature of the power converter, Control device and Equipped with, A vehicle that activates launch control in response to the fulfillment of predetermined operating conditions, The temperature control circuit includes a pump for pressurizing the temperature control medium. The control device is configured to control the pump, and when the operating conditions are met, it controls the pump so that the flow rate of the pump is higher than when the operating conditions are not met. death , The temperature control circuit further comprises a first flow path on which the power converter is provided, a second flow path provided in parallel with the first flow path, and a flow control valve for adjusting the flow rate of the temperature control medium to the second flow path. The control device is configured to control the flow control valve, and when the operating condition is met, it controls the flow control valve so that the flow rate to the first flow path is greater than when the operating condition is not met. It is a vehicle. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a vehicle that can properly cool a power conversion device that tends to generate heat when the launch control is activated. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the schematic configuration of vehicle V in the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the temporal changes in the temperature of the electric motor 20 and the power converter 50. [Figure 3] Figure 2 shows an example of the flow rate of the second pump 621 and the state of the valve device 626 during periods Ta, Tb, and Tc, respectively. [Figure 4]This flowchart shows an example of the processing performed by the control unit (ECU) of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the schematic configuration of vehicle V in the second embodiment. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows an example of the processing performed by the control unit ECU of the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the vehicle of the present invention will be described based on the attached drawings. The drawings should be viewed in the direction of the reference numerals. Furthermore, in the following, identical or similar elements will be denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and their descriptions may be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0011] (First Embodiment) First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. The vehicle V in this embodiment is, for example, an electric vehicle of the type known as a "sports car," and is configured to be able to activate launch control when predetermined operating conditions are met. The operating conditions for launch control are, for example, the operation of simultaneously pressing the accelerator pedal and the brake pedal of the vehicle V. As a result, the vehicle V can activate launch control in response to an operation from the user of the vehicle V (specifically the driver), i.e., a request from the user, and it is possible to avoid activating launch control against the user's will.

[0012] [Vehicle of the first embodiment] As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle V of this embodiment includes an internal combustion engine (ICE), a control unit (ECU), a vehicle temperature control system (10), an electric motor (20), a generator (30), a transmission (40), a power control unit (PCU) (50), and a temperature control circuit (60).

[0013] The electric motor 20 is a rotating electric machine that outputs power to drive the vehicle V by the electric power stored in a power storage device (not shown) mounted on the vehicle V or the electric power generated by the generator 30. Further, the electric motor 20 may generate electricity by the kinetic energy of the drive wheels of the vehicle V during braking of the vehicle V and charge the aforementioned power storage device. As the electric motor 20, for example, a three-phase AC motor can be adopted. Further, the electric motor 20 is provided with a third temperature sensor 20a for detecting the temperature of the electric motor 20. The third temperature sensor 20a outputs the detected value of the temperature of the electric motor 20 to the control device ECU. Thereby, the control device ECU can acquire the temperature of the electric motor 20.

[0014] The generator 30 is a rotating electric machine that generates electricity by the power of the internal combustion engine ICE and charges the aforementioned power storage device or supplies electric power to the electric motor 20. Similar to the electric motor 20, as the generator 30, for example, a three-phase AC motor can be adopted.

[0015] The transmission 40 is a power transmission device provided between the electric motor 20 and the drive wheels of the vehicle V and configured to enable power transmission between the electric motor 20 and the drive wheels. For example, the transmission 40 is a gear-type power transmission device that decelerates the power output from the electric motor 20 and transmits it to the drive wheels.

[0016] The power conversion device 50 includes a PDU (Power Drive Unit) 51 that converts the electric power output from the aforementioned power storage device from DC to AC and controls the input / output electric power of the electric motor 20 and the generator 30, and a VCU (Voltage Control Unit) 52 that boosts the electric power output from the aforementioned power storage device as necessary. The PDU51 is, for example, an inverter capable of converting DC to AC (for example, three-phase AC). Further, the VCU52 is, for example, a DC / DC converter. The power conversion device 50 is provided with a fourth temperature sensor 50a for detecting the temperature of the power conversion device 50. The fourth temperature sensor 50a outputs the detected value of the temperature of the power conversion device 50 to the control device ECU. Thereby, the control device ECU can acquire the temperature of the power conversion device 50.

[0017] The temperature control circuit 60 includes a first temperature control circuit 61, a second temperature control circuit 62, and a heat exchanger 63. The first temperature control circuit 61 circulates a non-conductive first temperature control medium TCM1 and controls the temperature of the electric motor 20, the generator 30, and the transmission 40. The second temperature control circuit 62 circulates a conductive second temperature control medium TCM2 and controls the temperature of the power converter 50. The heat exchanger 63 performs heat exchange between the first temperature control medium TCM1 circulating in the first temperature control circuit 61 and the second temperature control medium TCM2 circulating in the second temperature control circuit 62.

[0018] The non-conductive first temperature control medium TCM1 is, for example, an oil called ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) that can lubricate and temperature control the electric motor 20, generator 30, and transmission 40. The conductive second temperature control medium TCM2 is, for example, a cooling water called LLC (Long Life Coolant).

[0019] The first temperature control circuit 61 is provided with a first pump 611 and a storage unit 612. The first pump 611 is a mechanical pump driven by the power of the internal combustion engine ICE and the rotational force of an axle (not shown) of the vehicle V, which pumps the first temperature control medium TCM1. The storage unit 612 stores the first temperature control medium TCM1 that circulates in the first temperature control circuit 61. The storage unit 612 is, for example, an oil pan located at the bottom of a housing (not shown) that houses an electric motor 20, a generator 30, and a transmission 40.

[0020] Furthermore, the first temperature control circuit 61 includes a pressurized flow path 610a where the first pump 611 is provided, a first branch flow path 610b1 where the electric motor 20 and generator 30 are provided, a second branch flow path 610b2 where the speed change device 40 is provided, and a branch section 613 that branches to either the first branch flow path 610b1 or the second branch flow path 610b2.

[0021] The pumping channel 610a has its upstream end connected to the storage section 612, passes through the first pump 611, and its downstream end is connected to the branch section 613. The first branch channel 610b1 has its upstream end connected to the branch section 613, passes through the electric motor 20 and the generator 30, and its downstream end is connected to the storage section 612. The second branch channel 610b2 has its upstream end connected to the branch section 613, passes through the transmission 40, and its downstream end is connected to the storage section 612.

[0022] In the first temperature control circuit 61, the heat exchanger 63 is located upstream of the motor 20 and generator 30 in the first branch channel 610b1. Therefore, the first temperature control circuit 61 has a first channel through which the first temperature control medium TCM1, pumped from the first pump 611, passes from the branch section 613 through the first branch channel 610b1, is cooled by heat exchange with the second temperature control medium TCM2 in the heat exchanger 63, is supplied to the motor 20 and generator 30 to lubricate and temperature control the motor 20 and generator 30, and is then stored in the storage section 612. A second flow path is formed in parallel with the first temperature control medium TCM1, which is pumped from the first temperature control medium TCM1, and a second flow path is formed in parallel, through the second branch flow path 610b2 from the branch section 613 to the transmission 40 to lubricate and temperature control the transmission 40, and then to store in the storage section 612. The first temperature control medium TCM1 stored in the storage section 612 flows through the pump flow path 610a and is supplied to the first pump 611, so that the first temperature control medium TCM1 circulates in the first temperature control circuit 61.

[0023] In this embodiment, the first branch channel 610b1 and the second branch channel 610b2 are configured such that the flow rate of the first temperature control medium TCM1 flowing through the first branch channel 610b1 is greater than the flow rate of the first temperature control medium TCM1 flowing through the second branch channel 610b2.

[0024] The first temperature control circuit 61 is provided with a first temperature sensor 61a that detects the temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1 circulating in the first temperature control circuit 61. In this embodiment, the first temperature sensor 61a is provided in the storage section 612, which is an oil pan, and detects the temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1 stored in the storage section 612. The first temperature sensor 61a outputs the detected temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1 stored in the storage section 612 to the control device ECU. As a result, the control device ECU can obtain the temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1 stored in the storage section 612.

[0025] Furthermore, the first temperature control circuit 61 further includes a pressure regulating circuit 610c equipped with a pressure regulating valve 619. The upstream end of the pressure regulating circuit 610c is connected to the storage section 612, and the downstream end is connected to the pressurized flow path 610a downstream of the first pump 611. The pressure regulating valve 619 may be a check valve or an electromagnetic valve such as a solenoid valve. When the liquid pressure of the first temperature control medium TCM1 pressurized from the first pump 611 exceeds a predetermined pressure, the pressure regulating valve 619 opens, and a portion of the first temperature control medium TCM1 pressurized from the first pump 611 is returned to the storage section 612. As a result, the liquid pressure of the first temperature control medium TCM1 flowing through the first branch flow path 610b1 and the second branch flow path 610b2 is maintained below a predetermined pressure.

[0026] The second temperature control circuit 62 includes a second pump 621, a radiator 622, and a storage tank 623. The second pump 621 is an electric pump that is driven, for example, by electricity stored in the aforementioned energy storage device or by electricity generated by the generator 30, to pump the second temperature control medium TCM2, and is controlled by the control unit ECU.

[0027] Furthermore, the second pump 621 is equipped with a rotational speed sensor 621a that detects the rotational speed of the second pump 621. The rotational speed sensor 621a outputs the detected value of the rotational speed of the second pump 621 to the control unit ECU. Based on the detected value of the rotational speed sensor 621a, i.e., the rotational speed of the second pump 621, the control unit ECU can estimate the flow rate of the second pump 621.

[0028] The radiator 622 is located at the front of the vehicle V and is a heat dissipation device that cools the second temperature control medium TCM2 with the airflow generated when the vehicle V is in motion. The storage tank 623 is a tank that temporarily stores the second temperature control medium TCM2 that circulates in the second temperature control circuit 62. Even if cavitation occurs in the second temperature control medium TCM2 circulating in the second temperature control circuit 62, the cavitation generated in the second temperature control medium TCM2 is eliminated by the temporary storage of the second temperature control medium TCM2 circulating in the second temperature control circuit 62 in the storage tank 623.

[0029] The second temperature control circuit 62 has a branch section 624 and a junction section 625. The second temperature control circuit 62 is configured with a storage tank 623, a second pump 621, and a radiator 622 in that order from upstream. The second temperature control circuit 62 also has a pressurized flow path 620a. The upstream end of the pressurized flow path 620a is connected to the junction section 625, and the downstream end is connected to the branch section 624 after passing through the storage tank 623, the second pump 621, and the radiator 622. The second temperature control medium TCM2 stored in the storage tank 623 is pressurized by the second pump 621 through the pressurized flow path 620a and cooled by the radiator 622.

[0030] Furthermore, the second temperature control circuit 62 further includes a first branch channel 620b1 in which a power converter 50 is provided, and a second branch channel 620b2 provided in parallel with the first branch channel 620b1 and in which a heat exchanger 63 is provided. The first branch channel 620b1 is an example of the first channel in the present invention. The second branch channel 620b2 is an example of the second channel in the present invention.

[0031] Specifically, the first branch channel 620b1 has its upstream end connected to the branch section 624, passes through the power converter 50, and its downstream end is connected to the merging section 625. The second branch channel 620b2 has its upstream end connected to the branch section 624, passes through the heat exchanger 63, and its downstream end is connected to the merging section 625.

[0032] In this embodiment, a valve device 626 is provided upstream of the heat exchanger 63 in the second branch channel 620b2 as a flow control valve to adjust the flow rate of the second temperature-controlled medium TCM2 flowing through the second branch channel 620b2 (in other words, the flow rate of the second temperature-controlled medium TCM2 flowing through the first branch channel 620b1). In this embodiment, the valve device 626 is an ON-OFF valve. That is, when the valve device 626 is open, it fully opens the second branch channel 620b2, and when it is closed, it fully closes the second branch channel 620b2. Note that the valve device 626 is not limited to an ON-OFF valve, but may be a variable flow valve capable of adjusting the flow rate of the second temperature-controlled medium TCM2 flowing through the second branch channel 620b2. The valve device 626 is controlled by the control unit ECU.

[0033] The second temperature-controlled medium TCM2, which is pumped by the second pump 621 in the pressurized flow path 620a and cooled by the radiator 622, branches into the first branched flow path 620b1 and the second branched flow path 620b2 at the branching section 624. The second temperature-controlled medium TCM2 flowing through the first branched flow path 620b1 cools the power converter 50 and merges with the second branched flow path 620b2 and the pressurized flow path 620a at the merging section 625. The second temperature-controlled medium TCM2 flowing through the second branched flow path 620b2 cools the first temperature-controlled medium TCM1 by exchanging heat with it in the heat exchanger 63 and merges with the first branched flow path 620b1 and the pressurized flow path 620a at the merging section 625. The second temperature control medium TCM2 that flowed through the first branch channel 620b1 and the second temperature control medium TCM2 that flowed through the second branch channel 620b2 merge at the confluence section 625 and flow through the pressurized channel 620a to be temporarily stored in the storage tank 623. Then, the second temperature control medium TCM2 stored in the storage tank 623 is supplied again to the second pump 621 through the pressurized channel 620a, and the second temperature control medium TCM2 circulates in the second temperature control circuit 62.

[0034] In this embodiment, the first branch channel 620b1 and the second branch channel 620b2 are formed such that even when the valve device 626 is open, the flow rate of the second temperature control medium TCM2 flowing through the first branch channel 620b1 is greater than the flow rate of the second temperature control medium TCM2 flowing through the second branch channel 620b2.

[0035] The second temperature control circuit 62 is provided with a second temperature sensor 62a that detects the temperature of the second temperature control medium TCM2 circulating in the second temperature control circuit 62. In this embodiment, the second temperature sensor 62a is located between the radiator 622 and the branch 624 in the pressurized flow path 620a, and detects the temperature of the second temperature control medium TCM2 discharged from the radiator 622, i.e., the second temperature control medium TCM2 supplied to the power converter 50, and outputs the detected value to the control device ECU. As a result, the control device ECU can obtain the temperature of the second temperature control medium TCM2 supplied to the power converter 50.

[0036] In the first temperature control circuit 61, if the temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1 stored in the storage unit 612 after cooling the electric motor 20, generator 30, and transmission 40 is approximately 100°C, then the heat exchanger 63 is supplied with the first temperature control medium TCM1 at approximately 100°C.

[0037] On the other hand, in the second temperature control circuit 62, if the temperature of the second temperature control medium TCM2 cooled by the radiator 622 is approximately 40°C, the second temperature control medium TCM2 supplied to the heat exchanger 63 does not pass through the power converter 50, which is the temperature-controlled device, and therefore the heat exchanger 63 is supplied with the second temperature control medium TCM2 at approximately 40°C.

[0038] In this case, the heat exchanger 63 performs heat exchange between the first temperature control medium TCM1, which is about 100°C, and the second temperature control medium TCM2, which is about 40°C, supplied to the heat exchanger 63. Then, for example, the first temperature control medium TCM1, which is about 80°C, is discharged from the heat exchanger 63 to the downstream side of the first branch channel 610b1 in the first temperature control circuit 61, and the second temperature control medium TCM2, which is about 70°C, is discharged to the downstream side of the second branch channel 620b2 in the second temperature control circuit 62.

[0039] In this way, the first temperature control medium TCM1 is cooled by the heat exchanger 63, so the first temperature control medium TCM1 can be cooled without providing a separate radiator for cooling the first temperature control medium TCM1 in the temperature control circuit 60. Therefore, the temperature control circuit 60 can cool both the first temperature control medium TCM1 flowing through the first temperature control circuit 61 and the second temperature control medium TCM2 flowing through the second temperature control circuit 62 with a single radiator 622, thus allowing the temperature control circuit 60 to be made more compact.

[0040] The control unit (ECU) is implemented by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) that includes, for example, a processor that performs various calculations, a storage device having a non-transient storage medium for storing various information (data and programs), and an input / output device that controls the input and output of data between the inside and outside of the control unit (ECU), and comprehensively controls the entire vehicle V. The control unit (ECU) may be implemented by one ECU or by multiple ECUs. The control unit (ECU) controls, for example, the internal combustion engine (ICE), the power converter (50), the second pump (621), the valve device (626), etc.

[0041] [Control of the second pump and valve device in response to temperature changes in the electric motor and power converter] Here, with reference to Figures 2 and 3, an example of control of the second pump 621 and valve device 626 by the control unit ECU in response to temperature changes of the electric motor 20 and power converter 50 will be described. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the temporal temperature change of the electric motor 20 and power converter 50. In Figure 2, the vertical axis represents temperature [°C], and the horizontal axis represents time. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the flow rate of the second pump 621 and the state of the valve device 626 for each of the periods Ta, Tb, and Tc shown in Figure 2.

[0042] In Figure 2, the period Ta from time t0 to time t1 is the period during which launch control is not operating in vehicle V, for example, the period during which vehicle V is stopped. As shown in Table TL in Figure 3, during period Ta (i.e., when launch control is not operating), the control unit ECU controls the second pump 621 to reduce its flow rate and opens the valve device 626. During period Ta, since the heat generated by both the electric motor 20 and the power converter 50 is low, by reducing the flow rate of the second pump 621 and opening the valve device 626, the driving of the second pump 621 can be suppressed to some extent while keeping the temperatures of the electric motor 20 and the power converter 50 at approximately constant temperatures below Xth [°C], which will be described later.

[0043] In this embodiment, when the flow rate of the second pump 621 is reduced, the control device ECU controls the rotational speed of the second pump 621 so that the flow rate of the second pump 621 becomes Pa [L / min]. Here, Pa is pre-set for the control device ECU by, for example, the manufacturer of the control device ECU.

[0044] Suppose that at time t1, following time t0, the accelerator pedal and brake pedal of vehicle V are pressed simultaneously. Furthermore, suppose that pressing the accelerator pedal at this time is equivalent to fully opening the throttle of vehicle V. When such an operation occurs, the control unit (ECU) determines that the conditions for launch control have been met and activates launch control.

[0045] Specifically, when the launch control operating conditions are met, the control device ECU increases the power supplied to the electric motor 20 via the power converter 50 in order to increase the power required to drive the vehicle V compared to when the launch control operating conditions are not met (for example, during period Ta). In this embodiment, the control device ECU increases the power supplied to the electric motor 20 via the power converter 50 by activating the internal combustion engine ICE that drives the generator 30 (i.e., starting power generation by the generator 30) in response to the meeting of the launch control operating conditions.

[0046] Thus, increasing the power supplied to the motor 20 via the power converter 50 increases the amount of heat generated by both the motor 20 and the power converter 50. As a result, as shown in Figure 2, from time t1 when the launch control operating conditions are met, the temperatures of both the motor 20 and the power converter 50 rise. However, since the heat capacities of the motor 20 and the power converter 50 are different, the rate at which their temperatures rise also differs. Specifically, because the power converter 50 has a smaller heat capacity than the motor 20, its temperature rises more rapidly than that of the motor 20, making it more prone to becoming hot.

[0047] Therefore, as shown in Table TL in Figure 3, the control device ECU controls the second pump 621 to increase its flow rate during the period Tb from time t1 to time t2 (described later), and also closes the valve device 626. This allows the amount of the second temperature control medium TCM2 supplied to the power converter 50 per unit time to be increased compared to when the launch control operating conditions are not met (for example, during period Ta). Consequently, the cooling effect of the power converter 50 by the second temperature control circuit 62 can be improved.

[0048] Furthermore, by closing the valve device 626 in response to the activation conditions of the launch control, heat exchange between the first temperature control medium TCM1 and the second temperature control medium TCM2 via the heat exchanger 63 can be suppressed, and the temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1 circulating in the first temperature control circuit 61 can be raised. This allows the temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1 to be raised quickly, and the increase in friction loss of the motor 20 caused by the low temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1 can also be suppressed.

[0049] In this embodiment, when increasing the flow rate of the second pump 621, the control device ECU controls the rotational speed of the second pump 621 so that the flow rate of the second pump 621 becomes Pb [L / min] (where Pb > Pa). Here, Pb is pre-set for the control device ECU by, for example, the manufacturer of the control device ECU.

[0050] Then, in time t2 following time t1, the temperature of the electric motor 20 reaches a predetermined Xth [°C] or higher. Here, Xth is a predetermined value set in advance for the control device ECU by, for example, the manufacturer of the control device ECU.

[0051] Thus, during the period Tc from time t2 when the temperature of the electric motor 20 reaches Xth [°C], as shown in table TL in Figure 3, the control device ECU increases the flow rate of the second pump 621 (i.e., to Pb [L / min]) and opens the valve device 626. This increases the amount of the second temperature control medium TCM2 supplied per unit time to the heat exchanger 63 provided in the second branch channel 620b2 compared to when the launch control operating conditions are not met (e.g., period Ta) and the period from when the launch control operating conditions are met until the temperature of the electric motor 20 reaches Xth [°C] or higher (e.g., period Tb). Therefore, heat exchange between the first temperature control medium TCM1 and the second temperature control medium TCM2 via the heat exchanger 63 can be promoted.

[0052] In the example described above, the valve device 626 is controlled so that the flow rate of the second temperature control medium TCM2 to the first branch channel 620b1 increases (in other words, the flow rate to the second branch channel 620b2 decreases) from the time the launch control operating conditions are met until the temperature of the electric motor 20 reaches Xth [°C] or higher. However, the method is not limited to this. For example, the control device ECU may control the valve device 626 so that the flow rate of the second temperature control medium TCM2 to the first branch channel 620b1 increases until a predetermined period has elapsed from the time the launch control operating conditions are met. Here, the predetermined period is, for example, a period set in advance for the control device ECU by the manufacturer of the control device ECU. That is, the period Tb may be a period of a predetermined length. In this way, after the predetermined period has elapsed from the time the launch control operating conditions are met, the amount of the second temperature control medium TCM2 supplied per unit time to the heat exchanger 63 provided in the second branch channel 620b2 can be increased. Therefore, heat exchange between the first temperature control medium TCM1 and the second temperature control medium TCM2 via the heat exchanger 63 can be promoted.

[0053] [Processing in the control device of the first embodiment] Next, with reference to Figure 4, an example of the processing performed by the control device ECU of the first embodiment will be described. For example, when the vehicle V is started (for example, when the ignition power of the vehicle V is turned on), the control device ECU of the first embodiment performs the processing shown in Figure 4.

[0054] As shown in Figure 4, the control unit ECU starts driving the second pump 621 (step S1). At this time, the control unit ECU increases the flow rate of the second pump 621 (i.e., to Pb [L / min]).

[0055] Next, the control unit ECU determines whether the temperature of the electric motor 20 is above a predetermined Xa [°C] (step S2). Here, Xa is a temperature higher than the aforementioned Xth, and is the temperature used as a condition for determining whether cooling of the electric motor 20 is necessary. Xa is pre-set for the control unit ECU by, for example, the manufacturer of the control unit ECU.

[0056] If the control unit ECU determines that the temperature of the electric motor 20 is above Xa[°C] (Step S2: Yes), it opens the valve device 626 (Step S3) and increases the flow rate of the second pump 621 (Step S4). On the other hand, if the control unit ECU determines that the temperature of the electric motor 20 is below Xa[°C] (Step S2: No), it closes the valve device 626 (Step S5) and decreases the flow rate of the second pump 621 (Step S6).

[0057] Next, the control unit ECU determines whether the conditions for launch control have been met (step S7). If it determines that the conditions for launch control have not been met (step S7: No), the control unit ECU returns to the process in step S2.

[0058] On the other hand, if the system determines that the conditions for launch control have been met (step S7: Yes), the control unit ECU proceeds to step S8. At that time, for example, the control unit ECU determines whether or not the internal combustion engine (ICE) is operating, and if the ICE is not operating, it activates the ICE before proceeding to step S8.

[0059] Next, the control unit ECU increases the flow rate of the second pump 621 (step S8) and closes the valve device 626 (step S9). At this time, the control unit ECU may also perform steps S8 and S9 only if the temperature of the power converter 50 or the second temperature control medium TCM2 is above a predetermined value.

[0060] Next, the control unit ECU waits for a predetermined period of time, taking into account the response delay of the second pump 621 to the processing in step S8, or the response delay of the valve device 626 to the processing in step S9 (loop of step S10: No). Once the predetermined period has elapsed (step S10: Yes), it determines whether the temperature of the electric motor 20 has risen above Xth [°C] (step S11).

[0061] If the control device ECU determines that the temperature of the electric motor 20 is less than Xth[°C] (step S11: No), it returns to the process in step S7. On the other hand, if the control device ECU determines that the temperature of the electric motor 20 is Xth[°C] or higher (step S11: Yes), it opens the valve device 626 (step S12).

[0062] Next, the control unit ECU determines whether or not the internal combustion engine (ICE) has stopped (step S13). For example, if the control unit ECU activated the internal combustion engine (ICE) in response to the fulfillment of the launch control operating conditions, it will stop the internal combustion engine (ICE) when the launch control is terminated, for example, by reducing the pressure on the accelerator pedal of the vehicle V.

[0063] Then, if the control unit ECU determines that the internal combustion engine ICE is not stopped, i.e., is operating (step S13: No), it maintains the valve device 626 in an open state. By maintaining the valve device 626 in an open state in this way, unnecessary opening and closing of the valve device 626 can be suppressed, thereby suppressing deterioration of the valve device 626. On the other hand, if it determines that the internal combustion engine ICE has stopped (step S13: Yes), the control unit ECU returns to, for example, normal control (not shown) and terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 4.

[0064] As explained above, when the launch control operating conditions are met, the control unit (ECU) controls the second pump 621 to increase its flow rate compared to when the launch control operating conditions are not met. This allows the amount of the second temperature control medium (TCM2) supplied to the power converter 50 per unit time to be increased when the launch control operating conditions are met, compared to when the launch control operating conditions are not met, thereby improving the cooling effect of the power converter 50 by the second temperature control circuit 62. Consequently, the power converter 50, which tends to generate heat when the launch control is activated, can be properly cooled.

[0065] On the other hand, when the operating conditions for launch control are not met, that is, when the amount of heat generated by the power converter 50 is low, the control unit ECU can reduce the energy required to drive the second pump 621 (for example, the power consumption of the second pump 621) and reduce the operating noise of the second pump 621 by reducing the flow rate of the second pump 621.

[0066] Furthermore, the control device ECU increases the flow rate of the second pump 621 when the launch control operating conditions are met. This allows for earlier improvement of the cooling effect of the power converter 50 by the second temperature control circuit 62 compared to a case where the flow rate of the second pump 621 is increased only after the temperature of the power converter 50 exceeds a predetermined value. Therefore, it becomes possible to properly cool the power converter 50, which tends to generate heat when the launch control is activated.

[0067] Furthermore, when the launch control operating conditions are met, the control device ECU controls the valve device 626 so that the flow rate of the second temperature control medium TCM2 to the first branch channel 620b1 where the power converter 50 is located increases compared to when the launch control operating conditions are not met (in other words, the flow rate of the second temperature control medium TCM2 to the second branch channel 620b2, which is provided in parallel with the first branch channel 620b1, decreases). This increases the amount of the second temperature control medium TCM2 supplied to the power converter 50 per unit time, thereby improving the cooling effect of the power converter 50 by the second temperature control circuit 62.

[0068] Furthermore, since a heat exchanger 63 is provided in the second branch channel 620b2, the flow rate of the second temperature control medium TCM2 to the second branch channel 620b2 can be reduced in accordance with the conditions for launch control operation, thereby suppressing heat exchange between the first temperature control medium TCM1 and the second temperature control medium TCM2 via the heat exchanger 63. This suppresses the transfer of heat from the first temperature control medium TCM1 (i.e., the electric motor 20) to the second temperature control medium TCM2, thereby improving the cooling effect of the power converter 50 by the second temperature control circuit 62.

[0069] (Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description, the focus will be on the parts that differ from the first embodiment, and the illustrations and descriptions of parts that are common to both the first embodiment and the second embodiment will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0070] [Vehicle of the second embodiment] As shown in Figure 5, the vehicle V of the second embodiment differs from the vehicle V of the first embodiment in that it lacks the second branch passage 620b2, the valve device 626, and the heat exchanger 63. Although not shown and described in detail, for example, in the vehicle V of the second embodiment, a radiator (not shown) is provided in the first temperature control circuit 61, separate from the radiator 622 of the second temperature control circuit 62, as a heat dissipation device for cooling the first temperature control medium TCM1 circulating in the first temperature control circuit 61.

[0071] [Processing in the control device of the second embodiment] Next, with reference to Figure 6, an example of the processing performed by the control device ECU of the second embodiment will be described. For example, when the vehicle V is started (for example, when the ignition power of the vehicle V is turned on), the control device ECU of the second embodiment performs the processing shown in Figure 6.

[0072] As shown in Figure 6, the control unit ECU starts driving the second pump 621 (step S21). At this time, the control unit ECU reduces the flow rate of the second pump 621.

[0073] Next, the control unit ECU determines whether the conditions for launch control have been met (step S22). If it determines that the conditions for launch control have not been met (step S22: No), the control unit ECU returns to the process in step S21. On the other hand, if it determines that the conditions for launch control have been met (step S22: Yes), the control unit ECU increases the flow rate of the second pump 621 (step S23).

[0074] Next, the control unit ECU determines whether or not the internal combustion engine (ICE) has stopped (step S24). If it determines that the internal combustion engine (ICE) has not stopped, i.e., is still operating (step S24: No), the control unit ECU maintains a high flow rate for the second pump 621. While the internal combustion engine (ICE) is operating, the operating noise of the ICE makes it difficult for the user to hear the operating noise of the second pump 621. Therefore, while the internal combustion engine (ICE) is operating, such as when launch control is activated, even if the second pump 621 is driven at a high flow rate (in other words, under high load), it is possible to avoid deterioration of the vehicle's NV (Noise, Vibration) performance due to the operating noise of the second pump 621.

[0075] Furthermore, if the control unit (ECU) determines that the internal combustion engine (ICE) has stopped (step S24: Yes), it returns to normal control (not shown), and terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 6.

[0076] As described above, the control device ECU of the second embodiment controls the second pump 621 to increase its flow rate when the launch control operating conditions are met, compared to when the launch control operating conditions are not met. As a result, similar to the first embodiment, when the launch control operating conditions are met, the amount of the second temperature control medium TCM2 supplied to the power converter 50 per unit time can be increased compared to when the launch control operating conditions are not met, thereby improving the cooling effect of the power converter 50 by the second temperature control circuit 62. Therefore, it becomes possible to properly cool the power converter 50, which tends to generate heat when the launch control is activated.

[0077] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. It is clear to those skilled in the art that various modifications or alterations can be conceived within the scope of the claims, and these will naturally also fall within the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the components of the above embodiments may be combined in any way without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0078] For example, in the above embodiment, a configuration in which the power converter 50 and the heat exchanger 63 are arranged in parallel was described, but a configuration in which the power converter 50 and the heat exchanger 63 are arranged in series is also possible. In this case, for example, the power converter 50 may be arranged between the radiator 622 and the branching section 624 shown in Figure 1.

[0079] This specification contains at least the following information. Note that the components and other elements in parentheses are those corresponding to those in the embodiments described above, but are not limited thereto.

[0080] (1) A power converter (power converter 50) that controls the power supplied to the electric motor (electric motor 20), The electric motor drives the drive wheels in accordance with the power supplied via the power converter, A temperature control circuit (second temperature control circuit 62) in which a temperature control medium (second temperature control medium TCM2) circulates to control the temperature of the power converter, Control device (control device ECU), Equipped with, A vehicle (Vehicle V) that activates launch control in response to the fulfillment of predetermined operating conditions, The temperature control circuit includes a pump (second pump 621) for pressurizing the temperature control medium. The control device is configured to control the pump, and when the operating conditions are met, it controls the pump so that the flow rate of the pump is greater than when the operating conditions are not met. vehicle.

[0081] According to (1), when the launch control operating conditions are met, the pump in the temperature control circuit that controls the temperature of the power converter can be controlled to have a higher flow rate than when the launch control operating conditions are not met. As a result, when the launch control operating conditions are met, the amount of temperature control medium supplied to the power converter per unit time can be increased compared to when the launch control operating conditions are not met, and the cooling effect of the temperature control circuit on the power converter can be improved. Therefore, it becomes possible to properly cool the power converter, which tends to generate heat when the launch control is activated.

[0082] (2) The vehicles described in (1), The temperature control circuit further comprises a first flow path (first branch flow path 620b1) on which the power conversion device is provided, a second flow path (second branch flow path 620b2) provided in parallel with the first flow path, and a flow control valve (valve device 626) for adjusting the flow rate of the temperature control medium to the second flow path. The control device is configured to control the flow control valve, and when the operating condition is met, it controls the flow control valve so that the flow rate to the first flow path is greater than when the operating condition is not met. vehicle.

[0083] According to (2), when the launch control operating conditions are met, the flow rate control valve can be controlled so that the flow rate of the temperature-controlled medium to the first channel where the power converter is installed is greater than when the launch control operating conditions are not met (in other words, the flow rate of the temperature-controlled medium to the second channel, which is installed in parallel with the first channel, is reduced). As a result, when the launch control operating conditions are met, the amount of temperature-controlled medium supplied to the power converter per unit time can be increased compared to when the launch control operating conditions are not met, and the cooling effect of the power converter by the temperature control circuit can be improved.

[0084] (3) The vehicles described in (2), The first temperature control circuit (second temperature control circuit 62), which is the temperature control medium, circulates through the first temperature control medium (second temperature control medium TCM2), A second temperature control circuit (first temperature control circuit 61) circulates a second temperature control medium (first temperature control medium TCM1) to control the temperature of the electric motor, A heat exchanger (heat exchanger 63) that performs heat exchange between the first temperature control medium circulating in the first temperature control circuit and the second temperature control medium circulating in the second temperature control circuit, Furthermore, The heat exchanger is provided in the second flow path, vehicle.

[0085] According to (3), a heat exchanger is provided in the second flow path to exchange heat between a first temperature-controlled medium circulating in a first temperature-controlled circuit that controls the temperature of the power converter and a second temperature-controlled medium circulating in a second temperature-controlled circuit that controls the temperature of the electric motor. Therefore, by reducing the flow rate of the first temperature-controlled medium into the second flow path in accordance with the conditions for launch control operation, it is possible to suppress heat exchange between the first temperature-controlled medium and the second temperature-controlled medium via the heat exchanger. This suppresses the transfer of heat from the second temperature-controlled medium (i.e., the electric motor) to the first temperature-controlled medium, thereby improving the cooling effect of the power converter by the first temperature-controlled circuit.

[0086] (4) The vehicles described in (3), When the operating condition is met, the control device controls the flow rate control valve to increase the flow rate to the first flow path until a predetermined period of time has elapsed from the time the operating condition is met. vehicle.

[0087] According to (4), after a predetermined period has elapsed since the operating conditions for launch control were met, the amount of the first temperature-controlled medium supplied per unit time to the heat exchanger in the second flow path, which is provided in parallel with the first flow path, can be increased. Therefore, heat exchange between the first temperature-controlled medium and the second temperature-controlled medium via the heat exchanger can be promoted.

[0088] (5) The vehicles described in (3), The control device is configured to acquire the temperature of the electric motor, and when the operating condition is met, it controls the flow rate control valve so that the flow rate to the first flow path increases from the time the operating condition is met until the temperature of the electric motor reaches a predetermined value (Xth [°C]) or higher. vehicle.

[0089] According to (5), after the operating conditions for launch control are met and the motor temperature reaches a predetermined value or higher, the amount of the first temperature control medium supplied per unit time to the heat exchanger in the second flow path, which is provided in parallel with the first flow path, can be increased. Therefore, heat exchange between the first temperature control medium and the second temperature control medium via the heat exchanger can be promoted.

[0090] (6) A vehicle described in any of (1) to (5), The vehicle further comprises an internal combustion engine (internal combustion engine ICE), and operates the internal combustion engine in accordance with the fulfillment of the aforementioned operating conditions. vehicle.

[0091] According to (6), the deterioration of the vehicle's NV (Noise, Vibration) performance due to the pump's operating noise can be avoided.

[0092] (7) A vehicle described in any of (1) to (6), The aforementioned operating condition is the operation of simultaneously pressing the accelerator pedal and the brake pedal of the vehicle. vehicle.

[0093] According to (7), the launch control can be activated in response to a request (operation) from the vehicle user, thus avoiding the launch control being activated against the user's will. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0094] 20 Electric motor 50 Power converter 61 1st temperature control circuit (2nd temperature control circuit) 62 2nd temperature control circuit (temperature control circuit, 1st temperature control circuit) 620b1 First branch channel (first channel) 620b2 Second branch channel (second channel) 621 Second pump (pump) 626 Valve device (flow control valve) 63 Heat exchanger ECU (Electronic Control Unit) TCM1 1st temperature control medium (2nd temperature control medium) TCM2 2nd temperature control medium (temperature control medium, 1st temperature control medium) V Vehicle

Claims

1. A power converter that controls the power supplied to the electric motor, The electric motor drives the drive wheels in accordance with the power supplied via the power converter, A temperature control circuit in which a temperature control medium circulates to control the temperature of the power converter, Control device and Equipped with, A vehicle that activates launch control in response to the fulfillment of predetermined operating conditions, The temperature control circuit includes a pump for pressurizing the temperature control medium. The control device is configured to control the pump, and when the operating conditions are met, it controls the pump so that the flow rate of the pump is greater than when the operating conditions are not met. The temperature control circuit further comprises a first flow path on which the power conversion device is provided, a second flow path provided in parallel with the first flow path, and a flow control valve for adjusting the flow rate of the temperature control medium to the second flow path. The control device is configured to control the flow control valve, and when the operating condition is met, it controls the flow control valve so that the flow rate to the first flow path is greater than when the operating condition is not met. vehicle.

2. A vehicle according to claim 1, A first temperature control circuit, which is a temperature control medium, through which the first temperature control medium, which is the temperature control medium, circulates, A second temperature control circuit in which a second temperature control medium circulates to control the temperature of the electric motor, A heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between the first temperature control medium circulating in the first temperature control circuit and the second temperature control medium circulating in the second temperature control circuit, Furthermore, The heat exchanger is provided in the second flow path, vehicle.

3. The vehicle according to claim 2, When the operating condition is met, the control device controls the flow rate control valve to increase the flow rate to the first flow path until a predetermined period of time has elapsed from the time the operating condition is met. vehicle.

4. The vehicle according to claim 2, The control device is configured to acquire the temperature of the electric motor, and when the operating condition is met, it controls the flow rate control valve so that the flow rate to the first flow path increases from the time the operating condition is met until the temperature of the electric motor reaches a predetermined value or higher. vehicle.

5. A vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The vehicle further comprises an internal combustion engine, which operates in accordance with the fulfillment of the aforementioned operating conditions. vehicle.

6. A vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The aforementioned operating condition is the operation of simultaneously pressing the accelerator pedal and the brake pedal of the vehicle. vehicle.

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