Vehicle

Abstract

In a vehicle (10) according to the present disclosure, when a travel mode changeover switch (46) is pressed in a first direction, a mode switching unit (86) switches the mode from a first mode to a second mode, or switches the mode from a second mode to a third mode. When the travel mode changeover switch (46) is pressed in a second direction, the mode switching unit (86) switches the mode from the third mode to the first mode, or switches the mode from the second mode to the first mode.

Description

vehicle

[0001] The present disclosure relates to vehicles.

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2011-5900 discloses a vehicle capable of selecting a plurality of driving modes. The vehicle includes a plurality of switches. Each of the switches is assigned to one of the plurality of driving modes. An occupant of the vehicle can select a desired driving mode by operating one of the switches.

[0003] In JP 2011-5900 A, a switch is required for each driving mode. It is difficult to install multiple switches on a vehicle with limited installation space, such as a motorcycle. Therefore, using a single seesaw switch is considered. In this case, operating the seesaw switch in one direction or the other switches multiple driving modes in sequence. However, since it is not possible to skip the sequence and switch to a specific driving mode, this is inconvenient to use.

[0004] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned problems.

[0005] An aspect of the present disclosure is a vehicle in which a first mode, a second mode, or a third mode can be selected as a driving mode, the vehicle comprising: a switch for selecting the driving mode, which can be operated in a first direction and in a second direction different from the first direction; and a mode switching unit that switches the driving mode by operating the switch; when the first mode is selected as the driving mode and the switch is operated in the first direction, the mode switching unit switches to the second mode as the driving mode; when the second mode is selected as the driving mode and the switch is operated in the first direction, the mode switching unit switches to the third mode as the driving mode; when the third mode is selected as the driving mode and the switch is operated in the second direction, the mode switching unit switches to the first mode as the driving mode; and when the second mode is selected as the driving mode and the switch is operated in the second direction, the mode switching unit switches to the first mode as the driving mode.

[0006] According to the present disclosure, even when a vehicle has a plurality of driving modes, it is possible to quickly switch from the third mode to the first mode without passing through the second mode.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a left side view of a vehicle according to this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view of the front of the vehicle shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating output characteristics of the vehicle shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the vehicle shown in FIG. 1. FIGS. 5A and 5B are sequence diagrams illustrating switching between driving modes. FIGS. 6A and 6B are diagrams illustrating screen displays in standard mode and sport mode, respectively. FIGS. 7A and 7B are diagrams illustrating screen displays in eco mode. FIG. 8A is a diagram illustrating screen displays in sport mode when the vehicle is in a high load state and FIG. 8B is a diagram illustrating screen displays in standard mode when the sport mode is restricted. FIG. 9A is a diagram illustrating screen displays in sport mode when the vehicle is in a high temperature state and FIG. 9B is a diagram illustrating screen displays in standard mode when output is restricted. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating screen displays in reverse mode. FIG. 11 is a flowchart of the operation of the vehicle shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 12 is a flowchart of the operation of the vehicle shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 13 is a flowchart of the operation of the vehicle shown in FIG. 1. Fig. 14 is a flowchart of the operation of the vehicle of Fig. 1. Fig. 15 is a flowchart of the operation of the vehicle of Fig. 1.

[0008] 1 is a left side view of a vehicle 10 according to this embodiment. In the following description, the front-rear, left-right, and up-down directions will be described according to the direction from which an occupant (driver) seated in a seat 12 of the vehicle 10 looks.

[0009] The vehicle 10 is an electric vehicle. The vehicle 10 is an electric motorcycle. The vehicle 10 is an electric scooter having a low floor section 14. The vehicle 10 includes a body frame (not shown), a seat 12, a body cover 16, a handlebar 18, a front wheel 20, a rear wheel 22, a swing arm 24, a plurality of batteries 26, and a motor 28.

[0010] A body cover 16 covers the body frame. The seat 12 is supported by the body frame. The portion of the vehicle 10 directly below the seat 12 is covered on the left and right sides by the body cover 16. A plurality of batteries 26 are housed inside the body cover 16 directly below the seat 12. The plurality of batteries 26 are attachable to and detachable from the vehicle 10 when the seat 12 is open. The rear wheel 22 is journaled at the rear end of the swing arm 24. A motor 28 is built into the swing arm 24. The motor 28 is driven by power supplied from the plurality of batteries 26. When the motor 28 is driven, the driving force of the motor 28 drives the rear wheel 22 to rotate. The rotation of the rear wheel 22 causes the vehicle 10 to travel.

[0011] The motor 28 can rotate in a forward or reverse direction. The forward rotation of the motor 28 means that the motor 28 rotates so that the vehicle 10 moves forward (forward traveling). The reverse rotation of the motor 28 means that the motor 28 rotates so that the vehicle 10 moves backward (reverse traveling).

[0012] The vehicle 10 according to this embodiment is not limited to the electric scooter shown in Fig. 1. The vehicle 10 can be applied to various electric vehicles that are driven by a motor 28. In addition to electric two-wheeled vehicles, examples of electric vehicles include electric unicycles, electric three-wheeled vehicles, and electric four-wheeled vehicles (electric automobiles).

[0013] Fig. 2 is a plan view of the front part of the vehicle 10. Fig. 2 is a plan view of the area around the steering wheel 18. The steering wheel 18 extends in the left-right direction at the front part of the vehicle 10. The occupant steers the vehicle 10 by turning the steering wheel 18. The center part of the steering wheel 18 is covered with a steering wheel cover 30. The steering wheel cover 30 is part of the body cover 16.

[0014] The front portion of the vehicle 10 below the handlebars 18 is covered with a leg shield 32. The leg shield 32 is part of the body cover 16. A main switch 34 is provided on the leg shield 32. The main switch 34 is provided to the right of the leg shield 32, below the handlebars 18. When the occupant turns the main switch 34, the vehicle 10 enters a state in which it can travel forward.

[0015] The handlebars 18 include a handlebar 36, a right grip 38R, and a left grip 38L. The handlebar 36 extends in the left-right direction. A handlebar cover 30 covers the center portion of the handlebar 36.

[0016] A meter 40 (display unit) is provided in the center of the upper surface of the handle cover 30. The meter 40 is a display unit that displays various information related to the vehicle 10. The meter 40 may be an image output device such as a display that displays various information as an image.

[0017] The right grip 38R is provided at the right end of the handlebar 36. The right grip 38R is a grip that the rider holds with his or her right hand. The right grip 38R is a throttle grip 42 that is used to adjust the output of the motor 28 (see FIG. 1). When the rider turns the throttle grip 42 around the axis of the handlebar 36, the throttle is opened. Specifically, when the rider turns the throttle grip 42 clockwise (toward the rider) as viewed from the left side in FIG. 1, the throttle is opened. With the throttle open, the output of the motor 28 can be increased. Furthermore, when the throttle grip 42 is returned to its original position (initial position), the throttle is closed. With the throttle closed, the output (rotation) of the motor 28 can be stopped.

[0018] The left grip 38L is provided at the left end of the handlebar 36. The rider holds the left grip 38L with his left hand.

[0019] A start switch 44 and a driving mode selector switch 46 (switch) are provided on the right side of the handle cover 30. The start switch 44 and the driving mode selector switch 46 are provided on the right side of the handle cover 30, between the meter 40 and the base end of the throttle grip 42.

[0020] The start switch 44 is located on the right side of the handle cover 30, below the base end of the throttle grip 42. The start switch 44 is a switch for permitting the driving of the motor 28. Specifically, the start switch 44 permits the motor 28 to start rotating forward or reverse.

[0021] When the occupant turns the main switch 34 and then presses the start switch 44, the start switch 44 is turned on. At this time, the start switch 44 outputs a drive permission signal that permits the motor 28 to start rotating in the forward direction. After pressing the start switch 44, when the occupant turns the throttle grip 42, the vehicle 10 travels forward.

[0022] When the vehicle 10 is in a state in which it is possible to travel forward, and the occupant continues to press the start switch 44, the start switch 44 outputs a drive permission signal that permits the motor 28 to start rotating in the reverse direction. Therefore, when the occupant stops pressing the start switch 44, the start switch 44 stops outputting the drive permission signal.

[0023] The vehicle 10 has a plurality of driving modes. The vehicle 10 can select any one of the plurality of driving modes and drive in the selected driving mode. The plurality of driving modes are an eco mode (first mode), a standard mode (second mode), a sport mode (third mode), and a reverse mode. Of these, the eco mode, the standard mode, and the sport mode are driving modes in which the vehicle 10 drives forward. The reverse mode is a driving mode in which the vehicle 10 drives backward.

[0024] Figure 3 shows the output characteristics of the motor 28 (see Figure 1) in eco mode, standard mode, and sport mode. In Figure 3, the thick line is a graph showing the relationship between the rotation speed and output of the motor 28. In Figure 3, the thin line is a graph showing the relationship between the rotation speed and torque (motor shaft torque) of the motor 28. In Figure 3, the dashed and dotted lines represent the graph for eco mode. The solid line represents the graph for sport mode. The dashed line represents the graph for standard mode. The output characteristics of the motor 28 are well known. Here, the differences in the output characteristics of the motor 28 in eco mode, standard mode, and sport mode will be described.

[0025] In the standard mode (dashed line in FIG. 3), the vehicle 10 (see FIG. 1) travels forward in a normal manner.

[0026] In Eco mode (dashed line and dashed double dotted line in Figure 3), the vehicle 10 travels forward while suppressing energy consumption, including power consumption. Eco mode is a travel mode that emphasizes more efficient travel than standard mode. Specifically, at the same rotation speed, the output and torque of the motor 28 in Eco mode are lower than the output and torque of the motor 28 in standard mode and sport mode. Note that in Figure 3, Eco mode 1, indicated by the dashed double dotted line, is a graph that shows the output characteristics of the motor 28 when traveling at low speeds in Eco mode. Eco mode 2, indicated by the dashed double dotted line, is a graph that shows the output characteristics of the motor 28 when energy consumption is greater than in Eco mode 1.

[0027] In the sport mode (solid line in FIG. 3 ), the vehicle 10 travels forward, placing more emphasis on driving performance than in the standard mode and the eco mode. Therefore, the sport mode consumes more energy than the eco mode and the standard mode. Specifically, at the same rotation speed, the output and torque of the motor 28 in the sport mode are greater than the output and torque of the motor 28 in the eco mode and the standard mode.

[0028] 2, the driving mode selector switch 46 is located on the right side of the handle cover 30, above the start switch 44. The driving mode selector switch 46, when pressed by the occupant, commands a change in the forward driving mode. That is, the driving mode selector switch 46 commands a change from the currently selected forward driving mode (eco mode, standard mode, or sport mode) to another forward driving mode.

[0029] The driving mode selector switch 46 is composed of a lower switch 48 and an upper switch 50. The lower switch 48 and the upper switch 50 are switches that can be pressed in different directions. The lower switch 48 and the upper switch 50 are switches that can be pressed in opposite directions.

[0030] Specifically, the lower switch 48 is a push-return switch. The lower switch 48 is operated by the occupant by pressing it downward, forward, and backward (in a first direction). When the occupant releases the lower switch 48 while pressing the lower switch 48, the lower switch 48 returns to its original position before the pressing operation.

[0031] The upper switch 50 is a push-to-relock switch. The upper switch 50 is pressed upward and forward and forward (second direction) by the occupant. When the occupant presses the upper switch 50, the upper switch 50 is pushed upward and forward and forward and locked. Therefore, even if the occupant releases the upper switch 50, the upper switch 50 is held in the locked position. When the occupant presses the lower switch 48 while the upper switch 50 is held in the locked position, the upper switch 50 is released from the locked state and returns to its original position before the pressing operation.

[0032] A display changeover switch 52 is provided on the left side of the handle cover 30. When the occupant presses the display changeover switch 52, it commands a change in the display content of the meter 40. Furthermore, if the occupant presses the display changeover switch 52 with their left hand while continuing to press the start switch 44 with their right hand, the motor 28 rotates in the reverse direction. Therefore, when the occupant releases their hand from either the start switch 44 or the display changeover switch 52, the reverse rotation of the motor 28 stops.

[0033] 4 is a block diagram of the vehicle 10 according to this embodiment. The vehicle 10 further includes a throttle opening sensor 60, a rotation angle sensor 62, a vehicle speed sensor 64, a voltage sensor 66, a current sensor 68, a temperature sensor 70, and a PCU 72.

[0034] The main switch 34 is a switch for starting the system of the vehicle 10. As described above, when the occupant turns the main switch 34 (turns it on), the main switch 34 outputs a start-up instruction signal to the PCU 72.

[0035] As described above, the start switch 44 is a switch for permitting the driving of the motor 28. In other words, the start switch 44 permits the vehicle 10 to transition to a standby state in which forward or reverse rotation of the motor 28 can be initiated. When the occupant presses the start switch 44, the start switch 44 is turned on, and a drive permission signal is output to the PCU 72.

[0036] The throttle opening sensor 60 detects the amount of rotation of the throttle grip 42 (throttle opening) and outputs the detection result to the PCU 72 .

[0037] The rotation angle sensor 62 successively detects the rotation angle of the rotor (not shown) of the motor 28 and outputs the detection result to the PCU 72 .

[0038] The vehicle speed sensor 64 successively detects the speed of the vehicle 10 and outputs the detection result to the PCU 72 .

[0039] The voltage sensor 66 sequentially detects the voltage of each of the plurality of batteries 26 and outputs the detection results to the PCU 72 .

[0040] The current sensor 68 sequentially detects the current flowing from the plurality of batteries 26 and outputs the detection results to the PCU 72 .

[0041] The temperature sensor 70 sequentially detects the temperature of each of the plurality of batteries 26 and outputs the detection result to the PCU 72. The temperature sensor 70 also sequentially detects the temperature of the motor 28 and outputs the detection result to the PCU 72. The temperature sensor 70 also sequentially detects the temperature of the PCU 72 and outputs the detection result to the PCU 72. Note that a plurality of temperature sensors 70 may respectively detect the temperatures of the plurality of batteries 26, the motor 28, and the PCU 72.

[0042] The PCU 72 has a DC / DC converter 74, an inverter 76, and a control unit 78. The DC / DC converter 74 converts the DC voltages of the plurality of batteries 26 into DC voltages of a desired voltage value and outputs the converted DC voltage to the inverter 76, thereby supplying DC power to the inverter 76. The inverter 76 converts the DC power supplied from the DC / DC converter 74 into three-phase AC power and supplies it to the motor 28.

[0043] The control unit 78 is a computer. The control unit 78 executes programs stored in the memory 80 to realize the functions of a motor control unit 82, a display control unit 84, a mode switching unit 86, a throttle opening determination unit 88, a motor stop determination unit 90, a driving state determination unit 92, and a limiting unit 94. The control unit 78 also controls the DC / DC converter 74 and the inverter 76 based on information or signals from the above-mentioned sensors and switches, thereby rotating the motor 28 (forward or reverse) or stopping the rotation of the motor 28. Note that at least a portion of the control unit 78 may be configured using an integrated circuit, a discrete device, or the like.

[0044] Specifically, a throttle opening determination unit 88 determines whether the throttle is closed or not based on the detection result of the throttle opening sensor 60. A motor stop determination unit 90 determines whether the rotor has stopped rotating or not based on the detection result of the rotation angle sensor 62.

[0045] The running state determination unit 92 determines the running state of the vehicle 10 based on the signals output from the switches and the determination results of the throttle opening determination unit 88 and the motor stop determination unit 90. Based on these signals and the determination results, the running state determination unit 92 also determines whether to rotate the motor 28 forward, reverse, or stop the motor 28.

[0046] The motor control unit 82 controls the DC / DC converter 74 and the inverter 76 based on the amount of rotation of the throttle grip 42 and the rotation angle of the rotor.

[0047] When the motor control unit 82 receives an instruction (determination result) from the driving state determination unit 92 to rotate the rotor in the forward direction, it controls the DC / DC converter 74 and the inverter 76 based on the rotation amount of the throttle grip 42 and the rotation angle of the rotor to rotate the rotor in the forward direction.

[0048] When the motor control unit 82 receives an instruction (determination result) from the running state determination unit 92 to reverse the rotor, it controls the DC / DC converter 74 and the inverter 76 to reverse the rotor.

[0049] The display control unit 84 causes the meter 40 to display information or signals from each sensor and each switch, and the processing results of each section within the control unit 78 .

[0050] When the throttle opening degree determination unit 88 determines that the throttle is closed, the mode switching unit 86 switches the driving mode based on a signal from the driving mode switching switch 46. The mode switching unit 86 also causes the currently selected driving mode to be displayed on the meter 40 via the display control unit 84. When the mode switching unit 86 switches the driving mode, it also causes the switched driving mode to be displayed on the meter 40 via the display control unit 84. Details of switching the driving mode and displaying the driving mode on the meter 40 will be described later.

[0051] The restriction unit 94 determines to restrict the switching of the driving mode by the mode switching unit 86 based on the detection results of each sensor that indicate the state of the vehicle 10. The mode switching unit 86 restricts the switching of the driving mode in accordance with the determination of the restriction unit 94.

[0052] Specifically, the limiting unit 94 determines to limit switching to the sport mode when the voltage detected by the voltage sensor 66 falls below a predetermined voltage. In other words, when the voltage of the battery 26 falls below the predetermined voltage, there is a possibility that the battery 26 will run out of power, and therefore it is necessary to limit the output of the motor 28.

[0053] Furthermore, the limiting unit 94 determines to limit switching to the sport mode when the current detected by the current sensor 68 exceeds a predetermined value. In other words, when the current flowing from the battery 26 exceeds a predetermined value, the motor 28 enters a high-output state, and therefore it is necessary to limit the output of the motor 28.

[0054] Furthermore, the limiting unit 94 determines to limit switching to the sport mode when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 70 exceeds a predetermined temperature. That is, when the motor 28 is in a high-output state and the temperature of the motor 28 exceeds a predetermined temperature, it is necessary to limit the output of the motor 28 from the viewpoint of protecting the motor 28, etc. Furthermore, when the temperature of the battery 26 exceeds a predetermined temperature, it is necessary to limit the output of power from the battery 26 and limit the output of the motor 28 from the viewpoint of protecting the battery 26, etc. Furthermore, when the processing load of the PCU 72 increases and the temperature of the PCU 72 exceeds a predetermined temperature, it is necessary to limit the operation of the PCU 72 and limit the drive of the motor 28 from the viewpoint of protecting the PCU 72, etc.

[0055] Therefore, even if an instruction to switch to the sport mode is given from the driving mode selector switch 46, the mode switching unit 86 invalidates the instruction in accordance with the determination of the restriction unit 94. In this case, the mode switching unit 86 switches the driving mode to the eco mode or the standard mode in accordance with the determination of the restriction unit 94.

[0056] Furthermore, the limiting unit 94 determines to limit the output of the motor 28 in the currently selected driving mode based on the detection results of each sensor that indicate the state of the vehicle 10. The motor control unit 82 limits the output of the motor 28 in accordance with the determination by the limiting unit 94.

[0057] Specifically, when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 70 exceeds a predetermined temperature, the limiting unit 94 determines to limit the output of the motor 28 in the currently selected driving mode. That is, as described above, when the temperature of the motor 28, the battery 26, or the PCU 72 exceeds a predetermined temperature, it is necessary to limit the output of the motor 28 from the perspective of protecting the motor 28, the battery 26, the PCU 72, etc. Therefore, regardless of whether the currently selected driving mode is the eco mode, the standard mode, or the sport mode, when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 70 exceeds the predetermined temperature, the output of the motor 28 is limited.

[0058] 5A and 5B are sequence diagrams showing switching to the eco mode, the standard mode, and the sport mode.

[0059] FIG. 5A is a sequence diagram when there is no restriction by the restriction unit 94 (see FIG. 4).

[0060] When the eco mode is selected as the driving mode, if the occupant presses the lower switch 48 of the driving mode changeover switch 46 (see Figures 2 and 4), the mode changeover unit 86 changes the driving mode to the standard mode (T11).

[0061] When the passenger presses the lower switch 48 while the standard mode is selected as the driving mode, the mode switching unit 86 switches the driving mode to the sport mode (T12).

[0062] Therefore, when the occupant presses the lower switch 48 successively, the driving mode is switched from the eco mode to the standard mode and then to the sport mode (T11 → T12).

[0063] When the sport mode is selected as the driving mode, if the occupant presses the upper switch 50, the mode switching unit 86 switches the driving mode to the eco mode (T13). Therefore, when the occupant presses the upper switch 50, the driving mode is switched from the sport mode to the eco mode (T13) without passing through the standard mode.

[0064] When the standard mode is selected as the driving mode, if the occupant presses the upper switch 50, the mode switching unit 86 switches the driving mode to the eco mode (T14). Therefore, if the occupant presses the upper switch 50 as in T13 and T14, the driving mode is switched to the eco mode.

[0065] When the sports mode is selected as the driving mode, if the occupant presses the lower switch 48, the mode switching unit 86 switches the driving mode to the standard mode (T15). Therefore, if the occupant presses the lower switch 48 repeatedly, the driving mode alternates between the standard mode and the sports mode (T12, T15).

[0066] FIG. 5B is a sequence diagram when switching to the sports mode is restricted by the restriction unit 94 (see FIG. 4).

[0067] When the standard mode is selected as the driving mode and the restriction unit 94 restricts the selection of the sport mode, the mode switching unit 86 does not switch to the sport mode even if the occupant presses the lower switch 48. In other words, the mode switching unit 86 disables the occupant's pressing of the lower switch 48 and maintains the standard mode.

[0068] When the sports mode is selected as the driving mode and the restricting unit 94 restricts the selection of the sports mode, if the occupant presses the lower switch 48, the mode switching unit 86 switches the driving mode to the standard mode (T21).

[0069] Therefore, when the restriction unit 94 restricts the selection of the sport mode, the driving mode can be switched between the eco mode and the standard mode (T11, T14).

[0070] Next, examples of how the driving mode is displayed on the meter 40 will be described with reference to Figures 6A to 10. The display method on the meter 40 changes depending on the type of driving mode. Specifically, as shown in Figures 6A to 7B, the display method on the meter 40 changes depending on the standard mode, sport mode, and eco mode.

[0071] 6A shows an example of a display in the standard mode. The screen of the meter 40 has a vehicle speed display area 100, a driving mode display area 102, and a battery display area 104. The vehicle speed display area 100 is located in the center of the screen. The vehicle speed display area 100 displays the vehicle speed. The battery display area 104 is located on the left side of the screen. The battery display area 104 displays a symbol indicating the battery 26 (see FIGS. 1 and 4 ) and the total SOC of the multiple batteries 26.

[0072] The driving mode display area 102 is provided with a status display section 106 that displays the status of the sport mode. The currently selected driving mode and non-selected driving modes are displayed on the left and right of the status display section 106. The currently selected driving mode is displayed as lit. A driving mode that is displayed as lit indicates that there is no output limitation by the limiting unit 94. In FIG. 6A , the standard mode, which is a lit driving mode, is surrounded by a solid line frame. Non-selected driving modes are turned off. In other words, a turned off driving mode indicates that the output is limited by the limiting unit 94 because it is not selected. In FIG. 6A , the sport mode, which is a turned off driving mode, is surrounded by a dashed line frame.

[0073] The status display unit 106 is displayed, for example, with a symbol representing lightning. The status display unit 106 indicates the status of the sports mode by flashing, lighting up, or turning off. When the status display unit 106 is lit, it indicates that the sports mode is selectable. When the status display unit 106 is flashing, it indicates that the sports mode is about to be restricted by the restriction unit 94. When the status display unit 106 is off, it indicates that the selection of the sports mode is being restricted by the restriction unit 94. Figure 6A illustrates a case where the status display unit 106 is lit.

[0074] 6B shows an example of the display of the sports mode. In this case, the status display unit 106 displays that the currently selected driving mode is the sports mode and that the standard mode is a non-selected driving mode.

[0075] 7A shows an example of the display of the eco mode. In the eco mode, the driving mode display area 102 displays only that the currently selected driving mode is the eco mode.

[0076] 7A, a background color display unit 108 is arranged in the vehicle speed display area 100. The background color display unit 108 displays a specific background color when, in the eco mode, the torque of the motor 28 (see FIGS. 1 and 4) is equal to or less than a predetermined value and the vehicle speed is equal to or less than a predetermined vehicle speed. In other words, by displaying the background color, the background color display unit 108 indicates that, in the eco mode, the vehicle 10 is in a state in which energy consumption is suppressed (the state of eco mode 1 in FIG. 3).

[0077] 7B shows another example of the display of the eco mode. In FIG. 7B, the background color display unit 108 does not display a background color. That is, in the eco mode, if the torque of the motor 28 exceeds a predetermined value or the vehicle speed exceeds a predetermined vehicle speed, the vehicle 10 is in a state where energy consumption is not being suppressed very much (the state of eco mode 2 in FIG. 3). In this case, the background color display unit 108 does not display a background color.

[0078] 8A and 8B are diagrams showing the transition of the screen display when the selection of the sports mode is restricted by the restricting unit 94 (see FIG. 4).

[0079] 8A shows an example of a screen display that displays a warning that the sport mode will be restricted when the restriction unit 94 has determined that the sport mode will be restricted. In this case, the sport mode is switched from a lit display to a flashing display in the driving mode display area 102. This allows the occupant to be warned that the sport mode will be restricted in the future.

[0080] 8B shows an example of a screen display when switching to the sport mode has already been restricted. In the driving mode display area 102, the sport mode indicator is off, the standard mode indicator is on, and the status indicator 106 is off. This notifies the occupant that switching to the sport mode has been restricted.

[0081] 9A and 9B are diagrams showing the state when the output in the running mode is limited by the limiting unit 94 (see FIG. 4).

[0082] FIG. 9A is a diagram illustrating the output of the motor 28 being limited by the limiting unit 94 in the sport mode. The screen further includes an output limit display unit 110. The output limit display unit 110 notifies the driver that the output of the motor 28 (see FIGS. 1 and 4) in the currently selected driving mode will be limited. When the output limit display unit 110 is lit, this indicates that the output of the motor 28 is being limited. When the output limit display unit 110 is flashing, this indicates that the output of the motor 28 will be limited after a predetermined time has elapsed. When the output limit display unit 110 is off, this indicates that the output of the motor 28 is not being limited. In FIG. 9A, the flashing of the output limit display unit 110 notifies the driver that the output of the motor 28 may be limited in the sport mode in the future.

[0083] 9B is a diagram showing the state when the output in the standard mode is limited by the limiting unit 94. In FIG. 9B, the output limit display unit 110 flashes to warn the occupant that the output of the motor 28 may be limited in the future in the standard mode.

[0084] 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display in reverse mode. In reverse mode, a reverse mode display area 112 indicating that the vehicle is in reverse mode is displayed in parallel with the vehicle speed display area 100 in the center of the screen.

[0085] Next, the operation of the vehicle 10 (see FIGS. 1, 2 and 4) will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0086] Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing the switching of the running mode when there is no restriction by the restriction unit 94 (see Fig. 4) Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing the switching operation between the standard mode and the sports mode.

[0087] In step S11, the vehicle 10 starts when the occupant turns on the main switch 34 (see FIGS. 2 and 4).

[0088] In step S12, the occupant turns on the start switch 44, and the vehicle 10 reaches a state in which it can travel forward.

[0089] In step S13, the mode switching unit 86 selects the standard mode. The mode switching unit 86 causes the display control unit 84 to display on the meter 40 an image (see FIG. 6A) indicating that the standard mode has been selected.

[0090] In step S14, the throttle opening determination unit 88 determines whether the throttle is closed.

[0091] If the throttle opening determination unit 88 determines that the throttle is closed (step S14: YES), the mode switching unit 86 proceeds to step S15. In step S15, the mode switching unit 86 determines whether the occupant has pressed the lower switch 48.

[0092] If the lower switch 48 is pressed (step S15: YES), the mode switching unit 86 proceeds to step S16. In step S16, the mode switching unit 86 changes the currently selected driving mode to the driving mode pressed by the occupant. In this case, the mode switching unit 86 changes the driving mode from the standard mode to the sport mode.

[0093] In step S17, the display control unit 84 receives the processing result from the mode switching unit 86 and switches the screen display of the meter 40. That is, the screen display of the meter 40 switches from the screen display of the standard mode (see FIG. 6A) to the screen display of the sports mode (see FIG. 6B).

[0094] Thereafter, the vehicle 10 returns to step S14 and repeats the operations of steps S14 to S17. As a result, each time the occupant presses the lower switch 48, the screen display of the meter 40 alternates between the screen display of the standard mode and the screen display of the sports mode.

[0095] Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing the switching of the driving mode when there is no restriction by the restriction unit 94 (see Fig. 4) Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing the switching operation between the standard mode and the eco mode.

[0096] After step S13 in FIG. 11, in step S21 in FIG. 12, the mode switching unit 86 (see FIG. 4) determines whether the upper switch 50 (see FIGS. 2 and 4) has been pressed.

[0097] If the upper switch 50 is pressed (step S21: YES), the control unit 78 proceeds to step S22. In step S22, the throttle opening determination unit 88 determines whether the throttle is closed.

[0098] If the throttle opening determination unit 88 determines that the throttle is closed (step S22: YES), the mode switching unit 86 proceeds to step S23. In step S23, the mode switching unit 86 changes the currently selected driving mode to the driving mode selected by the occupant. In this case, the mode switching unit 86 changes the driving mode from standard mode to eco mode.

[0099] In step S24, the display control unit 84 receives the processing result of the mode switching unit 86 and switches the screen display of the meter 40. That is, the screen display of the meter 40 switches from the screen display of the standard mode (see FIG. 6A) to the screen display of the eco mode (see FIGS. 7A and 7B).

[0100] In step S25, the mode switching unit 86 determines whether the upper switch 50 has been returned to its original position.

[0101] If the occupant presses the lower switch 48 to return the upper switch 50 to its original position (step S25: YES), the control unit 78 proceeds to step S26. In step S26, the throttle opening determination unit 88 determines whether the throttle is closed.

[0102] If the throttle opening determination unit 88 determines that the throttle is closed (step S26: YES), the mode switching unit 86 proceeds to step S27. In step S27, the mode switching unit 86 changes the currently selected driving mode to the driving mode selected by the occupant. In this case, the mode switching unit 86 changes the driving mode from eco mode to standard mode.

[0103] In step S28, the display control unit 84 receives the processing result of the mode switching unit 86 and switches the screen display of the meter 40. That is, the screen display of the meter 40 switches from the screen display of the eco mode (see FIGS. 7A and 7B) to the screen display of the standard mode (see FIG. 6A).

[0104] Thereafter, the vehicle 10 returns to step S21 and repeats the operations of steps S21 to S28, whereby the screen display of the meter 40 alternates between the screen display of the standard mode and the screen display of the eco mode.

[0105] Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing the switching of the running mode when there is a restriction imposed by the restriction unit 94 (see Fig. 4). Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing the operation when the switching to the sports mode is restricted.

[0106] In step S31, the mode switching unit 86 causes the display control unit 84 to cause the meter 40 (see FIGS. 2 and 4) to display the sports mode screen (see FIG. 6B).

[0107] In step S32, the limiting unit 94 determines whether the sports mode should be limited.

[0108] If it is determined that the sport mode should be restricted (step S32: YES), in step S33, the display control unit 84 switches the display of the sport mode in the driving mode display area 102 from a lit display to a flashing display (see FIG. 8A).

[0109] In step S34, the mode switching unit 86 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the blinking display.

[0110] If the predetermined time has elapsed (step S34: YES), the control unit 78 proceeds to step S35. In step S35, the mode switching unit 86 causes the meter 40 to display the screen in the standard mode via the display control unit 84 (see FIG. 8B).

[0111] In step S36, the restriction unit 94 restricts switching to the sport mode. As a result, even if the occupant operates the driving mode selector switch 46 to instruct switching to the sport mode, the mode switching unit 86 will invalidate the instruction from the driving mode selector switch 46.

[0112] Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing switching of the driving mode when there is a restriction by the restriction unit 94 (see Fig. 4). Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing the operation when the output of the motor 28 (see Figs. 1 and 4) is restricted for the selected driving mode.

[0113] In step S41, the mode switching unit 86 causes the meter 40 (see FIGS. 2 and 4) to display the currently selected driving mode on the screen via the display control unit 84 (see, for example, FIGS. 6A and 6B).

[0114] In step S42, the limiting unit 94 determines whether the output of the motor 28 should be limited.

[0115] If the limiting unit 94 determines that the output of the motor 28 should be limited (step S42: YES), in step S43, the mode switching unit 86 causes the output limit display unit 110 (see Figures 9A and 9B) to flash via the display control unit 84 (see Figures 9A and 9B).

[0116] In step S44, the limiting unit 94 limits the output of the motor 28 in the currently selected driving mode.

[0117] FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation in the reverse mode.

[0118] In step S51, the motor stop determination unit 90 (see FIG. 4) determines whether the motor 28 has stopped.

[0119] If it is determined that the motor 28 has stopped (step S51: YES), the control unit 78 proceeds to step S52. In step S52, the running state determination unit 92 determines whether the start switch 44 (see FIGS. 2 and 4) has been turned on.

[0120] If it is determined that the start switch 44 is turned on (step S52: YES), the vehicle 10 goes into a standby state in the reverse mode in step S53.

[0121] In step S54, the mode switching unit 86 causes the meter 40, via the display control unit 84, to display on the screen a message indicating that the standby state has been entered.

[0122] In step S55, the running state determination unit 92 determines whether the display changeover switch 52 has been pressed.

[0123] If it is determined that the display changeover switch 52 has been pressed (step S55: YES), the mode changeover unit 86 transitions to the reverse mode in step S56. At this time, the mode changeover unit 86 causes the meter 40 to display, via the display control unit 84, a screen indicating that the reverse mode has been entered (see FIG. 10).

[0124] In step S57, the motor control unit 82 receives notifications from the running state determination unit 92 and the mode switching unit 86 and controls the DC / DC converter 74 and the inverter 76. This causes the motor 28 to start rotating in the reverse direction.

[0125] In step S58, the running state determination unit 92 determines whether the display changeover switch 52 has been turned off.

[0126] If the display changeover switch 52 is turned off (step S58: YES), the motor control unit 82 stops the reverse rotation of the motor 28 in step S59.

[0127] In step S60, the running state determination unit 92 determines whether the start switch 44 has been turned off.

[0128] If the start switch 44 is turned off (step S60: YES), in step S61, the mode switching unit 86 switches the screen display of the meter 40 from the reverse mode screen display (see Figure 10) to the standard mode screen display (e.g., see Figure 6A).

[0129] In step S62, the mode switching unit 86 switches the traveling mode from the reverse mode to the standard mode.

[0130] After step S62, the vehicle 10 returns to step S51, and the processes of steps S51 to S62 are repeatedly executed.

[0131] In this embodiment, the driving mode selector switch 46 is not limited to the above configuration. The driving mode selector switch 46 may have two switches that can be operated in different directions. Therefore, the lower switch 48 and the upper switch 50 do not have to be switches that can be pressed.

[0132] The following additional notes are further disclosed regarding the above embodiment.

[0133] (Supplementary Note 1) A vehicle (10) capable of selecting a first mode, a second mode, or a third mode as a driving mode, the vehicle comprising: a switch (46) for selecting the driving mode, which is operable in a first direction and a second direction different from the first direction; and a mode switching unit (86) for switching the driving mode by operating the switch; when the switch is operated in the first direction when the first mode is selected as the driving mode, the mode switching unit switches to the second mode as the driving mode; when the switch is operated in the first direction when the second mode is selected as the driving mode, the mode switching unit switches to the third mode as the driving mode; when the switch is operated in the second direction when the third mode is selected as the driving mode, the mode switching unit switches to the first mode as the driving mode; and when the switch is operated in the second direction when the second mode is selected as the driving mode, the mode switching unit switches to the first mode as the driving mode.

[0134] This allows the vehicle to quickly switch from the third mode to the first mode without passing through the second mode, even if the vehicle has a plurality of driving modes.

[0135] (Supplementary Note 2) In the vehicle described in Supplementary Note 1, when the third mode is selected as the driving mode, the mode switching unit may switch the driving mode to the second mode when the switch is operated in the first direction.

[0136] This allows a quick transition to the second mode.

[0137] (Supplementary Note 3) In the vehicle described in Supplementary Note 1 or 2, the vehicle further includes a restriction unit (94) that restricts switching of the driving mode based on a state of the vehicle, and when the second mode is selected as the driving mode and the restriction unit restricts selection of the third mode, the mode switching unit may not switch the driving mode to the third mode even if the switch is operated in the first direction.

[0138] This allows the occupant to easily recognize that transition to the third mode is restricted.

[0139] (Supplementary Note 4) In the vehicle described in Supplementary Note 3, the vehicle further includes a display unit (40), and the display unit changes the display method depending on the type of driving mode, and when selection of the third mode is restricted, the display may be different from the display when the third mode is selectable.

[0140] This allows the occupant to more easily recognize that transition to the third mode is restricted.

[0141] (Supplementary Note 5) In the vehicle described in Supplementary Note 4, when the third mode is selected as the driving mode, if the state of the vehicle reaches a state that restricts selection of the third mode, the restriction unit may automatically transition the driving mode from the third mode to the second mode after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0142] This allows the occupant to easily recognize that the mode is being shifted to the second mode.

[0143] (Appendix 6) In the vehicle described in any one of claims 1 to 5, the vehicle may further include a display unit, the first mode being an eco mode for reducing energy consumption of the vehicle, and the display unit may display that the energy consumption is being reduced when the eco mode is selected as the driving mode and the state of the vehicle reaches a state in which the energy consumption is reduced.

[0144] By displaying the eco mode, the vehicle occupants can be notified that the vehicle is being driven efficiently.

[0145] Although the present disclosure has been described in detail, the present disclosure is not limited to the individual embodiments described above. Various additions, substitutions, modifications, partial deletions, etc. are possible in these embodiments without departing from the gist of the present disclosure or the spirit of the present disclosure derived from the content of the claims and their equivalents. These embodiments can also be implemented in combination. For example, in the above-described embodiments, the order of each operation and the order of each process are shown as examples and are not limited to these. The same applies when numerical values ​​or mathematical expressions are used in the description of the above-described embodiments.

Claims

1. A vehicle (10) capable of selecting a first mode, a second mode, or a third mode as a driving mode, comprising: a switch (46) for selecting the driving mode, which can be operated in a first direction and a second direction different from the first direction; and a mode switching unit (86) for switching the driving mode by operating the switch, wherein the mode switching unit: when the first mode is selected as the driving mode and the switch is operated in the first direction, switches the driving mode to the second mode; when the second mode is selected as the driving mode and the switch is operated in the first direction, switches the driving mode to the third mode; when the third mode is selected as the driving mode and the switch is operated in the second direction, switches the driving mode to the first mode; and when the second mode is selected as the driving mode and the switch is operated in the second direction, switches the driving mode to the first mode.

2. A vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the mode switching unit switches the driving mode to the second mode when the switch is operated in the first direction while the third mode is selected as the driving mode.

3. A vehicle as claimed in claim 1 or 2, further comprising a restriction unit (94) that restricts switching of the driving mode based on the state of the vehicle, wherein when the second mode is selected as the driving mode and the restriction unit restricts selection of the third mode, the mode switching unit does not switch the driving mode to the third mode even if the switch is operated in the first direction.

4. A vehicle as claimed in claim 3, further comprising a display unit (40), wherein the display unit changes the display method according to the type of driving mode, and when selection of the third mode is restricted, displays a different display from that when the third mode is selectable.

5. A vehicle as described in claim 4, wherein, when the third mode is selected as the driving mode, if the state of the vehicle reaches a state that restricts selection of the third mode, the restriction unit automatically shifts the driving mode from the third mode to the second mode after a predetermined time has elapsed.

6. A vehicle as claimed in claim 1 or 2, further comprising a display unit, wherein the first mode is an eco mode for reducing the energy consumption of the vehicle, and when the eco mode is selected as the driving mode and the state of the vehicle reaches a state in which the energy consumption is reduced, the display unit displays that the energy consumption is reduced.