Method for determining a vehicle battery state, diagnostic device and system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for determining a battery state of a vehicle battery, the vehicle battery having a nominal voltage of less than 48 V, and to a method for determining an alternator state of an alternator designed to charge a vehicle battery, the vehicle battery having a nominal voltage of less than 48 V. The invention further relates to a diagnostic device for carrying out said method.

Description

[0001] Hella Gutmann Solutions GmbH P149510PC00 - Late registration

[0002] Method for determining the state of a vehicle battery, diagnostic device and system

[0003] The present invention relates to a method for determining the battery status of a vehicle battery, wherein the vehicle battery has a nominal voltage of less than 48 V. The invention further relates to a diagnostic device and a system for carrying out the method.

[0004] For conventional vehicle batteries, which typically have a nominal voltage of 12 V, dedicated tools are currently used for battery diagnostics or battery condition assessment, as conventional vehicles provide no information about the battery's condition, or only do so too late. For this purpose, the tools are connected directly to the vehicle or the vehicle battery on site. Usually, the car key is first removed from the ignition. Then, the hood is opened to allow access to the vehicle battery. Next, the negative and positive terminals of the battery are connected with a black and a red cable, respectively, to measure the voltage and current supplied by the vehicle battery.

[0005] After the tests are performed, the user receives a result displayed on the tool. Combinations of these results are also possible. However, this local battery diagnostic procedure is quite time-consuming. It is not uncommon for approximately 20 minutes to pass from the start of the procedure to the test result. Furthermore, automotive knowledge is required to perform the procedure, which is why only trained specialists are usually qualified to carry out the battery diagnostic.

[0006] Even in electric and hybrid vehicles, which have an electric motor for propulsion and a traction battery to power the electric motor, it is possible to read or display information about the traction battery's charge status. However, the vehicle battery is usually decoupled from the traction battery and forms an independent system with the vehicle's electrical system. Even if the traction battery is fully charged, the vehicle may still be unable to start due to a depleted vehicle battery. Therefore, the condition of the vehicle battery in electric and hybrid vehicles can only be determined through the measurement described above.

[0007] It would be desirable to reduce the time required for battery diagnostics. Furthermore, it would be advantageous if battery diagnostics could be performed more easily and flexibly.

[0008] If the battery diagnosis is performed as described above, the recommendation to "replace battery" may be given in the case of a defective vehicle battery, but the cause of the defective battery could be a faulty alternator. Replacing the defective battery with a new one in this case will not solve the problem of the faulty alternator, and it is likely that the faulty alternator will damage the new battery, requiring it to be replaced again soon.

[0009] A device for checking a battery's condition is known from US 2015 / 0154816j Al.

[0010] The present invention is defined, inter alia, by the subject matter of the claims. Advantageous embodiments are described in the following description.

[0011] According to a first aspect, a method for determining the state of charge of a vehicle battery is provided. The vehicle battery has a nominal voltage of less than 48 V.

[0012] The procedure includes the following steps:

[0013] Receiving at least one operating information from a vehicle control unit, wherein the operating information is characteristic of the battery state of the vehicle battery or correlates with the battery state,

[0014] Determining the battery status using at least one piece of operating information.

[0015] Modern vehicles are advanced technological devices and all contain numerous electronic control units (ECUs). This document utilizes the finding that the battery's state of health can be determined from the vehicle's operating information without requiring an automotive mechanic to perform on-site measurements using specialized tools at the battery. This method can be used not only to query control units directly related to the battery, such as the battery control unit and alternator control unit, but also, and especially, control units that are not directly or only indirectly related to the battery, such as drive control units and comfort control units. The operating information can also be received and analyzed remotely, making this method well-suited for vehicle fleets and remote applications.The procedure can be performed while the vehicle is running and / or while driving. Of course, it can also be carried out traditionally in a vehicle workshop or on-site in the event of a breakdown or vehicle failure. It can be advantageous to perform the procedure at least 2, 5, or 10 minutes after the engine has started. This allows most vehicle components to "warm up," resulting in more stable measurements and more reliable operating information. For example, the voltage supplied by the vehicle battery fluctuates, especially when starting the vehicle, because the battery then has to supply energy to the starter motor. Therefore, it may be advisable to provide the operating information or collect sensor values ​​only after this initial voltage fluctuation.If the vehicle information relates to fault codes, i.e., diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), the procedure can also be performed when the vehicle is switched off, i.e., outside of operation. This is because DTCs are typically generated during operation but stored in the relevant vehicle control unit of the vehicle component, allowing them to be read out at a later time.

[0016] Determining the battery status can also be understood as performing a battery diagnosis. These terms are used synonymously in this document.

[0017] The procedure may additionally include the following steps:

[0018] Sending at least one request to the vehicle, in particular to the at least one vehicle-side control unit, to provide the operating information, and

[0019] Receiving at least one vehicle response from the vehicle, in particular from the at least one vehicle-side control unit.

[0020] The vehicle's response can include at least one operational information. The request can therefore actively request the operational information, thereby initiating the process. Specifically, the request can include a request to provide the operational information. Alternatively, instead of an active request, the vehicle itself can provide the operational information, which is then automatically transmitted when a connection is established. In this case, "receiving the operational information" is understood as passive listening.

[0021] The request can include: providing current operating information. If no current operating information is available in the vehicle or the control unit, the vehicle's control unit can request at least one other control unit or sensor to provide current operating information.

[0022] The at least one piece of operating information can be or include operating information from at least one vehicle component, one sensor, and / or one vehicle control unit. The vehicle component can be, for example, a vehicle battery, an alternator, a drive component, and / or a comfort component of the vehicle. The control unit can be assigned to the vehicle component and, together with the vehicle component and optionally at least one additional sensor, form a unit. The vehicle component and the control unit can also be the same component; in this case, the vehicle component constitutes the control unit. In this case, operating information from the control unit itself is evaluated to determine the battery status. This can be the case, for example, with the gateway (see below).

[0023] The vehicle's drive system and comfort components differ from the alternator and battery, which are not designed for comfort functions or powering the vehicle. However, the alternator and battery may be designed, at least indirectly or directly, to supply energy to the drive system or comfort components. Therefore, operating information from the drive system or comfort components can be used to make more precise statements about the battery or alternator's condition. Reduced functionality of these components, such as weak ventilation, delayed window operation, or reduced engine power, can, for example, be an early indicator of declining battery performance.

[0024] The drive component may include or be at least one of the following components: engine, exhaust turbocharger, transmission, engine control unit, fuel pump control unit, exhaust monitoring control unit, brake control unit, tire pressure control unit, chassis control unit, vehicle dynamics control unit, high-voltage control units, exhaust turbocharger control unit and / or transmission control unit.

[0025] The comfort component may include or be at least one of the following components: heating, cooling, air conditioning, heating control unit, driver assistance control units, infotainment control unit, telematics control unit, communication control units, door / flap control unit, lighting control unit, central control units, input control units, display control units, cooling control unit and / or air conditioning control unit.

[0026] Multiple operating information points from a single vehicle component can be used to determine the battery state of health. Furthermore, operating information from multiple vehicle components can also be used to determine the battery state of health. It is therefore possible to receive operating information from at least two different vehicle components and determine the battery state of health using the received operating parameters. If specific operating information from a vehicle component is still missing for a reliable determination of the battery state of health, it can be actively requested, for example, via a further query.

[0027] The operating information is provided by at least one vehicle-side control unit and / or sent to an external component, for example directly or at least indirectly via a vehicle bus system and a vehicle-side gateway. For example, the vehicle-side control unit is or includes a battery control unit, on-board power supply control unit, alternator control unit, engine control unit, and / or gateway.

[0028] Multiple operating information from a control unit can be used to determine the battery state. Furthermore, operating information from several control units can also be used to determine the battery state. It can therefore be configured that operating information from at least two different vehicle control units is received, and the battery state is determined using the received operating parameters. These at least two different vehicle control units are typically assigned to at least two different vehicle components. If specific operating information is still missing for a reliable determination of the battery state, it can be actively requested, for example, via a corresponding query.

[0029] In addition to the aforementioned vehicle-side control unit, the vehicle may include a battery control unit and / or an alternator control unit, whereby, in addition to the aforementioned operating information, at least one operating information from the battery control unit and / or the alternator control unit is used to determine the battery status.

[0030] The operating information includes, for example, an operating parameter of the vehicle component and / or an operating state of the vehicle component. Specifically, the operating information can include, for example, at least one of the following elements: fault code, DTC, temperature, voltage, current, and / or electrical resistance. These can be measured using suitable sensors. Further possible operating information or sensor measurements are listed below.

[0031] Sometimes, it is sufficient to use operating parameters to determine the battery's state of health without actually using the operating condition itself. At least one of these operating parameters can be measured by a sensor, such as one installed in the vehicle, particularly on or within a vehicle component, and / or derived from the sensor's measured values. The sensor can be assigned to a vehicle component. For example, a high or low battery temperature measured by a vehicle battery temperature sensor can provide information about the battery's state of health. Alternatively, the sensor can be designed as an environmental sensor and, as such, measure parameters from the vehicle's environment. Another approach involves additionally considering a measurement from an environmental sensor when determining the battery's state of health. In this case, a temperature sensor could, for example, measure the ambient temperature.High or low ambient temperatures affect the performance of the vehicle battery or the performance of the drive or comfort components, which is why the current ambient temperature plays a role in the battery's condition. At least one piece of operating information is preferably transmitted digitally. Analog measurement signals or operating parameters can be converted into digital values ​​before transmission. The at least one piece of operating information can be sent and received as a data packet.

[0032] Possible sensor measurements or operating information that can be measured for the drive component or the comfort component typically include at least one of the following subtractable parameters: coolant temperature, engine temperature, oil temperature, vehicle speed, engine speed, engine torque, ambient temperature (outside temperature), ambient air pressure, boost pressure of an exhaust gas turbocharger of the drive engine, selected gear of a vehicle transmission, electrical current, electrical voltage, electrical resistance, etc. The engine can be an electric motor or an internal combustion engine.

[0033] For battery diagnostics, target operating parameters can be compared with actual operating parameters and / or target operating states with actual operating states. Various operating parameters can be correlated, for example, different operating parameters of a single vehicle component, different operating parameters of different vehicle components, or the same operating parameters of different vehicle components. By comparing these parameters with standard values ​​or tables, the battery's condition can then be determined. For example, if the vehicle battery has a high internal resistance and a low voltage, it can be concluded that the vehicle battery is defective. As already mentioned, the operating information of a vehicle component can be compared or correlated with other operating information to then make a statement about the operating information or the vehicle's condition.Thus, the power consumption of a coolant pump can be assessed differently at low outside temperatures (e.g., less than 0 °C) than at high outside temperatures (e.g., more than 30 °C).

[0034] In a training course, the operating information of the drive component and / or comfort component can be compared or correlated with operating information from the vehicle battery and / or alternator to make a statement about the vehicle's condition. For example, operating information such as current draw (or other operating information mentioned in this document) of the drive component and / or comfort component can be compared with operating information from the vehicle battery such as battery voltage (or other operating information mentioned in this document).

[0035] Furthermore, at least one (preferably several) drive component and / or comfort component can be selectively activated. If activating the respective vehicle component has a specific effect on a measured sensor value or operating information, causing the sensor value to exceed or fall below a certain threshold, further conclusions can be drawn about the battery's condition. For example, if the measured voltage drops significantly when consumers (e.g., rear window defroster, air conditioning compressor) are switched on, this indicates an overloaded or aging battery. Typically, a sensor voltage or actuator voltage is measured. The voltages can be measured, for example, either at an I / O input on the respective control unit, or the sensors and / or actuators themselves provide the voltage as a digital value.

[0036] When malfunctions, failures, or errors occur, the affected vehicle component or the corresponding vehicle control unit can trigger a corresponding fault code, such as a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). The fault code is usually generated by a vehicle control unit and stored in the vehicle's memory. The fault code thus provides information about the operating status of the vehicle component or control unit. Therefore, if fault codes are available for the queried control units, it is advisable to use them when determining the battery status. However, the operating information from the control unit may not be suitable for a reliable battery status determination when a specific DTC is present, in which case a different control unit should be queried.

[0037] The procedure can therefore include the following step: Determining, preferably based on the presence of fault codes, whether the operating information is suitable for determining the battery status. If it is determined that the operating information is unsuitable, for example, that the corresponding control unit should not be used, a further request can be sent to the vehicle to obtain operating information from a different control unit.

[0038] The battery condition of a vehicle battery can include at least one of the following parameters: state of charge (SoC), state of health (SoH), aging, remaining capacity, and / or internal resistance. Based on the determined battery condition, a result and / or a recommendation for action can be generated, such as "Battery OK," "Charge battery," "Replace battery," "Battery performance reduced," "Battery condition critical," and / or "Check battery." Furthermore, after repeated evaluations of operating information, i.e., repeated determinations of the battery condition, a prognosis for the battery's condition or aging can be generated, particularly by comparison with known tables or curves. This enables preventive maintenance.

[0039] The operating information can be forwarded before being received via the vehicle's diagnostic interface. The vehicle's control unit can be connected to the diagnostic interface via a vehicle bus system. If the control unit is a gateway, it is often directly connected to the diagnostic interface. A diagnostic device is often used to receive the operating information from the vehicle's control unit and determine the battery status. The diagnostic device does not have to be part of the vehicle and / or can be located outside of it. The diagnostic device can be, in particular, a mobile device, a server, and / or a vehicle diagnostic tool, or it can include these. The process steps described above can therefore be carried out by the diagnostic device, specifically by the mobile device, a server, and / or a vehicle diagnostic tool.The diagnostic device can be physically separated from the vehicle during the procedure, i.e., it can be neither electrically nor mechanically connected to the vehicle.

[0040] Procedure features that can be performed on the vehicle side, and are triggered, for example, by an external request, can include at least one of the following steps:

[0041] Sending, through at least one vehicle-side control unit, at least one operating information, wherein the operating information is characteristic of the battery state of the vehicle battery or correlates with the battery state,

[0042] Receiving at least one request to send operating information and / or measure operating parameters, measuring an operating parameter using a sensor, measuring an operating parameter of a vehicle component using a sensor,

[0043] Sending, through which at least one vehicle control unit, at least one vehicle response, wherein the at least one vehicle response includes the operating information, in particular the operating parameter.

[0044] The vehicle battery is specifically designed to supply electrical power to a vehicle's electrical system. For the purposes of this document, the vehicle battery is not a vehicle traction battery. A vehicle traction battery generally delivers high voltage and, in many applications, has a nominal voltage of 400 V or even 800 V. In the automotive sector, high voltage is usually defined as a nominal voltage of 48 V or more. A nominal voltage is typically considered low voltage if it is less than 48 V. Therefore, the nominal voltage of the vehicle battery is a low voltage in this sense. Often, the nominal voltage of the vehicle battery, as described in this document, is at most 30 V, or at most 15 V. The nominal voltage might, for example, be a typical value of 12 V for motor vehicles or a typical value of 24 V for commercial vehicles or trucks.The vehicle battery can, for example, be designed as a voltage source for the vehicle's electrical system, a starter motor, lighting and / or for the ignition of the vehicle.

[0045] The vehicle component mentioned above could be an alternator. The alternator is typically designed to charge the vehicle battery while the vehicle is running / driving and is also known as an alternator, generator, or dynamo.

[0046] The operating parameters of a vehicle component can also be used to determine its operating state. For example, if operating parameters are measured that deviate significantly from a norm, the operating state "vehicle component is defective" can be concluded.

[0047] According to another aspect, a method for determining the alternator's state of charge is provided, where the alternator is designed to charge a vehicle battery. The method comprises the following steps:

[0048] Receiving at least one operating information, preferably operating information from a drive component, a comfort component, an alternator and / or a vehicle battery, wherein the operating information is characteristic of the alternator state or correlates with the alternator state, determining the alternator state using the operating information.

[0049] This method can be claimed individually. Features disclosed only in connection with the method for determining the battery state can also be combined with the method for determining the alternator state. Conversely, the method or its process steps can also be combined with the method for determining a battery state described above.

[0050] The alternator's condition can, in turn, be characteristic of or correlate with the battery's condition. Optionally, the aforementioned step "receiving at least one operating information signal from a vehicle control unit, where the operating information is characteristic of or correlates with the vehicle battery's condition" can include the steps "receiving at least one operating information signal from an alternator, where the operating information is characteristic of or correlates with the alternator's condition, and determining the alternator's condition using the operating information." Alternatively, these steps can also be provided additionally.

[0051] The procedure may further exhibit:

[0052] Determining the battery condition based on the alternator condition.

[0053] If the alternator is faulty, for example, delivering too high or too low a voltage, overheating, or suffering from a mechanical defect, this can directly affect the vehicle battery. Even if the battery is currently functioning correctly—for example, because the alternator malfunctioned recently, the battery was fully charged after a long drive, or it was recently replaced—a faulty alternator could damage the battery in the short or medium term, or prevent it from charging sufficiently. In this case, the battery's condition can be predicted.Similar to the above, the alternator's operating information can include operating parameters such as voltage, resistance, temperature, current, or an alternator operating state, which may be characterized by at least one DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code). All features disclosed in connection with the battery's condition can also apply to and be claimed for the alternator's condition, unless technically excluded or impractical.

[0054] According to another aspect, a diagnostic device is proposed. The diagnostic device is designed to perform at least one of the procedures of the type described above.

[0055] The diagnostic device often includes a communication device and a processor. The communication device can be connected to a vehicle-side diagnostic interface, in particular electrically, mechanically, and / or via a wired or wireless connection. The communication device is designed to receive at least one operating information signal from the vehicle-side control unit. The processor is designed to determine the battery or alternator status using the at least one operating information signal from the vehicle-side control unit.

[0056] According to a further aspect, a system is proposed. The system comprises the diagnostic device of the type described above and a further communication device configured to forward operating information from the vehicle's control unit to the diagnostic device. The diagnostic device and the further communication device are preferably connected to each other via an air interface. The communication device can be connected to a vehicle's diagnostic interface, in particular electrically, mechanically, for example via a plug connection, and / or wirelessly.

[0057] The vehicle described in this document can be a vehicle with an internal combustion engine, a hybrid vehicle with an internal combustion engine and electric drive, or an electric vehicle powered solely by an electric drive. The electric vehicle can then have a traction battery with a nominal voltage of more than 48 V, as well as the vehicle battery with a nominal voltage of less than 48 V discussed in detail in this document.

[0058] It should be emphasized here that features mentioned only in relation to the method can also be claimed for the devices or systems mentioned, and vice versa. It is understood that the embodiments described above can be combined with one another, provided that the combinations are not mutually exclusive.

[0059] The following section explains embodiments of the invention in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The figures are schematic and partially simplified. They show:

[0060] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a system for performing battery diagnostics;

[0061] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of another system for performing battery diagnostics;

[0062] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of another system for performing battery diagnostics;

[0063] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of another system for performing battery diagnostics;

[0064] Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of another system for performing battery diagnostics;

[0065] Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of a battery diagnostic procedure.

[0066] In the figures, recurring features are identified by the same reference symbols. Figures 1-5 show schematic representations of various systems 100 for performing a vehicle 10 diagnostic test (vehicle diagnostics). Specifically, the diagnostic test is a vehicle battery diagnostic test. The vehicle 10 could be, for example, a passenger car, a motorcycle, a truck, or similar. The vehicle 10 has a large number of control units 11, 12, e.g., at least 10 or more. Many or all of the control units 11, 12 are each assigned to at least one vehicle component. The increasing networking of control units 11, 12 in modern motor vehicles offers ever better possibilities for influencing functionalities in the vehicle 10, e.g., improved diagnostic capabilities in the event of a fault or possibilities for remote control of functions and / or components of the vehicle 10.The control units 11 and 12 are usually interconnected, for example, via a vehicle bus system 16, typically a CAN bus system. The control unit 11 in Fig. 1 can be representative of a first group of control units 11. The second control unit 12 in Fig. 1 can be representative of a second group of control units 12.

[0067] The control units 11 and 12 are typically each connected to a variety of sensors that record 10 measured values ​​or operating parameters during vehicle operation. Possible sensor measurements include, for example, coolant temperature, engine temperature, oil temperature, vehicle speed, engine speed, engine torque, ambient temperature (outside temperature), ambient air pressure, boost pressure of the exhaust gas turbocharger of the drive engine, the selected gear of the vehicle's transmission 10, electrical current, electrical voltage, electrical resistance, etc. If a measured value from a sensor falls below or exceeds a certain target value range, depending on the sensor size, the corresponding control unit 11 or 12 often generates a fault code, which is usually stored in a memory of the respective control unit 11 or 12.The fault code is assigned to a fault condition and includes, for example, a code number for identifying malfunctions that can occur during the operation of a vehicle. The fault code is also referred to as a diagnostic trouble code (DTC). Furthermore, the control units 11, 12 can be connected directly or at least indirectly, e.g., via the vehicle bus system 16 such as the CAN bus system 16, to a vehicle diagnostic interface 14. For the sake of simplicity, instead of referring to individual components 11, 12 of the vehicle 10, reference is sometimes made below only to the vehicle 10.

[0068] The vehicle 10 has a vehicle battery 13, which typically has a nominal voltage of 12 V in passenger cars or a nominal voltage of 24 V in trucks. The vehicle battery 13 is designed to supply power to the vehicle's electrical system and is typically configured as a voltage source for a starter, lighting, and / or the ignition of the vehicle 10. The control units 11 and 12 are also usually electrically connected to the vehicle battery 13 and draw their energy from it, at least temporarily.

[0069] Some electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles also have a traction battery which is used with a significantly higher nominal voltage of 400 V or 800 V to drive an electric motor of the vehicle 10.

[0070] Figure 1 further shows a diagnostic device 20, which typically comprises a control and processing unit, a memory, and communication means. The diagnostic device 20 can usually be connected to the vehicle diagnostic interface 14 of the vehicle 10 via signal lines 15 (i.e., wired) and thus communicate with the CAN bus system 16 and the control units 11, 12.

[0071] In some embodiments, the diagnostic device 20 is designed and configured as a dedicated vehicle diagnostic device to perform a diagnosis of the vehicle 10, in particular of the vehicle battery 13.

[0072] In some embodiments, the diagnostic device 20 can be designed as an OBD dongle, which primarily mediates communication between the vehicle 10 and external units 30, 40, cf. Figs. 2-5. The abbreviation OBD used in this document stands for "on-board diagnosis".

[0073] The diagnostic device 20 typically has a connector that is compatible with and can be plugged into the vehicle diagnostic interface 14. Connecting the connector to the vehicle diagnostic interface 14 creates an electrical and mechanical connection between the two. The connector can be integrated directly into the housing of the diagnostic device 20, for example, in the case of a dongle. Alternatively, the connector can be connected to other components of the diagnostic device 20 via an extension cable, for example, in the case of a dedicated vehicle diagnostic tool. In some cases, a wireless communication connection between the diagnostic device 20 and the vehicle 10 and the control units 11 and 12 may be possible, either alternatively or additionally, for example, a short-range wireless connection such as Bluetooth or WiFi.The diagnostic device 20 can be configured to process outgoing data streams from the control units 11, 12 and / or to process data streams from external units 30, 40 to the vehicle 10, particularly if the diagnostic device is an OBD dongle. The diagnostic device 20 can have a first transmitting and receiving unit and a second transmitting and receiving unit, one for communication or data stream to the vehicle 10 and the other for communication or data stream from the vehicle 10. As shown in Fig. 1, communication solely between the vehicle and the diagnostic device is also possible, i.e., without additional units 30, 40.

[0074] The diagnostic device 20 can be communicatively connected to other units 30, 40 via air interfaces 24, 25, 35. Air interface 24, which connects the diagnostic device 20 to the mobile device 30, can be configured as a near-field connection, for example, Bluetooth or WiFi / WLAN. Air interfaces 25, 35 can, for example, include connections via a mobile network according to one of the mobile communication standards GIGS or higher, particularly when a connection between one of the units 20, 30 and the server 40 is established via them. The diagnostic device 20 can be uniquely identifiable by an identification feature, e.g., IMEI (international mobile equipment identity).

[0075] In some embodiments, the control unit 11 is configured to receive and send data via the vehicle bus system 16 within the vehicle 10. The control unit 11 may, for example, be responsible for ensuring safety functions. Exemplary control units 11 include an on-board power supply control unit and / or a gateway. Depending on the manufacturer, the gateway and / or the on-board power supply control unit are present in the vehicle 10 and, together with the diagnostic interface 24, form a communication bridge between the vehicle 10 and external units 20, 30, 40.

[0076] The gateway is typically designed as a communication device within the vehicle 10 and enables communication between the vehicle 10 and the outside world via the diagnostic interface 14. The gateway can thus act as a data distributor for communication within the vehicle 10 and, via the communication interface 14, with the outside world. Often, the gateway supports various vehicle bus systems 16 such as Ethernet, CAN, and LIN, and can, for example, be connected to an additional diagnostic bus system. The diagnostic bus system can be part of the vehicle bus system 16 or exist separately from the vehicle bus system 16 and be connected to the vehicle bus system 16 via the gateway.

[0077] The term "on-board network control unit" or abbreviated BSG, in English "body control module" (BCM), refers to one or more control units in the vehicle 10 that directly control electrical consumers or components in the vehicle's electrical system (such as lighting or windshield washer system), process data from the vehicle bus systems 16 (LIN, CAN, FlexRay), and / or also function as a gateway for diagnostic services. Comfort functions such as seat heating or ambient lighting are also typically controlled by the BCM.

[0078] Exemplary control units 12 include a battery control unit for controlling the vehicle battery 13, an alternator control unit for controlling the alternator, drive control units for controlling drive components of the vehicle 10 such as the engine or transmission, and / or comfort control units for controlling comfort systems such as heating or cooling, or other comfort components mentioned in this document. According to one aspect of this document, a method for determining the battery state of the vehicle battery 13 is provided. The steps S5, S10, S15, and S20 described below can be performed, for example, by the diagnostic device 20, the mobile terminal 30, or the server 40. A schematic flow of the method is shown in Fig. 6.

[0079] The procedure consists of the following steps:

[0080] S10 Receiving at least one operating information from at least one vehicle control unit 11, 12, wherein the operating information is characteristic of the battery state of the vehicle battery 13 or correlates with the battery state.

[0081] The operating information may be operating information of a vehicle component, where the vehicle component includes, for example, a drive component and / or a comfort component of the vehicle 10.

[0082] The operating information can include an operating parameter of the vehicle component and / or an operating state of the vehicle component. Typical operating parameters suitable for battery diagnostics include, for example, the temperature, voltage, current, and / or electrical resistance of the respective vehicle component. Additional operating parameters include, for example (where applicable), speed, torque, rotational speed, power, and / or pressure of the respective vehicle component, or within or near the respective vehicle component, as well as ambient temperature, alternator load, actual torque of the air conditioning compressor, actual current draw of the rear window defroster, rotational speed of electric motors, starter motor, fan motor, terminal condition, evaluation of the electrically performed compression test, actual control settings vs. target control settings, and other actual operating parameters, in particular those mentioned above.The operating information is preferably transmitted digitally, in particular as a data packet. At least one operating parameter can be measured by a sensor installed in the vehicle 10, in particular on or in the vehicle component, or on or in the control unit 11, 12, and / or determined from measured values ​​obtained by the sensor. The sensors described above are suitable for this purpose.

[0083] Environmental sensors are also suitable for the described method. For example, the hysteresis of a vehicle battery differs at low ambient temperatures, such as sub-zero temperatures, compared to high ambient temperatures, such as above 30°C. Ambient temperature can therefore also be included as a relevant parameter in determining the battery's state of charge.

[0084] Several options are conceivable: different operating information from a single vehicle component can be sent via a control unit 11, 12, different operating information from different vehicle components can be sent via a control unit 11, 12, or different operating information from different vehicle components can be sent to the control unit 11 via different control units 12.

[0085] The vehicle component can be or include a drive component and / or a comfort component of the vehicle 10.

[0086] Additionally or alternatively, the vehicle component can be the vehicle battery 13, the alternator of the vehicle 10 (i.e., the generator of the vehicle 10), the vehicle bus system 16, or another component of the vehicle 10. The vehicle component can also be the control unit 11, 12 itself. In this case, the control unit 11, 12 sends its operating information to the unit 20, 30, 40.

[0087] S20 Determining the battery status using at least one operating information from the vehicle component.

[0088] The battery condition of the vehicle battery 13 can include or be at least one of the following parameters: state of charge, state of charge (SoC), health, state of health (SoH), aging, remaining capacity, and / or internal resistance. Furthermore, remaining capacity, usable battery charge, and / or learned battery capacity after a battery replacement or if the replacement battery differs from the original battery can also be considered as battery condition parameters.

[0089] The following step can then be carried out:

[0090] Determining the battery status by correlating or comparing the operating information of the drive component and / or comfort component with the operating information of the vehicle battery and / or alternator.

[0091] Before being sent (or received by one of the units 20, 30, 40), the operating information can be sent from the control unit 12 to the control unit 11 and forwarded via the vehicle diagnostic interface 14 of the vehicle 10 to external units 20, 30, 40.

[0092] Optionally, operational information can be requested via an inquiry. In this case, the procedure may include the following further steps:

[0093] S5 Sending at least one request to the vehicle 10, in particular to the at least one vehicle-side control unit 11, 12, and

[0094] S15 Receiving at least one vehicle response from the vehicle 10, in particular from the at least one vehicle control unit 11, 12, wherein the at least one vehicle response includes the operating information.

[0095] Steps S10 and S15 can be implemented in a single step. The request can, in particular, include a request to provide operational information, specifically current operational information or actual operational information.

[0096] The procedure may alternatively or additionally include the following steps: receiving operational information that is characteristic of or correlates with the alternator state,

[0097] Determining the alternator condition using the operating information from the vehicle's control unit 11, 12.

[0098] Regarding possible operational information, reference can be made to what was said above concerning the battery status.

[0099] The operating information can be used to determine whether the alternator is electrically, mechanically, and / or thermally sound. Furthermore, it can be checked whether the alternator is switching on and / or off correctly, or whether the alternator is providing / able to provide the necessary power to charge the vehicle battery.

[0100] The alternator's condition can correlate with, or even be characteristic of, the battery's condition. Therefore, the battery's condition can, in turn, be determined based on the alternator's condition.

[0101] For battery diagnostics, target operating parameters can be compared with actual operating parameters and / or target operating states with actual operating states. Various operating parameters can be correlated, for example, different operating parameters of a single vehicle component, different operating parameters of different vehicle components, or the same operating parameters of different vehicle components. By comparing these parameters with standard values ​​or tables, the battery state can then be determined. Table 1 below shows a few examples of operating information and the resulting battery state.

[0102] Table 1: Operating information and battery status

[0103] The resting voltage listed in Table 1 is the unloaded voltage of battery 13, specifically after the ignition has been switched off and all electrical consumers have gone into standby mode. The battery voltage listed in the table can be measured in any state of battery 13 (loaded and unloaded) or vehicle condition. Both operating parameters, resting voltage and battery voltage, can therefore be measured and compared with target values.

[0104] Table 2 illustrates how the alternator's condition can be derived from various operating information. If the alternator is defective, this generally has a direct impact on the future battery condition. Specifically, battery 13 cannot be properly charged or may even be damaged if the alternator is defective.

[0105]

[0106] Table 2: Operating information and alternator condition

[0107] In some embodiments, the diagnostic device 20 receives the operating information and derives the battery status from it. As already indicated above, the diagnostic device 20 is not part of the vehicle 10 and can be located outside the vehicle 10.

[0108] The vehicle diagnostic device 20, the mobile terminal 30, and / or the server 40 can each have a communication device to enable communication with the other units. The reciprocal communication between units 20, 30, and 40 is indicated by lines in Figures 1-5. Dashed lines indicate wireless communication via an air interface, while solid lines indicate wired communication.

[0109] Furthermore, the diagnostic device 20, the mobile terminal 30, and / or the server 40 can each have a processor for evaluating data or determining the battery status from the operating information. The operating information can be received via the communication device of units 20, 30, and 40 and subsequently evaluated to determine the battery status, or forwarded so that the battery status determination can take place in another unit. The procedure can be carried out while the vehicle 10 is in operation and / or while driving. Alternatively, the procedure can also be carried out in the workshop or at another location. In any case, it is not necessary for the unit 20, 30, or 40 that evaluates the operating information to be physically present near the vehicle 20. Rather, the evaluation of the operating information to determine the battery status can also take place remotely.

[0110] The remote evaluation of the operating information for battery diagnostics is shown in Figures 2-5. Here, the operating information is sent, for example, from the control unit 11 via the diagnostic interface 14 and the signal lines 15 to the device 20, which then forwards the operating information to a mobile terminal 30 (Figs. 2, 4) or to a server 40 (Figs. 2, 4).

[0111] 3, 5). In Figures 2 and 3, the battery status is then determined in the mobile device 30 and server 40, respectively. In Figures 4 and 5, the operating information is sent again from the mobile device 30 to the server 40 and from the server 40 to the mobile device 30, where the battery diagnosis is then performed.

[0112] The present application allows, among other things, the following advantages and technical effects to be achieved through the analysis of operational information from comfort and drive components:

[0113] 1. Early detection of battery problems through indirect indicators

[0114] Comfort and drive components are typically sensitive to voltage and current fluctuations. Reduced functionality—such as weak ventilation, delayed window operation, or reduced engine power—can indicate a declining battery performance at an early stage, even before classic measurements like voltage or internal resistance reach critical thresholds.

[0115] 2. Enhanced diagnostic capabilities without additional sensors

[0116] Using existing control units and sensors (e.g., air conditioning compressor torque, seat heating current draw, electric motor speed) enables comprehensive battery diagnostics without additional hardware. This reduces costs and complexity.

[0117] 3. Context-sensitive assessment of battery status

[0118] The analysis can be performed taking into account the actual usage context. For example, the power consumption of the coolant pump is assessed differently at low outside temperatures than under summer conditions – which significantly increases the validity of the diagnosis.

[0119] 4. Identification of interactions between battery and consumers

[0120] By correlating operating parameters – such as battery voltage with the current draw of comfort systems – conclusions can be drawn about the battery's load capacity and remaining power reserve. This is particularly relevant for vehicles with high electrical loads.

[0121] 5. Improved root cause analysis

[0122] If comfort functions fail or drive components malfunction, analyzing the associated operating information can determine whether the cause lies in the battery, the alternator, or the component itself. This prevents unnecessary component replacements.

[0123] 6. Real-time and remote diagnostic capability through connected vehicle architecture

[0124] Since many components are connected via the vehicle bus system, their operating data can also be collected and analyzed remotely – for example, via telematics systems. This enables location-independent battery and system diagnostics and is ideal for fleet management or breakdown services while driving or remotely.

[0125] 7. Condition forecasting through trend analysis

[0126] Repeated evaluation of operating information over time (e.g. increasing current consumption with constant power output) allows for a prediction of battery aging and enables preventive maintenance.

[0127] 8. Reduced diagnostic effort through the use of existing data

[0128] The operating information is read directly from the control units – without a technician having to physically check the battery or open the vehicle. This saves time and makes diagnostics accessible even to laypersons or fleet operators.

[0129] 9. Detection of Load Behavior and Voltage Drops During Activation: If the voltage drops significantly when consumers (e.g., rear window defroster, air conditioning compressor) are switched on, this indicates an overloaded or aging battery. Such dynamic effects are particularly telling.

[0130] 10. Enhanced diagnostic capabilities for hybrid and fully electric vehicles

[0131] In vehicles with a high-voltage battery, the 12V battery is often electrically decoupled from the high-voltage system. Nevertheless, it plays a central role, as numerous comfort and drive components are supplied directly via the 12V electrical system – regardless of the traction battery's state of charge.

[0132] Especially in fully electric vehicles, a functioning 12V battery is essential: without it, the vehicle cannot be activated, as safety-relevant testing and release mechanisms are typically initiated and controlled exclusively via the 12V system. Analyzing the current draw and response behavior of connected devices therefore provides early indications of the 12V battery's condition and enables targeted condition monitoring – without the need for additional sensors.

[0133] Reference symbol list

[0134] 10 vehicles

[0135] 11 Vehicle control unit

[0136] 12 Vehicle control unit

[0137] 13 Vehicle battery

[0138] 14 OBD interface

[0139] 15 signal lines

[0140] 16 vehicle bus system

[0141] 20 Vehicle diagnostic device / OBD dongle

[0142] 24 Near-field connection

[0143] 25 Air interface mobile device

[0144] Air interface

[0145] server

[0146] system

Claims

Hella Gutmann Solutions GmbH P149510PC00 Patent claims 1. Method for determining the state of charge of a vehicle battery (13), wherein the vehicle battery (13) has a nominal voltage of less than 48 V, comprising the steps: Receiving at least one operating information of at least one vehicle component from a vehicle-side control unit (11, 12), wherein the operating information is characteristic of the battery state of the vehicle battery (13) or correlates with the battery state, Determining the battery state using at least one operating information, wherein the vehicle component comprises a drive component and / or a comfort component of the vehicle (10).

2. The method of claim 1, comprising the steps of: Determining the battery status by correlating or comparing the operating information of the drive component and / or comfort component with the operating information of the vehicle battery and / or alternator.

3. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, when determining the battery state, an additional measurement parameter from an environmental sensor, in particular a temperature sensor, is taken into account.

4. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the steps of: Sending at least one request to the vehicle (10), in particular to the at least one vehicle-side control unit (11, 12), to provide the operating information, and Receiving at least one vehicle response from the vehicle (10), in particular from the at least one vehicle control unit (11, 12), wherein the at least one vehicle response includes the operating information.

5. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vehicle-side control unit (11, 12) is or comprises a control unit of the drive component and / or the comfort component.

6. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein additionally operating information is received from a battery control unit, on-board power supply control unit, alternator control unit, engine control unit and / or gateway.

7. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vehicle (10) comprises, in addition to the vehicle-side control unit (11, 12), a battery control unit and / or an alternator control unit, wherein, for the determination of the battery state, at least one operating information from the battery control unit and / or the alternator control unit is used.

8. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the operating information comprises an operating parameter and / or an operating state, wherein the operating information includes or is at least one of the following elements: fault code, DTC, temperature, voltage, current and / or electrical resistance.

9. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the battery state of the vehicle battery (13) comprises or is at least one of the following parameters: state of charge, SoC state, health state, SoH state, aging, residual capacity and / or internal resistance.

10. Method according to one of the preceding claims, insofar as it relates back to claim 8, wherein the at least one operating parameter is measured by a sensor and / or is determined from measured values ​​obtained by the sensor.

11. A method according to any of the foregoing claims, comprising the steps of: Receiving at least one operating information, preferably operating information from the drive component and / or comfort component, wherein the operating information is characteristic of the alternator state or correlates with the alternator state, Determining the alternator state using the operating information, wherein the alternator state is characteristic of or correlated with the battery state, and Determining the battery condition based on the alternator condition.

12. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the operating information is forwarded before being received via a vehicle diagnostic interface (14) of the vehicle (10), wherein the vehicle-side control unit (12) is connected to the vehicle diagnostic interface (14) via a vehicle bus system (16).

13. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the method is carried out during the operation of the vehicle (10) and / or during a journey.

14. A method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a diagnostic device receives the operating information and determines the battery status, wherein the diagnostic device is not part of the vehicle (10) and / or is arranged outside the vehicle (10), wherein the diagnostic device is in particular a mobile The terminal device (30), a server (40) and / or a vehicle diagnostic device (20).

15. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein operating information is received from at least two different vehicle control units (11, 12) which are assigned to at least two different vehicle components, and the battery status is determined using the operating parameters.

16. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one piece of operational information is transmitted digitally and / or as a data packet.

17. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one vehicle component comprises a further vehicle component which is or comprises an alternator and / or a vehicle battery.

18. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vehicle-side control unit (11, 12) is associated with the vehicle component and preferably forms a unit together with the vehicle component, or wherein the vehicle-side control unit forms the vehicle component.

19. Method for determining the alternator condition of a vehicle (10), comprising the steps: Receiving at least one operating information of at least one vehicle component from a vehicle-side control unit (11, 12), wherein the operating information is characteristic of the alternator state or correlates with the alternator state, Determining the alternator condition using at least one piece of operating information, wherein the vehicle component comprises a drive component and / or a comfort component of the vehicle (10).

20. Device (20, 30, 40) configured for carrying out the method according to one of the preceding claims.

21. Device (20, 30, 40) according to the preceding claim, comprising a communication device which is connectable to a vehicle-side diagnostic interface (14), in particular electrically, mechanically and / or wired or wirelessly, wherein the communication device is configured to receive at least one operating information, and the device further comprising a processor which is configured to determine the battery state or alternator state using the at least one operating information.

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