Vehicle control device

Abstract

A vehicle control device (10) comprises a processing device (31) that, when a power-off state is set by a power switch (11), executes a first mode in which a shift range is set to a parking range, and a second mode in which the shift range is set to a neutral range. The processing device (31) continues to operate a voltage controller (24) for a predetermined period of time when execution of the second mode starts. When an abnormality occurs in high-voltage power equipment during execution of the second mode, the processing device (31) maintains the shift range in the neutral range until the next time the power is turned on, and moves the shift range to the parking range in the power-on state.

Description

Vehicle control device

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle control device.

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a control device that sets the shift position of an automatic transmission to a neutral position where power cannot be transmitted, for example, when a predetermined operation and a power-off operation are performed by a driver (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2020-85084

[0004] Incidentally, in the technology of vehicle control, improving the operability of the vehicle is an issue. For example, in the execution state of predetermined control that maintains the neutral position in response to power-off as in the above-mentioned prior art control device, if the execution of the predetermined control is canceled without any operation by the driver when an abnormality occurs, an unintended state transition may occur, which may impair the operability of the vehicle.

[0005] In order to solve the above problem, the present application aims to achieve improvement in vehicle operability. Furthermore, it further improves traffic safety and contributes to the development of a sustainable transportation system.

[0006] To solve the above problems and achieve the above objectives, the present invention employs the following embodiments. (1) A vehicle control device according to one embodiment of the present invention (for example, a vehicle control device 10 in the embodiment) includes a power switching unit (for example, a power switch 11 in the embodiment) that switches between a power-on state in which the vehicle can be driven and a power-off state in which the vehicle cannot be driven, according to the operator's operation; a shift position sensor (for example, a shift position sensor 12 in the embodiment) that detects the shift position selected by the operator; a first mode in which the shift range of the vehicle's automatic transmission (for example, an automatic transmission 27 in the embodiment) is controlled according to the signal of the detected value output from the shift position sensor, and the shift range is set to a parking range in which the output member of the automatic transmission is fixed when the power switching unit sets the power-off state without detecting a predetermined operation by the operator (for example, the first operation and the second operation in the embodiment); and when the predetermined operation by the operator is detected The system includes a control unit (for example, a processing unit 31 in the embodiment) that executes a second mode in which, when the power switch unit sets the power off state, the shift range is set to the neutral range in which the power transmission of the automatic transmission is interrupted. The control unit maintains the shift range to the neutral range when the power switch unit sets the power on state during the execution of the second mode, and when an abnormality occurs in the vehicle's power equipment (for example, the first battery 23 and voltage controller 24 in the embodiment) during the execution of the second mode, maintains the shift range to the neutral range before the power switch unit switches from the power off state to the power on state, and sets the shift range to the parking range after the power switch unit switches from the power off state to the power on state.

[0007] (2) In the vehicle control device described in (1) above, the power equipment includes a power storage device (for example, a first battery 23 in the embodiment) that exchanges power with the vehicle's drive equipment, and a voltage controller (for example, a voltage controller 24 in the embodiment) that steps down the power received from the power storage device and supplies the power obtained by the step-down operation to the low-voltage power equipment having the control unit, and the control unit may continue the operation of the voltage controller when the execution of the second mode begins, and may stop the operation of the voltage controller when it detects that the operator has disembarked while the voltage controller is operating.

[0008] (3) The vehicle control device described in (2) above includes a plurality of different sensors (for example, a seat belt sensor 16, a door sensor 17, and a door lock sensor 18 in the embodiment) that detect a state related to the operator getting out of the vehicle, and the control unit may stop the operation of the voltage controller when it obtains signals of a plurality of different detection values ​​output from the plurality of different sensors while the voltage controller is in operation.

[0009] (4) In the vehicle control device described in (2) above, the control unit may stop the operation of the voltage controller after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the execution of the second mode.

[0010] (5) The vehicle control device described in (2) above includes a hood sensor (for example, a hood sensor 19 in the embodiment) that detects the open state of the vehicle's hood, and the control unit may stop the operation of the voltage controller when it obtains a signal of the detected value output from the hood sensor while the voltage controller is operating.

[0011] (6) In the vehicle control device described in (1) above, the power equipment includes a power storage device (for example, a first battery 23 in the embodiment) that exchanges power with the vehicle's drive equipment, and a voltage controller (for example, a voltage controller 24 in the embodiment) that steps down the power received from the power storage device and supplies the power obtained by the step-down operation to the control unit and a low-voltage power equipment having a low-voltage power storage device (for example, a second battery 25 in the embodiment). The control unit may continue the operation of the voltage controller when the execution of the second mode begins, and may shift the shift range from the neutral range to the parking range if the rate of decrease in the remaining capacity of the low-voltage power storage device becomes greater than or equal to a predetermined speed while the voltage controller is operating.

[0012] (7) In the vehicle control device described in (1) above, the power equipment includes a power storage device (for example, a first battery 23 in the embodiment) that exchanges power with the vehicle's drive equipment, and a voltage controller (for example, a voltage controller 24 in the embodiment) that steps down the power received from the power storage device and supplies the power obtained by the step-down operation to the control unit and a low-voltage power equipment having a low-voltage power storage device (for example, a second battery 25 in the embodiment). The control unit may continue the operation of the voltage controller when the execution of the second mode begins, and may stop the operation of the voltage controller while maintaining the shift range in the neutral range if an abnormality occurs in the voltage controller during its operation.

[0013] (8) In the vehicle control device described in (6) above, the control unit may restrict the power supply from the voltage controller to the peripheral device and prioritize the power supply from the voltage controller to the control unit when the power consumption of the peripheral device exceeds a predetermined power while the voltage controller is operating.

[0014] (9) In the vehicle control device described in (8) above, the control unit may set the predetermined power based on the remaining capacity of at least one of the energy storage device and the low-voltage energy storage device.

[0015] (10): In the vehicle control device described in (1) above, the power equipment includes a power storage device (for example, a first battery 23 in the embodiment) that exchanges power with the vehicle's drive equipment, and a voltage controller (for example, a voltage controller 24 in the embodiment) that steps down the power received from the power storage device and supplies the power obtained by the step-down operation to the low-voltage power equipment having the control unit, and the control unit may continue the operation of the voltage controller when the execution of the second mode begins, and may prohibit the execution of the second mode if an abnormality occurs in at least one of the power storage device and the voltage controller before the execution of the second mode begins.

[0016] (11): In the vehicle control device described in (1) above, the power equipment includes a power storage device (for example, a first battery 23 in the embodiment) that exchanges power with the vehicle's drive equipment, and a voltage controller (for example, a voltage controller 24 in the embodiment) that steps down the power received from the power storage device and supplies the power obtained by the step-down operation to the low-voltage power equipment having the control unit, and the control unit may continue the operation of the voltage controller when the execution of the second mode begins, and may prohibit the execution of the second mode if the remaining capacity of the power storage device is less than or equal to a predetermined remaining capacity before the execution of the second mode begins.

[0017] According to (1) above, if a malfunction occurs in the power equipment while the second mode is being executed, a control unit is provided that maintains the shift range in the neutral range until the next power-on, thereby preventing unintended state transitions and impairing the operability of the vehicle. If a malfunction occurs in the power equipment while the second mode is being executed, a control unit is provided that shifts the shift range to the parking range after the next power-on, thereby suppressing vehicle movement and ensuring the desired safety even when the operator performs driving operations on a vehicle in a malfunctioning state.

[0018] In the case of (2) above, by providing a control unit that continues to operate the voltage controller until the operator dismounts, upon the start of execution of the second mode, it is possible to allow the operator to operate the shift range, for example, by shifting to the parking range. By providing a control unit that stops the operation of the voltage controller when the operator dismounts, it is possible to suppress an increase in power consumption when the likelihood of the operator operating the shift range is low.

[0019] In the case of (3) above, by providing a control unit that stops the operation of the voltage controller when it receives signals of multiple different detection values ​​related to the operator's disembarkation, it is possible to prevent the operation of the voltage controller from being stopped, for example, due to operator error or against the operator's intention.

[0020] In the case of (4) above, by providing a control unit that stops the operation of the voltage controller after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of execution of the second mode, it is possible to suppress an increase in power consumption in cases such as when the execution of a predetermined operation related to disembarking is forgotten or when the operator does not intend to disembark.

[0021] In the case of (5) above, by providing a control unit that stops the operation of the voltage controller when it detects that the hood is open while the voltage controller is operating, it is possible to suppress an increase in power consumption, for example, in situations where it is highly likely that the safety of the area around the vehicle is ensured by the operator.

[0022] In the case of (6) above, by providing a control unit that shifts the shift range to the parking range when the rate of decrease in the remaining capacity of the low-voltage energy storage device exceeds a predetermined speed, it is possible to suppress the movement of the vehicle and ensure the desired safety when there is a possibility that a malfunction has occurred in the low-voltage power equipment.

[0023] In the case of (7) above, if an abnormality occurs in the voltage controller when the second mode is being executed, a control unit that maintains the shift range in the neutral range can be provided to prevent unintended state transitions and to prevent the vehicle's operability from being impaired. Low-voltage power equipment supplied with power from the voltage controller is equipped with a low-voltage energy storage device, so that even if the operation of the voltage controller is stopped, the operator can still operate the shift range, for example, by shifting to the parking range.

[0024] In the case of (8) above, the control unit can allow the operator to operate the shift range, such as shifting to the parking range, by prioritizing the power supply from the voltage controller to the control unit when the power consumption of the peripheral equipment exceeds a predetermined power.

[0025] In the case of (9) above, the control unit can prevent the remaining capacity of the energy storage device or low-voltage energy storage device from becoming insufficient when the operator is allowed to operate the shift range, for example, by switching to the parking range.

[0026] In the case of (10) above, by providing a control unit that prohibits the execution of the second mode in the event of a malfunction of the energy storage device or voltage controller, it is possible to suppress insufficient power supply required for the desired operation by the power switching unit or control unit. The control unit can suppress insufficient power supply to the power switching unit or control unit by, for example, the continued operation of the voltage controller upon the start of execution of the second mode.

[0027] In the case of (11) above, by providing a control unit that prohibits the execution of the second mode when the remaining capacity of the energy storage device is less than or equal to a predetermined remaining capacity, it is possible to suppress insufficient power supply required for the desired operation by the power switching unit or the control unit. The control unit can suppress insufficient power supply to the power switching unit or the control unit by, for example, continuing the operation of the voltage controller when the execution of the second mode begins.

[0028] A block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the vehicle control device according to the embodiment. A diagram showing the power mode, N range parking, DCDC abnormality, DV request, shift operation, position display, meter display, and P / EPB state changes in a first operation example of the vehicle control device according to the embodiment. A diagram showing the power mode, N range parking, seat belt release, door open, door lock, DV request, shift operation, position display, meter display, and P / EPB state changes in a second operation example of the vehicle control device according to the embodiment. A diagram showing the power mode, N range parking, seat belt release, door open, door lock, DV request, shift operation, position display, meter display, and P / EPB state changes in a third operation example of the vehicle control device according to the embodiment. A flowchart showing the operation of the vehicle control device according to the embodiment.

[0029] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a vehicle control device according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle control device 10 of the embodiment is mounted on a vehicle 1. The vehicle control device 10 includes, for example, a power switch 11, a shift position sensor 12, a brake sensor 13, a first battery sensor 14 and a second battery sensor 15, a seat belt sensor 16, a door sensor 17, a door lock sensor 18, a hood sensor 19, a display 21, a speaker 22, a first battery 23, a voltage controller 24 and a second battery 25, a shift operator 26, an automatic transmission 27, a P / EPB 28, and a processing device 31.

[0030] The power switch 11 includes, for example, a push button that accepts operation by the operator pressing it. The power switch 11 switches between a power-on state, which allows the vehicle to run, and a power-off state, which prevents the vehicle from running, according to the operator's operation. The power-on state is, for example, a state in which power is supplied to all electrical components of the vehicle 1. The power-off state is, for example, a state in which power supply other than the constant power supply is stopped, and is different from a state in which power is supplied to some electrical components such as audio equipment, such as in an accessory mode.

[0031] The shift position sensor 12 detects the shift position selected by the operator in the shift control unit 26 (described later) and outputs a signal of the detected value. The brake sensor 13 is, for example, a hydraulic pressure sensor or a stroke sensor. The brake sensor 13 detects brake operations, such as the operation of the brake pedal by the operator or the hydraulic pressure resulting from the operation of the brake pedal, and outputs a signal of the detected value of the brake operation.

[0032] Each of the first battery sensor 14 and the second battery sensor 15 is equipped with various sensors, such as a voltage sensor, a current sensor, and a temperature sensor, for detecting the state of the first battery 23 and the second battery 25, respectively, as described later. The first battery sensor 14 detects, for example, a state quantity related to the remaining capacity of the first battery 23. The second battery sensor 15 detects, for example, a state quantity related to the remaining capacity of the second battery 25.

[0033] The seat belt sensor 16 is, for example, a reed switch sensor. The seat belt sensor 16 outputs a signal indicating the detection value of whether the seat belt tongue plate is attached to the buckle by the operator. The door sensor 17 detects whether the vehicle door is opened or closed by the operator and outputs a signal indicating the detection value of whether the vehicle door is open or closed. The door lock sensor 18 detects whether the vehicle door is locked or closed by the operator and outputs a signal indicating whether the door is locked or closed. The hood sensor 19 detects whether the hood of the vehicle 1 is opened or closed by the operator and outputs a signal indicating the detection value of whether the hood is open or closed.

[0034] The display unit 21 is, for example, a multi-information display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The speaker 22 outputs, for example, various types of voice guidance.

[0035] Each of the first battery 23 and the second battery 25 is, for example, a secondary battery such as a lead-acid battery or a lithium-ion battery, a capacitor such as an electric double-layer capacitor, or a composite battery consisting of a secondary battery and a capacitor. The first battery 23 is, for example, a relatively high-voltage energy storage device that exchanges power with drive equipment such as a rotating electric machine of the vehicle 1. The second battery 25 is, for example, a relatively low-voltage energy storage device that supplies power to low-voltage power equipment such as the processing unit 31 and peripheral equipment of the vehicle 1.

[0036] The voltage controller 24 is a so-called DC-DC converter that performs voltage conversion, for example, by stepping down DC power. The voltage controller 24 steps down the power received from the first battery 23 and supplies the power obtained by the step-down operation to the low-voltage power equipment having the second battery 25, the processing unit 31, and peripheral equipment.

[0037] The shift control unit 26 includes an operating member that accepts a shift position selection operation by the operator, for example, in relation to setting the shift range of the automatic transmission 27, which will be described later. The operating member includes various components such as a shift lever, shift button, shift switch, and shift dial. The shift control unit 26 corresponds to so-called shift-by-wire, for example, setting the shift range of the automatic transmission 27 by electronic control of the processing unit 31. The operating member is, for example, an auto-return type, which changes its position or posture by accepting a selection operation by the operator from a predetermined reference position or posture (Home), and then automatically returns to the predetermined reference position or posture (Home). The shift positions that can be selected by the operator are, for example, parking, neutral, forward, and reverse.

[0038] The automatic transmission 27 automatically switches the gear ratio and other states of the power transmitted from the drive source, such as the rotating electric machine and internal combustion engine of the vehicle 1, to the drive wheels, in accordance with the electronic control by the processing unit 31. The shift ranges of the automatic transmission 27 include, for example, a parking range, a neutral range, a forward range, and a reverse range. The parking range is, for example, a state in which the output member (output shaft, etc.) of the automatic transmission 27 is fixed. The neutral range is, for example, a state in which the power transmission of the automatic transmission 27 is cut off. The forward range and reverse range are, for example, states in which power for the forward and reverse movement of the vehicle 1 is transmitted.

[0039] The P / EPB28 includes, for example, a parking lock and an electric parking brake (EPB) operated by an electric actuator. The P / EPB28 automatically locks the rotation of the wheels in accordance with electronic control by the processing unit 31, for example.

[0040] The processing unit 31 performs various calculations and controls. The processing unit 31 is a software function unit that functions when a predetermined program is executed by a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The software function unit is an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) equipped with a processor such as a CPU, a ROM (Read Only Memory) for storing programs, a RAM (Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing data, and electronic circuits such as timers. At least a part of the processing unit 31 may be an integrated circuit such as an LSI (Large Scale Integration).

[0041] The processing unit 31 controls the shift range of the automatic transmission 27 of the vehicle 1 according to the signal of the detected value output from the shift position sensor 12. The processing unit 31 executes a first mode in which the shift range is set to the parking range when the power switch 11 sets the power off state without detecting a predetermined operation by the operator. The processing unit 31 executes a second mode in which the shift range is set to the neutral range when the power switch 11 sets the power off state while detecting a predetermined operation by the operator. The predetermined operation by the operator is, for example, a first operation consisting of a predetermined selection operation input to the shift control unit 26 over a predetermined first time, and a second operation consisting of a combination of selecting neutral on the shift control unit 26 and pressing the brake pedal over a predetermined second time. The processing unit 31 continues the operation of the voltage controller 24 for a predetermined time when the execution of the second mode begins.

[0042] The processing unit 31 maintains the shift range in the neutral range when the power switch 11 sets the power ON state during the execution of the second mode. The processing unit 31 maintains the execution of the second mode before the power switch 11 switches from the power OFF state to the power ON state when an abnormality occurs in the high-voltage power equipment of the vehicle 1 during the execution of the second mode. The high-voltage power equipment of the vehicle 1 is, for example, the first battery 23 and the voltage controller 24. The processing unit 31 sets the shift range to the parking range, similar to the first mode, after the power switch 11 switches from the power OFF state to the power ON state when an abnormality occurs in the high-voltage power equipment of the vehicle 1 during the execution of the second mode.

[0043] The operation of the vehicle control device 10 according to the embodiment will be described below. Figure 2 is a diagram showing the changes in power mode, N range parking, DCDC abnormality, DV request, shift operation, position display, meter display, and P / EPB state in a first operation example of the vehicle control device 10 according to the embodiment. The power mode in Figure 2 shows, for example, the power-on state (ON) and the power-off state (OFF) which are switched by the power switch 11.

[0044] N-range parking indicates, for example, as states of an operation mode executed by the processing device 31, a standby mode prior to starting execution of the above-mentioned second mode, an N-range parking mode which is the execution state of the second mode, and a state (OFF) other than the standby mode and the N-range parking mode. DCDC abnormality indicates, for example, each of the states "1" indicating that there is an abnormality in the voltage controller 24 and "0" indicating that there is no abnormality. DV request indicates, for example, each of the states "1" indicating that the voltage controller 24 is operated and "0" indicating that the voltage controller 24 is not operated in response to a request for executing a step-down operation by the processing device 31.

[0045] Shift operation indicates, for example, as states of an operation input to the shift operating device 26 by an operator, the predetermined shift operation which is the above-mentioned first operation, the predetermined N-range operation which is the above-mentioned second operation, and a no-operation state (Home). Position display indicates, for example, each of parking (P), neutral (N), forward (D) and reverse (R) as the display of the shift position on the display device 21 according to the detection value of the shift position sensor 12.

[0046] Meter display indicates, for example, as display states of the display device 21, a no-display state (none), an N instruction display, a power OFF instruction display, an N-range parking display, turning off in the no-display state, and an abnormality display. The N instruction display prompts execution of the above-mentioned predetermined N-range operation. The power OFF instruction display prompts execution of a power off state (OFF) by the power switch 11. The N-range parking display indicates that the second mode is in an execution state. The abnormality display indicates that a high-voltage power device is in an abnormal state. P / EPB state indicates, for example, each of the activated state and deactivated state of P / EPB 28 according to the control of the processing device 31.

[0047] At time t0 of the first operation example shown in FIG. 2, the power is in an on state (ON), and the voltage controller 24 and P / EPB 28 are in an activated state. When the predetermined shift operation (first operation) required to start execution of the above-mentioned second mode (N-range parking mode) is performed after time t0, the processing device 31 sets the position display to parking (P). The processing device 31 shifts the meter display from a no-display state (none) to an N instruction display after time t1 during execution of the predetermined shift operation (first operation), for example.

[0048] For example, after time t2 when the execution of a predetermined shift operation (first operation) ends and the execution of a predetermined N-range operation starts, the processing device 31 starts executing the standby mode and cancels the operation of the P / EPB 28. For example, the processing device 31 switches the position display from parking (P) to neutral (N), and also switches the meter display from the N indication display to the power OFF indication display.

[0049] For example, after time t3 when the power off state (OFF) is set by the power switch 11 and the execution of the predetermined N-range operation ends, the processing device 31 ends the execution of the standby mode and starts the execution of the second mode (N-range parking mode). When the execution of the predetermined N-range operation ends, the operating member of the shift operating device 26 automatically returns to a predetermined reference position or reference posture (Home). That is, the shift operation enters a non-operating state (Home). For example, the processing device 31 switches the meter display from the power OFF indication display to the N-range parking display. For example, along with the start of execution of the second mode (N-range parking mode), the processing device 31 continues the operation of the voltage controller 24 for a predetermined period of time.

[0050] For example, during the execution of the second mode (N-range parking mode) and while the operation of the voltage controller 24 is continued, if the processing device 31 detects that there is an abnormality "1" in the voltage controller 24 after time t4, it stops the execution of the second mode (N-range parking mode) and the operation of the voltage controller 24 after time t5. For example, along with the end of execution of the second mode (N-range parking mode), the processing device 31 maintains the shift range of the automatic transmission 27 at the neutral range. For example, the processing device 31 turns off the light while maintaining the position display at neutral (N), and switches the meter display from the N-range parking display to turning off in a non-display state.

[0051] The processing unit 31 maintains the shift range in the neutral range for an appropriate period of time after time t6, when the power switch 11 sets the power ON state. The processing unit 31 also maintains the neutral (N) position indicator while releasing the light, and changes the meter display from off to an abnormal display.

[0052] For example, the processing unit 31 starts operating the P / EPB 28 and changes the position display from neutral (N) to parking (P) after a suitable amount of time has elapsed since the power-on state (ON) was set.

[0053] Figure 3 is a diagram showing the changes in power mode, N range parking, seat belt unfastened, door open, door locked, DV request, shift operation, position display, meter display, and P / EPB state in a second operation example of the vehicle control device 10 according to the embodiment. In Figure 3, seat belt unfastened indicates, for example, the state of seat belt not fastened ("1") and fastened ("0") according to the detected value of the seat belt sensor 16. Door open indicates, for example, the state of vehicle door open ("1") and closed ("0") according to the detected value of the door sensor 17. Door locked indicates, for example, the state of vehicle door locked ("1") and locked ("0") according to the detected value of the door lock sensor 18.

[0054] The state from time t0 to time t3 in the second operation example shown in Figure 3 is the same as the state from time t0 to time t3 in the first operation example shown in Figure 2 above. The processing unit 31 determines that the operator has disembarked if, for example, in the power-off state (OFF) from time t3 onwards, it detects that the seat belt is not fastened ("1") from time t4 onwards, that the vehicle door is temporarily open ("1") from time t5 to time t6, and that the vehicle door is locked ("1") from time t7 onwards. When the processing unit 31 detects that the operator has disembarked, for example from time t7 onwards, it stops the operation of the voltage controller 24.

[0055] For example, the processing unit 31, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the voltage controller 24 stopped operating, turns off the position indicator while maintaining it in neutral (N), and also changes the meter display from N range parking indicator to a blank state.

[0056] The processing unit 31 determines that an operator has boarded the vehicle if it detects, for example, that the vehicle doors are not locked ("0"), such as after time t9, and that the vehicle doors are temporarily open ("1"), such as from time t10 to time t11.

[0057] The processing unit 31 terminates the execution of the second mode (N range parking mode) after time t12, for example, when the power switch 11 sets the power ON state. The processing unit 31, for example, maintains the neutral (N) position indicator while canceling the power-off state and transitions the meter display from off to no display state (none).

[0058] Figure 4 shows the changes in power mode, N range parking, seat belt unbuckling, door opening, door locking, DV request, shift operation, position display, meter display, and P / EPB status in a third operation example of the vehicle control device 10 according to the embodiment.

[0059] The state from time t0 to time t4 in the third operation example shown in Figure 4 is the same as the state from time t0 to time t4 in the third operation example shown in Figure 3 above. Furthermore, from time t4 onward in the third operation example, since neither the temporary open state of the vehicle door ("1") nor the locked state of the vehicle door ("1") as shown in the second operation example in Figure 3 is detected, it is not determined that the operator has disembarked.

[0060] For example, the processing unit 31 terminates the continued operation of the voltage controller 24 at time t5 or later, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the second mode (N range parking mode) at time t3 or later. For example, the processing unit 31 turns off the position indicator while maintaining it in neutral (N), and transitions the meter display from N range parking display to a blank state.

[0061] The processing unit 31 terminates the execution of the second mode (N range parking mode) after time t6, for example, when the power switch 11 sets the power ON state. The processing unit 31, for example, maintains the neutral (N) position indicator while releasing the lights, and transitions the meter display from off to no display state (none).

[0062] Figures 5 and 6 are flowcharts showing the operation of the vehicle control device 10 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, first, the processing device 31 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the high-voltage power system, including the high-voltage power equipment of the vehicle 1, when the power is turned on by the power switch 11 (step S01). If the result of this determination is "NO", that is, if there is an abnormality in the high-voltage power system, the processing device 31 proceeds to the end of the process. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is "YES", the processing device 31 proceeds to step S02.

[0063] Next, the processing unit 31 determines whether the remaining capacity (SOC) of the first battery (high-voltage battery) 23 is greater than a predetermined value (step S02). The processing unit 31 obtains the remaining capacity (SOC) of the first battery 23, for example, by integrating the charge and discharge currents of the first battery 23 based on the signal of the detected value output from the first battery sensor 14, or by a predetermined correspondence between the open-circuit voltage of the first battery 23 and its remaining capacity. If the result of this determination is "NO", the processing unit 31 proceeds to the end of the process. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is "YES", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S03.

[0064] Next, the processing unit 31 determines whether a predetermined shift operation (first operation) has been performed (step S03). The predetermined shift operation is, for example, an operation in which parking (P) and the reference position or reference attitude (Home) are repeatedly selected alternately a predetermined number of times or more within a predetermined first time. If the result of this determination is "NO", the processing unit 31 proceeds to the end of the process. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is "YES", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S04.

[0065] Next, the processing unit 31 starts executing a standby mode (N-range parking standby mode) that precedes the start of execution of the second mode described above (step S04). Next, the processing unit 31 determines whether a predetermined N-range operation (second operation) has been performed within a predetermined time from the start of the standby mode (step S05). The predetermined N-range operation is, for example, a neutral selection operation on the shift control unit 26 accompanied by a brake pedal depressing operation over a predetermined second time. If the result of this determination is "NO", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S06. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is "YES", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S07. Next, the processing unit 31 terminates the execution of the standby mode (N-range parking standby mode) (step S06). Then, the processing unit 31 proceeds to the end of the process.

[0066] Furthermore, the processing unit 31 determines whether or not there has been any selection operation of a shift position other than neutral (for example, parking, forward, or reverse) using the shift control unit 26 (step S07). If the result of this determination is "NO", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S06. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is "YES", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S08.

[0067] Next, the processing unit 31 determines whether the power switch 11 will set the power to OFF state within a predetermined time after the execution of a predetermined N range operation (step S08). If the result of this determination is "NO", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S06. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is "YES", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S09. Next, the processing unit 31 starts the execution of the N range parking mode (step S09). The processing unit 31 continues the operation of the voltage controller 24 in conjunction with the start of the execution of the N range parking mode.

[0068] Next, the processing unit 31 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the N-range parking mode (step S10). If the result of this determination is "NO", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S14, which will be described later. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is "YES", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S11. Next, the processing unit 31 stops the operation of the voltage controller 24 (step S11).

[0069] Next, the processing unit 31 determines whether or not the power switch 11 is set to the ON state (step S12). If the result of this determination is "NO", the processing unit 31 repeatedly executes the determination process in step S12. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is "YES", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S13. Next, the processing unit 31 terminates the execution of the N range parking mode and maintains the shift range in the neutral range (step S13). Then, the processing unit 31 proceeds to the end of the process.

[0070] Furthermore, the processing unit 31 determines whether the hood of the vehicle 1 is open or not based on the value detected by the hood sensor 19 (step S14). If the result of this determination is "NO", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S15. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is "YES", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S11.

[0071] Next, the processing unit 31 determines whether or not the operator has exited the vehicle based on the detection values ​​of the seat belt sensor 16, the door sensor 17, and the door lock sensor 18 (step S15). For example, the processing unit 31 determines that the operator has exited the vehicle when it detects the fastening and unfastening of the seat belt, the opening and closing of the vehicle door, and the locking of the vehicle door. If the result of this determination is "NO", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S16. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is "YES", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S11.

[0072] Next, the processing unit 31 determines, based on the value detected by the second battery sensor 15, whether the rate of decrease in the remaining capacity (SOC) of the second battery 25 is greater than or equal to a predetermined rate (step S16). The processing unit 31 obtains the remaining capacity (SOC) of the second battery 25, for example, by integrating the charge and discharge currents of the second battery 25 based on the signal of the detected value output from the second battery sensor 15, or by a predetermined correspondence between the open-circuit voltage and the remaining capacity of the second battery 25. If the result of this determination is "NO", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S18. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is "YES", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S17. Next, the processing unit 31 terminates the execution of the N range parking mode and shifts the shift range to the parking range (step S17). Then, the processing unit 31 proceeds to the end of the process.

[0073] Furthermore, the processing unit 31 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the high-voltage power system of the vehicle 1 based on the detected values ​​of the first battery 23 and the second battery 25 (step S18). The high-voltage power system of the vehicle 1 includes, for example, the first battery 23 and high-voltage power equipment such as the voltage controller 24. If the result of this determination is "NO", the processing unit 31 returns to step S10. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is "YES", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S19. Next, the processing unit 31 stops the operation of the voltage controller 24, ends the execution of the N range parking mode, and maintains the shift range in the neutral range (step S19).

[0074] Next, the processing unit 31 determines whether or not the power switch 11 is set to the ON state (step S20). If the result of this determination is "NO", the processing unit 31 repeatedly executes the determination process in step S20. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is "YES", the processing unit 31 proceeds to step S21. Next, the processing unit 31 shifts the shift range to the parking range (step S21). Then, the processing unit 31 proceeds to the end of the process.

[0075] As described above, the vehicle control device 10 of the embodiment includes a processing device 31 that maintains the shift range in the neutral range until the next power-on if an abnormality occurs in the high-voltage power equipment when the second mode is being executed. This prevents unintended state transitions and impairs the operability of the vehicle 1. The processing device 31, when an abnormality occurs in the high-voltage power equipment when the second mode is being executed, shifts the shift range to the parking range after the next power-on. This suppresses the movement of the vehicle 1 and ensures the desired safety, even when the operator performs driving operations in the abnormal state of the vehicle 1.

[0076] The system includes a processing unit 31 that continues to operate the voltage controller 24 until it detects the operator leaving the vehicle when the second mode is started. This allows the operator to operate the shift range, for example, by shifting to the parking range. The processing unit 31 stops the operation of the voltage controller 24 when it detects the operator leaving the vehicle, thereby suppressing an increase in power consumption when the likelihood of the operator operating the shift range is low.

[0077] By providing a processing unit 31 that stops the operation of the voltage controller 24 when it receives signals of multiple different detection values ​​related to the operator's disembarkation, it is possible to prevent the operation of the voltage controller 24 from being stopped, for example, due to operator error or against the operator's intention.

[0078] By providing a processing unit 31 that stops the operation of the voltage controller 24 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the second mode, it is possible to suppress an increase in power consumption in cases such as when the execution of a predetermined operation related to disembarking is forgotten or when the operator does not intend to disembark.

[0079] By providing a processing device 31 that stops the operation of the voltage controller 24 when it detects that the hood is open while the voltage controller 24 is operating, it is possible to suppress an increase in power consumption, for example, in situations where it is highly likely that the safety of the area around the vehicle 1 is ensured by the operator.

[0080] By providing a processing device 31 that shifts the shift range to the parking range when the rate of decrease in the remaining capacity (SOC) of the second battery 25 exceeds a predetermined speed, it is possible to suppress the movement of the vehicle 1 and ensure the desired safety when there is a possibility of an abnormality in the second battery 25.

[0081] If an abnormality occurs in the voltage controller 24 during the execution of the second mode, the system includes a processing unit 31 that maintains the shift range in the neutral range, thereby preventing unintended state transitions and impairing the operability of the vehicle 1. By providing a second battery 25 powered by the voltage controller 24, even if the operation of the voltage controller 24 is stopped, the system allows the operator to operate the shift range, for example, by shifting to the parking range.

[0082] By providing a processing unit 31 that prohibits the execution of the second mode when the first battery 23 or voltage controller 24 malfunctions, it is possible to suppress insufficient power supply required for the desired operation by the power switch 11 or processing unit 31. The processing unit 31 can suppress insufficient power supply to the power switch 11 or processing unit 31 by, for example, the continued operation of the voltage controller 24 when the execution of the second mode begins.

[0083] By providing a processing unit 31 that prohibits the execution of the second mode when the remaining capacity (SOC) of the first battery 23 is below a predetermined remaining capacity, it is possible to suppress insufficient power supply required for the desired operation by the power switch 11 or the processing unit 31. By continuing the operation of the voltage controller 24 in conjunction with the start of execution of the second mode by the processing unit 31, for example, insufficient power supply to the power switch 11 or the processing unit 31 can be suppressed.

[0084] The following describes modifications of the above-described embodiment. In the above-described embodiment, the processing unit 31 may restrict the power supply from the voltage controller 24 to the peripheral device and prioritize the power supply from the voltage controller 24 to the processing unit 31 if the power consumption of the peripheral device exceeds a predetermined power while the voltage controller 24 is operating after the start of execution of the second mode. The processing unit 31 may, for example, set the predetermined power for the power consumption of the peripheral device based on the remaining capacity (SOC) of at least one of the first battery 23 and the second battery 25.

[0085] In a modified version, the processing unit 31 can allow the operator to operate the shift range, such as shifting to the parking range, by prioritizing the power supply from the voltage controller 24 to the processing unit 31 when the power consumption of peripheral equipment exceeds a predetermined power after the start of execution of the second mode. When the processing unit 31 allows the operator to operate the shift range, such as shifting to the parking range, it can prevent the remaining capacity (SOC) of the first battery 23 or the second battery 25 from becoming insufficient.

[0086] The embodiments of the present invention are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be carried out in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents.

[0087] 1...Vehicle, 10...Vehicle control device, 11...Power switch (power switching unit), 12...Shift position sensor, 13...Brake sensor, 14...First battery sensor, 15...Second battery sensor, 16...Seat belt sensor (sensor), 17...Door sensor (sensor), 18...Door lock sensor (sensor), 19...Bonnet sensor, 21...Display unit, 22...Speaker, 23...First battery (power equipment, energy storage device), 24...Voltage controller (power equipment), 25...Second battery (low voltage energy storage device), 26...Shift operator, 27...Automatic transmission, 28...P / EPB, 31...Processing device (control unit).

Claims

1. The system comprises: a power switching unit that switches between a power-on state allowing the vehicle to run and a power-off state preventing the vehicle from running, according to the operator's operation; a shift position sensor that detects the shift position selected by the operator; and a control unit that controls the shift range of the vehicle's automatic transmission according to the signal of the detected value output from the shift position sensor, and executes a first mode in which the shift range is set to a parking range in which the output member of the automatic transmission is fixed when the power switching unit sets the power-off state without detecting a predetermined operation by the operator, and a second mode in which the shift range is set to a neutral range in which the power transmission of the automatic transmission is cut off when the power switching unit sets the power-off state while the predetermined operation by the operator is detected, wherein the control unit maintains the shift range in the neutral range when the power switching unit sets the power-on state during the execution of the second mode. A vehicle control device that, when an abnormality occurs in the vehicle's power equipment during the execution of the second mode, maintains the shift range in the neutral range before the power switching unit switches from the power-off state to the power-on state, and sets the shift range to the parking range after the power switching unit switches from the power-off state to the power-on state.

2. The vehicle control device according to claim 1, wherein the power equipment comprises a power storage device that exchanges power with the vehicle's drive equipment, and a voltage controller that steps down the power received from the power storage device and supplies the power obtained by the step-down operation to the low-voltage power equipment having the control unit, and the control unit continues to operate the voltage controller when the execution of the second mode begins, and stops the operation of the voltage controller when it detects that the operator has disembarked while the voltage controller is operating.

3. The vehicle control device according to claim 2, comprising a plurality of different sensors for detecting conditions related to the operator disembarking, wherein the control unit stops the operation of the voltage controller when it obtains signals of a plurality of different detection values ​​output from the plurality of different sensors while the voltage controller is in operation.

4. The vehicle control device according to claim 2, wherein the control unit stops the operation of the voltage controller after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of execution of the second mode.

5. The vehicle control device according to claim 2, further comprising a hood sensor for detecting the open state of the vehicle's hood, wherein the control unit stops the operation of the voltage controller when it obtains a signal of the detected value output from the hood sensor while the voltage controller is operating.

6. The vehicle control device according to claim 1, wherein the power equipment comprises a power storage device that exchanges power with the vehicle's drive equipment, and a voltage controller that steps down the power received from the power storage device and supplies the power obtained by the step-down operation to the control unit and a low-voltage power equipment having a low-voltage power storage device, and the control unit continues to operate the voltage controller when the execution of the second mode begins, and when the rate of decrease of the remaining capacity of the low-voltage power storage device becomes greater than or equal to a predetermined speed while the voltage controller is operating, the shift range is shifted from the neutral range to the parking range.

7. The vehicle control device according to claim 1, wherein the power equipment comprises a power storage device that exchanges power with the vehicle's drive equipment, and a voltage controller that steps down the power received from the power storage device and supplies the power obtained by the step-down operation to the control unit and a low-voltage power equipment having a low-voltage power storage device, and the control unit continues to operate the voltage controller when the execution of the second mode begins, and stops the operation of the voltage controller while maintaining the shift range in the neutral range if an abnormality occurs in the voltage controller during its operation.

8. The vehicle control device according to claim 6, wherein the low-voltage power equipment includes peripheral equipment that receives power from at least one of the low-voltage energy storage device and the voltage controller, and the control unit restricts the power supply from the voltage controller to the peripheral equipment and prioritizes the power supply from the voltage controller to the control unit when the power consumption of the peripheral equipment exceeds a predetermined power while the voltage controller is operating.

9. The vehicle control device according to claim 8, wherein the control unit sets the predetermined power based on the remaining capacity of at least one of the energy storage device and the low-voltage energy storage device.

10. The vehicle control device according to claim 1, wherein the power equipment comprises a power storage device that exchanges power with the vehicle's drive equipment, and a voltage controller that steps down the power received from the power storage device and supplies the power obtained by the step-down operation to a low-voltage power equipment having a control unit, and the control unit continues to operate the voltage controller when the execution of the second mode begins, and prohibits the execution of the second mode if an abnormality occurs in at least one of the power storage device and the voltage controller before the execution of the second mode begins.

11. The vehicle control device according to claim 1, wherein the power equipment comprises a power storage device that exchanges power with the vehicle's drive equipment, and a voltage controller that steps down the power received from the power storage device and supplies the power obtained by the step-down operation to a low-voltage power equipment having a control unit, and the control unit continues to operate the voltage controller when the execution of the second mode begins, and prohibits the execution of the second mode if the remaining capacity of the power storage device is less than or equal to a predetermined remaining capacity before the execution of the second mode begins.

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