JP2011131883A - Economy running system, and economy running control device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an economy running system for improving user's understanding and secure feeling of the economy running system, and for allowing general users having no sufficient knowledge of the economy running system to sufficiently use the functions of the economy running system to sufficiently produce economy running control effects. <P>SOLUTION: The economy running system functions to stop or restart an internal combustion engine depending on the condition of a vehicle. It is configured to inform users that starting conditions are established when the starting conditions are established during stopping the internal combustion engine to restart the internal combustion engine. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an eco-run system and an eco-run control device, and more particularly to an eco-run system and an eco-run control device having a function of stopping or restarting an engine according to the state of a vehicle.

  In recent years, for the purpose of reducing fuel consumption and exhaust gas, the engine is automatically activated when it is not necessary to operate the engine (for example, when the vehicle is stopped while waiting for a signal, waiting for a train, waiting for a person, etc.) An economy running system (eco-run system) has been developed and put into practical use in which the engine is automatically started (restarted) again when the engine needs to be stopped.

  A vehicle equipped with such an eco-run system is equipped with an indicator for notifying the user (driver, etc.) when the engine is automatically stopped and restarted, that is, when an eco-run is being performed. The indicator that informs the user when the operation is not carried out is equipped, and the user can confirm whether or not the eco-run is executed by referring to these indicators. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1 below).

  At present, the eco-run system is not widely used in private vehicles, so the correct mechanism of the eco-run system is not widely recognized. Generally, when the vehicle is stopped, the engine is automatically stopped. There is a strong recognition that

  However, in the actual eco-run control, for example, when the engine is automatically stopped while the shift lever is in the D range, the vehicle is stopped (vehicle speed is 0 km / h) and the accelerator is off (the accelerator pedal is not depressed), In addition, the brake is on (the brake pedal is depressed), is not a panic brake (sudden brake), the amount of power stored in the battery used during automatic engine stop is greater than or equal to a predetermined level, and other states The engine is automatically stopped when all the stop conditions including are satisfied.

  Therefore, when the vehicle is in a stopped state (that is, the vehicle speed is 0 km / h), if any of the other stop conditions is not satisfied, a phenomenon that the engine is not automatically stopped occurs. Become. Conventionally, when such a phenomenon occurs, the indicator only indicates that the eco-run has not been executed, so that the user can automatically stop the engine and stop the system. If you misrecognize, you will have the question of why the engine will not stop automatically even when the vehicle is stopped, and you may be worried that the eco-run control may not function properly. There has been a problem that it may be given to the user or the user may be mistaken for a failure.

  When such a phenomenon occurs, it is assumed that the engine can be automatically stopped by satisfying a stop condition that has not been satisfied by performing a predetermined operation by the user. For example, in the case of a system that is recognized as a “panic brake state” when stopped suddenly, the engine is not automatically stopped even if the vehicle is stopped due to sudden braking. In this case, the “panic brake state” can be released by switching the shift lever to the P range and releasing the brake (releasing the brake pedal), and the engine can be automatically stopped by this operation. Yes.

  However, if the user does not correctly understand in advance the reason why the engine cannot be stopped automatically (that is, the stop condition that is not satisfied) and the countermeasures for that cause, the engine should be automatically stopped by eco-run control. I can't. For general users, it is not easy to accurately understand in advance the multiple stopping conditions described above and the countermeasures to be taken when the engine is not automatically stopped. There was a problem that it was difficult to master.

JP 2001-88580 A

Means for solving the problems and their effects

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and can enhance the understanding and security of the user for the eco-run system, and even a general user who does not have sufficient knowledge about the eco-run system. It is an object of the present invention to provide an eco-run system and an eco-run control device that can fully utilize the functions provided in the eco-run system and can fully exhibit the effects of eco-run control.

In order to achieve the above object, an eco-run system (1) according to the present invention is an eco-run system having a function of stopping or restarting an internal combustion engine according to the state of a vehicle. When the engine is satisfied and the internal combustion engine is restarted, the established start condition is notified to the user.
According to the eco-run system (1), when the certain start condition is satisfied and the internal combustion engine is restarted, the user is notified of information related to the satisfied start condition. Therefore, it is possible to allow the user to understand what kind of starting condition the internal combustion engine has been restarted, and to improve the user's understanding and security for eco-run control (particularly control at the time of restart). .

The eco-run system (2) according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the eco-run system (1), the certain start condition is a start condition that does not require a user to restart the internal combustion engine.
According to the eco-run system (2), the certain start condition does not require a restart operation of the internal combustion engine by the user (for example, an accelerator pedal depression operation, a brake pedal release operation, etc.) For example, a condition for restarting the battery when the stored amount of the battery falls below a predetermined level) is not accompanied by a restart operation of the internal combustion engine by the user, that is, regardless of the user's intention. When the engine is restarted, the user can understand why the internal combustion engine has been restarted, and the user's understanding and peace of mind regarding eco-run control (especially control at restart) is further increased. Can be increased.

  In the eco-run system (3) according to the present invention, in the eco-run system (1) or (2), the cause of the restart of the internal combustion engine corresponding to a plurality of restart conditions of the internal combustion engine is stored in the storage device. When the internal combustion engine is stopped and the internal combustion engine is restarted and the internal combustion engine is restarted, the cause of the restart is read from the storage device and notified to the user as the satisfied start condition. It is characterized by that.

  According to the eco-run system (3), the storage means stores a cause of the restart of the internal combustion engine corresponding to a plurality of restart conditions of the internal combustion engine. When a certain start condition is satisfied and the internal combustion engine is restarted, the cause of the restart can be read from the storage means and notified to the user as the satisfied start condition.

  In the eco-run system (4) according to the present invention, when any of the eco-run systems (1) to (3) is in a stopped state, the stop condition for the internal combustion engine is not satisfied. The non-satisfied stop condition and / or the method of satisfying the non-satisfied stop condition is configured to notify the user.

According to the eco-run system (4), the internal combustion engine is stopped even when the stop condition of the internal combustion engine is not satisfied even though the vehicle is stopped, that is, even when the vehicle is stopped. If the failure condition cannot be satisfied, the failure condition and / or the method for satisfying the failure condition is configured to be notified to the user, so that the failure condition and / or the failure condition is not satisfied. Can be notified to the user, and the user can know why the internal combustion engine cannot be stopped even though the vehicle is stopped. Therefore, the user's understanding and peace of mind regarding the eco-run system can be enhanced, and it is possible to eliminate the confusion caused by misunderstanding of the failure.
Further, the user is notified of the reason why the internal combustion engine cannot be stopped by notifying the user of the non-established stop condition (that is, the condition that is not satisfied among the stop conditions of the internal combustion engine). It is possible to make the user understand the mechanism of the eco-run system correctly.
Further, the user is notified of a method of satisfying the unsatisfied stop condition (that is, a method of satisfying a condition that is not satisfied among the stop conditions of the internal combustion engine). Accordingly, it is possible to prompt the user to establish the non-established stop condition, and even a general user who does not have sufficient knowledge about the eco-run system has the functions provided in the eco-run system. It can be fully used, and the effects of eco-run control (for example, the effect of saving fuel by increasing the number of times the engine is automatically stopped) can be sufficiently exerted.

  The internal combustion engine is stopped when the vehicle is stopped, the brake pedal is depressed, the shift lever is in a predetermined position, the accelerator pedal is released, the battery The state where the amount of electricity stored in the vehicle is above a predetermined level, the state where a certain time has passed since the IG switch was turned on, the state where the vehicle hood is not opened, the state where the driver's seat door is not opened, the panic brake (rapid braking) ) State, a state in which there is no abnormality in the eco-run control device, and a state in which there is no abnormality in the engine control device or the brake control device.

  In addition, the eco-run system (5) according to the present invention provides a storage device that causes the internal combustion engine to stop without corresponding to a plurality of stop conditions of the internal combustion engine in the eco-run system (4). If the stop condition of the internal combustion engine is not satisfied even though the vehicle is in a stopped state, the cause of the internal combustion engine not stopping and / or the coping method is read from the storage device. The non-satisfied stop condition and / or the non-satisfied stop condition is configured to be notified to the user as a method of satisfying the non-satisfied stop condition.

  According to the eco-run system (5), the storage device stores the cause of the non-stop of the internal combustion engine and the coping method corresponding to the plurality of stop conditions of the internal combustion engine. If the stop condition of the internal combustion engine is not satisfied even though the engine is in a stopped state, the cause of the internal combustion engine not stopping and / or the coping method is read from the storage device, and the stop condition / Or can be notified to the user as a method of establishing the non-established stop condition.

  Further, the eco-run control device (1) according to the present invention is an eco-run control device that performs control to stop or restart the internal combustion engine according to the state of the vehicle, wherein a start condition is established while the internal combustion engine is stopped. The restart state determining means for determining the state where the internal combustion engine is restarted and the restart state determining means determine that the certain start condition is satisfied and the internal combustion engine is restarted. In this case, it is characterized by comprising establishment notification control means for performing control for notifying the user of the established start condition.

  According to the eco-run control device (1), it is determined by the restart state determination means whether the certain start condition is satisfied and the internal combustion engine is restarted, and the certain start condition is satisfied. When it is determined that the internal combustion engine is in a restarted state, control for notifying the user of information related to the established start condition is performed by the establishment notification control means. Therefore, it becomes possible to make the user know what kind of start condition the internal combustion engine has been restarted, and to enhance the user's understanding and security for eco-run control (especially control at restart). it can.

The eco-run control device (2) according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the eco-run control device (1), the certain start condition is a start condition that does not require a user to restart the internal combustion engine. Yes.
According to the eco-run control device (2), the certain start condition does not require a user to restart the internal combustion engine (for example, an accelerator pedal depression operation or a brake pedal release operation). (E.g., a condition for restarting when the amount of power stored in the battery falls below a predetermined level). Therefore, the user is not required to restart the internal combustion engine, i.e., regardless of the user's intention. When the internal combustion engine is restarted, the user can understand why the internal combustion engine has been restarted, and the user's understanding and peace of mind regarding eco-run control (especially when restarting) is improved. It can be further enhanced.

  Further, the eco-run control device (3) according to the present invention stores a cause of restart of the internal combustion engine corresponding to a plurality of restart conditions of the internal combustion engine in the eco-run control device (1) or (2). A storage means, wherein the establishment notification control means reads out the cause of the restart from the storage means when the internal combustion engine is restarted when the internal combustion engine is stopped and the internal combustion engine is restarted. It is characterized by notifying the user as a starting condition.

  According to the eco-run control device (3), the storage means stores a cause for restarting the internal combustion engine corresponding to a plurality of restart conditions for the internal combustion engine. When the starting condition is satisfied and the internal combustion engine is restarted, it is possible to read the cause of the restart from the storage means and notify the user as the satisfied starting condition.

It is the block diagram which showed roughly the principal part of the eco-run system which concerns on embodiment (1) of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the information relevant to the unfulfilled stop condition memorize | stored in ROM of the eco-run ECU which comprises the eco-run system which concerns on embodiment (1). It is a figure for demonstrating the information relevant to the established starting condition memorize | stored in ROM of eco-run ECU which comprises the eco-run system which concerns on embodiment (1). It is the figure which showed the example of a display of the format setting screen of the notification content displayed on the display part of the navigation apparatus which comprises the eco-run system which concerns on embodiment (1). It is the figure which showed the example of a display of the setting screen of the notification method displayed on the display part of the navigation apparatus which comprises the eco-run system which concerns on embodiment (1). It is the figure which showed the example of a display of the setting screen of the priority function displayed on the display part of the navigation apparatus which comprises the eco-run system which concerns on embodiment (1). It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer in the eco-run ECU which comprises the eco-run system which concerns on embodiment (1). It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the navigation microcomputer performs in the navigation apparatus which comprises the eco-run system which concerns on embodiment (1). It is the figure which showed the example of a display of the eco-run information displayed on the display part of the navigation apparatus which comprises the eco-run system which concerns on embodiment (1). It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the navigation microcomputer performs in the navigation apparatus which comprises the eco-run system which concerns on embodiment (2). It is the figure which showed the example of a display of the eco-run information displayed on the display part of the navigation apparatus which comprises the eco-run system which concerns on embodiment (2).

  Embodiments of an eco-run system, an eco-run control device, and a navigation device according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing a main part of the eco-run system according to the embodiment (1).

  In the figure, reference numeral 10 denotes an eco-run ECU (Electronic Control Unit). The eco-run ECU 10 is connected to the engine ECU 11, the brake ECU 12, the meter ECU 13, the navigation microcomputer 21, and the like via the communication line 1.

  Each of the ECUs 10, 11, 12, and 13 is a microcomputer that includes a CPU that executes various arithmetic processes, a ROM that stores processing programs, and a RAM that temporarily stores processing data. And an input / output interface for various signals (none of which are shown), and the CPU executes necessary arithmetic processing according to the processing program read from the ROM, and based on the arithmetic result Various controls are executed.

  The signals detected by the ECUs 10, 11, 12, and 13 and the arithmetic processing data can be communicated with each other between the ECUs 10, 11, 12, 13 and the navigation microcomputer 21 via the communication line 1. Data communication is performed as necessary, and control is performed in conjunction with each other. An eco-run system is configured including these ECUs 10, 11, 13, 13 and the navigation microcomputer 21.

  To the eco-run ECU 10, an eco-run system on / off (start / no-start) signal from the eco-run switch, a bonnet switch signal from the bonnet switch, a D-seat door open / close signal from the driver's seat (D seat) door courtesy switch, automatic engine stop The amount of charge stored in the battery (for example, Li battery) used in the state (starting standby state) is input as the charge amount signal from the detection sensor, the IG on / off signal from the ignition (IG) switch, and other signals. It has become so. The eco-run ECU 10 performs eco-run control (automatic stop / restart control) for stopping or restarting the engine according to the state of the vehicle detected by each of the ECUs 10, 11, 12, and 13.

  The engine ECU 11 also has an IG on / off signal from the IG switch, an engine speed signal from the engine speed sensor, an engine cooling water temperature signal from a water temperature sensor attached to the engine, and a vehicle speed sensor attached to the drive wheels. Vehicle speed signal, accelerator on / off signal from the accelerator pedal sensor that detects whether the accelerator pedal is depressed, steering angle signal of the steering from the steering angle sensor, shift lever operating position (P, R, N, D, 2 , L), a shift position signal from a shift position sensor, an air conditioner on / off signal from an air conditioner switch, and other signals are input. The engine ECU 11 executes engine control such as fuel injection control, transmission shift control control, and the like.

  The brake ECU 12 receives a brake on / off signal from a brake pedal sensor for detecting whether or not the brake pedal is depressed, and other signals necessary for brake control. Further, to the meter ECU 13 that controls display items on the meter panel arranged in front of the driver's seat, a remaining amount signal from a fuel sensor for detecting the remaining amount of fuel, an operation signal from the left and right turn signal switches, And other signals necessary for meter control are input.

  In addition, the navigation microcomputer 21 is necessary to execute a display unit 22 having a liquid crystal display, a host vehicle position detection unit 23 including a GPS receiver, and navigation functions such as map display, route search, and route guidance. A storage unit 24 in which data is stored, an operation unit 25 including button switches and a touch panel provided on the display unit 22, and an audio output unit 26 including an amplifier and a speaker are connected. The navigation device 20 includes the navigation microcomputer 21, the display unit 22, the vehicle position detection unit 23, the storage unit 24, and the operation unit 25.

  Further, the eco-run ECU 10 is configured to notify the user of information related to the unsatisfied stop condition when the engine stop condition is not satisfied even though the vehicle is in a stopped state (vehicle speed is 0 km / h). And a function for performing control for notifying the user of information related to the established start condition when a certain start condition is satisfied and the engine is restarted (establishment notice control) The information regarding the unsatisfied stop condition and the information regarding the established start condition are notified to the user through the navigation device 20 by the unsatisfied notice control means and the establishment notification control means. It is controlled so that.

  Note that the engine stop condition is not satisfied even though the vehicle is in a stopped state, and the vehicle is in a stopped state and any one of a plurality of other stop conditions is not satisfied. Is mentioned. As the plurality of stopping conditions, for example, the state where the hood is not opened, the state where the driver's seat door is not opened, the state where the vehicle is not stopped on a slope, and the position of the shift lever are detected (not indefinite). ) State, a state that is not a panic brake state, a state in which the steering angle of the steering wheel is not larger than a predetermined angle, a state in which the amount of charge of the battery is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, and the like.

  Further, as the certain start condition, a start condition that does not require a restart operation of the engine by the user (for example, an operation of depressing an accelerator pedal or an operation of releasing a stop state such as an operation of releasing a brake pedal), for example, a battery A state in which the amount of stored power is lower than a predetermined level is included.

  In addition, the ROM of the eco-run ECU 10 stores “information related to an unsatisfied stop condition” for notifying the user. FIG. 2 shows a part of information related to the unsatisfied stop condition stored in the ROM. The information related to the non-established stop condition shown in FIG. 2 is provided with two items of notification contents corresponding to the engine stop condition, that is, the cause of the engine non-stop and the coping method. For each engine stop condition, notification contents of the engine non-satisfied stop condition and the method of satisfying the non-satisfied stop condition are stored.

  The information related to the unsatisfied stop condition stored in the ROM corresponds to the case where the eco-run ECU 10 determines that the engine stop condition is not satisfied even though the vehicle is in the stop state. Information related to the unsatisfied stop condition is read out and sent to the navigation microcomputer 21 together with other notification control information.

  The ROM of the eco-run ECU 10 stores “information related to established start conditions” for notifying the user. FIG. 3 shows a part of information related to the established start condition stored in the ROM. The information related to the established start condition shown in FIG. 3 stores the cause of the engine restart, that is, the notification content of the engine restart established condition for each start condition.

  Information related to the established start condition stored in the ROM corresponds to the start condition that triggered the restart when the eco-run ECU 10 determines that a certain start condition is established and the engine is restarted. Information (starting condition established) is read out and sent to the navigation microcomputer 21 together with other notification control information.

  The other notification control information includes setting information in the form of notification contents of information to be notified to the user, setting information for notification method of information to be notified to the user, and the eco-run information notification function or navigation function. And priority function setting information indicating whether to prioritize the function.

  The setting information is configured to allow the user to set through the navigation device 20. FIG. 4 shows a display example of the “Notification Content Format Setting” screen displayed on the display unit, and only the cause of the engine non-stop (unsuccessful stop condition) is notified through this “Notification Content Format Setting” screen. , Only the method of coping with engine stoppage (method of establishing the non-satisfied stop condition) is announced, the cause and the coping method of engine stoppage are notified, and the desired format is notified to the user It can be selected as appropriate.

  For example, if you know the stop condition that is not established, if you are a user (user who has sufficient knowledge about the eco-run system) that can establish the stop condition that is not established, without notification of the coping method, For users who want to automatically stop the engine as much as possible, but do not need to know the conditions for failure, “Notify only what to do when the engine stops” If you are a user who wants to automatically stop the engine after knowing the non-established stop condition, there is no need to notify `` Notify the cause of engine stop and how to deal with it '' (notified If the user is uncomfortable with this, it is only necessary to select “not notify”.

  FIG. 5 shows a display example of a “notification method setting” screen displayed on the display unit. Through this “notification method setting” screen, notification by screen display, notification by voice, and screen display by voice The user can appropriately select a desired notification method from the three notification methods of notification.

  For example, if the user feels annoying the guidance by voice, “notification by screen display”, and if the user does not like switching the navigation screen, “notification by voice” will be announced by screen display and voice. If the user wants to go, “sound notification on screen display” may be selected.

  FIG. 6 shows a display example of a “priority function setting” screen displayed on the display unit. Normally, the eco-run information notification function is given priority or navigation through the “priority function setting” screen. The user can appropriately select whether to prioritize functions. These setting screens are appropriately read through, for example, a menu screen selection operation.

  Each setting information set through these setting screens is transmitted from the navigation microcomputer 21 to the eco-run ECU 10. Based on the setting information received from the navigation microcomputer 21, the eco-run ECU 10 determines the type of notification content, the notification method, and the priority function. Processing for switching each setting information to new setting information and storing it is performed.

  In addition, the navigation microcomputer 21 of the navigation device 20 displays the information related to the unsatisfied stop condition and the information related to the established start condition based on the notification control signal from the eco-run ECU 10, that is, displays these information. It has a function (notification processing means) for performing a process of displaying on the unit 22 or outputting a sound from the sound output unit 26.

  Next, the processing operation performed by the microcomputer in the eco-run ECU 10 constituting the eco-run system according to the embodiment (1) will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. This processing operation is repeatedly executed at a predetermined cycle when the eco-run switch is turned on.

  First, in step S1, input processing of various signals for performing eco-run control is executed, and then the process proceeds to step S2. In step S2, whether or not eco-run is in progress, that is, the engine is automatically stopped by eco-run control. If it is determined whether the engine is not in an eco-run, that is, if the engine is not in the automatic stop state, the process proceeds to step S3.

  In step S3, it is determined whether or not the eco-run condition is satisfied, that is, whether or not all the engine stop conditions are satisfied. If it is determined that the eco-run condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S4. In step S4, it is determined whether the vehicle is in a stopped state (that is, whether the vehicle speed is 0 km / h, or the vehicle speed is equal to or less than a predetermined speed close to 0 km / h), and the vehicle is not in a stopped state (that is, If it is determined that the vehicle is traveling), the process thereafter returns. On the other hand, if it is determined that the vehicle is stopped, the process proceeds to step S5.

  In step S5, an unsatisfied stop condition among the eco-run conditions is extracted, and then the process proceeds to step S6. In step S6, “information related to the unsatisfied stop condition” corresponding to the extracted unsatisfied stop condition is read from the ROM, and then the process proceeds to step S7.

  In step S7, the notification content format, notification method, and priority function setting information of the information notified to the user (information related to the failure condition not established) is read. In the next step S8, the notification content format is It is determined whether or not the information to be notified to the user is set not to be notified, and if it is determined that the setting is not to be notified, the process returns thereafter.

  On the other hand, in step S8, it is not a setting for notifying, that is, the form of the notification content notifies only the cause of the engine non-stop, notifies only the coping method when the engine does not stop, or notifies the cause and the coping method of the engine non-stop. If it is determined that it is one of the settings, the process proceeds to step S9.

  In step S9, notification control processing for the navigation device 20 is performed. That is, the setting information regarding the format, notification method, and priority function of the notification content read in step S7, and the unsatisfied stop condition read in step S6 The process of transmitting the notification control information including the information related to to the navigation microcomputer 21 is performed, and then the process returns. For example, if the notification content format is set to notify only the cause of engine non-stop, the notification method is set to screen display, and the priority function is set to the eco-run information notification function, The process of transmitting notification control information including the cause information of the engine non-stop among the information to be performed, the control signal for displaying the cause information on the screen, and the control signal giving priority to the notification function of the eco-run information to the navigation microcomputer 21 is performed. It is like that.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S3 that the eco-run condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S10. In step S10, an engine automatic stop process, that is, a process of outputting a control signal such as a fuel cut from the eco-run ECU 10 to the engine ECU 11 is performed. And then return.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2 that the engine is in an eco-run, that is, the engine is in the automatic stop state (start standby state) by the eco-run control, the process proceeds to step S11. In step S11, it is determined whether an eco-run return condition, that is, a condition for restarting the engine (start condition) is satisfied. If it is determined that the eco-run return condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S12. In step S12, an engine restart process, that is, a control signal output process for restarting fuel supply from the eco-run ECU 10 to the engine ECU 11 and restarting the engine is performed, the engine is restarted, and then the process proceeds to step S13.

  In step S13, whether or not the eco-run return condition is a start condition that does not require a restart operation of the engine by the user (for example, a depressing operation of an accelerator pedal or a stop state releasing operation such as a brake pedal releasing operation) (for example, The battery storage amount has fallen below a predetermined level), and it is not a start condition that does not require the engine to be restarted by the user. If it is determined that the engine has been restarted, the routine returns.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S13 that the eco-run return condition is a start condition that does not require the user to restart the engine, the process proceeds to step S14. In step S14, “information related to established start condition” corresponding to the start condition that triggered the restart is read from the ROM, and then the process proceeds to step S15.

  In step S15, the notification content format, notification method, and priority function setting information of the information notified to the user (information related to the established start condition) are read. In the next step S16, the notification content format is It is determined whether or not the information to be notified to the user is set not to be notified, and if it is determined that the setting is not to be notified, the process returns thereafter.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S16 that the setting is not to be notified, that is, the format of the notification content is a format for notifying the cause of engine restart, the process proceeds to step S17.
In step S17, the notification control process for the navigation device 20 is performed, that is, the setting information related to the format, notification method, and priority function read in step S15, and the established start condition read in step S14. The process of transmitting the notification control information including the information related to to the navigation microcomputer 21 is performed, and then the process returns. For example, if the notification content format is set to a format for notifying the cause of engine restart, the notification method is set to audio output, and the priority function is set to the eco-run information notification function, the established start condition Processing of sending notification control information to the navigation microcomputer 21 including cause information of engine restart among information related to the control information, a control signal for outputting the cause information by voice, and a control signal for giving priority to the notification function of eco-run information Is supposed to do.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S11 that the eco-run return condition, that is, the condition for restarting the engine is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S18. In step S18, the engine stop state continuing process, that is, the engine stop state is continued. A process of outputting a control signal to the engine ECU 11 is performed, and then the process returns.

  Next, processing operations performed by the navigation microcomputer 21 in the navigation device 20 constituting the eco-run system according to the embodiment (1) will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. This processing operation is executed when notification control information from the eco-run ECU 10 is received.

  First, in step S21, it is determined whether or not notification control information (notification control information A) related to the unsatisfied stop condition has been received from the eco-run ECU 10, and notification control information A related to the unsatisfied stop condition is determined. If it is determined that has been received, the process proceeds to step S22. In step S22, the notification control information A for information relating to the failure condition that has not been established is read. In the subsequent step S23, it is determined whether or not the priority function setting is a setting for giving priority to the notification function of the eco-run information. If it is determined that the notification function is not set to be prioritized, that is, the navigation function is prioritized, the process proceeds to step S24. In step S24, it is determined whether or not the navigation function is being used (for example, during map display or route guidance). If it is determined that the navigation function is being used, the process ends without performing the eco-run information notification process. .

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S24 that the navigation function is not being used (for example, an audio function other than the navigation function is being used), the process proceeds to step S25. If it is determined in step S23 that priority is given to the eco-run information notification function, the process proceeds to step S25.

  In step S25, based on other setting information included in the notification control information A and information related to the unsatisfied stop condition, a process of notifying the user of information related to the unsatisfied stop condition is performed. For example, when the setting of the notification content format is a format for notifying the cause of the engine stoppage and the coping method, and the setting of the notification method is a screen display, the cause of the engine stoppage in the display form shown in FIG. And the coping method are displayed on the display unit 22 for a certain period of time, and then the process ends.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S21 that the notification control information A related to the unsatisfied stop condition has not been received, the process proceeds to step S26, and in step S26, the notification control information (information related to the established start condition ( It is determined whether or not the notification control information B) has been received from the eco-run ECU 10, and if it is determined that the notification control information B related to the established start condition has not been received, the process ends, while the established start condition is satisfied. If it is determined that the notification control information B related information has been received, the process proceeds to step S27.

  In step S27, notification control information B of information related to the established start condition is read. In subsequent step S28, it is determined whether the priority function setting is a setting for giving priority to the notification function of the eco-run information. If it is determined that the notification function is not set to be prioritized, that is, the navigation function is set to priority, the process proceeds to step S29. In step S29, it is determined whether or not the navigation function is being used (for example, during map display or route guidance). If it is determined that the navigation function is being used, the process ends without performing the eco-run information notification process. .

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S29 that the navigation function is not being used, the process proceeds to step S30. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S28 that priority is given to the eco-run information notification function, the process proceeds to step S30.

  In step S30, based on other setting information included in the notification control information B and information related to the established start condition, a process of notifying the user of information related to the established start condition is performed. For example, when the notification content format is set to notify the cause of engine restart and the notification method is set to voice output, the cause of engine restart is output from the voice output unit 26 as voice guidance information. Processing (for example, voice guidance such as “restarted because the amount of charge of the battery has decreased”) is performed, and then the processing ends.

  According to the eco-run system according to the above embodiment (1), the engine can be stopped even when the engine stop condition is not satisfied although the vehicle is in a stopped state, that is, even when the vehicle is stopped. When it is not possible, the information related to the unsatisfied stop condition is notified to the user, so the information related to the unsatisfied stop condition can be notified to the user. Users can know whether the engine cannot be stopped despite being in a stopped state, which can increase the user's understanding and peace of mind about the eco-run system. You can eliminate it.

  Further, since the non-satisfied stop condition (that is, the condition that the engine stop condition is not satisfied) is notified to the user, the user can be made aware of the reason why the engine cannot be stopped. Allows users to understand the system mechanism correctly. In addition, since the user is notified of a method of satisfying the non-satisfied stop condition (that is, a method of establishing a non-satisfied condition among the engine stop conditions), the method is used to satisfy the non-satisfied stop condition. Even general users who do not have sufficient knowledge about the eco-run system can make full use of the functions of the eco-run system, and the effects of eco-run control ( For example, by increasing the number of times the engine is automatically stopped, an effect of saving fuel and the like can be sufficiently exhibited.

  In addition, when a certain start condition (in this case, a start condition that does not require the user to restart the engine) is established and the engine is restarted, information related to the established start condition is notified to the user. Is done. Therefore, when the engine is not restarted by the user, that is, when the engine is restarted regardless of the user's intention, the user can know why the engine has been restarted. It is possible to further enhance the user's understanding and security for eco-run control (particularly control at restart).

  In addition, since the format of the notification content of the information related to the failure condition that has not been established is switched based on the input information from the setting screen for inputting the format of the notification content, according to the information input on the setting screen The format of the notification content can be switched, and the user can arbitrarily switch the format of the notification content according to the user's understanding of the eco-run system, that is, the necessity of notification, etc. It is possible to adopt a form of notification content according to a request or request.

  In addition, since the notification method of information related to the failure condition that is not established is switched based on the input information from the setting screen for inputting the notification method, the notification method is changed according to the information input on the setting screen. The notification method can be arbitrarily switched by the user according to the user's preference and the like, and the notification method according to the user's request or request can be adopted.

  In addition, since the information related to the unsatisfied stop condition and the information related to the established restart condition are configured to be notified to the user through the navigation device 20, the display provided in the navigation device 20 is provided. By using the output function or the voice output function, the user can be notified of information related to the unsatisfied stop condition and information related to the established start condition so that the user can easily understand.

  In addition, since the function to prioritize based on the input information from the setting screen for inputting the priority function is configured to be switchable, either the function of notifying the notification information to the user or the function of the navigation function Can be switched based on input information from the setting screen for inputting the priority function, and the priority function can be arbitrarily switched according to the user's request.

  Further, according to the navigation device 20, a process of notifying the user of information related to the failure condition that has not been established is performed based on the notification control information from the eco-run ECU 10. Information related to the stop condition can be notified to the user, and the function of the navigation device 20 can be further enhanced.

  Next, an eco-run system according to Embodiment (2) will be described. However, since the configuration of the eco-run system according to the embodiment (2) is substantially the same as the eco-run system shown in FIG. 1 except for the eco-run ECU and the navigation microcomputer, the eco-run ECU 10A having different functions and the navigation microcomputer 21A is denoted by a different reference numeral, and other components having the same function are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted here.

In the eco-run system according to the embodiment (1), the priority function is appropriately set by the user through the “priority function setting” screen (see FIG. 6) displayed on the display unit 22 of the navigation device 20. The set information is stored in the eco-run ECU 10, but in the eco-run system according to the embodiment (2), the user does not set the priority function, but is calculated by the navigation device 20A. Based on the information on the vehicle position and the information including various states of the detected vehicle, the priority function, that is, whether the eco-run information notification function is prioritized or the navigation function is prioritized It is different in that it is configured so as to be determined (switched) as appropriate according to the surrounding situation.
The processing operation of the eco-run information notification control performed by the eco-run ECU 10 constituting the eco-run system according to the embodiment (2) is substantially the same as the processing operation shown in FIG. To do.

Next, processing operations performed by the navigation microcomputer 21A in the navigation device 20A constituting the eco-run system according to the embodiment (2) will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG.
First, in step S31, it is determined whether or not notification control information (notification control information A ′) related to the unsatisfied stop condition has been received from the eco-run ECU, and information control control information related to the unsatisfied stop condition is determined. If it is determined that A ′ has been received, the process proceeds to step S32.

  In step S32, it is determined whether or not the navigation function is being used (for example, displaying a map of the vehicle position or route guidance is being used). If it is determined that the navigation function is not being used, the process proceeds to step S35 while the navigation function is being used. If it is determined that there is, the process proceeds to step S33.

  In step S33, the vehicle position information and the vehicle status (fuel remaining amount, turn signal operation status, etc.) are acquired. In the next step S34, the vehicle automatically stops the engine based on the acquired information. To determine whether the vehicle is in a low-priority situation (for example, the vehicle is at the head of the right turn lane at the intersection), and has a low-priority situation in which the engine is stopped. If it is determined that the situation is acceptable, the navigation function is prioritized and the process is terminated without notifying the information related to the unsatisfied stop condition. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S34 that the priority to stop the engine is not low, that is, it is better to prioritize the eco-run information notification function, the process proceeds to step S35.

  In step S35, the notification control information A ′ of information related to the unsatisfied stop condition is read. In the subsequent step S36, setting information (setting information of notification contents and setting method of notification method) included in the notification control information A ′, Based on the information related to the unsatisfied stop condition, a process of notifying the user of information related to the unsatisfied stop condition is performed. For example, when the setting of the notification content format is a format for notifying only the cause of the engine stoppage, and the setting of the notification method is a screen display and voice notification, the cause of the engine stoppage in the display form shown in FIG. Is displayed on the display unit 22 for a certain period of time and a guidance voice (for example, a voice such as “the engine cannot be automatically stopped because the amount of charge of the battery is low”) is output via the voice output unit 26. Processing is performed, and then the processing ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S31 that the notification control information A ′ for information related to the unsatisfied stop condition has not been received, the process proceeds to step S37. In step S37, the notification control information for information related to the established start condition is determined. It is determined whether or not (notification control information B ′) has been received from the eco-run ECU 10, and if it is determined that the notification control information B ′ of information related to the established start condition has not been received, the process ends, while If it is determined that the notification control information B ′ of information related to the start condition has been received, the process proceeds to step S38.
In step S38, it is determined whether the navigation function is being used. If it is determined that the navigation function is not being used, the process proceeds to step S41. If it is determined that the navigation function is being used, the process proceeds to step S39.

  In step S39, the vehicle position information and the vehicle status (fuel remaining amount, turn signal operation status, etc.) are acquired. In the next step S40, the vehicle uses the navigation function based on the acquired information. If it ’s in a high-priority situation (for example, whether the vehicle is driving on the road for the first time) and if it ’s in a high-priority situation using the navigation function, The process ends without notifying the information related to the established start condition. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S40 that the priority to use the navigation function is not high, that is, it is not necessary to prioritize the navigation function, the process proceeds to step S41.

  In step S41, the notification control information B ′ of information related to the established start condition is read, and in the subsequent step S42, setting information (setting information of notification content and setting method of notification method) included in the notification control information B ′, Based on the information related to the established start condition, a process for notifying the user of information related to the established start condition is performed. For example, when the setting of the notification content format is a format for notifying only the cause of the engine being restarted, and the setting of the notification method is a voice notification, the cause of the engine restarting is indicated via the voice output unit 26. Then, the process of outputting as a guidance voice is performed, and then the process ends.

  According to the eco-run system according to the embodiment (2), the priority function is switched based on the information including the information related to the vehicle position determined by the navigation device 20A. Priority according to information including information on the vehicle position (for example, road conditions at the vehicle position, surrounding facilities, vehicle conditions at that time, etc.) It is possible to provide a system capable of appropriately switching the function to be performed.

  Further, according to the navigation device 20A, it is determined which of the eco-run information notification function and the navigation function is prioritized, and when it is determined that the navigation function is prioritized, the eco-run information notification process is not performed. Thus, in a situation where the priority for using the navigation function is high, the eco-run information notification process is not performed, that is, the navigation function is not hindered.

  Further, according to the navigation device 20A, which function is to be prioritized is determined based on the priority for automatically stopping the engine, and therefore, when the priority for automatically stopping the engine is high (for example, particularly saving fuel). If necessary, prioritize the eco-run information notification function, but when the priority to automatically stop the engine is low (for example, the vehicle position is at the head of the right turn lane at the intersection and a quick start is required) In other cases, the navigation function can be prioritized, and the priority function can be determined according to the situation surrounding the vehicle, that is, while predicting which function the user wants to prioritize. It can be switched automatically.

  In the process of the navigation microcomputer 21A in the navigation device 20A that constitutes the eco-run system according to the embodiment (2) shown in FIG. That is, in step S34, it is determined whether or not the vehicle has a low priority for automatically stopping the engine. In another embodiment, the vehicle is replaced with step S43. However, it is judged whether or not there is a high priority for automatically stopping the engine (for example, a situation where the remaining amount of fuel is low and there is no gas station nearby), and a high priority for automatically stopping the engine In other words, if it is determined that it is necessary to prioritize the eco-run information notification function and positively execute the automatic engine stop, step S35 is performed. If it is determined that the priority to automatically stop the engine is not high, that is, it is not necessary to prioritize the eco-run information notification function, the process is performed without performing the eco-run information notification process. Finish.

  Further, in place of step S40 in FIG. 9, it is determined whether or not the vehicle is in a low-priority situation (for example, a situation where the vehicle is traveling on a road that has been passed before). If it is determined that it is determined that the priority to use the navigation function is low, the process proceeds to step S41 and subsequent steps, while the priority to use the navigation function is not low, that is, the navigation function needs to be prioritized. If it is determined that there is, it may be configured to finish the process without performing the eco-run information notification process. By such determination processing, processing that tends to prioritize the navigation function can be performed.

10, 10A Eco-run ECU (Eco-run control device)
11 Engine ECU
12 Brake ECU
13 Meter ECU
20, 20A Navigation device 21, 21A Navigation microcomputer 22 Display unit 23 Vehicle position detection unit 24 Storage unit 25 Operation unit 26 Audio output unit

Claims (8)

In an eco-run system having a function of stopping or restarting the internal combustion engine according to the state of the vehicle,
An eco-run system configured to notify a user of the established start condition when the start condition is established while the internal combustion engine is stopped and the internal combustion engine is restarted.   2. The eco-run system according to claim 1, wherein the certain start condition is a start condition that does not require a user to restart the internal combustion engine. A cause of restarting the internal combustion engine corresponding to a plurality of restart conditions of the internal combustion engine is stored in the storage device,
When the internal combustion engine is restarted when the internal combustion engine is stopped and the internal combustion engine is restarted, the cause of the restart is read from the storage device, and the user is notified of the established start condition. The eco-run system according to claim 1 or 2.   When the stop condition of the internal combustion engine is not satisfied even though the vehicle is in a stop state, the user is notified of a stop condition that is not satisfied and / or a method for satisfying the stop condition that is not satisfied. The eco-run system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the eco-run system is provided. Corresponding to a plurality of stop conditions of the internal combustion engine, the cause that the internal combustion engine does not stop and the coping method are stored in the storage device,
When the stop condition of the internal combustion engine is not satisfied even though the vehicle is in a stopped state, the cause of the internal combustion engine not stopping and / or a countermeasure for the failure are read from the storage device, and the stop of the failure is not achieved. The eco-run system according to claim 4, wherein the eco-run system is configured to be notified to a user as a method of satisfying the condition and / or the non-satisfied stop condition. In an eco-run control device that performs control to stop or restart the internal combustion engine according to the state of the vehicle,
Restart state determination means for determining a state in which a start condition during the stop of the internal combustion engine is satisfied and the internal combustion engine is restarted;
When the restart state determining means determines that the certain start condition is satisfied and the internal combustion engine is restarted, a notification of establishment that performs control to notify the user of the satisfied start condition An eco-run control device comprising control means.   The eco-run control device according to claim 6, wherein the certain start condition is a start condition that does not require a user to restart the internal combustion engine. Storage means for storing a cause of restarting the internal combustion engine in response to a plurality of restart conditions of the internal combustion engine;
When the start condition under which the internal combustion engine is stopped is satisfied and the internal combustion engine is restarted, the establishment notification control means reads the cause of the restart from the storage means and uses the user as the established start condition The eco-run control device according to claim 6 or 7, characterized by notifying to.

Images