FR3028894A1 - DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING THE ELECTRIC POWER SUPPLY OF A STARTER SOLENOID - Google Patents

Abstract

A device (100) for controlling the power supply of a starter solenoid (200) (300), the device (100) being electrically input fed by a voltage source (1), said device (100) comprising a transistor Power supply (16) connected in series with an electromechanical relay (17), the switching into an on state of the power transistor (16) and the electromechanical relay (17) providing at the output of the device (100) a signal (7) of control, this signal (7) controlling the solenoid power supply (200).

Description

The invention relates to a device for controlling the electronic power supply of the solenoid of a thermal engine starter, in particular for road vehicles comprising a system for controlling the supply of electricity to a solenoid. start and stop automatically. [0002] A starter aims, via an electric motor, for the autonomous activation of a heat engine. To do this, a starter comprises a solenoid, which is an electromagnetic relay, mainly providing two functions when it is electrically powered. : the closing of a contactor allowing the electric power supply of the electric motor of the starter, and the meshing of the gears of the electric motor with those of the heat engine in order to train the latter. The power supply of the starter is controlled upstream by a power supply control device. In an automotive context, the solenoid starter solenoid power control device must both prohibit the risk of inadvertent activation and deactivation of starter commands, while at the same time having a long life and robustness for its components. e. The realization of these control devices is all the more critical for vehicles equipped with a start-up system and automatic stop called "Stop & Start" in English, because of the large number of restart cycles induced by these systems. The electronic components of these systems may in fact during successive starts / restart be subjected to currents and high temperatures, reversals of voltages and currents or short circuits. Thus, the document FR2812036 discloses an embodiment of a control device via two transistors connected in series on either side of the winding (solenoid) of a starter. One of the transistors is a "low side" transistor, commonly referred to as "low side", while the other is a "high side" transistor replacing a start contact device (anti-theft). . An electronic start control controls these two transistors and then allows them respectively to authorize the control and to control the solenoid of the starter. Such a device has several disadvantages, however. The use of a "high side" type transistor is expensive and requires the presence of a charge pump, in particular for n-channel MOSFET transistors. In addition, the control solutions by power transistors require the realization of a protection device in case of polarity inversion of their power supply, carried out as examples by means of diodes and / or specific power transistors. , the latter having to withstand currents of up to forty amperes. These solutions are all the more expensive that they commonly need to be integrated on silicon in a dedicated box, such as a BICD Starter Control Interface Box. Another known solution consists in using an electromechanical relay controlling the eventual supply of the solenoid of the starter, the states of the relay being controlled by one or more computers.

The use of this type of component, however, does not allow to take into account the number of starting cycles over the life of the vehicle: an electromechanical relay has indeed an electrical endurance not exceeding a few hundred thousand cycles at best .  For this solution, therefore, the use of a releasable relay is usually preferred to allow preventive maintenance beyond a predetermined number of cycles, requiring the realization of an activation counter.  A major disadvantage of this solution lies, moreover, in a risk of sticking relay contact, preventing any deactivation of the starter.  Another solution is to use two mechanical relays connected in series, whose states are controlled alternately by one or more computers.  Such a solution makes it possible to guard against the risk of bonding a contact of one of the relays and also makes it possible to double the lifetime of the relays vis-à-vis the previous solution.  Such a solution nevertheless requires the realization of an activation counter of these components and a specific configuration of the computers to provide alternate commands, in order to avoid any risk of inadvertent control.  [0004] A first objective is to propose an electronic solenoid power supply control device for a starter that makes it possible to overcome all the aforementioned drawbacks, in particular to meet the constraints of: reliability, service life, cost of 3028894 3 implementation and compatibility with different computer configurations.  [0005] A second objective is to propose a motor vehicle comprising a solenoid electronic power control device of a starter, meeting the objective expressed above.  For this purpose, it is proposed, in a first aspect, a power supply control device of a solenoid starter, the device being electrically powered input by a voltage source, the device comprising a transistor of power connected in series with an electromechanical relay, the switching into a state of the power transistor and the electromechanical relay outputting the device a control signal, this signal controlling the power supply of the solenoid.  Advantageously, in this device, the switching states of the power transistor and the electromechanical relay are respectively controlled from a first command and a second command generated by at least one electronic computer, the electronic computer being configured to generate these commands so that the electromechanical relay always switches to a on state before switching to a power state of the power transistor; in a blocked state after switching the power transistor off.  Advantageously, in this device the first command and the second command are transmitted at the input of a first logic gate "AND" generating at its output a control request signal of the power transistor; 30 of an "OR" logic gate generating at its output a control request signal of the electromechanical relay.  [0009] Advantageously, this device comprises a diagnostic and protection module configured to receive at its inputs a set of information relating to the operation of the device, this information comprising a replay information at a midpoint between the transistor of power and electromechanical relay; readback information at the output of the device; the first order and the second order; 5 the diagnostic and protection module being further configured to compare this information, and return according to the result of this comparison a diagnostic signal to the electronic computer, this signal describing the operating state of the device, the electronic computer being in further configured to generate the first command and the second command based on the diagnostic signal returned by the diagnostic and protection module.  [0010] Advantageously, in this device, the information relating to the operation of the device received by the diagnostic and protection module comprises at least one feedback information from the power transistor, this feedback information being operational status information. the power transistor measured and provided by it, if this transistor is a smart power transistor; Otherwise, temperature or electrical current information in the power transistor, measured externally.  Advantageously, in this device, the diagnostic and protection module is furthermore configured to generate at its output a switching authorization signal of the power transistor and a switching authorization signal of the electromechanical relay. signals being generated according to the result of the comparison of the information relating to the operation of the device.  Advantageously, this device comprises a second logic gate "AND" configured to receive o as the first input, the driving demand signal of the power transistor or the first command; o as a second input, the switching enable signal of the power transistor; 3028894 5 generating according to its first and second input, a control signal transmitted to the transistor, the control signal being able to switch the power transistor.  Advantageously, this device comprises a third logic gate "AND" configured to receive o as the first input, the control request signal of the electromechanical relay or the second command; as a second input, the authorization signal of the electromechanical relay; generating, according to its first and second inputs, a control signal transmitted to a transistor, the transistor being configured to generate from the control signal a relay control signal transmitted to the electromechanical relay, the relay control signal being able to switch the electromechanical relay.  Advantageously, in this device, in the absence of feedback information from the power transistor, an electrical protection element is connected in series with the power transistor 20 and the electromechanical relay.  [0015] Advantageously, this device comprises a protection diode against the inversions of the poles of the voltage source, this diode being connected in series in the forward direction of the power transistor, between the voltage source and the input terminal. the coil of the electromechanical relay, or between the output terminal of the coil of the electromechanical relay and a ground; an overvoltage protection diode connected at the output of the power supply control device.  According to a second aspect, there is provided a motor vehicle comprising a starter, the starter being electrically connected to a power supply control device as summarized above.  Other objects and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description of embodiments, given hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 illustrates a control device of FIG. power supply for a starter solenoid according to a first embodiment; Figure 2 illustrates an electrical power control device for a starter solenoid according to a second embodiment; Fig. 3 illustrates a power supply control device for a starter solenoid according to a third embodiment.  [0018] FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 illustrate embodiments of a device 100 for controlling the power supply of a solenoid 200 of a starter 300 enabling an internal combustion engine to be started (non-operating). represent).  [0019] Advantageously, the starter 300 and the power supply control device 100 equip a motor vehicle comprising an internal combustion engine, for example a private vehicle, a commercial vehicle, a truck, a construction machine, equipped or no automatic start and stop system "Stop & Start".  More generally, the starter 300 and the power supply control device 100 equip any motor device, for example a generator or a motor pump.  In Figures 1, 2, 3 the solenoid 200 power supply control device 100 of the starter 300 is electrically powered input by a voltage source 1, for example the battery of a vehicle.  The voltage source 1 provides a potential difference between a positive terminal + connected to the power supply control device 100, and a negative terminal - connected to one or more masses 2, 3, 4, 5 (separated or in one and the same plan).  The electrical power control device 100 of the solenoid 200 of the starter 300 is, moreover, controlled by at least one electronic computer 6, for example the motor control of a motor vehicle.  Advantageously, the control of the power supply control device 100 by one or more electronic computers 6 allows at its output, the possible sending of a signal 7 of 3028894 7 command to the solenoid 200 of the starter 300 , allowing the operation of the latter.  By way of example, the control signal 7 at the output of the power supply control device 100 is an analog signal in voltage and / or current, a digital signal or an "all or nothing" signal.  Thus, the starter 300 is electrically connected via its solenoid 200 to the output of the power supply control device 100 and the voltage source 1.  In FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, the starter 300 is shown in a simplified manner, in order to remind it of its operation.  The solenoid 200 of the starter 300 is formed of a holding coil 8, a call coil 9, and a contactor 10.  The electrical connection between the solenoid 200 and the power supply control device 100 is commonly achieved via an input terminal of the hold coil 8 and an input terminal of the call coil 9.  The starter 300 further comprises an electric motor M and an inductor 11 connected in series with the contactor 10.  The electric motor M is electrically connected to the inductor 11 via a first terminal 12, and to ground 5 via a second terminal 13.  The holding coil 8 is further electrically connected via its output terminal between ground 5 and the second terminal 13 of the electric motor M, while the call coil 9 is electrically connected via its output terminal between the contactor 10 and the inductor 11.  In the absence of electric current circulation in the holding coil 8 and in the call coil 9, the contactor 10 is by default in an open state and the electric motor M of the starter 300 is not electrically powered.  In contrast, the flow of electrical current through the holding coil 8 and the call coil 9 generates a field and displaces a plunger core (not shown).  Advantageously, the displacement of this plunger then allows both the closing of the contactor 10, thus the electrical power supply of the electric motor M of the starter 300, as well as the meshing of the gears of the electric motor M with those of the internal combustion engine. , thus driving the latter.  The control signal 7, at the output of the power supply control device 100, therefore makes it possible to control the operation of the starter 300, namely its deactivation or its use.  In each of FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, the solenoid power supply control device 100 comprises a power transistor 14, 15, 16 whose output is electrically connected in series with an input terminal. a contactor 17_1 of an electromechanical relay 17 (also commonly called electromagnetic relay).  However, in another embodiment, the input of the transistor 14, 15, 16 may be connected in series with the output of the electromechanical relay 17.  The output terminal of the contactor 17_1 of the electromechanical relay 17 is here electrically connected in series with the holding coil 8 and the solenoid call coil 9 of the solenoid 200.  The electromechanical relay 17 further comprises a coil 17_2.  As a reminder, such an electromechanical relay 17, in the absence of current, is by default in an "open" state, also designated by "blocked" during this document, that is to say a state not allowing not the flow of electric current.  More specifically, the switch 17_1 is by default in an "open" state, and only the flow of a current in its coil 17_2 20 allows the closing thereof via the creation of a magnetic field.  The electromechanical relay 17 is then in an on state, also referred to as "closed" during this document, that is to say a state allowing the flow of electric current.  The transistor 14, 15, 16 of power illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, 3 is, by way of example, of the MOSFET type and comprises an intrinsic diode D in antiparallel enabling the transistor to be protected against current inversions. .  In particular, in FIG. 1, the power transistor 14 is an "intelligent" type MOSFET power transistor, commonly referred to as transistor "smart power".  However, any other type of power transistor 14, 15, 16 can be considered for each of these figures, for example JFET or bipolar type transistors.  Advantageously, the control signal 7 makes it possible to control the supply of the solenoid of the starter 300, and therefore the operation of the latter, when the transistor 14, 15, 16 of power and the electromechanical relay 17 are in a state. "Closed", that is to say each allowing the flow of electrical current through the entire device 100 for controlling the power supply.  Advantageously, in the power supply control device 100: the power transistor 14, 15, 16 is driven from a first control 18 coming from the electronic computer 6, and makes it possible to control the power supply of the solenoid 200 of the starter 300; the electromechanical relay 17 is driven from a second control 19 from the electronic computer 6 (or another computer 10), and makes it possible to guard against all situations of commands or untimely maintenance of the solenoid power supply. 200 of the starter 300.  Such situations may, for example, occur in the event of a failure of the power transistor 14, 15, 16, its control signal which would pass or remain in the "closed" state, or the inversion of the poles of the voltage source 1.  The electromechanical relay 17 thus provides a role of electrical safety in the control device 100.  To do this, the first control 18 and the second control 19, from the electronic computer 6 (or different computers) are sequentially generated by the computer (s) 6 electronic so that to enable the power supply of the solenoid 200, the electromechanical relay 17 switches to a on state before the power transistor 14, 15, 16 is turned on; to disable the power supply of the solenoid 200, the electromechanical relay 17 switches to a locked state after the power-off transistor 14, 15, 16 is switched off.  According to various embodiments, the first control 18 and the second control 19 are "all or nothing" type signals, signals in an "active" state to the positive terminal + of the voltage source 1 or the mass 2, 3, 4, 5, or analog signals 35 can be conveyed via serial links (eg SPI link) or multiplexed networks (eg LIN, CAN, VAN, FLEXRAY, or ETHERNET networks) .  In one embodiment, in order to ensure a correct sequencing of the first control 18 and the second control 19, it is possible to use these commands as respective inputs of an "AND" logic gate 20 and an "OR" logic gate 21, respectively able to apply on their inputs a logical operation "AND", "OR", and provide at their output the result of this operation.  Then, at the output of the logic gate "AND" 20, a request signal of control 22 of the transistor 14, 15, 16 of power, and at the output of the logic gate "OR" a request signal 23 of the relay 17 electromechanical.  Advantageously, this control logic is compatible with any alternating control device coming from one (or more) electronic computer, and intended to operate with a device device electrically controlled alternately.  Thus, whatever the temporal order of the first control 18 and the second control 19, the electromechanical relay 17 is always activated before the power transistor 14, 15, 16 and always deactivated thereafter.  In another embodiment, when the electronic calculator (s) are able to guarantee a good sequencing of the first control (18) and the second control (19), the realization of such a control logic is optional.  [0035] Advantageously, a correct sequencing of the first control 18 and the second control 19 makes it possible to operate the electromechanical relay 17 as a disconnector: the latter operates without the passage of electric current when closing or opening. of the contactor 10 of the solenoid 200.  Thus, the electromechanical relay 17 switches "empty", and sees neither the peak of activation current for the control of the solenoid 200 of the starter 300 when closing the contactor 10, nor the electric arc connected to the opening of the inductive circuit of the starter 300 when the contactor 10 is opened.  [0036] Advantageously, since the mechanical endurance of an electromechanical relay is much greater than its electrical endurance (respectively approximately one million cycles compared with a few hundred thousand), the use of the electromechanical relay 17 in a disconnector mode makes it possible to limit its electrical wear, and thus make it compatible with a severe mission profile, for example a profile comprising successive start / restart cycles close together over time.  Advantageously, by virtue of such a configuration, in the event of failure of the power transistor 14, 15, 16, for example if it remains unintentionally in a conducting state, a simple opening of the electromechanical relay 17 allows the deactivation of the solenoid 200 power supply.  In addition, in order to guard against an inadvertent activation of the solenoid 200 power supply during a reversal of the poles of the voltage source 1, a protection diode D1, for example a small Zener diode , is electrically connected in the forward direction of the power transistor 14, 15, 16, between the voltage source 1 and the input terminal of the coil 17_2 of the electromechanical relay 17, or between the output terminal of the coil 17_2 of the electromechanical relay 17 and a mass 3.  By way of example, in FIGS. 1 to 3, the protective diode D1 is connected between the power transistor 14, 15, 16 (which is connected to the voltage source 1) and the input terminal of the coil 17_2 of the electromechanical relay 17.  In another non-illustrated example, the protection diode D1 is electrically connected between the output terminal of the coil 17_2 of the electromechanical relay 17 and a transistor controlling the supply of current to the coil 17 2 of the electromechanical relay 17. control transistor being further connected to ground 3.  Such a transistor is described later.  In the event of a current reversal, the protective diode D1 therefore prevents the control of the electromechanical relay 17, which thus remains in an open state, and prevents the flow of current through the intrinsic diode D of the transistor 14, 15, 16 power.  Furthermore, a protection diode D2 against overvoltages may be added at the output of the power supply control device 100, here connected in parallel between the output of the electromechanical relay 17 and the ground 3.  Such a diode is, by way of example, electrically connected between the output terminal of the coil 17_2 of the electromechanical relay 17 and a ground 4.  Advantageously, the protection diode D2 is a freewheel diode 3028894 12 or a transil diode.  Such a diode makes it possible to ensure the recirculation of the inductive current coming from the solenoid 200 when the contactor 10 is opened and protects the power supply control device 100 against overvoltages.  More precisely, the protection diode D2 provides protection for the power transistor 14, 15, 16 in a nominal case and the electromechanical relay 17 in the dysfunctional case where the relay would open the solenoid 200 power supply.  According to various embodiments, the control of the power transistor 14, 15, 16 ensures, via its opening (blocked state), the protection of the power supply control device 100, especially in the event of a short-circuit. or overload current.  The realization of this electrical protection, depends on the transistor 14, 15, 16 of power power used.  In FIG. 1, the power transistor 14 is an intelligent power transistor, that is, a smart power transistor.  In this figure, the smart power transistor 14 includes a set of inputs / outputs symbolized by square connectors, and electronic components 24.  For example, for the power transistor 14, the connection of an electronic component 24 to a connector, itself connected to a ground GND, is illustrated.  Advantageously, the electronic components 24 make it possible to supervise the operating state of the power transistor 14.  Among the electronic components 24 there are, by way of example, sensors (or measuring circuits) of currents, voltages, temperatures, as well as logic means for monitoring the operation of the transistor.  These logic means allow in particular the detection of undervoltage, overvoltages, overcurrent (short-circuit) or overheating for such a transistor.  Thus, such logic means make it possible to supply a smart diagnostic power signal at the output of the smart power transistor relating to the operation of said transistor.  Depending on the type of smart power transistor called "smart power" used, such a diagnostic signal can be a simple status of the transistor (ex: "OK status", "overvoltage detected"), a status "all or nothing" , or a signal (digital or analog) reporting one or more information measured by the electronic components 24 in the transistor (eg current measurements).  Thus, in FIG. 1, the power transistor 14 supplies a diagnosis and protection logic module 25 with at least one status information 26 relating to its operating state, for example a signal comprising information relating to to the currents, voltages, and / or operating temperatures of the power transistor 14.  The diagnostic and protection logic module 25 then compares the status information 26 with preconfigured information, for example information relating to limit thresholds of currents, voltages and temperatures known to ensure or not a satisfactory operation in the transistor 14. power, or more generally in the power supply control device 100.  Advantageously, this comparison then enables the diagnostic and protection logic module 25 to develop an authorization signal 27 for switching the power transistor 14.  The authorization signal 27 will make it possible to allow the switching of the power transistor 14 into an on state during a nominal operation, and otherwise maintain or switch it into a blocked state, for example when detecting a situation of overheating, overvoltage or overcurrent.  In Figure 2 the power transistor 15 is a MOSFET transistor.  In contrast to FIG. 1, an external sensor electronics (or measurement circuitry) is associated with the power transistor.  By way of example, in FIG. 2, a temperature sensor G and a current sensor I are electrically connected to the power transistor, and return respectively to the diagnostic and protection logic module 25, temperature information 28 and an electrical current information 29 measured at the power transistor 15.  As before, the diagnostic and protection logic module 25 then compares this information with respect to predefined thresholds, here of currents and temperatures, and prepares the authorization signal 27, which will allow or not the switching. of the power transistor 14 in an on state during a nominal operation and otherwise in a blocked state.  In FIG. 3, the power transistor 16 is also a MOSFET transistor.  In this embodiment, the power transistor 16 does not provide feedback to the diagnostic and protection logic module 25.  However, in spite of the absence of feedback, and as explained below, the diagnostic and protection logic module 25 still allows the generation of an authorization signal 27 for switching the power transistor 16.  Further, in the case where the short-circuit or overload protection is not provided by the power transistor 16, an electrical protection element 30 connected in series is added to the power control device 100. with the power transistor 16 and the electromechanical relay 17.  By way of example, in FIG. 3, the electrical protection element 30 is electrically connected between the voltage source 1 and the power transistor 16.  The electrical protection element 30 is, as an example, a fuse, a thermal circuit breaker, this element being changeable or resettable, automatically or manually.  In Figures 1 to 3, the development of the authorization signal 27, also takes into account the following data provided at the input 20 of the protection diagnostic logic module 25: a readback information 31 at a midpoint between the power transistor 14, 15, 16 and the electromechanical relay 17 to control its operation.  The readback information 31 is, for example, information in voltage, current or an "all or nothing" state of the electromechanical relay 17.  In FIGS. 1 to 3, this information is here acquired at the midpoint between the output of the power transistor 14, 15, 16 and the input of the electromechanical relay 17, and directly returned to the diagnostic and protection logic module 25.  Advantageously, the replay information 31 makes it possible to refine the identification of a malfunction that may occur in the power supply control device 100; a readback information 32 at the output of the power supply control device 100, here at the output of the electromechanical relay 17, to control its operation.  The readback information 32 is, for example, information in voltage, in current or an on-off state of the electromagnetic relay 17.  In FIGS. 1 to 3, this information is acquired between the electromechanical relay 17 and the protection diode D2, and directly returned to the diagnostic and protection logic module 25; The first control 18 and the second control 19 from the electronic calculator (s).  Advantageously, the information concerning these commands intersected with the readback information 31, 32 allows the diagnostic and protection logic module 25 to accurately identify the occurrence of a possible malfunction.  By way of example, for FIGS. 1 and 2, the diagnostic and protection module 25 generates the authorization signal 27 enabling the switching of the transistor 14, 15 of power in an on state, only when the set of conditions Following are the following: the power transistor 14, 15 has currents, voltages, nominal operating temperatures; the electromechanical relay is in an on state, this information being communicated via at least one of the replay information 31, 32; The first command 18 is well received by the diagnostic and protection logic module 25.  Furthermore, in Figures 1 to 3, the diagnostic and protection module 25 generates an authorization signal 33 for switching the electromechanical relay 17.  Advantageously, the authorization signal 33 will allow the switching of the electromechanical relay 17 into an on state during a nominal operation, and otherwise keep it or switch it to a blocked state.  To do this, just as before, the diagnostic and protection logic module 25 takes into account all the inputs supplied to it and compares them with each other, as well as with pre-recorded configuration data, describing a case nominal or malfunction of the power supply control device 100.  By way of example, if the electromechanical relay 17 is in an "open" (or "closed") state and simultaneously the power transistor 14, 15, 16 is in a "closed" state that can not be disabled , the diagnostic and protection logic module prohibits the closing of the electromechanical relay 17 (or respectively switches it to an "open" state).  Referring to all of Figures 1 to 3, the diagnostic and protection logic module 25 develops, moreover, a diagnostic signal 34 relating to the operating state of the power control device 100 electric.  The diagnostic signal 34 is for example a signal describing the proper functioning of the entire device (status "OK") or a signal describing the detection of one or more failures in this device (eg at the level of the device). power transistor 14, 15, 16 or electromechanical relay 17).  Such a signal is, for example, an "all or nothing" signal, produced by an "active" state at the positive terminal of the voltage source 1 or at ground 2, 3, 4, 5, an analog signal or else a coded signal that can be conveyed via a serial link or a multiplex network.  Advantageously, the diagnostic signal 34 is generated as a function of all the inputs supplied to the diagnosis and protection module 25.  The diagnostic signal 34 is communicated to the electronic computer (s) so that the electronic computer (s) dynamically adapts the first control and the second control to the operation. of the power supply control device 100.  By way of example, the diagnostic and protection module 25 detects no anomaly in the power supply control device 100 and returns via the diagnostic signal 34 an "OK" status to the computer (s). 6 electronics.  This or these then continue to send sequentially the first command 18 and the second command 19; detects that the power transistor 14, 15, 16 remains in an on state regardless of the sending of the first command 18 and returns this information via the diagnostic signal 34 to the electronic computer (s) 6 .  This or these then sends the second control 19 so as to switch the electromechanical relay 17 in a blocked state, thus preventing any inadvertent start; 3028894 17 detects that the power transistor 14, 15, 16 is in an on state while one of the readback information 31, 32 of the electromechanical relay 17 indicates a blocked state of the latter.  The diagnostic and protection module 25 then identifies, from the first control 18 or the second control 19, a malfunction at the power transistor 14, 15, 16 or the electromechanical relay 17 and returns this information via the diagnostic signal 34 to the electronic computer (s) 6.  This or these then sends the second control 19 so as to switch the electromechanical relay 17 into a blocked state, preventively preventing any inadvertent start.  According to various embodiments, the diagnostic and protection logic module 25 is produced by a microcontroller 15 comprising a preprogrammed set of software instructions, a comparator-type electronic assembly with one or more stages, or else via a set of "AND" and "OR" logic gates.  Furthermore, in FIGS. 1 to 3 and according to various embodiments 20, the authorization signal 27 for switching the power transistor 14, 15, 16 and the driving request signal 22 of the transistor 14, 15 of FIG. power, serve as input to an AND logic gate 35.  The latter applies a logic "AND" operation to its inputs, and thus generates at output a control signal 36 of the power transistor 14, 15, 16.  The control signal 36 is then directly transmitted to the power transistor 14, 15, 16, thus making it possible to control the switching state of this transistor; the switching enable signal 33 of the electromechanical relay 17 and the driving request signal 23 of the electromechanical relay 17 serve as input to an "AND" logic gate 37.  The latter applies an "AND" logic operation to its inputs, and thus generates at output a control signal 38 for the electromechanical power relay 17 so as to control the switching state of this transistor.  The control signal 38 is then transmitted to a transistor 39.  The latter then generates a relay control signal 40 directly transmitted to the electromechanical relay 17, thus making it possible to control its switching state.  More precisely, the transistor 39 is electrically connected to the coil 17_2 of the electromechanical relay 17 (and to a ground 3), the circulation of a current in this coil 17_2 allowing the relay to close.  Transistor 39 is exemplary, a transistor "high-side" ("high-side") or "low side" ("low-side") made by a MOSFET transistor, bipolar or Darlington.  In the embodiments described above, the driving demand signal 22 of the power transistor 14, 15 and the driving request signal 23 of the electromechanical relay 17 are respectively used as one of the inputs of the present invention. logic gate "AND" 35, 37.  Indeed, it is assumed here that the power supply control device 100 comprises, for sequencing the first control 18 and the second control 19, the implementation of the "AND" logic gate 20 and the gate logical "OR" 21.  However, in other embodiments, when the electronic calculator (s) are capable of guaranteeing a good sequencing of the first control (18) and the second control (19), the first control (18) and the second control (19) are respectively sent directly to one another. input of logic gate "AND" 35, 37.  According to various embodiments, replacing the "AND" logic gates 20, 35, 37 and the "OR" logic gate 21, the "AND" and "OR" logic operations can be performed by discrete components. such as diodes for the "OR" and transistors for the "AND", or by software instructions in a microcontroller.  According to various embodiments, all of the constituent electronic components of the power supply control device 100 are electrically connected and ordered according to different physical configurations.  Thus, the electromechanical relay 17 may be soldered to the printed circuit of an electronic box, may be a removable relay plugged into a relay fuse box, for example on a motor relay fuse box called "BFRM", or it may be plugged into a 3028894 19 relay connector directly integrated into the vehicle wiring harness.  Advantageously, the electromechanical relay 17 is of the monostable type.  However, the use of a bistable relay is possible by adapting the control strategy of the power supply control device 100, in particular at the level of the diagnostic and protection module 25 and the electronic computer 6; the power transistor 14, 15, 16, the electromechanical relay 17, and the electrical protection element 30 can be integrated in a single housing or be distributed in several housings.  By way of examples: the electromechanical relay 17 and the electrical protection element 30 are integrated on a BFRM box, whereas the power transistor 14, 15, 16 is integrated on the starter 300; the electromechanical relay 17 and the electrical protection element 30 are integrated on a BFRM box, whereas the power transistor 14, 15, 16 is integrated in a dedicated electronic box; O the electromechanical relay 17 and the electrical protection element 30 are integrated on a BFRM box, while the power transistor 14, 15, 16 is integrated in an electronic computer 6, for example in the motor control; the electromechanical relay 17 and the power transistor 14, 15, 16 are integrated in a dedicated electronic box, while the electrical protection element 30 is integrated on a fuse box; the electromechanical relay 17, the transistor 14, 15, 16, and optionally the electrical protection element 30, are integrated on an "intelligent connection box", commonly designated by the "smart junction box" anglicism, for example on the BCM case (acronym for "Body Control Module").  The order of the constituent electronic components of the power supply control device 100 can moreover vary as a function of the above-mentioned configurations.  For example, in the case where the power supply control device 100 comprises the electrical protection element 30 and that this element is not integrated in the same housing as the other components, this element is preferably connected to this element. way upstream from the positive pole + of the voltage source 1, to protect all the electrical connections 5 of the power supply control device 100; in the case where the electromechanical relay 17 is removable, the electrical protection element 30 as well as the power transistor 14, 15, 16 are preferably arranged upstream thereof, in order to protect the connection pins of the support of the 10 electromechanical relay 17 against a possible short circuit.  As explained above, the use of an electromechanical relay 17 connected in series with a transistor 14, 15, 16 has many advantages.  In particular, the use of a relay operating in disconnector mode, that is to say, switching "unladen", makes it possible to increase the durability of the device 100 of electrical power supply, in particular by protecting this device. short circuits and battery inversions.  Thus, the power supply control device 100 has a life of about one million cycles.  The use of such a device is therefore particularly suited to the "Stop & Start" functions of motor vehicles.  By way of example, the electrical power control device 100 may be implemented in a vehicle comprising a "free wheel" type function, such as "sailing" in its English terminology: this function consists in stopping the thermal engine of the vehicle during certain driving phases (ex: descent, deceleration) and therefore requires a large number of restarts.  Advantageously, the implementation of the power supply control device 100 makes it possible to limit the maintenance by relay exchange during the vehicle's lifetime.  Furthermore, the production of such a device allows the use of a "simple" protection diode D1, for example a small Zener diode, in order to protect against battery inversions.  Advantageously, such a diode is less expensive compared to existing devices, the latter requiring power diodes 35 specifically chosen to withstand high currents.  The use of a relay connected in series with a power transistor, is otherwise also inexpensive.  As set forth above, another advantage of the power supply control device 100 is that it offers numerous possibilities of physical implementation in a vehicle, in particular according to the choice of the order of the devices. electronic components in this device.  For example, if we use a smart power transistor called "smart power" in English, and if we integrate the device in a "smart connection box", also referred to in English as "smart junction box", it is possible to do without a fuse, because this type of box already includes a 10 power supply to be able to drive actuators protected by a general fuse.  Advantageously, all of the embodiments described above can be applied to any type of road vehicles or motor vehicles equipped with a starter battery.  15

Claims (11)

REVENDICATIONS1. A device (100) for controlling the power supply of a starter solenoid (200) (300), the device (100) being electrically input-fed by a voltage source (1), which device (100) is characterized by it comprises a power transistor (14, 15, 16) connected in series with an electromechanical relay (17), switching to a on state of the power transistor (14, 15, 16) and the relay (17) electromechanical providing at the output of the device (100) a signal (7) control, this signal (7) controlling the power supply of the solenoid (200). 2. Device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the switching states of the power transistor (14, 15, 16) and the electromechanical relay (17) are respectively driven from a first control (18) and a second control (19) generated by at least one electronic computer (6), the electronic computer (6) being configured to generate these commands so that the electromechanical relay (17) always switches to a on state before switching in an on state of the power transistor (14, 15, 16); in a locked state after the power transistor (14, 15, 16) has been switched off. 3. Device (100) according to claim 2, wherein the first control (18) and the second control (19) are transmitted at the input of a first logic gate "AND" (20) generating at its output a request signal driving (22) the power transistor (14, 15, 16); an "OR" logic gate (21) generating at its output a request signal (23) for controlling the electromechanical relay (17). 4. Device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a diagnostic and protection module (25) configured to receive at its inputs a set of information relating to the operation of the device (100), this information comprising a readback information (31) at a midpoint between the power transistor (14, 15, 16) and the electromechanical relay (17); readback information (32) at the output of the device (100); The first control (18) and the second control (19); the diagnostic and protection module (25) being further configured to compare this information, and return on the basis of the result of this comparison a diagnostic signal (34) to the electronic computer (6), this signal (34) describing the the state of operation of the device (100), the electronic computer (6) being further configured to generate the first command (18) and the second command (19) as a function of the diagnostic signal (34) returned by the diagnostic module and protection (25). Device (100) according to claim 4, wherein the information relating to the operation of the device (100) received by the diagnostic and protection module (25) comprises at least one feedback information from the transistor (14, 15). , 16), this feedback information being an operation status information (26) of the measured power transistor (14, 15, 16, 16) provided by it, if this transistor is a smart power transistor; otherwise a temperature (28) or electric current (2) information in the externally measured power transistor (14, 15, 16). 25 The device (100) according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the diagnostic and protection module (25) is further configured to generate at its output an enable signal (27) for switching the transistor (14). , 15, 16) and a switching enable signal (33) of the electromechanical relay (17), these signals being generated as a function of the result of the comparison of the information relating to the operation of the device (100). The device (100) according to claim 6, comprising a second AND logic gate (35) configured to receive as a first input the driver request signal (22) of the transistor (14, 15, 16) or the first control (18); o as the second input, the enable signal (27) for switching the power transistor (14, 15, 16); generating, as a function of its first and second inputs, a control signal (36) transmitted to the transistor (14, 15, 16), the control signal (36) being able to switch the transistor (14, 15, 16) power. 10 8. Device (100) according to claim 7, comprising a third logic gate "AND" (37) configured to receive o as the first input, the control request signal (23) of the electromechanical relay (17) or the second control 15 (19); o as a second input, the authorization signal (33) of the electromechanical relay (17); generating, as a function of its first and second inputs, a control signal (38) transmitted to a transistor (39), the transistor (39) being configured to generate from the control signal (38) a control signal relay (40) transmitted to the electromechanical relay (17), the relay control signal (40) being able to switch the electromechanical relay (17). 9. Device (100) according to any one of claims 4 to 8, comprising, in the absence of feedback information from the transistor (14, 15, 16) of power, an electrical protection element (30) connected in series with the power transistor (14, 15, 16) and the electromechanical relay (17). 10. Device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising a protection diode (D1) against the inversions of the poles of the voltage source (1), this diode (D1) being connected in series in the direction of the power transistor (14, 15, 16) between the voltage source (1) and the input terminal of the coil (17_2) of the electromechanical relay (17) or between the output terminal of the coil (17_2) of the electromechanical relay (17) and a mass (3); An overvoltage protection diode (D2) connected at the output of the power supply control device (100). A motor vehicle comprising a starter (300), the starter (300) being electrically connected to a power control device (100) made according to any one of claims 1 to 10.