JP2006086088A - Control device for fuel cell system, and control method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a control device and control method for a fuel cell system that can prevent wasteful power supply from a capacitor. <P>SOLUTION: The fuel cell system control device 1 for controlling the ON/OFF of a main unit 41 and a monitor unit 42 in the fuel cell system provided with a fuel cell, the main unit 41, the monitor unit 42, and the capacitor 50 comprises IGSW signal detecting means 11 for detecting the ON signal of the IGSW 31 signal, trigger signal detection means 12 for detecting the trigger signal, a power control means 13 to turn ON the power of the main unit 41, based on the ON signal of the IGSW 31, and when after turning on the power supply of the unit 42, the ON signal of IGSW 31 is not detected, until a first prescribed time has elapsed, and monitor unit power OFF deciding means 15 for deciding the OFF of the power of the monitor unit 42. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a control device and a control method for a fuel cell system.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, for example, a fuel cell stack (hereinafter simply referred to as a fuel cell) mounted as a power source in a fuel cell vehicle has a plurality of single cells in which both sides of a solid polymer electrolyte membrane are sandwiched between a fuel electrode and an oxygen electrode. It is configured by stacking. Then, by supplying hydrogen to the fuel electrode and supplying air containing oxygen as an oxidant to the oxygen electrode, an electrochemical reaction occurs and power is generated.

  In a fuel cell vehicle equipped with such a fuel cell such as a polymer electrolyte fuel cell, for example, as in “Fuel cell vehicle and starting method thereof” disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 7-170613, the vehicle starts. Prior to the start-up of the fuel cell, a technology for performing a safety inquiry, specifically, detecting that hydrogen supplied to the fuel electrode side of the fuel cell is not leaking has been proposed (Patent Document 1). reference).

  Here, as a hydrogen sensor for detecting hydrogen, for example, a gas detection element composed of a catalyst such as platinum and a temperature compensation element are provided, and by heat generated by combustion when hydrogen comes into contact with the catalyst such as platinum, There is known a gas contact combustion type hydrogen sensor that detects the concentration of hydrogen according to a difference in electric resistance generated between the gas detection element and the temperature compensation element when the gas detection element is in a relatively high temperature state. .

  Further, in connection with such a technique, the applicant of the present application “a vehicle start control system that enables a vehicle to be started quickly even when a vehicle state is inspected prior to a stopped vehicle”. Is proposed (see Patent Document 2).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 7-170613 (paragraph 0014, FIG. 2) Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2004-23873 (paragraphs 0011 to 0021, FIG. 1)

  However, in the techniques described in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2, the door lock is unlocked, the door is opened, and the driver's vehicle is turned on regardless of whether the main start switch (IGSW) is turned on or off. Although the purpose is to reduce the startup time of the fuel cell by supplying power to the on-board gas sensor and detecting gas such as hydrogen by approaching, for example, the driver opens the door for loading and unloading luggage However, the case where the vehicle is not actually boarded or the case where the start switch is not turned on is not taken into consideration, and wasted electric power is supplied from the battery to the hydrogen sensor.

  In view of this, the present invention provides a control device and a control method for a fuel cell system that can prevent unnecessary power from being supplied from a storage device in consideration of, for example, a case where a door lock is unlocked but a start switch is not turned on. The task is to do.

  As means for solving the problems, the invention according to claim 1 is directed to a fuel cell, a main unit for supplying a reaction gas to the fuel cell and generating the fuel cell, and a reaction gas supplied to the fuel cell. ON / OFF of a power supply for the main unit and the monitoring unit for a fuel cell system that is activated by a start switch A control device for a fuel cell system for controlling a start switch signal detecting means for detecting an ON signal of the start switch, a trigger signal detecting means for detecting a trigger signal other than an ON signal of the start switch, and the start Based on the switch ON signal, the main unit is powered on and the trigger signal is The power supply control means for turning on the power of the monitoring unit based on the power supply, and after the trigger signal detection means detects the trigger signal and turns on the power supply of the monitoring unit, until the first predetermined condition is satisfied, When the switch signal detection means does not detect the ON signal of the start switch, the power supply of the monitoring unit is determined to be turned off, and the power supply control means is instructed to turn off the power of the monitoring unit. A fuel cell system control apparatus comprising: a determination unit;

Here, “a (start) trigger signal other than the ON signal of the start switch” means that when the fuel cell system including the fuel cell is operated, generally, the start switch is turned ON to transmit an ON signal of the start switch. Thus, the operation of the fuel cell system is executed, but before the start switch is turned on, an operation that can be predicted to be finally connected to “turn on the start switch” (for example, a first embodiment described later) This means a signal transmitted by unlocking the door lock.
More specifically, for example, in the case of a fuel cell vehicle equipped with a fuel cell system and the start switch is an ignition switch (IGSW), the trigger signal is a signal detected by a door lock state detection sensor that detects a door lock state. Lock signal, seating signal provided by the seat sensor that detects the seating state of the person on the seat, door opening signal from the door open / closed state detection sensor that detects the open / closed state of the door, remote control start signal by the remote control starter, trunk (back door) An open signal can be mentioned.
In the first embodiment to be described later, a door lock state sensor and a seating sensor are taken as examples of devices that transmit a trigger signal.

  According to such a control device of the fuel cell system, after the power of the monitoring unit is turned on based on the detection of the trigger signal, when the ON signal of the start switch is not detected until the first predetermined condition is satisfied, The monitoring unit power supply OFF determination means determines that the power supply of the monitoring unit is turned off, and instructs the power supply control means to turn off the power supply of the monitoring unit. As a result, the power supply control unit can turn off the power supply of the monitoring unit and prevent supply of useless power from the battery.

  2. The fuel cell system control according to claim 1, wherein the first predetermined condition is that a first predetermined time elapses after the monitoring unit is turned on. Device.

  According to such a control apparatus for a fuel cell system, for example, in the first embodiment to be described later, a first predetermined time elapses after the power of the monitoring unit is turned on by unlocking the door lock or the like (first If the IGSW (startup switch) is not turned on until the predetermined condition is established, the power supply of the monitoring unit can be turned off to prevent useless power supply from the battery.

  The invention according to claim 3 is characterized in that the first predetermined time is set based on a remaining amount of the battery when the trigger signal is detected by the monitoring unit power OFF determination means. 2. A control device for a fuel cell system according to 2.

  According to such a control apparatus of the fuel cell system, the monitoring unit power supply OFF determination unit can suitably set the first predetermined time based on the remaining amount of the battery when the trigger signal is detected.

  The invention according to claim 4 is characterized in that the first predetermined condition is that after the power supply of the monitoring unit is turned on, the remaining amount of the capacitor decreases to a predetermined value or less. It is the control apparatus of the fuel cell system.

  According to such a control apparatus for a fuel cell system, after the power of the monitoring unit is turned on, the IGSW (startup switch) is turned on until the remaining amount of the storage device falls below a predetermined value (the first predetermined condition is satisfied). When the power is not turned on, the power supply of the monitoring unit is turned off, so that wasteful power supply from the battery can be prevented. That is, it is possible to reliably prevent the starting failure of the fuel cell system due to excessive use of the electric power of the battery.

  The invention according to claim 5 determines that the trigger signal is unusable when the trigger signal detection means detects the trigger signal availability determination time and ON of the trigger signal, and the power supply control means The trigger signal availability determination means for instructing to turn on the power supply of the monitoring unit based on an ON signal of the start switch instead of the trigger signal. 5. The control device for a fuel cell system according to any one of 4 above.

  According to such a control device of the fuel cell system, it can be determined by the trigger signal availability determination means that the trigger signal is unusable. The power supply control means can switch on the power supply of the monitoring unit to the ON signal of the start switch instead of the trigger signal.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the monitoring unit power supply OFF determining means turns off the power supply of the main unit when stopping the operating fuel cell system until the second predetermined condition is satisfied. 6. The fuel cell system control device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit instructs the power supply of the monitoring unit to be turned on.

According to such a control apparatus for a fuel cell system, when the operating fuel cell system is stopped, the power of the monitoring unit is turned on until the second predetermined condition is satisfied after the power of the main unit is turned off. Therefore, when the start switch is turned on again before the second predetermined condition is satisfied, the fuel cell system can be restarted quickly.
Here, as the second predetermined condition, for example, “the second predetermined time elapses after the main unit is turned off” or “the remaining amount of the battery after the main unit is turned off is a predetermined value” This is equivalent to “decrease below”.

  The invention according to claim 7 is a fuel cell, a main unit for supplying a reaction gas to the fuel cell and generating the fuel cell, a monitoring unit for monitoring the reaction gas supplied to the fuel cell, and the main unit And a power storage device for supplying power to the monitoring unit, and a fuel cell system control method for controlling power ON / OFF of the main unit and the monitoring unit for a fuel cell system started by a start switch. The first step of turning on the power of the monitoring unit when a trigger signal other than the ON signal of the start switch is detected, and after the power of the monitoring unit is turned on, until the first predetermined condition is satisfied. And a second step of turning off the power of the monitoring unit when the activation switch ON signal is not detected. A control method for a fuel cell system according to claim.

  According to such a control method of the fuel cell system, after the trigger unit is detected and the power of the monitoring unit is turned on (first step), the ON signal of the start switch is set until the first predetermined condition is satisfied. If not detected, the power supply of the monitoring unit is turned off (second step), thereby preventing wasteful power supply from the battery.

  According to the present invention, there is provided a control device and a control method for a fuel cell system capable of preventing useless power supply from a capacitor in consideration of, for example, a case where a door lock is unlocked but a start switch is not turned on. can do.

<< First Embodiment >>
A control apparatus for a fuel cell vehicle and a fuel cell system according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12 as appropriate.
In the drawings to be referred to, FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control device for a fuel cell vehicle and a fuel cell system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a graph showing the relationship between the discharge limit voltage of the capacitor and the charge time required after discharge. FIG. 3 is a graph showing the change with time of the capacitor voltage after the trigger signal is detected. FIG. 4 is a graph showing the relationship between the capacitor voltage and the first predetermined time when the trigger signal is detected. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing basic control of the control device of the fuel cell system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the trigger signal availability determination process shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing power ON / OFF processing of the monitoring unit / main unit shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the ECU power OFF processing shown in FIG. 9 to 12 are timing charts of the fuel cell vehicle according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a normal case, FIG. 10 is a case where the door lock is unlocked and unlocked, and FIG. If the IGSW is not turned ON despite being locked, Fig. 12 corresponds to the case where the trigger signal cannot be used because the door lock state detection sensor (trigger signal transmission device) that transmits the trigger signal fails. To do.
In the first embodiment, a case will be described in which a “fuel cell system control device” is attached to a fuel cell vehicle equipped with a “fuel cell system” in the claims.
Hereinafter, the fuel cell vehicle and the control device of the fuel cell system will be described in this order.

≪Fuel cell vehicle≫
As shown in FIG. 1, the fuel cell vehicle C according to the first embodiment mainly includes a fuel cell system, an IGSW 31 (ignition switch) that is an activation switch that activates the fuel cell system, and a door lock state detection sensor 32. And a seating sensor 33 and a control device 1 of the fuel cell system.

<Fuel cell system>
The fuel cell system mainly includes a fuel cell stack (not shown) (hereinafter referred to as “fuel cell”), a main unit 41 that supplies hydrogen / air (reactive gas) to the fuel cell to generate power, and a fuel cell. A monitoring unit 42 that monitors the concentration of hydrogen supplied to the battery, an ECU 43 that controls power generation of the fuel cell, and a battery 50 that supplies power to the main unit 41, the monitoring unit 42, and the ECU 43.

[Main unit]
The main unit 41 is a unit that supplies hydrogen (reactive gas) to the anode side of the fuel cell and supplies air (reactive gas) containing oxygen to the cathode side. More specifically, the main unit 41 includes a high-pressure hydrogen tank, a shut-off valve, a pressure reducing valve, and the like in the anode side system, and an air compression pump in the cathode side system. The main unit 41 is connected to the battery 50 via the switch 71. When the power of the main unit 41 is turned on (switch 71 is turned on), a shut-off valve, an air compression pump, and the like are activated, and hydrogen and air can be supplied to the fuel cell.

[Monitoring unit]
In the first embodiment, the monitoring unit 42 includes a plurality of known hydrogen sensors. The plurality of hydrogen sensors include a pipe connecting the high-pressure hydrogen tank and the anode side of the fuel cell, the interior of the fuel cell, hydrogen so that the concentration and leakage of hydrogen supplied from the main unit 41 to the fuel cell can be monitored. It is placed in the right place such as the piping on the discharge side or inside the car. The monitoring unit 42 is connected to the battery 50 through the switch 72. When the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on (the switch 72 is turned on), electric power is supplied from the capacitor 50 to the monitoring unit 42, a plurality of hydrogen sensors are activated, and the monitoring unit 42 can monitor the hydrogen concentration and the like. ing.
Note that the hydrogen sensor according to the first embodiment cannot detect hydrogen immediately after the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on, and can detect after a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed (after warming up). .

[ECU]
The ECU 43 is a unit that mainly controls power generation of the fuel cell. The ECU 43 is connected to the battery 50 through the switch 73.

[Accumulator]
The battery 50 mainly includes a capacitor 51, a 12V battery 52, a switch 53, and a remaining amount detector 54. Then, by switching the switch 53, power can be supplied from the capacitor 51 or the 12V battery 52 to the main unit 41, the monitoring unit 42 and the ECU 43.
The switch 53 operates to preferentially discharge and charge from the capacitor 51 by the operation of the power supply control means 13 described later. That is, the capacitor 50 preferentially discharges / charges the capacitor 51, and when the discharge of the capacitor 51 advances and the voltage of the capacitor 51 falls to the discharge limit voltage V _{discharge limit} of the capacitor 51 described later, the switch 53 is switched. , 12V battery 52 is used for discharging and charging. Thereafter, when the remaining amount of the 12V battery 52 decreases to the limit remaining amount, sufficient power cannot be supplied from the battery 50 to the main unit 41 and the like, and the fuel cell cannot be operated smoothly. In the first embodiment, The remaining amount detector 54 connected to the capacitor 51 and the 12V battery 52 detects each remaining amount to prevent overdischarge.

  This is because the capacitor 51 and the 12V battery 52 have the same characteristics for discharging and charging. Hereinafter, characteristics relating to charging / discharging of the capacitor 51 will be described, and the description of the 12V battery 52 will be omitted.

(Capacitor)
The capacitor 51 incorporated in the fuel cell vehicle C has a predetermined discharge rate ΔV _discharge (V / second), a predetermined charge rate ΔV _charge (V / second), and a predetermined discharge limit voltage V _{discharge limit} . The discharge rate ΔV _discharge (V / second) depends on the output of a device to which power is supplied, such as the main unit 41. The charge rate ΔV _charge (V / sec) depends on the charge performance from the fuel cell. The discharge limit voltage V _{discharge limit} is a voltage at which the power that enables the main unit 41 and the like to operate smoothly when it is further lowered cannot be supplied.
When the IGSW 31 is not ON when the discharge limit voltage V is reduced to the _{discharge limit} (the fuel cell is not generating power), the discharge of the capacitor 51 is stopped. Thereafter, the IGSW 31 is turned ON again to start the fuel cell vehicle C. In order to supply the minimum necessary power to the main unit 41, the monitoring unit 42 and the ECU 43, the discharge limit voltage V _{discharge limit} is set in consideration of this.

Further, the capacitor 51 incorporated in the fuel cell vehicle C is set with a _travelable capacitor voltage V _travelable . The travelable capacitor voltage V allows _travel when the travel motor (not shown) that travels the fuel cell vehicle C requires a large amount of power, such as when the fuel cell vehicle C is accelerating. The voltage is set in the capacitor 51 so that power can be supplied to the capacitor 51.

Thus, the charge rate ΔV _charge (V / second) of the capacitor 51, the discharge limit voltage V _{discharge limit} , the travelable capacitor voltage V _travelable and the discharge limit voltage V _{discharge limit,} and the discharge limit voltage V due to the charge after the maximum discharge. _There is a relationship of the following formula (1) between the required charging time T _required for returning from the _{discharge limit} to the travelable capacitor voltage V _travelable (see FIG. 2). The formula (1) is a modification of the formula (3) described later.

T _{required charge} = − (V _{discharge limit} / ΔV _charge ) + (V _{running possible} / ΔV _charge ) (1)

Therefore, when the discharge limit voltage V _{discharge limit} is set in the capacitor 51, the required charge time T _{required charge} is calculated as shown in FIG. 2 (arrow A1, arrow A2) according to the equation (1). In FIG. 2, the x-coordinate of the x-axis intercept of equation (1) where the required charging time T _{required charging} becomes zero is the travelable capacitor voltage V _travelable .

Next, the discharge / charge characteristics of the capacitor 51 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
Here, as in “Case a / reference”, when the capacitor voltage at the time of trigger signal detection (at the start of discharge) is “V trigger _ON a”, the power of the monitoring unit 42 to be described later is turned on, A case where the capacitor 51 is discharged will be described.

When the capacitor 51 is discharged, the capacitor (remaining amount) voltage decreases at a discharge rate ΔV _discharge (V / sec). The capacitor 51 may be discharged until the capacitor voltage drops to the discharge limit voltage V _{discharge limit} (hereinafter referred to as the maximum discharge time T _{maximum discharge} a). That is, as described later in the first embodiment, the capacitor 51 may wait for the IGSW 31 to be turned on (that is, the power generation of the fuel cell) until the capacitor voltage falls to the discharge limit voltage V _{discharge limit} .
The maximum discharge time T _{maximum discharge} corresponds to a first predetermined time described later.

Then, the maximum discharge time T _{maximum discharge} a, if IGSW31 is is ON fuel cell power generation, then the charge rate ΔV _charging, the capacitor 51 at the required charging time T _{necessary charging} is charged. Then, when the capacitor voltage reaches the travelable capacitor voltage V _travelable , the fuel cell vehicle C can travel.

That is, the following equation (2) is established when the capacitor 51 is discharged, and the following equation (3) is established when charged. Then, equation (2) By modifying the equation (4), and Equation (4) by substituting the capacitor voltage V _{tricaprate Bu ON} the trigger signal detection time (during discharge initiation), can be calculated the maximum discharge time T _{maximum discharge} It has become. And this Formula (4) is memorize | stored in the capacitor | condenser data storage means 17 (refer FIG. 1) mentioned later.
When formula (2) is modified, formula (1) described above is obtained.

Discharge side: V _{discharge limit} = V _{trigger ON−} (ΔV _discharge × T _{maximum discharge} ) (2)
Charging side: V _{discharge limit} = V _{running possible−} (ΔV _charge × T _{required charge} ) (3)
T _{maximum discharge} = (V _{trigger ON} / ΔV _consumption ) − (V _{discharge limit} / ΔV _consumption ) (4)

If, after a maximum discharge time T _{maximum discharge} even if the capacitor 51 continues to discharge, the capacitor voltage falls below the discharge limit voltage V _{discharge limit,} can be powered to operate and the main unit 41 smoothly from the capacitor 51 Disappear. However, in the first embodiment, as described later, OFF when the maximum discharge time T _maximum elapsed _discharging first a predetermined time, IGSW31 is not ON, if the fuel cell is not generating power, the power supply of the monitoring unit 42 Then, the discharge of the capacitor 51 is stopped.

<IGSW etc.>
Returning to FIG. 1, the description will be continued.
The IGSW 31 is a start switch that manually starts (ON / OFF) the fuel cell system. The door lock state detection sensor 32 detects a door lock state (unlocked / locked) of the fuel cell vehicle C and transmits a trigger signal of a predetermined length (for example, 2 seconds) based on the unlocked / locked state. This is a trigger signal transmission device. The seating sensor 33 is provided on the seat of the fuel cell vehicle C and detects whether a person is in the vehicle by detecting whether a person is seated. A trigger signal transmission device that transmits a trigger signal based on seating.

<Configuration of fuel cell system control device>
Next, the configuration of the control device 1 of the fuel cell system will be described.
As shown in FIG. 1, the control device 1 of the fuel cell system mainly includes an IGSW signal detection means 11, a trigger signal detection means 12, a power supply control means 13, a clock 14, and a monitoring unit power supply OFF determination means 15. , Trigger signal availability determination means 16 and capacitor data storage means 17 are provided. The control device 1 of the fuel cell system is electrically connected to the battery 50 via a wiring (not shown), and can operate regardless of whether the IGSW 31 is on or off (for example, the trigger signal detection means 12 is in the off state of the IGSW 31). It can be detected).
Each unit constituting the control device 1 of the fuel cell system includes a CPU, a ROM, an I / O, a storage unit, and the like, and is electrically connected so that signals and data can be exchanged freely. Yes. And it can operate by executing a control program stored in the power supply control means 13.
Further, the control device 1 of such a fuel cell system may be incorporated when the fuel cell vehicle C is manufactured, or may be attached to a fuel cell vehicle C that has already been distributed (so-called retrofit).

[IGSW signal detection means]
The IGSW signal detection means 11 (start switch signal detection means) is connected to the IGSW 31 and is a means for detecting an ON signal of the IGSW 31 (ON signal of the start switch).

[Trigger signal detection means]
The trigger signal detection means 12 is connected to the door lock state detection sensor 32 and the seating sensor 33 (trigger signal transmission device), and detects a trigger signal (trigger signal other than the ON signal of the start switch) transmitted from them. Means.

[Power control means]
The power supply control means 13 includes an IGSW signal detection means 11, a trigger signal detection means 12, a clock 14, a monitoring unit power supply OFF determination means 15, a trigger signal availability determination means 16, a switch 53 of the battery 50, and switches 71, 72, 73. And connected to. A predetermined control program is stored in the power supply control means 13, and when the predetermined control program is executed, the main unit 41 is turned on mainly based on the ON signal of the IGSW 31 (the switch 71 is turned on). And a means for turning on the power of the monitoring unit 42 (switch 72 is turned on) based on the trigger signal.

  The power control means 13 is connected to the switch 53 of the battery 50, and can be selectively supplied with power from the capacitor 51 and the 12V battery 52 by appropriately switching the switch 53. The power supply control means 13 supplies power from the capacitor 51 to the 12V battery 52, that is, operates the switch 53 so that the capacitor 51 is discharged and charged with priority.

[clock]
The clock 14 always keeps time, and this time is sent to the power supply control means 13.

[Monitoring unit power OFF determination means—first predetermined time]
The monitoring unit power supply OFF determination means 15 is connected to the power supply control means 13 and the battery data storage means 17 and the remaining amount detector 54 of the battery 50.
When the fuel cell vehicle C (fuel cell system) is started, the monitoring unit power supply OFF determination means 15 detects the trigger signal (door unlocking signal, etc.) by the trigger signal detection means 12, and the power supply control means 13 If the IGSW signal detection means 11 does not detect the ON signal of the IGSW 31 before the first predetermined time elapses (the first predetermined condition is satisfied) after the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on, the power of the monitoring unit 42 is Is a means for instructing the power supply control means 13 to turn off the power of the monitoring unit 42.

  The first predetermined time may be a predetermined length of time (30 seconds, 60 seconds, etc.), but the monitoring unit power OFF determination unit 15 according to the first embodiment is configured to use the remaining amount detector 54. The first predetermined time can be set based on the remaining amount of the capacitor 50 (the remaining amount of the capacitor 51 and 12V battery) detected via Here, for the sake of easy understanding, a case will be described in which the monitoring unit power supply OFF determination unit 15 sets the first predetermined time based only on the remaining amount of the capacitor 51.

The monitoring unit power supply OFF determining means 15 substitutes the capacitor voltage V trigger _ON at the time of trigger signal detection into the above-described equation (4) stored in the capacitor data storage means 17, so that the maximum first predetermined time (capacitor) The maximum discharge time T during which 51 can be _discharged , that is, the maximum time during which IGSW 31 can be turned on, can be set (see FIG. 4).
Note that, as described above, the expression (4) is an expression showing the relationship between the “capacitor voltage V trigger when the trigger signal is detected _ON ” and the “first predetermined time (maximum discharge time T _{maximum discharge} )”. It is stored in the data storage means 17.

Further, with reference to FIG. 3, the setting of the first predetermined time (maximum discharge time T _{maximum discharge} ) by the monitoring unit power OFF determination means 15 will be specifically described.

“Case a—reference” indicates a case where the trigger signal is detected when the capacitor voltage is V trigger _ON a, and the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on. The first predetermined time in this case is set to the maximum discharge time T _{maximum discharge} a. Set and reference this.
On the other hand, when “case b-capacitor voltage V trigger _ON is low”, that is, when a trigger signal is detected at “V trigger _ON b” where the capacitor voltage is lower than “V trigger _ON a”, the first predetermined time is It becomes shorter than the "maximum discharge time T _{up to discharge} a""maximum discharge time T _{the maximum discharge} b".
On the other hand, when “case c—capacitor voltage V trigger _ON is high”, that is, when the trigger signal is detected with “V trigger _ON c” where the capacitor voltage is higher than “V trigger _ON a”, the first predetermined time is “ longer than the maximum discharge time T _{maximum discharging} a "becomes" maximum discharging time T _{the maximum discharge} c ".

In this way, the monitoring unit power OFF determination means 15 accesses the remaining amount detector 54 and the capacitor data storage means 17 when the trigger signal is detected, and _{sets the “} capacitor voltage V trigger _ON when the trigger signal is detected” as described above. By substituting into equation (4), the maximum first predetermined time can be calculated (set).

Based on the time from the clock 14, the monitoring unit power supply OFF determination means 15 monitors whether or not the IGSW 31 is detected ON from when the trigger signal is detected until the calculated first predetermined time elapses. When the IGSW 31 is not turned on and the fuel cell is not generating power when the first predetermined time has elapsed, the monitoring unit 42 is turned off to prevent overdischarge of the capacitor 51, that is, from the battery 50. It is possible to prevent supply of unnecessary power.
Incidentally, when the capacitor voltage V trigger _ON when the trigger signal is detected is less than or equal to the capacitor discharge limit voltage V _{discharge limit} , power cannot be supplied from the capacitor 51.

[Monitoring unit power OFF determination means—second predetermined time]
In addition, the monitoring unit power OFF determination means 15 turns off the power of the main unit 41 in preparation for the case where the IGSW 31 is turned ON again when the fuel cell vehicle C (fuel cell system) that turns OFF the IGSW 31 is stopped. Until the second predetermined time elapses (the second predetermined condition is satisfied), the power supply control means 13 is monitored unless a signal based on “the driver gets off, the door lock is locked, etc.” is detected. It is also means for instructing the unit 42 to turn on the power.

  Here, the signal based on “the driver gets off, the door lock is locked, etc.” means that the trigger signal at the time of starting the fuel cell system is “start trigger signal”, and “stop trigger signal” Can do. In other words, the “stop trigger signal” indicates that “after the fuel cell system is stopped, the IGSW 31 (start switch) is turned on and the fuel cell is not restarted. Etc.) ”.

  Therefore, since the power supply of the monitoring unit 42 is continuously turned on until the second predetermined time has elapsed after the fuel cell system is stopped, the fuel cell system can be restarted quickly. In addition, when the IGSW 31 is not turned on even after the second predetermined time has elapsed, or when a signal (stop trigger signal) based on the driver getting off is detected, the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned off. It is possible to prevent wasteful power supply from.

The second predetermined time may be a predetermined length of time (30 seconds, 60 seconds, etc.), but in the first embodiment, like the first predetermined time described above, Based on the capacitor voltage V _{main OFF} when the power is turned _off , the capacitor discharge limit voltage V _{discharge limit,} and the discharge rate ΔV _discharge , the maximum second predetermined time (the maximum time that the capacitor 51 may discharge, that is, The maximum time during which the IGSW 31 can be turned on again is set.
A detailed description of the second predetermined time is omitted since it is substantially the same as the first predetermined time.

[Trigger signal availability determination means]
The trigger signal availability determination means 16 is a trigger signal transmission device that transmits a trigger signal when the trigger signal detection means 12 continuously detects the ON state of the trigger signal while the trigger signal availability determination time elapses ( The door lock state detection sensor 32 or the like) is out of order, and the trigger signal is a means for determining that the trigger signal cannot be used.
The trigger signal availability determination time is a time stored in advance in the trigger signal availability determination means 16, and the ON time of the trigger signal having a predetermined length that is transmitted by a trigger signal transmission device (such as the door lock state detection sensor 32). It is a time (for example, 5 seconds) set longer than (for example, 2 seconds).

  When the trigger signal availability determination unit 16 determines that the trigger signal is unusable, the trigger signal availability determination unit 16 turns off the power of the monitoring unit 42 that is turned on based on the unusable trigger signal with respect to the power source control unit 13. This is means for instructing to turn on the power to the monitoring unit 42 based on the ON signal of the IGSW 31 instead of the trigger signal.

  Specifically, the trigger signal availability determination means 16 starts from the time when the trigger signal is turned on via the power supply control means 13, and uses the time from the clock 14 to determine the trigger signal availability determination time, It is possible to determine whether or not the trigger signal is continuously ON.

[Accumulator data storage means]
The capacitor data storage unit 17 stores the above-described formula (4) used when obtaining the maximum first predetermined time (see FIG. 4).

<Control flow of control device of fuel cell system>
Next, the control flow set in the control device 1 of the fuel cell system will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.

[Basic control flow]
With reference to FIG. 5, the basic control flow by the control apparatus 1 of the fuel cell system will be described. As described above, the control device 1 of the fuel cell system is always operated regardless of whether the IGSW 31 is ON or OFF, and continuously performs “start → each process → return → start →...” Shown in FIG. ing. Further, the control device 1 of the fuel cell system uses three flags shown in Table 1 below.

The flags shown in Table 1 will be described
Frag (TrigA) is a flag indicating whether or not the trigger signal has been detected. “Frag (TrigA) = 0” is “trigger signal not detected” and “Frag (TrigA) = 1” is “ Each trigger signal corresponds to “detected”.
Frag (TrigB) is a flag indicating whether or not the trigger signal can be used. Each corresponds to “unusable”.
Frag (IGSW) is a flag indicating whether or not IGSW 31 has been turned on, and “Frag (IGSW) = 0” represents that “IGSW 31 has not been turned on, that is, has not yet been turned on” and “Frag (IGSW) “= 1” corresponds to “IGSW 31 is already ON”.
Incidentally, the initial states are “Frag (TrigA) = 0”, “Frag (TrigB) = 0”, and “Frag (IGSW) = 0”.

Then, it demonstrates concretely according to FIG.
In step S01, the power supply control means 13 determines whether “IGSW 31 is ON” or not.
If it is determined that “IGSW 31 is ON” (S01, Yes), the process proceeds to step S06. On the other hand, when it is determined that “IGSW 31 is not ON (that is, OFF)” (S01, No), the process proceeds to step S02.

In step S02, it is determined whether or not “Frag (TrigB) = 0”.
When it is determined that “Frag (TrigB) = 0” (S02, Yes), the process proceeds to step S03. On the other hand, if it is determined that “Frag (TrigB) ≠ 0 (that is, Frag (TrigB) = 1)” (S02, No), the process proceeds to return.

In step S03, it is determined whether or not “Frag (TrigA) = 1, that is, whether or not the trigger signal has been detected”.
When it is determined that “Frag (TrigA) = 1, that is, the trigger signal has been detected” (S03, Yes), the process proceeds to step S06. On the other hand, if it is determined that “Frag (TrigA) ≠ 1, that is, Frag (TrigA) = 0 (the trigger signal is not detected)” (S03, No), the process proceeds to step S04.

In step S04, it is determined whether or not a trigger signal has been detected.
When it is determined that “a trigger signal has been detected” (S04, Yes), the process proceeds to step S05, and “trigger signal has been detected” is substituted with 1 for Frag (TrigA), and then the process proceeds to step S06. Thereby, although the ON time of the trigger signal is generally short (for example, 2 seconds), once the trigger signal is detected, “Frag (TrigA) = 1” is set, and the determination in step S03 is Yes.
On the other hand, if it is determined that “the trigger signal is not detected” (S04, No), the process proceeds to return.

In step S06, the power control means 13 operates the switch 73 to turn on the ECU 43.
Thereafter, the trigger signal availability determination process (S700), the monitoring unit / main unit power ON / OFF process (S800), and the ECU power OFF process (S900) are sequentially executed, and the process proceeds to return.

[Trigger signal availability determination processing, S700]
Next, “step S700 related to trigger signal availability determination processing” shown in FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In response to the command from the power supply control unit 13, the trigger signal availability determination unit 16 determines whether or not the trigger signal is in the ON state continuously for the trigger signal availability determination time (S701).

When the trigger signal availability determination unit 16 determines that “the trigger signal is in the ON state continuously for the trigger signal availability determination time” (S701, Yes), the processing in the power supply control unit 13 proceeds to step S702. Specifically, this is the case when the door lock state detection sensor 32 or the like, which is a trigger signal transmission device, fails.
On the other hand, the trigger signal availability determination means 16 indicates that “the trigger signal is not in the ON state continuously for the trigger signal availability determination time (the door lock state detection sensor 32 or the like is operating normally, or the trigger signal is OFF. If it is determined (No in S701), the process in the power control unit 13 proceeds to Step S704.

(When trigger signal cannot be used)
In step S702, “trigger signal cannot be used” is set, and 1 is assigned to Frag (TrigB) and stored. Then, based on the trigger signal that cannot be used, after the power of the monitoring unit 42 that was turned on in step S816 shown in FIG. 7 is turned off (S703), the process proceeds to return, and returns to the basic control flow of FIG. The process proceeds to step S800.

After the determination that “the trigger signal cannot be used” will be further described. Based on the trigger signal that cannot be used, the power source of the ECU 43 that was turned on in step S06 (see FIG. 5) is changed in step S905 shown in FIG. Turn off. Thereafter, 0 is assigned to Frag (TrigA) in step S906, and Frag (TrigA) is initialized.
Further, in the basic control flow shown in FIG. 5, since “Frag (TrigB) = 1”, No is determined in step S02. When the IGSW 31 is turned on, a determination of Yes is made in step S01, and the power supply of the ECU 43 is turned on in step S06. Next, Yes is determined in step S801 shown in FIG. 7, and the power supply of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on in step S803 and the power supply of the main unit 41 is turned on in step S804.

  As described above, when the trigger signal availability determination unit 16 determines that “the trigger signal is unusable”, the power supply control unit 13 replaces the trigger signal with the IGSW 31 (start switch) from the trigger signal availability determination unit 16. Based on the ON signal, an instruction to turn on the power of the monitoring unit 42 is received.

(If the trigger signal becomes available afterwards)
In addition, after it is determined that the “trigger signal cannot be used” in this way, for example, when the broken door lock state detection sensor 32 (trigger signal transmission device) is replaced or repaired, and the trigger signal is turned off. In step 701, Yes is determined. In step 704, 0 is assigned to Frag (TrigB).
Thereby, Yes is determined in step S02 shown in FIG. When the trigger signal is detected again, Yes is determined in step S04 shown in FIG. 1, and based on the trigger signal detected again, the monitoring unit 42 is turned on in step S816 shown in FIG. The fuel cell vehicle C (fuel cell system) can be started at an early stage.

(When trigger signal is available)
On the other hand, in step S704, “trigger signal can be used” is substituted with 0 for Frag (TrigB), and then the process proceeds to return, returns to the basic control flow of FIG. 5, and proceeds to step S800.

[Monitoring / main unit power ON / OFF processing, S800]
Next, “step S800 related to the power ON / OFF processing of the monitoring unit / main unit” shown in FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The power supply control unit 13 determines whether or not the IGSW 31 is ON (S801). If it is determined that “IGSW 31 is ON” (S801, Yes), the process proceeds to step S802. On the other hand, when it is determined that “IGSW 31 is not ON (that is, OFF)” (S801, No), the process proceeds to step S805.

  In step S <b> 802, assuming that “IGSW 31 is already turned on”, 1 is assigned to Frag (IGSW). After that, the switch 72 is operated to turn on the power of the monitoring unit 42 (S803), the switch 71 is operated to turn on the power of the main unit 41 (S804), and the process proceeds to return to the basic control flow of FIG. Return to step S900.

  In step S805, “whether or not Frag (IGSW) is 1 (whether or not IGSW31 has been turned on, further explained, IGSW31 is currently in the OFF state (S801, No), but in the past, IGSW31 has been in the ON state) It was determined whether or not.

  If it is determined that “Frag (IGSW) = 1, that is, IGSW 31 has been turned on” (S805, Yes), the process proceeds to step S806. Specifically, in the case of Yes in step S805, when the fuel cell automobile C is stopped, the IGSW 31 is turned off and the fuel cell is stopped.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that “Frag (IGSW) ≠ 1 (Frag (IGSW) = 0), that is, the IGSW 31 has not been turned on” (S805, No), the process proceeds to step S812. Specifically, the case of No in step S805 corresponds to, for example, the case where the IGSW 31 is not yet turned on when starting the fuel cell vehicle C.

In step S <b> 806, the power supply control means 13 determines “whether or not the power generation stop process by the ECU 43 has ended” based on the signal from the ECU 43.
When it is determined that “the power generation stop process has not been completed” (No in S806), the process proceeds in the order of Step S803 and Step S804, and the power of the monitoring unit 42 and the main unit 41 is continuously turned on. On the other hand, if it is determined that “the power generation stop process has been completed” (S806, Yes), the process proceeds to step S807, the power to the main unit 41 is turned off, and then the process proceeds to step S808.

In step S808, based on the signal from the seating sensor 33, it is determined whether or not a person is outside the vehicle.
If it is determined that “the person is outside the vehicle (not in the vehicle)” (S808, Yes), the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned off (S809), and the process proceeds to return. On the other hand, if it is determined that “the person is not outside the vehicle (the vehicle is inside)” (S808, No), the process proceeds to step S810.
Note that the determination in step S808 may be performed by a smart card system in addition to the seating sensor 33. The same applies to the determination in step S813 described later.

  In step S810, the monitoring unit power supply OFF determination means 15 determines whether or not a second predetermined time has elapsed after the power supply of the main unit 41 is turned off (whether or not the second predetermined condition is satisfied). To do. Note that the second predetermined time may be a predetermined length of time as described above, or may be the maximum second predetermined time.

When the monitoring unit power supply OFF determining means 15 determines that “the second predetermined time has passed (the second predetermined condition is satisfied)” (S810, Yes), the processing in the power supply control means 13 proceeds to step S809, and the monitoring unit 42 is turned off.
On the other hand, when the monitoring unit power supply OFF determination unit 15 determines that “the second predetermined time has not yet elapsed (the second predetermined condition has not been established)” (No in S810), the processing in the power supply control unit 13 is as follows. In step S811, the power of the monitoring unit 42 is continuously turned on, and then the process proceeds to return.

Next, step S812 will be described.
In step S812, the power supply control means 13 determines “whether the door lock state is unlocked or not” based on the signal from the door lock state detection sensor 32.
When it is determined that “the door lock is not unlocked (locked)” (S812, No), the process proceeds to step S813. On the other hand, when it is determined that “the door lock is in the unlocked state” (S812, Yes), the process proceeds to step S814.

  In step S813, similarly to step S808, based on the signal from the seating sensor 33, it is determined whether or not a person is outside the vehicle, that is, whether or not a person is in the vehicle.

  When it is determined that “the person is outside the vehicle (not in the vehicle)” (S813, Yes), the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned off (S815), and then the process proceeds to return. Specifically, the door lock is unlocked from outside the vehicle, and the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on using this unlock signal as a trigger signal. However, this corresponds to the case where the door lock is locked from outside the vehicle without getting on.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that “the person is not outside the vehicle (the vehicle is inside)” (S813, No), the process proceeds to step S814. Specifically, this corresponds to the case where the door lock is unlocked from the outside of the vehicle, the vehicle is boarded after the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on, and the door lock is locked from the inside of the vehicle (S812, No → S813, No).

In step S814, the monitoring unit power OFF determination means 15 determines "whether or not a first predetermined time has elapsed since the monitoring unit 42 was turned on (whether or not the first predetermined condition is satisfied)". . Specifically, the monitoring unit power supply OFF determination means 15 determines whether or not the first predetermined time has elapsed from the time when the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on, based on the time counted by the clock 14. This is based on determining that the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned off and instructing the power control means 13 to turn off the power of the monitoring unit 42.
As described above, the first predetermined time may be a predetermined length of time (30 seconds, 60 seconds, etc.), or may be a maximum first predetermined time (maximum discharge time T _{maximum). Discharge} ).

  When the monitoring unit power supply OFF determining means 15 determines that “the first predetermined time has passed (first predetermined condition is satisfied)” (S814, Yes), the processing in the power supply control means 13 proceeds to step S815, and the monitoring unit 42 is turned off. That is, with the door lock unlocking signal as a trigger signal, the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on and the hydrogen sensor and the like are warmed up early. When the power is not turned on, the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned off, so that useless power supply from the battery 50 can be prevented.

  On the other hand, when the monitoring unit power supply OFF determination unit 15 determines that “the first predetermined time has not elapsed (the first predetermined condition is not satisfied)” (No in S814), the process in the power supply control unit 13 is performed in step S816. Proceed to The power supply of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on (or continuously turned on) (S816), and the process proceeds to return.

[ECU power-off process, S900]
Next, “ECU power-off process S900” shown in FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIG.

The power supply control means 13 determines whether “IGSW 31 is ON” (S901).
When it is determined that “IGSW 31 is in the ON state” (S901, Yes), the process proceeds to step S902, the power of the ECU 43 is continuously turned on, and then the process proceeds to return, and the process returns to the basic control flow of FIG. On the other hand, when it is determined that “IGSW 31 is not in an ON state, that is, OFF” (S901, No), the process proceeds to step S903.

In step S903, it is determined whether or not the power of the monitoring unit 42 is OFF.
If it is determined that “the power supply of the monitoring unit 42 is OFF” (S903, Yes), the process proceeds to step S904. On the other hand, if it is determined that “the power of the monitoring unit 42 is not OFF, that is, is ON” (S903, No), the process proceeds to step S902, and the power of the ECU 43 is continuously turned on.

In step S904, it is determined whether or not the main unit 41 is powered off.
When it is determined that “the power of the main unit 41 is OFF” (S904, Yes), the process proceeds to step S905, where the power of the ECU 43 is turned off (S905), and 0 is substituted for Frag (TrigA) and Frag (IGSW). After initialization (S906), the process proceeds to return. On the other hand, if it is determined that “the power of the main unit 41 is not OFF, that is, is ON” (S904, No), the process proceeds to step S902.

<Operation of control device of fuel cell system>
Next, the operation of the fuel cell vehicle C equipped with the control device 1 of the fuel cell system will be described with reference to the timing charts shown in FIGS.

[Normal start / run / stop of fuel cell vehicles]
First, the case where the fuel cell vehicle C is normally started, traveled, and stopped will be described with reference mainly to FIG.

(Start of fuel cell vehicle)
First, starting of the fuel cell vehicle C will be described. Here, a case will be described in which the IGSW 31 is turned on after the door lock is unlocked by keyless entry.
When the door lock is unlocked by the keyless entry, the door lock state detection sensor 32 detects the unlock state of the door lock and sends an unlock signal to the trigger signal detection means 12. The trigger signal detection means 12 detects the unlock signal as a trigger signal and sends the fact that the trigger signal has been detected to the power supply control means 13.

In response to detecting the trigger signal, the power supply control means 13 determines Yes in step S04 shown in FIG. 5, and substitutes 1 for Frag (TrigA) in step S05 (after substitution, step S03 · Yes In step S06, the ECU 43 is turned on.
Thereafter, until the IGSW 31 is turned on, a determination of No is made in step S801 shown in FIG. 7, and then the process proceeds to step S805, step S812, and step S814, and the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on in step S816. Since the determination and processing of these steps are performed in a short time, the ECU 43 and the monitoring unit 42 are actually powered in conjunction with the ON of the trigger signal associated with the unlocking of the door lock, as shown in FIG. Is turned on, and after the hydrogen sensor of the monitoring unit 42 can be detected, the ECU 43 starts to detect the hydrogen concentration.
Note that turning on the power of the monitoring unit 42 corresponds to the first step in the claims.

  Then, when a person enters the vehicle (the seating sensor 33 is ON) and the IGSW 31 is turned ON, Yes is made in Step S801 shown in FIG. 7 (Yes in Step S01 in FIG. 5), and Frag (IGSW) is set in Step S802. After substituting 1, the power of the monitoring unit 42 is continuously turned on in step S803, and then the power of the main unit 41 is turned on in step S804. Since the determination and processing of these steps are also performed in a short time, in practice, as shown in FIG. 9, the power of the main unit 41 is turned on in conjunction with the turning on of the IGSW 31, and hydrogen and oxygen are supplied to the fuel cell. The air (reactive gas) containing is supplied. Then, the ECU 43 starts to control the power generation of the fuel cell according to the driver's operation.

(During fuel cell car driving)
Next, while the fuel cell vehicle C is traveling, a brief description will be given.
While the fuel cell vehicle C is traveling, that is, during the power generation of the fuel cell, the IGSW 31 is in the ON state, so a Yes determination is made in step S801. Therefore, the power supply of the monitoring unit 42 is continuously turned on (S803), and the power supply of the main unit 41 is continuously turned on (S804). Further, a determination of Yes is made in step S901 shown in FIG. 8, and the power source of the ECU 43 is continuously turned on (S902).

(Stopping fuel cell vehicles)
Next, the case where the fuel cell vehicle C is stopped will be briefly described.
When the driver turns off the IGSW 31 to stop the fuel cell vehicle C, the ECU 43 performs a power generation stop process such as discharging and cleaning water in the fuel cell and piping.
When the IGSW 31 is turned off, the power supply control means 13 makes a determination of No in step S801 shown in FIG. 7, but in the next step S805, “Frag (IGSW) = 1” is obtained in step S802 at the time of start-up. Therefore, Yes is determined. Then, until the power generation stop process by the ECU 43 is completed, No is determined in step S806, and the power supply of the monitoring unit 42 and the main unit 41 is continuously turned on (S803, S804).

Thereafter, when the power source control means 13 detects from the ECU 43 that the power generation stop processing has been completed, it determines Yes in step S806 and turns off the power of the main unit 41 (S807). Therefore, as shown in FIG. 9, after the IGSW 31 is turned off, the power supply of the main unit 41 is turned off with a delay.
Incidentally, the power source of the monitoring unit 42 and the ECU 43 remains ON in preparation for the restart of the fuel cell vehicle C (waiting for restart of the fuel cell system). In parallel with this, the monitoring unit power supply OFF determination means 15 measures the time since the power supply of the main unit 41 was turned off based on the time from the clock 14 and compares it with the second predetermined time. (FIG. 7, S810).

When the power supply control means 13 determines that the person is outside the vehicle, that is, not inside the vehicle (S808, Yes), based on the signal from the seating sensor 33, the power supply of the monitoring unit 42 is turned off (S809). Subsequently, the power supply control means 13 turns off the power supply of ECU43 by step S905 according to the flowchart shown in FIG.
Note that the timing chart shown in FIG. 9 shows that when the fuel cell vehicle C is stopped, the main unit 41 is turned off before the second predetermined time elapses (the second predetermined condition is satisfied). Since the sensor 33 detects the person getting off and detects the stop trigger signal sent by the seating sensor 33 based on the getting off, the control device 1 of the fuel cell system does not restart the fuel cell system. It is determined that the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned off.

[When the door lock is unlocked and locked without getting on]
Next, a case where the door lock is unlocked from the outside of the fuel cell vehicle C by keyless entry, but the door lock is locked without boarding will be described with reference mainly to FIG.

(Unlocking the door lock)
When the door lock is unlocked, the power supply control means 13 turns on the power of the ECU 43 and the monitoring unit 42 in conjunction with the unlocking as in the normal start of the fuel cell vehicle C described above (FIG. 5). In step S06, the ECU 43 is turned on, and in step S816 in FIG. 7, the monitoring unit 42 is turned on).

(Locking door lock)
When the door lock is locked without boarding, the power supply control means 13 makes a determination of No in step S812 shown in FIG. 7, and then makes a determination of Yes in step S813. Then, in step S815, the power supply of the monitoring unit 42 is determined. Is turned off. Then, when the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned off, a determination of Yes is made in step S903 shown in FIG. 8, and a determination of Yes is made in step S904, and then the power of the ECU 43 is turned off in step S905.
In this way, as shown in FIG. 10, the power of the monitoring unit 42 and the ECU 43 is turned off in conjunction with the locking of the door lock.

[When IGSW is not turned on after unlocking the door lock]
Next, a case where the door lock is unlocked but the IGSW 31 is not easily turned on will be described with reference mainly to FIG.

(The power of the monitoring unit is turned off after a predetermined time)
First, when the door lock is unlocked, the power supply control means 13 turns on the power of the ECU 43 and the monitoring unit 42 in conjunction with the unlocking of the door lock, as in the normal start of the fuel cell vehicle C described above. Turn on.

In parallel with this, the monitoring unit power OFF determination means 15 measures the time from when the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on based on the time from the clock 14. When the measured time exceeds the first predetermined time (the first predetermined condition is satisfied), the monitoring unit power OFF determination unit 15 determines whether the power of the monitoring unit 42 is OFF and the power control unit 13. Is instructed to turn off the power of the monitoring unit 42. In response to this instruction, the power control means 13 turns off the power of the monitoring unit 42.
Note that turning off the power of the monitoring unit 42 corresponds to the second step in the claims.

  Specifically, when the time measured by the monitoring unit power supply OFF determination unit 15 exceeds the first predetermined time, the power supply control unit 13 determines Yes in step S814 shown in FIG. 7, and monitors in step S815. The power of the unit 42 is turned off. Thereafter, according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 8, the ECU 43 is turned off in step S905. In step S906, 0 is assigned to Frag (TrigA).

  That is, as shown in FIG. 11, when the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on, it is the same as the operation of the “so-called IGSW 31 ON waiting timer” in which the first predetermined time is set, and the first predetermined time has elapsed. If the IGSW 31 is not turned on at times, the power supplies of the monitoring unit 42 and the ECU 43 are turned off substantially simultaneously.

(Subsequent starting)
Subsequent starting of the fuel cell vehicle C will be described with reference to FIG.
When the IGSW 31 is turned on, a determination of Yes is made in step S01 shown in FIG. 5, and the power of the ECU 43 is turned on in step S06. 7 is determined in step S801 shown in FIG. 7, the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on in step S803, and the power of the main unit 41 is turned on in step S804.
In this way, as shown in FIG. 11, the power of the ECU 43, the monitoring unit 42, and the main unit 41 is turned on substantially simultaneously in conjunction with the turning on of the IGSW 31.
In addition, although FIG. 11 demonstrated the case where IGSW31 was turned ON after the power supply of the monitoring unit 42 was turned OFF, when a trigger signal is detected before IGSW31 is turned ON, determination by step S04 is Yes. Thus, the same control as the control based on the first trigger signal is repeated.

[When trigger signal cannot be used]
Next, referring mainly to FIG. 12, when it is determined that the trigger signal is unusable, that is, the trigger signal transmitting device (door lock state detection sensor 32, etc.) fails, and the trigger signal is continuously turned ON. The case where it continues is demonstrated.

(Trigger signal unusable judgment)
First, when the door lock is unlocked, the power supply control means 13 turns on the power of the ECU 43 and the monitoring unit 42 in conjunction with the unlocking in the same manner as the normal start of the fuel cell vehicle C described above.

In parallel with this, the trigger signal availability determination means 16 measures the time from when the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on based on the time from the clock 14. When the measured time exceeds the trigger signal availability determination time, the trigger signal availability determination unit 16 determines that the trigger signal is unusable and replaces the trigger signal with respect to the power supply control unit 13. Based on the ON signal of the IGSW 31, an instruction is given to turn on the power of the monitoring unit 42.
When the measured time exceeds the trigger signal availability determination time, the trigger signal availability determination unit 16 temporarily turns off the power of the monitoring unit 42 and the ECU 43 with respect to the power source control unit 13. Instruct.

  Specifically, when the measured time exceeds the preset trigger signal availability determination time, the trigger signal availability determination unit 16 determines Yes in step S701 shown in FIG. The means 13 is instructed. Receiving this instruction, the power supply control means 13 substitutes 1 for Frag (TrigB) because the trigger signal cannot be used (S702), and turns off the power of the monitoring unit 42 (S703). Thereafter, the power of the ECU 43 is turned off according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 8 (S805).

  That is, as shown in FIG. 12, when the power of the main unit 41 is turned off, this is the same as the operation of the “so-called trigger signal availability determination timer” in which the trigger signal availability determination time is set. If the trigger signal is continuously ON during the availability determination time, it is determined that the trigger signal cannot be used, and the power of the monitoring unit 42 and the ECU 43 is turned off substantially simultaneously.

(Subsequent starting)
Next, the starting of the fuel cell vehicle C will be described with reference to FIG.
When the IGSW 31 is turned on, a determination of Yes is made in step S01 shown in FIG. 5, and the power of the ECU 43 is turned on in step S06. Incidentally, since Frag (TrigB) = 1 is stored until the IGSW 31 is turned on, No is determined in step S02.
7 is determined in step S801 shown in FIG. 7, the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on in step S803, and the power of the main unit 41 is turned on in step S804. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 12, the ECU 43, the monitoring unit 42, and the main unit 41 are turned on substantially simultaneously in conjunction with the IGSW 31 being turned on.

(Stopping fuel cell vehicles)
Next, since the flow of stopping the fuel cell vehicle C started in this way after traveling is performed in the same manner as the timing chart shown in FIG. 9, the description thereof is omitted here.

(Starting fuel cell vehicles that cannot use trigger signals)
Next, a description will be given of a case where the fuel cell vehicle C that is stopped and the trigger signal cannot be used is restarted. As shown in FIG. 12, the trigger signal cannot be used and the ON state continues, and “Frag (TrigB) = 1 (trigger signal cannot be used)” is stored in the power supply control means 13. ing

First, since the trigger signal cannot be used even when the door lock or the like is unlocked, the determination in Step S02 shown in FIG. 5 is No (Frag (TrigA) = 1 does not go through Step S05), In step S06, the ECU 43 is not turned on.
Thereafter, when the IGSW 31 is turned on, a determination of Yes is made in step S02 shown in FIG. 5, and the power of the ECU 43 is turned on in step S06. 7 is determined in step S801 shown in FIG. 7, the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on in step S803, and the power of the main unit 41 is turned on in step S804.

<< Second Embodiment >>
Next, a control apparatus for a fuel cell vehicle and a fuel cell system according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 to 15 as appropriate.
In the drawings to be referred to, FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the power ON / OFF processing of the monitoring unit / main unit according to the second embodiment. FIGS. 14 and 15 are timing charts of the fuel cell vehicle according to the second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a normal case, and FIG. 15 is a case where the IGSW is not easily turned on even though the door lock is unlocked. Respectively.

[Starting fuel cell vehicles]
The control device of the fuel cell system according to the second embodiment monitors the remaining amount of the battery 50 via the remaining amount detector 54 (see FIG. 1), and when the fuel cell vehicle C (fuel cell system) is started. When the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on based on the trigger signal, and the IGSW 31 is not turned on until the remaining amount of the battery 50 falls below a predetermined value (the first predetermined condition is satisfied) Then, the power supply of the monitoring unit 42 is turned off to prevent useless power supply from the battery 50.

The control device of the fuel cell system preferentially discharges and charges from the capacitor 51 in the second embodiment. The remaining amount of the battery 50 according to the second embodiment corresponds to the remaining amount of the capacitor 51 and the remaining amount of the 12V battery 52 in detail. Correspondingly, the predetermined value is set in each of the capacitor 51 and the 12V battery 52. Specifically, for example, the capacitor 51 is set to the _travelable capacitor voltage V, and the 12V battery 52 is set. Is set to the above-mentioned limit remaining amount. Accordingly, in the second embodiment, the remaining amount of the battery 50 drops below a predetermined value, the voltage of the capacitor 51 is lowered below the running Allowed capacitor voltage V _{traveling allowed,} and the remaining amount of the 12V battery 52 is the It has fallen below the limit remaining amount. In addition, the predetermined value related to the battery 50 is stored in the battery data storage unit 17, and the monitoring unit power OFF determination unit 15 can refer to this predetermined value as appropriate.

  More specifically, the monitoring unit power supply OFF determining unit 15 according to the second embodiment is configured so that the IGSW signal detection unit 11 is turned on after the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on until the remaining amount of the battery 50 decreases to the predetermined value or less. However, when the ON signal of the IGSW 31 is not detected, the monitoring unit power OFF determination unit 15 determines that the power of the monitoring unit 42 is OFF, and instructs the power control unit 13 to turn OFF the power of the monitoring unit 42. Then, the power supply control means 13 can turn off the power supply of the monitoring unit 42 (switch 72 is turned off) according to this instruction, and can prevent wasteful power supply from the battery 50.

That is, in the control device for the fuel cell system according to the second embodiment, step S814A is set as shown in FIG. 13 instead of step S814 in FIG. 7 according to the first embodiment. In step S814A, the control device for the fuel cell system “whether or not the remaining amount of the battery 50 is equal to or less than a predetermined value after the monitoring unit 42 is turned on (whether or not the first predetermined condition is satisfied)”. Determine.
If it is determined that “the value is equal to or less than the predetermined value (the first predetermined condition is satisfied)” (S804A, Yes), the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned off (S815). On the other hand, if it is determined that “it is not less than the predetermined value (the first predetermined condition is not satisfied)” (S814A, No), the power of the monitoring unit 42 is continuously turned on (S816).

More specifically, a description will be given with reference to FIGS.
As shown in FIG. 14, when the door lock is unlocked at the start of a normal fuel cell vehicle C, the power supply control means 13 is linked to the unlocking in the same manner as in the first embodiment. And the power supply of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on. As the power is turned on, the remaining amount of the battery 50 decreases. When the IGSW 31 is turned on, the power supply of the main unit 41 is turned on, the fuel cell generates power, and the battery 50 is charged. That is, FIG. 14 shows a case where the IGSW 31 is turned on after the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on and before the remaining amount of the battery 50 is reduced below a predetermined value (the first predetermined condition is satisfied).

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 15, the trigger signal is detected based on the unlocking of the door lock, and the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned on, but the IGSW 31 is not easily turned on. When the value falls below the value (the first predetermined condition is satisfied), the control device of the fuel cell system determines Yes in step S814A shown in FIG. 13, and turns off the power of the monitoring unit 42 in step S815. Thereby, wasteful power supply from the battery 50 to the monitoring unit 42 is prevented.
Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 15, when the IGSW 31 is turned on, the power of the ECU 43, the monitoring unit 42, and the main unit 41 is turned on in conjunction therewith. Then, after the hydrogen sensor of the monitoring unit 42 becomes in a state where hydrogen concentration can be detected, the fuel cell generates power and the battery 50 is charged.

[Stopping fuel cell vehicles]
Further, the monitoring unit power supply OFF determination means 15 of the control device for the fuel cell system according to the second embodiment is configured such that the IGSW 31 is turned ON again when the traveling fuel cell vehicle C (operating fuel cell system) stops. In preparation for the case, after the power of the main unit 41 is turned off, “the driver gets off” or the like until the remaining amount of the battery 50 decreases to a predetermined value or less (the second predetermined condition is satisfied). Unless the signal based on this is detected, the power control means 13 is instructed to turn on the power of the monitoring unit 42.

That is, in the control device for the fuel cell system according to the second embodiment, step S810A is set as shown in FIG. 13 instead of step S810 in FIG. 7 according to the first embodiment. In step S810A, the control device for the combustion battery system determines whether or not the remaining amount of the battery 50 is equal to or less than a predetermined value after the main unit 41 is turned off.
When it is determined that “the value is equal to or less than the predetermined value (the second predetermined condition is satisfied)” (S810A, Yes), the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned off (S809). On the other hand, when it is determined that “it is not less than the predetermined value (the second predetermined condition is not satisfied)” (S814A, No), the power supply of the monitoring unit 42 is continuously turned on (S811).

More specifically, a description will be given with reference to FIG.
As shown in FIG. 14, when the fuel cell vehicle C is stopped, after the IGSW 31 is turned off and the power generation stop processing of the fuel cell is completed (FIG. 13, S806, Yes), the power of the main unit 41 is turned off. (FIG. 13, S807). On the other hand, since the power supply of the monitoring unit 42 remains turned on in preparation for restart, the remaining amount of the battery 50 is reduced. Thereafter, when the seating sensor 33 detects that the driver has exited the vehicle (FIG. 13, S808, Yes), the power of the monitoring unit 42 is turned off (FIG. 13, S809).

  That is, FIG. 14 shows the monitoring unit based on the fact that the driver gets off after the power of the main unit 41 is turned off and before the remaining amount of the battery 50 drops below a predetermined value (the second predetermined condition is satisfied). The case where the power supply of 42 is turned off is shown. On the other hand, after the power of the main unit 41 is turned off, the driver does not get off (FIG. 13, S108, No), and the remaining amount of the battery 50 falls below a predetermined value (the second predetermined condition is satisfied) ( In FIG. 13, S810A / No), the power supply of the monitoring unit 42 is turned off in order to prevent unnecessary power supply (FIG. 13, S811).

  The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and the following modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

  In the first embodiment described above, the door lock state detection sensor 32 and the seating sensor 33 (trigger signal transmission device) transmit a trigger signal, and the trigger signal detection unit 12 detects the trigger signal. When the door lock state detection sensor 32 only detects unlocking / locking of the door lock and only transmits the unlocking signal / locking signal, the unlocking signal / locking signal is replaced with the trigger signal detecting means 12. And a “sensor state detection / trigger signal transmission means” for transmitting a trigger signal to the power supply control means 13 when it is detected that the lock signal has been switched to the unlock signal. The apparatus 1 may be configured. In this case, when the trigger signal is continuously turned ON and the trigger signal becomes unusable, the “sensor state detection-trigger signal transmission means” has failed.

  In the first embodiment described above, the case where the unlock signal of the door lock is used as the trigger signal has been described, but the trigger signal is not limited to the unlock signal of the door lock. For example, a seating signal from the seating sensor 33 may be used as a trigger signal, or a door opening signal from a door open / closed state detection sensor may be used as a trigger signal.

In the first embodiment described above, the case where the control device 1 of the fuel cell system is attached to the fuel cell vehicle C on which the fuel cell system is mounted is described. However, the target including the fuel cell system is not limited to the vehicle. For example, it may be a ship. That is, the control device 1 of the fuel cell system is not limited to the fuel cell vehicle, and may be attached to a ship or the like equipped with the fuel cell system.
In addition, for example, the fuel cell system may not be mounted on an automobile or the like, but may be a stationary fuel cell system for home use. In this case, for example, a door unlocking signal may be used as a trigger signal.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control apparatus of the fuel cell vehicle and fuel cell system which concern on 1st Embodiment. It is a graph which shows the relationship between the discharge limit voltage of a capacitor, and the charge time required after discharge. It is a graph which shows a time-dependent change of the capacitor voltage after trigger signal detection. It is a graph which shows the relationship between the capacitor voltage at the time of trigger signal detection, and 1st predetermined time. It is a flowchart which shows the basic control of the control apparatus of the fuel cell system which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the usability determination processing of the trigger signal shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the power supply ON / OFF process of the monitoring unit main unit shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the ECU power supply OFF process shown in FIG. 2 is a timing chart of the fuel cell vehicle according to the first embodiment. . 2 is a timing chart of the fuel cell vehicle according to the first embodiment. 2 is a timing chart of the fuel cell vehicle according to the first embodiment. 2 is a timing chart of the fuel cell vehicle according to the first embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the power supply ON / OFF process of the monitoring unit main unit by the control apparatus of the fuel cell system which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a timing chart of the fuel cell car concerning a 2nd embodiment. It is a timing chart of the fuel cell car concerning a 2nd embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

C Fuel Cell Car 1 Fuel Cell System Control Device 11 IGSW Signal Detection Unit (Startup Switch Signal Detection Unit)
12 Trigger signal detection means 13 Power supply control means 14 Clock 15 Monitoring unit power supply OFF determination means 16 Trigger signal availability determination means 17 Capacitor data storage means 31 IGSW (start switch)
32 Door lock state detection sensor (start trigger signal transmitter)
33 Seating sensor (start trigger signal transmitter)
41 Main unit 42 Monitoring unit 43 ECU
50 capacitor 51 capacitor 52 12V battery 54 remaining amount detector 71, 72, 73 switch

Claims (7)

A fuel cell; a main unit for supplying a reaction gas to the fuel cell to generate the fuel cell; a monitoring unit for monitoring the reaction gas supplied to the fuel cell; and supplying power to the main unit and the monitoring unit A fuel cell system control device for controlling ON / OFF of the power supply of the main unit and the monitoring unit with respect to a fuel cell system activated by a start switch.
A start switch signal detecting means for detecting an ON signal of the start switch;
Trigger signal detection means for detecting a trigger signal other than the ON signal of the start switch;
A power control means for turning on the power of the main unit based on the ON signal of the start switch, and for turning on the power of the monitoring unit based on the trigger signal;
After the trigger signal detection means detects the trigger signal and turns on the power of the monitoring unit, the start switch signal detection means does not detect the start switch ON signal until the first predetermined condition is satisfied. A monitoring unit power supply OFF determination means for determining the power supply of the monitoring unit to be turned off and instructing the power supply control means to turn off the power supply of the monitoring unit;
A control apparatus for a fuel cell system, comprising:   2. The fuel cell system control device according to claim 1, wherein the first predetermined condition is that a first predetermined time elapses after the power of the monitoring unit is turned on.   3. The fuel cell system according to claim 2, wherein the first predetermined time is set based on a remaining amount of the battery when the trigger signal is detected by the monitoring unit power OFF determination unit. Control device.   2. The control device for a fuel cell system according to claim 1, wherein the first predetermined condition is that after the power of the monitoring unit is turned on, the remaining amount of the battery is reduced to a predetermined value or less.   When the trigger signal detection means detects the trigger signal availability determination time and ON of the trigger signal, the trigger signal is determined to be unusable, and the power supply control means is activated instead of the trigger signal. 5. The trigger signal usability determining unit for instructing to turn on the power of the monitoring unit based on an ON signal of a switch, further comprising: a trigger signal availability determining unit. Fuel cell system control device.   The monitoring unit power OFF determining means turns off the power supply of the main unit when stopping the operating fuel cell system, and then continues to the power control means until the second predetermined condition is satisfied. The control device for a fuel cell system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein an instruction is given to turn on the power. A fuel cell; a main unit for supplying a reaction gas to the fuel cell to generate the fuel cell; a monitoring unit for monitoring the reaction gas supplied to the fuel cell; and supplying power to the main unit and the monitoring unit A fuel cell system control method for controlling power ON / OFF of the main unit and the monitoring unit with respect to a fuel cell system that is activated by a start switch.
A first step of turning on the power of the monitoring unit when a trigger signal other than the ON signal of the start switch is detected;
A second step of turning off the power of the monitoring unit when the ON signal of the activation switch is not detected until the first predetermined condition is satisfied after the power of the monitoring unit is turned on;
A control method for a fuel cell system, comprising:

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