JP5177664B2 - Vehicle charging system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a vehicle charging system in which an on-board battery can be used for driving power.

  In recent years, various measures have been taken to reduce carbon dioxide emissions to prevent global warming. In vehicles, electric vehicles (EV: Electric Vehicle) and hybrid vehicles (HV: Hybrid Vehicle) that can use an on-board battery as driving power have attracted attention and are being put into practical use. Recently, in addition to charging the battery by rotating the engine while driving, the development of a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHV) that can charge the battery from a household power source when the vehicle is not driving at night or other times has also been promoted. Therefore, the function of charging the on-board battery tends to become more important in the future.

  The time required to complete charging of the batteries of these electric vehicles requires a relatively long time even in the case of rapid charging as compared with the refueling time of conventional gasoline vehicles and diesel vehicles. The battery needs to be charged reliably, and if the charging cord falls out of the electric vehicle's charging socket during charging and charging is not performed correctly, or if the charging cord is damaged due to falling, operation of the vehicle Will cause serious trouble.

  Moreover, when charging the battery of an electric vehicle with the charging device installed in the user's home, it is necessary to prevent other people other than the user from using the charging device installed in the home without permission.

  Therefore, an IC card is used as a key, information on the IC card is read, and on the basis of the information, a lock mechanism that locks the connection of the cord that electrically connects the battery of the vehicle to the charging device is provided. A vehicle charging device has been devised in which the stored identification code and the identification code stored in the charging device are compared and power supply to the battery is enabled when they match (Patent Document 1). reference).

  In the above charging device, the charging cord of the charging device is locked so as not to fall out of the vehicle during charging, so that the battery is reliably charged and damage due to the dropping of the charging cord can be prevented. Moreover, the user of a charging device can be identified and the use of others can be prevented.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-262303

  In Patent Document 1, an IC card, a reading device thereof, a lock mechanism for locking the connection of a cord, and the like are required, and the complicated structure and high cost cannot be avoided. Moreover, when it attaches to the existing charging device, there exists a problem that the remodeling scale of an apparatus will increase especially especially around the outlet.

  Against the background of the above problems, the problem of the present invention is that it is possible to prevent tampering and electric thieves (theft) with a simple operation, no mechanical locking mechanism is required, and even to a conventional charging device as much as possible. The object is to provide a vehicle charging system that can be installed without modification.

Means for Solving the Problems and Effects of the Invention

A vehicle charging system for solving the above-described problem is a vehicle in which the mounted battery can be used for driving power, and the mounted battery is connected to the power supply device via a charging cable to charge the mounted battery. A vehicle charging system comprising a portable device possessed by a user and a control unit, wherein the control unit wirelessly transmits a request signal for requesting the portable device to transmit a vehicle-specific ID code. A code requesting unit; an ID code receiving unit that wirelessly receives the requested ID code; a collating unit that collates the received ID code with a master code stored in a predetermined storage unit; A warning mode that detects abnormalities in the power supply, charging cable, and its surroundings while charging the operation mode, and a non-warning mode that does not detect abnormalities Assumes that comprising, an operation mode switching control unit for switching control between.

  By performing wireless communication between a portable device (electronic key, smart key) possessed by the user and a vehicle control device (ECU), it is detected that the user who possessed the portable device has approached the vehicle, and the door Smart key systems that provide functions to automatically unlock the door or to automatically lock the door by detecting that the user has left the vehicle have recently been adopted in many vehicles. is there. Such a function provided by the smart key system is called a smart function. The present invention uses this smart function to detect abnormalities in the power supply device, the charging cable, and the surrounding area, and to monitor mischief and theft. It is easy to switch to the alert mode. With the configuration described above, the configuration of the present invention can be realized by utilizing an existing portable device, requiring no mechanical parts such as a lock mechanism, requiring no modification to the outlet of the power supply device, and not accompanied by a large cost increase.

  Further, the operation mode switching control means in the vehicle charging system of the present invention is configured to switch the operation mode to the non-warning mode when the ID code matches with the master code.

  With the above configuration, when the user is in the vicinity of the charging system, the non-warning mode can be set. For example, when the vehicle is charging, if the user approaches the vehicle in order to check the charging state of the vehicle, the vehicle automatically enters a non-warning mode so that it is not mistaken for an abnormality such as tampering with the charging system. .

  The operation mode switching control means in the vehicle charging system according to the present invention warns the operation mode when the portable device leaves the portable device search area where the ID code receiving device can receive the ID code from the portable device. Configured to switch to mode.

  With the above configuration, when the user moves away from the charging system of the vehicle, the warning mode can be set. For example, after the user returns home at night, when the power supply device at home is connected to the vehicle via the charging cable and enters the indoors, the alarm mode is automatically entered, and the charging system is tampered without bothering the user. An abnormality can be detected.

  The vehicle charging system according to the present invention further includes detection means for detecting that the portable device has been trapped by the control unit, and the operation mode switching control means detects that the portable device has been trapped by the control unit. In addition, the operation mode is configured to alternately switch between the non-warning mode and the warning mode.

  With the above configuration, even when the radio wave condition is bad, the operation mode can be switched alternately from the warning mode to the non-warning mode. It is also possible for the user to confirm whether the operation mode has actually been switched.

  In addition, the vehicle charging system of the present invention includes a power supply device, a charging cable, and abnormality detecting means for detecting abnormality in the vicinity thereof, abnormality information output means for outputting information to that effect when abnormality is detected, It is comprised so that it may comprise.

  With the above-described configuration, it is possible to detect a mischief such as disconnection of a charging cable from the vehicle or the power supply device, an abnormality such as theft of power, and to notify the user of the abnormality.

  Moreover, the control unit in the vehicle charging system of the present invention is configured to be provided on the charging cable.

  With the above configuration, an abnormality (such as cable disconnection) with respect to the charging cable can be detected. Further, it is not necessary to modify the vehicle and the power supply device and add a control unit.

  The control unit in the vehicle charging system of the present invention includes a charging state monitoring unit that monitors a charging state from the power supply device to the on-board battery, and the abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality during charging based on the charging state. Configured as follows.

  With the above configuration, for example, when the charging cable is disconnected, the on-board battery is not charged, so that an abnormality during charging can be detected.

  Further, the control unit in the vehicle charging system of the present invention is configured to be provided in a detachable outlet cover that is provided in the power supply device and covers an outlet for connecting the charging cable.

  Since the outlet is exposed outdoors, it is often covered with an outlet cover for waterproofing and prevention of deterioration. With the above configuration, an abnormality (mischief or the like) with respect to the power supply device (outlet cover) can be detected. Further, it is not necessary to modify the vehicle, the charging cable, and the power supply body and add a control unit.

Further, the control unit in the vehicle charging system of the present invention includes a detachment state detecting means for detecting the detachment state of the outlet cover , and an abnormality in the power supply device, the charging cable, and its surroundings based on the detachment state of the outlet cover. An abnormality detection means for detecting, and an abnormality information output means for outputting information to that effect when an abnormality is detected are provided .

  With the above-described configuration, it is possible to detect that the outlet cover has been removed by someone, and it is possible to prevent mischief and power theft.

  Embodiments of a vehicle charging system (hereinafter referred to as “charging system”) of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 shows a system configuration diagram of the charging system according to the first embodiment. The charging system 1 includes a portable device 20 owned by a user, a vehicle 60 such as a plug-in hybrid vehicle or an electric vehicle that is equipped with a battery that can be used for driving power and can be charged from a household power source or the like, such as a home. The power supply device 40 such as a power supply for power supply and the charging cable 30 for connecting the outlet 61 of the vehicle 60 and the power outlet 41 of the power supply device 40 are configured.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the charging system 1. The charging cable 30 includes the control unit 10, and the vehicle 60 is equipped with a security ECU 200. The control unit 10 and the security ECU 200 are communicably connected, for example, by a well-known in-vehicle LAN 50 disposed on the charging cable 30.

  The control unit 10 includes a transmission unit 110, a reception unit 111, a storage device 112, a display unit 113, a voltage sensor 114, a current sensor 115, a buzzer 116, and an ECU 100 to which these are connected. In the charging cable 30, the position where the control unit is provided is not particularly limited, and may be integrated with the outlet 31, for example.

  The transmission unit 110 is configured to have a transmission antenna (not shown), and transmits a request signal for collation work from the transmission antenna to the portable device 20 using, for example, an LF (long wave) electromagnetic wave. On the other hand, the receiving unit 111 includes a receiving antenna (not shown), and receives a signal transmitted from the portable device 20. In this manner, signals are transmitted and received between the ECU 100 and the portable device 20 via the transmission unit 110 and the reception unit 111, thereby collating the ID code. The transmission unit 110 corresponds to the ID code requesting unit of the present invention. The receiving unit 111 corresponds to the ID code receiving means of the present invention.

  The storage device 112 stores a verification master code (master ID) corresponding to the portable device 20 and various programs as described below.

  The display part 113 is comprised by LED, for example, and displays the operation mode of the charging system 1. The display unit 113 corresponds to the abnormality information output unit of the present invention. A display device such as an LCD may be used.

  The voltage sensor 114 is for detecting a voltage applied from the power supply device 40 to the charging cable 30. The voltage sensor 114 corresponds to the abnormality detection means and the charge state monitoring means of the present invention.

  The current sensor 115 is for detecting a current flowing from the power supply device 40 through the charging cable 30. The current sensor 115 corresponds to the abnormality detection means and the charge state monitoring means of the present invention.

  The buzzer 116 sounds with a predetermined blowing pattern under the control of the ECU 100 according to the state of the charging system 1. The buzzer 116 corresponds to the abnormality information output means of the present invention.

  The ECU 100 includes, as its main structure, a CPU 101 that performs arithmetic / signal processing, a ROM 102 that stores programs, and a RAM 103 that is a storage / working area, which are configured as a well-known computer connected by a bus 105. In addition, a communication I / F 104 for connecting to the in-vehicle LAN 50 is provided. The CPU 101 corresponds to the collating unit and the operation mode switching control unit of the present invention. The communication I / F 104 corresponds to the abnormality information output unit of the present invention.

  The portable device 20 includes a transmission unit 110 of the control unit 10, a reception unit 21 that can communicate with the reception unit 111, a transmission unit 22, and a memory 23 that stores an ID code and the like. In addition, a known RFID tag 24 including a storage medium using a non-contact IC chip and an antenna may be included.

  The security ECU 200 is included in a known vehicle antitheft system, and detects an approach / intrusion to a vehicle and activates an alarm device 201 such as a horn or a light. About a vehicle antitheft system, the outline | summary is described in Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 2006-072937, for example.

  The operation mode switching control process for switching the operation mode will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. This process is included in the control program stored in the ROM 102 or the storage device 112, and is repeatedly executed together with other processes included in the control program.

  First, it is determined whether or not the charging cable 30 is connected between the power supply device 40 and the vehicle 60, that is, whether or not the plug (31 or the like) of the charging cable 30 is being connected. For example, when the detection value of the current sensor 115 exceeds a predetermined current threshold, it can be determined that the plug of the charging cable is being connected. When it is determined that the plug of the charging cable 30 is not connected (S10: No), this process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the plug of the charging cable 30 is being connected (S10: Yes), the transmitter 110 transmits a request signal for requesting an ID code, and the radio wave (ID) from the portable device 20 responding to the signal is transmitted. Check for the presence of code. When the radio wave from the portable device 20 is received, that is, when the user enters the verification area R in FIG. 3 (S11: Yes), verification of the received ID code and the master ID stored in the storage device 112 is performed. (S12).

  Note that the collation area R shown in FIG. 3 is merely an image diagram for explanation, and the actual collation area R does not necessarily have to be formed as shown in FIG. Further, when the radio wave from the portable device 20 is not received (S11: No), it waits until the radio wave from the portable device 20 is received. However, it does not form an infinite loop, and other processes are appropriately performed. Executed. At this time, this process may be immediately terminated.

  As a result of the collation, if the collation coincides (S13: Yes), the operation mode is set to the non-warning mode, and the LED of the display unit 113 is lit in blue (S14). Information regarding the operation mode is stored in the RAM 103 or the storage device 112.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the user has left the verification area R in FIG. When the ID code request signal is transmitted from the transmission unit 110 and there is no response to the signal, it can be determined that the user has left the verification area R. When the user leaves the verification area R (S15: Yes), the operation mode is set to the alert mode, and the LED of the display unit 113 is lit in red (S16).

  When switching the operation mode, the buzzer 116 may be sounded in a predetermined sounding pattern.

  In the example of FIG. 3, after the user approaches the vehicle and the ID code is correctly verified, the charging cable 30 (plug included) is connected between the power supply device 40 and the vehicle 60 (STEP 1). Then, the situation where the user leaves the vehicle is shown. When the user leaves the verification area R with the vehicle 60 in a charged state (STEP 2), the user automatically shifts to a warning mode (STEP 3). For this reason, there is an advantage that the user does not need to perform an operation related to operation mode switching.

  Another example of the operation mode switching control process will be described with reference to FIGS. In this example, the portable device 20 does not have the reception unit 21 and the transmission unit 22, and the operation mode is switched using the RFID tag 24. Further, the portable device 20 does not have a power source, and the power for driving the IC of the RFID tag 24 is given by electromagnetic induction through the antenna of the transmission unit 110 of the control unit 10. Therefore, the distance that the mobile device 20 is held is determined by the reach of the radio wave of the transmission unit 110 and is, for example, several tens of centimeters.

  First, as in the example of FIG. 4, it is determined whether or not the charging cable 30 is connected between the power supply device 40 and the vehicle 60, that is, whether or not the plug (31 or the like) of the charging cable 30 is being connected. . When it is determined that the plug of the charging cable 30 is not connected (S30: No), this process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the plug of the charging cable 30 is being connected (S30: Yes), it is determined whether or not the portable device 20 has been deceived by the control unit 10. When the receiving unit 111 of the control unit 10 can receive the radio wave (ID code) from the portable device 20, it can be determined that the portable device 20 has been trapped by the control unit 10. When it is determined that the portable device 20 has been deceived by the control unit 10 (S31: Yes), the received ID code is collated with the master ID stored in the storage device 112 (S32).

  In addition, when the receiving part 111 does not receive the electromagnetic wave from the portable device 20 (S31: No), it waits until it receives the electromagnetic wave from the portable device 20, but does not form an infinite loop, and is appropriately Other processing is performed. At this time, this process may be immediately terminated.

  As a result of the collation, if the collation coincides (S33: Yes), the operation mode information stored in the RAM 103 or the storage device 112 is referred to determine whether or not the non-warning mode. When the operation mode is the non-warning mode (S34: Yes), the operation mode is set to the warning mode, and the LED of the display unit 113 is lit in red (S35). On the other hand, when the operation mode is not the non-warning mode (that is, the warning mode) (S34: No), the operation mode is set to the non-warning mode, and the LED of the display unit 113 is lit in blue (S36).

  In the example of FIG. 5, when the user connects the charging cable 30 (plug included therein) between the power supply device 40 and the vehicle 60 (STEP 1), and then places the portable device 20 over the control unit 10 (STEP 2). ), The operation mode shifts to the warning mode (STEP 3).

  In the above example, the user can surely switch the operation mode. In addition, since the radio wave reachable distance of the transmission unit 110 is relatively short, the transmission output can be small, so that the power consumption of the control unit 10 can be reduced. Furthermore, since there is no verification area R irradiated with radio waves, a user who should avoid exposure to radio waves for various reasons can also use the charging system 1 of the present invention.

  The examples of FIGS. 5 and 6 described above may be applied to the examples of FIGS. In this case, the operation mode can be switched even when the power source (battery) of the portable device 20 is exhausted.

  With reference to FIG. 7, an abnormality information output process for outputting information to that effect when abnormality is detected in the power supply device 40, the charging cable 30, and its surroundings will be described. This process is included in the control program stored in the ROM 102 or the storage device 112, and is repeatedly executed together with other processes included in the control program.

  First, with reference to the operation mode information stored in the RAM 103 or the storage device 112, it is determined whether or not the operation mode is a warning mode. When the operation mode is not the alert mode (S51: No), this process is terminated. On the other hand, when the operation mode is the alert mode (S51: Yes), the information of the voltage sensor 114 is acquired (S52). Then, it is determined whether or not the acquired voltage value exceeds a voltage threshold value stored in advance in the storage device 112. If the plug 31 of the charging cable 30 is correctly connected to the power outlet 41 of the power supply device 40, the output voltage from the power supply device 40 should be detected. On the other hand, if the plug 31 is not correctly connected to the power outlet 41, no voltage is detected.

  When the acquired voltage value falls below the voltage threshold (S53: Yes), it is determined that the plug 31 is disconnected from the power outlet 41, and abnormality information is output (S56, described later). On the other hand, when the acquired voltage value exceeds the voltage threshold (S53: No), information on the current sensor 115 is acquired (S54). Then, it is determined whether or not the acquired current value exceeds a current threshold value stored in advance in the storage device 112. If the plug 31 of the charging cable 30 is correctly connected to the power outlet 41 of the power supply device 40 and the charging cable 30 is correctly connected to the outlet 61 on the vehicle 60 side, current should flow. On the other hand, even if the plug 31 is correctly connected to the power outlet 41 and the output voltage from the power supply device 40 is detected, current does not flow unless the charging cable 30 is correctly connected to the outlet 61 on the vehicle 60 side. . In addition, if the configuration is such that the state of charge of the battery of the vehicle 60 can be acquired, it can be determined whether the current does not flow because the battery is fully charged or because the charging cable 30 is not properly connected. it can.

  When the acquired current value is lower than the current threshold (S55: Yes), it is determined that the charging cable 30 is disconnected from the outlet 61 on the vehicle 60 side, and abnormality information is output (S56, described later). On the other hand, when the acquired current value exceeds the current threshold value (S55: No), this process ends.

In step S56, abnormality information is output using at least one of the following.
-The LED of the display unit 113 blinks red.
-The buzzer 116 is sounded with a predetermined sounding pattern.
-Abnormal information is output to security ECU200 via communication I / F104 and in-vehicle LAN50. Based on the received abnormality information, the security ECU 200 blinks a lamp, blows a horn, reports to a security center, or transmits information to a mobile communication terminal such as a mobile phone held by the user (that is, the operation of the alarm device 201). Control).

  Hereinafter, a second embodiment of a vehicle charging system (hereinafter abbreviated as “charging system”) of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 8 shows a system configuration diagram of the charging system 2. In addition, about the thing which has the structure similar to Example 1, the same code | symbol is provided. The charging system 2 includes a portable device 20 possessed by a user, a battery 60 that can be used for driving power, and can be charged to the battery from a household power source or the like. The power supply device 40 such as a power supply for power supply and the charging cable 30 for connecting the outlet 61 of the vehicle 60 and the power outlet 41 of the power supply device 40 are configured. The power outlet 41 is covered with an outlet cover 42. The outlet cover 42 is provided with a plug 42a like a normal outlet, and power is supplied from the power supply device 40 through the plug 42a.

  FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the charging system 2. The outlet cover 42 includes a control unit 70.

  The control unit 70 includes a transmission unit 710, a reception unit 711, a storage device 712, a display unit 713, a voltage sensor 714, a current sensor 715, a buzzer 716, a plug removal sensor 717, a backup battery 718, and an ECU 700 to which these are connected. Composed.

  The transmission unit 710 is configured to have a transmission antenna (not shown), and transmits a request signal for collation work from the transmission antenna to the portable device 20 using, for example, an LF (long wave) band electromagnetic wave. On the other hand, the receiving unit 711 is configured to have a receiving antenna (not shown), and receives a signal transmitted from the portable device 20. In this way, signals are transmitted and received between the ECU 700 and the portable device 20 via the transmission unit 710 and the reception unit 711, and thus the ID code is collated.

  The storage device 712 stores a verification master code (master ID) corresponding to the portable device 20 and various programs as described below.

  The display unit 713 includes, for example, an LED, and displays the operation mode of the charging system 2. The display unit 713 corresponds to the abnormality information output unit of the present invention. A display such as an LCD may be used.

  The voltage sensor 714 is for detecting a voltage applied from the power supply device 40 to the outlet cover 42. The voltage sensor 714 corresponds to the abnormality detection means of the present invention.

  The current sensor 715 is for detecting a current flowing from the power supply device 40 to a circuit (for example, the control unit 70) included in the outlet cover 42. The current sensor 715 corresponds to the abnormality detection unit of the present invention.

  The buzzer 716 performs sounding with a predetermined sounding pattern under the control of the ECU 700 according to the state of the charging system 2. The buzzer 716 corresponds to the abnormality information output unit of the present invention.

  The plug removal sensor 717 is for detecting whether or not the plug 42 a of the outlet cover 42 is disconnected from the power outlet 41. For example, an LED (light emitting element) and a phototransistor (light receiving element) are provided, and light emitted from the LED and reflected by a power outlet 41 is received by the phototransistor, and the amount of light (converted to voltage) is predetermined. When the value falls below the specified value, it is determined that the plug is disconnected. Further, the voltage sensor 714 or the current sensor 715 may be used for determining whether the plug is disconnected. Note that the plug removal sensor 717 corresponds to the abnormality detection means and the removal state detection means of the present invention.

  The backup battery 718 is provided to enable the control unit 70 to perform a minimum operation even when the outlet cover 42 is removed from the power outlet 41.

  The ECU 700 includes, as its main structure, a CPU 701 that performs arithmetic / signal processing, a ROM 702 that stores programs, and a RAM 703 that is a storage / working area, which are configured as a well-known computer connected by a bus 705.

  The portable device 20 includes a transmission unit 710 of the control unit 70, a reception unit 21 that can communicate with the reception unit 711, a transmission unit 22, and a memory 23 that stores an ID code and the like. In addition, a known RFID tag 24 including a storage medium using a non-contact IC chip and an antenna may be included.

  The operation mode switching control process for switching the operation mode will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11. This process is included in the control program stored in the ROM 702 or the storage device 712, and is repeatedly executed together with other processes included in the control program.

  First, it is determined whether or not the outlet cover 42 is inserted into the power outlet 41 of the power supply device 40. In the absence of the backup battery 718, the operation is not performed unless the outlet cover 42 is inserted into the power outlet 41. Therefore, if the control program is executed, the outlet cover 42 is inserted into the power outlet 41. . On the other hand, if there is a backup battery 718, the determination is made from the state of the above-described plug disconnection sensor 717.

  When it is determined that the outlet cover 42 is inserted into the power outlet 41 of the power supply device 40 (S71: Yes), the transmitter 710 transmits a request signal for requesting an ID code and responds to the signal. The presence or absence of radio waves (ID code) from the machine 20 is checked. When the receiving unit 711 of the control unit 70 receives a radio wave from the portable device 20, that is, when the user enters the verification area R in FIG. 10 (S72: Yes), the received ID code and the storage device 712 store the received ID code. Verification with the master ID is performed (S73).

  Note that the collation area R shown in FIG. 10 is merely an image diagram for explanation, and the actual collation area R is not necessarily formed as shown in FIG. Further, when the receiving unit 711 does not receive the radio wave from the portable device 20 (S72: No), the receiver 711 waits until the radio wave from the portable device 20 is received, but does not form an infinite loop. Other processing is performed. At this time, this process may be immediately terminated.

  Further, when the backup battery 718 is provided, the ID code may be verified before the outlet cover 42 is inserted into the outlet.

  As a result of the collation, if the collation coincides (S74: Yes), the operation mode is set to the non-warning mode, and the LED of the display unit 713 is lit in blue (S75). Information regarding the operation mode is stored in the RAM 703 or the storage device 712.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the user has left the verification area R in FIG. When the ID code request signal is transmitted from the transmitter 710 and there is no response to the signal, it can be determined that the user has left the verification area R. When the user leaves the verification area R (S76: Yes), the operation mode is set to the alert mode, and the LED of the display unit 713 is lit in red (S77).

  In the example of FIG. 10, when the user inserts the outlet cover 42 into the power outlet 41 of the power supply device 40 (STEP 1) and leaves the verification area R while holding the portable device 20 (STEP 2), the operation mode is automatically set. Represents the transition to the warning mode (STEP 3). For this reason, there is an advantage that the user does not need to perform an operation related to operation mode switching.

  Another example of the operation mode switching control process will be described with reference to FIGS. In this example, the portable device 20 does not have the reception unit 21 and the transmission unit 22, and the operation mode is switched using the RFID tag 24. Further, the portable device 20 does not have a power source, and the power for driving the IC of the RFID tag 24 is given by electromagnetic induction through the antenna of the transmission unit 710 of the control unit 70. Therefore, the distance that the mobile device 20 is held is determined by the reach distance of the radio wave of the transmission unit 710, and is several tens of centimeters, for example.

  First, as in the example of FIG. 11, it is determined whether or not the outlet cover 42 is inserted into the power outlet 41 of the power supply device 40. When it is determined that the outlet cover 42 is inserted into the power outlet 41 (S91: Yes), it is determined whether or not the portable device 20 has been deceived by the control unit 70. A request signal for requesting an ID code is transmitted from the transmission unit 710, and the presence or absence of radio waves (ID code) from the portable device 20 responding to the signal is checked. When the receiving unit 711 of the control unit 70 receives a radio wave from the portable device 20 (S93: Yes), the received ID code is collated with the master ID stored in the storage device 712 (S94).

  As a result of the collation, if the collation coincides (S95: Yes), the operation mode information stored in the RAM 103 or the storage device 112 is referred to and it is determined whether or not the non-warning mode is set. When the operation mode is the non-warning mode (S96: Yes), the operation mode is set to the warning mode, and the LED of the display unit 113 is lit in red (S97). On the other hand, when the operation mode is not the non-warning mode (that is, the warning mode) (S96: No), the operation mode is set to the non-warning mode, and the LED of the display unit 113 is lit in blue (S98).

  In the example of FIG. 12, when the user inserts the outlet cover 42 into the power outlet 41 of the power supply device 40 (STEP 1) and then points the portable device 20 over the outlet cover 42 (control unit 70) (STEP 2), the operation mode is set. Indicates a transition to the alert mode (STEP 3).

  In the above example, the user can surely switch the operation mode. In addition, since the transmission distance of the radio wave of the transmission unit 710 is relatively short, the transmission output can be small, so that the power consumption of the control unit 70 can be reduced. Furthermore, since there is no collation area R irradiated with radio waves, a user who should avoid exposure to radio waves for various reasons can also use the charging system 2 of the present invention.

  The examples of FIGS. 12 and 13 described above may be applied to the examples of FIGS. 10 and 11. In this case, the operation mode can be switched even when the power source (battery) of the portable device 20 is exhausted.

  An abnormality information output process for outputting information to that effect when abnormality is detected in the outlet cover 42 and its surroundings will be described with reference to FIG. This process is included in the control program stored in the ROM 702 or the storage device 712, and is repeatedly executed together with other processes included in the control program.

  First, with reference to the operation mode information stored in the RAM 703 or the storage device 712, it is determined whether or not the operation mode is a warning mode. When the operation mode is not the alert mode (S111: No), this process ends. On the other hand, when the operation mode is the alert mode (S111: Yes), information on the plug removal sensor 717 is acquired (S112). When it is determined that the plug has been removed by the above-described method (S113: Yes), abnormality information is output (S118, described later).

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the plug is not disconnected (S113: No), information on the voltage sensor 714 is acquired (S114). Then, it is determined whether or not the acquired voltage value exceeds a voltage threshold value stored in advance in the storage device 712. If the outlet cover 42 is correctly inserted into the power outlet 41 of the power supply device 40, the output voltage from the power supply device 40 should be detected. On the other hand, if the outlet cover 42 (plug 42a) is not correctly inserted into the power outlet 41, the output voltage from the power supply device 40 is not correctly detected.

  When the acquired voltage value falls below the voltage threshold (S115: Yes), it is determined that the plug 42a is disconnected from the power outlet 41, and abnormality information is output (S118, described later). On the other hand, when the acquired voltage value exceeds the voltage threshold (S115: No), information on the current sensor 715 is acquired (S116). Then, it is determined whether or not the acquired current value exceeds a current threshold value stored in the storage device 712 in advance. If the outlet cover 42 (plug 42 a) is correctly inserted into the power outlet 41 of the power supply device 40, for example, a predetermined current corresponding to the consumption current in the control unit 70 should flow. On the other hand, if the outlet cover 42 is not correctly inserted into the power outlet 41, a predetermined current does not flow.

  When the acquired current value falls below the current threshold (S117: Yes), it is determined that the outlet cover 42 (plug 42a) is not correctly inserted into the power outlet 41, and abnormality information is output (S118, described later). On the other hand, when the acquired current value exceeds the current threshold value (S117: No), this process ends.

In step S118, abnormality information is output using at least one of the following.
-The LED of the display unit 713 blinks red.
-The buzzer 716 is sounded with a predetermined sounding pattern.
At this time, depending on the presence or absence of the backup battery 718, there are some that can be output and some that are not.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and the knowledge of those skilled in the art can be used without departing from the spirit of the claims. Various modifications based on this are possible.

The figure which shows the system configuration | structure of the charging system of a vehicle (Example 1). FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a vehicle charging system (Example 1). FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram for explaining an operation mode switching control process (first embodiment). The flowchart explaining the operation mode switching control process (Example 1). FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining another example of the operation mode switching control process (first embodiment). The flowchart explaining the other example of an operation mode switching control process (Example 1). The flowchart explaining the abnormality information output process (Example 1). The figure which shows the system configuration | structure of the charging system of a vehicle (Example 2). The block diagram which shows the electric constitution of the charging system of a vehicle (Example 2). Schematic diagram illustrating the operation mode switching control process (Example 2). The flowchart explaining the operation mode switching control process (Example 2). FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining another example of the operation mode switching control process (second embodiment). FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining another example of the operation mode switching control process (second embodiment). The flowchart explaining the abnormality information output process (Example 2).

Explanation of symbols

1 Charging system (Example 1)
2 Charging system (Example 2)
10 Control unit 100 ECU
101 CPU (collation means, operation mode switching control means)
104 Communication I / F (Abnormal information output means)
110 Transmitter (ID code request means)
111 Receiver (ID code receiving means)
113 Display (Abnormality information output means)
114 Voltage sensor (abnormality detection means, charge state monitoring means)
115 Current sensor (abnormality detection means, charge state monitoring means)
116 Buzzer (Abnormal information output means)
20 Mobile Device 24 RFID Tag 30 Charging Cable 40 Power Supply Device 41 Power Outlet 42 Outlet Cover 42a Plug 50 Car LAN
60 Vehicle 70 Control unit 700 ECU
701 CPU (verification means, operation mode switching control means)
710 Transmitter (ID code request means)
711 Receiver (ID code receiving means)
713 Display unit (abnormal information output means)
714 Voltage sensor (abnormality detection means)
715 Current sensor (abnormality detection means)
716 buzzer (abnormal information output means)
717 Plug removal sensor (abnormality detection means, detached state detection means)
718 Backup battery 200 Security ECU
201 Alarm device

Claims (8)

In a vehicle in which an on-board battery can be used for driving power, the on-board battery is charged by connecting the on-board battery and a power supply device via a charging cable, and charging the on-board battery,
A portable device possessed by the user and a control unit;
The control unit is
ID code requesting means for wirelessly transmitting a request signal for requesting transmission of a vehicle-specific ID code to the portable device;
ID code receiving means for wirelessly receiving the requested ID code;
Collating means for collating the received ID code with the master code stored in the predetermined storage unit;
Based on the collation of the ID code, the operation mode is between a warning mode for detecting an abnormality in the power supply device, the charging cable, and its surroundings during charging, and a non-warning mode in which the abnormality is not detected. An operation mode switching control means for performing switching control at
Only including,
The vehicle charging system , wherein the control unit is provided in the charging cable .   The vehicle charging system according to claim 1, wherein the operation mode switching control unit switches the operation mode to the non-warning mode when the ID code is matched with the master code.   The operation mode switching control unit switches the operation mode to the alert mode when the portable device leaves the portable device search area where the ID code receiving unit can receive the ID code from the portable device. The vehicle charging system according to claim 1 or 2. Detecting means for detecting that the portable device has been deceived by the control unit;
The operation mode switching control means switches the operation mode between the non-warning mode and the warning mode alternately when it is detected that the portable device has been deceived by the control unit. The vehicle charging system according to claim 3. An abnormality detection means for detecting an abnormality in the power supply device, the charging cable, and its surroundings;
Abnormality information output means for outputting information to that effect when detecting the abnormality;
The vehicle charging system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: The control unit includes charge state monitoring means for monitoring a charge state from the power supply device to the on-board battery,
The vehicle charging system according to claim 5, wherein the abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality during the charging based on the state of charge. 5. The vehicle charging system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is provided in a detachable outlet cover that is provided in the power supply device and covers an outlet for connecting the charging cable. 6. . The control unit includes a detachment state detection unit that detects a detachment state of the outlet cover,
Abnormality detection means for detecting abnormalities in the power supply device, the charging cable, and the surroundings based on the attachment / detachment state of the outlet cover;
Abnormality information output means for outputting information to that effect when detecting the abnormality;
A vehicle charging system according to claim 7 .

Images