JP7378835B2 - unit - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to, for example, a unit that is detachably attached to an adapter that is attached to a port through which information from a vehicle-mounted computer is output.

Examples of ports to which information from an in-vehicle computer is output include an in-vehicle network to which a computer for controlling various parts of the vehicle is connected, and a signal line to which a computer to output information for fault diagnosis is connected. Connected ports are known. A fault diagnosis system installed in a vehicle is known as, for example, OBD II (On-Board Diagnostic II). In this type of fault diagnosis system, for example, various in-vehicle computers installed to control the vehicle, such as the ECU (Engine Control Unit), acquire signals such as the status from sensors and switches installed in various parts of the vehicle. Then, based on the acquired status, etc., it generates information for failure diagnosis and information to be transmitted to other in-vehicle computers, and transmits it to an in-vehicle network such as CAN. The in-vehicle network is connected to the fault diagnosis port. By connecting a fault diagnosis machine installed outside the vehicle, such as at a repair shop, to this fault diagnosis port, the failure and condition of each part of the vehicle can be confirmed from the fault diagnosis machine outside the vehicle.

This type of fault diagnosis system is originally installed in vehicles for the purpose of fault diagnosis, but for example, as described in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2, an adapter is attached to the port of this fault diagnosis system. Proposals have been made to connect the adapter and obtain information from the computer that controls the vehicle via this adapter and output it to a display installed inside the vehicle, allowing the user to check the status of the vehicle even when not diagnosing a fault. There is.

JP2012-206621A JP2012-206622A

However, since the invention described in the above-mentioned patent document has a dedicated display on the adapter, it can be used with devices that the user already owns, such as navigation devices, radar detectors, and drive recorders, that can output images and audio. could not be connected. Recently, adapters of this type that connect specific navigation devices and radar detectors have been proposed, but these are all devices that can be connected to a single device, and cannot be used to connect multiple types of external devices at the same time. It was not possible to connect and distribute information from the failure diagnosis system to each device, or to freely select and connect different types of devices according to the user's request.

Furthermore, since the adapter alone does not have image or audio output means, even if the user purchases only the adapter, he or she cannot use the information from the failure diagnosis system. For example, even if the adapter detects some kind of change in the vehicle using information from the vehicle, it does not have a means to notify the user, so it cannot inform the user of changes in the vehicle's status or implementation of active control. There wasn't.

In this way, although users may purchase adapters of the same product for various purposes, with conventional technology, it is not possible to customize the functions of the adapter to suit each user, and it is difficult to connect. There are inconveniences such as the external devices being limited and the user having to purchase a dedicated adapter for each type of external device desired.

The present invention has been proposed to solve the problems of the prior art as described above. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a unit that can more easily realize the functions desired by the user than ever before.

(1) (Basic configuration) The unit of the present invention is detachably provided to an adapter attached to a port of a fault diagnosis system mounted on a vehicle, and has an input section for an output signal of the adapter and an input section for an output signal of the adapter. The device is characterized by comprising an output section that outputs a signal based on the signal received by the section to an external device or an internal device.

In this way, the functions desired by the user can be more easily achieved than in the past. For example, by connecting various external devices to an adapter, it becomes possible to have various functions of the external devices in addition to the functions of the adapter itself. For example, even if the adapter itself is not equipped with image or audio output means, the unit may be equipped with an internal device that has image or audio output means, or the unit may be connected to an external device that has image or audio output means. Then, information from the fault diagnosis system can be transmitted to the user in various ways. For example, by connecting an external device with a display such as a radar detector, navigation device, or drive recorder to the unit, information from the fault diagnosis system can be displayed in various forms of images and sounds that were not possible with the adapter alone. This allows the user to easily and reliably recognize the state of the vehicle. The signal output from the output section based on the signal received at the input section may be, for example, a signal input from an adapter that is output as is, or a signal processed inside the unit.

In particular, it is preferable that the adapter be detachably attached to an adapter connected to a port of the failure diagnosis system and connected to one or more units. Although a configuration may be adopted in which a plurality of the same units are connected, it is particularly preferable to adopt a configuration in which a plurality of different types of units are connected. In particular, it is preferable to have a configuration in which information from the vehicle-side computer (for example, ECU, etc.) is output to various external devices and/or internal devices in quantities according to the user's requests. In this way, the functions desired by the user can be easily combined and realized.

(2) (Unit has built-in speaker and/or display) The internal device may be at least one of a speaker, an image display device, and a warning light built into the unit.

In this way, since the unit has a built-in speaker, image display device, etc., audio information and image information obtained from the adapter can be output from the unit. In this respect, compared to techniques that simply increase the number of ports on the vehicle side using a branch harness or the like, there is an advantage in that the unit alone can output information on the vehicle side. For example, based on the information obtained from the fault diagnosis system, the adapter can output a warning sound, voice guidance, blinking warning light, and text or image guidance to the user as a single unit. For example, if the internal device is a speaker, it is possible to output a warning sound or voice guidance based on information from the fault diagnosis system even if the adapter or unit is placed in a location that is difficult for the user to see. For users who are satisfied with the functions provided by the OBD II adapter alone, by attaching a unit that only sends audio from a buzzer or speaker, such as a terminal unit, to the OBD II adapter, it is possible to change the state of the vehicle, perform active control, etc. can be announced.

(3) (Definition of external device) The external device may be a device having at least one of an audio output function and an image display function.

In this way, the information that the adapter acquires from the failure diagnosis system includes various information such as vehicle speed, engine speed, oil temperature, water temperature, and accelerator opening. Based on this information, images such as numerical values and graphs, and sounds such as warning sounds and voice guidance are generated in either or both of the adapter and the unit. By providing the external device connected to the unit with at least one of an audio output function and an image display function, information output via the unit can be provided in a form that is easy for the user to understand.

(4) (External device is a navigation device, etc.) The external device is preferably at least one of a navigation device, a radar detector, and a drive recorder.

In this way, by using the image and audio output functions of the navigation device, radar detector, drive recorder, etc. that the user already owns, the adapter or unit can be equipped with a dedicated image and audio output device. No need to connect. Since these devices are installed in locations that are easily visible to the user of the vehicle, the user can easily confirm information from the vehicle obtained via the adapter and unit.

(5) (Acquisition of information from external equipment) An input unit for external equipment is provided to receive information from the external equipment, and a predetermined voice guidance and information are provided based on the information from the external equipment and the information from the failure diagnosis system. It is preferable to include an information processing section that displays an image.

In this way, not only information from the adapter but also information from external equipment can be output to other external equipment or internal equipment connected to the unit. For example, the information processing unit compares position information from a navigation device or radar detector with information on speed and accelerator opening from a fault diagnosis system to identify curves and obstacles in the direction of travel of the vehicle. It is possible to judge whether or not the driving situation is dangerous, and output the result to other external devices or internal devices. In particular, such a function is an advantage that cannot be obtained by simply increasing the number of output ports on the vehicle side using a branch harness.

(6) (Output of information to adapter) It is preferable to include an output section for an adapter that outputs information received from at least one of the external device and the internal device to the adapter.

In this way, information acquired from external devices and internal devices can be sent to the adapter, so for example, the adapter can perform failure diagnosis based on information from the fault diagnosis system and information from external devices and internal devices. By providing an information processing unit that performs various judgments and operations that would not be possible using only information from the system, it becomes possible to perform various information processing on the adapter side. For example, by comprehensively determining information about the vehicle obtained by a fault diagnosis system and information about the vehicle's surroundings and the driver obtained by external equipment, we can solve various problems that would not be possible with a fault diagnosis system alone. information can be provided to the user. For example, it is also possible to perform various operations and parameter settings regarding the adapter and the fault diagnosis system itself based on commands from external equipment or internal equipment.

(7) (Information processing section in the unit) Information for generating an image and/or audio signal to be output to at least one of the external device and internal device, based on information received from at least one of the adapter and external device. It is good to have a processing section.

In this way, by providing the information processing section in the unit, it becomes possible not only to output the information input from the adapter or external device as is, but also to process it into a form that is easy to understand for the user and output it. For example, numerical data input from the adapter such as vehicle speed, engine speed, temperature at various locations, remaining battery power, etc. can be converted into a graph or image and displayed, or the input values can be compared with preset thresholds. This allows for warning sounds and audio guidance. For example, by processing information received from an external device or comparing it with information from an adapter, more diverse information can be output to the external device or internal device in a form that is easier for the user to understand.

(8) (Connecting multiple external devices) It is preferable to include multiple signal output units for external devices.

In this way, the signals to be output to multiple external devices can be processed into different signals depending on the signal output section installed in the unit. Depending on the type and size of the signal, the optimal information for the user can be output from the optimal external device. For example, depending on the degree of warning of the signal obtained from the failure diagnosis system, the volume of the audio signal output from each external device can be changed, or the content of the displayed image can be changed. For example, highly urgent information is displayed on a navigation device installed in a position that is most easily visible to the user, while normal engine speed, water temperature, and oil temperature displays are displayed on a radar detector with a smaller display screen than the navigation device. By combining the information processing unit and multiple external devices, it is possible to display various patterns, provide voice guidance, etc.

(9) (Hub unit) It is preferable that one set of the plurality of input sections and output sections is used as a connection section for an external device that becomes a host, and the other input section and output section are used as connection sections for an external device that becomes a peripheral device. .

In this way, for example, the unit can be used as a hub for multiple external devices, and information from the fault diagnosis system can be distributed to various external devices. For example, it becomes possible to exchange data between external devices via the unit. In other words, this unit is convenient because it can be used without the need for a dedicated hub when multiple electronic devices such as computers, smartphones, and digital cameras are used in the vehicle and files are exchanged between them. For example, by controlling various functions of other external devices, units, or adapters from an external device that has an input function such as a smartphone or computer connected to the unit, you can set parameters for external devices that do not have an operation panel. Various operations can be performed easily. For example, by providing an information processing unit, it is possible to process information acquired by an external device on the host and send it to other external devices that serve as peripheral devices. The image acquired by the system may be superimposed on the signal from the failure diagnosis system and displayed on other external equipment such as a navigation device.

(10) (Mobile terminal...including wireless and wired) The external device is preferably a mobile terminal.

In this way, for example, by using a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, data acquired by the adapter from the vehicle can be displayed on the screen of the smartphone using an application provided for the smartphone in advance. I can do it. For example, by installing a unit that is connected to a mobile terminal in combination with a unit that has other functions, it is possible to update the programs and data of external devices connected to the unit that has other functions from the mobile terminal. . For example, it will be possible to update external devices such as radar with the latest enforcement information using a computer or smartphone.

(11) (Bluetooth unit) It is preferable to connect to the mobile terminal by wireless communication.
Many mobile terminals such as smart phones and tablet computers have wireless communication functions such as Bluetooth in addition to wired communication functions using USB cables. In such a mobile terminal, by connecting the unit and the mobile terminal via wireless communication, data can be easily exchanged without preparing a connection means such as a cable. For example, all units and mobile terminals may be connected via wireless communication, or if the configuration is such that when connecting units to an adapter, the end unit must be connected, the wireless communication function may be applied only to the end unit. It is good to have one.

(12) (Logging unit) It is preferable to include a recording unit for information received from at least one of the adapter, an external device, and an internal device.

In this way, information collected from the vehicle while driving and location information collected from GPS can be written to a storage medium such as an SD card installed in the adapter or the unit connected to it, thereby making it useful for safe driving and operation management. This makes it possible to collect information as logs. The information collected on the storage medium can be used to analyze driving information, driving trajectories, driving habits, etc. using a dedicated application on a computer or mobile device, which can be used to improve safe driving. For example, all units may be provided with a recording section, but if the adapter is configured such that a terminal unit is always connected when connecting a unit to an adapter, it is preferable to provide a recording section only on the terminal unit.

(13) (TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) unit) The external device is an air pressure detection device attached to a tire of a vehicle, and the unit and the air pressure detection device and the unit are connected by wireless communication, and the information processing It is preferable that the unit outputs at least one of an image display and an audio output from at least one of other external equipment and internal equipment connected to the unit, based on information from the air pressure detection device.

If you do this, for example, you can display the tire pressure status as a graph, display the outline drawing of the vehicle with the position of the tire and its pressure, or output a sound or warning sound in the event of an abnormality. It becomes possible to display tire air pressure in various states. In particular, when multiple units are used or multiple external devices are connected to one terminal, tire pressure can be displayed in different ways depending on the type of external device, making it easier for users to visually check the tire pressure. performance and voice guidance functions can be further improved.

(14) (Millimeter wave radar receiving unit) The external device is an obstacle detection radar device, and the information processing section determines how the unit is connected based on information from the obstacle detection radar device and information from the adapter. It is preferable to output at least one of a control command for the external device, a warning sound, and a voice guidance to at least one of the other external device and the internal device.

In this way, the obstacle detection radar device uses millimeter wave radar to detect conditions within a range of about 100 meters, so it is possible to measure the distance to an obstacle in front of it, or to detect the situation in front of it. Speed relative to obstacles can be measured. For example, based on the information acquired from the millimeter wave radar and the information acquired by the adapter from the vehicle, it can assist in avoiding danger by outputting warnings such as warnings for not keeping the distance between vehicles from other external devices connected to the unit. This can be useful in preventing collisions, etc. For example, if obstacle detection radar devices are attached to the left and right sides of a vehicle, and a turn signal is issued to change course while the vehicle is running, the fault diagnosis system detects this turn signal via an adapter, and the unit's control device detects this turn signal. By comparing information from the obstacle detection radar device with information from the fault diagnosis system, if there is another vehicle on the side of the vehicle that is changing direction, it is possible to send out a warning sound to alert the driver of danger.

(15) (Connecting another unit to the unit) It is preferable to include a mounting part for fixing the unit to the adapter and a mounting part for fixing another unit to the unit.

In this way, it is possible to connect many types of external devices by connecting different external devices to each unit and connecting different units depending on the type of external device desired by the user. Become.

In this way, the mounting portion for connecting other units is not exposed to a part of the last connected unit, so that a dustproof effect is obtained and the appearance is good. For example, a terminal unit that does not have a mounting part for connecting other units can secure a large space on its surface to install other equipment, so it is possible to use a large speaker that covers the entire unit surface as an internal device. , the quality of output audio can be improved.

(16) (Terminal unit) It is preferable that the unit is a terminal unit having only an input-side attachment part for fixing the unit to an adapter or another unit. In other words, one of the plurality of units serves as a terminal unit having only a mounting portion to be fixed to an adapter or other unit, and the other unit serves as a relay unit that connects other units before and after it, and the plurality of relay units are connected to the adapter. After connecting the terminal unit, the terminal unit may be connected last. For example, when connecting multiple units serially to an adapter and connecting vehicle information to internal and/or external devices connected to each unit, connect multiple external devices to the terminal type. This allows the end unit to function as if it were a serial communication hub unit.

(17) (Stacking of units) It is preferable that the unit and other units are fixed in a state where they are stacked in multiple stages. In this way, the adapter and the multiple units connected to it have a single block-like appearance, so the whole is compactly integrated while having many functions, and it does not feel strange inside the vehicle. can be placed.

(18) (Multiple Units Provided on Adapter) It is preferable that the adapter is provided with a plurality of unit mounting portions adjacent to each other, and the plurality of units are arranged adjacently on the adapter.

In this way, a plurality of units can be arranged in one adapter in a small area without stacking the plurality of units. For example, if each unit and external device are connected via wireless communication, there is no need for a connector to connect the unit and external device, and it is possible to use smaller units in the form of chips or cards. become. For example, if the unit mounting portion provided on the adapter is a USB port, a plurality of units can be mounted on one adapter using a standardized connection structure.

For example, if you install multiple units (particularly from a few units to more than 10 units) on one side of the adapter body, which are smaller than the adapter body and have the same shape (shape that has the same width and height when attached to the adapter), ), by arranging them side by side, it becomes possible to compactly connect multiple units with external and internal devices with various functions to the adapter. In particular, it is best to arrange them side by side without any gaps. In this way, it is possible to solve the problem that dust gets into the gaps and dirt becomes noticeable in places where dust is likely to be generated, such as inside the vehicle interior.

(19) (Network connection) The fault diagnosis system is connected to a plurality of sensors arranged in the vehicle through a network provided in the vehicle, and the adapter is connected to this network. The device may include a local network connected to the network via the adapter, and the external device and/or internal device may be connected to the local network.

In this way, the failure diagnosis system is connected to various sensors on the vehicle side through a network inside the vehicle called a CAN network, for example, and collects data that is the basis for failure diagnosis. For example, by connecting a local network provided in the unit to this type of network in the vehicle and exchanging information with external devices via the local network, information from the fault diagnosis system, Information from each external device can be distributed in real time to adapters, fault diagnosis systems, units, external devices, internal devices, etc. connected to the network.

In other words, compared to a case where the adapter and the unit are connected via serial communication, since multiple external devices are connected to the local network, each unit receives information from the adapter and other external devices at the same time as other units. It becomes possible to receive. As a result, even when a large number of units are combined or a large number of external devices are connected, compared to serially connecting devices from various companies or connecting each external device directly to a network such as CAN in the vehicle, There is no information delay. For example, when a vehicle is driving at high speed, it is necessary to instantly issue a warning or take evasive action based on information collected by external equipment or a fault diagnosis system; The present invention can also be applied to systems such as

(20) (Wireless connection between adapter and unit) It is preferable that the adapter is wirelessly connected to the adapter.

In this way, since the unit and the adapter are connected wirelessly, there is no need for a mounting part for connecting the unit and the adapter, a connector for transmitting and receiving signals, etc., and the unit can be made smaller. can. For example, by providing multiple internal devices such as speakers and SD card recording units in one case, as well as a wireless device for connecting to external devices and adapters, multiple functions can be achieved with a single compact unit. can. For example, since there are no restrictions on the installation location of such a unit, the unit can be placed at a location away from the adapter or at a location where it is easy for the user to operate. If too many units are stacked, the latency until the information collected by the OBDII adapter from the vehicle is displayed on the display device (radar, PND, smartphone via Bluetooth) will increase, causing problems with real-time performance. do. In order to solve this problem, it is possible to solve this problem by configuring a network separately from the bucket brigade method of serial communication. When one message is sent from the OBD II adapter, other units connected to a network such as CAN can receive the message at the same time, creating a local network, so the communication speed is also faster than actual communication in a car. It also becomes possible to achieve high-speed communication specifications.

(21) (Power supply connector to unit) It is preferable to provide a power supply connector that supplies power from the vehicle side supplied via the adapter to an external device as power for charging.

In this way, for example, a smartphone, a personal computer, etc. can be charged using the vehicle's battery. For example, the fault diagnostic system port is constantly powered by the battery, and by supplying this power to external devices connected to the unit via an adapter, the external device can be charged even when the vehicle's accessory switch is turned off. It can be carried out.

(22) (Connector for receiving power from an external device on the unit) The external device may be a mobile battery, and a power receiving connector may be provided for supplying power from the mobile battery to the vehicle side and/or other external devices.

In this way, by supplying power from the mobile battery to other external devices or the vehicle side, for example, it is possible to charge or use other external devices when the vehicle's accessory switch is off, or to When the capacity of the mobile battery is insufficient, power from the mobile battery can be supplied to the vehicle and various devices on the vehicle can be used.

(23) A power receiving connector to which the unit and/or adapter is removably connected to a constant power supply type connector on the vehicle side provided in a position accessible from the passenger side of the vehicle, and from the power receiving connector. It is equipped with a power supply connector that supplies power to external devices based on the supplied power. In this way, even a general user can constantly supply power from the vehicle to various external devices relatively easily.

As the position accessible from the passenger side of the vehicle, it is particularly preferable to set the position accessible from the interior of the vehicle, for example. In particular, it is preferable to use a location where the vehicle-side cover provided inside the vehicle opens. In this way, even a general user can easily constantly supply power from the vehicle to various external devices by simply opening the cover. It is also best to choose a location without a cover. In this way, by simply inserting the power reception connector into the power supply connector from the passenger side of the vehicle, power can be constantly supplied from the vehicle to various external devices. For the passenger side, it is particularly preferable to place it on the driver's seat side. In particular, it is good to use a connector provided around the driver's seat. In this way, the driver can easily constantly supply power from the vehicle to various external devices.

As the constant power supply type connector on the vehicle side, it is preferable to use a connector provided especially for use from inside the vehicle. Further, it is preferable to use a connector that outputs information that changes with the operation of a vehicle driver, for example. Further, for example, it is preferable to use a connector that is highly likely not to be used when the user of the vehicle uses it.

(24) The power receiving connector may be a vehicle-side constant power supply type connector connected thereto, for example, a connector provided at an output port of a fault diagnosis system provided in the vehicle.
The connector provided at the output port of the fault diagnosis system is primarily intended for use in a vehicle repair shop, and is highly likely not to be used by a vehicle user. In particular, the connector provided at the output port of the fault diagnosis system is always supplied with power from the vehicle side so that a fault diagnosis machine can be connected to perform fault diagnosis even when the vehicle's ACC is off. It is recommended to use this connector as a constant power supply type connector. This is because the connector provided at the output port of the failure diagnosis system is provided in the vehicle interior near the driver's seat and is easily accessible to the user. The connector provided in the vehicle to which the fault diagnostic device can be connected may be, for example, an OBDII standard connector.

For example, the power supply connector may be a standardized connector for charging the external device from a power supply device that is not installed in general vehicles. For example, a connector standardized for charging from a power supply device that is not installed in a general vehicle is a connector that is standardized for charging a device used at home from a household power source. It is preferable to use a connector, especially a connector used for a portable device.
For example, the power supply connector may be a connector commonly used by a plurality of types of external devices in order to charge the external device from a power supply device not mounted on the vehicle. The plurality of types of external devices are preferably portable devices, particularly portable devices that require battery charging.
As such a power supply connector, for example, a USB standard connector may be used.
Other power supply connectors that can be used include, for example, cigarette plugs, square connectors, pin plug connectors, etc., which are used to supply power to various devices. In particular, it is preferable to use a connector of a standard commonly used for power supply to various electronic devices. For example, it is good to use a cigarette plug, but it is also good to use a standard connector that is commonly used even in places other than vehicles, and it is even better to use a USB connector as described above.

(25) It is preferable that the power supply connector is a USB connector or a cigarette plug. There are two types of USB connectors: those that only supply power used to charge electronic devices (called power supply type USB connectors), and those that also serve to connect signal lines for power supply and information transmission (known as communication type USB connectors). However, any USB connector can be used.

(Shape of power supply connector and power receiving connector)
The power feeding connector and the power receiving connector may be provided integrally with the case of the unit and/or the adapter, or may be connected to the case of the unit and/or the adapter by a cord or cable. In addition, the power receiving connector is preferably connected in a detachable manner to a constant power supply type connector provided at a position accessible from the passenger side of the vehicle, and even if the connector fits into the constant power supply type connector itself, It may be a connector that fits into a connector that fits into the constant power supply type connector itself and a connector that fits into a connected power receiving connector. For example, a second connector that is connected to a power cable from a first connector that fits into the OBD connector may be provided, and the connector that fits into the second connector may be used as the power receiving connector of the unit and/or adapter.
If it is integrated with the case, it can be miniaturized, and if it is connected by a cord or cable, the unit and/or adapter body, power supply connector, and power reception connector can be installed in a remote location. It can be charged near the driver or passenger seat.

According to such a configuration, power is supplied from the vehicle side to the power supply connector provided on the unit and/or adapter via the vehicle's constant power supply type connector, so that the power supply connector provided on the unit and/or adapter is supplied with power from the vehicle side through the vehicle's constant power supply type connector. It becomes possible to constantly charge external devices without depending on the state. In particular, in the conventional technology, when the user turns off the ACC and leaves the vehicle, the power supply to the cigarette plug is turned off, making it impossible to charge external devices, but the present invention eliminates such a case. It also has the advantage of being able to charge the batteries of external devices. In particular, it is preferable that the always-on power supply type connector on the vehicle side is always supplied with power from a battery provided in the vehicle.

(a) USB connector, etc. Currently, various external devices equipped with a USB connector charging function are on sale, such as smart phones, mobile phones, tablet terminals, digital cameras, video cameras, and other small home appliances. It is best to use a USB connector as the power supply connector, in which case it is possible to use and charge a wide variety of external devices equipped with these USB connectors even when the power supply to the cigarette plug is stopped. .

(b) Plurality of power supply connectors In the present invention, it is preferable to provide the unit and/or adapter with a plurality of power supply connectors that differ in at least one of shape, function, performance, etc. For example, when a USB connector and a cigarette plug are provided, it is possible to use both a device equipped with a USB connector, such as a smart phone, and an in-vehicle device that is widely sold for in-vehicle use and is compatible with a cigarette plug. In addition to USB connectors, when using general-purpose connectors such as square connectors or pin plug connectors, use large connectors such as cigarette plugs for anti-theft devices, car audio equipment, rear cameras, etc. power can be supplied without any Further, although the number of power supply connectors that are provided in advance in a vehicle is limited, in this way a plurality of different external devices can be easily connected.

(Multiple power supply connectors + no control unit + different power supply capacities)
It is better to provide multiple power supply connectors of the same shape with different power supply current values (for example, it is better to provide 2A and 1A USB connectors. In this way, for example, quick charging and normal charging can be used together, and the battery of the vehicle It is possible to achieve both the problem of load and the problem of charging speed.

(c) Information Acquisition from Power Receiving Connector and Control Unit Preferably, the unit and/or adapter uses a connector having a function of receiving information from the vehicle side as the power receiving connector. Further, it is preferable that the unit and/or the adapter itself be provided with a control section that receives information from the vehicle and outputs an on/off command for power supply to the power supply connector. The information from the vehicle side may include various data such as vehicle speed, various temperatures, and the state of the drive source and battery. Further, a configuration may be adopted in which information such as noise in the power supply line, fluctuations in current and voltage, etc., is acquired as information from the vehicle side through a constant power supply type connector. In particular, it is good to have a configuration in which both are performed together. Based on this knowledge, the most suitable power receiving connector is an OBD connector that fits into an OBD connector included in a vehicle.

(26) Having a function of receiving information from the vehicle side via the power receiving connector, and controlling the unit and/or adapter to receive information from the vehicle side and control power feeding to the power feeding connector. It is preferable to have a configuration in which a section is provided.
For example, it is preferable to have a configuration that determines the state of the vehicle based on information from the vehicle, and a configuration that stops power supply from the battery to the power supply connector when the ACC is turned off, similar to a conventional cigar plug. In particular, the unit and/or adapter may be provided with a plurality of power supply connectors, one of which is of a constant power supply type, and the other power supply connectors configured to stop power supply when the vehicle is stopped or the ACC is turned off. In this way, for example, external devices with high power consumption can be charged only when the vehicle is in operation, and smartphones with low power consumption can be charged from a power supply connector that is constantly supplied with power. This can prevent power consumption on the vehicle side. In a configuration in which power is supplied from the vehicle side from a battery on the vehicle side, it is possible to prevent the capacity of the on-vehicle battery from decreasing. For example, it is preferable to have a configuration in which a casing having a power receiving connector has a function of receiving information from the vehicle side.

(c-1) Detection of the state of the vehicle by the control unit (27) A configuration in which the control unit has a function of detecting a signal from the vehicle and controlling the supply or stop of power to the power supply connector in accordance with the signal. It is good to say.
Signals from the vehicle side include signals flowing through the communication path for data handled by the vehicle, such as voltage, current, battery status, water temperature, indoor temperature, and outdoor temperature supplied to the vehicle from sensors installed in each part of the vehicle. , engine rotation speed, accelerator opening, vehicle type, door opening/closing information, user seating information, manufacturer name of the vehicle and in-vehicle electronic equipment installed therein, vehicle type, etc.

In addition to the communication path, signals on the power supply line on the vehicle side, such as voltage values and power supply noise, may be used. In particular, when the engine is started or when the engine is running, noise and voltage values with different waveforms are generated on the power line than when the engine is stopped. This is effective when connecting a unit and/or adapter to a device.

In this way, it becomes possible to control the power supply from the unit and/or adapter to external devices according to the information on the vehicle side. This makes it possible to charge the vehicle appropriately and turn external devices on and off depending on the vehicle's condition. As a result, it becomes possible not only to transfer power between the external device and the vehicle, but also to control the external device connected to the unit and/or adapter in accordance with the state of the vehicle.

(c-2) Determination of vehicle type by control unit (28) The control unit has a function of determining whether a vehicle equipped with a unit and/or an adapter is a vehicle equipped with a large-capacity battery of a predetermined amount or more, If the vehicle is not equipped with a large-capacity battery, it is preferable to stop the power supply at a predetermined time, while if the vehicle is equipped with a large-capacity battery, it is preferably not stopped.
With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the engine from being unable to start due to a dead battery in a vehicle equipped with a relatively small capacity battery, such as an engine-equipped vehicle (vehicle that is driven by the engine and not driven by the motor). In addition, in a vehicle equipped with a large capacity battery such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle, charging of devices can be performed with priority.
It is preferable to determine whether the vehicle equipped with the unit and/or the adapter is equipped with a large capacity battery of a predetermined capacity or more based on a signal from the vehicle. For example, the configuration may be such that the user makes the settings using a dip switch or a selection on the screen, but in this case, the determination is made automatically, so the user does not need much effort and is easy to use.

(c-3) Detecting the state of the vehicle (29) The control unit detects whether the engine is on or off based on a signal from the vehicle, and does not stop power supply when the engine is on, but stops power supply when the engine is off. It is good to have a configuration that does this.
According to this configuration, by performing charging only when the vehicle-mounted battery is charged by the engine, it is possible to prevent the capacity of the vehicle-mounted battery from decreasing excessively. For example, if multiple power supply connectors are installed, at least one of them can be turned off when the engine is stopped by a command from the control unit, so that external devices that require large-capacity charging can be powered off by the engine. By charging only during charging, it is possible to prevent the capacity of the vehicle battery from decreasing excessively.
(30) The control unit detects at least one of remaining battery power, engine rotation speed, and accelerator opening based on signals from the vehicle, and stops power supply when these values become below a certain value. It would be good to have a function to do so.
For example, when the control unit detects the remaining battery capacity of the vehicle and the remaining battery capacity of the vehicle becomes below a certain value, for example below the level at which the engine can be started several times, the power supply may be stopped. In addition, it may have a function of turning on the power supply to the power supply connector when the opening degree of the accelerator is above a predetermined value, when the engine speed is above a predetermined value, when the speed is above a predetermined value, and so on.

In this way, external devices can be charged only when power is being supplied to the vehicle battery when the engine is started, or when the vehicle battery has sufficient capacity remaining. capacity reduction can be prevented.

(c-4) Driving status detection and power supply control by control unit (31) The control unit preferably has a function of controlling on/off of a plurality of power supply connectors according to the vehicle driving status obtained from the vehicle. .
In this way, the operation of the device can be turned on or off depending on the driving situation of the vehicle. For example, a configuration can be configured in which the correspondence between the driving status and the on/off status of multiple power supply connectors can be set so that the driver does not have to manually turn on/off various external devices installed in the room. If the configuration is configured to control on/off of a plurality of power supply connectors based on the above, the operability of external equipment will be significantly improved.
For example, the control unit may obtain turn signal information of the vehicle, turn on power supply to the right power supply connector when the right turn signal is activated, and turn on power supply to the left power supply connector when the left turn signal is activated.
It is also good to have a function to acquire the speed and impact (changes in acceleration) of the vehicle and operate a camera, video, drive recorder, etc. accordingly, or operate a fan according to the indoor or outdoor temperature.

(c-5) (Controlling multiple connectors in different ways)
(32) It is preferable that a plurality of power supply connectors be provided and the power supply to the plurality of power supply connectors be controlled in different ways.
In this way, the respective external devices connected to the respective power feeding connectors can operate in different manners. For example, as multiple power supply connectors, one connector is provided for external devices that require constant power supply (e.g., for non-battery equipped devices), and the other is provided for external devices that do not require constant power supply (for example, for battery-equipped devices). It is preferable to adopt a configuration that gives priority to power supply to connectors for external devices that require constant power supply. In addition, the unit and/or adapter is equipped with a control section that detects the remaining battery power of the vehicle, and according to the detection results of this control section, when the remaining battery power of the vehicle is low, the connector for external equipment that does not require constant power supply is connected. The power supply can be stopped first.

(c-6) (Control based on power supply priority)
(33) The plurality of power supply connectors are composed of connectors for external devices that require constant power supply and connectors for external devices that do not require constant power supply, and the control section is configured to connect the connectors for external devices that require constant power supply. It would be good to have a function that gives priority to power supply to the connector.
In this way, devices that require constant power supply, such as devices that consume large amounts of power, devices that require data communication, monitoring, and standby for long periods of time, and even devices that require constant power supply, and even devices that require constant power supply, can be kept charged in case of an emergency. It is possible to prioritize power supply for required warning lights, disaster prevention radios, etc. A connector for an external device that does not require constant power supply may be connected to, for example, a device that has a battery or the like and operates on the battery when power is not supplied.

(d-1) (Hub function)
(34) A connector comprising a plurality of power supply connectors, wherein at least one of the plurality of power supply connectors has a communication path for control signals in addition to power from the battery, and hosts one of the plurality of power supply connectors. It is better to use one connector as a connector for connecting equipment, and use the other connector as a connector for connecting peripheral equipment.

In this way, multiple power connectors on the unit and/or adapter can be networked, allowing data to be exchanged between various external devices connected to multiple power connectors, and each external Using the data acquired by the device, it becomes possible to control the power supply stop for each power supply connector.

(d-2) Host controls power supply to peripheral devices (35) A control unit that receives information from the host device connection connector to the unit and/or adapter and controls power supply to the peripheral device connection connector. It would be good if it was provided.
When using a connector that has a communication path for control signals in addition to power from the vehicle battery as a power supply connector, one of the power supply connectors is used for connecting the host device, and the other connector is used for connecting the peripheral device. Can be a connector. In this case, the host device can access peripheral devices connected to other power supply connectors. Furthermore, it is also possible to control the power supply to each power supply connector etc. based on a signal from the host device.

According to such a configuration, the unit and/or the adapter can be used as a hub for a plurality of external devices, and can be used as a means for exchanging data between external devices. This is especially convenient when using multiple electronic devices such as computers, smartphones, and digital cameras in a vehicle and exchanging files between them, as the unit and/or adapter can be used without the need for a dedicated hub. be. Additionally, by controlling the power supply from each power supply connector from an external device such as a smartphone or computer connected to the unit and/or adapter, multiple external devices can be charged in priority order according to the user's wishes. .

(e-1) (Various settings using mobile terminal)
(36) The unit and/or adapter includes a connection part with a mobile terminal and a control part that performs various settings regarding the unit and/or adapter, and the control part It is preferable that the section performs various settings regarding the unit and/or the adapter.

(36-1) Connecting a mobile terminal For example, the unit and/or the adapter may include a wireless connection section for connecting to a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, and the control section may connect the unit and the adapter based on a signal received at the wireless connection section. It is preferable to make various settings regarding the adapter and/or to control the power supply state of the power supply connector and/or power reception. In this case, as the wireless connection unit, low power wireless connection means such as WiFi, Bluetooth (registered trademark), Zigbee (registered trademark), RFID, etc. provided in a mobile terminal such as a smartphone can be used.

(36-2) Wired Connection with Mobile Terminal In the present invention, the means for controlling the control section of the unit and/or adapter from the mobile terminal is not limited to the above-mentioned wireless connection means. For example, in units and/or adapters with USB connectors, a USB cable may be used to connect a mobile device to the unit and/or adapter in a wired manner, and control from the mobile device to the controller of the unit and/or adapter. It is also possible to send signals. In this case, there is no need to provide the unit and/or the adapter with a wireless communication means, and various settings can be made to the control section even though the unit and/or the adapter itself has a simple structure.

(36-3) Condition settings from a mobile terminal Examples of condition settings include the following.
(1) The unit and/or adapter in which the control section sets the vehicle type of the vehicle in which the present unit and/or the adapter is installed according to a signal from the mobile terminal may be configured to be compatible with a plurality of different vehicle types; With the configuration (1), it is possible to recognize which vehicle model the unit and/or adapter itself is connected to. For example, it can be used to acquire or output information according to the vehicle type, or to control the power supply to the power supply connector.
(2) The control unit sets a current value of the power supply connector and/or the power reception connector according to a signal from the mobile terminal.
(3) The control unit sets conditions for starting and stopping power supply from the vehicle battery to the power supply connector according to a signal from the mobile terminal. For example, it is possible to set power supply connector conditions based on a signal from an in-vehicle electronic device. For example, when n USB connectors 1 to n are provided, when it is detected that the vehicle's lights are on, for example, when the power of USB connector 2 is turned on and the light is turned off, the power of USB connector 2 is When it receives a signal from a mobile terminal to turn off the device, it performs control according to the received content.
(4) The control unit sets power supply conditions between the vehicle and the portable battery as control from the smartphone according to a signal from the mobile terminal. For example, when the power supply from the vehicle battery is interrupted, the power supply connector can be supplied with power from the portable battery for 5 minutes.

(Effects of setting conditions using mobile terminals)
In-vehicle electronic devices vary depending on the drive source, such as engine-equipped vehicles or electric vehicles, the type of vehicle (compact, large, passenger, freight, etc.), and the manufacturer and dealer. The optimal conditions for this are also different. Therefore, setting appropriate conditions in advance for various in-vehicle electronic devices is complicated because many types of units and/or adapters must be prepared. According to the present invention, the manufacturer or seller of the unit and/or adapter can use a mobile terminal to set optimal conditions for the unit and/or adapter according to the in-vehicle electronic equipment of each vehicle, There is no need to prepare many types of units and/or adapters.

For example, as shown in (1) to (4) above, depending on the type of user's vehicle, its driving condition, or the type of external device connected to the unit and/or adapter, the user can set the conditions for power supply to external devices. can be set freely, so it is not only possible to simply charge the built-in battery of an external device, but also to automatically turn on and off various types of external devices depending on the vehicle condition and driving situation. become.

(e-2) (Various settings using mobile terminal)
(37) The unit and/or the adapter includes a connection part with a mobile terminal and a control part that performs various settings regarding the unit and/or adapter, and the control part is configured to perform the control based on the signal received from the mobile terminal at the connection part It is preferable that the unit controls the power supply of a power supply connector provided on the unit and/or the adapter.

For example, when the mobile terminal sends a signal to switch the power supply or power reception state of the power supply connector or power reception connector to the control unit of the unit and/or adapter while the unit and/or adapter is in use. , it becomes possible to perform an operation different from the preset conditions. As a result, it becomes possible for the user to arbitrarily control the external device connected to the unit and/or the adapter, depending on the situation in which the user or the vehicle is placed. For example, a control program for the unit and/or adapter is built into the mobile terminal, and the unit and/or adapter is controlled from the mobile terminal according to the time, position, acceleration, outside temperature, brightness, room temperature, etc. detected by the mobile terminal. When commands are sent to the control section of the adapter, there is an advantage that each connector of the unit and/or the adapter can be controlled based on information that cannot be detected by in-vehicle electronic equipment.

(f) Power supply and charging to the portable battery (38) The external device is a portable battery, and the unit and/or adapter is connected to a power supply connector from the unit and/or adapter to the portable battery, and a portable battery. It is preferable to include a power supply connector for the unit and/or the adapter.
In the present invention, a portable battery generally called a mobile battery can be used as the external device. That is, small portable batteries called mobile batteries are sold for charging devices with built-in batteries such as smart phones, mobile phones, tablet terminals, digital cameras, and video cameras. This mobile battery charges the built-in battery of an electronic device using a USB cable or the like when the capacity of the built-in battery decreases. The present invention can use this type of mobile battery as an external device to be charged.

If the unit and/or adapter is provided with a connector for connecting a portable battery, that connector is used not only as a power supply connector from the unit and/or adapter to the portable battery, but also as a power supply connector from the portable battery to the unit and/or adapter. can do. For example, if the unit and/or adapter is provided with multiple power supply connectors, at least one of the power supply connectors may be used to supply power to the portable battery, and at least one may be used to supply power from the portable battery. I can do it. It is also possible to use one power supply connector to both supply power to the portable battery and to supply power from the portable battery.

With this configuration, power from the portable battery is supplied via the unit and/or adapter to various devices connected to the unit and/or adapter, such as in-vehicle electronic equipment and the unit and/or adapter. Can be supplied to other external equipment. In this case, the power supply direction between the unit and/or adapter and the portable battery can be switched by providing a changeover switch on the unit and/or adapter or changing the type of connector provided on the unit and/or adapter. The unit and/or the adapter can be provided with a control section that switches the power supply direction under specific conditions.

(f-1) Power supply to the vehicle from the portable battery (39) When the control unit has a function of determining a voltage drop in the battery mounted on the vehicle based on information from the vehicle, and detects a voltage drop in the battery. In addition, it is preferable to have a function of supplying power from the portable battery to the vehicle side. According to such a configuration, by supplying power to the electrical wiring in the vehicle via the unit and/or adapter, the power of the portable battery is utilized, which is normally powered by the vehicle battery. It will be possible to use other electrical devices such as interior lights, start the engine, and charge the car battery.

(f-2) Power supply from the portable battery to external equipment (40) The control section is configured to supply power from the connector connected to the portable battery to the unit and/or adapter when the capacity of the vehicle battery decreases. It is best to use one that has the function of switching to supply power to other power supply connectors. In that case, the power of the portable battery can be used to charge and use external devices connected to the unit and/or adapter.

(g) Attaching a storage device such as an SD card (41) In addition to the power supply connector, the unit and/or adapter includes a connector that does not have a power supply function, such as a connector for attaching an SD card, USB memory, or other storage device. It is a good idea to provide In this way, the data stored in the storage device can be read and written to the external device attached to the power supply connector that has a data communication path, and the data can be stored in the car on mobile terminals, smartphones, etc. that do not have an SD card slot. becomes possible to record.

It is preferable to combine at least any two of the above-mentioned (1) to (41). In particular, it is preferable to use the configuration (1) in combination with at least one of (2) to (41). Furthermore, the components described in (1) to (41) may be selected and combined.

(A) A device that supplies power from a fault diagnosis connector provided in the vehicle to equipment retrofitted to the vehicle,
a function of connecting to the in-vehicle network of the vehicle via the failure diagnosis connector;
A function to detect the on state of the vehicle,
comprising a function of transmitting a signal based on data acquired from the in-vehicle network to the device when the vehicle is in an on state;
It is preferable that the device has a function of supplying power to the device when the vehicle is not in an on state.

In this way, equipment retrofitted to the vehicle can easily receive power from the fault diagnosis connector, and can also receive power without blocking the cigarette lighter socket, for example. When in the on state, information can be received from the in-vehicle network of the vehicle, and power can be supplied even when the vehicle is not in the on state.
Although various types of equipment can be used as the equipment retrofitted to the vehicle, it is particularly preferable to use a drive recorder, for example.

The in-vehicle network to be connected may be, for example, CAN or K-line.
For example, an OBDII connector is particularly suitable as a connector for failure diagnosis. In particular, if the connector is installed inside the vehicle, the user can easily connect it.

(B) having a function of supplying power to the device when the vehicle is in the on state;
It is preferable that the device has a function of notifying whether the vehicle is in an on state or not in an on state (off state).

In this way, devices retrofitted to the vehicle can easily receive power supply and can know whether the vehicle is in the on state or the off state. In particular, it is preferable that the power supply line and the signal line for notifying whether the vehicle is on or not are one cable covered with the same sheath. In this way, just by wiring one cable, you can receive power supply and a signal indicating whether the vehicle is on or not, making it extremely easy to route wiring for retrofitted devices inside the vehicle. Be smart and easy.

(C) The device may have a function of changing the operation of the device by a function of notifying whether the vehicle is in the on state or not in the on state (off state).
For example, when the device is a drive recorder, it is preferable to switch the recording parameters between the continuous recording mode when the vehicle is on, and the parking monitoring mode when the vehicle is not on.

(D) The device preferably has a function of not transmitting a signal based on the data acquired from the in-vehicle network to the device when the vehicle is not in the on-state.
In this way, the device can easily determine whether the vehicle is on or not based on whether or not a signal is transmitted based on data acquired from the in-vehicle network.

(E) The device may have a function of not transmitting a signal to the in-vehicle network when the vehicle is not in an on state. In this way, when the vehicle is not in the on state, for example, there is a possibility that the in-vehicle computer for controlling the vehicle connected to the in-vehicle network, which is in the sleep state or off state, may be activated or turned on. can be reduced. This is because these in-vehicle computers may transition from a sleep state or an off state to an activated state or an on state in response to a signal flowing through the in-vehicle network.

(F) The ON state of the vehicle may be a state in which the vehicle charges the battery of the vehicle. The on-state of the vehicle may include an engine-on state.
(G) When the vehicle is not in the on state, it is preferable that power is not being supplied to the cigarette lighter socket of the vehicle.
(H) It is preferable to include a function of transmitting a signal indicating that the device is in the off state, and perform processing based on the signal indicating that the device is in the off state.

(I) The device may be a drive recorder, and the video recording mode may be switched based on receiving the signal indicating the off state.
(J) The video recording mode may be switched from a recording mode when the vehicle is on (for example, a constant recording mode) to a recording mode when the vehicle is off (for example, a parking monitoring recording mode).
In the parking surveillance recording mode, for example, the bit rate of the captured video to be recorded may be lower than that in the constant recording mode. For example, it is preferable to lower the frame rate of the video, lower the resolution, increase the compression rate, or perform at least one of these.

(K) equipped with a function to stop supplying power to the device when the vehicle is not in the on state;
It is preferable to include a sensor, and to have a function of starting supply of power to the device based on a signal from the sensor even when the vehicle is not in an on state.
If you continue to supply power to devices retrofitted to a vehicle based on the power from the fault diagnosis connector when the vehicle is off, there is a risk that the vehicle's battery will drain due to the power supply to the device. Such concerns can be alleviated by supplying power based on sensor signals. Additionally, the load on the vehicle's battery can be reduced.

The sensor may be a sensor that detects at least one of the following: approach of a person to the vehicle, shaking of the vehicle, and sound near the vehicle. For example, if a person approaches, the shaking of the vehicle corresponds to a predetermined state, or the sound near the vehicle corresponds to a predetermined state, the power supply to the device is turned off. It would be a good idea to restart the supply. It is preferable that these predetermined states correspond to vibrations or sounds caused by thieves or the like.

Whether or not to supply power to the device when the vehicle is not in the on state is set based on a signal from the device to the device, and the device is configured to supply power to the device when the vehicle is not in the on state based on the setting. It is preferable to control on/off of power supply to the device. For example, even if this function is set to not supply power to the device when the vehicle is not in the on state, a sensor is provided as shown in (k), and the vehicle It is preferable to include a function to start supplying power to the device even when the device is not in the on state.

(L) The sensor may be an acceleration sensor. Then, when the acceleration acquired from the acceleration sensor reaches a predetermined state, it is preferable to resume supplying power to the device even if the vehicle is not in an on state. The predetermined state may be a state corresponding to the application of acceleration to a vehicle by a person, such as a thief. For example, it may be assumed that an acceleration of a predetermined value or more occurs.
(M) The sensor may be provided in a housing that includes a connector that fits into a fault diagnosis connector provided in the vehicle. In this way, it is possible to eliminate the exposure of wiring from the fault diagnosis connector to the sensor, and it is possible to install devices and equipment smartly and easily.

(N) It is preferable to have a function of receiving a signal for controlling the power supply from the device to the device and controlling the supply of power from the device to the device based on the signal.
The signal for controlling the power supply from the device to the device may include at least one of turning off and turning on the power supply from the device to the device. The power supply may be turned off or turned on immediately upon receiving the signal, or may be turned on after a predetermined period of time. It is preferable that the device sends an instruction signal to the device for a predetermined time, and the device performs the process after the predetermined time based on the signal. Alternatively, for example, the device may send a signal regarding the time to supply power to the device, and the device receives the signal, supplies power to the device for the time period, and then stops supplying power to the device. It may also be stopped.

(O) The device has a communication function, the device has a function to communicate using the communication function when the vehicle is not in the on state, and after the communication is completed, the device is provided with power to the device. It is preferable that the device has a function of transmitting a signal for stopping the supply of power to the device, and receiving the signal, stopping the supply of power to the device.
In particular, the device is a drive recorder, and has a function of transmitting captured video data using the communication function while the vehicle is turned on, and also recording video data that could not be transmitted. In order to have a function of transmitting the recorded video data that could not be transmitted when the device is not turned on using the communication function, and to stop supplying power to the device after the communication is completed. It is preferable that the device transmits a signal and, upon receiving the signal, has a function of stopping the supply of power to the device.

(P) It is preferable to include a function of stopping the power supply to the device when the power supply from the failure diagnosis connector provided in the vehicle reaches a predetermined state. If you do this,
(Q) The device is preferably a drive recorder, and preferably has a function to automatically start recording when power is supplied. In this way, the car security function can be easily implemented using a general drive recorder.

(R) The configuration of the device is particularly preferably configured by combining at least any two of (A) to (Q). In particular, it is preferable to use the configuration (A) in combination with at least one of (B) to (R). Furthermore, the constituent elements described in (A) to (Q) may be selected and combined. Alternatively, at least one of (1) to (41) and at least one of (A) to (Q) may be combined. Further, it may be configured by combining at least one of the components described in (1) to (41) with at least one of the components described in (a) to (r).

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing another modification of the first embodiment. A block circuit diagram of a second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a state in which an external device is connected via a USB connector having a communication function in the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a state in which an external device is connected by low-power wireless communication in the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a state in which a portable battery is connected in the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing an example in which an adapter is provided with a plurality of USB connectors in the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing an example in which the adapter is provided with an SD card slot in the second embodiment. A perspective view of a third embodiment. FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram of a fourth embodiment. Block diagram of a fourth embodiment. FIG. 5 is a configuration diagram of a fifth embodiment. Block diagram of a fifth embodiment. FIG. 6 is a configuration diagram of a sixth embodiment. Block diagram of a sixth embodiment. FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram of a seventh embodiment. Block diagram of a seventh embodiment. The configuration diagram of the eighth embodiment. The configuration diagram of the ninth embodiment. The configuration diagram of the tenth embodiment. The configuration diagram of the eleventh embodiment. The configuration diagram of the twelfth embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing an example of an adapter and a unit in a twelfth embodiment. The configuration diagram of the thirteenth embodiment. The configuration diagram of the fourteenth embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a modification of the fourteenth embodiment.

[1. First embodiment] (adapter with power supply function)
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 1, the adapter 1 of this embodiment has three power feeding connectors and one power receiving connector provided in a box-shaped housing.

In this embodiment, a USB connector 2, a mini USB connector 3, and a cigarette socket 4 are provided on one side of the adapter 1 as power supply connectors. Adapter 1 and external device 10 are connected to USB connector 2.
A male USB plug 20 provided at the end of the USB cable connecting the two is inserted, and a male USB plug 30 similarly provided at the end of the USB cable is inserted into the mini USB connector 3. .

The USB connector 2 and the mini USB connector 3 have different power supply current capacities, such as 2A for the USB connector 2 and 1A for the mini USB connector 3. There are two types of USB connectors: those that only supply power used to charge electronic devices (called power supply type USB connectors), and those that also serve to connect signal lines for power supply and information transmission (known as communication type USB connectors). Although both connectors can be used, the USB connector 2 and mini-USB connector 3 of this embodiment have a simple configuration and can be used only to supply power used for charging electronic devices. The supply current capacity of the cigarette socket 4 is also set to a different value from that of the USB connectors 2 and 3, specifically, 5A.

The power receiving connector 5 is provided on a side different from the power feeding connector of the box-shaped adapter 1, and is connected to and separated from the connector 50 of the output port of the OBD II standard failure diagnosis system installed in the passenger compartment near the driver's seat. possible to be connected. Specifically, the connector 50 is placed inside a pocket provided at the bottom of the dashboard on the driver's seat side of the vehicle together with a fuse box, and the opening of the pocket is covered by a cover that can be opened and closed from inside the vehicle. ing. The output port of the fault diagnosis system is constantly supplied with power from the vehicle side so that a fault diagnosis machine can be connected to perform fault diagnosis even when the vehicle's ACC is off. Power is always supplied from the vehicle.

An external device 10 is connected to the adapter 1 via a cable 12. In this embodiment, this external device 10 is a radar detector equipped with a liquid crystal display, and the adapter 1 supplies power from a battery to this radar detector, and also connects the power connected to the vehicle through the connector 50 of the fault diagnosis port. Display the data on its LCD display.

[1-2. Effects of first embodiment]
According to this embodiment, power is constantly supplied to the USB connector 2, mini-USB connector 3, and cigarette lighter socket 4 provided in the adapter from the connector 50 of the fault diagnosis port via the vehicle's always-power-supply connector 5. Therefore, it is possible to constantly charge external devices without depending on the driving state of the vehicle or the opening/closing state of the ACC. In particular, there is an advantage that the battery of an external device can be charged even when the user turns off the ACC and leaves the vehicle.

USB connector 2 and mini USB connector 3 are provided as power supply connectors, so a wide variety of external devices with USB connector charging function can be used, such as smart phones, mobile phones, tablet devices, digital cameras, video cameras, and other small home appliances. can be used and charged. Since the USB connectors 2 and 3 and the cigarette lighter socket 4 are provided, it is possible to use both a device equipped with a USB connector such as a smart phone and an in-vehicle device compatible with a cigarette lighter socket that is widely sold for in-vehicle use. Since the power supply current values of the USB connector 2, mini USB connector 3, and cigarette lighter socket 4 are different, for example, quick charging and normal charging can be used together, which solves both the problem of load on the vehicle battery and the problem of charging speed. can be achieved.

In addition to the power supply connector, the radar detector 10 with a liquid crystal display is connected to the adapter 1, which not only makes it possible to use and charge various external devices when the ACC is off, but also allows the radar detector's liquid crystal display to be connected to the adapter 1. It becomes possible to display information from the fault diagnosis port. As a result, the user can easily grasp the state of the vehicle, contributing to improved safety, early detection of vehicle failures and abnormalities, and failure diagnosis.

Since the USB connector 2, the mini USB connector 3, the power supply connectors such as the cigarette socket 4, and the power receiving connector 5 are integrated with the case, the entire adapter can be made smaller.

[1-3. Modification 1 of the first embodiment]
In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, a USB connector 2, a mini USB connector 3, and a cigarette lighter socket 4, which are power supply connectors, may be connected to the adapter 1 using a cable 12. However, the power receiving connector 5 may be connected to the adapter 1 using the cable 12. According to this modification, when the power supply connector and the power reception connector 5 are connected to the adapter by the cable 12, the power supply connector and the power reception connector can be installed at a position away from the output port of the fault diagnosis system. , external devices can be charged near the driver's or passenger's seat.

[1-3. Modification 2 of the first embodiment]
In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the adapter 1 includes a speaker 1a, an image display device 1b such as a liquid crystal display, and a warning light 1c such as an LED. This allows information from the fault diagnosis system to be displayed in various forms of images and sounds that were not possible with conventional adapters alone, allowing users to easily and reliably recognize vehicle conditions. Become. In this case, the information output from the speaker 1a, the image display device 1b such as a liquid crystal display, and the warning light 1c such as an LED is preferably a signal that the adapter receives from the vehicle and directly outputs. A signal processed inside the adapter may also be used. In this way, since the adapter 1 incorporates the speaker 1a, the image display device 1b, etc., audio information and image information obtained from the vehicle side can be output from the adapter. In this respect, compared to techniques that simply increase the number of ports on the vehicle side by using a branch harness, etc., there is an advantage that information can be output from the vehicle side with a single adapter. For example, based on the information obtained from the failure diagnosis system, the adapter alone can output a warning sound, voice guidance, blinking warning light, and text or image guidance to the user. For example, if the internal device is a speaker, it is possible to output a warning sound or voice guidance based on information from the fault diagnosis system even if the adapter is placed in a location that is difficult for the user to see.

[2. Second embodiment] (Adapter with power supply function and control function)
[2-1. Configuration of second embodiment]
FIG. 4 is a block circuit diagram showing a second embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, a control unit 11 is provided in the adapter 1 to control the power supply to the power supply connector. The control unit 11 includes a control microcomputer 111 that controls power supply to the power supply connectors (specifically, the USB connector 2, the mini USB connector 3, and the cigarette lighter socket 4). Each function in the adapter of this embodiment is stored on the EEPROM of the control unit 11 as a program executed by the control microcomputer 111, and is realized by the control microcomputer 111 executing the program.

The functions realized by the computer by the program of the control microcomputer 111 include the function of acquiring information from the vehicle and determining the type and condition of the vehicle (c-1, c-2, c-3); Function to control power supply on/off for each power supply connector by comparing power supply conditions with vehicle type and status (c-4, c-5, c-6), multiple external devices connected to the adapter or A hub function (d-1) that exchanges information with the vehicle, a host processing function (d-2) that performs operations on other external devices connected to the adapter based on commands from the host device connected to the adapter, and a mobile There are various setting functions (e-1, e-2) by the terminal, a control function (f) for a portable battery connected to the adapter, and an information output function (g) for external equipment connected to the adapter.

(c-1) Vehicle status detection function by the control unit 11 In order to realize the vehicle status detection function by the control unit 11, the control microcomputer 111 is connected to various receiving units that acquire vehicle information. There is. That is, the control microcomputer 111 includes an engine status receiving section 112 that detects starting and stopping of the engine, an analog signal detecting section 113 that receives analog signals from electronic devices installed inside the vehicle, and a K-LINE communication control section. 114, and a CAN (Controller Area Network) communication control unit 115 wired inside the vehicle. In this embodiment, these receiving sections are connected to an OBD II standard connector 50 provided on the vehicle side via a power receiving connector 5 provided on the adapter 1.

The engine state receiving section 112 detects the start/stop of the engine based on the variation pattern and magnitude of noise and voltage values appearing on the power supply line 5L when the engine starts or stops. When detecting that a specific noise or voltage value has appeared, the control microcomputer 111 determines whether to start or stop the engine based on the detection signal, and controls the power supply to some or all of the power supply connectors. Output a start or stop signal. In this embodiment, the control microcomputer 111 is configured to stop power supply to the cigarette lighter socket 4 when the engine is stopped, and to maintain power supply to the USB connector 2 and mini-USB connector 3 even when the engine is stopped and charged. is controlled by

The analog signal detection unit 113 detects various analog signals (for example, analog audio signals and temperature sensors) output from various devices connected to the analog LINE 113L, such as in-vehicle audio equipment and various sensors, depending on their operating conditions. output signal) and outputs the detection result to the control microcomputer 111. The control microcomputer 111 controls the power supply control section 119 based on information from various devices inputted from the analog signal detection section 113.

The K-LINE communication control unit 114 is connected to a K-LINE 114L wired to various devices such as sensors installed inside the vehicle. K-LINE114L is a low-speed bus dedicated to diagnosis, and has been used in diagnostic systems even before CAN became widespread. In the adapter 1 of this embodiment, the K-LINE communication control unit 114 acquires information from various devices connected to the K-LINE 114L, and the control microcomputer It is possible to output to 111. Thereby, the control microcomputer 111 controls the power supply control unit 119 based on information from each device connected to the K-LINE 114L.

The CAN communication control section 115 is connected to ECUs (Electronic Control Units) of various parts of the vehicle via a CAN 115N wired inside the vehicle. Inside the vehicle, there are, for example, power train ECUs such as the engine, ABS, and AT, body ECUs such as doors, seats, and air conditioners, multimedia ECUs such as car navigation, audio, and drive recorders, speed sensors, oil temperature/water temperature sensors, and direction. Many vehicles are equipped with as many as 100 ECUs, including ECUs for meters and switches such as indicators, and these ECUs are connected to the CAN 115N. The CAN 115N is provided with a connector 50 of an OBD II standard failure diagnosis port, and the power receiving connector 5 provided on the adapter 1 is removably fitted into the connector 50.

The control microcomputer 111 instructs the power supply control unit 119 to send signals to each power supply connector according to signals input from the engine status reception unit 112, analog signal detection unit 113, K-LINE communication control unit 114, and CAN communication control unit 115. Outputs a power supply start command or stop command. Specifically, the control microcomputer 111 detects the following information connected to one or more of the analog signal detection section 113, the K-LINE communication control section 114, and the CAN communication control section 115.
(1) Battery output voltage
(2) Battery output current
(3) Battery charging status
(4) Cooling water temperature
(5) Indoor temperature
(6) Outdoor temperature
(7) Engine speed
(8) Accelerator opening
(9) Vehicle type
(10) Information regarding electronic equipment installed in the vehicle
(11) Door opening/closing
(12) User sitting state

In this embodiment, the power receiving connector 5 provided in the adapter 1 is an OBD II standard connector, and therefore, for example, the power receiving connector 5 can acquire various vehicle information every 0.5 seconds. Vehicle information that can be obtained from the vehicle side includes, for example, speed, average speed, maximum speed, 5 second speed, average 5 second speed, maximum 5 second speed, rotation speed, average rotation speed, maximum rotation speed, engine load, average load. , maximum load, throttle opening, average throttle opening, maximum throttle opening, ignition timing, fuel level, intake manifold pressure, maximum intake manifold pressure, MAF, INJ, cooling water temperature, maximum cooling water temperature, intake air temperature, maximum intake air temperature , outside temperature, maximum outside temperature, remaining fuel, fuel flow rate, maximum fuel flow rate, consumed fuel, lifetime fuel consumption, instantaneous fuel consumption, current fuel consumption, maximum current fuel consumption, lifetime fuel consumption, average fuel consumption, general road average fuel consumption, highway average fuel consumption , moving average fuel efficiency, maximum moving average fuel efficiency, driving time, driving time, idle time, idle ratio, driving distance, lifetime driving distance, 0-20km/h acceleration time, 0-20km/h average acceleration, 0-20km/h Shortest acceleration, 0-40km/h acceleration time, 0-40km/h average acceleration, 0-40km/h shortest acceleration, 0-60km/h acceleration time, 0-60km/h average acceleration, 0-60km/h shortest acceleration , 0-80km/h acceleration time, 0-80km/h average acceleration, 0-80km/h shortest acceleration, 0-20km/h driving time, 20-40km/h driving time, 40-60km/h driving time, 60 There is vehicle data such as -80 km/h driving time, 80 km/h or more driving time, lifetime engine mileage, and lifetime engine mileage ratio. In the present invention, it is possible to appropriately set the conditions for charging an external device via the adapter from among these pieces of information, but in particular, the information in (1) to (12) above is Since it influences the charging state of the battery, it is suitable as a condition for starting and stopping power supply.

The control unit 11 includes a database 116 that stores various data input to the control unit 11. The database 116 can be realized by a nonvolatile memory (eg, NAND Flash memory) inside the microcomputer of the control unit 11 or externally attached to the microcomputer. In order to realize each of the above-mentioned functions, the database 116 registers information regarding threshold values, conditions, etc. when each power supply connector turns on/off power supply according to the vehicle status obtained from the OBDII standard power receiving connector 5. has been done. This information includes information that is registered in advance in the database 116 when the adapter is shipped, and information that is added or updated by the user thereafter.

The control microcomputer 111 includes a wired communication unit 117 such as a USB, a wireless communication unit 117 such as WiFi, Bluetooth (registered trademark), Zigbee (registered trademark), RFID, etc. in order to acquire information from an external device connected to the adapter 1. A communication unit 118 is connected. The USB connector 2 and mini-USB connector 3 of this embodiment use communication type USB connectors that also serve as connections for signal lines for power supply and information transmission, so that the output from the wired communication section 117 can be output via a USB cable. can. In FIG. 5, a smartphone 61 is connected to the USB connector 2 using a USB cable, power is supplied from the adapter, and information from the smartphone 61 is received by the control microcomputer 111 via the wired communication section 117. Indicates the state of FIG. 6 shows a state in which information from the smart phone 61 is received by the control microcomputer 111 via the wireless communication unit 118.

The control unit 11 is provided with a power supply control unit 119 that starts and stops power supply to each of the power supply connectors 2 to 4 according to commands from the control microcomputer 111. This power supply control unit 119 is provided between the power supply line 5L and each power supply connector 2 to 4, and controls on/off of power supply from the adapter to an external device, and when a portable battery is connected to the adapter, a portable battery is connected to the adapter. Turns on/off power supply from the battery to the adapter. FIG. 7 shows a state in which the portable battery 62 is connected to the adapter, the portable battery 62 is charged from the adapter, and other external devices are connected from the portable battery 62 to the vehicle battery or the adapter via the adapter. Indicates the state in which power is supplied to the device.

(c-2) Function of determining vehicle type by control unit The control unit 11 has a function of determining whether a vehicle equipped with an adapter is a vehicle equipped with a large capacity battery of a predetermined capacity or more. That is, the control microcomputer 111 obtains information such as the vehicle type and the capacity of the vehicle battery from the K-LINE communication control section 114 and/or the CAN communication control section 115, and compares this information with the information stored in the database 116. If the vehicle equipped with the adapter is not a vehicle equipped with a large-capacity battery, a command to stop the power supply at a predetermined time point is output to the power supply control unit 119. On the other hand, in the case of a vehicle equipped with a large-capacity battery, the power supply stop command is not output to the power supply control unit 119.

With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the engine from being unable to start due to a dead battery in a vehicle equipped with a relatively small capacity battery, such as an engine-equipped vehicle (vehicle that is driven by the engine and not driven by the motor). In addition, in a vehicle equipped with a large capacity battery such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle, charging of devices can be performed with priority. Further, since the control microcomputer 111 acquires vehicle information and automatically determines whether or not power supply is possible, the system is easy to use and does not require much effort on the part of the user.

(c-3) Vehicle state detection function (a) Engine on/off function The control microcomputer 111 has an engine state receiving section 112, an analog signal detecting section 113, a K-LINE communication control section 114, and a CAN communication control section. It has a function of detecting whether the engine is on or off based on a signal from the vehicle side acquired by one of the sections 115 or a combination thereof. That is, the control microcomputer 111 compares the information acquired from each receiving unit with the information stored in the database 116, for example, the noise pattern on the power feeder line 5L and the pattern stored in the database 116, Determine whether the engine starts or stops. According to this determination result, the control microcomputer 111 does not output a power supply stop command to the power supply control unit 119 when the engine is on, but outputs a power supply stop command to the power supply control unit 119 when the engine is off.

According to this function, by performing charging only when the vehicle-mounted battery is charged by the engine, it is possible to prevent the capacity of the vehicle-mounted battery from decreasing excessively. For example, when multiple power supply connectors are installed, at least one of them can be turned off when the engine is stopped by a command from the control unit, and external devices that require large-capacity charging can be powered off by the engine. By charging only during charging, it is possible to prevent the capacity of the vehicle battery from decreasing excessively.

(B) Detection function for remaining battery level, engine speed, and accelerator opening The control microcomputer 111 detects the battery level based on signals from the vehicle acquired by the K-LINE communication control unit 114 and/or the CAN communication control unit 115. At least one value of remaining fuel, engine speed, and accelerator opening is detected. The control microcomputer 111 compares the detected value with a threshold value stored in advance in the database 116, and stops power supply to the power supply control unit 119 when the detected value becomes less than or equal to the threshold value. Specifically, the control microcomputer 111 outputs a command to the power supply control unit 119 to stop the power supply when the remaining battery level of the detected vehicle is below a threshold value, for example, below the level at which the engine can be started several times. do. The control microcomputer 111 controls the power supply to the power supply connector based on any one of the following: when the accelerator opening degree received from the vehicle is above the threshold value, when the engine speed is above the threshold value, when the speed is above the threshold value, or a combination thereof. turn on.

In this way, external devices can be charged only when power is being supplied to the vehicle battery when the engine is started, or when the vehicle battery has sufficient capacity remaining. capacity reduction can be prevented.

(c-4) Driving status detection and power supply control function by control unit The control unit 11 has a function of controlling on/off of a plurality of power supply connectors according to the vehicle driving status obtained from the vehicle. That is, the control microcomputer 111 acquires the vehicle turn signal information from the CAN communication control unit 115, and the database 116 contains information such that when the right turn signal is turned on, the power supply to the right power supply connector is turned on, and when the left turn signal is turned on, the power supply is turned on to the right power supply connector. Information indicating that power supply to the left power supply connector is to be turned on is stored in advance. Thereby, the control microcomputer 111 can turn on/off the power supply to the left and right power supply connectors based on the vehicle blinker information.

The control microcomputer 111 acquires the speed and impact (acceleration change) of the vehicle using the K-LINE communication control unit 114 and/or the CAN communication control unit 115, and operates the camera, video, drive recorder, etc. accordingly. It also has a function to operate the fan depending on the indoor or outdoor temperature. That is, the adapter 1 is provided with a USB connector 2 and a mini-USB connector 3 having a communication function, and a camera, video, or drive recorder is connected to the USB connector 2 or the like. The control microcomputer 111 normally supplies power to these external devices from the power supply line 5L to charge the internal batteries of the external devices. When the speed and acceleration information received by the control microcomputer 111 from the vehicle exceeds the threshold value stored in the database 116, a start command is output to the drive recorder connected to the USB connector 2 or mini USB connector 3. , start recording.

If a USB connector 2 or the like that does not have a communication function is used, when the power supply control unit 119 starts supplying power to the USB connector 2 in response to a power supply command from the control microcomputer 111 from an external device such as a drive recorder, the external device will be powered off. is loaded and starts recording. In this case, if the information from the vehicle is less than the threshold, the control microcomputer 111 does not output a power supply command to the power supply control unit 119, so it is not possible to charge the external device connected to the power supply connector. , drive recorders, around-view cameras, back cameras, and other devices that generally do not have a built-in battery, the power-on of the devices can be controlled by the adapter of this embodiment. Similarly, if the control microcomputer 111 acquires the indoor and outdoor temperatures of the vehicle via the CAN communication control unit 115 and connects the fan power cord to the adapter, The fan can be operated automatically.

According to this embodiment, the operation of the device can be turned on or off depending on the driving situation of the vehicle. For example, a configuration can be configured in which the correspondence between the driving status and the on/off status of multiple power supply connectors can be set so that the driver does not have to manually turn on/off various external devices installed in the room. If the configuration is configured to control on/off of a plurality of power supply connectors based on the above, the operability of external equipment will be significantly improved.

(c-5) Function to control multiple connectors in different manners As shown in FIG. 8, the adapter 1 of this embodiment is provided with multiple USB connectors 2a to 2d. The control microcomputer 111 performs different power feeding controls on these USB connectors 2a to 2d. For example, the control microcomputer 111 outputs a power supply command to the power supply control unit 119 so that the USB connectors 2a and 2b function as connectors for non-battery devices that require constant power supply, and outputs a power supply command to the power supply control unit 119 for the USB connectors 2c and 2d. Outputs a power supply command to the power supply switch so that it functions as a connector for battery-equipped devices that do not require constant power supply. The commands of the control microcomputer 111 are stored in advance in the database 116 for each USB connector 2a to
2d control mode is memorized. Furthermore, the adapter 1 is provided with a switch so that the driver can freely set the settings, or the driver can set which USB connectors 2a to 2d are to be of the constant power supply type from an external device such as a smartphone.

As for the plurality of power supply connectors provided in the adapter 1, it is not necessary to use the same type of power supply connectors as shown in FIG. 8, and different types of power supply connectors can be controlled differently. Further, the mode of power feeding is not limited to whether or not power can be constantly fed. In an adapter having different types of power supply connectors as shown in FIG. 5, the control microcomputer 111 controls the USB connector 2 and the mini USB connector 3 so that they do not require constant power supply, and the cigarette socket 4 is always supplied with power. . Regarding the mode of power supply, it is also possible to change whether or not each power supply connector can constantly supply power, depending on the time of day and day/night (brightness outside the vehicle).

When the adapter 1 has a built-in voltage regulator, the control microcomputer 111 controls the power supply voltage and current differently for each power supply connector. A plurality of mini-USB connectors 3 are provided, and a current of 1A is supplied to the mini-USB connector 3 for charging a smartphone or the like, and 2.1A is supplied to the mini-USB connector 3 for charging a tablet terminal or the like. In an adapter provided with a USB connector 2 and/or mini USB connector 3 and a cigarette lighter socket 4, a voltage of 5V is supplied to the USB connector and 12V is supplied to the cigarette lighter socket 4.

(c-6) Control function based on priority of power supply The control microcomputer 111 has a function of giving priority to power supply to the USB connectors 2a and 2b for external devices that require constant power supply. The control microcomputer 111 detects the remaining amount of the battery installed in the vehicle via the K-LINE communication control unit 114 or the CAN communication control unit 115, compares it with the threshold value stored in the database 116, and determines the level of the vehicle. When the remaining battery capacity is less than the threshold value, control is performed to first stop power supply to the USB connectors 2c and 2d that do not require constant power supply. Thereby, power can be given priority to the USB connectors 2a and 2b for external devices that require constant power supply.

In this way, devices that require a constant power supply, such as devices that consume a large amount of power, devices that require data communication, monitoring, and standby for long periods of time, and even devices that require constant power supply, such as devices that require long periods of data communication, monitoring, and standby, and even devices that require constant power supply, and even devices that require constant power supply, and even devices that require constant power supply, such as devices that require a long period of data communication, monitoring, and standby, can be kept charged. Required warning lights, disaster prevention radios, and the like can be preferentially powered by connecting them to the USB connectors 2a and 2b that require constant power supply. To the USB connectors 2c and 2d for external devices that do not require constant power supply, for example, devices that have a battery or the like and operate on the battery when power is not supplied are connected as external devices.

(d-1) Hub Function The adapter 1 of this embodiment includes USB connectors 2, 2a to 2c and a mini USB connector 3 connected to a wired communication section 117, as shown in FIGS. 5 to 8. These plurality of power supply connectors are communication type USB connectors, and have a communication path for control signals from the control microcomputer 111 in addition to power from the on-vehicle battery. Among these USB connectors, for example, the USB connector 2 is used as a connector for connecting a host device, and the other connectors are used as connectors for connecting peripheral devices. Which USB connector is used for connecting the host device and which USB connector is used for connecting the peripheral device is stored in advance in the database 116. It is best to set a switch on the adapter or use a smartphone connected to the USB connector.

In this way, the plurality of USB connectors 2, 2a to 2c and mini USB connector 3 provided on the adapter 1 can be networked, so data can be transferred between various external devices connected to the plurality of power supply connectors. It becomes possible to control the power supply stop of each power supply connector by exchanging the power supply and using the data acquired by each external device.

(d-2) Power supply control function by the host to peripheral devices As shown in FIG. It receives information from the smartphone 61 via the , and controls the power supply to the mini USB connector 3 and the cigarette lighter socket 4 for connecting peripheral devices.

In FIG. 5, a host device is connected to the USB connector 2, a peripheral device such as another mobile terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet is connected to the mini USB connector 3, and a smartphone 61 and a mobile terminal such as another smartphone or tablet are connected to the mini USB connector 3. Data is exchanged between devices, and the smartphone 61 is used to operate and set other mobile terminals. As peripheral devices, digital cameras, video cameras, car navigation systems, drive recorders, etc. can be connected to the power supply connector for peripheral devices, and these peripheral devices can be accessed. In addition to the adapter shown in Fig. 5, in the adapters shown in Figs. 6 to 8 that have the control unit 11, one of the USB connectors or mini USB connectors is used as the power supply connector for connecting the host device, and the other USB connector etc. is used for connecting the peripheral device. Use as a power supply connector for Further, the host device is not limited to the smartphone 61, but a mobile terminal or a personal computer having an input/output function may be used as appropriate.

According to such a configuration, the adapter can be used as a hub for a plurality of external devices, and can be used as a means for exchanging data between external devices. In particular, the adapter of the present invention is convenient because it can be used without the need for a dedicated hub when using multiple electronic devices such as computers, smartphones, and digital cameras in a vehicle and exchanging files between them. . Furthermore, by controlling the power supply from each power supply connector from an external device such as a smartphone or a personal computer connected to the adapter, multiple external devices can be charged in priority order according to the user's wishes.

(e-1) Various setting functions using a mobile terminal The adapter is equipped with a connection part to a mobile terminal such as a smartphone 61, and a control part 11 that performs various settings regarding the adapter, and the adapter is equipped with a control part 11 that performs various settings regarding the adapter, Based on this, the control unit 11 performs various settings regarding the adapter.

(A) Wireless connection of mobile terminal As shown in FIG. Based on this, various settings regarding the adapter are performed, and the power supply state of the power supply connector and/or power reception connector is controlled. In this case, as the wireless communication unit 118, a low power wireless connection means such as WiFi, Bluetooth (registered trademark), Zigbee (registered trademark), RFID, etc. provided in a mobile terminal such as a smart phone is used.

(B) Wired connection with a mobile terminal As shown in FIG. A control signal is transmitted from the adapter to the control microcomputer 111 of the adapter. In this case, it is preferable that the adapter 1 is not provided with the wireless communication section 118 and that the adapter itself has a simple structure and various settings are made for the control section 11.

(c) Setting conditions from a mobile terminal Conditions for starting and/or stopping power supply to the control microcomputer 111 by an external device such as a smart phone 61 connected to the wired communication unit 117 or the wireless communication unit 118 as described above. Examples of settings include:
(1) Using an adapter compatible with a plurality of different vehicle models, the control microcomputer 111 sets the vehicle model of the vehicle equipped with the adapter according to a signal from the smart phone 61. This makes it possible to recognize which vehicle model the adapter itself is connected to. For example, the control microcomputer 111 obtains or outputs information corresponding to the vehicle model from the database 116, and controls the power supply to each power supply connector.
(2) The control microcomputer 111 determines the current value of the power supply connector and/or power reception connector 5 such as the USB connectors 2, 2a to 2c, the mini USB connector 3, and the cigarette lighter socket 4 according to a signal from a mobile terminal such as the smartphone 61. Set.
(3) The control microcomputer 111 sets conditions for starting and stopping power supply from the vehicle battery to each power supply connector according to signals from a mobile terminal such as the smart phone 61. For example, the adapter 1 is provided with a plurality of n USB connectors 1 to n, and the turning on of the vehicle's lights is detected from the mobile terminal to the database 116 of the control unit 11 through the wired communication unit 117 or the wireless communication unit 118. Write settings such as turning on the power to the USB connector 2 when the light is turned off, and turning off the power to the USB connector 2 when the light is turned off. In this state, when the control microcomputer 111 detects the on/off of the light via the CAN communication control unit 115, the control microcomputer 111 transmits power to the USB connector 2 according to the signal written by the mobile terminal in the database 116. A start command or a stop command is output to the power supply control unit 119.
(4) In a state where the portable battery 62 as shown in FIG. 7 is connected to the adapter 1, the control microcomputer 111 sets the power supply conditions between the vehicle and the portable battery according to the signal from the mobile terminal. For example, the mobile terminal sets in the database 116 that when the power supply from the vehicle battery is interrupted, each power supply connector will be supplied with power from the portable battery 62 for a certain period of time (for example, 5 minutes). When the control microcomputer 111 detects that the power supply from the in-vehicle battery is interrupted from the CAN communication control unit 115, the control microcomputer 111 transfers the power of the portable battery 62 connected to the power supply connector to another power supply connector (in FIG. 5, the mini USB It controls the power supply to the connector 3 and cigarette lighter socket 4). In this case, as the power supply control unit 119, one having a circuit that can appropriately switch the power supply direction is used.

According to this embodiment, adapter manufacturers and sellers can use mobile terminals to set optimal conditions for adapters according to the in-vehicle electronic devices of each vehicle, and can prepare many types of adapters. There will be no need. In particular, as shown in (1) to (4) above, users can freely set the conditions for power supply to external devices depending on the type of user's vehicle, its driving conditions, or the type of external device connected to the adapter. This makes it possible not only to simply charge the built-in battery of an external device, but also to automatically turn on and off various types of external devices depending on the state of the vehicle and driving conditions.

(e-2) Setting function for adapter by mobile terminal In this embodiment, the adapter 1 is provided with a wired connection section 117 and/or a wireless connection section 118 for connecting to the mobile terminal, and is connected to the USB connector 2 or the mini USB connector. The power supply conditions for each power supply connector are written into the database 116 from a mobile terminal such as the smart phone 61. Power equipment conditions include voltage and current supplied from each power supply connector to external equipment, or commands to start or stop power supply from each power supply connector according to time, position, vehicle acceleration, outside temperature, brightness, and room temperature. There is. The information on which the control microcomputer 111 determines these conditions is preferably acquired from the vehicle through the CAN communication control unit 115 or the like. However, it is preferable that the control microcomputer 111 obtains the information from various sensors included in the mobile terminal itself. When writing to the database 116, it is preferable to overwrite the power supply conditions and the like already stored in the database 116. However, in this embodiment, the power supply conditions that have already been set and the power supply conditions written from the mobile terminal are switched by a signal output from the mobile terminal to the control unit 11.

The control microcomputer 111 controls the amount of power supplied to each power supply connector according to the current value and voltage value written in the database 116 from the mobile terminal. Furthermore, when the control microcomputer 111 acquires vehicle-side information obtained from the CAN communication control section 115 or the like, or information regarding time, position, vehicle acceleration, outside temperature, brightness, and room temperature obtained from a mobile terminal, It compares it with the conditions in the database 116 and controls on/off the power supply to each power supply connector. In this case, in this embodiment, when the control microcomputer 111 receives a switching signal from the mobile terminal, it controls the power supply to each power supply connector based on the power supply conditions written by the mobile terminal.

In the present embodiment, while the adapter is in use, the mobile terminal transmits a signal to switch the power supply or power reception state of the power supply connector or power reception connector to the control unit 11 of the adapter. It becomes possible to perform operations different from the conditions. As a result, it becomes possible for the user to arbitrarily control external devices connected to the adapter in response to the situation in which the user or the vehicle is placed. For example, a control program for the adapter is built into the mobile terminal, and commands are sent from the mobile terminal to the adapter control unit according to the time, position, acceleration, outside temperature, brightness, room temperature, etc. detected by the mobile terminal. In this case, there is an advantage that each connector of the adapter can be controlled based on information that cannot be detected by in-vehicle electronic equipment.

(f) Power supply and charging function for portable battery As shown in FIG. 7 or 8, in this embodiment, a portable battery 62, generally called a mobile battery, is connected as an external device to the USB connector 2 or 2a, which is a power supply connector. be done. Power supply connectors other than the USB connector 2 to which the portable battery 62 is connected, the mini USB connector 3 and the cigarette lighter socket 4 in FIG. 7, and the USB connectors 2b to 2d in FIG. Alternatively, it is connected to the power supply control unit 119 so as to receive power from the portable battery 62 connected to the battery 2a. It is also possible to use one power supply connector to both supply power to the portable battery and to supply power from the portable battery.

The control microcomputer 111 receives power from the portable battery 62 from various devices connected to the adapter 1, such as in-vehicle electronic devices and adapters, under specific conditions written in advance in the database 116. Controls the power to be supplied to other external devices that receive power. In addition to switching the power feeding direction by the control microcomputer 111, the adapter 1 is provided with a power feeding direction changeover switch (not shown).

Depending on the type of power supply connector, the direction of power supply between the adapter 1 and the portable battery 62 can be switched. That is, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the adapter 1 and the portable battery 62 are provided with a USB connector 2 and a mini USB connector 3, and both the adapter 1 and the portable battery 62 are supplied with power from the USB connector 2, and the mini The USB connector 3 receives power. In this way, power supply and power reception can be distinguished only by the shape of the connector.

(f-1) Function of supplying power to the vehicle from a portable battery In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the control microcomputer 111 determines a voltage drop in the battery mounted on the vehicle from the CAN communication control unit 115 or the like. It has a function of supplying power to the vehicle from the portable battery 62 connected to the adapter when a voltage drop in the battery is detected. According to such a configuration, by supplying power to the electrical wiring inside the vehicle via the adapter, the interior lights, which normally receive power from the vehicle battery, can be powered using the power of the portable battery 62. This enables the use of other electrical devices, such as starting the engine and charging the vehicle's battery.

(f-2) Power supply function from portable battery to external equipment In the embodiments shown in FIGS. Power is supplied from the power supply connector (for example, USB connector 2 or 2a) to which the portable battery 62 is connected to other power supply connectors (for example, other USB connectors 2c, 2d or mini USB connector 3) provided on the adapter. It has a function to switch to In this case, the threshold value for determining how much the capacity of the vehicle battery should decrease before switching is set in advance in the database 116 or set in the database 116 by the user from a mobile terminal. This makes it possible to charge and use other external devices connected to the adapter using the power of the portable battery 62.

(g) Attaching a storage device such as an SD card In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, in addition to the power supply connectors 2 to 3, a connector 63a for attaching an SD card 63 is provided as a connector without a power supply function. establish. In addition to the connector for the SD card 63, a connector for attaching a micro SD card, nano SD card, USB memory, etc. may be provided.

In this way, it becomes possible to read and write data stored in the SD card 62 from an external device attached to the USB connector 2 that has a data communication path, and it is possible to read and write data stored in the SD card 62 from an external device attached to the USB connector 2 that has a data communication path. It becomes possible to record data.

[3. Third embodiment] (adapter for connecting units)
[3-1. Configuration of third embodiment]
FIG. 10 shows a third embodiment. The third embodiment is a combination of the adapter shown in the first embodiment or the second embodiment with an optional unit for expansion (hereinafter referred to as a unit).

In FIG. 10, the adapter 1 has an OBD II standard input connector that serves as the power receiving connector 5 on its input side (hidden behind the adapter 1 in FIG. 10), and serves as a power feeding connector on its output side. An output connector 50a of OBD II standard is provided. The adapter 1 receives information from various parts of the vehicle and power from the vehicle battery by fitting its input connector into an OBD II standard output connector 50 that is a power supply connector provided on the vehicle. The adapter 1 is provided with power supply connectors of a USB connector 2 and a mini-USB connector 3, as in the first and second embodiments. The adapter 1 is provided with a cable 12 having a connector 13 for connecting external devices such as a car navigation system and a drive recorder.

A unit 100a is fitted into the output connector 50a of the adapter 1. This unit 100a is called an intermediate unit because other units can be connected to its output side. Similar to the adapter 1, the unit 100a includes an OBD II standard input connector that serves as a power receiving connector 5 on its input side, and an OBD II standard output connector 50a that serves as a power feeding connector on its output side. By fitting its input connector into the output connector 50 of the adapter 1, the unit 100a receives information from various parts of the vehicle and power from the vehicle battery via the adapter 1.

External devices 10 such as a radar detector, a car navigation system, a drive recorder, and a video camera are connected to the unit 100a via a cable 12. In this embodiment, the external device 10 is a car navigation system, and the unit 100a supplies power to the car navigation system 10 from an on-board battery, and displays various data related to the vehicle supplied from the connector 50 of the failure diagnosis port on its liquid crystal display. to be displayed. The unit 100a is provided with a cigarette socket 4 as a power supply connector.

A second unit 100b is fitted into the output connector 50a of the unit 100a. The second unit 100b, like the adapter 1 and the intermediate unit 100a, is equipped with an OBD II standard input connector that becomes the power receiving connector 5 on its input side surface. By fitting its input connector into the output connector 50b of the intermediate unit 100a, the terminal unit 100b receives information from each part of the vehicle and power from the vehicle battery via the adapter 1 and the intermediate unit 100a.

The terminal unit 100b is provided with a liquid crystal display 1a, a speaker 1b, and an LED warning light 1c. Thereby, the terminal unit 100b alone displays various data related to the vehicle supplied from the connector 50 of the failure diagnosis port on the liquid crystal display 1a. Various warnings and guidance are given to the driver using the speaker 1b and/or the LED warning light 1c.

[3-2. Modified example]
Although FIG. 10 shows two units 100a and 100b connected to the adapter 1, the number of units connected to the adapter 1 may be one or three or more. Since the second unit 100b in FIG. 10 does not have an output connector, it is suitable as a terminal unit connected to the final stage. The unit connected to the final stage is not necessarily provided with the liquid crystal display 1a, the speaker 1b, and the LED warning light 1c, and it is preferable to provide these output means in all units. Alternatively, it may be provided in either unit depending on the purpose of the unit.

In FIG. 10, the adapter 1 and all of the units 100a and 100b are provided with a power supply connector, but it is preferable that only the adapter 1 is provided with a power supply connector. If the unit is not provided with a power supply connector, the unit can be made smaller. On the other hand, if only the unit is provided with a power supply connector and the adapter 1 is not provided with a power supply connector, the adapter can be made smaller, and only the driver who needs to charge an external device can use the unit with the power supply connector. All you have to do is purchase it and connect it to adapter 1, which increases convenience.

[3-3. Effect】
As described above, in this embodiment, the adapter 1 and the units 100a and 100b connect the input side connector 5 of the output signal from the port of the fault diagnosis system mounted on the vehicle, and the signal based on the signal received at the input side connector 5. The output side connector 50 is provided to output the information to an external device 10 such as a car navigation system or an internal device such as the adapter 1 or the liquid crystal display 1a provided in the units 100a and 100b.

In this way, the functions desired by the user can be easily realized as an in-vehicle device. For example, by connecting various external devices 10 to the adapter 1 and units 100a and 100b, the various functions of the external devices 10 can be exerted in addition to the functions of the adapters and units themselves. It becomes possible. If the terminal unit 100b in FIG. 10 or the adapter 1 in FIG. 3 is provided with an internal device that has image and audio output means, or if the adapter is connected to an external device 10 that has image and audio output means, it is possible to Information can be communicated to the user in a variety of ways.

For example, by connecting an external device 10 with a display such as a radar detector, navigation device, or drive recorder to the adapter 1 or the units 100a and 100b, information from a fault diagnosis system can be used in various ways that were not possible with the adapter alone. This allows the user to easily and reliably recognize the state of the vehicle. In this case, the signal output based on the signal received by the adapter 1 and the units 100a and 100b is preferably one that outputs the signal input from the vehicle side, the adapter, or the previous unit as is, but it may be easier for the user to understand. It is better to use an adapter or a signal processed inside the unit.

In particular, since one or more units are detachably connected to the adapter 1 connected to the port of the failure diagnosis system, different types of units can be combined as desired according to the user's wishes. That is, it is preferable to adopt a configuration in which a plurality of the same units are connected. As shown in Figure 10, when multiple units of different types are connected, information from the vehicle computer (e.g. ECU, etc.) is output to various external devices and/or internal devices in quantities according to the user's requests. This allows the user to easily combine and realize desired functions.

Since the unit is equipped with a liquid crystal display 1a, a speaker 1b, and a liquid crystal display warning light 1c like the end unit 100b, audio information and image information obtained from the vehicle side can be output from the end unit 100b. By using the terminal unit 100b and the adapter 1 shown in Fig. 3, the information output on the vehicle side can be increased with a single unit or adapter, compared to a technique that simply increases the number of ports on the vehicle side using a branch harness or the like. This has the advantage of being possible. By using the speaker 1b and LED warning light 1c, the adapter or unit itself can output warning sounds, voice guidance, flashing warning lights, and text and image guidance to the user based on information obtained from the fault diagnosis system. can do. Even if the adapter 1 or the unit 100b is placed in a location that is difficult for the user to visually see, the speaker 1b can output a warning sound or voice guidance based on information from the failure diagnosis system.

The information that the adapter 1 acquires from the failure diagnosis system includes various items such as vehicle speed, engine rotation speed, oil temperature, water temperature, and accelerator opening. Based on this information, for example, images such as numerical values and graphs, and sounds such as warning sounds and voice guidance are generated. By having the external device 10 or internal device connected to the adapter 1 or the units 100a, 100b have at least one of an audio output function and an image display function, information output via the adapter 1 or the units 100a, 100b can be transmitted. It can be provided in a form that is easy for the user to understand.

[4. Fourth embodiment] (Unit for connecting external devices by wire)
[4-1. Basic configuration]
In the fourth embodiment, external devices provided in a unit 100a are a navigation device 10a, a radar detector 10b, and a drive recorder 10c. As shown in FIG. 11, three types of external devices 10a to 10c are connected to the unit 100a, but the number is not limited.

Providing at least one external device having a display unit such as a liquid crystal display has the advantage that information on the vehicle side can be confirmed through images. In particular, even if each user purchases the same adapter, their purposes may vary, and it becomes possible to customize the functions of the OBD II standard adapter to suit each user. By modifying the connection part between the OBD II standard adapter and the connected device and easily attaching one or more various units of different types, it is possible to customize the adapter to suit the user's needs. I can do it.

There are several possible devices that can be connected to an OBDII standard adapter, such as radar, PND, and drive recorder, but generally only one of them can be connected to the adapter. According to this embodiment, three or more external devices can be connected simultaneously, which is convenient.

The adapter 1 of the fourth embodiment is provided with a USB connector 2 and a mini-USB connector 3 as power supply connectors, and the unit 100a is provided with the mini-USB connector 3. When the unit 100a is provided with a USB connector 2 and a mini-USB connector 3, it is possible to charge and exchange information with various external devices with different connector sizes. , a mini-USB connector 3 is advantageous.

As shown in the block diagram of FIG. 12, the adapter 1 includes a control microcomputer 111, an engine state detection section 112, an analog signal detection section 113, a K-LINE communication control section 114, and a CAN communication control section 114, as in the second embodiment. A communication control section 115 and a power supply control section 119 are provided. Inside the unit 100a, a plurality of external device connection sections 117a to 117n are provided corresponding to the control microcomputer 111, the power supply control section 119, and the external devices 10a to 10n connected to the unit 100.

In this embodiment, each external device is connected to the unit 100a by the cable 12, so the external device connection sections 117a to 117n provided in the unit 100a are connected to the wired connection section 117 provided in the adapter 1 of the second embodiment. It is similar. In this case, if the USB connector 2 or mini USB connector 3 for power supply is provided as the external device connection parts 117a to 117n, it can be used as a serial communication type connection part by using it as is. This eliminates the need to provide a separate wired communication section in addition to the power supply system connection section. The external device connections 117a to 117n are not limited to serial communication type connections, but if high-speed information exchange is desired, signal transmission means such as a wired LAN or CAN network may be used.

The adapter 1 is provided with an output side connector 50 of the OBD II standard, which serves as a power supply connector, and the units 100a and 100b are provided with input side connectors 5 of the OBDII standard, which serve as power receiving connectors. By connecting these connectors 5 and 50, power supplied from the vehicle and information on each part of the vehicle are transmitted from the adapter 1 to the units 100a and 100b.

According to this embodiment, by connecting the unit 100a to the adapter 1, the image and audio output functions provided in the navigation device 10a, radar detector 10b, drive recorder 10c, etc. that the user already owns are utilized. This makes it possible to eliminate the need to incorporate an image display device into the adapter 1 or to connect a dedicated image and audio output device to the adapter 1. Because these external devices are installed in locations that are easily visible to the user of the vehicle, the user can easily check the information obtained from the vehicle via the adapter 1.

[4-2. Various functions by control microcomputer]
The adapter and unit of this embodiment have the following functions. It is preferable that the adapter and all the units connected to the adapter 1 have these functions, but it is preferable that only the adapter or a specific unit have these functions. These functions are realized by executing a predetermined program on the control microcomputer 111 provided in the adapter or unit. In an adapter or unit that does not have a control microcomputer, the control microcomputer 111 in the adapter or the control microcomputer 111 provided in another unit may realize these functions. Instead of using the control microcomputer 111, the processing unit that performs these functions can also be configured using hardware such as an electronic circuit.

(A) Function for acquiring information from external devices The external device connection sections 117a to 117n provided in the unit 100a shown in FIG. Based on information from the devices 10a to 10n and information from the failure diagnosis system obtained via the adapter 1, the control microcomputer 111 has an information processing function to perform predetermined audio guidance and/or image display.

According to this function, not only information from the vehicle via the adapter 1 but also information from the external devices 10a to 10n can be output to other external devices and internal devices connected to the unit 100a. For example, the information processing function of the control microcomputer 111 compares position information from a navigation device or radar detector with information on speed and accelerator opening from a fault diagnosis system, and detects curves in the direction of travel of the vehicle. It is possible to determine whether or not an obstacle is dangerous based on the current driving situation, and output the result to other external devices or internal devices. In particular, such a function is an advantage that cannot be obtained by simply increasing the number of output ports on the vehicle side using a branch harness.

When this function is realized by the control microcomputer 111 provided in the unit 100a, the program executed by the control microcomputer 111 can be simplified for the unit b to which no external equipment is connected. On the other hand, if this function is realized by the control microcomputer 111 built into the adapter 1 based on the information of the external devices 10a to 10n sent to the adapter 1 via the unit 100a, the configuration of the unit 100a for external device connection will be changed. It can be simplified.

(B) Function of outputting information to adapters and units The adapter 1 and unit 100a of this embodiment have a function of outputting information received from external devices 10a to 10n and internal devices to other units and/or the adapter 1. According to this function, information acquired from the external devices 10a to 10n and internal devices can be transmitted to the adapter 1 and other units. For example, information that allows the adapter 1 or unit 100a to perform various judgments and operations that would not be possible with only information from the failure diagnosis system, based on information from the failure diagnosis system and information from external devices and internal devices. By implementing the processing section using the control microcomputer 111, it becomes possible to perform various information processing on the adapter or unit side.

For example, by comprehensively determining information about the vehicle obtained by the fault diagnosis system and information about the vehicle's surroundings and the driver obtained by the external devices 10a to 10n, it is possible to make a comprehensive judgment that would not be possible with the fault diagnosis system alone. It is possible to provide a variety of information to the user. In addition, according to commands from the external devices 10a to 10n or internal devices, various operations and parameter settings regarding the adapter 1, each unit connected to it, or the failure diagnosis system itself can be performed by any external device connected to the unit 10a0. It is also possible to do it from

(c) Information processing function in adapter and unit The adapter 1 and/or unit 100a processes at least one of the external devices 10a to 10n and internal devices based on information received from the vehicle and at least one of the external devices 10a to 10n. It has an information processing function that generates images and/or audio signals to be output. This function is realized by the control microcomputer 111 provided in the adapter 1 and/or the unit 100a.

In this way, by providing the adapter 1 and/or the unit 100a with an information processing function, it is possible to not only output the information input from the vehicle or external equipment as is, but also to process it into a form that is easy for the user to understand. It becomes possible to output to the devices 10a to 10n and internal devices. For example, numerical data input from the vehicle such as vehicle speed, engine speed, temperature at various locations, remaining battery power, etc. can be converted into graphs or images and displayed on the LCD display of external or internal equipment, or the input numerical data can be By comparing the predetermined threshold with a preset threshold, a warning sound or voice guidance can be issued using the speaker 1b or LED warning light 1c of an external device or an internal device. Furthermore, by processing the information received from the external devices 10a to 10n and comparing it with information from the vehicle, more diverse information can be output to external devices and internal devices in a form that is easy for the user to understand.

(d) Function to perform different information processing for multiple external devices 117a to 117n, each having a function of outputting signals of different formats and types to the wired connection section 117 or the wireless connection section 118 in FIG. That is, the control microcomputer 111 provided in the adapter 1 and the unit 100a transfers information acquired from the vehicle and each external device 10a to 10n to the adapter 1 and the unit 100a according to the format and configuration of the external device to be output. It has the function of processing the signal internally and outputting it in a different manner for each signal output section.

According to this function, signals output to a plurality of different external devices 10a to 10n can be processed into different signals depending on the signal output section provided in the adapter 1 or the unit 100a. As a result, according to this embodiment having such a function, the following effects are exhibited, for example.
(1) The optimal information for the user can be output from the optimal external device, depending on the type and installation location of the external device, and the type and size of the signal from the fault diagnosis system.
(2) Depending on the degree of warning of the signal obtained from the failure diagnosis system, the volume of the audio signal output from each external device can be changed, and the content of the displayed image can be varied.
(3) Information with a high degree of urgency is displayed on the navigation device installed in the location that is most easily visible to the user, and normal engine speed, water temperature, oil temperature, etc. are displayed on the radar detection screen, which has a smaller display screen than the navigation device. By combining the information processing unit and multiple external devices, it is possible to display various patterns and provide voice guidance.

(E) Hub function Among the plurality of external device connection sections 117a to 117n provided in the unit 100, one predetermined one is used as a connection section for an external device that becomes a host, and the other connection sections are used as external devices that become peripheral devices. The connection part of Which external device connection section is used for connecting the host device and which external device connection section is used for connecting the peripheral device is set in advance in the database 116 provided in the adapter 1 or the unit 100a.

A switch is provided on the adapter 1 or the unit 100a, and by switching the switch, an external device connection section to which the host is connected is selected. Also, use a smartphone or the like connected to one of the external connections to set which connection will be used as the host. As shown in FIG. 10, when the adapter 1 and the unit 100a are each provided with an external device connection section, the control microcomputer is connected in advance so that the external device connected to either the adapter 1 or the unit 100a becomes the host. 111.

According to this function, for example, the adapter 1 or the unit 100a can be used as a hub for multiple external devices 10a to 10n, and information from the fault diagnosis system and other external devices can be transferred to various external devices. It can be delivered to the device. For example, the following effects can be achieved.
(1) Data can be exchanged between the external devices 10a to 10n via the adapter 1 and/or the unit 100a. In other words, if you use multiple electronic devices such as a personal computer, smart phone, or digital camera in your vehicle and want to exchange files between them, this adapter can be used conveniently without the need for a dedicated hub.
(2) By controlling other external devices, adapters, or various functions of the adapter from an external device with an input function such as a smartphone or computer connected to the adapter 1 and/or unit 100a, an external device without an operation section can be used. You can easily set parameters and perform various operations on devices.
(3) In the adapter 1 and/or the unit 100a, the control microcomputer 111 processes the information described in (d) above, processing the information acquired by the external device of the host and other peripheral devices. Can be sent to external devices. For example, a smartphone or the like is used as an external device on the host side, and an image acquired by the smartphone is superimposed on a signal from the fault diagnosis system and displayed on another external device such as a navigation device.

[5. Fifth embodiment] (terminal unit)
As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the terminal unit 100b of this embodiment has a speaker 1b and a mini USB connector 3. The terminal unit 100b includes an input side connector 5 for receiving vehicle information from the adapter 1 and electric power from the in-vehicle battery, a control microcomputer 111, and a buzzer control section 14a and an audio playback control section 14b connected to the control microcomputer 111. , has a ROM 14c that stores message data. The terminal unit 100b is connected at the final stage when a plurality of units are connected to the adapter 1, and does not have an output connector.

By connecting the unit 100 having the speaker 1b to the adapter 1 which does not have an output function, the control microcomputer 111 uses the buzzer control unit 14a to notify the user based on the information acquired by the adapter 1 from the vehicle. Outputs a warning sound. Moreover, in addition to the warning by the buzzer, the message data stored in the ROM 14c is used to provide audio guidance to the user. The control microcomputer 111 uses the power supply control unit 119 to transmit the power of the vehicle battery, the diagram, or Power is supplied from a portable battery 62 as shown in FIG.

Thereby, even if the adapter 1 does not have an output means such as audio, information from the vehicle and information from each external device connected to the adapter for charging can be output. For example, information such as completion of charging of an external device connected to the USB connector 2 or mini-USB connector 3 can be output from the speaker 1b. For users who are satisfied with the functions provided by the adapter 1 alone, by attaching the terminal unit 100b to the adapter 1, which only sends out audio from a buzzer or speaker, it is possible to announce changes in vehicle status, implementation of active control, etc. can do.

[6. Sixth embodiment] (wireless communication unit)
As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, in the sixth embodiment, a mobile terminal 61 such as a smart phone is connected to a wireless communication unit 100c as an external device. The connection of the mobile terminal 61 is performed by the wired connection part 117 or the wireless connection part 118 provided in the units 100b and 100c, as in the case of the adapter 1 shown in FIG. 4 of the second embodiment. In FIG. 15, among the plurality of units 100a to 100c connected to the adapter 1, the unit 100c adjacent to the adapter 1 is connected to the smartphone 61 by low power wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). Therefore, as shown in the block diagram of FIG. 16, inside the unit 100c, in addition to the input side connector 5, the output side connector 50, the control microcomputer 111, and the power supply control section 119, a wireless communication section 118 is provided. .

Many mobile terminals 61 such as smart phones and tablet computers have wireless communication functions such as Bluetooth in addition to wired communication functions using USB cables. In such a mobile terminal, by connecting the unit 100c and the mobile terminal 61 by wireless communication, data can be easily exchanged without preparing a connection means such as a cable. It is preferable to connect all the units 100 to 100c and the mobile terminal 61 by wireless communication. When connecting a unit to the adapter 1, if the configuration is such that the terminal unit 100b is always connected, it is preferable to provide the wireless communication function only in the terminal unit.

According to this embodiment, by using a mobile terminal 61 such as a smart phone, the adapter 1 displays data acquired from the vehicle on the screen of the smart phone using an application provided for the smart phone in advance. be able to. In addition, by attaching the unit 100c connected to the mobile terminal 61 in combination with the adapter 1 or unit having other functions, programs and data of external devices connected to the adapter or unit having other functions can be transferred to the mobile terminal. It can be updated from the 61 side. For example, it will be possible to update external devices such as radar detectors with the latest enforcement information using a computer or smartphone.

[7. Seventh embodiment] (Logging unit)
As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, in this embodiment, the unit 100d includes, as an external device, a recording section for information received from at least one of an in-vehicle computer, an external device, and an internal device. The unit 100d includes a recording section 63a of an SD card 63 as an information recording section. The information recording section is not limited to the SD card 63, but it is preferable to provide a recording section of a mini SD card or a micro SD card. Although not shown, in addition to the unit 100d, the adapter 1 and other units, such as the unit 100a and the terminal unit 100b to which external devices are connected, may be provided with an SD card mounting section.

The unit 100d includes an SD card control section 120 that controls reading and writing of the SD card 63 by the recording section 63, and a GPS unit that acquires position information from GPS and records it on the SD card 63 and the database 116. A control section 121 is provided. The SD card control section 120 and the GPS unit control section 121 acquire position information at a predetermined timing set in advance in the database 116 according to instructions from the control microcomputer 111, and record the acquired position information and time as a vehicle travel log. Record on the SD card 63. In addition to the information from the GPS, the control microcomputer 111 records vehicle information acquired by the logging unit 11d via the adapter 1 on the SD card 63 as a vehicle status log.

According to this embodiment, information collected from the vehicle while driving and location information collected from GPS is written to a storage medium such as an SD card provided in the adapter 1 and the unit 100d connected thereto, thereby improving safe driving and operation. It becomes possible to collect information useful for management as logs. The information collected on the storage medium can be used to analyze driving information, driving trajectories, driving habits, etc. using a dedicated application on a computer or mobile device, which can be used to improve safe driving. For example, when connecting units to the adapter 1, all units 100a to 100f may be provided with a recording section, but if the terminal unit 1b is always connected, the recording section is provided only on the terminal unit 1b. It's good to have one.

[8. Eighth embodiment] (TPMS unit)
As shown in FIG. 19, in this embodiment, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) mounted on a tire of a vehicle is connected to a unit 100e as an external device. This air pressure detection device TPMS and unit 100e are connected by wireless communication. Although not shown, a TPMS control section is provided in the TPMS unit 100e, and the control microcomputer 111 controls this TPMS control section. The TPMS control unit and the control microcomputer 111 control the adapter 1, other external devices 10a to 10n connected to the unit 100a or the end unit 100b, the liquid crystal display 1a, the speaker 1b, At least one of image display and audio output is output from one or more of the internal devices such as the LED warning light 1c.

According to this embodiment, for example, the tire air pressure state can be displayed as a graph on an external device (for example, a car navigation system or a radar detector) of another unit 100a combined with the TPMS unit 100e, or It is possible to display tire pressure in a variety of ways, such as displaying the position and its pressure in an overlapping manner, or outputting a voice or warning sound in the event of an abnormality. In particular, when a plurality of different external devices 10a to 10n are connected to the adapter 1 or other unit 100a, the user's visibility is improved by displaying the tire air pressure in different ways depending on the type of external device. and voice guidance functions can be further improved.

In this embodiment, a dedicated TPMS unit 100e that wirelessly connects to the air pressure detection device TPMS is shown, but the air pressure detection device TPMS may be incorporated into any or all of the units 100a to 100d to form the TPMS unit 100e. Similar to the terminal unit 100b in FIG. 10, the TPMS unit 100e may be provided with an output means for audio and images, or the TPMS unit 100e itself may not be provided with any output means, and an external device connected to the adapter 1 or other unit may be provided. Audio and images related to TPMS may be output using a device or an internal device.

[9. Ninth Embodiment] (Obstacle detection radar receiving unit)
As shown in FIG. 20, in this embodiment, an obstacle detection radar receiving device is connected to the unit 100f as an external device. As the obstacle detection radar, a millimeter wave radar MWR is used. Although not shown, in the unit 100f, in addition to the control microcomputer 111, other external devices and internal devices connected to the adapter 1 are controlled based on information from the obstacle detection radar device and information from the adapter 1. At least one side is provided with a radar control unit that outputs at least one of a control command for an external device, a warning sound, and audio guidance. In this embodiment, only the receiving device for the millimeter wave radar MWR is connected as an external device, but it is preferable to connect the transmitting and receiving device for the millimeter wave radar MWR. In that case, the functions of the control microcomputer 111 and the radar control section are changed accordingly.

According to this embodiment, since the millimeter wave radar MWR is used as the obstacle detection radar device to detect the situation within a range of about 100 m, it is possible to measure the distance to the obstacle in front, or to detect the obstacle in front. Can measure speed relative to objects. For example, based on the information that the unit 100f acquires from the millimeter wave radar MWR receiver and the information that the adapter 1 acquires from the vehicle, the unit 100f outputs a warning for not keeping the distance between vehicles, etc. from other external devices connected to the adapter 1 or the unit. This can assist in avoiding danger and help prevent collisions.

In this embodiment, it is preferable that obstacle detection radar devices are attached to the left and right sides of the vehicle, and information from the left and right radars is received by the unit 100f. In this way, when a turn signal is issued to change course while the vehicle is running, this turn signal is detected from the fault diagnosis system via the adapter 1, and the radar from the unit 100f connected to the obstacle detection radar device is detected. By acquiring the information and comparing the information between the two using the control microcomputer 111 in the adapter 1, if there is another vehicle on the side of the vehicle that is changing course, it is possible to send out a warning sound to alert the driver of danger. .

[10. 10th embodiment] (Connecting an expansion unit to the adapter)
As shown in FIG. 21, the adapter 1 includes a mounting portion for fixing an expansion unit. Similarly, each unit except the terminal unit 100b is provided with a mounting portion for fixing other units. Therefore, by connecting different units to adapters according to the type of external device desired by the user, it becomes possible to connect many types of external devices. Although (a) to (c) in FIG. 21 show examples of connection modes, the types and number of units to be connected are not limited to these, and can be changed as appropriate according to the user's wishes. It is.

When combining the adapter 1 with a plurality of units, one of the plurality of units is a terminal unit 100b that has only a mounting part that is fixed to the adapter, and after connecting the plurality of units to the adapter 1, the terminal unit 100b is connected finally. do. In this way, the mounting portion for connecting other units is not exposed to a part of the unit 100b that was connected last, so that a dustproof effect is obtained and the appearance is good. The terminal unit 100b, which does not have an attachment part for connecting other units, can secure a large space on its surface to install other devices, so a large speaker 1b that covers the entire unit surface can be used as an internal device. , the quality of output audio can be improved.

[11. 11th embodiment] (Stacking adapter and unit)
As shown in FIG. 22, in this embodiment, the adapter 1 and each of the units 100b to 100d are fixed in a stacked state in multiple stages. As shown in the above embodiments, each unit 100b to 100c has a control microcomputer 111, a CAN communication control section 115, and other means built-in. ~100c are connected to the CAN network 115N on the vehicle side. In this way, the adapter 1 and the plurality of units 100b to 100d connected to it have a block-like appearance, so that the entire body is compactly integrated while having many functions. It can be placed without any discomfort.

In the embodiment of FIG. 22, three units are connected to the adapter 1, but the number of units connected to the adapter 1 is not limited to this. In the illustrated embodiment, the connection surfaces of the adapter 1 and each unit have the same shape, but it is preferable to use a unit that is smaller than the adapter and has a small connection surface with the adapter 1. In this way, various power supply connectors and units can be arranged on the same surface of the adapter 1.

[12. 12th Embodiment] (Multiple units attached to adapter)
As shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, in this embodiment, a plurality of units 100a to 100f are arranged adjacently on the adapter 1 by providing a plurality of unit mounting portions 101 adjacent to each other. Each of the units 100a to 100f has the same shape and is smaller than the adapter 1. In particular, the units 100a to 100f have the same width and height when attached to the adapter. A plurality of units 100a to 100f having such shapes are arranged side by side on one side of the adapter, particularly several to ten or more units. In the figure, two external device connection units 100a, a wireless communication unit 100c, a logging unit 100d, a TPMS unit 100e, and a terminal unit 100b are arranged, but the number and types of units connected to the adapter 1 are not limited to this.

According to this embodiment, a plurality of units 100a to 100f can be arranged in a small area in one adapter 1 without stacking a plurality of units as in the eleventh embodiment. For example, if each unit 100a to 100f is connected to an external device by wireless communication, connectors for connecting the units 100a to 100f and the external device are not required, and the unit can be miniaturized in the form of a chip or card. becomes possible to use. If the unit mounting portion 101 provided on the adapter 1 is a USB port, a plurality of units 100a to 100f can be mounted on one adapter 1 using a standardized connection structure.

According to this embodiment, a plurality of units 100a to 100f having external devices and internal devices having various functions can be connected to the adapter 1 in a compact manner. In particular, by arranging the units 100a to 100f side by side with no gaps as shown, it is possible to solve the problem of dust entering the gaps and conspicuous dirt in places where dust is likely to occur, such as in the interior of a vehicle.

When a cable 12 or the like that connects each unit to an external device extends, the mounting portions 101 of each unit provided on the adapter 1 may be arranged in a horizontal direction while maintaining intervals. This creates a gap between adjacent units, making it easier to wire the cable 12 and the like. If a plurality of units are directly attached to the adapter 1, the combined shape of the adapter and the units becomes large, so it is also possible to connect the adapter 1 and all or some of the units connected thereto with a cable. In this way, the connection position between the adapter and the unit can be separated, and the unit can be placed close to the external device to be connected.

[13. 13th embodiment] (Network connection)
As shown in FIG. 25, in this embodiment, the adapter 1 is connected via the input side connector 5 to a CAN network 115N in which a fault diagnosis system is installed in the vehicle. connected to multiple sensors. Each unit 100a to 100f includes a local network LAN connected to a CAN network 115N via an adapter 1, and to this local network LAN, each unit 100a to 100f, external devices 10a to 10n and/or internal devices is connected.

The failure diagnosis system is connected to various sensors on the vehicle side through a network inside the vehicle called a CAN network 115N, and collects data that is the basis for failure diagnosis. According to this embodiment, the local network LAN provided in the adapter 1 is connected to this type of network in the vehicle, and the external devices connected to the units 100a to 100f are connected via the local network LAN. By exchanging information, information from the failure diagnosis system and information from each external device are transmitted in real time to the adapter 1, the failure diagnosis system, each unit 100a to 100f, external devices 10a to 10n, and the failure diagnosis system connected to the network. It can be distributed to internal devices, etc.

In other words, compared to the case where the adapter 1 and each unit 100a to 100f are connected by serial communication, since multiple external devices 10a to 10n are connected to the local network LAN, each unit 100a to 100f is It becomes possible to receive information from the adapter 1 and other external devices 10a to 10n simultaneously with the unit. As a result, even when a large number of units are combined or a large number of external devices 10a to 10n are connected, comparisons are made when devices from various companies are serially connected or when each external device is directly connected to a network such as CAN in the vehicle. Therefore, there will be no information delay. For example, when a vehicle is driving at high speed, it is necessary to instantly issue a warning or take evasive action based on information collected by external devices 10a to 10n or a fault diagnosis system. The present invention can also be applied to systems that require the following.

[14. 14th embodiment] (Wireless connection between adapter and unit)
As shown in FIG. 26, in this embodiment, each of the units 100a to 100f is wirelessly connected to the adapter 1 by low power wireless such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), WiFi, or the like.

In this embodiment, since the adapter 1 and each unit 100a to 100f are wirelessly connected, there is no need for a mounting part for connecting each unit 100a to 100f and the adapter 1, a connector for transmitting and receiving signals, etc. , the adapter 1 and the units 100a to 100f can be made smaller. For example, by providing a wireless device for connecting multiple internal devices such as the speaker 1b and the SD card recording section 63b with the external devices 10a to 10n and the adapter 1 in the case of one unit, the unit can be miniaturized. Multiple functions can be achieved with one unit. Since there are no restrictions on the installation location of such a unit, the unit can be placed at a position away from the adapter 1 or at a position where the user can easily operate it.

FIG. 27 shows a unit 100a in which a plurality of functions shown in each of the above embodiments, such as a speaker 1b, an LED warning light 1c, and an SD card recording section 63a, are built in, and this unit 100a and an adapter are combined. 1 is connected wirelessly. This unit 100a is provided with, for example, four connectors 102 for connecting external devices, and these are provided with external devices that have functions that cannot be implemented with the built-in functions of the unit 100a, such as a car navigation system, a drive recorder, and a radar. Connect detectors, millimeter wave radar oscillators, etc. In this way, the configuration of the unit 100a having multiple functions becomes simple, and since it is only necessary to connect relatively large external devices to the unit, the entire system including the adapter 1, the unit 100a, and the external devices Miniaturization can be achieved.

[15. Other embodiments]
The invention encompasses other embodiments as follows.
(1) All or any of the units 100a to 100f may include a power supply connector, for example, that supplies power from the vehicle side supplied via the adapter 1 to the external devices 10a to 10n as charging power. , a USB connector 2, a mini USB connector 3, and a cigarette lighter socket 4. In this way, you can charge your smartphone, computer, etc. using the vehicle's battery. The fault diagnosis system port is constantly powered by the battery, and by supplying this power to external devices connected to the unit via the adapter, the external devices can be charged even when the vehicle accessory switch is turned off. Can be done.

(2) Each unit is provided with a power receiving connector for supplying power from a portable battery such as a mobile battery to the vehicle and/or other external equipment. In this way, by supplying power from the portable battery to other external devices or the vehicle side, for example, it is possible to charge or use other external devices when the vehicle accessory switch is off, or to make it possible to charge or use other external devices when the vehicle accessory switch is turned off. When the battery capacity is insufficient, electric power from the portable battery can be supplied to the vehicle and various devices on the vehicle can be used.

(3) It is not necessary to provide a power supply function to all of the adapter 1 and each unit. It is preferable that the adapter 1 is not provided with a power supply connector, and any or all of the units are provided with a power supply connector. The present invention also includes a mode in which the adapter 1 and all units are not provided with a power feeding function.

(4) The configurations and functions provided in the adapter 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 9 may be provided in all or one or more of the units. It is preferable that the configurations and functions provided individually in each unit 100a to 100f be provided in appropriate combinations in each unit or adapter. For example, the adapter 1 may be provided with a logging function, a TPMS function, and a radar reception function. If the adapter itself has various functions, the number of units to be combined can be reduced.
It is preferable that the adapter 1 or the unit 100 include a 3G/4G/5G communication unit, a Bluetooth unit, or the like.

It would be good to have a unit that can directly upload information collected from vehicles and units to the cloud and manage the data. Data uploaded to the cloud can be used, for example, for operation history and operation management using a dedicated app. Further, it is preferable to set a notification destination of an e-mail in advance so that when a change is detected in another unit, a notification is sent by e-mail or the like. With this communication unit, it is now possible to send e-mail messages to the user's smartphone or cell phone even when the user is away from the vehicle.

For example, a configuration may be configured in which notifications (impact detection, vehicle tilt detection, approach detection, etc.) from a device (simple security) that can communicate with the Bluetooth unit are sent to the user's mobile phone via email from the Bluetooth unit. It's good to do that.

The following methods are available for setting email notification destinations and selecting notification items.
(1) By installing a Bluetooth unit, settings can be made using a dedicated app from a smartphone, tablet, or laptop.
(2) If the unit shown in the above embodiment is installed, settings can be made from radar, navigation, drive recorder, etc.
(3) It would be a good idea to make settings possible from a smartphone or other device using a dedicated settings app. (It is best to send an email directly to the 3G/4G communication unit from the dedicated app.

If a simple security device that has a Bluetooth communication interface has a Bluetooth unit and an OBD adapter equipped with this 3G/4G/5G communication unit, it will notify the user by email of any abnormalities detected in the vehicle. This makes it even more functionally convenient, such as being able to monitor the vehicle's condition by communicating with other devices. For example, it may be configured to notify the OBD adapter of the car door lock status by inquiring about the car door lock status by email. If the door is in the unlocked state, it may be configured to send an instruction to lock the door by e-mail, and send a door lock instruction to the vehicle based on this instruction.
It is particularly preferable that the external device to which power is supplied from the adapter 1 or the unit 100 is used as a drive recorder and has the following functions. That is, it is particularly good if the external device that supplies power from the OBD adapter is used as a drive recorder and has the following functions. In particular, the drive recorder is preferably equipped with a recording function while the vehicle is running and a recording function while the vehicle is parked (referred to as a parking monitoring function).
A drive recorder is a device that draws power from the OBD.

This OBD adapter is
(1) A function that outputs vehicle information obtained from the vehicle with the engine on to the drive recorder.
(2) Function to supply power to the drive recorder when the engine is off (parking monitoring).
(3) By incorporating a G-sensor into the OBD adapter, even if parking monitoring is turned off, if the G-sensor responds, power will be supplied to the DVR and recording will begin.
(4) A function to stop the power supply depending on the drive recorder (a function to stop the power output to the drive recorder when a power stop signal from the drive recorder is input to the OBD adapter).
(5) Equipped with a function to stop power supply when the car battery voltage reaches a threshold value.

Regarding (3), if you do this, the car's battery may run out if you constantly supply power to the conventional drive recorder, but even if you turn off the monitoring recording, recording will start when the G sensor detects it, and the battery will drain. load is reduced.

If a G-sensor is built-in, it is expected that the G-sensor will frequently malfunction due to strong winds, the sound of fireworks, etc. To prevent this, when the OBD adapter detects that the engine is turned off based on a signal from the vehicle, it is recommended that the OBD adapter output a signal indicating that the engine has been turned off to the drive recorder. When the drive recorder receives a signal indicating that the engine has been turned off, it displays a ticker on the display screen of the drive recorder indicating the normal monitoring/impact monitoring/OFF selection screen, and selects these settings based on the user's operation. It is preferable to have a configuration in which an action is selected from among them and the selected action is performed. It is best to make the settings clear by inverting the image, etc.

Normal monitoring records for a set period of time regardless of the G-sensor response. Shock monitoring records for a set time only when the G sensor reacts. OFF means no recording.
Regarding (4), the drive recorder is preferably a drive recorder with built-in 3G/4G/5G, and in places where the communication environment is poor, it is preferable to record data on a recording means such as an SD card. Further, in a drive recorder equipped with an event recording function, the event recorded video is stored in a recording means such as an SD card.

Although 4G and other communication functions are used to constantly send captured video data to the cloud, it is desirable to send data recorded on an SD card, etc. to the cloud after the engine has stopped. You need a power source that can supply power for the time it takes to transfer the data recorded on the SD card, etc., and supplying power from the OBD is perfect.

For example, with configuration (4), when data transfer is completed after the engine is stopped, the drive recorder sends a power stop signal to the OBD adapter, and the OBD adapter receives this power stop signal. In this case, it is recommended to stop the power output to the drive recorder.

It is preferable that the devices in (A) to (R) described below be the adapter 1 or the unit 100, and the devices in (A) to (R) to be described below as a drive recorder.
(A) A device that supplies power from a fault diagnosis connector provided in the vehicle to equipment retrofitted to the vehicle,
a function of connecting to the in-vehicle network of the vehicle via the failure diagnosis connector;
A function to detect the on state of the vehicle,
comprising a function of transmitting a signal based on data acquired from the in-vehicle network to the device when the vehicle is in an on state;
It is preferable that the device has a function of supplying power to the device when the vehicle is not in an on state.

In this way, equipment retrofitted to the vehicle can easily receive power from the fault diagnosis connector, and can also receive power without blocking the cigarette lighter socket, for example. When in the on state, information can be received from the in-vehicle network of the vehicle, and power can be supplied even when the vehicle is not in the on state.
Although various types of equipment can be used as the equipment retrofitted to the vehicle, it is particularly preferable to use a drive recorder, for example.

The in-vehicle network to be connected may be, for example, CAN or K-line.
For example, an OBDII connector is particularly suitable as a connector for failure diagnosis. In particular, if the connector is installed inside the vehicle, the user can easily connect it.

(B) having a function of supplying power to the device when the vehicle is in the on state;
It is preferable that the device has a function of notifying whether the vehicle is in an on state or not in an on state (off state).
In this way, devices retrofitted to the vehicle can easily receive power supply and can also know whether the vehicle is on or off. In particular, it is preferable that the power supply line and the signal line for notifying whether the vehicle is on or not are one cable covered with the same sheath. In this way, just by wiring one cable, it is possible to receive power supply and a signal indicating whether the vehicle is on or not, making it extremely easy to route wiring for retrofitted devices inside the vehicle. Be smart and easy.

(C) The device may have a function of changing the operation of the device by a function of notifying whether the vehicle is in the on state or not in the on state (off state).
For example, when the device is a drive recorder, the recording parameters may be switched between the continuous recording mode if the vehicle is on, and the parking monitoring mode if the vehicle is not on.

(D) The device preferably has a function of not transmitting a signal based on the data acquired from the in-vehicle network to the device when the vehicle is not in the on-state.
In this way, the device can easily determine whether the vehicle is on or not based on whether a signal is transmitted based on data acquired from the in-vehicle network.

(E) The device may have a function of not transmitting a signal to the in-vehicle network when the vehicle is not in an on state.

In this way, when the vehicle is not in the on state, for example, there is a possibility that the in-vehicle computer for controlling the vehicle connected to the in-vehicle network, which is in the sleep state or off state, may be activated or turned on. can be reduced. This is because these in-vehicle computers may transition from a sleep state or an off state to an activated state or an on state in response to a signal flowing through the in-vehicle network.

(F) The ON state of the vehicle may be a state in which the vehicle charges the battery of the vehicle. The on-state of the vehicle may include an engine-on state.
(G) When the vehicle is not in the on state, it is preferable that power is not being supplied to the cigarette lighter socket of the vehicle.
(H) It is preferable to include a function of transmitting a signal indicating that the device is in the off state, and perform processing based on the signal indicating that the device is in the off state.

(I) The device may be a drive recorder, and the video recording mode may be switched based on receiving the signal indicating the off state.
(J) The video recording mode may be switched from a recording mode when the vehicle is on (for example, a constant recording mode) to a recording mode when the vehicle is off (for example, a parking monitoring recording mode).
In the parking surveillance recording mode, for example, the bit rate of the captured video to be recorded may be lower than that in the constant recording mode. For example, it is preferable to lower the frame rate of the video, lower the resolution, increase the compression rate, or perform at least one of these.

(K) equipped with a function to stop supplying power to the device when the vehicle is not in the on state;
It is preferable to include a sensor, and to have a function of starting supply of power to the device based on a signal from the sensor even when the vehicle is not in an on state.

If you continue to supply power to devices retrofitted to a vehicle based on the power from the fault diagnosis connector when the vehicle is off, there is a risk that the vehicle's battery will drain due to the power supply to the device. Such concerns can be alleviated by supplying power based on sensor signals. Additionally, the load on the vehicle's battery can be reduced.

The sensor may be a sensor that detects at least one of the following: approach of a person to the vehicle, shaking of the vehicle, and sound near the vehicle. For example, if a person approaches, the shaking of the vehicle corresponds to a predetermined state, or the sound near the vehicle corresponds to a predetermined state, the power supply to the device is turned off. It would be a good idea to restart the supply. It is preferable that these predetermined states correspond to vibrations or sounds caused by thieves or the like.

Whether or not to supply power to the device when the vehicle is not in the on state is set based on a signal from the device to the device, and the device is configured to supply power to the device when the vehicle is not in the on state based on the setting. It is preferable to control on/off of power supply to the device. For example, even if this function is set so that power is not supplied to the device when the vehicle is not in the ON state, a sensor is provided as shown in (K), and the vehicle It is preferable to include a function to start supplying power to the device even when the device is not in the on state.

(L) The sensor may be an acceleration sensor. Then, when the acceleration acquired from the acceleration sensor reaches a predetermined state, it is preferable to resume supplying power to the device even if the vehicle is not in an on state. The predetermined state may be a state corresponding to the application of acceleration to a vehicle by a person, such as a thief. For example, it may be assumed that an acceleration of a predetermined value or more occurs.
(M) The sensor may be provided in a housing that includes a connector that fits into a fault diagnosis connector provided in the vehicle. In this way, it is possible to eliminate the exposure of wiring from the fault diagnosis connector to the sensor, and it is possible to install devices and equipment smartly and easily.

(N) It is preferable to include a function of receiving a signal for controlling the power supply from the device to the device and controlling the supply of power from the device to the device based on the signal.
The signal for controlling the power supply from the device to the device may include at least one of turning off and turning on the power supply from the device to the device. The power supply may be turned off or turned on immediately upon receiving the signal, or may be turned on after a predetermined period of time. It is preferable that the device sends an instruction signal to the device for a predetermined time, and the device performs the process after the predetermined time based on the signal. Alternatively, for example, a signal regarding the time for supplying power is sent from the device to the device, and the device receives the signal and supplies power to the device for the time period, and then stops supplying power to the device. It may also be stopped.

(O) The device has a communication function, the device has a function to communicate using the communication function when the vehicle is not in the on state, and after the communication is completed, the device is provided with power to the device. It is preferable that the device has a function of transmitting a signal for stopping the supply of power to the device, and receiving the signal, stopping the supply of power to the device.
In particular, the device is a drive recorder, and has a function of transmitting captured video data using the communication function while the vehicle is turned on, and also recording video data that could not be transmitted. To have a function of transmitting the recorded video data that could not be transmitted when the device is not turned on, using the communication function, and to stop supplying power to the device after the communication is completed. It is preferable that the device transmits a signal and, upon receiving the signal, has a function of stopping the supply of power to the device.

(P) It is preferable to include a function of stopping the power supply to the device when the power supply from the failure diagnosis connector provided in the vehicle reaches a predetermined state. If you do this,
(Q) The device is preferably a drive recorder, and preferably has a function to automatically start recording when power is supplied. In this way, the car security function can be easily implemented using a general drive recorder.

(R) The configuration of the device is particularly preferably configured by combining at least any two of (A) to (Q). In particular, it is preferable to use the configuration (A) in combination with at least one of (B) to (R). Furthermore, the constituent elements described in (A) to (Q) may be selected and combined. Alternatively, at least one of (1) to (41) and at least one of (A) to (Q) may be combined. Further, it may be constructed by combining at least one of the components described in (1) to (41) with at least one of the components described in (a) to (r).

1...Adapter 2...USB connector 20...USB plug 3...Mini USB connector 30...Mini USB plug 4...Cigarette socket 40...Cigarette plug 5...Power receiving connector (input side connector)
50…Power supply connector (output side connector)
61...Smartphone 62...Portable battery 63...SD card 10, 10a, 10b, 10c...External device 11...Control unit 111...Control microcomputer 112...Engine state detection unit 113...Analog signal detection unit 114...K-LINE communication Control unit 115...CAN communication control unit 116...Database 117...Wired communication unit 118...Wireless communication unit 119...Power supply control unit 12...Cable 13...Connector 100a...External device connection unit 100b...Terminal unit 100c...Wireless communication unit 100d...Logging Unit 100e...TPMS unit 100f...Obstacle detection radar receiving unit 101...Unit mounting part

Claims (3)

The device includes a first connector connected to a failure diagnosis connector provided on the vehicle, and has a function of receiving power from the vehicle through the first connector and receiving information from the vehicle through the first connector. Equipped with functions,
It is equipped with a second connector that connects to an external device, and has a function of supplying power to the device through the second connector, and transmitting information from the vehicle side to the device through the second connector. A device having a function,
having a function of stopping power supply to the second connector when the ACC of the vehicle is turned off;
A connector separate from the first connector connected to the failure diagnosis connector side provided in the vehicle is provided, and power is supplied from the portable battery to the device side via the second connector. A device characterized by having a function of supplying power to. The information received from the vehicle through the first connector includes the speed state of the vehicle, the state of various temperatures, the state of the drive source, the state of the battery, the voltage and current supplied to the vehicle, the engine rotation speed, Receive information on accelerator opening, vehicle type, door opening/closing information, user seating information, manufacturer name of the vehicle and in-vehicle electronic equipment installed therein, or vehicle type, and supply power to the second connector. The device according to claim 1, further comprising a function of controlling stoppage. A plurality of the second connectors are provided, one of the second connectors is of a constant power supply type, and the other second connector is provided with a function of stopping power supply to the second connector when the ACC of the vehicle is turned off. 3. A device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: