KR20120096096A - Electrical power feeding system for electrical vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

The automotive power supply system includes a distribution box, a current measurement unit, and a control box. The distribution panel includes a breaker. The current measuring unit is configured to measure the current value of the main current applied to the breaker. The control box is configured to generate a power supply limit signal when the measured current value of the main current exceeds the first threshold. The power supply system for an automobile further includes a power supply unit for an automobile. The power supply unit for the vehicle is configured to supply power to the charging circuit of the electric vehicle through the breaker. The automotive power supply unit is configured to limit the current supplied to the electric vehicle when the control box generates the electric power supply restriction signal.

Description

Power supply system for electric vehicles {ELECTRICAL POWER FEEDING SYSTEM FOR ELECTRICAL VEHICLE}

The present invention relates to a power supply system for an electric vehicle.

In recent years, electric vehicles such as a Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle (PHV) or a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) have been developed. Moreover, as a method of charging an electric vehicle, supplying a commercial alternating current to an electric vehicle through the plug of a house is considered (this is disclosed by patent document 1).

[Patent Literature]

Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 8-33121

The electric current for charging the electric vehicle is expected to be from 20 amps to 30 amps at 200 volts. This current accounts for a large percentage of the current consumption in standard houses. In addition, assuming the use of electric appliances in standard houses, there is a possibility that electric cookers and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning appliances are used while the electric vehicle is being charged. Electrical cooking appliances consume large amounts of current. Examples of heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment are likewise air conditioners that consume large amounts of current. Therefore, in order to cope with the use, it is necessary to use a main breaker and a lead-in cable adaptable to a large amount of current. This means that implementing charging of an electric vehicle for an existing house is in fact difficult to introduce. In addition, electric vehicles are common throughout. In this case, there is a possibility that an electric appliance is used in each house to consume a large amount of current, and at the same time an electric vehicle is charged in each house. This results in voltage drop and power failure of the utility power source throughout the area.

In order to solve the above problems of the present invention. An object of the present invention is to produce a power supply system for an electric vehicle that solves the following problems. One of the problems is that the electric appliance is used and the convenience when the electric car is charged is maintained. One of the problems is to limit the peak value of current consumption. Moreover, the electric power supply system for electric vehicles of this invention is easily introduce | transduced into an existing house.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention discloses a power supply system for an automobile. The power supply system for a vehicle is configured to power an electric vehicle having a battery and a charging circuit. The battery is provided to generate power that allows the vehicle to operate. The charging circuit is configured to charge the battery so that the battery is charged by the battery charging circuit. The power supply system comprises a breaker means, a current measuring unit, a control means and an automotive power supply unit. The current measuring device is configured to measure the current value of the main current applied to the breaker means. The control means is configured to generate a power supply limit signal when the measured current value of the main current exceeds a first threshold. The power supply limit signal includes a command to limit the power supplied to the electric vehicle. The automotive power supply unit is configured to receive power through the breaker means and is configured to supply power to the charging circuit of the electric vehicle. When the control means generates the power supply limit signal, the vehicle power supply unit is configured to limit the current applied to the electric vehicle.

The breaker means is preferably defined as a main breaker.

The breaker means preferably comprise a distribution board comprising a main breaker and a branch breaker. The current measuring unit is configured to measure the current value of the main current applied to the main breaker. The automotive power supply unit is configured to receive power through the branch breaker. The vehicle power supply unit is configured to supply power to the charging circuit of the electric vehicle. The vehicle power supply unit is configured to limit the power supplied to the electric vehicle when the control means generates a power supply restriction signal.

The automotive power supply unit includes a connector terminal detachably attached to a connector of the automobile. The automotive power supply unit is configured to receive power via the breaker means. The vehicle power supply unit is configured to supply power to the charging circuit of the electric vehicle through the connector terminal.

In other words, the power supply system for a vehicle is configured to supply power to an electric vehicle having a battery and a charging circuit. Batteries are provided to produce power that allows the car to operate. The charging circuit is configured to charge the battery when receiving power. The automotive power supply system comprises a distribution panel, an electric current measuring device, the control means, and an automotive power supply unit. The distribution panel includes a main breaker and a branch breaker. The current measuring device is configured to measure the current value of the main current applied to the main breaker. The control means is configured to generate a power limit signal comprising a command to limit the power supplied to the electric vehicle when the value of the main current exceeds the first threshold. The power supply unit includes a connector terminal detachably mounted on a connector of a vehicle of an electric vehicle. The automotive power supply unit is configured to receive power through a branch breaker. The automotive power supply unit is configured to supply power to the charging circuit through the connector terminal. The vehicle power supply unit is configured to limit a current supplied to the electric vehicle when the control means generates a current limit signal.

The breaker means preferably have an amperage rating. The first threshold value is set to be higher than the current rating.

The main breaker preferably has a current rating. The first threshold value is set to be higher than the current rating.

The automotive power supply unit includes a disconnect member. The connection blocking element is configured to block a power supply path provided for supplying electric power to the electric vehicle. When the control means generates a power supply limit signal, the vehicle power supply unit is configured to block the power supply path, thereby limiting the power supplied to the electric vehicle.

Preferably, the automotive power supply unit includes an electric leakage detector. The electrical leakage detector is configured to detect the presence or absence of electrical leakage based on the current flowing through the power supply path. When the electrical leak detector detects an electrical leak, the electrical leak detector is configured such that the connection blocking element can block the power supply path.

Preferably, the automotive power supply unit includes a signal transmission unit. The signal transmission unit is configured to transmit a signal to a charging circuit of the electric vehicle. When the control means generates a power supply limit signal, the vehicle power supply unit is configured to enable the signal transmission unit to transmit a charge stop signal to the charging circuit. The charge stop signal includes an instruction to stop power supply to the electric vehicle. Thus, the vehicle power supply unit is configured to limit the power supplied to the electric vehicle.

Preferably, the automotive power supply unit includes a signal transmission unit. The signal transmission unit is configured to transmit a signal to the charging circuit of the electric vehicle through the connector terminal. When the control means generates a power supply limit signal, the vehicle power supply unit is configured to enable the signal transmission unit to transmit a charge stop signal to the charging circuit. The charge stop signal includes a command to stop charging. Thus, the current supplied to the electric vehicle is limited.

Preferably, the automotive power supply unit includes a signal transmission unit. The signal transmission unit is configured to transmit a signal to a charging circuit of the electric vehicle. When the control means generates a power supply limit signal, the automotive power supply unit is configured to enable the signal transmission unit to transmit a current reduction signal to the charging circuit. The current reduction signal includes a command to reduce the current supplied to the electric vehicle. Thus, the current supplied to the electric vehicle is limited.

Preferably, the automotive power supply unit includes a signal transmission unit. The signal transmission unit is configured to transmit a signal to the charging circuit of the electric vehicle through the connector terminal. When the control means generates a power supply limit signal, the automotive power supply unit is configured to enable the signal transmission unit to transmit a current reduction signal to the charging circuit. The current reduction signal includes a command to reduce the current supplied to the electric vehicle. Thus, the current supplied to the electric vehicle is limited.

If the measured current value of the main current exceeds a first threshold during the first period, the control means is preferably configured to limit the power supplied to the electric vehicle.

And the control means is configured to transmit a power supply restriction signal to the automotive power supply unit when the current value measured by the current measurement unit exceeds a second threshold value for a predetermined period of time. The second threshold is set lower than the first threshold.

Preferably, the predetermined period is set longer than the first period.

Preferably, the second threshold is set above the current rating. When the measured electric current value becomes lower than a third threshold value lower than the first threshold value for a certain period of time in a state in which the electric power supply unit for the vehicle reduces the electric current supplied to the electric vehicle, And generates a supply restriction canceling signal. The power supply limit cancel signal includes a command to cancel the limit of power supplied to the electric vehicle. The vehicle power supply unit is configured to cancel the limitation of the power supplied to the electric vehicle based on the power supply limitation cancel signal.

And the control means is configured to generate a power supply restriction cancel signal when both the first condition and the second condition are satisfied. The power supply limit cancel signal includes a command to cancel the limit of power supplied to the electric vehicle. The first condition is a state in which the electric power supply unit for the vehicle reduces the current supplied to the electric vehicle. The second condition is a state in which the measured current value is lower than a third predetermined threshold value. The third threshold is set lower than the first threshold. The vehicle power supply unit is configured to cancel the limitation of the current supplied to the electric vehicle based on the power supply limitation cancel signal.

The third threshold is preferably set lower than the current rating.

When the measured current value is lower than a third threshold lower than the first threshold for a period of time in a state where the vehicle power supply unit stops supplying power to an electric vehicle, the control means supplies power. It is preferably configured to generate a restriction cancel signal. The power supply limit cancel signal includes a command to cancel the limit of power supplied to the electric vehicle. The vehicle power supply unit is configured to cancel the limitation of the power supplied to the electric vehicle based on the power supply limitation cancel signal.

In other words, the control means is preferably configured to generate the power supply restriction cancel signal when it is recognized that the first condition and the second condition are simultaneously met. The first condition is that the power supply unit for the vehicle has stopped supplying electric power to the electric vehicle. The second condition is a state in which the measured current is lower than the third threshold value, which is lower than the first threshold value. The power supply unit for the vehicle is configured to cancel the limitation of the power supplied to the electric vehicle based on the power limitation cancel signal.

When the control means generates the power supply limit signal, the vehicle power supply unit preferably limits the current supplied to the electric vehicle so that the main current is lower than the current rating.

And the control means is a control unit disposed in the automotive power supply unit.

The control means is preferably a control device.

The automotive power supply system is preferably configured to supply power to an electric vehicle having a battery and a charging circuit.

In addition, the vehicle power supply system is preferably configured to supply power to the first electrical device and the second electrical device. The control means is configured to determine the priority of the first electrical device as the first priority. The control means is configured to determine the priority of the second electrical device as the second priority. The control means is configured to determine a third priority of the electric vehicle. The third priority is lower than the second priority. The second priority is lower than the first priority. When the control means generates the power supply limit signal, the vehicle power supply unit is configured to limit the current supplied to the electric vehicle having the third priority. And the control means is configured to recognize the first restriction state when the electric power supply unit for the vehicle limits the electric current supplied to the electric vehicle. When the control means generates a power supply limit signal in the first limited state, the vehicle power supply unit limits the power supplied to the second electric device having the second priority.

In addition, the power supply system for automobiles is preferably configured to supply power to a plurality of electrical devices. The control means is configured to determine the priority of each of the electrical devices. The control means is configured to determine the priority of the electric vehicle among the electric vehicle and the electric devices as the lowest priority. When the control means generates a power supply limit signal, the vehicle power supply unit is configured to limit the power supplied to the electric vehicle with the lowest priority. If the vehicle power supply unit has limited the power supplied to the electric vehicle having the lowest priority, the control means is configured to recognize the first restricted state. When the control means generates the electric power supply restriction signal in the first limited state, the electric power supply unit for the automobile has the electric power supplied from the lowest priority electric device to the electric appliance with the highest priority .

"When the main current becomes larger than the first threshold value, the control unit is configured to generate a power supply restriction signal to the automotive current supply unit", and "when the automotive power supply unit is configured to generate the electric power supply restriction signal A configuration "configured to limit the current supplied to the vehicle " allows the use of electrical devices in the home to be prioritized while charging the battery. For example, temporary use of an electric cooker has a great impact on daily life. In contrast, the battery of an electric vehicle is charged over a long period of time. Therefore, the temporary limitation of the power supplied to the battery has a slight effect on the charging of the battery. Therefore, when the main current exceeds the first threshold, the power supplied to the electric vehicle is limited. Therefore, the electric power supplied to the electric equipment in a house is given priority. As a result, as the peak of the main current decreases, this configuration makes it possible to maintain the convenience of daily life. Further, by preventing the peak of the main current, the peak value of the consumption of the current in the whole region can be reduced even if the electric vehicle becomes general in the whole region. Therefore, it is possible to continuously supply power.

In addition, the configuration in which the vehicle power supply unit includes a connection blocking element in the power supply path can limit the current supplied to the electric vehicle. Therefore, this arrangement allows the present system to be freed from the necessity of using a communication circuit configured to communicate with the charging circuit of the electric vehicle, compared to the case where the charging current is limited by the charging circuit of the electric vehicle. In other words, this configuration can reduce the cost of the automotive power supply unit.

In addition, when an electric leak detector configured to detect an electric leak is used, when the electric leak detector detects an electric leak, the electric leak detector may use a connection blocking element.

In addition, when the " power supply unit for automobile " configured to transmit a charge stop signal to the electric vehicle so that the charging circuit can stop charging, the power supply to the electric vehicle can be stopped.

In addition, when a vehicle power supply unit configured to transmit a charge reduction signal to a charging circuit of an electric vehicle is employed, the current supplied to the charging circuit can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to limit the power supplied to the electric vehicle.

Further, when the configuration " the current supplied to the electric vehicle is limited when a current larger than the second threshold lower than the first threshold is supplied " is adopted, even when the main current is lower than the first threshold, the main The peak value of the current can be reduced.

In addition, when the configuration "configured to cancel the current limit when the main current falls below the third threshold for a period of time while the main current supplied to the electric vehicle is reduced" is adopted, The battery can be charged with current before the limit.

In addition, if the configuration "configured to cancel the current limit when the main current falls below the third threshold for a period of time while the current supplied to the electric vehicle is stopped" is adopted, before the limit of the current supplied to the electric vehicle is adopted. The battery can be charged with a current of.

1 is a system configuration diagram of the first embodiment.
2A to 2E are waveform diagrams of the elements of the first embodiment.
3 is a system configuration diagram of the second embodiment.
4A to 4C are waveform diagrams of the elements of the second embodiment.
5A to 5D are waveform diagrams of the elements of the third embodiment.
6A to 6D are waveform diagrams of the elements of the fourth embodiment.
7 is a system configuration diagram of the fifth embodiment.
8 is a system configuration diagram of the sixth embodiment.
9A to 9F are waveform diagrams of the elements of the sixth embodiment.

Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(First embodiment)

The invention of the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. 1 shows a block diagram of an automotive power supply system of a first embodiment. The automotive power supply system includes a distribution board 1, a current measuring unit 2, a control box 3, and an automotive power supply unit 4. The distribution box 1 is disposed in the house H. The distribution box 1 includes a main breaker 11 and a branch breaker 12. The current measuring unit 2 is configured to measure the main current I1 flowing through the main breaker 11. The control box (control unit) 3 is configured to generate a power supply limit signal when the current value measured by the current measuring unit 2 exceeds a first predetermined threshold. The current supply limit signal indicates a command to limit the supply of current to the electric vehicle 50. The automotive power supply unit 4 is configured to receive commercial AC power. Since the automotive power supply unit 4 is configured to supply electric power to the electric vehicle, the automotive power supply unit 4 charges the battery.

Examples of the electric vehicle 50 include a battery electric vehicle and a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle body of the electric vehicle 50 is provided with the connector 53 of the vehicle detachably mounted to the connector terminal 5 of the power supply unit 4 for automobiles. When the charging circuit 51 receives commercial AC power through the connector 53 and the connector terminal 5 of the vehicle, the charging circuit 51 converts the commercial AC power into DC power. The charging circuit 51 charges the battery 52. Examples of the battery 52 include a lithium ion battery and the like.

The distribution panel 1 is installed in a part of the house. The distribution box 1 includes a main breaker 11 and a plurality of branch breakers 12. The main breaker 11 is connected to a trunk power line L1 leading into the house H. Branch breaker 12 is connected to main breaker 11 via an electrically conductive bar 12 and located downstream of main breaker 11.

The control box 3 is configured to compare the current value of the main current measured by the current measuring unit 2 with the first threshold value, so that the control box 3 is higher than the first threshold value, or It is determined whether it is lower than the first threshold value. If the current value measured by the current measuring unit 2 exceeds the first threshold value for a predetermined period, the control box 3 sends a power supply limit signal to the automotive power supply unit 4 via a signal line. Output This power supply limit signal commands the interruption of the power supply. For example, main breaker 11 has a current rating of 50 amps. The control box 3 has a first threshold TH1 of 55 amps. The first threshold of 55 amps corresponds to 110% of the current rating. When the "condition in which the current value measured by the current measuring unit 2 becomes 55 amperes or more for 1 second" is satisfied, the control box 3 supplies a power supply to instruct the stop of power supply to the electric vehicle 50. The limit signal is output and transmitted to the vehicle power supply unit 4.

The automotive power supply unit 4 receives, for example, commercial AC power (for example, AC 2OOV) from the branch breaker 12 in the distribution panel 1 via the branch line L2. In addition, the vehicle power supply unit 4 includes a charging cable CA. The charging cable CA includes a power line L3 and a signal line L4. A connector terminal (5) is provided at one end of the charging cable (CA). The connector terminal 5 is detachably mounted to the connector 53 of the vehicle of the electric vehicle 50. The charging cable CA has a cable length sufficient to reach the electric vehicle 50 parked in the parking space. Since the charging cable CA is wound around a retractable drum which can be retracted, the charging cable CA is removed. The charge cable (CA) is removed from the retractable drum when it is used.

The automotive power supply unit 4 comprises an electrical relay 41, a zero phase sequence current transformer (ZCT) 42, and an electrical leak detector 43. The relay 41 is disposed at an intermediate portion of the internal line 40 connecting the branch line L2 and the power line L3. The relay 41 is configured to turn on and off the supply of electric power to the electric vehicle 50. The image current transformer is configured to detect an unbalanced current flowing through the internal line 40. The electrical leak detector 43 is configured to detect electrical leakage based on the induced current induced in the image current transformer 42. The electrical leak detector 43 is configured to switch off the relay 41 when detecting an electrical leak. The automotive power supply unit 4 includes a control unit 44, a signal conversion unit 45, a signal output unit 46, and a power supply 47. The control unit 44 is configured to generate the charging control signal SA based on the signal transmitted from the control box 3. The charging control signal SA is provided to control the charging of the electric vehicle 50. The signal conversion unit 45 is configured to convert the charge control signal SA generated in the control unit 44 into a signal standardized by the automobile industry. Signals standardized by the automotive industry are, for example, signals standardized by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). The signal output unit 46 is configured to transmit the charge control signal SA whose signal form is converted by the signal conversion unit 45 to the electric vehicle 50 via the signal line L4. The power supply 47 is configured to receive the commercial AC power from the distribution box 1 and is configured to receive the commercial AC power from the distribution box 1 for operating the electrical leak detector 430, control unit 44, signal conversion unit 45, and signal output unit 46 The charging control signal SA transmitted from the signal output unit 46 is a pulse signal having a variable duty cycle. The charging circuit 51 of the electric vehicle 50 is configured to generate the charging current value Limit value of the charge current value is proportional to the duty cycle of the charge control signal SA.

The operation of the power supply system of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 2 (A) shows a measured value of the main current I1 measured by the current measuring unit 2. In Fig. 2 (B) shows the output signal which is the output of the control box 3. Fig. 2 (C) shows the duty cycle of the charge control signal SA transmitted from the electric power supply unit 4 for the vehicle to the electric vehicle 50. Fig. 2D shows the charging current I2. In addition, the shadow area in FIG. 2A shows the charging current I2 included in the main current I1. The charging current I2 is used for charging the electric vehicle 50.

During a period between time t0 and time t1, the automotive power supply unit 4 supplies electric power to the electric vehicle 50, so that the battery of the electric vehicle 50 is charged. Also, in the period between t0 and t1, an electric appliance is used in the house H. The sum of "current consumption by the electric equipment in the house H" and "charge current I2" corresponds to the measured value of the main current I1. Main current I1 is lower than first threshold Th1. Therefore, the control box 3 does not output the "power supply limit signal". In this embodiment, the first threshold Th1 is set at 55 amps. The first threshold Th1 of 55 amps corresponds to 110% of the current rating of the main breaker 11. That is, the current rating of the main breaker 11 is equal to 50 amps.

 At time t1, an electric device configured to consume a large amount of electric power starts to be used in the house H. [ As a result, the measured value of the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1 (55 amps). Since the control box 3 is configured to compare the measured value of the main current I1 with the first threshold Th1, the control box 3 continuously measures the measured value of the main current I1 in the first threshold value ( It is determined whether it is higher than Th1 or lower than the first threshold Th1. At time t2, " state in which main current I1 exceeds first threshold Th1 " is maintained for a predetermined time dT1. Therefore, at time t2, the control box 3 transmits the "power supply limit signal S1 which commands the stop of charging of the electric vehicle 50" to the vehicle power supply unit 4.

When the control unit 44 of the vehicle power supply unit 4 receives the power supply limit signal S1 at time t2, the control unit 44 instructs the charge control to instruct the charge current I2 to be reduced to zero. Generate a signal SA (the charge control signal SA instructing to decrease the charge current I2 to zero, in other words, the charge stop signal SA). The signal conversion unit 45 converts the signal form of the charging control signal SA. Subsequently, the signal output unit 46 transmits the charge control signal SA to the electric vehicle 50.

When the charging circuit 51 of the electric vehicle 50 receives the charging control signal SA from the vehicle power supply unit 4, the charging circuit 51 of the electric vehicle 50 is charged with the charging control signal SA. The current value of the charging current I2 is controlled according to the duty cycle of. When the duty cycle of the charge control signal SA becomes 0% at time t2, the automotive power supply unit 4 reduces the charge current I2 to zero. That is, the first threshold value Th1 (which is 55 amperes) is higher than the current rating of the main breaker 11. When a current greater than or equal to the first threshold Th1 is applied to the main breaker 11, the control box 3 generates a power supply limit signal S1. Based on this power supply restriction signal S1, the automotive power supply unit 4 stops charging the battery of the electric vehicle 50. [ Therefore, the main current I1 is adjusted within the current rating after time t2. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the main breaker 11 from being cut off when an excessive current is applied to the main breaker 11.

In addition, when the charging of the battery of the electric vehicle 50 is stopped, when the electric device of the house H is stopped in the period after time t3, the main current I1 is predetermined less than the 3rd threshold Th3. The current value is reduced (the third threshold Th3 is defined as the recovery current value). When the current I3 is kept lower than the third threshold Th3 for a certain period dT2, the control box 3 generates the power supply restriction cancel signal S2. This power supply limit cancel signal S2 commands the cancellation of the power supply limit to the electric vehicle 50.

When the control unit 44 of the vehicle power supply unit 4 receives the power supply limit cancel signal S2 at time t4, the control unit 44 charges the charging current I2 before the current is stopped. The charging control signal SA is generated to adjust to a current value equal to the current value. The signal conversion unit 45 converts the signal form of the charging control signal SA. Subsequently, the signal output unit 46 transmits the charge control signal SA to the electric vehicle 50. Therefore, at time t4, the duty cycle of the charge control signal SA is changed to a duty cycle equal to the duty cycle in the period before the current is stopped. (In other words, at time t4, the duty cycle of the charge control signal SA is changed to the same duty cycle as the duty cycle in the period before time t2.) As a result, the current value of the charge current I2 stops the current. The current value is changed to the same as the current value in the period before the change. In this way, the charging circuit 51 charges the battery 52 with a current value equal to the current value in the period before the current is stopped. In this state, the current consumed by the electric equipment in the house H is reduced. Therefore, even if the charging current I2 is increased, the current value of the main current I1 is lower than the first threshold Th1. Thus, power is continuously supplied to the electric vehicle 50.

In a situation where the "current breaker of the main circuit breaker is 50 amperes" and the "maximum value of the charging current of the electric vehicle 50 is 24 amperes," the third threshold Th3 may be set to 26 amps. However, considering the additional margin of the current value of 2 amps, the third threshold Th3 is set to 24 amps. The first threshold value Th1 and the third threshold value Th3 are arbitrarily set by the user in consideration of the specification of the power distributor in the house and the specification of the electric vehicle 50. [

As can be seen from the above description, in the automotive power supply system of the present embodiment, when the measured value of the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1, the control box 3 defined as the control device is powered up. The supply limit signal is transmitted to the vehicle power supply unit 4. The automotive power supply unit 4 limits the electric power supplied to the electric vehicle 50 based on the electric power supply restriction signal. Therefore, the use of the electric appliance in the house H can be prioritized while charging the electric vehicle. That is, electrical equipment such as an electric cooker is temporarily used in life. Electric appliances such as electric cookers have a significant impact on life. In contrast, the battery of an electric vehicle is charged over a long time. Therefore, the suspension of the electric power supply to the electric vehicle slightly affects the charging of the electric vehicle. Therefore, when the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1, the power supply in the electric vehicle 50 is restricted. Therefore, electric power is preferentially supplied to the electrical equipment of the house H. FIG. As a result, generation | occurrence | production of the peak of main current I1 can be prevented, and the convenience of living can be maintained. In addition, the prevention of the occurrence of the peak of the main current I1 makes it possible to reduce the peak value of the current consumption in the entire area even if the electric vehicle is widely used in the whole area. Therefore, this configuration makes it possible to stably supply power.

As described above, the automotive power supply system of this embodiment is configured to supply power to the electric vehicle. An electric vehicle includes a battery and a charging circuit. The charging circuit is configured to charge the battery. The automotive power supply system of this embodiment includes a distribution panel, a current measurement unit, a control box, and a power supply unit for a vehicle. The distribution panel includes breaker means having a main breaker and a branch breaker. The current measuring unit is configured to measure the current value of the main current applied to the main breaker. The control unit is configured to determine the first threshold value. The control unit is configured to generate a power supply limit signal when the measured current value exceeds the first threshold. The current supply limit signal includes a command to limit the power supplied to the electric vehicle. The automotive power supply unit includes a connector terminal. The connector terminal is detachably mounted to the connector of the vehicle. The automotive power supply unit is configured to receive AC power from the branch circuit breaker, and is configured to supply AC power to the charging circuit of the electric vehicle through the connector. When the control unit generates a power supply limit signal, the control unit limits the current supplied to the electric vehicle.

Thus, if the main current exceeds the first threshold, the control unit sends a power supply limit signal to the automotive power supply unit. Based on this power supply limit signal, the vehicle power supply unit limits the current supplied to the electric vehicle. Therefore, it is possible to give priority to the use of the electric device while charging the battery of the vehicle. In other words, it is possible to prevent the peak of the main current by preferentially supplying current to the electronic equipment of the house. As a result, the convenience of daily life can be maintained. In addition, even if the electric vehicle is used generally in the whole area, the peak value of the current consumption can be prevented. Therefore, it is possible to stably supply power.

The main breaker also has a current rating. The first threshold is set higher than the current rating. Thus, when the main current exceeds the first threshold, it is recognized that the main current exceeds the current rating. Therefore, it is possible to immediately limit the power supplied to the electric vehicle when the main current exceeds the first threshold. In other words, it is possible to prevent the transient current from continuously being applied to the main breaker. As a result, blocking of the main circuit breaker can be prevented.

In this embodiment, when the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold value Th1 for a certain period of time, the power supply to the electric vehicle 50 is stopped. However, the power supply to the electric vehicle 50 may be stopped at the moment when the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1.

Conversely, the control unit is also preferably configured to generate a power supply limit signal when the measured current value exceeds the first threshold value for a period of 1 second (1 sec). This is because of the following reasons. In other words, when the electric device starts to operate, there is a possibility that overshoot occurs. This overshoot may cause the main current to momentarily exceed the first threshold. It is undesirable to immediately stop the current supply to the electric vehicle if the main current instantaneously exceeds the first threshold value. The reason is that the charging circuit is under load if the current changes frequently. Therefore, it is desirable for the control unit to determine whether the main current exceeds the first threshold or not when the main current is free from the effects of overshooting the main current.

In this embodiment, the control unit is configured to generate a power supply limit signal when the measured current value exceeds the first threshold value for the first period of time. This first period is set to a one second period (1 sec). However, the first period is not limited to being set to one second period. The first period can be arbitrarily determined. This applies equally to the following embodiments.

(Second Embodiment)

The second embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 3 and 4. Fig. 3 shows a system configuration diagram of the present embodiment. The same reference numerals are given to components that are common to the components of the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the components common to those of the first embodiment is omitted.

The vehicle electric power supply unit 4 receives the electric power supply restriction signal from the control box 3 and supplies the electric charge control signal SA to the electric vehicle 50 based on the electric power supply restriction signal, . Thus, the automotive power supply unit 4 allows the charging circuit 51 to limit the charging current I2. However, in the present embodiment, the automotive power supply unit 4 further includes a relay 41. This relay 41 is configured to start / stop power supply to the electric vehicle 50. The control unit 44 of the vehicle power supply unit 4 turns off the relay 41 based on the power supply limit signal transmitted from the control box 3. Thus, the control unit 44 stops power supply to the electric vehicle 50. [

The operation of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 4 (A) to 4 (C). 4A shows the measured value of the main current I1 measured by the current measuring unit 2. 4B shows an output signal which is an output from the control box 3. 4C shows a condition in which the relay 41 is turned on or turned off. The shadow area of FIG. 4A shows the charging current I2 included in the main current I1. The charging current I2 is used for charging the battery of the electric vehicle 50.

In the period between the time t0 and the time t1, the relay 41 of the vehicle power supply unit 4 is in an on state. Therefore, since the vehicle power supply unit 4 supplies electric power to the electric vehicle 50, the battery of the electric vehicle 50 is charged. In addition, in the period between t0 and t1, an electric device is used in the house H. The sum of "current consumption by the electric equipment in the house H" and "charge current I2" corresponds to the measured value of the main current I1. Main current I1 is lower than first threshold Th1. Therefore, the control box 3 does not output the "power supply limit signal". In this embodiment, the first threshold Th1 is set at 55 amps. The first threshold Th1 of 55 amps corresponds to 110% of the current rating of the main breaker 11. That is, the current rating of the main breaker 11 is 50 amps.

At time t1, an electric device configured to consume a large amount of electric power starts to be used in the house H. [ As a result, the measured value of the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1 (55 amps). The control box 3 is configured to continuously compare the measured value of the main current I1 with the first threshold Th1 so that the control box 3 determines whether the measured value of the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold value Th1 Th1) or lower than the first threshold Th1. At time t2, " state in which main current I1 exceeds first threshold Th1 " is maintained for a predetermined period dT1. Therefore, at time t2, the control box 3 transmits the "power supply limit signal S1 which commands the stop of charging of the electric vehicle 50" to the vehicle power supply unit 4. At time t2, the control unit 44 of the vehicle power supply unit 4 receives the power supply limit signal S1. Thus, the control unit 44 turns off the relay 41, whereby the power supply to the electric vehicle 50 is stopped.

As such, when a current higher than the first threshold Th1 (55 amps) is applied to the main breaker 11 for 1 second, the vehicle power supply unit 4 is " power transmitted from the control box 3. The supply of the "charge current I2" to the electric vehicle 50 is stopped based on the supply limit signal S1 ". Therefore, the main current I1 is adjusted within the current rating. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the interruption of the main breaker 11 when the transient current is applied to the main breaker 11.

In addition, when the charging of the battery of the electric vehicle 50 is stopped, when the use of the electric device of the house H is stopped in the period after time t3, the main current I1 is less than the third threshold Th3, which is predetermined. Reduced to the current value. (The third threshold Th3 is defined as the recovery current value). When the main current I3 is kept lower than the third threshold Th3 for a certain period dT2, the control box 3 generates the power supply limit cancel signal S2. This power supply limit cancel signal S2 commands the cancellation of the power supply limit to the electric vehicle 50. When the control unit 44 of the vehicle power supply unit 4 receives the power supply restriction cancel signal S2, the control unit 44 turns on the relay 41. Thus, the vehicle power supply unit 4 supplies electric power to the electric vehicle 50. In this way, the charging circuit 51 of the electric vehicle 50 restarts the charging of the battery 52. In this state, the current consumed by the electric appliance in the house H is reduced. Therefore, even if the charging current I2 is increased, the main current I1 is lower than the first threshold Th1. Thus, power is continuously supplied to the electric vehicle 50.

In a situation where the "current breaker of the main circuit breaker is 50 amperes" and the "maximum value of the charging current of the electric vehicle 50 is 24 amperes," the third threshold Th3 may be set to 26 amps. However, in consideration of the current value additional margin of 2 amps, the third threshold Th3 is set to 24 amps. The first threshold Th1 and the third threshold Th3 are arbitrarily set by the user in consideration of the specification of the power distributor in the house and the standard of the electric vehicle 50.

As can be seen from the above description, in the automotive power supply system of the present embodiment, when the measured value of the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1, the control box 3 defined as the control device is powered up. The supply limit signal is transmitted to the vehicle power supply unit 4. The automotive power supply unit 4 is configured to turn off the relay 41 based on this power supply limit signal. Thus, the vehicle power supply unit 4 stops supplying power to the electric vehicle 50. Therefore, the use of the electric appliance in the house H can be prioritized while charging the electric vehicle. In other words, electric appliances such as electric cookers are temporarily used in life. Therefore, electric appliances such as electric cookers have a significant impact on life. In contrast, the battery of an electric vehicle is charged over a long time. Therefore, the suspension of the electric power supply to the electric vehicle slightly affects the charging of the electric vehicle. Therefore, when the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1, the power supply to the electric vehicle 50 is limited. Therefore, electric power is preferentially supplied to the electrical equipment of the house H. FIG. As a result, generation | occurrence | production of the peak of main current I1 can be prevented, and the convenience of living can be maintained. In addition, the prevention of the occurrence of the peak of the main current I1 makes it possible to reduce the peak value of the current consumption in the entire area even if the electric vehicle is widely used in the whole area. Therefore, this configuration makes it possible to stably supply power.

That is, the vehicle power supply unit of the present embodiment includes a disconnect member. The connection blocking element is configured to block the power supply path. When the control unit generates the power supply restriction signal, the connection blocking element blocks the power supply path. Thus, the current supplied to the electric vehicle is limited.

Thus, if the main current exceeds the current rating of the main breaker, the power supplied to the electric vehicle is immediately limited. That is, it is possible to prevent the transient current from being continuously applied to the main breaker. As a result, blocking of the main circuit breaker can be prevented.

In this embodiment, when the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold value Th1 for a certain period of time, the power supply to the electric vehicle 50 is stopped. However, the power supply to the electric vehicle 50 may be stopped at the moment when the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1.

(Third Embodiment)

The third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 5. The components of this embodiment are common to the components of the first embodiment. Therefore, descriptions and examples of the components are omitted.

In the first embodiment, when the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1 for a period of time, the vehicle power supply unit 4 stops supplying power to the electric vehicle 50. However, in the present embodiment, when the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1 for a certain period, the automotive power supply unit 4 reduces the current value of the charging current I2.

The operation of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 5A shows the measured value of the main current I1 measured by the current measuring unit 2. 5B shows an output signal that is an output from the control box 3. 5C shows the duty cycle of the charge control signal SA transmitted from the vehicle power supply unit 4 to the electric vehicle 50. 5 (D) shows the charging current I2.

During a period between time t0 and time t1, the automotive power supply unit 4 supplies electric power to the electric vehicle 50, so that the battery of the electric vehicle 50 is charged. In addition, in the period between t0 and t1, an electric device is used in the house H. The sum of "current consumption by the electric equipment in the house H" and "charge current I2" corresponds to the measured value of the main current I1. Main current I1 is lower than first threshold Th1. Therefore, the control box 3 does not output the "power supply limit signal". In this embodiment, the first threshold Th1 is determined to be a predetermined ampere. The first threshold Th1 of the predetermined amperage corresponds to 110% of the current rating of the main breaker 11. That is, the current rating of the main breaker 11 is, for example, equal to 60 amperes.

At time t1, an electric device configured to consume a large amount of power begins to be used in the house H. As a result, the measured value of the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1 (60 amperes). The control box 3 is configured to continuously compare the measured value of the main current I1 with the first threshold Th1 so that the control box 3 determines whether the measured value of the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold value Th1 Th1) or lower than the first threshold Th1. At time t2, " state in which main current I1 exceeds first threshold Th1 " is maintained for a predetermined period dT1. Therefore, at time t2, the control box 3 transmits the electric power supply limiting signal S3 including the instruction for decreasing the charging current I2 to the electric power supply unit 4 for the vehicle.

When the control unit 44 of the automotive power supply unit 4 receives the power supply restricting signal S3 at time t2, the control unit 44 instructs the charging (I2) (The charge control signal SA which commands to reduce the charge current I2 by dI1, that is, the charge stop signal SA). The first threshold Th1 is 10 amps higher than the current rating of the main breaker 11. According to this setting, the amount of reduction dI1 of the current is set to 12 amps in consideration of a margin of 2 amps. During the period up to the time t1, when the vehicle power supply unit 4 transmits a signal that allows the charging circuit 51 to charge the battery to 30 amps or less, the charging circuit of the electric vehicle 50 ( 51) charges the battery to less than 30 amps. The automotive power supply unit 4 comprises a current detector 48 implemented as a current transformer. This current detector 48 is configured to detect the current flowing through the internal line 40. Based on the detection result generated by the current detector 48, the automotive power supply unit 4 charges a charge control signal (command) to command adjustment so that the charging current I2 has a dI1 lower current value than the current charging current. SA). The signal conversion unit 45 converts the signal form of the charging control signal SA and outputs the charging control signal SA to the electric vehicle 50 from the signal output unit 46.

When the charging circuit 51 of the electric vehicle 50 receives the charging control signal SA from the power supply unit 4 for the vehicle, the charging circuit 51 of the electric vehicle 50 receives the charging control signal SA. The current value of the charging current I2 is controlled according to the duty cycle of. When the duty cycle of the charge control signal SA is changed at time t2, the vehicle power supply unit 4 reduces the charge current I2 in accordance with the change in the duty cycle. That is, the first threshold Th1 (which is 60 amps) is higher than the current rating of the main breaker 11. When a current equal to or larger than the first threshold value Th1 is applied to the main breaker 11, the control box 3 generates the power supply restricting signal S3. Based on this power supply limit signal S3, the vehicle power supply unit 4 reduces the "charge current I2 supplied to the electric vehicle 50" by dI1. As a result, since the main current I1 is reduced by dI1, the main current I1 is 48 amps or less. Therefore, the main current I1 is adjusted within the current rating. Therefore, the interruption of the main circuit breaker 11 when the transient current is applied to the main circuit breaker 11 can be prevented. In addition, the current value supplied to the electric vehicle 50 decreases, but the battery can be continuously charged without stopping the charging of the battery.

In addition, when the use of the electric device of the house H is stopped in the period after the time t3 when the battery charging of the electric vehicle 50 is stopped, the main current I1 is a predetermined current smaller than the third threshold Th3. Decrease in value. (The third threshold Th3 is defined as the recovery current value). When the main current I1 is kept below the third threshold Th3 for a certain period dT2, the control box 3 generates the power supply limit cancel signal S4. This power supply limit cancel signal S4 commands the cancellation of the power supply limit to the electric vehicle 50.

When the control unit 44 of the automotive power supply unit 4 receives the power supply restriction cancel signal S4 at time t4, the control unit 44 sets the current charging current I2 to increase by dI1 And generates a charge control signal SA. The signal conversion unit 45 converts the signal form of the charging control signal SA. Subsequently, the signal output unit 46 transmits the charge control signal SA to the electric vehicle 50. The charging circuit 51 of the electric vehicle 50 is configured to adjust the charging current based on the duty cycle of the charging control signal SA transmitted from the vehicle power supply unit 4. Thus, at time t4, the duty cycle of the charge control signal SA is changed to a duty cycle equal to the duty cycle in the period before the current is reduced. (In other words, at time t4, the duty cycle of the charge control signal SA is changed to the same duty cycle as the duty cycle in the period before time t2.) As a result, the current value of the charge current I2 increases by dI1. do. Therefore, the charging circuit 51 charges the battery 52 with a current value equal to the current value in the period before time t2. In this state, the current consumed by the electric appliance in the house H is reduced. Therefore, even if the charging current I2 is increased, the current value of the main current I1 is lower than the first threshold Th1. Thus, power is continuously supplied to the electric vehicle 50.

As can be seen from the above description, in the automotive power supply system of the present embodiment, when the measured value of the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1, the control box 3 defined by the control device is powered up. The supply limit signal is transmitted to the vehicle power supply unit 4. The vehicle power supply unit 4 reduces the power supplied to the electric vehicle 50 based on this power supply limit signal. Therefore, the use of the electric appliance in the house H can be prioritized while charging the electric vehicle. That is, electrical equipment such as an electric cooker is temporarily used in life. Therefore, electrical appliances such as electric cookers have a significant impact on life. In contrast, the battery of an electric vehicle is charged over a long time. Therefore, the suspension of the electric power supply to the electric vehicle slightly affects the charging of the electric vehicle. Therefore, when the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1, the power supply to the electric vehicle 50 is reduced. Therefore, electric power is preferentially supplied to the electrical equipment of the house H. FIG. As a result, generation | occurrence | production of the peak of main current I1 can be prevented, and the convenience of living can be maintained. The prevention of the occurrence of the peak of the main current I1 makes it possible to reduce the peak value of the current consumption in the whole region even if the electric vehicle becomes widely used in the whole area. Therefore, this configuration makes it possible to stably supply power.

In the present embodiment, when the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1 for a period of time, the power supply to the electric vehicle 50 is reduced. However, it is also possible to immediately reduce the power supply to the electric vehicle 50 at the moment when the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1.

(Fourth Embodiment)

The fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. The components of this embodiment are common to the components of the first embodiment. Therefore, descriptions and examples of the components are omitted.

In the third embodiment, when the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1 for a period dT1, the vehicle power supply unit 4 restricts the power supply to the electric vehicle 50. In contrast, in the present embodiment, when the main current I1 exceeds the second threshold Th2 for a predetermined period dT3, the automotive power supply unit 4 limits the power supply to the electric vehicle 50. do. The second threshold Th2 is set lower than the first threshold Th1. The predetermined period dT3 is set longer than the constant period dT1.

The operation of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Fig. 6 (A) shows the measured value of the main current I1 measured by the current measuring unit 2. Fig. 6B shows an output signal that is an output from the control box 3. 6C shows the duty cycle of the charge control signal SA output from the vehicle power supply unit 4 to the electric vehicle 50. 6 (D) shows the charging current I2.

During a period between time t0 and time t1, the automotive power supply unit 4 supplies electric power to the electric vehicle 50, so that the battery of the electric vehicle 50 is charged. In addition, in the period between t0 and t1, an electric device is used in the house H. The current measuring unit 2 is configured to provide a current value of the main current I1. The control box 3 is configured to compare the measured value with the first threshold Th1 and the second threshold Th2, respectively. The control box 3 is configured to output the power supply limit signal S3 when the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1 for a predetermined period dT1. Alternatively, the control box 3 is configured to output the power supply limit signal S3 when the main current I1 exceeds the second threshold Th2 for a predetermined period dT3. (The predetermined period dT3 is set longer than the predetermined period dT1.) The power supply limit signal S3 includes a command to reduce the charging current I2 supplied to the electric vehicle 50. The power supply limit signal S3 is transmitted to the vehicle power supply unit 4. In the period between the time tO and the time t1, the sum of "current consumption by the electric equipment in the house H" and "charge current I2" corresponds to the measured value of the main current I1. The main current I1 is lower than the first threshold Th1 and lower than the second threshold Th2. Therefore, the control box 3 does not output the "power supply limit signal". In this embodiment, the first threshold Th1 is determined to be a predetermined ampere. In this embodiment, the first threshold Th1 is set to a current value corresponding to 110% of the current rating of the main breaker 11. That is, the first threshold value Th1 is set to 55 amps equivalent to 110% of 50 amps equal to the current rating of the main breaker 11. The second threshold Th2 is set to the same value as the current rating (50 amps) of the main breaker 11.

At time t1, an electric device configured to consume a large amount of electric power starts to be used in the house H. [ As a result, the measured value of the main current I1 exceeds the second threshold Th2 (50 amps). However, the measured value of the main current I1 is lower than the first threshold Th1 (55 amps). When the current value of the main current I1 is higher than the second threshold Th2 and lower than the first threshold Th1 for the predetermined period δT3, the control box 3 sends the power supply limit signal S3. To the vehicle power supply unit 4. (The predetermined period δT3 is set to, for example, 5 seconds. The power supply limit signal S3 includes a command to decrease the charging current I2.)

When the control unit 44 of the vehicle power supply unit 4 receives the power supply limit signal S3 at time t2, the control unit 44 generates the charge control signal SA. (The charge control signal SA is, in other words, the current decrease signal.) This charge control signal SA includes an instruction to decrease the current current value by dI2. The first threshold value Th1 is set to be 5 amps higher than the current rating of the main breaker 11. (The first threshold Th1 is set to 55 amperes higher than the current rating of the main breaker 11) The second threshold Th2 is set equal to the current rating (50 amperes) of the main breaker 11 . Therefore, the reduction amount of the current dI1 in the state where the charge current I2 exceeds the second threshold Th2 is set to 7 amperes in consideration of the margin of 2 amperes. When the automotive power supply unit 4 transmits a signal to allow charging of the battery at 30 amps or less for a period up to time t1, the charging circuit 51 of the electric vehicle 50 charges the battery at 30 amps or less. To charge. The current detector 48, which is implemented as a current transformer, is configured to detect the current flowing through the internal line 40. Therefore, on the basis of the detection result generated by the current detector 48, the vehicle power supply unit 4 generates the charge control signal SA. The charging control signal SA includes a command for adjusting the charging current I2 by decreasing the current value by dI2. (For example, if the current charge current is 25 amperes, the current reduced by dI1 is 18 amperes.) The signal conversion unit 45 converts the signal form of the charge control signal SA. The signal output unit 46 then transmits a charge control signal SA to the electric vehicle 50.

The charging circuit 51 of the electric vehicle 50 adjusts the current value of the charging current I2 according to the duty cycle of the charging control signal SA transmitted from the vehicle power supply unit 4. When the duty cycle of the charge control signal SA is changed at time t2, the charge current I2 is decreased by dI2 according to the changed duty cycle. In addition, the main current I1 is 48 amps or less. Therefore, the main current I1 can be adjusted to within the current rating.

As described above, when the current higher than the second threshold Th2 and lower than the first threshold Th1 continues for 5 minutes, the control box 3 generates the power supply limit signal S3. (In particular, when the transient current is within 5 amps, compared to the current rating of the main breaker 11 for 5 minutes, the control box 3 generates a power supply limit signal S3.) Automotive power supply The unit 4 reduces the charging current I2 by dI2 based on the power supply limit signal S3 transmitted from the control box 3. Therefore, main current I1 is reduced by dI2 so that main current I1 has a value of 48 amps or less. That is, the main current I1 is adjusted to be within the current rating. As a result, the interruption of the main breaker 11 due to the transient current can be prevented. In addition, in the electric vehicle 50, although the charging current is reduced, the battery can be continuously charged without stopping the charging of the battery.

Then, in the period after time t3, the charging current I2 supplied to the electric vehicle 50 is reduced. In this state, when the use of the electrical equipment of the house H is stopped, the main current I1 becomes smaller than the predetermined third threshold Th3. ("Main current that becomes smaller than the third threshold Th3" is, in other words, defined as a recovery current value). When the main current I1 is lower than the third threshold Th3 for a certain period dT4, the control box 3 generates the power supply limit cancel signal S4. This power supply limit cancel signal S4 includes a command for canceling the limit of power supply to the electric vehicle 50.

When the control unit 44 of the vehicle power supply unit 4 receives the power supply restriction cancel signal S4 at time t4, the control unit 44 generates the charge control signal SA. This charge control signal SA includes an instruction to increase the current charge current I2 by dI2. The signal conversion unit 45 converts the signal form of the charging control signal SA. Subsequently, the signal output unit 46 transmits the charge control signal SA to the electric vehicle 50. In the charging circuit 51 of the electric vehicle 50, when the duty cycle is changed to a duty cycle equal to the duty cycle in a period before the duty cycle of the charging control signal SA is reduced, the charging circuit 51 is charged with a charging current. Increase (I2) by dI2. Therefore, the charging circuit 51 charges the battery 52 with a current value equal to the current value in the period before time t2. In this state, even if the charging current I2 is increased, the current consumed by the electric appliance in the house H is reduced. Therefore, the main current I1 has a current value lower than the first threshold Th1 and lower than the second threshold Th2. Thus, charging of the electric vehicle 50 is continued.

As can be seen from the above description, even if the main current I1 applied to the main circuit breaker 11 is lower than the first threshold Th1, the current is lower than the first threshold Th1 for a predetermined period dT3, and The power supply to the electric vehicle 50 can be restrict | limited in the state more than 2 threshold Th2. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the peak value of the main current I1.

(Fifth Embodiment)

A fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The components of this embodiment are substantially in common with the components of the first embodiment except that the control box 3 is omitted. Therefore, the same reference numerals are given to the components that are common to the components of the first embodiment. Accordingly, the description of the components common to those of the first embodiment is omitted.

In the first embodiment, the current measuring unit 2 is configured to measure the main current I1, so that the current measuring unit 2 generates a measured current value. Since the control box 3 is configured to compare the current value measured by the current measuring unit 2 with the first threshold value Th1, the control box 3 is configured such that the main current I1 is the first threshold value Th1. Is higher than or equal to or lower than the first threshold Th1. When the current value of the main current I1 is kept higher than the first threshold Th1 for a certain period dT, the control box 3 transmits a power supply limit signal to the vehicle power supply unit 4. This current supply limit signal includes a command to limit the supply of current to the electric vehicle 50. Thus, the automotive power supply unit 4 limits the current supplied to the electric vehicle 50. Conversely, in the present embodiment, the control unit 44 of the automotive electric power supply unit 4 is given the function included in the control box 3.

That is, since the current measuring unit 2 measures the current value of the main current I1, the current measuring unit 2 generates the measured current value. Since the control unit 44 of the vehicle power supply unit 4 compares the measured current value with the first threshold Th1, the control unit 44 has a main current I1 of the first threshold Th1. It is determined successively whether higher than) or lower than the first threshold Th1. When the current value of the main current I1 becomes higher than the first threshold Th1 for a certain period dT1, the control unit 44 generates the charge control signal SA. The charge control signal SA is, in other words, a charge stop signal. This charge control signal SA includes an instruction to stop the charging of the battery. The signal conversion unit 45 converts the signal form of the charging control signal SA. Thereafter, the signal output unit 46 transmits the charging control signal SA to the electric vehicle 50. In addition, when the power supply to the electric vehicle 50 is stopped, the control unit 44 of the vehicle power supply unit 4 compares the measured current value with the third threshold Th3. (The measured current value is generated by the current measuring unit 2 when the current measuring unit 2 measures the amount of current.) Therefore, the control unit 44 determines that the main current I1 is the third threshold value. It is recognized whether it is higher than Th3 or lower than the third threshold Th3. When the current value of the main current I1 is kept lower than the third threshold Th3 for a certain period dT2, the control unit 44 generates the charge control signal SA. The charge control signal SA includes a command to resume charging of the battery. The signal conversion unit 45 converts the signal form of the charging control signal SA. Then, the signal output unit 46 transmits the charge control signal SA to the electric vehicle 50. [ As can be seen from the above description, the present embodiment discloses an automotive power supply unit 4 including a control unit 44 having the function of the control box 3. Therefore, it is not necessary to employ the control box 3. As a result, the system configuration can be simplified.

It goes without saying that the second, third and fourth embodiments can employ the automotive power supply unit 4 including the control unit 44 having the function of the control box 3. . This configuration allows the control box 3 to be omitted in each of the second, third and fourth embodiments.

(Sixth Embodiment)

A sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figs. 8 and 9. Fig.

The automotive power supply system of the present embodiment is approximately the same as the automotive power supply system of the third embodiment, except for two features, one of which is an air conditioner 7a, 7b and the other of which is an interface unit 6a, 6b. Do. Each air conditioner 7a, 7b includes a JEM-A terminal. JEM-A terminals are based on the standards of the Japan Electrical Manufacturers' Association. Each interface unit 6a, 6b is configured to convert a signal transmitted from the control box 3 into a signal corresponding to the JEM-1 terminal, and is configured to transmit this signal to the corresponding air conditioner 7a, 7b. do. The same reference numerals are given to components that are common to the components of the third embodiment. Therefore, the description of the components common to those of the third embodiment is omitted.

The automotive power supply system of the third embodiment is configured to limit the power supply to the electric vehicle 50 when the main current I1 exceeds a predetermined first threshold Th1. However, the automotive power supply system of this embodiment is configured to set the air conditioners 7a and 7b in addition to the electric vehicle 50 as a target of power supply restriction when the main current I1 exceeds the threshold value. The electric vehicle 50 and the air conditioners 7a and 7b have priority. The priority relationship between the electric vehicle 50 and the air conditioners 7a and 7b is determined as follows. (Electric vehicle 50 <air conditioner 7a <air conditioner 7b). The power supply is stopped from the lowest priority order to the highest priority order. That is, when the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1, the power supply to the electric vehicle 50 having the lowest priority is stopped. Then, when the main current I1 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the power supply to the air conditioner 7a having the lowest priority next to the electric vehicle 50 is stopped. Then, when the main current I1 exceeds the predetermined threshold, the power supply to the air conditioner 7b having the lowest priority next to the air conditioner 7a is stopped.

The operation of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9A shows the measured value of the main current I1 measured by the current measuring unit 2. 9B shows an output signal which is an output from the control box 3. 9C shows the duty cycle of the charge control signal SA output from the vehicle power supply unit 4 to the electric vehicle 50. 9D shows the charging current I2. 9E shows the JEMA signal applied to the air conditioner 7a. 9F shows an on state or an off state of the air conditioner 7a. The shaded area A in Fig. 9 (A) represents the charging current I2 included in the main current I1. The charging current I2 is used for charging the battery of the electric vehicle 50. The shadow part B represents the current consumption by the air conditioner 7a.

During a period between time t0 and time t1, the automotive power supply unit 4 supplies electric power to the electric vehicle 50, so that the battery of the electric vehicle 50 is charged. In addition, in the period between t0 and t1, an electric device is used in the house H. The sum of "current consumption by the electric equipment in the house H" and "charge current I2" corresponds to the measured value of the main current I1. Main current I1 is lower than first threshold Th1. Therefore, the control box 3 does not output the "power supply limit signal". In this embodiment, the first threshold Th1 is set at 55 amps. The first threshold Th1 of 55 amps corresponds to 110% of the current rating of the main breaker 11. That is, the current rating of the main breaker 11 is 50 amps.

At time t1, an electric device configured to consume a large amount of power begins to be used in the house H. As a result, the measured value of the main current I1 exceeds the first threshold Th1 (55 amps). The control box 3 is configured to continuously compare the measured value of the main current I1 with the first threshold Th1, so that the control box 3 has a measured value of the first current I1. Whether it is higher than Th1 or lower than the first threshold Th1 is determined. At time t2, " state in which main current I1 exceeds first threshold Th1 " is maintained for a predetermined period dT1. Therefore, at time t2, control box 3 sends " power supply limit signal S1 comprising a command to reduce charging current I2 supplied to electric vehicle 50 " To transmit.

When the control unit 44 of the vehicle power supply unit 4 receives the power supply limit signal S3 at time t2, the control unit 44 charges to instruct the charge current I2 to be reduced by dI1. Generate a control signal SA. (The charge control signal SA instructing to decrease the charge current I2 by dI1 is, in other words, the charge decrease signal SA). The first threshold value Th1 is 5 amps higher than the current rating of the main breaker 11. According to this setting, the amount of reduction dI1 of the current is set to 12 amps in consideration of a margin of 2 amps. During the period up to the time t1, when the automotive power supply unit 4 transmits a signal that allows the charging circuit 51 to charge the battery to 30 amps or less, the charging circuit of the electric vehicle 50 ( 51) charges the battery to less than 30 amps. The automotive power supply unit 4 comprises a current detector 48 implemented as a current transformer. This current detector 48 is configured to detect the current flowing through the internal line 40. Based on the detection result generated by the current detector 48, the automotive power supply unit 4 adjusts the charging current I2 such that the charging current I2 has a current value dI1 lower than the current charging current. The charging control signal SA commanded is generated. (E.g., when the value of the current charging current is 25 amperes, the value of the adjusted current is 18 amps, (25 amps-7 amps = 18 amps)) The signal conversion unit 45 is the charge control signal SA Is converted into a signal form, and the charge control signal SA is output from the signal output unit 46 to the electric vehicle 50.

When the charging circuit 51 of the electric vehicle 50 receives the charging control signal SA from the vehicle power supply unit 4, the charging circuit 51 of the electric vehicle 50 is charged with the charging control signal SA. The current value of the charging current I2 is controlled according to the duty cycle of. When the duty cycle of the charge control signal SA is changed at time t2, the automotive power supply unit 4 decreases the charging current I2 by dI1 in accordance with the change in the duty cycle changed at time t2. That is, the first threshold value Th1 (which is 55 amperes) is higher than the current rating of the main breaker 11. When a current equal to or greater than the first threshold Th1 is applied to the main circuit breaker 11 for one second, the control box 3 generates a power supply limit signal S3. Based on this power supply limit signal S3, the vehicle power supply unit 4 reduces the "charge current I2 supplied to the electric vehicle 50" by dI1. However, there are cases where the main current I1 exceeds the current rating (50 amps) even though the main current I1 is reduced by dI1. In this case, at time t3, a current exceeding the current rating is continuously applied for a predetermined period dT4. Therefore, the control box 3 sends, at time t3, a "signal containing a command to stop the air conditioner 7a having the lowest priority next to the electric vehicle 50". Transfer to 6a. Accordingly, the IFU 6a transmits a JEMA signal including the stop command S5 to the air conditioner 7a. At this time, the air conditioner 7a is stopped by the JEMA signal transmitted from the IFU 6a. As a result, the main current I1 is adjusted within the current rating. In this way, the interruption of the main breaker 11 due to the transient current applied to the main breaker 11 can be prevented. In addition, the current value of the charging current in the electric vehicle 50 decreases, but the battery can be continuously charged without stopping the charging of the battery.

Then, in the period after time t4, the charging current I2 of the electric vehicle 50 is reduced, and the air conditioner 7a is stopped. In this state, when the use of the electrical equipment of the house H is stopped, the main current I1 becomes smaller than the predetermined third threshold Th3. ("Main current that becomes smaller than the third threshold Th3", in other words, is defined as a recovery current). If the main current I1 falls below the third threshold Th3 for a period of time dT2, the control box 3 sends a " signal containing a command to operate the air conditioner 7a " to the IFU 6a. . Accordingly, the IFU 6a sends a JEMA signal containing the operation command S6 to the air conditioner 7a. As a result, the air conditioner 7a is reactivated by the JEMA signal transmitted from the IFU 6a. Thus, the main current I1 is increased by the current consumed by the air conditioner 7a. However, if the main current I1 is still lower than the third threshold Th3, the control box 3 transmits the "power supply limit cancel signal S4" at the time t6 after the predetermined period dT5 has passed. To be sent). The power supply limit cancel signal S4 includes a cancel command of the power supply limit.

When the control unit 44 of the vehicle power supply unit 4 receives the power supply limit cancel signal S4 at time t6, the control unit 44 sets the current value of the current charging current I2 by dI1. Generate a charge control signal SA that includes an instruction to increase. The signal conversion unit 45 converts the signal form of the charging control signal SA. The signal output unit 46 transmits the charging control signal SA to the electric vehicle 50. The charging circuit 51 of the electric vehicle 50 is configured to adjust the charging current according to the duty cycle of the charging control signal SA transmitted from the vehicle power supply unit 4. At time t6, the duty cycle of the charge control signal SA is converted into a duty cycle equal to the duty cycle for the period before time t2. As a result, the charging circuit 51 of the electric vehicle 50 increases the charging current I2 by dI1. Therefore, the charging circuit 51 charges the battery 52 with a current value equal to the current value in the period before time t2. At this time, even if the charging current I2 is increased, the current consumed by the electric device in the house H is reduced. Therefore, the main current I1 is lower than the first threshold Th1. Thus, the "power supply" to the electric vehicle 50 continues.

The automotive power supply system is also configured to supply power to the first electrical device and the second electrical device. The control means is configured to determine the priority of the first electrical device as the first priority. The control means is configured to determine the priority of the second electrical device as the second priority. The control means is configured to determine the priority of the electric vehicle as a third priority. The third priority is lower than the second priority. The second priority is lower than the first priority. When the control means generates the power supply limit signal, the vehicle power supply unit is configured to limit the current supplied to the electric vehicle having the third priority. When the electric power supply unit for the vehicle limits the electric current supplied to the electric vehicle, the control means is configured to recognize the first limited state. When the control means generates the power supply restriction signal in the first limited state, the automotive power supply unit limits the electric power supplied to the second electric device having the second priority.

In addition, the power supply system for automobiles is preferably configured to supply power to a plurality of electrical devices. The control means is configured to determine the priority of each of the electric devices. The control means is configured to determine the priority of the electric vehicle among the electric vehicle and the electric appliances as the lowest priority. When the control means generates a power supply limit signal, the vehicle power supply unit is configured to limit the power supplied to the electric vehicle having the lowest priority. If the vehicle power supply unit has limited the power supplied to the electric vehicle with the lowest priority, the control means is configured to recognize the first restricted state. When the control means generates the power supply restriction signal in the first limited state, the vehicle power supply unit is supplied to the electrical equipment in order from the electrical equipment having the lowest priority to the electrical equipment having the highest priority among the plurality of electrical equipment. Configured to limit the power supplied.

This configuration makes it possible to maintain the convenience of living when the electric appliances are used. In addition, the peak value of the current consumption can be reduced.

In addition, a plurality of electric devices are installed in the house. Therefore, when the electronic device is used, it is possible to maintain the convenience of the user's life in the house.

In addition, when the control means generates the power supply limit signal in the first state, the vehicle power supply unit stops or reduces the power supplied to the second electric device.

In addition, when the control means generates the power supply limit signal in the first state, the vehicle power supply unit is supplied to the electrical equipment in order from the electrical equipment having the lowest priority among the electrical equipment to the electrical equipment having the highest priority. Stop or reduce power.

It goes without saying that the means for controlling the "power supply" can be applied to the above-described embodiment except the third embodiment. Therefore, it is possible to control the electric power supplied to the " electrical appliance having a JEM-A terminal, such as an air conditioner " and an " electric vehicle ". Therefore, the same effect can be obtained in this embodiment. In addition, the present embodiment has been described using an electric device which is air conditioners 7a and 7b having JEM-A terminals. However, the means disclosed in this embodiment can be applied to an electric appliance such as a floor heating system having a JEM-A terminal.

In each of the above-described embodiments, the distribution panel 1 supplies the commercial AC power to the electric vehicle 50. However, when the "electric vehicle 50 receives DC power" and the "battery 52 is configured to be charged with DC power", a distribution panel configured to distribute DC power to electric equipment in the house may be employed. Therefore, the electric vehicle 50 is supplied with direct current power.

That is, the power supplied from the power supply through the breaker means may be DC power and AC power.

In the above embodiment, the distribution panel includes a main breaker and a branch breaker. However, branch breakers are not essential to the distribution panel. That is, the distribution panel is required to have a breaker.

In addition, the branch breaker is arranged on the track between the main breaker and the automotive power supply unit. Further, the branch circuit breaker is disposed in a line between the main breaker and the electric device.

In addition, in the above embodiment, the first threshold value is set to 110% or more of the current rating. However, it is not essential to set the first threshold to 110% or more of the current rating. That is, the first threshold is arbitrarily determined.

Further, in the above embodiment, the electric vehicle is connected to the power supply system for the vehicle by the connector. However, in the present invention, connection establishment by a connector is not essential. That is, the present system may be applied to a wireless charging system.

1 distribution panel
2 Current measurement unit
3 control box (control device)
4 Automotive power supply units
5 Automotive Connectors
11 main breaker
12 branch breaker
43 Electric Leak Detector
44 control unit
45 signal conversion unit
46 signal output unit
47 power
50 electric cars
51 charging circuit
52 Battery
53 connector terminals

Claims (24)

Configured to supply power to an electric vehicle having a battery and a charging circuit, the battery is provided to generate power to enable the vehicle to operate, and the charging circuit is configured to charge the battery such that the battery is An automotive power supply system that is charged by a charging circuit,
Breaker means;
A current measuring unit configured to measure a current value of a main current applied to the breaker means;
Control means configured to generate a power supply limit signal comprising a command to limit the power supplied to the electric vehicle when the measured current value of the main current exceeds a first threshold value; And
A power supply unit for a vehicle, configured to receive power through the breaker means, the power supply unit configured to supply power to a charging circuit of the electric vehicle
Including,
And said vehicle power supply unit is configured to limit a current applied to said electric vehicle when said control means generates said power supply limit signal. The method of claim 1,
The circuit breaker means comprising a distribution panel comprising a main circuit breaker and a branch circuit breaker,
The current measuring unit is configured to measure a current value of a main current applied to the main breaker,
The vehicle power supply unit is configured to receive power through the branch breaker, and is configured to supply power to a charging circuit of the electric vehicle,
And said vehicle power supply unit is configured to limit power supplied to said electric vehicle when said control means generates a power supply restriction signal. The method according to claim 1 or 2,
Wherein the automotive power supply unit includes a connector terminal detachably mounted to the connector of the automobile. 4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The breaker means has a current rating,
And the first threshold is above the current rating. The method of claim 2,
The main circuit breaker has a current rating,
And the first threshold is above the current rating. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The vehicle power supply unit includes a connection blocking element configured to block a power supply path provided for supplying power to the electric vehicle,
And when the control means generates a power supply limit signal, the vehicle power supply unit is configured to block the power supply path to limit the power supplied to the electric vehicle. The method of claim 6,
The automotive power supply unit comprises an electrical leak detector,
The electrical leak detector is configured to detect the presence or absence of an electrical leak based on a current flowing through the power supply path,
And the electrical leakage detector is configured to enable the connection blocking element to block the power supply path when detecting the electrical leakage. 8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The vehicle power supply unit includes a signal transmission unit configured to transmit a signal to a charging circuit of the electric vehicle,
When the control means generates a power supply limit signal, the automotive power supply unit is configured to enable the signal transmission unit to transmit a charge stop signal to the charging circuit,
Wherein the charge stop signal includes a command to stop supplying electric power to the electric vehicle so that the electric power supply unit for the vehicle is configured to limit electric power supplied to the electric vehicle. The method of claim 3,
The automotive power supply unit comprises a signal transmission unit,
The signal transmission unit is configured to transmit a signal to the charging circuit of the electric vehicle through the connector terminal,
When the control means generates a power supply limit signal, the vehicle power supply unit is configured such that the signal transmission unit can transmit a charge stop signal to the charge circuit, and the charge stop signal is instructed to stop charging. And a current supplied to the electric vehicle is thus limited. 8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The automotive power supply unit comprises a signal transmission unit,
Wherein the signal transmission unit is configured to transmit a signal to a charging circuit of the electric vehicle,
When the control means generates a power supply limit signal, the vehicle power supply unit is configured such that the signal transmission unit can transmit a current reduction signal to the charging circuit, and the current reduction signal is supplied to the electric vehicle. And a command to reduce the current that is made, thereby limiting the current supplied to the electric vehicle. The method of claim 3,
The automotive power supply unit comprises a signal transmission unit,
The signal transmission unit is configured to transmit a signal to the charging circuit of the electric vehicle through the connector terminal,
When the control means generates a power supply limit signal, the vehicle power supply unit is configured such that the signal transmission unit can transmit a current reduction signal to the charging circuit, and the current reduction signal is supplied to the electric vehicle. And a command to reduce the current that is made, thereby limiting the current supplied to the electric vehicle. 12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11,
And the control means is configured to limit the power supplied to the electric vehicle when the measured current value of the main current exceeds a first threshold value for a first period of time. 13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12,
If the current value measured by the current measuring unit exceeds a second threshold value for a predetermined period, the control means is configured to send a power supply limit signal to the automotive power supply unit,
And the second threshold is set lower than the first threshold. The method of claim 13,
And the predetermined period is set longer than the first period. The method according to claim 13 or 14,
And the second threshold is set above the current rating. 16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 15,
In a state where the electric power supply unit for the vehicle reduces the current supplied to the electric vehicle, when the measured current value becomes lower than the third threshold value lower than the first threshold value for a certain period of time, the control means is configured to supply electric power. Generate a supply restriction cancellation signal,
The power supply limit cancel signal includes a command to cancel a limit of power supplied to the electric vehicle,
And said vehicle power supply unit is configured to cancel a limitation of power supplied to said electric vehicle based on said power supply restriction cancel signal. The method of claim 16,
And the third threshold is set lower than the current rating. 16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 15,
When the measured current value is lower than a third threshold lower than the first threshold for a period of time in a state where the vehicle power supply unit stops supplying power to an electric vehicle, the control means supplies power. Generate a restriction cancel signal,
The power supply limit cancel signal includes a command to cancel a limit of power supplied to the electric vehicle,
And said vehicle power supply unit is configured to cancel a limitation of power supplied to said electric vehicle based on said power supply restriction cancel signal. 19. The method of claim 18,
And the third threshold is set lower than the current rating. 20. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 19,
And when the control means generates a power supply limit signal, the automotive power supply unit limits the current supplied to the electric vehicle so that the main current is lower than the current rating. 21. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 20,
Wherein the control means is a control unit disposed in the automotive power supply unit. 22. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 21,
Wherein the control means is a control device. The method of claim 1,
The automotive power supply system is configured to supply electric power to the first electric device and the second electric device,
The control means is configured to determine the priority of the first electrical device as the first priority,
The control means is configured to determine the priority of the second electrical device as the second priority,
The control means is configured to determine the priority of the electric vehicle as a third priority,
The third priority is lower than the second priority,
The second priority is lower than the first priority,
When the control means generates the power supply limit signal, the vehicle power supply unit is configured to limit the current supplied to the electric vehicle having the third priority,
The control means is configured to recognize a first limited state when the vehicle power supply unit has limited the current supplied to the electric vehicle,
When the control means generates a power supply limit signal in the first limited state, the automotive power supply unit limits the power supplied to the second electric device having a second priority. . The method of claim 1,
Wherein the automotive power supply system is configured to supply electric power to a plurality of electric devices,
Wherein the control means is configured to determine a priority of each of the electric devices,
The control means is configured to determine a priority of the electric vehicle among the electric vehicle and the electric devices as the lowest priority,
When the control means generates a power supply limit signal, the vehicle power supply unit is configured to limit the power supplied to the electric vehicle having the lowest priority,
The control means is configured to recognize a first limited state when the power supply unit for the vehicle has limited the power supplied to the electric vehicle having the lowest priority,
When the control means generates the electric power supply restriction signal in the first limited state, the electric power supply unit for the automobile has the electric power supplied from the lowest priority electric device to the electric appliance with the highest priority The power supply system comprising:

Images