HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD. patent applications published on October 12th, 2023

Summary of the patent applications from HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD. on October 12th, 2023

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has recently filed several patents related to various technologies. These patents cover a range of areas including image processing, power supply apparatus, electric motor assembly, power source circuit detection, battery module, all-solid-state battery manufacturing, fuel cell system, control system for moving bodies, and traffic safety support systems.

Notable applications include:

• An image processing device that selects specific captured images based on the music being played during the time of photographing.
• A power supply apparatus used to supply power to multiple loads without an isolated DC/DC converter.
• An apparatus for efficiently assembling a stator component of an electric motor.
• A system for detecting abnormalities in a power source circuit by measuring the power supplied to the ground circuit.
• A battery module with higher energy density consisting of multiple battery cells.
• An apparatus for manufacturing all-solid-state batteries efficiently.
• A fuel cell system with two batteries and a step-down device, controlled by a bypass valve.
• A control system that allows a user to request a moving body to travel to a specific location and captures image data of the surroundings.
• A traffic safety support system that includes mobile terminals and a coordination support device for risk notifications.
• A traffic safety support system that improves traffic safety when a mobile body merges onto a road where a mobile vehicle is traveling.

Overall, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has been actively filing patents in various fields, showcasing their commitment to innovation and technological advancements.

Patent applications for HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD. on October 12th, 2023

ATMOSPHERIC BOX (17716488)

Inventor Landry M. HOSTETLER

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an atmospheric box that is connected to a fuel tank in a vehicle. This box is designed to house a fuel vent pressure sensor. It consists of a base with a floor, a sidewall, and a drain hole, and a cover with a top section and an outer wall. The cover fits tightly onto the base to prevent water and debris from entering. Inside the cover, there is a labyrinth wall and a tube joint that allows access to the atmosphere for pressure measurement. Overall, the atmospheric box provides a way to measure pressure while keeping out unwanted substances.

Abstract

An atmospheric box for use with a fuel vent pressure sensor is operatively connected to a fuel tank of a vehicle. The atmospheric box includes a base including a floor, a sidewall extending upward from the floor and having an outer perimeter, and a drain hole opening in the floor, and a cover including a top section, an outer wall extending downward from the top section and having an inner perimeter substantially similar to the outer perimeter of the sidewall, thereby creating an interference fit between the cover and the base. An inner labyrinth wall extends downward from the top section inward of the sidewall, and a tube joint in the cover defines an opening inward of the inner labyrinth wall. The atmospheric box provides access to the atmosphere for measuring pressure while blocking water and debris intrusion.

TORQUE CONTROL BASED ON GEAR SHIFT (17718709)

Inventor ANDREW G. SHAPIRO

Brief explanation

This abstract describes an apparatus that includes a dampening unit connected to an engine. The apparatus also includes a control unit that is connected to the dampening unit. The control unit is able to detect when the engine's transmission unit shifts gears. It then determines how long the dampening unit needs to absorb the engine's torsional vibrations during the gear shift. The control unit compares this dampening duration to a preset duration for a specific gear shift. Based on this comparison, the control unit determines how much torque control is needed for the dampening unit to absorb the engine's vibrations. Finally, the control unit controls the dampening unit based on the determined torque control amount.

Abstract

An apparatus is provided with a dampening unit coupled to an engine. The apparatus further includes a control unit communicably coupled to the dampening unit. The control unit detects a gear shift in a transmission unit associated with the engine. The control unit further determines a dampening duration of the dampening unit at the detected gear shift. The dampening duration corresponds to a time taken for the dampening unit to absorb torsional vibrations of the engine at the detected gear shift. The control unit further compares the determined dampening duration at the detected gear shift with a preset dampening duration at a preset gear shift. The control unit further determines, based on the comparison, a torque control amount for the dampening unit to absorb the torsional vibrations of the engine. The control unit further controls the dampening unit based on the determined torque control amount.

CHEMICAL HEAT STORAGE DEVICE (18190045)

Inventor Mitsumasa SORAZAWA

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a chemical heat storage device that aims to rapidly adsorb an adsorbate (a substance that is adsorbed onto a surface) onto a heat storage material. The device includes a liquid adsorbate, a heat storage material, and a sprayer. The heat storage material releases heat when the adsorbate is adsorbed onto it and stores the heat when the adsorbate is desorbed. The sprayer is used to spray the adsorbate onto the heat storage material, causing it to release the stored heat. This configuration allows for faster diffusion of the adsorbate within the heat storage material.

Abstract

To adsorb an adsorbate rapidly on a heat storage material with good energy efficiency. A chemical heat storage device includes an adsorbate, a heat storage material, and a sprayer. The adsorbate is in a liquid state at normal temperature. The heat storage material releases heat of adsorption in response to adsorption of the adsorbate on the heat storage material and stores the heat of adsorption in response to desorption of the adsorbate from the heat storage material. The sprayer sprays the adsorbate on the heat storage material in a heat release period of causing the heat storage material to release the heat of adsorption. With the above-described configuration, it is possible to increase a speed of diffusion of the adsorbate in the heat storage material through spraying of the adsorbate on the heat storage material.

AIR GUIDE DUCT FOR VEHICLE (17715301)

Inventor Pirooz MORADNIA

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a motor vehicle that has a front end and front wheel wells. The vehicle also has an air guide duct that has an opening at the front end of the vehicle and another opening into one of the front wheel wells. This duct is designed to guide incoming air from the front of the vehicle into the front wheel well.

Abstract

A motor vehicle having a front end, a pair of opposing front wheel wells rearward of the front end, and an air guide duct having at least one air inlet disposed forward of the front wheel wells and facing the front end of the motor vehicle. The air guide duct also has at least one air outlet opening into at least one of the front wheel wells such that incoming air from the front end of the motor vehicle is guided into at least one of the front wheel wells.

VEHICLE CONTROLLER AND VEHICLE CONTROL METHOD (18177180)

Inventor Yusuke Yoshimura

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a vehicle controller that has two main components: an identifying unit and a control unit. The identifying unit is responsible for determining the parking location of the vehicle. The control unit, on the other hand, is responsible for managing the power supply to the in-vehicle devices based on the operation of the power switch.

When the vehicle is parked and the power switch is turned off, the control unit ensures that power is still supplied to a specific in-vehicle device, known as the target device, for a predetermined duration of time. This duration is determined based on the identified parking location of the vehicle.

In simpler terms, this vehicle controller can identify where the vehicle is parked and will continue to provide power to a specific device inside the vehicle for a set amount of time after the vehicle is turned off, depending on where it is parked.

Abstract

A vehicle controller includes: an identifying unit that identifies a parking location of a vehicle; and a control unit that controls power supply to in-vehicle devices in response to operation on a power switch of the vehicle, the control unit maintains the power supply to a target in-vehicle device, which is at least one of the in-vehicle devices, during a predetermined target duration time after the vehicle is parked and the power switch is turned off, and the target duration time is determined depending on the parking location of the vehicle that is identified by the identifying unit.

RAPID ACCELERATION SUPPRESSION DEVICE AND RAPID ACCELERATION SUPPRESSION CONTROL METHOD (18188722)

Inventor Fumiaki YOSHIKAWA

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a device designed to suppress rapid acceleration in a vehicle. The device includes several components such as a gearshift position sensor, an accelerator pedal sensor, an accelerator operation detector, and an acceleration control module. The device is capable of controlling the vehicle's drive system to suppress acceleration when the gearshift is in a non-drive position and the accelerator pedal is suddenly depressed. Additionally, when the gearshift is changed from non-drive to drive while the accelerator pedal is depressed, the device allows the vehicle to travel at a low speed and then gradually accelerate up to a predetermined limit.

Abstract

A rapid acceleration suppression device of a vehicle includes: a shift position acquisition part configured to acquire an operation position of a gearshift; an accelerator position acquisition part configured to acquire a depression amount of an accelerator pedal; an accelerator operation determination part configured to determine an operating state of the accelerator pedal; and an acceleration suppression control part configured to provide control over a vehicle drive part, (i) such that acceleration of the vehicle is suppressed, when the position of the gearshift is in a non-drive range and also when the accelerator operation determination part determines that a sudden depression of the accelerator pedal, and (ii) such that the vehicle travels at a low speed, and then, at an accelerated speed within a prescribed upper limit, when the position of the gearshift is changed from the non-drive to drive range, while the accelerator pedal is kept on being depressed.

DRIVER ASSISTANCE SYSTEM (18189225)

Inventor Makoto KATAYAMA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a driver assistance system that uses an external sensor to gather information about the road ahead. The system then calculates the relative speed and predicted time to collision between the vehicle and an object. If the object is a pedestrian, the system automatically applies the brakes if the current state point is above a certain limit line. Additionally, if the state point is below or at the limit line, the system automatically changes the direction of the vehicle to avoid a collision.

Abstract

A driver assistance system is provided with: an external sensor unit that acquires forward information; and a driver assistance control device that calculates, on the basis of the forward information, a relative speed and a predicted time to collision between the vehicle body and an object, and additionally executes a braking control for emergency avoidance that operates a brake device automatically at a timing determined on the basis of the predicted time to collision. If the object is a pedestrian, the driver assistance control device executes the braking control when the current state point specified by the relative speed and the predicted time to collision is inside an area 1 above a braking avoidance limit line L, and executes a steering control that automatically changes the travel direction of the vehicle body when the state point is inside an area 2 at or below the limit line L.

VEHICLE CONTROLLER, VEHICLE, AND VEHICLE CONTROL METHOD (18335466)

Inventor Katsuya Yashiro

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a vehicle controller system that includes various components for controlling the vehicle's movements. The system includes a surrounding area recognition unit that detects the state of the vehicle's surroundings, a human detection unit that identifies specific objects in restricted areas, and an automated driving control part that allows the vehicle to follow the vehicle in front based on the information from the surrounding area recognition unit.

The automated driving control part can operate in two different support statuses. The first support status provides basic assistance to the driver, while the second support status offers a higher level of automation or reduces the tasks required from the driver.

If the vehicle is in the first support status and the human detection unit detects a specific object, the automated driving control part will maintain the vehicle's support status at the first level. However, if the vehicle is in the second support status and the human detection unit detects a specific object, the automated driving control part will shift the vehicle's support status back to the first level.

Abstract

A vehicle controller includes: a surrounding area recognition unit that detects a state surrounding a subject vehicle; a human detection unit that detects a specific target object in a specific area into which entry of the specific target object is restricted; an automated driving control part that provides control such that the subject vehicle follows a vehicle traveling ahead thereof, based on a result detected by the surrounding area recognition unit. The automated driving control part makes the subject vehicle operate at at least one of a first support status, and a second support status which has an automated degree higher than that of the first support status or has a task required to be done by a vehicle occupant of the subject vehicle less than that of the first support status. When the subject vehicle is traveling at the first support status and the human detection unit has detected a specific target object, the automated driving control part keeps the support status of the subject vehicle unchanged at the first support status. When the subject vehicle is traveling at the second support status and the detection unit has detected therein a specific target object, the automated driving control part shifts the support status of the subject vehicle from the second support status to the first support status.

CONTROL DEVICE (18113718)

Inventor Shinichi OKUNISHI

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a control device for a vehicle that uses a sensor to detect objects around the vehicle. The device includes a processor that collects information from the sensor and uses it to identify specific objects in different regions around the vehicle. It can recognize a first specific object in a wider region and then identify a second specific object in a narrower region when the first object is present.

Abstract

A control device that performs travel control of a vehicle, the control device includes a processor configured to acquire output information of a sensor configured to detect an object in the around of the vehicle based on a reflected wave from the object. The processor is configured to: acquire first detection point group data of the object in a first region in the around of the vehicle based on the output information of the sensor, and recognize a first specific object present in the around of the vehicle based on the first detection point group data: and recognize a second specific object present in the around of the vehicle based on the first detection point group data in a second region that is narrower than the first region in the around of the vehicle when recognizing the presence of the first specific object.

VEHICLE CONTROL DEVICE, VEHICLE CONTROL METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18177147)

Inventor Haruhiko Nishiguchi

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a vehicle control device that can recognize the surroundings of a vehicle and control its steering and speed accordingly. If the vehicle is changing lanes and there is another vehicle nearby, the device adjusts the range of recognition for the new lane based on the relative speed between the two vehicles. It then uses this information to control the lane change.

Abstract

A vehicle control device of an embodiment includes a recognizer that recognizes a peripheral situation of a host vehicle and a driving controller that controls one or both of steering and speed of the host vehicle on the basis of a result of recognition performed by the recognizer. In a case where the host vehicle traveling in a first lane performs a lane change to a second lane adjacent to the first lane and a case where it is recognized by the recognizer that there is another vehicle in the vicinity of the host vehicle, the driving controller specifies a position of the other vehicle by changing a range to be recognized as the second lane on the basis of a relative speed between the host vehicle and the other vehicle, and executes control related to the lane change on the basis of the specified position.

ABNORMALITY DETECTION DEVICE AND ABNORMALITY DETECTION PROGRAM (18005897)

Inventor Yuito Kubo

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an abnormality detection device that can analyze vehicle signals to identify abnormalities. The device uses a time window process to divide the signals into smaller time intervals and extract the data within each interval. A learning process is then used to create learned information based on the time-series data within the time windows. The device can reconstruct the time-series data using the learned information and calculate the error between the original and reconstructed data. Based on this error and the learned information, the device can determine the degree of abnormality in the vehicle signal.

Abstract

An abnormality detection device includes: a time window process part configured to divide, by time windows, each of a plurality of vehicle signals each including a time-series data and to extract the data included in the time window; a learning part configured to create learned information by means of learning using the time-series data in the vehicle signal divided by the time windows; and an abnormality degree calculation part configured to reconstruct the time-series data in the vehicle signal divided by the time windows, based on the learned information, thereby calculate an error between before and after the reconstruction, and further calculate an abnormality degree of the vehicle signal based on the calculated error and the learned information.

VEHICLE CONTROL DEVICE AND VEHICLE CONTROL METHOD (18036419)

Inventor Sho Hitakatsu

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a vehicle control device that can recognize the surrounding situation of a vehicle and control its steering and acceleration/deceleration independently of the driver. The device has different driving modes, and it can switch from a second driving mode to a first driving mode when a certain number of signs are recognized by the device within a specific range of the vehicle's route.

Abstract

A vehicle control device includes a recognizer configured to recognize a surrounding situation of a vehicle, a driving controller configured to control steering and acceleration/deceleration of the vehicle independently of an operation of a driver of the vehicle; and a mode decider configured to decide on any one of a plurality of driving modes including a first driving mode and a second driving mode as a driving mode of the vehicle. The recognizer recognizes a sign existing within a reference range of a route along which the vehicle travels. The mode decider changes the driving mode of the vehicle from the second driving mode to the first driving mode when the driving mode of the vehicle is the second driving mode and when the number of signs recognized by the recognizer exceeds a first reference value.

VEHICLE CONTROL DEVICE, VEHICLE CONTROL METHOD, AND PROGRAM (18023390)

Inventor Kanta Tsuji

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a vehicle control device that includes a recognizer to identify the surroundings of a vehicle, a driving controller to control the steering and acceleration/deceleration of the vehicle based on the recognized surroundings or map information, a storage to store images captured by a camera on the vehicle, and a storage controller to manage the storage. The driving controller can switch between different driving modes, with the second mode requiring more input from the vehicle occupant. If there is an issue with the camera or storage in either mode, the driving controller will switch to the second mode and continue operating in that mode.

Abstract

A vehicle control device of embodiments includes a recognizer configured to recognize a surrounding status of a vehicle, a driving controller configured to control one or both of steering and acceleration or deceleration of the vehicle on the basis of the surrounding status recognized by the recognizer or map information, a storage configured to store images of the surroundings of the vehicle captured by a peripheral camera mounted on the vehicle; and a storage controller configured to control the storage. The driving controller causes the vehicle to travel in one of a plurality of driving modes including a first driving mode and a second driving mode in which a task imposed on an occupant of the vehicle is greater than that in the first driving mode. The driving controller causes the vehicle to travel by switching from the first driving mode to the second driving mode when an abnormality has occurred in one or both of the peripheral camera and the storage in the first driving mode, and continues the second driving mode when an abnormality has occurred in one or both of the peripheral camera and the storage in the second driving mode.

ELECTRIC OUTBOARD MACHINE (18189226)

Inventor Hiromichi KONISHI

Brief explanation

The present disclosure describes a way to enhance the impact resistance of an electric outboard machine. This machine consists of a body and an attachment that connects it to the rear of a boat. The body includes a propeller, an electric motor, and a controller that controls the motor. The controller is positioned between the motor and the attachment. In the event of a rear-end collision with another boat, the controller is easily protected from the impact, thus improving the overall impact resistance of the electric outboard machine.

Abstract

The present disclosure improves impact resistance of an electric outboard machine. The electric outboard machine includes an outboard machine body and an attachment. The attachment attaches the outboard machine body to a rear part of a boat. The outboard machine body includes a propeller, an electric motor that drives the propeller, and a controller that controls the motor. The controller is located between the motor and the attachment. If another boat collides with the boat from behind, the controller arranged between the motor and the attachment is easily protected from the impact upon rear-end collision. This can improve impact resistance of the electric outboard machine.

ANTI-VIBRATION MATERIAL (18167891)

Inventor Keita TAKAESU

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an anti-vibration material used in an engine mount. This material consists of a clay mineral and a solvent. The solvent is made up of water and a polyhydric alcohol with a molecular weight of 106 or less. The solvent contains between 35% and 55% of the polyhydric alcohol by mass.

Abstract

An anti-vibration material used in an engine mount is provided to include: a clay mineral; and a solvent, the solvent containing water and a polyhydric alcohol having a molecular weight of 106 or less, wherein the solvent has a polyhydric alcohol content of 35% by mass or more and 55% by mass or less.

DETECTION DEVICE (18181850)

Inventor Takashi Hashizume

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a detection device installed on a ship that can detect a specific area in front of the ship. The device is mounted on a structure above the ship's deck, specifically on a part located on the side of the structure's bow.

Abstract

A detection device is provided on a ship and detects a predetermined range positioned in front of the ship, the detection device being provided on a structure erected above a deck of the ship and being provided on a part positioned on a side of a bow of the structure.

INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, METHOD FOR CONTROLLING INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18210376)

Inventor Koichi TSUNO

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an information processing apparatus that includes a DC-DC converter. The apparatus has a calculation unit that calculates the impedance of a mobile battery attached to it. The control unit of the apparatus controls whether to continue or stop the boost operation of the DC-DC converter based on the impedance. If the impedance is below a certain threshold, the control unit continues the boost operation. If the impedance is equal to or above the threshold but below a second threshold, the control unit continues the boost operation but limits some functions of the information processing apparatus.

Abstract

An information processing apparatus with a DC-DC converter, comprising: a calculation unit configured to calculate an impedance of a mobile battery attached to the information processing apparatus; and a control unit configured to control continuation or stop of a boost operation of the DC-DC converter on a basis of the impedance, wherein the control unit performs control to continue the boost operation of the DC-DC converter when the impedance is less than a threshold, and performs control to continue the boost operation by limiting some of functions of the information processing apparatus when the impedance is equal to or more than the threshold and less than a second threshold.

AIRCRAFT RESERVATION SYSTEM (18176524)

Inventor Mitsutake Ando

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an aircraft reservation system that includes several components. These components include a reservation acceptance unit, a recommended candidate flight extraction unit, a reservation rate estimation unit, a recommended flight selection unit, and a recommended flight proposal unit.

The reservation acceptance unit is responsible for accepting reservations from customers. The recommended candidate flight extraction unit extracts a list of recommended flights that meet certain conditions, such as having available seats and meeting specific utilization spot and date/time requirements.

The reservation rate estimation unit estimates the reservation rate for the recommended flights at a predetermined time before the desired departure date and time. The recommended flight selection unit then selects the best recommended flight based on the highest reservation rate at the time of acceptance or the highest estimated reservation rate among the recommended flights.

Finally, the recommended flight proposal unit is responsible for proposing the selected recommended flight to the customer.

Abstract

An aircraft reservation system includes: a reservation acceptance unit; a recommended candidate flight extraction unit configured to extract a plurality of recommended candidate flights which satisfy a utilization spot condition and a utilization date and time condition and have a vacant seat; a reservation rate estimation unit configured to estimate a reservation rate at a time point a second predetermined time earlier than a desired departure date and time, for the plurality of recommended candidate flights; a recommended flight selection unit configured to select, as a recommended flight, the recommended candidate flight with the reservation rate at the time point when the reservation is accepted by the reservation acceptance unit being highest or the recommended candidate flight with the reservation rate estimated by the reservation rate estimation unit being highest among the plurality of recommended candidate flights; and a recommended flight proposal unit.

SYSTEM, INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, VEHICLE, AND METHOD (17703947)

Inventor Teruhisa MISU

Brief explanation

The system described in the abstract is designed to estimate the distance between a user and a target object. It does this by acquiring target object data from the user, which includes a feature of the target object selected by the user. The system then analyzes the target object data to determine if it includes data of a proper noun or a character string related to the target object, as well as data of a color related to the target object. Based on this analysis, the system estimates the distance from the target object to the user. The key point is that the estimated distance is shorter when the target object data includes a proper noun or character string, compared to when it includes only the color data.

Abstract

A system including an acquisition unit configured to acquire, from a user via a communication device associated with the user, target object data including a feature of a target object selected by the user, an analysis unit configured to analyze whether the target object data that has been acquired by the acquisition unit includes, as the feature, at least one of data of a proper noun or data of a character string related to the target object, and whether the target object data includes data of a color related to the target object, and an estimation unit configured to estimate a distance from the target object to the user, based on an analysis result of the analysis unit, wherein the estimation unit estimates the distance from the target object to the user such that the distance from the target object to the user in a case where the target object data includes at least one of the data of the proper noun or the data of the character string is shorter than the distance from the target object to the user in a case where the target object data includes the data of the color is provided.

HYDROGEN SUPPLY SYSTEM, RESERVATION DEVICE, RESERVATION METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18109280)

Inventor Satoru Shinzaki

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a hydrogen supply system for vehicles. The system includes several components: a facility identification unit that identifies a fuel supply facility near the vehicle's travel route, a calculation unit that estimates the remaining amount of hydrogen fuel when the vehicle reaches the fuel supply facility based on information transmitted from the vehicle, a determination unit that decides whether the vehicle needs to refuel based on the estimated remaining amount, and a registration unit that reserves a replenishment amount at the fuel supply facility if refueling is required.

Abstract

A hydrogen supply system includes: a facility identification unit that identifies a fuel supply facility in the vicinity of a travel route of a vehicle to a destination; a calculation unit that calculates an estimated remaining amount of hydrogen fuel at an arrival time when the vehicle reaches the fuel supply facility on the basis of remaining amount information indicating a remaining amount of the hydrogen fuel transmitted from the vehicle; a determination unit that determines whether or not refueling of the vehicle is required on the basis of the estimated remaining amount; and a registration unit that registers an estimated replenishment amount based on the estimated remaining amount and the arrival time as a usage reservation at the fuel supply facility in a case in which the determination unit determines that the refueling is required.

TRAFFIC SAFETY SUPPORT SYSTEM (18190077)

Inventor Akihito KIMATA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a traffic safety support system that aims to improve traffic safety when a mobile body (such as a motorcycle) merges onto a road where a mobile vehicle (the host vehicle) is traveling. The system includes various components such as a recognizer, a human-machine interface (HMI), a risk notification setting unit, and a risk notification control device. 

The risk notification setting unit is responsible for determining the appropriate notification mode based on the situation. In cases where a motorcycle is approaching as an oncoming vehicle and its travel path intersects with the host vehicle's path, the notification mode is set to a hinting notification mode. On the other hand, if the motorcycle is within a certain range for an analogue notification, the notification mode is set to an analogue notification mode.

In simpler terms, this system helps improve traffic safety by providing different types of notifications to the driver depending on the presence and position of a motorcycle on the road.

Abstract

Provided is a traffic safety support system capable of improving traffic safety in a situation in which a mobile body has merged onto a road on which a mobile vehicle as a host vehicle is traveling and is approaching the host vehicle. A traffic safety support system includes a recognizer, a HMI, a risk notification setting unit, and a risk notification control device. The risk notification setting unit sets a notification mode to a hinting notification mode in a case where a motorcycle acts as an oncoming vehicle and a first travel path of a four-wheeled automobile and a second travel path of the motorcycle join, and sets the notification mode to an analogue notification mode in a case where the motorcycle is present within an analogue notification actuation range.

TRAFFIC SAFETY SUPPORT SYSTEM (18190983)

Inventor Akihito KIMATA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a traffic safety support system that includes mobile terminals and a coordination support device. The mobile terminals are carried by traffic participants in a specific area, and they have a notification device that can provide risk notifications in different modes. The coordination support device can communicate with the mobile terminals and has various functions. It includes a target area recognizer that identifies traffic participants and environments, a predictor that forecasts future risks for multiple traffic participants in a specific monitoring area, and a risk notification specifier that determines how risk notifications should be delivered based on the recognition information and prediction results.

Abstract

A traffic safety support system  includes mobile terminals that move with traffic participants in a target traffic area, and a coordination support device  capable of communicating with the mobile terminals. Each of the mobile terminals includes a notification device configured to make a risk notification in a hinting notification mode or in an analogue notification mode. The coordination support device includes a target area recognizer  configured to recognize recognition targets including the traffic participants and traffic environments and acquire recognition information, a predictor  configured to predict a risk in future of prediction targets that are a plurality of traffic participants in a monitoring area that is part of the target traffic area, and a risk notification specifier  configured to set an operation manner of risk notification for each of support targets on the basis of the recognition information and a prediction result.

CONTROL SYSTEM, CONTROL METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM FOR STORING PROGRAM (17703577)

Inventor Teruhisa MISU

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a control system that allows a user to request a moving body (such as a robot or vehicle) to travel to a specific location. The user interacts with the moving body through a mobile terminal. Before the moving body reaches the designated place, the user and the moving body engage in interactive communication. Once the moving body reaches the designated place, it captures image data of the surroundings using an imaging unit. This image data is then used to evaluate the information transmitted by the user during the interactive communication.

Abstract

A control system comprises a travel control unit configured to cause a moving body to travel to a designated place designated by a dispatch request, in response to the dispatch request from a user. Interactive communication is performed between the user and the moving body via a mobile terminal held by the user, before the moving body reaches the designated place. Image data in which surroundings of the designated place are captured by an imaging unit is acquired, after the moving body has reached the designated place as a result of the interactive communication. Information that has been transmitted from the user in the interactive communication is evaluated, based on the image data that has been acquired.

FUEL CELL SYSTEM (18127139)

Inventor Sho AKABORI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a fuel cell system that consists of two batteries and a step-down device. The second battery has a higher voltage than the first battery. The system also includes a control device and a bypass valve. 

When the voltage supplied from the first battery to the control device is equal to or lower than a certain threshold value, the control device uses electric power from the step-down device to open the bypass valve. This process is called "opening degree learning" for the bypass valve.

Abstract

A fuel cell system includes a first battery, a second battery having a second battery voltage larger than the first battery voltage, and a step-down device for stepping down a voltage of the second battery. When the voltage supplied from the first battery to the control device is equal to or lower than the voltage threshold value, the control device supplies electric power to the bypass valve from the step-down device to perform opening degree learning for the bypass valve.

APPARATUS FOR MANUFACTURING ALL-SOLID-STATE BATTERY (18185398)

Inventor Takashi TOYOSHIMA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an apparatus used for manufacturing all-solid-state batteries efficiently. The apparatus includes a conveyor for a conductor, which acts as an electrode in the battery, and a conveyor for an insulator, which acts as an insulating member in the battery. There is also a cutter that creates a cut in the insulator to match its shape, and a laminator-pressurizer that combines and applies pressure to the conductor and the insulator.

Abstract

Provided is an apparatus for manufacturing an all-solid-state battery with high efficiency. An apparatus for manufacturing an all-solid-state battery includes: a conductor conveyor configured to convey a conductor adapted to function as an electrode that is an element of the all-solid-state battery; an insulator conveyor configured to convey an insulator adapted to function as an insulating member that is an element of the all-solid-state battery; a cutter configured to form, in the insulator, a cut in correspondence with the shape of the insulating member; and a laminator-pressurizer configured to laminate and pressurize the conductor conveyed by the conductor conveyor and the insulator having the cut formed by the cutter.

BATTERY MODULE (18192671)

Inventor Takahiro YASUE

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an object, which is to create a battery module that has a higher energy density. This battery module consists of multiple battery cells, each of which has a layered body and an exterior body. The purpose of this invention is to provide a simplified explanation of the abstract without overselling any specific features or benefits.

Abstract

An object is to provide a battery module with higher energy density. A battery module includes a plurality of battery cells each including a layered body and an exterior body, in which 

POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM (18192153)

Inventor Manabu Mitani

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a system that detects abnormalities in a power source circuit. It does this by disconnecting wires between a load module and a ground circuit, and then connecting either a positive or negative wire between the main power source and the ground circuit. The system then measures the amount of power supplied to the ground circuit and determines if there is an abnormality in the power source circuit based on this measurement.

Abstract

An abnormality determining section disconnects both a positive wire and a negative wire between a load module and a second ground circuit, connects one of a positive wire or a negative wire between a main power source apparatus and the second ground circuit, and determines whether there is an abnormality in a second main power source circuit based on an amount of power supplied to the second ground circuit in a state where one of the positive wire or the negative wire of the second main power source circuit is connected to a reference potential by the second ground circuit.

STATOR ASSEMBLY APPARATUS AND STATOR ASSEMBLY METHOD (18171309)

Inventor Norihiko HIKIMA

Brief explanation

The provided apparatus is designed to assemble a stator, which is a component of an electric motor. The apparatus includes several guide members that can be inserted into and removed from the electrically-insulating members of the stator core. These guide members are arranged in a radial direction within the slots of the stator. The apparatus also includes a presser that presses the coil of the stator outward. A controller is used to control the movement of the guide members. When the coil comes into contact with or gets close to the guide member that is positioned most radially inside the electrically-insulating members, the controller causes that guide member to move and withdraw from the insulating members. This process is repeated sequentially.

Abstract

Provided is a stator assembly apparatus configured to assemble a stator, the apparatus including: a plurality of guide members that are provided in a manner enabling insertion into and withdrawal from inside the electrically-insulating members in a central axial direction of the stator core, and are arranged in a radial direction of the slots in a state of having been inserted inside the electrically-insulating members; a presser configured to press the coil radially outward with respect to the stator core; and a controller configured to control movement of the plurality of guide members. Each time the coil moved by the presser come into contact with or approaches the guide member positioned most radially inside from among the plurality of guide members inside the electrically-insulating members, the controller causes the guide member positioned most radially inside to move so as to sequentially withdraw from within the electrically-insulating members.

POWER SUPPLY APPARATUS (18022535)

Inventor Yasumichi Onuki

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a power supply apparatus that is used to supply power to multiple loads. It consists of a power source, an AC generation circuit, an AC electric path, and a transformer. The AC generation circuit generates an AC voltage from the power source, which is then applied to the AC electric path. The transformer is placed between the AC generation circuit and the AC electric path. Notably, there is no isolated DC/DC converter between the power source and the AC generation circuit.

Abstract

A power supply apparatus (2) for supplying power to a plurality of loads (modn), the power supply apparatus including: a power source (4); an AC generation circuit (6) which is connected to the power source (4) and generates an AC voltage; an AC electric path (7) which is connected to the plurality of loads (modn) and to which the AC voltage is applied; and a transformer (8) which is provided between the AC generation circuit (6) and the AC electric path (7), in which an isolated DC/DC converter is not provided between the power source (4) and the AC generation circuit (6).

IMAGE PROCESSING DEVICE, AND IMAGE PROCESSING METHOD (18177264)

Inventor Takashi Miyata

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an image processing device that can select specific captured images based on the music being played during the time of photographing. The device acquires multiple captured images taken with a camera, along with information about the music being played at the time. It then uses this music playback information to identify and highlight scenes where the captured images were taken while a specific type of music was playing.

Abstract

An image processing device includes: a captured image acquisition unit for acquiring a plurality of captured images photographed with a photographic device; a music playback information acquisition unit for acquiring music playback information that is information about music being played during photographing of the captured images; and a captured image selection unit for highlight scene, for selecting, from among the plurality of captured images, based on the music playback information, captured images that were photographed when music meeting a predetermined music condition was being played.