HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD. patent applications published on September 28th, 2023

Summary of the patent applications from HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD. on September 28th, 2023

• Power conversion device for electric motor system
• Information processing system for content presentation control
• Motor control device with magnetic-flux command value generator
• Method for magnetizing a rotor with multiple magnetic bodies
• Power control device for wireless electric power conversion
• Design for arranging antennas on a vehicle's roof to minimize interference
• Battery pack with stacked cells and simplified wiring coupling
• Storage case for electrode roll in secondary battery

Summary: Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has recently filed patents for various power conversion devices, information processing systems, motor control devices, methods for magnetizing rotors, power control devices, antenna arrangement designs, battery packs, and storage cases. These inventions aim to improve power conversion efficiency, enhance content presentation based on user context, optimize motor control, simplify battery pack designs, and ensure secure storage of electrode rolls. Notable applications include a power conversion device for electric motor systems, an information processing system for content presentation control, and a motor control device with a magnetic-flux command value generator. Additionally, Honda has developed a method for magnetizing rotors with multiple magnetic bodies, a power control device for wireless electric power conversion, a design for arranging antennas on vehicle roofs to minimize interference, a battery pack with simplified wiring coupling, and a storage case for electrode rolls in secondary batteries. These patents demonstrate Honda's commitment to innovation and advancement in various technological fields.

Patent applications for HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD. on September 28th, 2023

GUIDE FOR REAR DISCHARGE OF LAWN MOWER (17702796)

Inventor Takayuki ARAKAWA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a lawn mower that has two blades positioned next to each other. The first blade rotates in one direction, while the second blade rotates in a different direction. Between the two blades, there is a guide plate that is placed above the second blade and extends towards the back of the lawn mower.

Abstract

A lawn mower includes a first blade having a first tip, and a second blade having a second tip, wherein the first blade and the second blade are disposed adjacent to each other, and a rotation direction of the first blade is different from a rotation direction of the second blade, wherein, in a lateral direction of the lawn mower, a guide plate is disposed between a rotation center of the first blade and a rotation center of the second blade, and the guide plate is disposed above the second blade, and the guide plate extends toward a rear of the lawn mower.

WORKING MACHINE (17704834)

Inventor Takuya Odaka

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a machine that consists of a body, a front wheel, a rear wheel, a working portion, and a compaction roller. The machine is designed to perform a specific task, and it includes a power source and a cutter blade that can rotate to carry out the task. The compaction roller is positioned between the front and rear wheels. The abstract does not provide any additional details about the specific function or purpose of the machine.

Abstract

A working machine includes a machine body, a front wheel and a rear wheel provided apart from each other in a front-rear direction of the machine body, a working portion provided between the front wheel and the rear wheel and including a power source and a cutter blade capable of being rotated around a rotary shaft by the power source, and a compaction roller provided between the front wheel and the rear wheel.

COATING METHOD AND COATING SYSTEM (18167094)

Inventor Takanori HASHIMOTO

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a method for applying a coating to a workpiece. The process involves applying a base paint, then using air at a specific temperature range to pre-dry the base paint. After that, a clear coating is applied, and the workpiece is dried with the clear coating.

Abstract

A coating method is provided which includes the steps of applying a base paint on a workpiece, blowing air at 19° C. or higher and 26° C. or lower to the applied base paint to pre-dry the base paint, applying a clear coating on the pre-dried base paint, and finally drying the workpiece with the clear coating applied thereon.

PRESS-FORMING METHOD (18173809)

Inventor Sen TAO

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a press-forming method that aims to prevent spring-back in the hat-shaped cross section of a final formed article. The method involves three steps. 

In the first step, a preformed article is obtained from a blank. This preformed article has a top surface, left and right vertical walls, and left and right tapered portions extending outward from the lower ends of the vertical walls.

In the second step, compression is applied to the entire top surface, vertical walls, and flanges of the final formed article with the hat-shaped cross section. This helps to effectively prevent spring-back.

In the third step, the final formed article with the hat-shaped cross section is obtained.

Overall, this press-forming method provides a solution to prevent spring-back in the hat-shaped cross section of the final formed article.

Abstract

Provided is a press-forming method including three steps for preventing spring-back in a hat-shaped cross section shape of a final formed article. In the first step, from a blank, a preformed article in a first form is obtained, the preformed article including a top surface, left and right vertical walls, and left and right tapered portions extending outward from lower ends of the left and right vertical walls, respectively, of a final formed article having a hat-shaped cross section. In the second step, the compression can be applied to the entirety of the top surface, the left and right vertical walls, and the left and right flanges of the final formed article having the hat-shaped cross section, whereby the spring-back can be sufficiently prevented. In the third step, obtain the final formed article having the hat-shaped cross section.

DEBURRING TOOL (18113430)

Inventor Satoshi Matsuura

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a deburring tool designed specifically for removing burrs created during friction stir welding. The tool consists of a central portion that makes contact with the welded area and a blade portion located on the outer edge of the central portion. The blade is responsible for cutting the burr. The central portion also includes a downward protrusion that helps control the amount of burr being cut.

Abstract

A deburring tool for cutting burr generated when members are welded to each other by friction stir welding is provided. The deburring tool includes a tool center portion contacting a welding portion, and a blade portion formed on an outer circumference of the tool center portion to cut the burr. The tool center portion includes a protrusion protruding downward from a ridge line of the blade portion to control a burr cutting amount.

WELDED PRODUCT AND METHOD OF PRODUCING WELDED PRODUCT (18173089)

Inventor Hiroki JIMBO

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a welded product made of multiple steel members that are joined together using one or two welds. One of the welds has a surface that contains slag, which is a byproduct of the welding process. The slag in this weld has a silicon (Si) content of 14% or less by mass and a mass ratio of silicon to manganese (Mn) of 0.25 or less.

Abstract

Provided is a welded product including: multiple steel members; and one or two or more welds with which the multiple steel members are welded together, at least one of the welds having a surface containing slag, the slag having a Si content of 14% by mass or less and having a mass ratio of Si to Mn of 0.25 or less.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FABRICATING SOFT SENSORS THAT CONFORM TO ARBITRARY SMOOTH GEOMETRIES (18318407)

Inventor Mirza Saquib SARWAR

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a system and method for creating soft sensors that can be shaped to fit any smooth surface. This is achieved by creating a stretchable top layer made of elastic material, which contains a set of electrodes for the sensors. Additionally, a flexible bottom layer is created using a thin sheet of metal that is patterned using photolithography.

Abstract

A system and method for fabricating soft sensors that conform to arbitrary smooth geometries that include fabricating a top stretchable layer that includes a set of electrodes of soft sensors that are made of an elastic material. The system and method also include fabricating a bottom flexible layer that is composed of a thin sheet of suitable metal that is patterned using photolithography.

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR RECYCLING CARBON FIBER-REINFORCED RESIN (18173090)

Inventor Masato NOGUCHI

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a method for recycling carbon fiber-reinforced resin materials. The method involves heating the resin to decompose the matrix resin and separate it from the carbon fiber. The resulting intermediate material is then unwound to obtain an intermediate fiber. This fiber is further heated to decompose the residue of the matrix resin, resulting in recycled carbon fiber. Finally, the recycled carbon fiber is wound for further use.

Abstract

A method for recycling a carbon fiber-reinforced resin including a carbon fiber and a matrix resin is provided, and the method includes: a first heating step of heating the carbon fiber-reinforced resin to decompose the matrix resin so as to obtain an intermediate in which the decomposition residue of the matrix resin is adhered to the carbon fiber; an unwinding step of unwinding an intermediate fiber from the intermediate; a second heating step of heating the unwound intermediate fiber to decompose the decomposition residue of the matrix resin adhered to the intermediate fiber so as to obtain a recycled carbon fiber; and a winding step of winding the recycled carbon fiber.

SHEET MATERIAL AND FORMING METHOD (18173084)

Inventor Yushi SHINNO

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a sheet material that allows a skin material to be attached to a base material. The sheet material includes a skin material and a stretchable material that is laminated on the back of the skin material. The stretchable material has higher stretchability than the skin material and is rectangular in shape. It has grippable areas where the skin material is not laminated, located on the four edge sides. The skin material has five linear cut portions in a non-design area.

Abstract

Provided are a sheet material in which a skin material can be adhered to a base material. A sheet material  for forming a design surface of a product by being adhered to base materials includes a sheet-like skin material , and a sheet-like stretchable material  laminated on a rear surface side of the skin material  and having higher stretchability than the skin material . The stretchable material  has a rectangular shape in plan view, and include grippable areas on which the skin material  is not laminated and which are respectively provided in portions including four edge sides facing each other in plan view. In the skin material , five linear cut portions are formed in a non-design area  other than the design areas 

METHOD OF MANUFACTURING RESIN FORMED PRODUCT HAVING A LEATHER GRAIN (18126038)

Inventor Ryota MASUDA

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a method of manufacturing a resin formed product with a leather grain. The process involves using a 3D printer to create an intermediate product with a base grain, and then carrying out post-processing to obtain the final resin formed product. The printing data used in the 3D printing step includes a grain height that is at least 120% of the stacking pitch.

Abstract

A method of manufacturing a resin formed product having a leather grain includes: a 3D printing step of inputting printing data to a 3D printer, and printing an intermediate product having an intermediate grain that is a base of the leather grain; and a post processing step of obtaining the resin formed product, which is a finished product, by carrying out post processing on the intermediate product printed in the 3D printing step. A grain height in input data, which is the printing data inputted in the 3D printing step, is greater than or equal to 120% of a stacking pitch in the 3D printing step.

REAR SUSPENSION STRUCTURE (18169992)

Inventor Hideki HIRAI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a rear suspension structure for a vehicle. It consists of a hub carrier that supports the rear wheel and has a front arm portion extending towards the front of the vehicle and a rear arm portion extending towards the rear. The rear arm portion is connected to a lateral beam located behind the rear wheel axle. The trailing arm, which extends in the front-rear direction, is connected to the lateral beam at the rear end. The front arm portion is connected to a front arm attachment point on the trailing arm. Overall, this design simplifies the rear suspension system.

Abstract

A rear suspension structure includes a hub carrier having a wheel support portion by which a rear wheel is rotatably supported, the hub carrier includes a front arm portion that extends in a vehicle inner direction and toward the vehicle front side beyond an axle of the rear wheel and a rear arm portion that extends toward the vehicle rear side, the rear arm portion is coupled to a lateral beam extending in a vehicle width direction, on the vehicle rear side of the axle, a vehicle rear side end portion of a trailing arm extending in a vehicle front-rear direction is coupled to the lateral beam, and the front arm portion is coupled to a front arm attachment portion provided in the trailing arm.

CATCHER STRUCTURE OF DOOR BEAM (18167079)

Inventor Takahiro Kawase

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a catcher structure for a door beam. The structure includes an engaging hook attached to the rear end of the door beam and an insertion hole located at the bottom of a center pillar on the vehicle body. When the door is closed, the rear end of the door beam, the engaging hook, and the insertion hole align with each other from a side view. The engaging hook has a projection that extends inward towards the vehicle, while the insertion hole opens outward towards the vehicle's width.

Abstract

A catcher structure of a door beam is provided. A catcher mechanism is composed of an engaging hook connected to a rear end part of a door beam, and an insertion hole provided at a lower end part of a center pillar, which is a member on a vehicle body side. In a state in which a door is closed, the rear end part of the door beam, and the engaging hook and the insertion hole of the catcher mechanism are arranged at positions overlapping with each other when viewed from a vehicle width direction. The engaging hook includes a projection part projecting from the rear end part of the door beam toward an inner side in the vehicle width direction, and the insertion hole opens toward an outer side in the vehicle width direction.

DOOR STRUCTURE FOR VEHICLE (18165328)

Inventor Yasuhisa EGAWA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes the structure of a door panel for a vehicle. The panel consists of an inner wall, a connection wall, and an outer wall. The door beam, which provides structural support, is made up of an arch-shaped beam body and a stay. The rear end of the beam body is attached to the inner wall, while the stay is fixed to the beam body at the front end and to the outer wall at the rear end.

Abstract

An inner panel of a door body includes an inner wall extending in a front-rear direction of a vehicle body on an inner side in a vehicle width direction, a connection wall extending toward an outer side in the vehicle width direction from the inner wall, and an outer wall extending in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body from an outer end of the connection wall in the vehicle width direction and joined to an outer panel. A door beam includes an arch-shaped beam body and a stay located on the outer side in the vehicle width direction with respect to an end of the beam body in a longitudinal direction. The rear end of the beam body is fixed to the inner wall. The stay has a front end fixed to the beam body and a rear end fixed to the outer wall.

DOOR STRUCTURE FOR VEHICLE (18166490)

Inventor Yasuhisa EGAWA

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a door structure for a vehicle. The structure includes a door beam with an arch-shaped beam body that bulges more outward in the vehicle width direction at its center than at the front and rear ends. The beam body is attached to an inner panel, and a bracket is placed between the front end of the beam body and the inner panel. The bracket has lower rigidity than the beam body. The rear end of the beam body is attached to a portion of the inner panel that is opposite a member on the vehicle body side, with a gap in the vehicle width direction between them.

Abstract

A door structure for a vehicle is provided. A door beam includes an arch-shaped beam body in which a center in a longitudinal direction bulges more outward in a vehicle width direction than a front end part and a rear end part attached to an inner panel, and a bracket interposed between the front end part of the beam body and the inner panel. A rigidity of the bracket is lower than a rigidity of the beam body. At least a portion of the inner panel to which the rear end part of the beam body is attached is opposed to a member on a vehicle body side located on the inner side in the vehicle width direction, with a gap in the vehicle width direction being present therebetween.

BRAKE CONTROL DEVICE (18167868)

Inventor Shinya KOBAYASHI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a brake control device for a vehicle that has both regenerative braking and friction braking systems. The device includes a control unit that adjusts the regenerative braking force and the frictional braking force applied to the wheels. When the vehicle is decelerating, the control unit applies frictional braking force to all wheels and then converts some of that force into regenerative braking force to increase the overall braking power.

Abstract

The disclosure provides a brake control device for performing brake control of a vehicle. The vehicle has a regenerative braking device and a friction braking device, the regenerative braking device is configured to adjust the regenerative braking force applied to the wheels of the vehicle, and the friction braking device is configured to adjust the frictional braking force applied to the wheels. The brake control device includes a brake control unit to control the regenerative braking device and the friction braking device. When the vehicle is decelerated, after the brake control unit performs a braking force application process to apply frictional braking force to all wheels, the brake control unit increases the regenerative braking force applied to the wheels by converting the frictional braking force applied to the wheels into regenerative braking force.

POWER CONTROL DEVICE (18110383)

Inventor Jin Katsuya

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a power control device that is used to receive and convert AC electric power into DC electric power. The device consists of a power receiving unit, a power converting unit, and a control device. The power receiving unit has a secondary coil that receives AC electric power wirelessly from a power transmitting device. The power converting unit includes transistors that convert the received AC power into DC power. The control device is responsible for performing a synchronous rectification operation, which rectifies the AC power by driving the transistors in two phases when the desired output is equal to or greater than a certain value. Additionally, the control device also controls a short-circuiting operation, where the transistors are used to short-circuit the secondary coil, through pulse frequency modulation when the desired output is less than a predetermined value.

Abstract

A power control device includes a power receiving unit, a power converting unit, and a control device. The power receiving unit includes a secondary coil that receives AC electric power transmitted from a power transmitting device in a non-contact manner. The power converting unit includes transistors with two phases as a pair connected to the secondary coil. The power converting unit converts the AC electric power received by the power receiving unit to DC electric power. The control device performs a synchronous rectification operation of rectifying the AC electric power by synchronously driving the transistors in two phases when a target output is equal to or greater than a target output. The control device controls the synchronous rectification operation and a short-circuiting operation of short-circuiting the secondary coil using the transistors in two phases through pulse frequency modulation when the target output is less than the predetermined value.

FUEL MANAGEMENT DEVICE, FUEL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, FUEL MANAGEMENT METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18105895)

Inventor Naoki Yamano

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a fuel management device that is designed to monitor and manage the amount of hydrogen fuel in a fleet of registered vehicles. The device includes components such as an information acquisition part, a vehicle identification part, an estimation part, and an output controller. The information acquisition part collects data on the remaining amount of hydrogen fuel in each registered vehicle. The vehicle identification part then identifies which vehicles need to be refueled based on a predetermined threshold for the remaining fuel. The estimation part calculates the amount of hydrogen fuel that needs to be supplied to each refueling target vehicle. Finally, the output controller provides information to an output device based on the estimation results.

Abstract

A fuel management device includes a residual amount information acquisition part configured to acquire residual amount information indicating a residual amount of hydrogen fuel of each of a plurality of vehicles that are previously registered, a vehicle identification part configured to identify a refueling target vehicle in which a residual amount of hydrogen fuel is a threshold or less on the basis of the residual amount information of each vehicle, an estimation part configured to estimate a supply amount of hydrogen fuel in supply facility of hydrogen fuel on the basis of a refueling amount of hydrogen fuel to be refueled to each of the refueling target vehicles, and an output controller configured to output information to an output part based on the estimation result of the estimation part.

BATTERY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND BATTERY MANAGEMENT METHOD (18185488)

Inventor Hibiki Saeki

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a battery management system that divides the chargeable capacity of a battery into two regions, allowing different users to use each region. The system also estimates the amount of capacity decrease due to deterioration and adjusts the allocation of capacity accordingly. If the amount of deterioration is below a certain threshold, the chargeable capacity of the second region is reduced by that amount.

Abstract

A battery management system includes: a battery-capacity dividing unit that virtually divides a chargeable capacity of a battery mounted on a mobile object into a first region and a second region to enable a first user to use the first region in the battery and a second user to use the second region in the battery; an amount-of-deterioration-decrease estimation unit that estimates the amount of deterioration decrease that is the amount of decrease in the chargeable capacity of the battery due to deterioration; and an allocation-capacity adjustment unit that, in a case in which the amount of deterioration decrease is lower than or equal to a first specified amount, reduces a chargeable capacity of the second region by the amount of deterioration decrease.

VEHICLE SEAT (18080796)

Inventor Takeyuki Suzuki

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a vehicle seat that has the ability to incline the seat back and slide in the front-rear direction. The seat includes a cushion and a backrest. The slide mechanism consists of an upper and lower rail that allows the seat to move in a sliding manner. There is also a drive portion that controls the sliding motion of the upper rail. The seat has two modes: a normal mode and a relaxing mode. In the normal mode, the seat slides within a range that is suitable for driving the vehicle. In the relaxing mode, the seat slides to a position further back than the rearmost position in the normal mode. The mode switching switch is located in a position where it cannot be easily accessed from the relaxing mode position.

Abstract

A vehicle seat including a seat that includes a seat cushion and a seat back; an inclination drive portion configured to incline the seat back; and a slide mechanism configured to enable the seat to slide in a vehicle front-rear direction, in which the slide mechanism includes: a slide rail that includes an upper rail and a lower rail and supporting the seat to be able to move in a sliding manner in the front-rear direction, a slide drive portion configured to enable the upper rail to slide with respect to the lower rail, and a mode switching switch configured to enable switching between modes, in a normal mode, a slide range of the seat in the front-rear direction is a slide amount used when the vehicle is driven, in a relaxing mode, a slide amount is at a position where a slide position of the seat in the front-rear direction is rearward, with respect to a slide position at a rearmost end in the normal mode, and the mode switching switch is disposed on a front side where a switch operation is not able to be performed from the slide position of the seat corresponding to a slide amount in the relaxing mode.

CONVEYANCE SEAT (18186651)

Inventor Kotaro TOMIOKA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a conveyance seat that has a cover member to protect an anchor member, which is used to connect a child safety seat. The cover member consists of an outside cover and an inside cover, with the inside cover having a part that engages with the anchor. The cover member is attached to the seat in a way that the outer edge of a hole in the seat is held between the outside cover and the inside cover. A locking member is included in the cover to secure it in place.

Abstract

A conveyance seat includes a cover member protecting an anchor member extending from the seat main body so that a child safety seat is connected. The cover member includes an outside cover, and an inside cover accommodated in the outside cover and having an anchor engaging portion. The cover member sandwiches an extending part of the anchor member with the outside cover and the inside cover. The cover member is attached to the seat main body such that an outer periphery portion of a skin opening hole is sandwiched by the outside cover and the inside cover. A skin locking member is accommodated in a flange accommodating recess of the outside cover together with an outer peripheral flange of the inside cover.

VEHICLE AMBIENT LIGHTING (17703383)

Inventor Cody D. GREBE

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a system for providing ambient lighting in vehicles using a touchscreen, a lighting system, a memory, and a processor. The lighting system includes both direct and indirect lighting. The memory stores instructions, and the processor executes these instructions to perform various actions, such as displaying a user interface for controlling the ambient lighting on the touchscreen and implementing the selected lighting mode using the lighting system. The user interface includes multiple lighting modes, and the currently selected mode is displayed.

Abstract

Vehicle ambient lighting may be provided utilizing a touchscreen, a lighting system, a memory, and a processor. The lighting system may include a direct lighting system and an indirect lighting system. The memory may store one or more instructions and the processor may execute one or more of the instructions stored on the memory to perform one or more acts or actions, such as rendering a vehicle ambient lighting interface via the touchscreen or implementing a currently selected vehicle ambient lighting mode via the lighting system. The vehicle ambient lighting interface may include two or more vehicle ambient lighting modes and the currently selected vehicle ambient lighting mode from the two or more vehicle ambient lighting modes.

VEHICLE (18116155)

Inventor Kenji Komori

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a vehicle that has a monitoring unit to observe the vehicle's surroundings, a detection unit to identify impacts on the vehicle, and multiple impact absorption units. An operation control unit is responsible for activating the impact absorption units based on information from the monitoring and detection units.

Abstract

A vehicle, comprising a monitoring unit configured to monitor a surrounding environment of a vehicle body, a detection unit configured to detect an impact applied onto the vehicle body, a plurality of impact absorption units, and an operation control unit configured to selectively operate the plurality of impact absorption units, based on at least one of a monitoring result from the monitoring unit and a detection result from the detection unit.

VEHICLE (18174153)

Inventor Kenji KOMORI

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a vehicle that has a monitoring unit to observe its surroundings. It also has multiple impact absorption units and an arithmetic unit that can identify specific parts of an object that may come into contact with the vehicle. The arithmetic unit can determine where on the vehicle these parts would make contact. Finally, there is an operation control unit that can activate the impact absorption units based on the identified contact positions.

Abstract

A vehicle, comprising a monitoring unit configured to monitor a surrounding environment of a vehicle body, a plurality of impact absorption units, an arithmetic unit configured to identify at least two characteristic parts of an object, in a case where the object is likely to come into contact with the vehicle body, based on a monitoring result of the monitoring unit, and configured to identify contact positions of the vehicle body to be respectively contacted with the at least two characteristic parts that have been identified, and an operation control unit configured to selectively operate the plurality of impact absorption units, based on the contact positions that have been identified.

FORMING METHOD AND INSTRUMENT PANEL (18173083)

Inventor Toshihisa KAGA

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a method for efficiently forming a tear line groove in an airbag deployment portion of an instrument panel. The method involves using two dies, one of which has a ridge that forms part of the tear line groove. After the initial forming step, any remaining portions of the tear line groove are processed in a post-processing step. This method allows for the creation of a tear line groove even in layouts that are not suitable for traditional processing methods.

Abstract

Provided are a forming method of forming, with high efficiency, a tear line groove even with a layout of unsuitable for processing for drawing a locus in a unicursal manner, and an instrument panel formed by the forming method. The forming method is a method of forming a tear line groove in an airbag deployment portion, the tear line groove including: an airbag deployment portion forming step of applying, as one die of two dies constituting a cavity into which a molten resin is injected to form the airbag deployment portion, a die having a ridge protruding inwardly in the cavity to form a part of the tear line groove; and a post-processing step of processing the remaining tear line groove, which were not formed in the airbag deployment portion forming step.

DIVISION LINE RECOGNITION APPARATUS (18124492)

Inventor Yuki Aoyagi

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an apparatus that can recognize division lines on the road using sensors mounted on a vehicle. The apparatus includes an external sensor that detects the situation in front of the vehicle, a behavior sensor that detects the vehicle's traveling behavior, and an electronic control unit that performs various functions. 

The electronic control unit stores information about the position of the external sensor in relation to the vehicle. It then uses this information, along with the data from the external sensor, to recognize division lines that define the lanes on which the vehicle is traveling.

The control unit also calculates the movement of the vehicle between two time points based on the data from the behavior sensor. It then sets an inspection point on the recognized division line at the second time point.

To improve accuracy, the control unit calculates the error in the position of the division line recognized at the first time point compared to the position of the inspection point. It then updates the stored information about the position of the external sensor based on this error.

When the posture information is updated, the control unit uses the updated information along with the data from the external sensor to recognize division lines.

Overall, this apparatus helps in accurately recognizing division lines on the road and updating the sensor's position information to improve accuracy.

Abstract

Division line recognition apparatus includes: external sensor mounted on vehicle and detecting external situation in front of vehicle; behavior sensor detecting traveling behavior of vehicle; and electronic control unit performing: storing posture information of external sensor with respect to vehicle; recognizing division line defining travel lane along which vehicle travels based on external situation detected by external sensor and posture information; calculating movement amount of vehicle from first time point to second time point based on traveling behavior detected by behavior sensor; setting inspection point on division line recognized at second time point; calculating error of position of division line recognized at first time point with respect to position of inspection point based on movement amount; and updating posture information based on error. Recognizing includes recognizing division line based on external situation detected by external sensor and updated posture information when posture information is updated.

RAPID ACCELERATION SUPPRESSION DEVICE (18188726)

Inventor Shinya KOBAYASHI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a device designed to prevent sudden acceleration in a vehicle. It includes an information acquisition component that collects data on the vehicle's speed and the position of the accelerator pedal over time. A determination component analyzes this data to determine if the accelerator has been used abnormally. If abnormal usage is detected, a control component adjusts the vehicle's drive force to limit acceleration to a preset upper limit speed.

Abstract

A rapid acceleration suppression device of a subject vehicle includes: an information acquisition part configured to acquire information on vehicle speed and time-series information on accelerator position; a determination part configured to determine whether or not the accelerator has been performed abnormally, based on the time-series information on the accelerator position; and a control part configured to provide control over a drive force of the subject vehicle, based on a current vehicle speed and a current accelerator position. If the determination part determines that the accelerator has been performed abnormally, the control part allows an acceleration of the subject vehicle within a range within which the current vehicle speed does not exceed a preset upper limit vehicle speed.

CONTROL DEVICE AND CONTROL METHOD (18111182)

Inventor Haruhiko NISHIGUCHI

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a control device for a vehicle that can assist with lane changes. The device includes a control unit that can perform lane change assist control and an acquisition unit that can obtain highly accurate map information containing location details within a lane. If the acquisition unit successfully obtains the map information for the road the vehicle is on, the control unit is able to execute the lane change assist control. However, if the acquisition unit fails to obtain the map information, the control unit will not perform the lane change assist control.

Abstract

A control device controlling a vehicle, includes a control unit configured to execute lane change assist control of the vehicle, and an acquisition unit configured to acquire highly accurate map information that contains location information within a lane. When the acquisition unit acquires the highly accurate map information that contains information regarding a road on which the vehicle is running, the control unit is configured to be capable of executing the lane change assist control, and when the acquisition unit does not acquire the highly accurate map information that contains the information regarding a road on which the vehicle is running, the control unit does not execute the lane change assist control.

DRIVING ASSISTANCE DEVICE, VEHICLE, DRIVING ASSISTANCE METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18111186)

Inventor Daichi KATO

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a driving assistance device in a vehicle that is capable of automatically performing a lane change from a traveling lane to a branch lane. The device includes a control unit that acquires information such as the distance traveled and time elapsed in the branch lane, as well as information indicating the end position of the branch lane. Once the lane change is completed and the end position is detected, the driving assistance in the branch lane is ended.

Abstract

A driving assistance device in a vehicle, the driving assistance device comprises a control unit configured to perform a lane change from a traveling lane in which the vehicle travels to a branch lane branching from the traveling lane, by driving assistance capable of automatically performing the lane change on an initiative of a system. The control unit acquires a travel distance in the branch lane, an elapsed time in the branch lane, and information indicating passage of an end position of the branch lane detected based on map information or external environment recognition information, after the lane change is completed by crossing a division line of the traveling lane, and ends the driving assistance in the branch lane.

DRIVING SUPPORT DEVICE, VEHICLE, DRIVING SUPPORT METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18111871)

Inventor Daichi KATO

Brief explanation

The present invention is a driving support device for vehicles. It includes a detector that can detect the state of the driver and a controller that can control the driving support. The controller offers multiple settings for the driver to choose from, including a first setting and a second setting. Both settings require the driver to perform a specific operation. However, if the detector determines that the driver is not fulfilling the operation requirement while the second setting is active, the controller will invalidate the second setting.

Abstract

The present invention provides a driving support device that performs driving support of a vehicle, comprising: a detector configured to detect a state of a driver of the vehicle; and a controller configured to control the driving support with a setting validated by the driver among a plurality of settings including a first setting and a second setting each of which requests the driver to perform a predetermined operation obligation, wherein the controller is configured to invalidate the second setting, in a case of determining that the driver does not fulfill the operation obligation from a detection result of the detector in a state where the second setting is validated.

CONTROL DEVICE (18113843)

Inventor Shinichi OKUNISHI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a control device for a vehicle that can detect objects in its surroundings using a sensor. The device includes a processor that analyzes the sensor's output to determine the location of detected objects. Specifically, it focuses on objects in the peripheral region of the vehicle. By analyzing the distribution of these detection points, the processor can identify areas around the vehicle that are restricted for travel.

Abstract

A control device that performs travel control of a vehicle, includes a processor configured to acquire output information of a sensor configured to detect an object in an around of the vehicle based on a reflected wave from the object. The processor is configured to: acquire detection point data of the object in a peripheral region of the vehicle based on the output information of the sensor; and recognize that a peripheral environment of the vehicle is a travel-restricted section based on a distribution of detection point data in a first group including a plurality pieces of the detection point data on one side in a left-right direction of the vehicle in the peripheral region.

CONTROL DEVICE (18113861)

Inventor Shinichi OKUNISHI

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a control device that uses two types of sensors to detect objects around a vehicle. The device includes a processor that performs two types of processing based on the output information from the sensors. The first processing recognizes a specific object within a range set around the vehicle using the output information from the first sensor. The second processing recognizes the same specific object within the range using the output information from the second sensor. The processor then selects a different range from the original set of ranges based on the first processing, and determines the reliability of the recognition result from the first processing based on the result from the second processing for the selected range.

Abstract

A control device includes a processor configured to acquire output information of a first type of a first sensor and output information of a second type of a second sensor each configured to detect an object in an around of a vehicle, the processor performing first processing of recognizing a first range including a specific object among a plurality of ranges set in a peripheral region of the vehicle based on the output information of the first sensor, and second processing of recognizing a second range including the specific object among the plurality of ranges based on the output information of the second sensor, selecting a third range from the plurality of ranges obtained by excluding the first range based on the first range, and determining reliability of a recognition result of the first range based on a recognition result of the second processing for the third range.

STATE ESTIMATION METHOD AND STATE ESTIMATION SYSTEM (18168642)

Inventor Shigeru Namiki

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a method for estimating the state of an object using multiple estimation models. The first step involves creating several estimation models based on measured state variables of the object. In the second step, a second estimation model is prepared to determine which of the first estimation models provides the most accurate estimation based on the measured state variables of the object or a utilization device associated with it. Finally, the third step involves outputting the estimated state of the object using the selected first estimation model determined by the second estimation model.

Abstract

A state estimation method includes a first step of preparing a plurality of first estimation models estimating a state of an object to be monitored based on a state variable measured with respect to the state of the object to be monitored, a second step of preparing a second estimation model estimating, from among the plurality of first estimation models, which one of the first estimation models estimates the state of the object to be monitored with the highest accuracy based on the state variable measured with respect to the object to be monitored or a state variable measured with respect to a utilization device that runs by using the object to be monitored, and a third step of outputting a result of estimation of the state of the object to be monitored of the one first estimation model estimated by the second estimation model.

VEHICLE CONTROL DEVICE, VEHICLE CONTROL METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18109895)

Inventor Daichi Inoue

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a vehicle control device that uses a camera image and map information to control the steering, acceleration, and deceleration of a vehicle. It can operate without input from the driver and has multiple driving modes. If the driver does not execute a task related to the chosen driving mode, the device will switch to a mode with a heavier task. It also determines if there is a deviation between the road division lines in the camera image and the map information, and checks for the presence of a preceding vehicle in front of the vehicle.

Abstract

A vehicle control device is configured to acquire a camera image obtained by capturing an image, control steering and acceleration or deceleration of the vehicle without depending on an operation of a driver of the vehicle on the basis of the camera image and map information, decide a driving mode of the vehicle as any one of a plurality of driving modes including a first driving mode and a second driving mode, change the driving mode of the vehicle to a driving mode with a heavier task when a task related to the decided driving mode is not executed by the driver, determine whether there is a deviation between a road division line shown in the camera image and a road division line shown in the map information, determine whether a preceding vehicle is present in front of the vehicle when it is determined that there is a deviation.

CONTROL DEVICE, CONTROL METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18113102)

Inventor Nozomu Hirosawa

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a system that detects whether a user is gripping a steering wheel while operating a mobile object. The system can perform two types of movement control: one that does not require gripping the steering wheel and one that does. If the user is not gripping the steering wheel while the first type of movement control is being executed, the system will notify the user to grip the steering wheel. If the user still does not grip the steering wheel after the notification, the system will continue with the first type of movement control without shifting to the second type.

Abstract

At least one processor detects whether a steering wheel is being gripped by a user who operates a mobile object, executes first movement control that is executable with the steering wheel not being gripped, and second movement control that is executable with the steering wheel being gripped, notifies the user, by using an outputter, that the user is requested to grip the steering wheel when gripping of the steering wheel is not detected after an operator for operating a direction indicator is operated while the first movement control is being executed with the steering wheel not being gripped, and continues the first movement control without shifting to the second movement control when the gripping is not detected after the notification is made.

RECOMMENDATION DEVICE AND RECOMMENDATION METHOD (18163447)

Inventor Shinya Yasuhara

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a recommendation device that suggests driver assistance functions for users while they are driving. The device collects information about how these functions are used in different vehicles, and then analyzes and combines this information. It then identifies specific areas where the driver assistance functions are commonly used and meets certain conditions. Finally, the device provides recommendations to users about which driver assistance functions to use in these specific areas.

Abstract

A recommendation device is a device that recommends a driver assistance function available for a user who is driving a vehicle. The recommendation device includes: an information collection unit configured to collect information related to the use of the driver assistance function in a plurality of the vehicles; an aggregation unit configured to aggregate the information related to the use collected by the information collection unit; a prescribed area specification unit configured to specify, among areas where the driver assistance function is expected to be used, a prescribed area where an aggregation result acquired by the aggregation unit corresponds to a prescribed condition; and a recommendation unit configured to output recommendation information for recommending the prescribed area and the driver assistance function expected to be used in the prescribed area in an associated manner.

RECOMMENDATION DEVICE AND RECOMMENDATION METHOD (18165967)

Inventor Keigo Nakada

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a recommendation device that suggests driver assistance functions to a user based on their driving route. The device analyzes the user's driving history and recommends functions that are suitable for the specific areas along the route. It then provides recommendation information, excluding functions that the user has already evaluated or used, along with the corresponding recommended areas.

Abstract

A recommendation device recommendation device acquires a moving route of the vehicle driven by a target user; specifies one or a plurality of driver assistance functions recommended to be used on the moving route and use recommended areas where the driver assistance functions are recommended to be used; evaluates a use record of the target user regarding the driver assistance functions specified; and outputs recommendation information for recommending: the driver assistance functions remaining after excluding the driver assistance functions for which an evaluation result of the use record of the target user corresponds to a prescribed condition from the driver assistance functions specified; and the respective use recommended areas of the driver assistance functions.

VEHICLE CONTROL DEVICE, VEHICLE CONTROL METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18112528)

Inventor Sho Tamura

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a vehicle control device that uses a camera image and map information to control the steering and acceleration/deceleration of a vehicle without relying on the driver's input. The device can determine different driving modes and can detect if there is a vehicle in front of it when an abnormality occurs. If a preceding vehicle is detected, the device calculates a margin for the vehicle to continue traveling in a specific driving mode and allows the vehicle to continue in that mode for a certain period of time based on the margin.

Abstract

A vehicle control device acquires a camera image obtained by capturing an image of surrounding circumstances of a vehicle, controls steering and acceleration/deceleration of the vehicle without depending on an operation of a driver of the vehicle on the basis of the camera image and map information, determines any of a plurality of driving modes including a first driving mode and a second driving mode as a driving mode of the vehicle, judges whether or not a preceding vehicle is present in front of the vehicle when it is judged that an abnormality has occurred, calculates, when it is judged that the preceding vehicle is present, a margin for the vehicle to continue traveling in the second driving mode, and causes the vehicle to continue traveling in the second driving mode for a period of time indicated based on the margin.

OPERATION DEVICE (18184678)

Inventor Jun Inada

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an operation device that consists of a base, an operation part, and a pair of left and right first connection parts. The first connection parts connect the base and the operation part and are positioned apart from each other in a left-right direction. Each first connection part includes a first end connected to the base, a second end connected to the operation part, a first elastic member that allows displacement of the second end in a front-rear direction with respect to the first end, and a first distance sensor A, B that measures the relative distance of the second end to the first end in the front-rear direction.

Abstract

An operation device  includes: a base ; an operation part , extending in a left-right direction; and a pair of left and right first connection parts , provided between the base and the operation part, and disposed apart from each other in the left-right direction. Each first connection part includes: a first end , connected to the base; a second end , connected to the operation part; a first elastic member , connecting the second end with respect to the first end to be displaceable in a front-rear direction; and a first distance sensor A, B, measuring a relative distance of the second end with respect to the first end in the front-rear direction.

TROLLEY (18181538)

Inventor Taiki IIMURA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a trolley that has omnidirectional wheels, drive units, a handle, a sensor, and a control device. The control device uses information from the sensor to control the drive units based on the load and moment applied to the handle. It sets target velocities for the trolley's movement in the longitudinal and lateral directions, as well as the angular velocity around the vertical axis. The control device also adjusts the target lateral velocity based on the target angular velocity, ensuring that the lateral velocity decreases as the angular velocity increases. Finally, the control device controls the drive units based on the target velocities to move the trolley accordingly.

Abstract

A trolley includes: a vehicle body; omnidirectional wheels; drive units; a handle; a sensor; and a control device for controlling the drive units based on the longitudinal load, lateral load, and moment about the vertical axis applied to the handle detected by the sensor. The control device: sets a target longitudinal velocity of the vehicle body based on the longitudinal load, a target lateral velocity of the vehicle body based on the lateral load, and a target angular velocity about the vertical axis of the vehicle body based on the moment about the vertical axis; corrects the target lateral velocity based on the target angular velocity so that an absolute value of the target lateral velocity decreases as an absolute value of the target angular velocity increases; and controls the drive units based on the target longitudinal velocity, the corrected target lateral velocity, and the target angular velocity.

TRUCK (18187640)

Inventor Taiki IIMURA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a truck that has a body, wheels, drive units, a handle, a sensor, and a control device. The sensor detects the load and the moment applied to the handle. The control device sets target velocities for the truck's movement and rotation based on the load and moment. If the product of these target velocities exceeds a certain threshold, the control device adjusts the target velocity to stay within the threshold. The drive units are then controlled based on the adjusted target velocities.

Abstract

A truck includes a body, left and right wheels provided on the body, left and right drive units driving the wheels, a handle provided on the body, a sensor, and a control device. The sensor detects a front-rear load and a moment about a vertical axis applied to the handle. The control device sets a target front-rear velocity of the body based on the front-rear load, and sets a target angular velocity of the body about a vertical axis based on the moment about the vertical axis. In a case where a product of the target front-rear velocity and the target angular velocity is greater than a predetermined threshold, the control device performs correction processing on the target front-rear velocity so that the product is equal to or less than the threshold, and controls the drive units based on the corrected target front-rear velocity and the target angular velocity.

ELECTRIC POWER STEERING DEVICE AND ASSISTING METHOD THEREOF (18167871)

Inventor Kentaro KASUYA

Brief explanation

This abstract describes an electric power steering device and a method for assisting steering. The device includes a lane recognition unit that identifies the lane the vehicle is traveling in, a steering information sensing unit that detects steering input, and an assisting control unit that uses the lane information and steering input to assist with steering. During a learning period when the lane information cannot be recognized, the control unit uses a previously learned steering assisting amount to assist with steering.

Abstract

An electric power steering device and an assisting method thereof are provided. A lane recognition unit recognizes lane information of a lane on which a vehicle is travelling. A steering information sensing unit senses steering information. An assisting control unit controls the electric power steering device to execute a steering assisting operation according to a steering assisting amount composed of the lane information and the steering information, and controls the electric power steering to execute the steering assisting operation according to a learned steering assisting amount composed of the steering assisting amount during a learning period when the lane information cannot be recognized.

INFORMATION TERMINAL, CONTROL METHOD, AND COMPUTER-READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM (18110124)

Inventor Jumpei NOGUCHI

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a portable information terminal that can be used by a user while they are on the move. The terminal includes a display that can show instructions and a controller that can control the movement of the object based on the user's actions on the display. The controller can display a guidance image to prompt the user for a specific action and store the position information of the user's action. If the terminal is waiting for the specific action, it will display the guidance image based on the stored position information.

Abstract

A portable information terminal for a user of a moving object includes: a display configured to perform a position instruction operation on a display image, and a controller configured to perform movement control of the moving object based on a specific operation from the user on the display. The controller is configured to cause the display to display a guidance image that prompts the specific operation when waiting for receiving the specific operation, store position information of the specific operation performed by the user based on the guidance image, and display the guidance image that prompts the specific operation based on the position information on the display in a case of storing the position information when waiting for receiving the specific operation.

CONTROL DEVICE, CONTROL METHOD, AND COMPUTER-READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM (18113364)

Inventor Hiroki TAKAKU

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a control device that can display an image of the surrounding area of a moving object, along with additional guides. These guides include a moving guide that indicates a predetermined position in the direction of travel, and a stop guide that indicates where the object should stop. The device can adjust the transparency of the moving guide depending on whether both guides are displayed or only the moving guide is displayed.

Abstract

A control device including circuitry configured to: obtain an external environment recognition image representing a recognition result of a surrounding area of a moving body; and display the external environment recognition image on a display device. The circuitry is further configured to: enable displaying of a moving guide representing a predetermined position in a traveling direction of the moving body and a stop guide representing a position where movement of the moving body is to be stopped on the display device in a superimposed manner on the external environment recognition image; and set a transmittance of the moving guide to be higher in a case where the moving guide and the stop guide are superimposed on the external environment recognition image than in a case where only the moving guide among the moving guide and the stop guide is superimposed on the external environment recognition image.

DEVICE PROTECTION STRUCTURE OF VEHICLE BODY (18165326)

Inventor Masayuki OGURI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a slider member and an installation member for a protection target device in a vehicle. The slider member covers a front surface of the device and is located under the vehicle body. It has an inclined surface that faces the front of the vehicle and slopes downward and backward. The installation member is positioned behind the rear end of a sub-frame and is used to install the slider member to the vehicle body. It has a reinforcement surface that is inclined at the same angle as the inclined surface of the slider member and rests against it from behind.

Abstract

A slider member (), at least covering a front surface part of a protection target device () disposed under a floor of a vehicle body () behind a sub-frame (); and an installation member (), disposed behind a rear end part () of the sub-frame () and installing the slider member () to the vehicle body () are provided. The slider member () has an inclined surface () facing a front of the vehicle body () and inclined rearward and downward of the vehicle body (). The installation member () has a reinforcement surface () formed at an inclination angle same as the inclined surface () and abutting against the inclined surface () from behind.

VEHICLE HOOD APPARATUS AND METHOD (17689531)

Inventor Steven C. Heinrichs

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a vehicle hood assembly that consists of a vehicle body structure and a hood that can be opened and closed. The hood is connected to the vehicle body structure by two linkages, each with an aperture. When the hood is in the opened state, the central axes of both apertures align. A key structure is provided that can fit into both apertures at the same time when the hood is open.

Abstract

A vehicle hood assembly can include a vehicle body structure and a hood moveable with respect to the vehicle body structure from a closed state to an opened state. A first linkage can connect the hood to the vehicle body structure and include a first linkage aperture extending therethrough. A second linkage can connect the hood to the vehicle body structure and include a second linkage aperture extending therethrough. A central axis of the first linkage aperture can be coaxial with a central axis of the second linkage aperture if the hood is in the opened state. A key structure can be provided and configured to simultaneously fit into both the second linkage aperture and the first linkage aperture if the hood is in the opened state

SADDLED VEHICLE (18126749)

Inventor Tsuyoshi YAMADA

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a simplified structure for a saddled vehicle with a center stand. The vehicle has a rear suspension that is connected to the vehicle body through a swingarm. The length of the rear suspension can be adjusted using an actuator, which is controlled by a controller. 

When the actuation switch is operated, the controller expands the rear suspension to a predetermined length. This causes the swingarm to swing downward, ensuring that the center stand does not touch the ground even when fully unfolded.

To set up the center stand, the swingarm is first swung downward, and then the center stand is unfolded. The rear suspension then recovers its original length, lifting the rear wheel off the ground and completing the center stand setup.

Overall, this structure simplifies the process of setting up the center stand on the vehicle.

Abstract

To provide a saddled vehicle whose center stand is set up with ease in a simplified structure. A rear suspension suspending a swingarm from a vehicle body has its total length varied by the drive of an actuator. A controller that controls the actuator is provided. By the controller expanding the rear suspension to a predetermined length according to an operation on an actuation switch, the swingarm swings downward to reach a position where a center stand will not touch a ground surface even if the center stand is unfolded to a fully unfolded position. Unfolding the center stand with the swingarm swung downward and then letting the rear suspension recover its original length lifts the rear wheel off the ground surface to complete setting up the center stand.

PARKING BRAKE STRUCTURE (18190322)

Inventor Koshi NAKAMURA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a parking brake structure for vehicles with rear wheel brakes. The structure is designed to be simple, lightweight, and have fewer parts. It includes a locking member that is attached to a bracket supporting the rear wheel brake caliper. The locking member has a protrusion that engages with recesses on the outer end face of the rear wheel brake disc. The protrusion and recesses have tapered shapes that fit together. The bracket also has a vehicle speed sensor that measures the vehicle's speed by detecting the passing state of the recesses.

Abstract

A parking brake structure having a simple configuration that is reduced in the number of parts and weight, is provided. The parking brake structure is for use in a vehicle that has a rear wheel brake including a rear wheel brake disc and a rear wheel brake caliper. The rear wheel brake disc has an outer circumferential end face that is provided with a plurality of recesses. The parking brake structure includes a locking member that is axially supported in a swingable manner to a bracket for supporting the rear wheel brake caliper. The locking member is formed with a protrusion engageable with the recess. The protrusion has a tapered shape that becomes thinner as it goes to a top, whereas the recess has a reverse tapered shape conforming to the shape of the protrusion. The bracket is attached with a vehicle speed sensor that measures vehicle speed based on a passing state of the recesses.

POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM, FLYING OBJECT, AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM (18186560)

Inventor Tomoyo Matsumoto

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a power supply system that includes a power converter, a switch, and a controller. The power converter converts electric power from multiple batteries and supplies it to one or more loads. The switch can connect any of the batteries to the power converter. The controller compares the remaining capacities of the batteries and if the difference between the highest and lowest remaining capacities is greater than a set threshold, it controls the switch to connect the power converter to the battery with the highest remaining capacity.

Abstract

A power supply system includes: a power converter for converting electric power of any one of a plurality of batteries and supplying the converted electric power to one or more second loads; a switch capable of selectively connecting any one of the plurality of batteries to the power converter; and a controller for comparing remaining capacities of the respective batteries, and when the difference between the highest remaining capacity and the lowest remaining capacity exceeds a predetermined threshold, controlling the switch to connect the power converter to the battery having the highest remaining capacity.

ELECTROLYSIS SYSTEM (18112669)

Inventor Hideaki YONEDA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an electrolysis system that includes a valve device, an ammeter, and a control device. The valve device switches between supplying a mixed gas to a cathode and supplying oxygen gas to an anode. The ammeter measures the electric current between a pair of electrodes. The control device is responsible for controlling the valve device. It switches the supply from the mixed gas to the oxygen gas when the electric current falls below a certain threshold value. This switch causes any carbon deposited on the cathode to react chemically with the oxygen gas.

Abstract

An electrolysis system is provided with a valve device that switches between supplying a mixed gas to a cathode and supplying oxygen gas to an anode, an ammeter that measures an electric current between a pair of electrodes, and a control device that controls the valve device to switch what is supplied to the electrolysis device from the mixed gas to the oxygen gas when the electric current falls below a predetermined first threshold value while the mixed gas is supplied to the electrolysis device, and causes carbon deposited on the cathode to react chemically with the oxygen gas.

POWER DOOR DEVICE (18174896)

Inventor Toshihiro KANEDA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a power door device for vehicles. It includes a motor actuator to open and close the door, a controller to control the motor actuator and handle abnormal situations, an information unit to gather data on vehicle acceleration and motor load, and a diagnostic unit to detect abnormalities. When the motor load exceeds a certain threshold and the vertical acceleration is below a certain threshold, the diagnostic unit generates an abnormal signal. In response to this signal, the abnormal state dealing unit stops the door movement during opening or closing.

Abstract

A power door device includes: a motor actuator to open/close a vehicle door; a controller to control driving of the motor actuator and include an abnormal state dealing unit; an information unit to acquire information about a vertical vehicle acceleration, and a motor load for the motor actuator; and a diagnostic unit to generate an abnormal signal when the motor load exceeds a predetermined load threshold and when the vertical acceleration does not exceed an predetermined acceleration threshold. When the motor load exceeds the load threshold and the vertical vehicle acceleration does not exceed a predetermined acceleration threshold, the diagnostic unit diagnoses an abnormality generates the abnormal signal. The abnormal state dealing unit performs the abnormal dealing control including stop movement during the door opening/closing in response to the abnormal signal.

FAILURE DETERMINATION DEVICE, CONTROL DEVICE, AND FAILURE DETERMINATION METHOD (18153549)

Inventor Yasunari Sato

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a device that is designed to determine if a digital-to-analog (DA) conversion circuit is functioning properly. It does this by comparing the analog electrical output generated by the circuit with a target output, which is calculated based on a first digital value. The device acquires a second digital value that represents the difference between the actual output and the target output. It then analyzes the signal strength of this second digital value in a specific frequency range to determine if the DA conversion circuit has a failure.

Abstract

A failure determination device: acquires a second digital value indicating a difference between an analog electrical output generated by inputting a first digital value incremented at a first time interval to a DA conversion circuit and a target output indicated by the first digital value at a second time interval; and determines whether the DA conversion circuit has a failure based on a signal strength in a predetermined frequency of the second digital value that is a discrete signal.

THE CANISTER DISPOSAL STRUCTURE AND THE VEHICLE INCLUDING SAME (18167090)

Inventor Yuki KOGA

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a canister disposal structure and a vehicle that incorporates this structure. The canister disposal structure is installed within the vehicle and is designed to handle the disposal of evaporative fuel from the vehicle's fuel tank. The vehicle also includes a secondary power supply that supplies electricity to the vehicle's electric motor. The canister is positioned below the secondary power supply and is located at the front of the vehicle, relative to the fuel tank.

Abstract

A canister disposal structure and a vehicle including the canister disposal structure are disclosed. The canister disposal structure is mounted in the vehicle. The vehicle includes: a secondary power supply providing electricity to a driving electric motor of the vehicle; and a canister adsorbing an evaporative fuel of a fuel tank of the vehicle. The canister disposal structure is configured such that: the canister is disposed below the secondary power supply and is located on a front side of the vehicle relative to the fuel tank.

ELECTROCHEMICAL COMPRESSOR (18112550)

Inventor Satoshi SUGAI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an anode current collector for an electrochemical compressor. The collector is made up of alternating sections of different porous materials. In the first section, three porous bodies are stacked in order. In the second section, the order is reversed. The porosity of each successive porous body increases.

Abstract

An anode current collector of an electrochemical compressor includes a plurality of first portions and a plurality of second portions that are alternately arranged from the first end portion toward an inner side in a plane direction of the anode current collector. In the first portion, a first porous body, a second porous body, and a third porous body are sequentially stacked. In the second portion, the first portion, the third porous body, and the second porous body are sequentially stacked. The porosity of the second porous body is larger than the porosity of the first porous body and the porosity of the third porous body is larger than the porosity of the second porous body.

RELEASE DEVICE FOR NON-EXCITATION TYPE ELECTROMAGNETIC BRAKE (18177118)

Inventor Shintaro UCHIDA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a release device for a specific type of electromagnetic brake that does not require external power to operate. The device is powered by a battery and controlled by a brake control device. The device includes a bypass circuit that directly connects the battery to the brake, bypassing the control device. It also includes a first switch to control the flow of electricity to the bypass circuit. Additionally, there is a first step-down circuit on the bypass circuit that reduces the voltage supplied to the brake. This step-down circuit consists of a resistor and a second switch connected in parallel. Finally, there is a timer circuit that controls the on and off state of the second switch.

Abstract

Provided is a release device for a non-excitation type electromagnetic brake that receives power supply from a battery via a brake control device to release a braking state, including: a bypass circuit that connects the battery and the non-excitation type electromagnetic brake without intermediary of the brake control device; a first switch that turns on and off energization to the bypass circuit; and a first step-down circuit provided on the bypass circuit and that reduces a voltage supplied to the non-excitation type electromagnetic brake. The first step-down circuit includes a resistor and a second switch connected in parallel; and a timer circuit that controls on and off of the second switch.

PARKING BRAKE STRUCTURE (18124163)

Inventor Hideki KUWANO

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a parking brake structure for a vehicle that is designed to be simple, lightweight, and made with fewer parts. The structure includes a locking member that prevents a rotation member from rotating. The rotation member is wound with a driving force transmission member and is fixed to the rear wheel of the vehicle. The rotation member has protrusions and recesses on its outer circumferential end face, which engage with the driving force transmission member. The locking member has a protrusion that engages with the recess on the rotation member.

Abstract

A parking brake structure having a simple configuration that is reduced in the number of parts and weight, is provided. The parking brake structure is for use in a vehicle including a driving force transmission member and a rotation member. The driving force transmission member is configured to transmit a driving force of a power unit to a rear wheel. The rotation member is wound with the driving force transmission member while being fixed to the rear wheel. The parking brake structure includes a locking member configured to engage with the rotation member to prevent the rotation member from rotating. The rotation member has an outer circumferential end face that is formed with a plurality of protrusions and recesses between the protrusions adjacent to each other. The protrusions are used to engage with the driving force transmission member. The locking member is formed with a protrusion engageable with the recess.

BATTERY INFORMATION MANAGEMENT METHOD AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18095594)

Inventor Yukiko Onoue

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a battery information management system that collects data about a battery's electrical characteristics, evaluates the battery's state using an algorithm, and stores the data and algorithm in a searchable database. The system uses hash values to ensure data integrity and uses a unique key to organize the stored information.

Abstract

Provided is a battery information management including: acquiring battery information including: measurement data including a measurement result relating to electrical characteristics of a battery; an algorithm for evaluating the state of the battery from the measurement data; and evaluation data including the result of evaluating the state of the battery by the algorithm; executing first processing of calculating a first hash value that is a hash value of at least one of the measurement data and the algorithm included in the battery information; executing second processing of calculating a second hash value that is a hash value of package data associating the first hash value with the evaluation data; and executing third processing of storing at least one of the measurement data and the algorithm into a database in a searchable manner with the second hash value serving as a key.

MEASUREMENT DEVICE, MEASUREMENT METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18113629)

Inventor Yuki Tominaga

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a measurement device that uses an impedance calculator to perform several processes. First, it prepares a Bode diagram. Then, it extracts a peak from the diagram and fits a mountain shape to it using an RC parallel circuit. Next, it subtracts the component represented by the fitted circuit from the measurement results. If a peak is not extracted, the device ends the identification process, but if a peak is extracted, it repeats the fitting and subtraction steps. Finally, it reports the total number of RC parallel circuits identified.

Abstract

A measurement device including an impedance calculator configured to perform following processes S1 to S5 is provided: S1: preparing a Bode diagram; S2: extracting a peak from the Bode diagram; increasing the number of RC parallel circuits by +1, and fitting a mountain shape which is able to be represented by an RC parallel circuit centered on the peak; S3: subtracting a Bode diagram component which is able to be represented by the fitted RC parallel circuit from the Bode diagram of the measurement results; S4: ending identification of the number of RC parallel circuits when a peak is not extracted from the Bode diagram and repeating the processes (S2) and S(3) when a peak is extracted; and S5: reporting the total number of RC parallel circuits.

BATTERY STATE DIAGNOSING DEVICE, BATTERY STATE DIAGNOSING METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18108680)

Inventor Takuma Kawahara

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a device that can diagnose the state of a battery. It acquires time-series data, including current and voltage values of the battery. It then estimates an index value that represents the battery's deterioration state based on this data. The device also evaluates the reliability of the index value by analyzing the distribution of voltage values and the dischargeable capacity calculated from the current values. Finally, it determines a final index value based on this reliability assessment.

Abstract

A battery state diagnosing device includes: an acquisition unit configured to acquire time-series data including at least a current value and a voltage value of a battery; a deterioration state estimating unit configured to estimate an index value associated with a deterioration state of the battery on the basis of the time-series data; a reliability evaluating unit configured to evaluate a reliability of the index value on the basis of at least one of distribution information of the voltage value included in the time-series data and distribution information of a dischargeable capacity calculated using the current value included in the time-series data; and a deterioration state determining unit configured to determine a final index value on the basis of the reliability.

GROUND FAULT DETERMINATION SYSTEM AND GROUND FAULT DETERMINATION METHOD (18114373)

Inventor Ryota KITAMOTO

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a system that can determine if there is a ground fault in a group of fuel cell stacks. The system includes an acquisition unit that measures the deterioration of each fuel cell stack, a ground fault detection unit that checks the insulation resistance between the inverter and the fuel cell stacks, and two determination units. The first determination unit checks for a ground fault in all the fuel cell stacks simultaneously if none of them have deteriorated significantly. The second determination unit checks for ground faults in each fuel cell stack individually if at least one of them has deteriorated.

Abstract

A ground fault determination system includes an acquisition unit that acquires the degree of deterioration of a plurality of fuel cell stacks connected in parallel with each other and connected to an inverter, a ground fault detection unit that detects insulation resistance between the inverter and the plurality of fuel cell stacks, a first determination unit that determines, when the deterioration of each fuel cell stack has not yet progressed, whether there is a ground fault with all the fuel cell stacks all at once, and a second determination unit that determines in turn, when the deterioration of at least one fuel cell stack has progressed, whether there is a ground fault with each fuel cell stack.

POSITIONING SYSTEM AND MOBILE OBJECT EQUIPPED THEREWITH (18121191)

Inventor Aman Jain

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a positioning system that uses a camera to capture an image. The system can identify the three-dimensional position of a destination based on the image, specifically by identifying a person and estimating the positions of two key points on their body. If the line connecting these two key points intersects with the ground within a certain range from the person, that intersection is considered the destination position. However, if the intersection is not within the predetermined range, the system identifies the position of an object target that is within a certain distance from the line as the destination position. This is done by analyzing the image and identifying object targets within it.

Abstract

A positioning system comprising a camera that captures an image is provided. The system identifies a destination position that is a three-dimensional position of a destination on a basis of the image including a person, and estimates three-dimensional positions of two key points of the person. In a case where an intersection between a line connecting the two key points and a ground is within a predetermined range from the person, the intersection is identified as the destination position. In a case where the intersection between the line connecting the two key points and the ground is not within the predetermined range from the person, a position of an object target existing within a predetermined distance from the line is identified as the destination position, from among object targets identified from the image.

CONTROL DEVICE FOR MOBILE OBJECT, CONTROL METHOD FOR MOBILE OBJECT, AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18125148)

Inventor Hideki Matsunaga

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a control device for a mobile object that can move on a roadway or a different designated area. The device includes a storage device that stores a program and a hardware processor that executes the program. The device uses an acceleration sensor to determine whether the mobile object is moving on the roadway or the designated area. When the mobile object reaches a braille block, it is recognized as moving on the designated area.

Abstract

Provided is a control device for a mobile object capable of moving on a roadway and a predetermined area different from the roadway, the control device comprising a storage device storing a program and a hardware processor connected to the storage device, the hardware processor executing the program stored in the storage device to: recognize whether the mobile object is moving on the roadway or the predetermined area based on an output of an acceleration sensor for detecting an acceleration of the mobile object; and recognize that the mobile object is moving on the predetermined area when the mobile object is determined to reach a braille block based on the output of the acceleration sensor.

CONTROL DEVICE (18186543)

Inventor Ryota Tsujimoto

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a control device that is used to control the thrust of an aircraft. The device includes several units that perform different functions. 

Firstly, there is a resultant thrust magnitude calculation unit that calculates the total magnitude of the thrust based on the input from a thrust adjustment lever. This lever allows the pilot to adjust the thrust of the aircraft.

Next, there is a resultant thrust angle setting unit that sets the angle at which the thrust is applied, based on the speed of the aircraft. This angle determines the direction in which the aircraft will move.

Then, there is a component calculation unit that calculates the vertical and horizontal components of the resultant thrust. These components represent the vertical and horizontal forces that the aircraft will experience.

Finally, there is a rotor control unit that controls the vertical and horizontal rotor devices. The vertical rotor device provides the vertical thrust, while the horizontal rotor device provides the horizontal thrust. The rotor control unit adjusts these devices based on the calculated vertical and horizontal components of the thrust.

Overall, this control device allows for precise control of the thrust of an aircraft, enabling it to move in different directions and at different speeds.

Abstract

A control device includes :a resultant thrust magnitude calculation unit that calculates a magnitude of a resultant thrust of a vertical thrust and a horizontal thrust, based on a magnitude of a thrust indicated by a signal output from a thrust adjustment lever; a resultant thrust angle setting unit that sets a resultant thrust angle in accordance with a speed of an aircraft; a component calculation unit that calculates a vertical component and a horizontal component of the resultant thrust; and a rotor control unit that controls a vertical rotor device to provide the vertical thrust having the vertical component and controls a horizontal rotor device to provide the horizontal thrust having the horizontal component.

DATA GENERATION DEVICE (18123354)

Inventor Koichi Yahagi

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a device that can generate data from speech. It has a unit that captures voice data and converts it into text using voice recognition. Another unit extracts specific words from the text that meet certain conditions. Finally, a unit generates summary data by using the extracted word and other words within a specific range from the text.

Abstract

A data generation device includes an acquisition unit for acquiring voice data of speech, a recognition unit for generating text data by performing voice recognition on the voice data, an extraction unit for extracting, as an extracted word, a word satisfying a predetermined condition, from among a plurality of words included in the text data, and a generation unit for generating summary data indicating a summary of content of the voice data, by using the extracted word and a word that is within a predetermined range from the extracted word, from among the plurality of words included in the text data.

RECYCLING WORK SUPPORT SYSTEM (18177133)

Inventor Shoji INOSE

Brief explanation

The recycling work support system described in the abstract is designed to improve the efficiency of recycling and increase the economic value of the items being recycled. It includes a component that determines which parts should be disassembled during the recycling process based on factors such as the prices of the materials, the amount of materials that can be recovered, and the time required for the disassembly work. This component also displays the recommended parts and disassembly procedures to the workers responsible for the disassembly. Overall, the system aims to optimize the recycling process and make it more profitable.

Abstract

Provide is a recycling work support system capable of improving efficiency of recycling and enhancing the economic value of an article to be recycled. A recycling work support system includes: a recommended disassembly-target part decider for deciding disassembly-target parts to be disassembled in disassembly work and/or a disassembly procedure for the disassembly work so that a total of resource prices for parts that can be disassembled per predetermined time is high, based on the resource prices of the materials, recovery amounts of the materials, and the working hours; and a recommended disassembly-target part displayer for displaying the decided disassembly-target parts to be disassembled and/or disassembly procedure to workers who are to perform the disassembly work.

POWER TRADING SYSTEM AND POWER TRADING METHOD (18163439)

Inventor Hibiki Saeki

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a power trading system that allows for the buying and selling of power between different contractors. The system includes an order reception unit that receives sell and purchase orders for power. There is also a power supply and demand planning unit that plans the supply and demand of power between two contractors. 

The planning unit takes into account the distance of power transmission and distribution between the sellers and buyers. If the total distance between a seller and the buyer is shorter than the distance between the two contractors, the planning unit includes power supply from the seller to the buyer in its supply and demand plan. This means that power can be supplied from one contractor to another, even if they are not directly connected, as long as the overall distance is shorter.

Abstract

A power trading system includes an order reception unit configured to receive a sell order and a purchase order of power, and a power supply and demand planning unit configured to plan power supply and demand between a first contractor and a second contractor. When a total value of a power transmission and distribution distance between a third contractor who sells power and the second contractor and a power transmission and distribution distance between a fourth contractor who purchases power and the first contractor is shorter than a power transmission and distribution distance between the first contractor and the second contractor, the power supply and demand planning unit plans the power supply and demand including power supply from the third contractor to the second contractor and power supply from the first contractor to the fourth contractor.

ACTIVE NOISE REDUCTION SYSTEM, ACTIVE NOISE REDUCTION METHOD, AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER-READABLE STORAGE MEDIUM (18188125)

Inventor Xun WANG

Brief explanation

This abstract describes an active noise reduction system that cancels out noise using a canceling sound output device. The system includes a noise signal generator that generates noise signals based on the noise, and a controller that controls the canceling sound output device based on these noise signals. The controller acquires buffer data, which is a time series of the noise signals, and divides it into multiple segments. It then calculates a correlation value of the buffer data based on these segments. By analyzing the correlation value, the controller can detect if there is any disturbance mixed in the buffer data. Based on this detection, the controller switches the control over the canceling sound output device accordingly.

Abstract

An active noise reduction system includes a canceling sound output device configured to output a canceling sound for canceling a noise, a noise signal generator configured to generate noise signals based on the noise, and a controller configured to control the canceling sound output device based on the noise signals, wherein the controller is configured to acquire buffer data in which the noise signals are stored in a time series, generate a plurality of divided data by dividing the buffer data, calculate a correlation value of the buffer data based on the plurality of divided data, detect presence/absence of disturbance mixed in the buffer data based on the correlation value, and switch control over the canceling sound output device according to the presence/absence of the disturbance mixed in the buffer data.

ACTIVE NOISE REDUCTION SYSTEM, ACTIVE NOISE REDUCTION METHOD, AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER-READABLE STORAGE MEDIUM (18188156)

Inventor Xun WANG

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an active noise reduction system that uses multiple noise microphones to acquire noise signals. The system then selects reference signals and an error signal from these noise signals. The reference signals represent the noise, while the error signal represents the difference between the noise and a canceling sound. The system generates a control signal from the reference signals using control filters and updates these filters adaptively using acoustic transmission filters. These acoustic transmission filters include both adaptive update filters and non-adaptive update filters, with the non-adaptive filters being updated based on the update value of the adaptive filter.

Abstract

An active noise reduction system includes a controller configured to acquire a plurality of noise signals output from a plurality of noise microphones, select a plurality of reference signals and an error signal from among the plurality of noise signals, the plurality of reference signals corresponding to a noise, the error signal corresponding to an error between the noise and a canceling sound, generate a control signal from the plurality of reference signals by using a plurality of control filters, and adaptively update the plurality of control filters by using a plurality of acoustic transmission filters. The plurality of acoustic transmission filters includes at least one adaptive update filter configured to be adaptively updated, and at least one non-adaptive update filter configured to be updated based on an update value of the adaptive update filter.

ACTIVE NOISE REDUCTION SYSTEM, ACTIVE NOISE REDUCTION METHOD, AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER-READABLE STORAGE MEDIUM (18188140)

Inventor Toshio INOUE

Brief explanation

This abstract describes an active noise reduction system that is designed to reduce unwanted noise. The system consists of a canceling sound output device, multiple noise microphones, and a controller. The canceling sound output device produces a canceling sound to counteract the noise. The noise microphones capture the noise and generate noise signals. The controller then uses these noise signals to control the canceling sound output device. It acquires the noise signals, selects a reference signal (which represents the noise) and an error signal (which represents the difference between the noise and the canceling sound), and generates a correction reference signal by removing the canceling sound component from the reference signal. Finally, the controller generates a control signal based on the correction reference signal, which is used to control the canceling sound output device.

Abstract

An active noise reduction system includes a canceling sound output device configured to output a canceling sound, a plurality of noise microphones configured to generate a plurality of noise signals based on a noise, and a controller configured to control the canceling sound output device based on the plurality of noise signals, wherein the controller is configured to acquire the plurality of noise signals output from the plurality of noise microphones, select a reference signal and an error signal from among the plurality of noise signals, the reference signal corresponding to the noise, the error signal corresponding to an error between the noise and the canceling sound, generate a correction reference signal by removing a component of the canceling sound from the reference signal, and generate a control signal based on the correction reference signal, the control signal being a signal for controlling the canceling sound output device.

LITHIUM SECONDARY BATTERY (18170562)

Inventor Kazuki SAIMEN

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a lithium secondary battery that consists of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and an electrolytic solution. The positive electrode is made up of an interlayer and a positive electrode mixture layer, which are stacked on a positive electrode current collector. The interlayer contains a pre-doping agent, a conductive aid, and a binder.

Abstract

To provide a lithium secondary battery including a positive electrode, a negative electrode and an electrolytic solution, wherein the positive electrode includes an interlayer and a positive electrode mixture layer sequentially stacked on a positive electrode current collector, and the interlayer contains a pre-doping agent, a conductive aid and a binder.

FUEL CELL SYSTEM (18113400)

Inventor Tomoyuki INOUE

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a control device that monitors the coolant temperature and electrical resistance of a fuel cell stack. If the coolant temperature stays above a certain threshold for a specific time period and the electrical resistance remains above another threshold for a separate time period, the control device concludes that the fuel cell stack is dry. In response, it limits the amount of power generated by the fuel cell stack.

Abstract

If coolant temperature remains higher than a temperature threshold for a first predetermined time period (step S: YES) and thereafter an electrical resistance value remains higher than a resistance threshold for a second predetermined time period (step S: YES), a control device determines that a fuel cell stack is in a dry condition and performs the process of limiting a power generation amount of the fuel cell stack (step S).

FUEL CELL SYSTEM (18114260)

Inventor Kazuhide INOUE

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a fuel cell system that has a drain valve to remove liquid water from a gas-liquid separator. The system also includes a pressure sensor to measure the gas pressure in the fuel supply or off-gas flow path. There is a power generation state acquisition unit that monitors the fuel cell stack's power generation state. A control device is used to regulate the opening and closing of the drain valve based on the power generation state and gas pressure.

Abstract

A fuel cell system includes a drain valve for a gas-liquid separator in a fuel off-gas flow path to discharge liquid water in the gas-liquid separator, a pressure sensor disposed at a fuel gas supply flow path or the fuel off-gas flow path to detect a gas pressure in the flow path, a power generation state acquisition unit to acquire a power generation state of a fuel cell stack, and a control device. The control device controls the opening and closing of the drain valve based on the power generation state and the gas pressure.

ACTIVATION METHOD FOR FUEL CELL AND DEVICE THEREFOR (18122981)

Inventor Koichiro SATO

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a process where a fuel cell is activated by applying a variable voltage to a membrane electrode assembly. This is done while supplying different gases to the anode and cathode of the fuel cell. Once activated, a constant voltage is applied to the membrane electrode assembly, resulting in the generation of liquid water at either the anode or the cathode. Alternatively, the membrane electrode assembly can be used to generate electricity, during which liquid water is also produced at the anode or cathode.

Abstract

In a case that activation is implemented on a fuel cell, a variable voltage is applied to a membrane electrode assembly while a first gas is supplied to an anode and a second gas is supplied to a cathode. Thereafter, while a constant voltage is applied to the membrane electrode assembly, liquid water is generated at the anode or the cathode. Alternatively, the membrane electrode assembly is made to generate electricity. During the generation of electricity, liquid water is generated at the anode or the cathode.

ALL-SOLID-STATE BATTERY AND BATTERY MODULE (18112932)

Inventor Ryo Shimizu

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an all-solid-state battery that consists of multiple layers, including a positive electrode layer, a solid electrolyte layer, and a negative electrode layer. The battery also includes an absorber to capture hydrogen sulfide gas and an outer package that creates a sealed space for the battery and absorber. The sealing portion of the outer package has a weaker section that will break first if hydrogen sulfide gas is generated, allowing the gas to be released outside the sealed space.

Abstract

An all-solid-state battery includes a laminated body in which a positive electrode layer, a sulfide-based solid electrolyte layer; and a negative electrode layer are laminated; an absorber configured to absorb hydrogen sulfide gas; and an outer package configured to form a housing space in which the laminated body and the absorber are housed. The outer package includes a sealing portion configured to hermetically seal the housing space. The sealing portion includes a fragile portion whose sealing strength is weaker than that of the other portion of the sealing portion. In a case where the hydrogen sulfide gas is generated in the housing space, sealing of the fragile portion is released earlier than the other portion to form a discharge port through which the hydrogen sulfide gas is discharged to an outside of the housing space.

SOLID ELECTROLYTE SHEET AND SOLID-STATE BATTERY (18191892)

Inventor Yohei NOJI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a solid electrolyte sheet that is strong and allows for a thinner sheet. It consists of a porous base material filled with a solid electrolyte material, and a binder that adheres to the base material. The binder content is equal to or higher than 10% by mass. This solid electrolyte sheet is used in a solid-state battery, which also includes a positive electrode layer, a negative electrode layer, and the solid electrolyte layer located between them.

Abstract

To provide a solid electrolyte sheet with high strength that allows for a thinner sheet, and a solid-state battery provided with such a solid electrolyte sheet. A solid electrolyte sheet  is provided with a porous base material , a solid electrolyte material filling voids in the base material , and a binder adhering to the base material , wherein when 100% by mass is taken to mean an entirety of the solid electrolyte sheet , content of the binder is equal to or higher than 10% by mass. A solid-state battery  is provided with a positive electrode layer , a negative electrode layer , and a solid electrolyte layer  located between the positive electrode layer  and the negative electrode layer , wherein the solid electrolyte layer includes the solid electrolyte sheet 

STORAGE CASE OF ELECTRODE ROLL (18110185)

Inventor Kenta KASANO

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a storage case for an electrode roll used in a secondary battery. The storage case is designed to cover the electrode roll and has a hollow core. The electrode body is wound around the core and is housed within the space created by the case. The case is sealed to ensure the electrode body is securely stored. Additionally, there are protrusions on the end surfaces of the electrode body at both ends of the core, which extend in the axial direction of the core.

Abstract

A storage case of an electrode roll of a secondary battery having a hollow core and an electrode body wound around the core includes a case that covers the electrode roll. The storage case has a structure in which a space in which the electrode body is housed is sealed by the case and protrusions protruding in an axial direction of the core from end surfaces of the electrode body at both ends of the core.

BATTERY PACK (18114610)

Inventor Hideki SAKAMOTO

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a battery pack that consists of multiple stacked cells and a case to hold them. Each cell has a main body and a terminal that extends in a different direction. The case has a frame that faces the terminal. A stopper is placed either above or below the terminal, between the body and the frame.

Abstract

A battery pack includes a plurality of laminated cells stacked in a first direction of a horizontal direction, and a battery case accommodating the plurality of laminated cells. Each of the laminated cells includes a cell body portion, and a cell terminal extending from the cell body portion in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction of the horizontal direction and having a length in an upper-lower direction shorter than that of the cell body portion. The battery case includes a frame member facing the cell terminal in the second direction. A stopper member is disposed in at least one of a space at an upper side of the cell terminal and a space at a lower side of the cell terminal and between the cell body portion and the frame member.

BATTERY PACK (18114594)

Inventor Hideki SAKAMOTO

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a battery pack that consists of multiple stacked cells, a battery case, and a wiring coupling portion. The first cell at one end of the electrical flow path is connected to the wiring coupling portion using a conductive coupling member. The first cell has a body portion and a terminal that extends in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal direction. The conductive coupling member is a single plate-shaped component that does not extend beyond the cell terminal when viewed from a certain direction. The purpose of this design is to simplify the battery pack and ensure that the conductive coupling member does not interfere with the upper ends of the stacked cells.

Abstract

A battery pack includes a plurality of laminated cells, a battery case, and a wiring coupling portion. A first laminated cell positioned at an end portion of the electrical flow path and the wiring coupling portion are electrically coupled via a conductive coupling member. The first laminated cell includes a cell body portion and a cell terminal extending from the cell body portion in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction of the horizontal direction. The conductive coupling member is formed of a single plate-shaped member. The conductive coupling member does not protrude in an extending direction of the cell terminal with respect to an abutting portion abutting against the cell terminal, at least in a region on a lower side of upper end portions of the plurality of laminated cells when viewed from the first direction.

VEHICLE ROOF ANTENNA CONFIGURATION (17705567)

Inventor Kohei INOUE

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a design for arranging antennas on a vehicle's roof in order to minimize interference with radio waves. The roof consists of an outer panel and two structural components that extend across the roof in a lateral direction. The first structural component is closer to the rear edge of the roof than the second structural component. The roof also includes an antenna configuration, which consists of two sets of antennas. The first set of antennas is mounted on the first structural component, while the second set is mounted on the second structural component. The first set of antennas is positioned a certain distance away from the rear edge of the roof, while the second set is positioned a greater distance away from the edge of the roof.

Abstract

An arrangement of antennas on a roof of a vehicle is described to minimize radio wave interference. The roof includes an outer panel, a first structural component extending in a lateral direction across the roof, and a second structural component extending in the lateral direction across the roof. The first structural component is closer to a rear edge of the roof than the second structural component. The roof also includes an antenna configuration attached to the roof. The antenna configuration includes a first set of antennas mounted to the first structural component and a second set of antennas mounted to the second structural component. The first set of antennas are spaced apart from the rear edge of the roof by a first distance. The second set of antennas are spaced apart from the edge of the roof by a second distance. The second distance is greater than the first distance.

POWER CONTROL DEVICE (18109880)

Inventor Jin Katsuya

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a power control device that operates wirelessly to receive electric power and convert it into DC power. The device consists of a power receiving device, a second power converting device, and a control device. The power receiving device receives electric power from a power transmitting device without any physical contact and converts it into DC power. The second power converting device uses transistors and reactors to convert the DC power received from the power receiving device into any desired DC power output. The control device manages the switching operation of the transistors in the second power converting device based on the optimal operating point of the input power and the output power.

Abstract

A power control device includes a power receiving device, a second power converting device, and a control device. The power receiving device receives electric power transmitted from a power transmitting device in a non-contact manner and outputs DC electric power. The second power converting device includes an element module including transistors forming a pair in two phases and a pair of reactors that are magnetically coupled. The second power converting device outputs arbitrary DC electric power by converting the DC electric power output from the power receiving device. The control device controls a switching operation of the element module according to a duty ratio based on a second voltage at an optimal operating point of the DC electric power input from the power receiving device to the second power converting device and a first voltage of the DC electric power output from the second power converting device.

MAGNETIZING METHOD AND MAGNETIZING APPARATUS (18123400)

Inventor Toshitaka Kato

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a method for magnetizing a rotor that has multiple magnetic bodies arranged in a circular pattern. The method involves using a magnetizing coil placed near the outer edge of the magnetic bodies. The coil applies a magnetic field in the radial direction of the rotor, which magnetizes the magnetic bodies. Specifically, the method applies a magnetic field that points outward to one of the magnetic bodies, while applying magnetic fields that point inward to the rest of the magnetic bodies.

Abstract

A magnetizing method applies, to a rotor including a plurality of magnetic bodies that are arranged in the circumferential direction of the rotor and are to be magnetized, a magnetic field in a radial direction of the rotor to magnetize the magnetic bodies. The magnetizing method includes a step of arranging a magnetizing coil near the outer peripheral portion of the plurality of magnetic bodies and a step of applying a radially outward magnetic field only to one of the magnetic bodies while applying radially inward magnetic fields to the plurality of magnetic bodies.

MOTOR CONTROL DEVICE (18191416)

Inventor Takami SUZUKI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a motor control device that includes a magnetic-flux command value generator and a current-command value generator. The magnetic-flux command value generator generates a magnetic-flux command value based on a torque-command value, while the current-command value generator generates a current-command value based on the magnetic-flux command value. The magnetic-flux command value generator consists of several components, including a magnetic-flux command calculator, a feedback-value calculator, a magnetic-flux compensation value calculator, a magnetic-flux command value calculator, and a control-gain changer.

Abstract

(1) A motor control device of the present invention includes a magnetic-flux command value generator and a current-command value generator. The magnetic-flux command value generator is configured to generate a magnetic-flux command value based on a torque-command value. The current-command value generator is configured to generate a current-command value on the basis of the magnetic-flux command value. The magnetic-flux command value generator includes a magnetic-flux command calculator, a feedback-value calculator, a magnetic-flux compensation value calculator, a magnetic-flux command value calculator, and a control-gain changer.

ELECTRIC MOTOR SYSTEM (18188591)

Inventor Atsushi Yonehana

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a power conversion device used in an electric motor system. This device consists of two sets of upper and lower arms connected in series for each phase. These sets are then connected in parallel to a direct-current power supply. The electric motor itself is a star-connected motor, meaning it has two coils for each phase.

Abstract

In an electric motor system, a power conversion device includes, for each phase, two sets each of which includes an upper arm and a lower arm that are connected in series, the two sets being connected in parallel to a direct-current power supply. The electric motor is a star-connected electric motor. The electric motor includes two coils for each phase.

INFORMATION PROCESSING SYSTEM, AND METHOD OF INFORMATION PROCESSING (18170689)

Inventor Yuiko Kumagai

Brief explanation

This abstract describes an information processing system that includes different units to acquire and process information. The system has a position acquisition unit that determines the user's position, a context information acquisition unit that collects context information related to that position, and a content presentation control unit that manages the presentation of content based on the context information. The context information includes details about how easily a specific feature related to the content can be recognized at the user's position. The content presentation control unit then adjusts the presentation of the content based on the ease of recognizing that feature at the user's position.

Abstract

An information processing system includes a position acquisition unit that acquires the position of a user, a context information acquisition unit that acquires context information corresponding to the position, and a content presentation control unit that controls presentation of a content based on the context information. The context information includes information on easiness of recognition of a feature at the position, the feature relating to the content, and the content presentation control unit controls the presentation of the content based on the easiness of recognition of the feature at the position.

POWER CONVERSION DEVICE (18113081)

Inventor Keisuke Itai

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a power conversion device that consists of various components such as an element module, a condenser, a case, a cooler, and terminals. The device is designed to convert power from one side to another. The element module and condenser are placed on the surface of the cooler, and the case houses all the components. The device also includes bus bars that connect the terminals on the secondary side to the condenser. These bus bars are arranged on the surface of the cooler.

Abstract

A power conversion device includes an element module, a condenser, a case, a cooler, a positive terminal and a negative terminal on a primary side, and a positive terminal and a negative terminal on a secondary side. The case accommodates the element module, the condenser, and the case. The element module and the condenser are disposed on a surface side of the cooler. The power conversion device includes a secondary side positive electrode bus bar and a secondary side negative electrode bus bar that are connected between the positive terminal and negative terminal on the secondary side and the condenser. The secondary side positive electrode bus bar and the secondary side negative electrode bus bar are arranged on the surface side of the cooler.