TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA patent applications published on October 12th, 2023

Summary of the patent applications from TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA on October 12th, 2023

TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA has recently filed patents for various technologies related to power conversion, cooling structures, clamping devices, control apparatus, semiconductor devices, battery packs, and lithium-ion secondary batteries. These patents demonstrate the organization's focus on developing innovative solutions for electric vehicles and power transmission.

Notable applications include:

• A new type of board with a strong bond between an insulating layer and a metal layer, providing improved performance and reliability.
• A power conversion apparatus that converts power from different sources and regulates it for various applications, enabling efficient power management.
• A power converter with multiple arms and detectors to measure temperature, voltage, and current, allowing for precise control and monitoring of semiconductor elements.
• A clamping device used in laser welding to join stripped portions of a material, providing secure and accurate clamping action.
• Cooling structures for in-wheel motors located within tire-wheel assemblies, ensuring efficient cooling and heat dissipation to maintain motor performance.
• A control apparatus for a power transmitter that wirelessly transmits electric power to a power receiver, enabling efficient power transmission and restriction control.
• A semiconductor device consisting of quantum dots stacked in layers with different central wavelengths, providing enhanced gain at specific wavelengths.
• A battery pack with battery cells and a spacer, ensuring secure and pressure-bound assembly for improved battery performance.
• A method for making a lithium-ion secondary battery with a special graphite particle and a non-aqueous electrolytic solution, enhancing battery performance and stability.

Overall, these patents demonstrate TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA's commitment to developing advanced technologies for power conversion, cooling, clamping, control, semiconductor devices, battery packs, and lithium-ion secondary batteries. These innovations aim to improve the performance, efficiency, and reliability of electric vehicles and power transmission systems.

Patent applications for TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA on October 12th, 2023

REMOTE ROBOT SYSTEM AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING REMOTE ROBOT SYSTEM (17715186)

Main Inventor

Yuji Onuma

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a remote robot system that can be controlled by a user. The system includes a robot that can perform certain tasks and collect information, a guide terminal that can remotely operate the robot, and a participant terminal that can communicate with the guide terminal. The participant terminal has a display panel to show the information collected by the robot to the user, and an interest detection unit to determine the user's interest in the displayed information.

Abstract

A remote robot system and a method of controlling a remote robot system capable of responding appropriately according to a user are provided. A remote robot system includes: a robot configured to perform a predetermined operation including collection of local information near the robot; a guide terminal capable of remotely operating the operation of the robot; and a participant terminal capable of remotely communicating with the guide terminal, in which the participant terminal includes: a display panel configured to output the local information acquired from the robot to the user; and an interest detection unit configured to detect user's interest in the output local information.

TARPAULIN HOUSING STRUCTURE FOR VEHICLE (18129990)

Main Inventor

Shigenobu MIYACHI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a design feature in which a joint groove is created between the roof structure and the side body structure of a vehicle. A roof rail, which is hollow, is attached to the vehicle and runs along the joint groove. This creates a housing space for a tarpaulin, which is larger and easier to secure compared to if the housing space was solely defined by the roof rail.

Abstract

A joint groove is defined in a joint section of a roof structure and a side body structure of a vehicle. A roof rail having a hollow structure is fixed to the vehicle so as to extend along the joint groove. A housing space for housing a tarpaulin is cooperatively defined by both the roof rail and the joint groove. Greater housing space can be more easily secured as compared to a case in which the housing space is defined solely by the roof rail.

VEHICLE BODY BASE STRUCTURE (18112013)

Main Inventor

Takuya HIROTA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a vehicle body structure that includes a battery pack positioned beneath the floor panel to provide power to the traction motor. There is a bracket fixed to the rear side member that supports a trailing arm, and a reinforcing brace that connects the bracket to the battery pack. The bracket is located behind the battery pack in the front-rear direction of the vehicle.

Abstract

A vehicle body base structure includes a battery pack that is configured to supply electric power to a traction motor and that is disposed beneath a floor panel, a bracket that pivotally supports a trailing arm and that is fixed to a rear side member, and a reinforcing brace that is fixed to the bracket and that is also fixed to the battery pack. The bracket is located rearward from the battery pack in a vehicle front-rear direction.

CONTROL DEVICE FOR VEHICLE (18158134)

Main Inventor

Yoshitaka Niimi

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a method to reduce engine vibration in a vehicle by increasing the torque of a rear electric motor when the required drive force of the engine reaches a certain level that could damage the engine mount. By increasing the torque of the electric motor, the required drive force of the engine can be reduced, resulting in less strain on the engine mount and reduced engine vibration transmitted to the vehicle body.

Abstract

When a required drive force of an engine becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined value that deteriorates the characteristics of an engine mount, torque serving as a required drive amount of a rear electric motor is increased, so that the required drive force of the engine can be reduced. As a result, crushing of the engine mount that supports the engine is reduced, so that engine vibration transmitted to a vehicle body via the engine mount can be reduced.

CONTACTLESS POWER FEED SYSTEM, GROUND POWER FEED DEVICE, AND CONTACTLESS POWER FEED METHOD (18194653)

Main Inventor

Daiki YOKOYAMA

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a contactless power feed system that allows for the wireless transfer of power to a moving object. The system consists of two ground power feed devices. The first device sends a signal to the second device when the moving object enters a specific power feed section. If the second device is unable to confirm the entry or approach of the moving object to another power feed section within a certain time period, it sends a signal to the first device to stop the power feed.

Abstract

A contactless power feed system includes a first ground power feed device and a second ground power feed device for performing contactless power feed to a moving body. The first ground power feed device transmits a passing signal to the second ground power feed device when entry of the moving body to a first power feed section is confirmed. The second ground power feed device transmits a power feed stop signal to the first ground power feed device when confirmation of entry or approach of the moving body to a second power feed section is not possible even after a predetermined time has elapsed after receiving the passing signal.

MULTIPLE VEHICLES TO PROVIDE ENERGY TO A LOCATION (17718437)

Main Inventor

Norman Lu

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a scenario where a vehicle with a low battery capacity halts and identifies another available vehicle to provide charging. The first vehicle then moves to a charging station while the second vehicle maneuvers to the location where charging is needed. Finally, the second vehicle provides the necessary charging to the location.

Abstract

An example operation includes one or more of halting, by a vehicle, charge to a location when a battery capacity of the vehicle is below a threshold; determining, by the vehicle, another vehicle that is available to provide charge to the location; maneuvering, by the vehicle, to a charging station; maneuvering, by the another vehicle, to the location; and providing, by the another vehicle, charging to the location.

POWER SYSTEM, POWER CONTROL DEVICE, AND POWER CONTROL METHOD (18163380)

Main Inventor

Chiaki KANDA

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a power system that consists of three power devices and a power control device. The power control device is responsible for controlling the power of each device. When switching the power control from the first device to the second device, the power control device uses gradual change switching control. However, when switching the power control from either the first or second device to the third device, the power control device uses instant switching control.

Abstract

A power system includes a first power device, a second power device, a third power device, and a power control device. The power control device is configured to control power control of each of the first power device, the second power device, and the third power device. The power control device is configured to perform gradual change switching control when the power control device switches a target of the power control from the first power device to the second power device. The power control device is configured to perform instant switching control when the power control device switches the target of the power control from at least one of the first power device and the second power device to the third power device.

VEHICLE SIDE STRUCTURE (18131944)

Main Inventor

Makoto Sekizuka

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a vehicle side structure that includes a window with a window opening and a window glass. It also includes a curtain air bag device positioned above the window and a bar-shaped member that divides the window opening into upper and lower sections. The bar-shaped member is placed inside the window opening or on the inner side of the window opening, but outside the fully inflated curtain air bag. The curtain air bag expands below the bar-shaped member.

Abstract

A vehicle side structure includes a window, which has a window opening defined in a side wall of a vehicle and a window glass for covering the window opening, a curtain air bag device attached to a position above the window, and a bar-shaped member configured to partition the window opening into upper and lower sections when viewed along a lateral direction of the vehicle. In the vehicle side structure, the bar-shaped member is placed inside the window opening or at a position located, in a vehicle width direction, on an inner side of the window opening and also on an outer side of a fully inflated curtain air bag, and at least a part of the fully inflated curtain air bag expands to a region below the bar-shaped member.

VEHICLE CONTROL DEVICE, STORAGE MEDIUM FOR STORING COMPUTER PROGRAM FOR VEHICLE CONTROL, AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING VEHICLE (18165700)

Main Inventor

Kenta Kumazaki

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a device in a vehicle that uses a processor and a monitor image to determine if the driver is trying to change lanes. If the driver is attempting to change lanes and the engine is off, the device will start the engine and use the electric motor to accelerate the vehicle.

Abstract

A vehicle control device has a processor configured to determine whether or not a driver is attempting to move a vehicle from a traveling lane in which the vehicle is traveling to an adjacent lane, based on a monitor image taken of an area near a driving seat, and to activate the engine when it has been determined that the driver is attempting to move the vehicle from the traveling lane to the adjacent lane and the engine is stopped with drive power being obtained using the electric motor, wherein the vehicle is accelerated using the drive power of the engine when the engine is activated, if movement of the vehicle from the traveling lane to the adjacent lane has been requested by the driver.

PARKING MANAGEMENT DEVICE, VEHICLE, AND PARKING MANAGEMENT METHOD (18106132)

Main Inventor

Daisaku HONDA

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a parking management device that allows users to request the movement of a parked vehicle. The device receives the user's request and identifies the specific parked vehicle in a parking lot. It then sends a command to the parked vehicle, instructing it to transition from a parked mode to a movement mode, enabling it to execute the necessary operations to move the vehicle.

Abstract

A parking management device includes: a receiving unit that receives a vehicle movement request transmitted from a user so as to move a parked vehicle; a specifying unit that specifies the parked vehicle from among the vehicles in a parking lot based on the vehicle movement request; and a transmitting unit that transmits a vehicle movement mode command to the parked vehicle, the vehicle movement mode command being a command for causing a driving mode of the parked vehicle specified by the specifying unit to transition to a vehicle movement mode in which the parked vehicle is caused to execute a vehicle movement operation for moving the parked vehicle.

VEHICLE CONVEYANCE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND VEHICLE CONVEYANCE MANAGEMENT METHOD AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18297642)

Main Inventor

Masayuki ITOH

Brief explanation

In an automated parking lot, both manual driving vehicles and automated driving vehicles can park. When a manual driving vehicle enters the parking lot, it is transported by a vehicle conveyance robot to an available parking space. If an automated driving vehicle breaks down and stops in the parking lot, the manual driving vehicle being transported is unloaded from the robot, and the broken down automated driving vehicle is loaded onto the robot. This allows the robot to recover the broken down vehicle.

Abstract

In an automated parking lot in which manual driving vehicles and automated driving vehicles can park, when entering the automated parking lot, the manual driving vehicle is conveyed by a vehicle conveyance robot to an empty parking space. When an automated driving vehicle breaks down and stops in the automated parking lot, the manual driving vehicle being conveyed is unloaded from the vehicle conveyance robot and the broken down automated driving vehicle is loaded on the vehicle conveyance robot. Due to this, the broken down automated driving vehicle is recovered by the vehicle conveyance robot.

DRIVING ASSISTANCE DEVICE, DRIVING ASSISTANCE METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18112580)

Main Inventor

Yusuke FUKUI

Brief explanation

The driving assistance device described in the abstract helps to prevent accidents by controlling the brakes and steering of a vehicle. It can either apply braking forces to both sides of the vehicle and forcefully turn it to avoid an object, or apply braking force to only one side of the vehicle and forcefully turn it to avoid the object. The specific control method used depends on whether a certain condition for increasing the turning amount is met or not.

Abstract

A driving assistance device executes dual-side braking steering avoidance control for forcibly decelerating a target vehicle by applying braking forces to wheels on both sides of the target vehicle and forcibly turning the target vehicle to swerve around an object in a case where a turning amount increase request condition is not satisfied. When forcibly turning the target vehicle rightward or leftward by collision avoidance control to swerve around the object in a case where the turning amount increase request condition is satisfied, the driving assistance device executes single-side braking steering avoidance control for forcibly decelerating the target vehicle by applying a braking force only to a right or left wheel of the target vehicle and forcibly turning the target vehicle to swerve around the object.

VEHICLE CONTROL DEVICE, STORAGE MEDIUM FOR STORING COMPUTER PROGRAM FOR VEHICLE CONTROL, AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING VEHICLE (18165732)

Main Inventor

Kenta KUMAZAKI

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a vehicle control device that is able to assist with lane changes. The device uses a processor to set a starting zone for a lane change on a road. It then determines a target starting zone for the lane change based on the initial starting zone and a current correction value. The device keeps track of the number of times the driver has requested a lane change from a different location than the target starting zone. Using this information, it calculates a new correction value for the initial starting zone. The next target starting zone is determined based on the initial starting zone and the new correction value.

Abstract

A vehicle control device has a processor configured to set a reference lane change start zone on a traveling lane, determine a target lane change start zone on the traveling lane, based on the reference lane change start zone and a current correction value, count a number of requests as number of times a vehicle lane change has been requested by the driver at a different location than a start location of the target lane change start zone, and calculate a new correction value for the reference lane change start zone, based on a correction coefficient determined based on the number of requests, and distance between the start location of the target lane change start zone and request location where the vehicle lane change has been requested, wherein the next target lane change start zone is determined based on the reference lane change start zone and the new correction value.

DRIVING DIAGNOSTIC DEVICE, DRIVING DIAGNOSTIC METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18169213)

Main Inventor

Yukiya KUSHIBIKI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a device that can diagnose driving behavior. It has a processor that collects information about how a vehicle is being operated, such as the use of turn signals and the rate at which the vehicle is turning. When certain conditions are met, the device determines that a lane change is happening and evaluates how well the driver is operating the vehicle during that time.

Abstract

A driving diagnostic device includes a processor. The processor acquires vehicle operation information including a direction indicator signal indicating an operation of a direction indicator of a vehicle and a yaw rate of the vehicle from a sensor mounted on the vehicle, determines that an event indicates a lane change by the vehicle when the vehicle operation information satisfies a predetermined condition, and performs evaluation of a driving operation of the vehicle during a period of the event.

PERSONALIZED VEHICLE LANE CHANGE MANEUVER PREDICTION (17715011)

Main Inventor

ZIRAN WANG

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a learning-based algorithm that can predict when a driver will change lanes based on their individual driving behaviors. The algorithm has two phases: an offline training phase where a machine learning model is trained using historical driving data, and an online validation phase where real-time driving data is used to predict lane change maneuvers. The algorithm can identify potential vehicle trajectories and determine the most likely trajectory based on the driver's preferences, which are learned during the offline training phase.

Abstract

A learning-based lane change prediction algorithm, and systems and methods for implementing the algorithm, are disclosed. The prediction algorithm evaluates the driving behaviors of a target human driver and predicts lane change maneuvers based on those personalized driving behaviors. The algorithm may include an online lane change decision prediction phase and an offline prediction training and cost function recovery phase. During the offline training phase, a machine learning model may be trained based on historical vehicle states. During the online validation phase, driving data may be collected and fed to the trained model to predict a driver's lane change maneuver, identify potential vehicle trajectories, and determine a most probable vehicle trajectory based on a driver's cost function recovered during the offline phase.

DRIVING DIAGNOSTIC DEVICE, DRIVING DIAGNOSTIC METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18178458)

Main Inventor

Yukiya KUSHIBIKI

Brief explanation

The driving diagnostic device is a system that uses a processor and a sensor to monitor the state of a vehicle's door. It can detect if the door is open or closed based on the information from the sensor. When there is a change in the state of the door that meets a specific condition, the device identifies it as an event. The device then evaluates the vehicle's driving operation during a set period of time related to that event.

Abstract

The driving diagnostic device includes a processor, in which the processor acquires state information indicating an open or closed state of a door of a vehicle from a sensor mounted on the vehicle, determines that there is an event that indicates a change in the state when the state information satisfies a predetermined condition, and evaluates a driving operation of the vehicle in a predetermined period of time associated with the event.

VEHICLE PROGRAM UPDATE SYSTEM AND VEHICLE PROGRAM UPDATE METHOD (18207974)

Main Inventor

Yoshito SEKIGUCHI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a system and method for updating the software program that controls a vehicle. The update is received wirelessly from an external device. After the update is completed, the system checks if the updated program is functioning normally. If it is not, the vehicle switches to a "limp home" mode where it can still operate using its driving force source without relying on the updated program.

Abstract

A vehicle program update system and a vehicle program update method are provided which update a vehicle program that is used to control a vehicle by an on-board control device mounted on the vehicle to an update program received by the vehicle from an external device separate from the vehicle via wireless communication. When the update of the vehicle program is completed, determination is made whether the updated vehicle program is normal. When determination is made that the updated vehicle program is not normal, control of the vehicle is switched from control that is performed by the on-board control device using the vehicle program to limp home control for performing a limp home operation in which the vehicle travels using a driving force from a vehicle driving force source without being controlled by the on-board control device.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR COMMUNICATING A BLENDING PARAMETER (17715566)

Main Inventor

Manuel Ludwig Kuehner

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a system and method for communicating a blending parameter in a vehicle. The blending parameter indicates the degree to which control of the vehicle is shared between the driver and an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS). The method involves obtaining the blending parameter and using a psychophysical model to determine a feedback parameter. This feedback parameter is then used to provide sensory feedback through the steering apparatus of the vehicle, in a way that is perceived to be proportional to the blending parameter.

Abstract

System, methods, and other embodiments described herein relate to communicating a blending parameter. In one embodiment, a method includes obtaining a blending parameter that is indicative of a degree to which control of a vehicle is shared between an operator of the vehicle and an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) of the vehicle. The method further includes determining a feedback parameter based upon the blending parameter and a psychophysical model, wherein the psychophysical model optimizes a relationship between the blending parameter and the feedback parameter such that sensory feedback based upon the feedback parameter is perceived to be proportional to the blending parameter. The method further includes causing a feedback modality of a steering apparatus of the vehicle to provide the sensory feedback based upon the feedback parameter.

VEHICLE CONTROL DEVICE, STORAGE MEDIUM FOR STORING COMPUTER PROGRAM FOR VEHICLE CONTROL, AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING VEHICLE (18165697)

Main Inventor

Kenta KUMAZAKI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a device that controls a vehicle's position on the road. It uses information about the distance between the vehicle and another vehicle in an adjacent lane to set a desired position. When the distance becomes too close, the device calculates a new correction value based on the number of times the vehicle has deviated from the desired position and the amount of deviation. This correction value is then used to determine the next desired position.

Abstract

A vehicle control device comprises a processor configured to set a reference lateral position, based on an intervehicular distance between the vehicle and another vehicle traveling on an adjacent lane, determine a target lateral position based on the reference lateral position and a current correction value for the reference lateral position, when the intervehicular distance falls below a predetermined reference distance, count a number of times that the lateral position of the vehicle in the traveling lane has been changed from the target lateral position, and calculate a new correction value based on a correction coefficient determined based on the number of changes and an amount of change in the lateral position of the vehicle that has changed from the target lateral position, wherein the next target lateral position is determined based on the reference lateral position and the new correction value.

VEHICLE CONVEYANCE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND VEHICLE CONVEYANCE MANAGEMENT METHOD AND STORAGE MEDIUM (18297654)

Main Inventor

Masayuki ITOH

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an automated parking lot that has multiple facilities with different functions to help restore disabled automated driving vehicles. When a vehicle becomes disabled and stops in the parking lot, the system selects the appropriate facility based on the cause of the disablement. A vehicle conveyance robot then transports the disabled vehicle to the selected facility for restoration.

Abstract

In the automated parking lot, a plurality of facilities having respectively different functions enabling automated driving vehicles to be restored to a runnable state in accordance with the causes of disablement acquired from the automated driving vehicles when the automated driving vehicle becomes disabled and stop are provided. When the automated driving vehicle becomes disabled and stops in the automated parking lot, a facility having a function enabling the automated driving vehicle to be restored to a runnable state for the cause of disablement of that automated driving vehicle is selected from the plurality of facilities and the automated driving vehicle disabled is conveyed by the vehicle conveyance robot to the selected facility.

METHOD FOR PRODUCING COATED ACTIVE MATERIAL (18110475)

Main Inventor

Kazuki MURAISHI

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a method for producing a coated active material. The method involves applying a layer of niobium coating onto the surface of the active material. This is done by transforming a slurry, which contains the active material and a coating solution with niobium, into droplets. These droplets are then dried in a heated gas stream to form a precursor, which is subsequently baked. It is important to note that the active material used in this process must have a sulfur impurity content of less than 0.68 wt%.

Abstract

In a method for producing a coated active material, a coating layer containing niobium is formed on at least a part of a surface of an active material. The method includes: transforming a slurry containing the active material and a coating solution containing niobium into droplets to obtain slurry droplets; drying the slurry droplets in a heated gas stream to obtain a precursor; and baking the precursor. The active material that is used to obtain the slurry droplets contains less than 0.68 wt% of sulfur as an impurity.

CONTROLLER AND CONTROL METHOD FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE (18296999)

Main Inventor

Yuki SUZUKI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a controller for an internal combustion engine that is designed to calculate the amount of water that collects on the intake passage's wall surface based on the temperature of the intake air. When the intake valve is open, the controller activates a water injection valve to inject water into the intake passage. Additionally, if the calculated water collection amount is below a predetermined value, the water injection valve is also activated when the intake valve is closed.

Abstract

A controller for an internal combustion engine is configured to calculate a water collection amount based on a temperature of intake air flowing through an intake passage, the water collection amount being an amount of water that collects on a wall surface of the intake passage, cause a water injection valve to inject water to the intake passage when an intake valve is open, and cause the water injection valve to inject water when the intake valve is closed in addition to when the intake valve is open in a case in which the water collection amount is less than a specified value that has been defined in advance.

CONTROLLER AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING VEHICLE (18194652)

Main Inventor

Takashi MATSUMOTO

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a central processing unit (CPU) that is programmed to perform three main processes: filter regeneration, firing, and stopping. The CPU is specifically designed to halt the rotation of a crankshaft in an internal combustion engine, which is installed in a vehicle. This action is triggered when the vehicle is decelerating after the firing process has ended in the stopping process.

Abstract

A CPU is configured to executes a filter regeneration process, a firing process, and a stopping process. The CPU is configured to stop rotation of a crankshaft of an internal combustion engine mounted on a vehicle on the condition that the vehicle is decelerating after termination of the firing process in the stopping process.

CONTROLLER AND CONTROL METHOD FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE (18193702)

Main Inventor

Yuto IKEDA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a controller that is designed to control the operation of an internal combustion engine. The engine can perform both multi-shot injection (injecting fuel multiple times during each combustion cycle) and single-shot injection (injecting fuel only once per cycle). Additionally, the engine can deactivate certain cylinders by stopping the fuel supply to them while still supplying fuel to the remaining cylinders.

When the deactivation process is being terminated and fuel needs to be supplied again to a deactivated cylinder, the controller initiates a retarding process. This process involves performing a single-shot fuel injection, but with a delayed start timing compared to when the engine is operating in multi-shot injection mode.

In simpler terms, the controller manages the fuel supply to an engine with multiple cylinders. It can deactivate some cylinders temporarily, and when reactivating them, it adjusts the timing of the fuel injection to ensure smooth operation.

Abstract

A controller is configured to control an internal combustion engine. The internal combustion engine may execute multi-shot injection and single-shot injection and execute a deactivating process that stops supplying fuel to at least one of cylinders and supplies fuel to the remaining cylinders. The controller is configured to execute, when terminating the deactivating process to restart supplying fuel to a deactivated cylinder in which supply of fuel is stopped, a retarding process that executes a first fuel injection through the single-shot injection and retards a fuel injection start timing as compared to when executing the multi-shot injection.

CONTROLLER AND CONTROL METHOD FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE (18194534)

Main Inventor

Yuto IKEDA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a controller that is designed to control an internal combustion engine. This engine has the capability to perform both port injection and direct injection, as well as a deactivating process that stops fuel supply to certain cylinders while still supplying fuel to the remaining ones. 

When the deactivating process is terminated and fuel needs to be supplied to a previously deactivated cylinder, the controller executes a retarding process. This process involves performing a first fuel injection through direct injection and delaying the start timing of the fuel injection compared to when port injection is used.

In simpler terms, the controller manages the fuel supply to an engine with different injection methods and can temporarily deactivate certain cylinders. When reactivating a deactivated cylinder, it adjusts the fuel injection timing to ensure smooth operation.

Abstract

A controller is configured to control an internal combustion engine. The internal combustion engine can execute port injection and direct injection and can execute a deactivating process that stops supplying fuel to at least one of cylinders and supplies fuel to the remaining cylinders. The controller is configured to execute, when terminating the deactivating process to restart supplying fuel to a deactivated cylinder in which supply of fuel is stopped, a retarding process that executes a first fuel injection through the direct injection and retards a fuel injection start timing as compared to when executing the port injection.

CONTROLLER AND CONTROL METHOD FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE (18297000)

Main Inventor

Yuki SUZUKI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a controller for an internal combustion engine that can inject water at different times during the engine's operation. The controller can perform a first injection process when the engine's intake valve is open, and a second injection process when the intake valve is closed. In the second injection process, the controller increases the pressure of the water supplied to the injection valve compared to the first injection process.

Abstract

A controller for an internal combustion engine is configured to execute a first injection process that causes a water injection valve to inject water when an intake valve is open and a second injection process that causes the water injection valve to inject water when the intake valve is closed. The controller is further configured to set a pressure of the water supplied to the water injection valve to be higher in the second injection process than in the first injection process.

CONTROL APPARATUS FOR VEHICLE (18193812)

Main Inventor

Kenichi ISHII

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a control apparatus for a vehicle that allows the engine to temporarily stop when certain conditions are met. These conditions include: (i) determining upon power ON of the vehicle whether the idle-stop control is allowed based on a previous determination made upon power OFF, and (ii) determining that the smoothed value of the power storage device's output voltage is equal to or greater than a predetermined voltage value needed to start the engine. The smoothed value is obtained by smoothing the output voltage during a preparation period from power ON until a certain time has passed for initialization processing of the control apparatus.

Abstract

A control apparatus for a vehicle allows execution of an idle-stop control for temporarily stopping an engine, in a case in which a plurality of conditions are satisfied. The plurality of conditions include (i) a first condition is that it is determined upon power ON of the vehicle that the execution of the idle-stop control is allowed in a result of a determination stored upon power OFF of the vehicle last time and (ii) a second condition that it is determined that a smoothed value of an output voltage of a power storage device is at least a predetermined voltage value that guarantees the start of the engine. The smoothed value is obtained by a smoothing processing for smoothing the output voltage during a preparation period from the power ON until elapse of a predetermined time for which an initialization processing of the control apparatus is executed.

MOUNTING STRUCTURE OF MICRO VIBRATOR (18189322)

Main Inventor

Hideaki NISHIKAWA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a mounting structure that includes a micro vibrator and a mounting substrate. The micro vibrator has a curved surface portion with an annular curved surface and a connecting portion. The micro vibrator is placed on the mounting substrate with the connecting portion bonded to it, while the curved surface portion remains empty. The mounting substrate has multiple electrode portions that surround the rim of the curved surface portion and are spaced apart from each other. The mounting substrate also includes a guard electrode.

Abstract

A mounting structure includes a micro vibrator and a mounting substrate. The micro vibrator includes a curved surface portion having an annular curved surface and a connecting portion extending from the curved surface portion toward an inner center position of the curved surface portion. The micro vibrator is disposed so that the connecting portion is bonded to the mounting substrate and the curved surface portion is in a hollow state free from other elements. The mounting substrate includes a plurality of electrode portions that are arranged to face and surround a rim of the curved surface portion of the micro vibrator, and spaced apart from each other, the rim being an end of the curved surface portion opposite to the connecting portion. Further, the mounting substrate includes a guard electrode.

ROUTE INFORMATION PROVIDING DEVICE AND ROUTE INFORMATION PROVIDING METHOD (18105053)

Main Inventor

Miki NOMOTO

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a device that helps a group of people plan their movement by providing route information. The device includes a communication device and a processor. The communication device allows communication with each member of the group. The processor performs various tasks, including generating a movement route for each member based on their departure place, departure time, stop-off places, desired meeting places, arrival time at each meeting place, and individual characteristics. It also calculates the meeting time for each meeting place and shares the generated movement routes and meeting times with the group.

Abstract

A route information providing device assists movement of a group with a plurality of members, and includes a communication device and a processor. The communication device is configured to communicate with a communication terminal of each member. The processor is configured to execute: a route generation process to generate a movement route of each member including one or more meeting places where some or all members of the group meet, based on member information including a departure place, a departure time, one or more stop-off places, one or more desired meeting places, an arrival time at each of the one or more desired meeting places, and individual characteristics; a time calculation process to calculate a meeting time of each of the one or more meeting places; and a sharing process to share, in the group, a generated movement route of each member and a calculated meeting time.

CONTROL APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND OPERATING METHOD OF SYSTEM (18187013)

Main Inventor

Chikage KUBO

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a control apparatus for a vehicle that has a memory to store its travel history. It also has a communication interface and a controller to transmit and receive information from another device. The controller can output the travel history for a specific time period when instructed, but it will not output the history during another time period if it receives certain information from a terminal device.

Abstract

A control apparatus includes a memory configured to store a history of travel of a vehicle, a communication interface, and a controller configured to transmit and receive information to and from another apparatus via the communication interface. The controller is configured to output a first history for a first period in response to a predetermined instruction during the first period and to refrain from outputting the first history, even upon receiving the predetermined instruction, during a second period partitioned from the first period based on information transmitted by a terminal apparatus.

CONTROL DEVICE FOR SECONDARY BATTERY AND METHOD FOR ESTIMATING FULL CHARGE CAPACITY OF SECONDARY BATTERY (18100687)

Main Inventor

Kenta ONISHI

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a system for monitoring and calculating the capacity of a battery in an electric vehicle. The battery has a characteristic called SOC-OCV, which means that its state of charge (SOC) is related to its open circuit voltage (OCV). The system includes a stage change detecting unit that detects when the battery enters a different stage of charge during vehicle operation. When this occurs, a discharge current integrating unit calculates the amount of discharge current that has been used. 

When the battery is externally charged, a charge current integrating unit calculates the amount of charge current that has been applied until the battery is fully charged. Finally, a full charge capacity calculating unit uses the storage amount at the time of the stage change, the discharge current integrated amount, and the charge current integrated amount to calculate the full charge capacity of the battery.

Abstract

A battery has an SOC-OCV characteristic having a flat region. When a stage change detecting unit detects an occurrence of stage change during traveling of an electrified vehicle, a discharge current integrating unit calculates a discharge current integrated amount. When external charging is started, a charge current integrating unit calculates a charge current integrated amount until the battery is fully charged. A full charge capacity calculating unit calculates a full charge capacity based on a storage amount at a time of the stage change, the discharge current integrated amount, and the charge current integrated amount.

ESTIMATION SYSTEM, ESTIMATION METHOD, AND VEHICLE (18159873)

Main Inventor

Nobuyuki TANAKA

Brief explanation

This abstract describes an estimation system that includes a power storage device and processors. The processors are responsible for controlling the charging of the power storage device and estimating its full charge capacity. When a certain condition is met, the processors will set a higher upper limit state of charge for the power storage device during the charging process. This upper limit state of charge is higher than the normal upper limit state of charge when the condition is not met.

Abstract

An estimation system includes a power storage device and one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to execute a charge process of controlling a charge device so as to charge the power storage device, and an estimation process of estimating a full charge capacity of the power storage device. The one or more processors are configured to execute the charge process with an upper limit state of charge of the power storage device set to a value that is more than a first upper limit state of charge when a predetermined condition is met, the first upper limit state of charge being the upper limit state of charge at the time when the predetermined condition is not met.

OPTICAL PHASE MODULATOR (18192791)

Main Inventor

Taku SUZUKI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an optical phase modulator that uses a rib structure with different types of materials to control the phase of light. The rib structure consists of an N-type rib portion and a P-type rib portion, which are connected to N-type and P-type slab portions respectively. This creates a PN structure in the cross-section of the rib. Additionally, a P-type third slab portion is connected to the N-type rib portion and an N-type fourth slab portion is connected to the P-type rib portion, creating a PNPN structure in the cross-section of the rib. These PN and PNPN structures are arranged alternately along the extending direction of the rib.

Abstract

An optical phase modulator includes a rib part extending in an extending direction. The rib part includes an N-type first rib portion and a P-type second rib portion arranged in a width direction to have a PN junction therebetween along the extending direction. An N-type first slab portion is connected to the first rib portion and a P-type second slab portion is connected to the second rib portion to provide a PN structure with the rib part in a cross-section having a normal direction along the extending direction. A P-type third slab portion is connected to the first rib portion and an N-type fourth slab portion is connected to the second rib portion to have a PNPN structure with the rib part in a cross-section having a normal direction along the extending direction. The PN structure and the PNPN structure are alternately disposed in the extending direction.

VEHICLE REMOTE INSTRUCTION SYSTEM (18202660)

Main Inventor

Sho OTAKI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a system where a remote commander can give instructions to an autonomous driving vehicle based on information from an external sensor. The system limits the amount of sensor information transmitted to the remote commander, based on the external situation and the vehicle's trajectory, to ensure only relevant information is shared.

Abstract

In a vehicle remote instruction system, a remote commander issues a remote instruction relating to travel of an autonomous driving vehicle based on sensor information from an external sensor that detects an external environment of the autonomous driving vehicle. The vehicle remote instruction system sets a range of information to be transmitted to the remote commander among the sensor information detected by the external sensor, as a limited information range, based on the external situation or an external situation obtained based on map information and a trajectory of the autonomous driving vehicle.

AUTONOMOUS DRIVING CONTROL DEVICE (18326488)

Main Inventor

Kentaro ICHIKAWA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an autonomous driving control device that can start autonomous driving without the driver's input and ensure that the driver can switch to manual driving if needed. The device switches from autonomous to manual driving if the driver operates the vehicle above a certain threshold within a specific time frame. If the driver continues to operate the vehicle above a higher threshold after a set time, the device also switches to manual driving.

Abstract

An autonomous driving control device is capable of starting an autonomous driving control without an operation of a driver and reducing a possibility that the driver can not start manual driving. An autonomous driving control is switched to manual driving when a determination section determines that the amount of operation by the driver is equal to or greater than a first threshold, before a predetermined time elapses since the autonomous driving control is automatically started. An autonomous driving control is switched to a manual driving when the determination section determines that the amount of operation by the driver is equal to or greater than a second threshold that is greater than the first threshold, after the predetermined time elapses.

DEVICE, VEHICLE, AND METHOD FOR MONITORING ABNORMAL SITUATION USING VEHICLE (18107745)

Main Inventor

Daisaku HONDA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a device that monitors abnormal situations in and around a parking lot using a vehicle. The device includes an information acquisition unit that collects information about the state of the area, an abnormality detection unit that identifies abnormal situations and determines their location based on the collected information, and a command transmission unit that sends a command to activate a vehicle's exterior monitoring sensor, which is parked near the identified location, to detect the abnormal situation.

Abstract

A device that monitors an abnormal situation that has occurred in a region inside or around a parking lot using a vehicle in the region includes: an information acquisition unit that acquires state information representing a state within the region; an abnormality detection unit that detects the abnormal situation and specifies an occurrence location of the detected abnormal situation based on the state information; and a command transmission unit that transmits a command for activating a vehicle exterior monitoring sensor provided in the vehicle parked around the occurrence location specified by the abnormality detection unit and causing the vehicle exterior monitoring sensor to detect the occurrence location to the parked vehicle.

PARKING POSITION ADJUSTMENT DEVICE AND PARKING POSITION ADJUSTMENT METHOD (18090956)

Main Inventor

Daisaku HONDA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a control unit for a server that is responsible for adjusting the parking position of a vehicle in a parking lot. The control unit includes an acquisition unit that collects information about the parking position of a vehicle that is scheduled to receive a package in the parking lot. It also includes an adjustment information generation unit that creates instructions for adjusting the parking of another vehicle in a neighboring parking slot, in order to ensure that there is enough space around the vehicle scheduled to receive the package.

Abstract

A control unit of a server is a device that adjusts a parking position of a vehicle in a parking lot, and includes an acquisition unit that acquires the parking position of the vehicle scheduled to receive a package in the parking lot, and an adjustment information generation unit that generates adjustment information for adjusting parking of another vehicle in a parking slot adjacent to the parking position of the vehicle scheduled to receive the package in the parking lot such that a space is secured around the vehicle scheduled to receive the package.

MANUFACTURING METHOD OF SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICE (18188821)

Main Inventor

SHOSUKE NAKABAYASHI

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a manufacturing method for a semiconductor device. The method involves creating a gas vent recess in a compound semiconductor substrate, which has multiple device regions. An altered layer is then formed inside the substrate using a laser beam, extending along the surface at a depth corresponding to the gas vent recess. The substrate is then divided at the altered layer into two parts - one with the original surface and the other with the opposite surface. Finally, a metal film is applied to cover the divided surface of the first part, while leaving the gas vent recess exposed.

Abstract

A manufacturing method of a semiconductor device, includes: forming a gas vent recess in a first surface of a compound semiconductor substrate, which includes a plurality of device regions adjacent to the first surface, along an interface between the plurality of device regions; forming an altered layer inside the compound semiconductor substrate to extend along the first surface at a depth corresponding to a range of a depth of the gas vent recess by applying a laser beam; dividing the compound semiconductor substrate at the altered layer into a first part including the first surface and a second part including a second surface of the compound semiconductor substrate opposite to the first surface; and forming a metal film to cover a divided surface of the first part while exposing the gas vent recess.

CIRCUIT MODULE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME (18145949)

Main Inventor

YOSHITAKA KATO

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a circuit module that consists of two circuit components. The first component has electrode pads on one side, and the second component has electrode pads on the other side. These electrode pads are connected using a conductive bonding material. Additionally, a first reinforcing bonding material is used to join the first surface of the first component to the second surface of the second component. A second reinforcing bonding material is also present, which is in contact with the first reinforcing bonding material and joins the two surfaces together.

Abstract

A circuit module includes: a first circuit component having electrode pads on a first surface; and a second circuit component having electrode pads on a second surface. A conductive bonding material joins the electrode pads of the first circuit component to the electrode pads of the second circuit component respectively. A first reinforcing bonding material is not in contact with the conductive bonding material and joins the first surface of the first circuit component to the second surface of the second circuit component. A second reinforcing bonding material is located in contact with the first reinforcing bonding material, and joins the first surface of the first circuit component to the second surface of the second circuit component.

CONDUCTIVE MATERIAL AND BATTERY (18105039)

Main Inventor

Heidy Hodex VISBAL MENDOZA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes the use of a conductive material for the positive electrode of a battery. This material consists of a substrate, which is made of conductive carbon, and a film that covers part of the substrate's surface. The film is composed of a glass network forming element and oxygen.

Abstract

The conductive material is used for the positive electrode of the battery. The conductive material includes a substrate and a film. The film covers at least a portion of the surface of the substrate. The substrate comprises a conductive carbon material. The film includes a glass network forming element and oxygen.

FUEL CELL SYSTEM (18191927)

Main Inventor

Daisaku ASANUMA

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a fuel cell system that includes a fuel cell, a hydrogen gas supply passage, a solenoid valve, a pressure sensor, and a control circuit. The solenoid valve controls the flow of hydrogen gas to the fuel cell, and the pressure sensor detects the pressure in the downstream supply passage. The control circuit is responsible for controlling the solenoid valve. 

The control circuit performs two main functions. First, it detects and stores the conducted electric current and pressure at multiple points while gradually changing the conducted electric current at a certain speed. Second, it repeats this process but at a different speed.

In summary, this fuel cell system uses a control circuit to monitor and adjust the hydrogen gas flow to the fuel cell based on the detected pressure in the supply passage.

Abstract

A fuel cell system may include a fuel cell; a hydrogen gas supply passage configured to supply hydrogen gas to the fuel cell; a solenoid valve configured to change an opening degree of the hydrogen gas supply passage; a pressure sensor configured to detect a pressure in a downstream supply passage which is a part of the hydrogen gas supply passage from the solenoid valve to the fuel cell; and a control circuit configured to control the solenoid valve. The control circuit may be configured to perform: detecting and storing a conducted electric current conducted in the solenoid valve and the pressure at plural points while changing the conducted electric current at a first sweep speed; and detecting and storing the conducted electric current and the pressure at plural points while changing the conducted electric current at a second sweep speed different from the first speed.

FUEL CELL SYSTEM (18191923)

Main Inventor

Daisaku ASANUMA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a fuel cell system that includes a fuel cell, a hydrogen gas supply passage, a solenoid valve, a pressure sensor, and a control circuit. The solenoid valve controls the flow of hydrogen gas to the fuel cell, and the pressure sensor detects the pressure in the downstream supply passage. The control circuit monitors the pressure and the electric current conducted through the solenoid valve. It calculates an increase characteristic, which is the relationship between the conducted electric current and the pressure when the current increases.

Abstract

A fuel cell system may include: a fuel cell; a hydrogen gas supply passage; a solenoid valve that changes an opening degree of the hydrogen gas supply passage; a pressure sensor that detects a pressure in a downstream supply passage being a part of the hydrogen gas supply passage from the solenoid valve to the fuel cell; and a control circuit. The control circuit detects a rise in the pressure detected by the pressure sensor when increasing a conducted electric current conducted in the solenoid valve from a state where the solenoid valve is closed, and detection of a rising current which is the conducted electric current at a time of the rise in the pressure; and calculates an increase characteristic based on the rising current, the increase characteristic being a relationship between the conducted electric current and the pressure when the conducted electric current increases.

METHOD OF PRODUCING LITHIUM ION SECONDARY BATTERY AND NEGATIVE ELECTRODE MATERIAL (18210123)

Main Inventor

Hiroto ASANO

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a method for making a lithium-ion battery. The method involves creating an electrode body with a positive and negative electrode. The negative electrode contains a special type of graphite particle with open pores, which are filled with SiO. A battery assembly is then made by combining the electrode body with a non-aqueous electrolytic solution containing LiPF at a concentration of at least a certain value. Finally, the battery assembly generates lithium difluorophosphate within the electrode body.

Abstract

A method of producing a lithium ion secondary battery includes preparing an electrode body which includes a positive electrode and a negative electrode and in which the negative electrode contains a negative electrode material containing a porous graphite particle having open pores and SiOdisposed in the open pores, producing a battery assembly including the electrode body and a non-aqueous electrolytic solution containing LiPFwith a concentration of  mol/L or more, and generating lithium difluorophosphate in the electrode body

BATTERY PACK (18130350)

Main Inventor

Yusuke TAKASHI

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a battery pack that consists of battery cells and a spacer. The battery cells have electrode bodies and cases that are sealed together. The cells are arranged in a specific direction, and the spacer is placed between the cases of adjacent cells. The battery cells are held together with a binding pressure. The electrode body of each cell has a flat portion, and the spacer has a base plate with projections that extend towards the adjacent cell's case. One of these projections, called the top projection, applies pressure to the adjacent cell's case at a position above the flat portion where the sealing is closest.

Abstract

A battery pack includes battery cells and a spacer. Each battery cell includes an electrode body and a case accommodating the electrode body in a state sealed by a sealing portion. The battery cells are arranged in an arrangement direction. The spacer is arranged between the case of one of the battery cells and the case of an adjacent battery cell. The battery cells are bound together in a state in which a binding pressure is applied to the battery cells. The electrode body includes a flat portion. The spacer includes a base plate and projections projecting from the base plate toward the case of the adjacent battery cell. The projections include a top projection that presses the case of the adjacent battery cell at a position located upward from an upper edge of the flat portion where the sealing portion is the closest.

SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICE (18193980)

Main Inventor

Hitoshi YAMADA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a semiconductor device that contains a group of quantum dots. These quantum dots are arranged in layers, with each layer having a different central wavelength at which it has the maximum gain. The layers are stacked in such a way that the central wavelengths shift sequentially along a specific direction. The group also includes a longest wavelength layer group, which consists of some quantum dot layers, including one layer with the longest central wavelength, and at least one additional layer stacked on top of it. The longest wavelength layer or group has a higher gain at its central wavelength compared to the other quantum dot layers.

Abstract

In a semiconductor device, a quantum dot group includes a stack of plural quantum dot layers having different central wavelengths at which respective gains are maximum. A part of or all of the quantum dot layers are stacked so that the central wavelengths sequentially shifts along a stacking direction. The quantum dot group includes a longest wavelength layer group composed of some quantum dot layers including a longest wavelength layer having a longest central wavelength and at least one quantum dot layer stacked on the longest wavelength layer. The longest wavelength layer or the longest wavelength layer group has a larger gain at the central wavelength than the gain at the central wavelength of each of the other quantum dot layers.

CONTROL APPARATUS, CONTROL METHOD, AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM (18298389)

Main Inventor

Ryosuke IKEMURA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a control apparatus for a power transmitter that wirelessly transmits electric power to a power receiver. The power receiver has a restriction control feature that limits the amount of power it receives under certain conditions. The control apparatus is designed to determine whether the power receiver is currently using the restriction control based on the output current and voltage of a power inverter in the power transmitter. It then adjusts the transmission power of the power transmitter accordingly.

Abstract

A control apparatus for a power transmitter which wirelessly transmits electric power to a power receiver, the power receiver being configured to perform restriction control that restricts received power through switching control under a predetermined condition. The control apparatus is configured to execute a determination process that determines whether or not the power receiver is performing the restriction control based on an output current and an output voltage of a power inverter included in the power transmitter, and a power control process that controls transmission power of the power transmitter based on a result of the determination process.

COOLING STRUCTURE OF IN-WHEEL MOTOR (18112764)

Main Inventor

Hideaki MIYAZONO

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a cooling structure for an in-wheel motor, which consists of a rotary electric machine and a knuckle. The rotary electric machine is responsible for rotating the hub, to which a wheel is attached. The knuckle supports the hub and is in contact with the stator of the rotary electric machine. The knuckle is equipped with cooling fins that extend in the same direction as the tire-wheel assembly.

Abstract

A cooling structure of an in-wheel motor includes a rotary electric machine and a knuckle. The rotary electric machine is configured to rotate a hub to which a wheel is fixed. The knuckle rotatably supports the hub and is provided in contact with a stator of the rotary electric machine. Here, the knuckle is provided with one or more cooling fins extending in the axial direction of the tire-wheel assembly.

COOLING STRUCTURE OF IN-WHEEL MOTOR (18112706)

Main Inventor

Hideaki MIYAZONO

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a cooling structure for an in-wheel motor, which is located inside a wheel of a tire-wheel assembly. The cooling structure includes a rotary electric machine that rotates the hub of the wheel, a knuckle that supports the hub and allows it to rotate, and multiple flow paths for a coolant to flow through in order to cool the rotary electric machine. Additionally, there is a pump that circulates the coolant between the rotary electric machine and the knuckle through flow paths inside the knuckle.

Abstract

The cooling structure of the in-wheel motor is a cooling structure of an in-wheel motor provided in a wheel of a tire-wheel assembly. The cooling structure of the in-wheel motor includes a rotary electric machine configured to rotate a hub to which a wheel is fixed, a knuckle rotatably supporting the hub, and a plurality of flow paths through which a coolant for cooling the rotary electric machine flows, and a pump configured to circulate the coolant between the rotary electric machine and the knuckle via a plurality of flow paths provided inside the knuckle.

CLAMPING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING STATOR (18176537)

Main Inventor

Yutaka MASUGI

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a clamping device used in laser welding. It is designed to join two stripped portions of a material where the coating is absent. The device consists of two shafts, each with a claw at one end. When the first and second stripped portions are placed between the shafts and the shafts are pressed against curved portions, the device clamps the material by rotating the second shaft until its claw contacts the second end of the material.

Abstract

A clamping device performs a clamping action when performing laser welding to join a first stripped portion, where a coating is absent from a first end, and a second stripped portion, where a coating is absent from a second end. A second claw extends in a radial direction of a second shaft. In a state in which a first shaft and the second shaft are moved toward a stator core such that the first end and the second end are sandwiched between the first shaft and the second shaft, and the first shaft is pressed against a second curved portion and the second shaft is pressed against a first curved portion, the clamping device performs the clamping action by rotating the second shaft about a center axis of the second shaft until the second claw comes into contact with the second end.

POWER CONVERTER (18192892)

Main Inventor

TAKESHI INOUE

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a power converter that has multiple arms, each containing a semiconductor element. The converter also includes various detectors to measure temperature, voltage, and current. It also has a heat generation controller and a heat resistance estimator. The heat resistance estimator calculates the heat resistance of the semiconductor element based on the temperature difference between two states - one where the element is not generating heat and one where it is. The estimator takes into account the current passing through the element and the voltage across its terminals.

Abstract

A power converter includes multiple arms, a temperature detector, a voltage detector, a current detector, a heat generation controller, and a heat resistance estimator. Each of the multiple arms includes a target element being a semiconductor element. The heat resistance estimator determines a heat resistance of the target element based on a temperature difference between a first temperature of the target element and a second temperature of the target element, a current through the target element detected by the current detector, and a voltage across conduction terminals of the target element detected by the voltage detector. The first temperature is a temperature detected by the temperature detector in a state where the heat generation controller has not caused the target element to generate heat. The second temperature is a temperature detected by the temperature detector in a state where the heat generation controller has caused the target element to generate heat.

POWER CONVERSION APPARATUS (18160370)

Main Inventor

Satoshi ICHIDA

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a power conversion apparatus that consists of a transformer with three windings, and three switching circuits connected to each winding. The first switching circuit includes a power factor correction circuit, a smoothing capacitor, and a relay. The power factor correction circuit corrects the power factor of the input power, the smoothing capacitor smooths the output voltage, and the relay controls the power flow between the capacitor and the first winding.

Abstract

A power conversion apparatus includes a transformer including a first winding, a second winding, and a third winding, a first switching circuit connected between an external power supply and the first winding, a second switching circuit connected between a main battery and the second winding, and a third switching circuit connected between an auxiliary battery and the third winding. The first switching circuit includes a power factor correction circuit, a smoothing capacitor configured to smooth a voltage of direct-current power output from the power factor correction circuit, and a relay provided in a power line between the smoothing capacitor and the first winding.

BOARD (18157994)

Main Inventor

Miwako SHIONOYA

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a new type of board that has a strong bond between an insulating layer and a metal layer. The board consists of an insulating layer made of a resin with insulating filler, and a metal layer on top of it. The resin is found partially between the insulating filler on the surface of the insulating layer and the metal in the metal layer. At the interface between the insulating layer and the metal layer, the depth of the metal within the insulating layer is 1.2 µm or less, based on the resin or insulating filler on the outermost surface of the insulating layer.

Abstract

Provided is a new board with a sufficient adhesion strength between an insulating layer and a metal layer. A board of the embodiment is a board including an insulating layer and a metal layer. The insulating layer contains a resin containing an insulating filler. The metal layer is disposed on a surface of the insulating layer. The resin is present partially between at least a part of the insulating filler present in the surface of the insulating layer and a metal constituting the metal layer. In an interface between the insulating layer and the metal layer, a depth of the metal present at a deepest portion in the insulating layer is 1.2 µm or less based on the resin or the insulating filler present in an outermost surface of the insulating layer.