Control device, power supply device, working machine, management device, control method, management method, and computer-readable recording medium

Abstract

The control device controls a power supply device that supplies power to a working machine. The power supply device includes a fuel cell. The control device includes: a restriction request acquisition unit that acquires a restriction request for restricting the supply of power from the power supply device to the working machine via a communication network; and a restriction unit that restricts the supply of power from the power supply device to the working machine when the restriction request acquisition unit acquires the restriction request. The control device may include an end detection unit that detects the end of the use of the working machine. The restriction unit may determine the start of restriction when the end detection unit detects the end of the use of the working machine after the restriction request acquisition unit acquires the restriction request.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a control device, a power supply device, a working machine, a management device, a control method, a management method, and a computer-readable recording medium. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses that in the rental business of storage batteries for electric vehicles, when replacing the storage battery, it is confirmed whether the owner of the electric vehicle is registered in the database, and if the owner of the electromagnetic vehicle is not registered in the database, the storage battery is controlled so that it does not operate. Patent document 2 discloses a fuel cell electric device that can use the fuel from the fuel tank on the condition that the fuel tank is authenticated via a communication network. Patent documents 3 to 5 disclose that in the rental business of computer peripheral equipment, etc., if the fee corresponding to the use of the peripheral equipment, etc. is not paid, all or part of the functions of the peripheral equipment, etc. are stopped via the network, or the stop is restored later.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: WO2010-005052

[0006] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application No. 2015-511368

[0007] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2001-222336

[0008] Patent Document 4: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-303016

[0009] Patent Document 5: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-085758. [Summary of the invention]

[0010] Issues to be resolved

[0011] According to the inventions described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, the function of the device can only be stopped when the battery is replaced, so the owner of the battery cannot collect the fee quickly. According to the inventions described in Patent Documents 3 to 5, the function of the peripheral device is forcibly stopped even when the user uses the peripheral device.

[0012] General Disclosure

[0013] In a first aspect of the present invention, a control device is provided. The control device, for example, controls a power supply device that supplies power to a working machine. The power supply device, for example, includes a fuel cell. The control device, for example, includes a restriction request acquisition unit that acquires a restriction request for restricting the power supply from the power supply device to the working machine via a communication network. The control device, for example, includes a restriction unit that restricts the power supply from the power supply device to the working machine when the restriction request acquisition unit acquires a restriction request.

[0014] The above-mentioned power supply device may include an end detection unit that detects the end of the use of the working machine. In the above-mentioned power supply device, the restriction unit may determine the start of restriction when the end detection unit detects the end of the use of the working machine after the restriction requirement acquisition unit acquires the restriction requirement. The above-mentioned power supply device may include a start detection unit that detects the start of the use of the working machine. In the above-mentioned power supply device, the restriction unit may determine the start of restriction when the start detection unit detects the start of the use of the working machine after the restriction requirement acquisition unit acquires the restriction requirement and the end detection unit detects the end of the use of the working machine.

[0015] In the above-mentioned power supply device, the limiting unit can limit the supply of power by at least one of the following methods: (i) stopping at least one of the supply and reception of power, (ii) making the supply amount of power less than a predetermined value, (iii) prohibiting the start-up of the fuel cell, (iv) prohibiting the power generation of the fuel cell, (v) making the output power of the fuel cell less than a predetermined value, (vi) making the output rate of the fuel cell less than a predetermined threshold, (vii) prohibiting the replenishment of the fuel cell, (viii) prohibiting the removal of the fuel cell or the removal of the fuel tank of the fuel cell, and (ix) making the replenishable amount of the fuel cell less than a predetermined value. The above-mentioned power supply device can be provided with a release request acquisition unit, which obtains a release request for requesting the release of the restriction via a communication network. In the above-mentioned power supply device, the limiting unit can decide to release the restriction when the release request acquisition unit obtains the release request.

[0016] In a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a power supply device. The power supply device described above includes, for example, the control device described above. The power supply device described above includes, for example, a fuel cell.

[0017] In a third aspect of the present invention, a working machine is provided. The working machine described above includes, for example, the power supply device described above. The working machine described above includes, for example, an electric motor that converts electric energy supplied from the power supply device described above into mechanical energy.

[0018] In a fourth aspect of the present invention, a management device is provided. The management device, for example, manages a power supply device that supplies power to a working machine. The power supply device, for example, includes a fuel cell. The management device, for example, includes an event detection unit that detects the occurrence of a predetermined first event related to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device. The management device, for example, includes a restriction request sending unit that sends a restriction request to restrict the supply of power from the power supply device to the working machine to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device via a communication network when the event detection unit detects the occurrence of the first event.

[0019] The above-mentioned management device may include a location information acquisition unit, which acquires location information indicating the location of at least one of the working machine and the power supply device. The above-mentioned management device may include a location determination unit, which refers to a region information storage unit storing region information indicating the location of the region where the execution of the restriction is permitted, and determines whether the geographical relationship between (i) the location of at least one of the working machine and the power supply device indicated by the location information and (ii) the location of the region indicated by the region information satisfies a predetermined first geographical condition. In the above-mentioned management device, the restriction request sending unit may send the restriction request to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device when the geographical relationship satisfies the predetermined first geographical condition.

[0020] In the above-mentioned management device, the restriction request may include information indicating the location of the area where the execution of the restriction is allowed and the area where the execution of the restriction is prohibited. The above-mentioned management device may include a location information acquisition unit, which acquires location information indicating the location of at least one of the working machine and the power supply device. The above-mentioned management device may include an area extraction unit, which refers to the area information storage unit that stores (i) area information indicating the location of the area where the execution of the restriction is allowed and the area where the execution of the restriction is prohibited, and extracts an area that satisfies a predetermined second geographical condition with the location of at least one of the working machine and the power supply device from the area where the execution of the restriction is allowed and the area where the execution of the restriction is prohibited. In the above-mentioned management device, the restriction request sending unit may send the information indicating the location of the area extracted by the area extraction unit to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device together with the restriction request or in response to the restriction request.

[0021] In the above-mentioned management device, the event detection unit can detect at least one of the release of the first event and the occurrence of the second event that can release the first event. The above-mentioned management device can include a release request sending unit, which sends a release request for releasing the restriction to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device via a communication network when the event detects at least one of the release of the first event and the occurrence of the second event. In the above-mentioned management device, the first event can include at least one of the failure, theft, loss and non-payment of the use fee of at least one of the working machine and the power supply device.

[0022] In a fifth aspect of the present invention, a management system is provided. The management system includes, for example, the control device described above. The management system includes, for example, the management device described above.

[0023] In a sixth aspect of the present invention, a control method is provided. The control method is, for example, a method for controlling a power supply device that supplies power to a working machine. The power supply device is, for example, provided with a fuel cell. The control method has, for example, a restriction requirement acquisition phase for acquiring a restriction requirement for restricting the power supply from the power supply device to the working machine via a communication network. The control method has, for example, a restriction phase for restricting the power supply from the power supply device to the working machine when a restriction requirement is obtained in the restriction requirement acquisition phase.

[0024] In the seventh aspect of the present invention, a management method is provided. The above-mentioned management method is, for example, a management method for managing a power supply device that supplies power to a working machine. The above-mentioned power supply device is, for example, provided with a fuel cell. The above-mentioned management method has, for example, an event detection phase for detecting the occurrence of a predetermined first event related to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device. The above-mentioned management method has, for example, a restriction request sending phase for sending a restriction request for restricting the power supply from the power supply device to the working machine to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device via a communication network when the occurrence of the first event is detected in the event detection phase.

[0025] In an eighth aspect of the present invention, a program is provided. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing the program may be provided. The program may be a program for causing a computer to function as the control device. The program may be a program for causing a computer to execute the control method.

[0026] In a ninth aspect of the present invention, a program is provided. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing the program may be provided. The program may be a program for causing a computer to function as the management device. The program may be a program for causing a computer to execute the management method.

[0027] Furthermore, the above-mentioned summary of the invention does not list all the essential features of the present invention. In addition, sub-combinations of these feature groups can also become inventions.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0028] Figure 1 An example of the system configuration of the vehicle management system 100 is schematically shown.

[0029] Figure 2 An example of the internal structure of the vehicle control unit 122 is schematically shown.

[0030] Figure 3 An example of the internal structure of the power supply system 128 is schematically shown.

[0031] Figure 4 An example of the internal structure of the system control unit 308 is schematically shown.

[0032] Figure 5 An example of the vehicle management unit 142 is schematically shown.

[0033] Figure 6 An example of the data table 600 is schematically shown.

[0034] Figure 7 An example of the system configuration of the computer 3000 is schematically shown. [Specific implementation method]

[0035] The present invention is described below by way of the embodiments of the invention, but the following embodiments do not limit the invention involved in the claims. In addition, all combinations of the features described in the embodiments are not necessarily necessary for the solution of the invention. In addition, in the drawings, the same reference numerals are given to the same or similar parts, and repeated descriptions may be omitted.

[0036] [Overview of Vehicle Management System 100]

[0037] Figure 1 An example of the system configuration of the vehicle management system 100 is schematically shown. In the present embodiment, the vehicle management system 100 includes, for example, a vehicle 120. The vehicle management system 100 includes, for example, a management server 140.

[0038] In the present embodiment, the vehicle 120 includes, for example, a vehicle control unit 122, an ego position estimation unit 124, a drive system 126, and a power supply system 128. The components of the vehicle 120 are configured to transmit and receive information to each other. In the present embodiment, the management server 140 includes, for example, a vehicle management unit 142 and a detailed calculation management unit 144. The components of the management server 140 are configured to transmit and receive information to each other.

[0039] The vehicle 120 and the management server 140 are configured to transmit and receive information to and from each other via the communication network 10. At least one of the vehicle 120 and the management server 140 may be configured to transmit and receive information to and from a communication terminal 22 used by a user 20 of the vehicle 120. The user 20 may be an owner of the vehicle 120 or a user of the vehicle 120.

[0040] In the present embodiment, the communication network 10 may be a transmission path for wired communication, a transmission path for wireless communication, or a combination of a transmission path for wireless communication and a transmission path for wired communication. The communication network 10 may include a wireless packet communication network, the Internet, a P2P network, a dedicated line, a VPN, a power line communication line, etc. The communication network 10 (i) may include a mobile communication network such as a portable telephone line network, and (ii) may include a wireless MAN (e.g., WiMAX (registered trademark)), a wireless LAN (e.g., WiFi (registered trademark)), Bluetooth (registered trademark), Zigbee (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), etc. The communication network 10 may include a V2X network such as vehicle-to-vehicle communication (sometimes referred to as V2V), vehicle-to-road communication (sometimes referred to as V2I), and vehicle-to-pedestrian communication (sometimes referred to as V2P).

[0041] In the present embodiment, the communication terminal 22 is not particularly limited in detail as long as it is an information processing device used by the user 20. Examples of the communication terminal 22 include a personal computer and a portable terminal. Examples of the portable terminal include a mobile phone, a smart phone, a PDA, a tablet computer, a notebook computer or a laptop computer, a wearable computer, etc.

[0042] In this embodiment, the vehicle management system 100 manages one or more vehicles 120. For example, the vehicle management system 100 manages the utilization status of each of the one or more vehicles 120. The user of the vehicle 120 pays the utilization fee of the vehicle 120 when using the vehicle 120. The payment method of the utilization fee can be either prepayment or postpayment. In this case, the vehicle management system 100 can manage the payment status of the utilization fee related to each of the one or more vehicles 120.

[0043] The vehicle management system 100 can manage the utilization status of each of the one or more power supply systems 128. For example, when the user of the vehicle 120 uses the vehicle 120, he pays the utilization fee of the power supply system 128 installed in the vehicle 120. The payment method of the utilization fee can be either prepayment or postpayment. In this case, the vehicle management system 100 can manage the payment status of the utilization fee of each of the one or more power supply systems 128.

[0044] In the present embodiment, the vehicle management system 100 restricts the use of the vehicle 120 or the power supply system 128 by the user 20 when an abnormality occurs in the vehicle 120 or the power supply system 128 that is the management target, or when a delay occurs in the payment of the use fee. In the present embodiment, the use of the vehicle 120 or the power supply system 128 can be restricted at an appropriate timing in consideration of the convenience and safety of the user 20. In the present embodiment, the use of the vehicle 120 or the power supply system 128 can be restricted at an appropriate timing before replacing the battery or the fuel tank for the fuel cell.

[0045] When the above-mentioned abnormality is resolved, the vehicle management system 100 removes the above-mentioned restriction. When the above-mentioned use fee payment is completed, or a guarantee for the payment is provided, or the payment is guaranteed, the vehicle management system 100 removes the above-mentioned restriction.

[0046] In this embodiment, the vehicle 120 performs an operation of transporting at least one of a person and an article (sometimes referred to as a transport operation). The vehicle 120 can perform the transport operation by the driver's operation or by automatic driving. In addition, the operation performed by the vehicle 120 is not limited to the transport operation. The vehicle 120 can use electric power to perform any operation instead of or together with the transport operation.

[0047] Examples of the vehicle 120 include automobiles, motorcycles, and trains. Examples of the motorcycle include (i) motorcycles, (ii) three-wheeled motorcycles, (iii) Segways (registered trademark), power-car scooters (registered trademark), and stand-up riding two-wheeled or three-wheeled vehicles with a power unit, such as power-car skateboards.

[0048] In the present embodiment, the vehicle control unit 122 controls each part of the vehicle 120. For example, the vehicle control unit 122 controls the operation of the drive system 126. The vehicle control unit 122 can control the operation of the power system 128. In one embodiment, the vehicle control unit 122 receives a signal (sometimes referred to as a restriction signal) for limiting the use of the vehicle 120 or the power system 128 from the vehicle management unit 142 of the management server 140. In this case, the vehicle control unit 122, for example, sends the restriction signal to the power system 128. In other embodiments, the vehicle control unit 122 receives a signal (sometimes referred to as a release signal) for releasing the restriction related to the use of the vehicle 120 or the power system 128 from the vehicle management unit 142. In this case, the vehicle control unit 122, for example, sends the release signal to the power system 128. The details of the vehicle control unit 122 will be described later.

[0049] In the present embodiment, the self-position estimating unit 124 estimates the position of the vehicle management system 100. The self-position estimating unit 124 may include at least one of (i) a positioning system that estimates the current position using a GPS signal, (ii) a system that estimates the current position using the radio wave strength of a wireless signal, and (iii) a system that estimates the current position by calculating the displacement from a reference point using the output from an internal sensor such as an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, or a rotary encoder.

[0050] In the present embodiment, the drive system 126 uses the power supplied from the power supply system 128 to move the vehicle 120. The drive system 126 may have an electric motor (not shown) that converts the electric energy supplied from the power supply system 128 into mechanical energy. The drive system 126 may use the power generated by the electric motor to move the vehicle 120. When the power supply from the power supply system 128 stops, the drive system 126 cannot move the vehicle 120. When the power supplied from the power supply system 128 decreases, the drive system 126 cannot move the vehicle 120 at high speed.

[0051] In the present embodiment, the power system 128 supplies power to various parts of the vehicle 120. The power system 128 may include a fuel cell. In one embodiment, the power system 128 obtains a restriction signal from the vehicle control unit 122. In this case, the power system 128, for example, after obtaining the restriction signal, limits the power supply from the power system 128 to the drive system 126 at a timing that takes into account the convenience, safety, etc. of the user 20 and as early as possible. In other embodiments, the power system 128 obtains a release signal from the vehicle control unit 122. In this case, for example, the restriction on the power supply from the power system 128 to the drive system 126 is released. The details of the power system 128 will be described later.

[0052] In the present embodiment, the management server 140 manages one or more vehicles 120. In the present embodiment, the vehicle management unit 142 manages the utilization status of each of the one or more vehicles 120. The vehicle management unit 142 can detect that an abnormality has occurred in the vehicle 120. The vehicle management unit 142 can manage the utilization status of one or more power supply systems 128. The vehicle management unit 142 can detect that an abnormality has occurred in the power supply system 128. The vehicle management unit 142 can restrict the utilization of the vehicle 120 or the power supply system 128, or release the restriction when a predetermined condition is met. The vehicle management unit 142 can restrict the utilization of the vehicle 120 by restricting the utilization of the power supply system 128. The details of the vehicle management unit 142 will be described later.

[0053] In this embodiment, the detailed accounting management unit 144 manages the change of the use authority for each of the one or more vehicles 120. For example, the payment status of the use fee associated with each of the one or more vehicles 120 is managed. The vehicle management system 100 manages the change of the use authority for each of the one or more power supply systems 128. For example, the payment status of the use fee of each of the one or more power supply systems 128 can be managed.

[0054] As examples of changes in the right to use, there are the generation, change, and expiration of the right to use. For example, when the fee for using the vehicle 120 is paid, or a guarantee related to the payment of the fee is provided, or the payment of the fee is guaranteed, the right to use the vehicle 120 is generated. For example, when the contract content related to the use of the vehicle 120 is changed, the right to use the vehicle 120 is changed. For example, when the validity period of the right to use the vehicle 120 has expired, or the payment period of the fee for using the vehicle 120 has expired, the right to use the vehicle 120 is invalidated.

[0055] In one embodiment, the detailed accounting management unit 144 monitors the payment status of the usage fee for each of the one or more vehicles 120, and detects the expiration of the usage privilege associated with a specific vehicle 120. For example, the detailed accounting management unit 144 detects the occurrence of payment delay (sometimes referred to as delay or arrears). The detailed accounting management unit 144 may output information indicating that the usage privilege associated with the specific vehicle 120 has expired to the vehicle management unit 142.

[0056] In other embodiments, the detailed accounting management unit 144 monitors the payment status of the usage fee for each of the one or more vehicles 120, and detects the generation of the usage right related to the specific vehicle 120. For example, the detailed accounting management unit 144 detects the payment of the usage fee, the release of the payment delay, etc. The detailed accounting management unit 144 can output information indicating the generation of the usage right related to the specific vehicle 120 to the vehicle management unit 142.

[0057] The vehicle management system 100 may be an example of a control device, a management device, and a management system. The vehicle 120 may be an example of a working machine. The drive system 126 may be an example of a working machine. The power supply system 128 may be an example of a power supply device. The management server 140 may be an example of a management device. The vehicle management unit 142 may be an example of a management device. The restriction signal may be an example of a restriction request. The release signal may be an example of a release request.

[0058] In this embodiment, the vehicle management system 100 is described in detail by taking the case where the vehicle management system 100 manages more than one vehicle 120 as an example. However, the vehicle management system 100 is not limited to this embodiment. In other embodiments, the vehicle management system 100 may also manage more than one power supply system 128 mounted on more than one vehicle 120. The management of the power supply system 128 is performed in the same order as the management order of the vehicle 120, for example.

[0059] In the present embodiment, the details of the working machine are explained by taking the case where the vehicle 120, which is an example of a working machine, performs a transport operation as an example. However, the working machine is not limited to the vehicle 120. As other examples of working machines, there are transportation equipment, conveying equipment, cleaning equipment, air conditioning equipment, lighting equipment, robots, etc. As transportation equipment, there are mobile bodies, heavy machinery, agricultural machines, snowplows, ladders, escalators, etc. As mobile bodies, there are vehicles, ships, flying bodies, etc. As ships, there can be examples of ships, hovercrafts, jet skis, submarines, submarines, water skateboards, etc. As flying bodies, there can be examples of aircraft, flying ships or airboats, balloons, helicopters, drones, etc. As conveying equipment, there are pumps, blowers, sprayers, cleaning machines, etc. As cleaning equipment, there are vacuum cleaners, washing machines, etc.

[0060] In this embodiment, the vehicle 120 is described in detail by taking the case where the vehicle control unit 122 transfers the restriction signal and the release signal to the power supply system 128 and the controller of the power supply system 128 determines the execution and release of the restriction related to the power supply as an example. However, the vehicle 120 is not limited to this embodiment. In other embodiments, the vehicle control unit 122 may also receive the restriction signal and the release signal and determine the execution and release of the restriction related to the power supply. In this case, the vehicle control unit 122 may be an example of a control device.

[0061] [Specific Configuration of Each Component of the Vehicle Management System 100]

[0062] Each part of the vehicle management system 100 may be implemented by hardware, software, or both. With respect to each part of the vehicle management system 100, at least a part thereof may be implemented by a single server or by multiple servers. With respect to each part of the vehicle management system 100, at least a part thereof may be implemented on a virtual machine or on a cloud system. With respect to each part of the vehicle management system 100, at least a part thereof may be implemented by a personal computer or a portable terminal. As portable terminals, there are exemplified portable phones, smart phones, PDAs, tablet computers, notebook computers or laptop computers, wearable computers, and the like. Each part of the vehicle management system 100 may store information using distributed ledger technologies such as blockchain or distributed networks.

[0063] When at least a part of the components constituting the vehicle management system 100 is implemented by software, the components implemented by the software can be implemented by starting a program that specifies the work related to the components in an information processing device of a general structure. The above-mentioned information processing device includes, for example: (i) a data processing device having a processor such as a CPU, a GPU, a ROM, a RAM, a communication interface, etc., (ii) an input device such as a keyboard, a touch panel, a camera, a microphone, various sensors, a GPS receiver, etc., (iii) an output device such as a display device, a speaker, a vibration device, and (iv) a storage device such as a memory, a HDD, etc. (including an external storage device.).

[0064] In the above-mentioned information processing device, the above-mentioned data processing device or storage device may store a program. The above-mentioned program may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium. The above-mentioned program is executed by the processor to make the above-mentioned information processing device perform the work specified by the program.

[0065] The program may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium. The program may be stored in a computer-readable medium such as a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, a memory, a hard disk, or a storage device connected to a network. The program may be installed from a computer-readable medium or a storage device connected to a network to a computer constituting at least a part of the vehicle management system 100. By executing the program, the computer may function as at least a part of each part of the vehicle management system 100.

[0066] The program that causes the computer to function as at least a part of each part of the vehicle management system 100 may include a module that defines the operation of each part of the vehicle management system 100. These programs or modules act on a data processing device, an input device, an output device, a storage device, etc., and cause the computer to function as each part of the vehicle management system 100, or cause the computer to execute an information processing method in each part of the vehicle management system 100.

[0067] By reading the program into the computer, the information processing described in the program functions as a specific unit that cooperates with the software associated with the program and various hardware resources of the vehicle management system 100. Then, the above-mentioned specific unit constructs the vehicle management system 100 corresponding to the purpose of use by realizing the calculation or processing of information corresponding to the purpose of use of the computer in this embodiment.

[0068] The above-mentioned program may be a program for causing the computer of the vehicle 120 to function as the vehicle control unit 122. The above-mentioned program may be a program for causing the computer of the vehicle 120 to execute the information processing method in the vehicle control unit 122. The above-mentioned program may be a program for causing the computer of the power supply system 128 to function as a controller of the power supply system 128. The above-mentioned program may be a program for causing the computer of the power supply system 128 to execute the information processing method in the power supply system 128. The above-mentioned program may be a program for causing the computer to function as the management server 140. The above-mentioned program may be a program for causing the computer to execute the information processing method in the management server 140.

[0069] The information processing method may be a control method for controlling a power supply device that supplies power to a working machine. The power supply device may include a fuel cell, for example. The control method may include, for example, a restriction request acquisition phase for acquiring a restriction request for restricting the power supply from the power supply device to the working machine via a communication network. The control method may include, for example, a restriction phase for restricting the power supply from the power supply device to the working machine when a restriction request is acquired in the restriction request acquisition phase.

[0070] The above-mentioned information processing method may be a management method for managing a power supply device that supplies power to a working machine. The above-mentioned power supply device, for example, includes a fuel cell. The above-mentioned management method, for example, includes an event detection phase for detecting the occurrence of a predetermined first event related to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device. The above-mentioned management method, for example, includes a restriction request sending phase for sending a restriction request for limiting the supply of power from the power supply device to the working machine to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device via a communication network when the occurrence of the first event is detected in the event detection phase.

[0071] Figure 2 The figure schematically shows an example of the internal structure of the vehicle control unit 122. In the present embodiment, the vehicle control unit 122 includes a communication control unit 222, an input / output control unit 224, a drive control unit 226, and a power supply control unit 228.

[0072] In the present embodiment, the communication control unit 222 controls the communication between the vehicle 120 and at least one of the communication terminal 22 and the management server 140. The communication control unit 222 may be various communication interfaces. The communication control unit 222 transmits information output by each unit of the vehicle control unit 122 to at least one of the communication terminal 22 and the management server 140. The communication control unit 222 may output information obtained from at least one of the communication terminals 22 and 140 to at least one of the input / output control unit 224, the drive control unit 226, and the power supply control unit 228.

[0073] In the present embodiment, the input / output control unit 224 controls an input device that receives input from the user 20. The input / output control unit 224 may transmit information inputted to the input device by the user 20 to the management server 140. The input / output control unit 224 may output information inputted to the input device by the user 20 to at least one of the drive control unit 226 and the power supply control unit 228. Examples of the input device include a touch panel, a keyboard, a pointing device, a microphone, a voice input system, a voice analysis system, a camera, a gesture input system, and an image analysis system.

[0074] In this embodiment, the input / output control unit 224 controls an output device that outputs information to the user 20. The input / output control unit 224 can output information obtained from at least one of the communication control unit 222, the drive control unit 226, and the power supply control unit 228 to the user 20. Examples of the output device include a display, a projector, and a speaker.

[0075] In this embodiment, the drive control unit 226 controls the operation of the drive system 126 to control the movement of the vehicle 120. The drive control unit 226 controls, for example, the departure, acceleration, deceleration, direction change, and stop of the vehicle 120. Thus, the transport operation is performed.

[0076] In the present embodiment, power supply control unit 228 controls the operation of power supply system 128 and controls the supply of power from power supply system 128 to each part of vehicle 120. In particular, power supply control unit 228 can control the supply of power from power supply system 128 to drive system 126.

[0077] The power control unit 228 can control the start and stop of the power system 128. For example, when the input / output control unit 224 obtains a command for starting the use of the vehicle 120 as a command from the user 20, the power control unit 228 sends a command for starting the power system 128 to the power system 128. Similarly, when the input / output control unit 224 obtains a command for ending the use of the vehicle 120 as a command from the user 20, the power control unit 228 sends a command for ending the power system 128 to the power system 128.

[0078] At least one of the output voltage, output current, output power, and output rate of the power supply system 128 may be controlled. The power supply control unit 228 may control the operation mode of the power supply system 128. The operation mode may correspond one or more characteristics selected from the group including, for example, (i) the magnitude of output power, (ii) the followability or responsiveness to an output command, (iii) the fuel cost or power generation efficiency, and (iv) the suppression of degradation to an operation condition for giving priority to other characteristics that are not selected.

[0079] In this embodiment, when the communication control unit 222 receives a limit signal, the power control unit 228 forwards the limit signal to the power control unit 228. Similarly, when the communication control unit 222 receives a release signal, the power control unit 228 may forward the release signal to the power system 128.

[0080] Figure 3 The figure schematically shows an example of the internal structure of the power supply system 128. In the present embodiment, the power supply system 128 includes a power generation system 302, a power storage system 304, a power conversion unit 306, and a system control unit 308.

[0081] In this embodiment, the power generation system 302 generates electricity using a fuel cell. The power generation system 302 can supply the generated electricity to various parts of the vehicle 120. For example, the power generation system 302 supplies the generated electricity to various parts of the vehicle 120 via the power conversion unit 306. The details of the power generation system 302 will be described later.

[0082] In this embodiment, the power storage system 304 stores electric power. The power storage system 304 receives electric power via the power conversion unit 306 and stores the electric power. In one embodiment, the power storage system 304 stores electric power generated by the power generation system 302. In other embodiments, the power storage system 304 stores regenerative electric power from the drive system 126. The power storage system 304 can supply the stored electric power to various parts of the vehicle 120. For example, the power storage system 304 supplies the stored electric power to various parts of the vehicle 120 via the power conversion unit 306.

[0083] In this embodiment, the power conversion unit 306 converts the power. The power conversion unit 306 can convert direct current into alternating current, or alternating current into direct current, or can convert an input direct current voltage into another direct current voltage. The power conversion unit 306 can include a bidirectional DC-DC converter.

[0084] The power conversion unit 306 can switch the flow state of electric power. The power conversion unit 306 can switch the supply destination of the input electric power. The power conversion unit 306 can supply the electric power generated by the power generation system 302 to each part of the vehicle 120. The power conversion unit 306 can supply the electric power generated by the power generation system 302 to the power storage system 304. The power conversion unit 306 can supply the electric power stored in the power storage system 304 to the power generation system 302. The power conversion unit 306 can supply the electric power stored in the power storage system 304 to each part of the vehicle 120. The power conversion unit 306 can supply the regenerated electric power from the drive system 126 to the power storage system 304.

[0085] In the present embodiment, the system control unit 308 controls the power supply system 128. More specifically, the system control unit 308 controls the operation of at least one of the power generation system 302 and the power conversion unit 306 to adjust the output of the power supply system 128.

[0086] In one embodiment, the system control unit 308 controls the operation of the power generation system 302 to adjust the power generation. The system control unit 308 can control the operation of the power generation system 302 according to the command from the power control unit 228.

[0087] For example, the system control unit 308 controls the start and stop of the power generation system 302. The system control unit 308 may control at least one of the output voltage, output current, output power, and output rate of the power generation system 302. The system control unit 308 may also control the operation mode of the power generation system 302.

[0088] The system control unit 308 may control the operation of the power generation system 302 based on the limit signal. The system control unit 308 may also control the operation of the power generation system 302 based on the release signal.

[0089] In other embodiments, the system control unit 308 controls the operation of the power conversion unit 306 to adjust the amount of power supplied from the power system 128 to various components of the vehicle 120. The system control unit 308 may control the operation of the power conversion unit 306 in accordance with a command from the power control unit 228.

[0090] For example, the system control unit 308 controls whether to supply power from the power supply system 128 to each part of the vehicle 120. The system control unit 308 may also control whether to supply power from the power supply system 128 to a specific device (for example, the drive system 126) of the vehicle 120. The system control unit 308 controls at least one of the output voltage, output current, output power, and output rate of the power supplied from the power supply system 128 to each part of the vehicle 120. The system control unit 308 may adjust the balance between the power supplied from the power generation system 302 and the power supplied from the power storage system 304.

[0091] The system control unit 308 may control the operation of the power conversion unit 306 based on the limit signal. The system control unit 308 may also control the operation of the power conversion unit 306 based on the release signal. The details of the system control unit 308 will be described later.

[0092] [Overview of Each Component of Power Generation System 302]

[0093] use Figure 3 An example of the internal structure of the power generation system 302 is described. In the present embodiment, the power generation system 302 includes a fuel cell unit 310, a fuel supply unit 312, an oxidant supply unit 314, and a temperature adjustment medium supply unit 316. In the present embodiment, the fuel cell unit 310 includes a communication connector 322, a power connector 324, and a utility connector 326 for power generation. In the present embodiment, the fuel cell unit 310 includes an FC control unit 330, a power generation unit 340, and an auxiliary battery 350.

[0094] In the present embodiment, the fuel cell unit 310 generates electricity using the fuel supplied from the fuel supply unit 312 and the fuel supplied from the oxidant supply unit 314. The temperature of the fuel cell unit 310 is adjusted by the temperature adjustment medium supplied from the temperature adjustment medium supply unit 316. The electricity generated by the fuel cell unit 310 is supplied to various parts of the vehicle 120 via the power conversion unit 306, for example. In the present embodiment, the fuel cell unit 310 can control the operation of at least one of the fuel supply unit 312, the oxidant supply unit 314, and the temperature adjustment medium supply unit 316. The fuel cell unit 310 can operate according to the command from the system control unit 308.

[0095] In this embodiment, the fuel cell unit 310 may be a unit in which at least the FC control unit 330, the power generation unit 340, and the piping and wiring are packaged. The fuel cell unit 310 may be a unit in which at least the FC control unit 330, the power generation unit 340, the auxiliary battery 350, and the piping and wiring are packaged. The structural components of the fuel cell unit 310 may be housed in a single frame or dividedly housed in a plurality of frames.

[0096] In the present embodiment, the fuel cell unit 310 is installed in the power generation system 302 by, for example, connecting to a public power piping and a power cable provided in the power generation system 302. The fuel cell unit 310 may also be installed in the power generation system 302 by connecting to a public power piping, a power cable, and a communication cable provided in the power generation system 302. Thus, the fuel cell unit 310 is mounted on the vehicle 120.

[0097] In one embodiment, the fuel cell unit 310 is mounted on the power generation system 302 in a manner that cannot be easily removed by a general user of the vehicle 120. The fuel cell unit 310 is fixed to a predetermined position of the power generation system 302, for example.

[0098] In other embodiments, the fuel cell unit 310 is detachably mounted on the power generation system 302. Thus, a general user of the vehicle 120 can mount the fuel cell unit 310 removed from the vehicle 120 on other working machines and operate the other working machines using the power generated by the fuel cell unit 310.

[0099] In this embodiment, the fuel supply unit 312 supplies fuel for power generation to the fuel cell unit 310. The fuel for power generation can be hydrogen or a compound containing hydrogen. The fuel supply unit 312 can have a sensor (not shown) for measuring the flow rate of the fuel and a flow rate adjustment unit (not shown) for adjusting the flow rate of the fuel. The fuel supply unit 312 can operate according to the command from the fuel cell unit 310.

[0100] In one embodiment, the fuel supply unit 312 is replenished with fuel from the outside. The fuel supply unit 312 may be provided with a replenishment pipe and a fuel container (not shown) for receiving the fuel replenished from the outside. The fuel supply unit 312 may have a member for allowing or prohibiting access to the replenishment pipe from the outside. The above-mentioned member may be a cap or a plug provided at one end of the replenishment pipe. The fuel supply unit 312 may switch a state in which the above-mentioned member cannot be removed from the replenishment pipe and a state in which the above-mentioned member can be removed from the replenishment pipe according to a command from the system control unit 308.

[0101] In other embodiments, the fuel supply unit 312 may have a replaceable fuel tank (not shown). Regarding the fuel supply unit 312, the fuel supply unit 312 may switch between a state in which the fuel tank cannot be removed from the fuel supply unit 312 and a state in which the fuel tank can be removed from the fuel supply unit 312 according to a command from the system control unit 308.

[0102] In this embodiment, the oxidant supply unit 314 supplies the oxidant for power generation to the fuel cell unit 310. The oxidant for power generation may be either oxygen or air. The oxidant supply unit 314 may include a sensor (not shown) for measuring the flow rate of the oxidant, and a flow rate adjustment unit (not shown) for adjusting the flow rate of the oxidant. The oxidant supply unit 314 may operate according to a command from the fuel cell unit 310.

[0103] The oxidant supply unit 314 may include a pump or a blower (not shown) for sucking air as the oxidant from outside the power generation system 302. The oxidant supply unit 314 may be connected to an air supply pipe (not shown) provided in the vehicle 120.

[0104] In this embodiment, the temperature adjustment medium supply unit 316 supplies a temperature adjustment medium for adjusting the temperature of the power generation stack of the fuel cell unit 310 to the fuel cell unit 310. Examples of the temperature adjustment medium include water, ethylene glycol, and long-life coolant (sometimes referred to as LLC). The temperature adjustment medium supply unit 316 may include a sensor (not shown) for measuring the flow rate of the temperature adjustment medium, and a flow rate adjustment unit (not shown) for adjusting the flow rate of the temperature adjustment medium. The temperature adjustment medium supply unit 316 may operate according to a command from the fuel cell unit 310.

[0105] The temperature adjustment medium supply unit 316 may include a heat exchanger (not shown) for adjusting the temperature of the temperature adjustment medium. As the heat exchanger, a radiator is exemplified.

[0106] [Overview of Each Component of the Fuel Cell 310]

[0107] In this embodiment, the communication connector 322 connects the communication cable provided in the fuel cell unit 310 and the communication cable provided in the power generation system 302. The communication cable provided in the fuel cell unit 310 and the communication cable provided in the power generation system 302 can be connected by wire or by wireless. The fuel cell unit 310 sends and receives information with the communication cable provided in the power generation system 302, the system control unit 308 or the vehicle control unit 122 via the wireless communication device.

[0108] In this embodiment, the power connector 324 electrically connects the power cable provided in the fuel cell unit 310 and the power cable provided in the power generation system 302. The power cable provided in the fuel cell unit 310 and the power cable provided in the power generation system 302 can be connected by wire or wirelessly. The fuel cell unit 310 can be electrically connected to the vehicle 120 or the power conversion unit 306 via a wireless power supply device.

[0109] Thus, power can be transferred between the power generation system 302 and the fuel cell unit 310. As a result, power can be transferred between the power conversion unit 306 and the fuel cell unit 310, and power can be transferred between the vehicle 120 or the power storage system 304 and the fuel cell unit 310.

[0110] In this embodiment, the utility power connector 326 for power generation connects the utility power piping provided in the fuel cell unit 310 and the utility power piping provided in the power generation system 302. Thus, the utility power used in the operation of the fuel cell unit 310 can be transferred between the power generation system 302 and the fuel cell unit 310. As a result, the utility power can be transferred between the vehicle 120 or the power generation system 302 and the fuel cell unit 310.

[0111] For example, the fuel can be transferred between the fuel supply unit 312 and the fuel cell unit 310. The oxidant can be transferred between the oxidant supply unit 314 and the fuel cell unit 310. The temperature adjustment medium or heat can be transferred between the temperature adjustment medium supply unit 316 and the fuel cell unit 310. In addition, the drainage and exhaust gas generated by the power generation in the fuel cell unit 310 can be sent and received between the fuel cell unit 310 and the vehicle 120 or the power generation system 302.

[0112] In the present embodiment, the FC control unit 330 controls the fuel cell unit 310. For example, the FC control unit 330 controls the power generation of the fuel cell unit 310. The FC control unit 330 may control at least one of the output voltage, output current, output power, and output rate of the fuel cell unit 310. The FC control unit 330 may control the power generation of the fuel cell unit 310 by controlling the operation of at least one of the fuel supply unit 312, the oxidant supply unit 314, and the temperature adjustment medium supply unit 316. The FC control unit 330 may operate in accordance with a command from the system control unit 308.

[0113] In this embodiment, the power generation unit 340 generates electricity. The power generation unit 340 may include a fuel cell. The fuel cell generates electricity by reacting the fuel supplied from the fuel supply unit 312 and the oxidant supplied from the oxidant supply unit 314. The power generation unit 340 may be electrically connected to the power connector 324. The power generation unit 340 may be electrically connected to the auxiliary battery 350. The power generation unit 340 may supply part of the generated electricity to the auxiliary battery 350.

[0114] As described above, in order to start the power generation section 340, power is required to start the fuel supply unit 312 and the oxidant supply unit 314 for supplying the oxidant and the fuel to the power generation section. In particular, the oxidant supply unit 314 is often equipped with a fan for pressurizing the air as the oxidant to the power generation section 340. However, the power consumption of the fan is relatively large. Therefore, it is preferable to ensure power for preparing for the start-up of the power generation section 340 and operating the oxidant supply unit 314.

[0115] In the present embodiment, the auxiliary battery 350 stores power for starting at least one of the fuel supply unit 312, the oxidant supply unit 314, and the temperature adjustment medium supply unit 316. The auxiliary battery 350 can store power for starting the oxidant supply unit 314. The auxiliary battery 350 can be electrically connected to the power connector 324. The auxiliary battery 350 can store power supplied from the power conversion unit 306. The auxiliary battery 350 can be electrically connected to the power generation unit 340. The auxiliary battery 350 can store power supplied from the power generation unit 340.

[0116] Furthermore, at least one of the fuel supply unit 312, the oxidant supply unit 314, and the temperature adjustment medium supply unit 316 may be configured to operate using the power supplied from the power storage system 304 when the fuel cell unit 310 is started. At least one of the fuel supply unit 312, the oxidant supply unit 314, and the temperature adjustment medium supply unit 316 may also be configured to operate using the power supplied from the power storage system 304 and the power generated by the fuel cell unit 310 when the fuel cell unit 310 is started.

[0117] At least one of the fuel supply unit 312, the oxidant supply unit 314 and the temperature adjustment medium supply unit 316 can also be configured to operate using the power supplied from the power storage system 304 when the remaining capacity of the auxiliary battery 350 is outside a predetermined numerical range when the fuel cell unit 310 is started.

[0118] The "numerical range" is not limited to the case where both the upper limit and the lower limit are specified. The "numerical range" may specify only the upper limit or only the lower limit.

[0119] The oxidant supply unit 314 can operate using the power generated by the power generation unit 340 after the power generation of the power generation unit 340 meets a predetermined condition. For example, when the power generation of the power generation unit 340 is less than a predetermined threshold, the oxidant supply unit 314 supplies the oxidant to the power generation unit 340 using the power supplied from the auxiliary battery 350 or the power storage system 304. When the power generation of the power generation unit 340 is greater than the above threshold, the oxidant supply unit 314 supplies the oxidant to the power generation unit 340 using the power generated by the power generation unit 340.

[0120] The amount of oxidant supplied when the oxidant supply unit 314 uses the power supplied from the auxiliary battery 350 or the power storage system 304 may be smaller than the amount of oxidant supplied when the oxidant supply unit 314 uses the power generated by the power generation unit 340. When the oxidant supply unit 314 uses the power generated by the power generation unit 340, the amount of oxidant supplied may be changed according to the amount of power generated by the power generation unit 340. The amount of oxidant supplied may be changed continuously or in stages according to the amount of power generated by the power generation unit 340.

[0121] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the details of the fuel cell unit 310 are described by taking the case where the fuel cell unit 310 does not include the fuel supply unit 312, the oxidant supply unit 314, and the temperature adjustment medium supply unit 316 as an example. However, the fuel cell unit 310 is not limited to this embodiment. In this embodiment, the fuel cell unit 310 may include at least one of the fuel supply unit 312, the oxidant supply unit 314, and the temperature adjustment medium supply unit 316.

[0122] In this embodiment, the details of the power supply system 128 are described by taking the case where the fuel cell unit 310 is a packaged unit as an example. However, the power supply system 128 is not limited to this embodiment. In other embodiments, the power generation system 302 may also be a packaged unit. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the power supply system 128 may also be a packaged unit.

[0123] In this embodiment, the details of the power supply system 128 are described by taking the case where the fuel cell unit 310 is freely detachable relative to the power generation system 302 as an example. However, the power supply system 128 is not limited to this embodiment. In other embodiments, the power generation system 302 can be freely detachable relative to the power supply system 128. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the power supply system 128 can be freely detachable relative to the vehicle 120.

[0124] Figure 4The figure schematically shows an example of the internal structure of the system control unit 308. In the present embodiment, the system control unit 308 includes a restriction signal acquisition unit 422, a restriction information storage unit 424, a release signal acquisition unit 426, a self-position acquisition unit 428, a usage status determination unit 432, a communication status determination unit 434, a restriction determination unit 442, and an output control unit 444.

[0125] In the present embodiment, the restriction signal acquisition unit 422 receives a signal (sometimes referred to as a restriction signal) requesting restriction of the power supply from the power supply system 128 to each part or a portion of the vehicle 120. The restriction signal is sent, for example, from the management server 140. When receiving the restriction signal, the restriction signal acquisition unit 422 may output information indicating that the restriction signal has been received to the restriction determination unit 442. For example, the restriction signal acquisition unit 422 forwards the restriction signal to the restriction determination unit 442.

[0126] The restriction signal may include information indicating conditions related to the execution of the restriction. The restriction signal acquisition unit 422 may store the information indicating conditions related to the execution of the restriction in the restriction information storage unit 424 .

[0127] In this embodiment, the restriction information storage unit 424 stores information indicating conditions related to the execution of restrictions. Examples of information indicating conditions related to the execution of restrictions include information indicating an area where the execution of restrictions is permitted, information indicating an area where the execution of restrictions is prohibited, information indicating an area where the execution of restrictions can be postponed, information indicating a period during which the execution of restrictions is permitted, information indicating a period during which the execution of restrictions is prohibited, information indicating a period during which the execution of restrictions can be postponed, information indicating a time band during which the execution of restrictions is permitted, information indicating a time band during which the execution of restrictions is prohibited, information indicating a time band during which the execution of restrictions can be postponed, information indicating a communication condition during which the execution of restrictions is permitted, information indicating a communication condition during which the execution of restrictions is prohibited, and information indicating a communication condition during which the execution of restrictions can be postponed.

[0128] The restriction information storage unit 424 may store information indicating the execution status of the restriction. For example, the restriction information storage unit 424 stores information indicating whether the supply of power is restricted at the current time point. The restriction information storage unit 424 may store information indicating the content of the restriction. The restriction information storage unit 424 may extract information that matches the request based on the request from the restriction determination unit 442 or the output control unit 444.

[0129] In the present embodiment, the release signal acquisition unit 426 receives a signal (sometimes referred to as a release signal) requesting the release of the restriction related to the above-mentioned power supply. The release signal is sent, for example, from the management server 140. Upon receiving the release signal, the release signal acquisition unit 426 may output information indicating that the release signal has been received to the restriction determination unit 442. For example, the restriction signal acquisition unit 422 forwards the release signal to the restriction determination unit 442.

[0130] In the present embodiment, the self-position acquisition unit 428 acquires information indicating the current position of the vehicle 120. For example, the self-position acquisition unit 428 acquires information indicating the estimated value of the current position of the vehicle 120 output by the self-position estimation unit 124 from the vehicle control unit 122. The self-position acquisition unit 428 may output the information indicating the current position of the vehicle 120 to the restriction determination unit 442.

[0131] In the present embodiment, the use status determination unit 432 determines the use status of the vehicle 120. Examples of the use status of the vehicle 120 include the user 20 starting use of the vehicle 120, the user 20 is using the vehicle 120, and the user 20 has ended use of the vehicle 120. The use status determination unit 432 may output information indicating the determination result to the restriction determination unit 442.

[0132] In one embodiment, the use condition determination unit 432 detects the start of use of the vehicle 120. As described above, for example, when the input / output control unit 224 obtains a command for starting use of the vehicle 120 as a command from the user 20, the power control unit 228 sends a command for starting the power supply system 128 to the power supply system 128. The command for starting use of the vehicle 120 may be turning on a start switch or an ignition key of the vehicle 120. The use condition determination unit 432 may detect the start of use of the vehicle 120 by receiving the command for starting the power supply system 128.

[0133] In another embodiment, the use condition determination unit 432 detects the end of use of the vehicle 120. As described above, for example, when the input / output control unit 224 obtains a command for ending use of the vehicle 120 as a command from the user 20, the power control unit 228 sends a command for ending the power supply system 128 to the power supply system 128. The command for ending use of the vehicle 120 may be turning off a start switch or an ignition key of the vehicle 120. The use condition determination unit 432 may detect the end of use of the vehicle 120 by receiving the command for ending the power supply system 128.

[0134] In the present embodiment, the communication status determination unit 434 determines the communication status of the vehicle 120. The communication status determination unit 434 may determine the communication status of the vehicle 120 by, for example, analyzing the communication between the communication control unit 222, the communication terminal 22, and the management server 140. The communication status determination unit 434 may output information indicating the determination result to the restriction determination unit 442.

[0135] Examples of the communication status of the vehicle 120 include information on the availability of communication, the quality of radio wave conditions, the quality of communication quality, the types of communication methods that can be communicated, and the types of communication carriers that can be communicated. Examples of radio wave conditions include radio wave reception level, radio wave strength, RSCP (Received Signal Code Power), CID (Cell ID), etc. Examples of communication quality include communication speed, data communication throughput, data communication delay, etc.

[0136] In the present embodiment, the restriction determination unit 442 determines to restrict the supply of electric power from the power supply system 128 to each part or part of the vehicle 120 when the restriction signal acquisition unit 422 acquires the restriction signal. The restriction determination unit 442 determines to execute the restriction related to the above-mentioned power supply at an appropriate timing after the restriction signal acquisition unit 422 acquires the restriction signal. The restriction determination unit 442 determines to cancel the restriction related to the above-mentioned power supply when the release signal acquisition unit 426 acquires the release signal.

[0137] [Specific example of timing for starting restriction]

[0138] As described above, the restriction determination unit 442 can obtain information indicating that a restriction signal has been received from the restriction signal acquisition unit 422. The restriction signal acquisition unit 422 can access the restriction information storage unit 424 to obtain information indicating conditions related to the execution of the restriction. The restriction determination unit 442 can obtain information indicating that a release signal has been received from the release signal acquisition unit 426. The restriction signal acquisition unit 422 can obtain information indicating the current position of the vehicle 120 from the self-position acquisition unit 428. The restriction signal acquisition unit 422 can obtain information indicating a determination result related to the utilization status of the vehicle 120 from the utilization status determination unit 432. The restriction signal acquisition unit 422 can obtain information indicating a determination result related to the communication status of the vehicle 120 from the communication status determination unit 434.

[0139] In one embodiment, the restriction determination unit 442 may determine to start the restriction related to the above-mentioned power supply when the usage condition determination unit 432 detects the end of the use of the vehicle 120 after the restriction signal acquisition unit 422 acquires the restriction signal. The restriction determination unit 442 may determine to start the restriction related to the above-mentioned power supply when the usage condition determination unit 432 detects the start of the use of the vehicle 120 after the restriction signal acquisition unit 422 acquires the restriction signal and the usage condition determination unit 432 detects the end of the use of the vehicle 120.

[0140] Thus, it is possible to prevent the vehicle 120 from becoming unavailable while the user 20 is driving the vehicle 120. In addition, when the user 20 stops using the vehicle 120, there is a high possibility that the vehicle 120 stops at the destination point or an appropriate relay point. Therefore, even when the power supply from the power supply system 128 to the vehicle 120 is restricted, there is a high possibility that the user 20 can pay the usage fee of the vehicle 120 or rest outside the vehicle. Furthermore, after the restriction signal acquisition unit 422 acquires the restriction signal, the power supply from the power supply system 128 to the vehicle 120 is restricted at a relatively early timing. As a result, it is expected that the period for collecting the usage fee will be shortened, the expansion of theft damage will be suppressed, and the like.

[0141] In other embodiments, the restriction determination unit 442 may determine to start the restriction related to the above-mentioned power supply when the geographical relationship between the position of the vehicle 120 and the position of the area where the execution of the restriction is permitted satisfies a predetermined condition. Examples of the above-mentioned predetermined condition include (i) the condition that the vehicle 120 is located inside the area where the execution of the restriction is permitted, and (ii) the condition that the distance between the position of the vehicle 120 and the position of the area where the execution of the restriction is permitted is less than a predetermined value.

[0142] The restriction determination unit 442 may determine to start the restriction related to the above-mentioned power supply when the geographical relationship between the position of the vehicle 120 and the position of the area where the execution of the restriction is prohibited satisfies a predetermined condition. Examples of the predetermined condition include (i) the condition that the vehicle 120 is located inside the area where the execution of the restriction is prohibited, and (ii) the condition that the distance between the position of the vehicle 120 and the position of the area where the execution of the restriction is permitted is greater than a predetermined value.

[0143] In other embodiments, the restriction determination unit 442 may determine whether to start limiting the supply of electric power based on the communication status of the vehicle 120. For example, when the communication status of the vehicle 120 is good, the restriction signal acquisition unit 422 may start the restriction related to the above-mentioned power supply. On the other hand, when the communication status of the vehicle 120 is not good, the restriction signal acquisition unit 422 may postpone the restriction related to the above-mentioned power supply.

[0144] Furthermore, in other embodiments, the restriction determination unit 442 may determine whether to start limiting the supply of electric power based on the state of the surrounding environment of the vehicle 120. For example, when the weather conditions around the vehicle 120 meet the predetermined conditions, the restriction determination unit 442 may start the above-mentioned restriction related to the supply of electric power. On the other hand, when the weather conditions around the vehicle 120 do not meet the predetermined conditions, the restriction signal acquisition unit 422 may suspend the above-mentioned restriction related to the supply of electric power.

[0145] Examples of the predetermined conditions include (i) the temperature being within a predetermined numerical range, or at least an index or indicator determined based on the temperature being within a predetermined numerical range. Examples of the above-mentioned index include the heat index or wet-bulb globe temperature (sometimes abbreviated as WBGT), discomfort index (sometimes abbreviated as THI), predicted mean thermal comfort index (sometimes abbreviated as PMV), standard effective temperature (sometimes abbreviated as SET), etc.

[0146] In the present embodiment, the output control unit 444 limits the power supply from the power supply system 128 to each part or part of the vehicle 120 when the limit signal acquisition unit 422 acquires the limit signal. The output control unit 444 may execute the above-mentioned limit when the limit determination unit 442 determines to start the above-mentioned limit related to the power supply.

[0147] The output control unit 444 limits the supply of power, for example, by at least one of the following methods: (i) stopping at least one of supplying and receiving power, (ii) making the supply amount of power or its upper limit less than a predetermined value, (iii) prohibiting the start-up of the fuel cell, (iv) prohibiting the power generation of the fuel cell, (v) making the output power of the fuel cell or its upper limit less than a predetermined value, (vi) making the output rate of the fuel cell or its upper limit less than a predetermined threshold, (vii) prohibiting the replenishment of fuel of the fuel cell, (viii) prohibiting the removal of the fuel cell or the removal of the fuel tank of the fuel cell, and (ix) making the replenishable amount of fuel of the fuel cell less than a predetermined value. The replenishable amount of fuel can be either the upper limit of the amount of fuel replenished each time or the upper limit of the amount of fuel replenished within a certain period.

[0148] When the power supply from the power supply system 128 to the vehicle 120 stops, the vehicle 120 cannot move. When the power supply system 128 stops receiving power from the vehicle 120, for example, charging of the power storage system 304 and recovery of regenerative power cannot be performed. When the vehicle 120 continues to operate in this state, the remaining capacity of the power storage system 304 decreases. When the remaining capacity of the power storage system 304 is less than a predetermined value, there is a case where a part of the operation of the vehicle 120 is restricted.

[0149] When the amount of power supplied from the power supply system 128 to the vehicle 120 decreases, for example, the vehicle 120 cannot move at high speed. When the activation of the fuel cell is prohibited or the power generation of the fuel cell is prohibited, the vehicle 120 can only operate within the range of the remaining capacity of the power storage system 304. Examples of methods for prohibiting power generation include a method of stopping the supply of an oxidant and a method of stopping the supply of fuel.

[0150] When the output power of the fuel cell decreases, for example, the vehicle 120 cannot move at high speed. When the output rate of the fuel cell decreases, for example, the acceleration performance of the vehicle 120 decreases. As a method of adjusting the output power or output rate of the fuel cell, there are exemplified a method of adjusting the output by the power conversion unit 306, a method of adjusting the supply rate of the fuel or the oxidant, and the like.

[0151] When the replenishment of the fuel cell is prohibited, the vehicle 120 can only operate within the range of the remaining amount of fuel and the remaining capacity of the power storage system 304. Examples of methods for prohibiting the replenishment of the fuel cell include a method of keeping the fuel supply port closed, a method of preventing the fuel supply nozzle from being inserted into the fuel supply port, and a method of sending a signal indicating prohibition of fuel supply to the fuel supply device.

[0152] When the removal of the fuel cell or the removal of the fuel tank of the fuel cell is prohibited, the fuel shortage state is maintained after the vehicle 120 runs out of fuel. When the amount of fuel that can be replenished in the fuel cell is less than a predetermined value, the time during which the vehicle 120 can operate by replenishing once is very short. As a method of limiting the amount of fuel that can be replenished, there is exemplified a method of sending a signal indicating the upper limit value of the amount of fuel that can be replenished to the fuel supply device.

[0153] The output control unit 444 may implement the above-mentioned restrictions in stages. In one embodiment, the output control unit 444 implements a specific type of restriction so that the intensity of the restriction becomes stronger in stages. The number of stages is not particularly limited. The number of stages may be 2 or more, 3 or more, 4 or more, or 5 or more.

[0154] For example, the output control unit 444 first changes the upper limit of the output rate of the fuel cell to a value lower than the normal value. This reduces the acceleration performance of the vehicle 120. As a result, the user 20 of the vehicle 120 can foresee that the power supply to the vehicle 120 will be further restricted in the future.

[0155] Afterwards, before the release signal acquisition unit 426 acquires the release signal, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the output control unit 444 changes the upper limit of the output rate to a smaller value. Examples of the predetermined condition include the amount of power generated by the fuel cell exceeding a certain value, the amount of power consumed by the vehicle 120 exceeding a certain value, the operating time of the vehicle 120 exceeding a certain value, and the lapse of a certain period.

[0156] In other embodiments, first, as the first stage, the output control unit 444 implements the first type of restriction. Then, as the second stage, the second type of restriction is implemented. The number of stages is not particularly limited. The number of stages may be 2 or more, 3 or more, 4 or more, or 5 or more. In addition, the intensity of the restriction may be gradually increased in each stage.

[0157] For example, when the length of the unpaid period of the usage fee of the vehicle 120 exceeds a certain value, the limit signal acquisition unit 422 receives the limit signal. When the limit signal acquisition unit 422 receives the limit signal, as a first stage, the output control unit 444 limits the upper limit of the output rate of the power supply system 128 or the fuel cell. As a result, the acceleration performance of the vehicle 120 is reduced. As a result, the user 20 of the vehicle 120 can foresee that the power supply to the vehicle 120 will be further restricted in the future.

[0158] Afterwards, before the release signal acquisition unit 426 acquires the release signal, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, as a second stage, the output control unit 444 makes the upper limit of the amount of power supplied to the vehicle 120 less than a predetermined value. Examples of the predetermined condition include the amount of power generated by the fuel cell exceeding a certain value, the amount of power consumed by the vehicle 120 exceeding a certain value, the operating time of the vehicle 120 exceeding a certain value, and the lapse of a certain period. Thus, the output of the drive system 126 of the vehicle 120 is limited. As a result, the maximum speed of the vehicle 120 is limited.

[0159] After that, before the release signal acquisition unit 426 acquires the release signal, if the predetermined condition is satisfied, the output control unit 444 prohibits the next start of the fuel cell or restricts the replenishment of fuel as the third stage. As a result, for example, if the unpaid state of the use fee is not released, the user 20 cannot continue to use the vehicle 120.

[0160] The output control unit 444 can select a method for limiting power supply according to the status of the vehicle 120. Examples of the status of the vehicle 120 include the current position of the vehicle 120, the operating status of the vehicle 120, the communication status of the vehicle 120, and the status of the surrounding environment of the vehicle 120.

[0161] In one embodiment, when the vehicle 120 is parked at a predetermined parking place, the method of limiting the power supply is not particularly limited. For example, as a method of limiting the power supply, the output control unit 444 selects (i) stopping the power supply from the power supply system 128 to the vehicle 120, or (ii) prohibiting the start or power generation of the fuel cell. Examples of the predetermined parking place include (i) a parking lot provided at or near the residence or workplace of the user 20, and (ii) a parking lot operated by the government or a private enterprise.

[0162] On the other hand, when the distance between the current position of the vehicle 120 and the predetermined parking space is greater than a predetermined value, as a method of limiting the power supply, the output control unit 444 can select (i) making the amount of power supplied from the power system 128 to the vehicle 120 or its upper limit value less than the rated value, (ii) making the upper limit value of the output rate of the power system 128 or the fuel cell less than the normal value, (iii) prohibiting the replenishment of fuel, (iv) prohibiting the removal of the fuel cell or the removal of the fuel tank of the fuel cell, or (v) making the amount of fuel that can be replenished less than the normal value. According to this embodiment, even when the power supply to the vehicle 120 is limited, the vehicle 120 can be safely moved to the parking space or the fuel station.

[0163] In other embodiments, the method of limiting the power supply is not particularly limited when the communication condition of the vehicle 120 is good. For example, as the method of limiting the power supply, the output control unit 444 selects (i) making the amount of power supplied from the power system 128 to the vehicle 120 or its upper limit value less than the rated value, (ii) making the upper limit value of the output rate of the power system 128 or the fuel cell less than the normal value, (iii) prohibiting the replenishment of fuel, (iv) prohibiting the removal of the fuel cell or the removal of the fuel tank of the fuel cell, or (v) making the amount of fuel that can be replenished less than the normal value.

[0164] On the other hand, when the communication status of the vehicle 120 is not good, as a method of limiting the power supply, the output control unit 444 can select (i) to make the amount of power supplied from the power system 128 to the vehicle 120 or its upper limit value less than the rated value, or (ii) to make the upper limit value of the output rate of the power system 128 or the fuel cell less than the normal value. According to this embodiment, the vehicle 120 can move to a place with good communication status without running out of fuel.

[0165] Furthermore, in other embodiments, when the weather conditions around the vehicle 120 satisfy the predetermined conditions, the method of limiting the power supply is not particularly limited. For example, as a method of limiting the power supply, the output control unit 444 selects (i) stopping the power supply from the power supply system 128 to the vehicle 120, or (ii) prohibiting the start-up or power generation of the fuel cell.

[0166] On the other hand, when the weather conditions around the vehicle 120 do not satisfy the predetermined conditions, it is possible to select (i) to make the amount of power supplied from the power system 128 to the vehicle 120 or its upper limit less than the rated value, (ii) to make the upper limit of the output rate of the power system 128 or the fuel cell less than the normal value, (iii) to prohibit the replenishment of fuel, (iv) to prohibit the removal of the fuel cell or the removal of the fuel tank of the fuel cell, or (v) to make the amount of fuel that can be replenished less than the normal value. As the predetermined conditions, there are exemplified (i) that the temperature is within a predetermined numerical range, and at least an index or indicator determined based on the temperature is within a predetermined numerical range. As the above-mentioned index, there are exemplified the heat index or wet bulb black globe temperature (sometimes abbreviated as WBGT), discomfort index (sometimes abbreviated as THI), predicted mean thermal comfort index (sometimes abbreviated as PMV), standard effective temperature (sometimes abbreviated as SET), etc. According to the present embodiment, even when the power supply to the vehicle 120 is limited, for example, the vehicle 120 can move to a predetermined parking space or fuel station, or the air conditioning equipment of the vehicle 120 can continue to operate.

[0167] The restriction signal acquisition unit 422 may be an example of a restriction request acquisition unit. The release signal acquisition unit 426 may be an example of a release request acquisition unit. The usage status determination unit 432 may be an example of an end detection unit and a start detection unit. The restriction determination unit 442 may be an example of a restriction unit. The output control unit 444 may be an example of a restriction unit. The restriction signal may be an example of a restriction request. The release signal may be an example of a release request.

[0168] Figure 5 An example of the vehicle management unit 142 is schematically shown. In the present embodiment, the vehicle management unit 142 includes a vehicle position management unit 522, a vehicle abnormality detection unit 524, an unpaid information acquisition unit 532, a payment information acquisition unit 534, a use restriction unit 540, and a storage unit 550. In the present embodiment, the use restriction unit 540 includes a restriction signal transmission unit 542 and a release signal transmission unit 544. The storage unit 550 includes a vehicle information storage unit 552 and an area information storage unit 554.

[0169] In the present embodiment, the vehicle position management unit 522 manages the position information of each of the one or more vehicles 120. The vehicle position management unit 522 may manage the position information of each of the one or more power supply systems 128. The position of the power supply system 128 may be the position of the vehicle 120 on which the power supply system is mounted. For example, the vehicle position management unit 522 acquires information indicating the position of the vehicle 120 at the timing from each of the one or more vehicles 120 at any timing. The vehicle position management unit 522 stores, for example, the information indicating the position of the vehicle 120 in correspondence with the information indicating the time when the information was acquired in the vehicle position management unit 522.

[0170] In the present embodiment, the vehicle abnormality detection unit 524 detects an abnormality occurring in at least one of the one or more vehicles 120. The vehicle abnormality detection unit 524 may also detect an abnormality occurring in at least one of the one or more power supply systems 128. Examples of the above-mentioned abnormalities include failure, theft, loss, etc. The vehicle abnormality detection unit 524 obtains information indicating that a failure has occurred in the vehicle 120 or the power supply system 128 from the vehicle 120, for example. The vehicle abnormality detection unit 524 obtains information indicating that the vehicle 120 or the power supply system 128 has been stolen or lost from the communication terminal 22, for example. The vehicle position management unit 522 stores information indicating that an abnormality has occurred in the vehicle 120 or the power supply system 128 in the vehicle position management unit 522, for example.

[0171] The vehicle abnormality detection unit 524 may detect that an abnormality occurring in at least one of the one or more vehicles 120 has been resolved. The vehicle position management unit 522 stores information indicating that an abnormality in the vehicle 120 or the power supply system 128 has been resolved, for example.

[0172] In the present embodiment, the non-payment information acquisition unit 532 acquires information indicating that the usage fee of the vehicle 120 or the power supply system 128 has not been paid (sometimes referred to as non-payment information) from the detailed accounting management unit 144, for example. The vehicle position management unit 522 stores information indicating that the usage fee of the vehicle 120 or the power supply system 128 has not been paid in the vehicle position management unit 522, for example.

[0173] In the present embodiment, the payment information acquisition unit 534 acquires information indicating that the usage fee of the vehicle 120 or the power supply system 128 has been paid from the detailed accounting management unit 144, for example. The vehicle position management unit 522 stores information indicating that the usage fee of the vehicle 120 or the power supply system 128 has been paid (sometimes referred to as payment information) in the vehicle position management unit 522, for example.

[0174] In the present embodiment, at least one of the restriction signal and the release signal is generated by the restriction unit 540. The generated signal is transmitted to the corresponding vehicle 120 or power supply system 128 by the restriction unit 540.

[0175] In the present embodiment, the restriction signal transmitting unit 542 generates the restriction signal when at least one of the vehicle abnormality detecting unit 524 detects an abnormality of the vehicle 120 and the non-payment information acquiring unit 532 acquires non-payment information. The restriction signal transmitting unit 542 transmits the generated restriction signal to the corresponding vehicle 120 or power supply system 128.

[0176] The restriction signal transmission unit 542 can transmit the generated restriction signal to the corresponding vehicle 120 or power system 128 at an appropriate timing. For example, the restriction signal transmission unit 542 refers to the vehicle information storage unit 552 to obtain information indicating the current position of the vehicle 120 or the power system 128. In addition, the restriction signal transmission unit 542 refers to the area information storage unit 554 to determine whether the geographical relationship between the current position of the vehicle 120 or the power system 128 and the position of the area where the execution of the restriction is permitted satisfies a predetermined condition (sometimes referred to as a first geographical condition). When the geographical relationship between the current position of the vehicle 120 or the power system 128 and the position of the area where the execution of the restriction is permitted satisfies the first geographical condition, the restriction signal transmission unit 542 transmits the restriction signal to the corresponding vehicle 120 or the power system 128. Examples of the first geographical condition include (i) a condition that the vehicle 120 is located inside the area where the execution of the restriction is permitted, and (ii) a condition that the distance between the position of the vehicle 120 and the position of the area where the execution of the restriction is permitted is less than a predetermined value.

[0177] The restriction signal sending unit 542 may send information indicating conditions related to the execution of the restriction together with the generated restriction signal or in response to the restriction signal to the corresponding vehicle 120 or power supply system 128. For example, the restriction signal sending unit 542 refers to the area information storage unit 554 to extract an area that satisfies a predetermined second geographical condition with the vehicle 120 or power supply system 128 from the area where the execution of the restriction is permitted and the area where the execution of the restriction is prohibited. Examples of the second geographical condition include (i) a condition that the vehicle 120 is located inside the area, (ii) a condition that the distance between the position of the vehicle 120 and the position of the area is less than a predetermined value, and the like. The restriction signal sending unit 542 sends information indicating the type and position of the extracted area together with the restriction signal or in response to the restriction signal to the corresponding vehicle 120 or power supply system 128.

[0178] In this embodiment, the release signal sending unit 544 generates the above release signal when at least one of the vehicle abnormality detection unit 524 detects that the abnormality of the vehicle 120 is resolved and the payment information acquisition unit 534 acquires the payment information. The release signal sending unit 544 sends the generated release signal to the corresponding vehicle 120 or power supply system 128.

[0179] In the present embodiment, the storage unit 550 stores various information. In the present embodiment, the vehicle information storage unit 552 stores various information related to each of the one or more vehicles 120. The details of the information stored in the vehicle information storage unit 552 will be described later. In the present embodiment, the area information storage unit 554 stores area information indicating the location of at least one of an area where execution of restrictions is permitted and an area where execution of restrictions is prohibited. The area information may be in the form of a whitelist or a blacklist.

[0180] The vehicle position management unit 522 may be an example of a position information acquisition unit. The vehicle abnormality detection unit 524 may be an example of an event detection unit. The unpaid information acquisition unit 532 may be an example of an event detection unit. The payment information acquisition unit 534 may be an example of an event detection unit. The restriction signal sending unit 542 may be an example of a restriction request sending unit, an area extraction unit, and a position determination unit. The release signal sending unit 544 may be an example of a release request sending unit. The area information storage unit 554 may be an example of an area information storage unit.

[0181] Figure 6 An example of a data table 600 is schematically shown. Each row of the data table 600 may be an example of vehicle information stored in the vehicle information storage unit 552. In the present embodiment, the data table 600 stores a vehicle ID 622 for identifying each vehicle, information indicating a time 624, information indicating a vehicle position 626, information indicating a vehicle status 628, information indicating a power supply status 630, information indicating a fee payment status 632, and information indicating a usage restriction status 634, in correspondence with each other.

[0182] In the present embodiment, the information showing the vehicle position 626 shows the position of the vehicle 120 at the time 624. As the position of the vehicle 120, the address of the position, the name of the facility installed at the position, the position coordinates of the position, etc. are exemplified. Regarding the position coordinates, a specific position can be represented by latitude and longitude, or by latitude, longitude and altitude. The position of the vehicle 120 can be an example of the position of the power supply system 128. In the present embodiment, as the information showing the status 628 of the vehicle, information showing the utilization status of the vehicle 120, information showing the presence or absence of abnormality, etc. are exemplified. In the present embodiment, as the information showing the status 630 of the power supply, information showing the utilization status of the power supply system 128, information showing the presence or absence of abnormality, etc. are exemplified.

[0183] Figure 7 An example of a computer 3000 that can embody multiple aspects of the present invention in whole or in part is shown. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the vehicle management system 100 is implemented by the computer 3000. A portion of the vehicle 120 can be implemented by the computer 3000. For example, at least one of the vehicle control unit 122, the system control unit 308, and the FC control unit 330 is implemented by the computer 3000. The management server 140 or a portion thereof can be implemented by the computer 3000.

[0184] The program installed in the computer 3000 can cause the computer 3000 to function as an operation associated with the device of the embodiment of the present invention or one or more "parts" of the device, or to execute the operation or the one or more "parts", and / or can cause the computer 3000 to execute the process of the embodiment of the present invention or the stage of the process. Such a program can be executed by the CPU 3012 to cause the computer 3000 to execute specific operations associated with some or all of the blocks in the flowcharts and block diagrams described in this specification.

[0185] The computer 3000 according to the present embodiment includes a CPU 3012, a RAM 3014, a graphic controller 3016, and a display device 3018, which are connected to each other via a host controller 3010. In addition, the computer 3000 includes input / output units such as a communication interface 3022, a hard disk drive 3024, a DVD-ROM drive 3026, and an IC card drive, which are connected to the host controller 3010 via an input / output controller 3020. In addition, the computer includes conventional input / output units such as a ROM 3030 and a keyboard 3042, which are connected to the input / output controller 3020 via an input / output chip 3040.

[0186] The CPU 3012 operates according to the programs stored in the ROM 3030 and the RAM 3014 to control each unit. The graphic controller 3016 obtains image data generated by the CPU 3012 from a frame buffer or the like provided in the RAM 3014 or itself, and displays the image data on the display device 3018.

[0187] The communication interface 3022 communicates with other electronic devices via a network. The hard disk drive 3024 stores programs and data used by the CPU 3012 in the computer 3000. The DVD-ROM drive 3026 reads programs or data from the DVD-ROM 3001 and provides the programs or data to the hard disk drive 3024 via the RAM 3014. The IC card driver reads programs and data from an IC card and / or writes programs and data to an IC card.

[0188] The ROM 3030 stores therein a boot program or the like executed by the computer 3000 when activated, and / or a program depending on the hardware of the computer 3000. In addition, the input-output chip 3040 can connect various input-output units to the input-output controller 3020 via a parallel port, a serial port, a keyboard port, a mouse port, and the like.

[0189] The program is provided by a computer-readable storage medium such as a DVD-ROM 3001 or an IC card. The program is read from the computer-readable storage medium, installed in a hard disk drive 3024, a RAM 3014, or a ROM 3030, which is also an example of a computer-readable storage medium, and executed by the CPU 3012. The information processing described in these programs is read to the computer 3000, resulting in cooperation between the program and the various types of hardware resources described above. The device or method can be configured by implementing the operation or processing of information according to the use of the computer 3000.

[0190] For example, in the case where communication is performed between the computer 3000 and an external device, the CPU 3012 can execute a communication program loaded into the RAM 3014, and based on the processing described in the communication program, instruct the communication processing to the communication interface 3022. Under the control of the CPU 3012, the communication interface 3022 reads the transmission data stored in the transmission buffer area provided in the RAM 3014, the hard disk drive 3024, the DVD-ROM 3001, or a recording medium such as an IC card, and transmits the read transmission data to the network, or writes the reception data received from the network to the reception buffer area provided on the recording medium, etc.

[0191] Furthermore, the CPU 3012 can cause all or a required portion of a file or database stored in an external recording medium such as the hard disk drive 3024, the DVD-ROM drive 3026 (DVD-ROM 3001), an IC card, etc. to be read to the RAM 3014, and perform various types of processing on the data on the RAM 3014. The CPU 3012 can then write the processed data back to the external recording medium.

[0192] Various types of information such as various types of programs, data, tables, and databases can be stored in the recording medium and receive information processing. The CPU 3012 can perform various types of processing on the data read from the RAM 3014 and write the results back to the RAM 3014, wherein the various types of processing include various types of operations, information processing, conditional judgments, conditional branches, unconditional branches, information retrieval / replacement, etc. recorded anywhere in the present disclosure and specified by the command sequence of the program. In addition, the CPU 3012 can retrieve information from files, databases, etc. in the recording medium. For example, in the case where a plurality of entries each having an attribute value of a first attribute associated with an attribute value of a second attribute are stored in the recording medium, the CPU 3012 can retrieve an entry that is consistent with the condition specified for the attribute value of the first attribute from the plurality of entries, read the attribute value of the second attribute stored in the entry, and thereby obtain the attribute value of the second attribute associated with the first attribute that meets the predetermined condition.

[0193] The program or software module described above may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium on or near the computer 3000. In addition, a recording medium such as a hard disk or RAM provided in a server system connected to a dedicated communication network or the Internet may be used as a computer-readable storage medium, thereby providing the above-mentioned program to the computer 3000 via the network.

[0194] The present invention has been described above using embodiments, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiments. It should be clear to those skilled in the art that various changes or improvements can be applied to the above embodiments. In addition, within the scope of technical non-contradiction, the matters described for a specific embodiment can be applied to other embodiments. In addition, each constituent element may have the same features as other constituent elements with the same name but different reference symbols. It is clear from the description of the claims that the method of applying such changes or improvements can also be included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0195] The execution order of each process of the work, sequence, step and stage in the device, system, program and method shown in the claims, description and drawings is not specifically indicated as "before", "before", etc. In addition, it should be noted that as long as the output of the previous process is not used in the subsequent process, it can be implemented in any order. Regarding the workflow in the claims, description and drawings, even if "first," "next," etc. are used for convenience, it does not mean that it must be implemented in this order.

[0196] Description of Reference Numerals

[0197] 10 communication network, 20 user, 22 communication terminal, 100 vehicle management system, 120 vehicle, 122 vehicle control unit, 124 self-position estimation unit, 126 drive system, 128 power supply system, 140 management server, 142 vehicle management unit, 144 detailed calculation management unit, 222 communication control unit, 224 input / output control unit, 226 drive control unit, 228 power supply control unit, 302 power generation system, 304 power storage system, 306 power conversion unit, 308 system control unit, 310 fuel cell unit, 312 fuel supply unit, 314 oxidant supply unit, 316 temperature adjustment medium supply unit, 322 communication connector, 324 power connector, 326 public power connector for power generation, 330 FC control unit, 340 power generation unit, 350 auxiliary battery, 422 restriction signal acquisition unit, 424 restriction information storage unit, 426 release signal acquisition unit, 428 self-position acquisition unit, 432 utilization status determination unit, 434 communication status determination unit, 442 restriction determination unit, 444 output control unit, 522 vehicle position management unit, 524 vehicle abnormality detection unit, 532 non-payment information acquisition unit, 534 payment information acquisition unit, 540 utilization restriction unit, 542 restriction signal transmission unit, 544 release signal transmission unit, 550 storage unit, 552 vehicle information storage unit, 554 area information storage unit, 600 data table, 622 vehicle ID, 624 time, 626 vehicle position, 628 status, 630 status, 632 payment status, 634 restriction status, 3000 computer, 3001 DVD-ROM, 3010 host controller, 3012 CPU, 3014 RAM, 3016 graphics controller, 3018 display device, 3020 input-output controller, 3022 communication interface, 3024 hard disk drive, 3026 DVD-ROM drive, 3030 ROM, 3040 input-output chip, 3042 keyboard.

Claims

1. A control device for controlling a power supply device for supplying power to a working machine, wherein: The power supply device includes a fuel cell, The control device comprises: a restriction request acquisition unit that acquires, via a communication network, a restriction request for restricting the supply of electric power from the electric power supply device to the working machine; an end detection unit for detecting the end of the use of the working machine; as well as a restriction unit that restricts the supply of electric power from the electric power supply device to the working machine when the restriction request acquisition unit acquires the restriction request, The working machine is a transport device, The power supply device is mounted on the working machine. The restriction unit determines to start the restriction when the end detection unit detects the end of use of the working machine after the restriction request acquisition unit acquires the restriction request; The limiting unit limits the supply of the electric power in at least one of the following ways: (i) a method in which the supply amount of the electric power or its upper limit value is less than a predetermined value, (ii) a method in which the startup of the fuel cell is prohibited, (iii) a method in which the output power of the fuel cell or its upper limit value is less than a predetermined value, (iv) a method in which the output rate of the fuel cell or its upper limit value is less than a predetermined threshold value, (v) a method in which the replenishment of the fuel cell is prohibited, (vi) a method in which the disassembly of the fuel cell or the disassembly of the fuel tank of the fuel cell is prohibited, and (vii) a method in which the replenishable amount of the fuel of the fuel cell is less than a predetermined value.

2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: further comprising a start detection unit for detecting the start of use of the working machine, The restriction unit determines to start the restriction when the start detection unit detects the start of use of the working machine after the restriction request acquisition unit acquires the restriction request and the end detection unit detects the end of use of the working machine.

3. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: further comprising a release request acquisition unit that acquires a release request for requesting release of the restriction via the communication network, The restriction unit determines to release the restriction when the release request acquisition unit acquires the release request.

4. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The limiting unit selects a method of limiting the supply of the electric power based on at least one of a current position, an operating status, a communication status, and a status of a surrounding environment of the working machine.

5. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The restriction unit determines whether to start or postpone restriction of the power supply based on at least one of a communication status of the working machine and a status of a surrounding environment.

6. A power supply device, wherein: have: A control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5; and Fuel cell.

7. A working machine, wherein: have: The power supply device according to claim 6; and The electric motor converts the electric energy supplied from the electric power supply device into mechanical energy.

8. A management device for managing a power supply device for supplying power to a working machine, wherein: The power supply device includes a fuel cell, The management device comprises: an event detection unit that detects occurrence of a predetermined first event related to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device; and a restriction request sending unit that sends a restriction request to restrict the supply of power from the power supply device to the working machine to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device via a communication network when the event detection unit detects the occurrence of the first event, The restriction request includes information indicating conditions related to the execution of the restriction, The information indicating conditions related to the execution of the restriction includes at least one of information indicating an area where the execution of the restriction is permitted, information indicating an area where the execution of the restriction is prohibited, information indicating an area where the execution of the restriction can be postponed, information indicating a period during which the execution of the restriction is permitted, information indicating a period during which the execution of the restriction is prohibited, information indicating a period during which the execution of the restriction can be postponed, information indicating a time band during which the execution of the restriction is permitted, information indicating a time band during which the execution of the restriction is prohibited, information indicating a time band during which the execution of the restriction can be postponed, information indicating a communication condition during which the execution of the restriction is permitted, information indicating a communication condition during which the execution of the restriction is prohibited, and information indicating a communication condition during which the execution of the restriction can be postponed; The restriction request includes information indicating the location of an area where execution of the restriction is permitted and an area where execution of the restriction is prohibited; The management device also has: a position information acquisition unit that acquires position information indicating a position of at least one of the working machine and the power supply device; and an area extraction unit, referring to an area information storage unit storing (i) area information indicating the positions of an area where execution of the restriction is permitted and an area where execution of the restriction is prohibited, extracting an area where a geographical relationship between the area and the position of at least one of the working machine and the power supply device satisfies a predetermined geographical condition from among the area where execution of the restriction is permitted and the area where execution of the restriction is prohibited, The restriction request transmitting unit transmits information indicating the position of the area extracted by the area extracting unit together with the restriction request or in response to the restriction request to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device.

9. The management device according to claim 8, wherein: The event detection unit further detects at least one of the release of the first event and the occurrence of a second event that can release the first event. The management device also includes a release request sending unit, which sends a release request for releasing the restriction to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device via the communication network when the event detection unit detects the release of the first event and the occurrence of at least one of the second event.

10. The management device according to claim 8, wherein: The first event includes at least one of a failure, theft, loss, and non-payment of a usage fee of at least one of the working machine and the power supply device.

11. A management system, wherein: have: A control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5; and A management device according to any one of claims 8 to 10.

12. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program, characterized in that: When the program is executed by a processor, a control method is executed, the control method controlling a power supply device that supplies power to a working machine. The power supply device includes a fuel cell, The control method has the following features: A restriction request acquisition step of acquiring, via a communication network, a restriction request for restricting the supply of electric power from the electric power supply device to the working machine; an end detection phase, detecting the end of the use of the working machine; as well as a restriction stage, when the restriction request is acquired in the restriction request acquisition stage, restricting the supply of electric power from the electric power supply device to the working machine, The working machine is a transport device, The power supply device is mounted on the working machine. In the restriction phase, after the restriction request is acquired in the restriction request acquisition phase, when the end of use of the working machine is detected in the end detection phase, determining to start the restriction; The limiting stage includes a stage of limiting the supply of the electric power by at least one of the following methods: (i) a method of making the supply amount of the electric power or its upper limit value less than a predetermined value, (ii) a method of prohibiting the start-up of the fuel cell, (iii) a method of making the output power of the fuel cell or its upper limit value less than a predetermined value, (iv) a method of making the output rate of the fuel cell or its upper limit value less than a predetermined threshold value, (v) a method of prohibiting the replenishment of the fuel cell, (vi) a method of prohibiting the disassembly of the fuel cell or the disassembly of the fuel tank of the fuel cell, and (vii) a method of making the replenishable amount of the fuel of the fuel cell less than a predetermined value.

13. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program, characterized in that: When the program is executed by a processor, a management method is executed, the management method managing a power supply device that supplies power to a working machine. The power supply device includes a fuel cell, The management method has the following features: An event detection phase, detecting the occurrence of a predetermined first event related to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device; as well as a restriction request sending phase, in which, when the occurrence of the first event is detected in the event detection phase, a restriction request for restricting the supply of power from the power supply device to the working machine is sent to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device via a communication network, wherein the restriction request includes information indicating conditions related to the execution of the restriction, The information indicating conditions related to the execution of the restriction includes at least one of information indicating an area where the execution of the restriction is permitted, information indicating an area where the execution of the restriction is prohibited, information indicating an area where the execution of the restriction can be postponed, information indicating a period during which the execution of the restriction is permitted, information indicating a period during which the execution of the restriction is prohibited, information indicating a period during which the execution of the restriction can be postponed, information indicating a time band during which the execution of the restriction is permitted, information indicating a time band during which the execution of the restriction is prohibited, information indicating a time band during which the execution of the restriction can be postponed, information indicating a communication condition during which the execution of the restriction is permitted, information indicating a communication condition during which the execution of the restriction is prohibited, and information indicating a communication condition during which the execution of the restriction can be postponed; The restriction request includes information indicating the location of an area where execution of the restriction is permitted and an area where execution of the restriction is prohibited; The management method also includes: a position information acquisition phase of acquiring position information indicating a position of at least one of the working machine and the power supply device; as well as In the area extraction stage, referring to the area information storage unit storing (i) area information indicating the positions of the area where the execution of the restriction is permitted and the area where the execution of the restriction is prohibited, an area whose geographical relationship with the position of at least one of the working machine and the power supply device satisfies a predetermined geographical condition is extracted from the area where the execution of the restriction is permitted and the area where the execution of the restriction is prohibited. In the restriction request transmission phase, information indicating the position of the area extracted in the area extraction phase is transmitted to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device together with the restriction request or in response to the restriction request.

14. A control method for controlling a power supply device for supplying power to a working machine, wherein: The power supply device includes a fuel cell, The control method has the following features: A restriction request acquisition step of acquiring, via a communication network, a restriction request for restricting the supply of electric power from the electric power supply device to the working machine; an end detection phase, detecting the end of the use of the working machine; as well as a restriction stage, when the restriction request is acquired in the restriction request acquisition stage, restricting the supply of electric power from the electric power supply device to the working machine, The working machine is a transport device, The power supply device is mounted on the working machine. In the restriction phase, after the restriction request is acquired in the restriction request acquisition phase, when the end of use of the working machine is detected in the end detection phase, determining to start the restriction; The limiting stage includes a stage of limiting the supply of the electric power by at least one of the following methods: (i) a method of making the supply amount of the electric power or its upper limit value less than a predetermined value, (ii) a method of prohibiting the start-up of the fuel cell, (iii) a method of making the output power of the fuel cell or its upper limit value less than a predetermined value, (iv) a method of making the output rate of the fuel cell or its upper limit value less than a predetermined threshold value, (v) a method of prohibiting the replenishment of the fuel cell, (vi) a method of prohibiting the disassembly of the fuel cell or the disassembly of the fuel tank of the fuel cell, and (vii) a method of making the replenishable amount of the fuel of the fuel cell less than a predetermined value.

15. A management method for managing a power supply device for supplying power to a working machine, wherein: The power supply device includes a fuel cell, The management method has the following features: An event detection phase, detecting the occurrence of a predetermined first event related to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device; as well as a restriction request sending phase, in which, when the occurrence of the first event is detected in the event detection phase, a restriction request for restricting the supply of power from the power supply device to the working machine is sent to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device via a communication network, wherein the restriction request includes information indicating conditions related to the execution of the restriction, The information indicating conditions related to the execution of the restriction includes at least one of information indicating an area where the execution of the restriction is permitted, information indicating an area where the execution of the restriction is prohibited, information indicating an area where the execution of the restriction can be postponed, information indicating a period during which the execution of the restriction is permitted, information indicating a period during which the execution of the restriction is prohibited, information indicating a period during which the execution of the restriction can be postponed, information indicating a time band during which the execution of the restriction is permitted, information indicating a time band during which the execution of the restriction is prohibited, information indicating a time band during which the execution of the restriction can be postponed, information indicating a communication condition during which the execution of the restriction is permitted, information indicating a communication condition during which the execution of the restriction is prohibited, and information indicating a communication condition during which the execution of the restriction can be postponed; The restriction request includes information indicating the location of an area where execution of the restriction is permitted and an area where execution of the restriction is prohibited; The management method also includes: a position information acquisition phase of acquiring position information indicating a position of at least one of the working machine and the power supply device; as well as In the area extraction stage, referring to the area information storage unit storing (i) area information indicating the positions of the area where the execution of the restriction is permitted and the area where the execution of the restriction is prohibited, an area whose geographical relationship with the position of at least one of the working machine and the power supply device satisfies a predetermined geographical condition is extracted from the area where the execution of the restriction is permitted and the area where the execution of the restriction is prohibited. In the restriction request transmission phase, information indicating the position of the area extracted in the area extraction phase is transmitted to at least one of the working machine and the power supply device together with the restriction request or in response to the restriction request.

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