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

Abstract

The present invention relates to a control device, a power supply device, a working machine, a control method, and a computer-readable recording medium that can suppress the degradation of a power generation device while a driver is driving a working machine. The control device of the power supply device that controls the power supply to the working machine includes: a load amount acquisition unit that acquires load information indicating the load amount of the working machine during the working period of the working machine, and an output condition determination unit that determines the output rate of the fuel cell based on the load amount indicated by the load information during the working period. The power supply device includes a fuel cell. The working period can be a period from receiving information indicating the start of the working machine's work to receiving information indicating the end of the working machine's work.

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] There are cases where a power generation device such as a fuel cell is installed as a power source for a working machine such as a vehicle. Patent document 1 discloses that a sheet sensor is provided on the driver's seat to detect whether a driver is on board. When the sheet sensor detects that there is no driver on board, the fuel cell unit controller suppresses the performance degradation of the fuel cell stack by causing the fuel cell system to generate a small amount of power.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-063265 [Summary of the invention]

[0006] Issues to be resolved

[0007] According to the invention described in Patent Document 1, it is not possible to suppress the deterioration of the power generation device while the driver is driving the working machine.

[0008] General Disclosure

[0009] In a first aspect of the present invention, a control device is provided. The control device controls, for example, a power supply device. The power supply device supplies power to, for example, a working machine. The power supply device includes, for example, a fuel cell. The control device includes, for example, a load acquisition unit that acquires load information indicating the load amount of the working machine during the working period of the working machine. The control device includes, for example, an output condition determination unit that determines the output rate of the fuel cell based on the load amount indicated by the load information during the working period.

[0010] In the above-mentioned control device, the operation period may be a period from receiving information indicating the start of the operation of the operation machine to receiving information indicating the end of the operation of the operation machine. In the above-mentioned control device, the load information may include at least one of (i) information indicating the load amount of at least one of the one or more electric devices performing the operation, and (ii) information related to the operation environment of the operation machine.

[0011] In the above control device, the load information may include information related to the working environment of the working machine. In the above control device, the output condition determination unit may include a load estimation unit that estimates the load amount based on the information related to the working environment. In the above control device, the output condition determination unit may include a first upper limit value determination unit that determines an upper limit value of at least one of the output rate, output current, and output power of the fuel cell based on the load amount estimated by the load estimation unit.

[0012] In the above control device, the output condition determination unit may include a degradation estimation unit that estimates a degradation degree indicating the progress of degradation of the fuel cell. In the above control device, the output condition determination unit may include a second upper limit determination unit that determines an upper limit value of at least one of an output rate, an output current, and an output power of the fuel cell based on the degradation degree estimated by the degradation estimation unit.

[0013] In the above-mentioned control device, the working machine may include a storage unit for storing at least one of a person and an article. In the above-mentioned control device, the working machine may include an air conditioning unit for adjusting the air environment of the person storage unit. In the above-mentioned control device, the working machine may include a driving unit for moving the person working machine or the storage unit. The above-mentioned control device may include a power estimation unit for estimating the power or amount of electricity consumed by the air conditioning unit. In the above-mentioned control device, the output condition determination unit may determine the output rate of the fuel cell based on the power or amount of electricity estimated by the power estimation unit. In the above-mentioned control device, the power supply device can be freely installed and detached on the working machine.

[0014] 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.

[0015] 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 into mechanical energy.

[0016] In a fourth aspect of the present invention, a control method is provided. The control method is, for example, a method for controlling a power supply device. The power supply device supplies power to a working machine. The power supply device includes, for example, a fuel cell. The control method includes, for example, a load amount acquisition phase for acquiring load information indicating the load amount of the working machine during the working period of the working machine. The control method includes, for example, an output condition determination phase for determining an output rate of the fuel cell based on the load amount indicated by the load information during the working period.

[0017] In a fifth aspect of the present invention, a program is provided. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing the program may also 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.

[0018] Furthermore, the above invention summary 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

[0019] Figure 1 An example of a system configuration of vehicle 100 is schematically shown.

[0020] Figure 2 An example of the internal structure of the power usage unit 120 is schematically shown.

[0021] Figure 3 An example of the internal structure of the fuel cell system 142 is schematically shown.

[0022] Figure 4 An example of the internal structure of the power control unit 148 is schematically shown.

[0023] Figure 5 An example of the data table 500 is schematically shown.

[0024] Figure 6 An example of the data table 600 is schematically shown.

[0025] Figure 7 An example of information processing in the allowable range determination unit 474 is schematically shown.

[0026] Figure 8 An example of the data table 800 is schematically shown.

[0027] Fig. 9 An example of the progress of degradation of the power generation section 340 is schematically shown.

[0028] Fig.10 An example of load variation of vehicle 100 is schematically shown.

[0029] Fig.11 An example of a change in the output rate of the fuel cell unit 310 is schematically shown.

[0030] Fig.12 An example of the system configuration of the computer 3000 is schematically shown. [Specific implementation method]

[0031] The present invention is described below by way of the embodiments of the invention, but the following embodiments do not limit the invention of 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.

[0032] [Overview of Vehicle 100]

[0033] Figure 1 An example of the system configuration of the vehicle 100 is schematically shown. In the present embodiment, the vehicle 100 includes a power usage unit 120 that uses power to perform various operations. The vehicle 100 includes a power supply system 140 that supplies power to each unit of the vehicle 100. The vehicle 100 includes a storage unit 160 that stores at least one of a person and an article.

[0034] In this embodiment, power usage unit 120 includes working unit 122 and vehicle control unit 124. In this embodiment, power supply system 140 includes fuel cell system 142, power storage unit 144, power conversion unit 146, and power control unit 148. Each unit of vehicle 100 is configured to transmit and receive information to each other, for example.

[0035] In the present embodiment, the vehicle 100 performs an operation of transporting at least one of a person and an article (sometimes referred to as a transport operation). The vehicle 100 can perform the transport operation by the driver's operation or by automatic driving. Furthermore, the operation performed by the vehicle 100 is not limited to the transport operation. The vehicle 100 can use electricity to perform any operation instead of or together with the transport operation. For example, the vehicle 100 performs an operation for maintaining the temperature of the internal space of the storage unit 160 within a specified range.

[0036] Examples of the vehicle 100 include automobiles, motorcycles, and trains. Examples of the motorcycle include (i) motorcycles, (ii) three-wheeled motorcycles, (iii) Segways (registered trademark), scooters (registered trademark) with power units, and stand-up riding two-wheeled or three-wheeled vehicles with power units, such as skateboards with power units.

[0037] In this embodiment, the working unit 122 uses electric power to perform various operations. The working unit 122 may perform a single type of operation or may perform multiple types of operations. The details of the working unit 122 will be described later.

[0038] In the present embodiment, the vehicle control unit 124 controls the vehicle 100. The vehicle control unit 124 may also control the working unit 122. For example, the vehicle control unit 124 obtains information indicating the state of the working unit 122 from various sensors provided in the working unit 122. The vehicle control unit 124 may control the operation of the working unit 122. The vehicle control unit 124 may control the power supply to the working unit 122.

[0039] The vehicle control unit 124 may also control the power supply system 140. For example, information showing the state of the power supply system 140 is obtained from various sensors provided in the power supply system 140. The vehicle control unit 124 may control the operation of the power supply system 140. For example, in the case where the power supply system 140 has a plurality of operation modes, the vehicle control unit 124 controls the operation mode of the power supply system 140. The operation mode, for example, corresponds one or more characteristics selected from the group including the following items to an operation condition for giving priority to other characteristics that are not selected: (i) the magnitude of output power, (ii) the followability or responsiveness to an output command, (iii) the fuel cost or the power generation efficiency, and (iv) the suppression of degradation.

[0040] In the present embodiment, the fuel cell system 142 generates electric power using a fuel cell. The fuel cell system 142 can supply the generated electric power to the vehicle 100. For example, the fuel cell system 142 supplies the generated electric power to the electric power using unit 120. The details of the fuel cell system 142 will be described later.

[0041] In the present embodiment, power storage unit 144 stores electric power. Power storage unit 144 can supply the stored electric power to vehicle 100. For example, power storage unit 144 supplies the stored electric power to power usage unit 120.

[0042] In this embodiment, the power conversion unit 146 converts electric power. The power conversion unit 146 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 146 can include a bidirectional DC-DC converter.

[0043] The power conversion unit 146 can switch the flow state of electric power. The power conversion unit 146 can switch the supply destination of the input electric power. The power conversion unit 146 can supply the electric power generated by the fuel cell system 142 to the electric power use unit 120. The power conversion unit 146 can also supply the electric power generated by the fuel cell system 142 to the power storage unit 144. The power conversion unit 146 can also supply the electric power stored in the power storage unit 144 to the fuel cell system 142. The power conversion unit 146 can also supply the electric power stored in the power storage unit 144 to the electric power use unit 120. The power conversion unit 146 can supply the regenerated electric power from the power use unit 120 to the power storage unit 144.

[0044] In the present embodiment, the power control unit 148 controls the power conversion unit 146. The power control unit 148 can control the power conversion unit 146 to convert the power. The power control unit 148 can also control the power conversion unit 146 to control the timing of starting or stopping the power supply. The power control unit 148 can also control the power conversion unit 146 to control the supply destination of the input power. The details of the power control unit 148 will be described later.

[0045] The vehicle 100 may be an example of a working machine and a power supply device. The power use unit 120 may be an example of a working machine and an electric device. The working unit 122 may be an example of a working machine and an electric device. The power supply system 140 may be an example of a power supply device. The fuel cell system 142 may be an example of a power supply device and a fuel cell. The power control unit 148 may be an example of a control device. The storage unit 160 may be an example of a storage unit. The transport operation may be an example of an operation.

[0046] In the present embodiment, the details of the vehicle 100 are described by taking the case where the power control unit 148 controls the fuel cell system 142 and the power supply system 140 as an example. However, the vehicle 100 is not limited to the present embodiment. In other embodiments, the vehicle control unit 124 may also have at least a part of the functions of the power control unit 148, and the vehicle control unit 124 may also control the fuel cell system 142 and the power supply system 140. In this case, the vehicle control unit 124 may be an example of a control device. In other embodiments, the computer mounted on the fuel cell system 142 may also have at least a part of the functions of the power control unit 148, and the vehicle control unit 124 may also control the fuel cell system 142 and the power supply system 140. In this case, the computer mounted on the fuel cell system 142 may be an example of a control device.

[0047] In addition, in the present embodiment, the details of the working machine that performs the operation are explained by taking the case where the vehicle 100 performs the transportation operation as an example. However, the working machine is not limited to the vehicle 100. 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 examples of pumps, blowers, sprayers, cleaning machines, etc. As cleaning equipment, there are examples of vacuum cleaners, washing machines, etc.

[0048] [Specific Structure of Each Component of Vehicle 100]

[0049] Each part of the vehicle 100 may be implemented by hardware, software, or both. At least a portion of each part of the vehicle 100 may be implemented by a single server or multiple servers. At least a portion of each part of the vehicle 100 may be implemented on a virtual machine or a cloud system. At least a portion of each part of the vehicle 100 may be implemented by a personal computer or a portable terminal. Examples of portable terminals include portable phones, smart phones, PDAs, tablet computers, notebook computers or laptop computers, wearable computers, and the like. Each part of the vehicle 100 may store information using distributed ledger technologies such as blockchain or distributed networks.

[0050] When at least a part of the components constituting the vehicle 100 is implemented by software, the components implemented by the software can be implemented by starting a program that specifies operations 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 and 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 and a HDD (including an external storage device).

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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 100. By executing the program, the computer may function as at least a part of each part of the vehicle 100.

[0053] The program that causes the computer to function as at least a part of each part of the vehicle 100 may include a module that specifies the operation of each part of the vehicle 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 100 or to execute an information processing method in each part of the vehicle 100.

[0054] By reading the program into the computer, the information processing described in the program functions as a specific unit in which the software associated with the program cooperates with various hardware resources of the vehicle 100. Then, the specific unit implements the calculation or processing of information corresponding to the purpose of use of the computer in this embodiment, thereby constructing the vehicle 100 corresponding to the purpose of use.

[0055] The above program may be a program for causing a computer to function as a controller of the fuel cell system 142. The above program may be a program for causing a computer to execute an information processing method in the controller of the fuel cell system 142.

[0056] The above-mentioned 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, for example, includes a fuel cell and a utility power connection portion for transferring utility power (utility) used in the operation of the fuel cell between the working machine and the power supply device. The above-mentioned control method, for example, includes a rated capacity acquisition stage, in which information showing a rated value of the ability of the working machine to supply utility power to the fuel cell is acquired based on the fact that the power supply device is loaded on the working machine or the utility power can be used by the power supply device. The above-mentioned control method, for example, includes an operating condition determination stage in which the operating condition of the power supply device is determined based on the rated value.

[0057] Figure 2 An example of the internal structure of the power usage unit 120 is schematically shown. As described above, in the present embodiment, the power usage unit 120 includes a working unit 122 and a vehicle control unit 124. In the present embodiment, the working unit 122 includes a vehicle drive unit 222, an air conditioning unit 224, a working equipment monitor unit 230, and a working environment monitor unit 240. In the present embodiment, the working equipment monitor unit 230 includes a current detection unit 232 and a rotation speed detection unit 234. In the present embodiment, the working environment monitor unit 240 includes a load cell 242, a gyro sensor 244, a vehicle-mounted camera 246, and a temperature sensor 248. In the present embodiment, the vehicle control unit 124 includes a device control unit 262, a load management unit 264, and a power requirement unit 266. The various parts of the vehicle control unit 124 are configured to send and receive information to each other, for example.

[0058] In the present embodiment, the vehicle driving unit 222 moves the vehicle 100. Thus, the vehicle driving unit 222 can move the storage unit 160. As a result, the work of transporting the person or article stored in the storage unit 160 is performed.

[0059] In this embodiment, the air conditioning unit 224 adjusts the air environment of the storage unit 160. For example, the air conditioning unit 224 adjusts the temperature inside the storage unit 160. The air conditioning unit 224 may also adjust the humidity inside the storage unit 160. The air conditioning unit 224 may also adjust the concentration of a specific substance contained in the air inside the storage unit 160.

[0060] In the present embodiment, the working equipment monitoring unit 230 monitors the state of each of the one or more electric equipments performing the work. For example, the working equipment monitoring unit 230 obtains information showing the state of each of the one or more electric equipments from one or more sensors disposed on the vehicle 100. The working equipment monitoring unit 230 may send information showing the state of the working environment of the vehicle 100 to the load management unit 264.

[0061] In the present embodiment, the current detection unit 232 detects the current of the motor (not shown) of the vehicle drive unit 222, for example. The current detection unit 232 may also detect the current of the motor (not shown) of the air conditioning unit 224. The current detection unit 232 may output data indicating the measurement result to the load management unit 264.

[0062] In the present embodiment, the rotation speed detection unit 234 detects the rotation speed of the motor of the vehicle drive unit 222, for example. The rotation speed detection unit 234 may also detect the rotation speed of the motor of the air conditioning unit 224. The rotation speed detection unit 234 may output data indicating the measurement result to the load management unit 264.

[0063] In the present embodiment, the working environment monitoring unit 240 monitors the state of the working environment of the vehicle 100. For example, the working environment monitoring unit 240 obtains information indicating the state of the working environment of the vehicle 100 from one or more sensors disposed on the vehicle 100. The working environment monitoring unit 240 may also obtain information indicating the state of the working environment of the vehicle 100 from one or more sensors disposed outside the vehicle 100. The working equipment monitoring unit 230 may transmit the information indicating the state of the working environment of the vehicle 100 to the load management unit 264.

[0064] In the present embodiment, the load sensor 242 measures the load of the vehicle 100 or the storage unit 160. The load sensor 242 may output data indicating the measurement result to the load management unit 264. In the present embodiment, the gyro sensor 244 measures the inclination of the vehicle 100 or the storage unit 160. The inclination may be an angle with respect to the vertical direction. The gyro sensor 244 may output data indicating the measurement result to the load management unit 264.

[0065] In the present embodiment, the vehicle-mounted camera 246 photographs the interior of the storage section 160. The vehicle-mounted camera 246 may also photograph the exterior of the storage section 160. The vehicle-mounted camera 246 may also photograph the exterior of the vehicle 100. The vehicle-mounted camera 246 may also photograph the work object of the vehicle 100. The vehicle-mounted camera 246 may photograph both still images and moving images. The vehicle-mounted camera 246 may photograph both visible light images and non-visible light images. Examples of non-visible light images include infrared images, ultraviolet images, and the like. The vehicle-mounted camera 246 may output the data of the photographed image to the load management unit 264.

[0066] In the present embodiment, the temperature sensor 248 measures the temperature inside the storage section 160. The temperature sensor 248 may also measure the temperature outside the storage section 160. The temperature sensor 248 may also measure the temperature outside the vehicle 100. The temperature sensor 248 may also measure the temperature of the work object of the vehicle 100. The measurement method of the temperature sensor 248 may be either a contact method or a non-contact method. In the case where the vehicle-mounted camera 246 captures an infrared image, the temperature sensor 248 may also analyze the infrared image to measure the temperature. The temperature sensor 248 may output data showing the measurement result to the load management unit 264.

[0067] In the present embodiment, the device control unit 262 controls various devices provided in the working unit 122. The device control unit 262 may control the operation of at least one of the vehicle driving unit 222 and the air conditioning unit 224.

[0068] For example, the device control unit 262 obtains information showing the state of the vehicle drive unit 222 from the load management unit 264. The device control unit 262 may also obtain information related to the state of the work object of the vehicle drive unit 222 from the load management unit 264. The device control unit 262 determines the type and workload of the work of the vehicle drive unit 222 based on the current value and target value of the state of the vehicle drive unit 222. The device control unit 262 may also determine the type and workload of the work of the vehicle drive unit 222 based on the current value and target value of the state of the vehicle drive unit 222 and the current value and target value of the state of the work object of the vehicle drive unit 222. The device control unit 262 may output the above-mentioned decision items to the load management unit 264. The device control unit 262 may control the work of the vehicle drive unit 222 in accordance with the above-mentioned decision items.

[0069] Similarly, the device control unit 262 obtains information showing the state of the air conditioning unit 224 from the load management unit 264. The device control unit 262 may also obtain information related to the state of the work object of the air conditioning unit 224 from the load management unit 264. The device control unit 262 determines the type and workload of the work of the air conditioning unit 224 based on the current value and target value of the state of the air conditioning unit 224. The device control unit 262 may also determine the type and workload of the work of the air conditioning unit 224 based on the current value and target value of the state of the air conditioning unit 224 and the current value and target value of the state of the work object of the air conditioning unit 224. The device control unit 262 may output the above-mentioned decision items to the load management unit 264. The device control unit 262 may control the work of the air conditioning unit 224 in accordance with the above-mentioned decision items.

[0070] In the present embodiment, the load management unit 264 manages information related to the load amount of the working unit 122. The load management unit 264 may obtain information showing the state of at least one of the vehicle drive unit 222 and the air conditioning unit 224 from each unit of the working equipment monitoring unit 230. Information showing the state of the working environment of the vehicle 100 may be obtained from each unit of the working environment monitoring unit 240. The load management unit 264 may obtain information related to the operation of at least one of the vehicle drive unit 222 and the air conditioning unit 224 from the equipment control unit 262. The information related to the work may be information showing the type of work and the amount of work.

[0071] The load management unit 264 may store and manage the acquired information in any storage device. The load management unit 264 may send the acquired information to the power control unit 148. The load management unit 264 may send the acquired information to an information processing device outside the vehicle 100 via a communication network.

[0072] In the present embodiment, the power request unit 266 outputs a request related to the power demand of the working unit 122 to the power supply system 140. Examples of the request related to the power demand include (i) a request for specifying at least one of the output voltage, output current, output power, and output rate of the power supply system 140, (ii) a request for increasing or decreasing at least one of the output voltage, output current, output power, and output rate of the power supply system 140, and (iii) a request for storing regenerative power.

[0073] The vehicle drive unit 222 may be an example of a drive unit. The air conditioning unit 224 may be an example of an air conditioning unit. The work equipment monitor unit 230 may be an example of a load acquisition unit. The current detection unit 232 may be an example of a load acquisition unit. The rotation speed detection unit 234 may be an example of a load acquisition unit. The work environment monitor unit 240 may be an example of a load acquisition unit. The load sensor 242 may be an example of a load acquisition unit. The gyro sensor 244 may be an example of a load acquisition unit. The vehicle-mounted camera 246 may be an example of a load acquisition unit. The temperature sensor 248 may be an example of a load acquisition unit.

[0074] The movement of the vehicle may be an example of a job. The adjustment of the air environment may be an example of a job. Various information showing the state of each of the one or more electric devices may be an example of load information. Various information showing the state of each of the one or more electric devices may be an example of information showing the load amount of at least one of the one or more electric devices performing the job. Various information showing the state of the working environment of the vehicle 100 may be an example of load information. Various information showing the state of the working environment of the vehicle 100 may be an example of information related to the working environment of the working machine.

[0075] [Overview of Each Component of the Fuel Cell System 142]

[0076] Figure 3 An example of the internal structure of the fuel cell system 142 is schematically shown. In the present embodiment, the fuel cell system 142 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 common power connector for power generation 326. 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.

[0077] 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 100 via the power conversion unit 146, for example. In the present embodiment, the fuel cell unit 310 may also 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 may operate in accordance with a command from the power control unit 148.

[0078] 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.

[0079] In the present embodiment, the fuel cell unit 310 is installed in the fuel cell system 142 by, for example, connecting to a common power piping and a power cable provided in the fuel cell system 142. The fuel cell unit 310 may also be installed in the fuel cell system 142 by connecting to a common power piping, a power cable, and a communication cable provided in the fuel cell system 142. Thus, the fuel cell unit 310 is mounted on the vehicle 100.

[0080] In one embodiment, the fuel cell unit 310 is mounted on the fuel cell system 142 in a manner that cannot be easily removed by a general user of the vehicle 100. The fuel cell unit 310 is fixed to a predetermined position of the fuel cell system 142, for example.

[0081] In other embodiments, the fuel cell unit 310 is detachably mounted in the fuel cell system 142. Thus, a general user of the vehicle 100 can mount the fuel cell unit 310 removed from the vehicle 100 on other working machines and operate the other working machines using the power generated by the fuel cell unit 310.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] The oxidant supply unit 314 may include a pump or a blower (not shown) for sucking air as the oxidant from outside the fuel cell system 142. The oxidant supply unit 314 may be connected to an air supply pipe (not shown) provided in the vehicle 100.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] [Overview of Each Component of the Fuel Cell 310]

[0088] 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 fuel cell system 142. The communication cable provided in the fuel cell unit 310 and the communication cable provided in the fuel cell system 142 can be connected by wire or by wireless. The fuel cell unit 310 can also send and receive information with the communication cable provided in the fuel cell system 142, the power control unit 148 or the vehicle control unit 124 via a wireless communication device.

[0089] 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 fuel cell system 142. The power cable provided in the fuel cell unit 310 and the power cable provided in the fuel cell system 142 can be connected by wire or by wireless. The fuel cell unit 310 can also be electrically connected to the power conversion unit 146 or the operation unit 122 via a wireless power supply device.

[0090] This allows power to be transferred between the fuel cell system 142 and the fuel cell 310 . As a result, power can be transferred between the power conversion unit 146 and the fuel cell 310 , and power can be transferred between the working unit 122 or the power storage unit 144 and the fuel cell 310 .

[0091] In this embodiment, the common power connector 326 for power generation connects the common power piping provided in the fuel cell unit 310 and the common power piping provided in the fuel cell system 142. Thus, the common power used in the operation of the fuel cell unit 310 can be transferred between the fuel cell system 142 and the fuel cell unit 310. As a result, the common power can be transferred between the vehicle 100 or the fuel cell system 142 and the fuel cell unit 310.

[0092] For example, fuel can be transferred between the fuel supply unit 312 and the fuel cell unit 310. Oxidant can be transferred between the oxidant supply unit 314 and the fuel cell unit 310. Temperature adjustment medium or heat can be transferred between the temperature adjustment medium supply unit 316 and the fuel cell unit 310. In addition, drainage and exhaust gas generated by power generation in the fuel cell unit 310 can be sent and received between the fuel cell unit 310 and the vehicle 100 or the fuel cell system 142.

[0093] 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 power control unit 148.

[0094] 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 with 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.

[0095] 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 operating the oxidant supply unit 314 in preparation for starting the power generation section 340.

[0096] 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 may also store power for starting the oxidant supply unit 314. The auxiliary battery 350 may be electrically connected to the power connector 324. The auxiliary battery 350 may store power supplied from the power conversion unit 146. The auxiliary battery 350 may be electrically connected to the power generation unit 340. The auxiliary battery 350 may store power supplied from the power generation unit 340.

[0097] Furthermore, 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 unit 144 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 unit 144 and the power generated by the fuel cell unit 310 when the fuel cell unit 310 is started.

[0098] 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 unit 144 when the remaining capacity of the auxiliary battery 350 is outside a predetermined numerical range when the fuel cell unit 310 is started.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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 unit 144. 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.

[0101] The amount of oxidant supplied when the oxidant supply unit 314 uses the power supplied from the auxiliary battery 350 or the power storage unit 144 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] In this embodiment, the details of the power supply system 140 are described by taking the case where the fuel cell unit 310 is a packaged unit as an example. However, the power supply system 140 is not limited to this embodiment. In other embodiments, the fuel cell system 142 may also be a packaged unit. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the power supply system 140 may also be a packaged unit.

[0104] In this embodiment, the details of the power supply system 140 are described by taking the case where the fuel cell unit 310 is freely detachable relative to the fuel cell system 142 as an example. However, the power supply system 140 is not limited to this embodiment. In other embodiments, the fuel cell system 142 can be freely detachable relative to the power supply system 140. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the power supply system 140 can be freely detachable relative to the vehicle 100.

[0105] Figure 4 An example of the internal structure of the power control unit 148 is schematically shown. In the present embodiment, the power control unit 148 includes a power generation information acquisition unit 422, a specification information acquisition unit 424, a load information acquisition unit 426, a power requirement acquisition unit 428, an air conditioning power estimation unit 440, an output adjustment unit 450, a power storage control unit 460, and a power generation control unit 470. In the present embodiment, the power generation control unit 470 includes an estimation unit 472, an allowable range determination unit 474, an output rate determination unit 476, and an output current determination unit 478.

[0106] In the present embodiment, the power generation information acquisition unit 422 acquires information related to the history of power generation of the fuel cell unit 310 (sometimes referred to as power generation information) from the FC control unit 330. Examples of the power generation information include the amount of power generated by the fuel cell unit 310, the temperature of the fuel cell unit 310, the condition of the utility power supplied to the fuel cell unit 310, the remaining capacity or SOC of the auxiliary battery 350, and the remaining capacity or SOC of the power storage unit 144.

[0107] The power generation information acquisition unit 422 may transmit the power generation information to the estimation unit 472. The power generation information acquisition unit 422 may store and manage the power generation information in any storage device. The power generation information acquisition unit 422 may transmit the power generation information to an information processing device outside the vehicle 100 via a communication network.

[0108] In the present embodiment, the specification information acquisition unit 424 acquires information related to the specifications of the fuel cell unit 310 (sometimes referred to as specification information) from the FC control unit 330. Examples of the specification information include (i) a rated value of at least one of the output voltage, output current, output power, and output rate, (ii) a degradation characteristic showing the progress of degradation under predetermined conditions, (iii) a data table, function, or model used to estimate an index showing the current progress of degradation (sometimes referred to as a degree of degradation), and (iv) a target related to the product life or service life (sometimes referred to as a design life).

[0109] The specification information acquisition unit 424 may transmit the specification information to the estimation unit 472. The specification information acquisition unit 424 may store and manage the specification information in any storage device. The specification information acquisition unit 424 may transmit the specification information to an information processing device outside the vehicle 100 via a communication network.

[0110] In the present embodiment, the load information acquisition unit 426 can acquire information related to the load amount of the working unit 122 (sometimes referred to as load information) from the vehicle control unit 124. As described above, the load information includes, for example, at least one of (i) information indicating the state of at least one of the vehicle drive unit 222 and the air conditioning unit 224, and (ii) information indicating the state of the working environment of the vehicle 100. The information related to the load amount of the working unit 122 can include information related to the operation of at least one of the vehicle drive unit 222 and the air conditioning unit 224.

[0111] The load information acquisition unit 426 may acquire the load information from the vehicle control unit 124 during the operation period of the vehicle 100. The operation period may be a period from when information indicating the start of the operation of the vehicle 100 is received to when information indicating the end of the operation of the vehicle 100 is received. The operation period includes not only the period during which the vehicle 100 actually performs the operation but also the period during which the vehicle 100 temporarily suspends the operation.

[0112] For example, the load management unit 264 of the vehicle control unit 124 obtains information indicating that the work is temporarily interrupted from at least one of the work equipment monitoring unit 230 and the work environment monitoring unit 240. When the load management unit 264 obtains the above information, the equipment control unit 262 controls the work unit 122 to interrupt the work. In addition, the load management unit 264 obtains information indicating that the temporarily interrupted work is restarted from at least one of the work equipment monitoring unit 230 and the work environment monitoring unit 240. When the load management unit 264 obtains the above information, the equipment control unit 262 controls the work unit 122 to restart the work.

[0113] In one embodiment, when the vehicle 100 is temporarily stopped due to a traffic signal arranged on the path from the departure point to the destination, the vehicle drive unit 222 of the operation unit 122 temporarily interrupts the drive of the vehicle 100. As a result, the transport operation is also temporarily interrupted. However, in the above case, the vehicle 100 has not arrived at the destination, and the vehicle control unit 124 has not received the information indicating the end of the transport operation. Therefore, the transport operation continues. Then, when the traffic signal changes, the vehicle drive unit 222 restarts the drive of the vehicle 100. As a result, the transport operation is restarted. The traffic signal can be an example of information indicating that the operation is temporarily interrupted, or information indicating that the operation is restarted.

[0114] In other embodiments, when the air conditioning unit 224 adjusts the temperature of the housing section 160, when the temperature of the housing section 160 reaches the set temperature, the air conditioning unit 224 temporarily interrupts the operation of air conditioning equipment such as a fan and a compressor. As a result, the air conditioning operation is also temporarily interrupted. However, in the above case, the temperature sensor 248 of the operating unit 122 is activated, and the vehicle control unit 124 does not receive information indicating the end of the air conditioning operation. Therefore, the air conditioning operation continues. Then, when the temperature of the housing section 160 deviates from the set range, the air conditioning unit 224 restarts the operation of the air conditioning equipment. As a result, the air conditioning operation is restarted. Information indicating that the temperature of the housing section 160 is within the set range may be an example of information indicating that the operation is temporarily interrupted. Information indicating that the temperature of the housing section 160 is outside the set range may be an example of information indicating that the temporarily interrupted operation is restarted.

[0115] In one embodiment, the vehicle control unit 124 receives information indicating the start of the operation of the vehicle 100 from, for example, an input device (not shown) provided in the vehicle 100 or the power supply system 140 or a communication terminal (not shown) used by a user of the vehicle 100. In other embodiments, the vehicle control unit 124 may also determine the start of the operation. When the start of the operation is confirmed, the vehicle control unit 124 may generate information indicating the start of the operation of the vehicle 100 and send the information to the power control unit 148.

[0116] For example, the vehicle control unit 124 obtains information indicating the current position of the vehicle 100 from a self-position estimation device (not shown, such as a GPS signal receiver) provided in the vehicle 100. When the vehicle 100 is detected to have moved from the departure point, the vehicle control unit 124 may confirm the start of the operation.

[0117] In one embodiment, the vehicle control unit 124 receives information indicating the completion of the operation of the vehicle 100 from, for example, an input device (not shown) provided in the vehicle 100 or the power supply system 140 or a communication terminal (not shown) used by a user of the vehicle 100. In other embodiments, the vehicle control unit 124 may also determine the completion of the operation. When the completion of the operation is confirmed, the vehicle control unit 124 may generate information indicating the completion of the operation of the vehicle 100 and send the information to the power control unit 148.

[0118] For example, the vehicle control unit 124 obtains information indicating the current position of the vehicle 100 from a self-position estimation device (not shown, such as a GPS signal receiver) provided in the vehicle 100. When the vehicle 100 arrives at the destination, the vehicle control unit 124 may confirm the start of the operation.

[0119] The load information acquisition unit 426 may send the load information to the estimation unit 472. The load information acquisition unit 426 may send the load information to the air conditioning power estimation unit 440. The load information acquisition unit 426 may store and manage the load information in any storage device. The load information acquisition unit 426 may send the load information to an information processing device outside the vehicle 100 via a communication network.

[0120] In the present embodiment, the power requirement acquisition unit 428 acquires a request regarding the power requirement of the working unit 122 from the vehicle control unit 124. The power requirement acquisition unit 428 may send the request regarding the power requirement of the working unit 122 to the output adjustment unit 450.

[0121] In the present embodiment, the air conditioning power estimation unit 440 estimates the power or amount of electricity consumed by the air conditioning unit 224. For example, the air conditioning power estimation unit 440 acquires the load information from the load information acquisition unit 426. The air conditioning power estimation unit 440 may estimate the power or amount of electricity consumed by the air conditioning unit 224 based on the output data of the temperature sensor 248 included in the load information. The air conditioning power estimation unit 440 may estimate the power or amount of electricity consumed by the air conditioning unit 224 based on at least one of (i) the output data of the temperature sensor 248 and (ii) the current amount and the rotation speed of the motor of the air conditioning unit 224 included in the load information. The air conditioning power estimation unit 440 may output information showing the estimation result of the power or amount of electricity consumed by the air conditioning unit 224 to the output adjustment unit 450.

[0122] In this embodiment, the output adjustment unit 450 adjusts the output of the power supply system 140. The output adjustment unit 450 can determine the conditions of the power to be output by the fuel cell system 142. The output adjustment unit 450 can determine the conditions of the power to be output by the power storage unit 144. Examples of the conditions of power include voltage, current, output rate, and their fluctuation ranges.

[0123] The output rate of the power system 140 may be the amount of power that the power system 140 can output per unit time. The output rate of the power system 140 may also be the ratio of the amount of power that the power system 140 can output per unit time to the rated value of the power supply capability of the power system 140.

[0124] The output rate of the fuel cell system 142 may be the amount of power that the fuel cell system 142 can output per unit time. The output rate of the fuel cell system 142 may also be the ratio of the amount of power that the fuel cell system 142 can output per unit time to the rated value of the power generation capacity of the fuel cell system 142.

[0125] The output rate of the power storage unit 144 may be the size of the power that can be output per unit time by the power storage unit 144. The output rate of the power storage unit 144 may also be the ratio of the size of the power that can be output per unit time by the power storage unit 144 to the rated value of the discharge capacity of the power storage unit 144. The output rate of the power storage unit 144 may also be the ratio of the size of the power that can be output per unit time by the power storage unit 144 to the rated capacity of the power storage unit 144.

[0126] The length of the unit time is not particularly limited. The length of the unit time can be 1 second, 1 minute, n times (n is an integer greater than 1) the operating cycle of the vehicle control unit 124 or the power control unit 148, or m times (m is an integer greater than 1) the communication cycle between the vehicle control unit 124 and the power control unit 148.

[0127] For example, the output adjustment unit 450 obtains a request related to the power demand of the working unit 122 from the power requirement acquisition unit 428. Based on the request, the output adjustment unit 450 determines the balance of outputs between the fuel cell system 142 and the power storage unit 144. Thus, the output adjustment unit 450 can determine the conditions of the power that each of the fuel cell system 142 and the power storage unit 144 should output.

[0128] Examples of output balance include (i) the ratio of the output value of one of the fuel cell system 142 and the power storage unit 144 to the total value of the output of the fuel cell system 142 and the power storage unit 144, and (ii) the ratio of the output value of the fuel cell system 142 to the output value of the power storage unit 144. Examples of output include output power, output electric power, output voltage, output current, output rate, and the like.

[0129] In one embodiment, when the required power or required power amount of the working unit 122 shown in the above requirement is less than a predetermined threshold, the output adjustment unit 450 may determine to operate the fuel cell system 142 under a certain output operation. In addition, the output adjustment unit 450 may determine to cause the power storage unit 144 to supply power in a manner that fills the difference between the required power or required power amount of the working unit 122 and the output power or output power amount of the fuel cell system 142. Thus, the power supply cost of the power supply system 140 is reduced.

[0130] Under constant output operation, the fuel cell system 142 maintains the output power or output current to be approximately constant. The target value of the output power or output current of the fuel cell system 142 during constant output operation can be determined so that the power generation efficiency of the fuel cell system 142 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. The operation of the fuel cell system 142 in this case is sometimes referred to as efficiency operation. The above target value can be determined by the output adjustment unit 450, or it can be determined based on the initial setting when the power supply system 140 or the fuel cell system 142 is shipped out of the warehouse.

[0131] Furthermore, the above-mentioned target value can be determined based on the moving average value of the required power or the required power amount of the working unit 122. The above-mentioned moving average value at a specific time point can be calculated as the average value of the required power or the required power amount of the working unit 122 in a period having a predetermined length and terminating at the specific time point. The above-mentioned target value can be less than the moving average value of the required power or the required power amount of the working unit 122. For example, the above-mentioned target value can be determined to be less than 75% of the moving average value of the required power or the required power amount, or less than 60% of the moving average value of the required power or the required power amount, or less than 50% of the moving average value of the required power or the required power amount, or less than 40% of the moving average value of the required power or the required power amount, or less than 30% of the moving average value of the required power or the required power amount.

[0132] On the other hand, when the required power or required electric power amount of the working unit 122 indicated by the above requirement is greater than a predetermined threshold value, the output adjustment unit 450 may determine that the power storage unit 144 supplies electric power at the rated power or rated current or the maximum power or maximum current. In addition, the output adjustment unit 450 may determine that the fuel cell system 142 operates in a manner to make up for the difference between the required power or required electric power amount of the working unit 122 and the power or electric power amount output by the power storage unit 144. Thus, an excessive load on the power storage unit 144 is suppressed, and the durability of the power storage unit 144 is improved.

[0133] In other embodiments, when the moving average of the required power or required power amount of the working unit 122 shown in the above requirements is greater than a predetermined threshold value, the output adjustment unit 450 may determine to operate the fuel cell system 142 under a certain output operation. In addition, the output adjustment unit 450 determines to make the power storage unit 144 supply power in a manner that fills the difference between the required power or required power amount of the working unit 122 and the power or power amount output by the fuel cell system 142. Thus, the efficiency of the power supply system 140 is improved. In addition, the durability of the fuel cell system 142 is improved.

[0134] In this case, the output adjustment unit 450 may use the required power or the moving average value of the required power amount of the working unit 122 as the target value of the output power of the fuel cell system 142. The output adjustment unit 450 may also determine the target value in such a manner that the target value of the output power of the fuel cell system 142 is greater than 80% and less than 120% of the moving average value of the required power or the required power amount. The output adjustment unit 450 may also determine the target value in such a manner that the target value of the output power of the fuel cell system 142 is greater than 90% and less than 110% of the moving average value of the required power or the required power amount. The output adjustment unit 450 may also determine the target value in such a manner that the target value of the output power of the fuel cell system 142 is greater than 95% and less than 105% of the moving average value of the required power or the required power amount.

[0135] Furthermore, in other embodiments, when the moving average of the required power or required power amount of the working unit 122 shown in the above requirements is greater than a predetermined threshold value, the output adjustment unit 450 may decide to operate the fuel cell system 142 in a manner such that the output power or output current of the fuel cell system 142 is maintained at a substantially constant value within a range larger than the target value of the output power or output current during efficiency operation (sometimes referred to as high output constant operation). In addition, the output adjustment unit 450 may also decide to cause the power storage unit 144 to supply power in a manner that fills the difference between the required power or required power amount of the working unit 122 and the power or power amount output by the fuel cell system 142. Thus, the efficiency of the power supply system 140 is improved. In addition, the durability of the fuel cell system 142 is improved.

[0136] Under high output constant operation, the fuel cell system 142 maintains the output power or output current to be approximately constant. The target value of the output power or output current of the fuel cell system 142 during high output constant operation can be determined by the same method as the target value of the output power or output current during efficiency operation. As described above, regarding the target value of the output power or output current of the fuel cell system 142 during high output constant operation, a value greater than the target value of the output power or output current during efficiency operation is selected. The above-mentioned target value can be determined by the output adjustment unit 450, or it can be determined based on the initial setting when the power supply system 140 or the fuel cell system 142 is shipped out of the warehouse.

[0137] In the present embodiment, the output adjustment unit 450 obtains information indicating an estimated result of the power or power amount consumed by the air conditioning unit 224 from the air conditioning power estimation unit 440. The output adjustment unit 450 can determine the balance of outputs between the fuel cell system 142 and the power storage unit 144 based on the above-mentioned request and the information indicating the above-mentioned estimated result. Thus, the output adjustment unit 450 can determine the conditions of the power that each of the fuel cell system 142 and the power storage unit 144 should output.

[0138] The output adjustment unit 450 can determine the conditions of the power that the fuel cell system 142 should output based on the above requirements and the information showing the above estimation results. Thus, the power generation control unit 470 can determine at least one of the output rate, output current, and output power of the fuel cell system 142 based on the estimated results of the power consumed by the air conditioning unit 224 or the amount of power consumed.

[0139] The output adjustment unit 450 can determine the conditions of the power that the power storage unit 144 should output based on the above requirements and the information indicating the above estimation results. Thus, the power storage control unit 460 can determine at least one of the output rate, output current, and output power of the power storage unit 144 based on the estimated result of the power consumed by the air conditioning unit 224 or the power amount, for example.

[0140] In one embodiment, when the power consumption or estimated value of the power consumption of the air conditioning unit 224 is less than a predetermined threshold value, the output adjustment unit 450 may decide to operate the fuel cell system 142 in efficiency operation or idle operation, or the output adjustment unit 450 may decide to stop the fuel cell system 142. In addition, the output adjustment unit 450 may decide to make the power storage unit 144 supply power in a manner to fill the difference between (i) the sum of the required power or required power of the working unit 122 and the estimated value of the power consumption or power consumption of the air conditioning unit 224 and (ii) the output power or output power of the fuel cell system 142. The output constant operation may be either an efficiency operation or a high output constant operation. Preferably, the output constant operation is an efficiency operation.

[0141] In idle operation, the fuel cell system 142 operates in a state where the load is further reduced from the minimum load operation state (sometimes referred to as minimum load) in normal operation. Efficiency operation and high output constant operation can be an example of normal operation. In addition, in normal operation, the fuel cell system 142 can also adjust the output power or output power amount according to the change in the required power or power amount.

[0142] In other embodiments, when the power consumption or estimated value of the power consumption of the air conditioning unit 224 is greater than a predetermined threshold, the output adjustment unit 450 decides to use the output power from the fuel cell system 142 to operate the air conditioning unit 224. In this case, the fuel cell system 142 can operate in a constant output operation or in an idle operation. In addition, the output adjustment unit 450 can decide to make the power storage unit 144 supply power in a manner that fills the difference between (i) the sum of the required power or required power of the working unit 122 and the estimated value of the power consumption or power consumption of the air conditioning unit 224 and (ii) the output power or output power of the fuel cell system 142.

[0143] In other embodiments, the output adjustment unit 450 determines whether (i) the air conditioning unit 224 is operated by the output of the fuel cell system 142, or (ii) the working unit 122 is operated by the output of the power storage unit 144. In other embodiments, the output adjustment unit 450 determines whether (i) the air conditioning unit 224 is operated by the output of the fuel cell system 142, or (ii) the air conditioning unit 224 is operated by the output of the power storage unit 144.

[0144] Furthermore, in other embodiments, when the residual capacity or SOC of the power storage unit 144 is greater than the estimated value of the power consumed by the air conditioning unit 224, the output adjustment unit 450 may determine to operate the fuel cell system 142 in an idle operation, or the output adjustment unit 450 may determine to stop the fuel cell system. In addition, the output adjustment unit 450 may determine to supply power to the power storage unit 144 in a manner that fills the difference between (i) the sum of the required power or required power of the working unit 122 and the estimated value of the power consumption or power consumption of the air conditioning unit 224 and (ii) the output power or output power of the fuel cell system 142.

[0145] On the other hand, when the residual capacity or SOC of the storage unit 144 is less than the estimated value of the amount of power consumed by the air-conditioning unit 224, the output adjustment unit 450 may decide to operate the air-conditioning unit 224 using the output of the fuel cell system 142, or the output adjustment unit 450 may decide to operate the operating unit 122 and the air-conditioning unit 224 using the output of the fuel cell system 142.

[0146] The output adjustment unit 450 may output information indicating the conditions of the power to be output by the fuel cell system 142 (sometimes referred to as information indicating the adjustment result) to the power generation control unit 470. The output adjustment unit 450 may output information indicating the conditions of the power to be output by the power storage unit 144 (sometimes referred to as information indicating the adjustment result) to the power storage control unit 460.

[0147] In the present embodiment, the power storage control unit 460 controls the power storage unit 144. For example, the power storage control unit 460 controls the charging and discharging of the power storage unit 144. The power storage control unit 460 may control the power conversion unit 146 to control the charging and discharging of the power storage unit 144. For example, the power storage control unit 460 obtains information indicating the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450 from the output adjustment unit 450. The power storage control unit 460 controls the charging and discharging of the power storage unit 144 according to the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450.

[0148] In the present embodiment, the power generation control unit 470 controls the fuel cell system 142. For example, the power generation control unit 470 controls the power generation of the fuel cell system 142. The power generation control unit 470 can control the FC control unit 330 to control the power generation of the fuel cell system 142.

[0149] For example, the power generation control unit 470 obtains information indicating the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450 from the output adjustment unit 450. The power generation control unit 470 can determine whether to implement power generation according to the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450. When it is determined to implement power generation according to the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450, the condition indicated by the adjustment result is sent to the FC control unit 330.

[0150] On the other hand, if it is determined not to perform power generation according to the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450, the power generation control unit 470 changes at least a part of the conditions of the power that the fuel cell system 142 should output as shown in the above adjustment result. For example, the power generation control unit 470 newly determines the output rate of the fuel cell system 142. The power generation control unit 470 sends the changed conditions to the FC control unit 330.

[0151] In this embodiment, the estimation unit 472 estimates a present value or a predicted value related to a specific physical quantity or index. The predicted value may be a predicted value at a specific time in the future or a predicted value in the near future. The near future may be within 5 seconds, within 10 seconds, within 30 seconds, within 1 minute, within 5 minutes, within 10 minutes, within 30 minutes, or within 1 hour.

[0152] [Estimation of the Load Amount of the Working Unit 122]

[0153] In one embodiment, the estimation unit 472 estimates the current value or predicted value of the load amount of the working unit 122. For example, the estimation unit 472 acquires the load information from the load information acquisition unit 426. The estimation unit 472 estimates the current value or predicted value of the load amount of the working unit 122 based on information indicating the state of the working environment of the vehicle 100 included in the load information.

[0154] For example, the estimation unit 472 determines the mass of the person or object accommodated in the accommodation unit 160 based on the output data of at least one of the load sensor 242 and the vehicle-mounted camera 246. The estimation unit 472 can estimate the current value of the load amount of the vehicle drive unit 222 based on the mass of the person or object accommodated in the accommodation unit 160 and the output data of the gyro sensor 244.

[0155] As described above, the gyro sensor 244 measures the inclination of the vehicle 100 or the storage unit 160. Thus, for example, the estimation unit 472 can more accurately estimate the load of the vehicle drive unit 222 when the vehicle 100 goes uphill and the load of the vehicle drive unit 222 when the vehicle 100 goes downhill.

[0156] The estimation unit 472 can estimate the current value of the load of the vehicle driving unit 222 based on the mass of the person or article accommodated in the accommodation unit 160, the current position of the vehicle 100, and the map information. The current position of the vehicle 100 can be estimated using any self-position estimation method. For example, the estimation unit 472 estimates the current position of the vehicle 100 based on the GPS signal received by a GPS signal receiver (not shown) mounted on the vehicle 100. The map information may include height information or tilt information at each position.

[0157] For example, the estimation unit 472 calculates the inclination of the vehicle 100 or the housing unit 160 at the current position of the vehicle 100 based on the information indicating the current position of the vehicle 100 and the map information. The estimation unit 472 may calculate the inclination of the vehicle 100 or the housing unit 160 at the current position of the vehicle 100 based on the inclination information of the current position of the vehicle 100 or its vicinity. The estimation unit 472 may also calculate the inclination of the vehicle 100 or the housing unit 160 at the current position of the vehicle 100 based on the height information at the current position of the vehicle 100 and the height information at a position near the current position of the vehicle 100. The above-mentioned nearby position may be a position on the path of the vehicle 100. Thus, for example, the estimation unit 472 can estimate the load amount of the vehicle drive unit 222 more accurately.

[0158] The estimation unit 472 may analyze the image of the exterior of the vehicle 100 captured by the vehicle-mounted camera 246 to determine the mass of the person or article that is expected to be accommodated in the accommodation unit 160. For example, the estimation unit 472 analyzes the image when the vehicle 100 stops at a station, platform, etc. to determine the number of people boarding the vehicle 100 at the station, platform, etc. The estimation unit 472 may estimate the predicted value of the load amount of the vehicle driving unit 222 based on the mass of the person or article that is expected to be accommodated in the accommodation unit 160.

[0159] Furthermore, the estimation unit 472 may determine the mass or volume of the person or article accommodated in the accommodation unit 160 based on the output data of at least one of the load sensor 242 and the onboard camera 246. The estimation unit 472 may determine the temperature of the person or article accommodated in the accommodation unit 160 based on the output data of the temperature sensor 248. The estimation unit 472 may estimate the current value or predicted value of the load amount of the air conditioning unit 224 based on the mass or volume of the person or article accommodated in the accommodation unit 160, the temperature of the person or article, and basic data related to the specific heat or heat release of the person or article.

[0160] Furthermore, the estimation unit 472 may estimate the current value or predicted value of the load amount of the working unit 122 based on (i) information indicating the state of at least one of the vehicle drive unit 222 and the air conditioning unit 224, and (ii) information indicating the state of the working environment of the vehicle 100, which are included in the load information. The estimation unit 472 may estimate the current value or predicted value of the load amount of the working unit 122 based on (i) information indicating the state of at least one of the vehicle drive unit 222 and the air conditioning unit 224, (ii) information indicating the state of the working environment of the vehicle 100, and (iii) information related to the operation of at least one of the vehicle drive unit 222 and the air conditioning unit 224, which are included in the load information.

[0161] [Estimation of Degradation Degree of Power Supply System 140]

[0162] In another embodiment, the estimation unit 472 estimates the current value or predicted value of the degree of degradation of the fuel cell system 142. More specifically, the estimation unit 472 estimates the current value or predicted value of the degree of degradation of the power generation stack of the power generation unit 340.

[0163] For example, the estimation unit 472 obtains the power generation information from the power generation information acquisition unit 422. The estimation unit 472 obtains the specification information from the specification information acquisition unit 424. The specification information includes, for example, a data table, function, or model used to estimate the degree of degradation of the power generation stack based on the power generation information. The estimation unit 472 can estimate the current value of the degree of degradation of the power generation stack of the power generation unit 340 based on the power generation information and the above-mentioned data table, function, or model.

[0164] The objective function of the function or model of the data table may be the degradation degree of the power generation stack. The explanatory variables of the function or model of the data table may include, for example, at least one of the time elapsed after leaving the warehouse, the cumulative working time, the cumulative power generation, the cumulative number of starts, the temperature history, and the load history. The function or model of the data table may include a single explanatory function or multiple explanatory functions.

[0165] Regarding the temperature history, as long as it is information related to the temperature experienced by the power generation stack, its details are not particularly limited. As examples of temperature history, there are (i) the cumulative value of the temperature of the power generation stack in a specific period, (ii) the cumulative value of the temperature of the power generation stack during the period when the temperature of the power generation stack is within the range of a predetermined numerical range during a specific period, (iii) the cumulative value of the length of the period when the temperature of the power generation stack is within the range of a predetermined numerical range during a specific period, (iv) the ratio of the length of the period when the temperature of the power generation stack is within the range of a predetermined numerical range during a specific period, (v) the number of times the temperature of the power generation stack changes from outside the range of the predetermined numerical range to within the range during a specific period, etc. Regarding the specific period, either only the start period or only the end period can be specified, or both the start period and the end period can be specified. Regarding the above-mentioned numerical range, either only the upper limit value or only the lower limit value can be specified, or both the upper limit value and the lower limit value can be specified.

[0166] As for the load history, as long as it is information related to the load of the power generation stack, its details are not particularly limited. As loads, load power, load current, load voltage, etc. are exemplified. As load history, (i) the cumulative value of the load of the power generation stack in a specific period, (ii) the cumulative value of the load of the power generation stack in a specific period within the range of a predetermined numerical range, (iii) the cumulative value of the length of the period in which the load of the power generation stack is within the range of a predetermined numerical range, (iv) the ratio of the length of the period in which the load of the power generation stack is within the range of a predetermined numerical range in a specific period, (v) the number of times the load of the power generation stack changes from outside the range of the predetermined numerical range to within the range in a specific period, etc. Regarding a specific period, either only the start period or only the end period can be specified, or both the start period and the end period can be specified. Regarding the above-mentioned numerical range, either only the upper limit value can be specified, or only the lower limit value can be specified, or both the upper limit value and the lower limit value can be specified.

[0167] Similarly, the power generation information may include information related to at least one of the time elapsed after shipment, the cumulative operating time, the cumulative power generation, the cumulative number of starts, the temperature history, and the load history. The estimation unit 472 can estimate the current value of the degradation degree of the power generation stack by, for example, inputting the power generation information showing the current condition of the power generation stack into the function or model of the above-mentioned data table.

[0168] The estimation unit 472 can estimate the present value of the degree of degradation of the power generation stack of the power generation unit 340 based on the change of the IV curve relative to the power generation history. In the case where the fuel cell system 142 has a diagnostic mode for diagnosing the degradation state of the fuel cell system 142, the estimation unit 472 can estimate the present value of the degree of degradation of the power generation stack based on the result of the diagnostic mode. The details of the diagnostic mode are not particularly limited, and known methods for diagnosing degradation and diagnostic methods for degradation developed in the future can be used. In the diagnostic mode, for example, pressure, pressure loss, internal resistance, etc. are checked. The internal resistance is calculated using a known analytical method such as a Cole-cole plot based on the measurement results obtained using the AC impedance method using a known analytical method such as a Cole-cole plot.

[0169] In addition, as described above, the specification information may include information showing degradation characteristics of the power generation stack. The estimation unit 472 may estimate a predicted value of the degradation degree of the power generation stack of the power generation unit 340 at a specific time point in the future based on the current value of the degradation degree, the information showing the degradation characteristics, and the information showing a specific time point in the future.

[0170] In the present embodiment, the allowable range determination unit 474 determines the allowable range of the output of the fuel cell system 142. For example, the allowable range determination unit 474 determines the upper limit value of at least one of the output rate, output current, and output power of the fuel cell system 142 or the power generation unit 340. The allowable range determination unit 474 may also determine a reference value of at least one of the output rate, output current, and output power of the fuel cell system 142 or the power generation unit 340. The allowable range determination unit 474 may also determine the lower limit value of at least one of the output rate, output current, and output power of the fuel cell system 142 or the power generation unit 340. The reference value may be a value less than the upper limit value and greater than the lower limit value.

[0171] [Example of Procedure for Determining Permissible Range Based on Estimated Value of Load Amount]

[0172] In one embodiment, the allowable range determination unit 474 obtains information showing an estimation result related to the current value or predicted value of the load of the working unit 122 from the estimation unit 472. The allowable range determination unit 474 may determine the above-mentioned upper limit value based on the current value or predicted value of the load of the working unit 122. The allowable range determination unit 474 may determine at least one of an upper limit value of a period during which the load of the working unit 122 may exceed the reference value and an upper limit value of a frequency at which the load of the working unit 122 exceeds the reference value.

[0173] The allowable range determination unit 474 may also estimate at least one of a period during which the load of the working unit 122 may exceed the reference value and a frequency at which the load of the working unit 122 exceeds the reference value within a specific period based on the current value or predicted value of the load of the working unit 122. The allowable range determination unit 474 may determine the upper limit value based on at least one of the length of the period and the magnitude of the frequency.

[0174] [Upper limit of output rate]

[0175] For example, the allowable range determination unit 474 determines the upper limit value of the output rate in such a manner that the upper limit value of the output rate decreases as the load amount of the working unit 122 increases. The allowable range determination unit 474 may also determine the upper limit value of the output rate in such a manner that the upper limit value of the output rate decreases as the length of the period during which the load amount of the working unit 122 exceeds the reference value increases. The allowable range determination unit 474 may also determine the upper limit value of the output rate in such a manner that the upper limit value of the output rate decreases as the frequency of the load amount of the working unit 122 exceeding the reference value increases.

[0176] The allowable range determination unit 474 may determine the upper limit of the output rate based on the difference or ratio between the present value (A) of the load of the working unit 122 and the predicted value (B) of the load of the working unit 122 at a specific time point in the future. For example, the allowable range determination unit 474 determines the upper limit of the output rate in such a manner that the smaller the difference (AB) between the present value (A) and the predicted value (B), the smaller the upper limit of the output rate. For example, the allowable range determination unit 474 may also determine the upper limit of the output rate in such a manner that the smaller the ratio (A / B) of the present value (A) to the predicted value (B), the smaller the upper limit of the output rate.

[0177] [Upper limit of output current]

[0178] For example, the allowable range determination unit 474 determines the upper limit value of the output current so that the upper limit value of the output current decreases as the load amount of the working unit 122 increases. The upper limit value of the output power may be determined based on the upper limit value of the output current.

[0179] The allowable range determination unit 474 may determine the upper limit value of the output current in such a manner that the longer the period during which the load of the working unit 122 exceeds the reference value, the lower the upper limit value of the output current. The allowable range determination unit 474 may determine the upper limit value of the output current in such a manner that the higher the frequency during which the load of the working unit 122 exceeds the reference value, the lower the upper limit value of the output current.

[0180] The allowable range determination unit 474 may also determine the upper limit value of the output current based on the difference or ratio between the current value (A) of the load amount of the working unit 122 and the predicted value (B) of the load amount of the working unit 122 at a specific time point in the future. For example, the allowable range determination unit 474 determines the upper limit value of the output current in such a manner that the greater the difference (BA) between the predicted value (B) and the current value (A), the smaller the upper limit value of the output current. For example, the allowable range determination unit 474 may also determine the upper limit value of the output current in such a manner that the greater the ratio (A / B) between the current value (A) and the predicted value (B), the larger the upper limit value of the output current.

[0181] [Base value and lower limit value of output rate]

[0182] Each of the reference value and the lower limit value of the output rate is determined based on, for example, the assumed load of the working unit 122, and the rated output and rated capacity of the power storage unit 144. Each of the reference value and the lower limit value of the output rate may also be determined based on statistics related to the assumed load of the working unit 122, and the rated output and rated capacity of the power storage unit 144. Examples of statistics include a maximum value, a minimum value, an average value, a median value, a mode value, a standard deviation, a coefficient of variation, and the like. Each of the reference value and the lower limit value of the output rate is determined, for example, in such a manner that the operation or operation of the power storage unit 144 does not fail.

[0183] The lower limit value of the output rate can be determined based on the specifications required for the vehicle 100 or the working unit 122. For example, when the working unit 122 is a motor that drives the vehicle 100, the lower limit value of the output rate is determined based on the running performance of the vehicle 100. Examples of the running performance include acceleration performance, maximum speed, and maximum horsepower.

[0184] [Base value and lower limit value of output current]

[0185] Each of the reference value and the lower limit value of the output current is determined based on, for example, the assumed load of the working unit 122, and the rated output and rated capacity of the power storage unit 144. Each of the reference value and the lower limit value of the output current may also be determined based on statistics related to the assumed load of the working unit 122, and the rated output and rated capacity of the power storage unit 144. Examples of statistics include a maximum value, a minimum value, an average value, a median value, a mode value, a standard deviation, and a coefficient of variation. Each of the reference value and the lower limit value of the output current is determined, for example, so that the operation or operation of the power storage unit 144 does not fail.

[0186] The lower limit value of the output current can be determined based on the specifications required in the vehicle 100 or the working unit 122. For example, when the working unit 122 is a motor that drives the vehicle 100, the lower limit value of the output current is determined based on the running performance of the vehicle 100. Examples of the running performance include acceleration performance, maximum speed, and maximum horsepower.

[0187] Furthermore, the reference value of the output power may be determined based on the reference value of the output current. The lower limit value of the output power may be determined based on the lower limit value of the output current.

[0188] [An example of a procedure for determining the allowable range based on the estimated value of the degree of degradation]

[0189] In other embodiments, the allowable range determination unit 474 obtains information showing an estimation result related to the current value or predicted value of the degree of degradation of the fuel cell system 142 from the estimation unit 472. The allowable range determination unit 474 may determine the upper limit value based on the current value or predicted value of the degree of degradation of the fuel cell system 142. The allowable range determination unit 474 may also determine at least one of an upper limit value of a period during which the degree of degradation of the fuel cell system 142 may exceed the reference value and an upper limit value of a frequency at which the degree of degradation of the fuel cell system 142 exceeds the reference value.

[0190] The allowable range determination unit 474 may also estimate at least one of a period during which the degree of degradation of the fuel cell system 142 may exceed the reference value and a frequency at which the degree of degradation of the fuel cell system 142 exceeds the reference value within a specific period based on the current value or predicted value of the degree of degradation of the fuel cell system 142. The allowable range determination unit 474 may determine the upper limit value based on at least one of the length of the period and the magnitude of the frequency.

[0191] [Upper limit of output rate]

[0192] For example, the allowable range determination unit 474 determines the upper limit value of the output rate in such a manner that the upper limit value of the output rate is larger as the progress of degradation indicated by the current value of the degradation degree of the fuel cell system 142 is slower than the progress of degradation indicated by the planned value of the degradation degree of the fuel cell system 142. In this case, the upper limit value of the output rate is determined in such a manner that the upper limit value of the output rate is larger as the current state of the fuel cell system 142 is better.

[0193] The planned value of the degradation degree of the fuel cell system 142 is determined based on, for example, (i) information showing the degradation characteristics of the power generation stack included in the specification information, and (ii) information showing the current value of at least one of the elapsed time after shipment, the cumulative operating time, and the cumulative power generation included in the power generation information. The information showing the degradation characteristics of the power generation stack is determined based on, for example, a test run or an accelerated test during the development of the fuel cell system 142 or the fuel cell unit 310. Through the above-mentioned test run or accelerated test, information can be obtained that corresponds at least one of the elapsed time after shipment, the cumulative operating time, and the cumulative power generation to the planned value of the degradation degree of the power generation stack.

[0194] The allowable range determination unit 474 may determine the upper limit value of the output rate based on the difference or ratio between the current value (A) of the degree of degradation of the fuel cell system 142 and the planned value (B) of the degree of degradation of the fuel cell system 142. For example, in a case where it is shown that the greater the value of the degree of degradation of the fuel cell system 142, the more the degradation of the fuel cell system 142 progresses, the allowable range determination unit 474 determines the upper limit value of the output rate in such a manner that the smaller the difference (AB) between the above-mentioned current value (A) and the above-mentioned planned value (B), the larger the upper limit value of the output rate. The allowable range determination unit 474 may also determine the upper limit value of the output rate in such a manner that the smaller the ratio (A / B) of the above-mentioned current value (A) to the above-mentioned planned value (B), the larger the upper limit value of the output rate.

[0195] [Upper limit of output current]

[0196] For example, the allowable range determination unit 474 determines the upper limit value of the output current in such a manner that the lower the progress of the degradation indicated by the current value of the degradation degree of the fuel cell system 142 is than the planned value of the degradation degree of the fuel cell system 142, the larger the upper limit value of the output current is. In this case, the upper limit value of the output current is determined in such a manner that the better the current state of the fuel cell system 142 is, the larger the upper limit value of the output current is. Furthermore, the upper limit value of the output power may be determined based on the upper limit value of the output current.

[0197] The allowable range determination unit 474 may determine the upper limit value of the output current based on the difference or ratio between the current value (A) of the degree of degradation of the fuel cell system 142 and the planned value (B) of the degree of degradation of the fuel cell system 142. For example, in a case where it is shown that the greater the value of the degree of degradation of the fuel cell system 142, the more the degradation of the fuel cell system 142 progresses, the allowable range determination unit 474 determines the upper limit value of the output current in such a manner that the smaller the difference (AB) between the above-mentioned current value (A) and the above-mentioned planned value (B), the larger the upper limit value of the output current. The allowable range determination unit 474 may also determine the upper limit value of the output rate in such a manner that the smaller the ratio (A / B) of the above-mentioned current value (A) to the above-mentioned planned value (B), the larger the upper limit value of the output rate.

[0198] [Base value and lower limit value of output rate]

[0199] Each of the reference value and the lower limit value of the output rate is determined based on, for example, the degree of degradation of the fuel cell system 142 at the end of the design life, and the rated output and rated capacity of the power storage unit 144. Each of the reference value and the lower limit value of the output rate is determined, for example, so that the operation or operation of the power storage unit 144 does not fail at the end of the design life of the fuel cell system 142.

[0200] The lower limit value of the output rate can be determined based on the specifications required for the vehicle 100 or the working unit 122. For example, when the working unit 122 is a motor that drives the vehicle 100, the lower limit value of the output rate is determined based on the running performance of the vehicle 100. Examples of the running performance include acceleration performance, maximum speed, and maximum horsepower.

[0201] [Base value and lower limit value of output current]

[0202] Each of the reference value and the lower limit value of the output current is determined based on, for example, the degree of degradation of the fuel cell system 142 at the end of the design life, and the rated output and rated capacity of the power storage unit 144. Each of the reference value and the lower limit value of the output current is determined, for example, so that the operation or operation of the power storage unit 144 does not fail at the end of the design life of the fuel cell system 142.

[0203] The lower limit value of the output current can be determined based on the specifications required in the vehicle 100 or the working unit 122. For example, when the working unit 122 is a motor that drives the vehicle 100, the lower limit value of the output current is determined based on the running performance of the vehicle 100. Examples of the running performance include acceleration performance, maximum speed, and maximum horsepower.

[0204] Furthermore, the reference value of the output power may be determined based on the reference value of the output current. The lower limit value of the output power may be determined based on the lower limit value of the output current.

[0205] [Example of Procedure for Determining the Permissible Range Based on the Environment of the Fuel Cell System 142]

[0206] Furthermore, in other embodiments, the allowable range determination unit 474 may obtain information indicating the environment of the fuel cell system 142. For example, the allowable range determination unit 474 obtains information indicating at least one of the temperature and humidity of the fuel cell unit 310 as information indicating the environment of the fuel cell system 142. The allowable range determination unit 474 may determine the upper limit value based on the environment of the fuel cell system 142.

[0207] [Upper limit of output rate]

[0208] For example, the allowable range determination unit 474 determines the upper limit value of the output rate so that the lower the temperature of the fuel cell unit 310, the larger the upper limit value of the output rate. The allowable range determination unit 474 may also determine the upper limit value of the output rate so that the higher the humidity of the fuel cell unit 310, the larger the upper limit value of the output rate.

[0209] [Upper limit of output current]

[0210] For example, the allowable range determination unit 474 may determine the upper limit value of the output current in such a manner that the lower the temperature of the fuel cell unit 310, the larger the upper limit value of the output current. The allowable range determination unit 474 may also determine the upper limit value of the output in such a manner that the higher the humidity of the fuel cell unit 310, the larger the upper limit value of the output current.

[0211] [Base value and lower limit value of output rate]

[0212] Each of the reference value and the lower limit value of the output rate is determined, for example, based on the environment of the assumed fuel cell system 142, and the rated output and rated capacity of the storage unit 144. Each of the reference value and the lower limit value of the output rate can also be determined based on statistics related to the environment of the assumed fuel cell system 142, and the rated output and rated capacity of the storage unit 144. As statistics, there are exemplified maximum values, minimum values, average values, median values, mode values, standard deviations, coefficients of variation, and the like. Each of the reference value and the lower limit value of the output rate is determined, for example, in such a manner that the operation or operation of the storage unit 144 does not fail.

[0213] The lower limit value of the output rate can be determined based on the specifications required for the vehicle 100 or the working unit 122. For example, when the working unit 122 is a motor that drives the vehicle 100, the lower limit value of the output rate is determined based on the running performance of the vehicle 100. Examples of the running performance include acceleration performance, maximum speed, and maximum horsepower.

[0214] [Base value and lower limit value of output current]

[0215] Each of the reference value and the lower limit value of the output current is determined, for example, based on the environment of the assumed fuel cell system 142, and the rated output and rated capacity of the storage unit 144. Each of the reference value and the lower limit value of the output current can also be determined based on statistics related to the environment of the assumed fuel cell system 142, and the rated output and rated capacity of the storage unit 144. As statistics, there are exemplified maximum values, minimum values, average values, median values, mode values, standard deviations, coefficients of variation, and the like. Each of the reference value and the lower limit value of the output current is determined, for example, in such a manner that the operation or operation of the storage unit 144 does not fail.

[0216] The lower limit value of the output current can be determined based on the specifications required in the vehicle 100 or the working unit 122. For example, when the working unit 122 is a motor that drives the vehicle 100, the lower limit value of the output current is determined based on the running performance of the vehicle 100. Examples of the running performance include acceleration performance, maximum speed, and maximum horsepower.

[0217] Furthermore, the reference value of the output power may be determined based on the reference value of the output current. The lower limit value of the output power may be determined based on the lower limit value of the output current.

[0218] In the above, the details of the allowable range determination unit 474 are described by taking the case where the allowable range of the output rate and the output current is determined based on the estimated value of the load amount, the estimated value of the degradation degree, or the environment of the fuel cell system 142 as an example. However, the allowable range determination unit 474 is not limited to this embodiment. In other embodiments, the allowable range determination unit 474 may determine the allowable range of at least one of the output rate and the output current based on at least two of the estimated value of the load amount, the estimated value of the degradation degree, and the environment of the fuel cell system 142.

[0219] In the present embodiment, the output rate determination unit 476 determines the output rate of the fuel cell system 142 or the power generation unit 340. The output rate determination unit 476 may determine the output rate of the fuel cell system 142 or the power generation unit 340 during the operation of the vehicle 100.

[0220] For example, the output rate determination unit 476 obtains the load information from the load information acquisition unit 426. The output rate determination unit 476 determines the output rate of the fuel cell system 142 or the power generation unit 340 based on the load amount indicated by the load information. The output rate determination unit 476 can determine the above-mentioned output rate within the range of the allowable range determined by the allowable range determination unit 474. The output rate determination unit 476 can determine the output rate in a manner such that the larger the load amount, the smaller the output rate. In this way, it is possible to suppress the degradation of the fuel cell system 142 or the power generation unit 340, or adjust the progress of the degradation.

[0221] According to one embodiment, when the value of the load amount is within a predetermined numerical range and the output rate indicated by the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450 is within the allowable range determined by the allowable range determination unit 474, the output rate determination unit 476 determines to generate electricity at the output rate indicated by the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450. In this case, when the output rate indicated by the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450 exceeds the upper limit value of the allowable range determined by the allowable range determination unit 474, the output rate determination unit 476 may determine to generate electricity at the upper limit value determined by the allowable range determination unit 474. When the output rate indicated by the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450 is less than the lower limit value of the allowable range determined by the allowable range determination unit 474, the output rate determination unit 476 may also determine to generate electricity at the lower limit value determined by the allowable range determination unit 474.

[0222] According to another embodiment, when the value of the load exceeds the upper limit of the predetermined numerical range, the output rate determination unit 476 determines to generate power at an output rate smaller than the output rate indicated by the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450. The output rate determination unit 476 may determine the output rate in such a manner that the larger the load is within the range smaller than the output rate indicated by the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450, the smaller the output rate is.

[0223] In this case, the output rate determination unit 476 may determine to generate power at an output rate smaller than the reference value determined by the allowable range determination unit 474. The output rate determination unit 476 may determine the output rate so that the larger the load amount is within the range smaller than the reference value determined by the allowable range determination unit 474, the smaller the output rate is.

[0224] In this embodiment, the load information may include information indicating the current of at least one of the motors of the vehicle drive unit 222 and the air conditioning unit 224, and information indicating the rotation speed of the motor. When the ratio (X / Y) of the rotation speed (X) of the motor to the current (Y) of each motor is less than a predetermined value, the output rate determination unit 476 may determine to increase the output rate within the allowable range determined by the allowable range determination unit 474.

[0225] Similarly, when the ratio of the rotation speed of the motor of the vehicle drive unit 222 to the current value of the load amount of the vehicle drive unit 222 estimated by the estimation unit 472 is smaller than a predetermined value, the output rate determination unit 476 may determine to increase the output rate within the range of the allowable range determined by the allowable range determination unit 474. Furthermore, when the ratio of the rotation speed of the motor of the air conditioning unit 224 to the current value of the load amount of the air conditioning unit 224 estimated by the estimation unit 472 is smaller than a predetermined value, the output rate determination unit 476 may determine to increase the output rate within the range of the allowable range determined by the allowable range determination unit 474.

[0226] In the present embodiment, the output current determination unit 478 determines the output current of the fuel cell system 142 or the power generation unit 340. The output current determination unit 478 may determine the output current of the fuel cell system 142 or the power generation unit 340 during the operation of the vehicle 100. The output current determination unit 478 may determine the output power based on the determined output current.

[0227] For example, the output current determination unit 478 obtains the load information from the load information acquisition unit 426. The output current determination unit 478 determines the output current of the fuel cell system 142 or the power generation unit 340 based on the load amount indicated by the load information. The output current determination unit 478 can determine the above-mentioned output current within the range of the allowable range determined by the allowable range determination unit 474. The output current determination unit 478 can determine the output current in such a manner that the larger the load amount, the smaller the output current. In this way, it is possible to suppress the degradation of the fuel cell system 142 or the power generation unit 340, or adjust the progress of the degradation.

[0228] According to one embodiment, when the value of the load amount is within a predetermined numerical range and the output current indicated by the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450 is within the allowable range determined by the allowable range determination unit 474, the output current determination unit 478 determines to generate electricity with the output current indicated by the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450. In this case, when the output current indicated by the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450 exceeds the upper limit value of the allowable range determined by the allowable range determination unit 474, the output current determination unit 478 may determine to generate electricity with the upper limit value determined by the allowable range determination unit 474. When the output current indicated by the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450 is less than the lower limit value of the allowable range determined by the allowable range determination unit 474, the output current determination unit 478 may also determine to generate electricity with the lower limit value determined by the allowable range determination unit 474.

[0229] According to another embodiment, when the value of the load exceeds the upper limit of the predetermined numerical range, the output current determination unit 478 determines to generate power with an output current smaller than the output current indicated by the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450. The output current determination unit 478 may determine the output current in such a manner that the larger the load is within the range smaller than the output current indicated by the adjustment result of the output adjustment unit 450, the smaller the output current is.

[0230] In this case, the output current determination unit 478 may determine to generate power with an output current smaller than the reference value determined by the allowable range determination unit 474. The output current determination unit 478 may determine the output current so that the larger the load amount is within the range smaller than the reference value determined by the allowable range determination unit 474, the smaller the output current is.

[0231] In this embodiment, the load information may include information indicating the current of at least one of the motors of the vehicle drive unit 222 and the air conditioning unit 224, and information indicating the rotation speed of the motor. When the ratio of the rotation speed of the motor to the current of each motor is less than a predetermined value, the output current determination unit 478 may determine to increase the output current within the allowable range determined by the allowable range determination unit 474.

[0232] Similarly, when the ratio of the rotation speed of the motor of the vehicle drive unit 222 to the current value of the load amount of the vehicle drive unit 222 estimated by the estimation unit 472 is smaller than a predetermined value, the output current determination unit 478 may determine to increase the output current within the allowable range determined by the allowable range determination unit 474. Furthermore, when the ratio of the rotation speed of the motor of the air conditioning unit 224 to the current value of the load amount of the air conditioning unit 224 estimated by the estimation unit 472 is smaller than a predetermined value, the output current determination unit 478 may determine to increase the output current within the allowable range determined by the allowable range determination unit 474.

[0233] In addition, in this embodiment, the details of the power control unit 148 are described by taking the case where the air conditioning power estimation unit 440 estimates the power or electric power consumed by the air conditioning unit 224 as an example. However, the power control unit 148 is not limited to this embodiment. In other embodiments, the estimation unit 472 can estimate the power or electric power consumed by the air conditioning unit 224.

[0234] The load information acquisition unit 426 may be an example of a load acquisition unit. The air conditioning power estimation unit 440 may be an example of a power estimation unit. The power generation control unit 470 may be an example of a control device and an output condition determination unit. The estimation unit 472 may be an example of a load estimation unit and a degradation estimation unit. The allowable range determination unit 474 may be an example of a first upper limit value determination unit and a second upper limit value determination unit. The output rate determination unit 476 may be an example of an output condition determination unit. The output current determination unit 478 may be an example of an output condition determination unit.

[0235] Figure 5 An example of a data table 500 is schematically shown. The data table 500 may be an example of power generation information acquired by the power generation information acquisition unit 422. The data table 500 may be an example of the power generation history of the fuel cell system 142.

[0236] In this embodiment, the data table 500 stores information showing time 522, information showing output 524 of the power generation unit 340 at each time, and information showing working condition 526 of the power generation unit 340 at each time. The information showing output 524 may include information showing at least one of output voltage, output current, and output rate. The information showing working condition 526 may include information showing at least one of temperature, humidity, operation mode, and operation state.

[0237] As operating modes, there are exemplified (i) an output priority mode that prioritizes the size of the output or output rate of the fuel cell system 142 over the fuel cost, (ii) a fuel cost priority mode that prioritizes the level of the fuel cost of the fuel cell system 142 over the size of the output or output rate, and (iii) a degradation suppression mode that prioritizes the speed of the progress of degradation of the fuel cell system 142 over the fuel cost or the size of the output or output rate. As other examples of operating modes, there are exemplified a maintenance mode for maintaining at least a portion of the fuel cell system 142, a diagnostic mode for diagnosing the degradation state of the fuel cell system 142, and the like. As operating states, there are exemplified normal operation, idle operation, and the like. As described above, as normal operation, there are exemplified (i) an operation in which the fuel cell system 142 changes the output according to changes in the required power or power amount, or (ii) an operation in which the fuel cell system 142 maintains the output at a set constant value regardless of changes in the required power or power amount.

[0238] Figure 6An example of a data table 600 is schematically shown. The data table 600 may be an example of specification information acquired by the specification information acquisition unit 424. The data table 600 may be an example of degradation characteristics of the power generation stack of the fuel cell system 142. The data table 600 may be an example of a model used to estimate degradation of the power generation stack of the fuel cell system 142. The data table 600 may be an example of information showing the design life of the power generation stack of the fuel cell system 142.

[0239] In this embodiment, the data table 600 stores information indicating the elapsed time 632 after shipment, information indicating the cumulative operating time 634, information indicating the cumulative power generation 636, and information indicating the planned value 642 of the degree of degradation. The data table 600 may include information indicating that the power generation stack of the fuel cell system 142 has reached the design life when at least one of the elapsed time 632 after shipment, the cumulative operating time 634, the cumulative power generation 636, and the planned value 642 of the degree of degradation reaches a specific value. The data table 600 may also be a data table storing data of power generation stacks within the range of the design life.

[0240] use Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 An example of a method in which the allowable range determination unit 474 determines at least one of the output rate, output current, and output power of the fuel cell unit 310 is described. Figure 7 An example of information processing in the allowable range determination unit 474 is schematically shown. Figure 8 An example of a data table 800 showing the progress of degradation of the power generation section 340 is schematically shown. Fig. 9 An example of a graph showing progress of degradation of the power generation section 340 is schematically shown.

[0241] like Figure 7 As shown, the allowable range determination unit 474 can obtain the power generation information from the power generation information acquisition unit 422. The allowable range determination unit 474 obtains the data table 600 and the information indicating the initial conditions of the allowable range of the output rate and the output current from the specification information acquisition unit 424. The allowable range determination unit 474 can also obtain information indicating the time of shipment from the specification information acquisition unit 424. The allowable range determination unit 474 obtains the estimation result of the current value of the degradation degree from the estimation unit 472 at an arbitrary timing. The allowable range determination unit 474 obtains the estimation result of the current value of the degradation degree from the estimation unit 472, for example, periodically.

[0242] Next, the allowable range determination unit 474 creates a data table 800 with reference to the data table 600. In the present embodiment, the data table 800 stores information indicating the time 822, information indicating the elapsed time 832 after shipment, information indicating the cumulative operating time 834, information indicating the cumulative power generation 836, and information indicating the degree of degradation 842 in correspondence with each other. The degree of degradation 842 may include a planned value of the degree of degradation 842 and a current value of the degree of degradation 842.

[0243] The planned value of the degree of degradation 842 can be calculated using the data table 600. For example, the allowable range determination unit 474 uses the data table 600 to construct a function or a machine learning model that uses the planned value of the degree of degradation as a target variable and uses at least one of the time elapsed after shipment, the cumulative operating time, and the cumulative power generation as an explanatory variable. The allowable range determination unit 474 can calculate the time elapsed after shipment at any time using the information indicating the time of shipment obtained from the specification information acquisition unit 424. The cumulative operating time and the cumulative power generation at any time can be calculated with reference to the power generation information. The allowable range determination unit 474 can obtain the planned value of the degree of degradation 842 at any time by inputting this information into the above-mentioned function or machine learning model.

[0244] Next, the allowable range determination unit 474 refers to the data table 800 to create the allowable range 720 of the output rate of the fuel cell system 142 or the power generation unit 340. For example, the allowable range determination unit 474 creates the allowable range 720 of the output rate by changing the upper limit value of the initial condition of the allowable range of the output rate.

[0245] Permissible range determination unit 474 refers to data table 800 to create permissible range 720 of output current of fuel cell system 142 or power generation unit 340. For example, permissible range determination unit 474 creates permissible range 740 of output current by changing the upper limit value of the initial condition of the permissible range of output current.

[0246] use Fig. 9 The following will describe the outline of the procedure for the allowable range determination unit 474 to create the allowable range 720 of the output rate. Fig. 9 , the circular mark 910 indicates the cumulative operating time and the degree of degradation at each time. In the present embodiment, the current cumulative operating time is t4, and the degree of degradation at t4 is D4. In addition, it is planned to reach the design life at the cumulative operating time t5. In the present embodiment, it is shown that the greater the value of the degree of degradation, the more advanced the degradation of the fuel cell system 142.

[0247] The solid line 920 corresponds to the planned value of the degree of degradation when the cumulative operating time is used as the explanatory variable of the degree of degradation. As mentioned above, it should be noted that the explanatory variable of the degree of degradation is not limited to the cumulative operating time. The dotted line 940 represents the approximate function of the circular mark 910. The dotted line 940 corresponds to the predicted value of the progress of the degradation of the fuel cell system 142 or the power generation unit 340 when the current use conditions continue.

[0248] according to Fig. 9 In the embodiment shown in , at the cumulative working time t4, the current value of the degradation degree 842 is less than the planned value of the degradation degree 842. That is, there is a surplus that increases the output rate. Therefore, in one embodiment, the allowable range determination unit 474 determines the output rate so that the degradation degree becomes DL at the cumulative working time t5. That is, the allowable range determination unit 474 determines the output rate so that the relationship between the cumulative working time and the degradation degree becomes the dotted line 962. In other embodiments, the allowable range determination unit 474 determines the output rate so that the degradation degree becomes DL at the cumulative working time t6. The cumulative working time t6 can be a value greater than the cumulative working time t5. That is, the allowable range determination unit 474 determines the output rate so that the relationship between the cumulative working time and the degradation degree becomes the dotted line 964.

[0249] The allowable range determination unit 474 may adopt these output rates as the upper limit value of the allowable range 720. The allowable range determination unit 474 may create the allowable range 740 of the output current by the same procedure as that of the allowable range 720 of the output rate.

[0250] use Fig.10 and Fig.11 An example of a method in which the output rate determination unit 476 adjusts the output rate of the fuel cell unit 310 according to the load amount will be described. Fig.10 An example of load variation of vehicle 100 is schematically shown. Fig.11 An example of a change in the output rate of the fuel cell unit 310 is schematically shown.

[0251] like Fig.10 As shown, at time t10, the vehicle 100 accommodates the passenger 1002 in the accommodation section 160 and moves. At time t11, the vehicle 100 temporarily stops at the station 1010 and accommodates the passenger 1004. After that, the vehicle 100 resumes moving. Between time t12 and time t13, the vehicle 100 moves uphill. In addition, between time t13 and time t14, the vehicle 100 moves downhill. In this case, the load amount of the vehicle drive unit 222 changes as shown by the solid line 1020. In addition, the load amount of the air conditioning unit 224 changes as shown by the dotted line 1040.

[0252] like Fig.11 As shown, in association with Fig.10 In the situation described below, first, the allowable range determination unit 474 determines the allowable range 720 of the output rate. Next, the output rate determination unit 476 changes the output rate of the fuel cell unit 310 as indicated by the solid line 1120 .

[0253] Specifically, first, during the period from time t10 to t11, the output rate determination unit 476 sets the output rate of the fuel cell unit 310 to the reference value of the allowable range 720. Next, during the period from time t11 to t12, the load amount of the working unit 122 is greater than that during the period from time t10 to t11. Therefore, the output rate determination unit 476 sets the output rate of the fuel cell unit 310 to a value smaller than the reference value of the allowable range 720.

[0254] Next, during the period from time t12 to t13 , the load on the working unit 122 is greater than during the period from time t11 to t12 . Therefore, the output rate determination unit 476 further reduces the output rate of the fuel cell unit 310 and sets it to the lower limit value of the allowable range 720 .

[0255] In this embodiment, it is assumed that when the output rate of the fuel cell unit 310 is set to the lower limit value of the allowable range 720 and the operation is continued, the state where the rotation speed of the vehicle drive unit 222 is less than the predetermined value relative to the load of the vehicle drive unit 222 continues for a certain period of time. Therefore, the output rate determination unit 476 decides to temporarily increase the output rate. Specifically, during the period from time t22 to t24, the output rate determination unit 476 sets the output rate to the reference value of the allowable range 720.

[0256] In the present embodiment, it is assumed that even if the output rate of the fuel cell unit 310 is set to the reference value of the allowable range 720 to continue to operate, the state in which the rotation speed of the vehicle drive unit 222 is less than the predetermined value relative to the load of the vehicle drive unit 222 continues for a certain period of time. Therefore, the output rate determination unit 476 decides to increase the output rate again. Specifically, during the period from time t24 to t26, the output rate determination unit 476 sets the output rate to a value greater than the reference value of the allowable range 720. In addition, the length T30 of the period from time t24 to t26 is set to be less than the upper limit value of the period during which the output rate can exceed the reference value.

[0257] Then, at time t26, the output rate determination unit 476 sets the output rate to the reference value of the allowable range 720. During the period from time t13 to t14, the load of the working unit 122 is less than the predetermined value. Therefore, the output rate determination unit 476 sets the output rate of the fuel cell unit 310 to a value smaller than the reference value of the allowable range 720.

[0258] As described above, according to the present embodiment, the output rate of the fuel cell system 142 or the power generation unit 340 is appropriately set according to the load variation of the working unit 122 during the operation of the vehicle 100. As a result, the degradation of the power generation stack of the power generation unit 340 is suppressed. In addition, the progress of the degradation of the power generation stack of the power generation unit 340 can be appropriately adjusted by adjusting the upper limit value of the output rate.

[0259] Fig.12 An example of a computer 3000 that can embody the various aspects of the present invention in whole or in part is shown. A portion of the vehicle 100 can be implemented by the computer 3000. For example, at least one of the vehicle control unit 124, the power control unit 148, and the FC control unit 330 can be implemented by the computer 3000.

[0260] 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 perform the operation or the one or more "parts", and / or can cause the computer 3000 to perform 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 perform specific operations associated with some or all of the blocks in the flowcharts and block diagrams described in this specification.

[0261] 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.

[0262] The CPU 3012 controls each unit by operating in accordance with the programs stored in the ROM 3030 and the RAM 3014. 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.

[0263] 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.

[0264] 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.

[0265] 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 as 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.

[0266] 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 interface 3022 to perform communication processing. Under the control of the CPU 3012, the communication interface 3022 reads transmission data stored in a transmission buffer area provided in a recording medium such as the RAM 3014, the hard disk drive 3024, the DVD-ROM 3001, or an IC card, transmits the read transmission data to a network, or writes reception data received from the network to a reception buffer area provided on a recording medium.

[0267] 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.

[0268] 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. The various types of processing include various types of operations, information processing, conditional judgments, conditional branches, unconditional branches, information retrieval / replacement, etc. that are 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.

[0269] The program or software module described above can 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 can be used as a computer-readable storage medium, thereby providing the above-mentioned program to the computer 3000 via the network.

[0270] 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.

[0271] The execution order of each process such as work, sequence, step and stage in the device, system, program and method shown in the claims, specification 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, specification and drawings, even if "first," "next," etc. are used for convenience, it does not mean that it must be implemented in this order.

[0272] Description of Reference Numerals

[0273] 100 vehicle, 120 power usage unit, 122 operation unit, 124 vehicle control unit, 140 power supply system, 142 fuel cell system, 144 power storage unit, 146 power conversion unit, 148 power control unit, 160 storage unit, 222 vehicle drive unit, 224 air conditioning unit, 230 operation equipment monitoring unit, 232 current detection unit, 234 rotation speed detection unit, 240 operation environment monitoring unit, 242 load sensor, 244 gyro sensor, 246 vehicle-mounted camera, 248 temperature sensor, 262 equipment control unit, 264 load management , 266 power demand 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 power generation common power connector, 330 FC control unit, 340 power generation unit, 350 auxiliary battery, 422 power generation information acquisition unit, 424 specification information acquisition unit, 426 load information acquisition unit, 428 power demand acquisition unit, 440 air conditioning power estimation unit, 450 output adjustment unit, 460 power storage control unit, 470 power generation control unit control unit, 472 estimation unit, 474 allowable range determination unit, 476 output rate determination unit, 478 output current determination unit, 500 data table, 522 time, 524 output, 526 working condition, 600 data table, 632 elapsed time, 634 cumulative working time, 636 cumulative power generation, 642 planned value, 720 allowable range, 740 allowable range, 800 data table, 822 time, 832 elapsed time, 834 cumulative working time, 836 cumulative power generation, 842 degradation degree, 910 circular mark, 920 solid line, 940 dashed line line, 962 dotted line, 964 dotted line, 1002 passenger, 1004 passenger, 1010 station, 1020 solid line, 1040 dotted line, 1120 solid line, 3000 computer, 3001 DVD-ROM, 3010 host controller, 3012 CPU, 3014 RAM, 3016 graphics controller, 3018 display device, 3020 input and output controller, 3022 communication interface, 3024 hard disk drive, 3026 DVD-ROM drive, 3030 ROM, 3040 input and 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 load amount acquisition unit that acquires load information indicating the load amount of the working machine during operation of the working machine; and an output condition determination unit that determines an output rate of the fuel cell based on the load amount indicated by the load information during the operation period, The output rate of the fuel cell is (i) the amount of power that the fuel cell can output per unit time, or (ii) the ratio of the amount of power that the fuel cell can output per unit time to the rated value of the power generation capacity of the fuel cell. The load information includes at least one of (i) information indicating a load amount of at least one electric device among one or more electric devices performing work, and (ii) information related to a working environment of the working machine. The load information includes information related to the working environment of the working machine. The output condition determination unit includes: a load estimating unit that estimates the load amount based on information related to the working environment; as well as A first upper limit value determination unit determines an upper limit value of at least one of an output rate, an output current, and an output power of the fuel cell based on the load amount estimated by the load estimation unit.

2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The working period is a period from when information indicating the start of the working of the working machine is received to when information indicating the end of the working of the working machine is received.

3. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The output condition determination unit includes: a degradation estimating unit that estimates a degree of degradation indicating a progress of degradation of the fuel cell; as well as A second upper limit value determination unit determines an upper limit value of at least one of an output rate, an output current, and an output power of the fuel cell based on the degree of degradation estimated by the degradation estimation unit.

4. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The working machine further comprises: A containment unit, containing at least one of a person and an object; an air conditioning unit for adjusting the air environment of the receiving unit; and a driving unit for moving the working machine or the storage unit; The control device further includes a power estimation unit for estimating the power or amount of power consumed by the air conditioning unit. The output condition determination unit determines an output rate of the fuel cell based on the electric power or the electric power amount estimated by the electric power estimation unit.

5. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The power supply device is detachably mounted on the working machine.

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 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 load amount acquisition step of acquiring load information indicating the load amount of the working machine during operation of the working machine; and an output condition determination step of determining an output rate of the fuel cell based on the load amount indicated by the load information during the operation period, The output rate of the fuel cell is (i) the amount of power that the fuel cell can output per unit time, or (ii) the ratio of the amount of power that the fuel cell can output per unit time to the rated value of the power generation capacity of the fuel cell. The load information includes at least one of (i) information indicating a load amount of at least one electric device among one or more electric devices performing work, and (ii) information related to a working environment of the working machine. The load information includes information related to the working environment of the working machine. The output condition determination stage includes: A load estimation stage, estimating the load amount based on information related to the working environment; as well as In a first upper limit value determination stage, an upper limit value of at least one of an output rate, an output current, and an output power of the fuel cell is determined based on the load amount estimated in the load estimation stage.

9. 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 load amount acquisition step of acquiring load information indicating the load amount of the working machine during operation of the working machine; and an output condition determination step of determining an output rate of the fuel cell based on the load amount indicated by the load information during the operation period, The output rate of the fuel cell is (i) the amount of power that the fuel cell can output per unit time, or (ii) the ratio of the amount of power that the fuel cell can output per unit time to the rated value of the power generation capacity of the fuel cell. The load information includes at least one of (i) information indicating a load amount of at least one electric device among one or more electric devices performing work, and (ii) information related to a working environment of the working machine. The load information includes information related to the working environment of the working machine. The output condition determination stage includes: A load estimation stage, estimating the load amount based on information related to the working environment; as well as In a first upper limit value determination stage, an upper limit value of at least one of an output rate, an output current, and an output power of the fuel cell is determined based on the load amount estimated in the load estimation stage.

10. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The output condition determination unit includes a first upper limit value determination unit that determines an upper limit value of an output rate of the fuel cell based on the load amount indicated by the load information.

11. The control device according to claim 10, wherein: The first upper limit value determination unit determines the upper limit value of the output rate of the fuel cell in such a manner that the upper limit value of the output rate of the fuel cell becomes smaller as (i) the load amount becomes larger, (ii) the length of the period during which the load amount exceeds a reference value becomes longer, or (iii) the frequency with which the load amount exceeds a reference value becomes greater.

12. The control device according to claim 3, wherein: The second upper limit value determination unit determines the upper limit value of the output rate of the fuel cell in such a manner that the slower the progress of the degradation estimated by the degradation estimation unit is compared to the progress of the degradation indicated by the planned value of the degradation degree of the fuel cell, the larger the upper limit value of the output rate of the fuel cell.

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