Battery pack, system, operation state transmission method, and program

Abstract

According to an embodiment of the present application, there is provided a battery pack that supplies power to a device connected to a target, characterized by comprising a power output circuit configured to output first power in a case where an operating state of the battery pack is normal and output second power in a case where the operating state of the battery pack is abnormal, the first power being power for operating the device, and the second power being power of a size for not operating the device.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to battery packs, systems, methods for transmitting operating status, and procedures. [Background Technology]

[0002] As a communication method in case of battery pack malfunction, there are already various methods, such as communication using dedicated signal lines.

[0003] Patent document 1 discloses a technique for sending an electrical signal via a power supply line when power is supplied in the event of an malfunction of the battery pack. [Existing Technical Documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 06-153409 [Summary of the Invention]

[0005] However, in the communication method disclosed in Patent Document 1, the compatibility between the battery pack and the connecting device needs to be determined before use.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a battery pack for supplying power to a connected target device is provided, characterized in that: it includes a power output circuit configured to output a first power when the battery pack is in a normal operating state and to output a second power when the battery pack is in an abnormal operating state, wherein the first power is power for operating the device and the second power is power for preventing the device from operating.

[0007] Such battery packs no longer require determining compatibility between the battery pack and the connected device, thus enabling the connected device to operate without relying on a specific battery pack. [Attached Image Description]

[0008] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a system 100 including a battery pack 1 and a device 10 for connecting targets. Figure 2 This is a circuit diagram of battery pack 1 and device 10. Figure 3 A functional block diagram illustrating the functions performed by battery protection circuit 3. Figure 4 This is a state diagram showing the voltage values ​​of the first power output D1 and the second power output D2 from the battery pack. Figure 5 This is an activity diagram of the method for transmitting the operating status from battery pack 1 to device 10 according to the embodiment.

Detailed Implementation Methods

[0009] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described using the accompanying drawings. The various features shown in the embodiments below can be combined with each other.

[0010] Here, the program for implementing the software that appears in this embodiment may be provided as a computer-readable non-temporary storage medium, or may be provided in the form of being downloaded from an external server, or may be provided in the form of enabling the program to be launched by an external computer and implemented by a client terminal (i.e., so-called cloud computing).

[0011] Furthermore, in this embodiment, "part" may include, for example, a combination of hardware resources implemented by a generalized circuit and software information processing that can be specifically implemented by these hardware resources. Additionally, this embodiment involves various types of information, which may be, for example, physical values ​​representing signal values ​​of voltage or current, or signal values ​​representing high or low levels as a set of bits in a binary number consisting of 0s or 1s, or represented by quantum superposition (so-called qubits), and can be used for communication or computation from a generalized circuit.

[0012] Furthermore, in a broader sense, a circuit is a circuit implemented by at least appropriately combining circuits, circuit systems, processors, and memory. That is, it includes application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (such as simple programmable logic devices (SPLDs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs)).

[0013] 1. Overall Structure Chapter 1 will describe the hardware structure involved in this embodiment. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a system 100 including a battery pack 1 and a device 10 for connection targets. Figure 1 As shown, system 100 includes battery pack 1 and device 10 connected to a target. In this embodiment, battery pack 1 supplies power to device 10 connected to the target. Battery pack 1 and device 10 are configured such that a first power D1 and a second power D2 can be supplied to device 10 via a first connection terminal T1 of battery pack 1 and a second connection terminal T2 of device 10. Thus, device 10 is configured to operate based on the first power D1 and be controlled based on the second power. Figure 1As shown, the system 100 may also include an information processing device 20. The information processing device 20 can obtain information related to the operating status of the battery pack 1 via a telecommunications line.

[0014] 1.1 Battery Pack 1 Figure 2 This is a circuit diagram of battery pack 1 and device 10. Battery pack 1 includes a power supply unit 2, a battery protection circuit 3, a storage unit 4, a communication unit 5, a power output circuit 6, a voltage conversion circuit 7, a signal output circuit 8, and a measurement unit 9. The structural elements will be described in further detail below.

[0015] 1.1.1 Power Supply Section 2 The power supply unit 2 provides power to the battery pack 1. The power supply unit 2 may be, for example, composed of a secondary battery 21. The secondary battery 21 is a rechargeable battery that can be repeatedly charged and discharged, and is configured to supply power to the battery pack 1.

[0016] The first connection terminal T1 of the battery pack 1 has a first positive side connection terminal T11 and a first negative side connection terminal T12. When the battery pack 1 is charging, the positive side connection terminal (not shown) of the charger is connected to the first positive side connection terminal T11, and the negative side connection terminal (not shown) of the charger is connected to the first negative side connection terminal T12, so that the battery pack 1 is charged from an external power source.

[0017] The second connection terminal T2 of device 10 has a second positive side connection terminal T21 and a second negative side connection terminal T22. When battery pack 1 discharges, the second positive side connection terminal T21 is connected to the first positive side connection terminal T11, and the second negative side connection terminal T22 is connected to the first negative side connection terminal T12, discharging the first power D1 and the second power D2 from battery pack 1 to device 10.

[0018] The secondary battery 21 can be, for example, a lead-acid battery, an alkaline battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, a nickel-metal hydride battery, or a lithium-ion battery, but the type is not limited to these. Furthermore, the power supply unit 2 can have one or more secondary batteries 21, and the number is not limited.

[0019] 1.1.2 Battery Protection Circuit 3 When battery pack 1 is in an abnormal operating state, battery protection circuit 3 protects battery pack 1 and device 10. Battery protection circuit 3 is connected to power supply unit 2, power output circuit 6, signal output circuit 8, and measuring unit 9. Battery protection circuit 3 controls power output circuit 6 and signal output circuit 8. The operating power of battery protection circuit 3 is supplied by power supply unit 2.

[0020] The battery protection circuit 3 processes or controls the overall operation related to the battery pack 1. The battery protection circuit 3 includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) (not shown). Figure 3 A functional block diagram illustrating the functions performed by the battery protection circuit 3 is provided. The battery protection circuit 3 implements various functions related to the battery pack 1 by reading a predetermined program stored in the storage unit 4. Specifically, these include, but are not limited to, judgment functions, signal communication functions, power measurement functions, receiving functions, historical record storage functions, and historical record communication functions. That is, information processing is implemented in hardware (battery protection circuit 3) based on software (stored in the storage unit 4), and is executed by the judgment unit 31, signal communication unit 32, power measurement unit 33, receiving unit 34, historical record storage unit 35, and historical record communication unit 36.

[0021] (Judgment Section 31) The determination unit 31 is configured to determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the operating state of the battery pack 1. Furthermore, the determination unit 31 is configured to determine the type of abnormality in the operating state. In addition, the determination unit 31 is configured to determine the type of abnormality in the operating state. Here, the type of abnormality in the operating state may be, for example, overcharge, over-discharge, abnormal voltage and current values ​​occurring during charging and discharging of the battery pack 1, and abnormal heating of the electronic devices in the battery pack 1. However, the type of abnormality is not limited to these, but includes all phenomena that cause abnormalities in the operating state of the battery pack 1. For example, the determination unit 31 can acquire data such as the voltage and current values ​​of the battery pack 1 and the temperature of the electronic devices, and determine whether an abnormality has occurred by comparing these data with thresholds pre-stored in the storage unit 4.

[0022] The determination unit 31 is configured to determine the type of abnormality in the operating state based on the first voltage value V1 or current value of the first power D1 measured by the power measurement unit 33 (described later). For example, the determination unit 31 can acquire data on the voltage and current values ​​of the battery pack 1 and determine the type of abnormality in the operating state based on the acquired data.

[0023] Furthermore, the determination unit 31 is configured to determine the type of abnormality in the operating state based on the output value of the measuring device 92 received by the receiving unit 34 (described later). For example, the determination unit 31 can acquire data such as the temperature of the electronic device mounted on the battery pack 1, and determine the type of abnormality in the operating state based on the acquired data.

[0024] (Signal and communication unit 32) When the signal communication unit 32 determines that the operating state of the battery pack 1 is abnormal, it signals the type of abnormality. Since the signal is a digital electrical signal, it is converted into an analog electrical signal by a digital-to-analog converter circuit (not shown) and sent to the signal output circuit 8. For example, in the case of an abnormal voltage, the electrical signal switches on and off once. In the case of an abnormal temperature in the electronic device, the electrical signal switches on and off twice. In this way, the signal communication unit 32 signals the type of abnormal operating state to make it identifiable. During signaling, the signal communication unit 32 can identify the electrical signal by changing the duration of the on or off state.

[0025] (Electricity Measurement Department 33) The power measurement unit 33 is configured to measure the first power D1 output from the power supply unit 2. The power measurement unit 33 measures the voltage or current value of the first power D1. Specifically, the power measurement unit 33 measures the voltage across the resistor 91, which serves as a load, and divides the potential difference between the two points by the value of the resistor 91 to measure the current of the first power D1. The voltage value is also measured in the same manner by a voltage measurement circuit (not shown). Since the current and voltage values ​​are analog electrical signals, they are converted into digital electrical signals by an analog-to-digital converter circuit (not shown).

[0026] The power measuring unit 33 can also measure the power value of the first power D1. A power measuring circuit is provided in the battery pack 1 to measure the power value. Since this power value is an analog electrical signal, it is converted into a digital electrical signal by an analog-to-digital converter circuit (not shown). Measuring the power value not only detects abnormalities in the operating state of the battery pack 1, but also allows for monitoring the remaining power when the power supply unit 2 is the secondary battery 21.

[0027] (Receiving Section 34) The receiving unit 34 is configured to receive the output value of the measuring device 92. When the measuring device 92 outputs an analog electrical signal of voltage or current, the output data is converted into a digital electrical signal via an analog-to-digital converter circuit (not shown). The receiving unit 34 receives the output data that has been converted into a digital electrical signal. The measuring device 92 can be installed not only inside the battery pack 1 but also outside the battery pack 1.

[0028] (Historical Records Preservation Department 35) The history record storage unit 35 is configured to save the time of the error and the operating state at the time of the error as history records when the judgment unit 31 determines that an error has occurred. In other words, the history record storage unit 35 stores the time of the error and the type of the error in the operating state in the storage unit 4.

[0029] In addition to recording abnormal operating conditions, the historical data storage unit 35 can also save the remaining amount of the secondary battery 21 as historical data to the storage unit 4. Specifically, the power measurement unit 33 measures the remaining amount of the secondary battery 21 at predetermined intervals and saves the measured time and remaining amount to the storage unit 4. In this way, by saving the historical data of the remaining amount of the secondary battery 21, it is possible to know the time required for charging to be completed and the charging rate, as well as the aging status of the secondary battery 21. Thus, the user can know when to replace the secondary battery.

[0030] (Historical Records, Communications Department 36) The history record communication unit 36 ​​sends the history record related data stored in the history record storage unit 35 to the communication unit 5, which will be described later. The sending time can be each time the history record storage unit 35 saves the operation status as history, or it can be at a fixed time interval.

[0031] 1.1.3 Storage Unit 4 Storage unit 4 stores the various information defined above, which can be implemented, for example, by a storage device such as a solid-state drive (SSD) or a random access memory (RAM) used to store temporary necessary information (parameters, arrays, etc.) related to program operations. Furthermore, these can be combined with each other. Specifically, when the judgment unit 31 has determined that the battery pack 1 has malfunctioned, storage unit 4 stores the time when the malfunction occurred and the operating state at the time of the malfunction. In addition, storage unit 4 stores the judgment program, signal communication program, power measurement program, receiving program, history record saving program, and history record communication program. Furthermore, storage unit 4 also stores various programs related to the battery protection circuit 3 executed by the battery protection circuit 3.

[0032] 1.1.4 Communications Department 5 While the communication unit 5 preferably uses wired communication methods such as USB, IEEE 1394, Thunderbolt, and wired LAN network communication, it may also include wireless LAN network communication, mobile communication such as LTE / 3G, and Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication as needed. That is, it is preferable to implement this through a combination of the above-mentioned multiple communication methods. In particular, the battery protection circuit 3, the storage unit 4, and the external information processing device 20 are preferably configured to enable communication according to a predetermined communication standard.

[0033] When the judgment unit 31 determines that a malfunction has occurred in the battery pack 1, the communication unit 5 can send the time of the malfunction and the operating status at the time of the malfunction to the information processing device 20. Furthermore, data such as programs and parameters related to the operation of the battery pack 1 can be communicated with the information processing device 20 via a telecommunication line.

[0034] 1.1.5 Power Output Circuit 6 The power output circuit 6 includes a CFET 61 (Charge Field Effect Transistor) and a DFET 62 (Discharge Field Effect Transistor), which can switch the charging and discharging of the battery pack 1. The power output circuit 6 is connected to the power supply unit 2 and the signal output circuit 8. In addition, when the battery pack 1 malfunctions, the power output circuit 6 is connected to the voltage conversion circuit 7 to output a second power D2 to the device 10.

[0035] When battery pack 1 is charging or discharging, CFET 61 and DFET 62 combine to control the power output circuit 6 so that current does not flow in the reverse direction. Specifically, DFET 62 cuts off the current in the discharge direction of battery pack 1, and CFET 61 cuts off the current in the charging direction of battery pack 1.

[0036] Current flows from the external charger between the source and drain of DFET62. When battery pack 1 is charging, a voltage is applied from battery protection circuit 3 to the gate side of CFET61, so current further flows between the source and drain of CFET61 and to secondary battery 21. In this way, battery pack 1 is charged.

[0037] Current flows from the secondary battery 21 between the source and drain of the CFET 61. When the battery pack 1 discharges, a voltage is applied from the battery protection circuit 3 to the gate side of the DFET 62, so current further flows between the source and drain of the DFET 62 and to the device 10. In this way, the battery pack 1 is discharged.

[0038] When the first connection terminal T1 of battery pack 1 is connected to the second connection terminal T2 of device 10, power is input from secondary battery 21 to power output circuit 6. When battery pack 1 is operating normally, power output circuit 6 is configured to output first power D1. Here, first power D1 is power used to operate device 10. On the other hand, when battery pack 1 is operating abnormally, power output circuit 6 is configured to output second power D2. Here, second power D2 is power used to disable device 10.

[0039] When the battery pack 1 is operating normally, the current of the first power D1 flows between the source and drain of the DFET 62 when the battery protection circuit 3 applies a voltage to the gate side of the DFET 62, and then flows to the device 10 via the signal output circuit 8 and the first connection terminal T1. Figure 2 In this process, although the current of the first power D1 flows to the first connection terminal T1 through the signal output circuit 8, it is not necessary to go through the signal output circuit 8.

[0040] On the other hand, when the battery pack 1 operates abnormally, no voltage is applied to the gate side of the DFET 62 from the battery protection circuit 3. Therefore, the current of the first power D1 does not flow between the source and drain of the DFET 62, but flows to the voltage conversion circuit 7. Thus, when the battery pack 1 operates abnormally, the first power D1 is input to the power output circuit 6.

[0041] 1.1.6 Voltage Conversion Circuit 7 Voltage conversion circuit 7 is connected to power output circuit 6 and signal output circuit 8, and converts the first voltage value V1 of the first power input D1 from power output circuit 6 into a second voltage value V2. Voltage conversion circuit 7 outputs the second power D2, converted to the second voltage value V2, to signal output circuit 8. The magnitude of the second voltage value V2 is smaller than the magnitude of the first voltage value V1. The value of (second voltage value V2 / first voltage value V1) is greater than 0 and less than 1.

[0042] Specifically, the values ​​of (second voltage value V2 / first voltage value V1) are 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 0.1, 0.11, 0.12, 0.13, 0.14, 0.15, 0.16, 0.17, 0.18, 0.19, 0.2, 0.21, 0.22. 0.23, 0.24, 0.25, 0.26, 0.27, 0.28, 0.29, 0.3, 0.31, 0.32, 0.33, 0.34, 0.35, 0.36, 0.37, 0.38, 0.39, 0.4, 0.41, 0.42, 0.43, 0.44, 0.45, 0.46, 0.47, 0.48, 0.49, 0 0.5, 0.51, 0.52, 0.53, 0.54, 0.55, 0.56, 0.57, 0.58, 0.59, 0.6, 0.61, 0.62, 0.63, 0.64, 0.65, 0.66, 0.67, 0.68, 0.69, 0.7, 0.71, 0.72, 0.73, 0.74, 0.75, 0.76, 0.7 7, 0.78, 0.79, 0.8, 0.81, 0.82, 0.83, 0.84, 0.85, 0.86, 0.87, 0.88, 0.89, 0.9, 0.91, 0.92, 0.93, 0.94, 0.95, 0.96, 0.97, 0.98, 0.99, and may also be within the range of any two values ​​in the examples above.

[0043] 1.1.7 Signal Output Circuit 8 The signal output circuit 8 is connected to the voltage conversion circuit 7 and the first connection terminal T1, and includes a diode 81 and a FET 82 (Field Effect Transistor). The signal output circuit 8 is configured to change the second voltage value V2 of the second power supply D2 input from the voltage conversion circuit 7 based on the abnormal type of the operating state of the battery pack 1 determined by the determination unit 31. Specifically, an electrical signal sent from the signal communication unit 32 controls the FET 82 to change the second voltage of the second power supply D2. In this way, the signal output circuit 8 sends an electrical signal indicating the abnormal type of the operating state of the battery pack 1 to the device 10.

[0044] Furthermore, when the remaining amount of the secondary battery 21 is equal to or lower than a predetermined threshold, the signal output circuit 8 is configured to change the second voltage value V2. By sending an electrical signal indicating that the remaining charge of the secondary battery 21 has decreased to the device 10, the device 10 can operate accordingly based on the remaining amount of the secondary battery 21.

[0045] Figure 4This is a state diagram showing the voltage values ​​of the first power D1 and the second power D2 output by battery pack 1. When battery pack 1 is operating normally, the first power D1 input from power output circuit 6 is signaled by signal output circuit 8 and output to the first connection terminal T1. The voltage of the first power D1 is the first voltage value V1. On the other hand, when the operating state of battery pack 1 is determined to be abnormal, the first power D1 input from power output circuit 6 is converted into the second power D2 by voltage conversion circuit 7. Then, the second power D2 is signaled by signal output circuit 8 and output to the first connection terminal T1. Figure 4 As shown, the voltage of the second power source D2 varies between a second voltage value V2 and a third voltage value V3. Here, the value of the third voltage value V3 can be greater than the value of the second voltage value V2.

[0046] Specifically, the second electrical current D2 input from the voltage conversion circuit 7 is input to the source of the FET 82, and the current of the second electrical current D2 between the source and drain of the FET 82 is controlled by the voltage applied to the gate of the FET 82 (gate voltage). Since the voltage of the electrical signal transmitted from the signal communication unit 32 is applied to the gate side of the FET 82, when the electrical signal is turned on, the voltage of the second electrical current D2 between the source and drain of the FET 82 becomes a second voltage value V2. On the other hand, when the electrical signal is turned off, the current does not flow between the source and drain of the FET 82, but flows through the diode 81. Due to the voltage drop caused by the diode 81, the voltage of the second electrical current D2 becomes a third voltage value V3. The signal output circuit 8 can reduce the third voltage value V3 until it approaches 0. It should be noted that any function that reduces voltage is acceptable, and it is not limited to the diode 81.

[0047] exist Figure 4 In the example, the voltage of the second power supply D2 input to the signal output circuit 8 is output as an L / H signal, where the second voltage value V2 is High and the third voltage value V3 is Low. The absolute value of (third voltage value V3 / second voltage value V2) is preferably 0 to 10. Since the lower limit of the third voltage value V3 can be 0, the absolute value of (third voltage value V3 / second voltage value V2) includes 0. Furthermore, since it includes the case where the values ​​of V3 and V2 are equal, the absolute value of (third voltage value V3 / second voltage value V2) also includes 1.

[0048] Specifically, the absolute value of (third voltage value V3 / second voltage value V2) can be, for example, 0, 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 0.1, 0.11, 0.12, 0.13, 0.14, 0.15, 0.16, 0.17, 0.18, 0.19, 0.2, 0.21, 0.22, 0.23, 0.24, 0.25, 0.26, 0.27, 0.28, 0.29, 0.3, 0.31, 0.32, 0.33, 0.34, 0.35, 0.36, 0.37, 0.38, 0.39, 0.4, 0.41, 0.42, 0.43, 0.44, 0.45, 0.46, 0.47, 0.48, 0.49, 0.5, 0.51 , 0.52, 0.53, 0.54, 0.55, 0.56, 0.57, 0.58, 0.59, 0.6, 0.61, 0.62, 0.63, 0.64, 0.65, 0.66, 0.67, 0.68, 0.69, 0.7, 0.71, 0.72, 0.73, 0.74, 0.75, 0.76, 0.77, 0.78, 0.79, 0. 8, 0.81, 0.82, 0.83, 0.84, 0.85, 0.86, 0.87, 0.88, 0.89, 0.9, 0.91, 0.92, 0.93, 0.94, 0.95, 0.96, 0.97, 0.98, 0.99, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and can also be within the range of any two values ​​in the examples above.

[0049] The signal output circuit 8 can change the second voltage value V2 to a voltage value greater than 2. By making the quantization more than two stages, the amount of data transmitted to the device 10 increases. The battery pack 1 can also transmit more types of abnormal operating states.

[0050] 1.1.8 Measuring Section 9 The measuring unit 9 includes a measuring device 92. The measuring unit 9 is connected to the battery protection circuit 3, and the physical quantity measured by the measuring device 92 is output to the battery protection circuit 3.

[0051] The measuring device 92 measures at least one of temperature, humidity, air pressure, and acceleration. Since the battery pack 1 may be damaged by external impacts, measuring acceleration is useful. Furthermore, the physical quantities measured by the measuring device 92 are not limited to these; any measurement that allows for understanding the operating state of the battery pack 1 is acceptable. The measuring unit 9 may have multiple measuring devices 92 for individually measuring each physical quantity, or it may have measuring devices 92 capable of simultaneously measuring multiple physical quantities.

[0052] The measuring device 92 has a sensor that measures values ​​obtained by converting a physical quantity into an electrical signal. For example, the temperature measuring device 92 has sensors such as thermocouples, temperature-sensing resistors, thermistors, semiconductors, and quartz oscillators. However, the sensor is not limited to these; any sensor capable of converting temperature into an electrical signal is acceptable.

[0053] 1.2 Equipment 10 This section describes the device 10 connected to the battery pack 1. The first connection terminal T1 of the battery pack 1 is connected to the second connection terminal T2 of the device 10, supplying a first power D1 and a second power D2 from the battery pack 1 to the device 10. The use of the device 10 is unrestricted, as long as it can be connected to the battery pack 1. For example, the device 10 can be a handheld machine such as a chainsaw, brush cutter, hedge trimmer, or blower, or an industrial machine such as a circular saw or band saw, a projector, or a generator. The device 10 includes a signal determination circuit 11, a control unit 12, and an operation unit 13. Each component will be further explained below.

[0054] 1.2.1 Signal Determination Circuit 11 The signal determination circuit 11 includes an analog-to-digital conversion circuit (not shown). The signal determination circuit 11 converts the analog electrical signals of the first power D1 and the second power D2 input from the battery pack 1 into digital electrical signals. The digitized electrical signals are output to the control unit 12.

[0055] 1.2.2 Control Unit 12 The control unit 12 identifies the variation value of the second voltage value V2 of the second power D2 input from the battery pack 1. Then, the control unit 12 is configured to control the device 10 based on the identified variation value via the second power D2. The control unit 12 includes a CPU 121. Specifically, the CPU 121 controls the electronic equipment and power equipment in the device 10 based on the electrical signal input from the signal determination circuit 11.

[0056] CPU 121 identifies the abnormal type of the operating state of battery pack 1 based on changes in electrical signals and controls the electronic and power equipment in device 10. For example, when an abnormality occurs in the operating state of battery pack 1, CPU 121 identifies the abnormality from the transmitted electrical signals and stops the operation of operation unit 13 (described later). Control unit 12 may replace CPU 121 with an analog controller to perform analog control of the electronic and power equipment in device 10.

[0057] 1.2.3 Operation Section 13 The operation unit 13 includes an engine 131 as a power source. The operation unit 13 receives at least a first electrical power D1. The operation unit 13 is then configured to operate using the input first electrical power D1. On the other hand, since the magnitude of the second electrical power D2 is equal to or less than the electrical value required to operate the operation unit 13, the engine 131 does not operate when the second electrical power D2 is input to the operation unit 13.

[0058] 1.3 Information processing device 20 This section will describe the information processing device 20. The information processing device 20 is configured to communicate with the battery pack 1 via a telecommunication line using a predetermined communication standard. The information processing device 20 can obtain data on anomalies and types of anomalies in the operating status of the battery pack 1 in real time from the communication unit 5. Therefore, the operating status of a large number of battery packs 1 in use can be quickly grasped, and such data can play an important role in maintenance or repair.

[0059] 2. Operation status transmission method Chapter 2 will describe the method for transmitting the operating status of battery pack 1 as described in Chapter 1. The method for transmitting the operating status of battery pack 1, which supplies power to the connected target device 10, includes a power output step. In the power output step, when the operating status of battery pack 1 is normal, a first power supply D1 is output. When the operating status of battery pack 1 is abnormal, a second power supply D2 is output. The first power supply D1 is power used to operate device 10, and the second power supply D2 is power used to disable device 10. Thus, the operating status of battery pack 1 is transmitted to device 10. The operating status transmission method will be described in detail below.

[0060] Figure 5 This is an activity diagram illustrating the method for transmitting the operating state from battery pack 1 to device 10 according to an embodiment. The following description will be based on this diagram.

[0061] [start] (Activity A01) Battery pack 1 outputs first power D1 to operate the engine 131 of the device 10 connected to the target. (Activity A02) The judgment unit 31 determines whether the operating status of the battery pack 1 is normal. When the operating status is normal, activity A01 is executed. When the operating status is abnormal, activity A03 is executed. (Activity A03) The judgment unit 31 determines the abnormal type of the operating state of the battery pack 1. (Activity A04) The voltage conversion circuit 7 converts the first voltage value V1 of the first power supply D1 into the second voltage value V2, and outputs it as the second power supply D2. (Activity A05) The signal output circuit 8 causes the second voltage value V2 of the second power D2 to vary between the second voltage value V2 and the third voltage value V3 based on the abnormal type of the operating state. (Activity A06) The signal output circuit 8 outputs the second voltage value V2 of the changing second power D2 as an electrical signal. (Event A07) An electrical signal indicating an abnormal operating state of battery pack 1 is input to the signal determination circuit 11 of device 10. (Event A08) The CPU 121 of the control unit 12 determines the type of abnormality in the operation state by using the abnormal signal of the digital operation state. (Activity A09) The CPU 121 of the control unit 12 controls the electronic equipment in the device 10. Then, when the second power D2 is input to the operation unit 13, the engine 131 of the operation unit 13 can be stopped. In addition, the abnormal type of the operation status can be displayed on the display (not shown) of the device 10 or the information processing device 20. [Finish]

[0062] like Figure 5 As shown, in the method of transmitting the presence or absence of an abnormality or the type of abnormality in the operating state of battery pack 1 to the connected target device 10, compared to the method of transmitting by superimposing an electrical signal into the power line supplying power from battery pack 1 to device 10, the compatibility between battery pack 1 and device 10 does not need to be considered. Since device 10 must separate the supplied power from the transmitted electrical signal in the method of transmitting by superimposing an electrical signal, impedance fiber design needs to be considered when designing the circuit of device 10. Furthermore, signal modulation circuits are required, and the circuit configuration of device 10 becomes complex and susceptible to external noise and other factors. Therefore, even battery packs of the same model may be incompatible with device 10, making it unsuitable for unspecified battery packs of various types.

[0063] As in this embodiment, in the method of transmitting the presence or absence of an abnormality or the type of abnormality in the operating state of the battery pack 1 to the connected target device 10 via the power supply line, there is no need to set up a separate communication-dedicated terminal, thereby simplifying the terminal structure. Therefore, the battery pack 1 can be miniaturized at a low cost. In addition, since the number of terminals is small, it is easier to make a waterproof and dustproof structure.

[0064] When battery pack 1 transmits information about the presence or type of operational abnormality to the connected target device 10, it does not output the first voltage value V1 that would cause operation unit 13 to operate. Therefore, operation unit 13 can stop before control unit 12 of device 10 detects an operational abnormality in battery pack 1.

[0065] 3. Other The present invention may also be provided through various embodiments described below.

[0066] (1) In addition to storing the time when the operating status of the battery pack 1 becomes abnormal and the type of abnormality, the historical record storage unit 35 can also store the model number of the battery pack 1 in the storage unit 4. As a result, the operating status of the battery pack 1 can be monitored in detail, which is beneficial for quality assurance. (2) The history storage unit 35 can further store the number of times the battery pack 1 and the device 10 have been connected in the storage unit 4. This is helpful for users of the battery pack 1 to predict when the aging battery pack 1 needs to be replaced. (3) The measuring device 92 of the measuring unit 9 can also be located outside the battery pack 1. By understanding the usage environment of the battery pack 1, the battery pack 1 can be used more safely. In addition, since the charging environment can be understood, the battery pack 1 can be charged more safely. (4) The device 10 may also include a storage unit. In this case, when the CPU 121 of the control unit 12 receives an electrical signal indicating an abnormal operating status of the battery pack 1, it can save the time of the abnormality and the operating status at the time of the abnormality as historical records in the storage unit. The stored data is helpful for the manufacturer, distributor or manager of the device 10 to analyze the quality of the device 10. (5) The voltage conversion circuit 7 can also control the second voltage value V2 according to the remaining amount of the secondary battery 21. The signal output circuit 8 ensures that the presence or absence of an abnormality in the operating state of the battery pack 1 or the type of abnormality is transmitted to the connected target device 10 even when the remaining amount of the secondary battery 21 decreases by changing the second voltage value V2 that causes the voltage value to decrease.

[0067] Furthermore, the present invention can also be provided through various embodiments described below. The battery pack also includes a judgment unit and a signal output circuit. The judgment unit is configured to determine the type of abnormality in the operating state, and the signal output circuit is configured to change the second voltage value of the second power supply based on the type of abnormality determined. The battery pack also includes a power measuring unit configured to measure the first power, and a judgment unit configured to determine the type of abnormality in the operating state based on the voltage or current value of the first power measured by the power measuring unit. The battery pack also includes a receiving unit configured to receive the output value of a measuring device, and a judgment unit configured to determine the type of abnormality in the operating state based on the output value received by the receiving unit. The battery pack also includes a history record storage unit. The judgment unit is configured to determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the operating state. The history record storage unit is configured to save the time of the judgment of the abnormality and the operating state at the time of the abnormality as a history record when the judgment unit determines that the abnormality has occurred. The battery pack also includes a secondary battery configured to supply power to the battery pack, and the signal output circuit is configured to change the second voltage value when the remaining charge of the secondary battery falls below a predetermined value. A system characterized in that it comprises a battery pack as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, and the device, wherein the battery pack and the device are configured to supply the first power and the second power to the device via a first connection terminal of the battery pack and a second connection terminal of the device, and the device is configured to operate based on the first power and be controlled based on the second power. In the system, the device further includes a control unit and an operation unit. The control unit identifies a change in a second voltage value of the second power and is configured to control the device using the second power based on the identified change. The operation unit is configured to be input with at least the first power and to operate using the input first power. In the system, the equipment is an industrial machinery product. A method for transmitting the operating status of a battery pack supplying power to a connected device is characterized by comprising a power output step, wherein in the power output step, a first power is output when the operating status of the battery pack is normal, and a second power is output when the operating status of the battery pack is abnormal, wherein the first power is power that enables the device to operate, and the second power is power of a magnitude that disables the device, thereby transmitting the operating status of the battery pack to the device. A program that enables a computer to function as a control unit for a power output circuit is characterized by the control unit controlling the power output circuit to output a first power when the operating status of the battery pack supplying power to the connected device is normal, and controlling the power output circuit to output a second power when the operating status of the battery pack is abnormal, wherein the first power is power that enables the device to operate, and the second power is power of a magnitude that disables the device. However, this is not the only possible method.

[0068] Finally, although various embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The present invention can also be implemented through various other embodiments, and any omissions, modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention. Related embodiments or variations should not only be included within the scope or spirit of the present invention, but also within the scope of the invention as described in the claims and their equivalents. [Simple Explanation of Symbols]

[0069] 1: Battery pack 2: Power Supply Section 21: Secondary battery 3: Battery protection circuit 30: Communication bus 31: Judgment Department 32: Ministry of Signals and Communications 33: Power Measurement Department 34: Receiving Department 35: Historical Records Preservation Department 36: Historical Records Communications Department 4: Storage Department 5: Ministry of Communications 6: Power output circuit 61: CFET 62: DFET 7: Voltage conversion circuit 8: Signal output circuit 81: Diode 82: FET 9: Measurement Department 91: Resistance 92: Measuring equipment 10: Equipment 11: Signal Determination Circuit 12: Control Department 121: CPU 13: Operations Department 131: Engine 20: Information processing device 100: System D1: First Electricity D2: Second Power T1: First connection terminal T11: First positive side connection terminal T12: First negative side connection terminal T2: Second connection terminal T21: Second positive side connection terminal T22: Second negative side connection terminal V1: First voltage value V2: Second voltage value V3: Third voltage value

Claims

1. A battery pack for supplying power to a connected target device, characterized in that: It has a power output circuit, a judgment unit, and a signal output circuit. The power output circuit is configured as follows: When the battery pack is operating normally, it outputs the first power. In the event of an abnormal operating state of the battery pack, a second power supply is output. The first power is the power used to operate the device. The second power is a power level used to disable the operating part of the device, and the second voltage value of the second power is smaller than the first voltage value of the first power. The judgment unit is configured to determine the occurrence of an abnormality in the operation state and the type of the abnormality. The signal output circuit is configured to, based on the type of the determined abnormality, vary the voltage value of the second power supply, which is equal to the magnitude of the voltage that would cause the operating unit of the device to malfunction, between the second voltage value and the third voltage value. By supplying the altered second power to the device, the operation unit is deactivated, and the operation status as abnormal and the type of the abnormality are transmitted to the device.

2. The battery pack as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The second voltage value is greater than 0.

3. The battery pack as described in claim 1, characterized in that: It also has an electrical testing department. The power measurement unit is configured to measure the first power. The determination unit is configured to determine the type of abnormality in the operating state based on the voltage or current value of the first power measured by the power measurement unit.

4. The battery pack as described in claim 1, characterized in that: It also has a receiving unit. The receiving unit is configured to receive the output value of the measuring device. The determination unit is configured to determine the type of abnormality in the operation state based on the output value received by the receiving unit.

5. The battery pack as described in claim 1, characterized in that: It also has a historical record preservation department. The judgment unit is configured to determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the operation state. The history record storage unit is configured to save the time of the determination of the abnormality and the operation state at the time of the abnormality as history records when the determination unit determines that the abnormality has occurred.

6. The battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: It also has a rechargeable battery. The secondary battery is configured to supply power to the battery pack. The signal output circuit is configured to change the second voltage value when the remaining charge of the secondary battery falls below a predetermined value.

7. A battery pack system, characterized in that: The device comprises a battery pack as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, and the device thereof, wherein the battery pack and the device are configured such that... The first power and the second power can be supplied to the device through the first connection terminal of the battery pack and the second connection terminal of the device. The device includes a control unit and an operation unit. The control unit is configured to identify fluctuations in the voltage value of the second power supply, and based on these fluctuations, to control the device using the second power supply. The operating unit is configured to operate by means of the first power input, and the magnitude of the second power is less than or equal to the power value required to operate the operating unit, so that no operation is performed when the second power input is received.

8. The battery pack system as described in claim 7, characterized in that: The equipment is an industrial machinery product.

9. A method for transmitting the operating status of a battery pack supplying power to a connected target device, characterized in that: It includes a power output step, a judgment step, and a signal output step. In the power output step, When the battery pack is operating normally, it outputs the first power. In the event of an abnormal operating state of the battery pack, a second power supply is output. The first power is the power that enables the device to operate. The second power is an amount of power that prevents the operating part of the device from operating, and the second voltage value of the second power is smaller than the first voltage value of the first power. In the judgment step, the occurrence of an abnormality in the operation state and the type of the abnormality are determined. In the signal output step, based on the type of the identified anomaly, the voltage value of the second power source, which is the magnitude of the power required to disable the operation of the device's operating unit, varies between the second voltage value and the third voltage value. By supplying the altered second power to the device, the operation unit is deactivated, and the operation status as abnormal and the type of the abnormality are transmitted to the device.

10. A program product that enables a computer to function as a judgment unit for determining the occurrence and type of an abnormality in the operating state of a battery pack, and a control unit for controlling a power output circuit and a signal output circuit, characterized in that: The control unit is configured such that, When the battery pack supplying power to the connected target device is operating normally, the power output circuit is controlled to output the first power. In the event of an abnormal operating state of the battery pack, the power output circuit is controlled to output a second power source, the first power source being the power required to operate the device. The second power is an amount of power that prevents the operating part of the device from operating, and the second voltage value of the second power is smaller than the first voltage value of the first power. The control unit controls the signal output circuit to, based on the type of abnormality determined by the judgment unit, vary the voltage value of the second power supply, which is the amount that would prevent the operation unit of the device from operating, between the second voltage value and the third voltage value. By supplying the altered second power to the device, the operation unit is deactivated, and the operation status as abnormal and the type of the abnormality are transmitted to the device.

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