Method for adjusting rated voltage, device for adjusting rated voltage, and power storage device

Abstract

The present application is to determine the rated voltage of a first power storage device in a power storage system that is capable of mounting a first power storage device and a second power storage device connected in parallel, and has at least one of (A) a discharging standby step and (B) a charging standby step. The present application is to determine the size relation of the rated voltage of a power storage device and the rated voltage of another power storage device among the first power storage device and the second power storage device determined to make at least one of (i) the accumulated time, (ii) the accumulated electric quantity, and (iii) the accumulated number of times larger. The present application determines the rated voltage of the first power storage device in a manner to satisfy the size relation determined at the size relation determination stage.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a rated voltage adjustment method, a rated voltage adjustment device, and an energy storage device. Background Technology

[0002] In an energy storage system with multiple energy storage modules, these modules are sometimes connected in parallel (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 2 discloses an energy storage system with hot-swappable energy storage modules.

[0003] [Background Technical Documents]

[0004] [Patent Literature]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-98708

[0006] [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2017 / 086349 Summary of the Invention

[0007] [The problem the invention aims to solve]

[0008] Different types of rechargeable batteries will have different output voltages and charging conditions. Therefore, it is difficult to fully utilize the capacity of two energy storage modules with different types of rechargeable batteries when connected in parallel.

[0009] [Problem-solving methods]

[0010] In a first aspect of the invention, a method for determining the rated voltage of an energy storage device is provided. The method, for example, is a method for determining the rated voltage of a first energy storage device in an energy storage system in which a first energy storage device and a second energy storage device can be installed in parallel. In the method, the energy storage system includes, for example, at least one of the following steps: (A) a discharge standby step, preparing for the next discharge step after a discharge step, and standing still in a state where the voltage of at least one of the first and second energy storage devices is equal to or greater than a predetermined first threshold; and (B) a charging standby step, preparing for the next charging step after a charging step, and standing still in a state where the voltage of at least one of the first and second energy storage devices is equal to or less than a predetermined second threshold. In the method, for example (1) the type of the first energy storage device is different from that of the second energy storage device; or (2) the number of multiple batteries connected in series in the first energy storage device is different from the number of multiple batteries connected in series in the second energy storage device.

[0011] The method, for example, includes a primary device determination stage that determines whether to increase at least one of the following values ​​for either the first or second energy storage device: (i) the cumulative value of at least one of the discharge and charging times within a predetermined period, i.e., cumulative time; (ii) the cumulative value of at least one of the discharge and charging amounts within a predetermined period, i.e., cumulative charge; and (iii) the cumulative value of at least one of the discharge and charging times within a predetermined period, i.e., cumulative count. The method, for example, includes a magnitude relationship determination stage that determines the magnitude relationship between the rated voltage of the first or second energy storage device, which was determined in the primary device determination stage to increase at least one of (i) cumulative time, (ii) cumulative charge, and (iii) cumulative count, and the rated voltage of the other energy storage device. The method, for example, includes a rated voltage determination stage that determines the rated voltage of the first energy storage device in a manner that satisfies the magnitude relationship determined in the magnitude relationship determination stage.

[0012] In the method, the size relationship determination stage includes, for example,: (a) a first size relationship determination stage, in the case that the energy storage system has a discharge standby step, determining that the rated voltage of the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device, which has been determined in the main device determination stage to increase at least one of (i) accumulation time, (ii) accumulation capacity, and (iii) accumulation count, is greater than the rated voltage of the other energy storage device. In the method, the size relationship determination stage includes, for example,: (b) a second size relationship determination stage, in the case that the energy storage system has a charging standby step, determining that the rated voltage of the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device, which has been determined in the main device determination stage to increase at least one of (i) accumulation time, (ii) accumulation capacity, and (iii) accumulation count, is smaller than the rated voltage of the other energy storage device.

[0013] In the method, the rated voltage determination stage may include a stage in which the rated voltage of the first energy storage device is determined in such a way that, in the first size relationship determination stage, it has been determined that the rated voltage of the first energy storage device is greater than the rated voltage of the second energy storage device, and the rated voltage of the first energy storage device is equal to or less than the first threshold. In the method, the rated voltage determination stage may also include a stage in which the rated voltage of the first energy storage device is determined in such a way that, in the second size relationship determination stage, it has been determined that the rated voltage of the first energy storage device is less than the rated voltage of the second energy storage device, and the rated voltage of the first energy storage device is equal to or greater than the second threshold.

[0014] In the method, the first energy storage device may include a first positive terminal, a first negative terminal, and a plurality of first batteries connected in series. The first energy storage device may include an adjustment device that adjusts the number of batteries electrically connected to the first positive and first negative terminals. In the method, the rated voltage determination stage may include a stage of determining the rated voltage of the first energy storage device based on the number of batteries that the adjustment device can adjust. The method may have a control signal output stage, which outputs a signal to control the operation of the adjustment device based on the rated voltage of the first energy storage device determined in the rated voltage determination stage. In the method, the adjustment device may include one or more single-pole multi-throw switches.

[0015] In the method, the first energy storage device may be detachably configured relative to the energy storage system. The method may be executed by a computer. The computer may be the computer of the energy storage system. The computer may be the computer of the first energy storage device.

[0016] In a second aspect of the invention, a rated voltage adjusting device is provided for adjusting the rated voltage of an energy storage device. The rated voltage adjusting device, for example, controls an energy storage system or a first energy storage device capable of housing a first energy storage device and a second energy storage device connected in parallel, and adjusts the rated voltage of the first energy storage device. In the rated voltage adjusting device, the energy storage system, for example, includes at least one of the following steps: (A) a discharge standby step, preparing for the next discharge step after performing a discharge step, and standing still when the voltage of at least one of the first and second energy storage devices is equal to or greater than a predetermined first threshold; and (B) a charging standby step, preparing for the next charging step after performing a charging step, and standing still when the voltage of at least one of the first and second energy storage devices is equal to or less than a predetermined second threshold. In the rated voltage adjusting device, the first energy storage device is, for example, detachably configured relative to the energy storage system. In the rated voltage adjustment device, for example (1) the type of the first energy storage device is different from that of the second energy storage device; or (2) the number of multiple batteries connected in series in the first energy storage device is different from the number of multiple batteries connected in series in the second energy storage device.

[0017] The rated voltage adjustment device, for example, includes a main device determination unit that determines whether to increase at least one of the following values ​​of either the first or second energy storage device: (i) the cumulative value of at least one of the discharge time and charging time within a predetermined period, i.e., cumulative time; (ii) the cumulative value of at least one of the discharge amount and charging amount within a predetermined period, i.e., cumulative charge; and (iii) the cumulative value of at least one of the discharge number and charging number within a predetermined period, i.e., cumulative number. The rated voltage adjustment device, for example, includes a magnitude relationship determination unit that determines the magnitude relationship between the rated voltage of the first or second energy storage device, which has been determined by the main device determination unit to increase at least one of (i) the cumulative time, (ii) the cumulative charge, and (iii) the cumulative number, and the rated voltage of the other energy storage device. The rated voltage adjustment device, for example, includes a rated voltage determination unit that determines the rated voltage of the first energy storage device in a manner that satisfies the magnitude relationship determined by the magnitude relationship determination unit.

[0018] In the rated voltage adjustment device, the size relationship determination unit includes, for example,: (a) a first size relationship determination unit, which, when the energy storage system has a discharge standby step, determines that the rated voltage of the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device, for which at least one of (i) accumulation time, (ii) accumulation capacity, and (iii) accumulation count has been increased as determined by the main device determination unit, is greater than the rated voltage of the other energy storage device. In the rated voltage adjustment device, the size relationship determination unit also includes, for example,: (b) a second size relationship determination unit, which, when the energy storage system has a charging standby step, determines that the rated voltage of the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device, for which at least one of (i) accumulation time, (ii) accumulation capacity, and (iii) accumulation count has been increased as determined by the main device determination unit, is less than the rated voltage of the other energy storage device.

[0019] In the rated voltage adjustment device, the first energy storage device may include a first positive terminal, a first negative terminal, and a plurality of first batteries connected in series. The first energy storage device may include an adjustment device that adjusts the number of batteries electrically connected to the first positive and first negative terminals. In the rated voltage adjustment device, a rated voltage determining unit determines the rated voltage of the first energy storage device based on the number of batteries that the adjusting unit can adjust. The rated voltage adjustment device may include a control signal output unit that outputs a signal to control the operation of the adjusting unit based on the rated voltage of the first energy storage device determined by the rated voltage determining unit. The rated voltage adjustment device may be disposed within the energy storage system or the first energy storage device.

[0020] A third aspect of the invention provides an energy storage device. The energy storage device includes, for example, a first positive terminal, a first negative terminal, and a plurality of first batteries connected in series. The energy storage device also includes, for example, an adjustment device that adjusts the number of batteries electrically connected to the first positive and first negative terminals among the plurality of first batteries.

[0021] The energy storage device may include the rated voltage adjustment device of the second aspect. The energy storage device may include a control device that controls the current flowing between a battery electrically connected to a first positive terminal and a first negative terminal among a plurality of first batteries, and wiring electrically connected to other energy storage devices. The control device may have a control section that controls a switching assembly in such a way that: (i) the switching assembly electrically connects the wiring and the battery when the voltage between the terminals of the switching assembly disposed between the wiring and the battery meets a predetermined condition; and (ii) the switching assembly electrically disconnects the wiring and the battery when the voltage between the terminals of the switching assembly does not meet the predetermined condition. The energy storage device may include a housing that supports or accommodates a plurality of first batteries, and at least one of the adjustment device, the control device, and the switching assembly.

[0022] Furthermore, the summary of the invention does not list all the essential features of the invention. Moreover, sub-combinations of these feature groups can also constitute an invention. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 An example of the system configuration of the energy storage system 100 is shown in general.

[0024] Figure 2 An example of the system configuration of the energy storage module 110 is shown in general.

[0025] Figure 3 An example of the system configuration of the module control unit 240 is shown in general.

[0026] Figure 4 An example of the system configuration of the system control unit 140 is shown in general.

[0027] Figure 5 An example of the circuit configuration of the energy storage module 110 is shown in general.

[0028] Figure 6 An example of the system configuration of the switching unit 630 is shown in general.

[0029] Figure 7 An example of the system configuration of the energy storage module 710 is shown in general.

[0030] Figure 8 An example of the system configuration of the switching unit 730 is shown in general.

[0031] Figure 9 Here is a simplified example of the system configuration of the energy storage system 900.

[0032] Figure 10 An example of the system configuration of the energy storage module 1010 is shown in general.

[0033] Figure 11 Here is a simplified example of the system configuration of the module control unit 1040.

[0034] Figure 12 Here is a simplified example of the circuit configuration of the module control unit 1040.

[0035] Figure 13 Here is a simplified example of the circuit configuration of the module control unit 1040.

[0036] Figure 14 An example of the system configuration of the energy storage module 1410 is shown in general.

[0037] Figure 15 An example of a system configuration that roughly represents the circuitry of the voltage regulation unit 1430.

[0038] Figure 16 A simplified example of the voltage regulation unit 1430 is shown.

[0039] Figure 17 An example of the system configuration of the energy storage module 1710 is shown in general.

[0040] Figure 18 An example that roughly represents the discharge standby steps of the energy storage system 100.

[0041] Figure 19 An example that roughly illustrates the charging and discharging characteristics of a battery storage module.

[0042] Figure 20 An example that roughly represents the variation in the discharge current value of the energy storage module.

[0043] Figure 21 An example that roughly illustrates the charging and discharging characteristics of a battery storage module.

[0044] Figure 22 An example that roughly represents the variation in the discharge current value of the energy storage module.

[0045] Figure 23 This is a rough example of a method for determining the rated voltage of an energy storage module.

[0046] Figure 24An example that roughly illustrates the charging standby steps of the energy storage system 100.

[0047] Figure 25 An example that roughly represents the variation in the charging current value of the energy storage module.

[0048] Figure 26 An example that roughly represents the variation in the charging current value of the energy storage module.

[0049] Figure 27 An example that roughly illustrates the internal structure of the energy storage unit 2710.

[0050] Figure 28 Another example of a module control unit 240 is shown in a simplified manner.

[0051] Figure 29 Another example of a simplified representation of the system control unit 140. Detailed Implementation

[0052] The present invention will now be described through embodiments thereof, but these embodiments do not limit the invention as defined in the claims. The combinations of features described in the embodiments are not necessarily all necessary for the solution of the invention. Furthermore, the embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, in the description of the drawings, sometimes the same or similar parts are labeled with the same reference numerals and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0053] Figure 1 Here is a simplified example of the system configuration of the energy storage system 100. In one embodiment, the energy storage system 100 is electrically connected to the load device 12 and supplies power to the load device 12 (sometimes referred to as discharging the energy storage system 100). In another embodiment, the energy storage system 100 is electrically connected to the charging device 14 and stores electrical energy (sometimes referred to as charging the energy storage system). The energy storage system 100 can be used, for example, in energy storage devices, electrical machinery, conveying devices, etc. Examples of conveying devices include electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, electric two-wheelers, railway vehicles, airplanes, elevators, cranes, etc.

[0054] In this embodiment, the energy storage system 100 includes: a connection terminal 102; a connection terminal 104; a wiring 106 electrically connecting the connection terminals 102 and 104; an energy storage module 110 having a positive terminal 112 and a negative terminal 114; an energy storage module 120 having a positive terminal 122 and a negative terminal 124; and a system control unit 140. The energy storage modules 110 and 120 may also be examples of energy storage devices configured to be connected in parallel. For example, the energy storage module 110 may be an example of an energy storage device, and the energy storage module 120 may be an example of another type of energy storage device. The energy storage device may also be an example of a power supply device. The system control unit 140 may also be an example of a battery characteristic acquisition unit. The system control unit 140 may also be an example of an output unit.

[0055] The energy storage system 100 is electrically connected to the load device 12 or the charging device 14 via connection terminals 102 and 104. In this embodiment, energy storage modules 110 and 120 are connected in parallel using wiring 106. Furthermore, energy storage modules 110 and 120 are each detachably held in the housing of the energy storage system 100. This allows for individual replacement of each of the energy storage modules 110 and 120.

[0056] In this embodiment, the energy storage modules 110 and 120 can switch the connection relationship between the energy storage section of each energy storage module and the wiring 106 based on control signals from the system control unit 140 or user operations. For example, the energy storage modules 110 and 120 can electrically connect the energy storage section of each energy storage module to the wiring 106 or electrically disconnect the energy storage section of each energy storage module from the wiring 106 based on control signals from the system control unit 140 or user operations.

[0057] Therefore, even if the voltage of a newly installed energy storage module in the energy storage system 100 differs from the voltage of an existing energy storage module in the energy storage system 100, there is no need to worry about damage or deterioration of the energy storage module, and each of the multiple energy storage modules included in the energy storage system 100 can be replaced individually. The reasons are as follows.

[0058] With the performance improvements of lithium-ion batteries in recent years, their impedance has decreased to around 10mΩ. Therefore, for example, even when the voltage difference between two battery modules is only 0.4V, a large current of 40A will flow from the module with the higher voltage to the module with the lower voltage when they are connected in parallel. As a result, the battery modules may deteriorate or break down. Furthermore, the voltage of a battery module can be the voltage between its positive and negative terminals (sometimes referred to as the inter-terminal voltage).

[0059] To prevent degradation or damage to the battery modules during replacement, when individually replacing one of multiple parallel-connected battery modules, time should be allocated beforehand to adjust the voltage between the newly installed and existing modules until the voltage difference is minimal. Minimizing this voltage difference prevents large currents from flowing to the individual modules during replacement, thus suppressing degradation or damage. However, as the impedance of lithium-ion batteries decreases, the permissible voltage difference between the newly installed and existing modules may also decrease, and the adjustment time may become very long.

[0060] In response to the aforementioned situation, according to the energy storage system 100 of this embodiment, energy storage modules 110 and 120 can switch the connection relationship between the energy storage section of each energy storage module and the wiring 106 based on control signals from the system control unit 140 and user operations, respectively. Furthermore, energy storage module 110 can be replaced, for example, by following these steps.

[0061] First, the user removes the old energy storage module 110 from the energy storage system 100. Next, before installing the new energy storage module 110 into the energy storage system 100, the user performs an operation to electrically disconnect the energy storage section of the new energy storage module 110 from the wiring 106. For example, the user manually operates the switch assembly located between the positive terminal 112 and the energy storage section of the energy storage module 110 to electrically disconnect the positive terminal 112 from the energy storage section.

[0062] Next, the user installs the energy storage module 110, with the positive terminal 112 electrically disconnected from the energy storage unit, into the energy storage system 100. At this time, since the positive terminal 112 is electrically disconnected from the energy storage unit, no current flows between the energy storage modules 110 and 120, even if the voltage difference between them is relatively large. Then, when the voltage difference between the energy storage modules 110 and 120 reaches an appropriate value, the system control unit 140 performs an operation to electrically connect the energy storage module 110 to the wiring 106. Further details regarding the system control unit 140 will be described below.

[0063] As described above, according to the energy storage system 100 of this embodiment, when replacing or installing energy storage modules, it is not necessary to strictly adjust the voltage of the newly installed energy storage module and the voltage of the existing energy storage module in the energy storage system 100. Therefore, energy storage modules can be easily and quickly replaced or installed.

[0064] The system control unit 140 controls each part of the energy storage system 100. In one embodiment, the system control unit 140 determines the state of the energy storage system 100. Examples of the state of the energy storage system 100 include charging state, discharging state, standby state, or stopped state.

[0065] For example, the system control unit 140 receives information about charging and discharging events and determines the state of the energy storage system 100 based on the information about the charging and discharging events. Examples of information about charging and discharging events include: (i) charging or discharging requests from external devices such as the load device 12 and the charging device 14; (ii) information indicating that an external device is connected; (iii) information indicating the type of external device; (iv) information indicating the operation of the external device; (v) information indicating the state of the external device; (vi) information indicating the user's instructions or operations on the external device; (vii) information indicating the user's instructions or operations on the energy storage system 100; and (viii) combinations thereof.

[0066] For example, the system control unit 140 determines that the energy storage system 100 is in a discharging state when it detects the connection of the load device 12 or when it receives information indicating the type of the load device 12. The system control unit 140 may also determine that the energy storage system 100 is in a discharging state when it receives a signal indicating power consumption from the load device 12. Examples of signals indicating power consumption include: a signal indicating that the power supply to the load device 12 is turned on; a signal indicating that the power supply to the load device 12 is already turned on; a signal indicating that the load device 12 has been switched to an operating mode; and a signal indicating that the load device 12 has been switched to an operating mode.

[0067] The system control unit 140 can determine that the energy storage system 100 is in a charging state when it detects the connection of the charging device 14 or when it receives a signal indicating the type of the charging device 14. The system control unit 140 can also determine that the energy storage system 100 is in a charging state when it receives a signal indicating that charging has started from the charging device 14. The system control unit 140 also determines that the energy storage system 100 is in a charging state when it receives a signal from the load device 12 indicating that regenerative current is being generated or that regenerative current may be generated.

[0068] In another embodiment, the system control unit 140 monitors the respective states of the energy storage modules 110 and 120. The system control unit 140 can collect information regarding the battery characteristics of the energy storage units included in the energy storage modules 110 and 120. This information regarding the battery characteristics of the energy storage units may be at least one selected from the following: the voltage value of the energy storage unit, the current flowing through the energy storage unit, the battery capacity of the energy storage unit, the temperature of the energy storage unit, the degradation state of the energy storage unit, and the SOC (State of Charge) of the energy storage unit.

[0069] Information regarding the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit (sometimes referred to as the battery characteristics of the energy storage module; the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit may be the battery characteristics of a single cell among the multiple individual cells constituting the energy storage module, or the battery characteristics of the combination of the multiple individual cells) may also include at least one of the following: information regarding the specifications of the energy storage unit and information regarding the degradation state of the energy storage unit. Examples of specifications for the energy storage unit may include the type or form of the energy storage unit, the connection status of the energy storage unit, the types of charging methods that can charge the energy storage unit, the types of charging methods that cannot charge the energy storage unit, rated battery capacity (sometimes referred to as rated capacity), rated voltage, rated current, energy density, maximum charge / discharge current, charging characteristics, charging temperature characteristics, discharging characteristics, discharging temperature characteristics, self-discharge characteristics, charge / discharge cycle characteristics, equivalent series resistance in the initial state, battery capacity in the initial state, SOC [%] in the initial state, and energy storage voltage [V]. Examples of charging methods may include CCCV (constant current constant voltage) method, CC (constant current) method, trickle charging method, etc.

[0070] As for the connection state of the energy storage unit, examples can be given of the type of cell that constitutes the energy storage unit, the number of such cells, and the connection method of the cells. As for the connection method of the cells, examples can be given of the number of cells connected in series, the number of cells connected in parallel, etc. Energy density can be expressed as volumetric energy density [Wh / m³]. 3 It can also be expressed as weight energy density [Wh / kg].

[0071] Information regarding the degradation state of the energy storage unit can include information about the energy storage unit at any point in time, and can include information such as (i) battery capacity in a fully charged state, (ii) SOC under a predetermined temperature condition, (iii) SOH (State of Health), (iv) equivalent series resistance (DCR, sometimes also called internal resistance), and (v) accumulated usage time, number of charges, charge amount, discharge amount, number of charge-discharge cycles, temperature stress factor, and overcurrent stress factor from the initial state or a predetermined time point. Information regarding the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit can also be stored by correspondingly storing information about the degradation state of the energy storage unit and information about the time at which such information was obtained. Information about the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit can also store information about the degradation state of the energy storage unit at multiple points in time.

[0072] SOH [%] can be expressed as, for example, the fully charged capacity under deterioration (e.g., the current fully charged capacity) [Ah] ÷ the initial fully charged capacity [Ah] × 100. There are no particular limitations on the method for calculating or estimating SOH. For example, the SOH of a battery can be calculated or estimated based on at least one of the DC resistance value and the no-load voltage value of that battery. SOH can also be a value obtained by converting it to a value under a predetermined temperature condition using any conversion formula.

[0073] There is no particular limitation on the method for determining the degradation state of the battery storage unit; any currently known or future determination method can be used. Generally speaking, as the battery storage unit deteriorates, the usable battery capacity decreases, and the equivalent series resistance increases. Therefore, for example, the battery degradation state can be determined by comparing the current battery capacity, state of charge (SOC), or equivalent series resistance with the battery capacity, SOC, or equivalent series resistance in the initial state.

[0074] SOC [%] is expressed, for example, as remaining capacity [Ah] ÷ fully charged capacity [Ah] × 100. There are no particular limitations on the method for calculating or estimating SOC. SOC can be calculated or estimated, for example, based on at least one of the following: (i) the measured voltage of the battery compartment, (ii) the IV characteristic data of the battery compartment voltage, and (iii) the cumulative value of the battery compartment current. SOC can also be a value obtained by converting it to a value under a predetermined temperature condition using any conversion formula.

[0075] Information about the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit may also include information about at least one of the charging and discharging times of the energy storage unit. The charging and discharging times of the energy storage unit may also be the charging and discharging times of the energy storage module containing the energy storage unit. Generally, as the energy storage unit deteriorates, the usable battery capacity decreases, and at least one of the charging and discharging times becomes shorter.

[0076] Information regarding the charging time of the energy storage unit may also include information indicating the ratio of the charging time of the energy storage unit to the charging time of the energy storage system 100. The information regarding the charging time of the energy storage unit may also include information indicating the charging time of the energy storage system 100 and information indicating the charging time of the energy storage unit. The charging time may be (i) the time during which current or voltage is applied to the energy storage system 100 or the energy storage unit in a single charging operation, or (ii) the sum of the times during which current or voltage is applied to the energy storage system 100 or the energy storage unit in one or more charging operations within a predetermined period.

[0077] Information regarding the charging time of the energy storage unit may also include information indicating the ratio of the number of times the energy storage unit is charged during that period to the number of times the energy storage system 100 is charged during a predetermined period. Information regarding the charging time of the energy storage unit may also include information indicating the number of times the energy storage system 100 is charged during a predetermined period, and information indicating the number of times the energy storage unit is charged during that period.

[0078] Information regarding the discharge time of the energy storage unit may also include information indicating the ratio of the discharge time of the energy storage unit to the discharge time of the energy storage system 100. The information regarding the discharge time of the energy storage unit may also include the discharge time of the energy storage system 100 and the discharge time of the energy storage unit. The discharge time may be (i) the time during which the energy storage system 100 or the energy storage unit supplies current or voltage in a single discharge operation, or (ii) the sum of the times during which the energy storage system 100 or the energy storage unit supplies current or voltage in one or more discharge operations within a predetermined period.

[0079] Information regarding the discharge time of the energy storage unit may also include information about the ratio of the number of discharges of the energy storage unit during that period to the number of discharges of the energy storage system 100 during a predetermined period. Information regarding the discharge time of the energy storage unit may also include the number of discharges of the energy storage system 100 during a predetermined period, and the number of discharges of the energy storage unit during that period.

[0080] The system control unit 140 can send at least one of the following information to an external machine: information about the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit included in the energy storage module 110, and information about the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit included in the energy storage module 120. Thus, the external machine can utilize the information about the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit. Examples of external machines include the load device 12 and the charging device 14. The external machine can also be an output device that outputs information to a user. Examples of output devices include display devices such as monitors, or sound output devices such as microphones. An example of an output device is an output unit.

[0081] The system control unit 140 can determine the performance of the energy storage module based on information about its battery characteristics. The system control unit 140 can also output information indicating insufficient performance of the energy storage module if its battery characteristics do not meet predetermined determination conditions. The system control unit 140 can also determine the determination conditions based on the intended use of the energy storage system 100.

[0082] In this embodiment, the system control unit 140 is described as collecting at least one information regarding the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit included in the energy storage module 110 and the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit included in the energy storage module 120, and transmitting the collected information to an external machine. However, the energy storage system 100 is not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, the energy storage module 110 and the energy storage module 120 may also collect information regarding the battery characteristics of the energy storage units included in each energy storage module and transmit the collected information to an external machine.

[0083] In this embodiment, the system control unit 140 determines the order in which the energy storage sections of each energy storage module are electrically connected to the wiring 106 based on the voltage of the energy storage section of each energy storage module. For example, when the operation of the energy storage system 100 begins, if the state of the energy storage system 100 starts from the charging state, the system control unit 140 electrically connects the energy storage section of the energy storage module with the lower voltage to the wiring 106. On the other hand, when the operation of the energy storage system 100 begins, if the state of the energy storage system 100 starts from the discharging state, the system control unit 140 electrically connects the energy storage section of the energy storage module with the higher voltage to the wiring 106. Alternatively, the system control unit 140 may also determine the order in which the energy storage sections of each energy storage module are electrically connected to the wiring 106 based on the inter-terminal voltage of each energy storage module.

[0084] In one embodiment, the system control unit 140 may also send signals for connecting the energy storage unit to the wiring 106 in a predetermined order to each energy storage module. In another embodiment, the system control unit 140 may also select the energy storage module with the lowest voltage or SOC, or the energy storage module with the highest voltage or SOC, and send the signal for connecting the energy storage unit to the wiring 106 only to the selected energy storage module.

[0085] The system control unit 140 can be implemented using hardware or software. Alternatively, it can be implemented using a combination of hardware and software. In one embodiment, the system control unit 140 can be implemented using analog circuits, digital circuits, or a combination of analog and digital circuits. In another embodiment, the system control unit 140 can be implemented by executing programs for controlling the various parts of the system control unit 140 within a general information processing device equipped with a data processing device such as a CPU, ROM, RAM, and a communication interface.

[0086] The program installed on the computer to enable the computer to function as part of the system control unit 140 of this embodiment may include modules that define the operation of each part of the system control unit 140. These programs or modules operate on the CPU or the like, enabling the computer to function as each part of the system control unit 140.

[0087] The information processing described in these programs is read into the computer and functions as a specific means of coordinated operation between the software and the various hardware resources. Through these specific means, the computation or processing of information corresponding to the intended use of the computer in this embodiment is achieved, thereby enabling the construction of a device specific to that intended use. The programs may be stored on computer-readable media or on a network-connected storage device.

[0088] Furthermore, the term "electrical connection" is not limited to a direct connection between a specific element and other elements. A third element may also be interposed between a specific element and other elements. Moreover, the connection between a specific element and other elements is not limited to a physical connection. For example, the input and output windings of a transformer may not be physically connected, but they are electrically connected. Furthermore, it includes not only cases where a specific element and other elements are physically electrically connected, but also cases where a specific element and other elements are electrically connected when the battery and the balancing unit are electrically connected. Additionally, "series connection" means that a specific element and other elements are electrically connected in series, and "parallel connection" means that a specific element and other elements are electrically connected in parallel.

[0089] In this embodiment, the case where the energy storage system 100 has two energy storage modules connected in parallel has been described. However, the energy storage system 100 is not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, the energy storage system 100 may also have three or more energy storage modules connected in parallel.

[0090] In this embodiment, the user performs the operation of electrically connecting the energy storage section of the new energy storage module 110 to the wiring 106 before installing the energy storage module 110 into the energy storage system 100. However, the method of installing or replacing the energy storage module 110 is not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, the user may operate the input section (not shown) of the energy storage system 100 to input an instruction to start the replacement operation of the energy storage module 110. Examples of input sections include keyboards, pointing devices, touch panels, microphones, voice recognition systems, gesture input systems, etc.

[0091] When the system control unit 140 receives an instruction to begin replacing the energy storage module 110, it can also electrically disconnect the energy storage section of the energy storage module (energy storage module 120 in this embodiment) connected in parallel with the energy storage module 110 and the wiring 106. At this time, the system control unit 140 can also electrically disconnect the energy storage section of the energy storage module 110 and the wiring 106. For example, the system control unit 140 sends a signal to the switching assembly configured between the positive terminal and the energy storage section of each energy storage module to disconnect it.

[0092] When the system control unit 140 detects that the old energy storage module 110 has been removed and a new energy storage module 110 has been installed, it obtains the voltage of the energy storage section of each energy storage module. With the energy storage section of the new energy storage module 110 and the wiring 106 electrically connected, the system control unit 140, for example, uses only the energy storage module 110 to operate the energy storage system 100 until the voltage difference between the energy storage module 110 and the energy storage module 120 reaches an appropriate value. Then, when the voltage difference between the energy storage module 110 and the energy storage module 120 reaches an appropriate value, the system control unit 140 performs the operation of electrically connecting the energy storage module 120 and the wiring 106.

[0093] On the other hand, when the energy storage section of the new energy storage module 110 is not electrically connected to the wiring 106, the system control unit 140 determines the order in which the energy storage sections of each energy storage module are electrically connected to the wiring 106 based on the voltage of the energy storage section of each energy storage module. Then, the system control unit 140 connects the energy storage sections of each energy storage module to the wiring 106 in the determined order. Alternatively, when the energy storage section of the new energy storage module 110 is already electrically connected to the wiring 106, the system control unit 140 may first electrically disconnect the energy storage section of the new energy storage module 110 from the wiring 106. Then, it may determine the order in which the energy storage sections of each energy storage module are electrically connected to the wiring 106 based on the voltage of the energy storage section of each energy storage module, and connect the energy storage sections of each energy storage module to the wiring 106 in the determined order.

[0094] [Application Example of Energy Storage System 100]

[0095] As described above, according to the energy storage system 100 of this embodiment, the voltage difference between the two energy storage modules does not need to be considered, and at least one of the energy storage modules 110 and 120 connected in parallel to the load device 12 or the charging device 14 can be installed or replaced at any time. Here, the voltage difference between the energy storage modules 110 and 120 can be generated not only by the difference in the charging or discharging states of the two energy storage modules, but also by the difference in the battery characteristics of the two energy storage modules. The battery characteristics of the energy storage modules can also be the same as the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit. The battery characteristics of the energy storage modules can also be at least one of the characteristics exemplified as the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit.

[0096] Therefore, according to the energy storage system 100 of this embodiment, even when the battery characteristics of energy storage module 110 and energy storage module 120 are different, it can still prevent the deterioration or damage of energy storage module 110 or energy storage module 120, and connect energy storage module 110 and energy storage module 120 in parallel to load device 12 or charging device 14. Furthermore, in the energy storage system 100 of this embodiment, the battery characteristics of energy storage module 110 and energy storage module 120 may be the same or different. When energy storage module 110 and energy storage module 120 include secondary batteries, the battery characteristics of the secondary battery constituting the energy storage section of energy storage module 110 and the secondary battery constituting the energy storage section of energy storage module 120 may be the same or different.

[0097] Furthermore, a power supply system capable of connecting multiple power supply modules with different battery characteristics in parallel can be constructed using the same configuration as the energy storage system 100. This allows for the suppression of deterioration or damage to each power supply module and enables the installation or replacement of each power supply module at any time. The use of the same configuration as the energy storage system 100 is particularly useful when the power supply system is electrically connected to an external charging device or load device via two terminals.

[0098] The power supply module can be an example of a power supply device that supplies power to other machines. Energy storage module 110 and energy storage module 120 can be examples of power supply modules. The energy storage system 100 can be an example of a power supply system configured to connect multiple power supply devices in parallel. The energy storage unit and secondary battery can be an example of a power supply unit that serves as a power source for the power supply devices.

[0099] The battery characteristics of a power supply device vary primarily due to factors such as (i) the degradation state of the power supply unit, (ii) the type of power supply unit, and (iii) the capacity and state of charge (SOC). According to one embodiment, a power supply system is provided that can connect multiple power supply devices with different degradation states in parallel. Details of the power supply system will be described below. According to this embodiment, for example, the power supply system can be constructed using secondary products (sometimes also called used products, reused products, etc.) of the power supply modules.

[0100] According to another embodiment, a power supply system is provided that can connect multiple power supply devices of different types in parallel. Therefore, compared to constructing a power supply system by combining a single type of power supply device, a power supply system with at least one superior feature can be constructed, including lifespan, reliability, charging performance, discharging performance, energy efficiency, temperature characteristics, and economy. Details of the power supply system will be described below.

[0101] In the energy storage system 100 of this embodiment, the cases where the plurality of power supply modules constituting the energy storage system 100 are energy storage modules 110 and 120 have been described. However, the plurality of power supply modules constituting the energy storage system 100 are not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, at least one of the plurality of power supply modules may include a primary battery or a fuel cell. In another embodiment, at least one of the plurality of power supply modules may also include a primary battery or a fuel cell, and at least one of the plurality of power supply modules may also include a secondary battery. An energy storage unit, a primary battery, and a fuel cell may also be examples of a power supply unit.

[0102] In these cases, the power supply module, which includes a primary battery or fuel cell, can switch the connection between its primary battery or fuel cell and wiring 106 based on control signals from the system control unit 140 or user operation, using the same configuration as the energy storage module 110 and 120. For example, when the power supply module receives a signal from the system control unit 140 indicating that a discharge operation has been detected, it electrically connects its primary battery or fuel cell and wiring 106. Conversely, when the power supply module receives a signal from the system control unit 140 indicating that a charging operation has been detected, it disconnects the electrical connection between its primary battery or fuel cell and wiring 106. This prevents damage or deterioration of the primary battery or fuel cell.

[0103] [First Application Example of Energy Storage System 100]

[0104] In one embodiment, the energy storage system 100 includes multiple power supply devices. These multiple power supply devices may include two power supply devices with different deterioration states. The multiple power supply devices may be connected in parallel to the load device 12 or the charging device 14. The energy storage system 100 can be electrically connected to the load device 12 or the charging device 14 via two terminals. At least one of the multiple power supply devices is detachably held in the frame of the energy storage system 100. This allows for individual replacement of each power supply device. The energy storage system 100 may include at least one energy storage module.

[0105] As power supply devices with different deterioration states, examples can be given of power supply devices with different usage histories. For example, the energy storage system 100 has a power supply device as a new product and a power supply device as a secondary utilization product. The energy storage system 100 may also have multiple secondary utilization products with different usage histories.

[0106] In recent years, the demand for batteries has increased rapidly in various applications, including (i) power sources for electric vehicles and PHEVs (plug-in hybrid electric vehicles), (ii) renewable energy output stabilization devices, (iii) energy storage devices for smart grids, (iv) energy storage devices for storing electricity during periods of low electricity prices, and (v) energy storage devices specifically designed for temporary high-current needs, such as charging stations. Furthermore, the number of batteries entering their replacement phase is also constantly increasing.

[0107] Here, the required performance of a battery varies depending on its intended use. Therefore, even if a battery used for a specific application deteriorates and can no longer meet the performance requirements for that application, it can sometimes still be reused. Furthermore, after improving the performance of a battery, there are cases where the battery's lifespan is longer than the lifespan of the product in which it is incorporated. In such cases, it is ideal to reuse the battery rather than discard it.

[0108] When reusing batteries, the degree of degradation varies from battery to battery. Therefore, traditionally, the battery characteristics of a battery are checked before reuse. Furthermore, based on the check results, batteries whose characteristics meet specific conditions are combined together to construct a power supply system. However, in order to check battery characteristics, the battery must be discharged after being fully charged, which is troublesome and time-consuming.

[0109] In view of the above situation, according to this embodiment, an energy storage system 100 with multiple power supply devices of different deterioration states connected in parallel can be easily constructed. Furthermore, each power supply device can be individually installed or removed while using the energy storage system 100. Moreover, at least a portion of the inspection of a power supply device can be omitted before it is incorporated into the energy storage system 100.

[0110] According to this embodiment, each power supply device can switch the connection between its power supply unit and the wiring 106 based on control signals from the system control unit 140 or user operations. Therefore, the energy storage system 100 can be used safely even without prior inspection of the battery characteristics of the power supply device being reused. Furthermore, the battery characteristics of the power supply device can be studied while using the energy storage system 100. Additionally, the power supply device can be easily replaced if its battery characteristics are insufficient.

[0111] [Second Application Example of Energy Storage System 100]

[0112] In other embodiments, the energy storage system 100 includes multiple power supply devices. These multiple power supply devices may include two power supply devices of different types. The multiple power supply devices may be connected in parallel to the load device 12 or the charging device 14. The energy storage system 100 can be electrically connected to the load device 12 or the charging device 14 via two terminals. At least one of the multiple power supply devices is detachably held in the frame of the energy storage system 100. This allows for individual replacement of each power supply device. The energy storage system 100 may include at least one energy storage module.

[0113] Examples of types of power supply batteries include primary batteries, secondary batteries, and fuel cells. Examples of secondary batteries include lithium batteries, lithium-ion batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, sodium-sulfur batteries, lead-acid batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, redox flow batteries, and metal-air batteries. There are no particular limitations on the types of lithium-ion batteries. Examples of lithium-ion battery types include iron phosphate (sometimes called LFP), manganese, cobalt, nickel, and ternary lithium batteries.

[0114] When two power supply devices contain different types of power supply components, the difference in their rated voltages may sometimes exceed a predetermined value. Furthermore, the difference in at least one of the charging and discharging characteristics of the two power supply devices may not meet predetermined conditions. Conventionally, power supply systems are constructed by identifying power supply devices that meet specific conditions and combining them. Therefore, the idea of ​​connecting two power supply devices in parallel was not initially conceived.

[0115] In view of the above situation, according to this embodiment, an energy storage system 100 having multiple power supply devices of different types connected in parallel can be easily constructed. Furthermore, each power supply device can be individually installed or removed while using the energy storage system 100. Moreover, depending on the type of power supply unit included in the power supply device, the electrical connection between that power supply unit and the load device 12 or the charging device 14 can be cut off when the energy storage system 100 is charging.

[0116] According to this embodiment, each power supply device can switch the connection relationship between its power supply section and the wiring 106 based on control signals from the system control unit 140 or user operations. Therefore, even if the difference in rated voltage between the two power supply devices included in the energy storage system 100 exceeds a predetermined value, or if the difference in at least one of the charging and discharging characteristics of the two power supply devices does not meet a predetermined condition, the energy storage system 100 can still be used safely.

[0117] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, compared to the case of combining a single type of power supply device to construct a power supply system, it is possible to construct at least one superior power supply system in terms of lifespan, reliability, charging performance, discharging performance, energy efficiency, temperature characteristics, and economy. For example, by combining (i) a power supply module containing a lead-acid battery that operates over a relatively wide temperature range but has relatively low energy efficiency during charging and discharging, and (ii) a power supply module containing a lithium-ion battery that has relatively high energy efficiency during charging and discharging but has problems operating in low-temperature and high-temperature regions, it is possible to construct a power supply system that operates over a wide temperature range and has high energy efficiency.

[0118] Figure 2Here is a simplified example of the system configuration of the energy storage module 110. In this embodiment, the energy storage module 110 includes: an energy storage section 210 having a positive terminal 212 and a negative terminal 214; a switching section 230; a module control section 240; a protection section 250; and a balance correction section 260. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the energy storage section 210 includes a battery 222 and a battery 224. The switching section 230 may be an example of a switching assembly. The module control section 240 may be an example of a control section. The module control section 240 may be an example of a control device. The module control section 240 may be an example of a battery characteristic acquisition section. The module control section 240 may be an example of an output section.

[0119] The impedance of the energy storage unit 210 can be less than 1Ω or less than 100mΩ. The impedance of the energy storage unit 210 can be less than 10mΩ, less than 1mΩ, less than 0.8mΩ, or less than 0.5mΩ. The impedance of the energy storage unit 210 can be 0.1mΩ or more. The impedance of the energy storage unit 210 can be 0.1mΩ or more and less than 1Ω, 0.1mΩ or more and less than 100mΩ, 0.1mΩ or more and less than 10mΩ, or 0.1mΩ or more and less than 1mΩ.

[0120] According to this embodiment, the energy storage system 100 can, for example, ensure that the voltage of the newly added energy storage module is not identical to the voltage of the remaining energy storage modules even when one of the multiple parallel-connected energy storage modules is replaced. Therefore, even when the impedance of the energy storage unit 210 is low, the energy storage module 110 can be easily and quickly replaced.

[0121] In this embodiment, batteries 222 and 224 are connected in series. Batteries 222 and 224 can be secondary batteries or capacitors. At least one of batteries 222 and 224 can be a lithium-ion battery. At least one of batteries 222 and 224 may contain multiple batteries further connected in series, in parallel, or in a matrix configuration within its internal structure.

[0122] In this embodiment, the positive terminal 212 of the energy storage unit 210 is electrically connected to the wiring 106 via the positive terminal 112 of the energy storage module 110 and the switching unit 230. Conversely, the negative terminal 214 of the energy storage unit 210 is electrically connected to the wiring 106 via the negative terminal 114 of the energy storage module 110. However, the energy storage module 110 is not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, the negative terminal 214 of the energy storage unit 210 is electrically connected to the wiring 106 via the negative terminal 114 of the energy storage module 110 and the switching unit 230. Conversely, the positive terminal 212 of the energy storage unit 210 is electrically connected to the wiring 106 via the positive terminal 112 of the energy storage module 110.

[0123] A switching unit 230 is disposed between wiring 106 and energy storage unit 210. In this embodiment, the switching unit 230 switches the connection state of wiring 106 and energy storage unit 210 based on a signal generated by module control unit 240. This allows the energy storage unit 210 to be electrically connected to wiring 106 or electrically disconnected from wiring 106. When energy storage module 110 is installed in energy storage system 100, the energy storage module 110 can be installed in energy storage system 100 after the energy storage unit 210 and wiring 106 have been electrically disconnected via switching unit 230. This prevents damage or deterioration of energy storage module 110.

[0124] The switching unit 230 can be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination of both. The switching unit 230 can also be implemented using analog circuits, digital circuits, or a combination of analog and digital circuits. The switching unit 230 can have more than one component. The switching unit 230 can have more than one switching component. Each of the more than one switching component can be configured between the positive terminal 112 and the positive terminal 212, or between the negative terminal 114 and the negative terminal 214. Examples of switching components include relays, thyristors, and transistors. The thyristor can also be a bidirectional thyristor (sometimes called a bidirectional silicon controlled rectifier). The transistor can also be a semiconductor transistor. The semiconductor transistor can be a bipolar transistor or a field-effect transistor. The field-effect transistor can also be a MOSFET (metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor).

[0125] The module control unit 240 controls the current flowing between the energy storage unit 210 of the energy storage module 110 and the wiring 106. In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 controls the switching 230 to electrically connect the energy storage unit 210 and the wiring 106 when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 (in this embodiment, the voltage between the positive terminal 112 and the positive terminal 212) meets a predetermined condition. The switching unit 230 can electrically connect the energy storage unit 210 and the wiring 106 by electrically connecting the energy storage unit 210 and the positive terminal 112.

[0126] On the other hand, if the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 does not meet the predetermined conditions, the switching unit 230 is controlled by electrically disconnecting the energy storage unit 210 and the wiring 106 or the positive terminal 112. The switching unit 230 can electrically disconnect the energy storage unit 210 and the wiring 106 by electrically disconnecting the energy storage unit 210 and the positive terminal 112.

[0127] The predetermined condition can be the condition that the absolute value of the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within a predetermined range. The predetermined range can be 3V or less, 1V or less, 0.1V or less, 10mV or less, or 1mV or less. Alternatively, the predetermined range can be 0.5mV or more, or 1mV or more. The predetermined range can also be 0.5mV or more and 3V or less. The predetermined range can also be 1mV or more and 3V or less, 1mV or more and 1V or less, 1mV or more and 0.1V or less, 1mV or more and 10mV or less, 10mV or more and 1V or less, or 0.1V or more and 1V or less. Furthermore, the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 can be the voltage between the positive terminal 112 and the positive terminal 212, or the voltage between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0128] The predetermined range can also be set based on the impedance of the energy storage unit 210. The predetermined range can be set based on the rated current or allowable current of the energy storage unit 210. The predetermined range can be set based on the impedance of the energy storage unit 210 and the rated current or allowable current of the energy storage unit 210. The predetermined range can be set based on the rated current or allowable current of the component with the smallest rated current or allowable current among the components constituting the energy storage module 110. The predetermined range can be set based on the impedance of the energy storage module 110 and the rated current or allowable current of the component with the smallest rated current or allowable current among the components constituting the energy storage module 110.

[0129] Therefore, when replacing a power storage module, the state after the wiring 106 and the power storage section 210 of the newly installed power storage module are electrically disconnected can be maintained until the voltage difference between the newly installed power storage module and the existing power storage module is within a predetermined range. Furthermore, when the voltage difference between the newly installed power storage module and the existing power storage module becomes within a predetermined range due to charging or discharging of the existing power storage module, the power storage section of the newly installed power storage module is electrically connected to the wiring 106. Thus, according to this embodiment, the newly installed power storage module and other power storage modules can be automatically connected.

[0130] In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 receives a signal from the system control unit 140 indicating that the inter-terminal voltage of the energy storage module 110 is lower than that of other energy storage modules. When the energy storage system 100 transitions to a charging state, the module control unit 240 controls the switching unit 230 to electrically connect the energy storage unit 210 and the wiring 106. This allows for efficient charging of the multiple parallel-connected energy storage modules 110.

[0131] In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 receives a signal from the system control unit 140 indicating that the inter-terminal voltage of the energy storage module 110 is greater than that of other energy storage modules. When the energy storage system 100 transitions to a discharge state, the module control unit 240 controls the switching unit 230 to electrically connect the energy storage unit 210 and the wiring 106. This allows for efficient discharge of the multiple parallel-connected energy storage modules 110.

[0132] In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 receives a signal from the protection unit 250 indicating that the inter-terminal voltage of the battery 222 or battery 224 is not within a predetermined range. When the module control unit 240 receives this signal, it controls the switching unit 230 to electrically disconnect the battery storage unit 210 and the wiring 106. This suppresses deterioration or damage to the battery storage unit 210 caused by overcharging or over-discharging.

[0133] In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 accepts user operations and receives instructions from the user to enable or disable the switching unit 230. When the module control unit 240 receives the user's instructions, it controls the switching unit 230 accordingly.

[0134] In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 can obtain information about the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit 210. The module control unit 240 can output the information about the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit 210 to an external device. Thus, the external device can utilize the information about the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit 210. Examples of external devices include the load device 12, the charging device 14, etc. The external device can also be an output device that outputs information to a user.

[0135] The module control unit 240 can be implemented using hardware or software. Alternatively, it can be implemented using a combination of hardware and software. In one embodiment, the module control unit 240 can also be implemented using analog circuits, digital circuits, or a combination of analog and digital circuits. In another embodiment, the module control unit 240 can be implemented by executing a program for controlling the module control unit 240 within a general information processing device equipped with a data processing device such as a CPU, ROM, RAM, and a communication interface.

[0136] The program installed on the computer to enable the computer to function as part of the module control unit 240 of this embodiment may also include modules that limit the operation of each part of the module control unit 240. These programs or modules operate on the CPU or the like, and enable the computer to function as each part of the module control unit 240.

[0137] The information processing described in these programs is read into the computer and functions as a specific means of coordinated operation between the software and the various hardware resources. Through these specific means, the computation or processing of information corresponding to the intended use of the computer in this embodiment is achieved, thereby enabling the construction of a device specific to that intended use. The programs may be stored on a computer-readable medium or on a network-connected storage device. The computer-readable medium may also be a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0138] Protection unit 250 protects energy storage unit 210. In this embodiment, protection unit 250 protects energy storage unit 210 from overcharging or over-discharging. When protection unit 250 detects that the inter-terminal voltage of battery 222 or battery 224 is not within a predetermined range, it sends a signal indicating this intention to module control unit 240. Protection unit 250 can send information about the inter-terminal voltage of energy storage unit 210 to system control unit 140. Protection unit 250 can be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. Protection unit 250 can also be implemented using analog circuits, digital circuits, or a combination of analog and digital circuits.

[0139] The balancing correction unit 260 equalizes the voltage of multiple batteries. The operating principle of the balancing correction unit 260 is not particularly limited, and any balancing correction device can be used. When the energy storage unit 210 has three or more batteries, the energy storage module 110 can have multiple balancing correction units 260. For example, when the energy storage unit 210 has n batteries (n being an integer of 2 or more), the energy storage module 110 has n-1 balancing correction units 260.

[0140] The balance correction unit 260 can be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination of both. The balance correction unit 260 can also be implemented using analog circuits, digital circuits, or a combination of analog and digital circuits. In one embodiment, the balance correction unit 260 refers to an active balance correction device. An active balance correction unit can be, as described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-067742, a balance correction unit that moves charge between two batteries via an inductor, or as described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-210109, a balance correction unit that uses a capacitor to move charge. In another embodiment, the balance correction unit 260 can also be a passive balance correction device. A passive balance correction device, for example, uses an external resistor to release excess charge.

[0141] In this embodiment, the case where the energy storage unit 210 has two batteries connected in series has been described. However, the energy storage unit 210 is not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, the energy storage unit 210 may also have three or more batteries connected in series. Furthermore, the energy storage unit 210 may have multiple batteries connected in parallel, or multiple batteries connected in a matrix.

[0142] Figure 3 This is a simplified example of the system configuration of the module control unit 240. In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 includes a determination unit 310, a receiving unit 320, and a signal generating unit 330. The module control unit 240 may also include a module information acquisition unit 340, a module information storage unit 350, and a module information transmission unit 360. The receiving unit 320 may be an example of a first signal receiving unit, a second signal receiving unit, and a third signal receiving unit. The module information acquisition unit 340 may be an example of a battery characteristic acquisition unit. The module information transmission unit 360 may be an example of an output unit.

[0143] In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 is described as having a module information acquisition unit 340, a module information storage unit 350, and a module information transmission unit 360. However, the energy storage system 100 is not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, the system control unit 140 may also have at least one of the module information acquisition unit 340, the module information storage unit 350, and the module information transmission unit 360.

[0144] The determination unit 310 determines whether the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within a predetermined range. The determination unit 310 sends a signal indicating the determination result to the signal generation unit 330. The determination unit 310 may also be any comparator or comparison circuit. The determination unit 310 may also be a window comparator.

[0145] The receiving unit 320 receives at least one signal from the system control unit 140, a signal from the protection unit 250, and an instruction from the user. The receiving unit 320 sends a signal corresponding to the received information to the signal generating unit 330.

[0146] The signal generation unit 330 receives signals from at least one of the determination unit 310 and the receiving unit 320. The signal generation unit 330 generates a signal for controlling the switching unit 230 based on the received signal. The signal generation unit 330 sends the generated signal to the switching unit 230.

[0147] In one embodiment, the signal generating unit 330 generates a signal to turn on the switching assembly of the switching unit 230 when the determination unit 310 has determined that the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 is within a predetermined range. In another embodiment, the signal generating unit 330 generates a signal to turn off the switching assembly of the switching unit 230 when the determination unit 310 has determined that the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 is not within a predetermined range.

[0148] The signal generation unit 330 can generate or send a signal after the determination unit 310 determines whether the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within a predetermined range and after a predetermined time has elapsed. This prevents malfunctions caused by noise. Furthermore, it prevents electrical connection between the energy storage unit 210 and the wiring 106 immediately after the energy storage module 110 is installed in the energy storage system 100.

[0149] In this embodiment, the signal generating unit 330 generates a signal for controlling the switching assembly of the switching unit 230 based on the signal received by the receiving unit 320. In one embodiment, when the receiving unit 320 receives a signal from the system control unit 140 to turn on the switching assembly of the switching unit 230, the signal generating unit 330 generates a signal to turn on the switching assembly of the switching unit 230.

[0150] In another embodiment, when the receiving unit 320 receives a signal from the protection unit 250 to disconnect the switching assembly of the switching unit 230, the signal generating unit 330 generates a signal to disconnect the switching assembly of the switching unit 230. In yet another embodiment, when the receiving unit 320 has received a user's instruction, the signal generating unit 330 generates a signal to operate the switching assembly of the switching unit 230 according to the user's instruction.

[0151] In this embodiment, the module information acquisition unit 340 acquires information about the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit 210. The module information acquisition unit 340 can also acquire information about the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit 210 by measuring its battery characteristics. The module information acquisition unit 340 can also acquire information about the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit 210 input by the manufacturer, seller, etc., at the time of manufacture, inspection, or sale.

[0152] The module information acquisition unit 340 can store information about the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit 210 in the module information storage unit 350. The specific configuration of the module information acquisition unit 340 is not particularly limited; it can also be a controller that controls the reading and writing of data in the module information storage unit 350. In this embodiment, the module information storage unit 350 stores the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit 210 acquired by the module information acquisition unit 340.

[0153] In this embodiment, the module information sending unit 360 sends the battery characteristics information of the energy storage unit 210 obtained by the module information acquisition unit 340 to the system control unit 140. The module information sending unit 360 may also send the battery characteristics information of the energy storage unit 210 obtained by the module information acquisition unit 340 to an external machine. The module information sending unit 360 may send the battery characteristics information of the energy storage unit 210 according to the request from the external machine, or it may send the battery characteristics information of the energy storage unit 210 at a predetermined time. The module information sending unit 360 may also refer to the module information storage unit 350 to send the battery characteristics information of the energy storage unit 210 to the system control unit 140 or an external machine.

[0154] Figure 4 This is a simplified example of the system configuration of the system control unit 140. In this embodiment, the system control unit 140 includes a status management unit 410, a module selection unit 420, and a signal generation unit 430. The status management unit 410 may be an example of a battery characteristic acquisition unit. The status management unit 410 may also be an example of an output unit.

[0155] In this embodiment, the state management unit 410 manages the state of the energy storage system 100. The state management unit 410 can manage the states of energy storage modules 110 and 120. The state management unit 410 can monitor the respective states of energy storage modules 110 and 120. The state management unit 410 can also monitor energy storage modules 110 and 120 and obtain information about the respective battery characteristics of energy storage modules 110 and 120. The state management unit 410 can also send the information obtained from monitoring energy storage modules 110 and 120 to an external machine.

[0156] While using the energy storage system 100, the status management unit 410 measures the battery characteristics of each energy storage module. If the battery characteristics of a energy storage module do not meet predetermined conditions, the status management unit 410 can output information indicating insufficient performance of that module to an output device used to provide information to the user. The status management unit 410 can also output identification information of the energy storage module and information indicating insufficient performance of that module.

[0157] Therefore, users can easily identify and replace energy storage modules with insufficient performance. According to this embodiment, for example, when constructing an energy storage system 100 using recycled energy storage modules, at least part of the inspection of the recycled energy storage modules can be omitted.

[0158] In one embodiment, when the energy storage system 100 transitions to a charging state, the module selection unit 420 selects the energy storage module with the lowest inter-terminal voltage among the plurality of energy storage modules included in the energy storage system 100. For example, the module selection unit 420 compares the inter-terminal voltages of energy storage modules 110 and 120, and selects the energy storage module with the lower inter-terminal voltage. The module selection unit 420 sends a signal indicating the selected energy storage module to the signal generation unit 430.

[0159] In another embodiment, when the energy storage system 100 transitions to a discharge state, the module selection unit 420 selects the energy storage module with the highest inter-terminal voltage among the plurality of energy storage modules included in the energy storage system 100. For example, the module selection unit 420 compares the inter-terminal voltages of energy storage modules 110 and 120, and selects the energy storage module with the higher inter-terminal voltage. The module selection unit 420 sends a signal indicating the selected energy storage module to the signal generation unit 430.

[0160] In this embodiment, the signal generation unit 430 generates a signal for the energy storage module selected by the module selection unit 420 to turn on the switching component of the switching unit 230 of that energy storage module. The signal generation unit 430 sends the generated signal to the module control unit 240. In another embodiment, the signal generation unit 430 may also generate a signal for the energy storage module selected by the module selection unit 420 to turn off the switching component of the switching unit 230 of that energy storage module.

[0161] Figure 5 This is a simplified example illustrating the circuit configuration of the energy storage module 110. Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity, Figure 5 The diagram does not show the protection unit 250 and the wiring associated with the protection unit 250.

[0162] In this embodiment, the switching unit 230 includes transistor 510, resistor 512, resistor 514, diode 516, transistor 520, resistor 522, resistor 524, and diode 526. Transistor 510 and transistor 520 may also be examples of a switching assembly. In this embodiment, the switching assembly of the switching unit 230 is described with respect to the use of transistor 510 and transistor 520. However, the switching assembly of the switching unit 230 is not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, a single switching assembly may be used as the switching assembly of the switching unit 230.

[0163] In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 includes a determination unit 310, a signal generation unit 330, a switch 592, and a switch 594. In this embodiment, the determination unit 310 includes a transistor 530, a resistor 532, a transistor 540, a resistor 542, a resistor 552, and a resistor 554. The signal generation unit 330 includes a transistor 560, a capacitor 570, a resistor 572, and a transistor 580. Switches 592 and 594 can be an example of a receiving unit 320.

[0164] Next, details of each part of the switching unit 230 and the module control unit 240 will be described. In the switching unit 230 of this embodiment, the transistor 510 is a MOSFET, and even when the transistor 510 is off, current can still flow from the positive terminal 212 to the positive terminal 112 through the parasitic diode (not shown) equivalently formed between the source and drain of the transistor 510. Similarly, the transistor 520 is a MOSFET, and even when the transistor 520 is off, current can still flow from the positive terminal 112 to the positive terminal 212 through the parasitic diode (not shown) equivalently formed between the source and drain of the transistor 520.

[0165] In this embodiment, transistors 510 and 520 are initially set to be off. When transistor 580 is turned on during charging of the energy storage system 100, current flows from the positive terminal 112 to the negative terminal 114 via resistors 512 and 514 and transistor 580. As a result, a voltage is applied to the gate of transistor 510, and transistor 510 is turned on. Thus, current can flow from the positive terminal 112 to the positive terminal 212 via the parasitic diode equivalently formed between the source and drain of transistor 520.

[0166] On the other hand, when the energy storage system 100 discharges, the transistor 580 is turned on, causing current to flow from the positive terminal 212 to the negative terminal 214 via resistors 522 and 524 and the transistor 580. As a result, a voltage is applied to the gate of the transistor 520, and the transistor 520 is turned on. Thus, current can flow from the positive terminal 212 to the positive terminal 112 via the parasitic diode equivalently formed between the source and drain of the transistor 510.

[0167] When transistor 580 is turned on, the voltage applied to the gate of transistor 510 or transistor 520 can also be an example of a signal used to turn on the switching assembly of switching unit 230. Similarly, when transistor 580 is turned off, the voltage applied to the gate of transistor 510 or transistor 520 can also be an example of a signal used to turn off the switching assembly of switching unit 230.

[0168] In this embodiment, the values ​​of resistors 512 and 514 are set in a manner that enables transistor 510 to save power while reliably switching on and off. Furthermore, the values ​​of resistors 522 and 524 are set in a manner that enables transistor 520 to save power while reliably switching on and off.

[0169] In this embodiment, a diode 516 is disposed between resistors 514 and 524. Diode 516 allows current to flow from resistor 514 to resistor 524, but prevents current from flowing from resistor 524 to resistor 514. By providing diode 516, when the switching unit 230 electrically disconnects the positive terminals 112 and 212, leakage of current from positive terminal 212 to positive terminal 112 is prevented from occurring through the path of resistors 522, 524, 514, and 512.

[0170] In this embodiment, a diode 526 is disposed between resistors 514 and 524. Diode 526 allows current to flow from resistor 524 to resistor 514, but prevents current from flowing from resistor 514 to resistor 524. By providing diode 526, when the switching unit 230 electrically disconnects the positive terminals 112 and 212, leakage of current from positive terminal 112 to positive terminal 212 is prevented from occurring through the path of resistors 512, 514, 524, and 522.

[0171] In the module control unit 240 of this embodiment, transistors 530 and 540 of the determination unit 310 are set to be off in the initial settings. Furthermore, transistors 560 and 580 of the signal generation unit 330 are also set to be off in the initial settings.

[0172] According to this embodiment, the value of resistor 532 is set such that the transistor 530 is turned on when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is smaller than a predetermined first value with the positive terminal 112 side as the positive side. Preferably, the value of resistor 532 is set such that the leakage current becomes minimal when the switching unit 230 is turned off. Furthermore, the value of resistor 542 is set such that the transistor 540 is turned on when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is larger than a predetermined second value. Preferably, the value of resistor 542 is set such that the leakage current becomes minimal when the switching unit 230 is turned off. Additionally, according to this embodiment, the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is equal to the voltage difference between the positive terminal 112 and the positive terminal 212.

[0173] When the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is lower than a predetermined first value, the transistor 530 is switched on, and a voltage is applied from the energy storage unit 210 to the base of the transistor 560 via the positive terminal 212, the transistor 530, and the resistor 552, causing the transistor 560 to switch on. Although a voltage from the positive terminal 112 is applied to the base of the transistor 580, this voltage prevents the transistor 580 from switching on during the switching operation of the transistor 560. As a result, the transistor 580 is switched off.

[0174] On the other hand, if the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is greater than a predetermined second value, the transistor 540 is turned on, and a voltage is applied from the positive terminal 112 to the base of the transistor 560 via the transistor 540 and the resistor 554, causing the transistor 560 to turn on. As a result, the transistor 580 is turned off.

[0175] In this embodiment, the value of resistor 552 is set within a range that enables transistor 560 to turn on when transistor 530 is turned on, in order to reduce power consumption. The value of resistor 554 is set within a range that enables transistor 560 to turn on when transistor 540 is turned on, in order to reduce power consumption.

[0176] The capacitance of capacitor 570 is set such that a voltage from the positive terminal 112 is applied to the base of transistor 580, and transistor 560 is turned on before transistor 580 is turned on. Therefore, signal generation unit 330 can generate a signal after determination unit 310 determines whether the voltage between the terminals of the switching assembly is within a predetermined range and after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0177] In this situation, when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within the range determined by the first and second values, transistors 530 and 540 are in the off state, and transistor 560 is also in the off state. Therefore, a voltage is applied to the base of transistor 580 from the positive terminal 112 via resistor 572, and transistor 580 is turned on.

[0178] Switches 592 and 594 can be manual switches or switching assemblies such as relays, thyristors, and transistors. A signal 52 indicating that the switching unit 230 is turned on can be input to switch 592. A signal 54 indicating that the switching unit 230 is turned off can be input to switch 594.

[0179] When switch 592 is turned on, the switching unit 230 is turned on regardless of whether transistor 580 is turned on or off. When switch 594 is turned on, transistor 580 is turned off regardless of whether transistor 560 is turned on or off. As a result, the switching unit 230 is turned off.

[0180] Figure 6 This is a simplified example of the system configuration of the switching unit 630. The switching unit 630 has a relay 632 connected in parallel with transistors 510 and 520, which is related to... Figure 5 The switching section 230 described is different. Other parts may have the same configuration as the switching section 230. In this embodiment, transistors 510 and 520 may be semiconductor transistors. Transistors 510 and 520 may be field-effect transistors (FETs).

[0181] While relay circuits have the excellent characteristic of low resistance when switched on, their response speed is relatively slow. Therefore, for example, when the load device is a device with pulsed current characteristics, such as a motor, and the voltage fluctuates significantly in a short period of time, it is difficult to follow the signal from the signal generation unit 330 to switch on. On the other hand, although semiconductor transistors consume more power than relay circuits, they have excellent responsiveness. According to the switching unit 630 of this embodiment, the transistor 510 or transistor 520 using semiconductor transistors and the relay 632 using relay circuits can be connected in parallel.

[0182] Therefore, when the switching unit 230 receives a signal from the signal generation unit 330 to activate the switching unit 230, the transistor 510 or transistor 520 responds very quickly to activate the switching unit 230. Then, after a slight delay, the relay 632 is activated. Since the relay 632, with its lower resistance, is connected in parallel with transistors 510 and 520 when activated, the combined resistance is reduced, thus minimizing losses.

[0183] use Figure 7 and Figure 8 The following explanation is provided for the energy storage module 710. Figure 7 Here is a simplified example of the system configuration of the energy storage module 710. Figure 8 This is a simplified example of the system configuration of the switching unit 730. Figure 8 In order to help understand the operation of transistors 510 and 520, the parasitic diode 842 of transistor 510 and the parasitic diode 844 of transistor 520 are illustrated.

[0184] Energy storage module 710 and related Figure 2The difference in the described energy storage module 110 is that it has a switching unit 730 instead of a switching unit 230; and the signal from the protection unit 250 is sent to the switching unit 730 instead of the module control unit 240. Other aspects may have the same configuration as the energy storage module 110.

[0185] In this embodiment, the switching unit 730 receives a signal from the module control unit 240 to enable or disable the switching unit 730. Furthermore, the switching unit 730 receives a signal from the protection unit 250 to disable the switching unit 730.

[0186] According to this embodiment, when a signal 82 for turning on the switching component of the switching unit 730 is input to the logic circuit 852, but no signal 88 indicating that the energy storage unit 210 is in an overcharged state is input, the transistor 510 will be turned on. Furthermore, when a signal 82 for turning on the switching component of the switching unit 730 is input to the logic circuit 854, but no signal 86 indicating that the energy storage unit 210 is in an over-discharged state is input, the transistor 520 will be turned on.

[0187] Figure 9 Here is a simplified example of the system configuration of the energy storage system 900. The energy storage system 900 differs from the energy storage system 100 in that it includes multiple energy storage modules 110 connected in a matrix. However, it may have the same configuration as the energy storage system 100 in other respects. In this embodiment, a first block consisting of three energy storage modules 110 connected in parallel and diodes 902, and a second block consisting of three energy storage modules 110 connected in parallel and diodes 904, are connected in series.

[0188] According to this embodiment, when the energy storage system 900 discharges, all of the multiple energy storage modules 110 included in a specific block continue to discharge until the discharge is completed, and only then does the discharge from that block stop. According to this embodiment, even when the discharge from the block has stopped, current can still be bypassed via the diode 902. Therefore, the power supply provided by the energy storage system 900 can continue. Consequently, during the discharge of the energy storage system 900, the output voltage decreases in stages.

[0189] Similarly, during the charging of the energy storage system 900, the energy storage modules 110 that have completed charging are sequentially disconnected from the energy storage system 900 from the multiple energy storage modules 110 contained in a specific block. Then, the charging of all energy storage modules 110 is finally completed.

[0190] According to this embodiment, diodes 902 and 904 are configured to allow current to flow in the direction from connection terminal 104 to connection terminal 102 (sometimes referred to as the discharge direction). Therefore, current can be maintained even if the switching section 230 of all energy storage modules 110 contained in a particular block is disconnected. On the other hand, once the switching section 230 of all energy storage modules 110 contained in a particular block is disconnected, subsequent charging becomes difficult.

[0191] Therefore, according to this embodiment, when charging the energy storage system 900, the system control unit 140 first detects the inter-terminal voltage of each block and checks whether there are any blocks with an inter-terminal voltage of 0. If a block with an inter-terminal voltage of 0 is found, the system control unit 140 sends a signal to one of the plurality of energy storage modules 110 contained in that block to activate the switching assembly of the switching unit 230. The system control unit 140 may send a signal to the energy storage module 110 with the lowest inter-terminal voltage among the plurality of energy storage modules 110 contained in the block to activate the switching assembly of the switching unit 230. Afterward, the system control unit 140 begins charging the energy storage system 900.

[0192] In this embodiment, diodes 902 and 904 are described in a manner that allows current to flow in the discharge direction. However, the energy storage system 900 is not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, diodes 902 and 904 may be Zener diodes. Therefore, even after charging of all energy storage modules 110 contained in a specific block has been completed and all energy storage modules 110 contained in that block have been disconnected from the energy storage system 900, charging of other blocks connected in series with the specific block can continue within the energy storage system 900.

[0193] In this case, when the energy storage system 900 is discharged, the system control unit 140 can detect the inter-terminal voltage of each group before the discharge begins, and investigate whether there are any groups with an inter-terminal voltage of 0. Then, a signal can be sent to one of the multiple energy storage modules 110 included in the block with an inter-terminal voltage of 0 to enable the switching assembly of the switching unit 230 to turn on.

[0194] use Figures 10-17 Another example of the energy storage module 110 will be described. To the extent that there is no technical inconsistency, the matters described for the energy storage module 110 and its components can also be applied to another example of the energy storage module 110 and its components. Furthermore, the matters described for another example of the energy storage module 110 and its components can also be applied to the energy storage module 110 and its components. Figures 10-17In the description, the details concerning the various parts of the energy storage module 110 are sometimes omitted.

[0195] Figure 10 Here is a simplified example of the system configuration of the energy storage module 1010. In this embodiment, the energy storage module 1010 includes a positive terminal 112, a negative terminal 114, and an energy storage unit 210. The energy storage module 1010 may include a switching unit 230. The energy storage module 1010 may include a protection unit 250. The energy storage module 1010 may include a balance correction unit 260. In this embodiment, the energy storage module 1010 includes a current detection component 1020 and a module control unit 1040.

[0196] The energy storage module 1010 can be an example of a control device and a control system. The module control unit 1040 can be an example of a control device. The switching unit 230 can be an example of an adjustment unit, a first current adjustment unit, and a second current adjustment unit.

[0197] In this embodiment, the switching unit 230 adjusts the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. In one embodiment, the switching unit 230 electrically connects or disconnects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. In another embodiment, the switching unit 230 increases or decreases the current, for example, by changing the resistance value of the path between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0198] In this embodiment, one end of the switching unit 230 is electrically connected to the wiring 106 via the positive terminal 112 and the current detection component 1020. The other end of the switching unit 230 is electrically connected to the positive terminal 212 of the energy storage unit 210. Information indicating the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 can be used to indicate the difference between the potential of the wiring 106 or the voltage applied to the wiring 106 (sometimes simply referred to as the voltage of the wiring 106) and the potential of the terminal (e.g., the positive terminal 212) of the energy storage unit 210 or the voltage applied to that terminal (sometimes simply referred to as the voltage of the energy storage unit 210, the voltage of the terminal, etc.).

[0199] In one embodiment, the switching unit 230 adjusts at least the magnitude of the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 in the direction from the positive terminal 212 of the energy storage unit 210 to the positive terminal 112 (sometimes referred to as the discharge direction). In another embodiment, the switching unit 230 adjusts at least the magnitude of the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 in the direction from the positive terminal 112 to the positive terminal 212 of the energy storage unit 210 (sometimes referred to as the charging direction). In yet another embodiment, the switching unit 230 adjusts both the magnitude of the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 in the discharge direction and the magnitude of the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 in the charging direction.

[0200] In this embodiment, the energy storage module 1010 includes a current detection component 1020, which differs from the energy storage module 110. The energy storage module 1010 also includes a module control unit 1040 instead of a module control unit 240, which also differs from the energy storage module 110. Aside from the aforementioned differences, the energy storage module 1010 may have the same configuration features as the corresponding configuration of the energy storage module 110.

[0201] In this embodiment, the current detection component 1020 is used to obtain information indicating the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. Examples of current information include the presence or absence of the current, the magnitude of the current, and the direction of the current. In this embodiment, the energy storage module 1010 obtains information about the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 by measuring the voltage between the terminals of the current detection component 1020.

[0202] In this embodiment, the current detection component 1020 is disposed between the positive terminal 112 and the switching unit 230. More specifically, one end of the current detection component 1020 is electrically connected to the switching unit 230. The other end of the current detection component 1020 is electrically connected to the wiring 106 via the positive terminal 112. Alternatively, the current detection component 1020 may also be disposed between the switching unit 230 and the positive terminal 212 of the energy storage unit 210. Furthermore, the switching unit 230 or a part of the components constituting the switching unit 230 may also be used as the current detection component 1020.

[0203] The current sensing component 1020 can be any component with any resistance value, and its type is not particularly limited. For example, the current sensing component 1020 has an appropriate resistance value corresponding to the maximum allowable current of the energy storage unit 210. Examples of current sensing components 1020 include resistors, Hall effect sensors, etc. Passive or active components with appropriate resistance values ​​can also be used as the resistor.

[0204] In this embodiment, the module control unit 1040 detects the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, which differs from the module control unit 240. In this embodiment, the module control unit 1040 controls the operation of the switching unit 230 based on (i) the voltage or state of charge (SOC) of the energy storage unit 210 and (ii) the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, which differs from the module control unit 240. The module control unit 1040 may also control the operation of the switching unit 230 based on (i) the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210, (ii) the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, and (iii) the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230. Apart from the aforementioned differences, the module control unit 1040 may have the same features as the corresponding configuration of the module control unit 240.

[0205] The method by which the module control unit 1040 detects the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 is not particularly limited. In this embodiment, the module control unit 1040 obtains information representing the inter-terminal voltage of the current detection component 1020 disposed between the positive terminal 112 and the positive terminal 212, and detects the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 based on this information. Thus, the module control unit 1040 can monitor the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. The module control unit 1040 can determine the magnitude and direction of the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0206] In one embodiment, when the switching unit 230 at least adjusts or controls the magnitude of the current flowing in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, the module control unit 1040 monitors or detects the current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. When the switching unit 230 disconnects the electrical connection in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 (sometimes referred to as "electrical disconnection in the discharge direction"), the module control unit 1040 monitors or detects the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. Furthermore, in this case, the current detected by the module control unit 1040 is the current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0207] In another embodiment, when the switching unit 230 at least adjusts or controls the magnitude of the current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, the module control unit 1040 monitors or detects the current flowing in the discharging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. When the switching unit 230 disconnects the electrical connection in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 (sometimes referred to as "electrical disconnection in the charging direction"), the module control unit 1040 can also monitor or detect the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. Furthermore, in this case, the current detected by the module control unit 1040 is the current flowing in the discharging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0208] The method by which the module control unit 1040 controls the operation of the switching unit 230 is not particularly limited. As described above, the module control unit 1040 detects the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. The module control unit 1040 can control the operation of the switching unit 230 based on information indicating the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. Therefore, when the energy storage module 1010 is hot-swapped, the interlock of the switching unit 230 can be safely released.

[0209] Similar to module control unit 240, module control unit 1040 can acquire information indicating the inter-terminal voltage of switching unit 230. Module control unit 1040 can control the operation of switching unit 230 based on the information indicating the inter-terminal voltage of switching unit 230. This reduces the time required for hot-swapping the energy storage module 1010.

[0210] Similar to the module control unit 240, the module control unit 1040 can obtain information acquired or generated by the protection unit 250. For example, the module control unit 1040 obtains information from the protection unit 250 indicating that the overcharge protection function is active, that the overcharge protection function is inactive, that the over-discharge protection function is active, and that the over-discharge protection function is inactive. The module control unit 1040 can control the operation of the switching unit 230 based on the information acquired or generated by the protection unit 250. Therefore, the switching unit 230 can be appropriately controlled according to the state of the energy storage unit 210.

[0211] For example, if the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is less than or below the threshold for over-discharge protection, the over-discharge protection function becomes active. If the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is greater than or above the threshold for over-discharge protection, the over-discharge protection function becomes inactive. Furthermore, for example, if the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is greater than or above the threshold for overcharge protection, the overcharge protection function becomes active. If the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is less than or below the threshold for overcharge protection, the overcharge protection function becomes inactive.

[0212] Similar to the module control unit 240, the module control unit 1040 can obtain information acquired or generated by the system control unit 140. For example, the module control unit 1040 obtains information from the system control unit 140 indicating the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit 210. The module control unit 1040 can control the operation of the switching unit 230 based on the information acquired or generated by the system control unit 140. Therefore, the switching unit 230 can be appropriately controlled according to the state of the energy storage unit 210.

[0213] [Specific example of the sequence of actions of the control switching unit 230]

[0214] In one embodiment, the module control unit 1040 controls the operation of the switching unit 230 based on the charging state of the energy storage unit 210. In another embodiment, the module control unit 1040 controls the operation of the switching unit 230 based on the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230. In yet another embodiment, the module control unit 1040 controls the operation of the switching unit 230 based on the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. The module control unit 1040 may control the operation of the switching unit 230 based on at least one of the magnitude and direction of the current.

[0215] More specifically, the module control unit 1040 controls the operation of the switching unit 230 based on (i) the voltage or state of charge (SOC) of the energy storage unit 210, and (ii) the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. The module control unit 1040 may also control the operation of the switching unit 230 based on (i) the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210, (ii) the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, and (iii) the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230.

[0216] For example, when the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 meets predetermined conditions, the module control unit 1040 controls the switching unit 230 to electrically connect the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. Regarding the battery characteristics of the energy storage unit 210, the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 can be one example of its battery characteristics. The predetermined conditions can be conditions using a predetermined numerical range or threshold, or conditions using a numerical range or threshold calculated according to a predetermined step sequence. Thus, for example, it is possible to prevent deterioration or damage to the energy storage unit 210 caused by overcharging or over-discharging.

[0217] The predetermined conditions may be conditions used to protect the battery storage unit 210. Examples of predetermined conditions include: (i) conditions indicating that the voltage or SOC of the battery storage unit 210 is within a specific numerical range; (ii) conditions indicating that the voltage or SOC of the battery storage unit 210 is greater than or above a specific threshold; and (iii) conditions indicating that the voltage or SOC of the battery storage unit 210 is less than or below a specific threshold; and (v) conditions obtained by combining these conditions, etc.

[0218] A condition indicating that the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is within a specific numerical range can also be a condition indicating that at least one of the overvoltage protection function and over-discharge protection function of the energy storage module 1010 is invalid. A condition indicating that the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is within a specific numerical range can also be a condition indicating that the overvoltage protection function and over-discharge protection function of the energy storage module 1010 are invalid. A condition indicating that the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is greater than or above a specific threshold can also be a condition indicating that the over-discharge protection function of the energy storage module 1010 is invalid. A condition indicating that the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is less than or below a specific threshold can also be a condition indicating that the overcharge protection function of the energy storage module 1010 is invalid.

[0219] According to this embodiment, when the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 meets a predetermined condition, the module control unit 1040 controls the switching unit 230 to electrically connect the energy storage unit 210 and the wiring 106. More specifically, when the voltage difference between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 is large, the energy storage unit 210 and the wiring 106 are electrically disconnected. On the other hand, when the voltage difference is small, the energy storage unit 210 and the wiring 106 are electrically connected. This enables rapid hot-swapping.

[0220] The predetermined conditions can be conditions used to achieve rapid hot-swapping. Examples of predetermined conditions include: (i) a condition indicating that the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within a specific numerical range; (ii) a condition indicating that the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is greater than or above a specific threshold; (iii) a condition indicating that the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is less than or below a specific threshold; and (v) a condition obtained by combining these conditions.

[0221] (Specific example of the sequence of steps to disengage the over-discharge protection interlock)

[0222] When the energy storage unit 210 of the energy storage module 1010 is electrically connected to the wiring 106 of the energy storage system 100, and the energy storage system 100 discharges, for example, if the voltage or state of charge (SOC) of the energy storage unit 210 is less than the threshold for over-discharge protection, the protection unit 250 sends a signal to the module control unit 1040 to activate the over-discharge protection function. At this time, current flows between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 in the discharge direction. In this case, the discharge direction can be an example of a first direction. Furthermore, the charging direction can be an example of a second direction. In this embodiment, the discharge direction and the charging direction are opposite to each other.

[0223] The case where the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is less than the threshold for over-discharge protection is an example of a situation where the conditions for protecting the energy storage unit 210 are not met. In another embodiment, when the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is below the threshold for over-discharge protection, the protection unit 250 can send a signal to the module control unit 1040 to enable the over-discharge protection function.

[0224] When the module control unit 1040 receives the signal, it controls the switching unit 230 to disconnect the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. When the energy storage system 100 continues to discharge after the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 are disconnected, a voltage difference is generated between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0225] After the discharge of the energy storage system 100 is completed, when charging of the energy storage system 100 begins, a voltage difference is generated between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. In this case, if the absolute value of the voltage difference is greater than the threshold for achieving rapid hot-swapping, the module control unit 1040 determines that the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 does not meet the conditions for achieving rapid hot-swapping. As a result, charging of the energy storage system 100 is performed with the wiring 106 between the energy storage unit 210 of the energy storage module 1010 and the energy storage system 100 electrically disconnected.

[0226] On the other hand, (i) when the absolute value of the voltage difference at the start of charging of the energy storage system 100 is less than or below the threshold for achieving rapid hot-swapping, or (ii) when charging of the energy storage system 100 occurs and the absolute value of the voltage difference is less than or below the threshold for achieving rapid hot-swapping, the module control unit 1040 will control the switching unit 230 to connect the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. However, during this stage, the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is less than the threshold for over-discharge protection. Therefore, the interlocking mechanism of the module control unit 1040 is activated. As a result, the module control unit 1040 cannot control the switching unit 230 to connect the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0227] In order for the module control unit 1040 to control the switching unit 230 to connect the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, the interlock must be released using some kind of logic. The method for releasing the interlock is not particularly limited. In this embodiment, the module control unit 1040 determines whether to release the interlock based on the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 or information about that current, and controls the operation of the switching unit 230 accordingly.

[0228] Here, as related Figure 5As explained, the switching unit 230 includes a transistor 520 that adjusts or controls the magnitude of the current flowing in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. Examples of transistor 520 include Si-MOSFET, insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), SiC-MOSFET, and GaN-MOSFET.

[0229] When the rated voltage of the energy storage unit 210 is relatively high, the transistor 520 is preferably a SiC-MOSFET. For example, when the maximum rated voltage of the energy storage unit 210 is 100V or higher, preferably 200V or higher, more preferably 300V or higher, even more preferably 500V or higher, even more preferably 800V or higher, and even more preferably 1000V, a SiC-MOSFET is used as the transistor 520. This allows the advantages of SiC-MOSFETs, such as their excellent voltage withstand characteristics and low losses, to be fully utilized. When the maximum rated voltage of the energy storage unit 210 is 300V or higher or 500V or higher, the effect of using a SiC-MOSFET as the transistor 520 becomes clearly apparent.

[0230] Furthermore, a parasitic diode is formed between the source and drain of transistor 520. This parasitic diode allows current flowing in the charging direction between wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. On the other hand, the parasitic diode also suppresses current flowing in the discharging direction between wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 via this parasitic diode.

[0231] Transistor 520 may be an example of a first current regulating section or a second current regulating section. The parasitic diode of transistor 520 may be an example of a first bypass section or a second bypass section. Alternatively, switching section 230 may also have a rectifier separate from the parasitic diode of transistor 520, the rectifier having the same function as the parasitic diode, and connected in parallel with transistor 520 between wiring 106 and energy storage section 210. Examples of such rectifiers include: (i) rectifier components such as diodes, and (ii) rectifier circuits comprising multiple components.

[0232] As described above, according to this embodiment, the switching unit 230 includes: (i) a transistor 520 that adjusts the current in the discharge direction; and (ii) a parasitic diode that is configured in parallel with the transistor 520 to allow current in the charging direction to pass through while preventing current in the discharge direction from passing through. Therefore, when the energy storage system 100 is further charged, and the voltage of the wiring 106 is greater than the voltage of the positive terminal 212 of the energy storage unit 210, current flows in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 via the parasitic diode of the transistor 520.

[0233] To prevent deterioration or damage to the energy storage unit 210 caused by over-discharge, the module control unit 1040 must prevent current from flowing in the discharge direction, but it may not prevent current from flowing in the charging direction. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the module control unit 1040 monitors the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0234] In one embodiment, the module control unit 1040 detects the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 in the charging direction. In another embodiment, the module control unit 1040 may also detect the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 when the switching unit 230 electrically disconnects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 in the discharging direction.

[0235] During the period from the start of charging of the energy storage system 100 until the current is detected, the module control unit 1040 maintains the interlock for over-discharge protection. On the other hand, when the current is detected, the module control unit 1040 releases the interlock for over-discharge protection.

[0236] In one embodiment, the module control unit 1040 controls the switching unit 230 to connect the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. Generally, the on-resistance of the transistor 520 is less than the resistance of the parasitic diode, so according to this embodiment, the charging and discharging efficiency of the energy storage unit 210 is improved.

[0237] When the current is detected when the voltage difference does not meet the conditions for achieving rapid hot-swapping, the module control unit 1040 can control the switching unit 230 in the following manner: at least until the voltage difference meets the conditions for achieving rapid hot-swapping, the switching unit 230 electrically connects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. Alternatively, during the period when the voltage difference meets the conditions for achieving rapid hot-swapping, the module control unit 1040 can control the switching unit 230 by electrically connecting the switching unit 230 to the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0238] In another embodiment, when the current is detected, the module control unit 1040 may also send a signal to the protection unit 250 to reset the over-discharge protection function. Additionally, when the protection unit 250 receives the signal to reset the over-discharge protection function, it may control the switching unit 230 to connect the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0239] When the energy storage system 100 is further charged after the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 are electrically connected, the voltage or state of charge (SOC) of the energy storage unit 210 exceeds the threshold for over-discharge protection. If the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 exceeds the over-discharge protection threshold, the protection unit 250 may also send a signal to the module control unit 1040 to reset the over-discharge protection function. When the module control unit 1040 receives the signal to reset the over-discharge protection function, it can control the switching unit 230 to electrically connect the energy storage unit 210 and the wiring 106.

[0240] Furthermore, as described above, when it is decided to activate the over-discharge protection function, the module control unit 1040, for example (i) electrically disconnects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, or (ii) reduces the magnitude of the current that can flow in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. Therefore, when the over-discharge protection function is activated, the magnitude of the current that can flow in the discharge direction is smaller compared to when the over-discharge protection function is deactivated. On the other hand, when it is decided to deactivate the over-discharge protection interlock (sometimes referred to as deactivating the over-discharge protection function), the module control unit 1040, for example (i) electrically connects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, or (ii) increases the magnitude of the current that can flow in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0241] The module control unit 1040 adjusts or controls the magnitude of the current flowing in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 by adjusting the resistance value or conduction ratio (sometimes referred to as the duty cycle) of the switching unit 230. In one embodiment, when the switching unit 230 includes a transistor 520 and the transistor 520 is a field-effect transistor, the module control unit 1040 can adjust or control the magnitude of the current flowing in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 by adjusting the gate voltage (sometimes referred to as the input voltage) of the transistor 520. The module control unit 1040 can also adjust or control the magnitude of the current flowing in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 by controlling the operation of components configured in the circuit used to adjust the input voltage of the transistor 520.

[0242] In another embodiment, when the switching unit 230 includes a transistor 520 and the transistor 520 is a bipolar transistor, the module control unit 1040 can adjust or control the magnitude of the current flowing in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 by adjusting the base current (sometimes referred to as the input current) of the transistor 520. The module control unit 1040 can also adjust or control the magnitude of the current flowing in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 by controlling the operation of components configured in the circuit used to adjust the input current of the transistor 520.

[0243] The resistance value or conduction ratio of the switching unit 230 may be the same or different when the over-discharge protection function is active and when the over-discharge protection function is inactive. When the switching unit 230 has a switching assembly, the on-resistance of the switching assembly may be the same or different when the over-charge protection function is active and when the over-charge protection function is inactive. When the switching unit 230 has a variable resistor, the resistance value of the variable resistor may be the same or different when the over-charge protection function is active and when the over-charge protection function is inactive. The module control unit 1040 may also control the switching unit 230 in the following manner: when the over-discharge protection function is active, the resistance value of the switching unit 230 increases compared to when the over-discharge protection function is inactive. The module control unit 1040 may also control the switching unit 230 in the following manner: when the over-discharge protection function is active, the conduction ratio of the switching unit 230 decreases compared to when the over-discharge protection function is inactive.

[0244] To simplify the explanation, in this embodiment, the following embodiment is used as an example to describe the steps of the module control unit 1040 in releasing the over-discharge protection interlock. The embodiment is that (i) when it is decided to enable the over-discharge protection function, the module control unit 1040 disconnects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 by power, and (ii) when it is decided to disable the over-discharge protection function, the module control unit 1040 connects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 by power. However, anyone skilled in the art who has access to the description in this document will understand that in another embodiment, where (i) the module control unit 1040 reduces the magnitude of the current flowing in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 when it is determined to enable the over-discharge protection function, and (ii) the module control unit 1040 increases the magnitude of the current flowing in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 when it is determined to disable the over-discharge protection function, the module control unit 1040 can also deactivate the over-discharge protection interlock through the same steps as in this embodiment.

[0245] Specifically, when the over-discharge protection function is enabled, in this embodiment, the series of actions by which the module control unit 1040 electrically disconnects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 are equivalent to, in the other embodiment, a series of actions by the module control unit 1040 to reduce the current flowing between the energy storage unit 210 and the wiring 106. Similarly, when the over-discharge protection function is disabled, in this embodiment, the series of actions by which the module control unit 1040 electrically connects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 are equivalent to, in the other embodiment, a series of actions by the module control unit 1040 to increase the current flowing between the energy storage unit 210 and the wiring 106.

[0246] (Specific example of the steps to release the overcharge protection interlock)

[0247] When the energy storage unit 210 of the energy storage module 1010 is electrically connected to the wiring 106 of the energy storage system 100, and the energy storage system 100 is charging, for example, if the voltage or state of charge (SOC) of the energy storage unit 210 exceeds the threshold for overcharge protection, the protection unit 250 sends a signal to the module control unit 1040 to activate the overcharge protection function. At this time, current flows between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 in the charging direction. In this case, the charging direction can be an example of a first direction. Furthermore, the discharging direction can be an example of a second direction. In this embodiment, the discharging direction and the charging direction are opposite to each other.

[0248] The case where the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is greater than the threshold for overcharge protection is an example of a situation where the conditions for protecting the energy storage unit 210 are not met. In another embodiment, if the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is above the threshold for over-discharge protection, the protection unit 250 may send a signal to the module control unit 1040 to enable the overcharge protection function.

[0249] When the module control unit 1040 receives the signal, it controls the switching unit 230 to disconnect the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. When the energy storage system 100 continues to charge even after the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 are disconnected, a voltage difference is generated between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0250] After the charging of the energy storage system 100 is completed, when the discharge of the energy storage system 100 begins, a voltage difference is generated between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. In this case, if the absolute value of the voltage difference is greater than the threshold for achieving rapid hot-swapping, the module control unit 1040 determines that the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 does not meet the conditions for achieving rapid hot-swapping. As a result, the energy storage system 100 is discharged while the wiring 106 between the energy storage unit 210 of the energy storage module 1010 and the energy storage system 100 is electrically disconnected.

[0251] On the other hand, (i) when the absolute value of the voltage difference at the start of the discharge of the energy storage system 100 is less than or below the threshold for achieving rapid hot-swapping, or (ii) when the absolute value of the voltage difference is less than or below the threshold for achieving rapid hot-swapping during the charging of the energy storage system 100, the module control unit 1040 will control the switching unit 230 to connect the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. However, during this stage, the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is greater than the threshold for overcharge protection. Therefore, the interlocking mechanism of the module control unit 1040 is activated. As a result, the module control unit 1040 cannot control the switching unit 230 to connect the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0252] In order for the module control unit 1040 to control the switching unit 230 to connect the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, the interlock must be released using some kind of logic. The method for releasing the interlock is not particularly limited. In this embodiment, the module control unit 1040 determines whether to release the interlock based on the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 or information about that current, and controls the operation of the switching unit 230 accordingly.

[0253] Here, as related Figure 5 As explained, the switching unit 230 includes a transistor 510 that adjusts or controls the magnitude of the current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. Examples of transistor 510 include Si-MOSFET, insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), SiC-MOSFET, and GaN-MOSFET.

[0254] When the rated voltage of the energy storage unit 210 is relatively high, the transistor 510 is preferably a SiC-MOSFET. For example, when the maximum rated voltage of the energy storage unit 210 is 100V or more, preferably 200V or more, more preferably 300V or more, further preferably 500V or more, further preferably 800V or more, and further preferably 1000V, a SiC-MOSFET is used as the transistor 510. This allows the advantages of SiC-MOSFETs, such as their excellent voltage withstand characteristics and low losses, to be fully utilized. When the maximum rated voltage of the energy storage unit 210 is 300V or more or 500V or more, the effect of using a SiC-MOSFET as the transistor 510 becomes clearly apparent.

[0255] Furthermore, a parasitic diode is formed between the source and drain of transistor 510. This parasitic diode allows current flowing in the discharge direction between wiring 106 and the energy storage section 210. On the other hand, the parasitic diode also suppresses current flowing in the charging direction between wiring 106 and the energy storage section 210 via this parasitic diode.

[0256] Transistor 510 may be an example of a first current regulating section or a second current regulating section. The parasitic diode of transistor 510 may be an example of a first bypass section or a second bypass section. Alternatively, switching section 230 may also have a rectifier separate from the parasitic diode of transistor 510, the rectifier having the same function as the parasitic diode, and connected in parallel with transistor 510 between wiring 106 and energy storage section 210. Examples of such rectifiers include (i) rectifier components such as diodes, and (ii) rectifier circuits comprising multiple components.

[0257] As described above, according to this embodiment, the switching unit 230 includes: (i) a transistor 510 that adjusts the current in the charging direction; and (ii) a parasitic diode that is configured in parallel with the transistor 510 to allow the current in the discharging direction to pass through while preventing the current in the charging direction from passing through. Therefore, when the energy storage system 100 is further discharged, and the voltage of the wiring 106 is less than the voltage of the positive terminal 212 of the energy storage unit 210, the current flows in the discharging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 via the parasitic diode of the transistor 510.

[0258] To prevent deterioration or damage to the energy storage unit 210 caused by overcharging, the module control unit 1040 must prevent current from flowing in the charging direction, but it may not prevent current from flowing in the discharging direction. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the module control unit 1040 monitors the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0259] In one embodiment, the module control unit 1040 detects the current flowing in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. In another embodiment, the module control unit 1040 may also detect the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 when the switching unit 230 disconnects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 in the charging direction.

[0260] During the period from the start of discharge of the energy storage system 100 until the current is detected, the module control unit 1040 maintains the interlock for overcharge protection. On the other hand, when the current is detected, the module control unit 1040 releases the interlock for overcharge protection.

[0261] In one embodiment, the module control unit 1040 controls the switching unit 230 to connect the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. Generally, the on-resistance of the transistor 510 is less than the resistance of the parasitic diode, so according to this embodiment, the charging and discharging efficiency of the energy storage unit 210 is improved.

[0262] When the current is detected when the voltage difference does not meet the conditions for achieving rapid hot-swapping, the module control unit 1040 can control the switching unit 230 in the following manner: at least until the voltage difference meets the conditions for achieving rapid hot-swapping, the switching unit 230 electrically connects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. Alternatively, during the period when the voltage difference meets the conditions for achieving rapid hot-swapping, the module control unit 1040 can control the switching unit 230 by electrically connecting the switching unit 230 to the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0263] In another embodiment, when the current is detected, the module control unit 1040 may also send a signal to the protection unit 250 to reset the over-discharge protection function. Additionally, when the protection unit 250 receives the signal to reset the over-discharge protection function, it may control the switching unit 230 to connect the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0264] When the energy storage system 100 is further discharged after the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 are electrically connected, the voltage or state of charge (SOC) of the energy storage unit 210 is less than the threshold for overcharge protection. If the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is less than the threshold for overcharge protection, the protection unit 250 may also send a signal to the module control unit 1040 to reset the overcharge protection function. When the module control unit 1040 receives the signal to reset the over-discharge protection function, it can control the switching unit 230 to electrically connect the energy storage unit 210 and the wiring 106.

[0265] Furthermore, as described above, when it is decided to activate the over-discharge protection function, the module control unit 1040, for example, (i) electrically disconnects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, or (ii) reduces the magnitude of the current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. Therefore, when the overcharge protection function is activated, the magnitude of the current flowing in the charging direction is smaller compared to when the overcharge protection function is deactivated. On the other hand, when it is decided to deactivate the overcharge protection interlock (sometimes referred to as deactivating the overcharge protection function), the module control unit 1040, for example, (i) electrically connects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210; or (ii) increases the magnitude of the current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0266] The module control unit 1040 adjusts or controls the magnitude of the current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 by adjusting the resistance value or conduction ratio (sometimes referred to as the duty cycle) of the switching unit 230. In one embodiment, when the switching unit 230 includes a transistor 510 and the transistor 510 is a field-effect transistor, the module control unit 1040 can adjust or control the magnitude of the current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 by adjusting the gate voltage (sometimes referred to as the input voltage) of the transistor 510. The module control unit 1040 can also adjust or control the magnitude of the current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 by controlling the operation of components configured in the circuit used to adjust the input voltage of the transistor 510.

[0267] In another embodiment, when the switching unit 230 includes a transistor 510 and the transistor 510 is a bipolar transistor, the module control unit 1040 can adjust or control the magnitude of the current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 by adjusting the base current (sometimes referred to as the input current) of the transistor 510. The module control unit 1040 can also adjust or control the magnitude of the current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 by controlling the operation of components configured in the circuit used to adjust the input current of the transistor 510.

[0268] The resistance value or conduction ratio of the switching unit 230 may be the same or different when the overcharge protection function is active and when the overcharge protection function is inactive. When the switching unit 230 has a switching assembly, the on-resistance of the switching assembly may be the same or different when the overcharge protection function is active and when the overcharge protection function is inactive. When the switching unit 230 has a variable resistor, the resistance value of the variable resistor may be the same or different when the overcharge protection function is active and when the overcharge protection function is inactive. The module control unit 1040 may also control the switching unit 230 in the following manner: when the overcharge protection function is active, the resistance value of the switching unit 230 increases compared to when the overcharge protection function is inactive. The module control unit 1040 may also control the switching unit 230 in the following manner: when the overcharge protection function is active, the conduction ratio of the switching unit 230 decreases compared to when the overcharge protection function is inactive.

[0269] To simplify the explanation, in this embodiment, the following embodiment is used as an example to describe the steps of the module control unit 1040 in releasing the overcharge protection interlock. The embodiment is that (i) when it is decided to enable the overcharge protection function, the module control unit 1040 disconnects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 by power, and (ii) when it is decided to disable the overcharge protection function, the module control unit 1040 connects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 by power. However, anyone skilled in the art who has access to the description in this document will understand that in another embodiment, where (i) the module control unit 1040 reduces the magnitude of the current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 when it is determined to enable the overcharge protection function, and (ii) the module control unit 1040 increases the magnitude of the current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 when it is determined to disable the overcharge protection function, the module control unit 1040 can also deactivate the overcharge protection interlock through the same steps as in this embodiment.

[0270] Specifically, when the overcharge protection function is enabled, in this embodiment, the series of actions by which the module control unit 1040 electrically disconnects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 are equivalent to, in the other embodiment, a series of actions by the module control unit 1040 to reduce the current flowing between the energy storage unit 210 and the wiring 106. Similarly, when the overcharge protection function is disabled, in this embodiment, the series of actions by which the module control unit 1040 electrically connects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 are equivalent to, in the other embodiment, a series of actions by the module control unit 1040 to increase the current flowing between the energy storage unit 210 and the wiring 106.

[0271] As described above, according to this embodiment, the module control unit 1040 can, for example, prevent a significant reduction in the charging and discharging efficiency of the energy storage module 1010 while simultaneously providing hot-swappable functionality and protection functionality for the energy storage unit 210.

[0272] Such as association Figure 1 The explanation provided concerns energy storage modules that form part of the power supply for small-scale systems such as home appliances. These modules typically connect a small number of batteries in series, and their rated voltage is around 3.5–4.5V. Therefore, when installing or removing energy storage modules from the power supply while the system is running, strict management of the voltage of the hot-swappable module and other energy storage modules within the power supply is required. Depending on the module specifications, the permissible voltage difference between the hot-swappable module and other energy storage modules within the power supply can also be managed to be less than 1V.

[0273] On the other hand, in recent years, there has been a trend towards larger energy storage modules. For example, in small to medium-sized electric vehicles such as buses, energy storage modules with a rated voltage of around 300 to 400V are used. Furthermore, in large electric vehicles such as electric buses, energy storage modules with a rated voltage of around 500 to 800V are used. As the rated voltage of the energy storage module increases, the permissible voltage difference between the module to be hot-swapped and other energy storage modules constituting the power supply also increases. For example, even when the voltage difference between one energy storage module constituting the power supply and other energy storage modules constituting that power supply exceeds 1V, it is sometimes possible to hot-swap that module.

[0274] Depending on the resistance or impedance of the hot-swappable energy storage module, when the rated voltage of the hot-swappable energy storage module is 100V or higher, the voltage difference between the hot-swappable energy storage module and other energy storage modules constituting the power supply can be less than 30V, less than 10V, less than 5V, less than 3V, less than 2V, or less than 1V. The voltage difference between the hot-swappable energy storage module and other energy storage modules constituting the power supply can be less than 1 / 5, less than 1 / 10, less than 1 / 20, less than 1 / 30, less than 1 / 50, less than 1 / 100, less than 1 / 200, less than 1 / 300, less than 1 / 500, or less than 1 / 1000 of the rated voltage of the hot-swappable energy storage module.

[0275] In this embodiment, the current detection component 1020 and the switching unit 230 are arranged between the positive terminal 112 of the energy storage module 1010 and the positive terminal 212 of the energy storage unit 210, and the positive terminal 212 of the energy storage unit 210 is electrically connected to the wiring 106 via the switching unit 230. However, the arrangement of the current detection component 1020 and the switching unit 230 is not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, the current detection component 1020 and the switching unit 230 are arranged between the negative terminal 114 of the energy storage module 1010 and the negative terminal 214 of the energy storage unit 210, and the negative terminal 214 of the energy storage unit 210 is electrically connected to the wiring 106 via the switching unit 230.

[0276] Figure 11Here is a simplified example of the system configuration of the module control unit 1040. In this embodiment, the module control unit 1040 includes a determination unit 310, a receiving unit 320, and a signal generation unit 330. The module control unit 1040 may also include a module information acquisition unit 340, a module information storage unit 350, and a module information transmission unit 360. In this embodiment, the module control unit 1040 includes a current monitoring unit 1120. In this embodiment, the current monitoring unit 1120 includes a current detection unit 1122 and a direction determination unit 1124. The signal generation unit 330 may be an example of an action control unit.

[0277] In this embodiment, the module control unit 1040 includes a current monitoring unit 1120, which differs from the module control unit 240. Aside from the aforementioned differences, the module control unit 1040 may have the same configuration features as the corresponding module control unit 240.

[0278] In this embodiment, the current monitoring unit 1120 monitors the current flowing between the wiring 106 of the energy storage system 100 and the energy storage unit 210 of the energy storage module 1010. For example, the current monitoring unit 1120 monitors the current flowing between the positive terminal 112 and the positive terminal 212 of the energy storage module 1010.

[0279] In this embodiment, the current detection unit 1122 detects the current flowing between the wiring 106 of the energy storage system 100 and the energy storage unit 210 of the energy storage module 1010. The current detection unit 1122 can also determine the magnitude of the current. The current detection unit 1122 can include any analog circuit or any digital circuit.

[0280] In this embodiment, the direction determination unit 1124 determines the direction of the current flowing between the wiring 106 of the energy storage system 100 and the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 1010. The direction determination unit 1124 may include any analog circuit or any digital circuit.

[0281] Figure 12 Here is a simplified example of the circuit configuration of the module control unit 1040. Figure 12 Here is a simplified example of the circuit configuration of the switching unit 230. Figure 12 This section represents an example of the positive terminal 112, the negative terminal 114, the energy storage unit 210, the protection unit 250, the current detection component 1020, the switching unit 230, and an example of the module control unit 1040.

[0282] [Specific example of the circuit of switching unit 230]

[0283] In this embodiment, one end of transistor 510 is electrically connected to wiring 106, and the other end is electrically connected to the energy storage unit 210. Transistor 510 is connected in series with transistor 520 and parasitic diode 844 between wiring 106 and energy storage unit 210. In this embodiment, transistor 510 adjusts the magnitude of the current flowing in the charging direction between wiring 106 and energy storage unit 210.

[0284] In this embodiment, one end of transistor 520 is electrically connected to wiring 106, and the other end is electrically connected to the energy storage unit 210. Transistor 520 is connected in series with transistor 510 and parasitic diode 842 between wiring 106 and energy storage unit 210. In this embodiment, transistor 520 adjusts the magnitude of the current flowing in the discharge direction between wiring 106 and energy storage unit 210.

[0285] One end of the parasitic diode 842 is electrically connected to wiring 106, and the other end is electrically connected to the energy storage unit 210. The parasitic diode 842 is connected in parallel with transistor 510 between wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. The parasitic diode 842 is also connected in series with transistor 520 and parasitic diode 844 between wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0286] The parasitic diode 842 allows current flowing in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage section 210. On the other hand, the parasitic diode 842 suppresses current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage section 210 via the parasitic diode 842.

[0287] One end of the parasitic diode 844 is electrically connected to wiring 106, and the other end is electrically connected to the energy storage unit 210. The parasitic diode 844 is connected in parallel with transistor 520 between wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. The parasitic diode 844 is also connected in series with transistor 510 and parasitic diode 842 between wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0288] The parasitic diode 842 allows current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage section 210 to pass through. On the other hand, the parasitic diode 844 suppresses current flowing in the discharging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage section 210 via the parasitic diode 844.

[0289] Transistor 510 can be an example of either the first current adjustment section or the second current adjustment section. Transistor 520 can be an example of the other current adjustment section. Parasitic diode 842 can be an example of either the first bypass section or the second bypass section. Parasitic diode 844 can be an example of the other bypass section. The discharge direction can be an example of either the first direction or the second direction. The charging direction can be an example of the other direction.

[0290] [Specific example of the circuit of module control unit 1040]

[0291] In this embodiment, the module control unit 1040 includes a determination unit 310, a signal generation unit 330, and a current monitoring unit 1120. The determination unit 310 may be an example of a first determination unit, a second determination unit, and a third determination unit.

[0292] In this embodiment, the signal generation unit 330 includes an OR circuit 1260, an AND circuit 1272, an AND circuit 1274, an OR circuit 1282, and an OR circuit 1284. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a resistor with an appropriate resistance value is disposed between the positive terminal 112 and the switching unit 230 as a current detection component 1020. The resistance value of the current detection component 1020 is determined, for example, in a manner that allows the current monitoring unit 1120 to reliably determine the direction of the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0293] In this embodiment, the determination unit 310 determines whether the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within a predetermined range. The determination unit 310 sends a signal indicating the determination result to the signal generation unit 330. The determination unit 310 may include any analog circuit or any digital circuit. The determination unit 310 may include a window comparator. The window comparator can be implemented, for example, using two comparators.

[0294] In this embodiment, the determination unit 310 has two input terminals. The voltage of one end of the switching unit 230 (for example, the end on the positive terminal 112 side) is input to one input terminal of the determination unit 310 (shown as the - terminal in the figure). The voltage of the other end of the switching unit 230 (for example, the end on the energy storage unit 210 side) is input to the other input terminal of the determination unit 310 (shown as the + terminal in the figure).

[0295] In this embodiment, the determination unit 310 has two output terminals. The determination unit 310 outputs a signal from one of the output terminals (shown as terminal L in the figure) indicating that the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 is less than a first threshold, as a signal indicating the determination result. For example, when the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 is less than the first threshold, the determination unit 310 outputs H logic from terminal L. On the other hand, when the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 is greater than or equal to the first threshold, the determination unit 310 outputs L logic from terminal L.

[0296] Furthermore, the determination unit 310 outputs a signal from the other output terminal (shown as terminal H in the figure) indicating that the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 is greater than a second threshold as a signal indicating the determination result. In this embodiment, the absolute value of the second threshold is set to a value larger than the absolute value of the first threshold. For example, when the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 is greater than the second threshold, the determination unit 310 outputs H logic from terminal H. On the other hand, when the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 is less than or equal to the second threshold, the determination unit 310 outputs L logic from terminal H.

[0297] In one embodiment, the determination unit 310 can, for example, determine whether the voltage or state of charge (SOC) of the energy storage unit 210 meets a first condition. Examples of the first condition include: (i) a condition indicating that the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit is outside a predetermined first numerical range; (ii) a condition indicating that the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit is greater than a predetermined first threshold; and (iii) a condition indicating that the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit is above the first threshold. For example, the first condition could be a condition indicating that the energy storage unit 210 is overcharged.

[0298] In another embodiment, the determination unit 310 can, for example, determine whether the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 meets a second condition. Examples of the second condition include: (i) a condition indicating that the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit is outside a predetermined second numerical range; (ii) a condition indicating that the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit is less than a predetermined second threshold; and (iii) a condition indicating that the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit is below the second threshold, etc. Furthermore, the second condition can be a condition different from the first condition. For example, the second condition could be a condition indicating that the energy storage unit 210 is over-discharged.

[0299] In another embodiment, the determination unit 310 may, for example, determine whether the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 meets a third condition. Examples of the third condition include: (i) a condition indicating that the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 is within a predetermined third numerical range; (ii) a condition indicating that the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 is less than a predetermined third threshold; and (iii) a condition indicating that the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 is below the third threshold, etc.

[0300] In another embodiment, the determination unit 310 may, for example, determine whether the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 meets a fourth condition. Examples of the fourth condition include: (i) a condition indicating that the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 is outside a predetermined fourth numerical range; (ii) a condition indicating that the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 is greater than a predetermined fourth threshold; and (iii) a condition indicating that the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 is greater than or equal to the fourth threshold. The fourth numerical range may also be the same as the third numerical range. The upper limit of the fourth numerical range may also be greater than the upper limit of the third numerical range. The fourth threshold may also be the same as the third threshold. The fourth threshold may also be greater than the third threshold.

[0301] In this embodiment, the current monitoring unit 1120 may include a comparator. The current monitoring unit 1120, for example, has two input terminals and one output terminal. The voltage of one end of the current detection component 1020 (e.g., the end on the positive terminal 112 side) is input to one input terminal of the current monitoring unit 1120 (shown as the + terminal in the figure). The voltage of the other end of the current detection component 1020 (e.g., the end on the switching unit 230 side) is input to the other input terminal of the current monitoring unit 1120 (shown as the - terminal in the figure).

[0302] For example, when the voltage input to the + terminal is greater than the voltage input to the - terminal, the current monitoring unit 1120 outputs an H logic signal from the output terminal. On the other hand, when the voltage input to the + terminal is less than the voltage input to the - terminal, the current monitoring unit 1120 outputs an L logic signal from the output terminal. Furthermore, when the voltage input to the + terminal is equal to or considered equal to the voltage input to the - terminal, the current monitoring unit 1120 does not output a signal from the output terminal.

[0303] In this embodiment, the current monitoring unit 1120 detects the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 when at least one of the transistors 510 and 520 electrically disconnects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. In one embodiment, the current monitoring unit 1120 detects the current flowing in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 when the overcharge protection function is activated. In another embodiment, the current monitoring unit 1120 detects the current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 when the over-discharge protection function is activated.

[0304] In this embodiment, the signal generating unit 330 may also function as the receiving unit 320. For example, the signal generating unit 330 receives a signal 86 from the protection unit 250 to activate the over-discharge protection function. Furthermore, the signal generating unit 330 receives a signal 88 from the protection unit 250 to activate the overcharge protection function. The signal generating unit 330 receives information from the determination unit 310 regarding the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230. The signal generating unit 330 receives information from the current monitoring unit 1120 regarding the current between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0305] In this embodiment, the signal generation unit 330 can control the operation of at least one of the transistors 510 and 520 based on (i) the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 and (ii) the detection result of the current monitoring unit 1120. The signal generation unit 330 can control the operation of at least one of the transistors 510 and 520 based on (i) the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210, (ii) the detection result of the current monitoring unit 1120, and (iii) the determination result of the determination unit 310. The signal generation unit 330 can control at least one of the transistors 510 and 520 by outputting a signal used to control the operation of at least one of the transistors 510 and 520 to the transistor that is the target of the control signal.

[0306] In this embodiment, when the determination unit 310 determines that the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 meets the fourth condition, the signal generation unit 330 can use at least one output of the transistors 510 and 520 to perform an operation of electrically cutting off the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, or to reduce the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. Therefore, the determination unit 310 can also be used as an overcurrent protection function for the energy storage unit 210.

[0307] In this embodiment, the OR circuit 1260 has two input terminals and one output terminal. One input terminal of the OR circuit 1260 receives the output from the H terminal of the determination unit 310. The other input terminal of the OR circuit 1260 receives the output from the L terminal of the determination unit 310.

[0308] The OR circuit 1260 outputs the logical sum of its two inputs. For example, when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 converges to a specific numerical range, the OR circuit 1260 outputs L logic. On the other hand, when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 deviates from the specific numerical range, the OR circuit 1260 outputs H logic. For example, as an example of the case where the switching unit 230 meets the fourth condition, when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is greater than a specific value, H logic is output from the H terminal of the determination unit 310. In this case, the OR circuit 1260 outputs H logic.

[0309] In this embodiment, the AND circuit 1272 has two input terminals and one output terminal. One input terminal of the AND circuit 1272 receives a signal obtained by inverting the output of the OR circuit 1260. The other input terminal of the AND circuit 1272 receives a signal obtained by inverting the signal 88 used to activate the overcharge protection function.

[0310] The AND circuit 1272 outputs the logic product of its two inputs. For example, when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 converges to a specific value range (specifically, when the absolute value of the difference between the voltage of the wiring 106 and the voltage of the energy storage unit 210 is less than a specific threshold or is below that threshold), and when the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is less than a threshold for overcharge protection, the AND circuit 1272 outputs an H logic value. On the other hand, in other cases, the AND circuit 1272 outputs an L logic value.

[0311] In this embodiment, the AND circuit 1274 has two input terminals and one output terminal. One input terminal of the AND circuit 1274 receives a signal obtained by inverting the output of the OR circuit 1260. The other input terminal of the AND circuit 1274 receives a signal obtained by inverting the signal 86 used to activate the over-discharge protection function.

[0312] The AND circuit 1274 outputs the logic product of its two inputs. For example, when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 converges to a specific value range (specifically, when the absolute value of the difference between the voltage of the wiring 106 and the voltage of the energy storage unit 210 is less than a specific threshold or is below that threshold), and when the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is greater than a threshold for over-discharge protection, the AND circuit 1274 outputs an H logic value. On the other hand, in other cases, the AND circuit 1274 outputs an L logic value.

[0313] In this embodiment, the OR circuit 1282 has two input terminals and one output terminal. One input terminal of the OR circuit 1282 receives a signal obtained by inverting the output of the current monitoring unit 1120. The other input terminal of the OR circuit 1282 receives the output of the AND circuit 1272.

[0314] The OR circuit 1282 outputs the logical sum of its two inputs. For example, when the output of the OR circuit 1282 is H logic, the transistor 510 is turned on; when the output of the OR circuit 1282 is L logic, the transistor 510 is turned off. In one embodiment, the OR circuit 1282 outputs H logic when current flows in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. In another embodiment, the OR circuit 1282 outputs H logic when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 converges to a specific numerical range, and when the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is less than a threshold for overcharge protection.

[0315] In this embodiment, the OR circuit 1284 has two input terminals and one output terminal. The output of the current monitoring unit 1120 is input to one input terminal of the OR circuit 1284. The output of the AND circuit 1274 is input to the other input terminal of the OR circuit 1284.

[0316] The OR circuit 1284 outputs the logical sum of its two inputs. For example, when the output of the OR circuit 1284 is H logic, the transistor 520 is turned on; when the output of the OR circuit 1284 is L logic, the transistor 520 is turned off. In one embodiment, the OR circuit 1284 outputs H logic when current flows in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. In another embodiment, the OR circuit 1284 outputs H logic when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 converges to a specific numerical range, and when the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 is less than a threshold for overcharge protection.

[0317] [Specific example of the operation of the signal generation unit 330]

[0318] In one embodiment, when the determination unit 310 determines that the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 meets the first condition, the signal generation unit 330 outputs a signal to the transistor 510, for example, to perform an operation to electrically disconnect the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, or to reduce the current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. Alternatively, depending on the content of the first condition, the signal generation unit 330 may also output a signal to the transistor 520.

[0319] In another embodiment, when the determination unit 310 determines that the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 meets the second condition, the signal generation unit 330 outputs a signal to the transistor 520, for example, to perform an operation to electrically disconnect the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, or to reduce the current flowing in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. Alternatively, depending on the content of the second condition, the signal generation unit 330 may also output a signal to the transistor 510.

[0320] In another embodiment, when the determination unit 310 determines that the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 meets the third condition, the signal generation unit 330 outputs a signal to the transistors 510 and 520 to perform the operation of electrically connecting the wiring 106 and the charging unit 210, or to increase the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the charging unit 210, regardless of whether the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 meets the first and second conditions. On the other hand, when the determination unit 310 determines that the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 does not meet the third condition, the signal generation unit 330 may output a signal corresponding to the detection result of the current monitoring unit 1120. For example, the signal generation unit 330 outputs a signal as described below.

[0321] [(a) If the determination unit 310 determines that the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 does not meet the third condition, (b) the current monitoring unit 1120 detects (i) the current flowing in the discharge direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 when the overcharge protection function is activated, or (ii) the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 when the transistor 510 electrically disconnects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit.]

[0322] In this case, regardless of whether the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 meets the first condition, the signal generation unit 330 outputs a signal to the transistor 510 to perform the operation of electrically connecting the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, or to increase the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0323] [(a) If the determination unit 310 determines that the inter-terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 does not meet the third condition, (c) the current monitoring unit 1120 detects (i) the current flowing in the charging direction between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 when the over-discharge protection function is activated, or (ii) the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 when the transistor 520 electrically disconnects the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit.]

[0324] In this case, regardless of whether the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210 meets the second condition, the signal generation unit 330 outputs a signal to the transistor 520 to perform the operation of electrically connecting the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, or to increase the current flowing between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0325] In another embodiment, the module control unit 1040 can suppress the deterioration or damage of the energy storage unit 210 due to overcurrent. As described above, as an example of the case where the switching unit 230 meets the fourth condition, when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is greater than a specific value, the OR circuit 1260 outputs H logic.

[0326] Therefore, when current flows in the discharge direction between wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, and the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is greater than a specific value, L logic can be output from the OR circuit 1282. As a result, transistor 510 is turned off. Similarly, when current flows in the charging direction between wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, and the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is greater than a specific value, L logic can be output from the OR circuit 1284. As a result, transistor 520 is turned off.

[0327] According to this embodiment, it is possible to suppress the constant flow of current through parasitic diodes 842 and 844. As a result, the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 can be considered to be proportional to the current flowing through transistors 510 and 520. Therefore, by appropriately setting the resistance value of the constant current detection component 1020, or by connecting a resistor with an appropriate resistance value in series with the current detection component 1020 between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210, the determination unit 310 and the signal generation unit 330 can be used as an overcurrent protection circuit.

[0328] Figure 13 Here is a simplified example of the circuit configuration of the module control unit 1040. Figure 13 The module control unit 1040 disclosed herein has a resistor 1310 between the current detection components 1020 and 120, which is related to... Figure 12 The module control unit 1040 described is different. Regarding the configuration other than the differences mentioned above, Figure 13 The module control unit 1040 disclosed herein may have associated Figure 12 The module control unit 1040 described herein has the same configuration features.

[0329] As described above, by appropriately setting the resistance value of resistor 1310, the determination unit 310 and the signal generation unit 330 can be used as an overcurrent protection circuit. The resistance value of resistor 1310 is determined, for example, in a way that allows the determination unit 310 to reliably determine whether the load current value converges to a predetermined numerical range. Furthermore, resistor 1310 can also be used as a current detection component instead of current detection component 1020. In this case, the energy storage module 1010 may not need to include current detection component 1020.

[0330] Figure 14 This section provides a simplified example of the system configuration of the energy storage module 1410. In this embodiment, the energy storage module 1410 differs from the energy storage module 1010 in that it includes a voltage adjustment unit 1430, and the module control unit 1040 controls the operation of the voltage adjustment unit 1430. Aside from the aforementioned differences, the energy storage module 1410 may have the same features as the corresponding configuration of the energy storage module 1010. The voltage adjustment unit 1430 may be an example of a first switching assembly and a second switching assembly.

[0331] Figure 15 This is a simplified example of the circuit configuration of the voltage adjustment unit 1430. Furthermore, Figure 15 Here is an example of the circuit configuration of the module control unit 1040 of the energy storage module 1410.

[0332] In this embodiment, the voltage adjustment unit 1430 includes a transistor 1522 and a resistor 1524. In this embodiment, the voltage adjustment unit 1430 also includes a transistor 1542 and a resistor 1544. Transistor 1522 may be an example of a first switching assembly. Transistor 1542 may be an example of a second switching assembly.

[0333] In this embodiment, the signal generation unit 330 (not shown) of the module control unit 1040 of the energy storage module 1410 includes AND circuit 1552 and AND circuit 1554, which differs from the module control unit 1040 of the energy storage module 1010. Apart from the aforementioned differences, the module control unit 1040 of the energy storage module 1410 may have the same features as the corresponding configuration of the module control unit 1040 of the energy storage module 1010.

[0334] In this embodiment, transistor 1522 is connected in parallel with switching unit 230 between wiring 106 and energy storage unit 210. For example, one end of transistor 1522 is electrically connected to one end of switching unit 230. One end of transistor 1522 may also be electrically connected to wiring 106 via positive terminal 112. On the other hand, the other end of transistor 1522 is electrically connected to the other end of switching unit 230. The other end of transistor 1522 may also be electrically connected to energy storage unit 210.

[0335] According to this embodiment, the energy storage modules can be easily hot-swapped. However, for example, in the case where the energy storage system 100 is a machine used infrequently, such as an emergency power supply, there is a time delay between replacing a portion of the multiple energy storage modules included in the energy storage system 100 and electrically connecting the replaced energy storage module to the wiring 106 of the energy storage system 100. Even in such cases, the transistor 1522 can electrically connect the wiring 106 to the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 1410 at any time.

[0336] In this embodiment, resistor 1524 determines the magnitude of the current flowing through transistor 1522 when transistor 1522 is turned on. The resistance value of resistor 1524 is determined such that a large current does not flow through transistor 1522 when transistor 1522 is turned on. In one embodiment, the resistance value of resistor 1524 is determined such that the resistance value of the path via transistor 1522 electrically connecting wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210 is greater than the resistance value of the path via switching unit 230 electrically connecting wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210.

[0337] In another embodiment, the resistance value of resistor 1524 can be determined based on "the time required to charge the energy storage unit 210 from a first SOC to a second SOC at a specific charging voltage when transistor 1522 is turned on". For example, the first SOC is 25% and the second SOC is 75%. Alternatively, the first SOC could be 20% and the second SOC 80%. Or, the first SOC could be 10% and the second SOC 90%. Or, the first SOC could be 0% and the second SOC 100%. Examples of such time periods include 12 hours, 18 hours, 24 hours, 36 hours, 48 ​​hours, 72 hours, 1 week, 10 days, 15 days, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, 6 months, etc.

[0338] In this embodiment, one end of transistor 1542 is electrically connected to the positive terminal 212 of the energy storage unit 210, and the other end is electrically connected to the negative terminal 214 of the energy storage unit 210 or a reference potential. This allows the energy storage unit 210 to discharge at any time. Consequently, transistor 1542 can adjust the voltage difference between the wiring 106 and the voltage of the energy storage unit 210 of the energy storage module 1410 at any time. For example, even if the energy storage system 100 is a machine used infrequently, the energy storage module 1410 can still electrically connect the wiring 106 to the energy storage unit 210 of the energy storage module 1410 at any time.

[0339] In this embodiment, resistor 1544 determines the magnitude of the current flowing through transistor 1542 when transistor 1542 is switched on. The resistance value of resistor 1544 is determined such that a large current does not flow through transistor 1542 when it is switched on. In one embodiment, the resistance value of resistor 1544 is determined such that the resistance value of the path connecting one end of the energy storage unit 210 to the other end via transistor 1542 is greater than the resistance value of the path connecting wiring 106 and energy storage unit 210 via switching unit 230.

[0340] In another embodiment, the resistance value of resistor 1544 can be determined based on "the time required to charge the energy storage unit 210 from a first SOC to a second SOC when transistor 1542 is turned on". For example, the first SOC is 75% and the second SOC is 25%. Alternatively, the first SOC may be 80% and the second SOC 20%. Or, the first SOC may be 90% and the second SOC 10%. Or, the first SOC may be 100% and the second SOC 0%. Examples of such time periods include 12 hours, 18 hours, 24 hours, 36 hours, 48 ​​hours, 72 hours, 1 week, 10 days, 15 days, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, 6 months, etc.

[0341] In this embodiment, the AND circuit 1552 has two input terminals and one output terminal. One input terminal of the AND circuit 1552 receives a signal obtained by inverting the signal 88 used to activate the overcharge protection function. The other input terminal of the AND circuit 1552 receives an output from the L terminal of the determination unit 310. The AND circuit 1552 outputs the logic product of the two inputs. The signal 92 output from the AND circuit 1552 is input to the input terminal of the transistor 1522.

[0342] In this embodiment, the AND circuit 1554 has two input terminals and one output terminal. One input terminal of the AND circuit 1554 receives a signal obtained by inverting the signal 86 used to activate the over-discharge protection function. The other input terminal of the AND circuit 1554 receives an output from the H terminal of the determination unit 310. The AND circuit 1554 outputs the logic product of the two inputs. The signal 94 output from the AND circuit 1554 is input to the input terminal of the transistor 1522.

[0343] Therefore, the module control unit 1040 can, for example, control the operation of the transistor 1522 based on (i) the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210, (ii) the voltage of the wiring 106, and (iii) the voltage of the positive terminal 212 of the energy storage unit 210. Furthermore, the module control unit 1040 can, for example, control the operation of the transistor 1542 based on (i) the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210, (ii) the voltage of the wiring 106, and (iii) the voltage of the positive terminal 212 of the energy storage unit 210.

[0344] Figure 16 This is a simplified representation of an example of the voltage adjustment unit 1430. Figure 16 The voltage adjustment unit 1430 disclosed herein replaces the transistor 1522 and resistor 1544 and has a bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630, which is related to... Figure 15 The voltage adjustment unit 1430 described is different. Regarding the configuration other than the differences mentioned above, Figure 16 The voltage adjustment unit 1430 disclosed herein may have associated Figure 15 The voltage adjustment unit 1430 described herein has the same configuration features.

[0345] In this embodiment, the bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630 is connected in parallel with the switching unit 230 between the wiring 106 and the energy storage unit 210. For example, one end of the bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630 is electrically connected to one end of the switching unit 230. One end of the bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630 may also be electrically connected to the wiring 106 via the positive terminal 112. On the other hand, the other end of the bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630 is electrically connected to the other end of the switching unit 230. The other end of the bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630 may also be electrically connected to the energy storage unit 210.

[0346] The rated current of the bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630 can be less than the rated current of the switching unit 230. The specifications of the bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630 can be determined based on "the time required to charge the energy storage unit 210 from a first SOC to a second SOC when the bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630 is operating." For example, the first SOC is 25%, and the second SOC is 75%. Alternatively, the first SOC could be 20%, and the second SOC 80%. Or, the first SOC could be 10%, and the second SOC 90%. Or, the first SOC could be 0%, and the second SOC 100%. Examples of such time periods include 12 hours, 18 hours, 24 hours, 36 hours, 48 ​​hours, 72 hours, 1 week, 10 days, 15 days, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, and 6 months.

[0347] The specifications of the bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630 can be determined based on "the time required to charge the energy storage unit 210 from a first SOC to a second SOC when the bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630 is operating". For example, the first SOC is 75% and the second SOC is 25%. Alternatively, the first SOC could be 80% and the second SOC 20%. Or, the first SOC could be 90% and the second SOC 10%. Or, the first SOC could be 100% and the second SOC 0%. Examples of such time periods include 12 hours, 18 hours, 24 hours, 36 hours, 48 ​​hours, 72 hours, 1 week, 10 days, 15 days, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, 6 months, etc. Examples of specifications for the bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630 include rated current values, rated power values, etc.

[0348] In the case where a bidirectional DC-DC converter is used to completely replace the switching unit 230, a large and expensive bidirectional DC-DC converter is used. However, according to this embodiment, the bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630 is used, for example, during the period when the energy storage system 100 is stopped, to transfer electrical energy from one energy storage module 1410 to another energy storage module 1410. Therefore, compared to the case where a bidirectional DC-DC converter is used to completely replace the switching unit 230, it is not a problem to significantly reduce the capability of the bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630.

[0349] In this embodiment, the bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630 is controlled by the module control unit 1040. The module control unit 1040 controls the operation of the bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630 based on, for example, (i) the voltage or SOC of the energy storage unit 210, (ii) the voltage of the wiring 106, and (iii) the voltage of the positive terminal 212 of the energy storage unit 210.

[0350] According to this embodiment, the bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630 can transfer electrical energy from the energy storage unit 210 to the wiring 106 at any time. Furthermore, the bidirectional DC-DC converter 1630 can transfer electrical energy from the wiring 106 to the 210 at any time.

[0351] Figure 17Here is a simplified example of the system configuration of the energy storage module 1710. In this embodiment, when the module control unit 1040 decides to release at least one of the over-discharge protection interlock and the over-charge protection interlock, the energy storage module 1710 sends at least one of the over-discharge protection reset signals and the over-charge protection reset signals to the protection unit 250, which differs from the energy storage module 1410, etc. Furthermore, when the protection unit 250 receives the reset signal, the energy storage module 1710 controls the switching unit 230 and releases at least one of the over-discharge protection interlock and the over-charge protection interlock, which also differs from the energy storage module 1410, etc. Aside from the aforementioned differences, the energy storage module 1710 may have the same features as the corresponding configuration of the energy storage module 1410, etc.

[0352] In each of the embodiments described above, the detailed features of the energy storage system 100 are illustrated using the example of switching units such as switching units 230, 630, and 730 being disposed inside energy storage modules such as energy storage modules 110, 710, 1010, 1410, and 1710. However, the energy storage system 100 is not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0353] In another embodiment, the switching unit may be disposed outside the energy storage module. For example, the switching unit may be disposed between the connection terminal 102 of the energy storage system 100 and the positive terminal of each energy storage module. The switching unit may be disposed between the connection terminal 104 of the energy storage system 100 and the negative terminal of each energy storage module. The switching unit disposed inside or outside each energy storage module is sometimes referred to as the switching unit corresponding to each energy storage module.

[0354] use Figures 18-29 This section illustrates an example of a method for determining the rated voltage of at least one of the energy storage modules 110 and 120. The rated voltage of an energy storage module represents the voltage at a point in time when the discharge amount of the module reaches half of its total energy, assuming the module is discharging at a predetermined current value. The predetermined current value is, for example, a value such as 0.2C. The rated voltage is sometimes referred to as the average voltage.

[0355] When the energy storage module has a single battery, the rated voltage of the energy storage module can be expressed as the rated voltage of the battery. When the energy storage module has multiple batteries connected in series, the rated voltage of the energy storage module (i) can be expressed as the sum of the rated voltages of the individual batteries; (ii) can be expressed as the product of the rated voltage of a single battery and the number of batteries connected in series. The rated voltage of a battery represents the voltage at the point in time when the battery discharges at a predetermined current value, and the discharge amount of the battery is half of the total energy of the battery. For example, a value such as 0.2C is used as the predetermined current value.

[0356] As described above, the energy storage system 100 can electrically connect multiple energy storage modules of different types. The availability or stock quantity of the energy storage module or the battery constituting the energy storage module sometimes varies depending on the type of energy storage module or the battery. Furthermore, the size of the energy storage module sometimes varies depending on the type of energy storage module.

[0357] For example, depending on the availability or inventory of energy storage modules or batteries, adjusting the replacement frequency of energy storage modules can further contribute to improving the efficiency of energy storage module reuse and the maintenance and management of the energy storage system 100. However, regarding... Figures 1 to 17 In the described energy storage system 100, the electrical connection between the energy storage module and the energy storage system 100 automatically switches according to the voltage of the energy storage module. Therefore, regardless of the voltage status of other energy storage modules, it is difficult to charge or discharge a specific energy storage module at any time.

[0358] In addition, such as regarding Figure 2 As described above, the energy storage module 110 includes (i) a single battery or (ii) multiple batteries connected in series with the positive terminal 112 and the negative terminal 114. In the energy storage module 110, the single or multiple batteries are connected in series with the positive terminal 112 and the negative terminal 114. The number of batteries connected in series with the positive terminal 112 and the negative terminal 114 in the energy storage module 110 can be adjusted to any number. Therefore, even if the battery systems of the one or more batteries are the same, it is difficult to charge or discharge a specific energy storage module at any given time when the number of batteries differs among the multiple energy storage modules installed in the energy storage system 100.

[0359] Therefore, in relation to Figures 18-29 In the described embodiments, a method is provided for determining the rated voltage of a first energy storage device in an energy storage system in which a first energy storage device and a second energy storage device can be installed in parallel. The energy storage system includes, for example, at least one of the following steps: (A) a discharge standby step, preparing for the next discharge step after performing a discharge step, and standing still in a state where the voltage of at least one of the first and second energy storage devices is equal to or greater than a predetermined first threshold; and (B) a charging standby step, preparing for the next charging step after performing a charging step, and standing still in a state where the voltage of at least one of the first and second energy storage devices is equal to or less than a predetermined second threshold.

[0360] The energy storage system 100 may be an example of an energy storage system capable of housing a first energy storage device and a second energy storage device. The energy storage module 110 may be an example of one of the first energy storage devices and the second energy storage device. The energy storage module 120 may be an example of the other energy storage device among the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device.

[0361] In the method, according to one embodiment, the type of the first energy storage device is different from the type of the second energy storage device. According to another embodiment, the number of batteries connected in series with the positive and negative terminals in the first energy storage device is different from the number of batteries connected in series with the positive and negative terminals in the second energy storage device. For example, the number of multiple batteries connected in series in the first energy storage device is different from the number of multiple batteries connected in series in the second energy storage device.

[0362] Furthermore, even when the battery system is the same, the type of energy storage device can be distinguished, for example, by (i) the shape of the charge-discharge characteristic curve and (i) the magnitude of dV / dQ under a specific condition. The charge-discharge characteristic curve can be a curve representing the output voltage of the energy storage device relative to the charge rate (sometimes called SOC), a curve representing the output voltage of the energy storage device relative to the depth of discharge (sometimes called DOD), or a curve representing OCV (Open Circuit Voltage).

[0363] Here, the depth of discharge (DOD) [%] is defined as 100 - SOC [%]. V is the output voltage of the energy storage device (e.g., energy storage module 110 or energy storage module 120) in the battery pack (e.g., energy storage system 100). Q is the integral value of the current flowing to the energy storage device (sometimes referred to as the energy capacity). Furthermore, the magnitude of dV / dQ represents the slope of the charge-discharge characteristic curve under the specific state. The specific state is exemplified by a state where, when the energy storage device discharges at a predetermined current value, the discharge amount of the energy storage device is half of the total energy of the energy storage device.

[0364] For example, when the energy storage device is a lithium battery or lithium-ion battery (sometimes called a Li battery), examples of energy storage device types include LFP-based Li batteries, ternary Li batteries, Mn-based Li batteries, Co-based Li batteries, and Ni-based Li batteries. For instance, LFP-based Li batteries exhibit a relatively flat charge-discharge characteristic curve. On the other hand, ternary Li batteries exhibit a charge-discharge characteristic curve with a steeper slope. Therefore, generally speaking, the dV / dQ of LFP-based Li batteries is smaller than that of ternary Li batteries.

[0365] For the sake of simplicity, this embodiment uses an energy storage system 100 with energy storage module 110 and energy storage module 120 as an example to describe the details of the method. However, the method is not limited to this embodiment. The method can also be applied to energy storage systems with three or more energy storage devices. For example, the method is applied to an energy storage system 100 with one or more energy storage modules 110 and one or more energy storage modules 120.

[0366] In the method, firstly, the energy storage module (sometimes referred to as the main device) with the increased operating rate in energy storage module 110 and energy storage module 120 is determined. The operating rate is determined, for example, based on at least one of the following values: (i) the cumulative value of at least one of the discharge time and charging time within a predetermined period, i.e., the cumulative time; (ii) the cumulative value of at least one of the discharge amount and charging amount within a predetermined period, i.e., the cumulative charge; and (iii) the cumulative value of at least one of the discharge number and charging number within a predetermined period, i.e., the cumulative number of times.

[0367] Next, the relationship between the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 and the energy storage module 120, which has been determined to increase its operating rate, and the rated voltage of the other energy storage module is determined. This relationship is determined, for example, based on the intended use of the energy storage system 100. For example, the intended use of the energy storage system 100 may include (i) applications such as uninterruptible power supplies, which prioritize maintaining a relatively high state of charge (SOC) during the discharge standby phase; and (ii) applications such as power buffers, which prioritize maintaining a relatively low SOC during the charging standby phase.

[0368] In one embodiment, the energy storage system 100 is used to maintain a relatively high state of charge (SOC) during the discharge standby phase. In this case, it is determined that the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 and the energy storage module 120 with a determined increased operating rate is greater than the rated voltage of the other energy storage module.

[0369] In another embodiment, the energy storage system 100 is used to maintain a relatively low state of charge (SOC) during the charging standby phase. In this case, it is determined that the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 and the energy storage module 120 with a determined increased operating rate is lower than the rated voltage of the other energy storage module.

[0370] Next, the rated voltage of at least one of the energy storage modules 110 and 120 is determined in a manner that satisfies the aforementioned size relationship. For example, the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 can be adjusted by adjusting the number of batteries connected in series within the energy storage module 110. The rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 can be adjusted manually or by controlling the energy storage system 100 or the energy storage module 110.

[0371] [Implementation of the energy storage system 100 with a discharge standby step]

[0372] use Figures 18-23 Taking the case where the operating rate of the energy storage module 110 is higher than that of the energy storage module 120 as an example, the details of the method will be explained. Figures 18-23 In the implementation of the method, the details of the method will be explained using the case where the energy storage system 100 is used to maintain a relatively high SOC during the discharge standby step as an example.

[0373] use Figure 18 This section provides a summary of the discharge standby procedure. (Use...) Figures 19-22 This describes in detail the operation of the energy storage system 100 when the energy storage module 110 is, for example, an LFP-type Li battery, and the energy storage module 120 is, for example, a ternary Li battery. Furthermore, using... Figure 23 This section details the method for adjusting the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110.

[0374] Figure 18 An example that roughly represents the discharge standby steps of the energy storage system 100. Figure 18 This represents the voltage variation 1800 during each step of the energy storage system 100. Figure 18 In the middle, V H This indicates the value of the constant voltage during the discharge standby step. For example... Figure 18 As shown, when the energy storage system 100 is used for the aforementioned purpose, in the constant state of the energy storage system 100 (i.e., the discharge standby step), the voltage of the energy storage system 100 is maintained at a value similar to V. H Equal to or compared to V H The overall state.

[0375] When the energy storage system 100 is in standby mode during the discharge standby step, if an external power supply abnormality occurs, the energy storage system 100 will perform a discharge step. Examples of power supply abnormalities include momentary voltage drop, momentary power outage, and power outage. When the power supply abnormality is resolved, the discharge step stops. Afterwards, when the charging step is performed, the voltage of the energy storage system 100 becomes V. H When the charging step is stopped, the process transitions to the discharge standby step.

[0376] Next, use Figure 19 and Figure 20 This describes in detail the discharge operation of the energy storage system 100 when the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 is greater than the rated voltage of the energy storage module 120. Specifically, it describes in detail the discharge operation of the energy storage modules 110 and 120 when the energy storage system 100 transitions from the discharge standby step to the discharge step.

[0377] Figure 19 An example that roughly illustrates the charging and discharging characteristics of each energy storage module. Figure 19 In the diagram, curve 1910 represents an example of the charge and discharge characteristics of the energy storage module 110. Furthermore, curve 1920 represents an example of the charge and discharge characteristics of the energy storage module 120.

[0378] As shown in curve 1910, when the SOC is 100% (that is, when the DOD is 0%), the voltage of the energy storage module 110 is V. SH Additionally, V SH It can be connected to the constant voltage V of the energy storage system 100 H Equal to, or greater than, the constant voltage V H Furthermore, when the energy storage module 110 discharges at 0.2C, at the point when the discharge amount of the energy storage module 110 becomes half of the total energy of the energy storage module 110 (at this time, the discharge amount of the energy storage system 100 is...) Figure 19 S is shown in the middle. R The voltage of the energy storage module 110 represents the rated voltage V. SR Afterwards, when the SOC of the energy storage module 110 becomes 0% after discharge (that is, when the DOD becomes 100%), the voltage of the energy storage module 110 becomes V. SL .

[0379] As shown in curve 1920, when the SOC is 100%, the voltage of the energy storage module 120 is V. LH Furthermore, the SOC of the energy storage module 120 is S. R At that time, the voltage of the energy storage module 120 represents the rated voltage V. LR Afterwards, when the SOC of the energy storage module 120 becomes 0% after discharging, the voltage of the energy storage module 120 becomes V. LL .

[0380] like Figure 19 As shown, in this embodiment, the rated voltage V of the energy storage module 110 is... SR The rated voltage V of the energy storage module is greater than 120. LR Furthermore, the voltage of the energy storage module 110 is the rated voltage V. SR When dV / dQ is less than the voltage of the energy storage module 120, the voltage is the rated voltage V. SL dV / dQ at that time.

[0381] According to this embodiment, the voltage V of the energy storage module 110 when its SOC is 100% is... SH The voltage V of the energy storage module 120 when its SOC is greater than 100% LH The constant voltage V during standby discharge. HThere is no particular limitation on the setting value; the constant voltage V during discharge standby is... H For example, it is set to be less than the voltage V of the energy storage module 110. SH And greater than the voltage V of the energy storage module 120 LH The value of .

[0382] According to this embodiment, during the discharge standby step of the energy storage system 100, the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 110 is reliably electrically connected to the energy storage system 100. On the other hand, depending on the voltage of the energy storage module 120, during the discharge standby step of the energy storage system 100, the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 120 is not electrically connected to the energy storage system 100.

[0383] For example, (i) during the discharge standby step of the energy storage system 100, the SOC of energy storage modules 110 and 120 is 100%, and (ii) during V SH and V LH If the absolute value of the difference is greater than the setting value related to the opening and closing of the switching section 230 of the energy storage module 120, the switching section 230 of the energy storage module 120 is disconnected. Therefore, the connection terminals 102 and 104 of the energy storage module 120 and the energy storage system 100 are electrically disconnected.

[0384] In this situation, an external power supply abnormality occurs to the energy storage system 100. When the discharge process of the energy storage system 100 begins, the energy storage module 110 first starts discharging independently. Then, the energy storage module 110 discharges, and for example, the voltage of the energy storage system 100 (i.e., the voltage of the energy storage module 110) becomes V. LH At this time, the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 120 is electrically connected to the energy storage system 100.

[0385] Then, in this embodiment, the energy storage system 100 outputs power through the discharge of the energy storage modules 110 and 120 until the voltage of the energy storage system 100 (that is, the voltage of the energy storage modules 110 and 120) becomes V. SL Until then. As discharge continues, the voltage of the energy storage system 100 becomes less than V. SL At this time, the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 110 is electrically disconnected from the energy storage system 100. Afterwards, the energy storage system 100 outputs power through the discharge of the energy storage module 120 until the voltage of the energy storage system 100 (that is, the voltage of the energy storage module 120) becomes V. LL until.

[0386] Next, use Figure 20 , for association Figure 19 An example of the discharge steps of the energy storage system 100 will be explained. Figure 20This is an example that roughly represents the variation in the discharge current value of each energy storage module. Figure 20 In the diagram, curve 2010 represents the variation of the output current Ibat of the energy storage module 110 during the discharge step of the energy storage system 100. Curve 2020 represents the variation of the output current Ibat of the energy storage module 120 during the discharge step of the energy storage system 100.

[0387] Such as association Figure 19 As explained in this embodiment, when the discharge step of the energy storage system 100 begins, the energy storage module 110 initially supplies power independently. After discharge, at time T... LH At that time, the voltage of the energy storage system 100 becomes V. LH At this time, the energy storage module 120 is electrically connected to the energy storage system 100. Therefore, power is supplied from both the energy storage module 110 and the energy storage module 120. In this embodiment, at time T... LH The dV / dQ of the energy storage module 110 is less than that of the energy storage module 120. Therefore, the output current of the energy storage module 110 is greater than that of the energy storage module 120.

[0388] After further discharge, time T is reached. CN At that time, the voltage of the energy storage system 100 becomes V. CN At this time, the dV / dQ of the energy storage module 110 is approximately the same as that of the energy storage module 120. Therefore, the output current of the energy storage module 110 is approximately the same as that of the energy storage module 120.

[0389] After further discharge, time T is reached. SL At that time, the voltage of the energy storage system 100 becomes V. SL The energy storage module 110 is electrically disconnected from the energy storage system 100. Afterwards, the energy storage module 120 supplies power independently until time T. LL The voltage of the energy storage system 100 is V. LL until.

[0390] like Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown, according to this embodiment, the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 is greater than the rated voltage of the energy storage module 120. Therefore, when the energy storage system 100 is used for applications where maintaining a relatively high SOC during the discharge standby phase is important, the time that the energy storage module 110 is electrically connected to the energy storage system 100 is longer than the time that the energy storage module 120 is electrically connected to the energy storage system 100. As a result, the operating rate of the energy storage module 110 is higher than that of the energy storage module 120.

[0391] Next, use Figure 21 and Figure 22This section describes in detail the discharge operation of the energy storage system 100 when the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 is less than the rated voltage of the energy storage module 120. Specifically, it describes in detail the discharge operations of the energy storage modules 110 and 120 when the energy storage system 100 transitions from the discharge standby step to the discharge step.

[0392] Figure 21 An example that roughly illustrates the charging and discharging characteristics of each energy storage module. Figure 21 In the diagram, curve 2110 represents an example of the charge and discharge characteristics of the energy storage module 110. Furthermore, curve 2120 represents an example of the charge and discharge characteristics of the energy storage module 120.

[0393] As shown in curve 2110, when the SOC is 100% (that is, when the DOD is 0%), the voltage of the energy storage module 110 is V. SH Furthermore, when the energy storage module 110 discharges at 0.2C, at the point when the discharge amount of the energy storage module 110 becomes half of the total energy of the energy storage module 110 (at this time, the discharge amount of the energy storage system 100 is...) Figure 21 S is shown in the middle. R The voltage of the energy storage module 110 represents the rated voltage V. SR Afterwards, when the SOC of the energy storage module 110 becomes 0% after discharge (that is, when the DOD becomes 100%), the voltage of the energy storage module 110 becomes V. SL .

[0394] As shown in curve 2120, when the SOC is 100%, the voltage of the energy storage module 120 is V. LH Furthermore, the SOC of the energy storage module 120 is S. R At that time, the voltage of the energy storage module 120 represents the rated voltage V. LR Afterwards, when the SOC of the energy storage module 120 becomes 0% after discharging, the voltage of the energy storage module 120 becomes V. LL .

[0395] like Figure 21 As shown, in this embodiment, the rated voltage V of the energy storage module 110 is... SR The rated voltage V of the energy storage module is less than 120. LR Furthermore, the voltage of the energy storage module 110 is the rated voltage V. SR When dV / dQ is less than the voltage of the energy storage module 120, the voltage is the rated voltage V. LR dV / dQ at that time.

[0396] According to this embodiment, the voltage V of the energy storage module 110 when its SOC is 100% is... SHThe voltage V of the energy storage module 120 when its SOC is less than 100% LH The constant voltage V during standby discharge. H There is no particular limitation on the setting value; the constant voltage V during discharge standby is... H For example, it is set to be greater than the voltage V of the energy storage module 110. SH And less than the voltage V of the energy storage module 120 LH The value of .

[0397] According to this embodiment, during the discharge standby step of the energy storage system 100, the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 120 is reliably electrically connected to the energy storage system 100. On the other hand, depending on the voltage of the energy storage module 110, during the discharge standby step of the energy storage system 100, the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 110 is not electrically connected to the energy storage system 100.

[0398] For example, (i) during the discharge standby step of the energy storage system 100, the SOC of energy storage modules 110 and 120 is 100%, and (ii) in V SH and V LH If the absolute value of the difference is greater than the setting value related to the opening and closing of the switching section 230 of the energy storage module 110, the switching section 230 of the energy storage module 110 is disconnected. Therefore, the connection terminals 102 and 104 of the energy storage module 110 and the energy storage system 100 are electrically disconnected.

[0399] In this situation, an external power supply abnormality occurs to the energy storage system 100. When the discharge process of the energy storage system 100 begins, the energy storage module 120 first starts discharging independently. Then, the energy storage module 120 discharges, and for example, the voltage of the energy storage system 100 (i.e., the voltage of the energy storage module 120) becomes V. SH At this time, the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 110 is electrically connected to the energy storage system 100.

[0400] Then, in this embodiment, the energy storage system 100 outputs power through the discharge of the energy storage modules 110 and 120 until the voltage of the energy storage system 100 (that is, the voltage of the energy storage modules 110 and 120) becomes V. SL Until then. As discharge continues, the voltage of the energy storage system 100 becomes less than V. SL At this time, the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 110 is electrically disconnected from the energy storage system 100. Afterwards, the energy storage system 100 outputs power through the discharge of the energy storage module 120 until the voltage of the energy storage system 100 (that is, the voltage of the energy storage module 120) becomes V. LL until.

[0401] Next, use Figure 22, for association Figure 21 An example of the discharge steps of the energy storage system 100 will be explained. Figure 22 This is an example that roughly represents the variation in the discharge current value of each energy storage module. Figure 22 In the diagram, curve 2210 represents the variation of the output current Ibat of the energy storage module 110 during the discharge step of the energy storage system 100. Curve 2220 represents the variation of the output current Ibat of the energy storage module 120 during the discharge step of the energy storage system 100.

[0402] Such as association Figure 21 As explained in this embodiment, when the discharge step of the energy storage system 100 begins, the energy storage module 120 initially supplies power independently. After discharge, at time T... SH At that time, the voltage of the energy storage system 100 becomes V. SH At this time, the energy storage module 110 is electrically connected to the energy storage system 100. Therefore, power is supplied from both the energy storage module 110 and the energy storage module 120. In this embodiment, at time T... SH The dV / dQ of the energy storage module 120 is less than that of the energy storage module 110. Therefore, the output current of the energy storage module 120 is greater than that of the energy storage module 110.

[0403] After further discharge, time T is reached. CNP At that time, the voltage of the energy storage system 100 becomes V. CNP At this point, the dV / dQ of energy storage module 110 is approximately the same as that of energy storage module 120. Therefore, the output current of energy storage module 110 is approximately the same as that of energy storage module 120. Afterward, the state in which the dV / dQ of energy storage module 110 is less than that of energy storage module 120 continues until time T is reached. CNS And the voltage of the energy storage system 100 becomes V CNS Therefore, the state in which the output current of the energy storage module 110 is greater than the output current of the energy storage module 120 continues.

[0404] In this embodiment, when the voltage of the energy storage system 100 becomes V CNS At that time, the dV / dQ of the energy storage module 110 is approximately the same as that of the energy storage module 120. Therefore, the output current of the energy storage module 110 is approximately the same as that of the energy storage module 120. Afterwards, when further discharge occurs and time T is reached... SL At that time, the voltage of the energy storage system 100 becomes V. SL The energy storage module 110 is electrically disconnected from the energy storage system 100. Afterwards, the energy storage module 120 supplies power independently until time T.LL The voltage of the energy storage system 100 is V. LL until.

[0405] like Figure 21 and Figure 22 As shown, according to this embodiment, the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 is lower than the rated voltage of the energy storage module 120. Therefore, when the energy storage system 100 is used for applications where maintaining a relatively high SOC during the discharge standby phase is important, the electrical connection time between the energy storage module 110 and the energy storage system 100 is shorter than the electrical connection time between the energy storage module 120 and the energy storage system 100. As a result, the operating rate of the energy storage module 110 is lower than that of the energy storage module 120.

[0406] like Figures 19-22 As shown, when the energy storage system 100 is used for applications where maintaining a relatively high SOC during the discharge standby phase is important, the operating rate of the energy storage module 110 can be higher than that of the energy storage module 120 simply by making the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 greater than that of the energy storage module 120. Conversely, the operating rate of the energy storage module 110 can be lower than that of the energy storage module 120 simply by making the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 less than that of the energy storage module 120.

[0407] In particular, when the energy storage system 100 is used as an uninterrupted power supply device, the energy storage system 100 discharges any amount of power from a specific charging state and then returns to that specific charging state. Therefore, the energy storage system 100 is repeatedly used in areas with relatively shallow discharge depths. In this case, the energy storage module 110 is mainly used, and therefore, the degradation of the energy storage module 110 is accelerated compared to the energy storage module 120.

[0408] The method described above is particularly effective when the charge-discharge characteristic curve of the energy storage module 110 has a relatively flat shape. Details of the method for determining the rated voltage of at least one of the energy storage modules 110 and 120 will be described below. Furthermore, as a method for adjusting the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110, examples include: (i) adjusting the rated voltage of each of the one or more batteries constituting the energy storage section 210; and (ii) adjusting the number of batteries in the one or more batteries constituting the energy storage section 210 that are electrically connected to the positive terminal 212 and the negative terminal 214.

[0409] Figure 23This section provides a simplified example of a method for determining the rated voltage of an energy storage module. In this embodiment, for simplicity, the method for determining the rated voltage is explained in detail using the case of determining the rated voltage of energy storage module 110 as an example. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the rated voltage of energy storage module 120 can be determined according to a synchronous sequence, or the rated voltages of both energy storage modules 110 and 120 can be determined.

[0410] According to this embodiment, firstly, in S2312, the main operating energy storage module in energy storage module 110 and energy storage module 120 is determined. Specifically, it is determined which of energy storage module 110 and energy storage module 120 should have its operating rate increased. In this embodiment, it is determined that the operating rate of energy storage module 110 should be increased.

[0411] Next, in S2314, the relationship between the rated voltages of energy storage module 110 and energy storage module 120 is determined. Specifically, the relationship between the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 and energy storage module 120 whose operating rate has been determined and the rated voltage of the other energy storage module is determined.

[0412] More specifically, in association Figures 19-22 In the described embodiment, the energy storage system 100 is used for applications where maintaining a relatively high state of charge (SOC) is important during the discharge standby phase. In this case, the rated voltage V of the energy storage module 110, which has a determined increased operating rate, is determined to be increased. SR The rated voltage V of the energy storage module is greater than 120. LR .

[0413] Next, in S2316, the rated voltage of at least one of the energy storage modules 110 and 120 is determined in a manner that satisfies the magnitude relationship determined in S2314. For example, in S2314, the rated voltage V of the energy storage module 110 is determined... SR The rated voltage V of the energy storage module is greater than 120. LR In the case of the rated voltage V of the energy storage module 110 SR The constant voltage V during the discharge standby step of the energy storage system 100 H Equal to or less than the constant voltage V H The rated voltage V of the energy storage module 110 is determined by the following method. SR .

[0414] When the energy storage module 110 is configured to allow adjustment of the number of batteries connected in series within the energy storage unit 210, the rated voltage V of the energy storage module 110 can be determined based on the adjustable number of batteries connected in series. SRFor example, consider the case where the energy storage unit 210 of the energy storage module 110 includes 200 batteries connected in series, each battery having a rated voltage of 3.7V. Furthermore, consider the case where the energy storage module 110 is configured to allow adjustment of the number of batteries electrically connected to the positive terminal 212 and the negative terminal 214 (sometimes simply referred to as the number of batteries connected in series. Even if only one battery is electrically connected to the positive terminal 212 and the negative terminal 214, for convenience, it can be referred to as the number of batteries connected in series).

[0415] For example, the energy storage module 110 is configured to allow selection of 100, 150, or 200 batteries connected in series with the positive terminal 212 and the negative terminal 214. In this case, the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 can be selected from 3.7 × 100 [V], 3.7 × 150 [V], and 3.7 × 200 [V].

[0416] Next, in step S2318, the rated voltage of at least one of the energy storage modules 110 and 120 is adjusted. For example, when adjusting the rated voltage V of energy storage module 110... SR In this case, by adjusting the number of batteries connected in series in the energy storage module 110, the rated voltage V of the energy storage module 110 can be adjusted. SR The number of batteries connected in series can be changed before or after the energy storage module 110 is installed in the energy storage system 100.

[0417] In one embodiment, the number of batteries connected in series is changed manually during the assembly of the energy storage module 110. Thus, the number of batteries connected in series is changed before the energy storage module 110 is installed in the energy storage system 100.

[0418] In another embodiment, the number of batteries connected in series is changed by operating the circuit incorporated into the energy storage module 110. This allows the number of batteries connected in series to be changed at any time. The operation of the circuit can be controlled manually or by a control signal from the system control unit 140 or the module control unit 240. For example, the system control unit 140 or the module control unit 240 outputs a control signal to change the number of batteries connected in series in the energy storage system 100.

[0419] Furthermore, as described below, the application of the energy storage system 100 is not limited to maintaining a relatively high SOC during the discharge standby step. When the energy storage system 100 is used for other applications, the relationship between the rated voltage of the energy storage module with the increased operating rate and the rated voltage of another energy storage module can be determined in a manner different from this embodiment. Additionally, the rated voltage V of the energy storage module 110 can be determined in a manner different from this embodiment.SR .

[0420] For example, if the energy storage system 100 is used in an application where maintaining a relatively low SOC during the charging standby phase is important, in S2314, it is determined that the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 and the energy storage module 120 with the determined increased operating rate is lower than the rated voltage of the other energy storage module. Furthermore, in S2316, the rated voltage V of the energy storage module 110 is... SR The rated voltage V of the energy storage module 110 is determined by the method that it is equal to or greater than the constant voltage during the charging standby step of the energy storage system 100. SR .

[0421] [Implementation of the energy storage system 100 with a charging standby step]

[0422] exist Figures 19-23 In one embodiment, taking the case where the energy storage system 100 is used to maintain a relatively high SOC during the discharge standby phase as an example, an example of a method for adjusting the operating rate of energy storage modules 110 and 120 by adjusting the rated voltage of at least one of them is described. However, the method for determining the rated voltage of energy storage modules 110 and 120, and the method for adjusting the operating rate of them are not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, when the energy storage system 100 is used to maintain a relatively low SOC during the charging standby phase, the operating rate of energy storage modules 110 and 120 can be adjusted by adjusting the rated voltage of at least one of them.

[0423] Figure 24 An example that roughly illustrates the charging standby steps of the energy storage system 100. Figure 24 This represents the voltage variation 2400 during each step of the energy storage system 100. Figure 24 In the middle, V L This indicates the value of the constant voltage during the charging standby phase. For example... Figure 24 As shown, in a constant state (i.e., the charging standby step), the voltage of the energy storage system 100 is maintained at V. L Equal to or less than V L The state.

[0424] When residual power is generated outside the energy storage system 100, a charging step is performed on the energy storage system 100. Afterwards, the charging step stops once the residual power is eliminated. Afterwards, the voltage of the energy storage system 100 becomes V after a discharging step. L When the discharge step is stopped, the process transitions to the charging standby step.

[0425] Next, use Figure 25 , for association Figure 19 An example of the charging steps of the energy storage system 100 will be explained. Figure 25 This is a simplified example illustrating the variation in the charging current value of each energy storage module. In this embodiment, energy storage module 110 and energy storage module 120 are each associated with... Figure 19 The charge and discharge characteristics described herein.

[0426] exist Figure 25 In the diagram, curve 2510 represents the variation of the output current Ibat of the energy storage module 110 during the charging step of the energy storage system 100. Curve 2520 represents the variation of the output current Ibat of the energy storage module 120 during the charging step of the energy storage system 100. Additionally, in... Figure 25 In the process of charging each energy storage module, the output current Ibat is negative.

[0427] Such as association Figure 19 As explained in this embodiment, the rated voltage V of the energy storage module 110 is... SR The rated voltage V of the energy storage module is greater than 120. LR Furthermore, the voltage V of the energy storage module 110 when its SOC is 0% is... SL The voltage V of the energy storage module 120 is greater than the voltage V of the energy storage module 120 when the SOC of the energy storage module 120 is 0%. LL The constant voltage V during charging standby. L There is no particular limitation on the setting value; the constant voltage V during charging standby is... L For example, it is set to be greater than the voltage V of the energy storage module 120. LL And less than the voltage V of the energy storage module 110 SL The value of .

[0428] According to this embodiment, during the charging standby step of the energy storage system 100, the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 120 is reliably electrically connected to the energy storage system 100. On the other hand, depending on the voltage of the energy storage module 110, during the charging standby step of the energy storage system 100, the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 110 is not electrically connected to the energy storage system 100.

[0429] For example, when (i) during the charging standby step of the energy storage system 100, the SOC of energy storage modules 110 and 120 is approximately 0%, and (ii) V SL and V LL When the absolute value of the difference is greater than the setting value related to the opening and closing of the switching section 230 of the energy storage module 110, the switching section 230 of the energy storage module 110 is disconnected. Therefore, the connection terminals 102 and 104 of the energy storage module 110 and the energy storage system 100 are electrically disconnected.

[0430] In such a situation, when excess power is generated outside the energy storage system 100, the charging process of the energy storage system 100 begins, as follows: Figure 25 As shown, firstly, the energy storage module 120 begins charging. At this point, the energy storage module 110 is not electrically connected to the energy storage system 100. Subsequently, as charging proceeds, the voltage of the energy storage system 100 (which is also the voltage of the energy storage module 120) becomes V. SL hour( Figure 25 The value shown in the middle is time T. SL The energy storage module 110's energy storage section 210 is electrically connected to the energy storage system 100.

[0431] In this embodiment, both the energy storage module 110 and the energy storage module 120 are charged until time T is reached. LH The voltage of the energy storage system 100 (that is, the voltage of the energy storage module 110 and the energy storage module 120) becomes V. LH Until then. Furthermore, during this period, the magnitude of the charging current for each of the energy storage modules 110 and 120 is determined by their respective dV / dQ.

[0432] For example, in this embodiment, (i) the dV / dQ of the energy storage module 110 is greater than the dV / dQ of the energy storage module 120 until time T is reached. CN And the voltage of the energy storage system 100 becomes V CN (ii) until the voltage of the energy storage system 100 becomes V CN (iii) At time T, the dV / dQ of the energy storage module 110 is equal to that of the energy storage module 120; (iii) thereafter, the dV / dQ of the energy storage module 110 is less than that of the energy storage module 120 until time T is reached. LH And the voltage of the energy storage system 100 becomes V LH Until then. In this case, during the period when the dV / dQ of the energy storage module 110 is greater than the dV / dQ of the energy storage module 120, the charging current of the energy storage module 110 is less than the charging current of the energy storage module 120. Furthermore, during the period when the dV / dQ of the energy storage module 110 is less than the dV / dQ of the energy storage module 120, the charging current of the energy storage module 110 is greater than the charging current of the energy storage module 120.

[0433] At time T LH The voltage of the energy storage system 100 is V. LH At that time, the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 120 is electrically disconnected from the energy storage system 100. Afterwards, the energy storage module 110 is charged separately. Then, at time T... SH The voltage of the energy storage system 100 is V. SHAt this time, the charging of the energy storage module 110 is also completed. At this time, the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 110 can also be electrically disconnected from the energy storage system 100.

[0434] Next, use Figure 26 , for association Figure 21 An example of the charging steps of the energy storage system 100 will be explained. Figure 26 This is a simplified example illustrating the variation in the charging current value of each energy storage module. In this embodiment, energy storage module 110 and energy storage module 120 are respectively associated with... Figure 21 The charge and discharge characteristics described herein.

[0435] exist Figure 26 In the diagram, curve 2610 represents the variation of the output current Ibat of the energy storage module 110 during the charging step of the energy storage system 100. Curve 2620 represents the variation of the output current Ibat of the energy storage module 120 during the charging step of the energy storage system 100. Additionally, in... Figure 26 In the process of charging each energy storage module, the output current Ibat becomes negative.

[0436] Such as association Figure 21 As explained in this embodiment, the rated voltage V of the energy storage module 110 is... SR The rated voltage V of the energy storage module is less than 120. LR Furthermore, the voltage V of the energy storage module 110 when its SOC is 0% is... SL The voltage V of the energy storage module 120 is greater than the voltage V of the energy storage module 120 when the SOC of the energy storage module 120 is 0%. LL The constant voltage V during charging standby. L There is no particular limitation on the setting value; the constant voltage V during charging standby is... L For example, it is set to be greater than the voltage V of the energy storage module 120. LL And less than the voltage V of the energy storage module 110 SL The value of .

[0437] According to this embodiment, during the charging standby step of the energy storage system 100, the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 120 is reliably electrically connected to the energy storage system 100. On the other hand, depending on the voltage of the energy storage module 110, during the charging standby step of the energy storage system 100, the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 110 is not electrically connected to the energy storage system 100.

[0438] For example, when (i) during the charging standby step of the energy storage system 100, the SOC of energy storage modules 110 and 120 is approximately 0%, and (ii) V SL and V LLWhen the absolute value of the difference is greater than the setting value related to the opening and closing of the switching section 230 of the energy storage module 110, the switching section 230 of the energy storage module 110 is disconnected. Therefore, the connection terminals 102 and 104 of the energy storage module 110 and the energy storage system 100 are electrically disconnected.

[0439] In such a situation, when excess power is generated outside the energy storage system 100, the charging process of the energy storage system 100 begins, as follows: Figure 26 As shown, firstly, the energy storage module 120 begins charging. At this point, the energy storage module 110 is not electrically connected to the energy storage system 100. Subsequently, as charging proceeds, the voltage of the energy storage system 100 (which is also the voltage of the energy storage module 120) becomes V. SL hour( Figure 26 The value shown in the middle is time T. SL The energy storage module 110's energy storage section 210 is electrically connected to the energy storage system 100.

[0440] In this embodiment, both the energy storage module 110 and the energy storage module 120 are charged until time T is reached. SH The voltage of the energy storage system 100 (that is, the voltage of the energy storage module 110 and the energy storage module 120) becomes V. SH Until then. Furthermore, during this period, the magnitude of the charging current for each of the energy storage modules 110 and 120 is determined by their respective dV / dQ.

[0441] According to this embodiment, at time T SL The voltage of the energy storage system 100 is V. SL Then, at time T CNS The voltage of the energy storage system 100 becomes V. CNS According to this embodiment, from time T... SL At time T CNS During this period, the dV / dQ of the energy storage module 110 is greater than that of the energy storage module 120. Therefore, during this period, the charging current of the energy storage module 110 is less than that of the energy storage module 120.

[0442] On the other hand, afterwards, at arrival time T CNP The voltage of the energy storage system 100 becomes V. CNP During the previous period, the dV / dQ of the energy storage module 110 was less than that of the energy storage module 120. Therefore, during this period, the charging current of the energy storage module 110 was greater than that of the energy storage module 120.

[0443] When the voltage in the energy storage system 100 exceeds V CNPSubsequently, during charging, the dV / dQ of the energy storage module 110 is greater than the dV / dQ of the energy storage module 120, until time T. SH The voltage of the energy storage system 100 is V. SH Therefore, during this period, the charging current of the energy storage module 110 is less than the charging current of the energy storage module 120.

[0444] At time T SH The voltage of the energy storage system 100 is V. SH At that time, the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 110 is electrically disconnected from the energy storage system 100. Afterwards, the energy storage module 120 charges independently. Then, at time T... LH The voltage of the energy storage system 100 is V. LH At this time, the charging of the energy storage module 120 is also completed. At this time, the energy storage section 210 of the energy storage module 120 can also be disconnected from the energy storage system 100.

[0445] like Figures 25-26 As shown, when the energy storage system 100 is used for applications where maintaining a relatively low SOC during the charging standby phase is important, the operating rate of the energy storage module 110 can be higher than that of the energy storage module 120 simply by making the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 lower than that of the energy storage module 120. Conversely, the operating rate of the energy storage module 110 can be lower than that of the energy storage module 120 simply by making the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 higher than that of the energy storage module 120.

[0446] In particular, when the energy storage system 100 is used as a power buffer, after being charged to any capacity from a specific discharge state, the energy storage system 100 returns to that specific discharge state. Therefore, the energy storage system 100 is repeatedly used in regions with relatively deep discharge. In this case, the energy storage module 110 is mainly used, and therefore, compared to the energy storage module 120, the degradation of the energy storage module 110 is accelerated.

[0447] According to the association Figures 19 to 24 The described implementation uses the case where the energy storage system 100 has a discharge standby step as an example to illustrate the details of the energy storage system 100. Furthermore, based on the associated... Figure 25 and Figure 26 The described embodiments, taking the case where the energy storage system 100 has a charging standby step as an example, illustrate the details of the energy storage system 100. However, the energy storage system 100 is not limited to these embodiments.

[0448] In another embodiment, a single energy storage system 100 may have a discharge standby step and a charging standby step. For example, when the energy storage module 110 is in a discharge or charging standby state (sometimes referred to as a constant state), the energy storage system 100 is used such that its SOC is a predetermined value. For example, the energy storage module 110 is used such that its SOC is 50% in the constant state.

[0449] According to the described embodiment, when the energy storage system 100 is in a constant standby state and a power abnormality occurs outside the energy storage system 100, a discharge step of the energy storage system 100 is performed. On the other hand, when the energy storage system 100 is in a constant standby state and there is residual power outside the energy storage system 100, a charging step of the energy storage system 100 is performed. Thus, the energy storage system 100 can cope with both situations of power abnormality and residual power outside the energy storage system 100.

[0450] [Method for adjusting the number of batteries connected in series]

[0451] use Figure 27 , Figure 28 and Figure 29 This is an example illustrating how to adjust the number of batteries connected in series. Using... Figure 27 This illustrates an example of an energy storage unit 2710 that allows adjustment of the number of batteries connected in series. (Using...) Figure 28 and Figure 29 This is an example illustrating the control method of the energy storage unit 2710.

[0452] Figure 27 This is an example of the internal structure of the energy storage unit 2710. The energy storage unit 2710 can replace the energy storage unit 210 and can be mounted on any energy storage module such as energy storage module 110, energy storage module 120, energy storage module 710, energy storage module 1010, energy storage module 1410, energy storage module 1710, etc.

[0453] In this embodiment, the energy storage unit 2710 includes a positive terminal 2712 and a negative terminal 2714. In this embodiment, the energy storage unit 2710 includes a plurality of batteries connected in series, including batteries 2722, 2724, 2732, and 2734. In this embodiment, the energy storage unit 2710 includes a single-pole double-throw switch 2742 and a single-pole double-throw switch 2744. In this embodiment, the energy storage unit 2710 includes terminals 2752 and 2754.

[0454] The difference between the energy storage unit 2710 and the energy storage unit 210 is that the number of batteries is increased, and it includes a single-pole double-throw switch 2742 and a single-pole double-throw switch 2744. Aside from these differences, the energy storage unit 2710 may have the same features as the energy storage unit 210. For example, in at least one of the above embodiments, the energy storage unit 2710 is installed in the energy storage module instead of the energy storage unit 210.

[0455] In this embodiment, the positive terminal 2712 may have the same characteristics as the positive terminal 212. In this embodiment, the negative terminal 2714 may have the same characteristics as the negative terminal 214. In this embodiment, batteries 2722, 2724, 2732, and 2734 may each have the same characteristics as battery 222 or battery 224.

[0456] In this embodiment, the single-pole double-throw switch 2742 electrically connects the positive terminal 2712 to either the positive terminal of battery 2722 or the positive terminal of battery 2724. Similarly, the single-pole double-throw switch 2742 electrically connects the negative terminal 2714 to either the negative terminal of battery 2732 or the negative terminal of battery 2734. This adjusts the number of batteries in the series-connected plurality of batteries included in the energy storage system 100 that are electrically connected to the positive and negative terminals 2712 and 2714.

[0457] In one embodiment, at least one of the single-pole double-throw (SPD) switches 2742 and 2744 can be activated based on a signal from the module control unit 240. In another embodiment, the user can manually activate at least one of the SPD switches 2742 and 2744.

[0458] In this embodiment, terminal 2752 electrically connects battery 2722 and battery 2724 to balance correction unit 260. Terminal 2752 also electrically connects battery 2722 and battery 2724 to protection unit 250.

[0459] In this embodiment, terminal 2754 electrically connects battery 2732 and battery 2734 to balance correction unit 260. Terminal 2752 may also electrically connect battery 2732 and battery 2734 to protection unit 250.

[0460] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the energy storage unit 2710 is mounted on the energy storage module 110, the protection unit 250 can protect each of the plurality of batteries included in the energy storage unit 2710. The protection unit 250 can also obtain information related to the inter-terminal voltage of each of the plurality of batteries included in the energy storage unit 2710.

[0461] Similarly, when the energy storage unit 2710 is mounted on the energy storage module 110, the energy storage module 110 may also have multiple balance correction units 260. As described above, when the energy storage unit 2710 has n (n is an integer of 2 or more) batteries, the energy storage module 110 may have n-1 balance correction units 260.

[0462] In this embodiment, the positive terminal 2712, negative terminal 2714, battery 2722, battery 2724, battery 2732, battery 2734, single-pole double-throw switch 2742, single-pole double-throw switch 2744, terminal 2752, and terminal 2754 can be indicated or housed in the same housing. The positive terminal 2712, negative terminal 2714, battery 2722, battery 2724, battery 2732, battery 2734, single-pole double-throw switch 2742, single-pole double-throw switch 2744, terminal 2752, and terminal 2754 can also be supported or housed in at least one of the same housings as the switching unit 230 and the module control unit 240 or module control unit 1040.

[0463] Positive terminal 2712 can be an example of a first positive terminal. Negative terminal 2714 can be an example of a second negative terminal. Battery 2722 can be an example of a first battery. Battery 2724 can be an example of a first battery. Battery 2732 can be an example of a first battery. Battery 2734 can be an example of a first battery. Single-pole double-throw switch 2742 can be an example of an adjusting device. Single-pole double-throw switch 2744 can be an example of an adjusting device.

[0464] In this embodiment, the details of the energy storage unit 2710 are described using the case where the energy storage unit 2710 includes both a single-pole double-throw switch 2742 and a single-pole double-throw switch 2744 as an example. However, the energy storage unit 2710 is not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, the energy storage unit 2710 may not include either the single-pole double-throw switch 2742 or the single-pole double-throw switch 2744. Furthermore, at least one of the single-pole double-throw switch 2742 and the single-pole double-throw switch 2744 can be any single-pole multi-throw switch. For example, a single-pole multi-throw switch that can be used instead of the single-pole double-throw switch 2742 can electrically connect the positive terminal 2712 to the positive terminal of any one of three or more batteries connected in series. Similarly, a single-pole multi-throw switch that can be used instead of the single-pole double-throw switch 2744 can electrically connect the negative terminal 2714 to the positive terminal of any one of three or more batteries connected in series.

[0465] Figure 28 Another example of a simplified representation of the module control unit 240. (Related) Figure 28 The module control unit 240 described herein has a signal generation unit 2830 instead of a signal generation unit 330, which is related to... Figure 3 The module control unit 240 described is different. Regarding the configuration other than the differences mentioned, see related... Figure 28 The module control unit 240 described herein may have associated... Figure 3 The module control unit 240 described herein has the same features. For example, in this embodiment, the module control unit 240 or its components may be implemented in hardware or software.

[0466] In this embodiment, the signal generating unit 2830 further generates a signal for controlling the operation of at least one of the single-pole double-throw switches 2742 and 2744. Apart from the operation described, the signal generating unit 2830 may have the same configuration as the signal generating unit 330.

[0467] More specifically, the signal generation unit 2830 obtains information indicating the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 from the system control unit 140. For example, the signal generation unit 2830 obtains information indicating the number of batteries connected in series in the energy storage module 110. The signal generation unit 2830 controls the operation of at least one of the single-pole double-throw switches 2742 and 2744 to generate a signal for adjusting the number of batteries connected in series in the energy storage module 110. The signal generation unit 2830 can output the generated signal to at least one of the single-pole double-throw switches 2742 and 2744.

[0468] Figure 29 Another example of the system control unit 140 is shown in a simplified manner. In this embodiment, the system control unit 140 includes a status management unit 410, a module selection unit 420, a signal generation unit 430, and a rated voltage adjustment unit 2940. In this embodiment, the rated voltage adjustment unit 2940 includes a main device determination unit 2950, ​​a magnitude relationship determination unit 2960, a rated voltage determination unit 2970, and a control signal output unit 2980. In this embodiment, the magnitude relationship determination unit 2960 includes a first magnitude relationship determination unit 2962 and a second magnitude relationship determination unit 2964.

[0469] Related Figure 29 The system control unit 140 described herein includes a rated voltage adjustment unit 2940, which is related to... Figure 4 The system control unit 140 described is different. Regarding the configuration other than the differences mentioned above, see related... Figure 29 The system control unit 140 described herein may have associated Figure 4 The system control unit 140 described herein has the same features. For example, in this embodiment, the system control unit 140 or its components may be implemented in hardware or software.

[0470] In this embodiment, the rated voltage adjustment unit 2940 adjusts the rated voltage of at least one of the energy storage modules 110 and 120. For example, when the rated voltage adjustment unit 2940 adjusts the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110, the rated voltage adjustment unit 2940 controls the energy storage system 100 or the energy storage module 110 to adjust the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110.

[0471] In this embodiment, the main device determination unit 2950 determines, for example, which of the energy storage modules 110 and 120 should have its operating rate increased. In this embodiment, the magnitude relationship determination unit 2960 determines, for example, the magnitude relationship between the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 and 120 whose operating rate has been increased as determined by the main device determination unit 2950, ​​and the rated voltage of the other energy storage module.

[0472] In this embodiment, the first size relationship determination unit 2962 determines the size relationship, for example, when the energy storage system 100 has a discharge standby step. Specifically, the first size relationship determination unit 2962 determines that the rated voltage of the energy storage module whose operating rate has been increased as determined by the main device determination unit 2950 is greater than the rated voltage of the other energy storage module.

[0473] In this embodiment, the second size relationship determination unit 2964 determines the size relationship, for example, when the energy storage system 100 has a charging standby step. Specifically, the first size relationship determination unit 2962 determines that the rated voltage of the energy storage module whose operating rate has been increased by the main device determination unit 2950 is less than the rated voltage of the other energy storage module.

[0474] In this embodiment, the rated voltage determining unit 2970 determines the rated voltage of at least one of the energy storage modules 110 and 120 in a manner that satisfies the size relationship determined by the size relationship determining unit 2960. When the number of batteries connected in series in the energy storage unit 2710 can be adjusted, the rated voltage determining unit 2970 can determine the rated voltage of at least one of the energy storage modules 110 and 120 based on the adjustable number of batteries connected in series.

[0475] In one embodiment, for example, if the first size relationship determination unit 2962 determines that the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 is greater than the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110, the rated voltage determination unit 2970 uses the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 and the constant voltage V during the discharge standby step of the energy storage system 100 as a reference. H Equal to or less than the constant voltage V HThe rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 is determined by the method described above. In another embodiment, for example, if the second size relationship determination unit 2964 determines that the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 is less than the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110, the rated voltage determination unit 2970 uses the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 and the constant voltage V during the charging standby step of the energy storage system 100 as a reference. L Equal to or less than the constant voltage V L The rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 is determined by this method.

[0476] In this embodiment, the control signal output unit 2980 generates a signal for adjusting the rated voltage of the energy storage unit 2710 based on the rated voltage determined by the rated voltage determination unit 2970. For example, the control signal output unit 2980 generates a signal for controlling the operation of at least one of the single-pole double-throw switches 2742 and 2744 of the energy storage unit 2710. For example, when the control signal output unit 2980 generates a signal for adjusting the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110, the control signal output unit 2980 generates a signal containing information indicating the value of the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110, or information indicating the number of batteries connected in series in the energy storage module 110.

[0477] In this embodiment, the control signal output unit 2980 outputs the signal to the module control unit 240. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the control signal output unit 2980 outputs the signal to, for example, the energy storage module 110.

[0478] The rated voltage adjustment unit 2940 can be an example of a rated voltage adjustment device. The energy storage module 110 can be an example of a first energy storage device. The adjustable number of series connections can be an example of the number of connections that the adjustment device can adjust.

[0479] In association Figures 27 to 29 In the described embodiments, an example of a method for adjusting the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 is illustrated by the following cases: (i) the system control unit 140 of the energy storage system 100 includes a rated voltage adjustment unit 2940, which outputs a control signal for adjusting the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110; and (ii) the module control unit 240 of the energy storage module 110 outputs a signal for controlling the operation of at least one of the single-pole double-throw switches 2742 and 2744 of the energy storage module 110 based on the control signal obtained from the system control unit 140.

[0480] However, the method for adjusting the rated voltage of the energy storage module 110 is not limited to the described embodiment. In another embodiment, the energy storage module 110 may include part or all of the rated voltage adjustment unit 2940.

[0481] 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 embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications or improvements can be made to the embodiments. Furthermore, to the extent that there is no technical contradiction, matters described for a particular embodiment can be applied to other embodiments. It will be understood from the claims and the like that forms with such modifications or improvements can also be included within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0482] It should be noted that the execution order of the various processes, such as actions, sequences, steps, and stages, in the apparatus, systems, steps, and methods shown in the claims, specification, and drawings can be implemented in any order, as long as "earlier" or "preceded" is not explicitly stated, and the output of the preprocessing is not used in the post-processing. While the flow of actions in the claims, specification, and drawings is described using terms such as "firstly," "secondly," etc., for convenience, this does not mean that they must be implemented in that order.

[0483] [Explanation of Symbols]

[0484] 12 Load devices

[0485] 14 Charging device

[0486] 52 signals

[0487] 54 signal

[0488] 82 signal

[0489] 86 signal

[0490] 88 signal

[0491] 92 signal

[0492] 94 signal

[0493] 100 energy storage system

[0494] 102 Connection Terminal

[0495] 104 Connection Terminals

[0496] 106 wiring

[0497] 110 Energy Storage Module

[0498] 112 Positive extremes

[0499] 114 Negative extremes

[0500] 120 energy storage module

[0501] 122 Positive extremes

[0502] 124 Negative extremes

[0503] 140 System Control Department

[0504] 210 Battery Storage Department

[0505] 212 Positive extremes

[0506] 214 Negative extremes

[0507] 222 storage battery

[0508] 224 storage battery

[0509] 230 Switching Unit

[0510] 240 Module Control Unit

[0511] 250 Protection Department

[0512] 260 Balance Correction Department

[0513] 310 Judgment Department

[0514] 320 Receiving Unit

[0515] 330 Signal Generation Unit

[0516] Module 340 Information Acquisition Department

[0517] 350 Module Information Storage Department

[0518] 360 Module Information Sending Department

[0519] 410 Status Management Department

[0520] 420 Module Selection Section

[0521] 430 Signal Generation Unit

[0522] 510 transistors

[0523] 512 resistor

[0524] 514 resistor

[0525] 516 diode

[0526] 520 transistors

[0527] 522 resistor

[0528] 524 resistor

[0529] 526 diode

[0530] 530 transistors

[0531] 532 resistor

[0532] 540 transistors

[0533] 542 resistor

[0534] 552 resistor

[0535] 554 resistor

[0536] 560 transistors

[0537] 570 capacitor

[0538] 572 resistor

[0539] 580 transistors

[0540] 592 switch

[0541] 594 switch

[0542] 630 Switching Unit

[0543] 632 Relay

[0544] 710 Energy Storage Module

[0545] 730 Switching Unit

[0546] 842 Parasitic Diode

[0547] 844 Parasitic Diode

[0548] 852 Logic Circuit

[0549] 854 Logic Circuit

[0550] 900 energy storage system

[0551] 902 diode

[0552] 904 diode

[0553] 1010 Energy Storage Module

[0554] 1020 Current Detection Component

[0555] 1040 Module Control Unit

[0556] 1120 Current Monitoring Unit

[0557] 1122 Current Detection Unit

[0558] 1124 Direction Decision Department

[0559] 1260 OR circuit

[0560] 1272 AND circuit

[0561] 1274 AND circuit

[0562] 1282 OR circuit

[0563] 1284 OR circuit

[0564] 1310 resistor

[0565] 1410 Energy Storage Module

[0566] 1430 Voltage Regulation Section

[0567] 1522 transistors

[0568] 1524 resistor

[0569] 1542 transistors

[0570] 1544 resistor

[0571] 1552 AND circuit

[0572] 1554 AND circuit

[0573] 1630 Bidirectional DC-DC Converter

[0574] 1710 Energy Storage Module

[0575] 1800 Voltage fluctuation

[0576] 1910 Curve

[0577] 1920 Curve

[0578] 2010 Curve

[0579] 2020 Curve

[0580] 2110 curve

[0581] 2120 curve

[0582] 2210 curve

[0583] 2220 curve

[0584] 2400 Voltage fluctuation

[0585] 2510 curve

[0586] 2520 curve

[0587] 2610 curve

[0588] 2620 curve

[0589] 2710 Battery Storage Department

[0590] 2712 Positive Extreme Particle

[0591] 2714 Negative extremes

[0592] 2722 storage battery

[0593] 2724 storage battery

[0594] 2732 storage battery

[0595] 2734 Storage Battery

[0596] 2742 Single-pole double-throw switch

[0597] 2744 Single-pole double-throw switch

[0598] 2752 terminal

[0599] 2754 terminal

[0600] 2830 Signal Generation Unit

[0601] 2940 Rated Voltage Adjustment Section

[0602] 2950 Main Equipment Decision Department

[0603] 2960 Department for Determining Size Relationships

[0604] 2962 First Department for Determining Size Relationships

[0605] 2964 Second Department for Determining Size Relationships

[0606] 2970 Rated Voltage Determination Section

[0607] 2980 Control Signal Output Section

Claims

1. A rated voltage adjustment method of determining a rated voltage of a first electric storage device in an electric storage system capable of mounting a first electric storage device and a second electric storage device connected in parallel, and having at least one of the following steps: (A) a discharge standby step of standing by in a state where a voltage of at least one of the first electric storage device and the second electric storage device is equal to or greater than a predetermined first threshold value, after a discharge step is performed in preparation for a next discharge step; and (B) a charge standby step of standing by in a state where a voltage of at least one of the first electric storage device and the second electric storage device is equal to or less than a predetermined second threshold value, after a charge step is performed in preparation for a next charge step; the method characterized in that, (1) the first electric storage device and the second electric storage device are different in kind; or (2) a number of storage batteries connected in series with a positive terminal and a negative terminal of the first electric storage device in the first electric storage device and a number of storage batteries connected in series with the positive terminal and the negative terminal of the first electric storage device in the second electric storage device are different; the method having: a main device determination stage of determining whether to make at least one of the following values of any one of the first electric storage device and the second electric storage device larger: (i) a cumulative value of at least one of a discharge time and a charge time in a predetermined period, that is, a cumulative time, (ii) a cumulative value of at least one of a discharge amount and a charge amount in the predetermined period, that is, a cumulative electric amount, and (iii) a cumulative value of at least one of a discharge frequency and a charge frequency in the predetermined period, that is, a cumulative frequency; a size relationship determination stage of determining a size relationship of a rated voltage of an electric storage device, in which at least one of (i) the cumulative time, (ii) the cumulative electric amount, and (iii) the cumulative frequency has been determined to be made larger in the main device determination stage, and a rated voltage of another electric storage device; and a rated voltage determination stage of determining a rated voltage of the first electric storage device in a manner satisfying the size relationship determined in the size relationship determination stage; the size relationship determination stage including: (a) a first size relationship determination stage of determining that a rated voltage of an electric storage device, in which at least one of (i) the cumulative time, (ii) the cumulative electric amount, and (iii) the cumulative frequency has been determined to be made larger in the main device determination stage, is larger than a rated voltage of another electric storage device, in a case where the electric storage system has the discharge standby step; or (b) a second size relationship determination stage of determining that a rated voltage of an electric storage device, in which at least one of (i) the cumulative time, (ii) the cumulative electric amount, and (iii) the cumulative frequency has been determined to be made larger in the main device determination stage, is smaller than a rated voltage of another electric storage device, in a case where the electric storage system has the charge standby step. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ (b) a second size relationship decision stage, in the case where the charge standby step is provided, making the rated voltage of the storage device of the first storage device and the second storage device, which has been decided in the main device decision stage to make at least one of (i) the accumulation time, (ii) the accumulated electric quantity, and (iii) the accumulation number of times larger, smaller than the rated voltage of the other storage device.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the rated voltage decision stage includes a stage of deciding the rated voltage of the first storage device in such a manner that: in the case where it has been decided in the first size relationship decision stage to make the rated voltage of the first storage device larger than the rated voltage of the second storage device, the rated voltage of the first storage device is equal to or smaller than the first threshold value.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the rated voltage decision stage includes a stage of deciding the rated voltage of the first storage device in such a manner that: in the case where it has been decided in the second size relationship decision stage to make the rated voltage of the first storage device smaller than the rated voltage of the second storage device, the rated voltage of the first storage device is equal to or larger than the second threshold value.

4. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first storage device has: a first positive electrode terminal; a first negative electrode terminal; a plurality of first storage cells connected in series; and an adjustment device that adjusts the number of storage cells of the plurality of first storage cells that are electrically connected to the first positive electrode terminal and the first negative electrode terminal; the rated voltage decision stage includes a stage of: deciding the rated voltage of the first storage device based on the number that the adjustment device can adjust.

5. The method according to claim 4, further comprising: a control signal output stage that outputs a signal for controlling the operation of the adjustment device based on the rated voltage of the first storage device that has been decided in the rated voltage decision stage.

6. The method according to claim 4, wherein the adjustment device has one or more single-pole multi-throw switches.

7. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first storage device is detachably arranged with respect to the storage system.

8. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the method is executed by a computer.

9. A rated voltage adjustment device that adjusts the rated voltage of a first storage device, controls the first storage device, or a storage system that is capable of mounting the first storage device and a second storage device connected in parallel and has at least one of the following steps: a main device decision stage that decides which of the first storage device and the second storage device is to be made the main device; The steps are: (A) a discharging standby step of standing by for a next discharging step after the discharging step is performed, in a state where the voltage of at least one of the first electric storage device and the second electric storage device is equal to or greater than a predetermined first threshold value; and (B) a charging standby step of standing by for a next charging step after the charging step is performed, in a state where the voltage of at least one of the first electric storage device and the second electric storage device is equal to or less than a predetermined second threshold value; the rated voltage adjustment device is characterized in that, The first electric storage device is detachably attached to the electric storage system, and (1) the first electric storage device is different in kind from the second electric storage device; or (2) the number of storage batteries connected in series with the positive and negative terminals of the first electric storage device in the first electric storage device is different from the number of storage batteries connected in series with the positive and negative terminals of the first electric storage device in the second electric storage device; The rated voltage adjustment device includes: a main device determination section that determines whether to make at least one of the following values of any one of the first electric storage device and the second electric storage device larger: (i) a cumulative value of at least one of a discharging time and a charging time in a predetermined period, that is, a cumulative time, (ii) a cumulative value of at least one of a discharging amount and a charging amount in the predetermined period, that is, a cumulative electric amount, and (iii) a cumulative value of at least one of a discharging frequency and a charging frequency in the predetermined period, that is, a cumulative frequency; a size relationship determination section that determines a size relationship between the rated voltage of the electric storage device, for which the main device determination section has determined to make at least one of (i) the cumulative time, (ii) the cumulative electric amount, and (iii) the cumulative frequency larger, and the rated voltage of the other electric storage device, among the first electric storage device and the second electric storage device; and a rated voltage determination section that determines the rated voltage of the first electric storage device in such a manner as to satisfy the size relationship determined by the size relationship determination section; The size relationship determination section includes: (a) a first size relationship determination section that determines to make the rated voltage of the electric storage device, for which the main device determination section has determined to make at least one of (i) the cumulative time, (ii) the cumulative electric amount, and (iii) the cumulative frequency larger, greater than the rated voltage of the other electric storage device, among the first electric storage device and the second electric storage device, in a case where the electric storage system has the discharging standby step; or (b) a second size relationship determination section that determines to make the rated voltage of the electric storage device, for which the main device determination section has determined to make at least one of (i) the cumulative time, (ii) the cumulative electric amount, and (iii) the cumulative frequency larger, smaller than the rated voltage of the other electric storage device, among the first electric storage device and the second electric storage device, in a case where the electric storage system has the charging standby step.

10. The rated voltage adjustment device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first electric storage device includes: First positive extreme; First negative extreme; Multiple first batteries connected in series; and An adjustment device is used to adjust the number of batteries among the plurality of first batteries that are electrically connected to the first positive terminal and the first negative terminal; The rated voltage determining unit determines the rated voltage of the first energy storage device based on the number that the adjusting device can adjust.

11. The rated voltage adjustment device according to claim 10, further comprising a control signal output unit, the control signal output unit outputting a signal for controlling the operation of the adjustment device based on the rated voltage of the first energy storage device determined by the rated voltage determination unit.

12. The rated voltage regulating device according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that, The rated voltage adjustment device is disposed inside the energy storage system or the first energy storage device.

13. An electric power storage device characterized by comprising: have: First positive extreme; First negative extreme; Multiple primary batteries connected in series; Adjustment device, for adjusting the number of batteries electrically connected to the first positive terminal and the first negative terminal among the plurality of first batteries; and The rated voltage regulating device according to any one of claims 9 to 12.

14. The energy storage device according to claim 13, characterized in that, It also includes a control device that controls the current flowing between the batteries electrically connected to the first positive and first negative terminals in the plurality of first batteries, and the wiring electrically connected to other energy storage devices. The control device has a control section that controls the switching assembly in the following manner: (i) When the voltage between the terminals of the switch assembly configured between the wiring and the battery meets a predetermined condition, the switch assembly electrically connects the wiring and the battery; (ii) When the voltage between the terminals of the switch assembly does not meet the predetermined condition, the switch assembly electrically disconnects the wiring and the battery.

15. The energy storage device according to claim 14, characterized in that, It also includes a frame that supports or houses the plurality of first batteries, as well as at least one of the adjustment device, the control device, and the switching assembly.

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