Charging control method for electric mobile body and electric mobile body

Abstract

Provided is a charging control method for an electric mobile body and an electric mobile body. The charging control method for an electric mobile body includes: acquiring a use schedule of an electric mobile body (10, 10A) that moves using a battery (30) as a power source; acquiring a necessary remaining capacity required for the use schedule; and in a case where the necessary remaining capacity is not reached by a charging plan that is set in advance before the use schedule is acquired, changing the charging plan so that the necessary remaining capacity is reached before a start time of the use schedule. Accordingly, the necessary remaining capacity, which is a remaining capacity required until the start time of the use schedule of the electric mobile body, can be ensured for the battery, and thus convenience and deterioration suppression can be achieved simultaneously.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a charging control method for an electric mobile device and the electric mobile device itself, which is a vehicle, ship, boat, airplane, drone, etc., and moves using an onboard battery as a power source. Background Technology

[0002] For example, JP2012-228165A discloses an electric vehicle charging control system for predicting the battery power consumption of an electric vehicle on the second day. In this electric vehicle charging control system, if the remaining battery capacity at the time of return is not sufficient to meet the power consumption required for driving on the second day, the battery is charged until the required power consumption is met (Summary of JP2012-228165A).

[0003] Furthermore, JP2016-59248A discloses a vehicle that, even when a user sets a timed charging schedule (reservation charging), cancels the timed charging under specified conditions and selects an on-demand charging mode (summary of JP2016-59248A). For example, the timed charging is canceled when the charging plug connected to the vehicle's charging port is plugged and unplugged more than a specified number of times. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Additionally, depending on the date, users of electric mobility devices may sometimes want to use them in an irregular, non-routine manner, different from their usual (daily) usage schedule.

[0005] However, the aforementioned prior art does not envision a charging control method for electric mobile devices with irregular, non-normal (non-routine) usage arrangements, raising concerns about reduced ease of use of electric mobile devices.

[0006] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned technical problems, and its object is to provide a charging control method for an electric mobile body and an electric mobile body that can ensure the required remaining capacity in the battery before the start of the use schedule of the electric mobile body, even when an irregular non-normal (non-routine) use schedule that is different from the normal (routine) use schedule occurs.

[0007] In a charging control method for an electric mobile body according to one aspect of the present invention, the electric mobile body moves using a battery as a power source, wherein: a usage schedule for the electric mobile body is obtained; the charging state required for the usage schedule, i.e., the necessary remaining capacity, is obtained; if the necessary remaining capacity cannot be reached before the start time of the usage schedule according to a pre-set charging plan based on the obtained usage schedule, the charging plan is modified to reach the necessary remaining capacity before the start time of the usage schedule.

[0008] In another aspect of the present invention, a charging control method for an electric mobile body is provided, wherein the electric mobile body moves using a battery as a power source. When there are a predetermined number of days from the time the usage schedule of the electric mobile body is obtained until the start time of the usage schedule, during which multiple charge-discharge cycles are performed, the user is allowed to choose between a charging mode prioritizing electricity costs or a charging mode prioritizing workload reduction. The electricity cost priority mode involves charging to the necessary remaining capacity required for the start time of the usage schedule using the maximum charging amount (i.e., a low-cost charging amount) that can only be used during periods of low electricity costs when charging is imminent. The workload reduction priority mode involves charging to the necessary remaining capacity required for the start time of the usage schedule using a predetermined larger charging amount that includes periods of high electricity costs when charging is imminent. The charging schedule is changed earlier than the charging process before the start time of the usage schedule, so that the remaining capacity before the start time of the usage schedule in the selected charging mode becomes either the remaining capacity obtained by subtracting the low-cost charging amount from the necessary remaining capacity or the remaining capacity obtained by subtracting the larger charging amount from the necessary remaining capacity.

[0009] Another embodiment of the present invention provides an electric mobile body with a charging control device for the electric mobile body, the electric mobile body being moved by a battery as a power source, the charging control device having a memory for recording a program and a CPU for reading from and executing the program from the memory, the charging control device obtaining the usage schedule of the electric mobile body and obtaining the charging state required by the usage schedule, i.e., the necessary remaining capacity, and if the necessary remaining capacity cannot be reached before the start time of the usage schedule according to a pre-set charging plan before the obtained usage schedule, the charging plan is modified so as to reach the necessary remaining capacity before the start time of the usage schedule.

[0010] According to the present invention, charging control is performed to change the charging plan according to the start time of the use arrangement of the electric mobile body to achieve the necessary remaining capacity, and in the charging control, the remaining capacity of the battery is limited to being charged to the necessary remaining capacity, thereby reducing the time the battery is kept in a near-fully charged state.

[0011] Accordingly, it is possible to ensure the necessary remaining capacity of the battery, that is, the remaining capacity required until the start of the use of the electric vehicle, thus achieving both convenience and prevention of degradation.

[0012] The above-described objectives, features, and advantages should be readily understood from the following description of the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a system diagram illustrating a structural example of a system having an electric vehicle, which is an electric mobile body according to an embodiment of the charging control method for an electric mobile body according to the embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing a detailed structural example of a navigation device.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a flowchart (1 / 2) used to illustrate the actions of the implementation method.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a flowchart (2 / 2) used to illustrate the actions of the implementation method.

[0017] Figure 5A is a time series diagram of the predicted SOC shift for normal use within the target SOC; Figure 5B is a time series diagram of the priority control for workload reduction under abnormal use; and Figure 5C is a time series diagram of the priority control for electricity cost under abnormal use.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a time sequence diagram for priority control of electricity charges when the target remaining capacity increases.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a timing diagram for prioritizing workload reduction control when the target remaining capacity increases.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a timing diagram for prioritizing degradation suppression control when the target remaining capacity increases.

[0021] Figure 9A This is a timing diagram used to illustrate step 1 of the inverse operation. Figure 9B This is a timing diagram used to illustrate step 2 of the inverse operation. Figure 9C This is a timing diagram used to illustrate step 3 of the inverse operation. Figure 9D This is a timing diagram used to illustrate step 4 of the inverse operation.

[0022] Figure 10 It is a flowchart used to illustrate the actions taken when the target remaining capacity increases.

[0023] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the general control steps for setting a target State of Charge (SOC) with priority for electricity pricing.

[0024] Figure 12 This is a system diagram showing a variant of the system structure in which the parts of the charging control device, excluding the execution unit, are installed on a management server on the Internet. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments are listed and the charging control method for the electric mobile body and the electric mobile body according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] [structure]

[0027] Figure 1 This is a system diagram showing a structural example of system 12, which includes an electric vehicle (here, an electric car) 10, which is an electric vehicle as an embodiment of the charging control method of the electric mobile body according to the embodiment.

[0028] In addition to the electric vehicle 10, the system 12 also includes a charging device 14 that supplies power to the electric vehicle 10 from the outside and a smart device 20. The smart device 20 is a smartphone or the like that capable of communicating with the electric vehicle 10 via a mobile communication network 16 or a near-field wireless communication 18 such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). The mobile communication network 16 may also include the Internet.

[0029] The smart device 20 is a terminal carried by the driver or other users of the electric vehicle 10.

[0030] The electric vehicle 10 includes: a navigation device 24, which is equipped with a charging control device 22; and a battery 30, which supplies power to an electric motor 28 that drives the wheels 26 of the electric vehicle 10 to rotate.

[0031] Battery 30 is a high-capacity lithium-ion battery. Electric vehicle 10 can ensure a range of approximately 500 km on a single charge. Furthermore, this invention is also applicable to electric vehicles and other mobile vehicles with ranges shorter or longer than approximately 500 km.

[0032] In this electric vehicle 10, the charging control device 22 is mounted on the navigation device 24. Alternatively, all or all components except the execution unit 44 can be installed independently of the navigation device 24, for example, as described later, on the management server 82. Figure 12 ).

[0033] Back Figure 1 The navigation device 24 includes a charging control device 22, a display unit (vehicle display) 23, and a communication control unit 25.

[0034] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing a detailed structural example of the navigation device 24.

[0035] like Figure 2As shown, the navigation device 24 has a control device 60 on which a charging control device 22 is installed. The navigation device 24 has a display unit (shower) 23, an operation unit 64, a voice output unit (speaker) 66, an information storage unit 68, a vehicle signal I / F 70, a wireless I / F 72, and a GPS receiver (satellite positioning device) 74 that transmit and receive various signals including control signals with the control device 60.

[0036] Display unit 23 displays a map, current location, and recommended route from the current location to the destination based on data from control unit 60. The user operates operation unit 64 when issuing various instructions to navigation device 24. Alternatively, a touchscreen display can be used where display unit 23 and operation unit 64 are assembled into one unit. Voice output unit 66 outputs voice related to route guidance, various information notifications, etc. Information storage unit 68 stores data such as map data. Vehicle signal I / F 70 is used for signal transmission and reception between control unit 60 and sensors (not shown) such as vehicle speed sensors that detect information related to current location.

[0037] The wireless I / F 72 is used for signal transmission and reception between the control device 60 and the communication control unit 25. The communication control unit 25 transmits and receives radio waves through the antenna 76 and communicates with the smart device 20 through the mobile communication network 16 or the near-field wireless communication 18. The GPS receiver 74 captures GPS radio waves from positioning satellites through the antenna 78 and determines its current location based on these GPS radio waves.

[0038] The smart device 20 is carried by the user and can communicate with each other wirelessly via the mobile communication network 16 or the near-field wireless communication 18, whether inside or outside the electric vehicle 10.

[0039] The navigation device 24 can also communicate with the management server 82 (described later) and the server of the power supplier (not shown) via the mobile communication network 16, the Internet (not shown), and a public communication network (not shown). The management server 82 can communicate with the power supplier via the public communication network and the Internet.

[0040] Back Figure 1 The charging device 14, which is connected to the power supply system of a power supplier (not shown), is installed in the parking lot (designated parking space) of the electric vehicle 10 user's own residence, the parking lot (designated parking space) of an office, or a charging station along a highway. The charging device 14 has a charging cable 34 with a charging plug 32 at its top.

[0041] After the user returns to the designated parking lot at the end of a day's use of the electric vehicle 10, and if it is determined that the remaining capacity of the battery 30 is low, for example, when charging begins in the evening, the user opens the charging cover (not shown) of the hood of the electric vehicle 10. Next, holding the charging plug 32 at the other end of the charging cable 34, which is connected to the charging device 14, the user moves it away from the original position (storage position) of the charging device 14 and then inserts the charging plug 32 into the charging port (connector) 36 of the electric vehicle 10. Accordingly, the charging device 14 and the charging port 36 are electrically connected via the charging cable 34 to a charging-enabled state.

[0042] In this case, under the control of the charging control device 22, the battery 30 is charged by the charging device 14 primarily during the nighttime hours when electricity is cheaper than during the day. If the charge is still insufficient, the battery 30 is charged by the charging device 14 during the daytime hours when electricity is more expensive.

[0043] Even if the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the charging device 14 via the charging cable 34, it is not necessarily in the process of charging the battery 30.

[0044] The determination unit 42 of the charging control device 22 determines the charging plan of the battery 30, and sometimes even when the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the charging equipment 14, the charging control device 22 stops or stops the charging of the battery 30.

[0045] When departing on the second day after charging is complete, the user disconnects the charging plug 32 from the charging port 36 and closes the charging cover (not shown). After this, the charging plug 32 is then reinstalled in its original position on the charging device 14.

[0046] The charging control device 22 is composed of a microcomputer, which functions as various functional units by executing programs stored in memory through a CPU. In addition to a storage unit 40, which serves as memory, the charging control device 22 also has a judgment unit 42, an execution unit 44, and a notification unit 46, which serve as arithmetic units.

[0047] The charging control device 22 controls the charging of the battery 30 (charging according to the charging plan) when the charging plug 32 of the charging device 14 is connected to the charging port 36 of the electric vehicle 10.

[0048] Under specified conditions, the notification unit 46 sends notifications to the user's smart device 20 via the communication control unit 25, urging the battery 30 to be charged (charging is required). Additionally, it also sends notifications to the vehicle's display unit 23 urging the battery 30 to be charged.

[0049] When the smart device 20 is within the effective communication area of ​​the near-field wireless communication 18, notifications such as urging the smart device 20 to charge are sent via the near-field wireless communication 18. When the device 20 is located at a location farther from the effective communication area of ​​the near-field wireless communication 18, these notifications are sent via the mobile communication network 16.

[0050] When the execution unit 44 of the electric vehicle 10 receives an instruction from the determination unit 42 that the battery 30 needs to be charged, it charges the battery 30 to the remaining capacity indicated by the determination unit 42 [target SOC (State of Charge)].

[0051] [action]

[0052] The following is for reference Figure 3 Flowchart (1 / 2) Figure 4 The flowchart (2 / 2) describes the operations performed by the charging control device 22 (CPU) of the system 12, which is basically configured as described above.

[0053] The main body executing the program involved in the flowchart is the charging control device 22 (any one of the judgment unit 42, execution unit 44 and notification unit 46, excluding the storage unit 40).

[0054] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the charging control device 22 storing the program is installed on the electric vehicle 10; however, as described above, in the variant described later, the program is installed on the management server 82. Figure 10 )middle.

[0055] In step S1, the basic charging location (designated charging location) of the electric vehicle 10 is determined. Here, under the control of the execution unit 44, the operation unit 64 determines the home (residential residence) 80 where the charging device 14 is located as the basic charging location. More precisely, with the charging plug 32 electrically connected to the charging device 14 installed at the charging port 36 after the return trip, the location of the electric vehicle 10 obtained by the GPS receiver 74 is determined as the basic charging location and pre-recorded in the storage unit 40.

[0056] Additionally, in step S1, the execution unit 44 automatically obtains the electricity bill information of the home 80 equipped with the charging device 14 from the electricity supplier (not shown) to which the home 80 (user) has signed a contract via the Internet (not shown) through the navigation device 24.

[0057] Alternatively, the user can operate the smart device 20 or the operation unit 64 of the navigation device 24 to manually enter the user's contracted electricity bill information.

[0058] Furthermore, in step S1, the execution unit 44 obtains past departure time information of the electric vehicle 10 through the navigation device 24.

[0059] In step S2, the remaining capacity of the battery 30 at the time of departure from the electric vehicle 10's home 80, in this embodiment referred to as SOC (or remaining capacity SOC) [%), is recorded in the storage unit 40. The SOC at the time of departure is referred to as the departure SOC.

[0060] Furthermore, remaining capacity is not limited to SOC [%], but can also be recorded and managed as electrical energy [Wh] or ampere-hours [Ah]. The same applies below.

[0061] In step S2, the remaining capacity SOC of the battery 30 when the electric vehicle 10 returns home 80 (when returning home) is also recorded in the storage unit 40 as the return-time SOC.

[0062] The judgment unit (charging plan judgment unit) 42 uses the obtained departure SOC and return SOC to calculate the daily SOC consumption ΔSOC (ΔSOC = departure SOC - return SOC).

[0063] The determination unit (charging plan determination unit) 42 stores the calculated consumption amount ΔSOC as the usage history of the battery 30 (driving history of the electric vehicle 10) in the storage unit (vehicle history record holding unit) 40. Therefore, in step S2, the consumption amount (daily consumption amount) ΔSOC for each day of a certain period in the past is stored in the storage unit (vehicle history record holding unit) 40.

[0064] The following explanation also refers to the commonly used SOC shift prediction diagram in Figure 5A.

[0065] In step S3, based on the trend of usage history over a specified period, such as one month (30 days), the daily power consumption ΔSOC of the electric vehicle 10 under normal usage (Fig. 5A) for one week (7 days) after the second day is predicted according to the average usage pattern of the electric vehicle 10 by the minutes of the week. Furthermore, based on the trend of usage history over one month (30 days), the number of charges (charging frequency) Nu that the user can allow per week is predicted. From the SOC trend prediction in Fig. 5A, it can be seen that the electric vehicle 10 charges the power consumed in two days of driving with one normal charge ΔSOC_typ (normal charge ΔSOC_typ = 2). × Daily consumption ΔSOC).

[0066] The SOC is predicted based on the SOC progression forecast for regression in n days (in this example, 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, and 7 days). Details are explained in steps S4 to S7.

[0067] Next, in step S4, the lower limit of SOC at which the user feels uneasy about the lack of power is determined. Based on the lower limit of SOC, the limiting condition of the charging start SOC corresponding to the user's uneasy feeling about the lack of power is determined.

[0068] The lower limit SOC is the default setting of the execution unit 44, or it can be set by the user using the vehicle-mounted HMI (Human Machine Interface) described later. Alternatively, the charging control device 22 (system) determines the lower limit SOC based on the daily consumption ΔSOC of the electric vehicle 10, which corresponds to different trends in usage patterns of different users. The lower limit SOC determined in this way can also be set to be adjustable.

[0069] Next, in step S5, the limit condition of charging amount (the amount of increase from a certain remaining capacity to a larger remaining capacity) ΔSOC is determined based on the usage history of the specified period, such as one month.

[0070] The judgment unit (charging plan judgment unit) 42 divides the required weekly charging amount ΔSOC_drv by the number of charging sessions (charging frequency) Nu that the user can allow per week, where the required weekly charging amount ΔSOC_drv is obtained by accumulating the average consumption amount ΔSOC over a certain period (for example, 1 week) by dividing it by the number of minutes of the week. Based on this, the normal charging amount ΔSOC_typ required for one charge to maintain the average consumption amount for several days of driving is calculated.

[0071] Furthermore, in step S6, the determination unit (charging plan determination unit) 42 determines the necessary minimum remaining capacity SOC_min as a constraint condition for the charging end SOC. The necessary minimum remaining capacity SOC_min is a constraint condition for the charging end SOC to avoid reducing user convenience due to power shortage anxiety and increased charging frequency. The necessary minimum remaining capacity SOC_min is calculated by adding one normal charging amount ΔSOC_typ to the lower limit SOC (the minimum value of the minimum SOC described later) (SOC_min = lower limit SOC + ΔSOC_typ).

[0072] In step S7, under the constraints of steps S4 to S6 above, a combination of the starting SOC and ending SOC that minimizes the degradation of battery 30 is determined. Based on this, the lower limit SOC, the minimum SOC (minimum SOC ≥ lower limit SOC) described later, the target SOC (target remaining capacity, which in this embodiment is a minimum remaining capacity SOC_min as described later), and the scheduled charging date are calculated.

[0073] Regarding the setting of the target SOC (target remaining capacity) as the necessary remaining capacity, it is considered that the degradation of battery 30 is accelerated by cyclic degradation with more charge-discharge cycles, and by storage degradation (storage degradation at high SOC) with longer storage time in a near-fully charged state. Furthermore, cyclic degradation and storage degradation at high SOC of battery 30 are well known.

[0074] In this embodiment, a target SOC is set considering the placement degradation of the battery 30. The maximum value of the remaining capacity is set to the SOC that best suppresses placement degradation in the SOC region from the necessary minimum remaining capacity SOC_min to full charge. Preferably, it is controlled to be less than the full charge capacity. Therefore, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the necessary minimum remaining capacity SOC_min is 70%, as shown in FIG5A, and this 70% value is set as the target SOC.

[0075] In contrast to the irregular target SOC (also known as the modified target SOC) described later, this 70% target SOC is also referred to as the normal target SOC or the normal target SOC.

[0076] To prevent a decrease in user convenience due to an increase in the number of charging cycles, the charging plan in Figure 5A sets the acceptable charging frequency to be such that it can sustain two days' worth of consumption with a typical charge amount ΔSOC_typ from one charge. Furthermore, the decrease in user convenience due to an increase in the number of charging cycles refers to the increased number of times the user inserts the charging plug 32 into the charging port 36 of the electric vehicle 10 and removes it from the charging port 36.

[0077] Accordingly, in Figure 5A, the scheduled charging date is once every two days. That is, in Figure 5A (where a charging schedule is typically used), the remaining SOC is charged to the target SOC after the return time on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. In Figure 5A, the next charging day after Saturday is the following Monday (not shown).

[0078] The characteristic shown by the dashed line in Figure 5A represents a typical charging plan under normal usage. This dashed line indicates a charging plan where the battery is charged every two days at a typical charge amount ΔSOC_typ from the lower limit SOC to the target SOC. The lower limit SOC is set to eliminate the anxiety caused by low charge, and the target SOC is the SOC that avoids degradation caused by placing the battery at a high SOC level, which is conducive to the degradation of battery 30. A high SOC that easily promotes the degradation of battery 30 includes a full charge.

[0079] Next, in step S8, the user's preference (priority of electricity cost and charging workload) for the charging operation is obtained. In this case, based on the user's input, the limiting conditions are determined according to whether the priority is lower electricity cost (electricity cost priority) or reduced workload (number of charging times, charging frequency) (workload reduction priority). Here, workload refers to, as described above, a series of operations of attaching and detaching the charging plug 32, which is connected to the charging device 14 via the charging cable 34, to the charging port 36 for charging.

[0080] Furthermore, the default setting of the charging control device 22 is to prioritize electricity costs when it obtains electricity cost information. This default setting can be changed by the user, for example, through the smart device 20 or the vehicle HMI.

[0081] Next, in step S9, the charging amount ΔSOC constraint relative to the electricity cost is determined based on the electricity cost information (details will be explained in steps S10 to S11).

[0082] Next, in step S10, the time when charging can begin is predicted based on the trend of when the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the charging device 14. The maximum charging amount ΔSOC_max is calculated, which is the maximum amount of charge that can be charged in one charge during the period from the predicted time when charging can begin (e.g., 7 pm on the day of the return date) to the time when charging can end (e.g., 7 am on the morning of the second day).

[0083] For example, the judgment unit 42 determines, based on the records (usage history) of the storage unit 40, that the charging plug 32 is installed on the charging port 36 before 6 pm and is removed after 7 am the next day. In this case, the maximum charging amount ΔSOC_max is calculated as the time period from 7 pm to 7 am the next day multiplied by the charging amount per unit time.

[0084] In this case, the maximum charge amount ΔSOC_max is calculated as the sum of the charge amount during the late night (e.g., 11 pm to 7 am) when electricity is cheaper and the charge amount during the relatively high nighttime (e.g., 7 pm to 11 pm) when electricity is cheaper.

[0085] Next, in step S11, the low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost is calculated. This low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost is the maximum charging amount that can be achieved by utilizing the late night (8 hours from 11 pm to 7 am) during the priority period when electricity is cheapest, which is from the time when charging can begin (7 pm) to the time of departure (7 am the next day). The low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost is shown in Figure 5A.

[0086] The time period from 11 pm to 7 am the next day. × The low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost is calculated based on the charging amount per unit time.

[0087] Next, in step S12, it is determined whether there are any irregular usage plans for the electric vehicle 10 up to the next scheduled charging date.

[0088] If there is no irregular usage plan (step S12: No), in step S13, the necessary SOC_req is set to the necessary minimum remaining capacity SOC_min, and the process proceeds to step S15. Furthermore, necessary SOC_req is also simply referred to as necessary SOC.

[0089] On the other hand, in the case of irregular usage plans (step S12: Yes), in step S14, the specified day is obtained from the calendar or navigation setting information. Figure 6 The destination (shown in Figure 9 as Saturday) is then calculated. Next, the remaining capacity required for the round trip to the destination (in cases where the outbound and return routes differ) is calculated, i.e., the necessary SOC_req, and the process proceeds to step S15.

[0090] Next, in step S15, it is determined whether the necessary SOC_req is below the target SOC (usually the target SOC). If the following condition is met (necessary SOC_req ≤ target SOC) (step S15, yes) (the condition after setting in step S13), in step S16, charging control is performed in the first control mode according to the charging mode.

[0091] [Control Mode 1] (Necessary SOC_req ≤ Target SOC)

[0092] Regarding the first control mode, the three modes are explained: normal use in Figure 5A, non-normal use 1a (workload reduction priority) in Figure 5B, and non-normal use 1b (electricity cost priority) in Figure 5C.

[0093] [Usually used (Figure 5A)]

[0094] As shown in Figure 5A, the low-cost charge ΔSOC_lowcost is the maximum charge that can be applied to the battery in a single charge during periods of low electricity prices (11 pm to 7 am). The low-cost charge ΔSOC_lowcost is the typical charge ΔSOC_typ (target SOC - lower limit SOC) that exceeds the amount needed to sustain (use) the battery for two days.

[0095] The maximum charge capacity ΔSOC_max is the maximum charge capacity that can charge the battery 30% on a single charge until the next use (the morning of the second day), regardless of electricity costs. It is a larger charge capacity than the low-cost charge capacity ΔSOC_lowcost.

[0096] As mentioned above, the maximum charge ΔSOC_max is calculated using the following formula (1).

[0097] ΔSOC_max=ΔSOC_lowcost(8 hours from 11pm to 7am)+ΔSOC_highcost(4 hours from 7pm to 11pm)…(1)

[0098] In step S4, the lower limit SOC is temporarily set to a threshold that will not cause users anxiety about power shortage. However, if the value of the lower limit SOC calculated in step S4 is less than the value obtained by subtracting the low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost from the target SOC (default lower limit SOC = target SOC - low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost), the lower limit SOC is set to the same value (default lower limit SOC).

[0099] As shown in Figures 5A, 5B, and 5C, the lower limit SOC can also be a value slightly higher than the default lower limit SOC, which is a user-defined value that the user can arbitrarily set according to their own level of power shortage anxiety.

[0100] The determination unit 42 detects that the charging plug 32 is installed (connected) to the charging port 36 at a designated location (home 80 or the location of the charging device 14 nearby). Then, the execution unit 44 executes the first control mode based on a charging plan for normal use (Fig. 5A), non-normal use 1a (Fig. 5B), or non-normal use 1b (Fig. 5C).

[0101] Here, the unusual use of 1a (Fig. 5B) and the unusual use of 1b (Fig. 5C) are equivalent to the case where the SOC during regression is significantly lower than the lower limit SOC set in step S4.

[0102] Furthermore, apart from the designated locations, no control mode is executed based on charging plans for normal use (Fig. 5A), non-normal use 1a (Fig. 5B), or non-normal use 1b (Fig. 5C). When a charging plug (not shown) of a charging device (not shown) outside the designated locations is installed at the charging port 36 of the electric vehicle 10, the charging control device 22 executes a control mode that immediately begins charging to the target SOC.

[0103] When executing Control Mode 1, where the target SOC is set to a constant value, charging is performed until the target SOC is reached if the remaining SOC of battery 30 is lower than (lower limit SOC + ΔSOC_use). Charging is not performed if the remaining SOC of battery 30 does not decrease to (lower limit SOC + ΔSOC_use). Here, ΔSOC_use is the consumption amount predicted for the second day based on past driving history.

[0104] Control continues even on days when charging is not performed (e.g., Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday in Figure 5A) when the charging plug 32 is not attached to the charging port 36.

[0105] If the remaining SOC at the time of return is lower than (lower limit SOC + ΔSOC_use), in order to urge the user to install the charging plug 32 on the charging port 36, the user will be notified of "requiring charging" through the smart device 20 and the vehicle HMI.

[0106] In this sense, (lower limit SOC + ΔSOC_use) also serves as a recommended SOC to encourage users to charge electric vehicles.

[0107] Under the control mode of the commonly used charging plan based on Figure 5A, the full normal charging amount ΔSOC_typ is maintained within the range of the low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost where electricity is cheap.

[0108] [Using 1a is not the usual method (prioritizing reducing workload using ΔSOC_max)]

[0109] Next, referring to FIG5B, the control mode based on the non-normal use mode 1a, which reflects the user's preference for reducing workload, will be described.

[0110] Pay attention to Wednesday, as shown in Figure 5B. On Wednesday, electric vehicle 10, which was not originally planned for use in the storage unit 40's schedule, was used on Wednesday, and Wednesday consumed power significantly below the lower limit of SOC.

[0111] In this scenario, the amount of charge required to reach the target SOC during the period from Wednesday's return time to Thursday morning is the charge amount (necessary charge amount) ΔSOC. However, during the period from Wednesday's return time to Thursday morning, the low-cost charge amount ΔSOC_lowcost is less than the necessary charge amount ΔSOC (ΔSOC > ΔSOC_lowcost), therefore, the target SOC cannot be reached in one charge.

[0112] Furthermore, in Figure 5B, the length of the vertically extending dashed line segment depicted above Thu represents the required charge ΔSOC, with the lower end of the segment representing the remaining SOC at the time of Wednesday's return and the upper end representing the remaining SOC at the time of Thursday's departure. The same applies to Tuesday and Saturday.

[0113] If the remaining SOC at the time of Wednesday's return is insufficient to charge at the low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost by the time of Thursday's departure, then the charging control device 22 sends a notification to the user's smart device 20 to confirm whether to charge based on workload reduction priority or electricity cost priority.

[0114] Regarding the timing of the charging control device 22 sending a notification to the smart device 20, the notification can be sent at time point t1 (Figure 5B) when the remaining capacity SOC is lower than (lower limit SOC + ΔSOC_use). The notification continues to be sent until the charging plug 32 is installed in the charging port 36 when Wednesday Wed returns.

[0115] Workload reduction preference or electricity cost preference can also be preset through the vehicle HMI (an HMI that uses the display unit 23, operation unit 64 and sound output unit 66 of the navigation device 24) or smart device 20.

[0116] When the preference for reducing workload is selected, the control mode based on the non-normal use 1a charging mode in Figure 5B is executed.

[0117] In this scenario, from Wednesday's return to the grid until Thursday morning, charging will be prioritized up to the point where low-cost charging (ΔSOC_lowcost) can be maintained using overnight power. The charging schedule will be changed to charge any remaining amount within the maximum charging capacity (ΔSOC_max) between 7 pm and 11 pm.

[0118] For example, if reaching the target SOC requires 10 hours of charging time, the first 2 hours are spent charging during the expensive evening hours. The remaining 8 hours are spent charging using cheaper electricity from 11 pm to 7 am.

[0119] For the non-normal use 1a (workload reduction priority) shown in Figure 5B, the target SOC is charged to within one charge within the range of the maximum charging amount ΔSOC_max, thus not increasing the number of charging cycles. That is, the number of times the user installs the charging plug 32 into the charging port 36 is once every two days, which is no more than normal use (Figure 5A). Accordingly, the workload of the user's charging-related operations such as installing the charging plug 32 into the charging port 36 is reduced.

[0120] [Non-standard use of 1b (prioritizing electricity cost with ΔSOC_lowcost)]

[0121] On the other hand, when the electricity cost priority preference is selected, the control mode based on the non-normal use 1b charging mode of Figure 5C is executed.

[0122] In this case, during the charging process from the return of Wednesday (Wed) to the departure of Thursday (Thu), the remaining capacity SOC is allowed to be less than the target SOC (in Figure 5C, the charging amount ΔSOC is set as ΔSOC = ΔSOC_lowcost).

[0123] That is, from Wednesday (Wed) when the trip begins until Thursday (Thu) when the trip begins, charging will be performed across the entire range of low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost. Furthermore, from Thursday (Thu) when the trip begins until Friday (Fri) when the trip begins, the target SOC will be reached within the range of low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost. In other words, multiple charging operations will be performed.

[0124] In this case, the number of charging cycles increases by the time of Thursday (recorded as Fri in Figure 5C). Accordingly, although the workload related to the user's charging, such as the installation of the charging plug 32 to the charging port 36, increases, the electricity cost can be cheaper than the non-normal use 1a (workload reduction priority) charging control shown in Figure 5B.

[0125] In addition, if the consumption is expected to drop below (lower limit SOC + ΔSOC_use) on Friday, it is also possible to charge using the charging mode shown in Figure 5B instead of the charging mode shown in Figure 5C.

[0126] The charging mode in Figure 5C uses only the low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost, while the charging mode in Figure 5B uses the maximum charging amount ΔSOC_max, which exceeds the range of the low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost.

[0127] Thus, even when set to non-normal use 1b (electricity cost priority), it is possible to switch to a charging mode that uses the range of the maximum charging amount ΔSOC_max.

[0128] [Second Control Mode] (Necessary SOC_req > Target SOC)

[0129] On the other hand, Figure 4 In step S15, when the necessary SOC_req is higher than the target SOC (step S15: no), charging control is performed in the second control mode of step S17 according to the charging mode.

[0130] That is, in step S17, the target SOC is corrected to a larger value, and charging control is performed in the second control mode according to the charging mode, which requires charging to the corrected target SOC (necessary SOC_req = corrected target SOC > target SOC).

[0131] Regarding the second control mode, Figure 6 Non-standard use of 2a (electricity cost priority) Figure 7 The unusual use of 2b (workload reduction priority) and Figure 8 The non-standard 2c (workload reduction priority and degradation suppression priority) charging mode is explained.

[0132] In addition, Figures 6-8 In this process, the necessary SOC_req obtained by correcting the target SOC to a larger value becomes the remaining capacity SOC close to 100%, which, although temporary, will promote the degradation of battery 30.

[0133] exist Figures 6-8 In the middle, when it returns on Monday (Monday) Figures 6-8 Before the lower end of the line segment on the Tue, obtain the specified day from the calendar or navigation settings information. Figures 6-8 The destination is determined by the destination on Saturday (Sat). Then, before returning on Monday (Mon), the remaining capacity required to travel to the destination, i.e., the necessary SOC_req (also known as the corrected target SOC), is calculated.

[0134] like Figures 6-8 As shown, the necessary SOC_req for the corrected target SOC is as shown in equation (2), which is the remaining capacity obtained by adding the increased charging amount ΔSOC_req to the target SOC before correction.

[0135] SOC_req=target SOC+ΔSOC_req…(2)

[0136] In this case, it is necessary to depart on Saturday (Sat). Figures 6-8 The necessary SOC_req is charged before Saturday (Sat). Therefore, when the regression occurs on Friday (Friday), Figure 6 If the remaining capacity (SOC) on Saturday (Sat) is below SOC_req, a charging operation is required. That is, during the regression on Friday (Friday)... Figure 6 In the middle, Saturday) determines the threshold for performing charging as necessary as SOC_req.

[0137] [Not commonly used 2a( Figure 6 [Electricity fee priority]

[0138] like Figure 6 As shown, when a user sets up non-normal usage 2a (electricity cost priority setting), a single charge can only charge to the range of low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost. Therefore, during the regression on Friday ( Figure 6 In this context, the SOC of Saturday (Sat) needs to be set to at least SOC_up1, which is higher than the lower limit SOC.

[0139] Therefore, since the inverse operation needs to be performed starting from the specified day (Saturday), in addition to Figure 6 In addition, refer to Figures 9A to 9D Let's explain the steps of the inverse operation.

[0140] like Figure 6 , Figure 9A (Inverse operation step 1) and the following equation (3) show that the minimum SOC_up1 is the value obtained by subtracting the low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost from the corrected target SOC (SOC_req).

[0141] SOC_up1=SOC_req-ΔSOC_lowcost…(3)

[0142] Furthermore, the minimum SOC_up1 can also be the remaining capacity obtained by subtracting the low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost from the corrected target SOC, plus the control margin (surplus) that takes into account the control error. The same applies below.

[0143] Next, as Figure 6 , Figure 9B (Inverse operation step 2) shows that when Friday (Fri) recurs ( Figure 6 , Figure 9BIn the context of the event, the SOC on Saturday (Sat) must be at least SOC_up1. Therefore, if the consumption on Friday (Fri) is ΔSOC_use1, a certain amount of SOC needs to be consumed when departing on Friday (Sat). Figure 6 , Figure 9B Before Friday, charge battery 30 to point Q as shown in (SOC_up1+ΔSOC_use1).

[0144] Therefore, when Thu returned on Thursday ( Figure 9B If the remaining capacity SOC on Friday is below (SOC_up1 + ΔSOC_use1), then... Figure 9C (Inverse operation step 3) As shown, it is necessary to return on Thursday, Thu ( Figure 9C Additional charging will be carried out on Friday.

[0145] In this case, when Thu returns on Thursday ( Figure 9C In the middle, on Friday, the threshold for ending the charging process (remaining capacity threshold SOC_1) is determined by... Figure 9C The value of point Q in the equation (4) is represented by the following formula.

[0146] SOC_1=SOC_up1+ΔSOC_use1…(4)

[0147] As shown in equation (5), when Thursday (Thu) returns ( Figure 9C In the context of Friday's SOC, the lowest SOC_up2 is the value obtained by subtracting the low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost from the remaining capacity threshold SOC_1.

[0148] SOC_up2=SOC_1-ΔSOC_lowcost…(5)

[0149] Similarly, such as Figure 9D (Inverse operation step 4) shows that when the consumption on Thursday is set to ΔSOC_use2, it is necessary to calculate the consumption amount when departing on Thursday. Figure 6 Charge the battery to 30% before Thursday (Thu). Figure 9D (SOC_up2+ΔSOC_use2) is represented by point R.

[0150] In this case, when Wed returns on Wednesday ( Figure 9D If the remaining SOC (State of Charge) on Thursday (Thu) is below (SOC_up2 + ΔSOC_use2), additional charging is required. In this case, the threshold for stopping charging (remaining capacity threshold SOC_2) is the value expressed by the following formula (6).

[0151] SOC_2=SOC_up2+ΔSOC_use2…(6)

[0152] like Figure 9D As shown, the remaining capacity threshold SOC_2 is lower than the target SOC under normal conditions, so the inverse operation ends.

[0153] like Figure 6 As shown, starting from the charging schedule date (Sat) where the modified target SOC (SOC_req) is set, the reverse calculation is performed. Following the order of 1 day prior (Fri), 2 days prior (Thu), ..., n days prior, the remaining capacity threshold SOC for determining charging execution during regression is repeatedly calculated from the charging schedule date where the modified target SOC (SOC_req) is set, until the lowest SOC_upn at the time of regression exceeds a certain day of the week (n days ago). Furthermore, in this embodiment, "n days ago" refers to... Figure 6 In the Thu position, n = 2.

[0154] That is, during the return from Wednesday (Wed) to Friday (Fri) Figure 6 In the process from Thursday (Thu) to Saturday (Sat), the minimum SOC_upn used to determine whether to perform a charging regression is corrected to a value higher than the lower limit SOC.

[0155] like Figure 6 As shown, due to Thursday Thu's return ( Figure 6 If the remaining SOC on Friday is lower than (SOC_up1 + ΔSOC_use1 at the time of regression), an additional charging schedule is added from the time of regression on Thursday to the time of departure on Friday.

[0156] In this case, such as Figure 6 As shown, the target SOC ( Figure 6 The midpoint (Q point) was revised to occur on Thursday, Thu (when the return occurred). Figure 6 The value is obtained by adding the low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost to the remaining SOC capacity on Friday (Friday).

[0157] Therefore, when the consumption on Friday is ΔSOC_use1, it needs to be charged to the remaining capacity (ΔSOC_use1 + SOC_up1) before departing on Friday.

[0158] As described above, for example, the plan for Saturday (Sat) is obtained before the Mon return time (the change plan to change the target SOC to the necessary SOC_req). Therefore, the remaining capacity SOC from Tuesday (Tue) to Saturday (Sat) return time is predicted based on the scheduled power consumption per minute of the week.

[0159] If the predicted remaining capacity SOC is lower than the lower limit SOC (or the remaining capacity SOC_up at the time of regression), the corresponding day of the week will be used as the scheduled day for charging execution, and the charging plan will be adjusted in a way that charges to the remaining capacity threshold SOC_n that exceeds the target SOC.

[0160] That is, in Figure 6 After Thursday (Thu), the charging plan, indicated by a dashed line, changes. While charging within the low-cost charging range ΔSOC_lowcost, the remaining SOC capacity is gradually increased based on calendar or navigation settings until the day before the designated day (Saturday, Friday), thus enabling charging at the necessary SOC_req at the departure time on Saturday (Saturday) without interfering with the driving plan.

[0161] Thus, the remaining capacity SOC_upn during regression is adjusted based on the lower bound SOC, and the target SOC is adjusted to the remaining capacity threshold SOC_n. Accordingly, as follows... Figure 6 As shown, even in a control mode based on a non-usually used charging plan where the modified target SOC is set higher than initially planned, all charging capacity can be achieved within the low-cost charging range ΔSOC_lowcost, where electricity costs are low. Furthermore, it minimizes the risk of residual capacity deteriorating significantly in high SOC regions and allows charging within the low-cost charging range ΔSOC_lowcost.

[0162] about Figure 6 To summarize, since the required remaining capacity, SOC_req, when Saturday Sat departs (at the end of charging) exceeds the usual target SOC, the target SOC is adjusted and set as target value = SOC_req.

[0163] In addition, considering that the remaining capacity threshold SOC_1 at the start of Friday (when charging ends) exceeds the target SOC, the consumption ΔSOC_use1 on Friday exceeds the target SOC, the target SOC is modified and set to target value = SOC_1 (=Q).

[0164] Furthermore, referring to Figure 9D The explanation considers that the consumption ΔSOC_use2 on Friday (when charging ends) is lower than the target SOC at the start of Friday (when charging ends), therefore, when Wednesday (when regressing)... Figure 6 On Thursday (Thu), simply charge the battery to the target SOC as usual.

[0165] In this case, a single-dotted line is used to represent the consumption and charging amount, as a reference. Figure 9D The minimum SOC_up2 and the consumption ΔSOC_use2 calculated for the inverse operation are not reflected in the charging plan.

[0166] [Not commonly used 2b( Figure 7 [Prioritize reducing workload]

[0167] With the priority given to reducing the workload that users want to save on charging, the charging schedule will be changed so that when the user returns on Thursday (Thursday). Figure 7 During the period, no charging is performed on Friday (Fri). Instead, the charging amount from the return time of Friday (Fri) to the departure time of Saturday (Sat) is charged to the necessary SOC_req within the range of the maximum charging amount ΔSOC_max.

[0168] In this case, it is possible to charge to the maximum charge amount ΔSOC_max in one charge, therefore, as Figure 7 As shown, through with Figure 6 The same method is used to calculate SOC_up1 during regression, but the low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost is replaced with the maximum charging amount ΔSOC_max, and SOC_up1' during regression is calculated by the following formula (7).

[0169] During regression, SOC_up1' = necessary SOC_req - ΔSOC_max…(7)

[0170] Since no charging is performed on Friday, the remaining capacity threshold for Thursday (Thu) will be lowered. Figure 7 The remaining capacity threshold (SOC_2') at point Q is set as {SOC_up1' + ΔSOC_use1 (Friday's consumption) + ΔSOC_use2 (Thursday's consumption)}.

[0171] exist Figure 7 In the example, the remaining capacity threshold SOC_2' is less than (lower limit SOC + ΔSOC_lowcost), so during the Wednesday wed regression, the remaining capacity threshold SOC_2' is charged within the range of low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost.

[0172] By controlling the charging in this way, and Figure 6 Compared to the electricity cost priority control, the electricity cost is higher, but the number of charging operations is the same as that of normal use as shown in Figure 5, and there is no increase.

[0173] [Not commonly used 2c( Figure 8 [Degradation suppression priority]

[0174] exist Figure 6 Electricity cost priority control Figure 7In the priority control of reducing workload, the number of times and frequency that the necessary SOC_req exceeds the target SOC that best suppresses degradation, except for departure on Saturday (Sat), are also specified when departure is on Friday (Fri). Figure 6 or departing on Thursday ( Figure 7 The degradation of battery 30, while temporary, is accelerated when the remaining capacity exceeds the target SOC.

[0175] In this case, the number of charging cycles increases, but as Figure 8 As shown, a charging plan is defined as one where the remaining capacity threshold SOC_n after charging does not exceed the target remaining capacity.

[0176] That is, the remaining capacity (SOC_up1'+ΔSOC_use1) at the start of Friday is calculated, which is obtained by adding the consumption ΔSOC_use1 of Friday to the remaining capacity SOC_up1' at the start of Friday's return, obtained by subtracting the maximum charging amount ΔSOC_max from the necessary SOC_req. Furthermore, if the predicted remaining capacity (SOC_up1'+ΔSOC_use1+ΔSOC_use2) obtained by adding the consumption ΔSOC_use2 of Thursday's return to the remaining capacity at the start of Friday's return exceeds the target remaining capacity, the charging threshold SOC_3 at the start of Thursday's return remains at the remaining capacity shown in Equation (8).

[0177] SOC_3=SOC_up1'+ΔSOC_use1...(8)

[0178] In this case, the charging amount when Wednesday returns can be ΔSOC_use2, and the charging threshold SOC_4 on Thursday is the value obtained by adding the consumption amount ΔSOC_use2 on Thursday to the lower limit SOC.

[0179] according to Figure 8 With proper charging control, battery degradation is minimized.

[0180] That is, the minimum SOC and target SOC are adjusted. Accordingly, even in a control mode of an unusable charging plan where the adjusted target SOC (SOC_req) is set higher than initially planned, the battery can be reliably charged to the necessary SOC_req on the designated day based on calendar or navigation settings. Under this unusable 2c degradation suppression priority control, the battery can be charged to the necessary SOC_req while avoiding high SOC regions that significantly promote degradation as much as possible without increasing the number of charging cycles.

[0181] [Overview of Control Mode 2]

[0182] Reference Figure 10 The flowchart describes step S17 above. Figure 4 The second control mode is described in general.

[0183] In step S17a, it is determined whether there is an intention to prioritize reducing the number of charging times over electricity costs. If there is an intention (step S17a: yes), then in step S17c, a plan to charge within the maximum charging amount ΔSOC_max on multiple scheduled charging days prior to this day is recalculated.

[0184] On the other hand, if there is an intention to prioritize electricity costs in step S17a (step S17a: no), in step S17b, which will be described in detail later, the plan to charge within the low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost on multiple charging scheduled days prior to that day is recalculated.

[0185] In either case, it is determined in step S17d whether charging can be performed only on the scheduled charging date. If the result is negative (step S17d: No), the scheduled charging date is added in step S17e, and the calculation is repeated after step S17a until step S17d becomes positive.

[0186] Figure 11 This indicates that electricity costs take priority in step S17b. Figure 6 The flowchart shows the general control steps for setting the target SOC in non-typically used 2a). Furthermore, an example of this control step has been provided. Figure 6 , Figures 9A to 9D The above explanation has been provided.

[0187] In step Sa, the date and time when the remaining capacity needs to reach the necessary SOC_req is obtained (in... Figure 6 In the example, it is Saturday (Sat).

[0188] In step Sb, it is determined whether the necessary SOC_req is greater than the target SOC under normal circumstances. If SOC_req ≤ target SOC (step Sb: no), the process proceeds to step S17d. Figure 10 ).

[0189] If SOC_req > target SOC (step Sb: yes), in step Sc, the initial value "1" used for repeating m times (m is a variable) is substituted into m.

[0190] In step Sd, SOC_up(m) is calculated. In this case, SOC_up1 is calculated (refer to...). Figure 9A , SOC_up1=SOC_req-ΔSOC_lowcost).

[0191] Then, in step Se, in order to perform the inverse operation, the estimated consumption amount for the second day, ΔSOC_use(m), is obtained in advance based on the user's habits. Figure 9B In the middle, it is SOC_1).

[0192] Next, in step Sf, calculate (inverse operation) the previous day (in Figure 9B The target SOC (suspension capacity) at the start of charging on Friday (when charging ends) is the threshold for determining the remaining capacity to end the day's charging, also known as the remaining capacity threshold (remaining capacity setting). SOC_(m) (in...) Figure 9B , SOC_1=SOC_up1+ΔSOC_use1).

[0193] Next, in step Sg, it is determined whether the calculated remaining capacity threshold SOC_(m) is greater than the target SOC under normal conditions. If it is greater than the target SOC_min (step Sg: Yes), the variable m is increased to m = m + 1, and the calculation of the retrospective date is repeated (steps Sd, Se, Sf, Sg: Yes, Sh) until the remaining capacity threshold SOC_(m) becomes below the target SOC (under normal conditions) in the determination of step Sg (step Sg: No).

[0194] If the judgment in step Sg is negative, the charging plan is determined in step Si as follows.

[0195] The charging plan is defined as {target SOC(req) = SOC_req, target SOC(1) = SOC_1, ..., target SOC(m-1) = SOC_m-1}.

[0196] That is, the target SOC (remaining capacity threshold) is adjusted only on days when charging beyond the usual target SOC is required.

[0197] [Variation Example]

[0198] The above embodiments can also be modified as follows.

[0199] Figure 12 This is a system diagram illustrating an example of the structure of system 12A, which represents a portion of the charging control device 22A installed on a management server 82 on the Internet 81.

[0200] The execution unit 44 is installed in the electric vehicle 10A as a remainder of the charging control device 22A. On the other hand, the charging control device 22A, which serves as a management server 82, includes a storage unit 40A, a judgment unit 42A, and a notification unit 46A, excluding the execution unit 44.

[0201] exist Figure 12In system 12A, electric vehicle 10A is equipped with a communication control unit 25, which is wirelessly connected to the Internet 81 via mobile communication network 16 and sends and receives data with management server 82 via the Internet 81 and via a public communication network (not shown).

[0202] The management server 82 collects various vehicle information (including information of each charging device 14 connected to each electric vehicle 10A) from multiple electric vehicles 10A via the Internet 81, and stores this information in the storage unit 40A, which serves as a database.

[0203] When the battery 30 of the electric vehicle 10A needs to be charged, the management server 82 notifies the owner of the electric vehicle 10A's smart device 20 via the Internet 81 that charging is required. In this case, the text "Please charge the car." is displayed on the display of the smart device 20, for example.

[0204] In addition, Figure 1 In system 12, when the battery 30 needs to be charged, this information is also communicated from the communication control unit 25 to the smart device 20 via the mobile communication network 16.

[0205] exist Figure 12 In system 12A, storage unit 40A, judgment unit 42A, and notification unit 46A are installed in management server 82 connected to Internet 81, and execution unit 44 is installed in navigation device 24A. Execution unit 44 may also be installed in management server 82.

[0206] Storage unit 40A, judgment unit 42A and notification unit 46A and Figure 1 The storage unit 40, the judgment unit 42, and the notification unit 46 have the same structure and function. The difference is: Figure 1 The storage unit 40, judgment unit 42, and notification unit 46 of the electric vehicle 10 shown only participate in the charging control of the electric vehicle 10. In contrast, Figure 12 The storage unit 40A, judgment unit 42A, and notification unit 46A of the management server 82 shown participate in the charging control of multiple electric vehicles 10A.

[0207] The structure and function of the storage unit 40A, judgment unit 42A, and notification unit 46A of the management server 82, which are individually related to the battery 30 of each electric vehicle 10A. Figure 1 The storage unit 40, judgment unit 42, and notification unit 46 of the electric vehicle 10 have the same function.

[0208] That is, the storage unit 40A of the management server 82 collects the usage history of each electric vehicle 10A from multiple electric vehicles 10A via the Internet 81, and accumulates it in the management server 82 for each electric vehicle 10A.

[0209] The judgment unit 42A infers the daily usage pattern of the electric vehicle 10A, determines whether the battery 30 of each electric vehicle 10A needs to be charged based on the daily usage pattern, and calculates the amount of charge to be applied to the battery 30 when charging is required.

[0210] Information regarding whether the battery 30 needs charging, as determined by the judgment unit 42A for each electric vehicle 10A, and the amount of charge to be calculated for the battery 30 when it is determined that charging is required, is sent to the execution unit 44 of each electric vehicle 10A via the Internet 81.

[0211] Each electric vehicle 10A's actuator 44 has a similar function to... Figure 1 The electric vehicle 10 has the same structure and function as the actuator 44. (Description) Figure 1 Implementation examples and Figure 12 The differences between the variant examples. Figure 1 The actuator 44 of the electric vehicle 10 receives instructions regarding the charging period and the amount of charge during that period from the judgment unit 42 inside the vehicle, without via the communication control unit 25. In contrast, in Figure 12 In a modified example, the execution unit 44 of each electric vehicle 10A, whose charging control is performed by the management server 82, receives instructions on the charging period and the amount of charge during charging from the judgment unit 42A of the management server 82 outside the vehicle via the communication control unit 25.

[0212] When the determination unit 42A receives an instruction from the Internet 81 that the battery 30 needs to be charged, the execution unit 44 of each electric vehicle 10A controlled by the management server 82 charges the battery 30 to the remaining capacity (target SOC) indicated by the determination unit 42A.

[0213] [Inventions that can be understood from their implementation methods and variations]

[0214] Hereinafter, the invention as understood from the above embodiments and variations is described. In addition, for ease of understanding, the constituent elements are marked with reference numerals used in the above embodiments and variations, but the constituent elements are not limited to the constituent elements marked with these reference numerals.

[0215] The charging control method of the electric mobile body involved in this invention is a charging control method for electric mobile bodies 10 and 10A that move using a battery 30 as a power source. The method includes: obtaining the usage schedule of the electric mobile bodies 10 and 10A; obtaining the charging state required by the usage schedule, i.e., the necessary remaining capacity; and, if the necessary remaining capacity cannot be reached before the start time of the usage schedule according to a pre-set charging plan based on the obtained usage schedule, changing the charging plan to reach the necessary remaining capacity before the start time of the usage schedule.

[0216] According to this structure, the charging plan is changed according to the start time of the use arrangement of the electric mobile bodies 10 and 10A to carry out charging control to reach the necessary remaining capacity. In the charging control, the remaining capacity of the battery 30 is limited to be charged to below the necessary remaining capacity, thereby reducing the time the battery is kept in a near-fully charged state.

[0217] Accordingly, it is possible to ensure that the battery 30 has the necessary remaining capacity, that is, the remaining capacity required up to the start of the use arrangement of the electric mobile body 10, so as to achieve both convenience and suppression of degradation.

[0218] Furthermore, in the charging control method for the mobile body involved in this invention, a charging plan based on the charging equipment information, charging start time, and usage schedule start time of the electric mobile body 10 is obtained. This low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost is the maximum charging amount that can only be charged during periods of low electricity prices. The power consumption generated by the usage schedule obtained when charging the battery 30 is greater than the power consumption of the previously obtained usage schedule, and the maximum charging amount that can only be charged during the low-electricity period, i.e., the low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost, is 1 / 3. If the charging plan fails to reach the necessary remaining capacity (Figures 5B and 5C), the charging plan is changed to allow the user to choose between a workload reduction priority mode (Figure 5B) and an electricity cost priority mode (Figure 5C). The workload reduction priority mode is a mode that charges even during periods when electricity is not cheap to reach the necessary remaining capacity and suppress the increase in the number of charging sessions. The necessary remaining capacity is the capacity exceeding the maximum charging amount, i.e., the low-cost charging amount, that can only be charged during periods when electricity is cheap. The electricity cost priority mode is a mode that charges multiple times only during periods when electricity is cheap to reach the necessary remaining capacity.

[0219] According to this structure, when power consumption is greater than that of normal usage arrangements, it is possible to select a workload reduction mode that increases electricity costs but suppresses the increase in the number of charging times, and an electricity cost priority mode that increases the number of charging times but suppresses the increase in electricity costs, so that charging can be performed according to the user's wishes.

[0220] Furthermore, in the charging control method for the electric mobile body involved in this invention, when allowing the user to choose between a workload reduction priority mode and an electricity cost priority mode, the user can be allowed to make the choice in advance through a terminal that can communicate with the electric mobile body 10, or when there is power consumption exceeding normal use, the terminal can be notified that the electricity cost priority mode will indicate an increase in the number of charging times, and the user can make the choice based on this notification.

[0221] According to this structure, when a user is charging, a workload reduction priority mode and an electricity cost reduction priority mode can be set according to the user's intention. At this time, the user can choose according to their preference (electricity cost priority preference or workload reduction priority preference) through the user terminal.

[0222] Furthermore, the charging control method for the electric mobile body involved in this invention is a charging control method for an electric mobile body 10 that moves using a battery 30 as a power source. In this method, when there are a predetermined number of days from the time the usage schedule of the electric mobile body 10 is obtained until the start time of the usage schedule, the user can choose between charging in an electricity cost priority mode or a workload reduction priority mode. The electricity cost priority mode involves charging to the usage schedule at the maximum charging amount (low-cost charging amount ΔSOC_lowcost) that can only be charged during periods of low electricity costs when charging is imminent. The mode of prioritizing reduced workload, which prioritizes charging up to the required remaining capacity at the start of the usage schedule by a predetermined larger charging amount during a period of inexpensive electricity, changes the charging schedule earlier than the charging process before the start of the usage schedule, so that the remaining capacity before the start of the usage schedule in the selected charging mode becomes the remaining capacity obtained by subtracting the low-cost charging amount from the required remaining capacity or by subtracting the larger charging amount from the required remaining capacity. Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 ).

[0223] According to this structure, the charging plan is changed earlier than the charging process just before the start time of the usage arrangement, so that the remaining capacity before the start time of the usage arrangement in the selected charging mode becomes the remaining capacity obtained by subtracting the low-cost charging amount from the necessary remaining capacity or by subtracting a charging amount larger than the low-cost charging amount from the necessary remaining capacity. Therefore, both the low-cost charging amount with cheap electricity and the larger charging amount based on the workload reduction priority mode can be charged to the necessary remaining capacity by using the charging process just before the start time of the arrangement.

[0224] In the control method for the electric mobile body involved in this invention, when the user selects the workload reduction priority mode, and the necessary remaining capacity is a capacity value exceeding the degradation suppression target remaining capacity, a charging plan exceeding the degradation suppression target remaining capacity can be allowed in a charging plan earlier than the charging process just before the start time of the usage arrangement, in order to suppress the number of charging cycles. Figure 7 ).

[0225] According to this structure, when the necessary remaining capacity before the start of the usage schedule is greater than the remaining capacity of the degradation suppression target, a charging schedule exceeding the remaining capacity of the degradation suppression target is allowed in a charging schedule earlier than the charging process before the start of the usage schedule, so as to suppress the number of charging times and thus meet the user's preference for reducing workload.

[0226] In the control method of the electric mobile body involved in this invention, when the user selects the workload reduction priority mode, if the necessary remaining capacity is a capacity value that exceeds the degradation suppression target remaining capacity, the user can be asked whether it is permissible to include a charging plan exceeding the degradation suppression target remaining capacity in a charging plan earlier than the charging process that is about to arrive at the start time of the usage arrangement. If the user does not allow it, the user is notified that the number of charging times will be increased.

[0227] This structure provides convenience for users who prioritize reducing workloads by charging less frequently but do not want their batteries to degrade.

[0228] In the control method of the electric mobile body involved in this invention, the lower limit of the remaining capacity of the battery can be set by the user.

[0229] Based on this structure, for example, it is possible to adjust the lower limit of the battery's remaining capacity according to the user's level of anxiety about being out of power.

[0230] In the control method of the electric mobile body involved in the present invention, the lower limit of the remaining capacity of the battery can be set as a default lower limit of the remaining capacity obtained by subtracting the low-cost charging amount from the necessary remaining capacity, wherein the low-cost charging amount is the maximum charging amount that can only be charged during the period when electricity is cheap.

[0231] According to this structure, when the electric mobile bodies 10 and 10A consume the predetermined amount of electricity per day, the battery can be charged only during periods when electricity is cheap.

[0232] In the control method of the electric mobile body involved in the present invention, when the lower limit remaining capacity of the battery can be set by the user, when the user-set lower limit remaining capacity is greater than the default lower limit remaining capacity, the lower limit remaining capacity is changed from the default lower limit remaining capacity to the user-set lower limit remaining capacity.

[0233] Based on this structure, for example, it is possible to adjust the lower limit of the remaining battery capacity according to the user's level of anxiety about running out of power.

[0234] According to the control method of the electric mobile body of the present invention, when the current remaining capacity of the electric mobile body 10, 10A is lower than the lower limit remaining capacity, the user can be notified of this.

[0235] This structure can prompt users to initiate the charging process.

[0236] The electric mobile body involved in this invention has charging control devices 22 and 22A for electric mobile bodies 10 and 10A. The electric mobile bodies 10 and 10A move using a battery 30 as a power source. The charging control devices 22 and 22A have a memory for recording programs and a CPU for reading and executing programs from the memory. By executing the programs through the CPU, the charging control devices 22 and 22A obtain the usage schedule of the electric mobile bodies 10 and 10A and obtain the charging state required by the usage schedule, i.e., the necessary remaining capacity. If the necessary remaining capacity cannot be reached before the start time of the usage schedule according to the charging plan preset before the obtained usage schedule, the charging plan is changed so that the necessary remaining capacity can be reached before the start time of the usage schedule.

[0237] According to the present invention, charging control is performed to change the charging plan according to the start time of the usage arrangement of the electric mobile body 10, 10A to achieve the necessary remaining capacity, and in the charging control, the remaining capacity of the battery is limited to being charged to the necessary remaining capacity, thereby reducing the time the battery is kept in a near fully charged state.

[0238] Accordingly, the necessary remaining capacity of the battery can be ensured, that is, the remaining capacity required until the start of the use arrangement of the electric mobile body 10, 10A, thus achieving both convenience and suppression of degradation.

[0239] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various structures may be adopted according to the contents of this specification.

Claims

1. A charging control method for an electric mobile body, wherein the electric mobile body moves using a battery as a power source, characterized in that... Obtain the usage schedule of the electric mobile body; Obtain the charging status required for the usage arrangement, i.e., the necessary remaining capacity; If the required remaining capacity cannot be reached before the start time of the usage schedule according to the pre-set charging plan, the charging plan shall be modified to reach the required remaining capacity before the start time of the usage schedule. Based on the charging equipment information, charging start time, and usage schedule start time of the electric mobile vehicle, a charging plan based on low-cost charging volume is obtained. This low-cost charging volume is the maximum charging volume that can only be performed during periods when electricity prices are low. If the power consumption generated by the usage schedule obtained when charging the battery is greater than the power consumption of the previously obtained usage schedule, and a single charging plan based on the maximum charging amount (i.e., the low-cost charging amount) that can only be charged during the period when electricity prices are low cannot reach the necessary remaining capacity. The charging plan has been changed so that users can choose between a workload reduction priority mode and an electricity cost priority mode. The workload reduction priority mode is a mode that charges to the necessary remaining capacity even during periods when electricity is not cheap, thereby suppressing an increase in the number of charging times. The necessary remaining capacity is the capacity exceeding the maximum charging amount, i.e., the low-cost charging amount, that can only be charged during periods when electricity is cheap. The electricity cost priority mode is a mode that charges to the necessary remaining capacity only during periods when electricity is cheap, in multiple sessions.

2. The charging control method for an electric mobile body according to claim 1, characterized in that, When allowing a user to choose between the workload reduction priority mode and the electricity cost priority mode, the user can make the choice in advance through a terminal that can communicate with the electric mobile body, or when there is power consumption exceeding normal use, the terminal can be notified that the electricity cost priority mode will increase the number of charging times, and the user can make the choice based on this notification.

3. A charging control method for an electric mobile body, wherein the electric mobile body moves using a battery as a power source, characterized in that... If, from the time the usage arrangement of the electric mobile unit is obtained until the start time of the usage arrangement, there are a predetermined number of days for multiple charge-discharge cycles, the electric mobile unit will be charged and discharged. Users can choose between a power cost-priority charging mode or a workload reduction-priority charging mode. The electricity cost priority mode involves charging to the necessary remaining capacity required at the start time of the usage arrangement, using the maximum charging amount (low-cost charging amount) that can only be used during periods of low electricity costs, just before the start time of the usage arrangement. The workload reduction priority mode involves charging to the necessary remaining capacity required at the start time of the usage arrangement, using a predetermined larger charging amount that includes periods of high electricity costs, just before the start time of the usage arrangement. The charging schedule is changed earlier than the charging process just before the start time of the usage arrangement, so that the remaining capacity before the start time of the usage arrangement in the selected charging mode becomes the remaining capacity obtained by subtracting the low-cost charging amount from the necessary remaining capacity or by subtracting the larger charging amount from the necessary remaining capacity.

4. The charging control method for an electric mobile body according to claim 3, characterized in that, When the user selects the workload reduction priority mode, and the required remaining capacity exceeds the remaining capacity of the degradation suppression target, In a charging schedule earlier than the charging process just before the start of the usage arrangement, a charging schedule exceeding the remaining capacity of the degradation suppression target is allowed to suppress the number of charging cycles.

5. The charging control method for an electric mobile body according to claim 3, characterized in that, When the user selects the workload reduction priority mode, and the required remaining capacity exceeds the remaining capacity of the degradation suppression target, The system confirms with the user whether it allows a charging schedule that exceeds the remaining capacity of the degradation suppression target to be included in a charging process earlier than the start time of the usage arrangement. If the user does not allow it, the system informs the user that it means to increase the number of charging sessions.

6. The charging control method for an electric mobile body according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The lower limit of the remaining capacity of the battery can be set by the user.

7. The charging control method for an electric mobile body according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The lower limit of the battery's remaining capacity is set as a default lower limit of the remaining capacity obtained by subtracting the low-cost charging amount from the necessary remaining capacity, wherein the low-cost charging amount is the maximum charging amount that can only be charged during the period when electricity is cheap.

8. The charging control method for an electric mobile body according to claim 7, characterized in that, When the lower limit of the battery's remaining capacity can be set by the user, if the user sets the lower limit of the remaining capacity to be greater than the default lower limit of the remaining capacity, the lower limit of the remaining capacity will be changed from the default lower limit of the remaining capacity to the user-set lower limit of the remaining capacity.

9. The charging control method for an electric mobile body according to claim 6, characterized in that, If the current remaining capacity of the electric mobile unit is lower than the lower limit remaining capacity, the user will be notified of this.

10. An electric mobile body, comprising a charging control device for the electric mobile body, the electric mobile body moving by means of a battery, characterized in that, The charging control device has a memory for recording programs and a CPU for reading and executing programs from the memory. By executing the program through the CPU, the charging control device obtains the usage schedule of the electric mobile body and the required charging state, i.e., the necessary remaining capacity, according to the usage schedule. If the necessary remaining capacity cannot be reached before the start time of the usage schedule according to the pre-set charging plan, the charging plan is modified to reach the necessary remaining capacity before the start time of the usage schedule. Based on the charging equipment information, charging start time, and usage schedule start time of the electric mobile vehicle, a charging plan based on low-cost charging volume is obtained. This low-cost charging volume is the maximum charging volume that can only be performed during periods when electricity prices are low. If the power consumption generated by the usage schedule obtained when charging the battery is greater than the power consumption of the previously obtained usage schedule, and a single charging plan based on the maximum charging amount (i.e., the low-cost charging amount) that can only be charged during the period when electricity prices are low cannot reach the necessary remaining capacity. The charging plan has been changed so that users can choose between a workload reduction priority mode and an electricity cost priority mode. The workload reduction priority mode is a mode that charges to the necessary remaining capacity even during periods when electricity costs are not cheap, thereby suppressing an increase in the number of charging sessions. The necessary remaining capacity is the capacity exceeding the maximum charging amount, i.e., the low-cost charging amount, that can only be charged during periods when electricity costs are cheap. The electricity cost priority mode is a mode that charges to the necessary remaining capacity only during periods when electricity costs are cheap, in multiple sessions.

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