Management system and control method thereof

Abstract

Provided are a management system and a control method thereof, a vehicle control device and a control method thereof, and a recording medium. It is possible to distinguish whether an abnormality occurring in a battery is an abnormality occurring before the battery is returned. The management system (1000) manages batteries that can be lent to users. The management system (1000) includes a vehicle control device (20) for controlling a vehicle (2) from which the battery can be detached and mounted, and a TCU (21) capable of communicating with a server device (5). The vehicle control device (20) performs an abnormality detection process to detect abnormalities in the battery when the battery lent to the user is mounted. The TCU (21) transmits result data indicating the result of the abnormality detection process performed by the vehicle control device (20) to the server device (5).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a management system, a control method of the management system, a vehicle control device, a control method of the vehicle control device, and a recording medium. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a technology for managing batteries that can be loaned out.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a battery that transmits data based on a fault detection signal from a control circuit within the battery to an external location. Furthermore, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique in which data based on the fault detection signal can be transmitted via a communication line to a central management device that centrally manages unmanned automatic battery rental systems.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-150809

[0005] In Patent Document 1, the returned battery transmits data based on a fault detection signal. Therefore, it is difficult for the central management device of Patent Document 1 to distinguish whether an abnormality occurring in a returned battery is an abnormality that occurred before the battery was returned. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to distinguish whether an abnormality occurring in a battery is an abnormality occurring before the battery is returned.

[0007] A management system for achieving the above-mentioned purpose manages batteries that can be loaned to users, wherein the management system has a vehicle control device for controlling a vehicle from which the battery can be removed and installed, and a communication device capable of communicating with a server device. The vehicle control device performs an abnormality detection process to detect an abnormality of the battery when the battery loaned to the user is installed in the vehicle, and the communication device sends result data showing the result of the abnormality detection process performed by the vehicle control device to the server device.

[0008] In the management system, the vehicle control device may be configured to perform the abnormality detection process when a separation distance between the vehicle and a return station to which the battery is returned becomes equal to or smaller than a predetermined value.

[0009] In the above-mentioned management system, the vehicle control device may be configured to perform the abnormality detection process when it is estimated that an occupant of the vehicle has gotten off.

[0010] The management system may include an information processing device capable of communicating with the server device, and the information processing device may perform abnormality detection processing on the battery returned from the user and transmit the result data to the server device.

[0011] In the management system, the information processing device may perform the abnormality detection process on the battery to be lent before the battery is lent to the user, and transmit the result data to the server device.

[0012] In the above-mentioned management system, it can also be constructed so that when an abnormality occurs in the battery, the battery stores an abnormality code corresponding to the type of abnormality that occurs, the abnormality detection processing includes reading the abnormality code stored in the battery from the battery, and the result data shows the reading result of the abnormality code.

[0013] In the above-mentioned management system, it can also be configured that the abnormality detection process also includes at least one of the process of detecting the abnormality of the battery capacity and the process of detecting the abnormality of the battery temperature, and the result data shows at least one of the presence or absence of abnormality in the battery capacity and the presence or absence of abnormality in the battery temperature.

[0014] The management system may include a monitoring camera that monitors a return station where the battery is returned, and transmits an image capture result to the server device.

[0015] In a control method of a management system of another embodiment for achieving the above-mentioned purpose, the management system manages batteries that can be loaned to users, wherein a vehicle control device that controls a vehicle from which the battery can be removed and mounted performs an abnormality detection process for detecting an abnormality of the battery while the battery loaned to the user is installed in the vehicle, and a communication device that can communicate with a server device sends result data showing the result of the abnormality detection process performed by the vehicle control device to the server device.

[0016] Another method for achieving the above-mentioned purpose is a vehicle control device that controls a vehicle from which a battery that can be lent to a user can be installed and removed, wherein the vehicle control device comprises: a detection processing unit that performs an abnormality detection process for detecting an abnormality of the battery when the battery is installed in the vehicle; and a sending unit that sends result data showing the result of the abnormality detection process performed by the detection processing unit to a server device via a communication device.

[0017] In another method for controlling a vehicle control device for achieving the above-mentioned purpose, the vehicle control device controls a vehicle from which a battery that can be lent to a user can be installed and removed, wherein, while the battery is installed in the vehicle, an abnormality detection process is performed to detect an abnormality of the battery, and result data showing the result of the abnormality detection process is sent to a server device via a communication device.

[0018] In another method for achieving the above-mentioned purpose, in a recording medium having a program recorded thereon, the program enables a processor of a vehicle control device to function as a detection processing unit and a sending unit, the vehicle control device controls a vehicle from which a battery that can be lent to a user can be removed and installed, the detection processing unit performs an abnormality detection process for detecting an abnormality of the battery when the battery is installed in the vehicle, and the sending unit sends result data showing the result of the abnormality detection process performed by the detection processing unit to a server device via a communication device.

[0019] Effects of the Invention

[0020] According to the present invention, it is possible to distinguish whether an abnormality occurring in a battery is an abnormality occurring before the battery is returned. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram showing the outline of the management system.

[0022] Figure 2 It is a figure which shows the structure of a holding|maintenance device.

[0023] Figure 3 It is a diagram showing the configuration of a vehicle and a server device.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a flowchart showing the operation of the holding device.

[0025] Figure 5 This is a flowchart showing the operations of the vehicle and the server device.

[0026] Description of labels

[0027] 1: Battery; 2: Vehicle; 3: Holding device (information processing device); 4: Surveillance camera; 5: Server device; 20: Vehicle control device; 21: TCU (communication device); 22: Second detection circuit; 23: Second touch panel; 24: GNSS; 25: Second temperature sensor; 30: Holding device control device; 31: First communication unit; 32: Second communication unit; 33: First detection circuit; 34: Locking mechanism; 35: Insertion and removal detection sensor; 36: First temperature sensor; 37: First touch panel; 41: First surveillance camera; 42: Second surveillance camera; 43: Third surveillance camera; 51: Third memory; 52: Third communication unit; 200: Second processor (processor); 201: Second communication control unit (sending unit); 202: Estimation unit; 203: Current position recognition unit; 204: Bar Item establishment determination unit; 205: Second detection processing unit (detection processing unit); 206: Second information generation unit; 210: Second memory; 211: Control program (program); 300: First processor; 301: First communication control unit; 302: Accepting unit; 303: Display control unit; 304: Lock execution unit; 305: Lock release unit; 306: Battery determination unit; 307: First detection processing unit; 308: First information generation unit; 310: First memory; 311: Control program; 500: Third processor; 501: Third communication control unit; 502: Database processing unit; 511: Control program; 512: Pre-lending DB; 513: Pre-returning DB; 514: Post-returning DB; 515: Shooting data DB; 1000: Management system; NW: Communication network; P: User; ST: Lending return station (Return station). DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] [1. Overview of the management system]

[0029] Reference Figure 1 The outline of the management system 1000 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0030] The management system 1000 of this embodiment is a system that manages the batteries 1 that can be loaned to the users P.

[0031] Battery 1 is a mobile battery. Battery 1 can be attached to and removed from vehicle 2, which is boarded by user P. Vehicle 2 is an electric vehicle that uses battery 1 as a driving source. In this embodiment, a four-wheeled vehicle is illustrated as vehicle 2, but vehicle 2 may also be a vehicle other than a four-wheeled vehicle. Vehicle 2 is provided with a slot for inserting and removing battery 1, and battery 1 is installed in vehicle 2 by inserting it into this slot.

[0032] The battery 1 of this embodiment includes a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a memory for storing data, programs, etc. When an abnormality occurs in the battery 1, an abnormality code corresponding to the type of abnormality occurring in the battery 1 is recorded in the memory. The battery 1 memory includes a battery ID, which serves as identification information for the battery 1.

[0033] The user P goes to the lending and returning station ST when renting the battery 1. The user P then takes the battery 1 placed at the lending and returning station ST out of the lending and returning station ST and installs the taken-out battery 1 in the vehicle 2 as a driving source for the vehicle 2.

[0034] The lending return station ST corresponds to an example of a “return station”.

[0035] The lending and returning station ST is a place where batteries 1 are lent and returned. A holding device 3 for holding the batteries 1 is installed at the lending and returning station ST. Furthermore, multiple surveillance cameras 4 are installed at the lending and returning station ST. The number of holding devices 3 installed at the lending and returning station ST may be one or more.

[0036] The holding device 3 corresponds to an example of an “information processing device”.

[0037] The holding device 3 is formed with a groove SR for holding the battery 1 . Figure 1 The holding device 3 shown is formed with eight grooves SR, namely, a first groove SR1, a second groove SR2, a third groove SR3, a fourth groove SR4, a fifth groove SR5, a sixth groove SR6, a seventh groove SR7 and an eighth groove SR8. Figure 1 In the embodiment, batteries 1 are inserted into the second slot SR2, the third slot SR3, the fourth slot SR4, the fifth slot SR5, and the eighth slot SR8. The holding device 3 of this embodiment charges the batteries 1 inserted into the slots SR. The number of slots SR formed in the holding device 3 is not limited to eight and may be seven or less, or may be greater than eight.

[0038] The holding device 3 can hold the battery 1 inserted into the slot SR in an unremovable manner by fixing the lid L that opens and closes the opening of the slot SR in a closed state for each slot SR.

[0039] The holding device 3 communicates with the server device 5 via the communication network NW. The communication network NW may be a data communication network, such as a wide area communication network including a public line network. Furthermore, the holding device 3 communicates with the surveillance camera 4 installed at the lending and return station ST. Communication between the holding device 3 and the surveillance camera 4 may be wireless or wired.

[0040] When lending a battery 1 to a user P, the holding device 3 performs an abnormality detection process on the battery 1 to be lent. The abnormality detection process is a process for detecting an abnormality in the battery 1. The abnormality detection process includes a process for reading an abnormality code recorded in the battery 1 from the battery 1. In addition, the abnormality detection process includes a process for detecting an abnormality in the capacity of the battery 1 and a process for detecting an abnormality in the temperature of the battery 1. When the detection result of the abnormality detection process is normal, the holding device 3 enables the cover L of the slot SR into which the battery 1 that has undergone the abnormality detection process is inserted to be opened and closed. The user P opens the cover L and removes the battery 1 from the slot SR. When the user P removes the battery 1, the holding device 3 transmits battery information BD related to the removed battery 1, in other words, the battery 1 lent to the user P, to the server device 5.

[0041] Hereinafter, the battery information BD related to the battery 1 loaned to the user P will be referred to as “first battery information” and denoted by the reference numeral “ BD1 ”.

[0042] The first battery information BD1 includes result data indicating the detection result of the abnormality detection process. The result data included in the first battery information BD1 indicates the detection result of the abnormality detection process performed on the battery 1 to be loaned.

[0043] The result data included in the first battery information BD1 shows whether there is an abnormality code, whether there is an abnormality in the capacity of the battery 1, and whether there is an abnormality in the temperature of the battery 1. The presence or absence of the abnormality code shown in the result data is equivalent to the read result of the abnormality code. When the result data of the present embodiment shows that there is no abnormality code, the capacity of the battery 1 is not abnormal, and the temperature of the battery 1 is not abnormal, the battery 1 is shown as a detection result of the abnormality detection process to be normal. In addition, when the result data of the present embodiment shows that any one of the abnormality code, the capacity of the battery 1, and the temperature of the battery 1 is abnormal, the battery 1 is shown as a detection result of the abnormality detection process to be abnormal. In addition, the result data showing the presence of an abnormality code includes the read abnormality code.

[0044] Furthermore, the first battery information BD1 includes the battery ID of the loaned battery 1 .

[0045] Furthermore, the first battery information BD1 includes first time information. The time indicated as the first time information in this embodiment is exemplified by the time when abnormality detection processing for the battery 1 is completed. However, it may also be the time when the battery 1 is removed from the holder 3 or the time when the lid L of the slot SR into which the battery 1 is inserted becomes openable and closable.

[0046] The user P goes to the loan return station ST in the vehicle 2 on which the loaned battery 1 is mounted, and returns the loaned battery 1 to the holding device 3 .

[0047] When an execution condition is met while a battery 1 loaned to a user P is mounted on vehicle 2, vehicle control device 20 in vehicle 2 performs abnormality detection processing on battery 1 mounted on vehicle 2. The execution condition here refers to the separation distance between vehicle 2 and loan return station ST being less than a specified value and the estimated exit of a passenger in vehicle 2. In this embodiment, the passenger in vehicle 2 includes user P. When vehicle control device 20 performs abnormality detection processing, a TCU (Telematics Control Unit) 21 mounted on vehicle 2 transmits battery information BD regarding battery 1 mounted on vehicle 2 to server device 5.

[0048] Hereinafter, the battery information BD transmitted by the TCU 21 will be referred to as “second battery information” and will be denoted by the reference numeral “ BD2 ”.

[0049] The TCU 21 corresponds to an example of a “communication device”.

[0050] The second battery information BD2 includes result data indicating the detection result of the abnormality detection process. The result data included in the second battery information BD2 indicates the detection result of the abnormality detection process performed on the battery 1 mounted on the vehicle 2.

[0051] Similar to the result data included in the first battery information BD1 , the result data included in the second battery information BD2 indicates whether there is an abnormality code, whether there is an abnormality in the capacity of the battery 1 , and whether there is an abnormality in the temperature of the battery 1 .

[0052] Furthermore, the second battery information BD2 includes the battery ID of the battery 1 that has been subjected to the abnormality detection process while being mounted on the vehicle 2 .

[0053] Furthermore, the second battery information BD2 includes second time information. In this embodiment, the time indicated by the second time information is exemplified by the time when abnormality detection processing for the battery 1 mounted on the vehicle 2 is completed. However, the time may also be the time when the estimation unit 202, described later, estimates that the occupant of the vehicle 2 has exited the vehicle.

[0054] The user P removes the battery 1 from the vehicle 2 , carries the removed battery 1 from the vehicle 2 to the holding device 3 at the lending and returning station ST, and returns the battery 1 to the holding device 3 .

[0055] When the battery 1 is returned, the holding device 3 performs an abnormality detection process on the returned battery 1. Then, the holding device 3 transmits battery information BD related to the returned battery 1 to the server device 5.

[0056] Hereinafter, the battery information BD related to the returned battery 1 will be referred to as “third battery information” and will be denoted by the reference numeral “BD3”.

[0057] The third battery information BD3 includes result data indicating the detection result of the abnormality detection process. The result data included in the third battery information BD3 indicates the detection result of the abnormality detection process performed on the battery 1 returned to the lending return station ST.

[0058] The result data included in the third battery information BD3 indicates whether there is an abnormality code, whether there is an abnormality in the capacity of the battery 1 , and whether there is an abnormality in the temperature of the battery 1 .

[0059] Furthermore, the third battery information BD3 includes the battery ID of the returned battery 1 .

[0060] The third battery information BD3 also includes third time information. In this embodiment, the third time information shows the time when the abnormality detection process for the returned battery 1 is completed, but the time when the battery 1 is returned may also be used.

[0061] The surveillance camera 4 monitors the lending and return station ST. The multiple surveillance cameras 4 include a first surveillance camera 41, a second surveillance camera 42, and a third surveillance camera 43. The first surveillance camera 41 captures images of the area surrounding the lending and return station ST. The second surveillance camera 42 captures images of the interior of the lending and return station ST. The second surveillance camera 42 captures images of the interior of the lending and return station ST. The third surveillance camera 43 captures images of the interior of the lending and return station ST and is located at a different position from the second surveillance camera 42. The third surveillance camera 43 captures images of the interior of the lending and return station ST. Each surveillance camera 4 transmits imaging data BD4 representing imaging results to the holding device 3 at a predetermined interval. The holding device 3 transmits the imaging data BD4 received from the surveillance camera 4 to the server device 5. The imaging data BD4 includes information indicating the date and time of imaging.

[0062] The server device 5 receives the first battery information BD1, the second battery information BD2, the third battery information BD3, and the image data BD4, and stores the received information and data in a corresponding DB (data base).

[0063] [2. Structure of the holding device, vehicle, and server device]

[0064] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing the structure of the holding device 3.

[0065] The management system 1000 has a holding device 3 .

[0066] The holding device 3 includes a holding device control device 30 , a first communication unit 31 , a second communication unit 32 , a first detection circuit 33 , a plurality of lock mechanisms 34 , a plurality of insertion and removal detection sensors 35 , a plurality of first temperature sensors 36 , and a first touch panel 37 .

[0067] The holding device control device 30 includes a first processor 300 such as a CPU or an MPC (Micro-processing unit), and a first memory 310 for storing programs and data.

[0068] The first processor 300 reads and executes the control program 311 stored in the first memory 310 , thereby functioning as a first communication control unit 301 , a receiving unit 302 , a display control unit 303 , a lock execution unit 304 , a lock release unit 305 , a battery determination unit 306 , a first detection processing unit 307 , and a first information generation unit 308 .

[0069] The first memory 310 stores programs executed by the first processor 300 and data processed by the first processor 300. The first memory 310 stores a control program 311 executed by the first processor 300 and other various data. The first memory 310 includes a nonvolatile storage area. Alternatively, the first memory 310 may include a volatile storage area, which constitutes a work area for the first processor 300.

[0070] The holding device control device 30 is connected to a first communication unit 31 , a second communication unit 32 , a first detection circuit 33 , a plurality of lock mechanisms 34 , a plurality of insertion and removal detection sensors 35 , a plurality of first temperature sensors 36 , and a first touch panel 37 .

[0071] The first communication unit 31 includes a communication device having an antenna, an RF circuit, an encoder, a decoder, etc. The first communication unit 31 communicates with the server device 5 via the communication network NW. The communication standard of the first communication unit 31 may be a wired communication standard or a wireless communication standard.

[0072] The second communication unit 32 includes a communication device including an antenna, an RF circuit, an encoder, a decoder, etc. The second communication unit 32 communicates with each of the surveillance cameras 4. The communication standard of the second communication unit 32 may be a wired communication standard or a wireless communication standard.

[0073] First detection circuit 33 is a circuit that charges and discharges battery 1 inserted into slot SR. First detection circuit 33 is used when first detection processing unit 307 performs a charge-discharge cycle test. The charge-discharge cycle test is a process that obtains changes in the capacity of battery 1 corresponding to changes in the number of charge and discharge cycles and detects capacity abnormalities in battery 1 based on the obtained capacity changes.

[0074] One locking mechanism 34 is provided for each slot SR. The locking mechanism 34 fixes the state of the cover L of the corresponding slot SR in the closed state. That is, the locking mechanism 34 fixes the state of the cover L in the state of closing the opening of the corresponding slot SR. For example, the locking mechanism 34 has an engaging claw, and by making the engaging claw engage with a predetermined component, the cover L is fixed in the closed state. The locking mechanism 34 fixes the state of the cover L of the corresponding slot SR in the closed state under the control of the lock execution unit 304. The locking mechanism 34 makes the state of the cover L of the corresponding slot SR openable and closable under the control of the lock release unit 305. In other words, the locking mechanism 34 releases the closed state of the cover L of the corresponding slot SR under the control of the lock release unit 305.

[0075] One insertion and removal detection sensor 35 is provided for each slot SR. The insertion and removal detection sensor 35 detects the insertion and removal of a battery 1 into or from the corresponding slot SR. The insertion and removal detection sensor 35 can be configured as an optical sensor or a load cell, and its specific structure and location are not limited. The insertion and removal detection sensor 35 generates different detection values ​​depending on whether a battery 1 is inserted into or not inserted into the corresponding slot SR. The insertion and removal detection sensor 35 outputs the detection value to the holding device control unit 30.

[0076] The first temperature sensor 36 is a temperature sensor, and one first temperature sensor 36 is provided for each slot SR. The first temperature sensor 36 detects the temperature of the battery 1 inserted into the corresponding slot SR and outputs the detected value to the holding device control unit 30 .

[0077] The first touch panel 37 is a touch panel having a structure in which a liquid crystal display panel for displaying characters and images and a touch sensor for detecting contact with the liquid crystal display panel are superimposed.

[0078] As described above, the first processor 300 functions as the first communication control unit 301 , the reception unit 302 , the display control unit 303 , the lock execution unit 304 , the lock release unit 305 , the battery determination unit 306 , the first detection processing unit 307 , and the first information generation unit 308 .

[0079] The first communication control unit 301 communicates with the server device 5 connected to the communication network NW via the first communication unit 31. Furthermore, the first communication control unit 301 communicates with each of the surveillance cameras 4 via the second communication unit 32. Upon receiving the image data BD4 from the surveillance camera 4, the first communication control unit 301 transmits the received image data BD4 to the server device 5.

[0080] The receiving unit 302 receives various inputs from the user P via the first touch panel 37 .

[0081] The display control unit 303 causes the first touch panel 37 to display various information.

[0082] The lock execution unit 304 controls the lock mechanism 34 to fix the state of the lid L of the slot SR in the closed state.

[0083] The lock release unit 305 controls the lock mechanism 34 so that the lid L of the tank SR can be opened and closed.

[0084] The battery determination unit 306 determines whether the battery 1 is inserted or removed based on the detection value of the insertion and removal detection sensor 35 .

[0085] The first detection processing unit 307 performs abnormality detection processing on the battery 1 inserted into the slot SR.

[0086] The first detection processing unit 307 reads an abnormality code from the detection target battery 1. If the first detection processing unit 307 cannot read an abnormality code from the battery 1, it detects that there is no abnormality code. If the first detection processing unit 307 reads an abnormality code from the battery 1, it detects that there is an abnormality code.

[0087] The first detection processing unit 307 determines whether the temperature of the target battery 1 is above a predetermined temperature based on the detection value of the first temperature sensor 36 corresponding to the target battery 1. If the first detection processing unit 307 determines that the temperature of the target battery 1 is above the predetermined temperature, it detects that the temperature of the target battery 1 is abnormal. If the first detection processing unit 307 determines that the temperature of the target battery 1 is below the predetermined temperature, it detects that the temperature of the target battery 1 is normal.

[0088] The first detection processing unit 307 performs a charge-discharge cycle test on the battery 1 to be detected via the first detection circuit 33. If the capacity change obtained through the charge-discharge cycle test deviates from a predetermined reference by more than a predetermined value, the first detection processing unit 307 determines that the capacity of the battery 1 to be detected is abnormal. Otherwise, the first detection processing unit 307 determines that the capacity of the battery 1 to be detected is normal.

[0089] The first detection processing unit 307 generates result data and outputs it to the first information generating unit 308 .

[0090] The first information generating unit 308 generates first battery information BD1. The first information generating unit 308 outputs the generated first battery information BD1 to the first communication control unit 301. The first information generating unit 308 generates third battery information BD3. The first information generating unit 308 outputs the generated third battery information BD3 to the first communication control unit 301.

[0091] Figure 3 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the vehicle 2 and the server device 5 .

[0092] First, the structure of the vehicle 2 will be described.

[0093] The management system 1000 includes a vehicle 2 .

[0094] The vehicle 2 includes a vehicle control device 20 , a TCU 21 , a second detection circuit 22 , a second touch panel 23 , a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) 24 , and a second temperature sensor 25 .

[0095] The vehicle control device 20 controls the vehicle 2. The vehicle control device 20 includes a second touch panel 23 provided in the vehicle 2 and may be, for example, a device called a display audio (DA) or a car navigation system.

[0096] like Figure 3 As shown, the vehicle control device 20 includes a second processor 200 as a processor such as a CPU or an MPC, and a second memory 210 as a memory for storing programs and data.

[0097] The second processor 200 corresponds to an example of a “processor”.

[0098] The second processor 200 reads and executes the control program 211 stored in the second memory 210 , thereby functioning as the second communication control unit 201 , the estimation unit 202 , the current position identification unit 203 , the condition satisfaction determination unit 204 , the second detection processing unit 205 and the second information generation unit 206 .

[0099] The second communication control unit 201 corresponds to an example of a “transmitting unit.” The second detection processing unit 205 corresponds to an example of a “detection processing unit.”

[0100] The second memory 210 stores programs executed by the second processor 200 and data processed by the second processor 200. The second memory 210 stores a control program 211 executed by the second processor 200 and other various data. The second memory 210 includes a nonvolatile storage area. Alternatively, the second memory 210 may include a volatile storage area, which constitutes a work area for the second processor 200.

[0101] The control program 211 corresponds to an example of a “program”.

[0102] The vehicle control device 20 is connected to a TCU 21 , a second detection circuit 22 , a second touch panel 23 , a GNSS 24 , and a second temperature sensor 25 .

[0103] The second touch panel 23 is a touch panel having a structure in which a liquid crystal display panel for displaying characters and images and a touch sensor for detecting contact with the liquid crystal display panel are superimposed. The second touch panel 23 is provided on the instrument panel of the vehicle 2, for example.

[0104] The GNSS 24 measures the current position of the vehicle 2. When the vehicle 2 is equipped with a car navigation system (not shown), a GPS (Global Positioning System) unit included in the car navigation device may be used as the GNSS 24.

[0105] The second temperature sensor 25 detects the temperature of the battery 1 mounted on the vehicle 2. The second temperature sensor 25 outputs the detected value to the vehicle control device 20.

[0106] As described above, the second processor 200 functions as the second communication control unit 201 , the estimation unit 202 , the current position recognition unit 203 , the condition satisfaction determination unit 204 , the second detection processing unit 205 , and the second information generation unit 206 .

[0107] The second communication control unit 201 communicates with the server device 5 via the TCU 21 .

[0108] The estimation unit 202 estimates that an occupant of vehicle 2 has gotten off the vehicle. For example, the estimation unit 202 estimates that an occupant of vehicle 2 has gotten off the vehicle based on an image captured by a cabin camera capturing the interior of the vehicle. In this example, the vehicle control device 20 is connected to a cabin camera as a device. In addition, for example, when the estimation unit 202 detects that the seat belt is removed based on a detection signal from a driver's seat seat belt switch, it estimates that an occupant of vehicle 2 has gotten off the vehicle. In this example, the vehicle control device 20 is connected to a seat belt switch as a device. In addition, for example, when the door switch of the driver's door detects an open door state, the estimation unit 202 estimates that an occupant of vehicle 2 has gotten off the vehicle. In this example, the vehicle control device 20 is connected to a door switch as a device.

[0109] When estimating that the occupant of the vehicle 2 has gotten off, the estimating unit 202 outputs information indicating that the occupant of the vehicle 2 has been estimated to have gotten off to the condition satisfaction determining unit 204 .

[0110] The current position recognition unit 203 recognizes the current position of the vehicle 2 based on the positioning result of the GNSS 24. The current position recognition unit 203 outputs the recognition result to the condition satisfaction determination unit 204.

[0111] The condition satisfaction determination unit 204 determines whether the execution condition has been satisfied. The condition satisfaction determination unit 204 determines that the execution condition has been satisfied if the distance between the current position of the vehicle 2, as identified by the current position identification unit 203, and the location PT of the loan return station ST is less than a predetermined value, and the estimation unit 202 outputs information indicating that the occupants of the vehicle 2 have been estimated to have exited. Information on the location PT of the loan return station ST is stored in the second memory 210.

[0112] The second detection processing unit 205 performs abnormality detection processing on the battery 1 mounted on the vehicle 2 when the condition establishment determination unit 204 determines that the execution condition is established.

[0113] The second detection processing unit 205 reads an abnormality code from the battery 1 mounted on the vehicle 2. The second detection processing unit 205 detects that there is no abnormality code if no abnormality code is read from the battery 1, and detects that there is an abnormality code if an abnormality code is read from the battery 1.

[0114] The second detection processing unit 205 determines whether the temperature of the battery 1 mounted on the vehicle 2 is above a predetermined temperature based on the detection value of the second temperature sensor 25. If the second detection processing unit 205 determines that the temperature of the battery 1 is above the predetermined temperature, it detects that the temperature of the battery 1 is abnormal. If the second detection processing unit 205 determines that the temperature of the battery 1 is below the predetermined temperature, it detects that the temperature of the battery 1 is normal.

[0115] The second detection processing unit 205 performs a charge-discharge cycle test on the battery 1 mounted on the vehicle 2 via the second detection circuit 22. The second detection processing unit 205 determines that the capacity of the battery 1 mounted on the vehicle 2 is abnormal if the capacity change obtained through the charge-discharge cycle test deviates from a predetermined reference by a predetermined value or more. Otherwise, the second detection processing unit 205 determines that the capacity of the battery 1 mounted on the vehicle 2 is normal.

[0116] When performing abnormality detection processing, the second detection processing unit 205 generates result data related to the performed abnormality detection processing and outputs the result data to the second information generating unit 206 .

[0117] The second information generating unit 206 generates the second battery information BD2 and outputs the generated second battery information BD2 to the second communication control unit 201 .

[0118] The server device 5 includes a third processor 50 such as a CPU or an MPC, a third memory 51 for storing programs and data, and a third communication unit 52 .

[0119] The third processor 50 reads and executes the control program 511 stored in the third memory 51 , thereby functioning as a third communication control unit 501 and a database processing unit 502 .

[0120] The third memory 51 is a memory that stores programs executed by the third processor 50 and data processed by the third processor 50. The third memory 51 stores a control program 511 executed by the third processor 50, a pre-lending database 512, a pre-returning database 513, a post-returning database 514, a photographic data database 515, and various other data. The third memory 51 includes a nonvolatile storage area. Alternatively, the third memory 51 may include a volatile storage area, which constitutes a work area for the third processor 50.

[0121] The pre-lending DB 512 stores first battery information BD1. The pre-returning DB 513 stores second battery information BD2. The post-returning DB 514 stores third battery information BD3. The photographic data DB 515 stores photographic data BD4.

[0122] The third communication unit 52 includes a communication device including an antenna, an RF circuit, an encoder, a decoder, etc. The communication standard of the third communication unit 52 may be a wired communication standard or a wireless communication standard. The third communication unit 52 communicates with the holding device 3 and the vehicle 2 via the communication network NW.

[0123] As described above, the third processor 50 functions as the third communication control unit 501 and the database processing unit 502 .

[0124] The third communication control unit 501 communicates with the holding device 3 and the vehicle 2 via the third communication unit 52 .

[0125] The database processing unit 502 performs processing related to the database.

[0126] The database processing unit 502 stores the first battery information BD1 received by the third communication control unit 501 in the pre-lending DB 512. If other first battery information BD1 that matches the battery ID included in the received first battery information BD1 is stored in the pre-lending DB 512, the database processing unit 502 may update the first battery information BD1 stored in the pre-lending DB 512 with the received first battery information BD1.

[0127] The database processing unit 502 stores the second battery information BD2 received by the third communication control unit 501 in the pre-return DB 513. If other second battery information BD2 that matches the battery ID included in the received second battery information BD2 is stored in the pre-return DB 513, the database processing unit 5022 may update the second battery information BD2 stored in the pre-return DB 513 with the received second battery information BD2.

[0128] The database processing unit 502 stores the third battery information BD3 received by the third communication control unit 501 in the returned DB 514. If other third battery information BD3 that matches the battery ID included in the received third battery information BD3 is stored in the returned DB 513, the database processing unit 5022 may update the third battery information BD3 stored in the returned DB 513 with the received third battery information BD3.

[0129] The database processing unit 502 stores the imaging data received from the third communication control unit 501 in the imaging data DB 515 .

[0130] Furthermore, when storing information in the database, the database processing unit 502 distinguishes the first battery information BD1, the second battery information BD2, the third battery information BD3, and the image data BD4, and stores them in the appropriate database. For example, suppose that first information (first battery information BD1) is added to the first battery information BD1, second information (second battery information BD2) is added to the second battery information BD2, third information (third battery information BD3) is added to the third battery information BD3, and fourth information (image data BD4) is added to the image data BD4. In this case, the database processing unit 502 distinguishes the first battery information BD1, the second battery information BD2, the third battery information BD3, and the image data BD4 by identifying the attached information as the first, second, third, and fourth information, and stores them in the appropriate database.

[0131] [3. Operation of the maintenance device, vehicle, and server]

[0132] The operations of the holding device 3 , the vehicle 2 , and the server device 5 will be described.

[0133] First, the operation related to lending the battery 1 to the user P will be described.

[0134] Figure 4 Flowchart showing the operation of the holding device 3 and the server device 5. Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , flowchart FA shows the operation of the holding device 3 , and flowchart FB shows the operation of the server device 5 .

[0135] As shown in flowchart FA, the first detection processing unit 307 of the holding device control device 30 determines whether a person is present around the lending and returning station ST (step SA1). The first detection processing unit 307 determines whether a person is captured in the image captured by the first surveillance camera 41 through pattern matching or the like. If a person is captured, the first detection processing unit 307 determines that a person is present around the lending and returning station ST.

[0136] When the first detection processing unit 307 determines that there is no person around the lending and returning station ST (step SA1 : No), it performs the determination of step SA1 again.

[0137] On the other hand, when the first detection processing unit 307 determines that a person exists around the lending return station ST (step SA1 : YES), it identifies one battery 1 from the batteries 1 held by the holding device 3 as a lending candidate (step SA2 ).

[0138] The first detection processing unit 307 performs abnormality detection processing on the battery 1 identified in step SA2 (step SA3 ).

[0139] The first detection processing unit 307 determines whether the detection result of the abnormality detection process performed in step SA3 indicates normality or abnormality (step SA4 ).

[0140] When the first detection processing unit 307 determines that the detection result of the abnormality detection process indicates abnormality (step SA3 : abnormality), it determines whether the abnormality detection process has been performed on all the batteries 1 held by the holding device 3 (step SA5 ).

[0141] When the first detection processing unit 307 determines that the abnormality detection process has not been performed on all the batteries 1 held by the holding device 3 (step SA5 : NO), the process returns to step SA2 and identifies one battery 1 for which the abnormality detection process has not been performed.

[0142] On the other hand, when the first detection processing unit 307 determines that abnormality detection processing has been performed on all batteries 1 held by the holding device 3 (step SA5: yes), the display control unit 303 causes the first touch panel 37 to display the following information, which indicates that there are no batteries 1 that can be loaned (step SA6).

[0143] Returning to step SA4, if the first detection processing unit 307 determines that the result of the abnormality detection processing performed in step SA3 is normal (step SA3: Normal), when user P performs a lending operation (step SX1), the acceptance unit 302 accepts the lending operation performed by user P (step SA7). The lending operation includes, for example, inputting the ID assigned to user P of battery 1. Alternatively, if the acceptance unit 302 does not accept the lending operation within a predetermined period after determining that the result of the abnormality detection processing is normal in step SA3, the first processor 300 may return to step SA1.

[0144] Next, the first information generating unit 308 generates first battery information BD1 (step SA8). At a predetermined timing, the first information generating unit 308 reads the battery ID from the battery 1 determined to be normal by the detection result, and includes this battery ID in the first battery information BD1. Furthermore, the holding device control unit 30 is electrically connected to the battery 1 held by the holding device 3, and thus can read the battery ID. Furthermore, the first information generating unit 308 includes the result data indicating that the abnormality detection process results are normal in the first battery information BD1. Furthermore, the first information generating unit 308 includes the first time information in the first battery information BD1.

[0145] Next, the lock release unit 305 enables the lid L of the slot SR into which the battery 1 whose detection result in the abnormality detection process indicates normality is inserted to be openable and closable (step SA9 ).

[0146] When the user P recognizes that the cover L is in the openable and closable state, he opens the cover L, pulls out the battery 1 from the slot SR, and removes the battery 1 from the holder 3 (step SX2).

[0147] The battery determination unit 306 detects that the battery 1 has been removed from the holding device 3 (step SA10 ).

[0148] Next, the first communication control unit 301 transmits the first battery information BD1 recorded in step SA8 to the server device 5 (step SA11 ).

[0149] As shown in the flowchart FB, the third communication control unit 501 of the server device 5 receives the first battery information BD1 from the holding device 3 (step SB1 ).

[0150] Next, the database processing unit 502 stores the first battery information BD1 received by the third communication control unit 501 in the pre-rental DB 512 (step SB2 ).

[0151] Next, the operation related to the user P returning the battery 1 will be described.

[0152] Figure 5 Flowchart showing the operation of the holding device 3, the server device 5 and the vehicle 2. Figure 5 Flowchart FC shows the operation of the holding device 3 , flow chart FD shows the operation of the server device 5 , and flow chart FE shows the operation of the vehicle 2 .

[0153] As shown in the flowchart FE, the condition satisfaction determination unit 204 of the vehicle control device 20 determines whether the execution condition is satisfied (step SE1 ).

[0154] When the condition satisfaction determination unit 204 determines that the execution condition is not satisfied (step SE1 : No), it performs the determination of step SE1 again.

[0155] When the condition establishment determination unit 204 determines that the execution condition is established (step SE1 : Yes), the second detection processing unit 205 performs abnormality detection processing on the battery 1 mounted on the vehicle 2 (step SE2 ).

[0156] The second information generation unit 206 generates second battery information BD2 (step SE3). The second information generation unit 206 includes detection data indicating the results of the abnormality detection process performed in step SE2 in the second battery information BD2. The second information generation unit 206 reads the battery ID from the battery 1 that is the detection target in step SE2 at a predetermined timing and includes the read battery ID in the second battery information BD2. Furthermore, the vehicle control unit 20 is electrically connected to the battery 1 installed in the vehicle 2, and thus can read the battery ID. Furthermore, the second information generation unit 206 includes the second time information in the second battery information BD2.

[0157] Next, the second communication control unit 201 transmits the second battery information BD2 generated in step SE3 to the server device 5 (step SE4 ).

[0158] As shown in the flowchart FD, the third communication control unit 501 of the server device 5 receives the second battery information BD2 (step SD1).

[0159] Next, the database processing unit 502 stores the second battery information BD2 received by the third communication control unit 501 in the before-return DB 513 (step SD2 ).

[0160] When returning the battery 1 mounted on the vehicle 2, the user P performs a return operation on the holding device 3 at the lending return station ST (step SX3). The return operation includes, for example, inputting the ID assigned to the user P of the battery 1.

[0161] As shown in flowchart FC, the reception unit 302 receives a return operation from the user P (step SC1 ).

[0162] Next, the lock release unit 305 enables the lid L of the slot SR into which the battery 1 is not inserted to be openable and closable (step SC2 ).

[0163] The battery determination unit 306 detects that the battery 1 is inserted into the slot SR (step SC3 ).

[0164] Next, the first detection processing unit 307 performs abnormality detection processing on the battery 1 detected in step SC3 (step SC4 ).

[0165] Next, first information generation unit 308 generates third battery information BD3 (step SC5). First information generation unit 308 includes detection data indicating the results of the abnormality detection process performed in step SC4 in third battery information BD3. First information generation unit 308 reads the battery ID from the returned battery 1 at a predetermined timing and includes the read battery ID in third battery information BD3. First information generation unit 308 also includes third time information in third battery information BD3.

[0166] Next, the first communication control unit 301 transmits the third battery information BD3 generated in step SC5 to the server device 5 (step SC6 ).

[0167] As shown in flowchart FD, the third communication control unit 501 of the server device 5 receives the third battery information BD3 from the holding device 3 (step SD3).

[0168] Next, the database processing unit 502 stores the third battery information BD3 received by the third communication control unit 501 in the returned DB 514 (step SD4 ).

[0169] As described above, the management system 1000 transmits first battery information BD1 to the server device 5. This first battery information BD1 indicates the results of abnormality detection processing performed on the battery 1 installed in the vehicle 2. Consequently, if a returned battery 1 develops an abnormality, the server device 5 can distinguish whether the abnormality occurring in the returned battery 1 occurred before the battery 1 was returned. Therefore, for example, if a returned battery 1 develops an abnormality, the manufacturer of the vehicle 2, for example, can access the server device 5 and appropriately determine whether the abnormality occurred while the battery 1 was installed in the vehicle 2.

[0170] [5. Other Implementation Methods]

[0171] In the above embodiment, the station where batteries 1 are loaned and the station where batteries 1 are returned are the same lending and returning station ST. However, the lending and returning stations may be different. Furthermore, the management system 1000 may include multiple lending and returning stations ST. Furthermore, the lending and returning stations ST do not necessarily need to be stations where batteries 1 can be charged.

[0172] In the above embodiment, the example illustrates a case where the abnormality detection process includes detecting an abnormality in the capacity of battery 1 and detecting an abnormality in the temperature of battery 1. However, the abnormality detection process only needs to include at least one of the processes of detecting an abnormality in the capacity of battery 1 and detecting an abnormality in the temperature of battery 1. Furthermore, the example illustrates a case where the abnormality detection processes performed by vehicle 2 and holding device 3 have the same processing content. However, the abnormality detection processes performed by vehicle 2 and holding device 3 may differ in content as long as they include reading an abnormality code. For example, vehicle 2 may also perform abnormality detection processing that only includes reading an abnormality code. In this case, vehicle 2 may not have the second detection circuit 22 and the second temperature sensor 25.

[0173] The abnormality detection process performed by the holding device 3 may include detecting an abnormality in the appearance of the battery 2. The first detection processing unit 307 of the holding device 3 detects an abnormality in the appearance of the battery 2 based on the image data BD4 captured by the second monitoring camera 42 and the third monitoring camera 43. For example, the first detection processing unit 307 performs image analysis on the image data BD4 and, when a predetermined distance exists between the battery 2 and the user P, recognizes that the battery 2 has fallen from the user P and detects an abnormality in the appearance of the battery 2. Alternatively, for example, the first detection processing unit 307 performs image analysis on the image data BD4, compares the surface of the battery 2 captured in the image data BD4 with the surface of a reference battery 2, and determines whether the surface of the battery 2 captured in the image data BD4 is damaged. If the first detection processing unit 307 determines that the surface of the battery 2 captured in the image data BD4 is damaged, it detects an abnormality in the appearance of the battery 2. In this configuration, the first battery information BD1 and the third battery information BD3 contain data indicating whether there is an abnormality in the appearance of the battery 2. Furthermore, the first detection processing unit 307 performs visual abnormality detection processing of the battery 2 at a timing different from the abnormality detection processing of reading the abnormality code when the battery 2 is loaned. For example, the first detection processing unit 307 performs visual abnormality detection processing at a timing between step SA10 and step SA11.

[0174] In the above embodiment, the battery 1 is detected for abnormality when a person is detected near the lending / returning station ST based on the image capture results of the surveillance camera 4. However, the holding device 3 may also be configured to detect abnormality when a lending operation is accepted from the user P. Furthermore, if the user P reserves the use of the battery 1, the holding device 3 may be configured to detect abnormality at a predetermined time before the start of use (e.g., 10 minutes).

[0175] In the above embodiment, the TCU 21 mounted on the vehicle 2 is exemplified as the “communication device”; however, the “communication device” may also be a portable terminal used by the user P. In this case, the portable terminal obtains the second battery information BD2 from the vehicle control device 20 and transmits the obtained second battery information BD2 to the server device 5 .

[0176] Figure 2 and Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the functional structure of the holding device 3, vehicle 2, and server device 5, distinguished by the main processing content, and does not limit the structure of the holding device 3, vehicle 2, and server device 5. For example, the processing of the structural elements of the second processor 200 can be performed by a single hardware unit, or the processing of the structural elements of the second processor 200 can be performed by multiple hardware units. The same applies to the first processor 300 and the third processor 500. In addition, Figure 2 and Figure 3 Each of the processes shown may be executed by one program or by a plurality of programs.

[0177] The control program 211 executed by the second processor 200 can also be implemented by recording the status of the control program 211 on a portable information recording medium. Examples of information recording media include magnetic recording media such as hard disks, optical recording media such as CDs, and semiconductor storage devices such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) memories and SSDs (Solid State Drives). However, other recording media can also be used. The vehicle control device 20 can read and execute the control program 211 from the information recording medium. The same applies to the control programs 311 and 511.

[0178] Figure 4 and Figure 5 The steps shown are divided according to the main processing content to facilitate understanding of the operations of the various components of the holding device 3, vehicle 2, and server device 5. The steps are not limited by the division method or name of the processing units. The steps can be divided into more steps depending on the processing content. Furthermore, the steps can be divided so that a single step contains more processing. Furthermore, the order of the steps can be rearranged as appropriate.

[0179] [6. Structure supported by the above-mentioned embodiment]

[0180] The above-mentioned embodiment supports the following structure.

[0181] (Structure 1) A management system that manages batteries that can be loaned to users, wherein the management system has a vehicle control device that controls a vehicle from which the battery can be removed and installed, and a communication device that can communicate with a server device, the vehicle control device performs an abnormality detection process to detect an abnormality of the battery when the battery loaned to the user is installed in the vehicle, and the communication device sends result data showing the result of the abnormality detection process performed by the vehicle control device to the server device.

[0182] According to the management system of configuration 1, the result data of the abnormality detection process performed on the battery before return can be sent to the server device. Therefore, the server device can distinguish whether the abnormality occurring in the returned battery is the abnormality occurring before the battery is returned.

[0183] (Structure 2) The management system according to Structure 1, wherein the vehicle control device performs the abnormality detection process when a separation distance between the vehicle and a return station for returning the battery becomes equal to or smaller than a predetermined value.

[0184] According to the management system of configuration 2, abnormality detection processing can be performed as close as possible to the time when the battery is removed from the vehicle. Therefore, the server device can more accurately distinguish whether an abnormality occurring in a returned battery is an abnormality that occurred before the battery was returned.

[0185] (Structure 3) In the management system according to Structure 1 or Structure 2, the vehicle control device performs the abnormality detection process when it is estimated that an occupant of the vehicle has gotten off.

[0186] According to the management system of configuration 3, abnormality detection processing can be performed as close as possible to the time when the battery is removed from the vehicle. Therefore, the server device can more accurately distinguish whether an abnormality occurring in a returned battery is an abnormality that occurred before the battery was returned.

[0187] (Structure 4) A management system according to any one of Structures 1 to 3, wherein the management system has an information processing device, the information processing device is capable of communicating with the server device, the information processing device performs the abnormality detection process on the battery returned from the user, and sends the result data to the server device.

[0188] According to the management system of Configuration 4, result data indicating the result of abnormality detection processing performed on the returned battery is transmitted to the server device. Therefore, the server device can distinguish whether the abnormality occurring in the returned battery occurred before or after the battery was returned.

[0189] (Structure 5) The management system according to Structure 4, wherein the information processing device performs the abnormality detection process on the battery to be lent before the battery is lent to the user, and transmits the result data to the server device.

[0190] According to the management system of Configuration 5, result data indicating the results of abnormality detection processing performed on batteries before loan is transmitted to the server device. Therefore, the server device can more accurately distinguish whether an abnormality occurring in a returned battery occurred before or after the battery was returned.

[0191] (Structure 6) A management system according to any one of Structures 1 to 5, wherein, when an abnormality occurs in the battery, the battery stores an abnormality code corresponding to the type of abnormality that occurred, the abnormality detection processing includes a processing of reading the abnormality code stored in the battery from the battery, and the result data shows the reading result of the abnormality code.

[0192] According to the management system of configuration 6, it is possible to distinguish whether the abnormality occurring in the returned battery is an abnormality occurring before the battery was returned, based on the presence or absence of the abnormality code.

[0193] (Structure 7) A management system according to Structure 6, wherein the abnormality detection process further includes at least one of a process for detecting an abnormality in the capacity of the battery and a process for detecting an abnormality in the temperature of the battery, and the result data shows at least one of the presence or absence of an abnormality in the capacity of the battery and the presence or absence of an abnormality in the temperature of the battery.

[0194] According to the management system of configuration 7, it is possible to distinguish whether the abnormality occurring in the returned battery is an abnormality occurring before the battery is returned based on at least one of the presence or absence of abnormality in battery capacity and the presence or absence of abnormality in battery temperature.

[0195] (Structure 8) The management system according to any one of Structures 1 to 7, wherein the management system includes a monitoring camera that monitors a return station for returning the battery, and the monitoring camera transmits an image capture result to the server device.

[0196] According to the management system of configuration 8, the result of photographing a user returning a battery at a return station can be transmitted to the server device. Therefore, the server device can further distinguish whether the abnormality occurring in the returned battery is caused by the user returning the battery at the return station.

[0197] (Structure 9) A control method for a management system that manages batteries that can be loaned to users, wherein a vehicle control device that controls a vehicle from which the battery can be removed and mounted performs an abnormality detection process for detecting an abnormality in the battery while the battery loaned to the user is installed in the vehicle, and a communication device that can communicate with a server device sends result data showing the result of the abnormality detection process performed by the vehicle control device to the server device.

[0198] According to the control method of the management system of Configuration 9, the same effects as those of the management system of Configuration 1 are achieved.

[0199] (Structure 10) A vehicle control device that controls a vehicle from which a battery that can be lent to a user can be installed and removed, wherein the vehicle control device comprises: a detection processing unit that performs an abnormality detection process for detecting an abnormality of the battery when the battery is installed in the vehicle; and a sending unit that sends result data showing the result of the abnormality detection process performed by the detection processing unit to a server device via a communication device.

[0200] According to the vehicle control device of Configuration 10, the same effects as those of the management system of Configuration 1 are achieved.

[0201] (Structure 11) A control method for a vehicle control device, wherein the vehicle control device controls a vehicle from which a battery that can be lent to a user can be installed and removed, wherein an abnormality detection process is performed to detect an abnormality of the battery while the battery is installed in the vehicle, and result data showing the result of the abnormality detection process is sent to a server device via a communication device.

[0202] According to the control method of the vehicle control device of Configuration 11, the same effects as those of the management system of Configuration 1 are achieved.

[0203] (Structure 12) A recording medium having a program recorded thereon, wherein the program causes a processor of a vehicle control device to function as a detection processing unit and a sending unit, the vehicle control device controls a vehicle from which a battery that can be lent to a user can be removed and installed, the detection processing unit performs an abnormality detection process for detecting an abnormality of the battery while the battery is installed in the vehicle, and the sending unit sends result data showing the result of the abnormality detection process performed by the detection processing unit to a server device via a communication device.

[0204] According to the recording medium on which the program is recorded in the configuration 12, the same effects as those of the management system in the configuration 1 are achieved.

Claims

1. A management system for managing batteries that can be loaned to users, wherein: A holding device provided at a battery lending and returning station, a vehicle control device for controlling a vehicle to which the battery can be attached and detached, and a server device are communicatively connected via a data communication network. When lending the battery to a user, the holding device performs an abnormality detection process including a process for detecting an abnormality in the battery capacity and a process for detecting an abnormality in the battery temperature, and transmits first battery information including a detection result of the abnormality detection process before the battery is lent to the server device. The vehicle control device performs the abnormality detection process on the battery installed in the vehicle while the battery loaned to the user is installed in the vehicle, and transmits second battery information including a detection result of the abnormality detection process during the battery loan to the server device. When the battery removed from the vehicle is returned, the holding device performs the abnormality detection process on the returned battery, and transmits third battery information including a detection result of the abnormality detection process on the returned battery to the server device. The server device stores the received first battery information, the second battery information, and the third battery information in the corresponding pre-lending database, pre-returning database, and post-returning database, respectively.

2. The management system according to claim 1, wherein: The vehicle control device performs the abnormality detection process during the battery lending when a separation distance between the vehicle and a return station to which the battery is returned becomes equal to or smaller than a predetermined value.

3. The management system according to claim 1, wherein: The vehicle control device performs the abnormality detection process during the battery lending when it is estimated that an occupant of the vehicle has gotten off.

4. The management system according to claim 1, wherein: When an abnormality occurs in the battery, the battery stores an abnormality code corresponding to the type of abnormality that occurs. The abnormality detection process includes a process of reading the abnormality code stored in the battery from the battery, The detection result of the abnormality detection process indicates a result of reading the abnormality code.

5. The management system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The management system has a surveillance camera, which monitors the lending and returning station. The surveillance camera sends the shooting result to the server device.

6. A method for controlling a management system for managing batteries that can be loaned to users, wherein: A holding device installed at a battery lending and returning station, a vehicle control device for controlling a vehicle to which the battery can be attached and detached, and a server device communicate via a data communication network. When the battery is loaned to a user, the holding device performs an abnormality detection process including a process for detecting an abnormality in the battery capacity and a process for detecting an abnormality in the battery temperature, and transmits first battery information including a detection result of the abnormality detection process before the battery is loaned to the server device. In a state where the battery loaned to the user is mounted on the vehicle, the vehicle control device performs the abnormality detection process on the battery mounted on the vehicle, and transmits second battery information including a detection result of the abnormality detection process during the battery loan to the server device. When the battery removed from the vehicle is returned, the returned battery is subjected to the abnormality detection process by the holding device, and third battery information including a detection result of the abnormality detection process of the returned battery is transmitted to the server device. The server device stores the received first battery information, second battery information, and third battery information in the corresponding pre-lending database, pre-returning database, and post-returning database, respectively.

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