Power system, power control device, and power control method

Abstract

The present application relates to a power system, a power control device, and a power control method. The power system includes a first power device, a second power device, a third power device, and a power control device. The power control device is configured to control power control of each of the first power device, the second power device, and the third power device. The power control device is configured to perform gradual switching control when the power control device switches an object of the power control from the first power device to the second power device. The power control device is configured to perform immediate switching control when the power control device switches the object of the power control from at least one of the first power device and the second power device to the third power device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to power systems, power control devices, and power control methods. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-035135 discloses an electric system comprising a first vehicle, a second vehicle, and an external power source. The first and second vehicles receive power from the external power source for external charging. Specifically, the external charging target is switched from the first vehicle to the second vehicle in a relay manner. During this time, the charging power of the first vehicle and the charging power of the second vehicle gradually change. While the charging power of each vehicle gradually changes, the sum of the external charging power remains constant. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In the aforementioned Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-035135, as described above, when external charging is switched from vehicle 1 to vehicle 2 in a relay manner, the charging power of vehicle 1 and vehicle 2 gradually change. However, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-035135 does not consider the case where vehicle 1 unexpectedly disconnects from external charging before a predetermined time. In this case, it is sometimes difficult to compensate for the change in the sum of charging power caused by the unexpected disconnection of vehicle 1 from external charging using the charging power of vehicle 2. Therefore, it is considered that the amount of change in the sum of external charging power increases. Therefore, it is desirable to have an electrical system, an electrical control device, and an electrical control method that can suppress the change in the sum of external charging power when multiple vehicles are externally charging (electric control).

[0004] This disclosure provides an electric system, an electric control device, and an electric control method that can suppress variations in the sum of electric power controlled when multiple vehicles are externally charged (electrically controlled).

[0005] The power system of the first technical solution of this disclosure includes a first power device, at least one second power device, at least one third power device, and a power control device. The first power device is configured to perform power control during a first period, including supplying power to the power system or charging from the power system. The second power device is configured to perform the power control during a second period following the first period. The third power device is configured to perform the power control if at least one of the first and second power devices is disconnected from the power control midway through the power control process. The power control device is configured to control the power control of the first power device, the power control of the second power device, and the power control of the third power device. The power control device is configured to perform gradual switching control when the power control device switches the object of power control from the first power device to the second power device. The gradual switching control switches the object of power control by gradually changing the charging or supplying quantity in the power control of the first power device and the charging or supplying quantity in the power control of the second power device together. The power control device is configured to perform immediate switching control when the power control device switches the object of power control from at least one of the first and second power devices to the third power device. The immediate switching control switches the object of power control by immediately changing the charging or supplying quantity in the power control of the third power device to an amount corresponding to at least one of the charging or supplying quantity in the power control of the first and second power devices.

[0006] In the power system of the first technical solution of this disclosure, as described above, the power control device switches the object of power control from a first power device to a second power device by performing gradual switching control. Furthermore, the power control device switches the object of power control from at least one of the first and second power devices to a third power device by performing immediate switching control. Therefore, even if at least one of the first and second power devices unexpectedly disconnects from power control midway through the power control process, the power control device immediately changes the power of the third power device. Thus, it is possible to quickly compensate for unexpected fluctuations in the sum of power controlled by the unexpected disconnection of at least one of the devices. As a result, fluctuations in the sum of power controlled by the power device can be suppressed.

[0007] Furthermore, differences sometimes arise between the communication delay time between the first power device and the power control device, and between the second power device and the power control device, due to variations in the communication environment. Therefore, when switching the object of power control by immediately changing the power of each of the first and second power devices, the sum of the controlled power may fluctuate drastically due to the aforementioned difference in communication delay times. Therefore, a gradual switching control is performed when switching the object of power control between the first and second power devices. This allows the sum of the controlled power to change gradually. As a result, compared to the case where the power of each of the first and second power devices changes immediately, even when the aforementioned communication delay occurs, the fluctuation of the sum of the controlled power can be further suppressed.

[0008] In the power system of the first technical solution of this disclosure, the power control device can also be configured to: communicate with the first power device, communicate with the second power device, and communicate with the third power device; acquire information related to a first communication delay time in the communication between the first power device and the power control device; acquire information related to a second communication delay time in the communication between the second power device and the power control device; acquire information related to a third communication delay time in the communication between the third power device and the power control device; perform the gradual switching control based on the first communication delay time and the second communication delay time; and perform the immediate switching control based on the third communication delay time. If configured in this way, the power control device can perform gradual switching control based on the difference between the communication delay time of the first power device and the communication delay time of the second power device. As a result, when the object of power control switches from the first power device to the second power device, the length of the period during which only one of the first and second power devices changes can be easily adjusted. Furthermore, the power control device can perform immediate switching control based on the communication delay time of the third power device. As a result, when the object of power control is switched from at least one of the first and second power devices to the third power device, the length of the period during which power control is not performed in either the first or second power device or the third power device can be easily adjusted.

[0009] The power system of the first technical solution of this disclosure can also include multiple second power devices and multiple third power devices. The power control device can also be configured to: select the second power device among the multiple second power devices whose second communication delay time has the smallest difference with the first communication delay time as the object of the gradual switching control, and select the third power device among the multiple third power devices whose third communication delay time has the smallest as the object of the immediate switching control. If configured in this way, when the object of power control switches from the first power device to the second power device, the length of the period during which only one of the first and second power devices changes can be minimized. Furthermore, when the object of power control switches from at least one of the first and second power devices to the third power device, the length of the period during which no power control is performed on either the first or second power device or the third power device can be minimized.

[0010] In the power system of the first technical solution of this disclosure, the first period may also include a predetermined time that is a predetermined time earlier than the predetermined end time of the first period. The power control device may also be configured to determine whether to perform the gradual switching control when the first power device performs the power control until the predetermined time. Alternatively, the power control device may be configured to determine whether to perform the immediate switching control when the first power device is disconnected from the power control before the predetermined time. If configured in this way, the power control device can determine whether to implement gradual switching control or immediate switching control before the predetermined end time of the first period.

[0011] In the power system of the first technical solution of this disclosure, the power control device can also be configured to: communicate with the first power device, communicate with the second power device, communicate with the third power device, acquire information related to a first communication delay time in the communication between the first power device and the power control device, acquire information related to a second communication delay time in the communication between the second power device and the power control device, and acquire information related to a communication delay time in the communication between the third power device and the power control device. The predetermined time can also have a length greater than or equal to the first communication delay time and the second communication delay time. If configured in this way, it is possible to prevent the first period from ending before power control begins when the communication delay time between the first and second power devices is greater. As a result, the periods of gradual power change in the power control of the first power device and the periods of gradual power change in the power control of the second power device can be more reliably overlapped.

[0012] In the power system of the first technical solution of this disclosure, the first power device may also include an electric vehicle. Here, the electric vehicle differs from energy storage devices, etc., in that it is capable of movement. Therefore, the first power device (electric vehicle) can move midway through the power control period, so the possibility of disengaging from power control midway is relatively high. Therefore, when immediate switching control can be performed between the first power device and the third power device, fluctuations in the sum of the power controlled by the power system can be suppressed more effectively.

[0013] In the power system of the first technical solution of this disclosure, the second power device may also include an electric vehicle. If configured in this way, similarly to the above, when immediate switching control is possible between the second and third power devices, fluctuations in the sum of the power controlled by the power system can be suppressed more effectively.

[0014] In the second technical solution of this disclosure, the power control device includes a processor. The processor is configured to perform power control on a first power device. The power control includes at least one of supplying power to a power system or charging from the power system. The first power device is configured to perform the power control during a first period. The processor is configured to perform the power control on a second power device. The second power device is configured to perform the power control during a second period following the first period. The processor is configured to perform the power control on a third power device. The third power device is configured to perform the power control if at least one of the first and second power devices is disconnected from the power control midway through the power control process. The processor is configured to perform gradual switching control when the processor switches the object of power control from the first power device to the second power device. The gradual switching control switches the object of power control by gradually changing the charging or supplying amount in the power control of the first power device and the charging or supplying amount in the power control of the second power device together. The processor is configured to perform immediate switching control when the processor switches the object of power control from at least one of the first power device and the second power device to the third power device. The immediate switching control switches the object of power control by immediately changing the charging or supplying quantity in the power control of the third power device to an amount corresponding to at least one of the charging or supplying quantity in the power control of the first power device and the second power device.

[0015] In the power control device of the second technical solution of this disclosure, as described above, the processor switches the object of power control from the first power device to the second power device by performing gradual switching control. Furthermore, the processor switches the object of power control from the first power device to the third power device by performing immediate switching control. Therefore, even if at least one of the first and second power devices unexpectedly disconnects from power control midway through power control, the processor immediately changes the power of the third power device. Thus, unexpected fluctuations in the sum of power controlled by power control caused by the unexpected disconnection of at least one of the devices can be quickly compensated for. As a result, a power control device capable of suppressing fluctuations in the sum of power controlled by power can be provided.

[0016] The power control method in the third technical solution of this disclosure includes: performing power control on a first power device; performing power control on a second power device; and performing power control on a third power device. The power control includes at least one of supplying power to a power system or charging from the power system. The first power device is configured to perform the power control during a first period. The second power device is configured to perform the power control during a second period following the first period. The third power device is configured to perform the power control if at least one of the first and second power devices is disconnected from the power control process midway through. The power control method includes: switching the object of power control from the first power device to the second power device by gradually changing the charging or supply amount in the power control of the first power device and the charging or supply amount in the power control of the second power device together; and switching the object of power control from at least one of the first power device and the second power device to the third power device by immediately changing the charging or supply amount in the power control of the third power device to an amount corresponding to at least one of the charging or supply amount in the power control of the first power device and the charging or supply amount in the power control of the second power device.

[0017] In the power control method of the third technical solution of this disclosure, as described above, the object of power control is switched from a first power device to a second power device, and then switched from the first power device to a third power device. Therefore, even if at least one of the first and second power devices unexpectedly disconnects from power control midway through the power control process, by immediately changing the power of the third power device, the unexpected change in the sum of the power controlled by the unexpected disconnection of the at least one device can be quickly compensated. As a result, a power control method capable of suppressing changes in the sum of the power controlled can be provided.

[0018] According to this disclosure, when multiple vehicles are electrically controlled, it is possible to suppress variations in the sum of the electrical powers controlled by the electric system. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The features, advantages, and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals denote the same elements, and wherein:

[0020] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the detailed structure of a vehicle according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the structure of a VGI system (electric system) according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating multiple vehicles and multiple EVSEs managed by a VGI (electric system) in one implementation.

[0023] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the gradual switching control of a server in one implementation method.

[0024] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the immediate switching control during period A of a server implementation.

[0025] Figure 6 This is a graph showing the maximum communication delay time between the server and each vehicle in one implementation.

[0026] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a power control method for an externally charged server according to one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a power control method for a server when it is powered by an external power source, as shown in a modified embodiment of one implementation.

[0028] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the immediate switching control during period B of a server in a modified embodiment.

[0029] Figure 10 This diagram illustrates an example of gradual switching control between groups of multiple vehicles. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same or equivalent parts are labeled with the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0031] The power system of this embodiment includes multiple vehicles. While the multiple vehicles in the power system may have different structures, in this embodiment they have the same structure. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the multiple vehicles included in the power system will be referred to as "vehicle 50". The multiple charging devices included in the power system will be referred to as "EVSE40". EVSE refers to Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment.

[0032] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the structure of the vehicle according to this embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 1 The vehicle 50 is an electric vehicle equipped with a battery 130 for providing power for its operation. The battery 130 is configured as a secondary battery, such as a lithium-ion battery or a nickel-metal hydride battery. In this embodiment, a battery pack comprising multiple lithium-ion batteries is used as the secondary battery. The battery pack is composed of multiple individual cells (often referred to as "battery cells") electrically connected to each other. It should be noted that other energy storage devices, such as double-layer capacitors, may be used instead of secondary batteries.

[0033] Vehicle 50 is equipped with an electronic control unit (hereinafter referred to as "ECU (Electronic Control Unit)") 150. Vehicle 50 is capable of power control. Power control includes supplying power to the power system PG (external power supply) and charging the power system PG (external charging). ECU 150 is configured to perform charging control and discharging control of battery 130. In addition, ECU 150 is configured to control communication with the outside of vehicle 50. Vehicle 50 may also be an electric vehicle (BEV) capable of operating using only the power stored in battery 130. Vehicle 50 may also be a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) capable of operating using both the power stored in battery 130 and the output of an engine (not shown). It should be noted that, hereinafter, external power supply and external charging are sometimes collectively referred to as "power control".

[0034] Vehicle 50 can receive power from EVSE40 to charge battery 130. Vehicle 50 has an interface 110 and a charger 120 corresponding to the power supply method of EVSE40.

[0035] Cable 42 is connected to EVSE40. Connector 43 of cable 42, which is connected to EVSE40, is connected to access port 110 of vehicle 50, thereby electrically connecting EVSE40 and vehicle 50. Thus, power exchange can be performed between EVSE40 and vehicle 50 via cable 42.

[0036] Charger 120 is located between inlet 110 and battery 130. Charger 120 includes a relay and power conversion circuitry (e.g., a bidirectional converter) (neither shown). The relay switches the connection / disconnection of the power path from inlet 110 to battery 130.

[0037] ECU 150 includes a processor 151, RAM (Random Access Memory) 152, a storage device 153, and a timer 154. The processor 151 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). RAM 152 includes working memory for temporarily storing data processed by the processor 151. The storage device 153 is configured to store stored information. In addition to programs, the storage device 153 stores information used in the programs (e.g., mappings, mathematical expressions, and various parameters). In this embodiment, the processor 151 executes the program stored in the storage device 153, thereby performing various controls within the ECU 150. The timer 154 notifies the processor 151 of the arrival of a set time. When the set time in the timer 154 is reached, a signal notifying the processor 151 is sent from the timer 154.

[0038] The vehicle 50 also includes a drive unit 140, communication equipment 160, and drive wheels W. The drive unit 140 includes a PCU (Power Control Unit) and an MG (Motor Generator), not shown. The drive unit 140 is configured to use electricity stored in the battery 130 to propel the vehicle 50.

[0039] The communication device 160 includes various communication I / F (interfaces). The ECU 150 communicates wirelessly with external communication devices of the vehicle 50 via the communication device 160. The communication device 160 can also be configured to enable vehicle-to-vehicle communication.

[0040] In recent years, efforts have been made to develop mechanisms that utilize the energy resources held by various demand sides (hereinafter referred to as "DSRs") in the power system. DSRs function as distributed energy resources (hereinafter referred to as "DERs").

[0041] As a mechanism for utilizing DSR in the power system, VPP (Virtual Power Plant) was proposed. In VPP, the power operator that aggregates DERs to provide energy management services is called an "integrator". Power companies, for example, can adjust the balance of power supply and demand through demand response (hereinafter also referred to as "DR") by collaborating with integrators.

[0042] Demand response (DR) is a method of adjusting the balance between electricity supply and demand by issuing predetermined requests to various demanders through demand response signals (hereinafter also referred to as "DR signals"). DR signals are broadly divided into two types: DR signals that request the suppression of electricity demand or reverse power supply (hereinafter also referred to as "declining DR signals") and DR signals that request an increase in electricity demand (hereinafter also referred to as "rising DR signals").

[0043] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the general structure of the power system according to this embodiment. Figure 2 The VGI (Vehicle Grid Integration) system 1 shown is an example of the "electrical system" disclosed herein. Figure 2 Only one vehicle, one EVSE, and one integrator server are shown. VGI system 1 can also include multiple vehicles, multiple EVSEs, and multiple integrator servers. Figure 2 The example shown is a home-use EVSE. VGI system 1 may also include a public EVSE that can be used by multiple unspecified users.

[0044] Reference Figure 2 The VGI system 1 includes a power distribution operator server 10 (hereinafter also referred to as "server 10"), a smart meter 11, an integrator server 30 (hereinafter also referred to as "server 30"), an EVSE 40, a vehicle 50, a HEMS-GW (Home Energy Management System-Gateway) 60, a data center 70, a portable terminal 80, and a power system PG. In this embodiment, the portable terminal 80 includes smartphones and tablets with touch panel displays.

[0045] Server 10 belongs to the power transmission and distribution operator. In this embodiment, the power company acts as both a power generation operator and a power transmission and distribution operator, and is equivalent to a system user utilizing the power system PG.

[0046] Each smart meter is assigned identification information (hereinafter referred to as "meter ID") to identify the smart meter. Server 10 uses the meter ID to distinguish and manage the measurement values ​​of each smart meter.

[0047] In VGI system 1, each integrator is assigned an identification information (ID) to identify multiple integrators. Server 10 uses the integrator's ID to distinguish and manage each integrator's information. Integrators provide energy management services by aggregating the power controlled by demanders within their jurisdiction. Integrators can control power by using DR signals to request power equalization from various demanders.

[0048] Server 30 belongs to the integrator. Server 30 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, and a communication unit 33. The control unit 31 includes a processor. The control unit 31 performs predetermined information processing and controls the communication unit 33. The storage unit 32 is capable of storing various types of information. The communication unit 33 includes various communication I / Fs. The control unit 31 communicates with the outside world through the communication unit 33. In VGI system 1, the DSR managed by the integrator (server 30) is an electric vehicle. The demand side controls electric power through the electric vehicle. Each vehicle 50 is assigned identification information (hereinafter also referred to as "vehicle ID") to identify each vehicle 50 included in VGI system 1. Server 30 uses the vehicle ID to distinguish and manage the information of each vehicle 50.

[0049] Data center 70 includes a control unit 71, a storage unit 72, and a communication unit 73. The control unit 71 includes a processor. The control unit 71 performs predetermined information processing and controls the communication unit 73. The storage unit 72 is capable of storing various types of information. The communication unit 73 includes various communication I / O devices. The control unit 71 communicates with the outside world through the communication unit 73. Each portable terminal is assigned identification information (hereinafter also referred to as a "terminal ID") for identifying the portable terminal. Data center 70 uses the terminal ID to distinguish and manage the information of each portable terminal. The terminal ID also functions as user identification information (user ID).

[0050] The portable terminal 80 exchanges information with both the HEMS-GW60 and the data center 70 via a pre-defined application. The portable terminal 80 can wirelessly communicate with both the HEMS-GW60 and the data center 70, for example, via the Internet. Users can use the portable terminal 80 to send information indicating their status and schedules to the data center 70. Examples of information indicating the user's status include whether the user is in a condition capable of handling DR (Demand Reduction). Examples of information indicating the user's schedules include the departure time of a POV (Personal Owned Vehicle) or the operation plan of a MaaS (Mobility as a Service) vehicle. The data center 70 distinguishes and stores the information received from the portable terminal 80 according to each terminal ID.

[0051] Servers 10 and 30 can communicate with each other, for example, via a VPN (Virtual Private Network). Servers 10 and 30 can each obtain electricity market information (e.g., information related to electricity trading) via the Internet. Server 30 and data center 70 can communicate with each other, for example, via the Internet. Server 30 can obtain user-related information from data center 70. Servers 30 and data center 70 are respectively configured to communicate with HEMS-GW60, for example, via the Internet. In this embodiment, there is no communication between server 30 and EVSE40. However, servers 30 and EVSE40 can also be configured to communicate with each other.

[0052] Server 30 sequentially retrieves and saves information indicating the status of each vehicle 50 within its jurisdiction (e.g., vehicle location, cable connection status, battery status, charging (power supply) schedule, charging (power supply) conditions, travel schedule, and travel conditions) from each vehicle 50. Cable connection status indicates whether a cable connector is connected to the interface 110. Battery status is the SOC (State of Charge) value of battery 130 and information indicating whether battery 130 is charging. Charging (power supply) schedule indicates the start and end times of a scheduled external charging (power supply). Charging (power supply) conditions can be either the conditions of a scheduled external charging (power supply) (e.g., charging power and supply power) or the conditions of a currently executing charging (power supply) (e.g., charging (power supply) power and remaining charging (power supply) time). Travel schedule indicates the start and end times of a scheduled trip. Travel conditions can be either the conditions of a scheduled trip (e.g., travel route and travel distance) or the conditions of a currently executing trip (e.g., travel speed and remaining travel distance).

[0053] Server 10 uses DR (Dynamic Distribution) for power leveling. When server 10 performs power leveling, it first sends a signal (hereinafter also referred to as a "DR participation request") to each integrator server (including server 30) requesting to participate in DR. The DR participation request includes the region to which the DR is intended, the type of DR (e.g., decreasing DR or increasing DR), and the DR period. Server 30 is configured to calculate the DR potential amount (i.e., the amount of power that can be adjusted according to DR) upon receiving a DR participation request from server 10, and send it to server 10. Server 30 can, for example, calculate the DR potential amount based on the total DR capacity (i.e., the capacity capable of handling DR) of each demander within its jurisdiction.

[0054] Server 10 determines the DR amount (i.e., the amount of power regulation delegated to the integrator) for each integrator based on the possible DR amounts received from each integrator server. Server 10 sends a signal instructing DR execution (hereinafter also referred to as "DR execution instruction") to each integrator server (including server 30). The DR execution instruction includes the region to which the DR is applied, the type of DR (e.g., a falling DR or a rising DR), the DR amount for the integrator, and the DR period. When server 30 receives the DR execution instruction, server 30 allocates the DR amount to each vehicle 50 within its jurisdiction that is capable of responding to the DR. Server 30 generates a DR signal for each vehicle 50 and sends the DR signal to each vehicle 50. The DR signal includes the type of DR (e.g., a falling DR or a rising DR), the DR amount for the vehicle 50, and the DR period.

[0055] ECU 150 is configured to receive DR signals from outside the vehicle via communication device 160. When ECU 150 receives the aforementioned DR signals, the user of vehicle 50 can contribute to power equalization by charging or supplying power according to the DR signals through EVSE 40 and vehicle 50.

[0056] Figure 2 When the vehicle 50 is parked in a residential parking space (e.g., a user's own home), it is electrically connected to an outdoor EVSE 40 via cable 42. Communication between the vehicle 50 and the EVSE 40 is possible by connecting the connector 43 of the cable 42, which is connected to the EVSE 40, to the access point 110 of the vehicle 50. Furthermore, power control (external charging and external power supply) is possible via the power circuit 41.

[0057] The power supply circuit 41 is connected to the power system PG provided by the power company via the smart instrument 11. The smart instrument 11 is configured to measure the electrical power supplied from the EVSE 40 to the vehicle 50.

[0058] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the external power source, multiple charging devices, and multiple vehicles included in the power system of this embodiment. (See diagram for details.) Figure 3 As shown, the VGI system 1 includes EVSE40A-40I, vehicles 50A-50E, and an electric power system PG that supplies power to each of the EVSE40A-40I. Each of the vehicles 50A-50E has a battery 130A-130E. Each of the vehicles 50A-50E is configured to be electrically connected to the electric power system PG via any one of the EVSE40A-40I. The power control of each of the vehicles 50A-50E is controlled by the server 30.

[0059] Here, the vehicle is typically configured to perform electrical control (external charging and external power supply) at pre-planned predetermined times during DR (Driving Control). Then, when the vehicle's electrical control is completed as scheduled, electrical control by other vehicles begins. Thus, the sum of the charging (power supply) power from multiple vehicles is kept constant. However, due to reasons such as a vehicle leaving midway through electrical control or the battery becoming fully charged earlier than planned, there are cases where electrical control unexpectedly ends before the predetermined time. In such cases, it is difficult to compensate for the impact on the sum of the power during the electrical control of the other vehicles at the pre-set times. Therefore, when multiple vehicles are performing electrical control, it is desirable to suppress fluctuations in the sum of the charging (power supply) power.

[0060] In this embodiment, vehicle 50A is set to operate during period A (times t0 to t4) (refer to...). Figure 4External charging will be performed. Additionally, vehicles 50B and 50C are respectively set to charge during period B (times t4 to t7) after period A (see reference). Figure 4 External charging is performed. It should be noted that period B is the next (immediately following) period after period A. Furthermore, periods A and B can be contained within the same DR period or within consecutive DR periods. It should be noted that vehicle 50A is an example of the "first electrical device" of this disclosure. Additionally, vehicles 50B and 50C are examples of the "second electrical device" of this disclosure. Furthermore, periods A and B are examples of the "first period" and "second period" of this disclosure, respectively.

[0061] It should be noted that the vehicle 50 designated for external charging during period B can be either one or more vehicles.

[0062] Furthermore, in this embodiment, vehicles 50D and 50E are respectively configured to perform external charging if vehicle 50A is disconnected from external charging midway through external charging. In other words, vehicles 50D and 50E are respectively configured to perform external charging if vehicle 50A is disconnected from external charging earlier than the pre-planned time (external charging completed). It should be noted that vehicles 50D and 50E can also be pre-programmed to perform power control at a period later than period A and period B. In this case, vehicles 50D and 50E are vehicles that can be in a state of power control before the pre-planned power control in order to prevent accidental disconnection of vehicle 50A. It should be noted that vehicles 50D and 50E are examples of the "third electrical device" of this disclosure.

[0063] Furthermore, the vehicle 50 configured to perform external charging when vehicle 50A disconnects from external charging earlier than a predetermined time can be one or more vehicles. It should be noted that in this embodiment, examples are shown where the vehicles (50B, 50C) performing external charging when vehicle 50A disconnects from external charging at a predetermined time are different from the vehicles (50D, 50E) performing external charging when vehicle 50A disconnects from external charging at a different time than predetermined. However, this disclosure is not limited to this. It is also possible for the vehicles (50B, 50C) performing external charging when vehicle 50A disconnects from external charging at a predetermined time to perform external charging when disconnection occurs at a different time than predetermined.

[0064] In this embodiment, as Figure 4As shown, server 30 (control device 31) performs gradual switching control when switching the external charging target from vehicle 50A to vehicle 50B. In gradual switching control, server 30 switches the external charging target by gradually changing the charging amount (charging power) in the external chargers of both vehicle 50A and vehicle 50B. On the other hand, as... Figure 5 As shown, server 30 (control device 31) performs immediate switching control when the object of external charging is switched from vehicle 50A to vehicle 50D. In the immediate switching control, server 30 switches the object of external charging by immediately changing the charging amount (charging power) in the external charging of vehicle 50D to an amount corresponding to the charging amount (charging power) in the external charging of vehicle 50A.

[0065] Server 30 (control device 31) sends a first control command to vehicle 50A to control the charging power of vehicle 50A. Additionally, server 30 sends a second control command to vehicle 50B to control the charging power of vehicle 50B. Figure 4 In the example shown, when performing gradual switching control, server 30 takes a predetermined time (e.g., 10 to 15 minutes) to reduce the charging power of vehicle 50A, which is included in the first control command, from 3 kW to 0 kW by a certain percentage. Additionally, when performing gradual switching control, server 30 takes a predetermined time (e.g., 10 to 15 minutes) to increase the charging power of vehicle 50B, which is included in the second control command, from 0 kW to 3 kW by a certain percentage. Server 30 performs these actions at the same time... Figure 4 At time t1, the charging power contained in the first control command begins to decrease, and the charging power contained in the second control command begins to increase. Furthermore, during gradual switching control, the absolute values ​​of the slopes of the decrease in charging power contained in the first control command and the increase in charging power contained in the second control command are equal. It should be noted that the first and second control commands can also be sent to EVSE40 connected to vehicles 50A and 50B respectively. It should be noted that time t1 is an example of a "predetermined time" in this disclosure.

[0066] Server 30 (controller 31) sends a third control command to vehicle 50D to control the charging power of vehicle 50D. Additionally, Figure 5 In the example shown, vehicle 50A suddenly disconnects from external charging (time t11). Therefore, the charging power of vehicle 50A immediately drops from 3kW to 0kW. In communication device 33 (reference...) Figure 2If the server 30 (control device 31) receives information indicating that the charging power of vehicle 50A has decreased (becomes 0) before the predetermined time for the external charging of vehicle 50A to end, it determines that vehicle 50A has unexpectedly disconnected from external charging. In this case, the server 30 performs immediate switching control by causing the charging power of vehicle 50D, as included in the third control command, to immediately (e.g., within a few seconds) increase from 0 kW to 3 kW.

[0067] It should be noted that when the server 30 (control device 31) performs immediate switching control, it controls the upper limit current value of the EVSE40 to be greater than the upper limit current value during gradual switching control. This enables a rapid increase in charging power.

[0068] Furthermore, a predetermined communication delay time occurs between each of the vehicles 50A to 50E and the server 30. The communication delay time depends on the specifications of the communication equipment 160 mounted on each vehicle 50, the communication environment at the location where each EVSE 40 is configured, and so on. The server 30 acquires information related to the communication delay time of each of the vehicles 50A to 50E. In this embodiment, the aforementioned information related to the communication delay time includes the maximum communication delay time. When a vehicle 50 is connected to an EVSE 40, the server 30 (control device 31) can also acquire (calculate) the maximum communication delay time based on information about the vehicle 50 and information about the EVSE 40 connected to the vehicle 50. The communication delay time between vehicle 50A and the server 30 is an example of the "first communication delay time" of this disclosure. The communication delay time between vehicle 50B or vehicle 50C and the server 30 is an example of the "second communication delay time" of this disclosure. The communication delay time between vehicle 50D or vehicle 50E and the server 30 is an example of the "third communication delay time" of this disclosure.

[0069] like Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50A is set to ( Figure 4 ΔTa) and the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50D ( Figure 5 The ΔTd) is 0.5 minutes. Additionally, the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50B is assumed to be... Figure 4 The maximum communication delay time for vehicle 50E (ΔTb) and vehicle 50E is 1 minute. Additionally, the maximum communication delay time for vehicle 50C is assumed to be 1.5 minutes.

[0070] In this embodiment, the server 30 (control device 31) performs gradual switching control based on the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50A and the maximum communication delay time of each of vehicles 50B and 50C. Specifically, the server 30 performs gradual switching control based on the difference between the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50A and the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50B, and the magnitude of the difference between the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50A and the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50C.

[0071] Here, the difference between the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50A and the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50B (1 minute - 0.5 minutes = 0.5 minutes) is smaller than the difference between the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50A and the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50C (1.5 minutes - 0.5 minutes = 1 minute). Therefore, server 30 (control device 31) selects vehicle 50B as the object of gradual switching control. Assuming that the difference between the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50A and the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50C is less than the difference between the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50A and the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50B, server 30 selects vehicle 50C as the object of gradual switching control. It should be noted that server 30 performs gradual switching control based on the relative magnitudes of the absolute values ​​of the aforementioned differences.

[0072] like Figure 4 As shown, the total charging power of vehicle 50A and vehicle 50B (total charging power) decreases between time t2 and time t3 due to the magnitude of the difference (ΔTb-ΔTa) between the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50A and the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50B. Therefore, the smaller the difference (ΔTb-ΔTa), the greater the reduction in total charging power.

[0073] Furthermore, during the period from time t3 to time t4, the decrease in charging power of vehicle 50A is equal to the increase in charging power of vehicle 50B. Therefore, the total charging power remains constant at a predetermined value. It should be noted that the total charging power, which decreased during the period from time t2 to time t3, increases to 3 kW during the period from time t5 to time t6 after the decrease in charging power of vehicle 50A stops. Additionally, the total charging power remains constant at 3 kW after time t6, after the increase in charging power of vehicle 50B stops.

[0074] On the other hand, server 30 (control device 31) performs immediate handover control based on the maximum communication delay time of each of vehicles 50D and 50E. Specifically, server 30 performs immediate handover control based on the relationship between the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50D and the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50E.

[0075] Here, the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50D (0.5 minutes) is less than the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50E (1 minute). Therefore, server 30 (control device 31) selects vehicle 50D as the object of immediate handover control. Assuming that the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50E is less than the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50D, server 30 selects vehicle 50E as the object of immediate handover control.

[0076] like Figure 5 As shown, the total charging power of vehicle 50A and vehicle 50D (total charging power) decreases between time t11 and time t12 due to the magnitude of the maximum communication delay time (ΔTd) of vehicle 50D. Therefore, the smaller the maximum communication delay time (ΔTd) of vehicle 50D, the shorter the period of decrease in total charging power. It should be noted that the total charging power that decreases at time t11 immediately rises to 3kW at time t12 as the charging power of vehicle 50D increases. Furthermore, the total charging power remains constant at 3kW after time t12, once the immediate increase in the charging power of vehicle 50D is complete.

[0077] In addition, in this embodiment, such as Figure 4 As shown, if vehicle 50A is externally charged until time t1, server 30 (control device 31) decides to perform gradual switching control. Specifically, if vehicle 50A has not disconnected from external charging by time t1, server 30 changes the gradual switching determination (signal) from the off state to the on state. By changing the gradual switching determination (signal) from the off state to the on state, server 30 determines that the object of power control (external charging) can be switched from vehicle 50A to vehicle 50B or vehicle 50C through gradual switching control.

[0078] In addition, in this embodiment, such as Figure 5 As shown, if vehicle 50A disconnects from external charging before time t1, server 30 decides to immediately perform switching control. Specifically, if vehicle 50A disconnects from external charging before time t1, server 30 (control device 31) changes the immediate switching determination (signal) from the off state to the on state. By changing the immediate switching determination (signal) from the off state to the on state, server 30 determines that the object of power control (external charging) can be switched from vehicle 50A to vehicle 50D or vehicle 50E through immediate switching control.

[0079] Furthermore, time t1 is Δτ earlier than the predetermined end time t4 in period A (refer to...). Figure 4The time Δτ is greater than or equal to the larger of the maximum communication delay time (ΔTa) of vehicle 50A and the maximum communication delay time (ΔTb) of vehicle 50B. Preferably, the time Δτ is greater than or equal to the largest of ΔTa, ΔTb, and the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50C. It should be noted that the time Δτ is an example of the "predetermined time" of this disclosure.

[0080] It should be noted that the time Δτ is, for example, approximately 30 minutes. That is, in this embodiment, the time Δτ is more than 10 times the largest of ΔTa, ΔTb, and the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50C. It should also be noted that the magnitude of the time Δτ is not limited to the example described above.

[0081] in addition, Figure 4 The slope of the decrease in charging power of vehicle 50A and the slope of the increase in charging power of vehicle 50B during the gradual switching control shown are preset fixed values. These fixed values ​​are preset such that the time ΔTs during the period of charging power change is greater than or equal to the larger of the maximum communication delay time (ΔTa) of vehicle 50A and the maximum communication delay time (ΔTb) of vehicle 50B. Preferably, these fixed values ​​are preset such that the time ΔTs is greater than or equal to the largest of ΔTa, ΔTb, and the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50C. Therefore, the vehicles 50 targeted by the gradual switching control ( Figure 4 Vehicles 50A and 50B in the diagram are designed to reliably overlap the timing of changes in charging power. It should be noted that the time ΔTs is, for example, approximately 10 to 15 minutes.

[0082] It should be noted that the slope of the charging power of vehicle 50A (50B) during gradual switching control can also be set according to the delay time caused by the control response. The delay time caused by the control response refers to the time from when vehicle 50 receives the control signal for charging power until the charging power changes based on the received control signal.

[0083] Power control methods

[0084] Next, refer to Figure 7 The power control method of the server 30 (control device 31) in this embodiment will be described. It should be noted that... Figure 7 The diagram illustrates the process from when server 30 receives a DR execution instruction (external charging request) from server 10 until the external charging target is switched from vehicle 50A to the next vehicle 50.

[0085] First, in step S1, server 30 obtains the external charging schedules for each of vehicles 50A to 50E. These schedules can be obtained from each vehicle 50, or they can be set by server 30 itself based on the driving schedules of each vehicle 50.

[0086] Next, in step S2, server 30 obtains information related to the communication delay time between server 30 and vehicles 50A-50E (maximum communication delay time). Server 30 may also calculate the magnitude of the maximum communication delay time based on the specifications of the communication equipment 160 of each vehicle 50A-50E, the communication environment of the location of the EVSE40 connected to each vehicle 50A-50E, etc.

[0087] Next, in step S3, server 30 begins controlling the external charging of vehicle 50A. Specifically, server 30, based on the schedule obtained in step S1, begins during period A (refer to...). Figure 4 External charging control.

[0088] Next, in step S4, the server 30 determines whether vehicle 50A has disconnected from external charging by time t1. The communication device 33 obtains information related to whether vehicle 50A has disconnected from external charging by time t1 through communication. If it is determined that vehicle 50A has disconnected from external charging by time t1 ("Yes" in S4), the process proceeds to step S5. Otherwise, if it is determined that vehicle 50A has not disconnected from external charging by time t1 ("No" in S4), the process proceeds to step S6.

[0089] In step S5, server 30 switches the external charging target from vehicle 50A to vehicle 50D or vehicle 50E via immediate switching control. This immediate switching control occurs when vehicle 50A is disconnected from external charging. It should be noted that, as described above, server 30 selects vehicle 50D, which has the shortest maximum communication latency, as the external charging target. It should also be noted that step S5 is an example of the "immediate switching step" of this disclosure.

[0090] On the other hand, in step S6, server 30 switches the external charging target from vehicle 50A to vehicle 50B or vehicle 50C through gradual switching control. This gradual switching control starts at time t1. It should be noted that, as described above, server 30 selects vehicle 50B, which corresponds to the vehicle with the smallest maximum communication delay time difference from vehicle 50A, as the external charging target. It should be noted that step S6 is an example of the "gradual switching step" of this disclosure.

[0091] In step S7, server 30 performs (continues) external charging of vehicle 50D selected in step S5.

[0092] In step S8, server 30 performs (continues) external charging of vehicle 50B selected in step S6.

[0093] As described above, in this embodiment, the server 30 (control device 31) performs gradual switching control. In gradual switching control, the server 30 switches the object of power control by gradually changing the charging amount (charging power) of the external chargers of both vehicles 50A and 50B. Additionally, the server 30 performs immediate switching control. In immediate switching control, the server 30 switches the object of external charging by immediately changing the charging amount (charging power) of the external charger of vehicle 50D to an amount corresponding to the charging amount (charging power) of the external charger of vehicle 50A.

[0094] By implementing the immediate switching control described above, fluctuations in the total charging power caused by an unexpected disconnection of vehicle 50A from external charging can be quickly suppressed by immediately increasing the charging power of vehicle 50D. Furthermore, by implementing the gradual switching control described above, even when there is a difference between the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50A and the maximum communication delay time of vehicle 50D, abrupt changes in the total charging power can be suppressed.

[0095] Furthermore, while the above embodiment illustrates control of the vehicle 50 switching to external charging, this disclosure is not limited thereto. Figure 8 As shown, when switching vehicle 50, which is the object of external power supply, the gradual switching control and immediate switching control described in the above embodiments can also be performed. Figure 8 In the example shown, steps S11 and S13-S18 are performed respectively to replace Figure 7 Steps S1 and S3 to S8. The control in steps S11 and S13 to S18 simply replaces the external charging-related matters in steps S1 and S3 to S8 with external power supply. Therefore, they will not be described in detail.

[0096] Furthermore, the above embodiment illustrates an example of immediate switchover control in the event of an unexpected (unplanned) disconnection of vehicle 50A from electrical control (external charging). However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. Figure 9 As shown, in the event that vehicle 50B is unexpectedly disconnected from the power control (external charging), immediate switching control can also be performed.

[0097] exist Figure 9In the example shown, if vehicle 50B disconnects from external charging before time t23 in period B, server 30 (control device 31) decides to perform immediate switching control. Time t23 is a time Δτ earlier than the predetermined end time t7 in period B. It should be noted that the details of the immediate switching control are the same as in the above embodiment, and therefore will not be repeated.

[0098] It should be noted that either the immediate switching control in period A or the immediate switching control in period B can also be performed.

[0099] Furthermore, the above embodiments illustrate an example of switching between electrically controlled objects between vehicles. However, this disclosure is not limited to this. Switching between electrically controlled objects other than vehicles (e.g., energy storage devices, air conditioners, and water heaters) can also be achieved.

[0100] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, an example is shown where the charging power is gradually varied for each vehicle 50 during gradual switching control. However, this disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the total charging power of multiple vehicles 50 can also be gradually varied. For example, in Figure 10 In the example shown, external charging is stopped (started) in stages every 100 vehicles 50, and gradual switching control is performed between different groups of 300 vehicles 50.

[0101] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was shown where the server 30 (control device 31) determined that the aforementioned unexpected disengagement had occurred based on the charging power of the vehicle 50A obtained by the communication device 33. However, this disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the communication device 33 may also notify of the aforementioned unexpected disengagement from the vehicle 50A (or EVSE40), etc.

[0102] It should be noted that the structures described in the above embodiments and the various modifications described above can be implemented in any combination.

[0103] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects. The scope of this disclosure is defined not by the description of the above embodiments but by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

Claims

1. A power system, characterized in that, include: The first electrical device is configured to perform electrical control during a first period, including supplying power to a power system or charging from the power system, the first period including a predetermined time earlier than a predetermined end time of the first period. At least one second electrical device is configured to perform the power control during a second period following the first period; At least one third power device is configured to perform the power control if at least one of the first power device and the second power device is disconnected from the power control midway through the power control process; as well as A power control device configured as follows: The power control for controlling the first power equipment, the power control for the second power equipment, and the power control for the third power equipment; When the power control device switches the object of power control from the first power device to the second power device, a gradual switching control is performed. The gradual switching control is a control that switches the object of power control by gradually changing the charging amount or supply amount in the power control of the first power device and the charging amount or supply amount in the power control of the second power device together. as well as When the power control device switches the object of power control from at least one of the first power device and the second power device to the third power device, immediate switching control is performed. This immediate switching control switches the object of power control by immediately changing the charging or supplying quantity in the power control of the third power device to an amount corresponding to at least one of the charging or supplying quantity in the power control of the first power device and the second power device. The power control device is further configured as follows: If the power control is performed by the first power device until the predetermined time, it is decided to perform the gradual switching control; and If the first electrical device is disconnected from the power control before the predetermined time, the immediate switching control is determined to be performed.

2. The power system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power control device is configured as follows: Communicate with the first power equipment; Communicate with the second power equipment; Communicate with the third power device; Acquire information related to the first communication delay time in the communication between the first power equipment and the power control device; Acquire information related to the second communication delay time in the communication between the second power equipment and the power control device; Acquire information related to the third communication delay time in the communication between the third power device and the power control device; The gradual switching control is performed based on the first communication delay time and the second communication delay time; and The immediate switching control is performed based on the third communication delay time.

3. The power system according to claim 2, characterized in that, include: Multiple of the aforementioned second electrical devices; as well as Multiple third electrical devices, The power control device is configured as follows: The second power device with the smallest difference between the second communication delay time and the first communication delay time among a plurality of the second power devices is selected as the object of the gradual switching control; as well as The third power device with the smallest third communication delay among a plurality of third power devices is selected as the object of the immediate switching control.

4. The power system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power control device is configured as follows: Communicate with the first power equipment; Communicate with the second power equipment; Communicate with the third power device; Acquire information related to the first communication delay time in the communication between the first power equipment and the power control device; Acquire information related to the second communication delay time in the communication between the second power equipment and the power control device; Acquire information related to the third communication delay time in the communication between the third power device and the power control device; as well as The predetermined time has a length that is greater than or equal to the first communication delay time and the second communication delay time.

5. The power system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first electrical equipment includes electric vehicles.

6. The power system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The second electrical equipment includes electric vehicles.

7. A power control device, characterized in that, Includes a processor, which is configured as follows: Perform power control on a first electrical device, the power control including at least one of supplying power to a power system or charging from the power system, the first electrical device being configured to perform the power control during a first period, the first period including a predetermined time earlier than a predetermined end time of the first period; The power control of the second power device is performed, the second power device being configured to perform the power control in a second period following the first period; The power control of the third power device is performed, the third power device being configured to perform the power control if at least one of the first power device and the second power device is disconnected from the power control midway through the power control process; When the processor switches the object of power control from the first power device to the second power device, it performs a gradual switching control. The gradual switching control is a control that gradually changes the charging amount or power supply in the power control of the first power device and the charging amount or power supply in the power control of the second power device to switch the object of power control. as well as When the processor switches the object of power control from at least one of the first power device and the second power device to the third power device, immediate switching control is performed. The immediate switching control is a control that switches the object of power control by immediately changing the charging amount or supply amount in the power control of the third power device to an amount corresponding to at least one of the charging amount or supply amount in the power control of the first power device and the charging amount or supply amount in the power control of the second power device. If the power control is performed by the first power device until the predetermined time, the processor decides to perform the gradual switching control; as well as If the first electrical device is disconnected from the power control before the predetermined time, the processor decides to perform the immediate switching control.

8. A power control method, characterized in that, include: Perform power control on a first electrical device, the power control including at least one of supplying power to a power system or charging from the power system, the first electrical device being configured to perform the power control during a first period, the first period including a predetermined time earlier than a predetermined end time of the first period; The power control of the second power device is performed, the second power device being configured to perform the power control in a second period following the first period; The power control of the third power device is performed, the third power device being configured to perform the power control if at least one of the first power device and the second power device is disconnected from the power control midway through the power control process; When the object of power control is switched from the first power device to the second power device, a gradual switching control is performed. The gradual switching control switches the object of power control from the first power device to the second power device by gradually changing the charging amount or supply amount in the power control of the first power device and the charging amount or supply amount in the power control of the second power device together. as well as When switching the object of power control from at least one of the first and second power devices to the third power device, immediate switching control is performed. This immediate switching control switches the object of power control from at least one of the first and second power devices to the third power device by immediately changing the charging or supply amount in the power control of the third power device to an amount corresponding to at least one of the charging or supply amounts in the power control of the first and second power devices. in, If the power control is performed by the first power device until the predetermined time, it is decided to perform the gradual switching control; as well as If the first electrical device is disconnected from the power control before the predetermined time, the immediate switching control is determined to be performed.

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