Battery control device and method

Abstract

An apparatus for controlling a battery according to one aspect of the present invention may comprise: a power supply unit connected to a charging and discharging path of the battery; a driving unit configured to apply start-up power to the power supply unit from the charging and discharging paths during a preset start-up time to start up the power supply unit; a switching unit connected between a charging and discharging path of the battery and the power supply unit; and a control unit configured to turn on the switching unit in response to application of the first operating power output from the power supply unit, and to be driven by the second operating power generated by the power supply unit after the start-up time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0159632 filed in Korea on November 24, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a battery control device and method, and more particularly to a battery control device and method capable of black start and power control. Background Art

[0003] In recent years, due to the environmental pollution problem of fossil fuels, the use of new and renewable energy such as solar energy, wind energy and geothermal energy has gradually increased. The new and renewable energy is stored in a power storage device called ESS. ESS is a device that converts new and renewable energy into electrical energy, stores the electrical energy in a battery, and supplies the electrical energy stored in the battery to the power system.

[0004] In addition to storing new and renewable energy, ESS is also used in homes and factories to store electric energy from the grid in batteries during times when electricity rates are low, and then supply the electric energy stored in the batteries to various electrical devices during daytime.

[0005] The power system including the ESS may include an external control device. The external control device may refer to a power conversion device such as a PCS or an inverter. The external control device may convert electrical characteristics such as frequency, voltage, and DC / AC of power supplied from the grid or power stored in the ESS between the grid and the ESS.

[0006] The ESS may include a battery controller that performs various operations for receiving and transmitting power, and the external control device may be closely connected to the ESS through communication with the battery controller.

[0007] If the amount of power consumed by the ESS itself is greater than the power stored, such as in winter or high latitudes, the battery may not be charged for a long time. In this case, the external control device can control the ESS, that is, the battery controller, from the normal operating state to the sleep mode in order to minimize power consumption. This operation of controlling the power of the ESS can be performed only when the external control device is operable (ON state).

[0008] For various reasons, a grid blackout or a large-area blackout may occur in a power system including an ESS and an external control device. In this case, a circuit breaker connecting a battery and an external control device may be turned off. At this time, a black start may be performed, which is a power restoration process that first restores the ESS and then restores the external control device using power stored in the ESS.

[0009] In summary, a black start is a process in which an ESS, that is, a battery controller, first becomes operable and then an external control device is restored, but a black start conflicts with the above-mentioned function in which an external control device in an operable state controls the power of the ESS, so it is not easy to implement both functions together. Therefore, in the technical field to which the present disclosure belongs, there is an urgent need for a technology capable of simultaneously implementing both of the above-mentioned functions. Summary of the invention

[0010] Technical issues

[0011] The present disclosure is designed under the above background, and therefore, the present disclosure aims to provide a battery control apparatus and method which efficiently perform a black start function and a power control function of the battery control apparatus through an external control device.

[0012] These and other objects and advantages of the present disclosure can be understood from the following detailed description and will become more fully apparent from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In addition, it will be easily understood that the objects and advantages of the present disclosure can be achieved by the means shown in the appended claims and their combinations.

[0013] Technical Solution

[0014] A battery control device according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include: a power supply unit connected to a charging and discharging path of a battery; a driving unit configured to operate the power supply unit by applying a starting power from the charging and discharging path to the power supply unit during a preset starting time; a switching unit connected between the charging and discharging path of the battery and the power supply unit; and a control unit configured to turn on the switching unit in response to a first operating power output from the power supply unit being applied, and to be driven by a second operating power generated by the power supply unit after the starting time.

[0015] The drive unit may be configured to stop outputting the starting power after the starting time has elapsed.

[0016] A circuit breaker may be provided on a charging and discharging path of the battery, and the driving unit may be connected to one end opposite to the battery among both ends of the circuit breaker.

[0017] The starting power may be supplied from a first node located at a portion on the charging and discharging path that is electrically connected to the battery when the circuit breaker is turned into an on state.

[0018] The power supply unit may be configured to generate first operating power from the first node.

[0019] The switching unit may be configured to be connected to a second node between the battery and the circuit breaker.

[0020] The power supply unit may be configured to generate the second operating power from the second node through the switching unit.

[0021] The control unit may be configured to turn off at least one of the switching unit and a relay located between the circuit breaker and the external control device based on receiving the sleep signal from the external control device.

[0022] The driving unit may be configured to include a photocoupler that receives a wake-up signal from an external control device.

[0023] The driving unit may be configured to output startup power to the power supply unit during the startup time based on receiving a wake-up signal from the external control device.

[0024] A battery pack according to another aspect of the present disclosure may include a battery control system.

[0025] A battery control method according to another aspect of the present disclosure may include: a starting power output step, which applies starting power to a power supply unit connected to a charging and discharging path of the battery during a preset starting time; a first operating power receiving step, which turns on a switching unit connected between the charging and discharging path of the battery and the power supply unit in response to the first operating power output from the power supply unit being applied; and a second operating power receiving step, which is driven by a second operating power generated by the power supply unit after the starting time.

[0026] Beneficial Effects

[0027] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a battery control device which can efficiently perform both a black start function and a power control function of the battery control device.

[0028] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a power control operation of a battery control device may be performed without switching a state of a circuit breaker, and in particular, the battery control device may be awakened by a low voltage signal, resulting in improved efficiency.

[0029] The effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] The accompanying drawings illustrate preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the foregoing disclosure, serve to provide a further understanding of the technical features of the present disclosure, and therefore, the present disclosure should not be construed as being limited to the accompanying drawings.

[0031] Figure 1is a diagram schematically showing a power system including a battery control device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 2 is an exemplary circuit diagram for implementing a driving unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 3 is schematically shown applied to the reference Figure 2 Graphs of voltages of the first switching element and the third switching element are described.

[0034] Figure 4 is a diagram showing states of various signals transmitted and received between components while the control unit is switched from a shutdown state to a normal operation mode.

[0035] Figure 5 is a diagram showing states of various signals transmitted and received between components while the control unit is switched from a shutdown state to a normal operation mode.

[0036] Figure 6 is a diagram showing states of various signals transmitted and received between components during a power control operation by an external control device.

[0037] Figure 7 is a diagram schematically showing a state machine of an energy storage system including a battery control device according to an embodiment.

[0038] Figure 8 is a flowchart schematically illustrating a battery control method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before the description, it should be understood that the terms used in this specification and the appended claims should not be understood as being limited to the general and dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted based on the meanings and concepts corresponding to the technical aspects of the present disclosure on the principle of allowing the inventor to appropriately define the terms for the best interpretation.

[0040] Therefore, the descriptions presented herein are merely preferred examples for illustrative purposes, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, and it should be appreciated that other equivalents and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0041] Additionally, in describing the present disclosure, when it is considered that a detailed description of related known elements or functions makes the key subject matter of the present disclosure unclear, the detailed description is omitted herein.

[0042] Terms such as “first,” “second,” etc., of ordinal numbers may be used to distinguish one element from another element among various elements, but are not intended to limit the elements by the terms.

[0043] Throughout the specification, when a part is referred to as "including" or "comprising" any element, unless otherwise explicitly stated, it means that the part may also include other elements without excluding other elements. Additionally, terms such as "unit", "module" or "control unit" described in this specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and may be implemented as hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0044] Furthermore, throughout the specification, when a part is referred to as being “connected” to another part, it is not limited to the case where they are “directly connected” but also includes the case where they are “indirectly connected” with another element interposed therebetween.

[0045] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0046] Figure 1 is a diagram schematically showing an electric power system 1 including a battery control device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] The power system 1 may include an energy storage system 10 and an external control device 20. Here, the energy storage system 10 may include an ESS or a battery pack including a battery B. The external control device 20 may include a power conversion device such as a PCS or an inverter.

[0048] The external control device 20 may be electrically connected to the energy storage system 10 through the DC link terminals (DC_LINK+, DC_LINK-) and may convert the electrical characteristics of the power (e.g., frequency, voltage, DC / AC). For example, the electrical characteristics of the power supplied from the power grid may be converted by the external control device 20 and stored in the energy storage system 10. Additionally, the power stored in the energy storage system 10 may have its electrical characteristics converted by the external control device 20 and be supplied to the power grid.

[0049] The external control device 20 can control the power of the energy storage system 10. Specifically, the external control device 20 can control the power of the energy storage system 10 in a sleep mode that minimizes the power supply to the battery control device 100 (which can be referred to as a "battery controller") that controls the operation of the energy storage system 10. In the sleep mode, the power consumption of the battery control device 100 can be minimized. Specifically, when the battery control device 100 is in the sleep mode, the power stored in the energy storage system 10 cannot be supplied to the outside (e.g., a power grid, a load) through the external control device 20, and power cannot be supplied to the energy storage system 10 from the outside.

[0050] Additionally, the external control device 20 can control the power of the energy storage system 10 in the normal operation mode, which sets the power supply to the battery control device 100 to a normal state. In the normal operation mode, the power consumption of the battery control device 100 is greater than that in the sleep mode, and the normal operation of the energy storage system 10 can be performed. Specifically, when the battery control device 100 is in the normal operation mode, the power stored in the energy storage system 10 can be supplied to the outside through the external control device 20, and the power can be supplied from the outside through the external control device 20.

[0051] The energy storage system 10 may include a battery and a battery control device 100 .

[0052] Battery B may include a plurality of battery cells. The plurality of battery cells may be connected to each other in series or in parallel. The plurality of battery cells may be manufactured to have the same electrochemical specifications. For example, the type of battery cells is not particularly limited as long as they can be repeatedly charged and discharged, such as lithium-ion cells.

[0053] The battery B can store power (electric energy) supplied from the outside through the external control device 20 under the control of the battery control device 100. The battery B can output the stored power to the outside under the control of the battery control device 100.

[0054] The battery control device 100 can manage and control the overall operation of the energy storage system 10. Specifically, the battery control device 100 can set its operating state based on a control signal related to the operating mode received from the external control device 20. For example, the battery control device 100 can switch to the sleep mode based on a sleep signal received from the external control device 20 while operating in the normal operating mode. Additionally, the battery control device 100 can switch to the normal operating mode based on a wake-up signal received from the external control device 20 while operating in the sleep mode.

[0055] Meanwhile, the energy storage system 10 may further include a circuit breaker CB, a relay R, and a sensing unit SC.

[0056] The circuit breaker CB may be provided on the charging and discharging path L1 between the energy storage system 10 and the external control device 20. The circuit breaker CB may be configured to block the power supplied to the grid when operated (tripped). On the other hand, if the circuit breaker CB is not operated, power input and output may be performed through the charging and discharging path L1.

[0057] The relay R may be provided on the charging and discharging path L1 between the energy storage system 10 and the external control device 20. When the relay R is in the on state, power may be output to the outside or may be input from the outside. On the other hand, when the relay R is in the off state, power may be stopped from being output to the outside and from being input from the outside.

[0058] The sensing unit SC may sense a physical quantity of the battery B. The physical quantity of the battery B may include at least one of a voltage, a current, or a temperature of the battery B. For example, the sensing unit SC may include a current sensing circuit, and may detect a current flowing through a charging and discharging path L1 between the battery and the DC link terminals (DC_LINK+, DC_LINK-). The sensing unit SC may generate a current signal indicating the magnitude of the detected current, and may transmit the generated current signal to the battery control device 100. As an example, the sensing unit SC may be configured to include at least one of known current detection elements, such as a shunt resistor and a Hall effect element.

[0059] For ease of explanation, the circuit breaker CB, the relay R, and the sensing unit SC are shown as being located outside the battery control device 100. However, in various embodiments, at least some of these components may be included in the battery control device 100, or at least some of the components included in the battery control device 100 may be included inside or outside the energy storage system 10. In various embodiments, electrical connections are naturally formed between the components. Additionally, in addition to the components shown, various components related to the energy storage system 10 may also be adopted.

[0060] The battery control device 100 may include a power supply unit 110 , a driving unit 120 , a switching unit 130 , and a control unit 140 .

[0061] The power supply unit 110 may be configured to be electrically connected to a charging and discharging path L1 of the battery B. For example, the power supply unit 110 may receive power stored in the battery through the charging and discharging path L1 of the battery B and generate power for operation of the battery control device 100. The power for operation of the battery control device 100 may be referred to as operating power.

[0062] The power supply unit 110 may generate operating power having a predetermined size. For example, the power supply unit 110 may generate operating power of 12V. The power supply unit 110 may include a voltage regulator. In this case, the power supply unit 110 may convert the voltage stored in the battery to correspond to the voltage amount required by the control unit 140 or other components, for example, the power supply unit 110 may generate operating power converted from 12V to 3.3V through the voltage regulator.

[0063] The power supply unit 110 may supply the generated operating power to the control unit 140 .

[0064] The drive unit 120 may be configured to operate the power supply unit 110 by applying startup power to the power supply unit 110. For this purpose, the drive unit 120 may be connected to the charging and discharging path L1. Additionally, the drive unit 120 may supply startup power to the power supply unit 110 from the charging and discharging path L1 connected in this manner. In particular, the drive unit 120 may be configured to supply startup power during a preset startup time. In this way, the drive unit 120 may allow the power supply unit 110 to generate the above-mentioned operating power by applying startup power to the power supply unit 110.

[0065] The switching unit 130 may be configured to be connected between the charging and discharging path L1 of the battery B and the power supply unit 110. Specifically, when the switching unit 130 is turned on based on a control signal from the control unit 140, a main power path M is formed between the charging and discharging path L1 and the power supply unit 110, and power is supplied from the battery through the main power path M. The supplied power may be provided to the power supply unit 110 through the switching unit 130.

[0066] The control unit 140 may be configured to be applied with the first operating power output from the power supply unit 110. The first operating power may refer to power generated by the power supply unit 110 through the startup power output from the driving unit 120 during a preset startup time. The power supply unit 110 may output the generated first operating power to the control unit 140.

[0067] The control unit 140 may turn on the switching unit 130 in response to the first operating power.

[0068] That is, when the control unit 140 receives the first operating power from the power supply unit 110, the control unit 140 can use the received first operating power to turn on the switching unit 130. When the switching unit 130 is turned on, the power from the battery can be provided to the power supply unit 110 via the main power path M between the charging and discharging path L1 and the power supply unit 110 via the switching unit 130.

[0069] The control unit 140 is operably connected to other components of the battery control device 100 including the power supply unit 110, the drive unit 120, and the switching unit 130, and can control various operations of the battery control device 100. That is, the control unit 140 can be operably coupled to the power supply unit 110, the drive unit 120, and the switching unit 130. Two components being operably coupled means that the two components are directly or indirectly connected to achieve transmission and reception of signals in one direction or in two directions.

[0070] In terms of hardware, the control unit 120 may be implemented using at least one of an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), a DSPD (Digital Signal Processing Device), a PLD (Programmable Logic Device), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), a microprocessor, and other electrical units to perform functions. The control unit 140 may have a built-in memory device, and the memory device may include, for example, a RAM, a ROM, a register, a hard disk, an optical recording medium, or a magnetic recording medium. Alternatively, the memory device may not be built into the control unit 140, but may be included in the battery control device 100. The memory device may store, update, and / or erase programs including various control logics executed by the control unit 140 and / or data generated when executing the control logic.

[0071] The control unit 140 may be driven by the second operating power generated by the power supply unit 110 after the startup time.

[0072] Specifically, the drive unit 120 may be configured so that the startup power is not applied to the power supply unit 110 after the startup time. That is, when the startup time elapses, the operation of the drive unit 120 that outputs the startup power to the power supply unit 110 may be terminated. Accordingly, due to the termination of the operation of the drive unit 120, the power supply unit 110 may not generate the first operating power, but may instead generate the second operating power by the power provided from the main power path M via the switching unit 130. The power supply unit 110 may provide the second operating power to the control unit 140. The control unit 140 may use the second operating power to perform various operations of the battery control device 100. When the generated second operating power is continuously provided to the control unit 140, the control unit 140 may be out of its abnormal operating state (e.g., a shutdown state or a sleep mode). That is, the control unit 140 may be awakened from a state (e.g., a sleep mode) that consumes no power or consumes minimal power by the second operating power and switched to a standby mode.

[0073] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, through the driving unit 120 operating during a predetermined start time, both power control of the battery control apparatus 100 (or the control unit 140 ) by the external control device 20 and a black start function may be performed.

[0074] Specifically, for the black start function, the drive unit 120 can electrically connect the node at the rear end of the circuit breaker CB to the power supply unit 110 by changing the circuit breaker CB from the trip state to the on state, and control the control unit 140 to exit the off state through the above series of processes. In addition, when the drive unit 120 receives a wake-up signal from the external control device 20, the drive unit 120 can electrically connect the node at the rear end of the circuit breaker CB to the power supply unit 110, and allow the control unit 140 to exit the sleep mode through the above series of processes.

[0075] That is, the battery control device 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can use the drive unit 120 to electrically connect the node at the rear end of the circuit breaker CB with the power supply unit 110 within a predetermined startup time, and after the startup time has elapsed, implement the on / off control operation (power control operation) and the black start function through the external control device 20. That is, the first operating power and the second operating power are power generated by the power supply unit 110 through power supplied from different nodes in the charging and discharging paths, and the transmission paths of the first operating power and the second operating power are also different from each other.

[0076] Assuming that the battery B power is continuously supplied to the control unit 140 from the node at the front end of the circuit breaker CB through the switching unit 130, and there is no power path from the node at the rear end of the circuit breaker CB to the power supply unit, the battery B power is continuously transmitted to the control unit 140 through the switching unit 130. Therefore, the external control device 20 cannot control the power of the control unit 140, and in order to control the power of the control unit 140, it is necessary to supply power to the control unit 140 or stop the supply of power using the circuit breaker CB.

[0077] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, by making the transmission path of the first operating power of the control unit 140 at the initial startup time (when the black start function is executed or the time point when the control unit 140 is released from the sleep mode) and the transmission path of the second operating power after the predetermined startup time different from each other, both the power control function of the control unit 140 by the external control device 20 and the black start function can be realized. That is, according to the present disclosure, during the initial startup of the control unit 140, the battery B power can be supplied to the control unit 140 through the drive unit 120, and thereafter, the battery B power can be supplied to the control unit 140 through another path (main power path M) that does not pass through the drive unit 120. Therefore, according to the configuration of the present disclosure, both the power control function of the control unit 140 by the external control device 20 and the black start function of starting the external control device 20 after the control unit 140 is first awakened can be realized without the operation of the circuit breaker CB.

[0078] In other words, according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the black start function of waking up the power system 1 by first starting the battery control device 100 and then starting the external control device 20 and the power control operation of the battery control device 100 by the external control device 20 can all be realized, which are conflicting concepts. The embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the various operations described below as being performed by the control unit 140 may also be understood to be performed by the battery control device 100 or the energy storage system 10 including the control unit 140, and other components may be involved together.

[0079] Figure 2 is an exemplary circuit diagram for implementing the driving unit 120 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0080] refer to Figure 2 , the operation of the driving unit 120 when the black start function is performed will be described.

[0081] The driving unit 120 may be connected to the charging and discharging path L1 through the first node N1. Figure 1 As shown in , the first node N1 is a node at the rear end of the circuit breaker CB, and may be a node on the charging and discharging path L1 between the circuit breaker CB and the external control device 20 .

[0082] The drive unit 120 may include a plurality of switching elements. The plurality of switching elements may be implemented using known elements such as BJP and MOSFET. The operating states of the first switching element M1, the second switching element M2, and the third switching element M3 may be implemented to be opposite to each other. For example, the drive unit 120 may be configured so that when the first switching element M1 and the second switching element M2 are turned on, the third switching element M3 is in an off state, and conversely, so that when the first switching element M1 and the second switching element M2 are turned off, the third switching element M3 is in an on state. As an example, the first switching element M1 may be a p-type MOSFET, and the second switching element M2 and the third switching element M3 may be n-type MOSFETs. For ease of understanding, the first switching element M1 and the second switching element M2 will be described as being in an off state, and the third switching element M3 will be in an on state as an initial state.

[0083] First, the circuit breaker CB may be changed from the tripped state to the on state. For example, when a black start function is performed, the circuit breaker CB may be changed from the tripped state to the on state manually by an input from an external source (eg, a user).

[0084] When the circuit breaker CB transitions to the on state, power from the battery is applied to the first node N1. In response to power being applied to the first node N1, the third switching element M3 may be configured to transition from the on state to the off state.

[0085] When the third switching element M3 is turned off, the first switching element M1 and the second switching element M2 may be configured to be changed from an off state to an on state. Therefore, current (I) flows to the power supply unit 110 through the first switching element M1, and the starting power from the battery may be supplied to the power supply unit 110. The time during which the current flows to the power supply unit 110 through the first switching element M1, that is, the time during which the starting power is supplied to the power supply unit 110, may be referred to as the starting time.

[0086] The driving unit 120 may be configured to stop output of the startup power supplied to the power supply unit 110 after the startup time has elapsed.

[0087] Specifically, while the power applied to the first node N1 continues, the third switching element M3 may be configured to be turned on again due to the charging of the capacitor C. Since the third switching element M3 is turned on, the first switching element M1 and the second switching element M2 are turned off, and thus the current flowing to the power supply unit 110 through the first switching element M1 is blocked. That is, since the first switching element M1 is turned off, the startup power supplied to the power supply unit 110 is stopped, and the startup time ends.

[0088] Figure 3 is schematically shown applied to the reference Figure 2 Graphs of voltages of the first switching element M1 and the third switching element M3 are described. Specifically, the voltage A1 of the first switching element M1 represents the drain voltage of the first switching element M1 when the first switching element M1 is a p-type MOSFET. The voltage A2 of the third switching element represents the gate voltage of the third switching element M3 when the third switching element M3 is an n-type MOSFET. The voltage B1 of the wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) means a signal received by the control unit from the external control device 20 in the sleep mode. Figure 3 The time intervals and voltage magnitudes of the graphs shown in the figure are indicated only for the convenience of explanation and should not be construed as limiting Figure 3 .

[0089] In response to the circuit breaker CB being changed from the tripped state to the on state at t0, the third switching element M3 is turned off, and the first switching element M1 is turned on by the voltage applied to the first node N1. The turned-on first switching element M1 may have a first voltage V1. Thereafter, the startup power may be provided to the power supply unit 110 through the first switching element M1 during time t0 to ta.

[0090] The driving unit 120 is configured to turn on the third switching element M3 and turn off the first switching element M1 when the operating voltage of the third switching element M3 reaches the threshold voltage (Vth) by the capacitor C charged during the startup time, for example, at time ta. Therefore, the startup power supplied by the first switching element M1 can be interrupted. That is, referring to Figure 3 , the time from t0 to ta may correspond to a startup time during which the driving unit 120 supplies startup power to the power supply unit 110. When the startup time expires, the operation of the startup unit supplying startup power to the power supply unit 110 is terminated. Figure 1 and Figure 4 , a black start function performed by the battery control device 100 according to an embodiment based on the operation of the above-described drive unit 120 will be described. Meanwhile, Figure 3 The graph during tc to tg in is used to explain the operation of the driving unit 120 when the wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) is applied, and will be described later together with related contents.

[0091] Figure 4 is a diagram showing states of various signals transmitted and received between components while the control unit is switched from a shutdown state to a normal operation mode. Figure 4 The time intervals between the first to sixth time points shown in are merely examples and should not be construed restrictively.

[0092] refer to Figure 4 , the input (INPUT_BS) for performing the black start function may have a low (LOW) level or a high (HIGH) level. Additionally, the first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD) may have a low (LOW) level or a high (HIGH) level. The first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD) is a signal that turns the switching unit 130 from the off state to the on state, and is a signal output from the control unit 140 to the switching unit 130. Additionally, the second control signal (CTRL_MC) may have a low (LOW) level or a high (HIGH) level. The second control signal (CTRL_MC) is a signal that turns the relay R from the off state to the on state, and is a signal output to the relay R by the control unit 140. For each signal, a low level may mean that the corresponding signal is not output, or a signal whose output signal size is less than a predetermined value. For each signal, a high level may mean that the corresponding signal is output, or a signal whose output signal size is greater than a predetermined value.

[0093] Hereinafter, the OFF state of the circuit breaker may mean a trip state. The trip state may mean that the CP1 terminal is electrically separated from the CP2 terminal, and the CN1 terminal is electrically separated from the CN2 terminal. The ON state of the circuit breaker may mean that the circuit breaker operates so that the CP1 terminal is electrically connected to the CP2 terminal, and the CN1 terminal is electrically connected to the CN2 terminal.

[0094] Hereinafter, an OFF state of the driving unit may mean a state in which the driving unit does not output startup power, and an ON state of the driving unit may mean a state in which the driving unit outputs startup power.

[0095] First, refer to Figure 1 , the circuit breaker CB is installed on the charging and discharging path L1, and one end of the circuit breaker CB may include a CP1 terminal connected to the positive terminal (BAT+) of the battery B and a CN1 terminal connected to the negative terminal (BAT-) of the battery B. The other end of the circuit breaker CB faces one end of the circuit breaker CB and may include a CP2 terminal and a CN2 terminal electrically connected to the external control device 20.

[0096] The driving unit 120 may be connected to the other end opposite to the end facing the battery among both ends of the circuit breaker CB.

[0097] refer to Figure 1 , the relay R may be located on the charging and discharging path L1. The relay R is located at the other end of the circuit breaker CB, and may be turned on or off under the control of the control unit 140.

[0098] When a power outage occurs in the electric power system 1, the circuit breaker CB changes from an on state to a tripped state (off), and the electrical connection between the CP1 terminal and the CP2 terminal and the electrical connection between the CN1 terminal and the CN2 terminal are disconnected. When a power outage occurs, the operation of the energy storage system 10, that is, the battery control device 100, and the external control device 20 are stopped. That is, in this case, the battery control device 100 and the external control device 20 are in a shut-down state in which no electrical operation can be performed, and specifically, the operation of all components including the control unit 140 and the drive unit 120 is stopped (OFF). Additionally, the output of the second control signal (CTRL_MC) for turning on the relay R is also stopped, so the relay R is in an off state. Reference Figure 4 For ease of explanation, for example, the state before the first time point is a power outage state, in which the circuit breaker CB is in a tripped state (off), the drive unit 120 is also in an off state, and the control unit 140 is also in a closed state.

[0099] The starting power may be supplied from a first node N1 located at a portion on the charging and discharging path L1 that is electrically connected to the battery when the circuit breaker CB is turned into an on state.

[0100] Specifically, in the closed state, the circuit breaker CB may receive an input (e.g., an input from a user) that causes the circuit breaker CB to be turned into the on state. For example, when the circuit breaker CB is turned into the on state at a first time point based on receiving an input that causes the circuit breaker CB to be turned into the on state, the CP1 terminal and the CP2 terminal may be electrically connected, and the CN1 terminal and the CN2 terminal may be electrically connected. Therefore, the voltage supplied from the battery may be applied to the first node N1 at the rear end of the circuit breaker CB (e.g., the other end of the circuit breaker CB) on the charging and discharging path L1. In other words, the first node N1 may be located in a portion of the charging and discharging path L1 that is electrically connected to the battery when the circuit breaker CB is turned into the on state.

[0101] When the voltage from the battery is applied to the first node N1, the driving unit 120 may operate. That is, at a first time point, when the circuit breaker CB changes from a tripped state to an on state, the state of the driving unit 120 is also switched from an off state to an on state.

[0102] The power supply unit 110 may be configured to generate first operating power from the first node N1.

[0103] Specifically, at a first time point, the driving unit 120 supplies startup power from the first node N1 to the power supply unit 110. When the startup power is supplied, the power supply unit 110 may generate first operating power from the first node N1 and apply the generated first operating power to the control unit 140. The control unit 140 may perform initial startup based on the first operating power.

[0104] The initially started control unit 140 may output a first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD) to the switching unit 130 after a second time point. From the second time point at which the control unit 140 is initially started and outputs the first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD), the control unit 140 may operate in a standby mode in a shutdown state. Here, the first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD) is a signal that turns the switching unit 130 from an off state to an on state. The switching unit 130 may be turned on in response to the first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD).

[0105] The switching unit 130 may be configured to be connected to a second node N2 between the battery and the circuit breaker CB.

[0106] Specifically, the switched-on switching unit 130 may be electrically connected to a second node N2 located at the front end of the circuit breaker CB (e.g., one end of the circuit breaker CB) on the charging and discharging path L1. Therefore, after the second time point, a main power path M may be formed between the second node N2 and the switching unit 130, and power may be supplied from the second node N2 to the power supply unit 110 through the main power path M.

[0107] The power supply unit 110 may be configured to generate the second operating power from the second node N2 through the switching unit 130 .

[0108] Specifically, the power supply unit 110 can generate a second operating power from the second node N2 by the switching unit 130 turned on at the second time point, and apply the generated second operating power to the control unit 140. The control unit 140 can maintain the startup state based on the second operating power. That is, the control unit 140 can operate in standby mode while maintaining the startup state based on the second operating power from the second time point. The standby mode in this specification may mean a state in which the relay R for connecting to the external control device is not turned on and the charging and discharging of the battery B is not performed. In other words, the standby mode is a state before entering the normal operating mode in which charging and discharging are performed, and it can be said that it is a state in which the control unit has been out of the shutdown state and awakened.

[0109] At the third time point, the driving unit 120 stops outputting the startup power to the power supply unit 110. Information on stopping the startup power has been referred to in Figure 2 and Figure 3 Here, the time from the first time point to the third time point during which the driving unit 120 is in the on state may correspond to the above-mentioned start-up time.

[0110] Even after the third time point when the startup power is not input to the power supply unit 110, the control unit 140 has been initially started and operates in the standby mode, so the first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD) may be continuously transmitted to the switching unit 130, and thus, the main power path M is maintained in an electrically connected state.

[0111] Next, the control unit 140 may receive an input (INPUT_BS) for executing a black start function from the outside. Specifically, during the period from the fourth time point to the fifth time point, an input (INPUT_BS) for executing a black start function is received from an operator of the power system 1 or the upper system, and the control unit 140 may output a second control signal (CTRL_MC) to the relay R at the sixth time point based on the above input. Here, the second control signal (CTRL_MC) is a signal that turns the relay R from an off state to an on state. The relay R may be turned on in response to the second control signal (CTRL_MC). Starting from the sixth time point when the relay R is turned on, the control unit 140 may operate in a normal operating mode. Specifically, the control unit 140 may be in a normal operating mode in which the power stored in the battery is output to the external control device 20 or the power is received from the external control device 20 and stored in the battery.

[0112] Meanwhile, in addition to the black start of starting the energy storage system 10 and the external control device 20 in the power outage state, the off / on control of the power system 1 may be necessary even in situations other than the power outage state. Figure 5 , an embodiment is described in which the power system 1 is normally started during an inspection process or an initial installation process of the power system 1.

[0113] Figure 5 1 is a diagram showing states of various signals transmitted and received between components while the control unit 140 is switched from a shutdown state to a normal operation mode. Figure 5 The time intervals between the first to sixth time points shown in are merely examples and should not be construed restrictively.

[0114] During normal startup, since no abnormal event such as power outage has occurred in the power system 1, Figure 4 Compared with the present embodiment, the input (INPUT_BS) for executing the black start function is not received from the outside. Therefore, except for the input (INPUT_BS) for executing the black start function, the present embodiment is different from the reference embodiment. Figure 4 Describe what is similar and explain the differences.

[0115] refer to Figure 5, since the state of the above-mentioned power system 1 is a state that does not require a black start function such as a power outage, the input (INPUT_BS) for executing the black start function may have a low (LOW) level. Additionally, the first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD) may have a low (LOW) level or a high (HIGH) level. The first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD) is a signal that turns the switching unit 130 from an off state to an on state, and is a signal output from the control unit 140 to the switching unit 130. Additionally, the second control signal (CTRL_MC) may have a low (LOW) level or a high (HIGH) level. The second control signal (CTRL_MC) is a signal that turns the relay R from an off state to an on state, and is a signal output from the control unit 140 to the relay R. For each signal, a low level may mean that the corresponding signal is not output, or a signal whose output signal size is less than a predetermined value. For each signal, a high level may mean that the corresponding signal is output, or a signal whose output signal size is greater than a predetermined value.

[0116] The battery control apparatus 100 may further include a communication interface (not shown) for communicating with the external control device 20 .

[0117] While the control unit 140 is in the standby mode, the control unit 140 may check the state of the external control device 20 by communicating with the external control device 20. Specifically, during the third to sixth time points when the control unit 140 is in the standby mode after the third time point at which the operation of the drive unit 120 outputting the startup power to the power supply unit 110 is terminated, the control unit 140 may perform internal diagnosis of the battery control device 100 (or the energy storage system 10). If the normality of each operation of the battery control device 100 is diagnosed and each operation is determined to be normal, the control unit 140 may diagnose the external control device 20 by communicating with the external control device 20. If it is determined that the external control device 20 is normal, the control unit 140 may output a second control signal (CTRL_MC) to the relay R at the sixth time point. The relay R may be turned on in response to the second control signal (CTRL_MC). From the sixth time point at which the relay R is turned on, the control unit 140 may operate in the normal operation mode. Specifically, the control unit 140 may be in a normal operation mode in which the power stored in the battery is output to the external control device 20 or the power is received from the external control device 20 and stored in the battery. Figure 2 and Figure 6 The power control operation performed by the external control device 20 will be described.

[0118] Figure 6is a diagram showing states of various signals transmitted and received between components during a power control operation by the external control device 20. First, a sleep operation in which the external control device 20 changes the energy storage system 10 to a sleep mode is described. Figure 6 The time intervals between the first to seventh time points shown in are merely examples and should not be construed restrictively.

[0119] The power system 1 may be in a normal operation mode in the initial stage (before the first time point). Specifically, for ease of explanation, the circuit breaker CB is in the on state and the control unit 140 is also in the normal operation mode in the state before the first time point as an example for description. Here, the drive unit 120 is configured to operate only during the startup time, so in the normal operation mode after the startup time, it is naturally in the off state.

[0120] refer to Figure 6 , since the state of the above-mentioned power system 1 is a state that does not require a black start function such as a power outage, the input (INPUT_BS) for executing the black start function may have a low (LOW) level. Additionally, the wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) may have a low level or a high (HIGH) level. The wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) is a signal transmitted by the external control device 20 to the drive unit 120. Additionally, the first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD) may have a low level or a high level. The first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD) is a signal that turns the switching unit 130 from the off state to the on state, and is a signal output from the control unit 140 to the switching unit 130. Additionally, the second control signal (CTRL_MC) may have a low (LOW) level or a high (HIGH) level. The second control signal (CTRL_MC) is a signal that turns the relay R from the off state to the on state, and is a signal output to the relay R by the control unit 140. For each signal, a low level may mean not outputting the corresponding signal, or outputting a signal whose signal size is less than a predetermined value. For each signal, a high level may mean outputting the corresponding signal, or outputting a signal whose signal size is greater than a predetermined value.

[0121] The external control device 20 can transmit a sleep signal to the energy storage system 10, that is, the control unit 140, in order to minimize power consumption in a specific environment. For example, if the power system 1 is part of a solar power system, the amount of electricity generated and charged is reduced in winter, so it is necessary to minimize the operation of the energy storage system 10 to reduce power consumption. In addition, when an event occurs that requires reducing the power consumption of the energy storage system 10 for various reasons, the external control device 20 can transmit a sleep signal to the control unit 140. Although Figure 6Although not shown in the figure, the external control device 20 may transmit a sleep signal to the control unit 140 at a first point in time. In particular, without changing the circuit breaker CB from the on state to the off state, the state of the control unit 140 is changed from the normal operation mode to the sleep mode based on the sleep signal transmitted by the external control device 20 to the control unit 140.

[0122] The control unit 140 may be configured to turn off at least one of the circuit breaker CB, the relay R, or the switching unit 130 based on receiving the sleep signal from the external control device 20. Here, the relay R is located between the circuit breaker CB and the external control device 20.

[0123] Specifically, the control unit 140 may stop outputting the second control signal (CTRL_MC) output to the relay R in response to the sleep signal at a first time point. When the output of the second control signal (CTRL_MC) is stopped, the relay R may be changed from the on state to the off state. When the relay R is in the off state, power transmission and reception are stopped, so the power consumed by the energy storage system 10 may be reduced compared to the case in the normal operation mode. Specifically, the control unit 140 may enter the sleep mode while the circuit breaker CB is in the on state.

[0124] Next, at a second time point, the control unit 140 may stop outputting the first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD) output to the switching unit 130. When the output of the first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD) is stopped, the switching unit 130 may transition from an on state to an off state. When the switching unit 130 enters the off state, the power supply from the battery to the control unit 140 is stopped, so that the power consumed by the energy storage system 10 may be further reduced. That is, power consumption may be first reduced when the first time point passes, and then power consumption may be minimized when the second time point passes. Next, a wake-up operation in which the external control device 20 changes the energy storage system 10 from a sleep mode to a normal operating mode will be described.

[0125] At the third time point, the external control device 20 may transmit a wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) to the drive unit 120. For example, the external control device 20 may apply the wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) to the drive unit 120 during the third time point to the fifth time point. The wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) may be a low voltage signal of 3.3V to 12V. The drive unit 120 receiving the wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) changes from the off state to the on state at the fifth time point, and is configured to output the startup power to the power supply unit 110. This will be referred to again. Figure 2 Give a description.

[0126] refer to Figure 2 , the driving unit 120 may be configured to include an optical coupler PC that receives a wake-up signal (Input_wakeup).

[0127] The optocoupler PC may include a light emitting unit such as a diode and a light receiving unit. The light emitting unit generates a light signal by a wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) received from the external control device 20, and the generated light signal may be output to the light receiving unit. In response to the light receiving unit receiving the light signal, the third switching element M3 may be changed from an on state to an off state. In particular, the wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) is a relatively low voltage signal, and may be a signal of approximately 12V or 3.3V. In other words, according to the present disclosure, there is an effect of waking up the control unit 140 (battery control device 100) even with a low voltage signal.

[0128] The driving unit 120 may be configured to output startup power to the power supply unit 110 during the startup time based on the wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) received from the external control device 20. Figure 3 , the operation of the driving unit 120 in response to the reception of the wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) will be described.

[0129] refer to Figure 3 , the driving unit 120 may receive a wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) during time tc to td. Figure 3 The time tc corresponds to Figure 6 , and the driving unit 120 is in a state where it does not supply startup power to the power supply unit 110 before time tc.

[0130] The driving unit 120 may be configured such that, when the photocoupler PC of the driving unit 120 is operated by the wake-up signal (Input_wakeup), the third switching element M3 is turned off, and the first switching element M1 and the second switching element M2 are changed from an off state to an on state.

[0131] Specifically, the third switching element M3 is turned off at time tc based on the wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) received during the period from time tc to td. At time tc, in response to the turned-off third switching element M3, the first switching element M1 and the second switching element M2 are turned on, and the current (I) flows to the power supply unit 110 during tc to time tf through the turned-on first switching element M1. Therefore, the starting power from the battery can be supplied to the power supply unit 110 through the drive unit 120.

[0132] Similar to the above, the operating voltage of the third switching element M3 reaches the threshold voltage (Vth) through the capacitor C, which is charged during the startup time when the startup power is supplied to the power supply unit 110 through the driving unit 120. For example, when the operating voltage of the third switching element M3 reaches the threshold voltage (Vth) at time tf, the third switching element M3 is configured to be turned on again, and the first switching element M1 is configured to be turned off. Therefore, the startup power supplied through the first switching element M1 can be interrupted. That is, referring to Figure 3 , the time tc to tf may correspond to a startup time in response to the wake-up signal (Input_wakeup), in which the driving unit 120 provides startup power to the power supply unit 110. When the startup time expires, the operation of the startup unit providing startup power to the power supply unit 110 in response to the wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) is terminated.

[0133] When the startup power is supplied, the power supply unit 110 may generate the first operating power from the first node N1 and apply the generated first operating power to the control unit 140. The control unit 140 may perform initial startup based on the first operating power.

[0134] The initially started control unit 140 may output a first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD) to the switching unit 130 after the fifth time point. Starting from the fifth time point when the control unit 140 initially starts and outputs the first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD), the control unit 140 may operate from the sleep mode to the standby mode. Here, the first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD) is a signal that turns the switching unit 130 from an off state to an on state. The switching unit 130 may be turned on in response to the first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD).

[0135] The switched-on switching unit 130 may be electrically connected to a second node N2 located at the front end of the circuit breaker CB (e.g., one end of the circuit breaker CB) on the charging and discharging path L1. Therefore, after the fifth time point, a main power path M may be formed between the second node N2 and the switching unit 130, and power may be supplied from the second node N2 to the power supply unit 110 through the main power path M.

[0136] The power supply unit 110 may generate a second operating power from the second node N2 by the switching unit 130 turned on at the fifth time point, and apply the generated second operating power to the control unit 140. The control unit 140 may maintain the startup state based on the second operating power. That is, the control unit 140 may operate in standby mode while maintaining the startup state based on the second operating power from the fifth time point. At the same time, the drive unit 120 stops outputting startup power to the power supply unit 110 after the predetermined startup time has elapsed. The startup power output to the power supply unit 110 is stopped, but the control unit 140 has been operating in standby mode, so the first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD) may continue to be transmitted to the switching unit 130, and therefore, the main power path M maintains an electrically connected state.

[0137] Next, the control unit 140 may output a second control signal (CTRL_MC) to the relay R at the seventh time point. Here, the second control signal (CTRL_MC) is a signal that changes the relay R from an off state to an on state. The relay R may be turned on in response to the second control signal (CTRL_MC). Starting from the seventh time point when the relay R is turned on, the control unit 140 may operate in a normal operation mode. Specifically, the control unit 140 may be in a normal operation mode in which the power stored in the battery is output to the external control device 20 or the power is received from the external control device 20 and stored in the battery. That is, according to the above embodiment, the power control operation of the control unit 140 (the operation of switching from the normal operation mode to the sleep mode or from the sleep mode to the normal operation mode via the standby mode) may be performed while the circuit breaker CB maintains the on state.

[0138] In this way, based on the event in which the circuit breaker CB is changed from the tripped state to the on state and the wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) received from the external control device 20, the battery control device 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can realize the black start function and the power control operation by the drive unit 120 operating within the predetermined start time. In other words, the above-mentioned battery control device 100 has the advantage of being able to realize two conflicting functions.

[0139] Figure 7 Schematically shows a state machine of an energy storage system 100 including a battery control device 10 according to an embodiment. Figure 7 , showing the state of the energy storage system 10 according to the above embodiment.

[0140] The energy storage system 10 according to one embodiment may be in a state of operating in any one of a normal operation mode S1 , a shutdown state S2 , a standby mode S3 , or a sleep mode S4 .

[0141] In the normal operation mode S1, the circuit breaker CB, the relay R, and the control unit 140 of the energy storage system 10 may be in an on state. The energy storage system 10 operating in the normal operation mode S1 may output power stored in the battery to the external control device 20, or receive power from the external control device 20 and store it in the battery.

[0142] The energy storage system 10 may change from the normal operation mode S1 to the shutdown state S2 based on the occurrence of a power outage in the electric power system 1 or receipt of a shutdown signal from the external control device 20 .

[0143] In the closed state S2, the circuit breaker CB is in a tripped state (off), and the relay R and the control unit 140 may also be in an off state. Based on receiving an external input that causes the circuit breaker CB to be turned on, the state of the energy storage system 10 may be changed from the closed state S2 to the standby mode S3. Since a series of processes for changing from the closed state S2 to the standby mode S3, including the operation of the drive unit 120, have been described, redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0144] In the standby mode S3, the circuit breaker CB and the control unit 140 may be in the on state, and the relay R may be in the off state. When an input (INPUT_BS) for executing a black start function is received from the outside or through the above-mentioned normal start, the state of the energy storage system 10 may be changed from the standby mode S3 to the normal operation mode S1. Conversely, when a signal for changing to the standby mode S3 is received from the external control device 20, the state of the energy storage system 10 may be changed from the normal operation mode S1 to the standby mode S3.

[0145] Based on a sleep signal received from the external control device 20 in the normal operation mode S1 , the state of the energy storage system 10 may be changed from the normal operation mode S1 to the sleep mode S4 .

[0146] In the sleep mode S4, the circuit breaker CB may be in the on state, and the relay R and the control unit 140 may be in the off state. In the sleep mode S4, the relay R and the control unit 140 are in the off state, so that power consumption can be minimized. When a wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) is received from the external control device 20, the state of the energy storage system 10 may be changed from the sleep mode S4 to the standby mode S3. On the contrary, if it is detected that communication with the external control device 20 cannot be performed in the standby mode S3, the state of the energy storage system 10 may be changed from the standby mode S3 to the sleep mode S4.

[0147] That is, reference Figure 7 , has passed Figures 1 to 5An embodiment of the energy storage system 10 operating from a shutdown state through a standby mode to a normal operation mode (S2 to S3 to S1) is described. Figures 1 to 3 and Figure 6 An embodiment of the energy storage system 10 operating from a normal operation mode through a sleep mode and a standby mode to a normal operation mode (S1 to S4 to S3 to S1) is described in detail.

[0148] The battery control device 100 according to the present disclosure may be applied to a BMS. That is, the BMS according to the present disclosure may include the above-mentioned battery control device 100. In this configuration, at least some components of the battery control device 100 may be implemented by supplementing or adding functions included in a conventional BMS. For example, at least some components of the battery control device 100 may be implemented as components of a BMS.

[0149] In addition, the battery control device 100 according to the present disclosure may be included in a battery pack. That is, the battery pack according to the present disclosure may include the battery control device 100 according to the present disclosure and at least one battery (or, battery cell). In addition, the battery pack according to the present disclosure may include components generally included in a battery pack, such as one or more secondary batteries, a BMS, a current sensor, a relay, a fuse, a battery pack housing, etc., in addition to the battery control device 100 according to the present disclosure. In addition, at least some components of the battery control device 100 according to the present disclosure may be implemented as conventional components included in a battery pack. For example, at least some functions or operations of the control unit 140 of the battery control device 100 according to the present disclosure may be implemented by the BMS included in the battery pack.

[0150] Figure 8 FIG. 1 is a flow chart schematically illustrating a battery control method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 In the embodiment, the subject of each step may be each component of the battery control device 100 according to the present disclosure described above.

[0151] refer to Figure 8 , the battery control method according to the present disclosure may include a start-up power output step ( S810 ), a first operation power receiving step ( S820 ), and a second operation power receiving step ( S830 ).

[0152] The startup power output step ( S810 ) is a step of applying startup power to the power supply unit 110 , and may be performed by the driving unit 120 .

[0153] Specifically, the power supply unit 10 may be connected to a charging and discharging path L1 of the battery B. In one embodiment, the drive unit 120 electrically connects the first node N1 to the power supply unit 110 based on the circuit breaker CB being changed from a tripped state to an on state or a wake-up signal (Input_wakeup) received from the external control device 20. The first node N1 may be a node located in a portion electrically connected to the battery when the circuit breaker CB is changed to an on state on the charging and discharging path L1. Additionally, the first node N1 may be described as a node located at the rear end of the circuit breaker CB connected to the external control device 20 on the charging and discharging path L1.

[0154] When startup power is applied from the first node N1 to the power supply unit 110, the power supply unit 110 may generate the first operating power. The startup power is output to the power supply unit 110 during a preset startup time when the driving unit 120 operates, and when the startup time expires, the output of the startup power may be stopped.

[0155] The first operating power receiving step ( S820 ) is a step of receiving the first operating power output from the power supply unit 110 , and may be performed by the control unit 140 .

[0156] Specifically, the power supply unit 110 may generate the first operating power based on the power applied from the first node N1 (power from the battery), and the power supply unit 110 may initially start the control unit 140 by outputting the generated first operating power to the control unit 140 .

[0157] The control unit 140 having received the first operating power may output a first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD) turning on the switching unit 130 to the switching unit 130. The switching unit 130 may transition from an off state to an on state based on the first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD).

[0158] The second operating power receiving step ( S830 ) is a step of receiving the second operating power generated by the power supply unit 110 after the start-up time and may be performed by the control unit 140 .

[0159] The switching unit 130 in the on state may electrically connect the second node N2 to the power supply unit 110. The second node N2 may be a node between the battery and the circuit breaker CB on the charging and discharging path L1. The second node N2 may also be described as a node at the front end of the circuit breaker CB connected to the battery on the charging and discharging path L1.

[0160] The power supply unit 110 may generate a second operating power based on the power applied from the second node N2 (power from the battery). The power supply unit 110 may output the generated second operating power to the control unit 140. The control unit 140 may maintain the output of the first control signal (CTRL_POWER_HOLD) to the switching unit 130 using the second operating power supplied from the power supply unit 110. Therefore, the switching unit 130 maintains the on state, and the control unit 140 may operate in the standby mode.

[0161] Here, the driving unit 120 is configured to apply the startup power to the power supply unit 110 during the preset startup time, and stop outputting the startup power after the startup time, but the control unit 140, which is initially driven by the startup power, turns on the switching unit 130, so that it can continue to receive power from the battery even after stopping outputting the startup power. That is, the control unit 140 can be driven by the second operating power generated by the power supply unit 110 from the second node N2, and outputs the second control signal (CTRL_MC) that turns on the relay R to the relay R to operate in the normal operation mode. In other words, the control unit 140 can be driven using the second operating power instead of the first operating power after the startup time.

[0162] With respect to steps S810 to S830, the contents of the battery control device 100 according to the present disclosure can be applied in the same or similar manner. Therefore, a detailed description of each step of the battery control method according to the present disclosure is omitted.

[0163] The above-mentioned embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented not only by means of devices and methods, but also by a program that implements functions corresponding to the configuration of the embodiments of the present disclosure or a recording medium on which the program is recorded. Those skilled in the art can easily implement the program or recording medium from the above description of the embodiments.

[0164] The present disclosure has been described in detail. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, are given by way of example only, since various changes and modifications within the scope of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

[0165] Additionally, those skilled in the art may make many substitutions, modifications and changes to the above-mentioned disclosure without departing from the technical aspects of the disclosure, and the disclosure is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments and drawings, and each embodiment may be selectively combined in part or in whole to allow various modifications.

[0166] (reference numerals)

[0167] 1: Power system

[0168] 10: Energy storage system

[0169] 20: External control equipment

[0170] 100: Battery control device

[0171] 110: Power supply unit

[0172] 120: Drive unit

[0173] 130: Switching unit

[0174] 140: Control unit

[0175] B: Battery

[0176] CP: Circuit Breaker

[0177] R: Relay

[0178] SC: Sensing Unit

Claims

1. A battery control device, comprising: a power supply unit connected to a charging and discharging path of the battery; a driving unit configured to operate the power supply unit by applying a startup power from the charging and discharging path to the power supply unit during a preset startup time; a switching unit connected between the charging and discharging path of the battery and the power supply unit; as well as A control unit configured to turn on the switching unit in response to first operating power output from the power supply unit being applied, and to be driven by second operating power generated by the power supply unit after the start-up time.

2. The battery control device according to claim 1, wherein: The drive unit is configured to stop outputting the startup power after the startup time has elapsed.

3. The battery control device according to claim 1, wherein: A circuit breaker is provided on the charging and discharging path of the battery, and The driving unit is connected to one end of the circuit breaker which is opposite to the battery.

4. The battery control device according to claim 3, wherein: The starting power is supplied from a first node located at a portion on the charging and discharging path that is electrically connected to the battery when the circuit breaker is shifted to an on state.

5. The battery control device according to claim 4, wherein: The power supply unit is configured to generate the first operating power from the first node.

6. The battery control device according to claim 1, wherein: The switching unit is configured to be connected to a second node between the battery and the circuit breaker.

7. The battery control device according to claim 6, wherein: The power supply unit is configured to generate the second operating power from the second node through the switching unit.

8. The battery control device according to claim 1, wherein: The control unit is configured to turn off at least one of the switching unit and a relay between the circuit breaker and the external control device based on receiving a sleep signal from the external control device.

9. The battery control device according to claim 1, wherein: The driving unit is configured to include a photocoupler that receives a wake-up signal from an external control device.

10. The battery control device according to claim 9, wherein: The driving unit is configured to output the startup power to the power supply unit during the startup time based on receiving a wake-up signal from the external control device.

11. A battery pack comprising the battery control device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A battery control method, comprising: a startup power output step of applying startup power to a power supply unit connected to a charging and discharging path of a battery during a preset startup time; a first operating power receiving step of turning on a switching unit connected between the charging and discharging path of the battery and the power supply unit in response to application of a first operating power output from the power supply unit; as well as a second operation power receiving step of driving by a second operation power generated by the power supply unit after the startup time.

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