Control device, power adjustment device, power device, control system, management device, and program

Abstract

A control device for controlling at least one of the output power and the input power of a power device configured so that a removable power storage device can be connected in parallel is provided with an upper limit power determination unit. The upper limit power determination unit determines an upper limit of the magnitude of at least one of the output power and the input power of the power device. The upper limit power determination unit determines the upper limit of the magnitude of the output power of the power device on the basis of the maximum power supply value, which is the maximum value of the power that can be supplied to the power device by each of one or more first power storage devices, which are power storage devices electrically connected to the power terminals of the power device; and / or, on the basis of the maximum power reception value, which is the maximum value of the power supplied from the power device by each of the one or more first power storage devices, the upper limit of the input power magnitude of the power device is determined.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a control device, a power adjustment device, a power device, a control system, a management device and a program. Background Art

[0002] In a power storage system including a plurality of power storage modules, the power storage modules may be connected in parallel (for example, see Patent Document 1). Patent Documents 2 to 4 disclose a power storage system in which a power storage module can be hot swapped. (Prior art literature) (Patent Document) (Patent Document 1) Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-98708 (Patent Document 2) International Publication No. 2017 / 086349 (Patent Document 3) International Publication No. 2017 / 086349 (Patent Document 4) Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-092257 Summary of the invention [Problems to be solved by the invention]

[0003] In a power storage system configured by connecting a plurality of power storage modules in parallel, if power storage modules of different types, states or performances can be used, for example, the secondary utilization of the power storage modules can be promoted. However, in the case where the power storage system is configured by combining power storage modules of different types, states or performances, it is difficult to grasp the allowable current of the power storage system during charging and discharging in advance, and it is impossible to stably control the charging and discharging of the power storage system. [Generally open]

[0004] In a first aspect of the present invention, a control device is provided. The control device is, for example, a control device for controlling at least one of the output power and input power of an electric power device configured to be connected in parallel to a detachable electric storage device. The control device is, for example, provided with an upper limit power determination unit, which determines the upper limit of the magnitude of at least one of the output power and input power of the electric power device. In the control device, the upper limit power determination unit is, for example: based on the maximum value of the electric power that each of the electric storage devices electrically connected to the power terminals of the electric power device, i.e., one or more first electric storage devices, can supply to the electric power device, i.e., the maximum power supply value, determines the upper limit of the magnitude of the output power of the electric power device; and / or based on the maximum value of the electric power that each of the one or more first electric storage devices can receive from the electric power device, i.e., the maximum power receiving value, determines the upper limit of the magnitude of the input power of the electric power device.

[0005] In any of the control devices, the upper limit power determination unit may determine the sum of the maximum power supply values ​​of the at least one first power storage device as the upper limit of the output power of the power device. In any of the control devices, the upper limit power determination unit may determine the sum of the maximum power reception values ​​of the at least one first power storage device as the upper limit of the input power of the power device.

[0006] In any of the control devices, the upper-limit power determination unit may determine the upper limit of the output power of the power device based on the maximum power supply value of each of the at least one first power storage devices and the power supply coefficient, which is a positive number less than 1 and is specified for each of the at least one first power storage devices. In any of the control devices, the upper-limit power determination unit may determine the upper limit of the input power of the power device based on the maximum power reception value of each of the at least one first power storage devices and the power reception coefficient, which is a positive number less than 1 and is specified for each of the at least one first power storage devices.

[0007] In any of the control devices, the power supply coefficient of each of the one or more first power storage devices is determined based on, for example, at least one of (i) an equivalent series resistance, (ii) a slope of a SOC-OCV (State of Charge-Open Circuit Voltage) curve, and (iii) a SOH (State of Health) of each of the one or more first power storage devices. In any of the control devices, the power reception coefficient of each of the one or more first power storage devices is determined based on, for example, at least one of (i) an equivalent series resistance, (ii) a slope of a SOC-OCV curve, and (iii) a SOH of each of the one or more first power storage devices.

[0008] In any of the control devices, the maximum power supply value of each of the one or more first power storage devices is determined based on, for example, the smaller of the following two values: (a) the rated output power of the power storage unit of each of the one or more first power storage devices, and (b) the rated output power of the switching unit that switches the electrical connection relationship between the power storage unit of each of the one or more first power storage devices and the power terminal of the power device. In any of the control devices, the maximum power reception value of each of the one or more first power storage devices is determined based on, for example, the smaller of the following two values: (a) the rated input power of the power storage unit of each of the one or more first power storage devices, and (b) the rated input power of the switching unit that switches the electrical connection relationship between the power storage unit of each of the one or more first power storage devices and the power terminal of the power device.

[0009] Any of the control devices may include a decrease detection unit that detects in advance that the number of one or more first power storage devices is reduced during a period in which the power device outputs power. Any of the control devices may include a current reducing unit that, when the decrease detection unit detects in advance that the number is reduced, determines to reduce the output current of the power device so that the output current of the power device is reduced before the number of one or more first power storage devices is reduced.

[0010] Any of the control devices may include an increase detection unit that detects an increase in the number of one or more first power storage devices. Any of the control devices may include an allowable current acquisition unit that acquires an allowable current value that indicates an allowable value of a current flowing between each of the one or more first power storage devices and a power terminal of the power device. Any of the control devices may include an upper limit current determination unit that determines an upper limit of at least one of an output current and an input current of the power device based on the allowable current value acquired by the allowable current acquisition unit. Any of the control devices may include a current increasing unit that, when the increase detection unit detects an increase in the number, determines to increase at least one of an output current and an input current of the power device so that a change in at least one of an output current and an input current of the power device satisfies a predetermined first condition.

[0011] In any of the control devices, the allowable current value of each of the one or more first power storage devices is determined based on, for example, at least one of the maximum power supply value and the maximum power reception value of each of the one or more first power storage devices. In any of the control devices, the upper limit current determination unit may obtain the current value of the current flowing between each of the one or more first power storage devices and the power terminal of the power device when at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device increases according to the determination of the current increasing unit. In any of the control devices, the upper limit current determination unit may determine the magnitude of at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device as the upper limit of the magnitude of at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device when the absolute value of the difference between (i) the current value of the current flowing between at least one of the one or more first power storage devices and the power terminal of the power device and (ii) the allowable current value of at least one of the first power storage devices is less than a predetermined value.

[0012] In a second aspect of the present invention, a control device is provided. The control device is, for example, a control device that controls at least one of an output current and an input current of an electric power device that is configured to be able to connect a detachable electric power storage device in parallel. The control device, for example, includes an increase detection unit that detects an increase in the number of electric power storage devices, i.e., one or more first electric power storage devices, that are electrically connected to the electric power terminals of the electric power device. The control device, for example, includes an allowable current acquisition unit that acquires an allowable current value that indicates an allowable value of a current flowing between each of the one or more first electric power storage devices and the electric power terminals of the electric power device. The control device, for example, includes an upper limit current determination unit that determines an upper limit of the magnitude of at least one of the output current and the input current of the electric power device based on the allowable current value acquired by the allowable current acquisition unit. The control device, for example, includes a current increasing unit, which determines to increase at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device when the increase detection unit detects an increase in the number, so that the change of at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device satisfies a predetermined first condition. In the control device, the upper limit current determination unit, for example, obtains the current value of the current flowing between each of the one or more first power storage devices and the power terminal of the power device when at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device increases according to the determination of the current increasing unit. In the control device, the upper limit current determination unit, for example, determines the magnitude of at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device as the upper limit of the magnitude of at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device when the absolute value of the difference between (i) the current value of the current flowing between at least one of the one or more first power storage devices and the power terminal of the power device and (ii) the allowable current value of at least one of the first power storage devices is less than a predetermined value.

[0013] In any of the control devices, the current increasing unit may adjust the start time of the process for increasing at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device after a predetermined delay time has passed since the increase detection unit detected the increase in the number of the first power storage devices, so as to increase at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device. The delay time may have a predetermined length or a length determined based on a predetermined algorithm. In any of the control devices, the allowable current acquisition unit may have an allowable current determination unit, which determines the allowable current value of each of the one or more first power storage devices based on at least one of (i) the maximum value of the power that each of the one or more first power storage devices can supply to the power device, i.e., the maximum power supply value, and (i) the maximum value of the power that each of the one or more first power storage devices can receive from the power device, i.e., the maximum power receiving value.

[0014] Any of the control devices may include a decrease detection unit that detects a decrease in the number of one or more first power storage devices during a period in which the power device outputs power. Any of the control devices may include a current reduction unit that, when the decrease detection unit detects a decrease in the number in advance, determines to reduce the output current of the power device so that the output current of the power device decreases before the number of one or more first power storage devices decreases.

[0015] In a third aspect of the present invention, a power adjustment device is provided. The power adjustment device, for example, includes any control device of the second or third aspect. The power adjustment device, for example, includes a power adjustment unit that adjusts at least one of input power and output power of the power device based on an instruction from the control device.

[0016] In a fourth aspect of the present invention, a power device is provided. The power device, for example, includes the power adjustment device of the third aspect. The power device, for example, includes a holding portion, and the holding portion is configured to be able to hold a removable power storage device. The power device, for example, includes a power terminal, and the power terminal is configured to be able to input and output power to and from an external electrical device. In the power device, the power adjustment device, for example, adjusts the power input and output between the power storage device and the external electrical device.

[0017] In a fifth aspect of the present invention, a control system is provided. The control system, for example, includes any control device of the second or third aspect. The control device, for example, includes the reduction detection unit and the current reduction unit. The control system, for example, includes a transmission unit, which transmits a warning signal for announcing a reduction in the number of one or more first power storage devices to the control device when the voltage difference between the power storage unit of the second power storage device included in one or more first power storage devices and the power terminal of the power device during the power output period of the power device meets a predetermined second condition. The control system, for example, includes a disconnection unit, which determines to electrically disconnect the power terminal of the power device from the second power storage device when a predetermined third condition is satisfied after the transmission unit outputs the warning signal.

[0018] In any of the control systems, the second condition may include: a condition that the voltage difference is less than a predetermined value; or a condition that the absolute value of the voltage difference is less than a predetermined value. In any of the control systems, the third condition may include: a condition that a predetermined time has passed after the transmitter outputs the advance signal; or a condition that the cutoff unit receives a signal from the control device indicating that a process for reducing the output current of the power device has started or has been completed after the transmitter outputs the advance signal.

[0019] In a sixth aspect of the present invention, a management device is provided. The management device manages, for example, the state of a power storage device configured to be detachable relative to an electric power device, and the electric power device is configured to be able to input and output power to and from an external electrical device. The management device includes, for example, a transmitting unit, which transmits a warning signal for notifying that the power storage device and the power terminal are to be electrically disconnected to a control device for controlling the electric power device when the voltage difference between the power storage device and the power terminal of the electric power device meets a predetermined second condition during the period when the electric power device equipped with the power storage device outputs power. The management device includes, for example, a disconnection unit, which decides to electrically disconnect the power terminal of the electric power device from the power storage device when a predetermined third condition is satisfied after the transmitting unit outputs the warning signal. In the management device, the second condition includes, for example, a condition that the voltage difference is less than a predetermined value; or a condition that the absolute value of the voltage difference is less than a predetermined value. In the management device, the third condition includes, for example: a predetermined time has passed after the sending unit outputs the warning signal; or, after the sending unit outputs the warning signal, the cutting unit receives a signal from the control device indicating that a process for reducing the output current of the power device has started or has been completed.

[0020] In the seventh aspect of the present invention, a program is provided. A non-temporary computer-readable medium storing the program may be provided. The program may be a program for causing a computer to function as any control device of the first or second aspect. The program may be a program for causing a computer to execute an information processing method in any control device of the first or second aspect. The program may be a program for causing a computer to execute an information processing method in any management device of the sixth aspect.

[0021] In addition, the above summary of the invention does not list all the necessary features of the present invention. In addition, sub-combinations of these feature groups may also constitute inventions. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 An example of the system configuration of the power supply system 100 is schematically shown. Figure 2 An example of the system configuration of the power storage module 20 is schematically shown. Figure 3 Another example of the system configuration of the power storage module 20 is schematically shown. Figure 4 An example of the system configuration of the module control unit 240 is schematically shown. Figure 5 An example of the circuit configuration of the power storage module 20 is schematically shown. Figure 6An example of the system configuration of the input / output control unit 180 is schematically shown. Figure 7 A specific example of a control method for the power supply system 100 is schematically shown. Figure 8 An example of the system configuration of the computer 3000 is schematically shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The present invention is described below by way of embodiments of the invention, but the following embodiments do not limit the invention of the claims. The combination of features described in the embodiments is not necessarily required for the solution of the invention. In addition, the embodiments are described with reference to the drawings, but in the description of the drawings, there is a case where the same reference number is marked on the same or similar parts and repeated description is omitted.

[0024] (Overview of Power Supply System 100) Figure 1 An example of the system configuration of the power supply system 100 is schematically shown. In the present embodiment, the power supply system 100 includes, for example, a solar power generation device 110, one or a plurality of (sometimes referred to as one or more) slots 120, and a power conditioner 130.

[0025] In the present embodiment, each of the one or more slots 120 is configured to be able to load and unload (sometimes referred to as freely loadable and unloadable) one or more power storage modules 20. In the present embodiment, the power storage module 20 is provided with, for example, a power connector 22 and a communication connector 24. In the present embodiment, the power conditioner 130 is provided with, for example, a power connector 142, a power connector 144, a communication connector 148, a power connector 152, a power connector 154, a DC / DC converter 160, an inverter 170, a switch 172, and a switch 174.

[0026] In this embodiment, the details of the power supply system 100 are described by taking the case where the power supply system 100 receives power supply from the power system 10 as an example. In this embodiment, the details of the power supply system 100 are described by taking the case where the power supply system 100 charges the power storage module 20 held in at least one of the plurality of slots 120 using the power supplied from the power system 10 (sometimes referred to as the power from the power system 10) as an example. In this embodiment, the details of the power supply system 100 are described by taking the case where the power supply system 100 charges the power storage module 20 held in at least one of the plurality of slots 120 using the power generated by the solar power generation device 110 as an example.

[0027] In the present embodiment, the details of the power supply system 100 are described by taking as an example a case where the power supply system 100 supplies at least one of (i) power from the power system 10, (ii) power stored in the power storage module 20 held in at least one of the plurality of slots 120, and (iii) power generated by the solar power generation device 110 to the load device 30 electrically connected to the switchboard 12 via the switchboard 12. In the present embodiment, the details of the power supply system 100 are described by taking as an example a case where the power supply system 100 supplies at least one of (i) power from the power system 10, (ii) power stored in the power storage module 20 held in at least one of the plurality of slots 120, and (iii) power generated by the solar power generation device 110 to the load device 30 electrically connected to the power connector 154 of the power conditioner 130.

[0028] (Overview of Relevant Parts of Power Supply System 100) In the present embodiment, the switchboard 12 branches the electric power supplied from the power system 10 and the power conditioner 130. Thus, the switchboard 12 can supply electric power to the load device 30 electrically connected to the switchboard 12.

[0029] In the present embodiment, the power storage module 20 is configured to be attachable to and detachable from the slot 120. The power storage module 20 is configured, for example, so that the user of the power storage module 20 can freely attach and detach the power storage module 20 to and from the slot 120. The power storage module 20 may also be configured so that the user of the power storage module 20 can freely attach and detach the power storage module 20 to and from the slot 120 without using a special tool. The power storage module 20 is configured, for example, to be accommodated in the slot 120. Thus, the power storage module 20 can be held in the slot 120.

[0030] In the present embodiment, the power storage module 20 is configured to switch the electrical connection state between the power storage unit provided in the power storage module 20 and the power connector 122 while the power connector 22 and the power connector 122 are electrically connected. The power storage module 20 will be described in detail below.

[0031] In the present embodiment, the power connector 22 is configured to be able to input and output power. The power connector 22 may include a set of power terminals. For example, when the power storage module 20 is accommodated in the slot 120, the power connector 22 is electrically connected to the power connector 122 provided in the slot 120. The connection method of the power connector 22 and the power connector 122 may be a wired connection method or a wireless connection method.

[0032] In the present embodiment, the communication connector 24 is configured to be able to send and receive signals. For example, when the power storage module 20 is accommodated in the slot 120, the communication connector 24 is connected to the communication connector 124 provided in the slot 120 in a manner that enables communication. The connection method of the communication connector 24 and the communication connector 124 can be either a wired connection method or a wireless connection method.

[0033] In this embodiment, the load device 30 is operated by electric power. The details of the load device 30 are not particularly limited.

[0034] In the present embodiment, the power supply system 100 supplies power to one or more load devices 30. The power supply system 100 may also supply power to the power system 10. The power supply system 100 may generate power and store power.

[0035] In the present embodiment, the solar power generation device 110 generates electricity using solar energy. The output terminal (not shown) of the solar power generation device 110 is electrically connected to the power connector 142 of the power conditioner 130. Thus, the solar power generation device 110 can supply the power generated by the solar power generation device 110 to the power conditioner 130. The communication terminal (not shown) of the power supply system 100 is connected to the communication connector 148 of the power conditioner 130 in a manner that enables communication. Thus, the solar power generation device 110 can send and receive information to and from the power conditioner 130.

[0036] In the present embodiment, the slot 120 holds the power storage module 20. A single slot 120 may hold a single power storage module 20, or a single slot 120 may hold a plurality of power storage modules 20. As described above, the slot 120 is configured to allow the power storage module 20 to be attached and detached. In addition, the slot 120 is configured to accommodate the power storage module 20.

[0037] In the present embodiment, the socket 120 is electrically connected to the power storage module 20 accommodated in the socket 120. In the present embodiment, the socket 120 is communicatively connected to the power storage module 20 accommodated in the socket 120.

[0038] In one embodiment, the slot 120 receives power outputted by the power conditioner 130 and supplies the power to one or more power storage modules 20 (sometimes referred to as connection modules) electrically connected to the slot 120. Thus, the connection modules are charged. In another embodiment, the slot 120 receives power outputted by one or more connection modules and supplies the power to the power conditioner 130. Thus, the connection modules are discharged.

[0039] In the present embodiment, the power connector 122 is configured to be able to input and output power. The power connector 122 may include a set of power terminals. For example, when the power storage module 20 is accommodated in the slot 120, the power connector 122 is electrically connected to the power connector 22 provided in the power storage module 20. The power connector 122 may be configured to be able to be attached and detached to the power connector 22.

[0040] The power connector 122 is electrically connected to the power connector 144. According to the present embodiment, the power connectors 122 of the plurality of slots 120 are electrically connected to the power connector 144, so that the plurality of power storage modules 20 electrically connected to the power connectors 122 of the plurality of slots 120 are connected in parallel.

[0041] In the present embodiment, the communication connector 124 is configured to be able to send and receive signals. For example, when the power storage module 20 is accommodated in the slot 120, the communication connector 124 is connected to the communication connector 24 provided in the power storage module 20 in a manner that enables communication. The communication connector 124 is configured to be attachable and detachable. In addition, the communication connector 124 is electrically connected to the communication connector 148.

[0042] In the present embodiment, the power conditioner 130 adjusts at least one of the input power and the output power of the power supply system 100. The power conditioner 130 adjusts the input and output of power between, for example, (a) at least one of the one or more power storage modules 20 held in the slot 120 and (b) at least one of the power system 10, the load device 30, and the solar power generation device 110.

[0043] The power regulator 130 can adjust the input power by adjusting at least one of the input current and the input voltage, and can also adjust the output power by adjusting at least one of the output current and the output voltage.

[0044] In one embodiment, the power conditioner 130 converts the voltage of DC power. In another embodiment, the power conditioner 130 converts the voltage and / or frequency of AC power. Furthermore, in another embodiment, the power conditioner 130 converts DC power into AC power. Furthermore, in another embodiment, the power conditioner 130 converts AC power into DC power.

[0045] In the present embodiment, the power connector 142 is configured to be able to input and output electric power. For example, the power connector 142 is configured to be able to input and output electric power to and from the solar power generation device 110. The power connector 142 may include a set of power terminals.

[0046] In the present embodiment, the power connector 144 is configured to be able to input and output power. For example, the power connector 144 is configured to be able to input and output power to and from each of one or more slots 120. The power connector 144 may include a set of power terminals.

[0047] In the present embodiment, the communication connector 148 is configured to be capable of transmitting and receiving signals. Thus, the power conditioner 130 can transmit and receive information via the communication connector 148 with at least one of, for example, (a) the solar power generation device 110, (b) each of the one or more slots 120, and (c) each of the one or more power storage modules 20 held in the one or more slots 120.

[0048] In the present embodiment, the power connector 152 is configured to be able to input and output power. For example, the power connector 152 is configured to be able to input and output power to and from the power system 10. The power connector 152 is configured to be able to supply power to the switchboard 12. The power connector 152 may include a set of power terminals.

[0049] In the present embodiment, the power connector 154 is configured to be able to input and output electric power. For example, the power connector 154 is configured to be able to supply electric power to the load device 30 electrically connected to the power connector 154. The power connector 154 may include a set of power terminals.

[0050] In the present embodiment, the DC / DC converter 160 receives the power output from the solar power generation device 110 via the power connector 142. The DC / DC converter 160 adjusts the power input from the solar power generation device 110 to the power conditioner 130. The DC / DC converter 160 can adjust the power input from the solar power generation device 110 based on the instruction from the input / output control unit 180. The DC / DC converter 160, for example, converts the voltage of the DC power input from the solar power generation device 110. The DC / DC converter 160 can output the converted power to the inverter 170.

[0051] In this embodiment, the inverter 170 receives power outputted from at least one of the at least one slot 120 via the power connector 144. Thus, the power storage module 20 electrically connected to the at least one slot 120 is discharged. The inverter 170 can adjust the power inputted from the slot 120 based on the instruction from the input / output control unit 180. The inverter 170 converts the voltage of the DC power inputted from the slot 120, for example.

[0052] In the present embodiment, the inverter 170 receives power input from the power system 10 and / or the solar power generation device 110 to the power conditioner 130. The inverter 170 supplies power to at least one of the one or more slots 120 via the power connector 144. Thus, the power storage module 20 electrically connected to the at least one slot 120 is supplied with power. As a result, the power storage module 20 is charged. The inverter 170 can adjust the power supplied to the slot 120 based on the instruction from the input / output control unit 180.

[0053] In one embodiment, the inverter 170 converts the AC power input from the power system 10 into DC power. The inverter 170 may output the converted DC power to the power connector 144. In another embodiment, the inverter 170 converts the DC power received from the DC / DC converter 160 and / or the power connector 144 into AC power. The inverter 170 may adjust the voltage and frequency of the AC power. The inverter 170 may output the converted AC power to the power system 10 and / or the switchboard 12 via the switch 172. The inverter 170 may output the converted AC power to the load device 30 via the switch 174. The switches 172 and 174 may operate based on instructions from the input / output control unit 180. Furthermore, in another embodiment, the inverter 170 may output the DC power received from the DC / DC converter 160 to the power connector 144 without converting it into AC power.

[0054] In the present embodiment, the input-output control unit 180 controls, for example, at least one of the output power and the input power of the power supply system 100 or the power conditioner 130. The input-output control unit 180 can control the output power and / or the input power by controlling the operation of the power conditioner 130. The input-output control unit 180 controls, for example, at least one of the output current and the input current of the power supply system 100 or the power conditioner 130. The input-output control unit 180 can control the output current and / or the input current by controlling the operation of the power conditioner 130. Details of the input-output control unit 180 are described below.

[0055] (Specific Configuration of Each Component of the Power Supply System 100) Each part of the power supply system 100 can be implemented by hardware, or by software, or by both hardware and software. At least a part of each part of the power supply system 100 can be implemented by a single server or by multiple servers. At least a part of each part of the power supply system 100 can be implemented on a virtual machine or a cloud system. At least a part of each part of the power supply system 100 can be implemented by a personal computer or a mobile terminal. As mobile terminals, mobile phones, smart phones, PDAs (registered trademarks), tablets, notebook computers or laptop computers, wearable computers, etc. can be exemplified. Each part of the power supply system 100 can use distributed ledger technologies such as blockchain or decentralized networks to store information.

[0056] In the case where at least a part of the components constituting the power supply system 100 is implemented by software, the components implemented by software can be implemented in a generally configured information processing device by starting a program that specifies the relevant actions of the components. The information processing device, for example, includes: (i) a data processing device having a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a ROM (Read-Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a communication interface, etc.; (ii) an input device such as a keyboard, a touch panel, a camera, a microphone, various sensors, a GPS receiver, etc.; (iii) an output device such as a display device, a speaker, a vibration device, etc.; and (iv) a storage device (including an external storage device) such as a memory, a HDD (Hard Disk Drive), etc. In the information processing device, the data processing device or the storage device can store a program. The program can be stored in a non-temporary computer-readable recording medium. The program is executed by the processor, so that the information processing device performs the actions specified by the program.

[0057] The program can be stored in a computer-readable medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Memory), a DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc-Read Only Memory), a memory, a hard disk, or a storage device connected to a network. The program can be installed from a computer-readable medium or a storage device connected to a network to a computer that constitutes at least a part of the power supply system 100. By executing the program, the computer can function as at least a part of each part of the power supply system 100. The program that enables the computer to function as at least a part of each part of the power supply system 100 can have a module that specifies the actions of each part of the power supply system 100. These programs or modules act on a data processing device, an input device, an output device, a storage device, etc., so that the computer functions as each part of the power supply system 100, or enables the computer to execute an information processing method of each part of the power supply system 100. The information processing described in the program functions as a specific means of making the software related to the program work in cooperation with various hardware resources of the power supply system 100 by reading the program into the computer. Then, information calculation or processing in accordance with the purpose of use of the computer in this embodiment is realized by the specific means, thereby constructing the power supply system 100 in accordance with the purpose of use.

[0058] The information processing method may be, for example, a control method for controlling an electric power device. The electric power device may be configured to be connected in parallel to a detachable electric storage device. The control method may be a method for controlling at least one of the output power and the input power of the electric power device. The control method may include, for example, an upper limit power determination stage, in which the upper limit of the magnitude of at least one of the output power and the input power of the electric power device is determined. In the control method, the upper limit power determination stage may include, for example, a stage for determining the upper limit of the magnitude of the output power of the electric power device based on the maximum value of the power that each of the electric storage devices electrically connected to the power terminals of the electric power device, i.e., the power supply maximum value, and / or a stage for determining the upper limit of the magnitude of the input power of the electric power device based on the maximum value of the power that each of the one or more first electric storage devices can receive from the electric power device, i.e., the power receiving maximum value.

[0059] The power system 10 may be an example of an external gas device. The switchboard 12 may be an example of an external electrical device. The power storage module 20 may be an example of a power storage device, a first power storage device, or a second power storage device. The power storage module 20 may be an example of a management device. The load device 30 may be an example of an external electrical device.

[0060] The power supply system 100 may be an example of a power device. The solar power generation device 110 may be an example of an external electrical device. The slot 120 may be an example of a retaining portion. The power conditioner 130 may be an example of a power device, a power adjustment device, or a power adjustment portion. The power connector 142 may be an example of a power terminal of a power device. The power connector 144 may be an example of a power terminal of a power device. The power connector 152 may be an example of a power terminal of a power device. The power connector 154 may be an example of a power terminal of a power device.

[0061] The DC / DC converter 160 may be an example of a power adjustment unit. The inverter 170 may be an example of a power adjustment unit. The switch 172 may be an example of a power adjustment unit. The switch 174 may be an example of a power adjustment unit. The input / output control unit 180 may be an example of a control device.

[0062] The connection module may be an example of the first power storage device. The power supplied from the power conditioner 130 to the power storage module 20 may be an example of output power of the power device. The power input from the power system 10 and / or the solar power generation device 110 to the power conditioner 130 may be an example of input power of the power device.

[0063] (An example of another embodiment) In this embodiment, the details of the power supply system 100 are described by taking the case where the power supply system 100 is a stationary power supply system as an example. However, the power supply system 100 is not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, the power supply system 100 is mounted on an electrical device, a transmission device, etc. In this case, the power supply system 100 has, for example, one or more slots 120, and a power conditioner 130 or a part of the power conditioner 130.

[0064] The electrical device may be any device that is operated by electricity, and its details are not particularly limited. The transport device transports people and / or objects. The transport device may transport people and / or objects by using electricity.

[0065] Examples of the transport device include a mobile body, a work machine, and the like. Examples of the mobile body include a vehicle, a ship, an aircraft, and the like. Examples of the ship include a ship, a hovercraft, a water motorcycle, a large military submarine, a small submarine, an underwater scooter, and the like. Examples of the aircraft include an airplane, an airship or a balloon, a balloon, a helicopter, an unmanned aerial vehicle, and the like. Examples of the work machine include a forklift, a crane, an elevator, an escalator, a conveyor belt, and the like.

[0066] In this embodiment, the details of the power supply system 100 are described by taking the case where the input / output control unit 180 collects information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit included in the power storage module 20 and at least one of the information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit included in the power storage module 20 and sends the collected information to an external device as an example. However, the power supply system 100 is not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, the power storage module 20 may collect information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit included in the power storage module 20 and send the collected information to an external device.

[0067] In this embodiment, the details of the power supply system 100 are described by taking the case where the power generated by the solar power generation device 110 is supplied to the power conditioner 130 as an example. However, the power supply system 100 is not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, the power supply system 100 may have any type of power generation device or may not have a power generation device. As the power generation device, a power generation device using renewable energy or natural energy, a fuel cell, etc. can be exemplified.

[0068] Figure 2 An example of the system configuration of the power storage module 20 is schematically shown. In the present embodiment, the power storage module 20 includes a positive terminal 202 and a negative terminal 204. In addition, the power storage module 20 includes a power storage unit 210 including a positive terminal 212 and a negative terminal 214, and a switching unit 230. In the present embodiment, the power storage unit 210 includes a power storage cell 222 and a power storage cell 224. In the present embodiment, the power storage module 20 further includes a module control unit 240, a protection unit 250, and a balance correction unit 260.

[0069] The impedance of the power storage unit 210 may be 1Ω or less, or 100mΩ or less. The impedance of the power storage unit 210 may be 10mΩ or less, or 1mΩ or less, or 0.8mΩ or less, or 0.5mΩ or less. The impedance of the power storage unit 210 may be 0.1mΩ or more. The impedance of the power storage unit 210 may be 0.1mΩ or more and 1Ω or more, or 0.1mΩ or more and 100mΩ or more, or 0.1mΩ or more and 10mΩ or more, or 0.1mΩ or more and 1mΩ or less.

[0070] According to the present embodiment, a switch unit 230 is provided between the power storage unit 210 and the power connector 122. When the voltage between the terminals of the switch unit 230 satisfies a predetermined condition, the switch unit 230 electrically connects the power storage unit 210 and the power connector 122 as described below. On the other hand, when the voltage between the terminals of the switch unit 230 does not satisfy the predetermined condition, the switch unit 230 electrically disconnects the power storage unit 210 and the power connector 122.

[0071] Thus, for example, when one of the plurality of storage modules 20 connected in parallel is to be replaced, it is possible to omit processing for making the voltage of the storage module 20 newly added to the power supply system 100 coincide with the voltage of the other storage modules 20 already installed in the power supply system 100 with high accuracy. As a result, for example, even when the impedance of the storage unit 210 is small, the user of the power supply system 100 can easily and quickly replace the storage module 20.

[0072] In this embodiment, the storage cells 222 and 224 are connected in series. The storage cells 222 and 224 may be secondary batteries or capacitors. At least one of the storage cells 222 and 224 may further include a plurality of storage cells electrically connected in series, in parallel, or in a matrix.

[0073] Any type of battery can be used as the power storage unit 222 and the power storage unit 224. In one embodiment, the power storage unit 222 and the power storage unit 224 are each composed of a secondary battery of a type that can support trickle charging. In another embodiment, the power storage unit 222 and the power storage unit 224 are each composed of a secondary battery of a type that cannot support trickle charging. At least one of the power storage unit 222 and the power storage unit 224 can be a lithium ion battery.

[0074] Generally speaking, even when the battery system of the secondary battery is continuously in an overcharged state, when in principle it is represented by a reaction formula that will not cause irreversible changes in the battery system, the secondary battery can also support trickle charging. On the other hand, when the battery system of the secondary battery is continuously in an overcharged state, when in principle it is represented by a reaction formula that will cause irreversible changes in the battery system, the secondary battery cannot support trickle charging. As secondary batteries that can support trickle charging, lead batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries (including NiMH batteries), nickel-cadmium batteries, etc. can be exemplified. As secondary batteries that cannot support trickle charging, lithium batteries, lithium-ion batteries (including lithium-ion polymer batteries and all-solid-state batteries), etc. can be exemplified.

[0075] In this embodiment, positive terminal 212 of power storage unit 210 is electrically connected to power connector 122 via positive terminal 202 of power storage module 20 and switch unit 230 . Meanwhile, negative terminal 214 of power storage unit 210 is electrically connected to power connector 122 via negative terminal 204 of power storage module 20 .

[0076] In addition, the power storage module 20 is not limited to this embodiment. According to other embodiments, the negative terminal 214 of the power storage unit 210 is electrically connected to the power connector 122 via the negative terminal 204 of the power storage module 20 and the switching unit 230. On the other hand, the positive terminal 212 of the power storage unit 210 is electrically connected to the power connector 122 via the positive terminal 202 of the power storage module 20.

[0077] In the present embodiment, the switch unit 230 is disposed between the power connector 122 and the power storage unit 210. In the present embodiment, the switch unit 230 switches the electrical connection relationship between the power connector 122 and the power storage unit 210 based on the voltage difference between the power connector 122 and the power storage unit 210. For example, the switch unit 230 switches the connection state between the power connector 122 and the power storage unit 210 based on the signal generated by the module control unit 240. Thus, the power storage unit 210 can be electrically connected to the power connector 122, or the power storage unit 210 can be electrically disconnected from the power connector 122.

[0078] When installing the power storage module 20 in the socket 120 , the power storage module 20 can be installed in the socket 120 in a state where the switch 230 electrically disconnects the power storage unit 210 from the power connector 122 . This can prevent the power storage module 20 from being damaged or deteriorated.

[0079] The switch unit 230 may be implemented by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. The switch unit 230 may be implemented by an analog circuit, a digital circuit, or a combination of an analog circuit and a digital circuit.

[0080] The switching unit 230 may have one or more elements. The switching unit 230 may have one or more switching elements. One or more switching elements may be respectively arranged between the positive terminal 202 and the positive terminal 212, or between the negative terminal 204 and the negative terminal 214. As the switching element, a relay, a thyristor, a transistor, etc. may be exemplified. The thyristor may be a bidirectional thyristor (sometimes referred to as a triac). The transistor may be a semiconductor transistor. The semiconductor transistor may be a bipolar transistor or a field effect transistor. The field effect transistor may be a MOSFET (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor).

[0081] The switching unit 230 may include one or more DC-DC (Direct Current-Direct Current) converters instead of or together with the switching element. The DC-DC converter may be an isolated DC-DC converter. The DC-DC converter may be a unidirectional DC-DC converter or a bidirectional DC-DC converter. The switching unit 230 may include a transformer instead of or together with the switching element.

[0082] In the present embodiment, the module control unit 240 manages the state of the power storage module 20 . In addition, the module control unit 240 controls the operation of the power storage module 20 .

[0083] For example, the module control unit 240 controls the current flowing between the power storage unit 210 of the power storage module 20 and the power connector 122. In the present embodiment, when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 (in the present embodiment, the voltage between the positive terminal 202 and the positive terminal 212) satisfies a predetermined condition, the module control unit 240 controls the switching unit 230 to electrically connect the power storage unit 210 and the power connector 122. The switching unit 230 can electrically connect the power storage unit 210 and the power connector 122 by electrically connecting the power storage unit 210 and the positive terminal 202.

[0084] On the other hand, when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 does not satisfy the predetermined condition, the switching unit 230 is controlled to electrically disconnect the power storage unit 210 and the power connector 122 or the positive terminal 202. The switching unit 230 electrically disconnects the power storage unit 210 and the power connector 122 by electrically disconnecting the power storage unit 210 and the positive terminal 202.

[0085] The predetermined condition may be a condition that the absolute value of the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within a predetermined range. The predetermined range may be less than 3V, less than 1V, less than 0.1V, less than 10mV, or less than 1mV. In addition, the predetermined range may be greater than 0.5mV, or greater than 1mV. The predetermined range may be greater than 0.5mV and less than 3V. The predetermined range may be greater than 1mV and less than 3V, greater than 1mV and less than 1V, greater than 1mV and less than 0.1V, greater than 1mV and less than 10mV, greater than 10mV and less than 1V, greater than 10mV and less than 0.1V, or greater than 0.1V and less than 1V. In addition, the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 may be the voltage between the positive terminal 202 and the positive terminal 212, or the voltage between the power connector 122 and the storage unit 210.

[0086] The predetermined range can be set based on the impedance of the power storage unit 210. The predetermined range can be set based on the rated current or allowable current of the power storage unit 210. The predetermined range can be set based on the impedance of the power storage unit 210 and the rated current or allowable current of the power storage unit 210. The predetermined range can be set based on the rated current or allowable current of the element with the smallest rated current or allowable current among the elements constituting the power storage module 20. The predetermined range can be set based on the impedance of the power storage module 20 and the rated current or allowable current of the element with the smallest rated current or allowable current among the elements constituting the power storage module 20.

[0087] Thus, when the power storage module 20 installed in the power supply system 100 is to be replaced, the power storage unit 210 of the newly installed power storage module 20 is electrically disconnected from the power connector 122 of the slot 120 in which the power storage module 20 is installed until the voltage difference between the power storage module 20 newly installed in the power supply system 100 and the other power storage modules 20 installed in the power supply system 100 is within a predetermined range. Then, when the voltage difference is within the predetermined range, the power storage unit 210 of the newly installed power storage module 20 is electrically connected to the power connector 122. According to the present embodiment, since the power storage module 20 and the slot 120 are automatically electrically connected, the user of the power supply system 100 can easily and quickly replace the power storage module 20.

[0088] In the present embodiment, the module control unit 240 can receive a signal from the input / output control unit 180 indicating that the voltage between the terminals of the power storage module 20 in which the module control unit 240 is incorporated is lower than the voltage between the terminals of other power storage modules 20. When the power supply system 100 is switched to the charging state, upon receiving the signal, the module control unit 240 controls the switching unit 230 to electrically connect the power storage unit 210 and the power connector 122. In this way, the plurality of power storage modules 20 connected in parallel can be efficiently charged.

[0089] In the present embodiment, the module control unit 240 can receive a signal from the input / output control unit 180 indicating that the voltage between the terminals of the power storage module 20 in which the module control unit 240 is incorporated is greater than the voltage between the terminals of other power storage modules 20. When the power supply system 100 is switched to the discharge state, upon receiving the signal, the module control unit 240 controls the switching unit 230 to electrically connect the power storage unit 210 and the power connector 122. Thus, the plurality of power storage modules 20 connected in parallel can be efficiently discharged.

[0090] In the present embodiment, the module control unit 240 receives a signal indicating that the voltage between the terminals of the power storage unit 222 or the power storage unit 224 is not within a predetermined range from the protection unit 250. Upon receiving the signal, the module control unit 240 controls the switching unit 230 to electrically disconnect the power storage unit 210 and the power connector 122. Thus, it is possible to suppress degradation or damage to the power storage unit 210 caused by overcharging or overdischarging.

[0091] In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 receives an operation from a user and an instruction from the user to turn on or off the switch unit 230. Upon receiving the instruction from the user, the module control unit 240 controls the switch unit 230 according to the instruction.

[0092] In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 can obtain information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210. The module control unit 240 can output information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 to an external device. As a result, the external device can use the information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210. As an example of the external device, the load device 30, the power conditioner 130, etc. can be exemplified. The external device can be an output device that outputs information to the user.

[0093] The module control unit 240 may be implemented by hardware or software. In addition, it may be implemented by a combination of hardware and software. In one embodiment, the module control unit 240 may be implemented by an analog circuit, a digital circuit, or a combination of an analog circuit and a digital circuit. In another embodiment, the module control unit 240 may be implemented by executing a program for controlling the module control unit 240 in a general information processing device such as a data processing device having a CPU, ROM, RAM, a communication interface, etc.

[0094] The program installed in the computer and causing the computer to function as a part of the module control unit 240 of this embodiment may include modules that define the operation of each part of the module control unit 240. These programs or modules act on the CPU, etc., causing the computer to function as each part of the module control unit 240.

[0095] The information processing described in these programs functions as a specific means for the software to work in coordination with the various hardware resources by being read into the computer. By utilizing these specific means to realize information calculation or processing consistent with the purpose of use of the computer in this embodiment, a unique device that meets the purpose of use can be constructed. The program can be stored in a computer-readable medium or in a storage device connected to a network. The computer-readable medium can be a non-temporary computer-readable medium.

[0096] The protection unit 250 protects the power storage unit 210. In the present embodiment, the protection unit 250 protects the power storage unit 210 from overcharging and over-discharging. When the protection unit 250 detects that the voltage between the terminals of the power storage unit 222 or the power storage unit 224 is not within a predetermined range, a signal indicating this will be sent to the module control unit 240. The protection unit 250 can send information related to the voltage between the terminals of the power storage unit 210 to the input / output control unit 180. The protection unit 250 can be implemented by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. The protection unit 250 can be implemented by an analog circuit, a digital circuit, or a combination of an analog circuit and a digital circuit.

[0097] The balance correction unit 260 balances the voltages of a plurality of storage cells. The operating principle of the balance correction unit 260 is not particularly limited, and any balance correction device may be used. When the storage unit 210 has three or more storage cells, the storage module 20 may have a plurality of balance correction units 260. In one embodiment, when the storage unit 210 has n (n is an integer greater than or equal to 2) storage cells, the storage module 20 has n-1 balance correction units 260. For example, when the balance correction unit 260 is a balance correction device of an active balancing method or a converter method, the storage module 20 has n-1 balance correction units 260. In another embodiment, when the storage unit 210 has n (n is an integer greater than or equal to 2) storage cells, the storage module 20 has n balance correction units 260. For example, when the balance correction unit 260 is a balance correction device of a passive balancing method, the storage module 20 has n balance correction units 260.

[0098] The balance correction unit 260 can be implemented by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. The balance correction unit 260 can be implemented by an analog circuit, a digital circuit, or a combination of an analog circuit and a digital circuit. In one embodiment, the balance correction unit 260 is an active balance correction device. The active balance correction unit can be a balance correction unit that transfers charge between two storage cells via an inductor as described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2006-067742, or a balance correction unit that transfers charge using a capacitor as described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2012-210109. In another embodiment, the balance correction unit 260 can be a passive balance correction device. A passive balance correction device, for example, uses an external resistor to release excess charge.

[0099] The module control unit 240 may be an example of a management device. The power storage module 20 in which the power storage unit 210 and the power connector 122 are electrically disconnected by the switch unit 230 may be an example of a second power storage device.

[0100] (An example of another embodiment) In this embodiment, the case where the power storage unit 210 has two power storage cells connected in series is described. However, the power storage unit 210 is not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, the power storage unit 210 may have three or more power storage cells connected in series. In addition, the power storage unit 210 may also have a plurality of power storage cells connected in parallel, or may have a plurality of cells connected in a matrix.

[0101] In this embodiment, the details of the power supply system 100 are described by taking the case where the switch unit 230 is arranged inside the power storage module 20 as an example. However, the power supply system 100 is not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, the switch unit 230 can be arranged in the slot 120. The switch unit 230 can be arranged between the power connector 122 and the power connector 144.

[0102] Figure 3 An example of the system configuration of the power storage module 20 is schematically shown. In this embodiment, the power storage module 20 is similar to and Figure 2 The storage module 20 described in the related description is different in that: the plurality of storage cells constituting the storage unit 210 are each composed of secondary batteries of a type capable of supporting trickle charging; and the storage module 20 has a trickle charging unit 320. In this embodiment, the components other than the above-mentioned differences may have the same Figure 2 The power storage module 20 described in the related manner has the same features as the corresponding components.

[0103] In the present embodiment, the trickle charge unit 320 includes a direction limiting unit 322 and a flow rate limiting unit 324. The trickle charge unit 320 is connected in parallel with the switch unit 230 between the power connector 122 of the slot 120 and the power storage unit 210 of the power storage module 20. The resistance of the trickle charge unit 320 may be greater than the resistance of the switch unit 230 in the on operation. In this case, the resistance value when the current flows between the power connector 122 and the power storage unit 210 via the trickle charge unit 320 is smaller than the resistance value of the switch unit 230 when the current leaks and flows from the switch unit 230 in the off operation.

[0104] In the present embodiment, trickle charge unit 320 allows current to pass in the direction from power connector 122 toward power storage unit 210. On the other hand, trickle charge unit 320 suppresses current from passing in the direction from power storage unit 210 toward power connector 122. For example, trickle charge unit 320 does not allow current to pass in the direction from power storage unit 210 toward power connector 122.

[0105] In the present embodiment, the flow limiting unit 324 limits the amount of current flowing in the trickle charging unit 320. The flow limiting unit 324 may have a greater resistance than the switching unit 230. The flow limiting unit 324 may have at least one of a fixed resistor, a variable resistor, a constant current circuit, and a constant power circuit. The flow limiting unit 324 may have a PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) thermistor. When current flows to the flow limiting unit 324 during the trickle charging of the storage unit 210, there is a situation where the flow limiting unit 324 generates heat. Even in this case, according to the present embodiment, since the flow limiting unit 324 has a PTC thermistor, when the temperature of the flow limiting unit 324 becomes high, the amount of current flowing in the flow limiting unit 324 will still decrease. As a result, during the trickle charging of the storage unit 210, the temperature of the flow limiting unit 324 can be maintained within a specific numerical range.

[0106] In the present embodiment, the direction restricting portion 322 is connected in series with the flow restricting portion 324. The direction restricting portion 322 allows the current to pass in the direction from the power connector 122 toward the power storage portion 210. On the other hand, the direction restricting portion 322 does not allow the current to pass in the direction from the power storage portion 210 toward the power connector 122. The direction restricting portion 322 may include a diode. The diode may be arranged so that the direction from the power connector 122 toward the power storage portion 210 becomes the forward direction.

[0107] Figure 4 The following schematically shows an example of the system configuration of the module control unit 240. In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 includes a determination unit 410, a reception unit 420, and a signal generation unit 430. The module control unit 240 may also include a module information acquisition unit 440, a module information storage unit 450, and a communication unit 460.

[0108] In this embodiment, the determination unit 410 determines whether the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within a predetermined range. The determination unit 410 sends a signal indicating the determination result to the signal generation unit 430. The determination unit 410 can be any comparator or comparison circuit. The determination unit 410 can also be a window comparator.

[0109] In this embodiment, the receiving unit 420 receives at least one of a signal from the input / output control unit 180 , a signal from the protection unit 250 , and an instruction from the user, and transmits a signal corresponding to the received information to the signal generating unit 430 .

[0110] (Control signal of the switch unit 230) In the present embodiment, the signal generator 430 receives a signal from at least one of the determination unit 410 and the reception unit 420. The signal generator 430 generates a signal for controlling the switch unit 230 (sometimes referred to as a control signal of the switch unit 230) based on the received information. Thus, the signal generator 430 can determine to electrically disconnect the power storage module 20 from the power connector 122 of the slot 120. Similarly, the signal generator 430 can determine to electrically connect the power storage module 20 to the power connector 122 of the slot 120. The signal generator 430 can send the generated control signal to the switch unit 230.

[0111] In one embodiment, when the determination unit 410 determines that the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within a predetermined range, the signal generation unit 430 generates a signal for turning on the switch element of the switching unit 230. In another embodiment, when the determination unit 410 determines that the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is not within the predetermined range, the signal generation unit 430 generates a signal for turning off the switch element of the switching unit 230.

[0112] The signal generating unit 430 may generate or send a signal after a predetermined time has passed since the determining unit 410 determines whether the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within a predetermined range. This can prevent erroneous operation due to noise, etc. In addition, it can prevent the power storage unit 210 and the power connector 122 from being electrically connected immediately after the power storage module 20 is installed in the slot 120.

[0113] In this embodiment, the signal generating unit 430 generates a signal for controlling the switch element of the switching unit 230 based on the signal received by the receiving unit 420. In one embodiment, when the receiving unit 420 receives a signal for turning on the switch element of the switching unit 230 from the input / output control unit 180, the signal generating unit 430 generates a signal for turning on the switch element of the switching unit 230.

[0114] In another embodiment, when the receiving unit 420 receives a signal for turning off the switch element of the switching unit 230 from the protection unit 250, the signal generating unit 430 generates a signal for turning off the switch element of the switching unit 230. Furthermore, in another embodiment, when the receiving unit 420 receives an instruction from the user, the signal generating unit 430 generates a signal for causing the switch element of the switching unit 230 to operate according to the instruction of the user.

[0115] (Preview signal) According to the present embodiment, when the determination unit 410 determines that the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within a predetermined range, the signal generation unit 430 generates a signal (sometimes referred to as a warning signal) for warning that the power storage unit 210 of the power storage module 20 and the power connector 122 of the slot 120 are to be electrically disconnected. The warning signal may be a signal for warning that the number of power storage modules 20 electrically connected to one or more power connectors 122 provided in the power supply system 100 is reduced. The signal generation unit 430 may send the warning signal to the input / output control unit 180 via the communication unit 460.

[0116] The signal generating unit 430 may decide to electrically disconnect the power connector 122 of the slot 120 from the power storage module 20 when a predetermined third condition is satisfied after the communication unit 460 sends the advance signal. The third condition may be (i) a predetermined time has passed after the communication unit 460 outputs the advance signal; or (ii) after the communication unit 460 outputs the advance signal, the module control unit 240 receives a signal from the input / output control unit 180 indicating that a process for reducing the output current of the power supply system 100 has started or the process has been completed.

[0117] After the signal generator 430 determines to electrically disconnect the power connector 122 of the slot 120 from the power storage module 20, the signal generator 430 generates a signal for turning off the switch element of the switch 230. The signal generator 430 sends the signal to the switch 230. As a result, the switch 230 electrically disconnects the power connector 122 of the slot 120 from the power storage module 20.

[0118] In this embodiment, the module information acquisition unit 440 acquires information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210. The module information acquisition unit 440 can acquire information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 by measuring the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210. The module information acquisition unit 440 can acquire information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 input by a manufacturer, a seller, etc. at the time of shipment, inspection, or sale.

[0119] The module information acquisition unit 440 may store the information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 in the module information storage unit 450. The specific structure of the module information acquisition unit 440 is not particularly limited, but the module information acquisition unit 440 may be a controller that controls the reading and writing of data in the module information storage unit 450. In this embodiment, the module information storage unit 450 stores the information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 acquired by the module information acquisition unit 440.

[0120] In the present embodiment, the communication unit 460 transmits and receives various information to and from the input / output control unit 180. For example, the communication unit 460 transmits the advance notice signal generated by the signal generating unit 430 to the input / output control unit 180. The communication unit 460 can receive from the input / output control unit 180 a signal indicating that a process for reducing the output current of the power supply system 100 has been started based on the advance notice signal or a signal indicating that the process has been completed.

[0121] For example, the communication unit 460 sends the information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 acquired by the module information acquisition unit 440 to the input / output control unit 180. The communication unit 460 may also send the information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 acquired by the module information acquisition unit 440 to an external device. The communication unit 460 may send the information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 in accordance with a request from the external device, or may send the information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 at a predetermined time point. The communication unit 460 may refer to the module information storage unit 450 and send the information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 to the input / output control unit 180 or an external device.

[0122] The signal generating unit 430 may be an example of a management device, a transmitting unit, or a disconnecting unit. The communicating unit 460 may be an example of a transmitting unit.

[0123] (An example of another embodiment) In this embodiment, the details of the power supply system 100 are described by taking as an example a case where, when the determination unit 410 determines that the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within a predetermined range, the signal generation unit 430 generates a warning signal, and the communication unit 460 sends the warning signal to the input / output control unit 180. However, the power supply system 100 is not limited to this embodiment.

[0124] In another embodiment, the signal generator 430 generates a warning signal when the voltage difference between the power storage unit 210 of the power storage module 20 and the power connector 122 of the slot 120 meets a predetermined second condition during the power supply system 100 equipped with the power storage module 20 outputs power. In addition, the communication unit 460 sends the warning signal to the input / output control unit 180. As the second condition, the condition that the voltage difference is less than a predetermined value or the condition that the absolute value of the voltage difference is less than a predetermined value can be exemplified.

[0125] Figure 5 An example of the circuit configuration of the power storage module 20 is schematically shown. Figure 5 The protection unit 250 and wiring associated with the protection unit 250 are not shown in the figure.

[0126] In this embodiment, the switching unit 230 includes a transistor 510, a resistor 512, a resistor 514, a diode 516, a transistor 520, a resistor 522, a resistor 524, and a diode 526. The transistor 510 and the transistor 520 may be an example of a switching element. In this embodiment, the case where the transistor 510 and the transistor 520 are used as the switching element of the switching unit 230 is described. However, the switching element of the switching unit 230 is not limited to this embodiment. In another embodiment, a single switching element may be used as the switching element of the switching unit 230.

[0127] In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 includes a determination unit 410, a signal generation unit 430, a switch 592, and a switch 594. In this embodiment, the determination unit 410 includes a transistor 530, a resistor 532, a transistor 540, a resistor 542, a resistor 552, and a resistor 554. The signal generation unit 430 includes a transistor 560, a capacitor 570, a resistor 572, and a transistor 580. The switch 592 and the switch 594 may be an example of the receiving unit 420.

[0128] Next, the details of each part of the switching unit 230 and the module control unit 240 are described. In the switching unit 230 of the present embodiment, the transistor 510 is a MOSFET, and even when the transistor 510 is turned off, a parasitic diode (not shown) equivalently formed between the source and the drain of the transistor 510 can allow current to flow from the positive terminal 212 to the positive terminal 202. Similarly, the transistor 520 is a MOSFET, and even when the transistor 520 is turned off, a parasitic diode (not shown) equivalently formed between the source and the drain of the transistor 520 can allow current to flow from the positive terminal 202 to the positive terminal 212.

[0129] In the present embodiment, the transistor 510 and the transistor 520 are set to be disconnected in the initial setting. Once the transistor 580 is turned on when the power supply system 100 is charged, the current flows from the positive terminal 202 to the negative terminal 204 via the resistor 512, the resistor 514 and the transistor 580. As a result, a voltage is applied to the gate of the transistor 510, so that the transistor 510 is turned on. Thus, the current can flow from the positive terminal 202 to the positive terminal 212 via the parasitic diode equivalently formed between the source and the drain of the transistor 520.

[0130] On the other hand, when the transistor 580 is turned on when the power supply system 100 is discharged, current flows from the positive terminal 212 to the negative terminal 214 via the resistor 522, the resistor 524, and the transistor 580. As a result, a voltage is applied to the gate of the transistor 520, and the transistor 520 is turned on. Thus, current can flow from the positive terminal 212 to the positive terminal 202 via the parasitic diode equivalently formed between the source and the drain of the transistor 510.

[0131] The voltage applied to the gate of the transistor 510 or the transistor 520 as the transistor 580 is turned on may be an example of a signal for turning on the switch element of the switching unit 230. Similarly, the voltage applied to the gate of the transistor 510 or the transistor 520 as the transistor 580 is turned off may be an example of a signal for turning off the switch element of the switching unit 230.

[0132] In this embodiment, the values ​​of the resistors 512 and 514 are set so that the transistor 510 can be turned on / off reliably while saving power. In addition, the values ​​of the resistors 522 and 524 are set so that the transistor 520 can be turned on / off reliably while saving power.

[0133] In the present embodiment, a diode 516 is provided between the resistor 514 and the resistor 524. The diode 516 allows current to pass in a direction from the resistor 514 to the resistor 524, but does not allow current to pass in a direction from the resistor 524 to the resistor 514. By providing the diode 516, when the switch 230 electrically disconnects the positive terminal 202 from the positive terminal 212, the current can be prevented from leaking from the positive terminal 212 to the positive terminal 202 through the route of the resistor 522, the resistor 524, the resistor 514, and the resistor 512.

[0134] In the present embodiment, a diode 526 is provided between the resistor 514 and the resistor 524. The diode 526 allows current to pass in a direction from the resistor 524 toward the resistor 514, but does not allow current to pass in a direction from the resistor 514 toward the resistor 524. By providing the diode 526, when the switch unit 230 electrically disconnects the positive terminal 202 from the positive terminal 212, it is possible to prevent current from leaking from the positive terminal 202 to the positive terminal 212 through the route of the resistor 512, the resistor 514, the resistor 524, and the resistor 522.

[0135] In the module control unit 240 of the present embodiment, the transistors 530 and 540 of the determination unit 410 are set to be OFF in the initial setting. In addition, the transistors 560 and 580 of the signal generation unit 430 are set to be OFF in the initial setting.

[0136] According to the present embodiment, the value of the resistor 532 is set so that when the voltage between the terminals of the switching section 230 is less than a predetermined first value with the positive terminal 202 side as positive, the transistor 530 performs a turn-on operation. The value of the resistor 532 is preferably set so that the leakage current is extremely small when the switching section 230 is turned off. In addition, the value of the resistor 542 is set so that when the voltage between the terminals of the switching section 230 is greater than a predetermined second value, the transistor 540 performs a turn-on operation. The value of the resistor 542 is preferably set so that the leakage current is extremely small when the switching section 230 is turned off. In addition, according to the present embodiment, the voltage between the terminals of the switching section 230 is equal to the voltage difference between the positive terminal 202 and the positive terminal 212.

[0137] When the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is lower than a predetermined first value, the transistor 530 is turned on, and a voltage is applied to the base of the transistor 560 from the power storage unit 210 via the positive terminal 212, the transistor 530, and the resistor 552, so that the transistor 560 is turned on. Although the voltage from the positive terminal 202 is applied to the base of the transistor 580, the turning-on operation of the transistor 580 is hindered during the period when the transistor 560 is turned on. As a result, the transistor 580 is turned off.

[0138] On the other hand, when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is greater than the predetermined second value, the transistor 540 is turned on, and a voltage is applied from the positive terminal 202 to the base of the transistor 560 via the transistor 540 and the resistor 554, turning on the transistor 560. As a result, the transistor 580 is turned off.

[0139] In this embodiment, the value of the resistor 552 is set to reduce power consumption within a range that can turn on the transistor 560 when the transistor 530 is turned on. The value of the resistor 554 is set to reduce power consumption within a range that can turn on the transistor 560 when the transistor 540 is turned on.

[0140] The capacity of capacitor 570 is set so that transistor 560 turns on before the voltage from positive terminal 202 is applied to the base of transistor 580 to turn on transistor 580. Thus, signal generator 430 can generate a signal after a predetermined time has passed since determination unit 410 determines whether the voltage between the terminals of the switching element is within a predetermined range.

[0141] On the other hand, when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within the range defined by the first value and the second value, the transistors 530 and 540 remain in the off state, and the transistor 560 also remains in the off state. Therefore, a voltage is applied from the positive terminal 202 to the base of the transistor 580 via the resistor 572, and the transistor 580 is turned on.

[0142] The switches 592 and 594 may be manual switches or switching elements such as relays, thyristors, transistors, etc. The switch 592 may receive a signal 52 indicating that the switching unit 230 is turned on. The switch 594 may receive a signal 54 indicating that the switching unit 230 is turned off.

[0143] When the switch 592 is turned on, the switching unit 230 can be turned on regardless of whether the transistor 580 is turned on or off. When the switch 594 is turned on, the transistor 580 can be turned off regardless of whether the transistor 560 is turned on or off. As a result, the switching unit 230 can be turned off.

[0144] Figure 6 An example of the system configuration of the input / output control unit 180 is schematically shown. In the present embodiment, the input / output control unit 180 includes a rated information acquisition unit 612, a maximum power determination unit 614, a coefficient determination unit 622, an upper limit power determination unit 624, an allowable current determination unit 632, an upper limit current determination unit 634, and an operation control unit 640. In the present embodiment, the operation control unit 640 includes a decrease detection unit 642, a current decrease unit 644, an increase detection unit 646, and a current increase unit 648.

[0145] In the present embodiment, the rated information acquisition unit 612 acquires information (sometimes referred to as rated information) indicating various rated values ​​associated with each of the one or more connected modules. The rated information acquisition unit 612 acquires the rated information stored in the module information storage unit 450 from the module control unit 240, for example. As the rated value, at least one of the rated output power, rated output current, rated output voltage, rated input power, rated input current, and rated input voltage of the power storage unit 210 may be exemplified. As another example of the rated value, at least one of the rated output power, rated output current, rated output voltage, rated input power, rated input current, and rated input voltage of the switching unit 230 may be exemplified.

[0146] In the present embodiment, the maximum power determination unit 614 determines the maximum value of the power that each of the one or more connection modules can supply to the power supply system 100 (sometimes referred to as the maximum power supply value). The maximum power determination unit 614 determines the maximum power supply value based on, for example, the smaller value of (a) the rated output power of the storage unit 210 of each of the one or more connection modules and (b) the rated output power of the switching unit 230 of each of the one or more connection modules. The maximum power determination unit 614 may determine the smaller value as the maximum power supply value.

[0147] The maximum power determination unit 614 may determine the maximum power supply value based on the smaller value of (a) the rated output current of the storage unit 210 of each of the one or more connected modules and (b) the rated output current of the switching unit 230 corresponding to each of the one or more connected modules. For example, the maximum power determination unit 614 determines the maximum power supply value based on the voltage at a specific time and the value of the rated output current.

[0148] As described above, the maximum value of the power that can be supplied to the power supply system 100 can be determined based on the maximum value of the current that can be supplied to the power supply system 100. Therefore, in another embodiment, the maximum power determination unit 614 can derive the maximum value of the current that can be supplied to the power supply system 100 as the maximum value of the power supply. In this case, the maximum power determination unit 614 can determine the smaller value as the maximum value of the power supply.

[0149] In the present embodiment, the maximum power determination unit 614 determines the maximum value of the power that each of the one or more connected modules can receive from the power supply system 100 (sometimes referred to as the maximum power receiving value). The maximum power determination unit 614 determines the maximum power receiving value based on, for example, the smaller value of (a) the rated input power of the storage unit 210 of each of the one or more connected modules and (b) the rated input power of the switching unit 230 corresponding to each of the one or more connected modules. The maximum power determination unit 614 may determine the smaller value as the maximum power receiving value.

[0150] The maximum power determination unit 614 may determine the maximum power receiving value based on, for example, the smaller value of (a) the rated input current of the storage unit 210 of each of the one or more connected modules and (b) the rated input current of the switching unit 230 corresponding to each of the one or more connected modules. The maximum power determination unit 614 may determine the smaller value as the maximum power receiving value.

[0151] In the present embodiment, the coefficient determination unit 622 determines various coefficients for determining the upper limit of the output power and / or input power size of the power supply system 100. For example, the coefficient determination unit 622 determines the coefficient for each of the one or more connection modules. In one embodiment, the coefficient determination unit 622 determines the coefficient for determining the upper limit of the output power size of the power supply system 100 (sometimes referred to as the power supply coefficient). In another embodiment, the coefficient determination unit 622 determines the coefficient for determining the upper limit of the input power size of the power supply system 100 (sometimes referred to as the power receiving coefficient).

[0152] The coefficient determination unit 622 may determine the coefficient applicable to each connected module based on at least one of (i) equivalent series resistance, (ii) slope of the SOC-OCV curve, and (iii) SOH of each connected module. The coefficient may be a positive number less than 1.

[0153] The coefficient determination unit 622 may determine the coefficient such that the larger the equivalent series resistance of the storage module 20 is, the smaller the coefficient applied to the storage module 20 is. The coefficient may be the reciprocal of the equivalent series resistance of the storage module 20, or the product of the reciprocal and a predetermined standard value related to the equivalent series resistance.

[0154] The coefficient determination unit 622 may determine the coefficient in such a manner that the greater the slope of the curve at a point on the SOC-OCV curve of the storage module 20 corresponding to the current value of the voltage (specifically, OCV) of the storage module 20, the smaller the coefficient applied to the storage module 20. The coefficient may be the reciprocal of the slope, or the product of the reciprocal and a predetermined standard value related to the slope.

[0155] The coefficient determination unit 622 may determine the coefficient so that the smaller the SOH of the storage module 20 is, the smaller the coefficient applied to the storage module 20 is. The coefficient may be the SOH of the storage module 20 or the product of the SOH and a predetermined SOH-related standard value.

[0156] In one embodiment, the coefficient determination unit 622 determines the power supply coefficient of each connected module based on at least one of (i) the equivalent series resistance, (ii) the slope of the SOC-OCV curve, and (iii) the SOH of each connected module. In another embodiment, the coefficient determination unit 622 determines the power receiving coefficient of each connected module based on at least one of (i) the equivalent series resistance, (ii) the slope of the SOC-OCV curve, and (iii) the SOH of each connected module.

[0157] In this embodiment, the upper limit power determination unit 624 determines the upper limit of at least one of the output power and the input power of the power supply system 100. In one embodiment, the upper limit value of the output power size and the upper limit value of the input power size may be the same. In another embodiment, the upper limit value of the output power size and the upper limit value of the input power size may also be different. For example, in the case of implementing power peak shaving and valley filling, the upper limit value of the output power size and the upper limit value of the input power size may be different.

[0158] In one embodiment, the upper limit power determination unit 624 determines the upper limit of the output power of the power supply system 100 based on the maximum power supply values ​​of the one or more connected modules. For example, the upper limit power determination unit 624 determines the sum of the maximum power supply values ​​of the one or more connected modules as the upper limit of the output power of the power supply system 100.

[0159] For example, the upper limit power determination unit 624 determines the upper limit of the output power of the power supply system 100 based on the respective maximum power supply values ​​of the at least one connected module and the power supply coefficients respectively specified for the at least one connected module. The upper limit power determination unit 624 may determine the upper limit of the output power of the power supply system 100 as a weighted linear sum of the respective maximum power supply values ​​of the at least one connected module using the power supply coefficients of the connected modules as weights.

[0160] In these embodiments, the power supply coefficient may be greater than or equal to 0.2 and less than or equal to 1. For example, when the battery systems of the power storage units 210 of more than one connected module are different or different, the power supply coefficient may be greater than or equal to 0.2 and less than or equal to 1. In these embodiments, the power supply coefficient may also be greater than or equal to 0.8 and less than or equal to 1. For example, when the battery systems of the power storage units 210 of more than one connected module are the same or similar, the power supply coefficient may be greater than or equal to 0.8 and less than or equal to 1.

[0161] In another embodiment, the upper limit power determination unit 624 determines the upper limit of the input power size of the power supply system 100 based on the maximum power receiving values ​​of each of the one or more connected modules. For example, the upper limit power determination unit 624 determines the sum of the maximum power receiving values ​​of each of the one or more connected modules as the upper limit of the input power size of the power supply system 100.

[0162] For example, the upper limit power determination unit 624 determines the upper limit of the input power of the power supply system 100 based on the power receiving maximum value of each of the one or more connected modules and the power receiving coefficients specified for each of the one or more connected modules. The upper limit power determination unit 624 may determine the upper limit of the input power of the power supply system 100 as a weighted linear sum of the power receiving maximum values ​​of each of the one or more connected modules using the power receiving coefficients of the connected modules as weights.

[0163] In these embodiments, the power reception coefficient may be 0.2 or more and 1 or less. For example, when the battery systems of the power storage units 210 of one or more connected modules are different or different, the power reception coefficient may be 0.2 or more and 1 or less. In these embodiments, the power reception coefficient may also be 0.8 or more and 1 or less. For example, when the battery systems of the power storage units 210 of one or more connected modules are the same or similar, the power reception coefficient may be 0.8 or more and 1 or less.

[0164] In this embodiment, the allowable current determination unit 632 obtains the allowable value (sometimes referred to as the allowable current value) of the current flowing between each of the one or more connection modules and the power connector 122 of the slot 120 that holds each connection module. The allowable current determination unit 632 determines the allowable current value of each connection module based on, for example, at least one of the maximum power supply value and the maximum power reception value of each of the one or more connection modules. Thus, the allowable current determination unit 632 can obtain the allowable current value of each connection module.

[0165] In one embodiment, when the maximum power determination unit 614 derives the maximum value of the power that the connection module can supply to the power supply system 100 as the maximum power supply value, the allowable current determination unit 632 determines the allowable current value of each connection module based on, for example, the maximum power supply value of each of the one or more connection modules and the voltage of each connection module at that time. The allowable current determination unit 632 determines the allowable current value of each connection module based on, for example, the maximum power reception value of each of the one or more connection modules and the voltage of each connection module.

[0166] In another embodiment, when the maximum power determination unit 614 derives the maximum value of the current that the connection module can supply to the power supply system 100 as the maximum power supply value, the allowable current determination unit 632 can determine the maximum power supply value to be output by the maximum power determination unit 614 as the allowable current value of the connection module.

[0167] In the present embodiment, the upper limit current determination unit 634 determines the upper limit of at least one of the output current and the input current of the power supply system 100. For example, the upper limit current determination unit 634 determines the upper limit of at least one of the output current and the input current of the power supply system 100 based on the allowable current value determined or acquired by the allowable current determination unit 632.

[0168] For example, when the number of connected modules increases, the upper limit current determination unit 634 determines an appropriate upper limit while gradually increasing at least one of the output current and the input current of the power supply system 100. Specifically, first, when the increase detection unit 646 detects that the number of connected modules has increased, the upper limit current determination unit 634 controls the current increase unit 648 to gradually increase at least one of the output current and the input current of the power supply system 100.

[0169] Next, when at least one of the output current and the input current of the power supply system 100 increases according to the instruction or determination of the current increasing unit 648, the upper limit current determining unit 634 monitors the current value of the current flowing between each of the one or more connection modules and the power connector 122 of the slot 120 holding each connection module. The upper limit current determining unit 634 obtains information indicating the current value, for example, periodically.

[0170] The upper limit current determination unit 634 compares the current value related to each connection module with the allowable current value of each connection module while monitoring the current value related to each connection module. When the result of the comparison is that the absolute value of the difference between (i) the current value of the current flowing between at least one of the one or more connection modules and the power connector 122 of the slot 120 holding the at least one connection module and (ii) the allowable current value of the at least one connection module is less than a predetermined value, the upper limit current determination unit 634 determines the magnitude of at least one of the output current and the input current of the power supply system 100 at that point in time as the upper limit of at least one of the output current and the input current of the power supply system 100. In this way, an appropriate upper limit value can be determined.

[0171] In the present embodiment, the operation control unit 640 controls the operation of each unit of the power conditioner 130. The operation control unit 640 controls the operation of at least one of the DC / DC converter 160, the inverter 170, the switch 172, and the switch 174, for example.

[0172] In this embodiment, the reduction detection unit 642 monitors the change in the number of one or more power storage modules 20 (as described above, referred to as connected modules) electrically connected to the power supply system 100 during the period when the power supply system 100 outputs power. The reduction detection unit 642 can also detect that the number of connected modules will decrease in the near future.

[0173] The reduction detection unit 642 detects that the number of connected modules will decrease in the near future, for example, before the number of connected modules actually decreases. More specifically, the reduction detection unit 642 detects in advance that the number of connected modules has decreased by receiving a warning signal sent by the communication unit 460 of a specific power storage module 20. The reduction detection unit 642 outputs information indicating that the number of connected modules has decreased to the current reduction unit 644.

[0174] In this embodiment, when the reduction detection unit 642 detects in advance that the number of connected modules is reduced, the current reduction unit 644 determines to reduce the output current of the power supply system 100. The current reduction unit 644 may generate a signal for operating the power conditioner 130 according to the determination result. The current reduction unit 644 may send the signal to a related element among the components of the power conditioner 130. As the component, at least one of the DC / DC converter 160, the inverter 170, the switch 172, and the switch 174 may be exemplified.

[0175] The output current may be a current outputted via the power connector 152 and the power connector 154. The output current may be a current outputted from the power connector 144 to the DC / DC converter 160. The output current may also be a current outputted from the DC / DC converter 160 to the inverter 170.

[0176] The current may be the current output from the power conditioner 130 to the plurality of slots 120. The current may also be the current output via the power connector 144.

[0177] When the reduction detection unit 642 detects in advance that the number of connected modules is reduced, the current reduction unit 644 can reduce the output current from the connected modules before the number of connected modules is actually reduced. As described above, after the communication unit 460 of the storage module 20 sends the advance signal, the switching unit 230 of the storage module 20 electrically disconnects the storage unit 210 of the storage module 20 from the power connector 122 that holds the slot 120 of the storage module 20. As a result, the number of connected modules is reduced.

[0178] According to the present embodiment, after the output current of the power supply system 100 is reduced, the power storage unit 210 of the power storage module 20 and the power connector 122 holding the power storage module 20 slot 120 are electrically disconnected. As a result, the magnitude of the output current of each of the remaining connected modules is controlled to be less than the upper limit of the magnitude of the output current of each connected module.

[0179] In this embodiment, the increase detection unit 646 monitors the change in the number of connected modules. The increase detection unit 646 can monitor the change in the number of connected modules during the period when the power supply system 100 outputs power. The increase detection unit 646 detects, for example, an increase in the number of connected modules. The increase detection unit 646 outputs information indicating an increase in the number of connected modules to the current reduction unit 644.

[0180] In the present embodiment, when the increase detection unit 646 detects that the number of connected modules has increased, the current increase unit 648 determines to increase at least one of the output current and the input current of the power supply system 100. When the increase detection unit 646 detects that the number of connected modules has increased, the current increase unit 648, for example, determines to increase at least one of the output current and the input current of the power supply system 100 so that the change of at least one of the output current and the input current of the power supply system 100 satisfies a predetermined first condition. As the first condition, the condition that the increase rate of at least one of the output current and the input current is less than a predetermined value, the condition that the increase rate is within a predetermined numerical range, etc. can be exemplified.

[0181] In this embodiment, the current increasing unit 648 adjusts the start time of the process for increasing at least one of the output current and the input current of the power supply system 100 after a predetermined delay time has passed after the increase detection unit 646 detects that the number of connected modules has increased, so that at least one of the output current and the input current of the power supply system 100 is increased. The delay time may have a predetermined length or a length determined based on a predetermined algorithm. As a result, the operation of the power supply system 100 is more stable.

[0182] The current increasing unit 648 may generate a signal for operating the power conditioner 130 according to the determination result. The current increasing unit 648 may send the signal to a relevant element among the components of the power conditioner 130. As the components, at least one of the DC / DC converter 160, the inverter 170, the switch 172, and the switch 174 may be exemplified.

[0183] As described above, according to the present embodiment, when the input / output control unit 180 receives a signal requesting an increase in the charge / discharge current, the input / output control unit 180 obtains information indicating the current magnitude of each power storage module from a current sensor that detects the current magnitude of each of the one or more power storage modules 20. While monitoring the current magnitude of each power storage module, the input / output control unit 180 controls the output of the power conditioner 130 so that the current value of each power storage module does not exceed the current limit value of each power storage module.

[0184] For example, when the electrical characteristics of each storage module are different, it is difficult to predict the current size allocated to each storage module. When batteries of different types and / or specifications are mixed, it is particularly difficult to predict the current size allocated to each storage module. Even in this case, according to this embodiment, the current size allocated to each storage module can be appropriately adjusted.

[0185] In addition, for example, when the switch unit 230 is turned on / off, current may flow backwards, and the charging efficiency or the discharging efficiency may decrease. As described above, by providing the delay time, it is possible to suppress the charging efficiency or the discharging efficiency from decreasing.

[0186] The allowable current determination unit 632 may be an example of an allowable current acquisition unit. The power storage module 20 that has transmitted the advance notice signal may be an example of a second power storage device.

[0187] Next, use Figure 7An example of a procedure for determining the upper limit of the output power of the power supply system 100 is described. In this embodiment, for the sake of convenience, the details of the procedure are described by taking the case where the power supply system 100 includes slots X, slots Y, and slots Z, and the power storage module A is installed in slot X, the power storage module B is installed in slot Y, and the power storage module C is installed in slot Z as an example. As long as a person skilled in the art who understands the description can understand that the upper limit of the input power of the power supply system 100 can be determined by the same procedure.

[0188] According to the present embodiment, for example, the maximum power determination unit 614 determines the maximum value of the power that each power storage module can supply to the power supply system 100 based on the smaller value of the rated output current of the power storage unit 210 and the rated output current of the switching unit 230. For example, the maximum power determination unit 614 first determines the maximum value of the current that each power storage module can supply to the power supply system 100. Next, the maximum power determination unit 614 determines the maximum value of the power that each power storage module can supply to the power supply system 100 based on the maximum value of the current related to each power storage module and the voltage of each power storage module at that time.

[0189] More specifically, first, the allowable current determination unit 632 determines the allowable current of each storage module. For example, the allowable current determination unit 632 obtains the value of the rated output current of the storage unit 210 of each storage module from the rated information acquisition unit 612. Similarly, the allowable current determination unit 632 obtains the value of the rated output current of the switching unit 230 of each storage module from the rated information acquisition unit 612. Figure 7 As shown, in this embodiment, the rated output current of the storage unit 210 of each of the storage module A, the storage module B, and the storage module C is 80, 120, and 150 [A]. Similarly, the rated output current of the switching unit 230 of each of the storage module A, the storage module B, and the storage module C is 100, 100, and 200 [A].

[0190] Next, the allowable current determination unit 632 compares the rated output current of the storage unit 210 with the rated output current of the switch unit 230 for each storage module. The allowable current determination unit 632 determines the smaller value of the rated output current of the storage unit 210 and the rated output current of the switch unit 230 as the allowable current of each storage module.

[0191] Next, the coefficient determination unit 622 obtains the value of the equivalent series resistance of each power storage module. Figure 7As shown, in this embodiment, the equivalent series resistances of the storage module A, the storage module B, and the storage module C are 4, 3, and 2 [mΩ], respectively. The coefficient determination unit 622 determines the first coefficient k1 based on the inverse of the equivalent series resistance of each storage module. In this embodiment, the coefficient determination unit 622 determines the first coefficient k1 based on the standard value 2 and the inverse of the equivalent series resistance of each storage module. Specifically, the coefficient determination unit 622 calculates the first coefficient k1 of each storage module by dividing the standard value 2 by the inverse of the equivalent series resistance of each storage module.

[0192] Next, the coefficient determination unit 622 compares (i) a value obtained by multiplying the maximum value of the allowable currents of the three storage modules by the first coefficient k1 of each storage module (sometimes referred to as the first multiplication value) and (ii) the value of the allowable current of each storage module. When the first multiplication value is greater than the value of the allowable current for at least one storage module, the coefficient determination unit 622 derives a second coefficient k2 for adjusting the first coefficient k1. For example, the coefficient determination unit 622 calculates the second coefficient k2 by dividing the value of the allowable current by the first multiplication value for a storage module whose first multiplication value is greater than the value of the allowable current. When there are multiple storage modules whose first multiplication value is greater than the value of the allowable current, the coefficient determination unit 622 determines to use the minimum value of the values ​​obtained by dividing the values ​​of the allowable currents of the multiple storage modules by the first multiplication value as the second coefficient k2. The second coefficient may be a coefficient common to all storage modules.

[0193] Next, the coefficient determination unit 622 obtains the value of the slope of the SOC-OCV curve of each power storage module. The coefficient determination unit 622 determines the slope of the SOC-OCV curve of each power storage module at a point corresponding to the current voltage on the curve as the third coefficient k3.

[0194] Next, the allowable current determination unit 632 obtains the values ​​of the first coefficient k1, the second coefficient k2, and the third coefficient k3 of each power storage module from the coefficient determination unit 622. The allowable current determination unit 632 determines the maximum value of the current that each power storage module can supply to the power supply system 100 by multiplying the allowable current of each power storage module, the first coefficient k1, the second coefficient k3, and the third coefficient k3. Figure 7 In the embodiment described above, the maximum currents that can be supplied to the power supply system 100 by the power storage modules A, B, and C are 71, 100, and 28 [A], respectively. The maximum current that the power supply system 100 can supply to the outside is the sum of these values, which is 199 [A].

[0195] The maximum power determination unit 614 can determine the maximum value of the power that each storage module can supply to the power supply system 100 by multiplying the maximum value of the output current of each storage module determined by the allowable current determination unit 632 by the voltage of each storage module at that time. Similarly, the maximum power determination unit 614 can determine the maximum value of the power that the power supply system 100 can supply to the outside based on the maximum value of the output current of each storage module determined by the allowable current determination unit 632 and the voltage of each storage module at that time. The maximum power determination unit 614 outputs information indicating the maximum value of the power that the power supply system 100 can supply to the outside to the operation control unit 640. The operation control unit 640 controls the operation of the power conditioner 130 based on the information obtained from the maximum power determination unit 614.

[0196] Figure 8 An example of the system configuration of the computer 3000 is schematically shown. For example, at least a part of the power supply system 100 is implemented by the computer 3000. For example, at least a part of the input / output control unit 180 is implemented by the computer 3000. For example, at least a part of the module control unit 240 is implemented by the computer 3000.

[0197] The program installed in the computer 3000 can make the computer 3000 function as an operation associated with the device of the embodiment of the present invention or one or more "parts" of the device, or make the computer 3000 perform the operation or the one or more "parts"; and / or, can make the computer 3000 perform the process of the embodiment of the present invention or the stage of the process. Such a program can be executed by the CPU 3012 to make the computer 3000 perform specific operations associated with some or all of the blocks in the flowcharts and block diagrams described in this specification.

[0198] The computer 3000 of this embodiment includes a CPU 3012, a RAM 3014, a graphics controller 3016, and a display device 3018, which are connected to each other via a host controller 3010. The computer 3000 also includes input and output components, such as a communication interface 3022, a hard disk drive 3024, a DVD-ROM drive 3026, and an IC card drive, which are connected to the host controller 3010 via an input and output controller 3020. The computer also includes existing input and output components, such as a ROM 3030 and a keyboard 3042, which are connected to the input and output controller 3020 via an input and output chip 3040.

[0199] The CPU 3012 operates according to the programs stored in the ROM 3030 and the RAM 3014 to control each component. The graphic controller 3016 acquires the image data generated by the CPU 3012 from a frame buffer provided in the RAM 3014 or the RAM 3014 itself, and displays the image data on the display device 3018 .

[0200] The communication interface 3022 communicates with other electronic devices via a network. The hard disk drive 3024 stores programs and data used by the CPU 3012 in the computer 3000. The DVD-ROM drive 3026 reads programs or data from the DVD-ROM 3001 and provides the programs or data to the hard disk drive 3024 via the RAM 3014. The IC card drive reads programs and data from an IC card and / or writes programs and data to an IC card.

[0201] The ROM 3030 stores therein a startup program executed by the computer 3000 at the time of activation and / or a program dependent on the hardware of the computer 3000. The input-output chip 3040 can also connect various input-output components to the input-output controller 3020 via a parallel port, a serial port, a keyboard port, a mouse port, and the like.

[0202] The program is provided by a computer-readable storage medium such as DVD-ROM 3001 or an IC card. The program is read from the computer-readable storage medium, installed in the hard disk drive 3024, RAM 3014 or ROM 3030, which are also examples of computer-readable storage media, and executed by the CPU 3012. The information processing described in these programs is read by the computer 3000, providing a connection between the program and the various types of hardware resources. The device or method can be constructed by implementing information operations or processing according to the use of the computer 3000.

[0203] For example, when the computer 3000 and an external device perform communication, the CPU 3012 can execute the communication program loaded into the RAM 3014, and based on the processing described in the communication program, issue a communication processing command to the communication interface 3022. Under the control of the CPU 3012, the communication interface 3022 reads the transmission data stored in the transmission buffer area in the recording medium such as the RAM 3014, the hard disk drive 3024, the DVD-ROM 3001, or the IC card, and sends the read transmission data to the network, or writes the reception data received from the network to the reception buffer area to be provided to the recording medium, etc.

[0204] In addition, the CPU 3012 may also read all or a necessary part of a file or database stored in an external recording medium such as the hard disk drive 3024, the DVD-ROM drive 3026 (DVD-ROM 3001), or an IC card onto the RAM 3014, and perform various types of processing on the data on the RAM 3014. The CPU 3012 may then write the processed data back to the external recording medium.

[0205] Various types of information, such as various types of programs, data, tables, and databases, can be stored in the recording medium and receive information processing. CPU3012 can perform various types of processing on the data read from RAM3014, including various types of operations, information processing, conditional judgments, conditional branches, unconditional branches, information retrieval / replacement, etc., recorded throughout this disclosure and specified by the command sequence of the program, and write the results back to RAM3014. In addition, CPU3012 can also retrieve information in files, databases, etc. in the recording medium. For example, when multiple entries each having an attribute value of the first attribute associated with the attribute value of the second attribute are stored in the recording medium, CPU3012 can retrieve an entry consistent with the condition specifying the attribute value of the first attribute from the multiple entries, and read the attribute value of the second attribute stored in the entry, thereby obtaining the attribute value of the second attribute associated with the first attribute that meets the predetermined condition.

[0206] The program or software module described above may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium on or near the computer 3000. In addition, a recording medium such as a hard disk or RAM provided to a server system connected to a dedicated communication network or the Internet can be used as a computer-readable storage medium, thereby providing the program to the computer 3000 via the network.

[0207] The present invention has been described above using the embodiments, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the embodiments. It is obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes or improvements can be added to the embodiments. In addition, matters described in a specific embodiment can be applied to other embodiments within the scope of technical non-contradiction. As is clear from the description of the claims, forms with such changes or improvements added can also be included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0208] It should be noted that the execution order of each process such as actions, steps, steps and stages in the devices, systems, programs and methods shown in the claims, specifications and drawings can be implemented in any order unless it is specifically stated as "before...", "before...", etc., and the output of the pre-processing is not used for post-processing. Even if the action flow in the claims, specifications and drawings is described using "first," "second," etc. for convenience, it does not mean that it must be implemented in this order. [Explanation of symbols]

[0209] 10 power system, 12 switchboard, 20 power storage module, 22 power connector, 24 communication connector, 30 load device, 52 signal, 54 signal, 100 power supply system, 110 solar power generation device, 120 slot, 122 power connector, 124 communication connector, 130 power conditioner, 142 power connector, 144 power connector, 148 communication connector, 152 power connector, 154 power connector, 160 DC / DC converter, 170 inverter, 172 switch, 174 switch, 180 input / output control unit, 202 positive terminal, 204 negative terminal, 210 power storage unit, 212 positive terminal, 214 negative terminal, 222 power storage unit, 224 power storage unit, 230 switching unit, 240 module control unit, 250 protection unit, 260 balance correction unit, 320 trickle charging unit, 322 direction restriction unit, 324 flow restriction unit, 410 determination unit, 420 receiving unit, 430 signal generating unit, 440 module information acquiring unit, 450 module information storage unit, 460 communication unit, 510 transistor, 512 resistor, 514 resistor, 516 diode, 520 transistor, 522 resistor, 524 resistor, 526 diode, 530 transistor, 532 resistor, 540 transistor, 542 resistor, 552 resistor, 554 resistor, 560 transistor, 570 capacitor, 572 resistor, 580 transistor, 592 switch, 594 switch, 612 rated information acquisition unit, 614 maximum power determination unit, 622 coefficient determination unit, 624 upper limit power determination unit, 632 allowable current determination unit, 634 upper limit current determination unit Unit, 640 action control unit, 642 reduction detection unit, 644 current reduction unit, 646 increase detection unit, 648 current increase unit, 3000 computer, 3001 DVD-ROM, 3010 host controller, 3012 CPU, 3014 RAM, 3016 graphic controller, 3018 display device, 3020 input and output controller, 3022 communication interface, 3024 hard disk drive, 3026 DVD-ROM drive, 3030 ROM, 3040 input and output chip, 3042 keyboard.

Claims

1. A control device for controlling at least one of output power and input power of a power device configured to be able to connect a detachable power storage device in parallel, and A power upper limit determination unit is provided, the power upper limit determination unit determining an upper limit of the magnitude of at least one of the output power and the input power of the power device, The upper limit power determination unit is: The upper limit of the output power of the power device is determined based on the maximum value of the power that can be supplied to the power device by each of the power storage devices, i.e., one or more first power storage devices electrically connected to the power terminals of the power device, i.e., the maximum power supply value; and / or The upper limit of the magnitude of the input power to the power device is determined based on a maximum value of electric power that each of the one or more first power storage devices can receive from the power device, that is, a power reception maximum value.

2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein The upper limit power determination unit is: determining a sum of the maximum power supply values ​​of each of the one or more first power storage devices as the upper limit of the output power of the power device; and / or, A sum of the respective maximum power reception values ​​of the one or more first power storage devices is determined as the upper limit of the magnitude of the input power to the power device.

3. The control device according to claim 1, wherein The upper limit power determination unit is: determining the upper limit of the output power of the power device based on the power supply maximum value of each of the one or more first power storage devices and a power supply coefficient that is a positive number less than 1 and is specified for each of the one or more first power storage devices; and / or The upper limit of the magnitude of the input power of the power device is determined based on the power reception maximum value of each of the one or more first power storage devices and a power reception coefficient that is a positive number of 1 or less and is defined for each of the one or more first power storage devices.

4. The control device according to claim 3, wherein The power supply factor of each of the one or more first power storage devices is determined based on at least one of (i) an equivalent series resistance, (ii) a slope of a SOC-OCV curve, and (iii) a SOH of each of the one or more first power storage devices.

5. The control device according to claim 3, wherein The power reception coefficient of each of the one or more first power storage devices is determined based on at least one of (i) an equivalent series resistance, (ii) a slope of a SOC-OCV curve, and (iii) a SOH of each of the one or more first power storage devices.

6. The control device according to claim 1, wherein The maximum power supply value of each of the one or more first power storage devices is determined based on the smaller of the following two values: (a) the rated output power of the power storage unit of each of the one or more first power storage devices, and (b) the rated output power of the switching unit that switches the electrical connection relationship between the power storage unit of each of the one or more first power storage devices and the power terminal of the power device.

7. The control device according to claim 1, wherein The maximum power receiving value of each of the one or more first power storage devices is determined based on the smaller of the following two values: (a) the rated input power of the storage unit of each of the one or more first power storage devices, and (b) the rated input power of the switching unit that switches the electrical connection relationship between the storage unit of each of the one or more first power storage devices and the power terminal of the power device.

8. The control device according to claim 1, further comprising: a decrease detection unit for detecting in advance a decrease in the number of the one or more first power storage devices during the period when the power device is outputting power; and The current reducing unit is configured to, when the reduction detecting unit has detected the reduction in the number in advance, determine to reduce the output current of the power device before the number of the one or more first power storage devices decreases.

9. The control device according to claim 1, comprising: an increase detection unit configured to detect an increase in the number of the one or more first power storage devices; an allowable current acquisition unit that acquires an allowable current value indicating an allowable value of a current flowing between each of the one or more first power storage devices and the power terminal of the power device; an upper limit current determination unit that determines an upper limit of at least one of an output current and an input current of the power device based on the allowable current value acquired by the allowable current acquisition unit; as well as a current increasing unit, which, when the increase detecting unit detects the increase in the number, determines to increase the at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device so that the change of at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device satisfies a predetermined first condition; the allowable current value of each of the one or more first power storage devices is determined based on at least one of the maximum power supply value and the maximum power reception value of each of the one or more first power storage devices; The upper limit current determination unit is: acquiring a current value of a current flowing between each of the one or more first power storage devices and the power terminal of the power device when the at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device increases according to the determination of the current increasing unit; The upper limit of the magnitude of at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device is determined as the magnitude of at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device when the absolute value of the difference between (i) the current value of the current flowing between at least one of the one or more first power storage devices and the power terminal of the power device and (ii) the allowable current value of the at least one first power storage device is less than a predetermined value.

10. A control device for controlling at least one of an output current and an input current of an electric power device configured to be connected in parallel to a detachable electric storage device; and comprising: an increase detection unit for detecting an increase in the number of the power storage devices, i.e., one or more first power storage devices, electrically connected to the power terminal of the power device; an allowable current acquisition unit that acquires an allowable current value indicating an allowable value of a current flowing between each of the one or more first power storage devices and the power terminal of the power device; an upper limit current determination unit that determines an upper limit of at least one of an output current and an input current of the power device based on the allowable current value acquired by the allowable current acquisition unit; as well as a current increasing unit, which, when the increase detecting unit detects the increase in the number, determines to increase the at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device so that the change of the at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device satisfies a predetermined first condition; The upper limit current determination unit is: acquiring a current value of a current flowing between each of the one or more first power storage devices and the power terminal of the power device when the at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device increases according to the determination of the current increasing unit; The upper limit of the magnitude of at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device is determined as the magnitude of at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device when the absolute value of the difference between (i) the current value of the current flowing between at least one of the one or more first power storage devices and the power terminal of the power device and (ii) the allowable current value of the at least one first power storage device is less than a predetermined value.

11. The control device according to claim 10, wherein The current increasing unit adjusts the start time of the process for increasing the at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device after a predetermined delay time has passed since the increase detecting unit detected the increase in the number, so that the at least one of the output current and the input current of the power device increases; The delay time has a predetermined length or a length determined based on a predetermined algorithm.

12. The control device according to claim 10, wherein The allowable current acquisition unit includes an allowable current determination unit, which determines the allowable current value of each of the one or more first power storage devices based on at least one of (i) the maximum value of the electric power that each of the one or more first power storage devices can supply to the power device, i.e., the maximum value of power supply, and (i) the maximum value of the electric power that each of the one or more first power storage devices can receive from the power device, i.e., the maximum value of power reception.

13. The control device according to claim 10, further comprising: a decrease detection unit for detecting in advance a decrease in the number of the one or more first power storage devices during the period when the power device is outputting power; and A current reducing unit is configured to, when the reduction detecting unit has detected the reduction in the number in advance, determine to reduce the output current of the power device before the number of the one or more first power storage devices decreases.

14. A power adjustment device, comprising: A control device according to any one of claims 1 to 13; and The power adjustment unit adjusts at least one of input power and output power of the power device based on an instruction from the control device.

15. An electric power device comprising: The power adjustment device according to claim 14; a holding portion configured to hold the detachable power storage device; as well as A power terminal configured to be able to input and output power to and from an external electrical device; The power adjustment device adjusts input and output of power between the power storage device and the external electrical equipment.

16. A control system comprising: The control device according to claim 8 or 13; a transmitting unit that transmits a warning signal for notifying a decrease in the number of the one or more first power storage devices to the control device when a voltage difference between a power storage unit of a second power storage device included in the one or more first power storage devices and the power terminal of the power device satisfies a predetermined second condition during the period when the power device is outputting power; and The disconnection unit determines to electrically disconnect the power terminal of the power device from the second power storage device when a predetermined third condition is satisfied after the transmission unit outputs the advance notice signal.

17. The control system of claim 16, wherein The second condition includes: The condition that the voltage difference is less than a predetermined value; or, The condition that the absolute value of the voltage difference is less than a predetermined value; The third condition includes: A condition that a predetermined time has passed after the transmission unit outputs the advance notice signal; or The condition is that the cutoff unit receives, after the transmission unit outputs the warning signal, a signal indicating that a process for reducing the output current of the power device has started or has been completed from the control device.

18. A management device for managing the state of a power storage device that is detachable from a power device, the power device being configured to be able to input and output power to and from an external electrical device, the management device comprising: a transmitting unit that transmits a warning signal for notifying that the power storage unit and the power terminal will be electrically disconnected to a control device for controlling the power device, when a voltage difference between the power storage unit of the power storage device and the power terminal of the power device satisfies a predetermined second condition during the period when the power device equipped with the power storage device is outputting power; and a disconnection unit that determines to electrically disconnect the power terminal of the power device from the power storage device when a predetermined third condition is satisfied after the transmission unit outputs the advance signal; The second condition includes: The condition that the voltage difference is less than a predetermined value; or, The condition that the absolute value of the voltage difference is less than a predetermined value; The third condition includes: A condition that a predetermined time has passed after the transmitter outputs the advance notice signal; or The condition is that the cutoff unit receives, after the transmission unit outputs the warning signal, a signal indicating that a process for reducing the output current of the power device has started or has been completed from the control device.

19. A program for causing a computer to function as the control device according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

20. A program for causing a computer to function as the management device according to claim 18.

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