Identification information setting device, battery system, and program

Abstract

A battery system includes a plurality of battery modules (10) having a storage battery (11) and a monitoring unit (12) that monitors the storage battery. An identification information setting device (20) is provided so as to be able to communicate with the monitoring unit, and individually sets module identification information for each battery module. The identification information setting device is provided with: a communication determination unit that, when the identification information setting device is activated, checks communication identification information specified for each monitoring unit, and determines whether or not communication has been established on the basis of the check result; and a setting unit that sets the module identification information on the basis of the determination by the communication determination unit that the communication has not been established.

Description

Citation of Related Applications

[0001] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-174596 filed on October 31, 2022, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an identification information setting device, a battery system, and a program. Background Art

[0003] A technique for setting an identification number for each battery module (battery pack) in a battery system having a plurality of battery modules is known (for example, Patent Document 1). The identification information of each battery module is set, for example, when manufacturing a vehicle and when installing each battery module with respect to the vehicle. Prior Art Documents Patent Documents

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 5735098 Gazette Summary of the Invention In addition, when replacing a battery module in the market for a battery system of a vehicle or the like, it is necessary to reset the identification information of each battery module. However, in the existing technology, for example, when a user of a vehicle or the like replaces a battery module, it is considered difficult to reset the identification information of the battery module. In addition, in a battery system, when a battery module is temporarily removed, charged, etc. and then reinstalled, the same problem occurs when resetting the identification information of the battery module. In view of this, there is room for improvement.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above technical problems, and an object thereof is to provide an identification information setting device, a battery system, and a program that can easily set the identification information of each battery module when a battery module is replaced or the like.

[0007] The present disclosure is an identification information setting device, The above identification information setting device is applicable to a battery system, and the battery system includes a plurality of battery modules having a storage battery and a monitoring unit for monitoring the storage battery, The above identification information setting device is configured to be able to communicate with the monitoring unit and individually set module identification information for each of the above battery modules, wherein the identification information setting device includes: A communication determination unit that, when the identification information setting device is started, checks the communication identification information determined for each of the above monitoring units and determines whether communication has been established based on the check result; and A setting unit that sets the module identification information based on a determination by the communication determination unit that communication has not been established.

[0008] In the above structure, in a battery system where the monitoring unit of each battery module and the identification information setting device can communicate, when the identification information setting device is started, the communication identification information is checked for each monitoring unit, and based on the check result, it is determined whether communication has been established. In this case, if the communication identification information of each monitoring unit is correctly identified in the identification information setting device, it is determined that communication has been established.

[0009] In addition, in a battery system that performs such communication determination, when a battery module is replaced or the like, the communication identification information in the battery module becomes an unset state (for example, the initial state). When the identification information setting device is started, the communication identification information is not correctly identified, and it is determined that communication has not been established. In this case, based on the determination result that communication cannot be established, it is possible to grasp that a battery module has been replaced or the like. Therefore, when the identification information setting device is started, based on the determination that communication has not been established, the module identification information is set. Thus, even if the user replaces a battery module or the like by themselves, the module identification information can be set appropriately and simply. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The above objects, other objects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure can be made more apparent by referring to the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description. The accompanying drawings are as follows. Figure 1 FIG. is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a battery system. Figure 2 FIG. is a diagram showing the connection state of each battery module. Figure 3 FIG. is a diagram showing a state in which a plurality of battery modules are installed in a vehicle. Figure 4 FIG. is a diagram schematically showing the installation state of each battery module. Figure 5 FIG. is an explanatory diagram showing the steps of ID setting in each battery module. Figure 6 FIG. is a flowchart showing the steps of the module ID setting process. Figure 7 FIG. is a flowchart showing the steps of the replacement history flag setting process. Figure 8 FIG. is a flowchart showing the steps of the module ID setting process in the second embodiment. Figure 9 FIG. is a flowchart showing the steps of the replacement history flag setting process in another example. Figure 10It is a flowchart showing the steps of setting the module ID in another example. Figure 11 It is a schematic diagram showing an in-vehicle battery system and a battery storage system. Detailed implementation mode

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described based on the drawings. In the present embodiment, a specific structural description of a battery system installed in an electric vehicle such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle will be given. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments, and can be appropriately changed and implemented within the scope not departing from the gist of the disclosure. In addition, in the following embodiments and modification examples, the same or equivalent parts are denoted by the same reference numerals in the drawings, and the description of the parts with the same reference numerals is incorporated.

[0012] [First Embodiment] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing a schematic structure of the battery system in the present embodiment. The present battery system includes a plurality of battery modules 10 installed in a vehicle and a battery ECU 20 that comprehensively manages the plurality of battery modules 10.

[0013] The battery module 10 has a battery pack 11 composed of a plurality of single cells, a monitoring unit 12 that monitors the state of the battery pack 11, and a housing 13 that houses the battery pack 11 and the monitoring unit 12. The battery pack 11 is a secondary battery (storage battery) such as a lithium-ion storage battery. The battery pack 11 of each battery module 10 is used as a power source for a rotating electric machine 31 that is a driving power source for vehicle travel. For example, as shown in (a) of Figure 2 , the battery pack 11 of each battery module 10 is connected in series with the rotating electric machine 31. More specifically, the rotating electric machine 31 has an inverter that controls the current of each phase, and a positive power supply line 32 extending from the positive terminal (the terminal closest to the positive side of the serially connected battery packs 11) of the plurality of battery packs 11 and a negative power supply line 33 extending from the negative terminal (the terminal closest to the negative side of the serially connected battery packs 11) of the plurality of battery packs 11 are respectively connected to the positive and negative sides of the inverter. Power switches 34 are provided on the respective power supply lines 32 and 33, and by turning on the power switches 34, power-on between each battery pack 11 and the rotating electric machine 31 can be performed. However, as shown in (b) of Figure 2 , the battery pack 11 of each battery module 10 may also be connected in parallel with the rotating electric machine 31.

[0014] The monitoring unit 12 is composed of a microcomputer including a CPU and various memories, and detects or calculates the terminal voltage, charge and discharge current, temperature, SOC (state of charge), and SOH (state of deterioration) of each single battery as the state of the battery pack 11. The monitoring unit 12 constitutes a BMU (Battery Management Unit). The low-voltage battery (+B) is connected to the monitoring unit 12, and the monitoring unit 12 operates by power supply from the low-voltage battery.

[0015] The battery ECU 20 is composed of a microcomputer including a CPU and various memories, and is connected to the monitoring unit 12 of each battery module 10 through a communication line 21 capable of CAN communication, for example. The battery ECU 20 appropriately performs processes related to charge and discharge in each battery module 10, processes related to overheating or deterioration, communication abnormalities, etc. in each battery module 10. For example, the battery ECU 20 calculates the power that can be charged and discharged in the battery system based on the battery state information received from the monitoring unit 12 of each battery module 10, and notifies the power that can be charged and discharged to other in-vehicle ECUs. In addition, the battery ECU 20 notifies the abnormality diagnosis results related to various abnormalities such as overheating or deterioration, communication abnormalities, etc. in each battery module 10 to other in-vehicle ECUs.

[0016] Figure 3 FIG. is a diagram showing a state in which a plurality of battery modules 10 are installed in the vehicle 40. Figure 4 FIG. is a diagram schematically showing the installation state of each battery module 10.

[0017] As Figure 3 shown, the vehicle 40 has a rack 41 as an installation portion for installing a plurality of battery modules 10. The rack 41 has a plurality of battery accommodation portions 42, and the battery modules 10 are respectively accommodated in these battery accommodation portions 42. In the vehicle 40, the battery module 10 can be loaded and unloaded by a user including the driver, for example, each battery module 10 can be loaded and unloaded individually from the side of the vehicle. That is, the plurality of battery modules 10 can be replaced individually.

[0018] As Figure 4As shown, a module connector 14 is provided in the housing 13 of the battery module 10, and a rack connector 43 is provided in the rack 41. These connectors 14 and 43 can be coupled to each other, and when the battery module 10 is mounted on the rack 41, the connectors 14 and 43 are coupled to each other. In the state where the connectors 14 and 43 are coupled, mutual communication can be performed between the monitoring unit 12 and the battery ECU 20 through the communication line 21. In addition, also in the state where the connectors are coupled, +B power supply is performed for the monitoring unit 12. That is, by mounting the battery module 10 on the rack 41, a power supply voltage (+B voltage) is applied to the monitoring unit 12. On the other hand, by detaching the battery module 10 from the rack 41, the power supply voltage applied to the monitoring unit 12 is cut off. Therefore, the monitoring unit 12 is started by the power supply voltage applied along with the mounting of the battery module 10 on the rack 41.

[0019] Although the illustration description is omitted, in the state where the battery module 10 is mounted on the rack 41, the vehicle-side power supply power lines (for example Figure 2 the power lines 32 and 33 shown) are electrically connected to the battery packs 11 of the respective battery modules 10. The power supply connector is preferably integrally provided with the module connector 14 and the rack connector 43, for example. Through the connection of the power supply connector, the battery packs 11 of the respective battery modules 10 are connected in series or in parallel in the vehicle 40.

[0020] In addition, in this system, a locking device 50 is provided that makes it impossible or difficult to detach the battery module 10 in the state where the battery module 10 is mounted. The locking device 50 has locking members 51 and 52 provided on the battery module 10 side and the rack 41 side, respectively, and outputs locking signals that are different in the locked state and the unlocked state to the battery ECU 20. The battery ECU 20 determines whether the locking device 50 is in the locked state based on the locking signal from the locking device 50.

[0021] In this battery system, a module ID and a communication ID are set as identification information for each battery module 10, in other words, for each monitoring unit 12. The module ID corresponds to module identification information, and the communication ID corresponds to communication identification information. The identification information of the battery module 10 is stored in the memory of the monitoring unit 12 of each battery module 10 and the memory of the battery ECU 20, respectively. The battery ECU 20 identifies the respective battery modules 10 that are control targets based on the identification information of each battery module 10, and appropriately performs charge and discharge control, abnormality diagnosis, etc. for each battery module 10. The battery ECU 20 receives the communication ID from the monitoring unit 12 of each battery module 10 via the communication line 21, and checks the received communication ID against the communication ID identified on the battery ECU 20 side, and determines whether communication with the monitoring unit 12 has been established based on the check result.

[0022] The identification information (module ID and communication ID) of each battery module 10 is initialized before the battery module 10 is installed in the vehicle 40, and is set after the battery module 10 is installed in the vehicle 40. Specifically, as the power storage amount of the battery pack 11 decreases or deteriorates, the battery module 10 is replaced with another battery module 10, or is temporarily removed from the vehicle 40 for charging by an external charging device and reinstalled after charging. In this case, when replacing the battery module 10, the battery module 10 in the ID initialization state is installed in the vehicle 40, and the identification information is set for each battery module 10 after this installation. In addition, when the battery module 10 is shipped from the factory, common identification information is set for all battery modules 10 as the ID initial value.

[0023] When the battery module 10 is externally charged, the battery module 10 removed from the vehicle 40 is installed in an external charging device such as a charging station, and the identification information is initialized in each monitoring unit 12 in this state. If it is assumed that the battery module 10 is used in the state of being installed in the vehicle 40, it is preferable to initialize the identification information in the monitoring unit 12 of each battery module 10 based on the installation object being different from that in normal use. Then, after the battery module 10 is installed in the vehicle 40, the identification information is set for each battery module 10.

[0024] In addition, when the battery module 10 is removed from the vehicle 40 (rack 41), it may be configured to initialize the identification information in the monitoring unit 12 based on the disconnection of the connector.

[0025] In the present embodiment, the identification information of each battery module 10 is set based on the PWM signal output from the battery ECU 20 to each monitoring unit 12. Hereinafter, an example of the structure for ID setting will be described. This ID setting is performed by the battery ECU 20 when the battery module 10 is replaced or the like and the battery module 10 is installed in the vehicle 40. In the present embodiment, the battery ECU 20 corresponds to the identification information setting device.

[0026] As Figure 1 shown, the battery ECU 20 and the monitoring unit 12 of each battery module 10 are connected by a communication line 22 for PWM communication. This communication line 22 is provided in such a way that the monitoring units 12 of each battery module 10 are connected in series. In addition, in the following description, in order to distinguish the communication lines 21 and 22, the communication line 21 for CAN communication is referred to as the CAN communication line 21, and the communication line 22 for PWM communication is referred to as the PWM communication line 22. The battery ECU 20 sends a PWM signal with a specified duty ratio to the first monitoring unit 12 among the n monitoring units 12 in the series-connected state, and receives the PWM signal from the last nth monitoring unit 12.

[0027] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the steps of ID setting in each battery module 10. In Figure 5 , the number of battery modules 10 is set to 4, and in each of these battery modules 10, the module IDs are all at their initial values (unset state). Additionally, in a state where all battery modules 10 in the vehicle 40 have been replaced, etc., all module IDs become the initial values. Further, in a case where some module IDs become the initial values by replacing some of the battery modules 10 in the vehicle 40, etc., all module IDs are initialized based on the battery modules 10 including those with initial module IDs.

[0028] As Figure 5 shown in (a) of

[0029] , in the start process of ID setting, an ID setting request is sent from the battery ECU 20 to each monitoring unit 12 via the CAN communication line 21, and each monitoring unit 12 becomes in a ready state for ID setting. Additionally, the battery ECU 20 outputs a PWM signal with a duty ratio a via the PWM communication line 22. At this time, each monitoring unit 12 in the ready state directly outputs the input PWM signal to the monitoring unit 12 on the series lower stage side. Thereby, the lowermost monitoring unit 12 outputs a PWM signal with a duty ratio a to the battery ECU 20. The battery ECU 20 grasps that all monitoring units 12 are in the ready state by inputting the PWM signal with a duty ratio a. For example, the duty ratio a is 64%. Figure 5 After that, as

[0030] shown in (b) of , in the ID setting process, the battery ECU 20 outputs a PWM signal for ID setting to the PWM communication line 22. On the other hand, each monitoring unit 12 sequentially changes the duty ratio of the input PWM signal according to a specified value and outputs it to the monitoring unit 12 on the lower stage side. In this case, for each monitoring unit 12, the module ID is set based on the input duty ratio which is the duty ratio of the input PWM signal. The monitoring unit 12 calculates the value obtained by adding or subtracting the specified value from the input duty ratio as the output duty ratio and outputs this output duty ratio to the monitoring unit 12 on the lower stage side. At this time, · The duty ratio of the PWM signal output by the battery ECU 20 is b0, · The duty ratio of the PWM signal output by the first-stage monitoring unit 12 is b1, · The duty ratio of the PWM signal output by the second-stage monitoring unit 12 is b2, The PWM signal (duty ratio b4) output from the monitoring unit 12 at the fourth (lowest) level is input to the battery ECU 20. For example, the duty ratio b0 is 60%, the duty ratio b1 is 56%, the duty ratio b2 is 52%, the duty ratio b3 is 48%, and the duty ratio b4 is 44%.

[0031] Each monitoring unit 12 identifies its own module ID based on the input duty ratio (duty ratios b0 to b3) of the PWM signal and stores it in the memory. Specifically, in each monitoring unit 12, as the module ID, ID1 to ID4 are respectively set based on the duty ratios b0 to b3 as the input duty ratio. In addition, in each monitoring unit 12, communication IDs are respectively set while corresponding to the module ID.

[0032] On the other hand, the battery ECU 20 determines that the module IDs are set in all the monitoring units 12 based on the input duty ratio of the duty ratio b4 from the monitoring unit 12 at the fourth level. In addition, the battery ECU 20 identifies that ID1 to ID4 are respectively set as the module ID in each battery module 10.

[0033] After that, as shown in (c) of Figure 5 , in the end process of ID setting, the battery ECU 20 sends a setting completion signal to each monitoring unit 12 through the CAN communication line 21. Thereby, each monitoring unit 12 releases the preparation state of ID setting and becomes the normal state.

[0034] In the present embodiment, when the battery ECU 20 is started, the battery ECU 20 checks the communication ID set for each monitoring unit 12 of each battery module 10, determines whether communication is established based on the check result, and based on the determination that communication is not established, sets the module ID (hereinafter, this process is referred to as the first setting process). In this case, if the battery module 10 is replaced or the like just before the current ECU is started, since the communication ID of the battery module 10 is in an unset state (initial value), the communication ID is not correctly identified and it is determined that communication is not established. The battery ECU 20 performs the setting of the module ID based on the determination result that communication cannot be established. In addition, the monitoring unit 12 can be configured not to transmit and receive the communication ID in the state where the communication ID is initialized.

[0035] In addition, in the present embodiment, in addition to the above first setting process, the following second setting process is implemented. As the second setting process, the battery ECU 20 determines whether the battery module 10 has been replaced or the like (re-installation by disassembly and installation) after at least the initial setting of the module ID in each battery module 10, and based on the determination result that the battery module 10 has been replaced or the like, sets the module ID.

[0036] The second setting process directly grasps that the battery module 10 has been replaced or the like, and sets the module ID based on this history. Here, it is considered that the replacement operation (reinstallation operation) of the battery module 10 is performed in the state where the IG switch of the vehicle 40 is turned off (when the vehicle is stopped), that is, in the stopped state of the battery ECU 20. In addition, the monitoring unit 12 of each battery module 10 is started by the power supply voltage applied along with the installation of the battery module 10 on the rack 41 (more specifically, the connection of the module connector 14). In this case, if, in the IG-off state, the battery ECU 20 is started (started when the system is disconnected) in response to the start of the monitoring unit 12 accompanying the installation of the battery module 10, it is determined that the battery module 10 has been reinstalled based on the occurrence of this start when the system is disconnected.

[0037] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the steps of the module ID setting process, and this process is executed by the battery ECU 20.

[0038] In Figure 6 in, in step S11, it is determined whether the replacement history flag indicating that the battery module 10 has been replaced or the like is 0. At this time, if the battery module 10 has not been replaced or the like (reinstalled), the replacement history flag is 0, and step S11 is affirmed. In addition, if the battery module 10 has been replaced, the replacement history flag is 1, and step S11 is negated.

[0039] Here, use Figure 7 's flowchart to illustrate the setting process of the replacement history flag. This process is executed at startup in the battery ECU 20.

[0040] In Figure 7 in, in step S31, it is determined whether the startup of the battery ECU 20 this time is a startup corresponding to the startup of the monitoring unit 12 accompanying the installation of the battery module 10 (startup when the system is disconnected). Then, if it is a startup when the system is disconnected, it proceeds to step S32, regards that the battery module 10 has been replaced or the like, and sets 1 in the replacement history flag. In addition, if it is not a startup when the system is disconnected, the replacement history flag is directly set to 0.

[0041] Return to Figure 6 's description. When the replacement history flag is 1, it proceeds to step S12. In step S12, the processing mode is transferred to the ID setting mode for setting the module ID. That is, the replacement history flag being 1 means that it is directly grasped that the battery module 10 has been replaced or the like. In this case, the module ID is set. That is, along with the transfer to the ID setting mode, as described above, the module ID of each battery module 10 is set based on the PWM signal output from the battery ECU 20 (refer to Figure 5(a)~(c)).

[0042] In step S13, the process waits until the ID setting is completed, and when the ID setting is completed, the process proceeds to step S14. In step S14, the replacement history flag is reset to 0. Thereafter, in step S21, the process shifts from the ID setting mode to the normal mode.

[0043] In addition, when the replacement history flag is 0, proceed to step S15. In step S15, a communication diagonal mask is implemented. According to the communication diagonal mask, even if an abnormality judgment indicating abnormality is made in the abnormal diagnosis related to communication, the judgment result is temporarily retained. Thereafter, in step S16, CAN communication with each monitoring unit 12 is started.

[0044] In step S17, it is determined whether communication with the monitoring unit 12 of each battery module 10 is established. Specifically, the battery ECU 20 checks the communication ID received from each monitoring unit 12 via the communication line 21 with the communication ID recognized on the battery ECU 20 side, and determines whether communication with the monitoring unit 12 is established based on the check result. In this case, if any battery module 10 is replaced or the like just before the current ECU is started, the monitoring unit 12 including the inconsistent communication ID is determined to have no communication established. It is preferable to determine that communication is not established based on the communication ID of the monitoring unit 12 being the initial value.

[0045] If communication with all monitoring units 12 is not established, the process proceeds to step S18 and shifts to ID setting mode. As described above, since the diagonal mask is used, even if it is determined that communication is not established, the determination of communication abnormality is temporarily suspended.

[0046] If communication with all monitoring units 12 is established, the process proceeds to step S21 and shifts to the normal mode. That is, if communication with all monitoring units 12 is possible when the battery ECU 20 is started, control in the normal mode begins. In step S21, the communication diagonal mask is released.

[0047] In step S18, the module ID is set in the ID setting mode. That is, with the transition to the ID setting mode, the module ID of each battery module 10 is set based on the PWM signal output from the battery ECU 20 as described above (see Figure 5 (a)~(c)).

[0048] In step S19, the process waits until the ID setting is completed, and when the ID setting is completed, the process proceeds to step S20.

[0049] In step S20, it is determined whether the module ID is correctly set in the ID setting process. Here, in the case where the communication between the battery ECU 20 and each monitoring unit 12 is not established, the situation of non-established communication can be considered to be caused not only by ID initialization due to replacement of the battery module 10 or the like, but also by the occurrence of actual communication abnormalities such as communication device failures and poor connection of communication connectors. Assuming this, if it is assumed that an actual communication abnormality has occurred, a series of ID setting processes cannot be correctly performed. As a result, it is considered that the module ID is not correctly set.

[0050] In addition, in step S19, if a series of ID setting processes are performed or a predetermined time has elapsed as the execution period of the ID setting process, the process proceeds to the next step S20 regardless of whether the module ID is correctly set.

[0051] If it is determined in step S20 that the module ID is correctly set, the process proceeds to step S21. In step S21, assuming that the communication state is normal, the transfer from the ID setting mode to the normal mode is performed. In this step S21, the communication diagonal mask is released.

[0052] If it is determined in step S20 that the module ID is not correctly set, the process proceeds to step S22. In step S22, assuming that the communication state is abnormal, a predetermined fail-safe process is performed. As the fail-safe process, the battery ECU 20 notifies the user to confirm the installation state of the battery module 10, for example. Here, in the case where the communication between the battery ECU 20 and each monitoring unit 12 is not established and it is caused by the occurrence of a communication abnormality, it is considered to be due to an inappropriate replacement operation of the battery module 10 by the user or the like. In response to this, as described above, by notifying the user, even if the communication is not established due to an inappropriate replacement operation of the battery module 10 or the like, the situation can be corrected. In this case, it is preferable to perform the Figure 6 processing again after reinstalling the battery module 10.

[0053] According to the present embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects can be obtained.

[0054] In a battery system in which the monitoring unit 12 of each battery module 10 can communicate with the battery ECU 20, when the battery ECU 20 is started, the communication ID is verified for each monitoring unit 12, and based on the verification result, it is determined whether communication has been established. In a battery system that performs such communication determination, when the battery module 10 is replaced or the like, the communication ID in the battery module 10 becomes an unset state (e.g., the initial state), and when the battery ECU 20 is started, it is determined that the communication ID is not correctly recognized and communication has not been established. In this case, based on the determination result that communication cannot be established, it is possible to grasp that the battery module 10 has been replaced or the like. Therefore, when the battery ECU 20 is started, based on the determination that communication has not been established, the module ID is set. Thus, even if the user himself / herself replaces the battery module 10 or the like, the module ID can be set appropriately and simply.

[0055] When the battery module 10 is removed from the rack 41, specifically, for example, when charging with an external charging device, the communication ID is initialized in the monitoring unit 12. In this case, in the verification process of the communication ID at startup, since the communication ID of the monitoring unit 12 is the initial value, it becomes a state where communication is not established. Thus, it is possible to appropriately determine that the battery module 10 has been replaced or the like.

[0056] When the battery ECU 20 is started, if it is determined that communication with each monitoring unit 12 has not been established, the determination of communication abnormality is temporarily suspended, and during this suspension period (communication diagonal mask period), the module ID is set. Thus, it can be assumed that the failure to establish communication is due to the replacement of the battery module 10 or the like, that is, due to the initialization of the communication ID caused by module replacement or the like, and the transfer to the ID setting mode can be appropriately performed.

[0057] When communication between the battery ECU 20 and each monitoring unit 12 has not been established, this communication non - establishment situation can be considered to be caused not only by the ID initialization due to the replacement of the battery module 10 or the like, but also by the occurrence of actual communication abnormalities such as communication device failures and poor connection of communication connectors. Assuming this, after the module ID setting process is performed, it is determined whether the module ID setting is correctly performed. If it is determined that the module ID setting is correctly performed, it means that the communication state is normal, and if it is determined that the module ID setting is not correctly performed, it means that the communication state is abnormal. Thus, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of such an abnormality from being ignored in the case of an actual communication abnormality.

[0058] After performing the setting process of the module ID, when it is determined that the setting of the module ID has not been correctly performed, as a failsafe, a notification prompting confirmation of the installation status of the battery module 10 is given. Thus, in the case where communication is not established due to improper replacement operations of the battery module 10 or the like, this situation can be corrected.

[0059] (Second Embodiment) Next, the second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described centering on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0060] In the present embodiment, the difference from the first embodiment is that after performing the setting of the module ID, when the setting of the module ID has not been correctly performed, on the condition that a plurality of battery modules 10 are connected in parallel, the battery module 10 for which the setting of the module ID has not been correctly performed is set to an unusable state, and the remaining battery modules 10 are set to a usable state.

[0061] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the steps of the setting process of the module ID, and this process replaces Figure 6 the process and is executed. Figure 8 The process Figure 6 has changed a part of Figure 6 the process, and the same step numbers are assigned to the same processes as

[0062] In Figure 8 , when communication with the monitoring unit 12 of each battery module 10 is not established, the module ID is set in the ID setting mode, and it is determined whether the setting of the module ID has been correctly performed (steps S17 to S20). Then, when it is determined in step S20 that the module ID has not been correctly set, the process proceeds to step S41. In step S41, it is determined whether the battery packs 11 of the plurality of battery modules 10 are connected in series in this battery system. In this case, as Figure 2 shown in (a) of

[0063] If the battery packs 11 of each battery module 10 are connected in series, the process proceeds to step S22, and as a failsafe process, a notification prompting the user to confirm the installation status of the battery module 10 is given. Figure 2As shown in (b) thereof, if the battery packs 11 of the respective battery modules 10 are connected in parallel, the process proceeds to step S42, where the battery module 10 for which the setting of the module ID has not been correctly performed is set to an unusable state, and the remaining battery modules 10 are set to a usable state. In this case, in the vehicle 40, on the premise that the vehicle can travel even if some of the battery modules 10 are unusable, the battery module 10 with a failed module ID setting is not used, and the remaining battery modules 10 are used to make the vehicle travel. Further, if the process of step S22 is set as the first fail-safe process, the process of step S42 corresponds to the second fail-safe process.

[0064] In the case where it is determined that the setting of the module ID has not been correctly performed, on the condition that the battery packs 11 of the respective battery modules 10 are connected in parallel, the battery module 10 for which the setting of the module ID has not been correctly performed is set to an unusable state, and the remaining battery modules 10 are set to a usable state. Thereby, even if some of the battery modules 10 are not used, the vehicle can travel quickly after replacement or the like of the battery modules 10.

[0065] (Other embodiments) For example, the above-described embodiment may be changed as follows.

[0066] · As the ID setting process (second setting process) for setting the module ID based on the history of reinstallation of the battery module 10, the following process may be implemented.

[0067] In Figure 9 In the process shown in (a) thereof, using the lock signal output from the locking device 50 provided on the rack 41, it is determined that the battery module 10 has been reinstalled. In this case, the battery ECU 20 acquires the lock signal output from the locking device 50 (step S51), and determines whether the locking device 50 has shifted from the locked state to the unlocked state based on the lock signal (step S52). Then, if it is determined that the locking device 50 has shifted from the locked state to the unlocked state, 1 is set in the replacement history flag (step S53). Further, in the case where it is determined that the locking device 50 has shifted from the unlocked state to the locked state, 1 may also be set in the replacement history flag.

[0068] That is, in the case of replacing the battery module 10 or the like, the unlocking operation and the locking operation of the locking device 50 provided on the rack 41 are performed. Focusing on this point, based on detecting that the locking device 50 has shifted from one of the locked state and the unlocked state to the other, it is determined that the battery module 10 has been reinstalled. Thereby, it is possible to appropriately determine that the battery module 10 has been replaced or the like.

[0069] Further, in Figure 9In the process shown in (b), in the structure where the monitoring units 12 of the respective battery modules 10 are connected in series via a series connection line, based on the input signal input to the series connection line and the output signal output from the series connection line, it is determined that the battery module 10 has been reinstalled. For example, Figure 1 The PWM communication line 22 shown is equivalent to the series connection line. In this case, when the IG is off, it is preferable to start the battery ECU 20 at a predetermined cycle and output a PWM signal with a predetermined duty ratio to the PWM communication line 22. The PWM signal returns to the battery ECU 20 via each monitoring unit 12.

[0070] In Figure 9 In (b), the battery ECU 20 outputs a PWM signal to the topmost monitoring unit 12 in series via the PWM communication line 22 (step S61), and determines whether the PWM signal input from the bottommost monitoring unit 12 in series is the same PWM signal as the output signal (whether the duty ratios are the same) (steps S62, S63). Then, if it is determined that the output and input PWM signals in the battery ECU 20 are inconsistent, 1 is set in the replacement history flag (step S64).

[0071] In addition, as the series connection line, it may be configured to use a connection line other than the PWM communication line 22. Specifically, between the output terminal and the input terminal of the battery ECU 20, the respective monitoring units 12 are connected in series via a connection line, and a predetermined voltage signal is output from the output terminal of the battery ECU 20. In this case, it is preferably set that a predetermined voltage signal (i.e., a voltage above the threshold value) is input to the input terminal of the battery ECU 20 during normal times, and when the battery module 10 is removed during replacement or the like, a voltage signal of 0 V (a voltage less than the threshold value) is input to the input terminal of the battery ECU 20.

[0072] In the case of replacing the battery module 10 or the like, in any of the respective monitoring units 12 connected in series via a series connection line (such as the PWM communication line 22), the transmission signal transmitted via the series connection line is interrupted. In the case where the transmission signal transmitted via the series connection line is interrupted, the relationship between the input signal and the output signal of the battery ECU 20 is different from the case where the transmission signal is not interrupted. Focusing on this point, information on the reinstallation of the battery module 10 is determined based on the input signal input to the series connection line and the output signal output from the series connection line. Thereby, it is possible to appropriately determine that the battery module 10 has been replaced or the like.

[0073] ·In the above-described embodiment, the battery ECU 20 and the monitoring unit 12 of each battery module 10 can communicate with each other via the CAN communication line, but it can also be changed so that the battery ECU 20 and each monitoring unit 12 can communicate wirelessly with each other. In this case, for example, information related to the +B start or module replacement history of the monitoring unit 12 is preferably sent to the battery ECU 20 via wireless communication.

[0074] ·Consider the case in the vehicle 40 where, after removing the battery module 10 from the rack 41, another battery module 10 is reinstalled, and the case where the battery module 10 removed this time (the same battery module 10) is reinstalled after charging or the like. In this case, when reinstalling the battery module 10, the ID setting process can also be made different depending on whether another battery module 10 or the same battery module 10 is installed.

[0075] Specifically, when the battery ECU 20 is started, it is preferably executed by the battery ECU 20 Figure 10 the process shown in the flowchart. In Figure 10 In step S71, it is determined whether the replacement history flag is 1, and in the next step S72, it is determined whether the battery module 10 removed last time is the same as the battery module 10 installed this time. In this case, for example, it is preferably recognized that the battery module 10 is the same at the time of removal and installation through the operation input of the user. For example, in a series of replacement operations of the battery module 10, it is preferably asked the user "Is the battery module 10 the same?", and based on the operation input as the answer, the battery ECU 20 determines whether the battery module 10 is the same. Alternatively, it can be configured such that the past ID history is pre-stored in the monitoring unit 12 of each battery module 10, and based on this ID history, the battery ECU 20 determines whether the battery module 10 is the same. In addition, in the case where the same battery module 10 is reinstalled after charging by an external charging device, it is preferably not to initialize the identification information (module ID, communication ID) of the monitoring unit 12 during this charging. In this case, at the time of ECU start immediately after reinstallation, the same identification information as before removal is recognized.

[0076] When the battery modules 10 are the same, proceed to step S73, do not re-set the module ID, and directly use the original module ID. On the other hand, when the battery modules 10 are different, proceed to step S74, transfer to the ID setting mode to re-set the module ID. Then, after steps S73 and S74, transfer to the normal mode (step S75).

[0077] In addition, in the same situation as the battery module 10 during disassembly and installation, consider the case where the battery module 10 is reinstalled without being charged and the case where it is reinstalled after being charged. For example, in the former case, consider the situation where the battery module 10 is temporarily removed for inspection or the like. In these cases where the battery module 10 is the same, no re - setting of the module ID is performed, and the original module ID is directly used. However, it can also be configured such that, for the case where the battery module 10 is reinstalled without being charged, no re - setting of the module ID is performed and the original module ID is directly used, and for the case where the battery module 10 is reinstalled after being charged, re - setting of the module ID is performed.

[0078] When it is determined that the battery module 10 has been reinstalled, depending on whether the reinstalled battery module 10 is the same as the battery module 10 at the time of the last disassembly, the method of setting the module ID is different. Thus, appropriate ID setting processing can be performed according to whether re - setting of the module ID is required.

[0079] In addition, it can also be considered that in the vehicle 40, without changing the combination of all the battery modules 10 housed in the rack 41, the housing locations of at least two battery modules 10 are changed. In this case, it is also possible to determine whether the battery module 10 has been replaced based on the past ID history of each monitoring unit 12. If the reinstallation of the battery module 10 is a replacement of the battery module 10, no re - setting of the module ID is performed, and the original module ID is directly used.

[0080] ·In each of the above - described embodiments, it is configured to set the identification information of each battery module 10 based on the PWM signal output from the battery ECU 20 to each monitoring unit 12. However, the ID setting method is not limited to this, and other methods can also be used. For example, it can also be set such that the monitoring units 12 are connected in series and a specified voltage is applied to the uppermost - level monitoring unit 12, and based on the divided voltage of each monitoring unit 12, the module ID is set sequentially from the upper - level side to the lower - level side.

[0081] ·In each of the above - described embodiments, it is configured such that when the battery ECU 20 is started, the first setting process of setting the module ID based on the failure to establish communication between the battery ECU 20 and each monitoring unit 12 and the second setting process of setting the module ID based on the reinstallation history of the battery module 10 can be implemented. However, this can also be changed. It can also be a structure that only implements the first setting process among these setting processes (that is, the structure that implements Figure 6 steps S11 - S14, S21 as the ID setting process). Or, it can also be a structure that only implements the second setting process (that is, the structure that implements Figure 6 steps S15 - S22 as the ID setting process).

[0082] In the second setting process, it can also be configured that when the monitoring unit 12 is started as the battery module 10 is reinstalled in the vehicle 40 (when the monitoring unit 12 is started by +B), a replacement history flag is set in the monitoring unit 12, and this replacement history flag is sent from the monitoring unit 12 to the battery ECU 20.

[0083] · In the above-described embodiment, the battery ECU 20 is set as the identification information setting device in the battery system, but this configuration can also be changed to include an identification information setting device separately from the battery ECU 20. For example, a deployment device for ID setting (for ID allocation) can also be provided as the identification information setting device.

[0084] · In the above-described embodiment, the battery system for a vehicle has been described, but it can also be a battery system for a moving body other than a vehicle such as an aircraft or a ship. In addition, it can also be a battery system other than a moving body, that is, a stationary battery system. Specifically, in a battery system provided along with buildings such as a house, a store, or a public facility, the ID setting method of the present disclosure can be applied. In addition, in a battery storage system that stores the battery module 10, the battery module 10 in the storage state can also be ID-set as described above.

[0085] · The rack of each battery module 10 can also include: a housing portion having a plurality of housing shelves for housing the battery module 10 and having one open side; and an opening / closing portion (door portion) provided in an opening of the housing portion in an openable / closable manner. Inside the housing portion, the monitoring unit 12 of each battery module 10 is preferably capable of wireless communication. It is preferable to provide a ventilation portion for heat dissipation or a cooling portion for cooling using a refrigerant in the housing portion. It is preferable to provide a waveguide and a radio wave absorber in the housing portion or the opening / closing portion.

[0086] · A first battery system for the purpose of using the power of the battery module 10 and a second battery system for the purpose of storing the battery module 10 can also be provided, and the battery module 10 can be mutually replaced between these first battery system and the second battery system. Specifically, it is considered to be Figure 11 the system shown. Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing an in-vehicle battery system as a first battery system including a plurality of battery modules 10 and a battery ECU 20 and a battery storage system as a second battery system including a plurality of battery modules 10 and a management ECU 60. In the battery storage system, a plurality of battery modules 10 are housed in a rack 61 as an installation portion. Although not shown, a rack connector or a locking device is provided in the rack 61 in the same manner as the rack 41. The battery modules 10 housed in each of the racks 41 and 61 can be mutually replaced between the systems.

[0087] In the in-vehicle battery system and the battery storage system, the number of modules accommodated in the racks 41 and 61 can also be different. For example, the structure can be such that the number of modules accommodated in the battery storage system modules is larger than that of the in-vehicle battery system. In addition, the battery module groups in the rack 61 can also be allocated for each vehicle 40. In addition, in the in-vehicle battery system and the battery storage system, the number of modules accommodated in the racks 41 and 61 can also be the same.

[0088] In the battery ECU 20, as described above, ID setting processing is performed along with the replacement of the battery module 10 or the like. On the other hand, in the management ECU 60, ID setting processing is also performed in the same manner along with the replacement of the battery module 10 or the like. That is, each of the ECUs 20 and 60 has a communication function with the same communication form. Whenever the battery module 10 is reinstalled in the in-vehicle battery system or whenever the battery module 10 is reinstalled in the battery storage system, each of the ECUs 20 and 60 performs ID setting of each battery module 10 by the above method.

[0089] In each of the ECUs 20 and 60, when it is determined that the battery module 10 has been replaced or the like, it is preferable to notify the user or the operator of this information by means of a display or sound. In this case, it is preferable to notify which battery module 10 has been replaced or the like in the racks 41 and 61 based on the module ID. Thereby, the user or the like can know that the replacement of the battery module 10 has been correctly identified. In addition, assuming that the battery module 10 has been illegally replaced, the user or the like can be notified of the illegal act. That is, by using the ID setting function of the present disclosure, illegal countermeasures can be implemented.

[0090] In addition, in the battery storage system, if the battery module 10 is stored for a long time, it is considered that the stored power of the battery module 10 will decrease due to self-discharge or the battery life will decrease due to deterioration. Therefore, it is desirable to monitor the battery module 10 in the storage state by the management ECU 60. In addition, the management ECU 60 preferably activates the monitoring unit 12 of each battery module 10 regularly.

[0091] In this case, if module IDs are respectively assigned to the battery modules 10 accommodated in the rack 61, the positions of the battery modules 10 in the rack 61 can be grasped. Therefore, when the stored power of the battery module 10 in the battery storage system decreases or deteriorates, it is possible to easily grasp which corresponding battery module 10 it is. Thereby, the maintainability can be improved. In addition, in the battery storage system, each battery module 10 can also be charged while being installed in the rack 61. In this structure, it is possible to selectively charge the battery module 10 that should be the charging target.

[0092] In addition, the ECUs 20 and 60 of each system can wirelessly communicate with the external server 70 respectively. When the ECUs 20 and 60 detect that the battery module 10 has been replaced or the like, it is preferable to send this information to the external server 70. Thereby, it is possible to easily and appropriately manage battery replacement in each system in the external server 70.

[0093] The battery module 10 can be mutually replaced between the in-vehicle battery system and the battery storage system, and the module ID can be set in the same manner in each of these systems. Thus, appropriate module ID setting can be performed either during the use or storage of the battery module 10, and furthermore, appropriate monitoring of the battery module 10 can be continuously implemented.

[0094] The control unit and the method of the control unit described in the present disclosure can also be implemented by a dedicated computer provided by configuring a processor and a memory, and the above-mentioned processor is programmed to execute one or more functions embodied by a computer program. Alternatively, the control unit and the method of the control unit described in the present disclosure can be implemented by a dedicated computer provided by configuring a processor with one or more dedicated hardware logic circuits. Or, the control unit and its method described in the present disclosure are implemented by one or more dedicated computers, and the dedicated computer is constituted by a combination of a processor programmed to execute one or more functions and a memory and a processor constituted by one or more hardware logic circuits. In addition, the computer program can also be stored in a computer-readable non-transitory tangible recording medium as instructions executed by a computer.

[0095] Hereinafter, the technical ideas extracted from the above embodiments are described. [Structure 1] An identification information setting device, the above-mentioned identification information setting device (20) is applicable to a battery system, and the above-mentioned battery system includes a plurality of battery modules having a storage battery (11) and a monitoring unit (12) for monitoring the storage battery. The above-mentioned identification information setting device is configured to be able to communicate with the above-mentioned monitoring unit, and to separately set module identification information for each of the above-mentioned battery modules, wherein the above-mentioned identification information setting device includes: A communication determination unit, the above-mentioned communication determination unit, when the above-mentioned identification information setting device is started, checks the communication identification information determined for each of the above-mentioned monitoring units, and determines whether communication has been established based on the check result; and A setting unit, the above-mentioned setting unit, based on the determination by the above-mentioned communication determination unit that communication has not been established, sets the above-mentioned module identification information. [Structure 2] According to the identification information setting device described in Structure 1, wherein, In the above battery system, when the battery module is removed, the communication identification information of the monitoring unit is initialized. In the verification process of the communication identification information at startup, when the communication identification information of the monitoring unit is the initial value, the communication determination unit determines that communication has not been established. [Structure 3] The identification information setting device according to Structure 1, wherein In the above battery system, the plurality of battery modules are used while being installed in a prescribed installation part (41), and can be charged by an external charging device while being removed from the installation part. When the above battery module is charged by the above external charging device, in the above monitoring unit, the above communication identification information is initialized. In the verification process of the communication identification information at startup, when the communication identification information of the monitoring unit is the initial value, the communication determination unit determines that communication has not been established. [Structure 4] The identification information setting device according to any one of Structures 1 to 3, wherein When it is determined by the communication determination unit that communication has not been established, the determination of communication abnormality is temporarily held, and during this holding period, the module identification information is set by the setting unit. [Structure 5] The identification information setting device according to any one of Structures 1 to 4, wherein It includes a correctness determination unit, and the correctness determination unit determines whether the module identification information has been set correctly after the module identification information is set by the setting unit. In a situation where the communication determination unit determines that communication has not been established, when it is determined by the correctness determination unit that the module identification information has been set correctly, the communication determination unit determines that the communication state is normal, and in a situation where it is determined that communication has not been established, when it is determined by the correctness determination unit that the module identification information has not been set correctly, the communication determination unit determines that the communication state is abnormal. [Structure 6] The identification information setting device according to Structure 5, wherein When it is determined by the correctness determination unit that the module identification information has not been set correctly, a notification for prompting to confirm the installation state of the battery module is made. [Structure 7] The identification information setting device according to any one of Structures 1 to 6, wherein It includes a correctness determination unit, which, after the module identification information is set by the above setting unit, determines whether the setting of the module identification information is correctly performed. In the case where the correctness determination unit determines that the setting of the module identification information is not correctly performed, on the condition that the storage batteries of the respective battery modules are connected in parallel, the battery module for which the setting of the module identification information is not correctly performed is set to an unusable state, and the remaining battery modules are set to a usable state. [Structure 8] A battery system As the above battery system, it includes a first battery system for the purpose of using the power of the above battery module and a second battery system for the purpose of storing the above battery module, and the battery modules can be mutually replaced in the above first battery system and the above second battery system. The above first battery system and the above second battery system respectively have the identification information setting devices (20, 60) described in any one of Structures 1 to 7.

[0096] Although the present disclosure has been described based on the embodiments, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments and structures. The present disclosure also includes various modifications and modifications within the equivalent scope. In addition, various combinations and methods, and further combinations and methods including only one element, more than one or less than one of them also belong to the scope and ideological scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An identification information setting device, the identification information setting device (20) being applicable to a battery system, the battery system including a plurality of battery modules, and the plurality of battery modules having a storage battery (11) and a monitoring unit (12) for monitoring the storage battery. The identification information setting device is configured to be able to communicate with the monitoring unit and separately set module identification information for each of the battery modules. The identification information setting device includes: A communication determination unit, which, when the identification information setting device is started, checks the communication identification information determined for each of the monitoring units and determines whether communication has been established based on the check result. And A setting unit, which, based on the determination by the communication determination unit that communication has not been established, sets the module identification information.

2. The identification information setting device according to claim 1, wherein, in the battery system, when the battery module is removed, the communication identification information of the monitoring unit is initialized, and in the check process of the communication identification information at startup, when the communication identification information of the monitoring unit is the initial value, the communication determination unit determines that communication has not been established.

3. The identification information setting device according to claim 1, wherein, in the battery system, the plurality of battery modules are used in a state of being installed on a specified installation part (41) and can be charged by an external charging device in a state of being removed from the installation part, when the battery module is charged by the external charging device, in the monitoring unit, the communication identification information is initialized, and in the check process of the communication identification information at startup, when the communication identification information of the monitoring unit is the initial value, the communication determination unit determines that communication has not been established.

4. The identification information setting device according to claim 1, wherein, when it is determined by the communication determination unit that communication has not been established, the determination of communication abnormality is temporarily retained, and during this retention period, the setting unit sets the module identification information.

5. The identification information setting device according to claim 1, wherein, it includes a correctness determination unit, which, after the module identification information is set by the setting unit, determines whether the module identification information has been set correctly, and in a situation where the communication determination unit determines that communication has not been established, when the correctness determination unit determines that the module identification information has been set correctly, it is determined that the communication state is normal, and in a situation where the communication determination unit determines that communication has not been established, when the correctness determination unit determines that the module identification information has not been set correctly, it is determined that the communication state is abnormal.

6. The identification information setting device according to claim 5, wherein, when the correctness determination unit determines that the module identification information has not been set correctly, a notification for prompting to confirm the installation state of the battery module is given.

7. The identification information setting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, it includes a correctness determination unit, and after the module identification information is set by the setting unit, the correctness determination unit determines whether the module identification information is set correctly. When it is determined by the correctness determination unit that the module identification information is not set correctly, on the condition that the storage batteries of the battery modules are connected in parallel, the battery module for which the module identification information is not set correctly is set to a state where it cannot be used, and the remaining battery modules are set to a state where they can be used.

8. A battery system, As the battery system, it includes a first battery system for the purpose of using the power of the battery module and a second battery system for the purpose of storing the battery module, and the battery modules can be replaced with each other in the first battery system and the second battery system. The first battery system and the second battery system respectively have the identification information setting device (20, 60) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. A program, which is executed by the identification information setting device (20), The identification information setting device is arranged to be able to communicate with the monitoring unit in a battery system including a plurality of battery modules (10) having a storage battery (11) and a monitoring unit (12) for monitoring the storage battery, and to set module identification information individually for each of the battery modules. The program includes a communication determination step and a setting step, In the communication determination step, when the identification information setting device is started, the communication identification information determined for each of the monitoring units is checked, and based on the check result, it is determined whether communication is established. In the setting step, based on the determination in the communication determination step that communication is not established, the module identification information is set.

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