Information processing device, information processing system, information processing method, computer program, and maintenance support method

Abstract

To provide an information processing device, an information processing system, an information processing method, and a computer program that enable the state of a power storage element to be easily grasped visually.SOLUTION: The information processing device (server device) includes an acquisition unit that acquires information including the state of a power storage element at predetermined time intervals by communication, a storage processing unit that stores the acquired information in a storage medium in association with information identifying the power storage element, a transmission processing unit that transmits screen information to a communication terminal device of a status screen 331 including a layout image of a system including the power storage element and a graphic indicating the state of the power storage element, and an automatic monitoring unit that updates graphic information and periodically transmits the information to a communication terminal device (client device) on the basis of the latest information stored in the storage medium. The status screen includes a switching interface 334 that allows a user to select state information displayed by the graphic.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing system, an information processing method, and a computer program that present information about an energy storage element. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art The use of energy storage elements in large-scale systems for storing electricity generated by renewable energy or existing power generation systems is expanding.

[0003] In systems that use energy storage elements, it is important to carry out maintenance activities including diagnosing the state of the energy storage elements, estimating the state of charge (SOC), predicting life span, etc. A technology has been proposed that enables users of the energy storage elements or maintenance personnel to remotely obtain information on the SOC or life span prediction of the energy storage elements included in these systems via a server device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2015-121520 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Energy storage elements such as lead-acid batteries or lithium-ion batteries are increasingly being used for industrial purposes other than in-vehicle applications (automobile applications, motorcycle applications). For example, energy storage elements are sometimes installed in parallel in solar power generation systems and wind power generation systems. In large-scale power generation systems, a great many energy storage elements are installed and used. In order to achieve peak power shaving in factories or large-scale facilities, a great many energy storage elements are also installed and used. Conventional maintenance support systems do not anticipate cases in which such a large number of energy storage elements are installed in distributed power systems or business entities.

[0006] In a large-scale ESS (Energy Storage System), the number of storage cells to be monitored is enormous, and there was room for improvement in terms of how to present the latest events occurring in the ESS in an easy-to-understand manner.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device, an information processing system, an information processing method, and a computer program that enable easy visual understanding of the state of an energy storage element. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The information processing device includes an acquisition unit that acquires information including the status of the storage element through communication at a predetermined time interval; a storage processing unit that stores the acquired information in a storage medium in association with information that identifies the storage element; a transmission processing unit that transmits screen information of a status screen including a layout image of a system including the storage element and a graphic indicating the status of the storage element to a communication terminal device; and an automatic monitor unit that updates the information of the graphic based on the latest information stored in the storage medium and transmits it to the communication terminal device periodically, and the status screen includes a switching interface that allows the selection of status information displayed by the graphic. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overview of a remote monitoring system. [Diagram 2] 1 is a diagram showing an example of a hierarchical structure of a power storage module group and a connection form of communication devices; [Diagram 3] 2 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of a device included in the remote monitoring system. FIG. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure for presenting information in a server device. [Diagram 5] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure for presenting information from a server device to a client device. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure for presenting information from a server device to a client device. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the function of an automatic monitor unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed based on screen information. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed based on screen information. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed based on screen information. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed based on screen information. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed based on screen information. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed based on screen information. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed based on screen information. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed based on screen information. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed based on screen information. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] The information processing device includes an acquisition unit that acquires information including the status of the storage element through communication at a predetermined time interval; a storage processing unit that stores the acquired information in a storage medium in association with information that identifies the storage element; a transmission processing unit that transmits screen information of a status screen including an image of a system including the storage element and a graphic indicating the status of the storage element to a communication terminal device; and an automatic monitor unit that updates the information of the graphic based on the latest information stored in the storage medium and periodically transmits it to the communication terminal device. Here, the "latest information" may be the most recent information among the information acquired by the acquisition unit through communication (the information acquired at the last acquisition timing), or it may be information generated by processing (e.g., averaging or comparing) some of the new information.

[0011] The energy storage element may be configured to include a plurality of energy storage cells, modules, or banks (strings). The automatic monitor unit may include Web application software executed on the information processing device. With the above configuration, the operator can easily visually grasp the latest state of the energy storage element in almost real time.

[0012] The screen information may be created to correspond to a plurality of status screens each having a different range of the storage element to be displayed, and the range of the storage element whose status is indicated by the graphic may differ between one status screen and another status screen. The screen information may be created corresponding to a status screen in which the power storage elements at the same layer are divided into a plurality of ranges. The screen information is created corresponding to a plurality of status screens having hierarchically different ranges of the storage elements to be displayed, and the range of the storage elements whose status is indicated by the graphic may be different between one status screen and another status screen. That is, the graphic indicating the state of the storage elements may be different between a status screen in which storage elements (in a first range) of a higher level are displayed on one screen of a display unit and a status screen in which storage elements (in a second range narrower than the first range included in the first range) of a lower level are displayed on one screen of a display unit.

[0013] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, systems that send emails to users or administrators of monitored devices when an abnormality occurs or maintenance is required have been used in various fields. Among various fields and devices, energy storage systems consisting of energy storage elements such as lithium-ion batteries have an exceptionally large number of monitoring targets (energy storage cells, modules, or banks). Therefore, in a large-scale ESS, even if an email is received informing the user of an abnormality in some energy storage cells or the need for maintenance, as in conventional systems, it is difficult to grasp the overall status of the ESS or to determine what measures are required and how urgently. In many cases, even if some energy storage cells have an abnormality, the ESS as a whole continues to operate without any problems. In a large-scale ESS, it is desirable to use different criteria to determine whether there is an abnormality that does not affect the entire system and whether there is an abnormality that affects the entire system. With the above-mentioned configuration, the updated graphics are successively transmitted from the information processing device, so that the operator can visually and intuitively grasp the status of the system including a large number of storage elements in almost real time. The status screen may be configured to transition from the whole to a part, or from a part to a more detailed part, according to the hierarchical structure of the ESS. The operator can visually confirm the overall status of the ESS from the status screen without having to check the status of each storage cell, module, or bank one by one, for example, the SOC. This can increase the reliability of the system for users of the system. When a problem occurs with a storage element, the operator can visually grasp which location in the system and what kind of measures are appropriate. This reduces the possibility that a maintenance person will be confused about which storage element should be inspected for maintenance, and can make the maintenance person's response more efficient.

[0014] The graphic may include a color, shape, or illustration that corresponds to a state of the energy storage element. The graphic may include a first graphic superimposed at a position where the storage element is photographed or drawn in an image of a system including the storage element, and indicating the status of a storage cell or module or bank or multiple banks. The first graphic may indicate at least one of a voltage, current and temperature status of the storage cell or module or bank or banks.

[0015] With the above configuration, an operator can visually check the status of the entire energy storage system or of any range of energy storage elements from the status screen by the color, shape, or illustration of the graphic, without having to check the status of each energy storage cell / module / bank one by one. This can increase the reliability of the system for users of the system. Depending on the position of superimposition of the first graphic on the system image and the aspect of the graphic, the operator can quickly grasp what kind of problem (how serious the problem) is occurring in which location of the energy storage element, and the maintenance staff can handle the problem more efficiently.

[0016] The graphic may include a second graphic showing a SOC of the energy storage element. The SOC shown in the second graphic may be matched to a SOC output from a power conditioner connected to the energy storage element.

[0017] With the above-described configuration, the charging state of the energy storage element can be visually and easily grasped, and the reliability of the system can be improved for users of the system.

[0018] The information processing system includes a communication device connected to or mounted on a storage element, and an information processing device capable of communicating with the multiple communication devices, and the information processing device is equipped with an acquisition unit that acquires information including the status of the storage element through communication at a predetermined time interval, a storage processing unit that stores the acquired information in a storage medium in association with information that identifies the storage element, a transmission processing unit that transmits screen information of a status screen including an image of a system including the storage element and a graphic indicating the status of the storage element to a communication terminal device, and an automatic monitor unit that updates the graphic based on the latest information stored in the storage medium and periodically transmits it to the communication terminal device.

[0019] The information processing method transmits information about an energy storage element by an information processing device in response to a request or as an event. The information processing method includes the steps of acquiring information including a state of the energy storage element by communication using a plurality of communication devices connected to or mounted on the energy storage element, storing the acquired information in a storage medium in association with information for identifying the energy storage element, transmitting screen information of a status screen including an image of a system including the energy storage element and a graphic showing the state of the energy storage element to a communication terminal device, updating the graphic based on the latest information stored in the storage medium, and periodically transmitting the graphic to the communication terminal device.

[0020] The computer program causes a computer having a display unit to display information about an energy storage element. The computer program causes the computer to execute the steps of: requesting information about the energy storage element for each system including the energy storage element or for each location where the energy storage element is installed, displaying a status screen on the display unit based on screen information of the status screen including an image of the system including the energy storage element and a graphic showing a status of the energy storage element, transmitted in response to the request, and displaying the updated status screen on the display unit based on updated information about the graphic that is periodically transmitted.

[0021] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings showing embodiments thereof.

[0022] 1 is a diagram showing an overview of a remote monitoring system 100. The remote monitoring system 100 enables remote access to information relating to the power storage elements and power supply related devices included in a mega solar power generation system S, a thermal power generation system F, and a wind power generation system W. A rectifier (DC power supply device or AC power supply device) D installed in an uninterruptible power supply device (UPS) U, a stabilized power supply system for railways, etc. may also be remotely monitored.

[0023] A power conditioning system (PCS) P and a power storage system 101 are arranged in parallel in the mega solar power generation system S, the thermal power generation system F, and the wind power generation system W. The power storage system 101 may be configured by arranging a plurality of containers C, each of which houses a power storage module group L, in parallel. Alternatively, the power storage module group L and the power conditioner P may be arranged in a building (power storage room). The power storage module group L includes a plurality of power storage elements. The power storage elements are preferably rechargeable, such as secondary batteries, such as lead-acid batteries and lithium-ion batteries, or capacitors. Some of the power storage elements may be non-rechargeable primary batteries.

[0024] In the remote monitoring system 100, a communication device 1 (see FIG. 2) is mounted on / connected to each of the power storage systems 101 or devices (P, U, D and a management device M described below) in the systems S, F, W to be monitored. The remote monitoring system 100 includes the communication device 1 (information processing device), a server device 2 (communication device) that collects information from the communication device 1, a client device 3 (communication device) for viewing the collected information, and a network N that is a communication medium between the devices.

[0025] The communication device 1 may be a terminal device (measurement monitor) that communicates with a battery management unit (BMU) provided in the energy storage element to receive information about the energy storage element, or may be a controller compatible with ECHONET / ECHONETLite (registered trademark). The communication device 1 may be an independent device, or may be a network card type device that can be mounted on the power conditioner P or the energy storage module group L. One communication device 1 is provided for each group consisting of multiple energy storage modules to obtain information about the energy storage module group L in the energy storage system 101. A plurality of power conditioners P are connected to enable serial communication, and the communication device 1 is connected to a control unit of any one of the power conditioners P that represents the power storage element.

[0026] The server apparatus 2 includes a Web server function, and presents information obtained from the communication device 1 mounted on / connected to each apparatus to be monitored in response to access from the client apparatus 3.

[0027] The network N includes a public communication network N1, which is the so-called Internet, and a carrier network N2 that realizes wireless communication according to a predetermined mobile communication standard. The public communication network N1 includes a general optical line, and the network N includes a dedicated line to which the server device 2 is connected. The network N may include a network compatible with ECHONET / ECHONETLite. The carrier network N2 includes a base station BS, and the client device 3 can communicate with the server device 2 from the base station BS via the network N. An access point AP is connected to the public communication network N1, and the client device 3 can transmit and receive information to and from the server device 2 from the access point AP via the network N.

[0028] The storage module group L of the storage system 101 has a hierarchical structure. The communication device 1, which transmits information on the storage elements to the server device 2, acquires information on the storage module group from a management device M provided in the storage module group L. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the hierarchical structure of the storage module group L and a connection form of the communication device 1. The storage module group L is configured in a hierarchical structure of, for example, storage modules (also called modules) in which a plurality of storage cells (also called cells) are connected in series, banks in which a plurality of storage modules are connected in series, and domains in which a plurality of banks are connected in parallel. In the example of FIG. 2, one management device M is provided for each of the banks numbered 1 to N and the domain in which the banks are connected in parallel. The management device M provided for each bank communicates by serial communication with a control board (CMU: Cell Monitoring Unit) with a communication function built into each storage module, and acquires measurement data (current, voltage, temperature) for the storage cells in the storage module. The management device M of the bank executes management processing such as detection of an abnormality in the communication state. The management devices M of the banks transmit measurement data obtained from the power storage modules of the respective banks to the management devices M provided in the domain. The management devices M of the domain aggregate information such as measurement data and detected abnormalities obtained from the management devices M of the banks belonging to the domain. In the example of FIG. 2, the communication device 1 is connected to the management device M of the domain. Alternatively, the communication device 1 may be connected to both the management device M of the domain and the management device M of the bank.

[0029] The power storage system 101 described below is configured as a large-scale ESS including a plurality of domains in which the banks shown in Fig. 2 are connected in parallel. The management device M can acquire identification data (identification number) of the domain or bank of the device to which the management device M is connected.

[0030] In the remote monitoring system 100, a server device 2 uses a communication device 1 installed in each device to collect information such as the SOC, SOH (State Of Health), and other status of the power storage system 101, as well as any detected abnormalities, and presents the status of the power storage system 101 based on the collected data.

[0031] Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the apparatus included in the remote monitoring system 100. As shown in Fig. 3, the communication device 1 includes a control unit 10, a storage unit 11, a first communication unit 12, and a second communication unit 13. The control unit 10 is a processor using a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and uses built-in memories such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory) to control each component and execute processing.

[0032] The storage unit 11 uses a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory. The storage unit 11 stores a device program 1P that is read and executed by the control unit 10. The device program 1P includes a communication program conforming to SSH (Secure Shell), SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), and the like. The storage unit 11 stores information collected by the processing of the control unit 10, information such as an event log, and the like. The information stored in the storage unit 11 can also be read out via a communication interface such as a USB, the terminal of which is exposed on the housing of the communication device 1. The device program 1P stored in the storage unit 11 may be a device program 4P stored in the recording medium 4 that has been read out and copied to the storage unit 11.

[0033] The first communication unit 12 is a communication interface that realizes communication with a monitored apparatus to which the communication device 1 is connected. The first communication unit 12 uses, for example, a serial communication interface such as RS-232C or RS-485. For example, the power conditioner P includes a control unit having a serial communication function conforming to RS-485, and the first communication unit 12 communicates with the control unit. When the control boards included in the power storage module group L are connected by a Controller Area Network (CAN) bus and communication between the control boards is realized by CAN communication, the first communication unit 12 is a communication interface based on the CAN protocol. The first communication unit 12 may be a communication interface conforming to the ECHONET / ECHONETLite standard.

[0034] The second communication unit 13 is an interface that realizes communication via the network N, and uses a communication interface such as Ethernet (registered trademark) or an antenna for wireless communication. The control unit 10 can be communicatively connected to the server device 2 via the second communication unit 13. The second communication unit 13 may be a communication interface that complies with the ECHONET / ECHONETLite standard.

[0035] In the communication device 1 configured in this manner, the control unit 10 acquires measurement data for the energy storage element obtained by the apparatus to which the communication device 1 is connected via the first communication unit 12. The control unit 10 may function as an SNMP agent by reading and executing an SNMP program and respond to an information request from the server apparatus 2.

[0036] The server device 2 uses a server computer and includes a control unit 20, a storage unit 21, and a communication unit 22. In the present embodiment, the server device 2 is described as one server computer, but the processing may be distributed among a plurality of server computers.

[0037] The control unit 20 is a processor using a CPU or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and uses built-in memories such as ROM and RAM to control each component to execute processing. The control unit 20 executes communication and information processing based on a server program 21P stored in the storage unit 21. The server program 21P includes a Web server program, and the control unit 20 functions as a Web server that executes providing Web pages to the client device 3. Based on the server program 21P, the control unit 20 collects information from the communication device 1 as an SNMP server.

[0038] The storage unit 21 uses a non-volatile memory such as a hard disk or a flash memory. The above-mentioned server program 21P and data processing program 22P are stored in the storage unit 21. The server program 21P and data processing program 22P stored in the storage unit 21 may be the server program 51P and data processing program 52P stored in the recording medium 5 that are read out and copied to the storage unit 21.

[0039] The storage unit 21 stores measurement data of the power conditioner P and the power storage module group L of the power storage system 101 to be monitored, which is collected by processing of the control unit 20. The measurement data is associated with identification information (number) for identifying the power storage system 101 or the power conditioner P. The measurement data of the power storage module group L is stored according to a hierarchical structure of domain, bank, module, or cell.

[0040] The storage unit 21 stores a plurality of images for displaying the state of the power storage module group L or the devices P, U, D to be monitored. The plurality of images are stored in the storage unit 21 in association with identification information for identifying the power storage module group L or the devices P, U, D to be monitored. The plurality of images include images representing the power storage module group L or the devices P, U, D. The plurality of images include images showing the arrangement of the power storage module group L or the devices P, U, D. These images are photographs such as aerial photographs and satellite photographs, 2D maps, blueprints, CAD drawings, or illustrations. These images may be stored by uploading from the client device 3. Of the photographs, maps, blueprints, drawings, or illustrations, the position or range of the power storage module group L or the devices P, U, D to be monitored is stored for each image. The information indicating the position or range is, for example, coordinate information corresponding to the image. When the image is an aerial photograph, a satellite photograph, or a map, it may be information indicating latitude and longitude information and a relative position. The multiple images stored in the storage unit 21 include images such as illustrations, icons, animations, etc. for expressing the states of the power storage module group L or the devices P, U, D. In addition to images for displaying the states, the storage unit 21 also stores design data such as style sheets, scripts, etc. for visually outputting the states of the power storage system 101 and the devices P, U, D on a web basis.

[0041] The communication unit 22 is a communication device that realizes communication connection and transmission and reception of information via the network N. Specifically, the communication unit 22 is a network card compatible with the network N.

[0042] The client device 3 is a computer used by an operator such as a manager or maintenance person of the power storage system 101 of the power generation systems S, F, and W. The client device 3 may be a desktop or laptop personal computer, or may be a so-called smartphone or tablet communication terminal. The client device 3 includes a control unit 30, a storage unit 31, a communication unit 32, a display unit 33, and an operation unit 34.

[0043] The control unit 30 is a processor using a CPU. The control unit 30 causes the display unit 33 to display a Web page provided by the server device 2 based on a client program 3P stored in the storage unit 31. The client program 3P is incorporated into a Web page provided by the Web server function of the server device 2, includes a script temporarily stored in the client device 3 and a Web browser program, and is a program for displaying a Web-based screen based on the operation of the server device 2.

[0044] The storage unit 31 uses a non-volatile memory such as a hard disk or a flash memory. Various programs including a client program 3P are stored in the storage unit 31. The client program 3P may be a client program 6P stored in the recording medium 6 that has been read out and copied to the storage unit 11.

[0045] The communication unit 32 uses a communication device such as a network card for wired communication, a wireless communication device for mobile communication connecting to a base station BS (see FIG. 1), or a wireless communication device compatible with connection to an access point AP. The control unit 30 can establish a communication connection or transmit and receive information to and from the server device 2 via the network N by using the communication unit 32.

[0046] The display unit 33 uses a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. The display unit 33 displays an image of a Web page provided by the server device 2 through processing based on the client program 3P of the control unit 30. The display unit 33 is preferably a display with a built-in touch panel, but may be a display without a built-in touch panel.

[0047] The operation unit 34 is a user interface such as a keyboard and a pointing device capable of inputting and outputting data to and from the control unit 30, or a voice input unit. The operation unit 34 may be a touch panel of the display unit 33, or physical buttons provided on the housing. The operation unit 34 notifies the control unit 30 of operation information by the user.

[0048] In the remote monitoring system 100 configured as described above, the server device 2 periodically acquires various information including the states of the power conditioner P, the power storage module group L (management device M), the uninterruptible power supply U, and the rectifier D from the communications device 1 based on the data processing program 22P, and stores the information in the storage unit 21. The communications device 1 transmits status information for each power storage module group L, linking the parent-child relationships according to the hierarchical structure. The server device 2 creates screen information that visually represents the state of the system or device to be monitored according to the hierarchical structure of the power storage cells, based on the information acquired from the power storage elements or each power supply related device using the communications device 1, and transmits the screen information to the client device 3 for presentation.

[0049] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure for presenting information in the server device 2. The server device 2 executes the following processing in response to a request from the client device 3 or as an event, using information on the power conditioner P, the power storage module group L (management device M), the uninterruptible power supply U, and the rectifier D that is periodically acquired from the communication device 1 and stored in the storage unit 21. An event may be the arrival of a period or the detection of a change in the state of the system or device, such as the occurrence of an abnormality.

[0050] The control unit 20 selects one piece of identification information for identifying a system or device to be monitored (step S101).

[0051] The control unit 20 determines whether the system or device identified by the selected identification information includes a storage cell (step S102). If it is determined that the system or device includes a storage cell (S102: YES), the control unit 20 determines whether the system or device identified by the selected identification information includes a hierarchical storage cell (step S103).

[0052] If it is determined in step S103 that the storage cells include a hierarchical structure (S103: YES), the control unit 20 derives the state of charge (SOC) for each layer (step S104). In step S104, the layer refers to, for example, a domain, a bank, and a module in the storage system 101 having the structure shown in FIG.

[0053] The control unit 20 associates the SOC derived for each hierarchical layer with the identification information of the selected system or device and the names (identification numbers) that identify each of the hierarchical storage module groups L, and temporarily stores them together with the identification information of the storage module groups L in higher layers (step S105).

[0054] If it is determined in step S103 that the system or device is not included in a hierarchical structure (S103: NO), the control unit 20 derives the SOC of the entire storage cells included in the system or device identified by the selected identification information (step S106), and temporarily stores the SOC in association with the identification information of the selected system or device (step S107).

[0055] Next, the control unit 20 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the system or device identified by the selected identification information (step S108), and temporarily stores the determination result in association with the identification information of the selected system or device (step S109).

[0056] If it is determined in step S102 that the battery does not include a storage cell (S102: NO), the control unit 20 advances the process to step S108.

[0057] The control unit 20 judges whether or not all of the identification information for identifying the systems or devices to be monitored has been selected (step S110). If it is judged that all of the identification information has been selected (S110: YES), the control unit 20 ends one processing cycle. If it is judged in step S110 that all of the identification information has not been selected (S110: NO), the control unit 20 returns the process to step S101 and selects the identification information of the next system or device.

[0058] 4, the state at the time of a request from the client device 3 or the time of an event occurrence (such as a state change) is temporarily stored in the storage unit 21 or a temporary storage unit built into the control unit 20. Every time a request is made from the client device 3 or an event occurs (such as a state change), the stored state information is updated.

[0059] 5 and 6 are flowcharts showing an example of a processing procedure for presenting information from the server device 2 to the client device 3. When the client device 3 receives a login request from a Web browser, the following processing is started.

[0060] The control unit 20, as a Web server, transmits data of a login page for accepting login data at the client device 3 to the client device 3 (step S201). Based on an operation on the operation unit 34 on the login screen displayed on the display unit 33 of the client device 3, the control unit 20 receives the login data (step S202). The login data includes an ID and a password for identifying an administrator or operator who uses the client device 3. The login data may include biometric information or the like instead of a password.

[0061] Based on the received login data, the control unit 20 extracts the identification information of the system or device having the access authority stored in association with the login data (step S203). The control unit 20 refers to the storage of the presence or absence of an abnormality of each system or device corresponding to the extracted identification information (step S204). In step S204, the control unit 20 refers to the information on the presence or absence of an abnormality appropriately updated according to the flowchart of FIG. 4. The control unit 20 transmits to the client device 3 information on a Web page in which an icon indicating the presence or absence of an abnormality referenced in step S204 is added to a list of link information to other Web pages for displaying information on each system or device corresponding to the identification information extracted in step S203 (step S205). If the system or single device having the access authority associated with the login information is a single system or single device, in step S205, data on a Web page for displaying information on the single system or single device is transmitted to the client device 3 (S207 described later).

[0062] The client device 3 receives data of a web page listing systems or devices to which the client has access authority via the communication unit 32 (step S301), and displays the web page listing on the display unit 33 (step S302). The control unit 30 accepts selection of a desired system or device from the list of link information displayed based on the received data (step S303), and transmits a request for data of the web page indicated by the selected link information to the server device 2 (step S304).

[0063] The control unit 20 of the server device 2 receives a request for Web page data of the target system or device (step S206), and transmits Web page data for displaying information of the selected system or device to the client device 3 (step S207). The Web page data transmitted in step S207 includes an image representing the selected system or device, an image showing the layout, coordinate data showing the position of the system or device in the image, and graphic data such as illustrations, icons, animations, etc. for expressing a state.

[0064] The control unit 30 of the client device 3 receives the data of the Web page (step S305), and requests the server device 2 to acquire the status of the selected system or device based on the script included in the received data (step S306).

[0065] The control unit 20 of the server device 2 receives the request for status acquisition (step S208) and judges the top layer of the target system or device, i.e., the overall state, and the presence or absence of an abnormality (step S209). The control unit 20 judges the overall state of the system or device by referring to a healthy range stored in association with the system or device. For example, the control unit 20 calculates an average SOC of the storage elements constituting the system or device, and judges the state to be healthy if the average SOC is within the range of SOC stored as the healthy range. In this case, the control unit 20 obtains the average SOC by dividing the number of modules or cells of the storage elements in operation. The control unit 20 may judge the state based on whether or not the number of operating cells, modules, banks, or domains of the storage elements constituting the system or device is within a pre-stored healthy range. The control unit 20 may judge the state based on whether or not the average of the charge / discharge current or temperature from the storage elements constituting the system or device is within a pre-stored healthy range.

[0066] When the status is stored for each layer, the control unit 20 refers to the status of the highest layer. The control unit 20 transmits the status determined in step S209 for the selected system or device and data indicating the presence or absence of an abnormality to the client device 3 (step S210).

[0067] The control unit 30 of the client device 3 receives the data indicating the state of the target system or device and the presence or absence of an abnormality (step S307). The control unit 30 selects graphic data corresponding to the state indicated by the received data or the presence or absence of an abnormality from the received data (step S308), and causes the display unit 33 to display a Web page including an image representing the target system or device using the selected graphic data, etc. (step S309).

[0068] The control unit 30 of the client device 3 determines whether or not another tier has been selected for the hierarchical storage module group L included in the target system or device (step S310). If it is determined in step S310 that another tier has been selected (S310: YES), the control unit 30 requests the server device 2 to acquire the status of the storage module group L of the selected tier (step S311).

[0069] The control unit 20 of the server device 2 receives the request to obtain the status (step S211) and determines the status of the power storage module group L of the target tier and whether or not there is an abnormality (step S212). The control unit 20 transmits data indicating the determined status of the power storage module group L of the selected tier and whether or not there is an abnormality to the client device 3 (step S213).

[0070] The control unit 30 of the client device 3 receives the data indicating the state of the selected hierarchical level and the presence or absence of an abnormality (step S312). The control unit 30 selects graphic data corresponding to the state indicated by the received data or the presence or absence of an abnormality from the received data (step S313), and causes the display unit 33 to display a Web page including an image showing the state of the target hierarchical level using the selected graphic data, etc. (step S314).

[0071] The control unit 30 of the client device 3 determines whether an operation to end the display of the Web page of the target system or device has been accepted (step S315), and if it is determined that the operation has not been accepted (S315: NO), the process returns to step S310. Whether the operation to end the display of the Web page of the target system or device has been accepted is determined based on whether the Web browser has been closed, whether logout has been selected, or whether a transition to a Web page listing individual systems or devices to which access authority has been granted has been selected. If it is determined that the operation to end the display of the target system or device has been accepted (S315: YES), the process of presenting information ends.

[0072] In the explanation given with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 6, when the control unit 30 of the client device 3 accepts a selection operation on the operation unit 34 based on a script included in the received Web page data, the control unit 30 requests acquisition of the status of the selected system or device (S306). In response to this, the server device acquires the data by the data processing program 22P and transmits the data to the client device (S210). In other words, the screen transitions in response to the operation of the operator of the client device 3. Alternatively, at least the top layer, i.e., the Web page displaying the overall status, may include a script for automatic update in the script of the data transmitted from the server device 2. In this way, the server device 2 shown in FIG. 3 may periodically refer to the data in the storage unit 21 and transmit a Web page based on the referenced data to the client device 3 at a predetermined cycle. As shown in FIG. 7, automatic update of the status display may be realized by a function (hereinafter referred to as "automatic monitor") 2P based on cooperation between a Web server program and design data included in the server program 21P and a Web browser program included in the client program 3P. The automatic monitor 2P may transmit data to the client device 3 by https communication, for example, at intervals of 10 seconds or 15 seconds.

[0073] The process procedure of screen display based on the Web page transmitted from the server device 2 will be described with reference to the screen examples shown in Figs. 8 to 11. Fig. 8 shows a Web screen 330 (a screen displayed on the display unit 33 of the client device 3) including a list of the names of authorized systems or devices in step S302 of Fig. 5. In the example of Fig. 8, the name of the mega solar power generation system S shown in Fig. 1, "XY City Mega Solar System", the names of the wind power generation systems W, "WZ Power Plant System", "K Railway System", "X Factory System", etc. are each displayed as a link together with identification information. The name may indicate the location where the storage module group L and / or the devices P, U, D are installed, such as "XY City Mega Solar System". The list Web screen 330 may include an icon indicating the presence or absence of an abnormality for each system.

[0074] Next, an example of a screen when a system or device is selected will be described. FIG. 9 shows a status screen 331 showing the overall status of the selected system or device. The status screen 331 in FIG. 9 is displayed when the "WZ power plant system" in the list shown in FIG. 8 is selected by operating the operation unit 34 of the client device 3, and includes a layout image K (a line drawing such as a CAD drawing, or a photograph) showing a group of many storage modules in their arrangement. FIG. 9 shows the top layer in the screen transition (hierarchical structure) described later. In the example of FIG. 9, a layout image K of the entire eight storage rooms is shown. The layout image K in FIG. 9 shows a storage battery panel that stores three banks that constitute a domain as one small rectangle. The status screen 331 includes graphic objects 332, 333, and 335 that visually represent the status of the "WZ power plant system" together with the layout image K.

[0075] The graphic object 332 is a graphic that is superimposed on the layout image K of the system and indicates the state of the storage element. The color or display form of the graphic object 332 may be changed depending on the state of the entire system on which the graphic object 332 is superimposed. The graphic object 332 may be superimposed on the entire system, on each minimum unit in the layout image K indicated by a small rectangle, or on a storage chamber or block including multiple minimum units.

[0076] The status screen 331 includes a switching interface 334. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the switching interface 334 includes buttons or icons that can be selected for each of three types: "V (voltage)", "I (current)", and "T (temperature)". "V (voltage)" may mean a cell voltage, and "I (current)" may indicate a current flowing through a bank. "T (temperature)" may indicate a module temperature. The graphic object 332 may display the presence or absence of an abnormal state and the degree of the abnormal state for the measurement value selected by the switching interface 334. By operating the switching interface 334, the status of different targets (V, I, T) is displayed using the same layout image K.

[0077] By presenting information in this manner, the overall status of a large-scale ESS including a huge number of modules can be grasped by the layout image K and the graphic object 332. As will be described later, even if there is an abnormality in a module in any of the storage compartments of the power storage system 101, the graphic object 332 related to the entire power storage system 101 does not show the status of the individual graphics corresponding to the module in the top layer. In the example of Fig. 9, it is shown whether the power storage system 101 as a whole is in a healthy state that satisfies the capacity required for the system.

[0078] The display position of the graphic object 332 is included in the design data of the status screen 331 in association with the image K according to the relative position with respect to the layout image K, and is stored in the storage unit 21. This allows the graphic object 332 to move appropriately in response to the enlargement or reduction of the image K. The status screen 331 may include a switching interface for switching between a CAD drawing (first image) and a photograph (second image) for the image K.

[0079] The graphic object 333 is a second graphic indicating the SOC of the power storage module group. The second graphic 333 may indicate the SOC of an evaluation unit (total SOC of the multiple modules or banks) by using multiple modules, multiple banks, or multiple domains as one evaluation unit. The color or display form of the second graphic 333 may be changed according to the SOC value of the evaluation unit. For example, the SOC value is calculated based on the SOC value calculated for each bank to which multiple modules are connected. The SOC value of a group including multiple banks is an average value obtained by dividing the total SOC value of each bank in the group by the number of banks included in the group. The number of banks included in the group may be the number of banks that exist regardless of whether they are in operation or not, or may be the number of banks excluding banks that are not in operation. Group SOC value = Σ (bank SOC value) ÷ number of installed banks, or Group SOC value = Σ(bank SOC value) ÷ number of operating banks. The same average value is used for the SOC value in each hierarchy of a unit including a plurality of groups, a storage compartment including a plurality of units, and a block including a plurality of storage compartments.

[0080] Graphic object 335 is a third graphic that indicates the health status of the system including the power storage modules. As shown in FIG. 9, third graphic 335 may be a trend graph in which the left side indicates older data and the right side indicates the latest data. When the entire system is normal, a graph showing the transition of SOC may be drawn. Third graphic 335 may include text indicating the number of units and modules in operation. Third graphic 335 may include an image or text indicating the storage capacity (discharge capacity) of the entire system.

[0081] The screen information of the status screen 331 shown in FIG. 9 includes a script that transitions to displaying the status of a lower hierarchical level when a module, bank, or domain (i.e., a selection target in the layout image K, which may be the same as the evaluation unit of the SOC) in the layout image K or a graphic object 332, 333 is selected.

[0082] The status screen 331 may include a hierarchical menu 336 for selecting a hierarchical level of the power storage system 101. The hierarchical menu 336 shows the following hierarchical levels: "Entire system" corresponding to the top hierarchical level, "Electricity storage room" corresponding to the layers of the eight electricity storage rooms constituting the entire power storage system 101, "Unit" corresponding to each unit constituting the electricity storage room, and "Battery panel" corresponding to the multiple banks constituting the unit. The displayed hierarchical level may be changed depending on whether "Entire system", "Electricity storage room", "Unit", or "Battery panel" is selected in the hierarchical menu 336. The hierarchical menu 336 may be used as a breadcrumb list.

[0083] The status screen 331 includes a display menu 337 for selecting a mode of displaying the status of the power storage system 101. The display menu 337 includes selection tabs of "Map" for displaying the status using the layout image K shown in Fig. 9, "List" for displaying the status such as anomalies using a table, and "Graph" for displaying the status using a graph. When "List" is selected, the automatic monitor 2P causes the display unit 33 to display a screen shown in Fig. 14, which will be described later, on the Web browser. When "Graph" is selected, the automatic monitor 2P causes the display unit 33 to display a screen shown in Fig. 15, which will be described later, on the Web browser.

[0084] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a status screen 331 that has transitioned to a status display of another layer (middle layer). FIG. 10 is displayed on a Web browser by the automatic monitor 2P when a portion corresponding to any one of the storage compartments (for example, a portion corresponding to the third storage compartment from the left of the A block) is selected on the layout image K shown in FIG. 9. In FIG. 10, a reduced version of the entire layout image K of the upper layer before the transition is displayed on the left side of the screen, and the layout image K of the selected storage compartment is displayed on the right side. In the status screen 331 after the transition in FIG. 10, the location of the selected storage compartment on the overall map in the upper layer is shown by the name given to the storage compartment and the highlighting on the reduced layout image K of the upper layer. In the example of FIG. 10, the location of the selected storage compartment is highlighted by a rectangular object on the layout image K of the upper layer. Alternatively, the location in the upper layer may be shown by changing the color of the corresponding portion on the layout image K of the upper layer or by superimposing an object.

[0085] In the example of FIG. 10, a layout image K showing a group of storage modules L in a unit unit included in a storage compartment is shown on a status screen 331 after the transition. In FIG. 10, a small rectangle corresponding to the smallest unit corresponds to a storage battery panel that stores three banks. In the hierarchy shown in FIG. 10 and below, for a group of modules L in an abnormal state, the color or display form of the first graphic 332 may be changed according to the degree of abnormality. The first graphic 332 may be superimposed on one small rectangle, or on multiple small rectangles (e.g., one unit), or on multiple banks (e.g., one domain). In the status screen 331 after the screen transition shown in FIG. 10, a SOC in a finer evaluation unit may be displayed by the second graphic 333 than in the status screen before the transition (FIG. 9). That is, the range of the storage elements whose state is indicated by the first graphic 332 and the second graphic 333 may be different between one status screen and another status screen.

[0086] By presenting such information, for a large-scale ESS including a huge number of modules, the layout image K and the graphic object 332 allow the operator to determine what kind of action is needed at what location and with what urgency. The display unit 33 of the client device 3 has a large screen, which is suitable for use in which multiple operators simultaneously check the situation and make decisions.

[0087] Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a status screen 331 of yet another layer. Fig. 11 is displayed on a Web browser by the automatic monitor 2P when a portion corresponding to any unit is selected on the layout image K of the storage room shown in Fig. 10. The layout image K in Fig. 11 shows the layout of a unit selected from the layout image K of the storage room of the upper layer shown on the left. The layout image K of the unit displays each of the storage battery panels housing a plurality of banks included in the selected unit as a small rectangle. For a storage battery panel including a bank in an abnormal state, the color or display form of the first graphic 332 superimposed on the small rectangle may be changed depending on the degree of the abnormality.

[0088] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a status screen 331 of yet another layer. FIG. 12 is displayed on a Web browser by the automatic monitor 2P when a portion corresponding to any one of the storage battery panels is selected on the layout image K of the unit shown in FIG. 11. The layout image K in FIG. 12 shows the layout of the banks and modules constituting the banks included in the storage battery panel selected from the layout image K of the unit of the upper layer shown on the left. The layout image K of the storage battery panel displays each of the modules in the multiple banks included in the selected storage battery panel as a small rectangle. For modules in an abnormal state, the color or display form of the first graphic 332 superimposed on the small rectangle may be changed depending on the degree of abnormality.

[0089] Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a status screen 331 of yet another layer. Fig. 13 is displayed on a Web browser by the automatic monitor 2P when a portion corresponding to any module is selected on the layout image K of the banks and modules shown in Fig. 12. The layout image K in Fig. 13 shows the layout of cells included in a module selected from the layout image K of the banks and modules of the upper layer shown on the left. The layout image K of cells displays the respective states of a plurality of cells included in the selected module. For cells in an abnormal state, the color or display form of the first graphic 332 may be changed depending on the degree of abnormality.

[0090] 13 shows the state of the cells corresponding to the lowest layer of the configuration of the power storage system 101, the state of each cell may be displayed in text as "normal" or "abnormal", and the cell voltage and temperature may also be displayed in text. In the above description, the smallest unit of display within the configuration of the power storage system 101 is each cell of a "module", but this is not limited to this. In another example, the smallest unit of display may be each module of a "battery panel". In this case, the SOC may be shown for each bank in the second graphic 333 on the screen shown in FIG. 12, and the average cell voltage, temperature, and current value in the bank may also be displayed in text.

[0091] The transition from the status screen 331 shown in FIG. 9 to the status screen 331 in FIG. 10, FIG. 11, FIG. 12, and FIG. 13 may be displayed like an animation, with the layout image K in the upper layer being reduced while the layout image K in the lower layer appears.

[0092] Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a case where "List" is selected in the display menu 337 of the status screen 331. The status screen 331 in Fig. 14 displays a list of statuses, including "normal," in text form for each domain, bank, module, or cell included in the power storage system 101. In the example shown in Fig. 14, only the statuses of the domain, bank, module, or cell in which an abnormality has been detected are displayed. As shown in Fig. 14, it may be possible to narrow down the display targets by the unit, power storage compartment, or block to which the domain, bank, module, or cell for which the status is to be displayed belongs.

[0093] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a case where "Graph" is selected in the display menu 337 of the status screen 331. The status screen 331 of FIG. 15 displays the time change of the status of the power storage system 101 by a graph for each domain, bank, or module included in the power storage system 101. In the example of FIG. 15, a graph of the time distribution of the discharged power amount and the charged power amount per hour in a day in the selected bank is displayed. When the SOC, current, cell voltage, or module temperature is selected in addition to the charged / discharged power amount, the automatic monitor 2P displays the time change of the SOC, current, cell voltage, or module temperature in the time unit of seconds, days, months, or years while updating it sequentially by a line graph. This allows the client device 3 to display in detail the status of the power storage elements by domain, bank, or module unit while showing, by an object in a map display, whether the power storage system 101 as a whole is exhibiting the required performance.

[0094] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a status screen 331. FIG. 16 shows another example of the status screen 311 showing the status of the unit in FIG. 11. The status screen 311 in FIG. 16 shows a state in which, among A and B of each unit constituting the power storage system 101, a module included in the domain B is suspended and operated. The status screen 311 in FIG. 16 is different from the status screen 311 in FIG. 11 in that a first graphic 322 is superimposed on the entire domain B of the unit shown in the layout image K. The first graphic 322 has a color and a display form corresponding to being stopped. The status screen 311 in FIG. 16 includes text indicating that the domain B of the unit is stopped. The automatic monitor 2P may indicate by text that the server device 2 has detected that the domain B is stopped but is operating normally.

[0095] In the status screen 331 in Fig. 16, the first graphic 322 indicates that all of the domains B of the 16 units arranged in the power storage room are stopped, but they are stopped without any abnormality. In this case, when displaying the overall status, the automatic monitor 2P indicates on the status screen 311 that the whole system is operating without any abnormality as shown in Fig. 9. The first graphic 322 has a color and a display form corresponding to normality, not a color and a display form corresponding to a partial stoppage. In this way, the status screen 311 can indicate whether or not the system is in a healthy state that satisfies the capacity required for the system, even if any of the modules of the power storage system 101 is stopped.

[0096] The above-described embodiments are illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, and it is intended to include all modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0097] 1. Communication Devices 10 Control section 11 Storage section 12 First Communications Department 13 2nd Communications Department 1P Device Program 2. Server equipment 20 Control section 22P Data Processing Program 2P Auto Monitor 3 Client Device 33 Display section

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires information including a state of the energy storage element through communication at a predetermined time interval; a storage processing unit that stores the acquired information in a storage medium in association with information for identifying the energy storage element; a transmission processing unit that transmits screen information of a status screen including a layout image of a system including the energy storage element and a graphic showing a status of the energy storage element to a communication terminal device; an automatic monitor unit that updates the graphic information based on the latest information stored in the storage medium and transmits the updated graphic information to the communication terminal device periodically; Equipped with The information processing device, wherein the status screen includes a switching interface for selecting the status information displayed by the graphics.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the switching interface allows the user to select the status information to be displayed graphically from among voltage, current, and temperature.

3. The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the graphic displays status information of a module, a bank, or a plurality of banks in accordance with a hierarchical structure of the power storage elements.

4. The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the screen information is configured to transition from the whole to a part and from the part to a more detailed part in accordance with a hierarchical structure of the power storage elements.

5. A plurality of communication devices connected to or mounted on the energy storage element; an information processing device capable of communicating with the plurality of communication devices; An information processing system comprising: The information processing device includes: an acquisition unit that acquires information including a state of the storage element through communication at a predetermined time interval; a storage processing unit that stores the acquired information in a storage medium in association with information for identifying the energy storage element; a transmission processing unit that transmits screen information of a status screen including a layout image of a system including the energy storage element and a graphic showing a status of the energy storage element to a communication terminal device; an automatic monitor unit that updates the graphic information based on the latest information stored in the storage medium and periodically transmits the updated graphic information to the communication terminal device; The status screen includes a switching interface that allows the user to select the status information displayed by the graphics.

6. An information processing method in which an information processing device transmits information about a storage element in response to a request or as an event, comprising: acquiring information including a state of the energy storage element through communication at predetermined time intervals using a communication device connected to or mounted on the energy storage element; storing the acquired information in a storage medium in association with information for identifying the power storage element; Transmitting screen information of a status screen including a layout image of a system including the energy storage element and a graphic showing a status of the energy storage element to a communication terminal device; updating the graphic information based on the latest information stored in the storage medium and periodically transmitting the updated graphic information to the communication terminal device; An information processing method, wherein the status screen includes a switching interface for selecting the status information displayed by the graphics.

7. A computer program for causing a computer having a display unit to display information about an energy storage element, The computer includes: requesting information on the energy storage element for each system including the energy storage element or for each location where the energy storage element is installed; displaying the status screen on the display unit based on screen information of a status screen including a layout image of a system including the energy storage element, a graphic showing a state of the energy storage element, and a switching interface for selecting status information displayed by the graphic, the screen information being transmitted in response to the request; displaying an updated status screen on the display unit based on the updated graphic information periodically transmitted; and a step of switching the status information displayed by the graphic and displaying the status screen on the display unit when the switching interface is selected; A computer program that executes the following:

Images