Management system for power storage device, management method and management program

Abstract

To provide a management system capable of more efficiently utilizing a power storage device.SOLUTION: A management system 1 for power storage devices includes a plurality of power storage devices 10 each having a communication module, a management device 30 for managing information related to device states of the plurality of power storage devices 10, and a display unit 43 that can display the information of the management device. The plurality of power storage devices 10 are classified into at least one or more groups. Based on the information related to the device states of the plurality of power storage devices, the management device 30 determines whether there is a replacement-required power storage device in a state where replacement is needed. If the replacement-required power storage device is present, the management device selects an alternative power storage device that belongs to a group to which the replacement-required power storage device belongs and is not in a state where the replacement is needed, and causes the display unit 43 to display information promoting the replacement of the replacement-required power storage device with the alternative power storage device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a management system, a management method, and a management program for a power storage device. [Background technology]

[0002] Portable power storage devices that can be carried around have been used as power sources for electric vehicles such as power-assisted bicycles, electric motorcycles, and electric carts, as well as for electrical devices such as computers, printers, smartphones, and tablet terminals. Portable power storage devices are also used as emergency power sources in the event of a power outage, disaster, or the like.

[0003] In recent years, a management system has been proposed that includes a power storage device equipped with a wireless communication module for transmitting information regarding the state of the power storage device to a terminal device such as a smartphone, and a management server for managing the power storage device (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 discloses a management system that, when an abnormality occurs in the power storage device, transmits information notifying the occurrence of the abnormality to a user's smartphone or the like. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-46571 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Incidentally, when an abnormality or the like occurs in a power storage device while a user is using the power storage device, the user needs to stop using the power storage device and replace it with another normal power storage device. However, in conventional management systems including Patent Document 1, the user is only notified of the existence of a power storage device in which an abnormality or the like has occurred. Therefore, the user cannot easily determine which power storage device should be replaced. From the viewpoint of improving convenience, etc., when an abnormality occurs in a power storage device, it is important to give an appropriate replacement instruction to the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure is a management system for energy storage devices, which comprises a plurality of energy storage devices each having a communication module, a management device that manages information relating to the device status of the plurality of energy storage devices, and a display unit capable of displaying information about the management device, wherein the plurality of energy storage devices are classified into at least one or more groups, and the management device determines whether or not there is a storage device in need of replacement based on the information relating to the device status of the plurality of energy storage devices, and if a storage device in need of replacement is present, selects an alternative storage device that belongs to the group to which the storage device in need of replacement belongs and is not in a state requiring replacement, and displays information on the display unit encouraging replacement of the storage device in need of replacement with the alternative storage device.

[0007] A method for managing an energy storage device that is one aspect of the present disclosure is a method for managing a plurality of energy storage devices having a communication module, and is characterized by comprising the steps of: classifying the plurality of energy storage devices into at least one or more groups; determining whether or not there is a storage device in need of replacement that is in a state requiring replacement based on information regarding the device status of the plurality of energy storage devices; if such a storage device in need of replacement is present, selecting an alternative energy storage device that belongs to the group to which the storage device in need of replacement belongs and is not in a state requiring replacement; and displaying information encouraging replacement of the storage device in need of replacement with the alternative energy storage device.

[0008] A power storage device management program according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a program for implementing the power storage device management method described above on a computer. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to a power storage device management system that is one aspect of the present disclosure, if an abnormality or the like occurs in a power storage device, replacement instructions can be accurately given to the user, enabling the user to use the power storage device more efficiently. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a management system according to an embodiment; [Diagram 2] 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a management system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in a management system according to an example of an embodiment. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in a management system that is another example of the embodiment. [Diagram 5] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in a management system that is another example of the embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in a management system that is another example of the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of a management system for a power storage device according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The embodiment described below is merely an example, and the present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiment. In addition, selective combinations of the components of the multiple embodiments and modified examples described below are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0012] The subject of the system according to the present disclosure includes a computer. The computer executes a program to realize the functions of the system according to the present disclosure. The computer includes a processor that operates according to the program as a main hardware configuration. The type of the processor is not important as long as it can realize the above functions by executing the program. The processor is composed of one or more electronic circuits including an integrated circuit (IC) or a large scale integrated circuit (LSI). The electronic circuits may be integrated into one chip or may be provided in multiple chips. The chips may be integrated into one device or may be provided in multiple devices. The program is stored in a non-transitory storage medium such as a computer-readable ROM, an optical disk, or a hard disk drive. The program may be stored in the storage medium in advance, or may be supplied to the storage medium via a wide area communication network including the Internet.

[0013] Hereinafter, a management system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 3. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of the management system 1. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the management system 1.

[0014] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the management system 1 includes a plurality of portable energy storage devices 10 each including a communication module 12, a receiving device 20 capable of receiving wireless signals from the plurality of energy storage devices 10 via short-range wireless communication, a management server 30 as a management device that manages information regarding the device status of the plurality of energy storage devices 10, and a terminal device 40 that acquires information from the management server 30 and displays the information.

[0015] The power storage device 10 is used in many places, such as offices, factories, public facilities (government offices, community centers, schools, hospitals, stations, evacuation shelters, etc.), commercial facilities (stores, shopping malls, etc.), and homes. The power storage device 10 is managed by users such as owners and managers. It is assumed that the power storage device 10 managed by the management system 1 is usually used within a range where it can be connected to the receiving device 20 by short-range wireless communication. Device information including identification information of the power storage device 10 and the like is registered in the management server 30 using, for example, a terminal device 40. Note that the device information of the power storage device 10 may include information on the user who owns or manages the power storage device 10 and information on the place where the power storage device 10 is mainly used.

[0016] Although details will be described later, the multiple power storage devices 10 are classified into at least one or more groups based on device information and the like. In this embodiment, the multiple power storage devices 10 are classified into a first group 100 and a second group 200. As shown in Fig. 1, the first group 100 includes four power storage devices 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D, and the second group 200 includes four power storage devices 10E, 10F, 10G, and 10H. The number of power storage devices 10 belonging to each group may be three or less, or five or more.

[0017] The receiving device 20 communicates with the plurality of power storage devices 10 by short-range wireless communication, and acquires information on the device states, such as the charging rates, of the plurality of power storage devices 10. In this embodiment, the receiving device 20 is a gateway device. The receiving device 20 may be a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a notebook computer, or the like.

[0018] The receiving device 20 may be movable by a user within the installation area, but in this embodiment, it is fixed at a predetermined position. Device information including identification information of the receiving device 20 and information on the installation position are registered in the management server 30 using, for example, a terminal device 40. Furthermore, the management system 1 of this embodiment is configured with one receiving device 20 as shown in FIG. 1, but may be configured with multiple receiving devices 20.

[0019] The management server 30 is a device that comprehensively manages the power storage device 10. An example of the management server 30 is a server of a manufacturer, a management business operator, or the like of the power storage device 10. The management server 30 may be a server managed by a user who owns the power storage device 10. The management server 30 stores information about the power storage device 10, the receiving device 20, and the terminal device 40. The management server 30, the receiving device 20, and the terminal device 40 are configured to be able to communicate with each other via a wide area communication network such as an Internet line or a mobile communication system.

[0020] Although the details will be described later, when there is an energy storage device 10 indicating a state requiring replacement among the multiple energy storage devices 10, the management server 30 selects an energy storage device 10 (alternative energy storage device) that belongs to the group to which the energy storage device 10 (replacement-requiring energy storage device) belongs and that is not in a state requiring replacement. Here, a state requiring replacement is, for example, a state in which the charge rate of the energy storage device 10 has dropped below a predetermined value, or a state in which an abnormality has occurred in the energy storage device 10. Then, the management server 30 notifies the user via the display unit 43 described later to encourage replacement of the energy storage device requiring replacement with the alternative energy storage device. This allows the user to be given an appropriate replacement instruction, enabling the user to use the energy storage device 10 more efficiently.

[0021] The terminal device 40 is a device that acquires information from the management server 30 and displays the information on the display unit 43. That is, in the management system 1, a user can use the terminal device 40 to check an instruction to replace the power storage device 10. The terminal device 40 may be divided into groups of the power storage devices 10. The terminal device 40 is, for example, a mobile terminal device such as a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet terminal, or a notebook computer. The terminal device 40 is, for example, managed by a user who owns the power storage device 10. Application software (hereinafter, referred to as "app") for managing the power storage device 10 and the receiving device 20 may be installed in the terminal device 40.

[0022] The power storage device 10, the receiving device 20, the management server 30, and the terminal device 40 that configure the management system 1 will be described in detail below.

[0023] [Electricity storage device 10] The power storage device 10 includes a battery module 11 and a case 14 that houses the battery module 11. The power storage device 10 is a portable power storage device that can be carried around, and is generally called a battery pack. The power storage device 10 also includes a communication module 12 and a control unit 13. The communication module 12 and the control unit 13 are housed in the case 14 together with the battery module 11. The power storage device 10 also includes measuring instruments such as a voltmeter that measures the voltage of the battery module 11, an ammeter that measures the current, and a temperature sensor that measures the temperature.

[0024] The battery module 11 may be composed of a single battery, but is preferably composed of a battery pack including a plurality of batteries. The shape of the batteries constituting the battery pack is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a cylindrical battery, a pouch-type battery, or a prismatic battery. The type of battery is also not particularly limited, and a suitable example is a high-capacity lithium-ion battery. The power storage device 10 may be provided with a connector for extracting power from the battery module 11.

[0025] The communication module 12 is a communication device for short-distance wireless communication with the receiving device 20. Information on the power storage device 10 is transmitted to the receiving device 20 by the function of the communication module 12. In this embodiment, the communication module 12 is a module for performing BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) communication. BLE corresponds to Bluetooth version 4 or later, which is a short-distance wireless communication standard. Since the power consumption for BLE communication is relatively small, the use of a BLE module can reduce the internal power consumption of the power storage device 10. Bluetooth corresponds to the IEEE802.15.1 standard, which is an international standard for short-distance wireless communication. Note that the wireless communication between the power storage device 10 and the receiving device 20 is not limited to BLE communication, and may be, for example, wireless LAN, infrared communication, or the like.

[0026] The communication module 12 transmits an advertising signal at a predetermined transmission interval to inform the receiving device 20 of the presence of the power storage device 10. The interval at which the communication module 12 transmits the advertising signal is not particularly limited, but is, for example, 500 ms. Furthermore, when the communication module 12 receives a connection request from the receiving device 20 that has received the advertising signal, the communication module 12 establishes a communication connection (GATT (Generic attribute profile) communication) with the receiving device 20 and transmits information regarding the device states of the power storage device 10 and a charger / discharger 50 described below to the receiving device 20.

[0027] The control unit 13 has a function of controlling the operation of the power storage device 10, such as calculating information related to the device state of the power storage device 10 and transmitting information via the communication module 12. The control unit 13 is configured by a microcomputer including a processor and a memory. The memory includes non-volatile memory such as a RAM, a ROM, and a hard disk. The processor realizes the function of the power storage device 10 by reading and executing a program installed in the memory. The control unit 13 may also have a protection board called a BMS board, and monitors the state of the battery module 11 to perform optimal charging and discharging.

[0028] The control unit 13 calculates information on the device state of the power storage device 10, such as the charging rate and full charge capacity of the battery module 11, based on the measured values ​​of measuring instruments such as a voltmeter, an ammeter, and a temperature sensor provided in the power storage device 10. The control unit 13 also calculates the SOH (State of Health) of the battery module 11 based on these measured values. The SOH is an index indicating the deterioration state of the battery module 11, and is the ratio of the current full charge capacity to the full charge capacity of the battery module 11 when it is not used. The control unit 13 may also calculate the cumulative usage time of the battery module 11. The control unit 13 also stores information on the device state of the charger / discharger 50 transmitted from the charger / discharger 50 described later.

[0029] The control unit 13 transmits device status information, including the measurement values ​​of the measuring instruments provided in the power storage device 10, the above-mentioned information on the state of the power storage device 10, and the information on the state of the charger / discharger 50 transmitted from the charger / discharger 50, to the receiving device 20 via the communication module 12. Note that the device status information transmitted to the receiving device 20 may include product information of the power storage device 10 (product number, manufacturing date, etc.) and information on the user who owns the power storage device 10.

[0030] Case 14 may be made of metal, but is preferably made of resin from the viewpoints of communication performance, weight reduction, etc. Case 14 is generally opaque and conceals battery module 11 and the like housed therein. Case 14 shown in FIG. 1 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, and a handle 15 is provided at the upper end of case 14 for use when carrying power storage device 10. Also, a connection part 16 to be inserted into charger / discharger 50 is provided at the lower part of case 14. Connection part 16 has terminal 16A electrically connected to battery module 11.

[0031] Case 14 is provided with a remaining charge display button 17 and an indicator 18. Remaining charge display button 17 is an operation unit for causing indicator 18 to display the charging rate of battery module 11. Indicator 18 includes, for example, a plurality of lamps, and displays the charging rate by changing the number of lamps that are turned on according to the charging rate. Indicator 18 may be capable of displaying the charging rate as a numerical value, and may also be capable of displaying a state of power storage device 10 other than the charging rate.

[0032] The remaining charge display button 17 may also be used as an operation unit for shutting down the power storage device 10 and starting the long-term storage mode. For example, by performing a normal first operation of briefly pressing the remaining charge display button 17, the charging rate is displayed on the indicator 18, and by performing a second operation of long pressing the remaining charge display button 17, the power storage device 10 is shut down. In the long-term storage mode, all of the device components to which power is supplied from the battery module 11 are shut down.

[0033] The power storage device 10 is charged using a predetermined charger / discharger 50. The charger / discharger 50 includes a control unit 51, a charge / discharge circuit 52, a cord 53, and a socket 54, and functions as a charger by connecting the cord 53 to a system power supply. The charger / discharger 50 is also provided with measuring instruments such as a voltmeter for measuring the voltage of the charger / discharger 50, an ammeter for measuring the current, and a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature. The charger / discharger 50 may also have a function of directly outputting (passing through) the power supplied from the system power supply to a load device connected to the socket 54.

[0034] The charger / discharger 50 has a recess into which the connection portion 16 of the power storage device 10 can be inserted. A positive terminal, a negative terminal, a detection terminal, and a communication terminal are provided in the recess. The detection terminal is a terminal that has a function of detecting that the power storage device 10 is connected. When the power storage device 10 is inserted into the recess, communication between the power storage device 10 and the charger / discharger 50 is performed by the function of the communication terminal.

[0035] The control unit 51 is configured by a microcomputer including a processor and a memory, similar to the control unit 13 of the power storage device 10. The memory includes non-volatile memories such as RAM, ROM, and a hard disk. The processor realizes the function of the charger / discharger 50 by reading and executing a program installed in the memory.

[0036] The control unit 51 has a function of controlling the operation of the charger / discharger 50. Furthermore, the control unit 51 calculates information on the device state of the charger / discharger 50 based on information from the above-mentioned measuring instruments, and transmits the calculation result to the power storage device 10. The information transmitted to the power storage device 10 includes, for example, product information (product number, manufacturing date, etc.) of the charger / discharger 50, an operating status, a power value, and information on the presence or absence of an abnormality.

[0037] [Receiving device 20] As described above, the receiving device 20 is communicatively connected to the power storage device 10 via short-range wireless communication, and is communicatively connected to the management server 30 via a wide area communication network. In this embodiment, the receiving device 20 is fixed at a predetermined position. The receiving device 20 includes a processor 21 and a memory 22, similar to the respective control units of the power storage device 10 and the charger / discharger 50. The memory 22 stores device status information transmitted from the power storage device 10, in addition to identification information and installation location information of the receiving device 20. The memory 22 also stores information regarding the interval at which the receiving device 20 is communicatively connected to the power storage device 10 and the management server 30.

[0038] The receiving device 20 receives the advertising signal transmitted from the power storage device 10. Then, the receiving device 20 periodically transmits a connection request to the power storage device 10 and establishes a communication connection with the power storage device 10. Hereinafter, the interval at which the receiving device 20 transmits the connection request to the power storage device 10 is referred to as a first period. The length of the first period can be appropriately set depending on the use of the power storage device 10, and is, for example, several tens of seconds to several tens of minutes. By shortening the first period, the internal power consumption of the power storage device 10 increases, but the device state of the power storage device 10 can be known frequently, and a decrease in the charging rate of the power storage device 10 and an abnormality of the power storage device 10 can be quickly dealt with. In addition, the relative positional relationship between the power storage device 10 and the receiving device 20 is calculated based on the signal strength when the power storage device 10 and the receiving device 20 are connected to each other for communication, which will be described in detail later. Therefore, by shortening the first period, the position of the power storage device 10 can be known frequently. The length of the first period is registered in the management server 30, for example, using the terminal device 40. Then, the registered information is transmitted from the management server 30 to the receiving device 20 and registered in the receiving device 20.

[0039] The receiving device 20 measures the signal strength of the wireless signal from the power storage device 10. More specifically, the receiving device 20 measures the received radio wave intensity (RSSI) of the advertising signal transmitted from the power storage device 10.

[0040] The receiving device 20 transmits to the management server 30 the device status information transmitted from the power storage device 10, first information including the measurement result of the signal strength, and second information not including the device status information. The first information includes reception date and time information regarding the date and time when the receiving device 20 received the wireless signal from the power storage device 10. The second information includes, for example, device information (MAC address, IP address, etc.) of the receiving device 20 and information on the installation location of the receiving device 20. Note that the second information may include the measurement result of the signal strength, but does not include it in this embodiment.

[0041] After receiving the device status information from the power storage device 10, the receiving device 20 transmits the first information to the management server 30. The timing at which the receiving device 20 transmits the first information to the management server 30 may be the timing at which the receiving device 20 receives the device status information from the power storage device 10, or may be a predetermined timing (for example, 0 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, and 45 minutes past the hour). The receiving device 20 may transmit the first information related to a plurality of power storage devices 10 to the management server 30 together.

[0042] Furthermore, regardless of whether or not the receiving device 20 has received the device status information, the receiving device 20 periodically transmits the second information to the management server 30. In other words, even if the power storage device 10 is located away from the receiving device 20 and the power storage device 10 and the receiving device 20 cannot be communicatively connected, the receiving device 20 periodically transmits the second information to the management server 30.

[0043] Here, it is assumed that the receiving device 20 transmits only the first information to the management server 30. In that case, if a failure, an abnormality, or the like occurs in the receiving device 20, the first information is not transmitted to the management server 30. However, even if the power storage device 10 does not exist near the receiving device 20 and the receiving device 20 and the power storage device 10 cannot be connected for communication, the first information is not transmitted to the management server 30. Therefore, it is not easy to determine whether the first information is not transmitted to the management server 30 because a failure, an abnormality, or the like occurs in the receiving device 20, or the first information is not transmitted to the management server 30 because the receiving device 20 and the power storage device 10 cannot be connected for communication. Therefore, the receiving device 20 periodically transmits the second information to the management server 30 regardless of the presence or absence of a communication connection between the receiving device 20 and the power storage device 10, thereby making it possible to detect a failure, an abnormality, or the like of the receiving device 20 at an early stage. Hereinafter, the interval at which the receiving device 20 transmits the second information to the management server 30 is referred to as a second period. The length of the second period, like the above-mentioned first period, can be set appropriately depending on the application of the power storage device 10, and is, for example, several tens of seconds to several tens of minutes. Moreover, the length of the second period may be the same as or different from the length of the first period.

[0044] [Administration Server 30] The management server 30 functions as a management device that manages information related to the device states of a plurality of power storage devices 10. As described above, the management server 30 is capable of communicating with the receiving device 20 and the terminal device 40 via a wide area communication network. The management server 30 is, for example, a server of a manufacturer of the power storage devices 10, a management business operator, or the like. The management server 30 may be configured with one computer or may be configured with a plurality of computers.

[0045] The management server 30 includes a processor 31 and a memory 32, similar to the respective control units of the power storage device 10, the charger / discharger 50, and the receiving device 20. The memory 32 stores the first information and the second information transmitted from the receiving device 20. The memory 32 also stores information on the multiple power storage devices 10 in a state in which each power storage device 10 is associated with information on the group, which will be described later. The memory 32 may also store spatial information (floor plan, layout diagram, etc.) of the area in which the power storage device 10 and the receiving device 20 are installed. The memory 32 may also store calendar information. The information on the power storage device 10, the charger / discharger 50, and the receiving device 20 can be registered in the management server 30, and the registered contents can be changed, etc., by operating the terminal device 40.

[0046] When the management server 30 receives the first information from the receiving device 20, the management server 30 classifies the power storage devices 10 corresponding to the first information into at least one or more groups based on the received information. The group classification method can be appropriately set depending on the number of the power storage devices 10, the purpose, etc. For example, the management server 30 may classify the power storage devices 10 into at least one or more groups based on information on the users who own or manage the power storage devices 10. Also, for example, the management server 30 may classify the same power storage devices 10 owned or managed by the users into the same group. Also, for example, the management server 30 may classify the power storage devices 10 into at least one or more groups based on information on the use location registered in the power storage devices 10. By classifying the power storage devices 10 into at least one or more groups, it becomes possible to select a power storage device 10 appropriate for the user when selecting the power storage device 10 described later.

[0047] Furthermore, when the management system 1 is configured with a plurality of receiving devices 20, the management server 30 may classify the power storage devices 10 into at least one or more groups for each receiving device 20 with which the power storage devices 10 have most recently been connected for communication. As described above, the power storage devices 10 and the receiving devices 20 are connected for communication via short-range wireless communication. That is, the power storage devices 10 are connected for communication with receiving devices 20 that are located nearby. Therefore, by classifying the power storage devices 10 into groups for each receiving device 20 with which the power storage devices 10 have most recently been connected for communication, it is possible to classify the power storage devices 10 into groups for each nearby power storage device 10.

[0048] Furthermore, the management server 30 may classify the power storage devices 10 into at least one or more groups based on the measurement results of the signal strength of the wireless signal from the power storage devices 10 measured by the receiving device 20. Here, as the distance between the power storage devices 10 and the receiving device 20 becomes shorter, the signal strength of the wireless signal received by the receiving device 20 becomes stronger. Therefore, for example, by classifying the power storage devices 10 whose signal strength measured by the receiving device 20 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value into the same group, it is possible to classify the power storage devices 10 that exist within a predetermined range from the receiving device 20 into the same group.

[0049] The number of groups classified by the management server 30 may be 1. In other words, the management server 30 may classify all the power storage devices 10 managed by the management server 30 into the same group.

[0050] The management server 30 judges whether the managed power storage device 10 is in a state requiring replacement based on the stored device status information of the power storage device 10. Here, the state requiring replacement is a state in which the charging rate of the managed power storage device 10 has dropped below a predetermined value (for example, 10%) or a state in which an abnormality has occurred in the managed power storage device 10. Examples of the abnormality of the power storage device 10 include a temperature rise and a voltage drop of the power storage device 10. In addition, the state requiring replacement may be, for example, a state in which the SOH of the managed power storage device 10 has dropped below a predetermined value or a state in which the number of uses or the cumulative usage time of the managed power storage device 10 has increased above a predetermined value. The management server 30 can register an index used when determining whether the managed power storage device 10 is in a state requiring replacement or change the registered contents by operating the terminal device 40.

[0051] When a power storage device 10 in need of replacement (hereinafter, a power storage device requiring replacement) is present among the multiple power storage devices 10 managed by the management server 30, the management server 30 selects a power storage device 10 (hereinafter, an alternative power storage device) that belongs to the same group as the power storage device requiring replacement and that is not in a state requiring replacement. The management server 30 then transmits information to the terminal device 40 to prompt the user to replace the power storage device requiring replacement with the alternative power storage device. This allows the user to be given an appropriate replacement instruction, enabling the user to use the power storage device 10 more efficiently.

[0052] [Terminal device 40] The terminal device 40 is used when a user checks information transmitted from the management server 30. As described above, the terminal device 40 is configured to be able to communicate with the management server 30 via a wide area communication network. The terminal device 40 includes a processor 41 and a memory 42, similar to the respective control units of the power storage device 10, the charger / discharger 50, and the receiving device 20. The terminal device 40 also includes a display unit 43 that acquires information acquired from the management server 30.

[0053] The terminal device 40 may be a dedicated terminal for the management system 1, but examples include a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a notebook computer, etc. owned by a user. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the management system 1 is configured with one terminal device 40, but may be configured with multiple terminal devices 40.

[0054] An example of a processing procedure in the management system 1 will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0055] First, the processing procedure of the power storage device 10 will be described. As shown in Fig. 3, the power storage device 10 periodically transmits an advertising signal as described above (step S11). Then, when the power storage device 10 receives a connection request from the receiving device 20 (step S12: Yes), the power storage device 10 establishes a communication connection with the receiving device 20. On the other hand, when the power storage device 10 does not receive a connection request from the receiving device 20 (step S12: No), the power storage device 10 returns to step S11 and continues transmitting the advertising signal.

[0056] When the power storage device 10 is connected to the receiving device 20 for communication, the power storage device 10 creates device status information including information indicating the status of the power storage device 10 (charging rate, full charge capacity, SOH, operating status, power value, temperature, etc.) and information indicating the status of the charger / discharger 50 (step S13). Then, the power storage device 10 transmits the created device status information to the receiving device 20 (step S14).

[0057] Next, a processing procedure of the receiving device 20 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, when the receiving device 20 receives an advertising signal transmitted from the power storage device 10 (step S21: Yes), the receiving device 20 judges whether or not a first period has passed since the most recent communication connection between the receiving device 20 and the power storage device 10 (step S22). If the first period has passed (step S22: Yes), the receiving device 20 measures the signal strength of the advertising signal (step S23). Then, the receiving device 20 transmits a connection request to the power storage device 10 and communicates with the power storage device 10 (step S24). On the other hand, if the first period has not passed (step S22: No), the receiving device 20 does not transmit a connection request to the power storage device 10 and returns to step S21.

[0058] When the receiving device 20 is connected to and communicates with the power storage device 10, it receives device status information from the power storage device 10 (step S25). Then, the receiving device 20 transmits first information including the above-mentioned device status information and information related to the signal strength measured in step S23 to the management server 30 (step S26). Here, it is preferable to transmit the first information to the management server 30 immediately after receiving the device status information from the power storage device 10. This allows the management server 30 to calculate the device status of the power storage device 10 in real time.

[0059] Next, a processing procedure of the management server 30 will be described. As shown in Fig. 3, when the management server 30 receives the first information transmitted from the receiving device 20 (step S31: Yes), the management server 30 classifies the power storage device 10 corresponding to the first information into at least one group (step S32). As described above, the group classification may be performed based on information on the user who owns or manages the power storage device 10, or based on information on the receiving device 20 with which the power storage device 10 most recently connected for communication, or based on information on the signal strength measured by the receiving device 20.

[0060] Next, the management server 30 acquires the device status of the power storage device 10 from the device status information included in the received first information. Then, the management server 30 determines whether or not the power storage device 10 is in a state requiring replacement (step S33). Note that the above determination may be made at the timing when the management server 30 receives the first information from the receiving device 20, or at a predetermined timing (for example, 0 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, and 45 minutes past the hour).

[0061] If the management server 30 determines that the energy storage device 10 is in a state requiring replacement, i.e., if it determines that a storage device requiring replacement exists among the multiple energy storage devices 10 managed by the management server 30 (step S33: Yes), it refers to the first information of the energy storage devices 10 that belong to the group to which the storage device requiring replacement belongs (step S34).

[0062] Then, the management server 30 selects an alternative energy storage device that does not require replacement from among the energy storage devices 10 that belong to the group to which the energy storage device that needs to be replaced belongs (step S35). At this time, it is preferable for the management server 30 to refer to the operating status of the energy storage devices 10 that belong to the group to which the energy storage device that needs to be replaced belongs, and select the alternative energy storage device from among the energy storage devices 10 that are not in use, i.e., not connected to a load device. Note that the alternative energy storage device selected by the management server 30 may be one or more.

[0063] Then, the management server 30 transmits information to the terminal device 40 corresponding to the energy storage device requiring replacement, prompting the user to replace the energy storage device requiring replacement with an alternative energy storage device (step S36). The information may include registration information (product information, owner information, etc.) of the alternative energy storage device, and device status information such as the charging rate.

[0064] The content of the above information may be changed depending on the device state of the electric storage device requiring replacement. For example, if the temperature of the electric storage device requiring replacement is abnormally increasing, it is necessary to immediately replace the electric storage device requiring replacement with an alternative electric storage device. Therefore, the information in such a case may be a content that urges the electric storage device requiring replacement to be replaced with an alternative electric storage device as soon as possible. Furthermore, when the management server 30 selects multiple alternative electric storage devices, the information may include information regarding the priority of replacement of the alternative electric storage devices. The priority is calculated by the management server 30, for example, based on the charging rate of the alternative electric storage devices.

[0065] On the other hand, if the management server 30 determines that the energy storage device 10 is not in a state requiring replacement, i.e., if it determines that there is no energy storage device requiring replacement among the multiple energy storage devices 10 managed by the management server 30 (step S33: No), there is no need to notify the user to encourage replacement of the energy storage device 10, and therefore this flow is terminated.

[0066] Next, another example of the processing procedure in the management system 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 4. Fig. 4 shows the processing procedure of the management server 30. Note that the processing procedures of the power storage device 10 and the receiving device 20 are similar to the processing procedures shown in Fig. 3.

[0067] Although details will be described later, the processing procedure shown in Fig. 4 differs from the processing procedure shown in Fig. 3 in that the content of the information transmitted to terminal device 40 differs depending on the usage status of the power storage device requiring replacement. Also, the processing procedure shown in Fig. 4 differs from the processing procedure shown in Fig. 3 in that a replacement power storage device is selected based on the positional relationship of the power storage device 10.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 4, similar to the processing procedure shown in FIG. 3, when the management server 30 receives the first information transmitted from the receiving device 20 (step S41: Yes), it classifies the power storage devices 10 corresponding to the first information into at least one group (step S42).

[0069] Next, the management server 30 determines whether the energy storage device 10 is in a state requiring replacement as described above (step S43), similarly to the processing procedure shown in Fig. 3. If the energy storage device 10 is in a state requiring replacement (step S43: Yes), the management server 30 refers to information on the operating status included in the first information of the energy storage device (the energy storage device requiring replacement) and determines whether the energy storage device requiring replacement is in use, i.e., whether the energy storage device requiring replacement is connected to a load device (step S44). The management server 30 may determine whether the energy storage device requiring replacement is in use from a change over time in the most recent charging rate of the energy storage device requiring replacement.

[0070] If the electric storage device requiring replacement is in use (step S44: Yes), the process proceeds to step S46. On the other hand, if the electric storage device requiring replacement is not in use (step S44: No), it is not necessary to notify the user to encourage the user to replace the electric storage device requiring replacement with an alternative electric storage device. For this reason, the management server 30 transmits, for example, information to the terminal device 40 encouraging the user to charge the electric storage device requiring replacement (step S45). By changing the content of the information transmitted from the management server 30 to the terminal device 40 depending on the usage status of the electric storage device requiring replacement, it is possible to propose a more appropriate process to the user. Note that if the electric storage device requiring replacement is not in use, the management server 30 may end this flow without transmitting the information encouraging the user to charge the electric storage device requiring replacement to the terminal device 40.

[0071] If the storage device requiring replacement is in use (step S44: Yes), the first information of the storage device 10 belonging to the group to which the storage device requiring replacement belongs is referenced (step S46) in the same manner as in the processing procedure shown in FIG. 3. Then, based on the information on the signal strength included in the first information of the storage device 10 belonging to the group to which the storage device requiring replacement belongs, the relative positional relationship between the storage device 10 belonging to the group to which the storage device requiring replacement belongs and the receiving device 20 is calculated (step S47). As described above, as the distance between the storage device 10 and the receiving device 20 becomes closer, the signal strength of the wireless signal received by the receiving device 20 becomes stronger. Therefore, the estimated distance between the storage device 10 and the receiving device 20 can be calculated based on the information on the signal strength included in the first information. In addition, when the receiving device 20 is composed of a plurality of receiving devices 20, the estimated position of the storage device 10 may be calculated by, for example, a three-point positioning method.

[0072] Next, the management server 30 selects an alternative power storage device that does not require replacement from among the power storage devices 10 that belong to the group to which the power storage device requiring replacement belongs (step S48). At this time, the management server 30 selects the alternative power storage device based on the positional relationship of the power storage devices 10 calculated in step S47. More specifically, the management server 30 selects the power storage device 10 that is closest to the power storage device requiring replacement, or the power storage device 10 that is within a predetermined range (for example, within 5 m) from the position of the power storage device requiring replacement, as the alternative power storage device. By selecting the power storage device 10 that is close to the power storage device requiring replacement as the alternative power storage device, the user can easily replace the power storage device requiring replacement with the alternative power storage device.

[0073] Then, the management server 30 transmits information to the terminal device 40 to prompt the user to replace the power storage device requiring replacement with a replacement power storage device (step S49). The information preferably includes location information of the replacement power storage device, which allows the user to easily find the replacement power storage device.

[0074] Next, another example of the processing procedure in the management system 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 5. Fig. 5 shows the processing procedure of the management server 30. Note that the processing procedures of the power storage device 10 and the receiving device 20 are similar to the processing procedures shown in Fig. 3.

[0075] Although details will be described later, the processing procedure shown in FIG. 5 differs from the processing procedures shown in FIGS.

[0076] As shown in Fig. 5, similarly to the processing procedure shown in Fig. 3, when the management server 30 receives the first information transmitted from the receiving device 20 (step S51: Yes), it classifies the energy storage device 10 corresponding to the first information into at least one or more groups (step S52). Then, the management server 30 determines whether the energy storage device 10 is in a state requiring the above-mentioned replacement (step S53). If the energy storage device 10 is in a state requiring replacement (step S53: Yes), it refers to the first information of the energy storage device 10 belonging to the group to which the energy storage device requiring replacement belongs (step S54).

[0077] Then, the management server 30 calculates the degradation state of each of the energy storage devices 10 belonging to the group to which the replacement-requiring energy storage device belongs, based on the first information referenced in step S54 (step S55). The degradation state of the energy storage device 10 may be calculated based on the SOH included in the first information, or may be calculated based on the number of times the energy storage device 10 has been used, the cumulative usage time, etc.

[0078] Then, the management server 30 selects an alternative storage device based on the deterioration state of the storage device 10 calculated in step S55 (step S56). More specifically, when the SOH is used to determine the deterioration state in step S55, the management server 30 selects the storage device 10 with the best SOH as the alternative storage device from among the storage devices 10 that belong to the group to which the replacement-requiring storage device belongs and that are not in a state requiring replacement. In general, the SOH decreases as the usage time of the storage device 10 increases. Therefore, by selecting the storage device 10 with the best SOH value as the alternative storage device and having the user use the alternative storage device, the SOH of the storage devices 10 that belong to the group can be made uniform. As a result, it becomes easy to extend the product life of all the storage devices 10 that belong to the group.

[0079] Furthermore, in step S55, when the number of times or the cumulative usage time of the power storage device 10 is used to determine the degradation state, the management server 30 may select, as the replacement power storage device, the power storage device 10 with the smallest number of times or the smallest cumulative usage time from among the power storage devices 10 that belong to the group to which the replacement-requiring power storage device belongs and that are not in a state requiring replacement. Even in this case, the number of times or the cumulative usage time of the power storage devices 10 that belong to the group are equalized, making it easy to extend the product life of all the power storage devices 10 that belong to the group.

[0080] Then, the management server 30 transmits information to the terminal device 40 to prompt the user to replace the power storage device requiring replacement with an alternative power storage device (step S57). The above information may also include information indicating the deterioration state of the power storage device requiring replacement and the alternative power storage device (SOH, number of uses, cumulative use time, etc.).

[0081] Next, another example of the processing procedure in the management system 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 6. Fig. 6 shows the processing procedure of the management server 30.

[0082] Although details will be described later, in the process shown in FIG. 6, the management server 30 calculates the current charge capacity for each group and the predicted discharge capacity of the group for a specific future period. Then, when the current charge capacity is smaller than the predicted discharge capacity, that is, when a power supply shortage is expected in the future, the management server 30 notifies the user to charge the power storage device 10 or to refrain from using power. The process shown in FIG. 6 may be executed at any timing, for example, at a predetermined timing (for example, 0:00, 6:00, 12:00, and 18:00 every day). The timing for executing the process shown in FIG. 6 can be set by operating the terminal device 40.

[0083] 6, the management server 30 calculates a predicted discharge capacity of a specific group for a specific future period based on the past discharge capacity of the power storage devices 10 belonging to the specific group (step S61). For example, when calculating a predicted discharge capacity of a specific group between 6:00 and 9:00, the management server 30 calculates the predicted discharge capacity of the group based on the actual value of the discharge capacity of the group between 6:00 and 9:00 in the past week, that is, the total value of the discharge capacity of the power storage devices 10 belonging to the group. At this time, the management server 30 may set the maximum value of the discharge capacity of the group in the past week as the predicted discharge capacity, or may set the average value of the discharge capacity of the group in the past week as the predicted discharge capacity.

[0084] The management server 30 may also calculate the predicted discharge capacity of a specific group based on the past discharge capacity of the group on a specific day of the week. For example, when calculating the predicted discharge capacity of a specific group between 6:00 and 9:00 on Sunday, the management server 30 calculates the predicted discharge capacity of the group based on the actual value of the discharge capacity of the group between 6:00 and 9:00 on Sundays in the past month. The management server 30 may also calculate the predicted discharge capacity of the group by inputting the past discharge capacity of the specific group as training data into a machine learning model and having it learn.

[0085] The method of calculating the predicted discharge capacity of a specific group is not limited to the above method. For example, the management server 30 may calculate the predicted discharge capacity for each energy storage device 10 and calculate the predicted discharge capacity for each group by adding up the predicted discharge capacities of the energy storage devices 10 belonging to each group.

[0086] Next, the management server 30 adds up the current charge capacities of the power storage devices 10 that belong to the group, and calculates the current charge capacity for each group (step S62).

[0087] Then, the management server 30 compares the predicted discharge capacity for each group calculated in step S61 with the current charge capacity for each group calculated in step S62 (step S63). If the current charge capacity of a specific group is smaller than the predicted discharge capacity of the group (step S63: Yes), the process proceeds to step S64 and notifies the user. On the other hand, if the current charge capacity is larger than the predicted discharge capacity in all groups (step S63: No), there is no need to charge the power storage device 10, so the flow ends without notifying the user.

[0088] If the current charge capacity of a specific group is smaller than the predicted discharge capacity of the group (step S63: Yes), the management server 30 transmits information to the terminal device 40 to prompt the user to store electricity in the electricity storage device 10 and to refrain from using electricity (step S64). This makes it possible to resolve future electricity supply shortages.

[0089] The information may include information on the predicted discharge capacity calculated in step S61 and the current charge capacity calculated in step S62. This allows the user to know the current charge capacity and the predicted discharge capacity for each group. The content of the information may vary depending on the difference between the current charge capacity and the predicted discharge capacity. For example, when the current charge capacity is less than 50% of the predicted discharge capacity, the information may prompt the user to charge the power storage device 10 as soon as possible.

[0090] As described above, according to the management system 1 having the above configuration, when a power storage device 10 indicating a state requiring replacement (power storage device requiring replacement) is present among the multiple power storage devices 10, the management server 30 selects a power storage device 10 (alternative power storage device) that belongs to the same group as the power storage device requiring replacement and is not in a state requiring replacement. Then, the management server 30 causes the display unit 43 to display information encouraging replacement of the power storage device requiring replacement with the alternative power storage device. This allows the user to be given an appropriate replacement instruction, enabling the user to use the power storage devices more efficiently.

[0091] In the above embodiment, the display unit 43 capable of displaying information of the management server 30 is provided in the terminal device 40, but is not limited thereto. The display unit 43 may be provided in, for example, the power storage device 10 or the receiving device 20.

[0092] In the above embodiment, the information on the device status of the power storage device 10 is transmitted to the management server 30 as a management device via the receiving device 20, but is not limited thereto. For example, the power storage device 10 and the management server 30 may be configured to be able to communicate with each other via a wide area communication network, and the power storage device 10 may directly transmit information on the device status to the management server 30. As in the above embodiment, the power storage device 10 is provided with the receiving device 20 and configured to be able to communicate with the receiving device 20 via short-range wireless communication, so that it is not necessary to mount a communication module connectable to a wide area communication network on the power storage device 10. As a result, the power storage device 10 can be provided at low cost, and the communication cost of the power storage device 10 can also be reduced.

[0093] In the above embodiment, the management system 1 includes the receiving device 20 capable of receiving wireless signals from the power storage device 10 and the management server 30 as a management device that comprehensively manages the power storage device 10, but is not limited to this. In particular, in the case of a small-scale management system, the management system 1 may not include the management server 30, and the receiving device 20 may have the function of the management server 30. In that case, the receiving device 20 functions as the management device.

[0094] The present disclosure is further illustrated by the following embodiments. Configuration 1: A management system for an energy storage device, comprising: a plurality of energy storage devices each having a communication module; a management device that manages information relating to the device status of the plurality of energy storage devices; and a display unit capable of displaying information of the management device, the plurality of energy storage devices being classified into at least one or more groups; the management device determines whether or not there is a storage device in need of replacement based on information relating to the device status of the plurality of energy storage devices; and, if there is a storage device in need of replacement, selects an alternative storage device that belongs to the group to which the storage device in need of replacement belongs and is not in a state requiring replacement, and displays information on the display unit encouraging replacement of the storage device in need of replacement with the alternative storage device. Configuration 2: A management system for energy storage devices according to configuration 1, comprising a receiving device capable of receiving wireless signals from the plurality of energy storage devices, wherein the management device calculates a relative positional relationship between the energy storage devices and the management device based on the signal strength of the wireless signal received by the receiving device, and selects the alternative energy storage device based on the calculated relative positional relationship between the energy storage devices and the management device. Configuration 3: The power storage device management system according to configuration 1 or 2, wherein the management device manages information related to degradation states of the plurality of power storage devices, and selects the alternative power storage device based on the information related to the degradation states. Configuration 4: The management system for a storage device according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein the state in which replacement is necessary is at least one of a state in which the charging rate of the storage device has fallen below a predetermined value and a state in which an abnormality has occurred in the storage device. Configuration 5: The power storage device management system according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, wherein the management device calculates a predicted discharge capacity for each group based on past discharge capacities of the plurality of power storage devices. Configuration 6: The management system for a power storage device described in Configuration 5, wherein, when the current charge capacity for each group is smaller than the predicted discharge capacity, the management device causes the display unit to display information encouraging charging of the power storage device, or causes the display unit to display information encouraging refraining from using the power storage device. Configuration 7: A method for managing a plurality of energy storage devices having a communication module, comprising the steps of: classifying the plurality of energy storage devices into at least one or more groups; determining whether or not there is a storage device that requires replacement based on information regarding the device status of the plurality of energy storage devices; if a storage device that requires replacement is present, selecting an alternative storage device that belongs to the group to which the storage device that requires replacement belongs and is not in a state requiring replacement; and displaying information encouraging replacement of the storage device that requires replacement with the alternative storage device. Configuration 8: A storage device management program for implementing the storage device management method according to configuration 7 on a computer. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 1 Management system, 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F, 10G, 10H Power storage device, 11 Battery module, 12 Communication module, 13 Control unit, 14 Case, 15 Handle, 16 Connection unit, 16A Terminal, 17 Remaining power display button, 18 Indicator, 20, 23, 24, 25 Receiving device, 21 Processor, 22 Memory, 30 Management server (management device), 31 Processor, 32 Memory, 40 Terminal device, 41 Processor, 42 Memory, 43 Display unit, 50 Charger / discharger, 51 Control unit, 52 Charge / discharge circuit, 53 Cord, 54 Outlet, 100 First group, 200 Second group

Claims

1. A plurality of power storage devices each having a communication module; A management device that manages information regarding the device states of the plurality of power storage devices; A display unit capable of displaying information about the management device; Equipped with The plurality of power storage devices are classified into at least one group, The management device includes: determining whether or not there is a replacement-required electric storage device that is in a state requiring replacement based on information about the device states of the plurality of electric storage devices; If the electric storage device requiring replacement is present, a replacement electric storage device that belongs to the same group as the electric storage device requiring replacement and is not in a state requiring replacement is selected; displaying information on the display unit to prompt the user to replace the replacement-required electric storage device with the alternative electric storage device; A management system for energy storage devices.

2. a receiving device capable of receiving wireless signals from the plurality of power storage devices, The management device includes: calculating a relative positional relationship between the power storage device and the management device based on a signal strength of the wireless signal received by the receiving device; The power storage device management system according to claim 1 , wherein the alternative power storage device is selected based on a calculated relative positional relationship between the power storage device and the management device.

3. The management device includes: Manage information regarding a deterioration state of the plurality of power storage devices; The power storage device management system according to claim 1 , wherein the alternative power storage device is selected based on information regarding the degradation state.

4. The power storage device management system according to claim 1 , wherein the state in which the replacement is necessary is at least one of a state in which a charging rate of the power storage device has fallen below a predetermined value and a state in which an abnormality has occurred in the power storage device.

5. The energy storage device management system according to claim 1 , wherein the management device calculates a predicted discharge capacity for each group based on past discharge capacities of the plurality of energy storage devices.

6. 6. The energy storage device management system of claim 5, wherein the management device, when a current charge capacity for each group is smaller than the predicted discharge capacity, causes the display unit to display information encouraging charging of the energy storage device, or causes the display unit to display information encouraging refraining from use of the energy storage device.

7. A method for managing a plurality of power storage devices each having a communication module, comprising the steps of: classifying the plurality of power storage devices into at least one group; determining whether or not there is a replacement-required electric storage device that is in a state requiring replacement, based on information regarding the device states of the plurality of electric storage devices; If the electric storage device requiring replacement is present, selecting an alternative electric storage device that belongs to the same group as the electric storage device requiring replacement and is not in a state requiring replacement; displaying information that prompts the replacement of the electric storage device that needs to be replaced with the alternative electric storage device; A method for managing an electricity storage device comprising:

8. A storage device management program for implementing the storage device management method according to claim 7 on a computer.

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