Power storage device, power device, and power system

Abstract

To enable an operation in a power system in which a plurality of power storage devices are connected in parallel at a maximum output even if there is variation in a remaining amount of a plurality of power storage devices.SOLUTION: A power storage device 20 includes: a power storage part 210 having a first electrode and a second electrode; a first power terminal 202 and a second power terminal 204 that are electrically connected to the first electrode; a third power terminal 206 that is electrically connected to the second electrode; and a switching part 230 that switches an electrical connection relationship between the first electrode and the first power terminal. One end part of the switching part is electrically connected to the first power terminal, and the other end part is electrically connected to the first electrode and the second power terminal. The switching part electrically connects the first electrode and the first power terminal when an inter-terminal voltage of the switching part satisfies a predetermined condition, and electrically disconnects the first electrode and the first power terminal when the inter-terminal voltage of the switching part does not satisfy the predetermined condition.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a power storage device, a power device, and a power system. [Background technology]

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

[0003] In a power system in which multiple power storage devices can be connected in parallel, if the remaining power levels of the multiple power storage devices vary, the number of power storage devices that can be connected to the power system will fluctuate, and as a result, the power system may not be able to operate at maximum output. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] In a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a power storage device. The power storage device includes, for example, a power storage unit having a first electrode and a second electrode. The power storage device includes, for example, a first power terminal and a second power terminal electrically connected to the first electrode. The power storage device includes, for example, a third power terminal electrically connected to the second electrode. The power storage device includes, for example, a first switching unit that switches the electrical connection relationship between the first electrode and the first power terminal. In the power storage device, one end of the first switching unit is, for example, electrically connected to the first power terminal. In the power storage device, the other end of the first switching unit is, for example, electrically connected to the first electrode and the second power terminal.

[0005] In any of the above energy storage devices, the first switching unit may (i) electrically connect the first electrode and the first power terminal when a voltage across the first switching unit satisfies a predetermined condition. In any of the above energy storage devices, the first switching unit may (ii) electrically disconnect the first electrode and the first power terminal when a voltage across the first switching unit does not satisfy the predetermined condition.

[0006] Any of the above-described power storage devices may include a first control unit that controls the operation of the first switching unit. In the above-described power storage device, the first control unit may (i) control the first switching unit so that, when a voltage across the terminals of the first switching unit satisfies a predetermined condition, the first switching unit electrically connects the first electrode and the first power terminal. In any of the above-described power storage devices, the first control unit may (ii) control the first switching unit so that, when a voltage across the terminals of the first switching unit does not satisfy the predetermined condition, the first switching unit electrically disconnects the first electrode and the first power terminal.

[0007] Any of the above-described power storage devices may be configured to be detachable from other electric devices. In any of the above-described power storage devices, the first power terminal, the second power terminal, and the third power terminal may be configured to be detachable from terminals of other electric devices.

[0008] In a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a power device. The power device is configured to be able to input and output power, for example. The power device includes, for example, a first input / output terminal and a second input / output terminal for inputting and outputting power. The power device includes, for example, a holding unit that detachably holds a power storage device. In the power device, the holding unit has, for example, a first connection terminal configured to be electrically connectable with the first power terminal when the holding unit holds the power storage device. In the power device, the holding unit has, for example, a second connection terminal configured to be electrically connectable with the second power terminal when the holding unit holds the power storage device. In the power device, the holding unit has, for example, a third connection terminal configured to be electrically connectable with the third power terminal when the holding unit holds the power storage device. In the power device, the holding unit has, for example, a power adjustment unit configured to be able to supply power to the power storage unit via the second connection terminal and / or to be able to discharge power from the power storage unit via the second connection terminal. In the power device, the first connection terminal is electrically connected to, for example, the first input / output terminal. In the above power device, the third connection terminal is electrically connected to, for example, the second input / output terminal.

[0009] Any of the above electric power devices may include a second switching unit arranged between a first power line electrically connecting the first connection terminal and the first input / output terminal and the second connection terminal, and switching the electrical connection relationship between the first power line and the second connection terminal. In any of the above electric power devices, one end of the second switching unit may be electrically connected to the first power line. In any of the above electric power devices, the other end of the second switching unit may be electrically connected to the second connection terminal. In any of the above electric power devices, the power adjustment unit may be configured to be able to supply power to the power storage unit via a first connection wiring connecting the other end of the second switching unit and the second connection terminal. In any of the above electric power devices, the power adjustment unit may be configured to be able to release power from the power storage unit via the first connection wiring.

[0010] Any of the above power devices may include a plurality of holding units. Any of the above power devices may include a second control unit that controls the operation of a second switching unit arranged in each of the plurality of holding units. In any of the above power devices, the second control unit may (a) when the power device is electrically connected to a load, control the second switching unit such that the second switching unit arranged in the holding unit that holds the highest voltage power storage device among the plurality of holding units electrically connects the first power line and the second connection terminal. In any of the above power devices, the second control unit may (b) when the power device is electrically connected to a charging device, control the second switching unit such that the second switching unit arranged in the holding unit that holds the lowest voltage power storage device among the plurality of holding units electrically connects the first power line and the second connection terminal.

[0011] Any of the above power devices may include a third control unit that controls the operation of the power adjustment unit. In any of the above power devices, the third control unit may control the power adjustment unit so that, when (a) the power device is electrically connected to the load, (i) the first switching unit of the power storage device held by the holding unit electrically disconnects the first electrode and the first power terminal, and (ii) the absolute value of the potential difference between the first input / output terminal and the second connection terminal is greater than a predetermined value, the power adjustment unit supplies power to the power storage unit. In any of the above power devices, the third control unit may control the power adjustment unit so that, when (b) the power device is electrically connected to a charging device, (i) the first switching unit of the power storage device held by the holding unit electrically disconnects the first electrode and the first power terminal, and (ii) the absolute value of the potential difference between the first input / output terminal and the second connection terminal is greater than a predetermined value, the power adjustment unit releases power from the power storage unit.

[0012] Any of the above power devices may include a plurality of holding units. Any of the above power devices may include a third control unit that controls the operation of a power adjustment unit arranged in each of the plurality of holding units. In any of the above power devices, the third control unit may (a) when the power device is electrically connected to a load, control the power adjustment unit such that a power adjustment unit arranged in a holding unit, among the plurality of holding units, other than the holding unit that holds the power storage device with the highest voltage, supplies power to the power storage unit. In any of the above power devices, the third control unit may (b) when the power device is electrically connected to a charging device, control the power adjustment unit such that a power adjustment unit arranged in a holding unit, among the plurality of holding units, other than the holding unit that holds the power storage device with the lowest voltage, releases power from the power storage unit.

[0013] In any of the above power devices, the power adjustment unit may adjust the magnitude of a current supplied to or discharged from the power storage unit according to a potential difference between the first input / output terminal and the second connection terminal. In any of the above power devices, the rated output current of the power adjustment unit may be smaller than a rated input current of the power storage device. In any of the above power devices, the power adjustment unit may include a DC / DC converter. In any of the above power devices, the power adjustment unit may include a bidirectional DC / DC converter.

[0014] In a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a power system. The power system is configured, for example, to be able to input and output power. The power system includes, for example, a first input / output terminal for inputting and outputting power. The power system includes, for example, a power storage unit having a first electrode. The power system includes, for example, a first switching unit that switches the electrical connection relationship between the first electrode and the first input / output terminal. The power system includes, for example, a power adjustment unit that is configured, for example, to be able to supply power to the power storage unit without via the first switching unit and / or to be able to discharge power from the power storage unit without via the first switching unit. In the power system, one end of the first switching unit is, for example, electrically connected to the first input / output terminal. In the power system, the other end of the first switching unit is, for example, electrically connected to the first electrode.

[0015] In the above power system, for example, (i) the first switching unit electrically connects the first electrode and the first input / output terminal when the terminal voltage of the first switching unit satisfies a predetermined condition. In the above power system, for example, (ii) the first switching unit electrically disconnects the first electrode and the first input / output terminal when the terminal voltage of the first switching unit does not satisfy the predetermined condition. In the above power system, for example, (a) when the power system is electrically connected to a load, (i) the first switching unit electrically disconnects the first electrode and the first input / output terminal, and (ii) the absolute value of the potential difference between the first electrode and the first input / output terminal is greater than a predetermined value, the power adjustment unit supplies power to the power storage unit. In the above power system, the power adjustment unit releases power from the storage unit, for example, when (b) the power system is electrically connected to a charging device, (i) the first switching unit electrically disconnects the first electrode and the first input / output terminal, and (ii) the absolute value of the potential difference between the first electrode and the first input / output terminal is greater than a predetermined value.

[0016] Any of the above power systems may include a second switching unit disposed between the first input / output terminal and the first electrode and configured to switch the electrical connection between the first input / output terminal and the first electrode. One end of the second switching unit is electrically connected, for example, to the first input / output terminal and one end of the first switching unit. The other end of the second switching unit is electrically connected, for example, to the first electrode and the other end of the first switching unit. In any of the above power systems, the power adjustment unit may be configured to supply power to the power storage unit via a second connection wiring that connects the other end of the second switching unit and the first electrode. In any of the above power systems, the power adjustment unit may be configured to discharge power from the power storage unit via the second connection wiring.

[0017] Any of the above power systems may include one or more other power storage units. Any of the above power systems may include a second control unit that controls the operation of the second switching unit. In any of the above power systems, the second control unit may (a) control the second switching unit so that, when the power storage unit has a voltage higher than all of the one or more other power storage units, the second switching unit electrically connects the first input / output terminal and the first electrode when the power system is electrically connected to a load. In any of the above power systems, the second control unit may (b) control the second switching unit so that, when the power storage unit has a voltage lower than all of the one or more other power storage units, the second switching unit electrically connects the first input / output terminal and the first electrode when the power system is electrically connected to a charging device.

[0018] The above summary of the invention does not list all of the necessary features of the present invention, and subcombinations of these features may also constitute inventions. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] 1 shows an example of a system configuration of a moving body 100. [Figure 2] 2 shows an example of a system configuration of a power storage device 20. [Figure 3] 2 shows another example of the system configuration of the power storage device 20. [Figure 4] 2 shows an example of a system configuration of a module control unit 240. [Figure 5] 2 shows an example of a circuit configuration of the power storage device 20. [Figure 6] 1 shows an example of the internal configuration of the power supply unit 120. [Figure 7] An example of a specific example for explaining the operation of the power supply unit 120 will be explained briefly below. [Figure 8] 10A and 10B illustrate an example of the operation of the power supply unit 120. [Figure 9] 10A and 10B schematically illustrate another example of the operation of the power supply unit 120. [Figure 10]10A and 10B show another example of the internal configuration of the power supply unit 120. [Figure 11] 1 shows an example of a system configuration of a charging device 1100. [Figure 12] 3 shows an example of a system configuration of a computer 3000. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] The present invention will be described below through embodiments of the invention, but the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention according to the claims. Not all of the combinations of features described in the embodiments are necessarily essential to the solution of the invention. Furthermore, the embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings, and in the description of the drawings, the same reference numerals may be used to designate the same or similar parts, and redundant description may be omitted.

[0021] (Overview of the mobile object 100) 1 schematically illustrates an example of the system configuration of a moving body 100. In this embodiment, the moving body 100 includes a power supply unit 120. In this embodiment, the power supply unit 120 includes a holding unit 122 that holds the power storage device 20. The power supply unit 120 may include multiple holding units 122. In this embodiment, the moving body 100 further includes at least one of a control power supply 132, a power receiving unit 134, a motor 140, a thrust generating unit 142, a sensor group 162, a user interface 164, and a system control unit 180, for example.

[0022] In this embodiment, the power storage device 20 stores electric power. The power storage device 20 is configured to be detachable from the power supply unit 120, for example.

[0023] In this embodiment, the mobile object 100 moves, for example, carrying a person or an object. The mobile object 100 moves using power supplied from the power supply unit 120. Examples of the mobile object 100 include a vehicle, an aircraft, a ship, etc. Examples of vehicles include an automobile, a motorcycle, a bicycle, a stand-up vehicle with a power unit, a construction machine, and a train. Examples of automobiles include an electric vehicle, a fuel cell vehicle (FCV), a hybrid vehicle, a small commuter vehicle, and an electric cart. Examples of motorcycles include a motorcycle and a three-wheeled motorcycle. The bicycle may be an electric motor bicycle. The electric motor bicycle may be an electric bicycle or an electrically assisted bicycle. Examples of construction machines include a forklift, a cultivator, a lawnmower, etc. Examples of aircraft include an airplane, an airship or a balloon, a helicopter, a drone, etc. Examples of ships include a ship, a hovercraft, a jet ski, a submarine, a submersible, an underwater scooter, etc.

[0024] In this embodiment, the power supply unit 120 is configured to be able to input and output power. In one embodiment, the power supply unit 120 releases power stored in the power storage device 20, for example. This causes the power storage device 20 to discharge. Power is also supplied to each unit of the moving object 100. In another embodiment, the power supply unit 120 supplies power to the power storage device 20, for example. This causes the power storage device 20 to be charged. Details of the power supply unit 120 will be described later.

[0025] In this embodiment, the holding unit 122 holds the power storage device 20. The holding unit 122 may hold the power storage device 20 in a detachable manner. This allows the user of the mobile object 100 to attach the power storage device 20 to the holding unit 122 without using, for example, tools or machines. Similarly, the user of the mobile object 100 can detach the power storage device 20 from the holding unit 122 without using, for example, tools or machines.

[0026] In this embodiment, the control power supply 132 generates control power by converting the power supplied from the power supply unit 120. The control power supply 132 may supply control power to at least one of the sensor group 162, the user interface 164, and the system control unit 180.

[0027] In this embodiment, the power receiving unit 134 receives a supply of power from, for example, the charger 30. The power receiving unit 134 outputs the power supplied from the charger 30 to the power supply unit 120. This allows the power supply unit 120 to charge the power storage device 20.

[0028] In this embodiment, the motor 140 uses, for example, power supplied from the power supply unit 120 to output a driving force for moving the moving body 100. The motor 140 may output the driving force to the thrust generating unit 142. The motor 140 operates based on instructions from, for example, the system control unit 180.

[0029] In this embodiment, the thrust generating unit 142 generates, for example, a thrust for the moving body 100. The thrust generating unit 142 may generate the thrust for the moving body 100 by using the driving force output by the motor 140. Examples of the thrust generating unit 142 include a wheel and a propeller.

[0030] In this embodiment, the sensor group 162 measures various physical quantities that indicate the state of the moving body 100. The sensor group 162 may measure various physical quantities that indicate the state of the power supply unit 120. The sensor group 162 may measure various physical quantities that indicate the state of the power storage device 20. The sensor group 162 may measure various physical quantities that indicate the state of the motor 140. The sensor group 162 may output information that indicates the measurement results to the system control unit 180.

[0031] In this embodiment, the user interface 164, for example, accepts input of instructions or operations from the user of the mobile object 100. The user interface 164 may acquire information indicating the type and amount of operation that the user instructs the mobile object 100 to perform. The user interface 164, for example, presents various types of information to the user of the mobile object 100. The user interface 164 may output various types of information related to the status of the mobile object 100.

[0032] The user interface 164 includes, for example, various input devices and / or various output devices. Examples of input devices include a steering wheel, accelerator, brake, shift lever, and direction indicator. Other examples of input devices include a keyboard, pointing device, touch panel, camera, microphone, voice input system, and gesture input system. Examples of output devices include a display device and a speaker. Examples of display devices include a display and a projector.

[0033] In this embodiment, the system control unit 180 controls, for example, the operation of the moving object 100. The system control unit 180 monitors, for example, the state of the moving object 100. Details of the system control unit 180 will be described later.

[0034] The power storage device 20 may be an example of a power storage device. The power storage device may be an example of a power output device that outputs electric power. The power output device may include a power supply unit configured to be able to supply electric power to an external device. The power storage unit of the power storage device may be an example of a power supply unit. Another example of a power supply unit is a fuel cell. The power supply unit may have a first electrode and / or a second electrode.

[0035] The mobile object 100 may be an example of a power device, a power system, or other electrical equipment. The power supply unit 120 may be an example of a power device, a power system, or other electrical equipment. The system control unit 180 may be an example of a second control unit or a third control unit.

[0036] [Specific Configuration of Each Part of the Moving Object 100] Each unit of the mobile object 100 may be implemented by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. At least a portion of each unit of the mobile object 100 may be implemented by a single server or multiple servers. At least a portion of each unit of the mobile object 100 may be implemented on a virtual machine or a cloud system. At least a portion of each unit of the mobile object 100 may be implemented by a personal computer or a mobile terminal. Examples of mobile terminals include mobile phones, smartphones, PDAs, tablets, notebook or laptop computers, and wearable computers. Each unit of the mobile object 100 may store information using a distributed ledger technology such as blockchain or a distributed network.

[0037] When at least some of the components constituting the mobile object 100 are implemented by software, the components implemented by the software may be implemented by running a program that defines the operations of the components in an information processing device with a general configuration. The information processing device may include, for example, (i) a data processing device having a processor such as a CPU or GPU, a ROM, a RAM, a communication interface, etc.; (ii) input devices such as a keyboard, a touch panel, a camera, a microphone, various sensors, a GPS receiver, etc.; (iii) output devices such as a display device, a speaker, a vibration device, etc.; and (iv) a storage device (including an external storage device) such as a memory or a HDD. In the information processing device, the data processing device or the storage device may store a program. The program may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium. When the program is executed by a processor, the information processing device performs the operations defined by the program.

[0038] The program may be stored on a computer-readable medium such as a CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, memory, or hard disk, or on a storage device connected to a network. The program may be installed on a computer constituting at least a part of the mobile body 100 from the computer-readable medium or a storage device connected to a network. Execution of the program may cause the computer to function as at least a part of each part of the mobile body 100. A program that causes a computer to function as at least a part of each part of the mobile body 100 may include modules that define the operation of each part of the mobile body 100. These programs or modules interact with data processing devices, input devices, output devices, storage devices, etc. to cause the computer to function as each part of the mobile body 100 or to execute an information processing method for each part of the mobile body 100. When the program is loaded into a computer, the information processing described in the program functions as specific means formed by the cooperation of software associated with the program and various hardware resources of the mobile body 100. The specific means then perform calculations or processing of information according to the intended use of the computer in this embodiment, thereby constructing the mobile body 100 according to the intended use.

[0039] An example of the information processing method is a method for controlling the operation of an element arranged in a power storage device. Each step in the method may be executed by a computer. In the method, the power storage device includes, for example, a power storage unit having a first electrode and a second electrode, a first power terminal and a second power terminal electrically connected to the first electrode, a third power terminal electrically connected to the second electrode, and a first switching unit that switches the electrical connection relationship between the first electrode and the first power terminal. In the method, one end of the first switching unit is, for example, electrically connected to the first power terminal. The other end of the first switching unit is, for example, electrically connected to the first electrode and the second power terminal.

[0040] The method may be a method of controlling the operation of a first switching unit. The method may, for example, include (i) controlling the first switching unit so that, when a voltage between terminals of the first switching unit satisfies a predetermined condition, the first switching unit electrically connects the first electrode and the first power terminal. The method may, for example, include (ii) controlling the first switching unit so that, when a voltage between terminals of the first switching unit does not satisfy the predetermined condition, the first switching unit electrically disconnects the first electrode and the first power terminal.

[0041] An example of the information processing method is a method for controlling the operation of a power device configured to be able to input and output power. Each step in the method may be executed by a computer. In the method, the power device includes, for example, a first input / output terminal and a second input / output terminal for inputting and outputting power, and a holding unit that detachably holds the above-mentioned power storage device. In the method, the holding unit includes, for example, a first connection terminal configured to be electrically connectable with the first power terminal when the holding unit holds the power storage device, a second connection terminal configured to be electrically connectable with the second power terminal when the holding unit holds the power storage device, a third connection terminal configured to be electrically connectable with the third power terminal when the holding unit holds the power storage device, and a power adjustment unit configured to be able to supply power to the power storage unit via the second connection terminal and / or be able to discharge power from the power storage unit via the second connection terminal. In the method, the first connection terminal is, for example, electrically connected to the first input / output terminal. The third connection terminal is, for example, electrically connected to the second input / output terminal.

[0042] The above method may be a method for controlling the operation of a second switching unit arranged between a first power line electrically connecting a first connection terminal and a first input / output terminal and a second connection terminal, and switching the electrical connection relationship between the first power line and the second connection terminal.The above method may, for example, include a step of (a) controlling the second switching unit when the power device is electrically connected to a load, so that the second switching unit arranged in a holding unit that holds an electricity storage device with the highest voltage among the multiple holding units electrically connects the first power line and the second connection terminal.The above method may, for example, include a step of (b) controlling the second switching unit when the power device is electrically connected to a charging device, so that the second switching unit arranged in a holding unit that holds an electricity storage device with the lowest voltage among the multiple holding units electrically connects the first power line and the second connection terminal.

[0043] The method may be a method for controlling the operation of a power adjustment unit. The method may, for example, include a step of controlling the power adjustment unit so that, when (a) the power device is electrically connected to a load, the power adjustment unit supplies power to the power storage unit when (i) a first switching unit of the power storage device held by the holding unit electrically disconnects the first electrode and the first power terminal, and (ii) the absolute value of the potential difference between the first input / output terminal and the second connection terminal is greater than a predetermined value. The method may, for example, include a step of controlling the power adjustment unit so that, when (b) the power device is electrically connected to a charging device, the power adjustment unit releases power from the power storage unit when (i) a first switching unit of the power storage device held by the holding unit electrically disconnects the first electrode and the first power terminal, and (ii) the absolute value of the potential difference between the first input / output terminal and the second connection terminal is greater than a predetermined value.

[0044] (An example of another embodiment) In the present embodiment, the details of the power supply unit 120 have been described using the example of the power supply unit 120 being mounted on the moving body 100. However, the power supply unit 120 is not limited to this embodiment. In other embodiments, the power supply unit 120 is mounted on, for example, a charging device.

[0045] 2 schematically illustrates an example of a system configuration of the power storage device 20. In this embodiment, the power storage device 20 includes a first power terminal 202, a second power terminal 204, and a third power terminal 206. The power storage device 20 also includes a power storage unit 210 having a positive terminal 212 and a negative terminal 214, and a switching unit 230. In this embodiment, the power storage unit 210 includes a power storage cell 222 and a power storage cell 224. In this embodiment, the power storage device 20 further includes at least one of a module control unit 240, a protection unit 250, and a balance correction unit 260.

[0046] The impedance of the power storage unit 210 may be 1 Ω or less, or may be 100 mΩ or less. The impedance of the power storage unit 210 may be 10 mΩ or less, 1 mΩ or less, 0.8 mΩ or less, or 0.5 mΩ or less. The impedance of the power storage unit 210 may be 0.1 mΩ or more. The impedance of the power storage unit 210 may be 0.1 mΩ or more and 1 Ω or less, 0.1 mΩ or more and 100 mΩ or less, 0.1 mΩ or more and 10 mΩ or less, or 0.1 mΩ or more and 1 mΩ or less.

[0047] In this embodiment, the first power terminal 202 is electrically connected to the positive terminal 212. The first power terminal 202 is electrically connected to the positive terminal 212 via the switching unit 230. In this embodiment, the second power terminal 204 is electrically connected to the positive terminal 212. In this embodiment, the third power terminal 206 is electrically connected to the negative terminal 214.

[0048] Each of the first power terminal 202, the second power terminal 204, and the third power terminal 206 may be configured to be detachable from a terminal of another electrical device. The other electrical device may be any device that operates using electric power, and the details thereof are not particularly limited. Examples of the other electrical device include the mobile object 100 and the power supply unit 120.

[0049] In this embodiment, the switching unit 230 is disposed between the positive electrode terminal 212 of the power storage unit 210 and the first power terminal 202. One end of the switching unit 230 is electrically connected to the first power terminal 202. The other end of the switching unit 230 is electrically connected to the positive electrode terminal 212. The other end of the switching unit 230 is electrically connected to the second power terminal 204.

[0050] The switching unit 230 switches, for example, the electrical connection relationship between the positive terminal 212 and the first power terminal 202. The switching unit 230 may switch the electrical connection relationship between the positive terminal 212 and the first power terminal 202 based on an instruction from the module control unit 240.

[0051] For example, (i) when the terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 (in this embodiment, this is the voltage or potential difference between the first power terminal 202 and the positive terminal 212) satisfies a predetermined condition, the switching unit 230 electrically connects the positive terminal 212 and the first power terminal 202. On the other hand, (ii) when the terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 does not satisfy the predetermined condition, the switching unit 230 electrically disconnects the positive terminal 212 and the first power terminal 202. The predetermined condition may be a condition that the absolute value of the terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 is within a predetermined range. The above conditions will be described in detail later.

[0052] This allows, for example, when one of a plurality of power storage devices 20 connected in parallel is replaced, to omit processing for matching with high precision the voltage of the power storage device 20 newly added to the mobile body 100 with the voltages of the other power storage devices 20 attached to the mobile body 100. As a result, for example, even when the impedance of the power storage unit 210 is small, the user of the mobile body 100 can easily and quickly replace the power storage device 20.

[0053] In this embodiment, the power storage cell 222 and the power storage cell 224 are connected in series. The power storage cell 222 and the power storage cell 224 may be secondary batteries or capacitors. At least one of the power storage cell 222 and the power storage cell 224 may further include a plurality of power storage cells electrically connected in series, in parallel, or in a matrix form therein.

[0054] Any type of battery may be used as the storage cell 222 and the storage cell 224. In one embodiment, each of the storage cell 222 and the storage cell 224 is a secondary battery that supports trickle charging. In another embodiment, each of the storage cell 222 and the storage cell 224 is a secondary battery that does not support trickle charging. At least one of the storage cell 222 and the storage cell 224 may be a lithium-ion battery.

[0055] Generally, if the battery system of a secondary battery is expressed by a reaction formula that, in principle, does not cause irreversible changes in the battery system even if the battery system is sustained in an overcharged state, the secondary battery is capable of trickle charging. On the other hand, if the battery system of a secondary battery is expressed by a reaction formula that, in principle, causes irreversible changes in the battery system if the battery system is sustained in an overcharged state, the secondary battery is incapable of trickle charging. Examples of secondary batteries that can be used for trickle charging include lead batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries (including NiMH batteries), and nickel-cadmium batteries. Examples of secondary batteries that cannot be used for trickle charging include lithium batteries and lithium-ion batteries (including lithium-ion polymer batteries and all-solid-state batteries).

[0056] In this embodiment, the positive electrode terminal 212 of the power storage unit 210 is electrically connected to the power supply unit 120 via the first power terminal 202 and the switching unit 230 of the power storage device 20 and / or via the second power terminal 204. On the other hand, the negative electrode terminal 214 of the power storage unit 210 is electrically connected to the power supply unit 120 via the third power terminal 206 of the power storage device 20.

[0057] For example, the power storage device 20 is attached to the power supply unit 120 in a state in which the switching unit 230 electrically disconnects the power storage unit 210 and the first power terminal 202. This can prevent damage or deterioration of the power storage device 20.

[0058] The switching unit 230 may be realized by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. The switching unit 230 may be realized by an analog circuit, a digital circuit, or a combination of an analog circuit and a digital circuit.

[0059] The switching unit 230 may include one or more elements. The switching unit 230 may include one or more switching elements. Each of the one or more switching elements may be disposed between the first power terminal 202 and the positive terminal 212 and / or between the third power terminal 206 and the negative terminal 214.

[0060] Examples of switching elements include relays, thyristors, and transistors. The thyristors may be bidirectional thyristors (sometimes called triacs). The transistors may be semiconductor transistors. The semiconductor transistors may be bipolar transistors or field-effect transistors. The field-effect transistors may be MOSFETs.

[0061] The switching unit 230 may include one or more DC-DC converters instead of or in addition to the switching elements. The DC-DC converters may be isolated DC-DC converters. The DC-DC converters may be unidirectional DC-DC converters or bidirectional DC-DC converters. The switching unit 230 may include a transformer instead of or in addition to the switching elements.

[0062] In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 manages the state of the power storage device 20. The module control unit 240 also controls the operation of the power storage device 20.

[0063] For example, the module control unit 240 controls the current flowing between the power storage unit 210 of the power storage device 20 and the power supply unit 120. The module control unit 240 may control the operation of the switching unit 230 to control the current flowing between the power storage unit 210 of the power storage device 20 and the power supply unit 120.

[0064] In this embodiment, when the terminal voltage of the switching unit 230 (as described above, in this embodiment, this is the voltage between the first power terminal 202 and the positive terminal 212) satisfies a predetermined condition, the module control unit 240 controls the switching unit 230 so that the switching unit 230 electrically connects the power storage unit 210 and the power supply unit 120. The switching unit 230 electrically connects the power storage unit 210 and the power supply unit 120, for example, by electrically connecting the first power terminal 202 and the positive terminal 212.

[0065] On the other hand, if the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 does not satisfy the predetermined condition, the module control unit 240 may control the switching unit 230 so that the switching unit 230 electrically disconnects the power storage unit 210 and the power supply unit 120. The switching unit 230 electrically disconnects the power storage unit 210 and the power supply unit 120, for example, by electrically disconnecting the first power terminal 202 and the positive terminal 212.

[0066] The predetermined condition may be a condition that the absolute value of the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within a predetermined range. The predetermined range may be 3 V or less, 1 V or less, 0.1 V or less, 10 mV or less, or 1 mV or less. The predetermined range may also be 0.5 mV or more, or 1 mV or more. The predetermined range may be 0.5 mV or more and 3 V or less. The predetermined range may be 1 mV or more and 3 V or less, 1 mV or more and 1 V or less, 1 mV or more and 0.1 V or less, 1 mV or more and 10 mV or less, 10 mV or more and 1 V or less, 10 mV or more and 0.1 V or less, or 0.1 V or more and 1 V or less.

[0067] The predetermined range may be set based on the impedance of the power storage unit 210. The predetermined range may be set based on the rated current or allowable current of the power storage unit 210. The predetermined range may be set based on the impedance of the power storage unit 210 and the rated current or allowable current of the power storage unit 210. The predetermined range may be set based on the rated current or allowable current of an element having the smallest rated current or allowable current among the elements constituting the power storage device 20. The predetermined range may be set based on the impedance of the power storage device 20 and the rated current or allowable current of an element having the smallest rated current or allowable current among the elements constituting the power storage device 20.

[0068] As a result, when the power storage device 20 attached to the power supply unit 120 is replaced, the power storage unit 210 of the newly attached power storage device 20 is electrically disconnected from the power supply unit 120 until the voltage difference between the newly attached power storage device 20 and the other power storage devices 20 already attached to the power supply unit 120 falls within a predetermined range. Thereafter, when the voltage difference falls within the predetermined range, the power storage unit 210 of the newly attached power storage device 20 is electrically connected to the power supply unit 120. According to this embodiment, the power storage device 20 and the power supply unit 120 are automatically electrically connected, so that the user of the mobile object 100 can easily and quickly replace the power storage device 20.

[0069] In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 receives, for example, from the protection unit 250, a signal indicating that the voltage between the terminals of the power storage cell 222 or the power storage cell 224 is not within a predetermined range. When the module control unit 240 receives the signal, the module control unit 240 may control the switching unit 230 so that the switching unit 230 electrically disconnects the power storage unit 210 from the power supply unit 120. This can prevent deterioration or damage to the power storage unit 210 due to overcharging or overdischarging.

[0070] In this embodiment, the module control unit 240, for example, accepts a user operation and receives an instruction from the user to turn on or off the switching unit 230. When the module control unit 240 receives the user's instruction, the module control unit 240 may control the switching unit 230 in accordance with the instruction.

[0071] In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 may acquire information about the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210. The module control unit 240 may output the information about the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 to an external device. This allows the external device to use the information about the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210. Examples of the external device include the charger 30, the motor 140, and the system control unit 180. The external device may also be an output device that outputs information to a user.

[0072] The module control unit 240 may be realized by hardware or software. It may also be realized by a combination of hardware and software. In one embodiment, the module control unit 240 may be realized by an analog circuit, a digital circuit, or a combination of an analog circuit and a digital circuit. In another embodiment, the module control unit 240 may be realized by executing a program for controlling the module control unit 240 in a general information processing device including a data processing device having a CPU, ROM, RAM, a communication interface, etc.

[0073] A program that is installed on a computer and causes the computer to function as part of the module control unit 240 according to this embodiment may include modules that define the operation of each unit of the module control unit 240. These programs or modules act on a CPU or the like to cause the computer to function as each unit of the module control unit 240.

[0074] When the information processing described in these programs is loaded into a computer, it functions as specific means in which the software and the various hardware resources described above work together. These specific means realize the calculation or processing of information according to the intended use of the computer in this embodiment, thereby making it possible to construct a specific device according to the intended use. The programs may be stored on a computer-readable medium or on a storage device connected to a network. The computer-readable medium may be a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0075] The protection unit 250 protects the power storage unit 210. In this embodiment, the protection unit 250 protects the power storage unit 210 from overcharging and over-discharging. When the protection unit 250 detects that the terminal voltage of the power storage cell 222 or the power storage cell 224 is not within a predetermined range, the protection unit 250 transmits a signal indicating that the terminal voltage of the power storage cell 222 or the power storage cell 224 is not within the predetermined range to the module control unit 240. The protection unit 250 may transmit information regarding the terminal voltage of the power storage unit 210 to the system control unit 180. The protection unit 250 may be realized by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. The protection unit 250 may be realized by an analog circuit, a digital circuit, or a combination of an analog circuit and a digital circuit.

[0076] The balance correction unit 260 equalizes the voltages of the multiple storage cells. The operating principle of the balance correction unit 260 is not particularly limited, and any balance correction device can be used. When the power storage unit 210 has three or more storage cells, the power storage device 20 may have multiple balance correction units 260. In one embodiment, when the power storage unit 210 has n (n is an integer equal to or greater than 2) storage cells, the power storage device 20 has n-1 balance correction units 260. For example, when the balance correction unit 260 is an active balance correction device or a converter balance correction device, the power storage module 20 has n-1 balance correction units 260. In another embodiment, when the power storage unit 210 has n (n is an integer equal to or greater than 2) storage cells, the power storage module 20 has n balance correction units 260. For example, when the balance correction unit 260 is a passive balance correction device, the power storage module 20 has n balance correction units 260.

[0077] The balance correction unit 260 may be implemented by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. The balance correction unit 260 may be implemented by an analog circuit, a digital circuit, or a combination of an analog circuit and a digital circuit. In one embodiment, the balance correction unit 260 is an active balance correction device. The active balance correction unit may be a balance correction unit that transfers charge between two storage cells via an inductor, as described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-067742, or a balance correction unit that transfers charge using a capacitor, as described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-210109. In another embodiment, the balance correction unit 260 may be a passive balance correction device. A passive balance correction device may, for example, use an external resistor to release excess charge.

[0078] The switching unit 230 may be an example of a first switching unit. The positive electrode terminal 212 may be an example of a first electrode or a second electrode. The negative electrode terminal 214 may be an example of a first electrode or a second electrode. The positive electrode terminal 212 may be an example of one of the first electrode and the second electrode, and the negative electrode terminal 214 may be an example of the other of the first electrode and the second electrode. The module control unit 240 may be an example of a first control unit.

[0079] (An example of another embodiment) In the present embodiment, the case where the power storage unit 210 has two power storage cells connected in series has been described. However, the power storage unit 210 is not limited to this embodiment. In other embodiments, the power storage unit 210 may have three or more power storage cells connected in series. Furthermore, the power storage unit 210 may have a plurality of power storage cells connected in parallel, or may have a plurality of cells connected in a matrix.

[0080] In the present embodiment, the details of the moving body 100 have been described using as an example a case where the switching unit 230 is arranged inside the power storage device 20. However, the moving body 100 is not limited to this embodiment. In other embodiments, the switching unit 230 may be arranged in the power supply unit 120. For example, the switching unit 230 is arranged in the holding unit 122 of the power supply unit 120.

[0081] In the present embodiment, the details of the power storage device 20 have been described by taking as an example a case in which the first power terminal 202 and the second power terminal 204 are electrically connected to the positive terminal 212 of the power storage unit 210, and the third power terminal 206 is electrically connected to the negative terminal 214 of the power storage unit 210. However, the power storage device 20 is not limited to this embodiment. In other embodiments, the first power terminal 202 and the second power terminal 204 are electrically connected to the negative terminal 214 of the power storage unit 210, and the third power terminal 206 is electrically connected to the positive terminal 212 of the power storage unit 210.

[0082] In the present embodiment, the details of the power storage device 20 have been described using as an example a case where the switching unit 230 is arranged on the side of the positive electrode terminal 212 of the power storage unit 210. However, the power storage device 20 is not limited to this embodiment. In other embodiments, the switching unit 230 is arranged on the side of the negative electrode terminal 214 of the power storage unit 210. In this case, the first power terminal 202 and the second power terminal 204 are arranged on the side of the negative electrode terminal 214 of the power storage unit 210, and the third power terminal 206 is arranged on the side of the positive electrode terminal 212 of the power storage unit 210.

[0083] In the present embodiment, the details of the power storage device 20 have been described using as an example a case where the module control unit 240 controls the operation of the switching unit 230 based on the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230. However, the power storage device 20 is not limited to this embodiment. In other embodiments, the module control unit 240 controls the operation of the switching unit 230 based on an instruction from the system control unit 180. The system control unit 180 may control the operation of the switching unit 230.

[0084] For example, the module control unit 240 may receive from the system control unit 180 a signal indicating that the terminal voltage of the power storage device 20 in which the module control unit 240 is incorporated is smaller than the terminal voltages of the other power storage devices 20 attached to the power supply unit 120. The signal may be a signal indicating that the terminal voltage of the power storage device 20 in which the module control unit 240 is incorporated is the smallest among the multiple power storage devices 20 attached to the power supply unit 120. The signal may be a signal indicating that the power storage device 20 in which the module control unit 240 is incorporated has a smaller terminal voltage than all of the other power storage devices 20 attached to the power supply unit 120.

[0085] When the module control unit 240 receives the above signal when the moving object 100 transitions to the charging state, the module control unit 240 may control the switching unit 230 so that the switching unit 230 electrically connects the power storage unit 210 and the power supply unit 120. When the module control unit 240 receives the above signal when the power supply unit 120 is electrically connected to a charging device, the module control unit 240 may control the switching unit 230 so that the switching unit 230 electrically connects the power storage unit 210 and the power supply unit 120. This allows the multiple power storage devices 20 connected in parallel inside the power supply unit 120 to be efficiently charged.

[0086] For example, the module control unit 240 may receive from the system control unit 180 a signal indicating that the terminal voltage of the power storage device 20 in which the module control unit 240 is incorporated is greater than the terminal voltages of the other power storage devices 20 attached to the power supply unit 120. The signal may be a signal indicating that the terminal voltage of the power storage device 20 in which the module control unit 240 is incorporated is the greatest among the multiple power storage devices 20 attached to the power supply unit 120. The signal may be a signal indicating that the power storage device 20 in which the module control unit 240 is incorporated has a greater terminal voltage than all of the other power storage devices 20 attached to the power supply unit 120.

[0087] When the module control unit 240 receives the above signal when the moving object 100 transitions to the discharging state, the module control unit 240 may control the switching unit 230 so that the switching unit 230 electrically connects the power storage unit 210 and the power supply unit 120. When the module control unit 240 receives the above signal when the power supply unit 120 is electrically connected to the load, the module control unit 240 may control the switching unit 230 so that the switching unit 230 electrically connects the power storage unit 210 and the power supply unit 120. This allows the multiple power storage devices 20 connected in parallel inside the power supply unit 120 to be efficiently discharged.

[0088] 3 schematically illustrates an example of the system configuration of the power storage device 20. In this embodiment, the power storage device 20 differs from the power storage device 20 described with reference to FIG. 2 in that each of the multiple power storage cells constituting the power storage unit 210 is configured as a secondary battery capable of trickle charging, and in that the power storage device 20 includes a trickle charge unit 320. In this embodiment, the components other than those different from the above may have similar features to the corresponding components of the power storage device 20 described with reference to FIG. 2.

[0089] In this embodiment, the trickle charging unit 320 includes a direction restriction unit 322 and a flow rate restriction unit 324. The trickle charging unit 320 is connected in parallel with the switching unit 230 between the first power terminal 202 and the power storage unit 210. The trickle charging unit 320 may have a resistance greater than that of the switching unit 230 during an ON operation. In this case, the resistance when a current flows between the first power terminal 202 and the power storage unit 210 via the trickle charging unit 320 may be greater than the resistance when a current flows through the switching unit 230. For example, the resistance when a current flows through the trickle charging unit 320 is greater than the resistance of the switching unit 230 when a current leaks through the switching unit 230 during an OFF operation.

[0090] In this embodiment, trickle charging unit 320 passes a current in a direction from first power terminal 202 toward power storage unit 210. On the other hand, trickle charging unit 320 prevents a current from passing in a direction from power storage unit 210 toward first power terminal 202. For example, trickle charging unit 320 does not pass a current in a direction from power storage unit 210 toward first power terminal 202.

[0091] In this embodiment, the flow rate limiting unit 324 limits the amount of current flowing through the trickle charge unit 320. The flow rate limiting unit 324 may have a resistance greater than that of the switching unit 230 during an ON operation. The flow rate limiting unit 324 may include at least one of a fixed resistor, a variable resistor, a constant current circuit, and a constant power circuit. The flow rate limiting unit 324 may include a PTC thermistor. When a current flows through the flow rate limiting unit 324 while trickle charging of the power storage unit 210 is being performed, the flow rate limiting unit 324 may generate heat. Even in this case, according to this embodiment, the flow rate limiting unit 324 includes a PTC thermistor. Therefore, when the temperature of the flow rate limiting unit 324 increases, the amount of current flowing through the flow rate limiting unit 324 decreases. As a result, the temperature of the flow rate limiting unit 324 can be maintained within a predetermined range while trickle charging of the power storage unit 210 is being performed.

[0092] In this embodiment, the direction restriction unit 322 is connected in series with the flow rate restriction unit 324. The direction restriction unit 322 allows current to pass in the direction from the first power terminal 202 toward the power storage unit 210. On the other hand, the direction restriction unit 322 does not allow current to pass in the direction from the power storage unit 210 toward the first power terminal 202. The direction restriction unit 322 may include a diode. The diode may be arranged such that the direction from the first power terminal 202 toward the power storage unit 210 is the forward direction.

[0093] 4 schematically illustrates an example of the system configuration of the module control unit 240. In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 includes a determination unit 410, a receiving unit 420, and a signal generation unit 430. The module control unit 240 may also include a module information acquisition unit 440, a module information storage unit 450, and a communication unit 460.

[0094] In this embodiment, the determination unit 410 determines whether the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within a predetermined range. The determination unit 410 transmits a signal indicating the determination result to the signal generating unit 430. The determination unit 410 may be any comparator or comparison circuit. The determination unit 410 may also be a window comparator.

[0095] In this embodiment, the receiving unit 420 receives at least one of a signal from the system control unit 180, a signal from the protection unit 250, and an instruction from a user. The receiving unit 420 transmits a signal corresponding to the received information to the signal generating unit 430.

[0096] (Control signal of the switching unit 230) In this embodiment, the signal generating unit 430 receives a signal from at least one of the determining unit 410 and the receiving unit 420. The signal generating unit 430 generates a signal for controlling the switching unit 230 (sometimes referred to as a control signal of the switching unit 230) based on the received information. This allows the signal generating unit 430 to determine to electrically disconnect the power storage device 20 and the power supply unit 120. Similarly, the signal generating unit 430 can determine to electrically connect the power storage device 20 and the power supply unit 120. The signal generating unit 430 may transmit the generated control signal to the switching unit 230.

[0097] In one embodiment, if the determination unit 410 determines that the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within a predetermined range, the signal generation unit 430 generates a signal for turning on the switching element of the switching unit 230. In another embodiment, if the determination unit 410 determines that the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is not within the predetermined range, the signal generation unit 430 generates a signal for turning off the switching element of the switching unit 230.

[0098] The signal generating unit 430 may generate or transmit the signal after a predetermined time has elapsed since the determining unit 410 determined whether the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within a predetermined range. This makes it possible to prevent malfunctions due to noise, etc. Also, it is possible to prevent the power storage unit 210 and the power supply unit 120 from being electrically connected to each other immediately after the power storage device 20 is attached to the power supply unit 120.

[0099] In this embodiment, the signal generating unit 430 generates a signal for controlling the switching element of the switching unit 230 based on the signal received by the receiving unit 420. In one embodiment, when the receiving unit 420 receives a signal for turning on the switching element of the switching unit 230 from the system control unit 180, the signal generating unit 430 generates a signal for turning on the switching element of the switching unit 230.

[0100] In another embodiment, when the receiving unit 420 receives a signal for turning off the switching element of the switching unit 230 from the protection unit 250, the signal generating unit 430 generates a signal for turning off the switching element of the switching unit 230. In yet another embodiment, when the receiving unit 420 receives an instruction from a user, the signal generating unit 430 generates a signal for operating the switching element of the switching unit 230 in accordance with the instruction from the user.

[0101] In this embodiment, the module information acquiring unit 440 acquires information relating to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210. The module information acquiring unit 440 may acquire information relating to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 by measuring the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210. The module information acquiring unit 440 may acquire information relating to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 that is input by a manufacturer, a seller, or the like at the time of shipping, inspection, or sale.

[0102] The module information acquisition unit 440 may store information relating to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 in the module information storage unit 450. The specific configuration of the module information acquisition unit 440 is not particularly limited, but the module information acquisition unit 440 may be a controller that controls reading and writing of data in the module information storage unit 450. In this embodiment, the module information storage unit 450 stores the information relating to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 acquired by the module information acquisition unit 440.

[0103] In this embodiment, the communication unit 460 transmits and receives various information to and from the system control unit 180. For example, the communication unit 460 transmits information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 to the system control unit 180. The information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 may be transmitted to an external device. The communication unit 460 may transmit the information in response to a request from the external device, or may transmit the information at a predetermined timing. The communication unit 460 may refer to the module information storage unit 450 and transmit the information related to the battery characteristics of the power storage unit 210 to the system control unit 180 or an external device.

[0104] Fig. 5 shows a schematic diagram of an example of the circuit configuration of the power storage device 20. For the purpose of simplifying the explanation, the protection unit 250 and wiring related to the protection unit 250 are not shown in Fig. 5.

[0105] In this embodiment, the switching unit 230 includes a transistor 510, a resistor 512, a resistor 514, a diode 516, a transistor 520, a resistor 522, a resistor 524, and a diode 526. The transistors 510 and 520 may be examples of switching elements. In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the transistors 510 and 520 are used as the switching elements of the switching unit 230. However, the switching elements of the switching unit 230 are not limited to those in this embodiment. In other embodiments, a single switching element may be used as the switching element of the switching unit 230.

[0106] In this embodiment, the module control unit 240 includes a determination unit 410, a signal generation unit 430, a switch 592, and a switch 594. In this embodiment, the determination unit 410 includes a transistor 530, a resistor 532, a transistor 540, a resistor 542, a resistor 552, and a resistor 554. The signal generation unit 430 includes a transistor 560, a capacitor 570, a resistor 572, and a transistor 580. The switch 592 and the switch 594 may be an example of the receiving unit 420.

[0107] Next, details of each part of the switching unit 230 and the module control unit 240 will be described. In the switching unit 230 of this embodiment, the transistor 510 is a MOSFET, and even when the transistor 510 is off, a current can flow from the positive terminal 212 to the first power terminal 202 due to a parasitic diode (not shown) formed equivalently between the source and drain of the transistor 510. Similarly, the transistor 520 is a MOSFET, and even when the transistor 520 is off, a current can flow from the first power terminal 202 to the positive terminal 212 due to a parasitic diode (not shown) formed equivalently between the source and drain of the transistor 520.

[0108] In this embodiment, the transistors 510 and 520 are initially set to off. When the transistor 580 is turned on during charging of the power storage device 20, a current flows from the first power terminal 202 to the third power terminal 206 via the resistors 512, 514, and the transistor 580. As a result, a voltage is applied to the gate of the transistor 510, and the transistor 510 is turned on. This allows a current to flow from the first power terminal 202 to the positive terminal 212 via a parasitic diode formed equivalently between the source and drain of the transistor 520.

[0109] On the other hand, when the transistor 580 is turned on during discharge of the power storage device 20, a current flows from the positive terminal 212 to the negative terminal 214 via the resistor 522, the resistor 524, and the transistor 580. As a result, a voltage is applied to the gate of the transistor 520, turning the transistor 520 on. This allows a current to flow from the positive terminal 212 to the first power terminal 202 via a parasitic diode formed equivalently between the source and drain of the transistor 510.

[0110] The voltage applied to the gate of transistor 510 or transistor 520 as transistor 580 is turned on may be an example of a signal for turning on the switching element of switching unit 230. Similarly, the voltage applied to the gate of transistor 510 or transistor 520 as transistor 580 is turned off may be an example of a signal for turning off the switching element of switching unit 230.

[0111] In this embodiment, the values ​​of resistors 512 and 514 are set so that transistor 510 can be reliably turned on / off with low power consumption. Also, the values ​​of resistors 522 and 524 are set so that transistor 520 can be reliably turned on / off with low power consumption.

[0112] In this embodiment, a diode 516 is disposed between the resistor 514 and the resistor 524. The diode 516 allows current to pass in the direction from the resistor 514 to the resistor 524, but does not allow current to pass in the direction from the resistor 524 to the resistor 514. By providing the diode 516, it is possible to prevent current from leaking from the positive terminal 212 to the first power terminal 202 through the route of the resistors 522, 524, 514, and 512 when the switching unit 230 electrically disconnects the first power terminal 202 from the positive terminal 212.

[0113] In this embodiment, a diode 526 is disposed between the resistor 514 and the resistor 524. The diode 526 allows current to pass in the direction from the resistor 524 to the resistor 514, but does not allow current to pass in the direction from the resistor 514 to the resistor 524. By providing the diode 526, it is possible to prevent current from leaking from the first power terminal 202 to the positive terminal 212 through the route of the resistors 512, 514, 524, and 522 when the switching unit 230 electrically disconnects the first power terminal 202 from the positive terminal 212.

[0114] In the module control unit 240 of this embodiment, the transistors 530 and 540 of the determination unit 410 are initially set to off, and the transistors 560 and 580 of the signal generation unit 430 are initially set to off.

[0115] According to this embodiment, the value of the resistor 532 is set so that the transistor 530 is turned on when the voltage across the terminals of the switching unit 230 is smaller than a predetermined first value, with the first power terminal 202 side being positive. The value of the resistor 532 is preferably set so that the leakage current is minimized when the switching unit 230 is off. Furthermore, the value of the resistor 542 is set so that the transistor 540 is turned on when the voltage across the terminals of the switching unit 230 is greater than a predetermined second value. The value of the resistor 542 is preferably set so that the leakage current is minimized when the switching unit 230 is off. Note that, according to this embodiment, the voltage across the terminals of the switching unit 230 is equal to the voltage difference between the first power terminal 202 and the positive terminal 212.

[0116] When the voltage across the terminals of the switching unit 230 is smaller than a predetermined first value, the transistor 530 is turned on, and a voltage is applied from the power storage unit 210 to the base of the transistor 560 via the positive terminal 212, the transistor 530, and the resistor 552, turning the transistor 560 on. Although a voltage from the first power terminal 202 is applied to the base of the transistor 580, the on-state of the transistor 580 is prevented while the transistor 560 is turned on. As a result, the transistor 580 is turned off.

[0117] On the other hand, when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is greater than a predetermined second value, the transistor 540 is turned on, and voltage is applied from the first power terminal 202 to the base of the transistor 560 via the transistor 540 and the resistor 554, turning on the transistor 560. As a result, the transistor 580 is turned off.

[0118] In this embodiment, the value of resistor 552 is set to reduce power consumption to the extent that transistor 560 can be turned on when transistor 530 is on. The value of resistor 554 is set to reduce power consumption to the extent that transistor 560 can be turned on when transistor 540 is on.

[0119] The capacitance of capacitor 570 is set so that transistor 560 turns on before transistor 580 turns on when a voltage from first power terminal 202 is applied to the base of transistor 580. This allows signal generating unit 430 to generate a signal after a predetermined time has elapsed since determining unit 410 determined whether the voltage between the terminals of the switching element is within a predetermined range.

[0120] On the other hand, when the voltage between the terminals of the switching unit 230 is within the range determined by the first value and the second value, the transistors 530 and 540 remain off, and the transistor 560 also remains off. Therefore, a voltage is applied from the first power terminal 202 to the base of the transistor 580 via the resistor 572, and the transistor 580 turns on.

[0121] The switches 592 and 594 may be manual switches, or may be switching elements such as relays, thyristors, or transistors. A signal 52 indicating that the switching unit 230 is to be turned on may be input to the switch 592. A signal 54 indicating that the switching unit 230 is to be turned off may be input to the switch 594.

[0122] When switch 592 is turned on, switching unit 230 can be turned on regardless of whether transistor 580 is on or off. When switch 594 is turned on, transistor 580 can be turned off regardless of whether transistor 560 is on or off. As a result, switching unit 230 can be turned off.

[0123] 6 schematically illustrates an example of the internal configuration of the power supply unit 120. In this embodiment, the power supply unit 120 includes, for example, a first input / output terminal 602, a second input / output terminal 606, a power line 612, a power line 616, and one or more holding units 122. In this embodiment, the holding unit 122 of the power supply unit 120 includes, for example, a first connection terminal 622, a second connection terminal 624, and a third connection terminal 626. The holding unit 122 includes, for example, a switching unit 632, a resistor 634, and a wiring 636. The holding unit 122 includes, for example, a DC / DC converter 640 and a wiring 642.

[0124] In this embodiment, the power supply unit 120 includes a plurality of holding units 122. The plurality of holding units 122 are configured such that when a power storage device 20 is attached to each of the plurality of holding units 122, the plurality of power storage devices 20 are connected in parallel.

[0125] In this embodiment, the first input / output terminal 602 may be a terminal for inputting and outputting power. In this embodiment, the second input / output terminal 606 may be a terminal for inputting and outputting power. In this embodiment, the power line 612 is electrically connected to the first input / output terminal 602. In this embodiment, the power line 616 is electrically connected to the second input / output terminal 606.

[0126] The first input / output terminal 602 is electrically connected to the first connection terminal 622, for example, via a power line 612. The first input / output terminal 602 is electrically connected to the first power terminal 202 of the power storage device 20, for example, via the power line 612 and the first connection terminal 622.

[0127] The first input / output terminal 602 is electrically connected to the second connection terminal 624, for example, via the power line 612 and the switching unit 632. The first input / output terminal 602 is electrically connected to the positive terminal 212 of the power storage device 20, for example, via the power line 612, the switching unit 632, and the second connection terminal 624. In this way, the first input / output terminal 602 can be electrically connected to the power storage unit 210 without going through the switching unit 230 of the power storage device 20.

[0128] The second input / output terminal 606 is electrically connected to the third connection terminal 626, for example, via the power line 616. The second input / output terminal 606 is electrically connected to the third power terminal 206 of the power storage device 20, for example, via the power line 616 and the third connection terminal 626.

[0129] In this embodiment, the first connection terminal 622 is configured to be electrically connectable to the first power terminal 202 of the power storage device 20 when the holding portion 122 holds the power storage device 20, for example. The first connection terminal 622 may be configured to be detachable from the first power terminal 202. The first connection terminal 622 may be one of a socket and a plug, and the first power terminal 202 may be the other of a socket and a plug.

[0130] The first connection terminal 622 is electrically connected to, for example, the first input / output terminal 602. The first connection terminal 622 may be electrically connected to the first input / output terminal 602 via the power line 612.

[0131] In this embodiment, the second connection terminal 624 is configured to be electrically connectable to the second power terminal 204 of the power storage device 20 when the holding portion 122 holds the power storage device 20, for example. The second connection terminal 624 may be configured to be detachable from the second power terminal 204. The second connection terminal 624 may be one of a socket and a plug, and the second power terminal 204 may be the other of a socket and a plug.

[0132] The second connection terminal 624 is electrically connected to, for example, the first input / output terminal 602. The second connection terminal 624 may be electrically connected to the first input / output terminal 602 via the power line 612 and the switching unit 632.

[0133] The second connection terminal 624 is electrically connected to, for example, the DC / DC converter 640. The second connection terminal 624 may be electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 640 via a wiring 642. One end of the wiring 642 is electrically connected to, for example, the DC / DC converter 640. The other end of the wiring 642 is electrically connected to, for example, the wiring 636.

[0134] In this embodiment, the third connection terminal 626 is configured to be electrically connectable to the third power terminal 206 of the power storage device 20 when the holding portion 122 holds the power storage device 20, for example. The third connection terminal 626 may be configured to be detachable from the third power terminal 206. The third connection terminal 626 may be one of a socket and a plug, and the third power terminal 206 may be the other of a socket and a plug.

[0135] The third connection terminal 626 is electrically connected to, for example, the second input / output terminal 606. The third connection terminal 626 may be electrically connected to the second input / output terminal 606 via the power line 616.

[0136] The third connection terminal 626 is electrically connected to, for example, the DC / DC converter 640. The third connection terminal 626 may be electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 640 via the power line 616.

[0137] (Switching unit 632) In this embodiment, the switching unit 632 is arranged, for example, between the first input / output terminal 602 and the positive electrode terminal 212 of the power storage device 20, and switches the electrical connection relationship between the first input / output terminal 602 and the positive electrode terminal 212. In this embodiment, the switching unit 632 is arranged between the first input / output terminal 602 and the second connection terminal 624. For example, the switching unit 632 is arranged between the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624.

[0138] In the present embodiment, one end of the switching unit 632 is electrically connected to the power line 612. This electrically connects one end of the switching unit 632 to the first input / output terminal 602. Furthermore, one end of the switching unit 632 is electrically connected to the first connection terminal 622. As a result, when the power storage device 20 is attached to the holder 122, one end of the switching unit 632 is electrically connected to one end of the switching unit 230.

[0139] In the present embodiment, the other end of the switching unit 632 is electrically connected to the second connection terminal 624. The other end of the switching unit 632 and the second connection terminal 624 are connected by, for example, a wire 636. As a result, when the power storage device 20 is attached to the holder 122, the other end of the switching unit 632 and the other end of the switching unit 230 are electrically connected. In addition, the other end of the switching unit 632 and the positive electrode terminal 212 are electrically connected.

[0140] The other end of the switching unit 632 may be electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 640. For example, the other end of the switching unit 632 and the DC / DC converter 640 are connected by a wiring 636 and a wiring 642. This allows power to be exchanged between the DC / DC converter 640 and the power storage device 20 when the power storage device 20 is attached to the holder 122.

[0141] The switching unit 632 switches the electrical connection relationship between the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624. This allows the switching unit 632 to switch the electrical connection relationship between the first input / output terminal 602 and the second connection terminal 624. The switching unit 632 can also switch the electrical connection relationship between the first input / output terminal 602 and the positive terminal 212.

[0142] For example, the switching unit 632 switches the electrical connection relationship between the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624 based on a signal 62 from the system control unit 180. This allows the system control unit 180 to control the operation of the switching unit 632. The system control unit 180 may control the operation of the switching unit 632 provided in each of the multiple holding units 122. Details of the control of the switching unit 632 by the system control unit 180 will be described later.

[0143] The switching unit 632 may electrically connect the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624 based on the signal 62 from the system control unit 180. The switching unit 632 may electrically disconnect the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624 based on the signal 62 from the system control unit 180, or may electrically disconnect the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624 without receiving the signal 62 from the system control unit 180.

[0144] In one embodiment, the switching unit 632 electrically disconnects the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624 based on a signal 62 from the system control unit 180. In another embodiment, after the switching unit 632 electrically connects the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624, if it is confirmed that the switching unit 230 has electrically connected the first power terminal 202 and the positive terminal 212, the switching unit 632 electrically disconnects the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624. In yet another embodiment, after the switching unit 632 electrically connects the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624, if a predetermined time has elapsed, the switching unit 632 electrically disconnects the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624. In this way, the switching unit 632 can electrically disconnect the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624 without receiving a signal 62 from the system control unit 180.

[0145] (Control of the switching unit 632) As described above, in this embodiment, the switching unit 632 switches the electrical connection relationship between the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624 based on a signal 62 from the system control unit 180. The system control unit 180 controls the operation of the multiple switching units 632 corresponding to the multiple power storage devices 20, respectively, based on, for example, the relationship between the terminal voltages of the multiple power storage devices 20 attached to the power supply unit 120. The system control unit 180 may transmit a signal 62 to the switching unit 632 to be controlled, for controlling the operation of the switching unit 632 to be controlled.

[0146] The system control unit 180 may control the operation of the switching unit 632 depending on whether the power supply unit 120 is electrically connected to a load (for example, the motor 140). The system control unit 180 may control the operation of the switching unit 632 depending on whether the power supply unit 120 is supplying power to the load. The system control unit 180 may control the operation of the switching unit 632 depending on whether the power supply unit 120 is electrically connected to a charging device (for example, the charger 30). The system control unit 180 may control the operation of the switching unit 632 depending on whether the power supply unit 120 is receiving power from the charging device.

[0147] (a) When the power supply unit 120 is electrically connected to a load or when the power supply unit 120 is supplying power to the load, the system control unit 180 controls the switching unit 632 arranged in each of the multiple holding units 122 such that, among the multiple holding units 122 arranged in the power supply unit 120, the switching unit 632 arranged in the holding unit 122 that holds the power storage device 20 with the highest terminal-to-terminal voltage electrically connects the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624. By electrically connecting the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624, the first input / output terminal 602 of the holding unit 122 and the power line 612 of the power storage device 20 held in the holding unit 122 are electrically connected.

[0148] For example, when the power storage unit 210 of the power storage device 20 held in a specific holding unit 122 has a terminal-to-terminal voltage greater than the terminal-to-terminal voltages of the power storage units 210 of all the power storage devices 20 held in the other holding units 122, the system control unit 180 controls the operation of the switching unit 632 of the specific holding unit 122 so that the switching unit 632 arranged in the specific holding unit 122 electrically connects the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624. Similarly, the system control unit 180 may control the operation of the switching unit 632 of the other holding unit 122 so that the switching unit 632 arranged in the other holding unit 122 electrically disconnects the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624.

[0149] (b) When the power supply unit 120 is electrically connected to a charging device or when the power supply unit 120 is receiving power from a charging device, the system control unit 180 controls the switching unit 632 arranged in each of the multiple holding units 122 such that, among the multiple holding units 122 arranged in the power supply unit 120, the switching unit 632 arranged in the holding unit 122 that holds the power storage device 20 with the smallest terminal-to-terminal voltage electrically connects the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624. By electrically connecting the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624, the first input / output terminal 602 of the holding unit 122 and the power line 612 of the power storage device 20 held in the holding unit 122 are electrically connected.

[0150] For example, when the power storage unit 210 of the power storage device 20 held in a specific holding unit 122 has a terminal-to-terminal voltage that is smaller than the terminal-to-terminal voltages of the power storage units 210 of all the power storage devices 20 held in the other holding units 122, the system control unit 180 controls the operation of the switching unit 632 of the specific holding unit 122 so that the switching unit 632 arranged in the specific holding unit 122 electrically connects the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624. Similarly, the system control unit 180 may control the operation of the switching unit 632 of the other holding unit 122 so that the switching unit 632 arranged in the other holding unit 122 electrically disconnects the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624.

[0151] In the present embodiment, the resistor 634 is arranged between the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624. For example, the resistor 634 is arranged between the power line 612 and one end of the switching unit 632. This makes the resistance between the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624 greater than the resistance between the power line 612 and the first connection terminal 622. As a result, when the switching unit 632 electrically connects the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624, an excessive current can be prevented from flowing into the power storage device 20.

[0152] (DC / DC converter 640) In this embodiment, the DC / DC converter 640 converts power. The DC / DC converter 640 may be a unidirectional DC / DC converter or a bidirectional DC / DC converter.

[0153] DC / DC converter 640 may include a voltage sensor (not shown). DC / DC converter 640 may transmit information indicating the measurement result of the voltage sensor to system control unit 180. DC / DC converter 640 may also transmit information indicating the measurement result of the voltage sensor to module control unit 240 of power storage device 20.

[0154] DC / DC converter 640 is configured to be able to supply power to power storage unit 210 of power storage device 20 via, for example, second connection terminal 624. DC / DC converter 640 may be configured to be able to supply power to power storage unit 210 of power storage device 20 via wiring 636. DC / DC converter 640 may adjust the power supplied to power storage unit 210 based on a signal 64 from system control unit 180. DC / DC converter 640 adjusts the current supplied to power storage unit 210 based on, for example, signal 64 from system control unit 180.

[0155] This allows the DC / DC converter 640 to supply power to the power storage unit 210 without going through the switching unit 230 of the power storage device 20. For example, when the switching unit 230 of the power storage device 20 held in a specific holding unit 122 electrically disconnects the first power terminal 202 and the positive electrode terminal 212, and the switching unit 230 of the power storage device 20 held in another holding unit 122 electrically connects the first power terminal 202 and the positive electrode terminal 212, the DC / DC converter 640 of the specific holding unit 122 can supply power to the power storage unit 210 of the power storage device 20 held in the specific holding unit 122.

[0156] The DC / DC converter 640 may supply power to the power storage unit 210 of the power storage device 20 when (a) the power supply unit 120 is electrically connected to a load or the power supply unit 120 is supplying power to the load, (i) the switching unit 230 electrically disconnects the positive terminal 212 and the first input / output terminal 602, and (ii) the absolute value of the potential difference between the positive terminal 212 and the first input / output terminal 602 is greater than a predetermined value. As described above, the switching unit 230 can electrically disconnect the positive terminal 212 and the first power terminal 202, thereby electrically disconnecting the positive terminal 212 and the first input / output terminal 602. For example, when the switching unit 230 of the storage device 20 held in the other holding unit 122 described above electrically connects the first power terminal 202 and the positive terminal 212, the absolute value of the potential difference between the positive terminal 212 and the first input / output terminal 602 of the storage device 20 held in the specific holding unit 122 becomes larger than a predetermined value.

[0157] DC / DC converter 640 is configured to be able to discharge power from power storage unit 210 of power storage device 20 via second connection terminal 624, for example. DC / DC converter 640 may be configured to be able to discharge power from power storage unit 210 of power storage device 20 via wiring 636. DC / DC converter 640 may adjust the power discharged from power storage unit 210 based on signal 64 from system control unit 180. DC / DC converter 640 adjusts the current discharged from power storage unit 210 based on signal 64 from system control unit 180, for example.

[0158] This allows the DC / DC converter 640 to discharge power from the power storage unit 210 without going through the switching unit 230 of the power storage device 20. For example, when the switching unit 230 of the power storage device 20 held in a specific holding unit 122 electrically disconnects the first power terminal 202 and the positive terminal 212, and the switching unit 230 of the power storage device 20 held in another holding unit 122 electrically connects the first power terminal 202 and the positive terminal 212, the DC / DC converter 640 of the specific holding unit 122 can discharge power from the power storage unit 210 of the power storage device 20 held in the specific holding unit 122.

[0159] The DC / DC converter 640 may discharge power from the power storage unit 210 of the power storage device 20 when (i) the switching unit 230 electrically disconnects the positive terminal 212 from the first input / output terminal 602, and (ii) the absolute value of the potential difference between the positive terminal 212 and the first input / output terminal 602 is greater than a predetermined value, when (b) the power system is electrically connected to a charging device or the power supply unit 120 is receiving power from the charging device. As described above, the switching unit 230 can electrically disconnect the positive terminal 212 from the first power terminal 202, thereby electrically disconnecting the positive terminal 212 from the first input / output terminal 602. For example, when the switching unit 230 of the storage device 20 held in the other holding unit 122 described above electrically connects the first power terminal 202 and the positive terminal 212, the absolute value of the potential difference between the positive terminal 212 and the first input / output terminal 602 of the storage device 20 held in the specific holding unit 122 becomes larger than a predetermined value.

[0160] The DC / DC converter 640 may adjust the magnitude of the current supplied to the power storage unit 210 of the power storage device 20 in accordance with the potential difference between the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624, or the potential difference between the first input / output terminal 602 and the second connection terminal 624. The DC / DC converter 640 may adjust the magnitude of the current discharged from the power storage unit 210 of the power storage device 20 in accordance with the potential difference between the power line 612 and the second connection terminal 624, or the potential difference between the first input / output terminal 602 and the second connection terminal 624.

[0161] This can reduce the size of DC / DC converter 640. For example, the rated output current of DC / DC converter 640 is smaller than the rated input current of power storage device 20.

[0162] (Control of DC / DC converter 640) As described above, in this embodiment, the DC / DC converter 640 adjusts the power supplied to and / or the power discharged from the power storage device 20 based on a signal 64 from the system control unit 180. The system control unit 180 controls the operation of the multiple DC / DC converters 640 corresponding to the multiple power storage devices 20, respectively, based on, for example, the relationship between the terminal voltages of the multiple power storage devices 20 attached to the power supply unit 120. The system control unit 180 may control the operation of the multiple DC / DC converters 640 corresponding to the multiple power storage devices 20, respectively, based on the states of the switching units 230 of the multiple power storage devices 20 attached to the power supply unit 120. The system control unit 180 may transmit a signal 62 to the DC / DC converter 640 to be controlled, for controlling the operation of the DC / DC converter 640 to be controlled.

[0163] (a) When the power supply unit 120 is electrically connected to the load or when the power supply unit 120 is supplying power to the load, the system control unit 180 controls the DC / DC converter 640 so that the DC / DC converter 640 supplies power to the power storage device 20 when (i) the switching unit 230 of the power storage device 20 held by the holding unit 122 electrically disconnects the positive terminal 212 and the first input / output terminal 602, and (ii) the absolute value of the potential difference between the first input / output terminal 602 and the second connection terminal 624 is greater than a predetermined value. The system control unit 180 may control the DC / DC converter 640 so that the DC / DC converter 640 arranged in a holding unit 122 other than the holding unit 122 holding the power storage device 20 with the highest inter-terminal voltage, among the multiple holding units 122, supplies power to the corresponding power storage device 20.

[0164] The system control unit 180 may control the magnitude of the current supplied to the power storage device 20. For example, the system control unit 180 may determine the magnitude of the current supplied to the power storage device 20 so that the magnitude of the current is equal to or less than the rated charging current.

[0165] (b) When the power supply unit 120 is electrically connected to a charging device or when the power supply unit 120 is receiving power from a charging device, the system control unit 180 controls the DC / DC converter 640 so that the DC / DC converter 640 releases power from the power storage device 20 when (i) the switching unit 230 of the power storage device 20 held by the holding unit 122 electrically disconnects the positive terminal 212 and the first input / output terminal 602, and (ii) the absolute value of the potential difference between the first input / output terminal 602 and the second connection terminal 624 is greater than a predetermined value. The system control unit 180 may control the DC / DC converter 640 so that the DC / DC converter 640 arranged in a holding unit 122 other than the holding unit 122 holding the power storage device 20 with the smallest inter-terminal voltage releases power from the corresponding power storage device 20.

[0166] Power line 612 may be an example of a first power line. Power line 616 may be an example of a second power line. Switching unit 632 may be an example of a second switching unit. Wiring 636 may be an example of a first connection wiring. DC / DC converter 640 may be an example of a power adjustment unit. The power storage units of all other power storage devices 20 held in other holding units 122 may be examples of one or more other power storage units.

[0167] An example of the operation of the power supply unit 120 will be described using Figures 7, 8, and 9. Figure 7 schematically shows an example of a specific example for explaining the operation of the power supply unit 120. Figure 8 schematically shows an example of the operation of the power supply unit 120. Figure 9 schematically shows another example of the operation of the power supply unit 120.

[0168] As shown in FIG. 7, in this embodiment, in order to facilitate understanding of the operation of the power supply unit 120, an example of the operation of the power supply unit 120 is described using an example in which the power supply unit 120 includes a holding unit 712, a holding unit 714, and a holding unit 716, and each of the holding unit 712, the holding unit 714, and the holding unit 716 holds a power storage device 20.

[0169] Each of the holding portion 712, the holding portion 714, and the holding portion 716 may have a configuration similar to that of the holding portion 122 described in relation to Fig. 6. Each of the holding portion 712, the holding portion 714, and the holding portion 716 may have all of the configuration of the holding portion 122. Each of the holding portion 712, the holding portion 714, and the holding portion 716 may not have all of the configuration of the holding portion 122.

[0170] 7, holding unit 712 includes power storage unit 210, switching unit 230, switching unit 632, and DC / DC converter 640. Holding units 714 and 716 have the same configuration as holding unit 712.

[0171] In this embodiment, the terminal voltage of the power storage unit 210 of the power storage device 20 (sometimes referred to as power storage device A) held in the holding unit 712 is Ea. The terminal voltage of the power storage unit 210 of the power storage device 20 (sometimes referred to as power storage device B) held in the holding unit 714 is Eb. The terminal voltage of the power storage unit 210 of the power storage device 20 (sometimes referred to as power storage device C) held in the holding unit 716 is Ec. Furthermore, in this embodiment, Ea>Eb>Ec.

[0172] (Operation when the motor 140 is connected to the power supply unit 120) 8 shows an example of the operation of power supply unit 120 when motor 140 is connected to power supply unit 120. In FIG. 8, solid line 820 shows fluctuations in voltage of power line 612. In this embodiment, solid line 820 is approximately the same as the voltage of power storage device A. Dotted line 824 shows fluctuations in voltage of power storage device B. Dotted line 826 shows fluctuations in voltage of power storage device C.

[0173] 8, solid line 844 indicates fluctuations in the magnitude of current (sometimes referred to as charging current) flowing through wiring 642 of holding unit 714 from DC / DC converter 640 toward power storage unit 210. Solid line 846 indicates fluctuations in the magnitude of current (sometimes referred to as charging current) flowing through wiring 642 of holding unit 716 from DC / DC converter 640 toward power storage unit 210.

[0174] In this embodiment, at times before time t1, the switching units 230 of the power storage devices A, B, and C are in the OFF state. The system control unit 180 acquires information indicating the inter-terminal voltages of the power storage devices A, B, and C, and compares the inter-terminal voltages of the power storage devices A, B, and C. The system control unit 180 determines to turn on the switching unit 230 of the power storage device 20 with the largest inter-terminal voltage. The system control unit 180 also determines to supply power to the power storage units 210 of the other power storage devices 20.

[0175] As described above, in this embodiment, Ea>Eb>Ec, and therefore system control unit 180 determines to turn on switching unit 230 of power storage device A. For example, by turning on switching unit 632 of holding unit 712, switching unit 230 of power storage device A can be turned on.

[0176] System control unit 180 generates signal 62 for turning on switching unit 632 of power storage device A and transmits signal 62 to holding unit 712 at time t1. When switching unit 632 of holding unit 712 turns on at time t1, the voltage of power line 612 becomes Ea. Also, the absolute value of the voltage difference between power line 612 and positive terminal 212 of power storage device A falls within a predetermined range. As a result, switching unit 230 of power storage device A turns on. Switching unit 632 of holding unit 712 may turn off when a predetermined time has elapsed since time t1.

[0177] System control unit 180 generates signal 64 for supplying power to power storage unit 210 of power storage device B, and transmits signal 64 to holding unit 714 at time t1. As a result, power is supplied from power storage device A to power storage device B via DC / DC converter 640 of holding unit 714.

[0178] Similarly, system control unit 180 generates signal 64 for supplying power to power storage unit 210 of power storage device C, and transmits signal 64 to holding unit 716 at time t1. As a result, power is supplied from power storage device A to power storage device C via DC / DC converter 640 of holding unit 716.

[0179] At time t2, the voltage of power line 612 becomes L2, and the voltage of positive terminal 212 of power storage device B also becomes L2. As a result, the absolute value of the voltage difference between power line 612 and positive terminal 212 of power storage device B falls within a predetermined range. As a result, switching unit 230 of power storage device B performs an ON operation. Furthermore, system control unit 180 generates signal 64 for stopping the supply of power to power storage unit 210, and transmits signal 64 to holding unit 714 at time t2. As a result, DC / DC converter 640 of holding unit 714 stops the charging operation of power storage device B.

[0180] At time t3, the voltage of power line 612 becomes L3, and the voltage of positive terminal 212 of power storage device C also becomes L3. As a result, the absolute value of the voltage difference between power line 612 and positive terminal 212 of power storage device C falls within a predetermined range. As a result, switching unit 230 of power storage device C performs an ON operation. Furthermore, system control unit 180 generates signal 64 for stopping the supply of power to power storage unit 210, and transmits signal 64 to holding unit 716 at time t3. As a result, DC / DC converter 640 of holding unit 716 stops the charging operation of power storage device C.

[0181] From time t3 onwards, power storage device A, power storage device B, and power storage device C are all electrically connected to power line 612. This allows system control unit 180 to operate power supply unit 120 or motor 140 without limiting the output as in the period from time t1 to time t3. System control unit 180 can freely adjust the output power, output current, and the like of power supply unit 120 within the range of the maximum output or rated output of power supply unit 120. System control unit 180 can operate power supply unit 120 or motor 140 at, for example, the maximum output or rated output of power supply unit 120.

[0182] (Operation when the charger 30 is connected to the power supply unit 120) 9 shows an example of the operation of power supply unit 120 when charger 30 is connected to power supply unit 120. In FIG. 9, solid line 920 shows fluctuations in the voltage of power line 612. In this embodiment, solid line 920 is approximately the same as the voltage of power storage device C. Dotted line 922 shows fluctuations in the voltage of power storage device A. Dotted line 924 shows fluctuations in the voltage of power storage device B.

[0183] 9, solid line 942 indicates fluctuations in the magnitude of current (sometimes referred to as discharge current) flowing through wiring 642 of holding unit 712 from power storage unit 210 toward DC / DC converter 640. Solid line 944 indicates fluctuations in the magnitude of current (sometimes referred to as discharge current) flowing through wiring 642 of holding unit 714 from power storage unit 210 toward DC / DC converter 640.

[0184] In this embodiment, at times before time t1, the switching units 230 of the power storage devices A, B, and C are in the OFF state. The system control unit 180 acquires information indicating the terminal voltages of the power storage devices A, B, and C, and compares the terminal voltages of the power storage devices A, B, and C. The system control unit 180 determines to turn ON the switching unit 230 of the power storage device 20 with the smallest terminal voltage. The system control unit 180 also determines to release power from the power storage units 210 of the other power storage devices 20.

[0185] As described above, in this embodiment, Ea>Eb>Ec, and therefore system control unit 180 determines to turn on switching unit 230 of power storage device C. For example, by turning on switching unit 632 of holding unit 716, switching unit 230 of power storage device C can be turned on.

[0186] The system control unit 180 generates a signal 62 for turning on the switching unit 632 of the power storage device C, and transmits the signal 62 to the holding unit 716 at time t1. When the switching unit 632 of the holding unit 716 turns on at time t1, the voltage of the power line 612 becomes Ec. Furthermore, the absolute value of the voltage difference between the power line 612 and the positive terminal 212 of the power storage device C falls within a predetermined range. As a result, the switching unit 230 of the power storage device C turns on. The switching unit 632 of the holding unit 716 may turn off when a predetermined time has elapsed since time t1.

[0187] System control unit 180 generates signal 64 for discharging power from power storage unit 210 of power storage device A, and transmits signal 64 to holding unit 712 at time t1. As a result, power is supplied from power storage device A to power storage device C via DC / DC converter 640 of holding unit 712.

[0188] Similarly, system control unit 180 generates signal 64 for discharging power from power storage unit 210 of power storage device B, and transmits signal 64 to holding unit 714 at time t1. As a result, power is supplied from power storage device B to power storage device C via DC / DC converter 640 of holding unit 714.

[0189] At time t2, the absolute value of the voltage difference between power line 612 and positive terminal 212 of power storage device B falls within a predetermined range. As a result, switching unit 230 of power storage device B performs an ON operation. System control unit 180 also generates signal 64 for stopping the discharge of power from power storage unit 210, and transmits signal 64 to holding unit 714 at time t2. This causes DC / DC converter 640 of holding unit 714 to stop the discharging operation of power storage device B.

[0190] At time t3, the absolute value of the voltage difference between power line 612 and positive terminal 212 of power storage device A falls within a predetermined range. As a result, switching unit 230 of power storage device A performs an ON operation. System control unit 180 also generates signal 64 for stopping the discharge of power from power storage unit 210, and transmits signal 64 to holding unit 712 at time t3. This causes DC / DC converter 640 of holding unit 712 to stop the discharging operation of power storage device A.

[0191] From time t3 onwards, all of power storage A, power storage B, and power storage C are electrically connected to the power line 612. This allows the system control unit 180 to operate the power supply unit 120 or the charger 30 without restricting charging as in the period from time t1 to time t3. The system control unit 180 can freely adjust the charging power, charging current, etc. of the power supply unit 120 within the range of the maximum input or rated input of the power supply unit 120. The system control unit 180 can charge the power supply unit 120 at the maximum input or rated input of the power supply unit 120, for example. The system control unit 180 can operate the charger 30 at the maximum input or rated input of the power supply unit 120, for example.

[0192] (An example of another embodiment) 1 to 9, the moving body 100 and the power supply unit 120 have been described in detail using as an example a case where the switching unit 230 is arranged in the power storage device 20, and the switching unit 632 and the DC / DC converter 640 are arranged in the holding unit 122. However, the moving body 100 and the power supply unit 120 are not limited to this embodiment.

[0193] In another embodiment, the switching unit 230 may be arranged in the holding unit 122. At least one of the switching unit 632 and the DC / DC converter 640 may be arranged in the power storage device 20. When the switching unit 230, the switching unit 632, and the DC / DC converter 640 are arranged in the power storage device 20, the power storage device 20 may not include the second power terminal 204. In this case, the first power terminal 202 may also function as the second power terminal 204. Furthermore, the holding unit 122 may not include the second connection terminal 624. In this case, the first connection terminal 622 may also function as the second connection terminal 624. Similarly, when the switching unit 230, the switching unit 632, and the DC / DC converter 640 are arranged in the holding unit 122, the power storage device 20 may not include the second power terminal 204, and the holding unit 122 may not include the second connection terminal 624.

[0194] 1 to 9, the details of the moving body 100 and the power supply unit 120 have been described using the example in which the power supply unit 120 includes the switching unit 230 and the switching unit 632. However, the moving body 100 and the power supply unit 120 are not limited to this embodiment.

[0195] In another embodiment, the switching unit 632 may have the function of the switching unit 230, and the power supply unit 120 may not include the switching unit 230. For example, the switching unit 632 can also function as the switching unit 230 by operating based on a signal from the module control unit 240. Similarly, the switching unit 230 may have the function of the switching unit 632, and the power supply unit 120 may not include the switching unit 632. For example, the switching unit 230 can also function as the switching unit 632 by operating based on a signal from the system control unit 180.

[0196] 10 schematically shows another example of the internal configuration of the power supply unit 120. This embodiment differs from the embodiments described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9 in that a detachable power storage device 1010 includes a switching unit 632 and a DC / DC converter 640.

[0197] In this embodiment, the power storage device 1010 includes a power terminal 1012 and a power terminal 1016. The power terminal 1012 corresponds to the first power terminal 202 and / or the second power terminal 204 of the power storage device 20. The power terminal 1012 may also serve as the first power terminal 202 and the second power terminal 204 of the power storage device 20. The power terminal 1016 corresponds to the third power terminal 206 of the power storage device 20. In this embodiment, the power storage device 1010 includes a power storage unit 210, a switching unit 230, a switching unit 632, and a DC / DC converter 640.

[0198] Except for the above differences, the power storage device 1010 may have the same configuration as the power storage device 20. The power storage device 1010 may further include part of the configuration of the holding unit 122 described in relation to FIG. 6. For example, a resistor 634 is disposed between the power terminal 1012 and the switching unit 632.

[0199] In this embodiment, the power supply unit 120 includes a connection terminal 1022 and a connection terminal 1026. The connection terminal 1022 corresponds to the first connection terminal 622 and / or the second connection terminal 624 of the holder 122. The connection terminal 1022 may serve as both the first connection terminal 622 and the second connection terminal 624 of the holder 122. The connection terminal 1026 corresponds to the third connection terminal 626 of the holder 122. The connection terminal 1022 may be configured to be detachable from the power terminal 1012. The connection terminal 1026 may be configured to be detachable from the power terminal 1016.

[0200] As described above, according to this embodiment, the DC / DC converter 640 is miniaturized. Therefore, the DC / DC converter 640 can be built into the power storage device 1010.

[0201] 11 schematically illustrates an example of a system configuration of a charging device 1100. In this embodiment, the charging device 1100 includes a power supply unit 120. In this embodiment, the power supply unit 120 has a holding unit 122 that holds the power storage device 20. The power supply unit 120 may include multiple holding units 122. In this embodiment, the charging device 1100 further includes, for example, at least one of a control power supply 132, a sensor group 162, a user interface 164, and a system control unit 180. In this embodiment, the charging device 1100 includes, for example, a distribution board 1120 and a charger 1130.

[0202] In this embodiment, the distribution board 1120 receives supply of grid power 40. The distribution board 1120 supplies power to the control power supply 132 and the charger 1130. In this embodiment, the charger 1130 supplies power to the power supply unit 120 and charges one or more power storage devices 20 attached to the power supply unit 120.

[0203] 12 schematically illustrates an example of the system configuration of the computer 3000. For example, at least a part of the moving object 100 is implemented by the computer 3000. For example, at least a part of the system control unit 180 is implemented by the computer 3000. For example, at least a part of the module control unit 240 is implemented by the computer 3000. For example, at least a part of the charging device 1100 is implemented by the computer 3000.

[0204] A program installed on the computer 3000 can cause the computer 3000 to function as or perform operations associated with an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention or one or more "parts" of the apparatus, and / or to perform a process or steps of the process according to an embodiment of the present invention. Such a program can be executed by the CPU 3012 to cause the computer 3000 to perform specific operations associated with some or all of the blocks of the flowcharts and block diagrams described herein.

[0205] A computer 3000 according to this embodiment includes a CPU 3012, a RAM 3014, a graphics controller 3016, and a display device 3018, which are interconnected by a host controller 3010. The computer 3000 also includes input / output units such as a communication interface 3022, a hard disk drive 3024, a DVD-ROM drive 3026, and an IC card drive, which are connected to the host controller 3010 via an input / output controller 3020. The computer also includes legacy input / output units such as a ROM 3030 and a keyboard 3042, which are connected to the input / output controller 3020 via an input / output chip 3040.

[0206] The CPU 3012 operates according to programs stored in the ROM 3030 and RAM 3014, thereby controlling each unit. The graphics controller 3016 acquires image data generated by the CPU 3012 into a frame buffer or the like provided in the RAM 3014 or into the graphics controller 3016 itself, and causes the image data to be displayed on the display device 3018.

[0207] The communication interface 3022 communicates with other electronic devices via a network. The hard disk drive 3024 stores programs and data used by the CPU 3012 in the computer 3000. The DVD-ROM drive 3026 reads programs or data from the DVD-ROM 3001 and provides the programs or data to the hard disk drive 3024 via the RAM 3014. The IC card drive reads programs and data from an IC card and / or writes programs and data to an IC card.

[0208] The ROM 3030 stores therein a boot program or the like that is executed by the computer 3000 upon activation, and / or programs that depend on the hardware of the computer 3000. The input / output chip 3040 may also connect various input / output units to the input / output controller 3020 via a parallel port, a serial port, a keyboard port, a mouse port, etc.

[0209] The programs are provided by a computer-readable storage medium such as a DVD-ROM 3001 or an IC card. The programs are read from the computer-readable storage medium, installed in the hard disk drive 3024, RAM 3014, or ROM 3030, which are also examples of computer-readable storage media, and executed by the CPU 3012. The information processing described in these programs is read by the computer 3000, and brings about cooperation between the programs and the various types of hardware resources described above. An apparatus or method may be configured by implementing operations or processing of information in accordance with the use of the computer 3000.

[0210] For example, when communication is performed between computer 3000 and an external device, CPU 3012 may execute a communication program loaded into RAM 3014 and instruct communication interface 3022 to perform communication processing based on the processing described in the communication program. Under the control of CPU 3012, communication interface 3022 reads transmission data stored in a transmission buffer area provided in RAM 3014, hard disk drive 3024, DVD-ROM 3001, or a recording medium such as an IC card, and transmits the read transmission data to the network, or writes received data received from the network to a reception buffer area or the like provided on the recording medium.

[0211] Furthermore, CPU 3012 may cause all or a necessary portion of a file or database stored on an external recording medium such as hard disk drive 3024, DVD-ROM drive 3026 (DVD-ROM 3001), IC card, etc. to be read into RAM 3014, and may perform various types of processing on the data on RAM 3014. CPU 3012 may then write back the processed data to the external recording medium.

[0212] Various types of information, such as various types of programs, data, tables, and databases, may be stored on the recording medium and subjected to information processing. The CPU 3012 may perform various types of processing on data read from the RAM 3014, including various types of operations, information processing, conditional judgment, conditional branching, unconditional branching, information search / replacement, etc., as described throughout this disclosure and specified by the instruction sequences of the programs, and write the results back to the RAM 3014. The CPU 3012 may also search for information in a file, database, etc. on the recording medium. For example, if multiple entries, each having an attribute value of a first attribute associated with an attribute value of a second attribute, are stored on the recording medium, the CPU 3012 may search for an entry whose attribute value of the first attribute matches a specified condition from among the multiple entries, read the attribute value of the second attribute stored in the entry, and thereby obtain the attribute value of the second attribute associated with the first attribute that satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0213] The above-described programs or software modules may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium on or near the computer 3000. A recording medium such as a hard disk or RAM provided in a server system connected to a dedicated communication network or the Internet can also be used as a computer-readable storage medium, thereby providing the above-described programs to the computer 3000 via the network.

[0214] Although the present invention has been described above using embodiments, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiments. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and improvements can be made to the above embodiments. Furthermore, to the extent that they are not technically inconsistent, the details described for a particular embodiment can be applied to other embodiments. It is apparent from the claims that such modifications and improvements can also be included within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0215] It should be noted that the execution order of each process, such as operations, procedures, steps, and stages, in the devices, systems, programs, and methods shown in the claims, specifications, and drawings is not specifically stated as "before," "prior to," etc., and that the processes can be performed in any order unless the output of a previous process is used in a subsequent process. Even if the operational flow in the claims, specifications, and drawings is described using "first," "next," etc. for convenience, this does not mean that the processes must be performed in this order. [Explanation of symbols]

[0216] 20 Power storage device, 30 Charger, 40 System power, 52 Signal, 54 Signal, 62 Signal, 64 Signal, 100 Moving object, 120 Power supply unit, 122 Holding unit, 132 Control power supply, 134 Power receiving unit, 140 Motor, 142 Thrust generating unit, 162 Sensor group, 164 User interface, 180 System control unit, 202 First power terminal, 204 Second power terminal, 206 Third power terminal, 210 Power storage unit, 212 Positive terminal, 214 Negative terminal, 222 Power storage cell, 224 Power storage cell, 230 Switching unit, 240 Module control unit, 250 Protection unit, 260 Balance correction unit, 320 Trickle charging unit, 322 Direction restriction unit, 324 Flow rate restriction unit, 410 Determination unit, 420 Receiving unit, 430 Signal generation unit, 440 Module information acquisition unit, 450 Module information storage unit, 460 Communication unit, 510 Transistor, 512 Resistor, 514 Resistor, 516 Diode, 520 Transistor, 522 Resistor, 524 Resistor, 526 Diode, 530 Transistor, 532 Resistor, 540 Transistor, 542 Resistor, 552 Resistor, 554 Resistor, 560 Transistor, 570 Capacitor, 572 Resistor, 580 Transistor, 592 Switch, 594 Switch, 602 First input / output terminal, 606 Second input / output terminal, 612 Power line, 616 Power line, 622 First connection terminal, 624 Second connection terminal, 626 Third connection terminal, 632 Switching unit, 634 Resistor, 636 Wiring, 640 DC / DC converter, 642 Wiring, 712 Holding unit, 714 holding unit, 716 holding unit, 820 solid line, 824 dotted line, 826 dotted line, 844 solid line, 846 solid line, 920 solid line, 922 dotted line, 924 dotted line, 942 solid line, 944 solid line, 1010 power storage device, 1012 power terminal, 1016 power terminal, 1022 connection terminal, 1026 connection terminal, 1100 charging device, 1120 distribution board, 1130 charger, 3000 computer, 3001 DVD-ROM, 3010 host controller, 3012 CPU, 3014 RAM, 3016 graphics controller, 3018 display device, 3020 input / output controller, 3022 communication interface, 3024 hard disk drive, 3026 DVD-ROM drive, 3030 ROM, 3040Input / output chip, 3042 keyboard

Claims

1. a power storage unit having a first electrode and a second electrode; a first power terminal and a second power terminal electrically connected to the first electrode; a third power terminal electrically connected to the second electrode; a first switching unit that switches an electrical connection relationship between the first electrode and the first power terminal; Equipped with One end of the first switching unit is electrically connected to the first power terminal. the other end of the first switching unit is electrically connected to the first electrode and the second power terminal. Energy storage device.

2. The first switching unit is (i) when a voltage between terminals of the first switching unit satisfies a predetermined condition, the first switching unit electrically connects the first electrode and the first power terminal; (ii) when the inter-terminal voltage of the first switching unit does not satisfy the predetermined condition, the first switching unit electrically disconnects the first electrode and the first power terminal; The power storage device according to claim 1 .

3. a first control unit that controls the operation of the first switching unit; The first control unit (i) when a voltage between terminals of the first switching unit satisfies a predetermined condition, the first switching unit electrically connects the first electrode and the first power terminal; (ii) when the inter-terminal voltage of the first switching unit does not satisfy the predetermined condition, the first switching unit electrically disconnects the first electrode and the first power terminal; Controlling the first switching unit The power storage device according to claim 1 .

4. The power storage device is configured to be detachable from other electrical equipment, each of the first power terminal, the second power terminal, and the third power terminal is configured to be detachable from a terminal of the other electric device; The power storage device according to claim 1 .

5. A power device configured to be able to input and output power, a first input / output terminal and a second input / output terminal for inputting and outputting power; a holding portion that detachably holds the power storage device according to claim 1; Equipped with The holding portion is a first connection terminal configured to be electrically connectable to the first power terminal when the holding portion holds the power storage device; a second connection terminal configured to be electrically connectable to the second power terminal when the holding portion holds the power storage device; a third connection terminal configured to be electrically connectable to the third power terminal when the holding portion holds the power storage device; a power adjustment unit configured to be able to supply power to the power storage unit via the second connection terminal and / or to be able to discharge power from the power storage unit via the second connection terminal; and the first connection terminal is electrically connected to the first input / output terminal; the third connection terminal is electrically connected to the second input / output terminal; Power equipment.

6. a second switching unit disposed between a first power line electrically connecting the first connection terminal and the first input / output terminal and the second connection terminal, and configured to switch an electrical connection relationship between the first power line and the second connection terminal; one end of the second switching unit is electrically connected to the first power line, the other end of the second switching portion is electrically connected to the second connection terminal, The power adjustment unit power can be supplied to the power storage unit via a first connection wiring that connects the other end of the second switching unit and the second connection terminal; and / or The power storage unit is configured to be able to release power via the first connection wiring. The power device of claim 5.

7. the power device includes a plurality of the holding portions, the power device further includes a second control unit that controls an operation of the second switching unit disposed in each of the plurality of holding units, The second control unit is (a) when the power device is electrically connected to a load, the second switching unit disposed in a holding unit that holds the power storage device having the highest voltage among the plurality of holding units controls the second switching unit so that the first power line and the second connection terminal are electrically connected; and / or (b) when the power device is electrically connected to the charging device, the second switching unit disposed in a holding unit that holds the power storage device with the lowest voltage among the plurality of holding units controls the second switching unit so that the first power line and the second connection terminal are electrically connected; The power device of claim 6.

8. the power device further includes a third control unit that controls an operation of the power adjustment unit; The third control unit is (a) controlling the power adjustment unit so that, when the power device is electrically connected to a load, (i) the first switching unit of the power storage device held by the holding unit electrically disconnects the first electrode and the first power terminal, and (ii) the absolute value of the potential difference between the first input / output terminal and the second connection terminal is greater than a predetermined value; and / or (b) when the power device is electrically connected to a charging device, (i) the first switching unit of the power storage device held by the holding unit electrically disconnects the first electrode and the first power terminal, and (ii) the absolute value of the potential difference between the first input / output terminal and the second connection terminal is greater than a predetermined value, the power adjustment unit is controlled so that the power adjustment unit releases power from the power storage unit. The power device of claim 5.

9. the power device includes a plurality of the holding portions, the power device further includes a third control unit that controls an operation of the power adjustment unit disposed in each of the plurality of holding units; The third control unit is (a) when the power device is electrically connected to a load, the power adjustment unit is controlled so that the power adjustment unit disposed in a holding unit other than the holding unit that holds the power storage device with the highest voltage among the plurality of holding units supplies power to the power storage unit; and / or (b) when the power device is electrically connected to a charging device, the power adjustment unit disposed in a holding unit other than the holding unit holding the power storage device with the lowest voltage among the plurality of holding units is controlled to release power from the power storage unit; The power device of claim 5.

10. The power adjustment unit a current supplied to the power storage unit or a current discharged from the power storage unit is adjusted according to a potential difference between the first input / output terminal and the second connection terminal; The power device of claim 5.

11. a rated output current of the power adjustment unit is smaller than a rated input current of the power storage device; The power device of claim 5.

12. The power adjustment unit has a DC / DC converter. The power device of claim 5.

13. the power adjustment unit has a bidirectional DC / DC converter; The power device of claim 5.

14. A power system configured to be able to input and output power, a first input / output terminal for inputting and outputting power; a power storage unit having a first electrode; a first switching unit that switches an electrical connection relationship between the first electrode and the first input / output terminal; a power adjustment unit configured to be able to supply power to the power storage unit without going through the first switching unit and / or to be able to release power from the power storage unit without going through the first switching unit; one end of the first switching unit is electrically connected to the first input / output terminal, the other end of the first switching portion is electrically connected to the first electrode, The first switching unit is (i) when a voltage between terminals of the first switching unit satisfies a predetermined condition, the first switching unit electrically connects the first electrode and the first input / output terminal; (ii) when the inter-terminal voltage of the first switching unit does not satisfy the predetermined condition, the first switching unit electrically disconnects the first electrode and the first input / output terminal; The power adjustment unit (a) when the power system is electrically connected to a load, (i) the first switching unit electrically disconnects the first electrode and the first input / output terminal, and (ii) when the absolute value of a potential difference between the first electrode and the first input / output terminal is greater than a predetermined value, supplies power to the power storage unit; and / or (b) when the power system is electrically connected to a charging device, (i) the first switching unit electrically disconnects the first electrode and the first input / output terminal, and (ii) when the absolute value of the potential difference between the first electrode and the first input / output terminal is greater than a predetermined value, discharges power from the power storage unit. Power system.

15. a second switching unit disposed between the first input / output terminal and the first electrode and configured to switch an electrical connection relationship between the first input / output terminal and the first electrode; one end of the second switching unit is electrically connected to the first input / output terminal and the one end of the first switching unit; the other end of the second switching portion is electrically connected to the first electrode and the other end of the first switching portion; The power adjustment unit and / or, configured to be able to supply power to the power storage unit via a second connection wiring that connects the other end of the second switching unit and the first electrode. The power storage unit is configured to be able to release power via the second connection wiring. The power system of claim 14.

16. The power system includes: one or more other power storage units; a second control unit that controls the operation of the second switching unit; Furthermore, The second control unit is (a) when the power system is electrically connected to a load, and the power storage unit has a voltage higher than all of the one or more other power storage units, controlling the second switching unit so that the second switching unit electrically connects the first input / output terminal and the first electrode; and / or (b) when the power system is electrically connected to a charging device, and when the power storage unit has a voltage lower than all of the one or more other power storage units, controlling the second switching unit so that the second switching unit electrically connects the first input / output terminal and the first electrode; 16. The power system of claim 15.

Images