Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program capable of obtaining an evaluation value for evaluating a battery so as to be more effectively utilized.SOLUTION: The information processing apparatus includes a calculation unit. The calculation unit calculates an evaluation value of the battery for each of the plurality of phases using phase data that is time-series data including one or more of a voltage, a current, power, and a temperature of the battery for each of the plurality of phases.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Battery cells can be used in a number of ways, including as a battery module (battery assembly) made up of multiple battery cells, or as a battery system made up of multiple battery modules. When guaranteeing the performance of a battery system, for example, focusing on degradation, the degree of degradation varies greatly depending on the operating method (method of operation), making it difficult to assess an appropriate warranty cost. In addition, users may unintentionally accelerate degradation because they do not know the cause of degradation during operation. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 7435101 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 5768001 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program that can determine an evaluation value for evaluating a battery so that the battery can be used more effectively. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] An information processing device according to an embodiment includes a calculation unit that calculates an evaluation value of a battery for each of a plurality of phases using phase data that is time-series data including one or more of a voltage, a current, a power, and a temperature of the battery for each of a plurality of phases. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an information processing system. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of division of phase data. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of division of phase data. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of division of phase data. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart of a calculation process. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of changes in values ​​of physical quantities included in time-series data. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a battery temperature estimated from time-series data. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of dividing time-series data into multiple phases. [Figure 9] A diagram showing the change in reaction rate. [Figure 10] A diagram showing the change in reaction rate. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart of a calculation process. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a hardware configuration diagram of an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of an information processing apparatus according to the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0008] The battery can be constructed in various units as follows: The smallest unit: the battery cell -Battery module with multiple battery cells connected in series and parallel A battery unit consisting of multiple battery modules connected in series according to the required voltage A battery system in which multiple battery units are connected in parallel until the required storage capacity is achieved.

[0009] In the following embodiments, a battery including one or more battery cells will be described as an example. The battery configuration is not limited to this, and the battery may be configured with any unit. Furthermore, the battery may be, for example, a storage battery that can be charged and discharged multiple times, or any other type of battery.

[0010] In the conventional business model, even if the performance of a battery was improved, there were cases where the seller of the battery did not receive much benefit. For example, if the battery life was extended, it became possible to use the battery for a long period of time after purchasing it. Therefore, it was difficult for the seller to benefit from the performance improvement (longer life) unless the selling price was significantly increased.

[0011] The performance of a battery changes with use. For example, it is known that when the temperature of a battery increases during use, the increase in temperature accelerates chemical reactions, causing a change in the battery's performance.

[0012] One possible technology for more effective battery utilization is to analyze battery driving data provided by users, determine battery degradation, and suggest improvements to driving methods. If users are unable to obtain information to determine the benefits of providing driving data, they must determine for themselves, for example, whether the benefits of providing driving data exceed the costs of providing the data. The burden of such work can be a hindrance, resulting in data not being provided and making it impossible to suggest improvements to driving methods. In other words, batteries cannot be utilized more effectively, and battery performance may deteriorate.

[0013] In this embodiment, the evaluation value of the battery is calculated using time-series data including the physical quantities of the battery for each of a plurality of phases (operation phases) determined according to the operating conditions of the battery. By referring to the evaluation value for each phase, the user can easily understand, for example, the operating factors that caused the performance change during operation.

[0014] The evaluation value can be used to determine whether to reduce the difference between the evaluation value expected at the time of introduction and the evaluation value obtained during operation, as well as to assess appropriate warranty costs. If users improve their operating methods based on the evaluation value, it is possible to reduce the warranty costs themselves. In addition, users can easily determine the benefits they can gain by providing operating data based on the output evaluation value, etc. This increases the likelihood that users will provide operating data, and makes it possible to maximize battery performance by proposing improvements to operating methods using the provided operating data.

[0015] The information processing system of this embodiment mainly comprises the following three components. Component E1: An acquisition unit that acquires information related to the input and output of the battery (operation information related to operation). The acquired information is time-series data including one or more of voltage, current, power, and temperature. Battery input means, for example, charging a battery, which is a storage battery. Battery output means, for example, discharging from the battery. In addition to this information, other parameters that affect changes in battery performance, such as temperature, may also be acquired. Component E2: A division unit that divides time series data obtained during a target period (for example, one day) into phase data for each of a plurality of phases. Component E3: A calculation unit that calculates an evaluation value (e.g., a deterioration level) for the battery for each of a plurality of phases. The evaluation value may be not only a value based on a physical quantity, but also a qualitative index, such as a value with a fixed maximum value (e.g., 100 points).

[0016] The information processing system of this embodiment may further include the following components. Component E4: An output control unit that outputs the calculated evaluation value to the user.

[0017] For example, when battery degradation caused by high temperatures is considered under conditions where the amount of battery usage varies with time, the following processing is performed. Acquisition unit: Acquires time-series data including information indicating the input and output of the battery, such as voltage, and information necessary to estimate the temperature state of the battery, such as the temperature detected by the sensor (sensor temperature). Splitting part: Splits the time series data acquired during the target period into phase data for each of multiple phases. Calculation unit: Calculates the degree of deterioration (an example of an evaluation value) for each phase from the estimated battery temperature state, and calculates a score (an example of an evaluation value) when the degree of deterioration is below a certain level, with the maximum value (100 points).

[0018] This allows users to understand which periods of operation during the target period (for example, one day) contributed to the deterioration and to what extent, and this can be reflected in future improvements to operation.

[0019] An example of the configuration of an information processing system including the above-described components will be described.

[0020] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of an information processing system 10. The information processing system 10 includes an information processing device 100 and a battery 200. The information processing device 100 and the battery 200 are connected so as to be able to exchange data or signals.

[0021] For example, the information processing device 100 and the battery 200 are connected via a network 300. The network 300 may be a wired network, a wireless network, or a network that combines wired and wireless networks. The network 300 may be, for example, the Internet. The method of connection between the information processing device 100 and the battery 200 is not limited to a method via the network 300, and may be any other method, such as connection via a signal line.

[0022] 1 illustrates one battery 200, the information processing system 10 may include two or more batteries 200. The information processing system 10 may further include other devices used to exchange data or signals between the battery 200 and the information processing device 100.

[0023] The battery 200 includes one or more battery cells. The battery 200 may include, for example, one or more sensors 201. The sensor 201 may be provided outside the battery 200 or may be provided inside another device connected to the battery 200.

[0024] Each of the one or more sensors 201 is installed, for example, at one or more predetermined locations to be measured. Each of the sensors 201 detects physical quantities, such as temperature, current, and voltage, at the location where it is installed, and outputs the detection results as detected values. The physical quantities and detected values ​​are expressed, for example, as numerical values ​​indicating temperature, current, voltage, etc. The physical quantities and detected values ​​may include information related to environmental information, such as air pressure and temperature. The physical quantities and detected values ​​may also include information that affects other physical quantities, such as wind speed and the rotation speed of an air-cooling fan.

[0025] The sensor 201 may output, as a detection result, information that is not directly a physical quantity but that affects the physical quantity, such as an operation mode. The operation mode is information that represents the manner or form of operation of the battery 200. For example, the operation mode includes a high-power operation mode and a low-power operation mode. As will be described later, the operation mode can be used as information that represents the operating status of the battery 200.

[0026] It is desirable that the detected physical quantities include information that allows the operating status of the battery 200, such as current and voltage, to be more easily understood, as this is likely to lead to improved driving by the user. In cases where several operating modes have been determined in advance, it is desirable to detect which operating mode is in use, as this is thought to be more likely to lead to improved driving. Furthermore, for example, when considering performance changes due to temperature, it is desirable that the detected physical quantities include temperature, as this allows for improved accuracy in estimating the temperature state of the battery 200.

[0027] Next, a description will be given of an example configuration of the information processing device 100. As shown in Fig. 1, the information processing device 100 includes an acquisition unit 101, a division unit 102, a calculation unit 103, an output control unit 104, a storage unit 121, and a display unit 122.

[0028] The acquiring unit 101 acquires various information used in the information processing device 100. For example, the acquiring unit 101 acquires phase data, which is time-series data including physical quantities (one or more of voltage, current, power, and temperature) of the battery 200 for each of a plurality of phases.

[0029] The time-series data is, for example, data obtained by the sensor 201 monitoring the battery 200. The time-series data is, for example, data in a format in which time is associated with a physical quantity detected at that time. The time-series data may be transmitted to the information processing device 100 every time it is detected by the sensor 201 (in real time), or may be transmitted to the information processing device 100 at regular intervals.

[0030] The acquiring unit 101 acquires time-series data including the physical quantity of the battery 200 detected by the sensor 201, for example, via the network 300. The acquiring unit 101 may acquire the time-series data via another device used to exchange data or signals between the battery 200 and the information processing device 100.

[0031] Note that the sensor temperature represents the temperature at the location where the sensor 201 is installed, but may not accurately represent the temperature of each battery cell included in the battery 200, for example. Therefore, the acquisition unit 101 may estimate the temperature of each battery cell from the sensor temperature. The estimated temperature is used in subsequent processing as time-series data representing the temperature.

[0032] After the acquisition unit 101 acquires time series data for a target period of a certain length (for example, one day), the division unit 102 divides the acquired time series data into phase data for each of a plurality of phases. The method of acquiring phase data is not limited to the method of dividing the time series data. Examples of other acquisition methods will be described in the modified examples.

[0033] An example of division of time series data will be described. As described above, the multiple phases are determined according to the operating status of the battery 200. The operating status can be expressed, for example, by a physical quantity of the battery 200 or an operating mode. For example, when a physical quantity (voltage, current, or power) corresponding to the output of the battery 200 is used as the operating status, multiple phases (for example, two phases corresponding to high output and low output) are determined according to the magnitude of the output. Hereinafter, the physical quantity used as the operating status will be referred to as a physical quantity PA. The physical quantity PA may be one of the physical quantities included in the time series data, or may be a physical quantity calculated from one or more physical quantities included in the time series data.

[0034] The dividing unit 102 divides the time series data into a plurality of phase data using one or more thresholds TH1 (first thresholds) for comparison with the value of the physical quantity PA. For example, the dividing unit 102 divides the time series data into a plurality of phase data using the time when the value of the physical quantity PA matches the threshold TH1 as a boundary.

[0035] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of division of phase data, in which time series data 21 is divided into five phase data corresponding to five phases PH1 to PH5 at four time boundaries.

[0036] If it is known in advance that dividing a phase at a certain time is effective, the dividing unit 102 may divide the time series data into multiple phase data with a predetermined time as the boundary. For example, when dividing a phase into morning and afternoon, the dividing unit 102 divides the time series data into two phase data with noon (12:00) as the boundary.

[0037] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of division of phase data in such a case. Fig. 3 shows an example in which time series data 21 is divided into two phase data corresponding to two phases PH1 and PH2 with 12 o'clock as the boundary.

[0038] When the driving situation is represented by a driving mode, the dividing unit 102 may divide the time series data into a plurality of phase data depending on which driving mode the data corresponds to. For example, when the time series data output by the sensor 201 includes information indicating the driving mode, the dividing unit 102 divides the time series data including the same driving mode into one phase data.

[0039] Fig. 4 shows an example of division of phase data in such a case. Fig. 4 shows an example in which the time-series data 21 is divided into two phase data corresponding to a phase PH1 corresponding to an operation mode in which the vehicle is operated at a high power output and a phase PH2 corresponding to an operation mode in which the vehicle is operated at a low power output.

[0040] The dividing unit 102 may divide the time series data according to the operation mode by comparing the value of the physical quantity with a threshold value, instead of using the information indicating the operation mode included in the time series data.

[0041] The dividing unit 102 may divide the time series data into a plurality of phase data using, as boundaries, times at which the amount of change (e.g., a differential value) in the value of the physical quantity PA matches a threshold value TH2 (second threshold value) of the amount of change. The dividing unit 102 may divide the time series data into a plurality of phase data using, as boundaries, at least some of the times at which the value of the physical quantity PA matches a threshold value TH1, the times at which the amount of change in the value of the physical quantity PA matches a threshold value TH2, and a predetermined time.

[0042] The thresholds used for division (threshold TH1, threshold TH2) may be preset values. For example, values ​​at which the evaluation value is expected to change significantly based on an analysis of expected time-series data are set as the thresholds. This makes it possible to divide the time-series data more effectively.

[0043] The threshold may be set not only for a single physical quantity but also for multiple physical quantities in parallel. Furthermore, the threshold may be set for a value calculated from multiple physical quantities. For example, when a current and an environmental temperature are detected, the accuracy of estimating the temperature of the battery 200 can be improved by combining these. Therefore, by using a value calculated from the current and the environmental temperature as a value (physical quantity PA) to be compared with the threshold, it becomes possible to more effectively divide the time series data.

[0044] The dividing unit 102 may change at least one of the thresholds TH1 and TH2 in accordance with a history of at least one of the values ​​of the time-series data and the evaluation value stored in the storage unit 121, for example.

[0045] For example, when temperature is used as the physical quantity PA to be compared with the threshold, a situation may occur in which the temperature remains higher than expected for a longer period of time. In such a situation, the length of the period of phase data corresponding to temperatures higher than the threshold may be excessively longer than the length of the period of phase data corresponding to temperatures equal to or lower than the threshold. In other words, the time series data may not be effectively divided. In such a case, the dividing unit 102 may change the threshold to a larger value. This makes it possible to divide the time series data at high-temperature locations.

[0046] Returning to the explanation of Fig. 1, the calculation unit 103 calculates an evaluation value of the battery 200 for each of a plurality of phases using the phase data acquired for that phase. The evaluation value may be any index, for example, a performance change amount representing a change in performance (deterioration, etc.) of the battery 200.

[0047] The calculation unit 103 may calculate the evaluation value using past time-series data (phase data) stored in the storage unit 121 or past evaluation values ​​(evaluation values ​​calculated in advance).

[0048] The evaluation value may be not only a quantitative value (absolute value) such as the amount of change in performance of the battery 200, but also a relative value, for example, with 100 points being the highest score. Hereinafter, the quantitative value will be referred to as the evaluation value (narrowly defined evaluation value), and the relative value calculated from the evaluation value will be referred to as the score.

[0049] For example, the calculation unit 103 calculates the score based on the comparison result between the evaluation value and a reference value for the battery evaluation. The reference value is, for example, the maximum evaluation value. In this case, the calculation unit 103 calculates the score by, for example, (evaluation value / reference value)×100.

[0050] In a case where an evaluation value (pre-evaluation value) under assumed driving conditions has been obtained, the calculation unit 103 may calculate a score that represents the difference between the evaluation value and the pre-evaluation value.

[0051] The output control unit 104 controls the output of various information used in the information processing device 100. For example, the output control unit 104 causes the display unit 122 to display information indicating a plurality of phases and evaluation values ​​(including scores) calculated for each of the plurality of phases.

[0052] The output control unit 104 may display the information on a display device of a device external to the information processing device 100. In this case, the information processing device 100 does not need to include the display unit 122. The method of outputting the information is not limited to a method of displaying on a display device (such as the display unit 122), and may be any other method, such as a method of transmitting the information to the external device via the network 300.

[0053] Furthermore, the output control unit 104 may store the time-series data acquired from the sensor 201 and the calculated evaluation value in a storage medium such as the storage unit 121. The output control unit 104 may transmit the data acquired from the sensor 201 to another device via the cloud or the like.

[0054] At least a part of each of the above units (acquisition unit 101, division unit 102, calculation unit 103, and output control unit 104) may be realized by one or more processing units. Each of the above units is realized, for example, by one or more processors. For example, each of the above units may be realized by having a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) execute a program, that is, by software. Each of the above units may be realized by a processor such as a dedicated IC (Integrated Circuit), that is, by hardware. Each of the above units may be realized by a combination of software and hardware. When multiple processors are used, each processor may realize one of the units, or may realize two or more of the units.

[0055] The storage unit 121 stores various types of information used in the information processing device. For example, the storage unit 121 stores information (time-series data) acquired by the acquisition unit 101, processing results (phase data, etc.) by the division unit 102, and processing results (evaluation values, scores, etc.) by the calculation unit 103.

[0056] The storage unit 121 can be configured from any commonly used storage medium such as a flash memory, a memory card, a RAM (Random Access Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), and an optical disk.

[0057] The display unit 122 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display for displaying various types of information. The display unit 122 displays information under the control of the output control unit 104.

[0058] The information processing device 100 may be physically configured as one device or may be physically configured as multiple devices. For example, the information processing device 100 may be a device such as a server or a workstation, or may be constructed in a cloud environment. Furthermore, each unit within the information processing device 100 may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0059] Next, a description will be given of the calculation process of the evaluation value by the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment. Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the calculation process according to the embodiment.

[0060] The acquiring unit 101 acquires time series data detected during operation of the battery 200 from the battery 200, for example, via the network 300 (step S101). The dividing unit 102 divides the time series data acquired during a target period into a plurality of phase data (step S102).

[0061] The calculation unit 103 calculates an evaluation value of the battery for each of a plurality of phases using the phase data (step S103). When calculating the score as one of the evaluation values, the following process is executed.

[0062] That is, the calculation unit 103 compares the evaluation value with a reference value for each of the multiple phases (step S104). The calculation unit 103 calculates a score for each of the multiple phases using the comparison result between the evaluation value and the reference value (step S105).

[0063] The output control unit 104 displays the calculated score on, for example, the display unit 122 (step S106), and ends the calculation process.

[0064] The output control unit 104 may display multiple evaluation values ​​for a phase (phase data). For example, the output control unit 104 may display both an evaluation value, which is an absolute value, and a score, which is a relative evaluation value. By displaying the relative score, the user can know, for example, the degree of improvement in driving.

[0065] The output control unit 104 may display an advice message that leads to driving improvement based on the evaluation value. The advice message is, for example, a message that is determined for each evaluation value.

[0066] A specific example of the calculation process of the evaluation value will be described. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of changes in the value of a physical quantity included in time-series data. For convenience of explanation, Fig. 6 shows an example of changes in the value of one physical quantity, but the time-series data may include multiple physical quantities.

[0067] Consider a situation in which the battery 200 is operated with an output as shown in FIG. 6, and the temperature of the battery 200 increases, accelerating chemical reactions and causing the performance of the battery 200 to deteriorate.

[0068] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the temperature of battery 200 estimated from the time-series data of Fig. 6. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of dividing time-series data into a plurality of phases using the temperature as shown in Fig. 7 as the physical quantity PA.

[0069] In the example of Figure 8, the time series data is divided into five phase data corresponding to five phases PH1 to PH5, with the boundaries being the time when the temperature value matches the threshold value TH1 (e.g., time t1, t2, t4) and the time when the change in the temperature value matches the threshold value TH2 (e.g., time t3).

[0070] The acceleration of a chemical reaction due to temperature follows, for example, the Arrhenius equation shown below in equation (1).

number

[0071] where k is the reaction rate constant (reaction rate), A is a constant (frequency factor), E a is the activation energy, R is the gas constant, and T is the absolute temperature. The reaction rate k can be used as an evaluation value.

[0072] According to the Arrhenius equation, the reaction rate k changes with temperature depending on the activation energy. Figures 9 and 10 show the change in reaction rate k when the activation energy is set to one of two appropriate values, along with the temperature that changes as in Figure 8. In Figure 9, the reaction rate is high in many phases (e.g., phases PH2 to PH5). On the other hand, in Figure 10, the reaction rate is high only in some phases (e.g., phase PH3). In this way, the distribution of reaction rate k varies depending on the value of activation energy.

[0073] 9 and 10, the reaction amount is assumed to be the same throughout the entire target period (e.g., one day). The reaction amount throughout is, for example, the integral value of the reaction rate k over the entire target period.

[0074] If the time-series data is not divided into phases and the response amount for the entire target period is used as the evaluation value, the evaluation value (response amount) will be the same in Figures 9 and 10. This makes it difficult for users to identify the cause of performance degradation.

[0075] On the other hand, by dividing the time-series data by phase as in this embodiment, it is possible to calculate an evaluation value (e.g., reaction speed) for each phase. Therefore, in each of the cases shown in Figures 9 and 10, it is possible to identify the cause of performance deterioration and consider measures to improve the operating method.

[0076] For example, in Figure 9, it can be seen that deterioration (accelerated reaction rate) is progressing for most of the time during operation. Therefore, rather than reducing the maximum output, a measure to improve operating methods would be to shorten the overall output time. In Figure 10, it can be seen that deterioration is particularly progressing in phases where high output causes high temperatures. Therefore, a measure to improve operating methods would be to reduce output to prevent high temperatures. In this way, dividing and evaluating time-series data by phase allows users to identify the cause of performance deterioration during operation, leading to improvements in operating methods.

[0077] The calculation unit 103 calculates an evaluation value for each phase. The output control unit 104 displays the evaluation value calculated for each phase. As described above, the evaluation value may be a score with 100 points being the maximum score. For example, the calculation unit 103 uses the maximum value of the reaction rate k in each phase as a reference value, and calculates a score of 100 points when the score matches the reference value. Scores below the reference value are calculated as, for example, 70 points, 20 points, 50 points, or 80 points.

[0078] (Variation) The phase data for each of the multiple phases is not limited to being acquired by dividing the time series data obtained in the target period. For example, the acquiring unit 101 may acquire, as the phase data for phase PH, time series data input in a period that satisfies a condition for phase PH (first phase), which is one of the multiple phases.

[0079] For example, when time-series data is received from the battery 200, the acquisition unit 101 acquires data from the start time t0 of reception to the time t1 when the value of the physical quantity PA reaches the threshold value TH1 as phase data of phase PH. In this example, the condition is that the threshold value TH1 has not been reached. Thereafter, the acquisition unit 101 acquires data from the time t1 to the time t2 when the value of the physical quantity PA reaches the threshold value TH1 again as phase data of the next phase PH. Thereafter, by repeating the same process, phase data for each of a plurality of phases is acquired. Each time the time measured by a timer or the like reaches a certain time, the acquisition unit 101 may acquire the time-series data received within the certain time as phase data of phase PH. In this example, the condition is that the certain time has not been reached.

[0080] The above example can be interpreted as an example in which the acquiring unit 101 sequentially (in real time) receives time-series data from the battery 200 and acquires the time-series data input during a period that satisfies a condition as phase data of phase PH. That is, the acquiring unit 101 can be interpreted as an example in which the acquiring unit 101 determines the condition. Such determination of the condition may be performed by the battery 200 (or the sensor 201). For example, the battery 200 transmits to the information processing device 100 time-series data detected by the sensor 201 from the reception start time t0 to the time t1 at which the value of the physical quantity PA reaches the threshold value TH1. The battery 200 may transmit to the information processing device 100 time-series data detected by the sensor 201 within the certain time each time a time measured by a timer or the like reaches a certain time. In this case, the acquiring unit 101 acquires the transmitted time-series data as phase data of phase PH.

[0081] Next, an example of a business model that utilizes the information processing system 10 of this embodiment will be described.

[0082] (Business model example 1) First, the flow of support in a one-time sales business model is shown. First, data on expected operating conditions is obtained from the user, and a preliminary evaluation is performed by analyzing the expected operation. This analysis may be performed by the information processing device 100, or, in the case of large-scale calculations, may be performed by a computing device for large-scale calculations other than the information processing device 100.

[0083] The operating conditions are, for example, conditions indicating the level of output (voltage, current, power, etc.) and temperature at which the system should be operated. The pre-evaluation is, for example, a process of calculating an evaluation value (pre-evaluation value) using evaluation data that satisfies the operating conditions. The pre-evaluation value does not have to be calculated for each phase.

[0084] When operation is started, an evaluation value is calculated and displayed using the information processing device 100. This makes it possible to predict deterioration in the performance of the battery 200 and provide assistance to the user in improving operation to prevent deterioration. At this time, since a pre-evaluation has been performed, the difference between the evaluation value and the pre-evaluation value can be used to calculate the score.

[0085] By using the evaluation value obtained by the information processing device 100, it is possible not only to improve the user's driving method voluntarily, but also to suggest improvements to the driving method and consider maintenance such as rotation of the battery cells included in the battery 200.

[0086] By using the evaluation value obtained by the information processing device 100, it is possible to propose not only changes to the conditions of use such as maintenance, but also changes to the warranty conditions. The warranty conditions are, for example, conditions for the performance of the battery 200 guaranteed to the user. By using the evaluation value, it is possible to present to the user the basis for changing the warranty conditions and the basis for the warranty costs corresponding to the changed warranty conditions.

[0087] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a process for calculating an evaluation value, including a process for proposing a change in a guarantee condition.

[0088] Steps S201 to S203 are the same as steps S101 to S103 in FIG. 5, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0089] In this example, the calculation unit 103 compares the evaluation value with the pre-evaluation value (step S204). The calculation unit 103 determines whether the evaluation value is close to the pre-evaluation value (step S205). The evaluation value being close to the pre-evaluation value means, for example, that the difference between the evaluation value and the pre-evaluation value is smaller than a threshold value.

[0090] If the evaluation value is close to the pre-evaluation value (step S205: Yes), the output control unit 104 displays information indicating that the evaluation value is close to the pre-evaluation value, for example, on the display unit 122 (step S206), and ends the calculation process.

[0091] If the evaluation value is not close to the pre-evaluation value (step S205: No), the calculation unit 103 calculates new guarantee conditions (step S207). For example, the calculation unit 103 determines operating conditions that can achieve operation improvement based on the evaluation value, and calculates guarantee conditions corresponding to the determined operating conditions.

[0092] In this way, the calculation unit 103 may calculate the performance guarantee conditions for the battery 200 based on the result of comparison between the calculated evaluation value and the reference value for the battery evaluation (pre-evaluation value in this example).

[0093] The output control unit 104 displays information indicating the calculated new guarantee conditions on, for example, the display unit 122 (step S208), and ends the calculation process.

[0094] In addition to the user's voluntary improvement of the operation method, by considering maintenance, it is possible to reduce the difference from the pre-assessment at the time of installation of the information processing system 10. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce the cost of replacing the battery 200 by providing appropriate support and operation. In this way, the use of the information processing device 100 of this embodiment can bring benefits to both the user and the seller.

[0095] (Business model example 2) Next, we will show the flow of the business model for subscription and leasing. In this case, as with the outright sale model, data on the expected operating conditions is obtained from the user and a pre-evaluation is performed. In the subscription and leasing models, the subscription price is determined based on the results of the pre-evaluation.

[0096] When operation starts, the evaluation value is calculated and displayed using the information processing device 100, similar to the case of the one-time purchase type. In this example, it is possible to use a value that predicts the impact of performance degradation on the subscription price as the evaluation value to be displayed.

[0097] For example, the calculation unit 103 calculates the fee conditions (e.g., subscription price) for operating the battery 200 based on a comparison result between the calculated evaluation value and a reference value for the battery evaluation (e.g., a pre-evaluation value). The output control unit 104 displays information indicating the calculated fee conditions on, for example, the display unit 122.

[0098] This allows users to compare losses due to changes in operating conditions and fluctuations in subscription prices for each phase. This is expected to lead to improved driving practices by users compared to, for example, a one-time purchase model. Furthermore, by displaying and communicating evaluation values ​​to users as they drive, it is possible to ensure a sense of satisfaction when subscription prices change. Furthermore, it is possible to clarify responsibility in the event of a problem. Furthermore, as with a one-time purchase model, measures to prevent performance degradation, such as maintenance considerations, can be implemented not only by users but also by sellers, thereby reducing the difference from the pre-evaluation. In this way, evaluations using the information processing device 100 of this embodiment enable performance maintenance through operational improvements and increased user satisfaction with the price.

[0099] As described above, the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment can obtain an evaluation value for evaluating a battery so that the battery can be used more effectively.

[0100] Next, the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0101] The information processing device of the embodiment includes a control device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 51, a storage device such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) 52 and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 53, a communication I / F 54 that connects to a network and communicates, and a bus 61 that connects each part.

[0102] The programs executed by the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment are provided in advance in the ROM 52 or the like.

[0103] The program executed by the information processing device of the embodiment may be configured to be provided as a computer program product by being recorded in an installable or executable format on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R (Compact Disk Recordable), or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk).

[0104] Furthermore, the program executed by the information processing apparatus of the embodiment may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network. Also, the program executed by the information processing apparatus of the embodiment may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0105] The programs executed by the information processing device of the embodiment can cause a computer to function as each of the above-mentioned parts of the information processing device. In this computer, the CPU 51 can read the programs from a computer-readable storage medium onto a main storage device and execute them.

[0106] A configuration example of the embodiment will be described below. (Configuration example 1) a calculation unit that calculates an evaluation value of the battery for each of a plurality of phases using phase data that is time-series data including one or more of a voltage, a current, a power, and a temperature of the battery for each of the plurality of phases; Information processing device. (Configuration example 2) an acquisition unit that acquires the time series data obtained during a target period; a dividing unit that divides the time series data obtained during the target period into the phase data for each of the plurality of phases, The information processing device according to configuration example 1. (Configuration example 3) the dividing unit divides the time series data obtained during the target period into the plurality of phases using at least some of the boundaries of a time when the value of the time series data matches a first threshold, a time when an amount of change in the value of the time series data matches a second threshold, and a predetermined time; The information processing device according to configuration example 2. (Configuration example 4) the dividing unit changes at least one of the first threshold and the second threshold in accordance with a history of at least one of the value of the time-series data and the evaluation value. The information processing device according to configuration example 3. (Configuration Example 5) further comprising an acquisition unit that acquires the phase data for each of the plurality of phases; The information processing device according to any one of configuration examples 1 to 4. (Configuration Example 6) the acquiring unit acquires, as the phase data of the first phase, the time-series data input during a period that satisfies a condition for a first phase among the plurality of phases; The information processing device according to configuration example 5. (Configuration Example 7) further comprising an output control unit that displays the evaluation value on a display unit. The information processing device according to any one of configuration examples 1 to 6. (Configuration Example 8) the calculation unit calculates a score based on a comparison result between the evaluation value and a reference value for evaluation of the battery. The information processing device according to any one of configuration examples 1 to 7. (Configuration Example 9) the calculation unit calculates at least one of a performance guarantee condition for the battery and a fee condition for operating the battery based on a comparison result between the evaluation value and a reference value for evaluation of the battery. The information processing device according to any one of configuration examples 1 to 8. (Configuration Example 10) an output control unit that stores the time-series data and the evaluation value in a storage unit; The information processing device according to any one of configuration examples 1 to 9. (Configuration Example 11) An information processing method executed by an information processing device, a calculation step of calculating an evaluation value of the battery for each of a plurality of phases using phase data that is time-series data including one or more of the voltage, current, power, and temperature of the battery for each of the plurality of phases; An information processing method including: (Configuration Example 12) On the computer, a calculation step of calculating an evaluation value of the battery for each of a plurality of phases using phase data that is time-series data including one or more of the voltage, current, power, and temperature of the battery for each of the plurality of phases; A program to execute.

[0107] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0108] 10 Information Processing Systems 100 Information processing device 101 Acquisition Department 102 Division 103 Calculation Unit 104 Output control section 121 Storage section 122 Display section 200 batteries 300 Network

Claims

1. a calculation unit that calculates an evaluation value of the battery for each of a plurality of phases using phase data that is time-series data including one or more of a voltage, a current, a power, and a temperature of the battery for each of the plurality of phases; Information processing device.

2. an acquisition unit that acquires the time series data obtained during a target period; a dividing unit that divides the time series data obtained during the target period into the phase data for each of the plurality of phases, The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. the dividing unit divides the time series data obtained during the target period into the plurality of phases, using as boundaries at least some of the times when the value of the time series data matches a first threshold, the times when an amount of change in the value of the time series data matches a second threshold, and a predetermined time; The information processing device according to claim 2 .

4. the dividing unit changes at least one of the first threshold and the second threshold in accordance with a history of at least one of the value of the time-series data and the evaluation value. The information processing device according to claim 3 .

5. further comprising an acquisition unit that acquires the phase data for each of the plurality of phases; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

6. the acquisition unit acquires, as the phase data of the first phase, the time-series data input during a period that satisfies a condition for a first phase among the plurality of phases; The information processing device according to claim 5 .

7. further comprising an output control unit that displays the evaluation value on a display unit. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

8. the calculation unit calculates a score based on a comparison result between the evaluation value and a reference value for evaluation of the battery. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

9. the calculation unit calculates at least one of a performance guarantee condition for the battery and a fee condition for operating the battery based on a comparison result between the evaluation value and a reference value for evaluation of the battery. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

10. an output control unit that stores the time-series data and the evaluation value in a storage unit; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

11. An information processing method executed by an information processing device, a calculation step of calculating an evaluation value of the battery for each of a plurality of phases using phase data that is time-series data including one or more of the voltage, current, power, and temperature of the battery for each of the plurality of phases; An information processing method including:

12. On the computer, a calculation step of calculating an evaluation value of the battery for each of a plurality of phases using phase data that is time-series data including one or more of the voltage, current, power, and temperature of the battery for each of the plurality of phases; A program to execute.

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