Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide a technique for trading rights related to recycled batteries.SOLUTION: An information processing device that manages a transaction of a battery member constituting an in-vehicle battery. Receiving registration of information regarding a first battery member which is a recycled battery member from a first company, receiving registration of information regarding a second battery member which is a new battery member from a second company, and assigning an identifier as a new product to the information regarding the first battery member and assigning an identifier as a recycled product to the information regarding the second battery member in a case where a transaction is established between the first company and the second company.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to vehicle technology. [Background technology]

[0002] Methods for reducing the cost of batteries in electric vehicles are being studied. In this regard, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a management method for suppressing the price of batteries in electric vehicles. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-126305 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure aims to provide a technique for trading rights related to recycled batteries. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure is An information processing device that manages transactions of battery components that make up an on-board battery has a control unit that performs the following operations: accepts registration of information regarding a first battery component that is a recycled battery component from a first business operator; accepts registration of information regarding a second battery component that is a new battery component from a second business operator; and, when a transaction is concluded between the first business operator and the second business operator, assigns an identifier indicating a new product to the information regarding the first battery component and an identifier indicating a recycled product to the information regarding the second battery component.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure is An information processing method executed by an information processing device that manages transactions of battery components that constitute an on-board battery includes accepting registration of information regarding a first battery component that is a recycled battery component from a first business operator, accepting registration of information regarding a second battery component that is a new battery component from a second business operator, and, when a transaction is concluded between the first business operator and the second business operator, assigning an identifier indicating a new product to the information regarding the first battery component and assigning an identifier indicating a recycled product to the information regarding the second battery component.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to execute the above-described method, or a computer-readable storage medium that non-transitoryly stores the program. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, a technique for trading rights related to recycled batteries can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of a trading server according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of a management server according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of a carrier terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a software configuration diagram of a trading server according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is an example of a transaction ledger managed by a transaction server in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining rights trading. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a software configuration diagram of a management server according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] 3 is an example of a component ledger managed by a management server in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a software configuration diagram of a carrier terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram of a process for trading battery components. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart of a process executed by a trading server in the first embodiment. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart of a process executed by a trading server in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] In recent years, there has been an increase in automobiles that are equipped with drive batteries and can run on electricity as an energy source, such as battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).

[0011] As electric vehicles become more common, it is predicted that the business of removing and selling drive batteries (hereinafter referred to as on-board batteries) from used cars will become more active. However, if not recycled properly, on-board batteries could be harmful to the environment. To solve this problem, it is expected that certain rules will be established in the future for the methods and procedures for recycling vehicle batteries. For example, it is expected that when manufacturing automotive batteries, businesses will be required to use a certain percentage of recycled battery components depending on the scale of the business.

[0012] Battery components are elements that make up an on-board battery, such as a battery module, a battery cell, and electrodes used in the battery cell. If the use of a certain percentage of recycled battery components (hereinafter referred to as "recycled components") becomes mandatory, automotive battery manufacturers will need to purchase recycled components from recyclers in proportion to the amount of newly manufactured automotive batteries and transport them to the manufacturing plant. Therefore, if the use of recycled components becomes mandatory, there is a problem that the transportation costs of components will increase, which will increase the manufacturing costs of automotive batteries. Furthermore, the increase in transportation costs could actually result in an increase in the environmental burden. The information processing device according to the present disclosure provides a technique for solving such problems.

[0013] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is an information processing device that manages transactions of battery components that constitute an on-board battery, and has a control unit that performs the following operations: accepting registration of information regarding a first battery component that is a recycled battery component from a first business operator; accepting registration of information regarding a second battery component that is a new battery component from a second business operator; and, when a transaction is concluded between the first business operator and the second business operator, assigning an identifier indicating a new product to the information regarding the first battery component and assigning an identifier indicating a recycled product to the information regarding the second battery component.

[0014] The information processing device according to the present disclosure is a device that manages transactions of battery components (e.g., battery cells, components that constitute battery cells, etc.) between businesses. The transactions may involve the exchange of money, or may involve the exchange of battery components. When exchanging battery components, recycled battery components may be exchanged for new battery components. Normally, recycled battery components are less valuable than new battery components, but in cases where legal obligations can be fulfilled by using recycled battery components, it is expected that the recycled components will have an added value. The transaction may be conducted taking this added value into consideration.

[0015] The information processing device may be a device that accepts registration of information regarding battery components from multiple businesses wishing to do business, matches the businesses together, and then provides each business with information to carry out the transaction.

[0016] The information processing device according to the present disclosure accepts registration of information relating to a first battery component (recycled product) from a first business operator, and accepts registration of information relating to a second battery component (new product) from a second business operator. When a transaction is concluded between the two parties, an identifier for a new product is assigned to the information relating to the first battery component, which is a recycled product, and an identifier for a recycled product is assigned to the information relating to the second battery component, which is new. The information about the first battery component may originally be assigned an identifier indicating that it is a recycled product, and the information about the second battery component may originally be assigned an identifier indicating that it is a new product, in which case the identifiers of the two are exchanged.

[0017] The identifier is, for example, information indicating whether the target battery component is to be treated as a recycled product or a new product. The identifier may be held by a center server that manages information on battery components of all businesses. For example, a battery component that has been assigned an identifier as a recycled product can be used by a business that has been obligated to "manufacture automotive batteries using recycled products" to fulfill that obligation.

[0018] When an identifier is exchanged between a first battery component, which is a recycled product, and a second battery component, which is a new product, through the above-mentioned transaction, the second battery component, even though it is actually new, can be considered a recycled product and used to manufacture automotive batteries. Conversely, the first battery component involved in the transaction, even though it is a recycled product, will be treated as a new product. In other words, after the transaction is completed, the first battery component can no longer be used to fulfill the above-mentioned obligations. In other words, the rights that could originally be exercised as a recycled product will be lost.

[0019] In this way, by using the information processing device according to the present disclosure, only the identifier can be exchanged through a transaction. This configuration allows the transfer of only the rights associated with the battery component, which is a recycled product, without actually handing over the battery component. Note that, during the transaction, the second business operator may transfer the value to the first business operator.

[0020] The control unit may further acquire certification data indicating that the first battery component for which the transaction was concluded was incorporated into an in-vehicle battery without exercising the right as a recycled product. For example, after confirming that the first battery component has been incorporated into the in-vehicle battery as a new product using the certification data, the second battery component can be assigned an identifier as a recycled product, thereby preventing double exercise of rights. The certification data may be obtained, for example, from an external device that manages the manufacture of in-vehicle batteries.

[0021] When a transaction is concluded between the first business and the second business, the control unit may further transfer a consideration from the second business to the first business. This is because the first business loses the right to recycle the battery component it provides. The consideration is, for example, compensation for the right lost by the first business. The transfer of the consideration may be executed on the condition that the above-mentioned certification data is acquired.

[0022] The control unit may also acquire conditions related to the transaction from terminals corresponding to the first business operator and the second business operator, respectively, and match the first business operator with the second business operator based on the conditions.

[0023] The transaction may involve not only the exchange of identifiers (where the actual battery components are not handed over) but also the exchange of actual components. The conditions for the transaction may include information regarding the delivery location, delivery timing, price, etc. The control unit may match businesses that meet these conditions with each other.

[0024] Specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the hardware configuration, module configuration, functional configuration, etc. described in each embodiment are not intended to limit the technical scope of the disclosure to those configurations.

[0025] (First embodiment) An overview of a system according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. The system according to this embodiment is a system that manages components (battery components) for manufacturing battery packs designed for electric vehicles, and trades battery components between businesses. A battery pack is a unit that combines a vehicle's drive battery with a control computer (ECU) and other components. To manufacture a battery pack, battery components such as battery cells must be used. The battery components may be new or recycled. For example, a battery pack removed from a used vehicle can be disassembled and rebuilt to create recycled battery cells.

[0026] If it becomes mandatory to use a certain percentage of recycled battery components in the manufacture of battery packs, it is conceivable that battery components will be traded between businesses. For example, it is conceivable that recycled battery components will be purchased from other businesses and incorporated into the company's own products. The system according to the first embodiment supports such transactions.

[0027] The trading server 1 is a server device that provides information for trading battery components between businesses. For example, the trading server 1 acquires information on the battery components involved in the transaction from businesses that wish to trade, and matches businesses based on that information. It also provides the businesses with information necessary for the transaction.

[0028] The management server 2 is a server device that manages the entire battery pack supply system. The management server 2 manages information about battery components held by the business (for example, the owner of the battery components, the status of their incorporation into battery packs, etc.). The management server 2 also manages information indicating whether the battery components under its management are recycled or not using identification labels. By referring to the identification label for a given battery component, a third party can check the status of fulfillment of the obligation to use recycled components, etc. When a transaction is made between businesses, the transaction server 1 notifies the management server 2 of the results (for example, a change in owner, a change in identification label, etc.), and the management server 2 updates the information.

[0029] The business operator terminal 3 is a terminal owned by each business operator that trades battery components. The business operator uses the business operator terminal 3 to register information about the battery components that it owns in the management server 2. When trading battery components, the business operator also uses the business operator terminal 3 to register information necessary for the transaction in the trading server 1.

[0030] As shown in Fig. 1, a business that manufactures battery packs uses a business terminal 3 to register information (component information) about the battery components it owns in the management server 2. In addition, a business that wishes to trade battery components between businesses uses the business terminal 3 to , and registers information about the transaction (transaction information) in the transaction server 1. The trading server 1 matches businesses with each other based on the registered trading information and transmits information necessary for the transaction to each business's business terminal 3. If the transaction involves the transfer of money or battery components, the trading server 1 may mediate the exchange of information regarding the settlement or the transfer of the battery components. When the transaction is completed, the transaction server 1 notifies the management server 2 of the transaction result, and the management server 2 updates the information.

[0031] As mentioned above, the information about the battery components stored in the management server 2 is given an identification label indicating that the battery components are recycled products ("recycled product identifier" in this disclosure), or an identification label indicating that the battery components are new products ("new product identifier" in this disclosure). The status of fulfillment of the recycling obligation imposed on businesses is determined based on the identification label. That is, if a battery pack is manufactured using battery components that have been given an identification label as a recyclable product, the recycling obligation is deemed to have been fulfilled.

[0032] In addition to normal transactions involving the transfer of battery components, the trading server 1 can also mediate transactions involving only the exchange of identification labels without the transfer of battery components. If the identification label is changed as a result of the transaction, the trading server 1 transmits a transaction result indicating that the identification label will be changed to the management server 2, and in response, the management server 2 updates the identification label of the relevant battery component.

[0033] According to this configuration, it becomes possible to trade only the rights attached to the battery component, which is a recycled product, without actually handing over the battery component.

[0034] [Hardware configuration] Next, the hardware configuration of each device that constitutes the system will be described. First, a description will be given of the components of the trading server 1. FIG.

[0035] The trading server 1 can be configured as a computer having a processor (CPU, GPU, etc.), a main memory (RAM, ROM, etc.), and an auxiliary memory (EPROM, hard disk drive, removable media, etc.). The auxiliary memory stores an operating system (OS), various programs, various tables, etc., and by executing the programs stored therein, various functions (software modules) that meet predetermined purposes, as described below, can be realized. However, some or all of the functions may be realized as hardware modules using hardware circuits such as ASICs and FPGAs.

[0036] The trading server 1 includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, and a communication unit 13.

[0037] The control unit 11 is a computing unit that executes predetermined programs to realize various functions of the trading server 1. The control unit 11 can be realized by, for example, a hardware processor such as a CPU. The control unit 11 may also be configured to include RAM, ROM (Read Only Memory), cache memory, etc.

[0038] The storage unit 12 is a means for storing information, and is configured to include a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device. The main storage device is a memory in which the programs executed by the control unit 11 and the data used by the control programs are expanded. The auxiliary storage device is a device in which the programs executed by the control unit 11 and the data used by the control programs are stored. The auxiliary storage device may store programs executed by the control unit 11 packaged as applications. It may also store an operating system for executing these applications. The programs stored in the auxiliary storage device are loaded into the main storage device and executed by the control unit 11, thereby performing the processing described below.

[0039] The main memory may include RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory). The auxiliary memory may include EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM) and hard disk. It may also include a disk drive (HDD, Hard Disk Drive). may include removable media, i.e., portable recording media.

[0040] The communication unit 13 is a communication interface for connecting the trading server 1 to a network. The communication unit 13 may be a wired communication interface or a wireless communication interface.

[0041] Next, a description will be given of the components of the management server 2. FIG.

[0042] The management server 2 can be configured as a computer having a processor (CPU, GPU, etc.), a main memory device (RAM, ROM, etc.), and an auxiliary memory device (EPROM, hard disk drive, removable media, etc.). The auxiliary memory device stores an operating system (OS), various programs, various tables, etc., and by executing the programs stored therein, various functions (software modules) that meet specific purposes, as described below, can be realized. However, some or all of the functions may be realized as hardware modules using hardware circuits such as ASICs and FPGAs.

[0043] The management server 2 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, and a communication unit .

[0044] The control unit 21 is a computing unit that executes predetermined programs to realize various functions of the management server 2. The control unit 21 can be realized by, for example, a hardware processor such as a CPU. The control unit 21 may also be configured to include RAM, ROM (Read Only Memory), cache memory, etc.

[0045] The storage unit 22 is a means for storing information and includes a main storage unit and an auxiliary storage unit. The main storage unit is a memory in which the programs executed by the control unit 21 and the data used by the control programs are expanded. The auxiliary storage unit is a device in which the programs executed by the control unit 21 and the data used by the control programs are stored. The auxiliary storage unit may store the programs executed by the control unit 21 packaged as applications. It may also store an operating system for executing these applications. The programs stored in the auxiliary storage unit are loaded into the main storage unit and executed by the control unit 21, thereby performing the processing described below.

[0046] The main memory may include RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory). The auxiliary memory may include EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM) and hard disk. It may also include a disk drive (HDD, Hard Disk Drive). may include removable media, i.e., portable recording media.

[0047] The communication unit 23 is a communication interface for connecting the management server 2 to a network. The communication unit 23 may be a wired communication interface or a wireless communication interface.

[0048] Next, a description will be given of the components of the provider terminal 3. Fig. 4 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the provider terminal 3. Like the trading server 1, the business terminal 3 can be configured as a computer having a processor (CPU, GPU, etc.), a main memory device (RAM, ROM, etc.), and an auxiliary memory device (EPROM, hard disk drive, removable media, etc.).

[0049] The operator terminal 3 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, a communication unit 33, and an input / output unit .

[0050] The control unit 31 is a computing unit that executes predetermined programs to realize various functions of the operator terminal 3. The control unit 31 can be realized by a hardware processor such as a CPU, for example. The control unit 31 may also be configured to include RAM, ROM (Read Only Memory), cache memory, etc.

[0051] The storage unit 32 is a means for storing information, and is configured with storage media such as RAM, a magnetic disk, a flash memory, etc. The storage unit 32 stores programs executed by the control unit 31, data used by the programs, etc.

[0052] The communication unit 33 is a communication interface for connecting the operator terminal 3 to a network. The communication unit 33 may be a wired communication interface or a wireless communication interface.

[0053] The input / output unit 34 is a unit that receives input from the operator of the business operator terminal 3 and presents information to the operator. Specifically, the input / output unit 34 is composed of a touch panel and its control means, and a liquid crystal display and its control means. In this embodiment, the touch panel and the liquid crystal display are composed of a single touch panel display. Note that the input / output unit 34 may also include hardware interfaces such as a keyboard and a mouse.

[0054] [Software configuration] Next, the software configuration of each device that constitutes the system will be described. Figure 5 is a diagram that schematically shows the software configuration of the trading server 1 according to this embodiment.

[0055] In this embodiment, the control unit 11 of the trading server 1 is configured to have a transaction management unit 111 as a software module. The software module may be realized by the control unit 11 (CPU, etc.) executing a program stored in the storage unit 12, which will be described later. The information processing executed by the software module is synonymous with the information processing executed by the control unit 11 (CPU, etc.).

[0056] The transaction management unit 111 manages mutual transactions of battery components between businesses.

[0057] The transaction management unit 111 receives information (transaction information) relating to the transaction of the battery component from the business operator terminal 3, and stores the information in a transaction ledger in the storage unit 12. 6 is an example of a transaction ledger. The transaction ledger is a database for managing transactions. Upon receiving information from the business operator terminal 3, the transaction management unit 111 generates a record corresponding to each business operator in the transaction ledger. The transaction ledger is configured with the following fields: "Owner ID," "Material ID," "Registration Date and Time," "Quantity," "Transaction Conditions," "Transaction Type," and "Transaction Result." The Owner ID field stores an identifier that represents the current owner of the battery component. The Component ID field stores an identifier that uniquely identifies the battery component. The Transaction Terms field stores information that indicates the transaction terms desired by the business operator involved in the transaction.

[0058] The transaction type field stores information indicating the type of transaction. In this embodiment, there are two types of transactions: "normal" and "rights only." "Normal" refers to a normal transaction involving the movement of battery components. For example, when battery components are exchanged for each other or when battery components are bought and sold for money, the transaction type is "normal."

[0059] "Rights only" refers to a transaction in which the management server 2 replaces the identification label attached to the battery component (hereinafter referred to as rights transaction). A specific example of rights trading will now be described with reference to Fig. 7. Here, it is assumed that business operator A owns a new battery component, and business operator B owns a recycled battery component. The battery component owned by business operator A is registered as a new product in the management server 2. The battery component owned by business operator B is registered as a recycled product in the management server 2.

[0060] Business A and business B execute a transaction to exchange identification labels. For example, business A pays business B a fee and transfers an identification label indicating a recycled product from a battery component owned by business B to a battery component owned by business A. Also, business A transfers an identification label indicating a new product from a battery component owned by business A to a battery component owned by business B. When this transaction is completed, an identification label indicating a recycled product is attached to the battery component owned by business A, and an identification label indicating a new product is attached to the battery component owned by business B on the management server 2. In other words, the identification labels are exchanged. This allows business operator A to fulfill its obligation to "manufacture battery packs using recycled battery components" by using battery components it has on hand.

[0061] The transaction result field stores information about the status of the transaction (for example, "unmatched," "matched," "transaction completed," etc.).

[0062] The transaction management unit 111 extracts records from the transaction ledger whose transaction result field values ​​indicate that the transaction was not concluded, and performs matching between businesses. At this time, the transaction management unit 111 performs matching by transaction type. That is, a record whose transaction type is set to "normal" is matched with a record whose transaction type is also set to "normal." Also, a record whose transaction type is set to "rights only" is matched with a record whose transaction type is also set to "rights only." The result of the matching is sent to the business operator terminal 3, and the transaction (for example, the transfer of money or battery components) is executed.

[0063] Furthermore, the transaction management unit 111 obtains information regarding the results of the transaction from the business operator terminal 3 and notifies the management server 2 of the transaction results, thereby updating the component ledger. For example, if a battery component is replaced as a result of the transaction and the respective owners change, the transaction management unit 111 notifies the management server 2 of this, and in response, the management server 2 updates the component ledger. Furthermore, if the transaction type is "rights only," the transaction management unit 111 instructs the management server 2 to replace (exchange) the identification label, and in response, the management server 2 updates the component ledger.

[0064] Next, we will explain the software configuration of the management server 2. Fig. 8 is a diagram that schematically shows the software configuration of the management server 2 according to this embodiment.

[0065] The control unit 21 of the management server 2 is configured to have a component management unit 211 as a functional module. The functional module may be realized by executing a stored program by a CPU.

[0066] The component management unit 211 manages the component ledger stored in the storage unit 22 . Specifically, the component management unit 211 receives information (component information) about the battery component to be newly registered from the business operator terminal 3, and stores the information in the component ledger. The component ledger records the owner of the battery component, the status of the battery component (for example, whether it is incorporated into a product), and other information, and is updated as the situation changes. By referencing this, battery components can be tracked throughout the supply chain.

[0067] When a battery component is traded, the component management unit 211 obtains information about the results of the trade from the trading server 1 and updates the component ledger based on this information. For example, when the component management unit 211 receives a notification from the trading server 1 that "the owner of a given battery component has changed as a result of the trade," it updates the owner in the component ledger. Furthermore, when the component management unit 211 receives a notification from the trading server 1 that "the identification label of a given battery component has been replaced as a result of the trade," it updates the identification label of the corresponding battery component.

[0068] Figure 9 shows an example of a materials ledger. The materials ledger is a database for managing battery materials in a supply chain. Information about battery materials owned by a business operator is recorded in the materials ledger.

[0069] The material ledger is configured with the following fields: "Owner ID," "Material ID," "Registration date and time," "Type," "Model number," "Quantity," "Recycled product," and "Current status." The owner ID field stores an identifier that represents the current owner of the battery component. The component ID field stores an identifier that uniquely identifies the battery component. The recycled product field stores a value indicating whether the target battery component is treated as a recycled product. In this embodiment, if the value of the recycled product field is "YES", it means that the right to be treated as a recycled product can be exercised for the target battery component. If the value of the recycled product field is "NO", it means that the right to be treated as a recycled product cannot be exercised for the target battery component.

[0070] If the value stored in the recycled product field is "YES", it means that the information about the corresponding battery component is "assigned an identifier as a recycled product". If the value in the recycled product field is "NO", it means that the information about the corresponding battery component is "assigned an identifier as a new product". In addition, in the embodiment, "attaching an identification label as a recycled product" means setting the value of the recycled product field to "YES," and "deleting the identification label as a recycled product" means setting the value of the recycled product field to "NO."

[0071] The current status field stores information indicating the current state of the target battery component (for example, whether it exists as a single component or whether it has been processed into a product). If the supply chain has multiple tiers, the tier in which the target battery component is located may be managed using a component ledger.

[0072] Next, we will explain the software configuration of the business operator terminal 3. Fig. 10 is a diagram that schematically shows the software configuration of the business operator terminal 3 according to this embodiment.

[0073] The control unit 31 of the business operator terminal 3 is configured to have, as functional modules, a registration unit 311 and a transaction unit 312. Each functional module may be realized by executing a stored program by a CPU.

[0074] The registration unit 311 receives input of information about a battery component to be newly registered via the input / output unit 34, and transmits the input information as component information to the management server 2. The transmitted information is registered in the component ledger on the management server 2.

[0075] The trading unit 312 accepts input of information relating to transactions of battery components between businesses (e.g., information about the battery components to be provided, transaction terms, etc.) and transmits the input information to the trading server 1 as transaction information. It also acquires and outputs information relating to the transaction transmitted from the trading server 1. The trading unit 312 may also accept input of information relating to the results of the transaction (e.g., that the delivery of the battery components has been completed) and transmit it to the trading server 1.

[0076] 2 to 5, 8, and 10 are merely examples, and all or part of the illustrated functions may be performed using dedicated circuits. Furthermore, programs may be stored or executed using a combination of main and auxiliary storage devices other than those illustrated.

[0077] [Sequence diagram] Next, the processes executed by each device included in the system will be described. 11 is a sequence diagram of a process in which multiple businesses that own battery components register information about the battery components (component information) in the management server 2, and a process in which the battery components are traded between businesses using the trading server 1. The illustrated process starts when each business procures the battery components. Here, the businesses conducting the transaction are referred to as business A and business B. The business terminal used by business A is referred to as "business terminal 3A," and the business terminal used by business B is referred to as "business terminal 3B."

[0078] First, in step S11, the business operator terminals 3A and 3B acquire information (component information) about battery components held by each business operator. Each business operator terminal may accept input of component information from an operator of the device. As shown in FIG. 9, the component information includes detailed information about the battery components and information indicating whether the battery components are recycled products. The inputted component information is transmitted to the trading server 1 and registered in the component ledger (step S12).

[0079] Next, in step S13, the business operator terminals 3A and 3B acquire information (transaction information) related to the transaction of the battery component. Each business operator terminal may accept input of the transaction information from an operator of the device. The transaction information includes, for example, information related to the designation of the battery component involved in the transaction, the transaction conditions (for example, the designation of the target item, the designation of the price, the designation of the delivery date), etc. The entered transaction information is transmitted to the transaction server 1 and registered in the transaction ledger (step S14).

[0080] At a predetermined timing, the trading server 1 compares the records registered in the trading ledger and executes a process of matching businesses with each other (step S15). In this process, the trading server 1, for example, extracts pairs of businesses whose trading conditions match and determines the combination for the actual transaction. If there are multiple candidate combinations, the trading server 1 may match businesses with the better conditions.

[0081] Once the combination is determined, the trading server 1 performs processing to execute the transaction (step S16). In this step, the trading server 1 provides information regarding the execution of the transaction to each business operator terminal 3 and obtains the results. In this step, information indicating, for example, information regarding the trading partner, information regarding the settlement status, information regarding the delivery status of the battery components, and the performance status of the contract is exchanged between the trading server 1 and the business operator terminal 3. When the transaction is completed, the business operator terminal 3 may send data indicating that the transaction has been completed to the trading server 1.

[0082] When the trading server 1 receives data from the business terminal 3 indicating that the transaction has been completed, the trading server 1 notifies the management server 2 of the result, and the management server 2 updates the component ledger in response (step S17). For example, if a battery component itself is handed over in a transaction, the value in the "Owner" field of the corresponding record in the component ledger is updated. Also, if an identification label is exchanged in a transaction, the value in the "Recycled Item" field of the corresponding record in the component ledger is updated.

[0083] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing details of the processing executed by the trading server 1 (trading management unit 111) in the processing from step S15 shown in FIG.

[0084] First, in step S21, matching between businesses is attempted based on the transaction ledger. In this step, pairs of businesses that match the transaction conditions are extracted, and the appropriateness of the combination for actual transactions is evaluated, after which matching targets are determined. As a result, if matching is successful (step S22-Yes), the process proceeds to step S23. If matching is not possible (step S22-No), the process waits for a predetermined time and then attempts matching again. Note that if matching is not successful after the predetermined period has elapsed, the process may be interrupted. If the matching is successful, it can be considered that a transaction has been concluded between the businesses.

[0085] The subsequent processing differs depending on whether the target transaction is a transaction involving the delivery of battery components (hereinafter referred to as a "normal transaction") or a transaction not involving the delivery of battery components (hereinafter referred to as a "rights transaction"). In step S23, the type of the target transaction is determined. If the target transaction is a normal transaction, the processing proceeds to step S24. If the target transaction is a rights transaction, the processing proceeds to step S31.

[0086] In step S24, the trading server 1 generates a guide for the transaction and transmits the guide to the business terminals 3A and 3B. The guide may include information about the trading partner, the method of delivery of the battery component, the payment method, etc. In step S25, the trading server 1 determines whether the delivery of the battery component and the payment have been completed based on the data received from the business terminals 3A and 3B. The payment may be mediated by the trading server 1. When the delivery of the battery component and the payment are completed, the process proceeds to step S26.

[0087] In step S26, the trading server 1 reflects the results of the transaction in the trading ledger. For example, in this step, data indicating that the transaction has been completed is written in the transaction result field of the trading ledger. Also in this step, the trading server 1 notifies the management server 2 of the results of the transaction. If the transaction in question is a normal transaction, the management server 2 updates the value of the owner field in the material ledger.

[0088] If the target transaction is a rights transaction, in step S31, similar to step S24, the transaction server 1 generates a guide for the transaction and transmits it to the business terminals 3A and 3B. The information may include information about the trading partner and payment methods. Next, in step S32, the transaction server 1 receives the payment for the exchange of the identification label from one of the businesses. The payment may be received by electronic payment. In this case, for example, business A may complete the payment procedure for the payment to business B, and transfer the remaining balance to the transaction server 1.

[0089] Next, in step S33, the trading server 1 requests the management server 2 to replace the identification labels on the battery components involved in the transaction. Specifically, the trading server 1 causes the management server 2 to perform a process to assign a recycle flag to the record of the battery component held by business A, which is included in the component ledger, and causes the management server 2 to perform a process to delete the recycle flag from the record of the battery component held by business B. Note that in this step, data other than the recycle flag may be updated as necessary.

[0090] When the replacement of the identification label is completed, the process proceeds to step S34, where the transaction server 1 pays the payment for the replacement of the identification label to the recipient business. If the payment is received by electronic payment, for example, the transaction server 1 performs a procedure to transfer the payment (balance) received from business A to business B.

[0091] In step S35, the transaction server 1 reflects the result of the transaction in the transaction ledger. For example, in this step, data indicating that the transaction has been completed is written in the transaction result field of the transaction ledger.

[0092] As described above, the transaction server 1 according to this embodiment can mediate not only normal transactions in which the delivery of battery components occurs, but also transactions of rights only, in which the delivery of battery components does not occur. This allows only the rights associated with battery components, which are recycled products, to be the subject of transactions, thereby reducing unnecessary transportation costs for battery components.

[0093] (Second embodiment) In the first embodiment, the identification labels are replaced with new ones for the battery components that are the subject of the transaction when payment of the price from one of the businesses is confirmed. However, in the first embodiment, there may be a problem in that it is not possible to confirm the form in which the traded battery components are actually manufactured into a product.

[0094] For example, in the example of Figure 7, the transaction results in the identification label of the battery component held by business B being changed from "recycled" to "new," but it is not possible to confirm that the battery component was actually incorporated into the battery pack as a new product. Depending on the timing of the transaction, battery component B may be traded as a recycled product even though the right to use it as a recycled product has already been exercised. For example, this may be the case when transaction information is registered during the manufacturing of a battery pack. In such cases, there is a risk of double exercise of rights.

[0095] To solve this problem, the transaction server 1 of the second embodiment obtains data (hereinafter referred to as "certification data") that proves that the battery component involved in the transaction has been incorporated into the product (battery pack) without exercising its rights as a recycled product, and completes the transaction on the condition that the certification data has been obtained.

[0096] During the transaction of the battery component, the transaction server 1 acquires from an external device information (certification data) indicating that the battery component in question has been incorporated into a battery pack without the right as a recycled product being exercised. The proof data may be generated by a third party that oversees its use. The proof data may be a simple value, a verifiable digital certificate, etc. The transaction is put on hold until the proof data is obtained. When the proof data is acquired, the transaction server 1 completes the transaction that was on hold, and updates the contents of the transaction in the material ledger.

[0097] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating changes made in the second embodiment from the process shown in FIG. 12. In this embodiment, after step S32 is executed, a step of acquiring proof data (step S41) is executed. In this step, the management server 2 attempts to acquire proof data from an external device or the like. If the determination in this step is positive, that is, if the proof data has been successfully acquired, the process proceeds to step S33. If the determination in this step is negative, that is, if the proof data has not been acquired, the management server 2 repeats the process of step S41. Note that if the proof data has not been acquired even after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the transaction may be canceled. The processing from step S33 onwards is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0098] According to the second embodiment, the transaction can be completed after confirming the form in which the battery components to be traded are actually manufactured, thereby preventing the problem of double exercise of rights.

[0099] (Variation) The above-described embodiment is merely an example, and the present disclosure can be modified and implemented as appropriate within the scope that does not deviate from the gist of the disclosure. For example, the processes and means described in this disclosure can be freely combined and implemented as long as no technical contradiction occurs.

[0100] Furthermore, a process described as being performed by one device may be shared and executed by multiple devices. Alternatively, a process described as being performed by different devices may be executed by a single device. In a computer system, the hardware configuration (server configuration) by which each function is realized can be flexibly changed.

[0101] The present disclosure can also be realized by providing a computer program implementing the functions described in the above embodiments to a computer, and having one or more processors in the computer read and execute the program. Such a computer program may be provided to the computer via a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium connectable to the computer's system bus or via a network. Non-transitory computer-readable storage media include, for example, any type of disk, such as a magnetic disk (e.g., a floppy disk, a hard disk drive (HDD), etc.), an optical disk (e.g., a CD-ROM, a DVD disk, a Blu-ray disk), a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), an EPROM, an EEPROM, a magnetic card, a flash memory, an optical card, or any type of medium suitable for storing electronic instructions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 1. Transaction Server 2. Management Server 3. Operator terminal

Claims

1. An information processing device for managing transactions of battery components constituting an in-vehicle battery, Accepting registration of information on a first battery component that is a recycled battery component from a first business operator; Accepting registration of information on a second battery component, which is a brand new battery component, from a second business operator; When a transaction is concluded between the first business operator and the second business operator, assigning an identifier indicating a new product to information relating to the first battery component and assigning an identifier indicating a recycled product to information relating to the second battery component; An information processing device having a control unit that executes the above.

2. The control unit When accepting registration of information relating to the first battery component, an identifier indicating a recycled product is assigned to the information relating to the first battery component, and when accepting registration of information relating to the second battery component, an identifier indicating a new product is assigned to the information relating to the second battery component. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. The control unit and further acquiring certification data indicating that the first battery component for which the transaction was concluded was incorporated into an on-board battery without exercising a right as a recycled product. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

4. the control unit assigns an identifier indicating that the second battery component is a recycled product to information about the second battery component on the condition that the certification data has been acquired. The information processing device according to claim 3 .

5. When a transaction is concluded between the first business operator and the second business operator, the control unit further transfers a consideration from the second business operator to the first business operator. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

6. The control unit Further, acquiring certification data indicating that the first battery component for which the transaction was concluded was incorporated into an on-board battery without exercising the right as a recycled product; On the condition that the certification data has been acquired, an identifier indicating that the second battery component is a recycled product is assigned to information regarding the second battery component, and a consideration is transferred from the second business operator to the first business operator. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

7. the control unit acquires conditions regarding the transaction from terminals corresponding to the first business operator and the second business operator, respectively, and matches the first business operator with the second business operator based on the conditions; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

8. the conditions include an amount of consideration to be transferred from the second business to the first business; The information processing device according to claim 7 .

9. An information processing method executed by an information processing device that manages transactions of battery components that constitute an on-vehicle battery, comprising: Accepting registration of information on a first battery component that is a recycled battery component from a first business operator; Accepting registration of information on a second battery component, which is a brand new battery component, from a second business operator; When a transaction is concluded between the first business operator and the second business operator, assigning an identifier indicating a new product to information relating to the first battery component and assigning an identifier indicating a recycled product to information relating to the second battery component; An information processing method, including:

10. When accepting registration of information relating to the first battery component, an identifier indicating a recycled product is assigned to the information relating to the first battery component, and when accepting registration of information relating to the second battery component, an identifier indicating a new product is assigned to the information relating to the second battery component. The information processing method according to claim 9.

11. The information processing device, and further acquiring certification data indicating that the first battery component for which the transaction was concluded was incorporated into an on-board battery without exercising a right as a recycled product. The information processing method according to claim 9.

12. The information processing device, On condition that the certification data has been acquired, an identifier indicating that the second battery component is a recycled product is assigned to information regarding the second battery component. The information processing method according to claim 11.

13. When a transaction is concluded between the first business operator and the second business operator, the information processing device transfers a consideration from the second business operator to the first business operator. The information processing method according to claim 9.

14. The information processing device, Further, acquiring certification data indicating that the first battery component for which the transaction was concluded was incorporated into an on-board battery without exercising the right as a recycled product; On the condition that the certification data has been acquired, an identifier indicating that the second battery component is a recycled product is assigned to information regarding the second battery component, and a consideration is transferred from the second business operator to the first business operator. The information processing method according to claim 9.

15. The information processing device, acquiring conditions for the transaction from terminals corresponding to the first business operator and the second business operator, respectively, and matching the first business operator with the second business operator based on the conditions; The information processing method according to claim 9.

16. the conditions include an amount of consideration to be transferred from the second business to the first business; The information processing method according to claim 15.

17. A program for causing a computer to execute the information processing method according to any one of claims 9 to 16.

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