Power systems, methods for controlling power systems, programs, storage media, energy storage devices, and power devices.

Abstract

The present invention provides a power system, a control method for the power system, a program, a storage medium, a power storage device, and a power device that efficiently and quickly complete the startup process of a power storage device. [Solution] A power storage device (12, 14) having energy storage units (44, 46), and a power device (16) to which the power storage device can be attached and detached, wherein the control method is as follows: the first power storage device (12) switches from an inactive state to an active state based on an activation signal supplied from the activation command unit of the ECU (26), and the first power storage device (12) in the active state transmits information to the outside. The receiving unit of the ECU receives the transmitted information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a power system, a control method for a power system, a program, a storage medium, a power storage device, and a power device.

Background Art

[0002] International Publication No. 2018 / 147046 (Patent Document 1) discloses a battery management system including two power storage devices (batteries) and a power device on which the two power storage devices are detachably mounted. Each of the two power storage devices has a power storage unit.

[0003] When starting the two power storage devices, the power device generates a start signal (activation signal) based on the power supplied from the sub-battery. The power device starts outputting to the two power storage devices the start signal generated based on the power supplied from the sub-battery as a start command for starting the two power storage devices (see SA11 in FIG. 4 of Patent Document 1). Thereby, the two power storage devices are switched from the inactive state to the active state based on the start signal from the power device, and each performs an initialization process (see SB11, SB12, SC11, SC12 in FIG. 4 of Patent Document 1). Note that the inactive state is a state in which the internal power storage unit of the power storage device and the outside of the power storage device are electrically disconnected. The active state is a state in which the internal power storage unit of the power storage device and the outside of the power storage device are electrically connectable.

[0004] After completion of the initialization process, the power device stops supplying the start signal to the two power storage devices (see SA13 in FIG. 4 of Patent Document 1). Thereby, the two power storage devices are switched from the active state to the inactive state (see SB13, SC13 in FIG. 4 of Patent Document 1).

[0005] Next, the power device resumes supplying the start signal to one of the power storage devices (see SA21 in FIG. 4 of Patent Document 1). Thereby, one of the power storage devices is switched from the inactive state to the active state (see SB21 in FIG. 4 of Patent Document 1). Note that the other power storage device maintains the inactive state.

[0006] Next, the power unit assigns identification information, such as an identification number, to the active energy storage unit to identify the energy storage unit (see SA22 and SB22 in Figure 4 of Patent Document 1). After assigning the identification number, the power unit stops supplying the start signal to the one energy storage unit (see SA23 in Figure 4 of Patent Document 1). As a result, the one energy storage unit switches from the active state to the inactive state (see SB23 in Figure 4 of Patent Document 1).

[0007] Next, the power unit resumes supplying a start signal to the other energy storage unit (see SA31 in Figure 4 of Patent Document 1). As a result, the other energy storage unit switches from an inactive state to an active state (see SC31 in Figure 4 of Patent Document 1). The other energy storage unit remains in an inactive state.

[0008] Next, the power unit assigns an identification number to the other energy storage unit, which is in the active state (see SA32 and SC32 in Figure 4 of Patent Document 1). After assigning the identification number, the power unit stops supplying the start signal to the other energy storage unit (see SA33 in Figure 4 of Patent Document 1). As a result, the other energy storage unit switches from the active state to the inactive state (see SC33 in Figure 4 of Patent Document 1).

[0009] Next, the power unit resumes supplying start signals to the two energy storage devices (see SA41 in Figure 4 of Patent Document 1). This switches the two energy storage devices from an inactive state to an active state (see SB41 and SC41 in Figure 4 of Patent Document 1). This completes the start-up process for the two energy storage devices. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0010] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2018 / 147046 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0011] In the technology described in Patent Document 1, in order to avoid incorrect assignment of identification numbers, the startup process is performed while alternately switching between an active state and an inactive state for two energy storage devices.

[0012] Furthermore, in the technology described in Patent Document 1, after the assignment of identification numbers is complete, the energy storage device does not notify the power device that the assignment of identification numbers is complete. Therefore, Patent Document 1 ensures that the period during which only one energy storage device is active (the period from SB21 to SB23 in Figure 4 of Patent Document 1) and the period during which only the other energy storage device is active (the period from SC31 to SC33 in Figure 4 of Patent Document 1) are sufficiently long. In Patent Document 1, by ensuring that each of the above periods (fixed time) is long, the assignment of identification numbers is reliably completed.

[0013] Thus, the technology described in Patent Document 1 requires a significant amount of time for the energy storage device to start up. Therefore, there was room for improvement to make the energy storage device start-up process more efficient and faster.

[0014] The present invention aims to solve the problems described above. [Means for solving the problem]

[0015] A first aspect of the present invention is a power system comprising a power storage device having a power storage unit and a power device to which the power storage device is detachable, wherein the power storage device has an activation processing unit that switches the state of the power storage device to an active state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device can be electrically connected, or to an inactive state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device cannot be electrically connected, and a transmission unit that transmits transmission information to the outside of the power storage device, wherein the power device, or a mounting device attached to the power device, has an activation command unit that outputs a command to the activation processing unit and a receiving unit that receives the transmission information from the outside of the power device or the outside of the mounting device, wherein the activation processing unit is provided to switch to the active state or the inactive state by the command output from the activation command unit, and the transmission information includes at least one of the following: information indicating that the power storage device has switched from the inactive state to the active state, or information that is transmitted to the outside of the power storage device when the power storage device is in the active state.

[0016] A second aspect of the present invention is a control method for a power system comprising a power storage device having a power storage unit and a power device to which the power storage device is detachable, wherein the power storage device includes an activation processing unit that switches the state of the power storage device to an active state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device can be electrically connected, or to an inactive state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device cannot be electrically connected, and a transmission unit that transmits transmission information to the outside of the power storage device, which includes at least one of the following: information indicating that the power storage device has switched from the inactive state to the active state, or information transmitted to the outside of the power storage device when the power storage device is in the active state, and further includes at least a first power storage device and a second power storage device, each having the power storage unit, and the control method is performed when both the first power storage device and the second power storage device are in the inactive state, the first power storage device has the active The system includes: a first step of transmitting a command to switch the first energy storage device to the activated state only to the first activation processing unit, which is a performance processing unit; a second step of the first activation processing unit switching the first energy storage device to the activated state upon receiving the first command, which is the command to switch the first energy storage device to the activated state; a third step of the first transmission unit, which is the transmission unit of the first energy storage device, transmitting the transmission information; a fourth step of receiving the transmission information transmitted by the first transmission unit as the first transmission information; a fifth step of determining that the first energy storage device has switched to the activated state based on the first transmission information; and a sixth step of transmitting a second command, which is the command to switch the second energy storage device to the activated state, to the second activation processing unit, which is the activation processing unit of the second energy storage device.

[0017] A third aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer to execute the power system control method of the second aspect.

[0018] A fourth aspect of the present invention is a storage medium for storing the program of the third aspect.

[0019] A fifth aspect of the present invention is a power storage device having a power storage unit, the power storage device comprising: an activation processing unit that switches the state of the power storage device to an active state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device can be electrically connected, or to an inactive state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device cannot be electrically connected; and a transmission unit that transmits transmission information to the outside of the power storage device, wherein the activation processing unit is configured to switch to the active state or the inactive state by a command from an activation command unit outside the power storage device, and the transmission information includes at least one of the following: information indicating that the power storage device has switched from the inactive state to the active state, or information that is transmitted to the outside of the power storage device when the power storage device is in the active state.

[0020] A sixth aspect of the present invention is a power device in which a power storage device having a power storage unit is detachable, the power device, or an attachment device attached to the power device, has an activation command unit that outputs commands to the power storage device, and a receiving unit that receives transmitted information from outside the power device or from outside the attachment device, the power storage device is configured to switch between an active state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device can be electrically connected, and an inactive state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device cannot be electrically connected, and the transmitted information is transmitted from the power storage device and includes at least one of the following: information indicating that the power storage device has switched from the inactive state to the active state, or information transmitted to the outside of the power storage device when the power storage device is in the active state. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] According to the present invention, after the energy storage device switches from an inactive state to an active state, transmission information is sent to the outside of the energy storage device. The power device or mounting device can recognize that the startup process of the energy storage device is complete by receiving the transmission information. Therefore, the present invention enables the energy storage device to be started up efficiently and in a short time. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0022] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the power system according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an internal configuration diagram of the ECU. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a circuit configuration diagram of the power system. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is another circuit configuration diagram of the power system. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the power system. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a timing chart showing the operation of the present embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a timing chart showing the operation of the first comparative example. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a timing chart showing the operation of the second comparative example. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a sequence diagram showing a modified example of Figure 5.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0023] Figure 1 is a configuration diagram of a power system 10 according to the present embodiment.

[0024] The power system 10 includes a first power storage device 12, a second power storage device 14, and a power device 16. Each of the first power storage device 12 and the second power storage device 14 is detachable from the power device 16. That is, each of the first power storage device 12 and the second power storage device 14 is a mobile battery detachable from the power device 16. Further, each of the first power storage device 12 and the second power storage device 14 is a rechargeable mobile battery. The first power storage device 12 and the second power storage device 14 are preferably battery packs of detachable lithium-ion batteries, for example.

[0025] The power system 10 may include at least one power storage device. When the power system 10 includes a plurality of power storage devices, at least one of the plurality of power storage devices may be detachable from the power device 16. In the following description, the case where the first power storage device 12 and the second power storage device 14 are detachable from the power device 16 will be described.

[0026] The power device 16 includes a first switching unit 18, a second switching unit 20, a power conversion unit 22, a motor 24, an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 26, and a notification unit 28.

[0027] The positive terminal of the first energy storage device 12 is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the input side (primary side) of the power conversion unit 22 via a power line 30. The negative terminal of the first energy storage device 12 is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the second energy storage device 14 via a power line 32. The first switching unit 18 is located on the power line 32. The negative terminal of the first energy storage device 12 is also electrically connected to the negative terminal of the second energy storage device 14 via another power line 34. The second switching unit 20 is located on the other power line 34. The negative terminal of the second energy storage device 14 is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the primary side of the power conversion unit 22 via a power line 36. A motor 24 is electrically connected to the output side (secondary side) of the power conversion unit 22.

[0028] The first switching unit 18 and the second switching unit 20 are switching elements such as contactors and semiconductor switches. The first switching unit 18 is switched to an on state or an off state by a control signal transmitted from the ECU 26 via the signal line 35. The second switching unit 20 is switched to an on state or an off state by a control signal transmitted from the ECU 26 via the signal line 37.

[0029] Specifically, when the first switching unit 18 is in the ON state and the second switching unit 20 is in the OFF state, the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 are electrically connected in series with respect to the power conversion unit 22. As a result, DC power is supplied to the power conversion unit 22 from the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14.

[0030] When the first switching unit 18 is in the off state and the second switching unit 20 is in the on state, the second energy storage device 14 is short-circuited. Even in this case, DC power is supplied from the first energy storage device 12 to the power conversion unit 22.

[0031] When both the first switching unit 18 and the second switching unit 20 are in the off state, the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 become electrically disconnected from the power conversion unit 22.

[0032] The power conversion unit 22 is a motor controller that includes an inverter. The power conversion unit 22 converts the DC power supplied from the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 into AC power. As a result, the motor 24, which is the load, operates using the supplied AC power after conversion. Alternatively, if the motor 24 functions as a generator, the power conversion unit 22 converts the AC power generated by the motor 24 into DC power. As a result, the converted DC power is supplied to the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14. In Figure 1, the wiring through which power is transmitted between the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 and the motor 24 is shown with thick lines.

[0033] The ECU 26 generates activation signals (command, first command, second command, start command) based on the power supplied from the sub-battery 38. The ECU 26 supplies (outputs) the activation signals to the first energy storage device 12 via the signal line 40. The ECU 26 also supplies (outputs) the activation signals to the second energy storage device 14 via the signal line 42. As a result, the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 each switch from an inactive state to an active state upon receiving the activation signals. When the supply of activation signals from the ECU 26 to the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 stops, the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 each switch from an active state to an inactive state.

[0034] In the inactive state, the internal energy storage units 44 and 46 (see Figures 3 and 4) of the first and second energy storage devices 12 and 14 are electrically incompatible with the outside of the devices. Therefore, in the inactive state, power cannot be output from the internal energy storage units 44 and 46 of the first and second energy storage devices 12 to the outside. In the active state, the internal energy storage units 44 and 46 are electrically compatible with the outside. Therefore, in the active state, power can be output from the internal energy storage units 44 and 46 of the first and second energy storage devices 12 to the outside.

[0035] The ECU26 can transmit and receive digital signals between the active first energy storage device 12 and the active energy storage device 14 via a communication line 48 (communication network) such as CAN (Controller Area Network). When the ECU26 and the active energy storage devices communicate via CAN, the ECU26 and the active energy storage devices transmit and receive digital signals according to a predetermined data frame format. Since CAN communication is well known, a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0036] If at least one of the first energy storage devices 12 and the second energy storage device 14 is active, the ECU 26 can transmit identification information for identifying the energy storage device, such as identification number assignment information (identification assignment information) for assigning an identification number, to the communication line 48 via the communication line 48. The identification information only needs to be information that can identify each individual energy storage device (the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14). Therefore, the identification information is not limited to an identification number and may also be an identification symbol such as a letter. Furthermore, if an identification number has not been assigned to an energy storage device, the ECU 26 cannot specify the energy storage device and send information via the communication line 48. As will be described later, after an identification number has been assigned to an energy storage device, the ECU 26 can specify the energy storage device and send information via the communication line 48.

[0037] When an active energy storage device receives identification number assignment information via the communication line 48, it performs an assignment process to assign an identification number to itself. After the identification number assignment process is completed, the active energy storage device can transmit transmission information, including, for example, information regarding the status of the energy storage device, to the ECU 26 via the communication line 48.

[0038] In this embodiment, as will be described later, one of the first energy storage devices 12 and the second energy storage device 14 is switched to an active state, and then the process of assigning an identification number to that energy storage device is performed. After the process of assigning an identification number to one energy storage device is completed, the other energy storage device is switched to an active state while the first energy storage device is kept in an active state, and the process of assigning an identification number to that other energy storage device is performed.

[0039] In the case of CAN communication, the ECU 26 stores the identification number assignment information in the data field of the data frame and transmits it to the communication line 48. When an active energy storage device receives the identification number assignment information stored in the data field of the data frame via the communication line 48, it performs an assignment process to assign an identification number (e.g., "1" (number 1)) corresponding to the number (e.g., "1" (number 1)) included in the identification number assignment information to its own energy storage device. Therefore, the identification number assignment information is different from the identification numbers assigned to the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14, and is information for assigning identification numbers. An identification number is assigned to each of the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14. The identification number is a unique, non-repeating number for each energy storage device.

[0040] The transmitted information includes information indicating that the energy storage device has switched from an inactive state to an active state, or information that is transmitted to the outside of the energy storage device when the energy storage device is in an active state. As described above, since the energy storage device that has switched to an active state performs the process of assigning an identification number, the identification number assigned to the energy storage device after receiving the identification number assignment information may be included in the transmitted information. In the case of CAN communication, the energy storage device in an active state stores the transmitted information in the data field of the data frame and transmits it to the ECU26 via the communication line 48.

[0041] The startup process for the energy storage device includes switching from an inactive state to an active state, initialization, and assignment of an identification number. The transmission information is sent to the ECU26 after the startup process is completed.

[0042] In the following explanation, the transmission information sent by the first energy storage device 12 may be referred to as the first transmission information. Similarly, the transmission information sent by the second energy storage device 14 may be referred to as the second transmission information.

[0043] The initialization process involves receiving an activation signal and initializing the storage units 50 and 52 (storage media) (see Figures 3 and 4) in the first and second energy storage devices 12 and 14, respectively. The initialization process also includes various diagnostic processes within the first and second energy storage devices 12 and 14. The identification number assignment process involves storing the identification numbers in the storage units 50 and 52.

[0044] The transmitted information may include predetermined information to be transmitted externally when the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 are in an active state. In this case, the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 may transmit identification completion information indicating that an identification number has been assigned, or the assigned identification number itself, to the ECU 26 as transmitted information.

[0045] The ECU 26 switches the first switching unit 18 and the second switching unit 20 to an ON state or an OFF state based on a digital signal received via the communication line 48. The ECU 26 also controls the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 via the communication line 48. Furthermore, the ECU 26 is connected to the power conversion unit 22 via the communication line 53 (see Figures 1 and 3). By controlling the power conversion unit 22 via the communication line 53, the ECU 26 controls the transfer of power between the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 and the motor 24.

[0046] Furthermore, the ECU 26 and sub-battery 38 shown in Figure 1 may be configured as a mounting device 57 that can be attached to and detached from the power unit 16. That is, only the parts of the power unit 16 that are involved in starting the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 may be configured as a mounting device 57 that can be attached to and detached from the power unit 16. In this case, it is more preferable that the mounting device 57 can be attached to and detached from the power unit 16 without using separate tools or the like.

[0047] The notification unit 28 broadcasts various types of information to the outside based on instructions from the ECU 26.

[0048] Figure 2 is an internal configuration diagram of the ECU26. The ECU26 is a computer, such as a processor. The ECU26 reads and executes programs stored in the memory unit 58 (storage medium) to realize the functions of the management unit 60 (decision unit), activation command unit 62, receiving unit 64, transmitting unit 66 (other transmitting unit), drive circuit power supply 68, and switching unit drive circuit 70.

[0049] The activation command unit 62 generates activation signals (commands, first command, and second command) to make the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 (see Figure 1) available for use. Specifically, the activation command unit 62 generates an activation signal equivalent to the voltage supplied from the sub-battery 38 to the ECU 26. In this case, the activation command unit 62 generates an activation signal for each of the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14. The activation command unit 62 supplies the generated activation signals to the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 via signal lines 40 and 42. The two signal lines 40 and 42 are different wirings for the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14. Therefore, the activation command unit 62 can activate (start) the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 individually.

[0050] The activation signal, which is the start command, is low-voltage power (low voltage) used to operate the activation control unit 112 (see Figure 3) inside the first energy storage device 12 and the activation control unit 114 inside the second energy storage device 14. Signal line 40 is a power line that supplies low-voltage power to the activation control unit 112. Signal line 42 is a power line that supplies low-voltage power to the activation control unit 114.

[0051] More specifically, as shown in Figure 2, the activation command unit 62 includes an activation signal generation unit 63, a first switch 65, and a second switch 67.

[0052] The activation signal generation unit 63 generates an activation signal, based on instructions from the control unit 60, which is a command to switch the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 to an activated state, using a voltage equivalent to the voltage supplied from the sub-battery 38. Note that the activation signal is not limited to a voltage signal (power signal) based on the voltage of the sub-battery 38. The activation signal can be any command signal to switch the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 to an activated state.

[0053] The first switch 65 is an on / off switch connected to the signal line 40. When the first switch 65 is turned on, an activation signal is supplied from the activation signal generation unit 63 to the first energy storage device 12 via the signal line 40. When the first switch 65 is turned off, the supply of the activation signal from the activation signal generation unit 63 to the first energy storage device 12 is stopped.

[0054] The second switch 67 is an on / off switch connected to the signal line 42. When the second switch 67 is turned on, an activation signal is supplied from the activation signal generation unit 63 to the second energy storage device 14 via the signal line 42. When the second switch 67 is turned off, the supply of the activation signal from the activation signal generation unit 63 to the second energy storage device 14 is stopped.

[0055] Therefore, signal line 40 is a dedicated signal line for supplying an activation signal only to the first energy storage device 12. Similarly, signal line 42 is a dedicated signal line for supplying an activation signal only to the second energy storage device 14.

[0056] The receiving unit 64 receives digital signals sent from the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 via the communication line 48. The management unit 60 determines whether the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 are active based on the transmitted information, which is a digital signal. The management unit 60 also determines whether to turn on or off the first switching unit 18 and the second switching unit 20 based on the digital signal.

[0057] The transmitting unit 66 transmits various information to the first energy storage device 12, the second energy storage device 14, the power conversion unit 22, and the notification unit 28 based on instructions from the management unit 60. The transmitting unit 66 can also transmit identification number assignment information to the communication line 48.

[0058] The drive circuit power supply 68 is the power supply for driving the switching unit drive circuit 70. Based on instructions from the management unit 60, the drive circuit power supply 68 supplies power to the switching unit drive circuit 70. Based on instructions from the management unit 60 and power supply from the drive circuit power supply 68, the switching unit drive circuit 70 switches the first switching unit 18 and the second switching unit 20 to an ON state or an OFF state. Specifically, the switching unit drive circuit 70 switches the first switching unit 18 to an ON state or an OFF state via the signal line 35 (see Figures 1 and 3). The switching unit drive circuit 70 also switches the second switching unit 20 to an ON state or an OFF state via the signal line 37.

[0059] Figure 3 is a circuit diagram of the power system 10. Figure 3 illustrates the case where the power system 10 is applied to the power supply unit of a vehicle (not shown). In this case, the power unit 16, including the first switching unit 18, the second switching unit 20, and the ECU 26, etc., is mounted on the vehicle. The first energy storage unit 12 and the second energy storage unit 14 are each detachable from the vehicle. In Figure 3, the explanation of components that are also shown in Figures 1 and 2 is simplified or omitted.

[0060] The first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 have the same configuration. Specifically, the first energy storage device 12 has an energy storage unit 44, a BMU 54, a switch 72, an insulating unit 74, a transceiver 76, a power supply unit 78, and a connector 80. The second energy storage device 14 has an energy storage unit 46, a BMU 56, a switch 82, an insulating unit 84, a transceiver 86, a power supply unit 88, and a connector 90.

[0061] In the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14, the energy storage units 44 and 46 are composed of multiple cells connected in series. The energy storage units 44 and 46 are secondary batteries. The switches 72 and 82 are switching elements such as contactors and semiconductor switches. The switches 72 and 82 are provided in series with the energy storage units 44 and 46. The conduction state of the switches 72 and 82 is determined by control from the BMUs 54 and 56. The BMUs 54 and 56 detect the state of the energy storage units 44 and 46 and notify the ECU 26 or the like of the detected state. In this case, the operating state of the BMUs 54 and 56 is determined by control from the ECU 26 or the like. The BMUs 54 and 56 control the conduction state of the switches 72 and 82 according to the determined operating state.

[0062] The insulating sections 74 and 84 are optical couplers, etc., provided between the BMUs 54 and 56 and the transceivers 76 and 86. The insulating sections 74 and 84 electrically isolate the BMUs 54 and 56 from the connectors 80 and 90. Specifically, the insulating sections 74 and 84 electrically isolate and convert the activation signals supplied from the A terminals 92 and 94 of the connectors 80 and 90 to the BMUs 54 and 56. The insulating sections 74 and 84 supply the converted activation signals to the BMUs 54 and 56. The A terminals 92 and 94 are connected to the ECU 26 via signal lines 40 and 42.

[0063] Transceivers 76 and 86 are located between connectors 80 and 90 and insulating sections 74 and 84. Transceivers 76 and 86 convert and relay signals used for communication between BMUs 54 and 56 and ECU 26 in both directions. In this case, terminals B 96 and 98 and terminals C 100 and 102 of connectors 80 and 90 connected to transceivers 76 and 86 are connected to communication line 48. Power supply units 78 and 88 receive power from energy storage units 44 and 46 and supply a portion of the power to BMUs 54 and 56 and insulating sections 74 and 84, etc. Power supply units 78 and 88 are electrically isolated from connectors 80 and 90 by insulating sections 74 and 84, similar to BMUs 54 and 56.

[0064] Connectors 80 and 90 have multiple signal terminals as described above. These signal terminals send and receive signals to control the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14, respectively. Specifically, the signals sent and received via connectors 80 and 90 include activation signals and signals for BMUs 54 and 56 to communicate with ECU 26. In addition to these signal terminals, connectors 80 and 90 also have grounding terminals 104 and 106, etc. Note that connectors 80 and 90 may also send and receive signals optically.

[0065] The BMUs 54 and 56 monitor the charging and discharging status of the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14, the amount of energy stored in the energy storage units 44 and 46, temperature, etc. The BMUs 54 and 56 share the monitoring results with the ECU 26. In addition, the BMUs 54 and 56 control the charging and discharging of the energy storage units 44 and 46 with the outside by controlling switches 72, 82, etc., based on control commands from the ECU 26 or the above monitoring results.

[0066] As mentioned above, transceivers 76 and 86 relay signals bidirectionally between BMUs 54 and 56 and ECU 26. Specifically, transceivers 76 and 86 operate as follows:

[0067] The transceiver 76 of the first energy storage device 12 operates when an activation signal is supplied to the first energy storage device 12 from the activation signal generation unit 63 via the first switch 65. When the first energy storage device 12 is in an activated state, the transceiver 76 receives identification number assignment information from the transmission unit 66 via the communication line 48 via the management unit 60 (see Figure 2) and transmits it to the BMU 54. Before an identification number is assigned to the energy storage device, the ECU 26 cannot specify a destination and transmit information such as identification number assignment information via the communication line 48. Based on the transmitted identification number assignment information, the BMU 54 performs the process of assigning an identification number to the first energy storage device 12. After the process of assigning an identification number to the first energy storage device 12 is completed, the BMU 54 transmits transmission information including the assigned identification number to the ECU 26 via the transceiver 76 and the communication line 48. The management unit 60 stores the identification number of the first energy storage device 12, which is included in the transmission information received by the receiving unit 64, in the storage unit 58.

[0068] The transceiver 86 of the second energy storage device 14 operates when an activation signal is supplied to the second energy storage device 14 from the activation signal generation unit 63 via the second switch 67. When the second energy storage device 14 is in an activated state, the transceiver 86 receives identification number assignment information from the transmission unit 66 via the communication line 48 via the management unit 60 and transmits it to the BMU 56. Based on the transmitted identification number assignment information, the BMU 56 performs the process of assigning an identification number to the second energy storage device 14. After the process of assigning an identification number to the second energy storage device 14 is completed, the BMU 56 transmits the transmission information including the assigned identification number to the ECU 26 via the transceiver 86 and the communication line 48. The management unit 60 stores the identification number of the second energy storage device 14 contained in the transmission information received by the receiving unit 64 in the storage unit 58.

[0069] Furthermore, the ECU 26 receives output request information from the throttle sensor 108 or accelerator pedal sensor 110 provided in the vehicle. After the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 have completed their startup process, the management unit 60 controls the first energy storage device 12, the second energy storage device 14, and the power conversion unit 22, etc., based on the output request information input to the ECU 26. By controlling the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14, the ECU 26 controls the charging and discharging of the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14.

[0070] BMUs 54 and 56 are computers such as processors. BMUs 54 and 56 read and execute programs stored in memory units 50 and 52, thereby realizing the functions of the activation control units 112 and 114, the battery control units 116 and 118, and the communication processing units 120 and 122 (transmitter, first transmitter, second transmitter, and other receivers).

[0071] The activation control units 112 and 114 control the state of the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 based on the activation signal supplied from the ECU 26, switching from an inactive state where the energy storage units 44 and 46 cannot be electrically connected to the outside to an active state where the energy storage units 44 and 46 can be electrically connected to the outside. Specifically, the activation control units 112 and 114 turn on switches 72 and 82 upon receiving the activation signal. Conversely, the activation control units 112 and 114 turn off switches 72 and 82 when the supply of the activation signal stops. Therefore, in the inactive state, power cannot be output from the energy storage units 44 and 46 to the outside. In the active state, power can be output from the energy storage units 44 and 46 to the outside.

[0072] More specifically, the activation control units 112 and 114 switch the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 to the activated state by turning on switches 72 and 82 when they detect that the activation signal is in a significant state. For example, the activation control units 112 and 114 consider the activation signal to be in a significant state (a state in which an activation signal is being supplied) when the signal level of the activation signal is equivalent to the signal level of the voltage output from the sub-battery 38, and turn on switches 72 and 82.

[0073] Furthermore, the activation control units 112 and 114 switch the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 to an inactive state when they detect that the activation signal has become insignificant. For example, when the signal level of the activation signal falls below a threshold level (approximately level 0), the activation control units 112 and 114 consider the activation signal to be insignificant (no activation signal is being supplied) and turn off switches 72 and 82.

[0074] Thus, the activation control units 112 and 114 and the switches 72 and 82 function as activation processing units 121 and 123 that switch the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 to an activated state or an inactive state.

[0075] The battery control units 116 and 118 detect changes in the state (voltage, SOC, etc.) of each cell in the energy storage units 44 and 46, and adjust them so that the charge state of each cell becomes uniform. The battery control units 116 and 118 also control switches 72 and 82, such as through control from the ECU 26, to activate the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 to make them usable.

[0076] The communication processing units 120 and 122 communicate with the ECU 26 according to a predetermined protocol. For example, the communication processing units 120 and 122 communicate information with the ECU 26 for controlling the charging and discharging of the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14. In this case, the communication processing units 120 and 122 include the identification numbers stored in the memory units 50 and 52 in the above information when communicating.

[0077] Furthermore, when the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 switch from an inactive state to an active state and the startup process is completed, the communication processing units 120 and 122 transmit transmission information to the ECU 26 via the communication line 48. In this case, the communication processing units 120 and 122 only need to transmit the transmission information to the outside via the communication line 48 at predetermined time intervals. Alternatively, the communication processing units 120 and 122 may transmit the transmission information to the ECU 26. Or, as shown in Figure 4, the communication processing units 120 and 122 may transmit the transmission information to the ECU 26 via dedicated communication lines 128 and 130 from D terminals 124 and 126 provided on connectors 80 and 90. In any case, the receiving unit 64 can receive the transmission information via the communication lines 48, 128, and 130.

[0078] The power system 10 according to this embodiment is configured as described above. Next, the operation of the power system 10 will be explained with reference to Figures 5 to 9. Here, Figures 1 to 4 will also be referenced as necessary. This operation is related to the startup of the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14.

[0079] First, in step S1 of Figure 5, the ECU 26 (see Figure 1) is started by power supplied from the sub-battery 38 in response to the operation of the start switch (not shown) installed on the power device 16.

[0080] In step S2, the management unit 60 of the ECU 26 (see Figure 2) starts transmitting control status information, which indicates that the ECU 26 has started up, from the transmission unit 66 via the communication line 48 at time t0 (see Figure 6). The control status is also transmitted to the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 via the communication line 48. As a result, when the BMU 54 of the first energy storage device 12 (see Figures 3 and 4) and the BMU 56 of the second energy storage device 14 start up while the control status is being transmitted, the BMUs 54 and 56 can recognize that the ECU 26 has started up by receiving the control status. In addition, the BMUs 54 and 56 can recognize that the ECU 26 will transmit some command in the future by receiving the control status.

[0081] In the next step S3 (first step), the management unit 60 (see Figure 2) of the ECU 26 instructs the activation command unit 62 to start supplying an activation signal (first command) to the first energy storage device 12. The activation command unit 62 turns on the first switch 65 and instructs the activation signal generation unit 63 to generate an activation signal. The activation signal generation unit 63 generates an activation signal based on the voltage supplied from the sub-battery 38. The activation signal generation unit 63 supplies the generated activation signal to the activation control unit 112 of the first energy storage device 12 via the signal line 40 (see Figures 3 and 4). As a result, the BMU 54 of the first energy storage device 12 is started by the supply of low-voltage power, which is the activation signal. As described above, since the control status has already been transmitted, the BMU 54 can recognize that the ECU 26 is running by receiving the control status.

[0082] In the next step S4 (second step), the activation control unit 112 of the activation processing unit 121 detects at time t1 that the supplied activation signal is in a significant state. Based on this, the activation control unit 112 turns on the switch 72 based on the supply of the activation signal. As a result, the first energy storage device 12 switches from an inactive state to an active state.

[0083] In the next step S5, the BMU 54 performs initialization processing of the first energy storage device 12. This initializes the memory unit 50 and other components, and also performs various diagnostic processes within the first energy storage device 12.

[0084] In the next step S6 (7th step), the management unit 60 starts transmitting the first identification number assignment information (for example, "1" (number 1)) to the communication line 48 via the transmission unit 66 at time t2.

[0085] As described above, the first energy storage device 12 has been switched to the active state, and the BMU 54 has already started up. Therefore, in the next step S7, the communication processing unit 120 receives the first identification number assignment information transmitted to the communication line 48. However, the second energy storage device 14 is in an inactive state, and the BMU 56 has not started up. Therefore, even if the first identification number assignment information is transmitted to the communication line 48, the second energy storage device 14 cannot receive the first identification number assignment information.

[0086] In the next step S8, the BMU 54 performs the process of assigning a first identification number (first identification information), which is the identification number of the first energy storage device 12, based on the first identification number assignment information. Specifically, upon receiving the first identification number assignment information, the BMU 54 stores the first identification number in the storage unit 50.

[0087] In the next step S9 (third step), the communication processing unit 120 transmits identification completion information, indicating that the process of assigning the first identification number has been completed, to the ECU 26 as first transmission information. In this case, the communication processing unit 120 may include the first identification number stored in the storage unit 50 in the first transmission information and transmit it to the ECU 26. Alternatively, when transmitting the first transmission information to the ECU 26, the communication processing unit 120 transmits the first transmission information to the outside via the communication line 48 at predetermined time intervals. Or, the communication processing unit 120 transmits the first transmission information to the ECU 26 via the communication line 48 or a dedicated communication line 128 (see Figure 4).

[0088] In the next step S10 (the fourth step), the receiving unit 64 receives the first transmission information. The receiving unit 64 outputs the received first transmission information to the management unit 60.

[0089] In the next step S11 (5th step), the control unit 60 determines whether the first energy storage device 12 has switched to the active state based on the first transmission information received by the receiving unit 64. If the received transmission information is the first transmission information from the first energy storage device 12, the control unit 60 determines that the first energy storage device 12 has switched to the active state.

[0090] In the next step S12, the management unit 60 stops transmitting the first identification number assignment information at time t3 based on the decision result in step S11.

[0091] In the next step S13 (6th step), the control unit 60 instructs the activation command unit 62 to start supplying an activation signal (2nd command) to the second energy storage device 14. The activation command unit 62 turns on the 2nd switch 67 in accordance with the instruction from the control unit 60. As a result, the activation signal generation unit 63 starts supplying an activation signal to the activation control unit 114 of the second energy storage device 14 via the signal line 42. As a result, the BMU 56 of the second energy storage device 14 is started up by the supply of low-voltage power, which is the activation signal. As described above, since the control status has already been transmitted, the BMU 56 can recognize that the ECU 26 is started up by receiving the control status. The activation command unit 62 continues to supply an activation signal to the activation control unit 112 of the first energy storage device 12.

[0092] In the next step S14, the activation control unit 114 detects at time t4 that the supplied activation signal is in a significant state. Based on this, the activation control unit 114 turns on the switch 82. As a result, the second energy storage device 14 switches from an inactive state to an active state.

[0093] In the next step S15, the BMU 56 performs initialization processing for the second energy storage device 14. This initializes the memory unit 52 and other components, and also performs various diagnostic processes within the second energy storage device 14.

[0094] In the next step S16, the management unit 60 starts transmitting a second identification number assignment information (for example, "2" (number 2)) to the communication line 48 via the transmission unit 66 at time t5.

[0095] As described above, the second energy storage device 14 has been switched to the active state, and the BMU 56 has already started up. Therefore, in the next step S17, the communication processing unit 122 receives the second identification number assignment information transmitted to the communication line 48.

[0096] Furthermore, since the first energy storage device 12 is in an active state and the BMU 54 is in an activated state, the BMU 54 is capable of receiving the second identification number assignment information. However, since the first identification number has already been assigned to the first energy storage device 12 in step S8, the BMU 54 ignores the received second identification number assignment information even if it receives it. Therefore, it is possible to avoid incorrect assignment of identification information to the first energy storage device 12.

[0097] In the next step S18, the BMU 56 performs the process of assigning a second identification number (second identification information), which is the identification number of the second energy storage device 14, based on the second identification number assignment information. As a result, the BMU 56 stores the second identification number in the storage unit 52.

[0098] In the next step S19, the communication processing unit 122 transmits the identification completion information to the ECU 26 as second transmission information. In this case as well, the communication processing unit 122 may include the second identification number stored in the storage unit 52 in the second transmission information and transmit it to the ECU 26. When transmitting the second transmission information to the ECU 26, the communication processing unit 122 transmits the second transmission information via the communication line 48 at predetermined time intervals. Alternatively, the communication processing unit 122 transmits the second transmission information to the ECU 26 via the communication line 48 or a dedicated communication line 130 (see Figure 4).

[0099] In the next step S20, the receiving unit 64 receives the second transmission information. The receiving unit 64 outputs the received second transmission information to the management unit 60.

[0100] In the next step S21, the control unit 60 determines whether the second energy storage device 14 has switched to the active state based on the second transmission information received by the receiving unit 64. If the received transmission information is the second transmission information from the second energy storage device 14, the control unit 60 determines that the second energy storage device 14 has switched to the active state.

[0101] In the next step S22, the management unit 60 stops transmitting the second identification number assignment information at time t6, based on the decision result in step S21.

[0102] After the startup process shown in Figure 5, the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 perform a pre-charge process. That is, if there are capacitors or the like in the external loads such as the power conversion unit 22 and the motor 24, an inrush current, which is an overcurrent, may occur when charging and discharging of the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 begins. By performing a pre-charge process, the occurrence of overcurrent can be suppressed. Since the pre-charge process is well known, a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0103] After the pre-charge process, the ECU 26 controls the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 via the communication line 48 to perform charging and discharging of the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14.

[0104] As shown by the dashed line in Figure 5, the process in step S16 may be executed immediately after step S13, without waiting for steps S14 and S15. This allows the second energy storage device 14 to immediately execute the process in step S17 after the completion of step S15. As a result, the BMU 56 of the second energy storage device 14 can immediately receive the identification number assignment information, and can quickly execute the identification number assignment process. This reduces the time required for the startup process of the second energy storage device 14.

[0105] Furthermore, as shown by the dashed line in Figure 5, the first energy storage device 12 may also perform the process in step S6 immediately after step S3, without waiting for steps S4 and S5. This allows the first energy storage device 12 to immediately perform the process in step S7 after the completion of step S5. As a result, the BMU 54 of the first energy storage device 12 can immediately receive the identification number assignment information, and can quickly perform the identification number assignment process. Therefore, the time required for the startup process can also be shortened in the first energy storage device 12.

[0106] Furthermore, the ECU 26 may perform the processing in the order of step S6 and step S3 after processing step S1. This allows the first energy storage device 12 to quickly receive the identification number assignment information in step S7 after processing steps S4 and S5. As a result, the first energy storage device 12 can be started up in a shorter time.

[0107] Furthermore, the ECU26 can also perform processing on the second energy storage device 14 in the order of step S16 and step S13.

[0108] Figure 7 is a timing chart showing the operation of the first comparative example. The operation of the first comparative example is, for example, the operation of the power system described in Patent Document 1. In the description of Figure 7, the same reference numerals are used to describe the same components as those in the power system 10 (see Figure 1) according to this embodiment.

[0109] In the first comparative example, at time t10, the supply of activation signals to the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 is initiated. As a result, the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 switch from an inactive state to an active state. Initialization processing is performed in each of the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14.

[0110] After the initialization process is complete, the supply of activation signals to the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 is stopped at time t11. As a result, the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 switch from the active state to the inactive state.

[0111] At time t12, the supply of an activation signal to the first energy storage device 12 is resumed. This causes the first energy storage device 12 to switch from an inactive state to an active state. Subsequently, the first energy storage device 12 performs the process of assigning a first identification number.

[0112] After the first identification number assignment process is completed in the first energy storage device 12, the supply of an activation signal to the first energy storage device 12 is stopped at time t13. As a result, the first energy storage device 12 switches from the active state to the inactive state.

[0113] At time t14, the supply of an activation signal to the second energy storage device 14 is resumed. This causes the second energy storage device 14 to switch from an inactive state to an active state. Subsequently, the second energy storage device 14 performs the process of assigning a second identification number.

[0114] After the process of assigning the second identification number in the second energy storage device 14 is completed, the supply of the activation signal to the second energy storage device 14 is stopped at time t15. As a result, the second energy storage device 14 switches from the active state to the inactive state.

[0115] At time t16, the supply of activation signals to the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 is resumed. As a result, the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 switch from an inactive state to an active state.

[0116] Thus, in the first comparative example, in order to avoid assigning duplicate identification numbers to the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14, the startup process is performed while alternately switching between an inactive state and an active state.

[0117] Furthermore, in the first comparative example, after the assignment of identification numbers is completed, the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 do not notify the ECU 26 that the assignment of identification numbers has been completed. Therefore, in the first comparative example, the period during which only the first energy storage device 12 is active (time t12 to time t13) and the period during which only the second energy storage device 14 is active (time t14 to time t15) are sufficiently long. In the first comparative example, by ensuring that each of the above periods (fixed time) is long, the assignment of identification numbers is reliably completed.

[0118] Therefore, in the first comparative example, the startup process for the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 takes time.

[0119] In contrast, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 6, the startup process for the first energy storage device 12 (see Figure 1) is performed first, followed by the startup process for the second energy storage device 14. This allows the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 to be started efficiently and quickly. Furthermore, the first energy storage device 12, which has been assigned a first identification number after receiving the first identification number assignment information, ignores the second identification number assignment information, thus preventing the assignment of an incorrect identification number. As a result, identification numbers can be accurately and reliably assigned to the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14. Moreover, since the first identification number of the first energy storage device 12 is determined before the startup of the second energy storage device 14, the startup state of the first energy storage device 12 can be maintained even during the startup process of the second energy storage device 14. As a result, after the startup processes for the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14, power can be quickly output to the outside from the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14. This also helps to suppress the decrease in the amount of charge stored in the sub-battery 38 and its deterioration.

[0120] Figure 8 is a timing chart showing the operation of the second comparative example (NG operation). At time t20, activation signals are simultaneously supplied to the first energy storage device 12 (see Figure 1) and the second energy storage device 14, and identification number assignment information is transmitted via the communication line 48. As a result, the startup processes of the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 are performed simultaneously, and the same identification number is assigned to both the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14. Consequently, the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 transmit information containing the duplicated identification number to the ECU 26. The ECU 26 is unable to perform subsequent control of the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14.

[0121] In contrast, in this embodiment, the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 are started one at a time. This prevents the same identification number from being assigned to multiple energy storage devices, as in the second comparative example.

[0122] Figure 9 is a sequence diagram showing a modified version of the operation shown in Figure 5. In this modified version, some of the operation of ECU26 (see Figure 1) has been changed.

[0123] Specifically, after step S6, in step S23, the management unit 60 (see Figure 2) determines whether the receiving unit 64 has received the identification completion information (first transmission information) within a predetermined time period since the activation command unit 62 started supplying the activation signal to the first energy storage device 12 in step S3.

[0124] If the receiving unit 64 is able to receive the first transmission information within a predetermined time (step S23: YES), the management unit 60 executes the process in step S11.

[0125] If the receiving unit 64 cannot receive the first transmission information within a predetermined time (step S23: NO), in the next step S24, the management unit 60 determines that the first energy storage device 12 has not been switched to at least the active state.

[0126] In the next step S25, the control unit 60 determines whether to start the second energy storage device 14. If the control unit 60 determines to start the second energy storage device 14 (step S25: YES), it executes the process in step S12.

[0127] If it is determined not to start the second energy storage device 14 (step S25: NO), the control unit 60 determines that neither the first energy storage device 12 nor the second energy storage device 14 can be started. In the next step S26, the control unit 60 notifies external users via the notification unit 28 that power output from the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 is unavailable.

[0128] If, in step S25, the management unit 60 decides to start the second energy storage device 14 (step S25: YES), the process in step S26 may be executed, as shown by the dashed line in Figure 9. In this case, in step S26, the management unit 60 (see Figure 2) notifies an external user via the notification unit 28 that it cannot start the first energy storage device 12 (see Figure 1), but that the second energy storage device 14 can be started. After that, the management unit 60 executes the process in step S12.

[0129] In this embodiment, the power device 16 is not limited to the vehicle's power supply. The power device 16 may be various power supply equipment such as various chargers, power supplies, and switches.

[0130] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the energy storage unit for supplying power for starting the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 is not limited to the sub-battery 38. A battery, capacitor, or the like provided in the vehicle may be used as the energy storage unit for supplying power to the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14. Also, the energy storage unit may be separate from the vehicle. Moreover, the energy storage unit may be detachable from the vehicle.

[0131] Furthermore, the above description described the case where the power system 10 has a first energy storage device 12 and a second energy storage device 14. In this embodiment, the power system 10 may have only one energy storage device. In this case, by applying the processes shown in Figures 5 and 9, it is possible to quickly determine when the startup of one energy storage device is complete. Also, the power system 10 may have three or more energy storage devices. In this case, the processes shown in Figures 5 and 9 can be easily applied to the startup process of the third and subsequent energy storage devices.

[0132] Furthermore, the above description described the case where the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 are connected in series. In this embodiment, the processes shown in Figures 5 and 9 can be easily applied even when the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 are connected in parallel, or when three or more energy storage devices are connected in series or in parallel. For example, if multiple energy storage devices are connected in parallel, and there are energy storage devices that are not running, the remaining energy storage devices can be used to output power to the outside.

[0133] Furthermore, in this embodiment, by connecting the ECU 26 with the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 via dedicated signal lines 40 and 42, it is possible to start up the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 one at a time. Therefore, in this embodiment, information may be transmitted and received between the ECU 26 and the first energy storage device 12 and the second energy storage device 14 using communication lines other than the communication line 48. For example, the ECU 26 and the first energy storage device 12 may be connected by a communication line, and the ECU 26 and the second energy storage device 14 may be connected by another communication line.

[0134] The power system 10 is applicable to various power supply systems that supply power to loads, etc., from multiple energy storage devices, or charge multiple energy storage devices. The power system 10 can be installed in homes, offices, or public facilities, etc.

[0135] The power system 10 is also applicable to power supply systems for various types of mobile vehicles. These types of mobile vehicles include vehicles that can carry people and vehicles that cannot carry people. Examples of such mobile vehicles include vehicles, aircraft, flying vehicles, and ships. Examples of vehicle power supply systems include power supply systems for electric vehicles such as electric cars and power supply systems for vehicles equipped with drive motors, such as hybrid vehicles. In other words, the power system 10 is applicable to power supply systems for various types of vehicles such as unicycles, motorcycles, and four-wheeled vehicles. When the power system 10 is applied to a mobile vehicle, the mounting device 57 may be configured to be detachably attached to the mobile vehicle, as shown in Figure 1.

[0136] The power system 10 can also be applied to power supply systems for various general-purpose equipment. Specifically, examples of various general-purpose equipment include (1) various chargers, (2) various dischargers, and (3) various work machines such as general-purpose work machines, lawnmowers, tillers, and blowers. Other examples of various general-purpose equipment include (4) electrical equipment without electric motors, such as floodlights and lighting equipment, and (5) various equipment installed in houses and buildings. In this case as well, as shown in Figure 1, the mounting device 57 may be configured to be detachably attached to the general-purpose equipment.

[0137] For (1) to (5), the equipment may be general-purpose equipment that does not carry a person. Also, for (3), the equipment may be a work machine that does not carry a person. Alternatively, for (3), the equipment may be a work machine that carries a person. Furthermore, examples of (5) above include (A) equipment that operates on DC power, such as clocks and audio equipment such as radio cassette recorders, and (B) equipment that operates on AC power, such as electric fans, juicers, mixers, or incandescent lamps. Another example of (5) above is (C) equipment that operates on DC power converted from AC power, such as televisions, radios, stereos, or personal computers. Furthermore, another example of (5) above is (D) inverter-type equipment including washing machines, refrigerators, air conditioners, microwave ovens, and fluorescent lamps. The equipment in (D) above is equipment that operates on AC power that has been converted from AC power to DC power and then further converted from that DC power.

[0138] The inventions that can be understood from the above embodiments are described below.

[0139] A first aspect of the present invention is a power system (10) comprising a power storage device (12, 14) having a power storage unit (44, 46) and a power device (16) to which the power storage device can be attached, wherein the power storage device has an activation processing unit (121, 123) that switches the state of the power storage device to an active state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device can be electrically connected, or to an inactive state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device cannot be electrically connected, and a transmission unit (120, 122) that transmits transmission information to the outside of the power storage device, and is attached to the power device or the power device. The mounting device (57) includes an activation command unit (62) that outputs a command to the activation processing unit, and a receiving unit (64) that receives the transmission information from outside the power device or from outside the mounting device. The activation processing unit is configured to switch between the activated state and the deactivated state according to the command output from the activation command unit, and the transmission information includes at least one of the following: information indicating that the energy storage device has switched from the deactivated state to the activated state, or information that is transmitted to the outside of the energy storage device when the energy storage device is in the activated state.

[0140] In this configuration, after the energy storage device switches from an inactive state to an active state, transmission information is sent to the outside of the energy storage device. The power device or mounting device can recognize that the energy storage device startup process is complete by receiving the transmission information. Therefore, the energy storage device can be started up efficiently and in a short time.

[0141] In a first embodiment of the present invention, the power device or the mounting device further includes a determination unit (60) that determines that the energy storage device has switched to the active state based on the transmission information received by the receiving unit, the energy storage device includes at least a first energy storage device (12) and a second energy storage device (14), each having an energy storage unit, the first energy storage device includes a first activation processing unit (121), which is the activation processing unit, and a first transmission unit (120), which is the transmission unit, the second energy storage device includes a second activation processing unit (123), which is the activation processing unit, and a second transmission unit (122), which is the transmission unit, and when both the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device are in the inactive state, the activation command unit The first activation unit may output a first command, which is the command to switch the first energy storage device to the activated state, only to the first activation unit, and after the first energy storage device switches to the activated state upon the first activation unit receiving the first command, the first transmission unit transmits the first transmission information, which is the transmission information, and when the receiving unit receives the first transmission information, the determination unit determines, based on the first transmission information, that the first energy storage device has switched to the activated state, and the activation command unit may output a second command, which is the command to switch the second energy storage device to the activated state, to the second activation unit after the determination unit has determined that the first energy storage device has switched to the activated state.

[0142] Even with this configuration, the first and second energy storage devices can be started efficiently and quickly. Furthermore, since the startup process for the second energy storage device is performed after the startup process for the first energy storage device, it is possible to reliably avoid assigning duplicate identification information to the first and second energy storage devices.

[0143] In a first embodiment of the present invention, the determination unit may determine that the first energy storage device has not switched to the active state at least when the receiving unit does not receive the first transmission information within a predetermined time period after the activation command unit outputs the first command, and the activation command unit may output the second command to the second activation processing unit after the determination unit has determined that the first energy storage device has not switched to the active state at least.

[0144] This makes it possible to output power using only the second energy storage device.

[0145] In a first embodiment of the present invention, the power system further comprises a notification unit (28), wherein the determination unit determines that the first energy storage device has not switched to at least the active state when the receiving unit does not receive the first transmission information within a predetermined time period after the activation command unit outputs the first command, and the notification unit may, after the determination unit has determined that the first energy storage device has not switched to at least the active state, notify the outside of the first energy storage device that power output from the first energy storage device is impossible.

[0146] This allows external users to easily understand the status of the first energy storage device.

[0147] In a first embodiment of the present invention, after the second energy storage device switches to the active state when the second activation processing unit receives the second command, the second transmission unit transmits the second transmission information, which is the transmission information, and the determination unit determines, based on the second transmission information, that the second energy storage device has switched to the active state when the receiving unit receives the second transmission information.

[0148] As a result, the power supply unit or mounting device can easily recognize that the startup process of the second energy storage unit has been completed by receiving the second transmission information.

[0149] In a first aspect of the present invention, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit are connected to communicate via a communication network (48), the transmitting unit transmits the transmission information via the communication network, and the receiving unit receives the transmission information via the communication network.

[0150] This ensures that the receiving unit reliably receives the transmitted information.

[0151] In a first embodiment of the present invention, the power device or the mounting device has another transmitting unit (66) that transmits identification information provided for assigning identification information to the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device via the communication network, and the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device may each have other receiving units (120, 122) that receive the identification information via the communication network.

[0152] This ensures that other receiving units reliably receive the identification information. As a result, the first and second energy storage devices can perform the identification information assignment process based on the received identification information.

[0153] In a first embodiment of the present invention, the first transmission information may include first identification information which is the identification information assigned to the first energy storage device by the first receiving unit, which is another receiving unit of the first energy storage device, receiving the identification assignment information.

[0154] As a result, the power device or mounting device can confirm the first identification information contained in the received first transmission information, thereby recognizing that the startup process of the first energy storage device has been completed and that the identification information has been assigned to the first energy storage device.

[0155] In a first embodiment of the present invention, the other transmitting unit may transmit the identification information when a new energy storage device is installed in the power device.

[0156] This makes it possible to assign identification information to the energy storage device each time it is replaced.

[0157] A second aspect of the present invention is a control method for a power system comprising a power storage device having a power storage unit and a power device to which the power storage device is detachable, wherein the power storage device comprises an activation processing unit that switches the state of the power storage device to an active state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device can be electrically connected, or to an inactive state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device cannot be electrically connected, and a transmission unit that transmits transmission information to the outside of the power storage device, which includes at least one of the following: information indicating that the power storage device has switched from the inactive state to the active state, or information transmitted to the outside of the power storage device when the power storage device is in the active state, and further comprises at least a first power storage device and a second power storage device, each having the power storage unit, and the control method controls only the first activation processing unit, which is the activation processing unit of the first power storage device, when both the first power storage device and the second power storage device are in the inactive state. The system includes: a first step (step S3) of transmitting a command to switch to the active state; a second step (step S4) of the first activation processing unit receiving the first command, which is the command to switch the first energy storage device to the active state, and switching the first energy storage device to the active state; a third step (step S9) of the first transmission unit, which is the transmission unit of the first energy storage device, transmitting the transmission information; a fourth step (step S10) of receiving the transmission information transmitted by the first transmission unit as the first transmission information; a fifth step (step S11) of determining that the first energy storage device has switched to the active state based on the first transmission information; and a sixth step (step S13) of transmitting a second command, which is the command to switch the second energy storage device to the active state, to the second activation processing unit, which is the activation processing unit of the second energy storage device, after determining that the first energy storage device has switched to the active state.

[0158] In this method, after the first energy storage device switches from an inactive state to an active state, transmission information is sent to the outside of the first energy storage device. As a result, when the power device or mounting device receives the transmission information, it can recognize that the startup process of the first energy storage device is complete. Therefore, the first energy storage device can be started up efficiently and in a short amount of time.

[0159] In a second embodiment of the present invention, the control method may further include a seventh step (step S6) prior to the third step, which involves transmitting identification information used to assign identification information to the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device.

[0160] This enables the first energy storage device to perform the identification information assignment process based on the received identification information.

[0161] In a third aspect of the present invention, the program causes a computer (26) to execute the above-described method for controlling the power system.

[0162] Even in this case, the transmission information is sent to the outside of the first energy storage device after the first energy storage device switches from an inactive state to an active state. As a result, when the power device or mounting device receives the transmission information, it can recognize that the startup process of the first energy storage device is complete. Therefore, the first energy storage device can be started up efficiently and in a short amount of time.

[0163] In a fourth aspect of the present invention, the storage medium (58) stores the above-mentioned program.

[0164] Even in this case, the transmission information is sent to the outside of the first energy storage device after the first energy storage device switches from an inactive state to an active state. As a result, when the power device or mounting device receives the transmission information, it can recognize that the startup process of the first energy storage device is complete. Therefore, the first energy storage device can be started up efficiently and in a short amount of time.

[0165] A fifth aspect of the present invention is a power storage device having a power storage unit, the power storage device comprising: an activation processing unit that switches the state of the power storage device to an active state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device can be electrically connected, or to an inactive state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device cannot be electrically connected; and a transmission unit that transmits transmission information to the outside of the power storage device, wherein the activation processing unit is configured to switch to the active state or the inactive state by a command from an activation command unit outside the power storage device, and the transmission information includes at least one of the following: information indicating that the power storage device has switched from the inactive state to the active state, or information that is transmitted to the outside of the power storage device when the power storage device is in the active state.

[0166] In this configuration, after the energy storage device switches from an inactive state to an active state, transmission information is sent to the outside of the energy storage device. As a result, when the power supply or mounting device receives the transmission information, it can recognize that the energy storage device startup process is complete. Therefore, the energy storage device can be started up efficiently and in a short time.

[0167] A sixth aspect of the present invention is a power device in which a power storage device having a power storage unit is detachable, the power device, or an attachment device attached to the power device, has an activation command unit that outputs commands to the power storage device, and a receiving unit that receives transmitted information from outside the power device or from outside the attachment device, the power storage device is configured to switch between an active state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device can be electrically connected, and an inactive state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device cannot be electrically connected, and the transmitted information is transmitted from the power storage device and includes at least one of the following: information indicating that the power storage device has switched from the inactive state to the active state, or information transmitted to the outside of the power storage device when the power storage device is in the active state.

[0168] In this configuration, after the energy storage device switches from an inactive state to an active state, the transmission information is sent to the outside of the energy storage device. As a result, when the power supply or mounting device receives the transmission information, it can recognize that the energy storage device's startup process is complete.

[0169] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the disclosure described above, and various configurations can be adopted without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A power system (10) comprising an energy storage device (12, 14) having energy storage units (44, 46), and a power device (16) to which the energy storage device can be attached or detached, The aforementioned energy storage device is The power storage device includes activation processing units (121, 123) that switch the state of the power storage device to an active state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device can be electrically connected, or to an inactive state in which the power storage unit and the outside of the power storage device cannot be electrically connected, A transmitting unit (120, 122) that transmits information to the outside of the energy storage device, It has, The power device, or the mounting device (57) attached to the power device, The activation command unit (62) outputs commands to the activation processing unit, A receiving unit (64) that receives the transmission information from outside the power device or from outside the mounting device, Based on the transmission information received by the receiving unit, a determination unit (60) determines that the energy storage device has switched to the active state, It has, The activation processing unit is provided to switch between the activated state and the deactivated state according to the command output from the activation command unit, The power device or the mounting device has another transmitting unit (66) that transmits identification information provided for assigning identification information to the energy storage device via a communication network (48), The energy storage device has other receiving units (120, 122) that receive the identification information via the communication network. When the energy storage device is in the inactive state, the activation command unit outputs the command to switch the energy storage device to the active state, and the other transmission unit starts transmitting the identification information. After the activation unit receives the command and the energy storage device switches to the activated state, the transmission unit transmits the transmission information. The determination unit, upon receiving the transmission information, determines, based on the transmission information, that the energy storage device has switched to the active state. A power system in which the other transmitting unit stops transmitting the identification information based on the determination that the energy storage device has switched to the active state.

2. In the power system according to Claim 1, The news department (28) will be added to the mix. The determination unit determines that the energy storage device has not switched to the active state at least when the receiving unit does not receive the transmission information within a predetermined time period after the activation command unit outputs the command. The notification unit is a power system that, after the determination unit determines that the energy storage device has not switched to at least the active state, notifies the outside of the energy storage device that power output from the energy storage device is impossible.

3. In the power system according to claim 1 or 2, The transmitting unit and the receiving unit are connected to each other via the communication network, The transmitting unit transmits the transmission information via the communication network. The receiving unit is a power system that receives the transmission information via the communication network.

4. In the power system according to claim 1 or 2, A power system in which the transmitted information includes the identification information assigned to the energy storage device by the other receiving unit receiving the identification information.

5. In the power system according to claim 1 or 2, The other transmitting unit transmits the identification information when a new energy storage device is installed in the power device.

6. In the power system according to claim 1 or 2, A power system wherein the transmitted information includes at least one of the following: information indicating that the energy storage device has switched from the inactive state to the active state, or information transmitted to the outside of the energy storage device when the energy storage device is in the active state.

7. A control method for a power system comprising a power storage device having a power storage unit and a power device on which the power storage device can be attached and detached, The aforementioned energy storage device is An activation processing unit that switches the state of the energy storage device to an active state in which the energy storage unit and the outside of the energy storage device can be electrically connected, or to an inactive state in which the energy storage unit and the outside of the energy storage device cannot be electrically connected, A transmitting unit that transmits information to an external location of the energy storage device, It has, The aforementioned power device, or the mounting device attached to the power device, The activation command unit outputs commands to the activation processing unit, A receiving unit that receives the transmission information from outside the power device or from outside the mounting device, A determination unit determines, based on the transmission information received by the receiving unit, that the energy storage device has switched to the active state, It has, The activation processing unit is provided to switch between the activated state and the deactivated state according to the command output from the activation command unit, The power device or the mounting device has another transmitting unit that transmits identification information used to assign identification information to the energy storage device via a communication network, The energy storage device has another receiving unit that receives the identification information via the communication network, The control method described above is When the energy storage device is in the inactive state, the activation command unit outputs the command to switch the energy storage device to the active state (S3, S13), Steps (S4, S14) in which the energy storage device switches to the activated state when the activation processing unit receives the command, The other transmitting unit starts transmitting the identification information (S6, S16), After the energy storage device switches to the active state, the transmitting unit transmits the transmission information (S9, S19), The receiving unit receives the transmission information (S10, S20), The receiving unit receives the transmission information, and the determination unit determines, based on the transmission information, that the energy storage device has switched to the active state (S11, S21), Based on the determination that the energy storage device has switched to the active state, the other transmitting unit stops transmitting the identification information (S12, S22), A method for controlling a power system, comprising:

8. A program that causes a computer (26) to execute the power system control method described in Claim 7.

9. A storage medium (58) for storing the program described in claim 8.

10. A power storage device having a power storage unit, An activation processing unit that switches the state of the energy storage device to an active state in which the energy storage unit and the outside of the energy storage device can be electrically connected, or to an inactive state in which the energy storage unit and the outside of the energy storage device cannot be electrically connected, A transmitting unit that transmits information to an external location of the energy storage device, A receiving unit that receives identification information provided via a communication network to assign identification information to the energy storage device, It has, The activation processing unit is provided to switch the energy storage device to the activated state or the deactivated state in response to a command from an activation command unit located outside the energy storage device. An energy storage device wherein, after the activation processing unit receives the command and the energy storage device switches to the activated state, the transmission unit transmits the transmission information.

11. A power device having a power storage unit that can be attached and detached, The aforementioned power device, or the mounting device attached to the power device, The aforementioned energy storage device includes an active command unit that outputs commands to the energy storage device, A receiving unit that receives transmitted information from outside the power device or from outside the mounting device, A determination unit determines, based on the transmission information received by the receiving unit, that the energy storage device has switched to an active state in which the energy storage unit and the outside of the energy storage device can be electrically connected. It has, The energy storage device is provided to switch between the active state and an inactive state in which the energy storage unit and the outside of the energy storage device cannot be electrically connected. The power device or the mounting device has a transmitting unit that transmits identification information provided for assigning identification information to the energy storage device via a communication network (48), When the energy storage device is in the inactive state, the activation command unit outputs the command to switch the energy storage device to the active state, and the transmission unit starts transmitting the identification information. The determination unit, upon receiving the transmission information, determines, based on the transmission information, that the energy storage device has switched to the active state. The transmitting unit is a power device that stops transmitting the identification information based on the determination that the energy storage device has switched to the active state.

12. In the power device according to claim 11, Furthermore, it also has a news department, The determination unit determines that the energy storage device has not switched to the active state at least when the receiving unit does not receive the transmission information within a predetermined time period after the activation command unit outputs the command. The notification unit is a power device that, after the determination unit has determined that the power storage device has not switched to at least the active state, notifies the outside of the power storage device that power output from the power storage device is impossible.

13. In the power device according to claim 11 or 12, The receiving unit is connected to the energy storage device via the communication network in a communicable manner and receives the transmitted information via the communication network.

14. In the power device according to claim 11 or 12, The transmitted information includes the identification information assigned to the energy storage device upon the energy storage device receiving the identification information, and is a power device.

15. In the power device according to claim 11 or 12, The transmitting unit is a power device that transmits the identification information when a new energy storage device is installed in the power device.

16. In the power device according to claim 11 or 12, A power device wherein the transmitted information includes at least one of the following: information indicating that the energy storage device has switched from the inactive state to the active state, or information transmitted to the outside of the energy storage device when the energy storage device is in the active state.

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