Power systems and their operating methods

Abstract

This technology provides a method suitable for managing the degradation of multiple fuel cells while utilizing multiple fuel cells to supply planned power to one or more electric vehicles. [Solution] The power system 1A includes a fuel cell unit 200, a charging device unit 100, and a control device 300. The fuel cell unit 200 includes a plurality of fuel cells 250. The charging device unit 100 includes a plurality of charging devices 150. Power is supplied to the charging device unit 100 from the fuel cell unit 200. The control device 300 includes a power generation planning unit 323 and a power generation control unit 324. The power generation planning unit 323 creates a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200 based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit 100 and the degradation levels of the plurality of fuel cells 250. The power generation control unit 324 controls the fuel cell unit 200 based on the power generation plan.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to power systems and methods for operating them. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a system for charging a vehicle. Specifically, this system creates a vehicle charging plan. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-118575 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] This disclosure provides a technology suitable for managing the degradation of multiple fuel cells while utilizing multiple fuel cells to supply planned power to one or more electric vehicles. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] This disclosure is, A fuel cell unit including multiple fuel cells, A charging unit including multiple charging devices for electric vehicles, which is powered by the fuel cell unit, A control device is provided, The control device is A power generation planning unit creates a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit and the degree of degradation of the multiple fuel cells, Includes a power generation control unit that controls the fuel cell unit based on the power generation plan, We provide power systems. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] The technology described herein is suitable for managing the degradation of multiple fuel cells while utilizing multiple fuel cells to supply a planned amount of power to one or more electric vehicles. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Configuration diagram of the power system in Embodiment 1 [Figure 2] Flowchart showing the operation overview of the power system in Embodiment 1 [Figure 3] A flowchart showing an example of creating a discharge plan in step S101, as shown in Figure 2. [Figure 4] A flowchart showing an example of creating a power generation plan in step S102 of Figure 2. [Figure 5] Configuration diagram of the power system in Embodiment 2 [Figure 6] Flowchart showing the operation overview of the power system in Embodiment 2 [Figure 7] A flowchart showing an example of creating a power generation plan in step S402 of Figure 6. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, descriptions that are unnecessarily detailed may be omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of already well-known matters or redundant descriptions of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided for the full understanding of the disclosure by those skilled in the art and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0009] In the embodiment, the energy is the time integral of the power. The unit of energy is the watt-hour (Wh). The unit of power is the watt (W). In the embodiment, the average is, for example, the arithmetic mean, harmonic mean, geometric mean, trimmed mean, etc.

[0010] (Embodiment 1) [1-1. Configuration] <<Power System 1A>> FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of the power system 1A in Embodiment 1.

[0011] The power system 1A can be connected to the commercial power supply 400. The power system 1A can be connected to the input device 500 and the display device 600. The power system 1A includes a charging device unit 100, a fuel cell unit 200, and a control device 300.

[0012] The charging device unit 100 includes M CH units of charging devices 150. M CH is a natural number of 2 or more, for example, 2 or more and 1000 or less, and may be 10 or more and 500 or less.

[0013] In Embodiment 1, the M CH units of charging devices 150 are for the electric vehicle 700. That is, each of the M CH units of charging devices 150 can discharge to the electric vehicle 700. Thereby, the electric vehicle 700 can be charged.

[0014] The fuel cell unit 200 includes M FC units of fuel cells 250. M FC is a natural number of 2 or more, for example, 2 or more and 1000 or less, and may be 10 or more and 500 or less.

[0015] M CH units of charging devices 150 and M FC units of fuel cells 250 are connected to each other without passing through the commercial power supply 400. That is, the combination of M CH units of charging devices 150 and M FC units of fuel cells 250, which is M CH +M FC units of devices are connected to each other without passing through the commercial power supply 400.

[0016] In Figure 1, the power converter is not shown. For example, the power converter is installed at the connection point with the commercial power supply 400 in the power system 1A. Power from the commercial power supply 400 is converted from AC to DC and then supplied to the charging device unit 100. In Embodiment 1, reverse power flow from the fuel cell unit 200 to the commercial power supply 400 is permitted. Power from the fuel cell unit 200 is converted from DC to AC and then can be reverse-flowed to the commercial power supply 400. However, a configuration in which reverse power flow from the fuel cell unit 200 to the commercial power supply 400 is prohibited may also be adopted.

[0017] ≪Charging device unit 100≫ The charging device unit 100 may be supplied with power from the fuel cell unit 200 and / or the commercial power supply 400. In Embodiment 1, M CH The charging units 150 have the same specifications. CH Maximum discharge power P of the charging device 150 CHMAX They are identical. In Embodiment 1, the maximum discharge power P of the charging device 150 is CHMAX This is the rated discharge power of the charging device 150. The charging device 150 is, for example, a charging station.

[0018] ≪Fuel Cell Unit 200≫ In Embodiment 1, M FC Each of the 250 fuel cells includes a fuel cell stack (hereinafter referred to as the stack), auxiliary equipment, and a filter. The auxiliary equipment includes, for example, actuators, sensors, etc. The actuator includes, for example, a pump. The filter is, for example, an air filter.

[0019] In Embodiment 1, the fuel cell 250 can perform rated power generation and partial load power generation. Rated power generation is power generation that produces the rated power. Partial load power generation is power generation that produces less power than the rated power. In Embodiment 1, the maximum power generation P of the fuel cell 250 FCMAX This is the rated power output of the 250 fuel cell.

[0020] One or more components of the fuel cell 250 will degrade and reach the end of their lifespan with use. In Embodiment 1, the degradation level of the fuel cell 250 is D FC This index is used. In Embodiment 1, the degradation degree D of the fuel cell 250 FC This is based on the cumulative number of power generation cycles and / or cumulative power generation time of the fuel cell 250.

[0021] Specifically, the fuel cell 250 has a maximum cumulative number of power generation cycles N MAX and maximum cumulative power generation time T MAX The following is defined: Maximum cumulative number of power generation cycles N MAX and maximum cumulative power generation time T MAX This is stored in the control device 300.

[0022] Maximum cumulative number of power generation cycles for fuel cell 250 N MAX This is the cumulative number of times the fuel cell 250 can generate power, counted from when the fuel cell 250 was installed or maintained. In the fuel cell unit 200, the cumulative number of power generation counted from when the fuel cell 250 was installed or maintained is N. REAL The maximum cumulative number of power generation cycles N MAX The 250 fuel cells that have reached their limit will not be operated any further.

[0023] Maximum cumulative power generation time T for fuel cell 250 MAX This is the cumulative power-generating time of the fuel cell 250, counted from when the fuel cell 250 was installed or maintained. In the fuel cell unit 200, this is the cumulative power-generating time T, counted from when the fuel cell 250 was installed or maintained. REAL Maximum cumulative power generation time T MAX The 250 fuel cells that have reached their limit will not be operated any further.

[0024] Fuel cell 250 degradation level D FC As shown in Equation 1 below, the value N REAL / N MAX and value T REAL / T MAX It is the larger of the two. Value N REAL / N MAXThis is the cumulative number of power generation cycles N REAL Maximum cumulative power generation time T MAX This is the value obtained by dividing by T. REAL / T MAX This is the cumulative power generation time T. REAL Maximum cumulative power generation time T MAX This is the value obtained by dividing by . In formula 1, MAX(α, β) is a function that represents the larger of α and β.

number

[0025] In Embodiment 1, M FC The 250 fuel cells have the same specifications. FC Maximum power generation P of 250 fuel cells FCMAX They are identical. M FC Maximum cumulative number of power generation cycles for 250 fuel cells N MAX They are identical. M FC Maximum cumulative power generation time of 250 fuel cells T MAX They are identical. M FC If used in the same manner, all 250 fuel cells may degrade at the same rate.

[0026] As described above, one or more components of the fuel cell 250 deteriorate with use and reach the end of their lifespan. Therefore, maintenance of the fuel cell 250 is performed by a worker. During maintenance, one or more components of the fuel cell 250 are replaced. One or more components include, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of a stack, actuator and filter. In Embodiment 1, M FC A simultaneous maintenance will be performed on 250 fuel cells. During the simultaneous maintenance, M FC All 250 fuel cells are maintained simultaneously (i.e., all at once). According to the averaging mode described later, M FC The averaging mode makes it easier to synchronize the end-of-life timing of the 250 fuel cells. For this reason, the averaging mode is well-suited for simultaneous maintenance.

[0027] ≪Control device 300≫ In Embodiment 1, the control device 300 creates a discharge plan for the charging device unit 100 and controls the discharge of the charging device unit 100 based on the discharge plan. The control device 300 also creates a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200 and controls the power generation of the fuel cell unit 200 based on the power generation plan.

[0028] In Embodiment 1, the control of the discharge of the charging device unit 100 by the control device 300 is controlled by the control cycle C CH It is executed in this manner. The discharge plan is calculated for each control period C CH M in CH This shows the discharge power of each charging device 150. According to the discharge plan, each control cycle C CH M in CH The discharge power of each charging device 150 is controlled.

[0029] In Embodiment 1, the control device 300 controls the power generation of the fuel cell unit 200, with a control cycle C FC It is executed as follows: The power generation plan is for each control cycle C FC M in FC This shows the power generation of each of the 250 fuel cells. According to the power generation plan, each control cycle C FC M in FC The power generated by each of the 250 fuel cells is controlled.

[0030] In Embodiment 1, the control period C CH and control period C FC This is equal to the control period C. CH and control period C FC These may be different from each other. Control period C CH In one example, it is between 10 minutes and 3 hours; in another specific example, it is between 30 minutes and 2 hours; and in one numerical example, it is 1 hour. Control period C FC In one example, it is between 10 minutes and 3 hours; in another specific example, it is between 30 minutes and 2 hours; and in yet another specific example, it is 1 hour.

[0031] In Embodiment 1, the control of the discharge of the charging device unit 100 by the control device 300 and the control of the power generation of the fuel cell unit 200 by the control device 300 are synchronized. In other words, two consecutive control cycles C CH The timing of the switch and the two consecutive control periods C FC The timing of the switchover is the same. However, the control of the discharge of the charging device unit 100 by the control device 300 and the control of the power generation of the fuel cell unit 200 by the control device 300 do not need to be synchronized.

[0032] In Embodiment 1, the discharge plan is M CH It can also be said that this indicates the discharge start time, discharge end time, and discharge power of the charging device 150. According to the discharge plan, M CH The discharge start time, discharge end time, and discharge power of the charging device 150 are controlled.

[0033] In Embodiment 1, the power generation plan is M FC It can also be said that this shows the start time, end time, and power output of the 250 fuel cells. According to the power generation plan, M FC The start time, end time, and power output of each of the 250 fuel cells are controlled.

[0034] In Embodiment 1, the discharge plan is M CH Each of the charging devices 150 indicates which electric vehicle 700 it will discharge to. The control device 300 manages the electric vehicles 700 using their identifiers.

[0035] In Embodiment 1, the power generation plan is created so that the power generated by the fuel cell unit 200 follows the estimated power demand of the power demand section in the power system 1A. The power demand section includes a charging device unit 100. The estimated power demand includes the discharge power in the discharge plan of the charging device unit 100. With this configuration, the discharge power of the charging device unit 100 can be supplied by the fuel cell unit 200. This reduces the need to purchase electricity from the commercial power source 400. This can contribute, for example, to achieving Renewable Energy 100% (RE100). Specifically, the power demand section is the charging device unit 100. The estimated power demand is the discharge power in the discharge plan of the charging device unit 100.

[0036] The discharge power of the charging device unit 100 is M CH This refers to the total discharge power of the 150 charging devices. CH The total discharge power of the 150 charging devices is M CH When the number of discharge devices in a single charging device 150 is one, this refers to the discharge power of that single charging device 150. CH The total discharge power of the 150 charging devices is M CH When a single charging device 150 has multiple discharge units, this refers to the total discharge power of those multiple charging devices 150.

[0037] The power generated by the fuel cell unit 200 is M FC This refers to the total power generated by 250 fuel cells. FC The total power generated by 250 fuel cells is M FC If there is one power generation unit among the fuel cell 250 units, this refers to the power generated by that one fuel cell 250 unit. FC The total power generated by 250 fuel cells is M FC If there are multiple power generation units in a fuel cell 250, then M FC This refers to the total power generated by 250 fuel cells.

[0038] The control modes of the control device 300 include an averaging mode. In the averaging mode, the power generation plan of the fuel cell unit 200 is MFC Among the fuel cells 250 of the vehicle, the fuel cell 250 with a relatively low degradation degree D FC is created so as to be preferentially switched from the stopped state to the power generation state. Specifically, in the case where only one of the two fuel cells 250 is switched from the stopped state to the power generation state, the power generation plan is created so as to switch the fuel cell 250 with a low degradation degree D among the two fuel cells 250 from the stopped state to the power generation state. FC is created so as to switch the fuel cell 250 with a low degradation degree D from the stopped state to the power generation state.

[0039] The control device 300 includes a vehicle information acquisition unit 311, a vehicle information storage unit 312, a discharge plan unit 313, a discharge control unit 314, a degradation information acquisition unit 321, a degradation information storage unit 322, a power generation plan unit 323, and a power generation control unit 324. The control device 300 can be configured by using, for example, a processor and a memory.

[0040] The vehicle information acquisition unit 311 acquires vehicle information of the electric vehicle 700 connected to the charging device 150 from the charging device 150. In Embodiment 1, the vehicle information includes information representing a charging level. Specifically, the charging level is the SOC (State Of Charge). The vehicle information storage unit 312 stores the vehicle information acquired by the vehicle information acquisition unit 311.

[0041] The discharge plan unit 313 creates a discharge plan based on the vehicle information. The discharge control unit 314 controls the charging device unit 100 based on the discharge plan. As a result, the charging device 150 can discharge to the electric vehicle 700 connected to the charging device 150. Then, the electric vehicle 700 can be charged. Specifically, the discharge plan unit 313 creates a discharge plan based on the vehicle information and the operation plan of one or more electric vehicles 700. The operation plan will be described later.

[0042] The degradation information acquisition unit 321 is M FCObtain the respective degradation information of each of the M fuel cells 250. The degradation information of the fuel cell 250 may include the cumulative number of power generation cycles of the fuel cell 250 and / or the cumulative power generation time of the fuel cell 250. In Embodiment 1, the degradation information of the fuel cell 250 includes the cumulative number of power generation cycles of the fuel cell 250 and the cumulative power generation time of the fuel cell 250. The degradation information storage unit 322 stores the respective degradation information of the M fuel cells 250. FC Store the respective degradation information of each of the M fuel cells 250.

[0043] The power generation planning unit 323 creates a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200 based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit 100 and the respective degradation information of the M fuel cells 250. The power generation control unit 324 controls the fuel cell unit 200 based on the power generation plan. FC Based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit 100 and the respective degradation information of the M fuel cells 250, create a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200. The power generation control unit 324 controls the fuel cell unit 200 based on the power generation plan.

[0044] In Embodiment 1, for each of the M fuel cells 250, the power generation planning unit 323 specifies the degradation degree D based on the degradation information. Based on the specified degradation degrees D of the M fuel cells 250, create a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200. Therefore, the power generation planning unit 323 creates a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200 based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit 100 and the respective degradation degrees D of the M fuel cells 250. FC For each of the M fuel cells 250, specify the degradation degree D based on the degradation information. FC Based on the specified degradation degrees D of the M fuel cells 250, create a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200. Therefore, the power generation planning unit 323 creates a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200 based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit 100 and the respective degradation degrees D of the M fuel cells 250. FC Based on the specified degradation degrees D of the M fuel cells 250, create a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200. Therefore, the power generation planning unit 323 creates a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200 based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit 100 and the respective degradation degrees D of the M fuel cells 250. FC Based on the specified degradation degrees D of the M fuel cells 250, create a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200. Therefore, the power generation planning unit 323 creates a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200 based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit 100 and the respective degradation degrees D of the M fuel cells 250. FC Based on the specified degradation degrees D of the M fuel cells 250, create a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200. Therefore, the power generation planning unit 323 creates a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200 based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit 100 and the respective degradation degrees D of the M fuel cells 250. FC Based on the specified degradation degrees D of the M fuel cells 250, create a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200. Therefore, the power generation planning unit 323 creates a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200 based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit 100 and the respective degradation degrees D of the M fuel cells 250.

[0045] Through such operations of the control device 300, the generated power of the fuel cell unit 200 can be supplied to one or more electric vehicles 700 via the charging device unit 100. Thus, one or more electric vehicles 700 can be charged.

[0046] ≪Input device 500, display device 600≫ The input device 500 and the display device 600 can communicate with the power system 1A. In Embodiment 1, one terminal serves as both the input device 500 and the display device 600. The terminal may be, for example, a smartphone, personal computer, tablet, mobile phone, or personal digital assistant (PDA). However, the input device 500 and the display device 600 may be separate devices.

[0047] The input device 500 receives input of an operating plan for one or more electric vehicles 700 from a user of the power system 1A. The input operating plan is transmitted from the input device 500 to the control device 300 and provided to the discharge planning unit 313. The user of the power system 1A is, for example, a business operator that manages the power system 1A.

[0048] In Embodiment 1, the display device 600 is, for example, ·M CH Whether each of the charging devices 150 is actually discharging to the electric vehicle 700 (i.e., whether or not it is charging the electric vehicle 700), ·M CH The actual discharge power of each of the 150 charging devices, ·M FC The actual power generated by each of the 250 fuel cells, • Discharge plan of charging device unit 100, and • Power generation plan for fuel cell unit 200 Display at least one selected from the group consisting of [the specified characters].

[0049] ≪Electric Vehicle 700≫ In Embodiment 1, the electric vehicle 700 operates based on the driving plan of the electric vehicle 700. In Embodiment 1, the driving plan is • The time when electric vehicle 700 departs from charging unit 100, • The route of the electric vehicle 700, and • The time when the electric vehicle 700 arrives at the charging unit 100, Includes.

[0050] In Embodiment 1, the electric vehicle 700 may be a four-wheeled vehicle or a two-wheeled vehicle. The electric vehicle 700 may be a private car or a commercial vehicle. Typical examples of electric vehicles 700 that operate according to a driving plan are buses, trucks, and other commercial vehicles. However, a household electric vehicle 700 may also operate according to a driving plan.

[0051] [1-2. Operation] Figure 2 is a flowchart showing the operation overview of power system 1A in Embodiment 1.

[0052] In Embodiment 1, a daily discharge plan is created and a daily power generation plan is created based on the flowchart in Figure 2. While not particularly limited, the flowchart in Figure 2 will be described below assuming it is executed under the following conditions: The discharge plan created in step S101 is for a period of 24 hours, from 7:00 a.m. on the reference day to 7:00 a.m. on the day following the reference day. The duration of the power generation plan created in step S102 is the same as the duration of the discharge plan created in step S101. • The discharge plan creation in step S101 is performed at 6:00 p.m. on the day before the above reference date. • The creation of the power generation plan in step S102 will be performed at 7:00 p.m. on the day before the above reference date.

[0053] In step S101, the discharge planning unit 313 is M CAR Vehicle information for the 700 electric vehicles, and M CAR Based on the operation plan of the electric vehicle 700, a discharge plan for the charging device unit 100 is created. CAR is a natural number greater than or equal to 1.

[0054] In step S102, the power generation planning unit 323 determines the discharge plan of the charging device unit 100 and M FC Degradation level D of 250 fuel cells FC Based on this, a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200 is created.

[0055] In step S103, the power generation control unit 324 controls the fuel cell unit 200 based on the power generation plan.

[0056] In step S104, the discharge control unit 314 controls the charging device unit 100 based on the discharge plan.

[0057] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing an example of creating a discharge plan in step S101 of Figure 2.

[0058] In step S201, the discharge planning unit 313 is M CAR Obtain the operating schedule for 700 electric vehicles.

[0059] Specifically, a user of power system 1A inputs M to input device 500. CAR The operation plan for the 700 electric vehicles is entered. CAR The operation plan for the electric vehicle 700 is transmitted from the input device 500 to the control device 300 and given to the discharge planning unit 313.

[0060] In step S202, the discharge planning unit 313 is M CAR Vehicle information for the 700 electric vehicles, and M CAR Based on the operating plan for 700 electric vehicles, CAR The required charging power E for each of the 700 electric vehicles REQ Identify "M CAR Each of the 700 electric vehicles is M CAR If there is only one unit, it refers to that one electric vehicle 700. CAR Each of the 700 electric vehicles is M CAR If there are multiple units, it refers to each of those multiple electric vehicles 700.

[0061] Specifically, the discharge planning unit 313, based on the vehicle information, determines the current M CAR The charge level of the electric vehicle 700 is determined. The discharge planning unit 313 determines the charge level of the electric vehicle 700. CAR Based on the route in the operating plan for the 700 electric vehicles, CARThe planned mileage of the electric vehicle 700 is determined. The discharge planning unit 313 determines the planned mileage of the electric vehicle 700. CAR Based on the planned mileage of the 700 electric vehicles, CAR The planned power consumption of the electric vehicle 700 is determined. The discharge planning unit 313, • Current M CAR The charging level of the 700 electric vehicles, and M CAR Based on the planned power consumption of 700 electric vehicles, ·M CAR When the electric vehicle 700 is running according to the operating schedule, M CAR To ensure that the charge level of the 700 electric vehicles reaches the target value, ·M CAR The required charging power E for each of the 700 electric vehicles REQ Identify. The target value is, for example, 30% or more but less than 90%.

[0062] Consider the case where the electric vehicle 700 is connected to the charging device 150 during the execution of step S202. In this case, during the execution of step S202, the charging device 150 may acquire current vehicle information from the electric vehicle 700, and the vehicle information acquisition unit 311 may acquire current vehicle information from the charging device 150. As a result, the discharge planning unit 313 may be given the current charge level of the electric vehicle 700 connected to the charging device 150 during the execution of step S202. The discharge planning unit 313 uses the given current charge level of the electric vehicle 700 to determine the amount of charge in step S202 E REQ Used to identify.

[0063] Consider a case where the electric vehicle 700 is not connected to the charging device 150 during the execution of step S202. In this case, the discharge planning unit 313 reads the charge level of the electric vehicle 700 at a specific point in the past from the vehicle information storage unit 312. The discharge planning unit 313 also determines the planned mileage of the electric vehicle 700 based on the mileage, using the mileage, and the estimated power consumption of the electric vehicle 700 from the specific point in time to the present. The discharge planning unit 313 estimates the current charge level of the electric vehicle 700 based on the charge level at the past point in time and the estimated power consumption. The discharge planning unit 313 then uses the estimated current charge level of the electric vehicle 700 as the charge amount E in step S202. REQ This is used to identify the electric vehicle. It is also possible to perform such estimation methods when the electric vehicle 700 is connected to the charging device 150 during the execution of step S202.

[0064] In step S203, the discharge planning unit 313 is M CAR The required charging power E for each of the 700 electric vehicles REQ Based on M CAR The required charging time for each of the 700 electric vehicles T REQ Identify.

[0065] Specifically, in Embodiment 1, the electric vehicle 700 is charged with power P by the charging device 150. X It is charged by the following formula 2, for each electric vehicle 700, the charging time T REQ This is the amount of charge E REQ Charging power P X It is the value obtained by dividing by the charging power P. X For example, the maximum discharge power P of the charging device 150. CHMAX This is also, for example, the rated generating power of the charging device 150, and also, for example, the rated charging power of the electric vehicle 700. Charging power P X In cases where the rated charging power of the electric vehicle 700 is P, the charging power P of each electric vehicle 700 X They can be different.

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[0066] In step S204, the discharge planning unit 313 is M CAR The required charging time for each of the 700 electric vehicles T REQ And, M CAR Based on the operating schedule of the electric vehicle 700, a discharge plan for the charging device unit 100 is created.

[0067] Specifically, M CAR Each of the 700 electric vehicles is M CH It is assigned to one of the charging devices 150. This assignment is M CAR Each of the 700 electric vehicles has a charging time T REQ The charging process is carried out so that it is completed by the departure time in the operating schedule for the electric vehicle 700. CAR The charging time for each of the 700 electric vehicles T REQ And, charging power P X The discharge plan is created in a manner that reflects these factors.

[0068] The method for creating a discharge plan referring to Figure 3 is just one example. A discharge plan may also be created based on known technology, such as the contents described in Patent Document 1.

[0069] Furthermore, it is possible that, at certain times, the electric vehicle 700 may not actually be parked or connected to the charging unit 100, even though it is scheduled to be parked and connected to the charging unit 100 according to the operating plan. In such a situation, no corresponding discharge will occur from the charging unit 100.

[0070] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an example of creating a power generation plan in step S102 of Figure 2.

[0071] In the flowchart of Figure 4, the period from "Start" to "End" represents one control cycle C. FC This corresponds to the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 4, which is part of the control cycle C included in the power generation plan.FC This is repeated a number of times corresponding to the number of controls C. FC M in FC The power generated by each of the 250 fuel cells is calculated in time series from the previous control cycle C. FC Control period C after this point FC The following steps are determined sequentially. This creates a power generation plan. In the flowchart in Figure 4, a power generation plan for the averaging mode is created.

[0072] In step S301, the power generation planning unit 323 is M FC From the set of fuel cells 250, fuel cells 250 that are unable to generate power are excluded to select fuel cells 250 that can generate power. In Embodiment 1, fuel cells 250 that are unable to generate power are, • Fuel cell 250 malfunctioning, • Fuel cell 250 under inspection, and • Fuel cell 250 whose elapsed time since power generation stopped is less than a specified time. Includes.

[0073] Here, a fuel cell 250 that cannot generate power means a fuel cell 250 whose power generation is prohibited in the power generation plan. A fuel cell 250 that can generate power means a fuel cell 250 whose power generation is permitted in the power generation plan. Power generation possible and power generation impossible refer to the control period C related to the execution of step S301. FC The question is whether it is permissible or not.

[0074] Below, M FC The number of fuel cells 250 that are capable of generating power and are currently stopped is M GCAN It is written as M. GCAN The fuel cell 250 is a candidate fuel cell 250 that can be switched from a stopped state to a power generation state. GCAN M is a non-negative integer. In the following explanation, M GCAN It is assumed that there are no deficiencies in the processing of the flowchart in Figure 4. Typically, M GCAN is a natural number greater than or equal to 2.

[0075] Below, M FCThe number of fuel cells 250 that are capable of generating power and are currently generating power is M SCAN It is written as M. SCAN The fuel cell 250 is a candidate fuel cell 250 that can be switched from a power generation state to a shutdown state. SCAN M is a non-negative integer. In the following explanation, M SCAN It is assumed that there are no deficiencies in the processing of the flowchart in Figure 4. Typically, M SCAN is a natural number greater than or equal to 2.

[0076] Next, in step S302, the power generation planning unit 323 determines the required number of fuel cells 250 M REQ Identify the number of power generators M, as shown in Equation 3 below. REQ The required discharge power P REQ Maximum power generation P FCMAX The value P obtained by dividing by REQ / P FCMAX This is the value obtained by rounding up the decimal part of the value. Here, discharge power P REQ This refers to the discharge power during the corresponding period in the discharge plan of the charging device unit 100. The corresponding period is the control cycle C related to the execution of step S302. FC This is the period corresponding to the control period C related to the execution step S302. In Embodiment 1, the corresponding period is the control period C related to the execution step S302. FC The corresponding control period C CH Therefore, in equation 3, roundup() is a function that rounds up the decimal part.

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[0077] Next, in step S303, the power generation planning unit 323 determines the number of power generation units M REQ The previous control period C FC Number of power generation units (M) of 250 fuel cells in PRE Determine whether it is equal to the following: Number of power generators M PRE This refers to the number of power generators M in the execution step S303. REQ The number of power generators M identified in the previous step S302 of step S302 was identified. REQCorresponds to the number of power generators M REQ The number of power generators M PRE If equal to the above, proceed to step S312. Number of power generators M REQ The number of power generators M PRE If different, proceed to step S304.

[0078] In step S304, the power generation planning unit 323 determines the number of power generation units M PRE The number of power generators M REQ Determine whether it is smaller than or equal to the number of power generators M. PRE The number of power generators M REQ If it is less than M, proceed to step S305. Number of power generators M PRE The number of power generators M REQ If it is greater than that, proceed to step S309.

[0079] In step S305, the power generation planning unit 323 calculates the number of power generation units M as shown in the following formula 4. REQ From the number of power generators M PRE Identify the number of additional units (number of additional units) A after subtracting the previous number.

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[0080] Next, in step S306, the power generation planning unit 323 determines the M that is capable of generating power and is stopped. GCAN Based on the degradation information of the 250 fuel cells, the M GCAN Degradation level D of 250 fuel cells FC Identify the following. Here, "stopped" specifically refers to the control period C related to step S306 of the power generation plan that is currently being executed. FC Previous control period C FC This is the state based on the plan created.

[0081] Next, in step S307, the power generation planning unit 323 determines the M that is capable of generating power and is stopped. GCAN 250 fuel cells, degradation level D FC Sort in ascending order. The fuel cell 250, which is sorted to the end, is M GCAN Of the 250 fuel cells, one is in degradation level D. FCThis will be the largest.

[0082] Next, in step S308, the power generation planning unit 323 determines the M that is capable of generating power and is stopped. GCAN From the 250 fuel cells, select fuel cell A 250 in sort order. After step S308, proceed to step S312.

[0083] In step S309, the power generation planning unit 323 calculates the number of power generation units M as shown in the following formula 5. PRE From the number of power generators M REQ Identify the number of units (decrease in units) B after subtracting the specified amount.

number

[0084] Next, in step S310, the power generation planning unit 323 determines the M that is capable of generating power and is currently generating power. SCAN The fuel cells 250 are sorted in order of shortest continuous power generation time. Here, "currently generating power" specifically refers to the control period C related to step S310 of the power generation plan that is currently being executed. FC Previous control period C FC This is the state based on the plan created. The fuel cell 250 sorted at the end is M SCAN Of the 250 fuel cells, this one has the longest continuous power generation time.

[0085] Next, in step S311, the power generation planning unit 323 determines the M that is capable of generating power and is currently generating power. SCAN From the 250 fuel cells, select the 250 fuel cell from unit B in sort order. After step S311, proceed to step S312.

[0086] In step S312, the power generation planning unit 323 is M FC Determine the power generation capacity of 250 fuel cells.

[0087] The process proceeds through step S308 to step S312, and the value P described in step S302 is reached. REQ / P FCMAXIf is an integer, the following process is executed in step S312. That is, as can be understood from the above explanation, the previous control period C FC The target of power generation in M PRE In step S308, fuel cell unit A 250 was added to unit M 250. REQ =M PRE The fuel cell 250 in unit A is the fuel cell 250 that generates electricity. REQ =M PRE The power generated by the +A fuel cell 250 is the maximum power generated P FCMAX It will be decided. M FC Of the 250 fuel cells, the above M PRE M excluding +A units FC -M PRE -A=M FC -M REQ The power generated by each of the 250 fuel cells is determined to be zero.

[0088] The process proceeds through step S308 to step S312, and the value P described in step S302 is reached. REQ / P FCMAX If the number includes decimal places, the following process is performed in step S312. That is, from the A fuel cells 250 selected in step S308, the last one in sort order (i.e., degradation level D) FC The largest fuel cell (250) is selected. REQ =M PRE +A unit of fuel cell 250 minus the above 1 fuel cell 250 M PRE +A-1 fuel cell 250 generates power, maximum power generation P FCMAX The power generation P of the above one fuel cell 250 is determined. AFR As shown in equation 6 below, the maximum generated power P FCMAX M PRE Discharge power P is the value obtained by multiplying by +A-1. REQ It is determined by the power subtracted from M. FC Of the 250 fuel cells, the above M PRE M (excluding +A units) FC -M PRE -A=M FC -M REQThe power generated by each of the 250 fuel cells is determined to be zero.

number

[0089] The process proceeds through step S311 to step S312, and the value P described in step S302 is reached. REQ / P FCMAX If is an integer, the following process is executed in step S312. That is, as can be understood from the above explanation, the previous control period C FC The target of power generation in M PRE From the number of fuel cells 250, the number of fuel cells 250 selected in step S311 is excluded from M REQ =M PRE -The fuel cell 250 in unit B is the fuel cell 250 that generates electricity. REQ =M PRE - The power generated by the 250 fuel cell unit B is the maximum power generated P FCMAX It will be decided. M FC Of the 250 fuel cells, the above M PRE -Excluding B units FC -M PRE +B=M FC -M REQ The power generated by each of the 250 fuel cells is determined to be zero.

[0090] The process proceeds through step S311 to step S312, and the value P described in step S302 is reached. REQ / P FCMAX If the number includes decimal places, the following process is performed in step S312. That is, from the B fuel cells 250 selected in step S311, the last fuel cell 250 in the sort order (i.e., the one with the longest continuous power generation time) is selected. REQ =M PRE -M obtained by subtracting the above 1 fuel cell 250 from the B unit fuel cell 250 PRE -B-1 fuel cell 250 generates power, maximum power generation P FCMAX The power generation P of the above one fuel cell 250 is determined. AFRAs shown in equation 7 below, the maximum power generation P FCMAX M PRE Discharge power P is the value obtained by multiplying by -B-1. REQ It is determined by the power subtracted from M. FC Of the 250 fuel cells, the above M PRE -Excluding B units FC -M PRE +B=M FC -M REQ The power generated by each of the 250 fuel cells is determined to be zero.

number

[0091] M determined in step S312 FC The power generated by the fuel cells 250 is controlled by the control period C related to step S312 in which the determination was made. FC M in FC It will be used as the power source for 250 fuel cells.

[0092] Next, in step S313, M FC Degradation level D of 250 fuel cells FC M FC The 250 fuel cells are being updated to be controlled.

[0093] As described above, the processing in steps S301 to S313 is included in the control cycle C of the power generation plan. FC This is repeated a number of times corresponding to the number of occurrences. This creates a power generation plan.

[0094] In Embodiment 1, the discharge power of the actual charging device unit 100 is discharge power P REQ There may be deviations from this. In this case, the surplus or deficit of power can be adjusted using commercial power supply 400. This deviation may occur, for example, due to circumstances on the electric vehicle 700 side.

[0095] For example, consider a case where the actual power generated by the fuel cell unit 200 is insufficient to meet the discharge power of the actual charging device unit 100. In this case, the deficit can be covered by the commercial power supply 400. In other words, the fuel cell unit 200 and the commercial power supply 400 can work together to supply power to the charging device unit 100.

[0096] For example, consider a case where the actual power generated by the fuel cell unit 200 is in surplus relative to the actual power discharged by the charging device unit 100. In this case, the surplus power can be reverse-flowed from the fuel cell unit 200 to the commercial power supply 400.

[0097] According to Embodiment 1, multiple fuel cells 250 can be used to supply power to one or more electric vehicles 700 based on a discharge plan. Also, degradation level D FC Since multiple fuel cells 250 are controlled based on this, the progression of degradation of the multiple fuel cells 250 can be managed. For this reason, the technology according to Embodiment 1 is suitable for managing the progression of degradation of multiple fuel cells 250 while utilizing multiple fuel cells 250 to supply planned power to one or more electric vehicles 700.

[0098] Other embodiments will be described below. In the following, elements common to embodiments already described and those described later will be given the same reference numerals, and their descriptions may be omitted. The descriptions of each embodiment may be mutually applicable, as long as they do not technically contradict each other. As long as they do not technically contradict each other, each embodiment may be combined with each other.

[0099] (Embodiment 2) [2-1. Structure] ≪≪Power System 1B≫≫ Figure 5 is a diagram showing the configuration of the power system 1B in Embodiment 2.

[0100] The power system 1B includes a power load 800 and a power measuring device 850. The control device 300 includes a load power acquisition unit 331 and a load power estimation unit 332.

[0101] ≪Power load 800≫ The power load 800 may be supplied with power from the fuel cell unit 200 and / or the commercial power supply 400. In Embodiment 2, the power load 800 is located in a factory. The power load 800 may include production lines, lighting, air conditioning, etc.

[0102] ≪Power Measurement Device 850≫ The power measuring device 850 measures the power consumption at the power load 800.

[0103] ≪Control device 300≫ The load power acquisition unit 331 acquires the power consumption value at the power load 800 from the power measuring device 850. The acquired power consumption value is provided to the load power estimation unit 332.

[0104] The load power estimation unit 332 estimates the power consumption of the power load 800 during a period corresponding to the discharge plan period of the charging device unit 100. This estimation is performed based on past patterns of power consumption changes of the power load 800. For example, if the power load 800 is a factory load, the power consumption of the power load 800 tends to increase when the temperature is low or high because the power consumption of the air conditioner increases. Also, for example, the power consumption of the power load 800 tends to increase on weekdays compared to holidays. Therefore, the power consumption of the power load 800 during the day and time period to be estimated can be estimated based on which part of the pattern the day and time period to be estimated corresponds to. Also, for example, if the power load 800 is a factory load and the factory is producing products, the power consumption of the power load 800 can be estimated from information on the planned production quantity. The load power estimation unit 332 may estimate the power consumption of the power load 800 based on a predetermined algorithm (e.g., a formula with fixed coefficients) or by machine learning. The estimation can be performed by known methods.

[0105] In Embodiment 2, the power generation plan is created so that the power generated by the fuel cell unit 200 follows the estimated power demand of the power demand section in the power system 1B. The power demand section includes a charging device unit 100 and a power load 800. The estimated power demand includes the discharge power in the discharge plan of the charging device unit 100 and the estimated power consumption of the power load 800. With this configuration, the discharge power of the charging device unit 100 and the power consumption of the power load 800 can be supplied by the fuel cell unit 200. Specifically, the power demand section is the charging device unit 100 and the power load 800. The estimated power demand is the sum of the discharge power in the discharge plan of the charging device unit 100 and the estimated power consumption of the power load 800.

[0106] In Embodiment 2, the display device 600 is, for example, ·M CH Whether each of the charging devices 150 is actually discharging to the electric vehicle 700, ·M CH The actual discharge power of each of the 150 charging devices, ·M FC The actual power generated by each of the 250 fuel cells, • Actual power consumption at a power load of 800 • Discharge plan for charging device unit 100, • Power generation plan for fuel cell unit 200, and • Estimated power consumption at a power load of 800 Display at least one selected from the group consisting of [the specified characters].

[0107] [2-2. Operation] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the operation overview of the power system 1B of Embodiment 2.

[0108] In Embodiment 2, a daily discharge plan is created and a daily power generation plan is created based on the flowchart in Figure 6. While not particularly limited, the flowchart in Figure 6 will be described below assuming it is executed under the following conditions. The discharge plan created in step S101 is for a period of 24 hours, from 7:00 a.m. on the reference day to 7:00 a.m. on the day following the reference day. In step S450, the power consumption of power load 800 is estimated over the same period as the discharge plan created in step S101. The duration of the power generation plan created in step S402 is the same as the duration of the discharge plan created in step S101. • The discharge plan creation in step S101 is performed at 6:00 p.m. on the day before the above reference date. • The power consumption estimation for power load 800 in step S450 is performed at 6:00 p.m. on the day before the above reference date. • The creation of the power generation plan for step S402 will be performed at 7:00 p.m. on the day before the above reference date.

[0109] In step S450, the load power estimation unit 332 estimates the power consumption of the power load 800 during the period corresponding to the discharge plan period of the charging device unit 100, based on past measurements from the power measuring device 850. That is, the estimated power consumption of the power load 800 during this period is determined.

[0110] In step S402, the power generation planning unit 323 determines the discharge plan for the charging device unit 100, the estimated power consumption of the power load 800 during the period corresponding to the period of the discharge plan, and M FC Degradation level D of 250 fuel cells FC Based on this, a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit 200 is created.

[0111] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of creating a power generation plan in step S402 of Figure 6.

[0112] In the flowchart of Figure 7, the period from "Start" to "End" represents one control cycle C. FC This corresponds to the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 7, which is part of the control cycle C included in the power generation plan. FC This is repeated a number of times corresponding to the number of controls C. FC M in FCThe power generation power of each of the fuel cells 250 on the platform is sequentially determined in the order from the previous control cycle C FC to the subsequent control cycle C FC in this order. Thereby, a power generation plan is created. In the flowchart of FIG. 7, a power generation plan for the averaging mode is created.

[0113] After step S301, in step S502, the power generation planning unit 323 identifies the required number of fuel cells 250 to be M REQ As shown in the following formula 8, the number of fuel cells M REQ is the value obtained by dividing the sum of the discharge power P REQ and the estimated power consumption P CEST by the maximum power generation power P FCMAX , and rounding up the decimal part of (P REQ +P CEST ) / P FCMAX . Here, the estimated power consumption P CEST refers to the estimated average power consumption of the power load 800 during the corresponding period. After step S502, the process proceeds to step S303.

Number

[0114] In Embodiment 2, if the answer is "yes" in step S303, the process proceeds to step S512. After step S308, the process proceeds to step S512. Also, after step S311, the process proceeds to step S512.

[0115] In step S512, the power generation planning unit 323 determines the power generation power of the M FC fuel cells 250.

[0116] When reaching step S512 via step S308 and the value (P REQ +P CEST ) / P FCMAX explained in step S502 is an integer, the following process is executed in step S512. That is, the power generation of M REQ =M PRE + The power generation power of A fuel cells 250 is the maximum power generation power PFCMAX is determined to be M. FC Among the M fuel cells 250, the above-mentioned M PRE - A is excluded from M FC - M PRE - A = M FC - M REQ The power generation power of the M fuel cells 250 is determined to be zero.

[0117] Reaching step S512 via step S308, and when the value (P REQ + P CEST ) / P FCMAX includes decimal digits, the following processing is executed in step S512. That is, from the A fuel cells 250 selected in step S308, the last 1 fuel cell 250 in the sorting order is selected. The power generation power of the M REQ = M PRE + A fuel cells 250 excluding the above 1 fuel cell 250, the power generation power of the M PRE + A - 1 fuel cells 250 is determined to be the maximum power generation power P FCMAX The power generation power P AFR of the above 1 fuel cell 250 is determined to be the power obtained by subtracting the sum of the discharge power P FCMAX multiplied by M PRE + A - 1 from the maximum power generation power P REQ and the estimated power consumption P CEST . Among the M fuel cells 250, the above-mentioned M FC + A is excluded from M PRE - M FC - A = M PRE - M FC - M REQ The power generation power of the fuel cells 250 is determined to be zero.

Equation

[0118] Reaching step S512 via step S311, and when the value (P REQ + P CEST ) / P FCMAXIf is an integer, the following process is executed in step S512. That is, the M to be generated REQ =M PRE - The power generated by the 250 fuel cell unit B is the maximum power generated P FCMAX It will be decided. M FC Of the 250 fuel cells, the above M PRE -Excluding B units FC -M PRE +B=M FC -M REQ The power generated by each of the 250 fuel cells is determined to be zero.

[0119] The process reaches step S512 via step S311, and the value (P) described in step S502 is obtained. REQ +P CEST ) / P FCMAX If the number includes decimal places, the following process is performed in step S512. That is, from the B fuel cells 250 selected in step S311, the last fuel cell 250 in the sort order is selected. REQ =M PRE -M obtained by subtracting the above 1 fuel cell 250 from the B unit fuel cell 250 PRE -B-1 fuel cell 250 generates power, maximum power generation P FCMAX The power generation P of the above one fuel cell 250 is determined. AFR As shown in the following equation 10, the maximum power generation P FCMAX M PRE Discharge power P is the value obtained by multiplying by -B-1. REQ and estimated power consumption P CEST It is determined by subtracting the total power from the sum of M FC Of the 250 fuel cells, the above M PRE -Excluding B units FC -M PRE +B=M FC -M REQ The power generated by each of the 250 fuel cells is determined to be zero.

number

[0120] M determined in step S512 FC The power generated by the fuel cells 250 is controlled by the control period C related to step S512 in which the determination was made. FC M in FC It will be used as the power source for 250 fuel cells.

[0121] Next, in step S313, M FC Degradation level D of 250 fuel cells FC M according to the decision in step S512 FC The 250 fuel cells are being updated to be controlled.

[0122] As described above, the processing in steps S301 to S313 is included in the control cycle C of the power generation plan. FC This is repeated a number of times corresponding to the number of occurrences. This creates a power generation plan.

[0123] In Embodiment 2, the sum of the discharge power of the actual charging device unit 100 and the power consumption of the actual power load 800 is equal to the discharge power P REQ and estimated power consumption P CEST There may be a deviation from the total. In this case, the surplus or deficit of power can be adjusted using commercial power supply 400. This deviation may occur, for example, due to the circumstances of the electric vehicle 700 and / or the power load 800.

[0124] For example, consider a case where the actual power generated by the fuel cell unit 200 is insufficient to meet the combined discharge power of the actual charging unit 100 and the power consumption of the actual power load 800. In this case, the deficit can be covered by the commercial power supply 400. In other words, the fuel cell unit 200 and the commercial power supply 400 can work together to supply power to the charging unit 100 and the power load 800.

[0125] For example, consider a case where the actual power generated by the fuel cell unit 200 is in surplus compared to the sum of the discharge power of the actual charging device unit 100 and the power consumption of the actual power load 800. In this case, the surplus power can be reverse-flowed from the fuel cell unit 200 to the commercial power supply 400.

[0126] (Technologies applicable to Embodiments 1 and 2) M FC Partial maintenance may be performed on the 250 fuel cells. In partial maintenance, M FC Each of the 250 fuel cells is maintained in multiple stages (for example, between 2 and 10 times).

[0127] The control mode of the control device 300 may include a decentralized mode. In the decentralized mode, the power generation plan of the fuel cell unit 200 is created such that the following specific conditions are met. The specific conditions are such that a decentralized state is achieved and then maintained, M Z The condition is that each of the 250 fuel cells repeatedly switches from a stopped state to a power generation state and from a power generation state to a stopped state. Z M is a natural number greater than or equal to 2. Z This is, for example, the number of 250 power-generating fuel cells as described in step S301. The distributed state is M Z The fuel cells 250 are divided into multiple groups, and there are differences in the average degradation level of each group. The average degradation level of each group is the degradation level D of the fuel cells 250 belonging to that group. FC This is the average value. According to the variance mode, M Z This makes it easier to avoid having all 250 fuel cells reach the end of their lifespan at the same time. For this reason, the decentralized mode is well-suited to segmented maintenance.

[0128] Here, the degradation level D of fuel cell 250 belonging to the group FC The average value is the degradation level D of the fuel cell 250 in a group where there is only one fuel cell 250. FC This refers to the degradation level D of 250 fuel cells belonging to the group. FC The average value is the degradation level D of the multiple fuel cells 250 belonging to a group. FC This refers to the average value.

[0129] Maximum power generation P of fuel cell 250 FCMAX The maximum discharge power P of the charging device 150 isCHMAX It may be larger than this. In this case, the number of power generation units of the fuel cell 250 in the fuel cell unit 200 is less likely to be changed frequently. This is due to the degradation degree D caused by the increase in the cumulative number of power generation cycles of the fuel cell 250. FC The increase in power generation is advantageous in that it avoids a situation where the fuel cell 250 reaches the end of its lifespan even though its cumulative power generation time is not very long. FCMAX Maximum discharge power P CHMAX Ratio P CHMAX / P FCMAX For example, it is between 10% and 80%. However, the maximum power generation P of the fuel cell 250 FCMAX P is the maximum discharge power. CHMAX It may be smaller than the maximum discharge power P CHMAX It may be the same as this.

[0130] The control device 300 controls the maximum discharge power P of the charging device unit 100. UMAX Control may be implemented. This control prevents the discharge power of the charging device unit 100 from becoming excessively large. This can help, for example, prevent an increase in the contracted power due to an increase in the power supplied to the charging device unit 100 from the commercial power source 400. Contracted power refers to the actual amount of electricity contracted. Maximum discharge power P of the charging device unit 100 UMAX Controlling this can also be referred to as peak control.

[0131] For example, the control device 300 adjusts the maximum discharge power P of the charging device unit 100 as the power generated by the fuel cell unit 200 in the power generation plan increases. UMAXSet this to a high value. This prevents a situation where the fuel cell unit 200 is generating power according to the discharge plan, but that generated power cannot be used by the charging device unit 100. Also, when the power generated by the fuel cell unit 200 is large, even if the discharge power of the charging device unit 100 is increased, it is difficult to obtain a large value of power supplied to the charging device unit 100 from the commercial power supply 400. For this reason, the larger the power generated by the fuel cell unit 200 in the power generation plan, the greater the maximum discharge power P of the charging device unit 100. UMAX By setting this to a high value, you can avoid the above situation while also avoiding an increase in contracted power.

[0132] "The greater the power generated by the fuel cell unit 200 in the power generation plan, the greater the maximum discharge power P of the charging device unit 100." UMAX Let's explain the expression "set to a high value". In one aspect of this expression, the greater the power generated by the fuel cell unit 200 in the power generation plan, the higher the maximum discharge power P UMAX Set this to a high value. Specifically, the control cycle C of the fuel cell unit 200 in the power generation plan is set to a high value. FC The time period corresponding to the maximum discharge power P UMAX It can be set to a high value.

[0133] The control device 300, compared to when no power is supplied from the fuel cell unit 200 to the charging device unit 100, controls the maximum discharge power P UMAX You may set it to a high value.

[0134] In the first specific time period of the first past day, the discharge power P of the charging device unit 100 in the discharge plan REQ Compared to this, consider the case where the discharge power of the actual charging device unit 100 is larger. In this case, the power generation planning unit 323 determines the discharge power P for the first specific time period. REQA power generation plan may be created based on a discharge plan corrected so as to increase. Also, in the second specific time period of the second past day, the discharge power P of the charging device unit 100 in the discharge plan REQ is considered. In this case, when the actual discharge power of the charging device unit 100 is smaller than that of the charging device unit 100 in the discharge plan, the power generation planning unit 323 may create a power generation plan based on a discharge plan corrected so as to decrease the discharge power P REQ in the second specific time period. In the charging device unit 100 for the electric vehicle 700, the actual discharge power tends to deviate from the discharge plan in a similar form in the same time period in one day. Therefore, this configuration is reasonable from the viewpoint of reducing this deviation. The correction of the discharge plan may be executed by the power generation planning unit 323.

[0135] Even when creating a power generation plan based on the corrected discharge plan, typically, the discharge control unit 314 controls the charging device unit 100 based on the discharge plan before correction. The first past day and the second past day may be the same or different. The first specific time period and the second specific time period may be the same or different. The first past day is, for example, the previous day. The second past day is, for example, the previous day. The actual discharge power of the charging device unit 100 is specified, for example, by the function of the charging device unit 100 and / or by a power measurement device not shown.

[0136] The fuel cell 250 may be a solid polymer fuel cell (PEFC) or a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC). The raw material supplied to the fuel cell 250 may be pure hydrogen gas or gas obtained by steam reforming.

[0137] It is not essential that the degree of degradation D FC of the fuel cell 250 is based on the cumulative power generation times of the fuel cell 250 and / or the cumulative power generation time of the fuel cell 250. For example, the degree of degradation D FC may be based on the voltage of the fuel cell 250. Specifically, the degree of degradation D FCThe value of this parameter can be larger as the voltage of the fuel cell 250 decreases. Furthermore, the degradation information may include information representing the voltage of the fuel cell 250.

[0138] Additional components may be added to the power systems 1A and / or 1B shown in Figures 1 and 5. For example, a power storage device may be added to power systems 1A and / or 1B. The power storage device can adjust for power surpluses and deficits. Even if reverse power flow to the commercial power source 400 is prohibited, the power storage device can absorb the surplus power generated by the fuel cell unit 200. The power storage device may be a battery or a capacitor.

[0139] For example, consider the case in Embodiment 1 where the actual power generated by the fuel cell unit 200 is insufficient to meet the actual discharge power of the charging device unit 100. In this case, by adding an energy storage device, the insufficient power can be supplied by the energy storage device. In other words, the fuel cell unit 200 and the energy storage device can work together to supply power to the charging device unit 100.

[0140] For example, consider the case in Embodiment 1 where the actual power generated by the fuel cell unit 200 is in surplus relative to the actual power discharged by the charging device unit 100. In this case, by adding an energy storage device, the surplus power can be supplied from the fuel cell unit 200 to the energy storage device.

[0141] For example, in Embodiment 2, consider the case where the actual power generated by the fuel cell unit 200 is insufficient to meet the combined discharge power of the actual charging device unit 100 and the power consumption of the actual power load 800. In this case, by adding a power storage device, the power shortage can be covered by the power storage device. In other words, the fuel cell unit 200 and the power storage device can work together to supply power to the charging device unit 100 and the power load 800.

[0142] Furthermore, consider, for example, the case in Embodiment 2 where the actual power generated by the fuel cell unit 200 is in surplus compared to the sum of the discharge power of the actual charging device unit 100 and the power consumption of the actual power load 800. In this case, by adding an energy storage device, the surplus power can be supplied from the fuel cell unit 200 to the energy storage device.

[0143] Furthermore, a photovoltaic power generation device may be added to power systems 1A and / or 1B. By adding the photovoltaic power generation device, the power generated by the photovoltaic power generation device can be supplied to the charging device unit 100 and / or power load 800 in addition to the power generated by the fuel cell unit 200.

[0144] The input device 500 may be included in power systems 1A and / or 1B. The input device 500 may not be included in power systems 1A and / or 1B. The input device 500 may be located near power systems 1A and / or 1B. The input device 500 may be located far from power systems 1A and / or 1B. These points also apply to the display device 600.

[0145] Some elements of power systems 1A and / or 1B may be omitted. Elements connected to power systems 1A and / or 1B may also be omitted. For example, the input device 500 may be omitted, and the operation plan for the electric vehicle 700 may be created in power systems 1A and / or 1B. The operation plan may be created by known methods.

[0146] The control device 300 may be a single device or may consist of multiple devices that are geographically separated from each other. In the latter case, the multiple geographically separated devices can communicate with each other.

[0147] In this modified version, the charging device unit 100 is not included in the power systems 1A and / or 1B. The two information acquisition units 311, vehicle information storage unit 312, discharge planning unit 313, and discharge control unit 314 are not included in the control device 300. The power systems 1A and / or 1B operate in conjunction with the charging device unit 100. In this modified version, the owner of the charging device unit 100 may be different from the owner of the fuel cell unit 200.

[0148] The flowcharts in Figures 2 to 4, 6 and 7 can be modified as appropriate. For example, in Figure 6, step S101 may be executed before step S450, step S101 may be executed after step S450, or step S101 and step S450 may be executed simultaneously.

[0149] (Note) This disclosure provides for the following technologies:

[0150] (Technology 1) A fuel cell unit including multiple fuel cells, A charging unit including multiple charging devices for electric vehicles, which is powered by the fuel cell unit, A control device is provided, The control device is A power generation planning unit creates a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit and the degree of degradation of the multiple fuel cells, Includes a power generation control unit that controls the fuel cell unit based on the power generation plan, Power system.

[0151] (Technology 2) The power generation plan is designed so that the fuel cell with the relatively lower degree of degradation among the multiple fuel cells is given priority in switching from the stopped state to the power generation state. The power system described in Technology 1.

[0152] (Technology 3) The degree of degradation is based on the cumulative number of power generation cycles and / or cumulative power generation time of the fuel cell. A power system as described in Technology 1 or 2.

[0153] (Technology 4) The power generation plan is created such that the power generated by the fuel cell unit follows the estimated power demand of the power demand section in the power system. The power demand unit includes the charging device unit, A power system as described in any one of the three technical specifications.

[0154] (Technology 5) The maximum power generated by the fuel cell is greater than the maximum discharge power of the charging device. A power system as described in any one of the technical items 1 through 4.

[0155] (Technology 6) If, during a first specific time period on a first past day, the actual discharge power of the charging device unit is greater than the discharge power of the charging device unit in the discharge plan, the power generation planning unit creates the power generation plan based on the discharge plan which has been corrected so that the discharge power of the charging device unit increases during the first specific time period, and / or If, during a second specific time period on a second past day, the actual discharge power of the charging device unit is less than the discharge power of the charging device unit in the discharge plan, the power generation planning unit creates the power generation plan based on the discharge plan which has been corrected so that the discharge power of the charging device unit decreases during the second specific time period. A power system as described in any one of the technical items 1 through 5.

[0156] (Technology 7) The control device sets the maximum discharge power of the charging device unit to a higher value when the power generated by the fuel cell unit in the power generation plan is large. A power system as described in any one of the technical items 1 through 6.

[0157] (Technology 8) The aforementioned power system is connected to the commercial power supply. A power system as described in any one of the technical items 1 through 7.

[0158] (Technology 9) The aforementioned multiple fuel cells and the aforementioned multiple charging devices are connected to each other without going through a commercial power source. A power system as described in any one of the technical items 1 through 8.

[0159] (Technology 10) A fuel cell unit including multiple fuel cells, A method for operating a power system comprising a charging unit that includes multiple charging devices for electric vehicles and is supplied with power from the fuel cell unit, Based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit and the degree of degradation of the multiple fuel cells, a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit is created. This includes controlling the fuel cell unit based on the power generation plan, Driving method.

[0160] (Technology 11) A power system that supplies power to a charging unit including multiple charging devices for electric vehicles, A fuel cell unit including multiple fuel cells, A control device is provided, The control device is A power generation planning unit creates a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit and the degree of degradation of the multiple fuel cells, Includes a power generation control unit that controls the fuel cell unit based on the power generation plan, Power system.

[0161] (Technology 12) A method for operating a power system that supplies power to a charging unit including multiple charging devices for electric vehicles, The aforementioned power system comprises a fuel cell unit including multiple fuel cells, Based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit and the degree of degradation of the multiple fuel cells, a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit is created. This includes controlling the fuel cell unit based on the power generation plan, Driving method. [Industrial applicability]

[0162] The technology described herein allows for the use of multiple fuel cells to supply planned power to one or more electric vehicles while simultaneously managing the degradation of the multiple fuel cells. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0163] 1A, 1B Power Systems 100 Charging Units 150 Charging device 200 fuel cell units 250 Fuel Cell 300 Control device 311 Vehicle Information Acquisition Unit 312 Vehicle Information Storage Unit 313 Discharge Planning Department 314 Discharge Control Unit 321 Deterioration information acquisition unit 322 Deterioration information storage unit 323 Power Generation Planning Department 324 Power Generation Control Unit 331 Load power acquisition section 332 Load power estimation section 400 Commercial power 500 Input Devices 600 display device 700 Electric Vehicles 800 power load 850 Power Measuring Device

Claims

1. A fuel cell unit including multiple fuel cells, A charging unit including multiple charging devices for electric vehicles, which is powered by the fuel cell unit, A control device is provided, The control device is A power generation planning unit creates a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit and the degree of degradation of the multiple fuel cells, Includes a power generation control unit that controls the fuel cell unit based on the power generation plan, Power system.

2. The power generation plan is designed so that the fuel cell with the relatively lower degree of degradation among the multiple fuel cells is given priority in switching from the stopped state to the power generation state. The power system according to claim 1.

3. The degree of degradation is based on the cumulative number of power generation cycles and / or cumulative power generation time of the fuel cell. The power system according to claim 1.

4. The power generation plan is created such that the power generated by the fuel cell unit follows the estimated power demand of the power demand section in the power system. The power demand unit includes the charging device unit, The power system according to claim 1.

5. The maximum power generated by the fuel cell is greater than the maximum discharge power of the charging device. The power system according to claim 1.

6. If, during a first specific time period on a first past day, the actual discharge power of the charging device unit is greater than the discharge power of the charging device unit in the discharge plan, the power generation planning unit creates the power generation plan based on the discharge plan which has been corrected so that the discharge power of the charging device unit increases during the first specific time period, and / or If, during a second specific time period on a second past day, the actual discharge power of the charging device unit is less than the discharge power of the charging device unit in the discharge plan, the power generation planning unit creates the power generation plan based on the discharge plan which has been corrected so that the discharge power of the charging device unit decreases during the second specific time period. The power system according to claim 1.

7. The control device sets the maximum discharge power of the charging device unit to a higher value when the power generated by the fuel cell unit in the power generation plan is large. The power system according to claim 1.

8. The aforementioned power system is connected to the commercial power supply. The power system according to claim 1.

9. The aforementioned multiple fuel cells and the aforementioned multiple charging devices are connected to each other without going through a commercial power source. The power system according to claim 1.

10. A fuel cell unit including multiple fuel cells, A method for operating a power system comprising a charging unit that includes multiple charging devices for electric vehicles and is supplied with power from the fuel cell unit, Based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit and the degree of degradation of the multiple fuel cells, a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit is created. This includes controlling the fuel cell unit based on the power generation plan, Driving method.

11. A power system that supplies power to a charging unit including multiple charging devices for electric vehicles, A fuel cell unit including multiple fuel cells, A control device is provided, The control device is A power generation planning unit creates a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit and the degree of degradation of the multiple fuel cells, Includes a power generation control unit that controls the fuel cell unit based on the power generation plan, Power system.

12. A method for operating a power system that supplies power to a charging unit including multiple charging devices for electric vehicles, The aforementioned power system comprises a fuel cell unit including multiple fuel cells, Based on the discharge plan of the charging device unit and the degree of degradation of the multiple fuel cells, a power generation plan for the fuel cell unit is created. This includes controlling the fuel cell unit based on the power generation plan, Driving method.

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