Information processing device and information processing method

Abstract

This technology provides an effective way to distinguish the ownership of each company's share of the material obtained from the simultaneous recycling of battery packs from multiple companies. [Solution] The information processing device includes a control unit that performs the following actions: determining the ownership ratio of a predetermined substance obtained by recycling battery packs from multiple companies, and outputting the determined ownership ratio. Determining the ownership ratio of multiple companies includes determining the ownership ratio according to the number of battery packs recycled within the ownership of each of the multiple companies, the weight of each battery pack, and the content of the target metal contained in each battery pack.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus and an information processing method.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a method for recovering valuable metals contained in waste batteries.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an effective technique for distinguishing the share of each company in substances obtained by recycling battery packs of a plurality of companies together.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure may be an information processing apparatus. In that case, the information processing apparatus, for example, determines the ownership ratios of a plurality of said companies with respect to a predetermined substance obtained by recycling battery packs of a plurality of companies, outputs the determined ownership ratios, and includes a control unit that executes the above. The control unit may be configured to determine the ownership ratio according to the number of the battery packs recycled within the ownership of each of the plurality of companies, the weight per battery pack, and the content rate of the target metal contained per battery pack.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure may be an information processing method. In that case, the information processing method, for example, Determining the ownership ratio of multiple companies for a predetermined substance obtained by recycling battery packs from multiple companies, Outputting the determined ownership ratio, A computer-based information processing method, The computer may determine the ownership ratio according to the number of battery packs recycled within the ownership of each of the multiple companies, the weight of each battery pack, and the percentage of the target metal contained in each battery pack.

[0007] This disclosure can also be interpreted as a program for causing a computer to execute the above-mentioned information processing method, or a computer-readable storage medium that non-temporarily stores said program.

[0008] One aspect of this disclosure is a management system. In that case, the management system might be, for example, Multiple first terminals and The second terminal and Management server and Equipped with, Each of the plurality of first terminals is configured to transmit first data, including the weight of the battery pack subject to recycling and the content of the target metal, to the management server. The second terminal is configured to transmit second data, including the number of battery packs that have been subjected to the recycling process, to the management server. The aforementioned management server Based on the first data received from the first terminal and the second data received from the second terminal, the distribution ratio of the material generated in the recycling process to a plurality of first targets corresponding to a plurality of first terminals is calculated, The calculated distribution ratio is transmitted to a plurality of the first terminals, It may be configured to perform the following: [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a technique effective for distinguishing the share of each company regarding substances obtained by collectively recycling battery packs of a plurality of companies.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing an overview of the system in an embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of the hardware configuration of each of the company terminal, the base terminal, and the management server included in the system in an embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of recycling information in an embodiment. [Figure 4] It is a block diagram showing an example of the software configuration of the management server in an embodiment. [Figure 5] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of information stored in the battery management DB in an embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a diagram for explaining an example of a process for determining an ownership ratio in an embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a flowchart showing an example of a processing routine executed by the management server in an embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of information stored in the battery management DB in a modified example. [Figure 9] It is a diagram for explaining an example of a process for determining an ownership ratio in a modified example. [Figure 10] It is a flowchart showing an example of a processing routine executed by the management server in a modified example.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle), HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle), and P Drive batteries (battery packs) for vehicles such as HEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) Regarding this, a system for manufacturing new battery packs using a predetermined substance generated from used battery packs is being developed. In this system, it is ideal for companies that manufacture and / or sell battery packs to manufacture new battery packs using a predetermined substance (e.g., black mass, or active material, etc.) generated from their own used battery packs. On the other hand, for operators who perform recycling processing of used battery packs, it is not practical to recycle used battery packs by company in terms of cost and efficiency. Therefore, a method of performing recycling processing all at once with a mixture of used battery packs from multiple companies is conceivable. When such a method is adopted, criteria for distribution when distributing a predetermined substance to multiple companies are required. At that time, if the distribution is determined according to the number of recycled used battery packs by company or the total weight by company, companies that manufacture and / or sell battery packs containing a relatively large amount of metals with high market value or rare value (e.g., lithium, cobalt, nickel, or manganese, etc.) may be disadvantaged. Therefore, a means for distributing a predetermined substance while reducing the disadvantage of companies that manufacture battery packs containing a relatively large amount of metals with high market value or rare value is required.

[0012] To solve the above problems, an information processing device, which is one aspect of the present disclosure, determines the distribution of a predetermined substance to multiple companies according to the number of battery packs recycled within the ownership of each of the multiple companies, the weight per battery pack, and in addition, the content rate of the target metal contained per battery pack.

[0013] In detail, the information processing device relating to this disclosure has a control unit that determines the ownership ratio of multiple companies for a predetermined substance obtained by recycling battery packs from multiple companies. In this case, the control unit relating to this disclosure may determine the ownership ratio of multiple companies for the predetermined substance according to the number of battery packs recycled within the ownership of each of the multiple companies, the weight of each battery pack, and the content of the target metal contained in each battery pack. Within the ownership of a company may be the scope of the company's ownership, or it may be the scope of responsibility for using the predetermined substance when manufacturing a new battery pack. The target metal relating to this disclosure is a metal contained in the predetermined substance that has a relatively high market value and / or scarcity value. For example, the target metal may be a rare metal (e.g., lithium, cobalt, nickel, manganese, etc.) used in electrodes of battery cells that constitute a battery pack.

[0014] Herein, the recycling process in this disclosure may include a process of refining the black mass generated from the battery pack to separate and purify the target metal. In this case, the specified substance may be the target metal generated by the recycling process. The ownership ratio of the multiple companies may be the distribution ratio to the multiple companies of the total weight of the target metal generated by the recycling process.

[0015] In this embodiment, if the predetermined substance is a target metal produced by recycling, determining the ownership ratio of multiple companies for the predetermined substance may include calculating an index value for each company's ownership by multiplying the number of battery packs recycled within each company's ownership by the weight of each battery pack and the percentage of the target metal contained in each battery pack, and setting the ratio of the index values ​​among the multiple companies as the allocation ratio for the multiple companies. It should be noted that this method of determining ownership ratios is not limited to cases where the predetermined substance is a target metal, but can also be applied to cases where the predetermined substance is an active material containing one type of target metal (which may also contain substances other than the target metal).

[0016] Furthermore, the recycling process in this disclosure may include a process that generates black mass from battery packs (a process that detoxifies the battery cells contained in the battery packs, then crushes them and separates the black mass). In that case, the specified substance may be the black mass generated by the recycling process. The ownership ratio of the multiple companies may be the distribution ratio to the multiple companies of the total weight of the black mass generated by the recycling process.

[0017] If the specified substance relating to this disclosure is black mass produced by recycling, the specified substance may contain two or more target metals. Therefore, if the specified substance is black mass produced by recycling, determining the ownership ratio of the specified substance among multiple companies may include: calculating the weighted sum of the content rates of the two or more target metals contained in each battery pack recycled within the ownership of each of the multiple companies; calculating an index value for the ownership of each of the multiple companies by multiplying the number of battery packs recycled within the ownership of each of the multiple companies, the weight of each battery pack, and the weighted sum of the two or more target metals contained in each battery pack; and setting the ratio of the index values ​​among the multiple companies as the ownership ratio. The weighting value used when calculating the weighted sum of the two or more target metals (the weighting coefficient multiplied by the content rate of each of the two or more target metals) may, for example, be set to a larger value the higher the market value or rarity value of each of the two or more target metals. Note that the method of determining the ownership ratio in this manner is not limited to cases where the specified substance is black mass. Furthermore, it can also be applied when the specified substance is an active material containing two or more target metals.

[0018] As described above, once the ownership ratios of multiple companies for a given substance are determined, the control unit of the information processing device relating to this disclosure outputs the determined ownership ratios of the multiple companies. Outputting the ownership ratios of multiple companies may, for example, include transmitting a signal for outputting the ownership ratios of multiple companies to the terminal of each of the multiple companies.

[0019] According to the information processing device described herein, the allocation of a predetermined substance to multiple companies can be determined based on the number of battery packs recycled within the ownership of each of the multiple companies, the weight of each battery pack, and the content of the target metal contained in each battery pack. This makes it possible to allocate the predetermined substance while reducing the disadvantage to companies that manufacture battery packs containing relatively large amounts of metals with high market value or rarity value. Therefore, it is possible to provide an effective technology for distinguishing the ownership of each company of a predetermined substance generated by simultaneously recycling battery packs from multiple companies.

[0020] The following describes specific embodiments of this disclosure with reference to the drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the hardware configurations, module configurations, functional configurations, etc., described in the following embodiments are not intended to limit the technical scope of the disclosure to those configurations alone.

[0021] <Embodiment> This embodiment describes an example of applying the information processing device according to this disclosure to a system that simultaneously recycles multiple battery packs containing battery packs from multiple companies. The battery packs in this embodiment are used drive batteries recovered from vehicles such as BEVs, PHEVs, and HEVs.

[0022] (System Overview) Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of System 1 according to an embodiment. In the example shown in Figure 1, System 1 consists of corporate terminals 2, each of which is located in a group of companies; branch terminals 3, located at recycling facilities (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "recycling facilities"); and a management server 4. The management server 4 is connected to the corporate terminals 2 and branch terminals 3 via a network. The network may be a global public communication network such as the Internet, a Wide Area Network (WAN), or other communication networks. The network may include telephone communication networks such as mobile phones, and wireless communication networks such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Although only one recycling center is shown in the example in Figure 1, multiple recycling centers may be included in System 1. Accordingly, multiple terminals 3 may be included in System 1.

[0023] Enterprise terminal 2 is a computer deployed in a company that manufactures battery packs or a company that sells battery packs manufactured by other companies (OEM-produced battery packs). In this embodiment, enterprise terminal 2 has the function of providing information about the battery packs it manufactures and / or sells (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "battery information") to the management server 4. The battery information in this embodiment includes the product ID of the battery pack, the weight of each battery pack, and the content of the target metal contained in each battery pack. The product ID is an identifier for identifying each battery pack product (e.g., product name or model number). The provision of battery information to the management server 4 may be done when each battery pack product is released to the market (e.g., when sales of vehicles equipped with each product begin), or it may be done at a predetermined time after each product is released to the market (e.g., when each product is estimated to be collected for recycling). In addition, enterprise terminal 2 in this embodiment receives the ownership ratio provided by the management server 4 from the operator of enterprise terminal 2. It also has the function of being presented to informants (such as company employees).

[0024] The base terminal 3 is a computer located at a base (recycling base) that carries out the business of recycling battery packs recovered from vehicles. In this embodiment, it is assumed that at the recycling base, multiple battery packs from multiple companies are mixed together and recycled simultaneously. The base terminal 3 in this embodiment has the function of providing the management server 4 with information on the battery packs that were subject to recycling within a predetermined period (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "recycling information") each time a predetermined period has elapsed. The predetermined period is a period that is set appropriately according to the timing of battery pack collection and / or the amount of battery packs collected, etc., and in one example it may be set within a range of several days to one month. The recycling information in this embodiment includes the total weight of a predetermined substance generated by the recycling process within the predetermined period, and the number of battery packs by product ID that were subject to recycling within the predetermined period. Note that the recycling information may also be transmitted from the base terminal 3 to the management server 4 each time recycling is performed at the recycling base. In that case, the recycling information only needs to include the amount of a predetermined substance generated in each recycling process and the number of battery packs by product ID that were subject to recycling in each process.

[0025] The recycling process performed at the recycling facility in this embodiment includes a step of detoxifying the battery cells removed from the battery pack, crushing them to separate the black mass, and a step of refining the black mass to separate and purify rare metals (target metals) with high market value and / or scarcity value, such as lithium (Li), nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), and manganese (Mn). Therefore, the predetermined substance produced by the recycling process in this embodiment may be the target metal. In this case, the predetermined substance will contain only one type of target metal. The predetermined substance may also be an active material containing only one type of the target metal described above. In that case, the recycling process may include, in addition to the steps described above, a step of producing a positive electrode active material using one of the multiple types of rare metals produced from the black mass. The above-described steps may be performed at one recycling facility or may be shared among multiple recycling facilities.

[0026] The management server 4 is one or more computers that perform information processing regarding predetermined substances generated by simultaneously recycling battery packs from multiple companies. In this embodiment, the management server 4 has the function of registering the received battery information in the battery management DB 421 (described later) each time it receives battery information transmitted from each of the multiple company terminals 2. In addition, the management server 4 in this embodiment has the function of determining the ownership ratio (distribution ratio of predetermined substances among multiple companies) of predetermined substances generated by the recycling process among the multiple companies each time it receives recycling information transmitted from the branch terminal 3, and transmitting the determined ownership ratio to each of the multiple company terminals 2.

[0027] (System hardware configuration) The hardware configuration examples of the enterprise terminal 2, branch terminal 3, and management server 4 included in System 1 in this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the enterprise terminal 2, branch terminal 3, and management server 4 included in System 1 in this embodiment.

[0028] The enterprise terminal 2 is a computer deployed in each of multiple companies, and includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, an input / output device 23, and a communication module 24.

[0029] Enterprise terminal 2 can be configured as a computer having a processor (CPU, GPU, etc.), main memory (RAM, ROM, etc.), and auxiliary storage (EPROM, hard disk drive, removable media, etc.). The auxiliary storage contains programs and programmes. The RAM stores data and other information it uses, and the processor executes the programs stored therein to realize each function (software module) that matches the predetermined purpose. However, some or all of the functions of the enterprise terminal 2 may be realized as hardware modules by hardware circuits such as ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0030] The control unit 21 is a computing unit that implements various functions (software modules) of the enterprise terminal 2 by executing programs stored in the auxiliary storage device. The control unit 21 can be implemented by a hardware processor such as a CPU. The control unit 21 may also be configured to include RAM, ROM (Read Only Memory), cache memory, etc.

[0031] The memory unit 22 is a means for storing information and is composed of storage media such as RAM, magnetic disks, and flash memory. The memory unit 22 stores programs executed by the control unit 21, data used by those programs, and so on.

[0032] The input / output device 23 is a means of receiving input operations performed by the operator (employee of the company) of the corporate terminal 2 and presenting information to the operator. Specifically, the input / output device 23 includes devices for input such as a mouse and keyboard, and devices for output such as a display and speaker. The input / output device 23 may be integrally configured with, for example, a touch panel display.

[0033] The communication module 24 is a communication interface for connecting the enterprise terminal 2 to a network. The communication module 24 may be configured to include, for example, a network interface board and a wireless communication interface for wireless communication. The enterprise terminal 2 can communicate data with other computers (for example, the management server 4) via the communication module 24.

[0034] The specific hardware configuration of the enterprise terminal 2 can be modified as appropriate, with components being omitted, replaced, and added depending on the embodiment.

[0035] In the enterprise terminal 2 configured as described above, the enterprise operator inputs battery information through the input / output device 23. The control unit 21 transmits the input battery information to the management server 4 via the communication module 24 in response to the input of battery information. The timing of the operator inputting the battery information may be when the enterprise product (battery pack) is released to the market, or it may be at a predetermined time after the enterprise product is released to the market.

[0036] Furthermore, in the enterprise terminal 2 configured as described above, when the communication module 24 receives the ownership ratio transmitted from the management server 4, the control unit 21 outputs (presents to the operator) the received ownership ratio through the input / output device 23.

[0037] Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the base terminal 3 will be described. In this embodiment, the base terminal 3 is a computer located at a recycling base and has a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, an input / output device 33, and a communication module 34.

[0038] The branch terminal 3 can be configured as a computer having a processor (CPU, GPU, etc.), main memory (RAM, ROM, etc.), and auxiliary storage (EPROM, hard disk drive, removable media, etc.), similar to the enterprise terminal 2. The auxiliary storage stores programs and data used by the programs, and the programs stored there... The processor executes the necessary steps to realize each function (software module) that is suited to the predetermined purpose. However, some or all of the functions of the base terminal 3 may be realized as hardware modules by hardware circuits.

[0039] The control unit 31 is a computing unit that implements various functions (software modules) of the base terminal 3 by executing programs stored in the auxiliary storage device. The control unit 31 can be implemented by a hardware processor such as a CPU. The control unit 21 may also be configured to include RAM, ROM (Read Only Memory), cache memory, etc.

[0040] The storage unit 32 is a means for storing information and is composed of storage media such as RAM, magnetic disks, and flash memory. The storage unit 32 stores programs executed by the control unit 31, data used by those programs, and so on.

[0041] The input / output device 33 is a means of receiving input operations performed by the operator of the base terminal 3 (an employee of the recycling base) and presenting information to the operator. Specifically, the input / output device 33 includes devices for input such as a mouse and keyboard, and devices for output such as a display and speaker. The input / output device 33 may be integrally configured with, for example, a touch panel display.

[0042] The communication module 34 is a communication interface for connecting the base terminal 3 to the network. The communication module 34 may be configured to include, for example, a network interface board and a wireless communication interface for wireless communication. The base terminal 3 can communicate data with other computers (for example, the management server 4) via the communication module 34.

[0043] The specific hardware configuration of the base terminal 3 can be modified as appropriate, with components being omitted, replaced, or added depending on the embodiment.

[0044] In the base terminal 3 configured as described above, each time a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the control unit 31 transmits recycling information regarding the battery packs (products) that were subject to recycling processing within the predetermined period to the management server 4 via the communication module 34. At that time, each time recycling processing is performed within the predetermined period, the operator at the recycling base should input information about the battery packs (products) that were subject to recycling processing via the input / output device 33. The control unit 31 of the base terminal 3 should store the input information in the storage unit 42. Then, when the predetermined period has elapsed, the control unit 31 of the base terminal 3 should extract from the storage unit 32 the number of battery packs by product that were recycled within the predetermined period and the total weight of a predetermined substance generated by the recycling processing performed within the predetermined period, and generate recycling information. The recycling information may include, as illustrated in Figure 3, the number of battery packs by product ID that were recycled within the predetermined period and the total weight (kg) of a predetermined substance generated by the recycling processing performed within the predetermined period.

[0045] The timing of sending recycling information to the management server 4 is not limited to the example described above; it may also be sent from the base terminal 3 to the management server 4 each time a recycling process is performed. In that case, the recycling information should include the amount of a predetermined substance generated in each recycling process, and the number of battery packs (products) per product ID that were the subject of each recycling process.

[0046] Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the management server 4 will be described. In this embodiment, the management server 4 includes a control unit 41, a storage unit 42, a communication module 44, and an input / output device 43. It is configured as a computer.

[0047] Management Server 4 is an example of an information processing device related to this disclosure. Management Server 4 can be configured as a computer having a processor (CPU, GPU, etc.), main memory (RAM, ROM, etc.), and auxiliary storage (EPROM, hard disk drive, removable media, etc.), similar to the enterprise terminal 2. However, the auxiliary storage of Management Server 4 stores programs and data used by those programs, and the processor executes the programs stored therein to realize various functions (software modules) that meet predetermined purposes, as described later. However, some or all of the modules of Management Server 4 may be realized as hardware modules by hardware circuits.

[0048] The control unit 41 is a computing unit that realizes various functions of the management server 4 by executing programs stored in the auxiliary storage device. The control unit 41 can be implemented by a hardware processor such as a CPU. The control unit 41 may also be configured to include RAM, ROM (Read Only Memory), cache memory, etc.

[0049] The storage unit 42 is a means for storing information and is composed of storage media such as RAM, magnetic disks, and flash memory. The storage unit 42 stores programs executed by the control unit 41, data used by those programs, and so on. The storage unit 42 also has a battery management DB 421 built into it, and the battery management DB 421 stores battery information provided by multiple corporate terminals 2. Details of the battery management DB 421 stored in the storage unit 42 will be described later.

[0050] The input / output device 43 is a means of receiving input operations performed by the operator of the management server 4 and presenting information to the operator. Specifically, the input / output device 43 includes devices for input such as a mouse and keyboard, and devices for output such as a display and speakers. The input / output device 43 may be integrally configured with, for example, a touch panel display.

[0051] The communication module 44 is a communication interface for connecting the management server 4 to a network. The communication module 44 may be configured to include, for example, a network interface board and a wireless communication interface for wireless communication. The management server 4 can communicate data with other computers (for example, corporate terminal 2 and branch terminal 3, etc.) via the communication module 44.

[0052] The specific hardware configuration of the management server 4 can be appropriately omitted, replaced, and added depending on the embodiment. For example, the control unit 41 may include multiple hardware processors. The hardware processors may consist of microprocessors, FPGAs, and GPUs, etc. The input / output device 43 may be omitted, or input / output devices other than those exemplified (e.g., optical drives, etc.) may be added. The management server 4 may also be composed of multiple computers. In this case, the hardware configurations of each computer may or may not be the same.

[0053] (Server software configuration) Here, the functions implemented by the management server 4 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the software configuration of the management server 4 in this embodiment. In this embodiment, the control unit 41 of the management server 4 is configured to have a plurality of software modules, including a data registration unit 411, an ownership ratio determination unit 412, and an output unit 413. Each software module is executed by the control unit 41 executing the program of the storage unit 42. This is then realized. At least a portion of the data registration unit 411, the ownership ratio determination unit 412, and the output unit 413 may be implemented by hardware circuits such as ASICs or FPGAs. Furthermore, in the following description, the information processing performed by the data registration unit 411, the ownership ratio determination unit 412, and the output unit 413 is synonymous with the information processing performed by the control unit 41.

[0054] The data registration unit 411 is configured to receive battery information transmitted from each of the company terminals 2 of multiple companies via the communication module 44. Furthermore, the data registration unit 411 is configured to store the received battery information in the battery management DB 421 of the storage unit 42.

[0055] Here, we will describe the battery management DB 421 constructed in the storage unit 42 of the management server 4. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the information stored in the battery management DB 421. In this embodiment, the battery management DB 421 stores battery pack information by product. In the example shown in Figure 4, the battery management DB 421 has multiple records for each battery pack product. Each record includes multiple fields such as a product ID field, a company ID field, a weight field, and a content field. The product ID field registers an identifier (product ID) for identifying the battery pack product. The information registered in the product ID field may be the product name or model number of each battery pack product. The company ID field registers an identifier (company ID) for identifying the company that manufactures and / or sells each battery pack product. The weight field registers the weight (kg) per unit of each battery pack product. The content field registers the content (%) of the target metal contained in each unit of each battery pack product. Records in the battery management DB 421 are generated and added by the control unit 41 each time the communication module 44 receives battery information transmitted from the corporate terminal 2.

[0056] The battery management DB421 may also be built on an external device connected to the management server 4 via a network.

[0057] Now, returning to the explanation of Figure 4, let's describe the ownership ratio determination unit 412. In this embodiment, the ownership ratio determination unit 412 is configured to receive recycling information transmitted from the base terminal 3 via the communication module 44. Furthermore, the ownership ratio determination unit 412 is configured to determine the ownership ratio of multiple companies for a predetermined substance generated by recycling processes carried out within a predetermined period, according to the received recycling information.

[0058] In the process of determining the ownership ratio of multiple companies, the ownership ratio determination unit 412 first accesses the battery management DB 421 in the storage unit 42 using each of the multiple product IDs included in the recycling information, as illustrated in Figure 3, as an argument, and identifies multiple records in which information matching each of the multiple product IDs is registered in the product ID field. The ownership ratio determination unit 412 identifies multiple companies (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "target companies") that are subject to the ownership ratio, according to the information (company ID) registered in the company ID field of each of the identified multiple records. The ownership ratio determination unit 412 also extracts the information (weight of one battery pack and the content of the target metal per unit) registered in the weight field and content field of each of the identified multiple records. The ownership ratio determination unit 412 calculates an ownership index value for each of the multiple target companies by substituting the number of items included in the recycling information (the number of target company products (battery packs) that were recycled during a predetermined period) and the weight and content rate extracted from the battery management DB 421 (the weight per unit of target company products (battery packs) that were recycled during a predetermined period and the content rate of the target metal per unit) into the following formula (1). (Indicator value) = (Number of pieces) × (Weight) × (Content) ... (1)

[0059] Once the ownership ratio determination unit 412 has finished calculating the indicator values ​​for all of the multiple target companies, it sets the ratio of those indicator values ​​as the ownership ratio among the multiple target companies.

[0060] Figure 6 illustrates an example of the process for determining ownership ratios. In the example shown in Figure 6, the battery packs recycled at a recycling center within a predetermined period include product VP0001 from company CP1, product VP0002 from company CP2, and product VP0003 from company CP3. The number of units recycled at the recycling center within the predetermined period is 12 units for product VP0001, 5 units for product VP0002, and 10 units for product VP0003. The weight per unit of product VP0001, product VP0002, and product VP0003 is 50 kg, 40 kg, and 60 kg, respectively. The content of the target metal in each unit of product VP0001, product VP0002, and product VP0003 is 10%, 20%, and 4%, respectively.

[0061] In the example shown in Figure 6, the index values ​​corresponding to product VP0001, product VP0002, and product VP0003 are calculated according to formula (1) above, and the results are as follows. The index value for product VP0001 = 12 (pieces) × 50 (kg) × 0.1 (10%) = 60 The index value for product VP0002 = 5 (pieces) × 40 (kg) × 0.2 (20%) = 40 The index value for product VP0003 = 10 (pieces) × 60 (kg) × 0.04 (4%) = 24

[0062] Therefore, the ownership ratios of companies CP1, CP2, and CP3 are as follows: CP1:CP2:CP3 = 15:10:6

[0063] Furthermore, when the allocation amounts of the predetermined substances are determined according to the above ownership ratios, the amounts of the predetermined substances allocated to companies CP1, CP2, and CP3 will be as follows. The amount allocated to company CP1 = (total weight of the specified substance) × (15 / 31) The amount allocated to company CP2 = (total weight of the specified substance) × (10 / 31) The amount allocated to company CP3 = (total weight of the specified substance) × (6 / 31)

[0064] Now, returning to the explanation of Figure 4, let's describe the output unit 413. In this embodiment, the output unit 413 is configured to perform a process to output the ownership ratio determined by the ownership ratio determination unit 412. The process of outputting the ownership ratio includes, at least, the process of outputting the ownership ratio to the input / output device 23 of the target company's corporate terminal 2, which includes the process of outputting the ownership ratio to the input / output device 23 of the management server 4 and the process of causing the ownership ratio to be output to the input / output device 23 of the target company's corporate terminal 2. In the process of causing the ownership ratio to be output to the input / output device 23 of the target company's corporate terminal 2, the output unit 413 only needs to send a signal to the target company's corporate terminal 2 via the communication module 44 to output the ownership ratio determined by the ownership ratio determination unit 412.

[0065] (Process flow) Next, the processing flow executed by the management server 4 in this embodiment will be explained based on Figure 7. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing routine executed by the management server 4 when it receives recycling information transmitted from the branch terminal 3. The execution entity of the processing routine in Figure 7 is the processor (control unit 41) of the management server 4, but here we will explain it as if the software module of the management server 4 were the execution entity.

[0066] In the processing routine shown in Figure 7, when the communication module 44 receives recycling information transmitted from the base terminal 3, the control unit 41 operates as an ownership ratio determination unit 412 to acquire the recycling information received by the communication module 44 (step S101). After the decision unit 412 has finished executing the process in step S101, it executes the process in step S102.

[0067] In step S102, the ownership ratio determination unit 412 accesses the battery management DB 421 in the storage unit 42, using each of the multiple product IDs included in the recycling information received in step S102 as an argument, and identifies multiple records in which information matching each of the multiple product IDs is registered in the product ID field. The ownership ratio determination unit 412 identifies multiple target companies according to the company IDs registered in the company ID field of each of the identified multiple records. The ownership ratio determination unit 412 also extracts the information registered in the weight field and content field of each of the identified multiple records to obtain the weight per unit and the content of the target metal per unit for each of the multiple target companies' products (battery packs). After completing the processing in step S102, the ownership ratio determination unit 412 executes the processing in step S103.

[0068] In step S103, the ownership ratio determination unit 412 calculates an indicator value of ownership for each of the multiple target companies by substituting the number of products (battery packs) included in the recycling information, the weight of each product (battery pack) extracted from the battery management DB 421, and the percentage of the target metal per product (battery pack) extracted from the battery management DB 421 into the aforementioned formula (1) (see, for example, Figure 6). After completing the process in step S103, the ownership ratio determination unit 412 executes the process in step S104.

[0069] In step S104, the ownership ratio determination unit 412 determines the ownership ratio among multiple target companies for a predetermined substance generated by recycling processing carried out during a predetermined period, according to the index values ​​corresponding to each of the multiple target companies calculated in step S103. Specifically, the ownership ratio determination unit 412 sets the relative ratio of multiple index values ​​corresponding to the multiple target companies as the ownership ratio among the multiple target companies. Once the ownership ratio determination unit 412 has finished executing the process in step S104, the control unit 41 operates as an output unit 413 and executes the process in step S105.

[0070] In step S105, the output unit 413 executes a process to output the ownership ratio determined in step S104. The process of outputting the ownership ratio includes, at a minimum, the process of outputting the ownership ratio to the input / output device 23 of the target company's corporate terminal 2, which is one of the processes of outputting the ownership ratio to the input / output device 23 of the management server 4 and the process of causing the ownership ratio to be output to the input / output device 23 of the target company's corporate terminal 2. In the process of causing the ownership ratio to be output to the input / output device 23 of the target company's corporate terminal 2, the output unit 413 transmits a signal to the target company's corporate terminal 2 via the communication module 44 to output the ownership ratio determined in step S104 to the input / output device 23 of the target company's corporate terminal 2. When the output unit 413 has finished executing the process in step S105, the control unit 41 terminates the execution of the processing routine shown in Figure 7.

[0071] (Effects and workings of the embodiment) In the embodiment described above, when products (battery packs) from multiple companies are recycled simultaneously, the management server 4 multiplies the total weight of each of the target companies' products (battery packs) (the weight obtained by multiplying the number of recycled products by the weight per unit of the product) by the content of the target metal per unit of the product to determine the ownership ratio of the predetermined substance among the multiple companies. This makes it possible to increase the ownership ratio of each target company as the content of the target metal increases. Accordingly, the amount of the predetermined substance allocated to each target company can be increased as the content of the target metal increases. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the disadvantage to target companies that manufacture and / or sell products (battery packs) that contain more of the target metal, which has high market value or rarity value, than the products of other target companies, while distributing the predetermined substance among the multiple target companies. It becomes possible to do so.

[0072] [Differentiation] In the embodiments described above, an embodiment was described in which the predetermined substance contains one type of target metal. In contrast, this modified example describes an embodiment in which the predetermined substance contains two or more types of target metals.

[0073] In this modified example, the recycling process carried out at the recycling center includes a step of detoxifying the battery cells removed from the battery pack, crushing them, and separating the black mass. Therefore, the specified substance produced by the recycling process in this modified example is black mass containing multiple types of rare metals (target metals) such as lithium (Li), nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), and manganese (Mn). In this modified example, the specified substance may also be a positive electrode active material produced using two or more of the multiple types of rare metals produced from the black mass. In that case, the recycling process may include, in addition to the above-mentioned steps, a step of separating the black mass, a step of refining the black mass to separate and purify multiple types of rare metals such as lithium (Li), nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), and manganese (Mn), and a step of producing a positive electrode active material using two or more of the multiple types of rare metals.

[0074] Furthermore, in this modified example, the battery management DB 421 constructed in the storage unit 42 of the management server 4 stores records for each product, as illustrated in Figure 8, which include a product ID field, a company ID field, and a weight field, as well as a content field corresponding to two or more target metals (n fields corresponding to each of the n types of target metals (n is an integer of 1 or more) from target metal TM1 to target metal TMn). The n types of target metals from target metal TM1 to target metal TMn are metals contained in a predetermined substance (black mass) generated during the recycling process at the recycling site.

[0075] Furthermore, in this modified example, the ownership ratio determination unit 412 of the management server 4 calculates a weighted sum of the content rates of n types of target metals contained in each product of the target companies when determining the ownership ratio of multiple target companies for a given substance. The weight coefficients used in calculating this weighted sum (multiplied by the content rates) may be determined according to the market value or rarity value of each of the n types of target metals. In this case, the weight values ​​may be determined to be larger the higher the market value or rarity value of the target metal. Once the weighted sum of each product from multiple target companies is calculated, the ownership ratio determination unit 412 calculates an index value of ownership for each of the multiple target companies by substituting the following into the formula (2): the number of items included in the recycling information (the number of target company products (battery packs) recycled during a predetermined period), the weight extracted from the battery management DB 421 (the weight per unit of target company product (battery pack) recycled during a predetermined period), and the weighted sum (the weighted sum of the content rates of n types of target metals contained in each unit of target company product (battery pack) recycled during a predetermined period). (Index value) = (Number of items) × (Weight) × (Σ(Contents × Weighted value)) ... (2) In formula (2), Σ(content × weighted value) is the weighted sum of the content of n types of target metals.

[0076] Once the ownership ratio determination unit 412 has finished calculating the indicator values ​​for all of the multiple target companies, it sets the ratio of those indicator values ​​as the ownership ratio among the multiple target companies.

[0077] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the process for determining ownership ratios in this modified example. In the example shown in Figure 9, the battery packs recycled at the recycling center within a predetermined period are product VP0001 from company CP1, product VP0002 from company CP2, and product VP0002 from company CP3 Product VP0003 is included. The number of units recycled at the recycling center within the specified period was 12 units of product VP0001, 5 units of product VP0002, and 10 units of product VP0003. The weight per unit of product VP0001, product VP0002, and product VP0003 is 50 kg, 40 kg, and 60 kg, respectively. The target metals contained in each unit of product VP0001, product VP0002, and product VP0003 are of the types target metal TM1 and target metal TM2. The content of target metal TM1 and target metal TM2 in each unit of product VP0001 is 10% and 10%, respectively. The content of target metal TM1 and target metal TM2 in each unit of product VP0002 is 20% and 5%, respectively. The content of target metal TM1 and target metal TM2 in each unit of product VP0003 is 4% and 20%, respectively. Furthermore, the weight values ​​corresponding to target metal TM1 and target metal TM2 are "5" and "1," respectively.

[0078] In the example shown in Figure 9, the weighted sums of product VP0001, product VP0002, and product VP0003 are as follows: The weighted sum of product VP0001 = (0.1 (TM1 content) × 5 (TM1 weighted value)) + (0.1 (TM2 content) × 1 (TM2 weighted value)) = 0.6 The weighted sum of product VP0002 = (0.2 (TM1 content) × 5 (TM1 weighted value)) + (0.05 (TM2 content) × 1 (TM2 weighted value)) = 1.05 The weighted sum of product VP0003 = (0.04 (TM1 content) × 5 (TM1 weighted value)) + (0.2 (TM2 content) × 1 (TM2 weighted value)) = 0.4

[0079] In the example shown in Figure 9, the index values ​​corresponding to product VP0001, product VP0002, and product VP0003 are calculated according to formula (2) above, and the results are as follows. The index value for product VP0001 = 12 (pieces) × 50 (kg) × 0.6 (total weight) = 360 The index value for product VP0002 = 5 (pieces) × 40 (kg) × 1.05 (total weight) = 210 The index value for product VP0003 = 10 (pieces) × 60 (kg) × 0.4 (total weight) = 240

[0080] Therefore, the ownership ratios of companies CP1, CP2, and CP3 are as follows: CP1:CP2:CP3 = 12:7:8

[0081] Furthermore, when the allocation amounts of the predetermined substances are determined according to the above ownership ratios, the amounts of the predetermined substances allocated to companies CP1, CP2, and CP3 will be as follows. The amount allocated to company CP1 = (total weight of the specified substance) × (12 / 27) The amount allocated to company CP2 = (total weight of the specified substance) × (7 / 27) The amount allocated to company CP3 = (total weight of the specified substance) × (8 / 27)

[0082] Note that the configurations other than the battery management DB421 and the ownership ratio determination unit 412 are the same as in the previously described embodiment, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0083] (Process flow) Next, the processing flow executed by the management server 4 in this embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 10. Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing routine executed by the management server 4 when it receives recycling information transmitted from the branch terminal 3. In the processing routine of Figure 10, steps S201 and S202 are executed instead of step S103 of the processing routine in Figure 7 described above.

[0084] In step S201, the control unit 41 of the management server 4 operates as the ownership ratio determination unit 412. The ownership ratio determination unit 412 calculates the weighted sum of the content of each of the n types of target metals TM1-TMn extracted from the battery management DB 421 in step S102. The weighted sum = Σ(content rate × weighted value). Once the ownership ratio determination unit 412 has finished calculating the weighted sum for each product of multiple target companies, it executes the process in step S202.

[0085] In step S202, the ownership ratio determination unit 412 calculates an indicator value of ownership for each of the multiple target companies by substituting the number of products (battery packs) included in the recycling information, the weight of each product (battery pack) extracted from the battery management DB 421, and the weighted sum calculated in step S201 into the aforementioned formula (2). After completing the processing in step S202, the ownership ratio determination unit 412 executes the processing in steps S104-S105.

[0086] (Effects and workings of the embodiment) In the modified example described above, when a predetermined substance generated by the simultaneous recycling of products (battery packs) from multiple companies contains two or more target metals, the management server 4 determines the ownership ratio of the predetermined substance among multiple companies by multiplying the total weight of each company's products (battery packs) (the weight obtained by multiplying the number of recycled products by the weight per unit of the product) by the weighted sum of the content rates of the two or more target metals per unit of the product. This allows each company's ownership ratio to increase as the content rate of the two or more target metals increases. Furthermore, by determining the weighting values ​​used in calculating the weighted sum of the content rates of the two or more target metals according to the market value or rarity value of each of the two or more target metals, a larger allocation can be made to companies that manufacture and / or sell products with a high content of target metals that have high market value or rarity value. Therefore, even when the predetermined substance contains two or more target metals, the same effects as in the previously described embodiment can be obtained.

[0087] <Other> The embodiments described above are merely examples, and this disclosure can be modified as appropriate without departing from its essence. For example, a process described as being performed by one device may be divided and executed by multiple devices. Alternatively, a process described as being performed by different devices may be executed by a single device. In a computer system, the hardware configuration used to implement each function can be flexibly changed.

[0088] The present disclosure can also be realized by supplying a computer program implementing the functions described in the embodiments above to a computer, and having one or more processors in the computer read and execute the program. Such a computer program may be provided to the computer by a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium that can be connected to the computer's system bus, or it may be provided to the computer via a network. Non-temporary computer-readable storage mediums include, for example, any type of disk such as magnetic disks (floppy disks, hard disk drives (HDDs), etc.), optical disks (CD-ROMs, DVDs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), EPROM, EEPROM, magnetic cards, flash memory, optical cards, and any type of medium suitable for storing electronic instructions. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0089] 1 System 2. Enterprise terminals 21 Control Unit 22 Memory section 23 Input / Output Devices 24 Communication Modules 3 terminals 31 Control Unit 32 Storage section 33 Input / Output Devices 34 Communication Module 4. Management Server 41 Control Unit 42 Storage section 43 Input / Output Devices 44 Communication Module 411 Data Registration Section 412 Ownership Ratio Determination Section 413 Output section

Claims

1. Determining the ownership ratio of multiple companies for a predetermined substance obtained by recycling battery packs from multiple companies, Outputting the determined ownership ratio, It includes a control unit that performs the following: The control unit is configured to determine the ownership ratio according to the number of battery packs recycled within the ownership of each of the multiple companies, the weight of each battery pack, and the content of the target metal contained in each battery pack. Information processing device.

2. The recycling process includes a process of refining the black mass generated from the battery pack to separate and produce the target metal. The predetermined substance is the target metal produced by the recycling process, The ownership ratio of the multiple companies is the proportion of the total weight of the target metal produced in the recycling process that is allocated to the multiple companies. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. Determining the aforementioned ownership ratio means The method involves multiplying the number of battery packs recycled within the ownership of each of the aforementioned companies by the weight of each battery pack and the percentage of the target metal contained in each battery pack to calculate an index value for the ownership of each of the aforementioned companies. The ratio of the indicator values ​​among multiple companies is set as the allocation ratio to the multiple companies, including, The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The recycling process includes a process for generating black mass from the battery pack, The predetermined substance is the black mass produced by the recycling process, The ownership ratio of the multiple companies is the proportion of the total weight of the black mass generated in the recycling process that is allocated to the multiple companies. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

5. Determining the aforementioned ownership ratio means Calculate the weighted sum of the content rates of two or more of the target metals contained in each of the recycled battery packs within the ownership of each of the multiple companies, The number of battery packs recycled within the ownership of each of the multiple companies, the weight of each battery pack, and the weighted sum of the two or more target metals contained in each battery pack are multiplied to calculate an index value for the ownership of each of the multiple companies. The ratio of the indicator values ​​among multiple companies is set as the allocation ratio to the multiple companies, including, The information processing apparatus according to claim 4.

6. The weight values ​​used in the calculation of the weighted sum are set to larger values ​​the higher the market value of each of the two or more target metals. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5.

7. The weight values ​​used in the calculation of the weighted sum are set to larger values ​​the higher the rarity value of each of the two or more target metals. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5.

8. Outputting the ownership ratio includes transmitting a signal for outputting the ownership ratio to multiple terminals of the aforementioned companies. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

9. The aforementioned target metal includes at least one of lithium, cobalt, nickel, and manganese. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

10. Determining the ownership ratio of multiple companies for a predetermined substance obtained by recycling battery packs from multiple companies, Outputting the determined ownership ratio, A computer-based information processing method, The computer determines the ownership ratio according to the number of battery packs recycled within the ownership of each of the multiple companies, the weight of each battery pack, and the percentage of the target metal contained in each battery pack. Information processing methods.

11. The recycling process includes a process of refining the black mass generated from the battery pack to separate and produce the target metal. The predetermined substance is the target metal produced by the recycling process, The ownership ratio of the multiple companies is the proportion of the total weight of the target metal produced in the recycling process that is allocated to the multiple companies. The information processing method according to claim 10.

12. Determining the aforementioned ownership ratio means The method involves multiplying the number of battery packs recycled within the ownership of each of the aforementioned companies by the weight of each battery pack and the percentage of the target metal contained in each battery pack to calculate an index value for the ownership of each of the aforementioned companies. The ratio of the indicator values ​​among multiple companies is set as the allocation ratio to the multiple companies, including, The information processing method according to claim 11.

13. The recycling process includes a process for generating black mass from the battery pack, The predetermined substance is the black mass produced by the recycling process, The ownership ratio of the multiple companies is the proportion of the total weight of the black mass generated in the recycling process that is allocated to the multiple companies. The information processing method according to claim 10.

14. Determining the aforementioned ownership ratio means Calculate the weighted sum of the content rates of two or more of the target metals contained in each of the recycled battery packs within the ownership of each of the multiple companies, The number of battery packs recycled within the ownership of each of the multiple companies, the weight of each battery pack, and the total weight of the two or more target metals contained in each battery pack are multiplied to determine the ownership of each of the multiple companies. Calculating the standard value, The ratio of the indicator values ​​among multiple companies is set as the allocation ratio to the multiple companies, including, The information processing method according to claim 13.

15. The weight values ​​used in the calculation of the weighted sum are set to larger values ​​the higher the market value of each of the two or more target metals. The information processing method according to claim 14.

16. The weight values ​​used in the calculation of the weighted sum are set to larger values ​​the higher the rarity value of each of the two or more target metals. The information processing method according to claim 14.

17. Outputting the ownership ratio includes transmitting a signal for outputting the ownership ratio to multiple terminals of the aforementioned companies. The information processing method according to claim 10.

18. The aforementioned target metal includes at least one of lithium, cobalt, nickel, and manganese. The information processing method according to claim 10.

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