Power management system and power management method

Abstract

If the predicted amount of charge that can be achieved by the end of the charging period for an electric vehicle is less than the target charge amount, it is desirable to be able to adjust the amount of charge to the electric vehicle. [Solution] The power management system 1 manages the power supply to the electric vehicle 3. When the electric vehicle 3 is connected to the building 98, the control unit determines when the electric vehicle 3 can be charged based on information regarding the operation of the electric vehicle 3. Based on the power consumption limit in the building 98, the charging period, and the power consumption within the building 98, the control unit calculates a predicted value for the amount of charge that the electric vehicle 3 can reach by the end of the charging period. If the predicted value is less than the target charge amount, the control unit limits the power consumption within the building 98 and adjusts the amount of charge to the electric vehicle 3 so that the amount of charge of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period is equal to or greater than the target charge amount.

Description

Technical Field

[0005]

[0001] It relates to a power management system and a power management method.

Background Art

[0002] As shown in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2011-200015), there is a technology for managing the power supply to equipment provided in a building.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] When the predicted value of the charging amount of an electric vehicle that can be reached by the end of the chargeable period is smaller than the target charging amount, it is desirable to be able to adjust the charging amount to the electric vehicle.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] The power management system of the first aspect manages the power supply to an electric vehicle. The electric vehicle is provided in a building. The power management system includes a control unit. When the electric vehicle is connected to the building, the control unit acquires first operation information and the target charging amount of the electric vehicle. The first operation information is information related to the operation of the electric vehicle. When the electric vehicle is connected to the building, the control unit determines the chargeable period of the electric vehicle based on the first operation information. When the electric vehicle is connected to the building, the control unit calculates a predicted value of the charging amount of the electric vehicle that can be reached by the first time of the chargeable period based on the power consumption limit in the building, the chargeable period, and the power consumption in the building. When the electric vehicle is connected to the building and the predicted value is smaller than the target charging amount, the control unit restricts the power consumption in the building so that the charging amount of the electric vehicle at the first time of the chargeable period is equal to or greater than the target charging amount, and adjusts the charging amount to the electric vehicle.

[0005] The first power management system can adjust the amount of charge to an electric vehicle by limiting power consumption within the building if the predicted amount of charge that can be reached by the first time when charging is possible is less than the target amount of charge.

[0006] The power management system in the second perspective is the power management system in the first perspective, wherein the control unit limits power consumption within the building by restricting the boiling operation of the hot water supply system installed in the building, or the control unit limits power consumption within the building by restricting the operation of the air conditioner installed in the building.

[0007] The third power management system is the same as the second power management system, in which the control unit calculates multiple combinations consisting of the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank of the hot water heater at the first time of the charging period when the hot water heater's boiling operation is restricted, and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle at the first time of the charging period. Alternatively, the control unit calculates multiple combinations consisting of the set temperature of the air conditioner at the charging period when the air conditioner's operation is restricted, and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle at the first time of the charging period. The control unit then determines a specific combination from among the multiple combinations.

[0008] The fourth power management system is the same as the third power management system, in which the control unit displays multiple combinations on the display unit. The control unit determines a specific combination based on the combination selected using the input unit.

[0009] The fourth aspect of the power management system, with this configuration, allows the amount of charge added to the electric vehicle to be adjusted according to the user's preferences.

[0010] The fifth power management system is the second power management system, in which the control unit determines a combination consisting of the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank of the hot water heater at the first time of the charging period and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle at the first time of the charging period, based on the past amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank of the hot water heater at the first time of the charging period and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle at the first time of the charging period, when the boiling operation of the hot water heater is restricted. Alternatively, the control unit determines a combination consisting of the set temperature of the air conditioner at the charging period and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle at the first time of the charging period, based on the past set temperature of the air conditioner at the charging period and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle at the first time of the charging period, when the operation of the air conditioner is restricted.

[0011] The power management system of the sixth perspective is the power management system of the second perspective, in which the control unit determines a combination consisting of the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank of the hot water heater and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle at the first time of the charging period, when the boiling operation of the hot water heater is restricted, based on a priority set between the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank of the hot water heater and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle. Alternatively, the control unit determines a combination consisting of the set temperature of the air conditioner and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle at the first time of the charging period, when the operation of the air conditioner is restricted, based on a priority set between the set temperature of the air conditioner and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle.

[0012] The power management system of the seventh perspective is a power management system of either the first perspective or the sixth perspective, wherein the first operational information includes a second time. The second time is the scheduled time when the electric vehicle departs the building. The control unit acquires the predicted time when the electric vehicle will depart the building, based on past actual departure time information of electric vehicles, as the second time. Alternatively, the control unit acquires the scheduled time when the electric vehicle will depart the building, input using the input unit, as the second time. Alternatively, the control unit acquires the scheduled time when the electric vehicle will depart the building, based on the electric vehicle's operational schedule, as the second time.

[0013] The power management method for the eighth perspective is performed by a computer. The power management method manages the power supply to the electric vehicle. The electric vehicle is installed in a building. The computer includes a control unit. When the electric vehicle is connected to the building, the control unit acquires first operational information and the target charge amount of the electric vehicle. The first operational information is information related to the operation of the electric vehicle. When the electric vehicle is connected to the building, the control unit determines the time when the electric vehicle can be charged based on the first operational information. When the electric vehicle is connected to the building, the control unit calculates a predicted value for the amount of charge of the electric vehicle that can be reached by the first time of the charging period, based on the power consumption limit in the building, the charging period, and the power consumption inside the building. When the electric vehicle is connected to the building and the predicted value is less than the target charge amount, the control unit limits the power consumption inside the building and adjusts the amount of charge to the electric vehicle so that the amount of charge of the electric vehicle at the first time of the charging period is equal to or greater than the target charge amount. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the power management system. [Figure 2] This is a functional block diagram of an electric vehicle. [Figure 3] This is a functional block diagram of the hot water supply system. [Figure 4] This is a functional block diagram of an air conditioner. [Figure 5]This is a functional block diagram of the control unit. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart illustrating the process of the control device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0015] (1) Overall structure Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the power management system 1. As shown in Figure 1, the power management system 1 manages the power supply to the electric vehicle 3 installed in building 98. Building 98 is further equipped with a control device 2, a hot water heater 4, an air conditioner 5, a converter 6, a distribution board 7, a charging device 8, and household appliances 96 other than the hot water heater 4 and air conditioner 5 (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as household appliances 96).

[0016] The power management system 1 has a control device 2. The control device 2 controls the power supply to the water heater 4, the air conditioner 5, and the electric vehicle 3. The control device 2 and the electric vehicle 3 are connected to each other via a network NW1 such as the Internet. The control device 2, the water heater 4, the air conditioner 5, the home appliance 96, and the converter 6 are connected to each other via a network NW2 such as a LAN. The distribution board 7 and the water heater 4, the distribution board 7 and the air conditioner 5, the distribution board 7 and the converter 6, the distribution board 7 and the home appliance 96, the converter 6 and the charging device 8, and the distribution board 7 and the power system 99 are connected to each other via a power line 97 so that power can be supplied.

[0017] (2) Detailed configuration (2-1) Distribution board The distribution board 7 distributes the AC power supplied from the power grid 99 to the water heater 4, air conditioner 5, household appliances 96, and converter 6.

[0018] (2-2) Electric vehicles Figure 2 is a functional block diagram of the electric vehicle 3. As shown in Figure 2, the electric vehicle 3 mainly consists of a storage battery 3a, a charging connector 3b, an input unit 32, a display unit 33, and a control unit 39.

[0019] The storage battery 3a is an in-vehicle battery for operating the drive motor and in-vehicle electrical components of the electric vehicle 3. The storage battery 3a is charged when the charging connector 3b is connected to the charging connector 8a of the charging device 8. The input unit 32 is an input interface such as a touch panel of the in-vehicle navigation. The display unit 33 is an output interface such as a touch panel of the in-vehicle navigation.

[0020] The control unit 39 controls the operations of each part constituting the electric vehicle 3. The control unit 39 has a control arithmetic unit and a storage device. The control arithmetic unit is a processor such as a CPU and a GPU. The storage device is a storage medium such as a RAM, a ROM, and a flash memory. The control arithmetic unit reads and executes the program stored in the storage device to realize various functions of the electric vehicle 3. Further, the control arithmetic unit can write the calculation result into the storage device or read the information stored in the storage device according to the program.

[0021] The control unit 39 exchanges various information such as control signals and signals regarding various settings with the control device 2 via the network NW1.

[0022] Each time the charging connector 3b of the electric vehicle 3 is connected to the charging connector 8a of the charging device 8, the control unit 39 acquires the connection time and the charge amount of the storage battery 3a at the connection time, and transmits them to the control device 2.

[0023] Each time the charging connector 3b of the electric vehicle 3 is removed from the charging connector 8a of the charging device 8, the control unit 39 acquires the removal time and the charge amount of the storage battery 3a at the removal time, and transmits them to the control device 2.

[0024] The control unit 39 periodically (for example, every 30 seconds) acquires the charge amount of the electric vehicle 3 and the position information of the electric vehicle 3, and transmits them to the control device 2.

[0025] The control unit 39, upon receiving instructions from the control device 2, transmits to the control device 2 the charge level of the electric vehicle 3 at the time it received the instructions from the control device 2, and the location information of the electric vehicle 3 at the time it received the instructions from the control device 2. The location information of the electric vehicle 3 is obtained, for example, via the network NW1 using the GPS function.

[0026] (2-3)Charging device The charging device 8 is a device for charging the battery 3a of the electric vehicle 3 with power supplied from the power grid 99 via the converter 6. The charging device 8 has a charging connector 8a. The charging device 8 charges the battery 3a when the charging connector 8a is connected to the charging connector 3b of the electric vehicle 3.

[0027] (2-4) Conversion device The converter 6 can convert DC voltage to AC voltage, or AC voltage to DC voltage, between the power system 99 and the storage battery 3a. For example, the converter 6 converts AC power from the power system 99 to DC power and supplies it to the storage battery 3a.

[0028] (2-5) Hot water supply system The hot water supply system 4 mainly comprises a heat pump unit, a hot water storage unit, and a control unit 49.

[0029] The heat pump unit heats the hot water supplied from the hot water storage unit and supplies the heated hot water back to the hot water storage unit. The hot water storage unit stores the heated hot water supplied from the heat pump unit, mixes the stored hot water with water supplied from the shut-off valve, and supplies it to the hot water supply unit and the bathtub. The hot water supply unit is, for example, a faucet and shower. The shut-off valve is connected to an external water source such as a water supply. The shut-off valve is operated to supply water to the hot water storage unit.

[0030] Here, "hot water" refers to at least one of hot water and cold water. Therefore, both water before it is heated by the heat pump unit and water after it has been heated by the heat pump unit are referred to as "hot water."

[0031] (2-5-1) Heat pump unit The heat pump unit mainly comprises a compressor, a water heat exchanger, an expansion valve 413, and an air heat exchanger. The compressor, water heat exchanger, expansion valve 413, and air heat exchanger are connected in a ring by refrigerant piping to form a heat pump cycle. The heat pump unit also has a first control device 419.

[0032] The compressor has a compression mechanism that compresses the refrigerant by driving the compressor motor 411a. The refrigerant compressed by the compressor is sent to the water heat exchanger. The capacity of the heat pump unit can be adjusted by controlling the operating frequency of the compressor motor 411a. The water heat exchanger exchanges heat between the high-temperature refrigerant compressed by the compressor and the hot water supplied from the hot water storage unit, heating the hot water. The expansion valve 413 depressurizes the refrigerant that has passed through the water heat exchanger and undergone heat exchange. The air heat exchanger exchanges heat between the refrigerant that has been depressurized by passing through the expansion valve 413 and the outside air, heating the refrigerant. Outside air is supplied to the air heat exchanger, for example, by an outside air fan. The refrigerant that has passed through the air heat exchanger and undergone heat exchange is sent to the compressor.

[0033] The first control device 419 controls the operation of each part that constitutes the heat pump unit. The first control device 419 has a control arithmetic unit and a memory device. The control arithmetic unit is a processor such as a CPU and a GPU. The memory device is a storage medium such as RAM, ROM, and flash memory. The control arithmetic unit reads and executes programs stored in the memory device to realize various functions of the heat pump unit. The control arithmetic unit can also write calculation results to the memory device and read information stored in the memory device according to the program.

[0034] (2-5-2) Hot water storage unit The hot water storage unit mainly comprises a hot water storage tank and a heating pump 424. These elements are connected by piping through which hot water flows. The hot water storage unit also has a second control device 429.

[0035] The hot water storage tank stores hot water. The hot water storage tank is equipped with multiple tank temperature sensors T41. As the density of water changes with temperature, the hot water stored in the hot water storage tank forms layers where the upper part is hotter and the lower part is colder. Therefore, by detecting the temperature distribution of the hot water in the hot water storage tank in the vertical direction based on the output signals of the multiple tank temperature sensors T41, the amount of hot water in the hot water storage tank (storage volume) can be obtained.

[0036] The second control device 429 controls the operation of each part that constitutes the hot water storage unit. The second control device 429 has a control arithmetic unit and a memory device. The control arithmetic unit is a processor such as a CPU and a GPU. The memory device is a storage medium such as RAM, ROM, and flash memory. The control arithmetic unit reads and executes programs stored in the memory device to realize various functions of the hot water storage unit. The control arithmetic unit can also write calculation results to the memory device and read information stored in the memory device according to the program.

[0037] (2-5-3) Control Unit The first control device 419 of the heat pump unit and the second control device 429 of the hot water storage unit work together to function as a control unit 49. Figure 3 is a functional block diagram of the hot water supply system 4. As shown in Figure 3, the control unit 49 is communicatively connected to the compressor motor 411a, the expansion valve 413, the boiling pump 424, and the multiple tank temperature sensors T41.

[0038] The control unit 49 exchanges various information with the control device 2 via the network NW2, including control signals, signals related to measurements from various sensors, and signals related to various settings.

[0039] The control unit 49 periodically (for example, every 30 seconds) acquires operating data such as the rotational speed of the compressor motor 411a, the opening degree of the expansion valve 413, the rotational speed of the boiling pump 424, the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank, the measured values ​​of the multiple tank temperature sensors T41, and the power consumption, and transmits this data to the control device 2. The power consumption may be the measured value of a power meter installed in the hot water supply system 4, or it may be calculated using a predetermined formula with respect to the rotational speed of the compressor motor 411a and the rotational speed of the boiling pump 424.

[0040] The control unit 49 performs the boiling operation based on instructions from the remote controller of the hot water supply unit 4 or from the control unit 2. The boiling operation is the operation in which the heat pump unit heats the hot water in the hot water storage tank. In the boiling operation, the boiling pump 424 is driven, and the hot water in the hot water storage tank is guided to the water heat exchanger and heated. The hot water heated in the water heat exchanger is returned to the hot water storage tank. In this way, in the boiling operation, the hot water in the hot water storage tank is heated in the water heat exchanger while being circulated. The control unit 49 performs the boiling operation by controlling the compressor, expansion valve 413, and boiling pump 424. The control unit 49 controls the rotation speed of the compressor motor 411a and the opening degree of the expansion valve 413 to adjust the capacity of the heat pump unit and the temperature of the hot water heated in the water heat exchanger (outlet temperature), etc. The control unit 49 controls the rotation speed of the boiling pump 424 to adjust the hot water temperature, the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank, and the flow rate of hot water supplied to the hot water storage tank (storage flow rate).

[0041] (2-6) Air conditioners The air conditioner 5 comprises a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle and provides air conditioning to the target space within the building 98. It has an indoor unit 51, an outdoor unit 52, and a control unit 59. The indoor unit 51 and the outdoor unit 52 are connected by liquid refrigerant connecting pipes and gas refrigerant connecting pipes, forming a refrigerant circuit.

[0042] (2-6-1) Indoor unit The indoor unit 51 is installed, for example, on the ceiling of the target space. The indoor unit 51 mainly comprises an indoor heat exchanger, an indoor fan, an indoor temperature sensor T51, and an indoor control unit 519.

[0043] The indoor heat exchanger facilitates heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing through it and the air in the target space. The indoor fan draws air from the target space into the indoor unit 51, exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the indoor heat exchanger, and supplies the drawn-in air to the target space. The indoor fan is driven by the indoor fan motor 512m. The indoor temperature sensor T51 measures the temperature of the air in the target space.

[0044] The indoor control unit 519 controls the operation of each component of the indoor unit 51. The indoor control unit 519 has a control arithmetic unit and a memory device. The control arithmetic unit is a processor such as a CPU and a GPU. The memory device is a storage medium such as RAM, ROM, and flash memory. The control arithmetic unit reads and executes programs stored in the memory device to realize various functions of the indoor unit 51. The control arithmetic unit can also write calculation results to the memory device and read information stored in the memory device according to the program.

[0045] (2-6-2) Outdoor unit The outdoor unit 52 is installed, for example, on the roof of the building 98. The outdoor unit 52 mainly comprises a compressor, a flow path switching valve 522, an outdoor heat exchanger, an outdoor expansion valve 524, an outdoor fan, an outdoor temperature sensor T52, and an outdoor control unit 529.

[0046] The compressor draws in low-pressure refrigerant from the suction pipe, compresses the refrigerant using a compression mechanism, and discharges the compressed refrigerant through the discharge pipe. The compressor's compression mechanism is driven by the compressor motor 521m. The flow path switching valve 522 is a mechanism that switches the refrigerant flow path between a first state and a second state. During cooling operation, the flow path switching valve 522 sets the refrigerant flow path to the first state. At this time, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor flows through the refrigerant circuit in the order of the outdoor heat exchanger, outdoor expansion valve 524, and indoor heat exchanger, and returns to the compressor. In the first state, the outdoor heat exchanger functions as a condenser, and the indoor heat exchanger functions as an evaporator. During heating operation, the flow path switching valve 522 sets the refrigerant flow path to the second state. At this time, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor flows through the refrigerant circuit in the order of the indoor heat exchanger, outdoor expansion valve 524, and outdoor heat exchanger, and returns to the compressor. In the second state, the outdoor heat exchanger functions as an evaporator and the indoor heat exchanger functions as a condenser. The outdoor heat exchanger facilitates heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing through it and the outdoor air of building 98. The outdoor expansion valve 524 is a mechanism for regulating the pressure and flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant circuit. The outdoor fan supplies outdoor air of building 98 to the outdoor heat exchanger. The outdoor fan is driven by the outdoor fan motor 526m. The outdoor temperature sensor T52 measures the temperature of the outside air of building 98.

[0047] The outdoor control unit 529 controls the operation of each component of the outdoor unit 52. The outdoor control unit 529 has a control arithmetic unit and a memory device. The control arithmetic unit is a processor such as a CPU and a GPU. The memory device is a storage medium such as RAM, ROM, and flash memory. The control arithmetic unit reads and executes programs stored in the memory device to realize various functions of the outdoor unit 52. The control arithmetic unit can also write calculation results to the memory device and read information stored in the memory device according to the program.

[0048] (2-6-3) Control Unit The indoor control unit 519 of the indoor unit 51 and the outdoor control unit 529 of the outdoor unit 52 work together to function as a control unit 59. Figure 4 is a functional block diagram of the air conditioner 5. As shown in Figure 4, the control unit 59 is communicatively connected to the indoor fan motor 512m, indoor temperature sensor T51, compressor motor 521m, flow path switching valve 522, outdoor expansion valve 524, outdoor fan motor 526m, and outdoor temperature sensor T52.

[0049] The control unit 59 exchanges various information with the control device 2 via the network NW2, including control signals, signals related to measurements from various sensors, and signals related to various settings.

[0050] The control unit 59 periodically (for example, every 30 seconds) acquires operating data such as the rotational speed of the indoor fan motor 512m, the measured value of the indoor temperature sensor T51, the rotational speed of the compressor motor 521m, the status of the flow path switching valve 522, the opening degree of the outdoor expansion valve 524, the rotational speed of the outdoor fan motor 526m, the measured value of the outdoor temperature sensor T52, the set temperature, and the power consumption, and transmits this data to the control device 2. The power consumption may be the measured value of a power meter installed in the air conditioner 5, or it may be calculated using a predetermined formula with respect to the rotational speed of the indoor fan motor 512m, the rotational speed of the compressor motor 521m, and the rotational speed of the outdoor fan motor 526m.

[0051] The control unit 59 performs cooling or heating operation based on instructions from the remote controller of the air conditioner 5 or from the control device 2. When the control unit 59 receives an instruction to start cooling or heating operation, it switches the flow path switching valve 522 to the first state or the second state. The control unit 59 then adjusts the rotation speed of the indoor fan motor 512m, the rotation speed of the compressor motor 521m, the opening degree of the outdoor expansion valve 524, and the rotation speed of the outdoor fan motor 526m, etc., so that the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through the indoor heat exchanger (evaporation temperature or condensation temperature) reaches the temperature corresponding to the set temperature.

[0052] (2-7) Control device The control device 2 is installed, for example, in a computer room within building 98. The control device 2 may also be installed, for example, on the cloud. Figure 5 is a functional block diagram of the control device 2. As shown in Figure 5, the control device 2 mainly includes a storage unit 21, an input unit 22, a display unit 23, a communication unit 24, and a control unit 29.

[0053] The memory unit 21 is a storage medium such as RAM, ROM, and flash memory. The memory unit 21 stores programs executed by the control unit 29 and data necessary for program execution. The communication unit 24 includes network interface equipment for communicating with the electric vehicle 3 via network NW1, and network interface equipment for communicating with the water heater 4, air conditioner 5, and converter 6 via network NW2. The input unit 22 is an input interface such as a keyboard, mouse, and touch panel. Various commands and information can be input to the control device 2 using the input unit 22. The display unit 23 is an output interface such as a monitor and touch panel. The display unit 23 can display various data stored in the memory unit 21.

[0054] (2-7-1) Control Unit The control unit 29 is a processor such as a CPU and GPU. The control unit 29 reads and executes programs stored in the memory unit 21 and realizes various functions of the control device 2. The control unit 29 can also write calculation results to the memory unit 21 and read information stored in the memory unit 21 according to the program.

[0055] The control unit 29 exchanges various information, such as control signals and signals related to various settings, with the electric vehicle 3 via the network NW1. The control unit 29 also exchanges various information, such as control signals and signals related to various settings, with the water heater 4, air conditioner 5, home appliance 96, and converter 6 via the network NW2.

[0056] Each time the charging connector 3b of the electric vehicle 3 is connected to the charging connector 8a of the charging device 8, the control unit 29 obtains the time of connection and the charge level of the battery 3a at that time from the electric vehicle 3 and stores them in the storage unit 21.

[0057] Each time the charging connector 3b of the electric vehicle 3 is disconnected from the charging connector 8a of the charging device 8, the control unit 29 obtains the time of disconnection and the charge level of the battery 3a at the time of disconnection from the electric vehicle 3 and stores them in the storage unit 21.

[0058] The control unit 29 periodically acquires the charge level of the electric vehicle 3 and the location information of the electric vehicle 3 from the electric vehicle 3 and stores them in the storage unit 21.

[0059] The control unit 29 periodically acquires operating data from the hot water heater 4 and stores it in the storage unit 21.

[0060] The control unit 29 periodically acquires operating data from the air conditioner 5 and stores it in the storage unit 21.

[0061] The control unit 29 periodically acquires operating data of the home appliance 96 from the home appliance 96, including the power consumption of the home appliance 96 (for example, the measured value from a power meter installed on the home appliance 96), and stores it in the storage unit 21.

[0062] The control unit 29, based on instructions from the input unit 22, causes the hot water supply unit 4 to perform a boiling operation. The control unit 29 also causes the air conditioner 5 to perform a cooling operation or a heating operation, based on instructions from the input unit 22.

[0063] As shown in Figure 5, the control unit 29 has, as functional blocks, an acquisition unit 291, a certification unit 292, a calculation unit 293, and an adjustment unit 294.

[0064] (2-7-2) Acquisition department The acquisition unit 291 acquires the first operational information D1 and the target charge amount D3 of the electric vehicle 3 when the electric vehicle 3 is connected to the building 98. In this embodiment, the electric vehicle 3 being connected to the building 98 means that the charging connector 3b of the electric vehicle 3 is connected to the charging connector 8a of the charging device 8. The acquisition unit 291 stores the acquired first operational information D1 and the target charge amount D3 of the electric vehicle 3 in the storage unit 21.

[0065] The first operational information D1 is information relating to the operation of the electric vehicle 3. The first operational information D1 is, for example, information relating to when the electric vehicle 3 can be charged. The information relating to when the electric vehicle 3 can be charged is, for example, the charging time period desired by the user. In this embodiment, the first operational information D1 includes a second time. The second time is the scheduled time when the electric vehicle 3 is scheduled to depart from building 98. In this embodiment, the scheduled time when the electric vehicle 3 is scheduled to depart from building 98 is the scheduled time when the charging connector 3b of the electric vehicle 3 is disconnected from the charging connector 8a of the charging device 8.

[0066] The acquisition unit 291 acquires a second time, which is the time when the electric vehicle 3 is predicted to depart from building 98, based on past actual time information of when the electric vehicle 3 departed from building 98. For example, the acquisition unit 291 uses the time when the charging connector 3b of the electric vehicle 3 is disconnected from the charging connector 8a of the charging device 8, which is acquired from the electric vehicle 3 each time the charging connector 3b of the electric vehicle 3 is disconnected, as past actual time information of when the electric vehicle 3 departed from building 98.

[0067] Alternatively, the acquisition unit 291 may acquire the scheduled departure time of the electric vehicle 3 from the building 98, which has been input using the input unit 22, as a second time.

[0068] Alternatively, the acquisition unit 291 may acquire the scheduled departure time of the electric vehicle 3 from the building 98, based on the electric vehicle 3's operating schedule, as a second time. The electric vehicle 3's operating schedule is stored in the storage unit 21 in advance, for example, using the input unit 22.

[0069] The target charge amount D3 of the electric vehicle 3 is stored in the storage unit 21 in advance, for example, using the input unit 22.

[0070] (2-7-3) Certification Department The certification unit 292 determines when the electric vehicle 3 can be charged based on the first operational information D1, if the electric vehicle 3 is connected to the building 98. In this embodiment, the certification unit 292 determines the period from the current time to the second time included in the first operational information D1 as the period when the electric vehicle 3 can be charged. For example, if the first operational information D1 is a charging time period desired by the user, the certification unit 292 determines the charging time period desired by the user as the period when the electric vehicle 3 can be charged.

[0071] (2-7-4) Calculation section The calculation unit 293 calculates a predicted value of the amount of charge that the electric vehicle 3 can reach by the first time of the charging period, based on the power consumption limit in the building 98, the charging period, and the power consumption inside the building 98, when the electric vehicle 3 is connected to the building 98. The first time is any time during the charging period. In this embodiment, the case where the first time is the second time will be described. In other words, in this embodiment, the case where the first time is the end of the charging period will be described.

[0072] In this embodiment, the power consumption limit in building 98 is the amount of electricity that can be consumed in building 98 per unit time (e.g., 1 minute). The power consumption limit in building 98 may also be, for example, the capacity of the circuit breaker. The power consumption limit in building 98 is stored in the storage unit 21 in advance, for example, using the input unit 22.

[0073] In this embodiment, the power consumption within the building 98 is the power consumption of the first equipment installed within the building 98. The first equipment includes a water heater 4, an air conditioner 5, and a home appliance 96.

[0074] For example, the calculation unit 293 first divides the charging period into intervals of unit time. Next, the calculation unit 293 calculates the amount of electricity that can be consumed in the building 98 during the charging period by adding up the amount of electricity that can be consumed in the building 98 in each interval using power consumption limits. Next, the calculation unit 293 calculates the power consumption of the first equipment during the charging period by adding up the power consumption of the first equipment in each interval. The power consumption of the first equipment in each interval is the sum of the power consumption of the water heater 4 in each interval, the power consumption of the air conditioner 5 in each interval, and the power consumption of the home appliance 96 in each interval. The power consumption of the water heater 4 in each interval is predicted using the power consumption in each interval included in the past operating data of the water heater 4. The power consumption of the air conditioner 5 in each interval is predicted using the power consumption in each interval included in the past operating data of the air conditioner 5. The power consumption of the home appliance 96 in each interval is predicted using the power consumption in each interval included in the past operating data of the home appliance 96. Next, the calculation unit 293 calculates the amount of charge that can be charged to the electric vehicle 3 during the charging period by subtracting the power consumption of the first device during the charging period from the amount of power that can be consumed in the building 98 during the charging period. Finally, the calculation unit 293 calculates a predicted value of the amount of charge that can be reached by the end of the charging period by adding the amount of charge that can be charged to the electric vehicle 3 during the charging period and the current charge level of the electric vehicle 3. The calculation unit 293 obtains the current charge level of the electric vehicle 3 from the electric vehicle 3.

[0075] (2-7-5) Adjustment section When the electric vehicle 3 is connected to the building 98, and the predicted amount of charge that the electric vehicle 3 can reach by the end of the charging period is less than the target charge amount D3, the adjustment unit 294 adjusts the amount of charge to the electric vehicle 3 by limiting the power consumption inside the building 98 so that the amount of charge of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period is equal to or greater than the target charge amount D3. In this embodiment, the adjustment unit 294 limits the power consumption inside the building 98 by limiting the boiling operation of the hot water heater 4. Limiting the boiling operation of the hot water heater 4 means, for example, lowering the target temperature of the hot water storage tank for determining the end of the boiling operation. Limiting the boiling operation of the hot water heater 4 means, for example, delaying the start of the boiling operation of the hot water heater 4 until after the charging period.

[0076] First, the adjustment unit 294 calculates multiple combinations consisting of the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank at the end of the charging period and the amount of charge in the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period, when the boiling operation of the hot water heater 4 is restricted. For example, the adjustment unit 294 creates multiple operating schedules for the hot water heater 4 in which the boiling operation of the hot water heater 4 is restricted. The adjustment unit 294 calculates the power consumption of the hot water heater 4 at the end of the charging period corresponding to each of the created operating schedules for the hot water heater 4. The adjustment unit 294 calculates the amount of charge in the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period, corresponding to each of the multiple power consumptions of the hot water heater 4 at the end of the charging period. As a result, multiple combinations consisting of the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank at the end of the charging period and the amount of charge in the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period, when the boiling operation of the hot water heater 4 is restricted, are calculated.

[0077] Next, the adjustment unit 294 extracts from among multiple combinations consisting of the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank at the end of the charging period and the amount of charge in the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period, the combination in which the amount of charge in the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period is equal to or greater than the target charge amount D3.

[0078] Next, the adjustment unit 294 determines a specific combination from among the multiple combinations that have been extracted.

[0079] The adjustment unit 294 may display multiple combinations on the display unit 23 and determine a specific combination using the input unit 22.

[0080] The adjustment unit 294 may determine a specific combination based on the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank at the end of the charging period in the past and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period. For example, from among the multiple combinations extracted, the adjustment unit 294 determines as a specific combination the combination that is closest to the regression line between the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank at the end of the charging period in the past and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period. For example, the adjustment unit 294 uses the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank near the end of the charging period, which is included in the operating data of the hot water heater 4 that is periodically acquired from the hot water heater 4, as the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank at the end of the charging period in the past. For example, the adjustment unit 294 uses the amount of charge of the electric vehicle 3 near the end of the charging period, which is periodically acquired from the electric vehicle 3, as the amount of charge of the electric vehicle 3 near the end of the charging period in the past.

[0081] The adjustment unit 294 may determine a specific combination based on a predetermined priority between the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank and the charge level of the electric vehicle 3. For example, a lower limit for the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank at the end of the charging period and a lower limit for the charge level of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period are set. From the multiple combinations extracted, the adjustment unit 294 further extracts one or more combinations in which the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank and the charge level of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period are greater than their respective lower limits. If the charge level of the electric vehicle 3 is prioritized, the adjustment unit 294 further selects the combination with the largest charge level of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period from the one or more combinations extracted and determines it as a specific combination. If there are no combinations in which the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank and the charge level of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period are greater than their respective lower limits, the adjustment unit 294 may further extract one or more combinations in which only one of the preferred combinations is greater than its lower limit.

[0082] Finally, the adjustment unit 294 adjusts the amount of charge to the electric vehicle 3 during the rechargeable period so that the amount of charge to the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the rechargeable period is the amount of charge to the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the rechargeable period included in a particular combination. During the rechargeable period, the adjustment unit 294 charges the electric vehicle 3 with the adjusted amount of charge to the electric vehicle 3 via the converter 6. In addition, during the rechargeable period, the adjustment unit 294 causes the hot water heater 4 to perform a boiling operation according to a specific operating schedule for the hot water heater 4 that corresponds to the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank at the end of the rechargeable period included in a particular combination.

[0083] (3) Processing An example of the processing performed by the control device 2 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 6. As a prerequisite, it is assumed that the electric vehicle 3 is connected to the building 98.

[0084] As shown in step S1, the control device 2 obtains a second time, which is the scheduled time when the charging connector 3b of the electric vehicle 3 is to be disconnected from the charging connector 8a of the charging device 8, and a target charge amount D3 for the electric vehicle 3.

[0085] Upon completion of step S1, as shown in step S2, the control device 2 determines the period from the current time to the second time zone as the period during which the electric vehicle 3 can be charged.

[0086] After completing step S2, as shown in step S3, the control device 2 calculates a predicted value for the amount of charge that the electric vehicle 3 can reach by the end of the charging period, based on the power consumption limit in the building 98, the charging period, and the power consumption within the building 98.

[0087] After completing step S3, as shown in step S4, the control device 2 determines whether the predicted amount of charge that the electric vehicle 3 can reach by the end of the charging period is less than or equal to the target charge amount D3. If it is less, proceed to step S5. If it is not less than or equal to, proceed to step S7.

[0088] As the process progresses from step S4 to step S5, the control device 2 limits the power consumption within the building 98 by restricting the boiling operation of the hot water supply device 4, thereby adjusting the amount of charge to the electric vehicle 3.

[0089] After completing step S5, as shown in step S6, the control device 2 charges the electric vehicle 3 with the adjusted amount of charge during the charging period. The control device 2 also causes the hot water heater 4 to perform a boiling operation during the charging period, according to a specific operating schedule for the hot water heater 4 that restricts boiling operation.

[0090] As the process progresses from step S4 to step S7, the control device 2 charges the electric vehicle 3 with the amount of charge it was initially calculated to be able to be charged when it becomes available for charging. The control device 2 also causes the hot water supply unit 4 to perform boiling operation according to the existing operating schedule of the hot water supply unit 4.

[0091] (4) Features (4-1) Conventionally, there are technologies for managing the power supply to equipment installed in buildings. If the predicted amount of charge an electric vehicle can reach by the end of its charging period is less than the target charge amount, it is desirable to be able to adjust the amount of charge to the electric vehicle.

[0092] The power management system 1 of this embodiment manages the power supply to the electric vehicle 3. The electric vehicle 3 is installed in building 98. The power management system 1 includes a control unit 29. When the electric vehicle 3 is connected to building 98, the control unit 29 acquires first operational information D1 and a target charge amount D3 for the electric vehicle 3. The first operational information D1 is information relating to the operation of the electric vehicle 3. When the electric vehicle 3 is connected to building 98, the control unit 29 determines the time when the electric vehicle 3 can be charged based on the first operational information D1. When the electric vehicle 3 is connected to building 98, the control unit 29 calculates a predicted value of the amount of charge that the electric vehicle 3 can reach by the end of the charging period (first time), based on the power consumption limit in building 98, the charging period, and the power consumption within building 98. When the electric vehicle 3 is connected to the building 98 and the predicted value is less than the target charge amount D3, the control unit 29 limits the power consumption within the building 98 and adjusts the amount of charge to the electric vehicle 3 so that the amount of charge to the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period is equal to or greater than the target charge amount D3.

[0093] As a result, if the predicted amount of charge that can be reached by the end of the charging period for the electric vehicle is less than the target charge amount D3, the power management system 1 can limit the power consumption within the building 98 and adjust the amount of charge to the electric vehicle 3.

[0094] (4-2) In the power management system 1 of this embodiment, the control unit 29 limits the power consumption within the building 98 by restricting the boiling operation of the hot water supply system 4 installed in the building 98.

[0095] (4-3) In the power management system 1 of this embodiment, the control unit 29 calculates a plurality of combinations consisting of the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank of the hot water supply unit 4 at the end of the charging period when the boiling operation of the hot water supply unit 4 is restricted, and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period. The control unit 29 then determines a specific combination from among the plurality of combinations.

[0096] (4-4) In the power management system 1 of this embodiment, the control unit 29 displays multiple combinations on the display unit 23. The control unit 29 determines a combination selected using the input unit 22 as a specific combination.

[0097] As a result, the power management system 1 can adjust the amount of charge to the electric vehicle 3 according to the user's preference.

[0098] (4-5) In the power management system 1 of this embodiment, the control unit 29 determines a combination consisting of the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank of the hot water heater 4 at the end of the charging period and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period, when the boiling operation of the hot water heater 4 is restricted, based on past data of the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank of the hot water heater 4 at the end of the charging period and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period.

[0099] (4-6) In the power management system 1 of this embodiment, the control unit 29 determines a combination consisting of the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank of the hot water supply unit 4 at the end of the charging period and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period, based on a priority set between the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank of the hot water supply unit 4 and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle 3, when the boiling operation of the hot water supply unit 4 is restricted.

[0100] (4-7) In the power management system 1 of this embodiment, the first operational information D1 includes a second time. The second time is the scheduled time when the electric vehicle 3 will depart from building 98. The control unit 29 acquires the time when the electric vehicle 3 will depart from building 98, predicted based on past actual departure time information of the electric vehicle 3, as the second time. Alternatively, the control unit 29 acquires the scheduled time when the electric vehicle 3 will depart from building 98, input using the input unit 22, as the second time. Alternatively, the control unit 29 acquires the scheduled time when the electric vehicle 3 will depart from building 98, based on the electric vehicle 3's operational schedule, as the second time.

[0101] (4-8) Power management is performed by the power management system 1 (computer). The power management system manages the power supply to the electric vehicle 3. The electric vehicle 3 is installed in building 98. The power management system 1 includes a control unit 29. When the electric vehicle 3 is connected to building 98, the control unit 29 acquires first operational information D1 and the target charge amount D3 of the electric vehicle 3. The first operational information D1 is information regarding the operation of the electric vehicle 3. When the electric vehicle 3 is connected to building 98, the control unit 29 determines the charging availability period for the electric vehicle 3 based on the first operational information D1. When the electric vehicle 3 is connected to building 98, the control unit 29 calculates a predicted value for the charge amount of the electric vehicle 3 that can be reached by the end of the charging availability period, based on the power consumption limit in building 98, the charging availability period, and the power consumption within building 98. When the electric vehicle 3 is connected to the building 98 and the predicted value is less than the target charge amount D3, the control unit 29 limits the power consumption within the building 98 and adjusts the amount of charge to the electric vehicle 3 so that the amount of charge to the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period is equal to or greater than the target charge amount D3.

[0102] (5) Variant (5-1) Variation 1A In this embodiment, the adjustment unit 294 limited the power consumption within the building 98 by restricting the boiling operation of the hot water supply unit 4. However, the adjustment unit 294 may also limit the power consumption within the building 98 by restricting the operation of the air conditioner 5. Restricting the operation of the air conditioner 5 could, for example, involve raising the set temperature during cooling operation and lowering the set temperature during heating operation.

[0103] First, the adjustment unit 294 calculates multiple combinations consisting of the set temperature of the air conditioner 5 during the charging period and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period, when the operation of the air conditioner 5 is restricted. For example, the adjustment unit 294 creates multiple operating schedules for the air conditioner 5, each with restricted operation. The adjustment unit 294 calculates the power consumption of the air conditioner 5 during the charging period corresponding to each of the created operating schedules for the air conditioner 5. The adjustment unit 294 calculates the amount of charge of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period, corresponding to each of the power consumption of the air conditioner 5 during the charging period. As a result, multiple combinations consisting of the set temperature of the air conditioner 5 during the charging period and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period, when the operation of the air conditioner 5 is restricted, are calculated.

[0104] Next, the adjustment unit 294 extracts from among multiple combinations consisting of the set temperature of the air conditioner 5 during the charging period and the charge amount of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period, the combination in which the charge amount of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period is equal to or greater than the target charge amount D3.

[0105] Next, the adjustment unit 294 determines a specific combination from among the multiple combinations that have been extracted.

[0106] The adjustment unit 294 may display multiple combinations on the display unit 23 and determine a specific combination using the input unit 22.

[0107] The adjustment unit 294 may determine a specific combination based on past set temperatures of the air conditioner 5 during periods when charging is possible and the charge level of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of those periods. For example, from among the extracted combinations, the adjustment unit 294 determines the combination that is closest to the regression line between past set temperatures of the air conditioner 5 during periods when charging is possible and the charge level of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of those periods as a specific combination. For example, the adjustment unit 294 may use the set temperatures of the air conditioner 5 during periods when charging is possible, which are included in the operating data of the air conditioner 5 acquired periodically from the air conditioner 5, as the set temperatures of the air conditioner 5 during periods when charging is possible. For example, the adjustment unit 294 may use the charge level of the electric vehicle 3 near the end of the charging period, which is acquired periodically from the electric vehicle 3, as the charge level of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of those periods.

[0108] The adjustment unit 294 may determine a specific combination based on a predetermined priority between the set temperature of the air conditioner 5 and the charge level of the electric vehicle 3. For example, a lower limit of the set temperature of the air conditioner 5 during the charging period (in the case of heating operation; in the case of cooling operation) and a lower limit of the charge level of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period are set. From the multiple combinations extracted, the adjustment unit 294 further extracts one or more combinations in which the lower limit of the set temperature of the air conditioner 5 during the charging period and the charge level of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period are greater than their respective lower limits. If the charge level of the electric vehicle 3 is prioritized, the adjustment unit 294 further extracts one or more combinations in which the charge level of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period is the largest and determines it as a specific combination. If there are no combinations in which the set temperature of the air conditioner 5 during the charging period and the charge level of the electric vehicle 3 during the charging period are greater than their respective lower limits, the adjustment unit 294 may further extract one or more combinations in which only one of the preferred values ​​is greater than the lower limit.

[0109] Finally, the adjustment unit 294 adjusts the amount of charge to the electric vehicle 3 during the rechargeable period to the amount of charge to be charged to the electric vehicle 3 during the rechargeable period, which corresponds to the amount of charge to the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the rechargeable period included in a particular combination. During the rechargeable period, the adjustment unit 294 charges the electric vehicle 3 with the adjusted amount of charge via the converter 6. In addition, during the rechargeable period, the adjustment unit 294 causes the air conditioner 5 to operate according to a specific operating schedule for the air conditioner 5, which corresponds to the set temperature of the air conditioner 5 during the rechargeable period included in a particular combination.

[0110] Furthermore, the adjustment unit 294 may limit the power consumption within the building 98 by restricting both the boiling operation of the hot water supply unit 4 and the operation of the air conditioner 5. As a result, the power management system 1 can further increase the amount of charge of the electric vehicle 3 at the end of the charging period.

[0111] (5-2) Variation 1B In this embodiment, the control unit 29 acquired the power consumption of the hot water heater 4, which was measured or calculated by the hot water heater 4. However, the control unit 29 may also calculate the power consumption of the hot water heater 4. For example, the control unit 29 may calculate it using a predetermined formula, using the rotational speed of the compressor motor 411a and the rotational speed of the boiling pump 424, which are included in the operating data of the hot water heater 4.

[0112] In this embodiment, the control unit 29 acquired the power consumption of the air conditioner 5, which was measured or calculated by the air conditioner 5. However, the control unit 29 may also calculate the power consumption of the air conditioner 5. For example, the control unit 29 may use the rotational speed of the indoor fan motor 512m, the rotational speed of the compressor motor 521m, and the rotational speed of the outdoor fan motor 526m, etc., which are included in the operating data of the air conditioner 5, to calculate it using a predetermined formula.

[0113] (5-3) Modification 1C In this embodiment, the power consumption of the hot water heater 4 in each section of the rechargeable period was predicted using the power consumption in each section included in the past operating data of the hot water heater 4. However, the power consumption of the hot water heater 4 in each section may also be predicted using the rotational speed of the compressor motor 411a and the rotational speed of the boiling pump 424 in each section, which are included in the operation schedule of the hot water heater 4. The operation schedule of the hot water heater 4 is stored in the storage unit 21 in advance using, for example, the input unit 22.

[0114] In this embodiment, the power consumption of the air conditioner 5 in each section of the rechargeable period was predicted using the power consumption in each section included in the past operating data of the air conditioner 5. However, the power consumption of the air conditioner 5 in each section may also be predicted using the rotational speed of the indoor fan motor 512m, the rotational speed of the compressor motor 521m, and the rotational speed of the outdoor fan motor 526m in each section, which are included in the operation schedule of the air conditioner 5. The operation schedule of the air conditioner 5 is stored in the storage unit 21 in advance using, for example, the input unit 22.

[0115] (5-4) While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, it should be understood that various modifications to the form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure as described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0116] 1. Power management system, computer 3. Electric vehicles 4. Hot water supply system 5. Air conditioner 22 Input section 23 Display section 29 Control Unit 98 Buildings D1 First Operational Information D3 Target charge amount [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0117] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2011-200015

Claims

1. A power management system (1) for managing the supply of power to an electric vehicle (3) installed in a building (98), A control unit (29) is provided, The control unit, when the electric vehicle is connected to the building, The first operational information (D1) relating to the operation of the electric vehicle and the target charge amount (D3) of the electric vehicle are acquired. Based on the first operational information, the charging period for the electric vehicle is determined. Based on the power consumption limits in the building, the charging availability period, and the power consumption within the building, a predicted value of the amount of charge the electric vehicle can reach by the first time of the charging availability period is calculated. If the predicted value is less than the target charge amount, the amount of power consumed within the building is limited and the amount of charge to the electric vehicle is adjusted so that the amount of charge to the electric vehicle at the first time of the charging period is equal to or greater than the target charge amount. Power management system (1).

2. The control unit limits the power consumption within the building by restricting the boiling operation of the hot water supply system (4) installed in the building, or by restricting the operation of the air conditioner (5) installed in the building. The power management system (1) according to claim 1.

3. The control unit, When the boiling operation of the hot water supply device is restricted, a plurality of combinations are calculated, each consisting of the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank of the hot water supply device at the first time of the charging period and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle at the first time of the charging period, or When the operation of the air conditioner is restricted, a plurality of combinations are calculated, each consisting of the set temperature of the air conditioner during the charging period and the amount of charge of the electric vehicle at the first time during the charging period. From the aforementioned multiple combinations, a specific combination is determined. The power management system (1) according to claim 2.

4. The control unit, The above-mentioned combinations are displayed on the display unit (23), The combination selected using the input unit (22) is determined to be the specific combination. The power management system (1) according to claim 3.

5. The control unit, Based on the past data of the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank of the hot water heater at the first time of the charging period and the charge level of the electric vehicle at the first time of the charging period, a combination is determined consisting of the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank of the hot water heater at the first time of the charging period and the charge level of the electric vehicle at the first time of the charging period, when the boiling operation of the hot water heater is restricted. Based on past set temperatures of the air conditioner during the charging period and the charge level of the electric vehicle at the first time of the charging period, a combination is determined consisting of the set temperature of the air conditioner during the charging period and the charge level of the electric vehicle at the first time of the charging period, when the operation of the air conditioner is restricted. The power management system (1) according to claim 2.

6. The control unit, Based on a priority set between the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank of the hot water heater and the charge level of the electric vehicle, a combination is determined consisting of the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank of the hot water heater at the first time of the charging period and the charge level of the electric vehicle at the first time of the charging period, when the boiling operation of the hot water heater is restricted, or Based on a priority set between the set temperature of the air conditioner and the charge level of the electric vehicle, a combination is determined consisting of the set temperature of the air conditioner during the charging period and the charge level of the electric vehicle at the first time during the charging period, when the operation of the air conditioner is restricted. The power management system (1) according to claim 2.

7. The first operational information includes a second time, which is the scheduled time for the electric vehicle to depart from the building. The control unit, The time at which the electric vehicle will depart the building, predicted based on past records of when the electric vehicle departed the building, is obtained as the second time. The scheduled departure time of the electric vehicle from the building, input using the input unit (22), is obtained as the second time, or The scheduled departure time of the electric vehicle from the building, based on the electric vehicle's operating schedule, is obtained as the second time. A power management system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. A power management method performed by a computer (1) for managing the power supply to an electric vehicle (3) installed in a building (98), The computer includes a control unit (29), The control unit, when the electric vehicle is connected to the building, The first operational information (D1) relating to the operation of the electric vehicle and the target charge amount (D3) of the electric vehicle are acquired. Based on the first operational information, the charging period for the electric vehicle is determined. Based on the power consumption limits in the building, the charging availability period, and the power consumption within the building, a predicted value of the amount of charge the electric vehicle can reach by the first time of the charging availability period is calculated. If the predicted value is less than the target charge amount, the amount of power consumed within the building is limited and the amount of charge to the electric vehicle is adjusted so that the amount of charge to the electric vehicle at the first time of the charging period is equal to or greater than the target charge amount. Power management methods.

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