Battery pack

Abstract

To provide a battery pack capable of performing appropriate wireless communication without being affected by external radio waves. [Solution] The battery pack 11 includes battery cells 22, a battery monitoring device 30 that monitors the state of the battery cells 22, a battery control device 40 that performs wireless communication with the battery monitoring device 30, acquires battery information that is the monitoring result by the battery monitoring device 30, and executes various controls, and a housing 50 that houses the battery cells 22, the battery monitoring device 30, and the battery control device 40. In the housing 50, an explosion-proof valve 55 that is a transmission part that allows radio waves to pass through is provided at a position that does not overlap with the linear transmission path of the wireless communication connecting the battery control device 30 and the battery monitoring device 40.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, it has been known that when performing wireless communication, if an antenna is covered with metal or the like, radio waves are blocked (Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-125834 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] On the other hand, when implementing wireless communication in a battery pack, no consideration has been given to how to take measures to block external radio waves from the battery pack.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and has as its main object to provide a battery pack that is not affected by external radio waves and can perform appropriate wireless communication. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A battery pack that solves the above problem comprises a battery, a battery monitoring device that monitors the status of the battery, a battery control device that performs wireless communication between the battery monitoring device, acquires battery information that is the monitoring result by the battery monitoring device, and performs various controls, and a housing that accommodates the battery, the battery monitoring device, and the battery control device, wherein the housing has a transparent portion that allows radio waves to pass through, at a position that does not overlap with the linear transmission path of the wireless communication connecting the battery control device and the battery monitoring device.

[0007] The housing has a transparent portion that allows radio waves to pass through, but since it is located in a position that does not overlap with the transmission path of wireless communication, the housing is less susceptible to the effects of radio waves from outside. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a vehicle 10. [Diagram 2] FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a battery control device and a battery monitoring device. [Diagram 5] Cross-sectional view taken along line IIIa-IIIa in Figure 3. [Figure 6] FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a flow of a cyclic redundancy check. [Figure 8] A schematic diagram showing the flow of ID checks. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a flow of a sequence check. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an incorrect reception order. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a flow of a timeout check. [Figure 12] 4 is a flowchart showing the flow of a wireless communication method. [Figure 13] 4 is a flowchart showing the flow of a wireless communication method. [Figure 14] 4 is a flowchart showing the flow of a wireless communication method. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a battery pack according to another embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a battery pack according to another embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a battery pack according to another embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a battery pack according to another embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a battery pack according to another embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a battery pack according to another embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a battery pack according to another embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a battery pack according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a battery pack according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the same or corresponding parts in the drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will not be repeated. Hereinafter, an embodiment in which a battery pack 11 is applied to a vehicle 10 will be described, but the battery pack 11 according to the present disclosure can also be applied to applications other than vehicles.

[0010] <Overall configuration of vehicle 10> Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a vehicle 10. The vehicle 10 includes a battery pack 11 (referred to as "Battey" in Fig. 1), a power control unit (hereinafter referred to as "PCU (Power Control Unit)") 12, a motor 13 (referred to as "MG" in Fig. 1), and a vehicle ECU 14 (referred to as "ECU" in Fig. 1).

[0011] The battery pack 11 is mounted on the vehicle 10 as a driving power source for the vehicle 10. In Fig. 1, the battery pack 11 is installed in an engine compartment of the vehicle 10, but it may be installed in other locations, such as in a trunk, under a seat, or under a floor. The vehicle 10 is an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle that runs using power stored in the battery pack 11.

[0012] The battery pack 11 includes an assembled battery 20 including a large number of battery cells 22 (secondary cells). More specifically, a battery block 21 (sometimes called a battery stack or battery module) is formed by a plurality of battery cells 22 connected in series and / or parallel, and the assembled battery 20 is formed by connecting a plurality of battery blocks 21 in series. Each battery cell 22 is formed by a lithium ion secondary battery, a nickel-metal hydride secondary battery, or the like. Note that a lithium ion secondary battery is a secondary battery that uses lithium as a charge carrier, and may include not only a typical lithium ion secondary battery that uses a liquid electrolyte, but also a so-called all-solid-state battery that uses a solid electrolyte.

[0013] The battery pack 11 stores power for driving the motor 13 in a battery assembly 20, and can supply power to the motor 13 via the PCU 12. The battery pack 11 is charged by receiving power generated by the motor 13 via the PCU 12 during regenerative power generation by the motor 13, such as during vehicle braking.

[0014] The battery pack 11 is also provided with a monitoring section that monitors the assembled battery 20, and a control section that receives the monitoring results of the monitoring section and executes predetermined processing. The configurations of the monitoring section and the control section will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 2 and subsequent figures.

[0015] The PCU 12 performs bidirectional power conversion between the battery pack 11 and the motor 13 in accordance with a control signal from the vehicle ECU 14. The PCU 12 includes, for example, an inverter that drives the motor 13, and a converter that boosts the DC voltage supplied to the inverter to an output voltage of the battery pack 11 or higher.

[0016] The motor 13 is an AC rotating electric machine, for example a three-phase AC synchronous motor with a permanent magnet embedded in the rotor. The motor 13 is driven by the PCU 12 to generate a rotational driving force, and the driving force generated by the motor 13 is transmitted to the driving wheels. On the other hand, when the vehicle 10 is braked, the motor 13 operates as a generator and performs regenerative power generation. The electric power generated by the motor 13 is supplied to the battery pack 11 via the PCU 12 and stored in the battery pack 20 in the battery pack 11.

[0017] The vehicle ECU 14 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, input / output ports for inputting and outputting various signals, etc. The CPU deploys a program stored in the ROM into the RAM and executes it. The program stored in the ROM describes the processing of the vehicle ECU 14. As an example of the main processing of the vehicle ECU 14, the vehicle ECU 14 receives information such as the voltage, current, and SOC (State Of Charge) of the battery pack 20 from the battery pack 11, and controls the PCU 12 to control the driving of the motor 13 and the charging and discharging of the battery pack 11.

[0018] <Configuration of battery pack 11> FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a schematic view of the inside of the battery pack 11. The battery pack 11 includes a battery pack 20, a plurality of battery monitoring devices 30, a battery control device 40, and a housing 50 that houses them. In the following, as shown in FIG. 2, the longitudinal direction of an installation surface 51 (the lower surface in FIG. 2) of the housing 50, which is a rectangular parallelepiped, that is installed on the vehicle 10 is indicated as the X direction, and the lateral direction is indicated as the Y direction. The up-down direction perpendicular to the installation surface 51 is indicated as the Z direction. In this embodiment, the left-right direction of the vehicle 10 corresponds to the X direction, the front-rear direction corresponds to the Y direction, and the up-down direction corresponds to the Z direction, but the battery pack 11 may be disposed in any manner with respect to the vehicle 10.

[0019] <Configuration of battery pack 20> The battery pack 20 has a plurality of battery blocks 21 arranged side by side in the X direction. The battery pack 20 is configured by connecting these battery blocks 21 in series. Each battery block 21 has a plurality of battery cells 22 arranged side by side in the Y direction. The battery block 21 is configured by connecting these battery cells 22 in series.

[0020] A linear busbar unit 23 is provided on both ends in the X direction on the top surface of each battery block 21. The busbar unit 23 electrically connects the battery cells 22. The busbar unit 23 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0021] 3 is a plan view showing the top surface of each battery block 21. Each battery cell 22 is formed in a flat shape and is stacked so that side surfaces overlap in the Y direction. Each battery cell 22 has a positive terminal 25 and a negative terminal 26 at both ends in the X direction that protrude in the Z direction (more specifically, the Z+ direction indicating upward). The battery cells 22 are stacked so that the positive terminals 25 and the negative terminals 26 are alternately arranged in the Y direction.

[0022] Each busbar unit 23 has a plurality of busbars 24 that electrically connect the positive terminals 25 and the negative terminals 26, and a non-conductive busbar cover 27 that covers the plurality of busbars 24. The busbars 24 electrically connect the positive terminals 25 and the negative terminals 26 of the battery cells 22 that are adjacent in the Y direction. This results in the plurality of battery cells 22 being electrically connected in series in each battery block 21. Note that in each battery block 21, the positive terminal 25 of the battery cell 22 arranged at one end in the Y direction is connected to a predetermined positive wiring, and the negative terminal 26 of the battery cell 22 arranged at the other end is connected to a predetermined negative wiring.

[0023] Bus bar cover 27 is made of resin or the like, and is provided linearly from one end of battery block 21 to the other along the Y direction so as to cover multiple bus bars 24.

[0024] <Configuration of battery monitoring device 30> The battery monitoring device 30 is also called a satellite battery module (SBM), and is provided for each battery block 21. As shown in FIG. 2, the battery monitoring device 30 is installed between the busbar units 23 arranged at both ends of each battery block 21. As shown in FIG. 4, each battery monitoring device 30 includes a monitoring IC 31 as a monitoring unit, a wireless IC 32 as a monitoring wireless unit, and a wireless antenna 33. The monitoring IC 31 is also called a cell supervising circuit (CSC), and acquires battery information from each battery cell 22 constituting the battery block 21. The battery information includes, for example, voltage information, temperature information, current information, self-diagnosis information, and the like of each battery cell 22. The self-diagnosis information is, for example, information on the operation check of the battery monitoring device 30, that is, information on an abnormality or failure of the battery monitoring device 30. Specifically, the information is information on the operation check of the monitoring IC 31, the wireless IC 32, and the like constituting the battery monitoring device 30.

[0025] The wireless IC 32 is connected to the monitoring IC 31 by wire and includes a wireless MCU (Memory Control Unit) and an RF device, etc. The wireless IC 32 wirelessly transmits data received from the monitoring IC 31 via the wireless antenna 33. The wireless IC 32 also transmits data received via the wireless antenna 33 to the monitoring IC 31.

[0026] 3 and 5, the monitoring IC 31, the wireless IC 32, and the wireless antenna 33 are disposed on a flat board 34, and the board 34 is installed between the busbar units 23 while being housed in a case 35 made of a non-conductive material such as resin. The battery monitoring device 30 is fixed to the busbar unit 23 with a screw or the like via an attachment portion 35a protruding from the case 35. In this case, as shown in FIG. 5, the wireless antenna 33 is provided on the board 34 so as not to overlap with the busbar unit 23 in the Z direction, that is, so that the wireless antenna 33 protrudes further than the busbar unit 23 in the Z direction.

[0027] <Configuration of Battery Control Device 40> The battery control device 40, also called a battery ECU or BMU (Battery Management Unit), is attached to the outer side surface of the battery block 21 located at one end in the X direction. The battery control device 40 is configured to be able to wirelessly communicate with each battery monitoring device 30.

[0028] More specifically, as shown in Fig. 4, the battery control device 40 includes a battery control MCU 41 which is a control unit, a wireless IC 42 which is a control-side wireless unit, and a wireless antenna 43. The battery control MCU 41 is configured with a microcomputer including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an input / output interface, etc. The CPU of the battery control MCU 41 loads a program stored in the ROM into the RAM and executes it. The program stored in the ROM describes processes related to battery control.

[0029] As an example of the main processing, the battery control MCU 41 instructs the battery monitoring device 30 to obtain and transmit battery information. The battery control MCU 41 also monitors the assembled battery 20, the battery block 21, and the battery cells 22 based on the battery information received from the battery monitoring device 30. The battery control MCU 41 also controls relay switches that switch between energized and de-energized states of the assembled battery 20 and the PCU 12 and the motor 13 based on the monitoring results. The battery control MCU 41 may also transmit an equalization signal that equalizes the voltages of the battery cells 22. Note that in this embodiment, the vehicle ECU 14 issues instructions to the PCU 12 to control the charging and discharging of the assembled battery 20, but the battery control MCU 41 may be configured to be able to perform this.

[0030] The wireless IC 42 is connected to the battery control MCU 41 by wire, and includes a wireless MCU and an RF device, similar to the wireless IC 32. The wireless IC 42 wirelessly transmits data received from the battery control MCU 41 via a wireless antenna 43. The wireless IC 42 also transmits data received via the wireless antenna 43 to the battery control MCU 41.

[0031] 5, the wireless antenna 43 of the battery control device 40 is disposed at approximately the same height in the Z direction as the wireless antenna 33 of the battery monitoring device 30. In other words, the wireless antenna 43 of the battery control device 40 is disposed so as to protrude further than the busbar unit 23 in the Z direction.

[0032] <Configuration of the housing 50> The housing 50 is made of a conductor such as metal. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, the housing 50 is formed in the shape of a metal box, and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The bottom surface of the housing 50 serves as an installation surface 51 to be installed on the vehicle 10, and is formed in a rectangular shape. A removable housing cover 52 is provided on the top surface of the housing 50 (the surface facing the installation surface 51 in the Z direction). The housing cover 52 corresponds to a cover that covers the opening of the housing 50, and is attached so as to close the opening of the housing 50 when the battery pack 20 and the like are accommodated inside the housing 50.

[0033] A seal member 54 for filling the gap between the housing cover 52 and the housing 50 is provided on each side of the housing cover 52 or on the opening of the housing 50. The seal member 54 is made of a non-conductive elastic member or the like. For example, the seal member 54 is a gasket seal or the like. In this embodiment, when viewed from the top surface of the housing cover 52, the seal member 54 is arranged so as to surround the wireless antennas 33 and 43. That is, in the X direction, the wireless antenna 43 and the wireless antenna 33 are sandwiched between the short sides of the seal members 54 arranged at both ends of the housing 50. In addition, in the Y direction, the wireless antenna 43 and the wireless antenna 33 are sandwiched between the long sides of the seal members 54 arranged at both ends of the housing 50 in the Y direction. Note that if the gap between the housing cover 52 and the housing 50 is small, the seal member 54 may not be provided.

[0034] Furthermore, the housing cover 52 is provided with an explosion-proof valve 55 that releases the internal gas when the air pressure difference between the inside and outside of the housing 50 exceeds a predetermined value. The explosion-proof valve 55 is configured by closing a through hole 55a penetrating the housing cover 52 with a lid member 55b and welding or the like, and is configured such that when the air pressure difference between the inside and outside of the housing exceeds a predetermined value, the lid member 55b is removed to allow the gas to escape.

[0035] In this embodiment, when viewed from the top of housing cover 52, explosion-proof valve 55 is disposed so as to overlap a straight line path connecting wireless antenna 43 and wireless antenna 33 (see FIGS. 2 and 5). That is, explosion-proof valve 55 is disposed between wireless antenna 43 and wireless antenna 33 in the X direction, and disposed so as to overlap wireless antennas 43 and 33 in the Y direction.

[0036] In order to facilitate the operation of the explosion-proof valve 55, the cover member 55b may be made of resin, or a groove may be formed in the cover member 55b so that it is easily broken when the air pressure increases. The cover member 55b may be made thinner than the thickness of the housing 50. In addition, it is not necessary to form the explosion-proof valve 55 by blocking the through-hole 55a with the cover member 55b. For example, a circular groove (thin portion) may be formed in the housing cover 52 so that the housing cover 52 breaks and a through-hole is formed when the air pressure increases. In addition, the explosion-proof valve 55 does not have to be formed in the housing cover 52, and may be provided on the side surface 53. The number and arrangement of the explosion-proof valve 55 are arbitrary. However, it is preferable that the explosion-proof valve 55 is not provided on a surface that is blocked by the vehicle body and from which gas is difficult to escape, such as the installation surface 51 (bottom surface).

[0037] Further, a service plug SP56 is provided on the side surface 53 of the housing 50 to electrically cut off the electrical path (wiring) to which the battery pack 20 is connected and reliably stop charging and discharging of the battery pack 20. The service plug SP56 is also called a safety plug, and is configured to be removable by hand. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the service plug SP56 is provided on the electrical path between the battery blocks 21 in the battery pack 20, and the service plug SP56 forms part of the electrical path. For this reason, by removing the service plug SP56 from the housing 50, it is possible to reliably cut off the power supply to the battery pack 20, and thereafter, maintenance, dismantling, and the like can be performed safely.

[0038] The configuration of the service plug SP56 will be described in detail. A plug through hole is provided in the side surface 53 of the housing 50, and a conductive electrical path 57 is exposed through the plug through hole in a partially missing state. As shown in FIG. 4, this electrical path 57 is an electrical path between the battery blocks 21. Moreover, this electrical path 57 is covered with a non-conductive material to insulate it from the housing 50 and to prevent electric shock. The service plug SP56 is configured to be attachable to the housing 50 through the plug through hole.

[0039] The service plug SP56 has a conductor that connects the electrical path 57, and is configured to connect the electrical path 57 when attached to the housing 50. For this reason, it is possible to disconnect the electrical path 57 by removing the service plug SP56 from the housing 50. This service plug SP56 is configured by covering a conductor with a non-conductor such as resin. In other words, the service plug SP56 is made up of a conductor and a non-conductor, and is attached to a plug through-hole in the housing 50.

[0040] The service plug SP56 does not have to be formed on the side surface 53, and may be provided on the housing cover 52. However, it is preferable that the service plug SP56 is not provided in a location such as the installation surface 51 (bottom surface) where it is difficult to remove from the outside.

[0041] Moreover, the service plug SP56 of this embodiment is disposed so as to overlap with the straight line path connecting the wireless antennas 43, 33 in the Y direction, which is the orthogonal direction (vertical direction) of the side surface 53. That is, the service plug SP56 is disposed between the wireless antennas 43 and 33 in the X direction, and is disposed at approximately the same height as the wireless antennas 43, 33 in the Z direction.

[0042] In addition, a connector 58 for connecting the battery pack 11 to an external device is provided on the side surface 53 of the housing 50. Like the service plug SP56, the connector 58 is configured by providing a through hole in the housing 50 and attaching the connector 58 made of a conductor and a non-conductor to the through hole. For this reason, there is a possibility that radio waves may pass from the outside through the non-conductor portion of the connector 58. In other words, the connector 58 also corresponds to a transmission portion.

[0043] Incidentally, the housing 50 is made of mostly conductive material, so that it is easy to block radio waves from the outside. However, it is difficult to completely block radio waves in the entire housing 50, so a transparent portion that allows radio waves to pass through is provided. For example, as described above, the portions where the seal member 54, the explosion-proof valve 55, the service plug SP56, and the connector 58 are provided are transparent portions that allow radio waves to pass through because radio waves are easy to penetrate. In other words, since the seal member 54 is non-conductive, radio waves may penetrate through the seal member 54. In addition, the explosion-proof valve 55 is partially or entirely thinly configured or has a gap so that it can be removed by gas pressure, so that radio waves may penetrate through it. In addition, the service plug SP56 and the connector 58 are partially made of non-conductive material as described above, so that radio waves may penetrate through the non-conductive portion.

[0044] In recent years, a part of the housing 50 may be thinned to reduce the weight of the battery pack 11. When thinning the housing 50, the arrangement and shape are often determined in consideration of the overall strength of the housing 50. Furthermore, the thinned part allows radio waves to easily penetrate.

[0045] In addition, it is being considered to make part or all of the housing 50 out of non-conductive resin, or to make the entire housing thin. In this case, the housing 50 will no longer be able to block radio waves from entering from the outside.

[0046] Depending on the arrangement, size, and shape of these transmitting parts and the direction of the radio waves entering from outside the housing 50, they may cause interference with wireless communication. For example, as shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 5, the explosion-proof valve 55 is provided on the housing cover 52, and the wireless antennas 33 and 43 face the housing cover 52 without any obstruction. For this reason, external radio waves passing through the explosion-proof valve 55 may cause interference with wireless communication.

[0047] 2 and 5, in the Z direction, which is the orthogonal direction of the housing cover 52 in which the explosion-proof valve 55 is provided, the explosion-proof valve 55 overlaps with the path connecting the wireless antenna 33 and the wireless antenna 43 on a straight line. That is, in the predetermined direction (the Z direction in this embodiment), the explosion-proof valve 55 is arranged so as to overlap with the transmission path of wireless communication connecting the wireless antenna 43 and the wireless antenna 33. The predetermined direction is not limited to the Z direction and may be changed arbitrarily. For example, it may be the direction in which radio waves from the outside are most likely to pass through, or the thickness direction of the surface (the housing cover 52 in this embodiment) in which the transparent portion (for example, the explosion-proof valve 55) is provided. In FIG. 2, the position of the explosion-proof valve 55 is illustrated by a broken line. In this case, radio waves entering through the explosion-proof valve 55 may cause an obstruction to wireless communication.

[0048] When viewed from a specific direction (for example, the Z direction), the explosion-proof valve 55 has one of the wireless antennas 33 and 43 disposed within the range of the projection dimensions. When viewed from a specific direction (for example, the Z direction), the transmission path (straight path) of wireless communication connecting the wireless antenna 43 and the wireless antenna 33 passes within the range of the projection dimensions of the explosion-proof valve 55. For this reason, external radio waves in the Z direction that enter through the explosion-proof valve 55 may interfere with wireless communication.

[0049] Similarly, the seal member 54 is provided on the housing cover 52, and the wireless antennas 33, 43 face the housing cover 52. When viewed from the Z direction, the seal member 54 is disposed so as to surround the periphery of the wireless antennas 33, 43. That is, the seal member 54 is provided over the entire path (transmission path for wireless communication) that connects the wireless antennas 33 and 43 on a straight line in the X direction. For this reason, external radio waves that enter through the seal member 54 may interfere with wireless communication.

[0050] Furthermore, the service plug SP56 is disposed so as to overlap with a straight line path (transmission path for wireless communication) connecting the wireless antennas 43 and 33 in the Y direction, which is a direction perpendicular (vertical) to the side surface 53. In other words, the service plug SP56 is disposed so as to overlap with the transmission path for wireless communication connecting the wireless antennas 43 and 33 from a direction different from the explosion-proof valve 55. For this reason, external radio waves in the Y direction that enter via the service plug SP56 may interfere with wireless communication.

[0051] Therefore, in this embodiment, the following configuration and wireless communication method are adopted to ensure wireless communication. Here, the configuration and wireless communication method for ensuring wireless communication will be described in detail. Below, an overview of wireless communication will be briefly described, and then the protection mechanisms 38, 48 will be described in detail. Finally, the wireless communication method of this embodiment will be described. Note that the following description will be given on the premise that wireless communication is related to obtaining battery information.

[0052] <Overview of wireless communication> When wireless communication is performed in this embodiment, first, wireless data instructing acquisition and transmission of battery information is transmitted from the battery control device 40. More specifically, the battery control MCU 41 of the battery control device 40 generates a data unit including an acquisition instruction command instructing acquisition and transmission of battery information, and transmits the data unit to the wireless IC 42 via a wired connection.

[0053] The wireless IC 42 of the battery control device 40 generates wireless data by adding data (information) necessary for wireless communication, such as communication control information, to the received data unit. The wireless IC 42 of the battery control device 40 wirelessly transmits the generated wireless data via the wireless antenna 43.

[0054] When the wireless data is wirelessly received by the battery monitoring device 30, battery information is acquired in accordance with the acquisition command contained in the wireless data, and the wireless data including the acquired battery information, etc. is transmitted (returned) to the battery control device 40.

[0055] More specifically, when the wireless IC 32 of the battery monitoring device 30 receives wireless data via the wireless antenna 33, it determines whether the wireless data is addressed to itself or not based on the communication control information of the wireless data. If the wireless IC 32 determines that the wireless data is addressed to itself, it extracts unit data from the wireless data and transmits it to the monitoring IC 31 via a wired connection.

[0056] When the monitoring IC 31 receives the data unit from the wireless IC 32, it extracts the acquisition command from the data unit and acquires battery information from the battery cells 22 based on the acquisition command. The monitoring IC 31 then converts the acquired battery information into electronic data and generates a data unit to be transmitted to the battery control device 40. The monitoring IC 31 transmits the generated data unit to the wireless IC 32 via a wired connection.

[0057] When the wireless IC 32 acquires the data unit from the monitoring IC 31, the wireless IC 32 generates wireless data by adding data (information) necessary for wireless communication, such as communication control information, to the data unit. The wireless IC 32 of the battery monitoring device 30 transmits (replies) the generated wireless data via the wireless antenna 33.

[0058] Then, when the battery control device 40 receives wireless data including the battery information data, the battery information is acquired from the wireless data. More specifically, when the wireless IC 42 of the battery control device 40 receives the wireless data via the wireless antenna 43, it determines whether the wireless data is addressed to itself or not based on the communication control information of the wireless data. If the wireless IC 42 determines that the wireless data is addressed to itself, it extracts a data unit from the wireless data and transmits it to the battery control MCU 41 via a wired connection.

[0059] When the battery control MCU 41 receives a data unit from the wireless IC 42, it acquires battery information from the data unit. Then, the battery control MCU 41 executes various controls based on the battery information. For example, the battery control MCU 41 notifies the external vehicle ECU 14, etc. of the received battery information. Furthermore, if an abnormality is detected in the battery cells 22 based on the battery information, the battery control MCU 41 outputs a signal to the external vehicle ECU 14, etc. to stop charging and discharging the battery pack 20. Furthermore, if there is variation in the voltage of the battery cells 22, the battery control MCU 41 executes an equalization process.

[0060] <Configuration of protection mechanisms 38 and 48> The battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40 are provided with protection mechanisms 38, 48 for protecting battery information when performing wireless communication. These protection mechanisms 38, 48 are provided in the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41, respectively. Specifically, the monitoring IC 31 functions as the protection mechanism 38 by the CPU executing a program stored in the ROM. Similarly, the battery control MCU 41 functions as the protection mechanism 48 by the CPU executing a program stored in the ROM. The protection mechanisms 38, 48 may be configured as hardware (such as a circuit) and mounted in the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41.

[0061] Battery information transmitted and received via wireless communication is protected by the transmitting and receiving protection mechanisms 38, 48 cooperating to check whether the battery information is transmitted and received correctly. In this embodiment, the transmitting protection mechanism 38, 48 of the protection mechanisms 38, 48 generates test data according to a predetermined rule when data to be transmitted is generated, that is, when a data unit to be transmitted to the wireless IC 32, 42 is generated. The test data is included in the data unit and is data for inspecting and protecting message data, such as battery information, included in the data unit.

[0062] Of the protection mechanisms 38 and 48, the protection mechanism 38 and 48 serving as the receiving side checks the received data unit based on the check data of the received data unit according to a predetermined rule. After checking (analyzing) whether the data unit is correctly transmitted and received, the protection mechanism 38 and 48 acquires the message data, which is the protected data included in the data unit. In this embodiment, the protection mechanisms 38 and 48 are configured to be able to perform a plurality of types of checks. For example, the protection mechanism 38 and 48 are configured to be able to perform a cyclic redundancy check (CRC), an ID check, a sequence check, and a timeout check. Note that it is not necessary to always perform all the check methods, and some check methods may be selected and performed as necessary. Also, there may be cases where no check is performed. Each check method will be described below.

[0063] <Cyclic Redundancy Check> A cyclic redundancy check is a type of check that uses an error detection code, and the protection mechanism 38, 48 on the transmitting side regards the message data to be transmitted as a value, divides it by a predetermined generating polynomial, and generates the remainder as CRC data. The protection mechanism 38, 48 on the transmitting side then includes the CRC data in the check data of the data unit to be transmitted. The protection mechanism 38, 48 on the receiving side regards the message data, which is the data to be protected, as a value, divides it by the same generating polynomial as the sending side, and compares the remainder with the CRC data included in the received check data to analyze whether an error or corruption has occurred in the message data.

[0064] A more specific description will be given based on Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is based on the premise that an acquisition instruction command and battery information are transmitted and received as described above. When an acquisition instruction command is transmitted, the protection mechanism 48 of the battery control MCU 41 regards message data including the acquisition instruction command as a value, divides it by a predetermined generating polynomial, and generates the remainder as CRC data (step S11). Then, the battery control MCU 41 generates a data unit from the message data including the acquisition instruction command and the like and the inspection data including the CRC data and transmits it to the battery monitoring device 30 via the wireless IC 42 or the like as described above (step S12).

[0065] When a data unit is received via the wireless IC 32 or the like, the protection mechanism 38 of the monitoring IC 31 regards the message data of the data unit as a value, divides it by the same generating polynomial as the transmitting side, and calculates the remainder. Then, the monitoring IC 31 compares the calculated remainder (CRC data) with the CRC data included in the check data of the received data unit, and analyzes (checks) whether or not an error or damage has occurred in the message data (step S13).

[0066] After the inspection, if it is determined that the data unit has been received normally, the monitoring IC 31 executes processing based on the acquisition instruction command included in the message data. That is, the monitoring IC 31 acquires battery information from the battery cell 22 (step S14), converts the acquired battery information into electronic data, and generates a data unit (step S15). In step S15, the protection mechanism 38 of the monitoring IC 31 regards the message data including the battery information and the like as a value, divides it by a predetermined generating polynomial, and generates the remainder as CRC data. Then, the monitoring IC 31 generates a data unit from the message data including the battery information and the like and the inspection data including the CRC data and the like (step S15), and transmits it to the battery control device 40 via the wireless IC 32 and the like (step S16) as described above.

[0067] When the data unit is received via the wireless IC 42 or the like, the protection mechanism 48 of the battery control MCU 41 regards the message data including the battery information as a value, divides it by the same generating polynomial as the transmission side, and calculates the remainder. Then, the battery control MCU 41 compares the calculated remainder (CRC data) with the CRC data included in the received data unit to analyze (inspect) whether or not an error or damage has occurred in the message data (step S17). If it is determined that the data unit has been received normally, the battery control MCU 41 executes various controls as described above based on the battery information of the message data. On the other hand, if it is determined that an error or damage has occurred in the message data, the battery control MCU 41 determines that a communication error has occurred, and executes processing according to the communication error. The processing according to the communication error is, for example, a notification to an external device or retransmission of the data unit.

[0068] In this embodiment, the message data is regarded as a value when generating the CRC data, but any data may be regarded as a value, and data other than the CRC data may be subject to the cyclic redundancy check. In other words, the range regarded as a value in the cyclic redundancy check may be changed arbitrarily, and for example, the destination address, ID number, sequence number, etc. may be subject to the check and protection in the cyclic redundancy check.

[0069] Also, although the acquisition command is subject to a cyclic redundancy check in the above embodiment, it does not have to be subject to the check. In other words, when the battery control MCU 41 transmits an acquisition command, it is not necessary to add CRC data and to check whether the acquisition command has been correctly received by the monitoring IC 31 based on the CRC data.

[0070] <IDチェック> The ID check is a method of assigning an ID number to check whether the sender is legitimate. In the ID check, the protection mechanism 38, 48 acting as the sender generates test data including an ID number (identification number) unique to the sending device. In the ID check, the protection mechanism 38, 48 acting as the receiver determines whether the received ID number matches the ID number unique to the sending device, thereby determining whether the data was sent from a legitimate sender. Note that it is assumed that the receiver has previously acquired, authenticated, and stored the ID number unique to the sending device.

[0071] A more specific description will be given based on Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is based on the premise that an acquisition instruction command and battery information are transmitted and received as described above. The protection mechanism 48 of the battery control MCU 41 generates an ID return instruction command by combining an ID issue command, which instructs to assign an ID number and return the information, with an address specifying the monitoring IC 31 that is the source of the ID number (step S21). In Fig. 8, the address specifying the monitoring IC 31 that is the source of the ID number is SBM1.

[0072] Then, the battery control MCU 41 generates a data unit by including the ID return instruction command in the test data. As described above, the battery control MCU 41 transmits the generated data unit to the battery monitoring device 30 via the wireless IC 42 or the like (step S22).

[0073] It is not necessary to perform the ID check every time for all monitoring ICs 31. For example, it may be performed at regular intervals, or may be performed only when it is necessary to reliably obtain battery information. Also, although the monitoring IC 31 that is the source of the ID number is specified in the above embodiment, it is not necessary to specify it, and only the ID issuance command may be sent.

[0074] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the ID return instruction command is included in the check data, but it may be included in the message data together with the acquisition instruction command, and protected by other checks (such as a cyclic redundancy check) to ensure accurate transmission.

[0075] When the monitoring IC 31 receives the data unit via the wireless IC 32 or the like (step S23), it executes processing based on the acquisition instruction command included in the message data. That is, the monitoring IC 31 acquires battery information from the battery cell 22 (step S24), and converts the acquired battery information into electronic data to generate a data unit (step S25).

[0076] In step S25, the protection mechanism 38 of the monitoring IC 31 determines whether or not an ID return command is included in the inspection data of the received data unit, and if so, determines whether or not the monitoring IC 31 is specified as the sender of the ID number by the ID return command. If the monitoring IC 31 is specified as the sender of the ID number, in step S25, the protection mechanism 38 of the monitoring IC 31 obtains an ID number (identification number) unique to the monitoring IC 31 that is the sender, in accordance with the ID issue command of the ID return command. The ID number is, for example, the manufacturing number (serial number) of the monitoring IC 31, and is stored in the ROM of the monitoring IC 31.

[0077] Then, the monitoring IC 31 generates a data unit by combining the inspection data including the ID number etc. with the message data including the battery information etc., and transmits the data unit to the battery control device 40 via the wireless IC 32 etc., as described above (step S26).

[0078] When a data unit is received via the wireless IC 42 or the like, the protection mechanism 48 of the battery control MCU 41 determines whether or not the test data includes an ID number. If the protection mechanism 48 of the battery control MCU 41 determines that an ID number is included, it acquires the ID number and checks (determines) whether or not the acquired ID number exists in a list of ID numbers authenticated and stored as transmission sources (step S27). If the acquired ID number matches the stored ID number, the battery control MCU 41 determines that the transmission source is correct.

[0079] If the battery control MCU 41 determines that the received data unit is correct through various checks, it executes various controls as described above based on the battery information included in the message data. On the other hand, if it determines that the sender is not correct, the battery control MCU 41 determines that a communication error has occurred and executes processing according to the communication error.

[0080] <Sequence check> A sequence check is a method for checking whether data is being transmitted and received according to a communication schedule. In a sequence check, the protection mechanism 38, 48 acting as the transmitting side generates and transmits check data including a sequence number according to the communication schedule. The protection mechanism 38, 48 acting as the receiving side checks whether data units are received according to the communication schedule by determining whether the data units are received according to the communication schedule based on the sequence number included in the check data of the received data unit.

[0081] A more specific description will be given with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is based on the premise that the acquisition instruction command and the battery information are transmitted and received as described above. As shown in Fig. 9, the above-mentioned communication schedule 900 is set with a sequence number according to the transmission order and stored in the battery control MCU 41. The sequence number may be any number as long as it is distinguishable, that is, the same number is not repeated. In this embodiment, the sequence number is composed of a combination of an identification number (such as an address or ID number) indicating the monitoring IC 31 that is the transmission destination and a command to be instructed to the transmission destination at that time.

[0082] For example, in the communication schedule 900 shown in Fig. 9, the sequence number that is first in the transmission order is composed of an address (SBM1) that designates the first monitoring IC 31 from the X direction as the transmission destination, and command 1. In Fig. 9, command 1 is an acquisition instruction command, but it may be another command (such as an equalization command that instructs equalization processing). Also, in the communication schedule 900 shown in Fig. 9, the sequence number that is second in the transmission order is composed of an address (SBM2) that designates the second monitoring IC 31 from the X direction as the transmission destination, and command 1.

[0083] Similarly, sequence numbers are set, and the Nth sequence number in the transmission order is composed of an address (SBMN) that designates the Nth monitoring IC 31, which is the last one from the X direction, as the destination, and an acquisition instruction command (command 1). Next, the N+1th sequence number in the transmission order is composed of an address (SBM1) that designates the first monitoring IC 31 from the X direction as the destination, and command 2. Command 2 may be an acquisition instruction command, or may be another command. However, it is desirable that command 1 and command 2 are configured to be distinguishable even if they have the same instruction content.

[0084] Thereafter, sequence numbers are similarly set in the communication schedule 900. Note that although the communication schedule 900 is stored in advance in a storage device or the like, there are also cases where the communication schedule 900 is updated by an interrupt in response to an external request or the like.

[0085] Then, the battery control MCU 41 identifies the destination monitoring IC 31 and the command to be transmitted according to the communication schedule 900, and generates a data unit to be transmitted to the destination. At that time, the battery control MCU 41 generates the data unit by including the sequence number acquired by the protection mechanism 48 in the test data (step S31). Then, the battery control MCU 41 transmits the generated data unit to the battery monitoring device 30 via the wireless IC 42 or the like, as described above (step S32).

[0086] As described above, when the monitoring IC 31 receives a data unit via the wireless IC 32 or the like (step S33), it executes processing based on the message data acquisition instruction command (step S34). In step S34, in accordance with the acquisition instruction command, the monitoring IC 31 acquires battery information from the battery cell 22. Then, the monitoring IC 31 converts the acquired battery information into electronic data to generate a data unit (step S35). In step S35, the protection mechanism 38 of the monitoring IC 31 acquires a sequence number included in the test data of the received data unit, and includes the sequence number in the test data of the data unit to be returned. As described above, the monitoring IC 31 generates a data unit from the test data and battery information, etc., and transmits the generated data unit to the battery control device 40 via the wireless IC 32 or the like (step S36).

[0087] As described above, when the battery control MCU 41 receives a data unit via the wireless IC 42 or the like, it inquires (determines) whether the data has been transmitted and received in accordance with the communication schedule 900 based on the sequence number included in the test data (step S37).

[0088] For example, as shown in Fig. 10(a), if a sequence number is missing, it can be determined that data transmission and reception is not being performed properly. Also, as shown in Fig. 10(b), if the sequence numbers are received in the wrong order, it can be determined that data transmission and reception is not being performed properly. Or, as shown in Fig. 10(c), if the same sequence numbers are received repeatedly, it can be determined that data transmission and reception is not being performed properly.

[0089] If it is determined that data transmission and reception is not performed properly, the battery control MCU 41 determines that a communication error has occurred and executes processing according to the communication error. If it is determined that data transmission and reception is performed properly, the battery control MCU 41 executes various controls as described above based on the battery information, which is the protected data. <Timeout check> The timeout check is a method for checking whether or not there is a data delay. In the timeout check, the protection mechanism 38, 48 on the transmitting side generates and transmits check data including a sequence number in the same manner as described above, according to the timing determined by the communication schedule 900. The protection mechanism 38, 48 on the receiving side refers to the communication schedule 900, and determines, from the sequence number included in the check data of the received data unit, whether or not the received data unit was received within a predetermined time from the predetermined reception timing. The protection mechanism 38, 48 on the receiving side also refers to the communication schedule 900, and detects a communication error if there is data that is delayed by more than a predetermined time from the reception timing.

[0090] A more detailed description will be given based on Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is based on the premise that the acquisition instruction command and battery information are transmitted and received as described above. The battery control MCU 41 identifies the destination monitoring IC 31 and the command to be transmitted according to the communication schedule 900, and generates a data unit to be transmitted to the destination. At that time, the protection mechanism 48 of the battery control MCU 41 includes a sequence number in the test data according to the communication schedule 900 (step S41). The battery control MCU 41 generates a data unit from the test data and the acquisition instruction command, etc., and transmits the generated data unit to the battery monitoring device 30 via the wireless IC 42, etc. at a timing determined by the communication schedule 900 (step S42).

[0091] As described above, when the monitoring IC 31 receives the data unit via the wireless IC 32 or the like (step S43), it executes processing based on the command, which is the protected data. Since the monitoring IC 31 receives the acquisition instruction command from the premise, it acquires battery information from the battery cell 22 (step S44), and converts the acquired battery information into electronic data to generate a data unit (step S45).

[0092] In step S45, the protection mechanism 38 of the monitoring IC 31 includes, in the returned test data, the sequence number included in the test data of the received data unit. The monitoring IC 31 generates a data unit including the test data, battery information, etc., and transmits the generated data unit to the battery control device 40 via the wireless IC 32, etc. (step S46).

[0093] As described above, when the battery control MCU 41 receives a data unit via the wireless IC 42 or the like, it determines whether the data was transmitted or received within the time period determined by the communication schedule 900 based on the sequence number included in the test data (step S47). That is, it monitors whether the time period from when the battery control MCU 41 transmits the sequence number included in the test data (the time of processing step S42) to when it receives the sequence number included in the test data (the time of processing step S47) is within a predetermined time period.

[0094] If the sequence number of a data unit is not returned within a predetermined time after transmitting the data unit, the battery control MCU 41 determines that a communication error has occurred. If it is determined that a communication error has occurred, the battery control MCU 41 executes a process according to the communication error.

[0095] <Communication protection for wireless ICs> As described above, in this embodiment, when data is transmitted and received in the communication layer between the battery control MCU 41 and the monitoring IC 31, data protection is performed by the protection mechanisms 38, 48. In addition, in this embodiment, data protection is also performed in the communication layer between the wireless ICs 32, 42. This will be described in detail below.

[0096] When wireless data is transmitted and received between the wireless ICs 32, 42, the wireless data is protected by the transmitting and receiving wireless ICs 32, 42 cooperating to check whether the wireless data is being transmitted and received correctly.

[0097] Specifically, as shown in steps S12 and S16 of Fig. 7, when the wireless IC 32, 42 on the transmitting side receives a data unit from the battery control MCU 41 or the monitoring IC 31, the wireless IC 32, 42 adds communication control information and communication protection data to the data unit to generate wireless data and transmits the wireless data wirelessly. The communication control information is information required for performing wireless communication, such as the addresses of the sender and the receiver. The communication protection data is data for inspecting and protecting the communication control information, and is generated by the wireless IC 32, 42 on the transmitting side according to a predetermined rule. As shown in Fig. 7, the communication control information is transmitted and received chronologically before the data unit, and the communication protection data is transmitted and received chronologically after the data unit.

[0098] The wireless ICs 32 and 42, which are the receiving side, inspect the received communication control information based on the communication protection data of the received wireless data in accordance with a predetermined rule, and analyze (determine) whether the wireless data is being transmitted and received correctly. After the analysis, the wireless ICs 32 and 42 obtain a data unit and transmit it to the battery control MCU 41 or the monitoring IC 31.

[0099] In this embodiment, the wireless ICs 32 and 42 perform a plurality of types of checks, similar to the protection mechanisms 38 and 48. That is, a cyclic redundancy check, an ID check, a sequence check, a timeout check, etc. Note that the contents of the cyclic redundancy check, the ID check, the sequence check, and the timeout check are similar to those of the protection mechanisms 38 and 48, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0100] These tests are performed by executing a program stored in a ROM of the wireless ICs 32, 42 by the CPU of the wireless ICs 32, 42. Note that the test means may be configured by hardware (circuits, etc.) and may be mounted on the wireless ICs 32, 42.

[0101] <Wireless communication method> Next, a wireless communication method will be described with reference to Fig. 12 to Fig. 14. Note that in Fig. 12 to Fig. 14, it is assumed that the command transmitted from the battery control device 40 is a command to instruct acquisition of battery information. As shown in Fig. 12, first, the battery control MCU 41 of the battery control device 40 checks the transmission timing according to the communication schedule 900 (step S101). That is, it is determined whether the transmission timing has arrived, and if it is the transmission timing, the battery control MCU 41 identifies the destination monitoring IC 31 and the command to be transmitted according to the communication schedule 900 (step S102).

[0102] Next, the battery control MCU 41 sets message data, which is data to be protected, and generates test data (step S103). The message data may be only an acquisition instruction command to be transmitted, or may be set including other information (data) such as the address of the monitoring IC 31 to which the message data is to be transmitted. The protection mechanism 48 generates test data according to the test method to be performed. For example, when a cyclic redundancy check is performed, CRC data is generated as described above and included in the generated test data. Similarly, when an ID check is performed, an ID return instruction command is included in the generated test data. When a sequence check and a timeout check are performed, a sequence number is obtained as described above and included in the generated test data. The test method to be performed may be configured to be selected according to the communication schedule 900, for example.

[0103] Then, the battery control MCU 41 generates a data unit from the message data and the test data, and transmits it to the wireless IC 42 (step S104). When the wireless IC 42 receives the data unit from the battery control MCU 41, it adds communication control information and communication protection data to the data unit to generate wireless data (step S105). The communication protection data is generated according to the test method to be performed.

[0104] Then, the wireless IC 42 transmits the generated wireless data via the wireless antenna 43 (step S106). As shown in Fig. 13, when the wireless IC 32 serving as the receiving side receives the wireless data via the wireless antenna 33, it checks (determines) whether the wireless data is addressed to itself based on the communication control information of the wireless data (step S111). If the wireless data is not addressed to itself, the process ends.

[0105] When the wireless IC 32 confirms that the wireless data is addressed to itself, it checks the received communication control information based on the communication protection data of the received wireless data, and analyzes (checks) whether the wireless data is being transmitted and received correctly (step S112). If it is determined that the wireless data is not being transmitted and received correctly, the wireless IC 32 executes a process corresponding to the communication error (not shown).

[0106] On the other hand, if the wireless IC 32 determines that the wireless data has been received correctly, it acquires a data unit from the wireless data and transmits it to the monitoring IC 31 (step S113). When the monitoring IC 31 receives the data unit from the wireless IC 32, it performs various checks based on the check data of the data unit and analyzes (checks) whether the data unit has been transmitted and received correctly (step S114). For example, if a cyclic redundancy check has been performed, the monitoring IC 31 calculates CRC data from the message data and determines whether it matches the received CRC data.

[0107] If it is determined that the data unit has not been correctly transmitted or received, the monitoring IC 31 executes a process corresponding to the communication error (not shown). On the other hand, if it is determined that the data unit has been correctly received, the monitoring IC 31 extracts the acquisition command from the data unit and acquires battery information from the battery cell 22 based on the acquisition command (step S115). Then, the monitoring IC 31 converts the acquired battery information into electronic data and generates it as message data, and generates test data according to the test method being performed (step S116). For example, if a cyclic redundancy check is being performed, CRC data is generated from the message data including the battery information as described above, and is included in the generated test data. Similarly, if an ID check is being performed, the ID number of the monitoring IC 31 is included in the generated test data. Furthermore, if a sequence check and a timeout check are being performed, a sequence number is included in the generated test data.

[0108] Then, the monitoring IC 31 generates a data unit from the message data and the test data, and transmits it to the wireless IC 32 (step S117). As shown in Fig. 14, when the wireless IC 32 receives the data unit from the monitoring IC 31, it adds communication control information and communication protection data to the data unit to generate wireless data (step S121). The communication protection data is generated according to the test method to be performed.

[0109] Then, the wireless IC 42 transmits the generated wireless data via the wireless antenna 43 (step S122). When the wireless IC 42 serving as the receiving side receives the wireless data via the wireless antenna 43, it checks (determines) whether the wireless data is addressed to itself based on the communication control information of the wireless data (step S123). If the data is not addressed to itself, the process ends.

[0110] When the wireless IC 42 determines that the wireless data is addressed to itself, it checks the received communication control information based on the communication protection data of the received wireless data, and analyzes (checks) whether the wireless data is being transmitted and received correctly (step S124). If the wireless data is not being transmitted and received correctly, the wireless IC 32 executes a process corresponding to the communication error (not shown).

[0111] On the other hand, when the wireless IC 42 determines that the wireless data has been received correctly, it acquires a data unit from the wireless data and transmits it to the battery control MCU 41 (step S125). When the battery control MCU 41 receives the data unit from the wireless IC 42, it performs various checks based on the check data of the data unit, and analyzes (checks) whether the data unit has been transmitted and received correctly (step S126). For example, when a cyclic redundancy check has been performed, it generates CRC data from the received message data as described above and compares it with the CRC data included in the check data. Similarly, when an ID check has been performed, it checks the ID number included in the check data. When a sequence check has been performed, it determines whether the sequence number is in accordance with the communication schedule 900. When a timeout check has been performed, it determines whether the data has been transmitted and received within the time determined by the communication schedule 900.

[0112] If the data unit is not correctly transmitted or received, the monitoring IC 31 executes processing according to the communication error (not shown). On the other hand, if the battery control MCU 41 determines that the data unit is correctly received, it extracts battery information from the data unit and executes various processes based on the battery information (step S127).

[0113] According to the configuration of the first embodiment, the following advantageous effects can be obtained.

[0114] A portion of the housing 50 is provided with transparent parts, such as a seal member 54 that allows radio waves to pass through, an explosion-proof valve 55, and a service plug SP 56. For this reason, there is concern that radio waves from outside the housing 50 may affect wireless communication. However, the battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40 housed in the housing 50 are provided with protection mechanisms 38, 48 for protecting battery information when wireless communication is performed. For this reason, wireless communication can be performed appropriately without being affected by radio waves from outside the housing 50.

[0115] The protection mechanisms 38, 48 are provided in the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41, respectively. The transmission-side and reception-side protection mechanisms 38, 48 cooperate to inspect the communication layer between the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41 to protect the battery information. This makes it possible to protect the data unit between the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41 without considering the configuration of the communication layer between the monitoring-side wireless IC 32 and the control-side wireless IC 42. In other words, it becomes possible to design each communication layer independently, simplifying the design.

[0116] When the battery information is transmitted, the protection mechanism 38 of the monitoring IC 31 generates CRC data (error detection code) for detecting errors based on the battery information, and includes the CRC data in the transmitted test data. The protection mechanism 48 of the battery control MCU 41 checks whether or not there is an error in the received battery information based on the error detection code of the received data unit. That is, a cyclic redundancy check is performed. This makes it possible to check for errors in the battery information, the occurrence probability of which increases due to the influence of external radio waves in wireless communication. Furthermore, in the case of this embodiment, which targets only message data, redundancy of wireless data can be suppressed when wireless communication is performed, compared to when CRC data is generated for all wireless data to be transmitted.

[0117] When battery information is transmitted, the protection mechanism 38 of the monitoring IC 31 acquires the identification information (ID number) of the transmission source and includes it in the inspection data. The protection mechanism 48 of the battery control MCU 41 checks whether the transmission source is correct or not based on the ID number included in the received data unit. In other words, it performs an ID check. Therefore, when wireless communication is performed, it is possible to check for transmission source errors, which are more likely to occur due to the influence of external radio waves in wireless communication.

[0118] When the battery information is transmitted, the protection mechanism 38 of the monitoring IC 31 generates order information (sequence number) and includes it in the inspection data. Then, the monitoring IC 31 transmits a data unit at the transmission timing determined according to the communication schedule 900. The protection mechanism 48 of the battery control MCU 41 checks whether the data unit has been received at the reception timing determined according to the communication schedule 900 based on the sequence number included in the received data unit. In other words, a sequence check and a timeout check are performed. Therefore, when wireless communication is performed, it is possible to check for errors in the transmission order, transmission omissions, transmission delays, etc., which are more likely to occur in wireless communication due to the influence of external radio waves.

[0119] An inspection is also performed in the communication layer between the monitoring-side wireless IC 32 and the control-side wireless IC 42. Therefore, inspection is performed twice, in the communication layer between the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41 and in the communication layer between the monitoring-side wireless IC 32 and the control-side wireless IC 42, and battery information can be sent more reliably. In addition, the communication protection data provided between the wireless ICs 32 and 42 inspects and protects the communication control information, so that it is possible to suppress redundancy of wireless data compared to the case where battery information is also protected. Therefore, power consumption can be suppressed.

[0120] In addition, the communication control information is transmitted before the data unit including the battery information, and the communication control information is checked for errors. If an error is detected in the communication control information, it can be determined that the data unit received thereafter is also likely to contain an error. Therefore, when the communication control information is transmitted before the data unit, the data unit can be transmitted more accurately than when the communication control information is transmitted after the data unit.

[0121] When performing wireless communication, compared to wired communication, there is a high possibility that address errors, data omissions, data errors, data delays, etc. will occur due to the influence of external radio waves from the housing 50. Therefore, any or all of the following checks are performed: cyclic redundancy check, ID check, sequence check, and timeout check. In other words, any or all of the following are assigned to the check data of the data unit: sequence number, ID number, and CRC data (error detection code). This makes it possible to suppress communication errors that are likely to occur in wireless communication.

[0122] In the case of wireless communication, the communication speed is slower and the communication frequency is lower than that of wired communication. Therefore, if an abnormality occurs in the temperature or voltage of the battery cell 22, or if an abnormality is detected by the self-diagnosis information, a communication error may occur, and the value may change suddenly. If the value changes suddenly, the control may change suddenly, and although there is no problem with safety, there is a risk that operability may be affected. Therefore, the battery information to be protected includes at least one of the temperature information, voltage information, and self-diagnosis information of the battery cell 22. This makes it possible to suppress communication errors and the impact on operability.

[0123] 2, 3, and 5, in the orthogonal direction (Z direction) of the housing cover 52 on which the explosion-proof valve 55 is provided, the explosion-proof valve 55 overlaps with a path that connects the wireless antenna 33 of the battery monitoring device 30 and the wireless antenna 43 of the battery control device 40 in a straight line. Because of this configuration, the wireless antennas 33, 43 are easily affected by radio waves from outside the housing 50. Therefore, by providing protection mechanisms 38, 38, wireless communication is ensured.

[0124] Generally, radio waves are blocked by the vehicle body from the installation surface 51 installed on the vehicle 10, making it difficult for radio waves to enter from the outside. On the other hand, surfaces of the housing 50 other than the installation surface 51, for example, the housing cover 52 and the side surface 53 facing the installation surface 51, are often exposed to the outside. For safety or maintenance reasons, it may be necessary to provide transparent parts such as the explosion-proof valve 55, the seal member 54, and the service plug SP56 on such surfaces. For this reason, radio waves are likely to enter from the outside of the housing 50 from the surface on which the transparent parts are provided. Any of the wireless antennas 33 and 43 is exposed to the surface on which the transparent parts are provided. In this case, it is easy for the wireless antennas 33 and 43 to be affected by radio waves from the outside, which is likely to cause a disturbance in wireless communication. Therefore, by providing the protection mechanisms 38 and 48 to the battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40 equipped with the wireless antennas 33 and 43, it is possible to check whether data is correctly transmitted and received, thereby ensuring wireless communication.

[0125] When a shield is placed between the wireless antennas 33 and 43, wireless communication is performed using reflected waves. However, when a transmission part is provided in the housing 50, the transmission part may prevent the wireless antennas 33 and 43 from receiving the reflected waves properly depending on the arrangement of the wireless antennas 33 and 43. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 5, the wireless antennas 33 and 43 of the battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40 are arranged opposite to each other so that the direct wave Rd can be transmitted and received. In other words, the wireless antennas 33 and 43 are arranged so as to protrude in the Z direction from the battery cell 22, etc., and no conductive obstacles that may interfere with radio waves are arranged between the wireless antennas 33 and 43. This allows the direct wave Rd, which has a stronger propagation strength than the reflected wave, to be transmitted and received, ensuring reliable communication.

[0126] When the wireless antennas 33, 43 are arranged opposite to each other, direct waves Rd can be transmitted and received, so communication failure should be less likely than when wireless communication is performed via reflected waves. However, when a transparent part such as an explosion-proof valve 55 is provided on the housing cover 52 or the side surface 53, wireless communication may be hindered by radio waves from the outside. Therefore, the protection mechanisms 38, 48 are provided to ensure that wireless communication can be performed reliably.

[0127] The transparent portion is an explosion-proof valve 55 for releasing gas inside the housing 50, a service plug SP56 for disconnecting the electrical connection between the circuit and the battery pack 20, or a seal member 54 for closing a gap in the housing 50. Due to their structure, it is difficult to configure these members to block radio waves, and their installation positions are determined to some extent for safety or maintenance reasons, and depending on the placement of the wireless antennas 33, 43, they may be susceptible to the effects of external radio waves. For this reason, the protection mechanisms 38, 48 are provided to ensure that battery information can be transmitted and received.

[0128] The battery control MCU 41 instructs the monitoring IC 31 to obtain and return battery information, and the monitoring IC 31 obtains and transmits the battery information accordingly. This eliminates the need for the monitoring IC 31 to manage and understand the communication schedule 900. Furthermore, by centrally managing the communication schedule 900 using the battery control MCU 41, it becomes possible to easily manage and change the communication schedule 900. Furthermore, control in the monitoring IC 31 is simplified.

[0129] (Other embodiments) A part of the configuration of the first embodiment may be modified as in the following embodiments. Note that the first embodiment will be described below as a basic configuration, and the same components as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described.

[0130] In the above embodiment, all battery information is protected by the protection mechanisms 38 and 48, but selective protection may be used. In this case, the information to be protected may be selected based on importance or environment.

[0131] For example, the temperature of the battery cells 22 generally does not change as easily as the voltage or SOC. Therefore, compared to the voltage information or SOC, it can be said that there is little problem even if the temperature information is updated less frequently. Therefore, among the battery information, only information that needs to be updated more frequently, such as the voltage information and SOC, may be protected, and information that needs to be updated less frequently, such as the temperature information, may not be protected. Also, for example, when the temperature in the vehicle 10 rises and the vehicle is in an environment where the temperature of the battery cells 22 is likely to rise, the temperature information may be protected.

[0132] In the above embodiment, the protection mechanism 38 is provided for all the monitoring ICs 31 of the battery monitoring devices 30, but it may be provided for only some of the monitoring ICs 31. In other words, it is sufficient to provide the protection mechanism 38 for at least the battery monitoring devices 30 that are susceptible to the effects of external radio waves.

[0133] For example, in the first embodiment, on the straight line path connecting the battery control device 40 and the battery monitoring device 30 closest to the battery control device 40 in FIG. 2 (the battery monitoring device 30 closest to the battery control device 40 in the X direction), transparent parts such as the explosion-proof valve 55 are not arranged so as to overlap in the Z direction. Similarly, on the straight line path, transparent parts are not arranged so as to overlap in the X direction or the Y direction either. Therefore, it is considered that wireless communication between the battery control device 40 and the battery monitoring device 30 closest to the battery control device 40 in FIG. 2 is less susceptible to external radio waves. Therefore, the protection mechanism 38 does not need to be provided for the battery monitoring device 30 closest to the battery control device 40 in FIG. 2.

[0134] On the other hand, on the straight line path connecting the other battery monitoring devices 30 and the battery control device 40, transparent parts such as explosion-proof valves 55 are arranged so as to overlap in the Z direction. In addition, they are also far apart. For this reason, it is considered that wireless communication between the other battery monitoring devices 30 and the battery control device 40 is easily affected by radio waves from the outside. Therefore, in FIG. 2, it is desirable to provide a protection mechanism 38 in the monitoring ICs 31 of the battery monitoring devices 30 other than the battery monitoring device 30 closest to the battery control device 40.

[0135] In the above embodiment, a battery monitoring device 30 is provided for each battery block 21, but one battery monitoring device 30 may be provided for multiple battery blocks 21, or multiple battery monitoring devices 30 may be provided for one battery block 21.

[0136] In the above embodiment, one monitoring IC 31 is provided for each battery monitoring device 30, but multiple monitoring ICs 31 may be provided. In this case, a wireless IC 32 may be provided for each monitoring IC 31, or one wireless IC 32 may be provided for multiple monitoring ICs 31. When one wireless IC 32 is provided for multiple monitoring ICs 31, the wireless IC 32 may transmit the battery information received from the monitoring ICs 31 separately, or may transmit the multiple pieces of battery information together.

[0137] In the above embodiment, one monitoring IC 31 is provided for the plurality of battery cells 22 . However, one monitoring IC 31 may be provided for one battery cell 22 .

[0138] In the above embodiment, the monitoring IC 31 collectively transmits the battery information of each battery cell 22 constituting the battery block 21 to be monitored, but the monitoring IC 31 may be configured to transmit the battery information of each battery cell 22 separately. Also, the monitoring IC 31 may be configured to transmit selected pieces of battery information of each battery cell 22 constituting the battery block 21 to be monitored. For example, as described above, the information of the battery cell 22 to be transmitted may be selected based on importance or environment.

[0139] In the above embodiment, the monitoring IC 31 protects all the battery information of each battery cell 22 constituting the battery block 21 to be monitored, but the battery information to be protected may be selected. For example, as described above, the information of the battery cells 22 to be protected may be selected based on importance or environment.

[0140] In the above embodiment, a plurality of battery control devices 40 may be provided.

[0141] In the above embodiment, it is not necessary to perform wireless communication with all the battery monitoring devices 30, and wired communication may be performed with some of the battery monitoring devices 30. For example, when the distance between the battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40 is long and a transparent portion is disposed between them, making the wireless communication environment poor, they may be connected for wired communication.

[0142] In the above embodiment, the protection mechanism 38 for protecting the battery information is provided in the monitoring IC 31, but it may also be provided in the wireless IC 32.

[0143] In the above embodiment, the wireless ICs 32 and 42 inspect and protect the wireless control information, but they may inspect and protect message data including battery information in the same manner. They may also inspect and protect data units in the same manner. This makes it possible to transmit and receive battery information more reliably.

[0144] In the above embodiment, the wireless ICs 32, 42 may perform a timeout check of wireless data between them. In this case, the time from transmission to reception that results in a timeout may be different from the timeout check performed between the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41. Specifically, the time that results in a timeout in communication between the wireless ICs 32, 42 may be shorter than the time that results in a timeout in communication between the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41.

[0145] In other words, the timeout check between the wireless ICs 32 and 42 is mainly for ensuring the reliability of wireless data, such as by detecting that the wireless data is correct and there is no delay and retransmitting it. For this reason, it is desirable to check every time wireless data is transmitted and received. On the other hand, as long as the battery information is transmitted and received correctly between the time when the abnormality occurs and the time when the dangerous state occurs, there is more time to do so than in the communication between the wireless ICs 32 and 42. For this reason, the time when the communication between the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41 times out may be made longer than the time when the communication between the wireless ICs 32 and 42 times out.

[0146] In the above embodiment, the wireless ICs 32, 42 may check the IDs of the wireless ICs 32, 42 between each other. In this case, the frequency (cycle) of checking the ID numbers of the wireless ICs 32, 42 may be different from the ID check performed between the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41. Specifically, the cycle of the ID check in the communication between the wireless ICs 32, 42 may be shorter than the cycle of the ID check performed between the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41.

[0147] That is, the ID check between the wireless ICs 32 and 42 is mainly for ensuring the reliability of the wireless data, such as by detecting that the source of the wireless data is correct and there is no crosstalk. For this reason, it is desirable to check every time the wireless data is transmitted and received. On the other hand, the battery information only needs to be transmitted and received correctly between the time when the abnormality occurs and the time when the dangerous state occurs, and there is a margin compared to the communication between the wireless ICs 32 and 42. For this reason, the cycle for performing the ID check in the communication between the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41 may be longer than the cycle for performing the ID check in the communication between the wireless ICs 32 and 42. This makes it possible to omit the ID number and reduce the amount of wireless data.

[0148] In the above embodiment, the wireless ICs 32 and 42 may perform a cyclic redundancy check (CRC) of wireless data between them. In this case, it is not necessary to check the data units, and CRC may be performed only on the communication control information. Of course, CRC may also be performed between the wireless ICs 32 and 42, including battery information.

[0149] In this case, the frequency (cycle) of performing CRC between the wireless ICs 32, 42 may be different from the cycle of performing CRC between the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41. Specifically, the cycle of performing CRC between the wireless ICs 32, 42 may be shorter than the cycle of performing CRC between the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41.

[0150] That is, the CRC between the wireless ICs 32 and 42 is mainly for ensuring the reliability of the wireless data, such as by detecting that the contents of the wireless data are correct without any errors. For this reason, it is desirable to check the wireless data every time it is transmitted and received. On the other hand, the battery information only needs to be transmitted and received correctly between the time when an abnormality occurs and the time when a dangerous state occurs, and there is a margin compared to the communication between the wireless ICs 32 and 42. For this reason, the cycle for performing the CRC in the communication between the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41 may be longer than the cycle for performing the CRC in the communication between the wireless ICs 32 and 42. This makes it possible to omit the CRC data and reduce the amount of wireless data.

[0151] In the above embodiment, the wireless ICs 32, 42 may perform a sequence check of wireless data between them. In this case, the frequency (period) of performing the sequence check between the wireless ICs 32, 42 may be different from the execution period of the sequence check performed between the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41. Specifically, the period of performing the sequence check between the wireless ICs 32, 42 may be shorter than the period of performing the sequence check between the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41.

[0152] That is, the sequence check between the wireless ICs 32 and 42 is mainly for ensuring the reliability of the wireless data, such as detecting the absence of data delays or data loss. For this reason, it is desirable to check the wireless data every time it is transmitted and received. On the other hand, the battery information only needs to be transmitted and received correctly between the time when an abnormality occurs and before a dangerous state is reached, and there is more time to do so than in the communication between the wireless ICs 32 and 42. For this reason, the period for performing the sequence check in the communication between the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41 may be longer than the period for performing the sequence check in the communication between the wireless ICs 32 and 42. This allows the amount of wireless data to be reduced by omitting the sequence number.

[0153] In the above embodiment, a thin-walled portion having a smaller thickness than other portions may be formed in a part of the housing 50. The thin-walled portion may be a transparent portion that allows radio waves to pass through. Providing the thin-walled portion allows the housing 50 to be made lighter. However, the thin-walled portion is structurally easy for radio waves to pass through, and the positions where the thin-walled portion can be formed are determined to some extent in terms of the strength of the housing 50. For this reason, depending on the arrangement of the wireless antennas 33 and 43, the housing 50 may be easily affected by external radio waves. Therefore, in a housing 50 having a thin-walled portion, it is necessary to provide the protection mechanisms 38 and 48 so that the battery information can be transmitted and received reliably.

[0154] In the above embodiment, at least a part or the whole of the housing 50 may be made of resin. The resin part may be a transparent part that allows radio waves to pass through. By using resin, the weight of the housing 50 can be reduced. However, when the housing 50 is made of resin, radio waves tend to pass through it, and in order to reduce the weight, it is desirable to make most of the housing 50 out of resin. This makes the housing 50 susceptible to the influence of external radio waves. Therefore, in the resin housing 50, it is necessary to provide the protection mechanisms 38, 48 so that the battery information can be transmitted and received reliably.

[0155] In the above embodiment, an inspection is also performed on the communication layer between the wireless IC 32 and the wireless IC 42. However, this does not have to be the case if an inspection of the data unit is performed between the monitoring IC 31 and the battery control MCU 41.

[0156] In the above embodiment, the communication control information is inspected between the wireless IC 32 and the wireless IC 42. However, it is also possible to inspect not only the communication control information but also both the communication control information and the data unit. This makes it possible to perform wireless communication more reliably.

[0157] In the above embodiment, an error in message data including battery information and commands is detected by a cyclic redundancy check (CRC), but other detection methods may be used. For example, a parity check, a checksum, a hash, etc. may be used. Also, in addition to error detection, an error detection and correction code may be used to detect an error and then correct the error.

[0158] In the above embodiment, a sequence number is included in the test data, and sequence checks and timeout checks are performed based on the sequence number. As another example, time information such as a transmission time or a timestamp may be included in the test data, and sequence checks and timeout checks may be performed based on the time information.

[0159] In the above embodiment, the battery control MCU 41 instructs the monitoring IC 31 to obtain and return battery information, and the monitoring IC 31 obtains and transmits the battery information accordingly. As another example, the monitoring IC 31 may obtain and transmit battery information at a predetermined transmission timing according to a predetermined communication schedule. In this case, the battery control MCU 41 stores the same communication schedule as the transmitting side, and checks whether or not battery information is received at a predetermined reception timing according to the communication schedule. This reduces the amount of communication and the possibility of communication errors.

[0160] In the above embodiment, the wireless antennas 33, 43 are disposed facing each other within the housing 50 so as to be able to transmit and receive the direct wave Rd. In another embodiment, the arrangement of the wireless antennas 33, 43 may be changed as desired, and for example, a shield that blocks radio waves, such as the battery cell 22, may be disposed between the wireless antennas 33 and 43. Even in this case, it is sufficient to receive the reflected wave by utilizing the housing 50 or the like.

[0161] In the above embodiment, a pressure regulating valve for adjusting the air pressure inside the housing 50 may be provided in the housing 50. This pressure regulating valve may be a transmitting portion that allows the transmission of radio waves.

[0162] In the above embodiment, the protection mechanisms 38, 48 may select whether or not to protect (inspect) the battery information depending on the state (voltage, SOC, temperature) of the battery cell 22 to be monitored.

[0163] For example, if the voltage, temperature, or SOC of the battery cell 22 is outside a predetermined allowable range, charging or discharging may not be performed properly. Therefore, if the voltage, temperature, or SOC of the battery cell 22 is near the upper or lower limit of the allowable range (within a predetermined range based on the upper or lower limit), when battery information is transmitted and received between the monitoring IC 31 that monitors the battery cell 22 and the battery control MCU 41, it is desirable to protect the battery information by inspecting whether the battery information is transmitted and received correctly.

[0164] Furthermore, for example, if battery information of a battery cell 22 has not been received for a predetermined period of time or longer, when the battery information is transmitted and received between the monitoring IC 31 that monitors that battery cell 22 and the battery control MCU 41, it is desirable to check whether the battery information is transmitted and received correctly in order to protect the battery information.

[0165] In the above embodiment, the shape of the casing 50, the arrangement of the battery cells 22, the arrangement of the battery block 21, the arrangement of the battery monitoring device 30, and the arrangement of the battery control device 40 may be changed as desired. In this case, the number, arrangement, and shape of the explosion-proof valve 55, the seal member 54, the service plug SP56, the thin portion, or the transparent portion which is a resin portion may be changed as desired. For example, they may be changed as shown in Figs. 15 to 20. In Figs. 15 to 20, the battery monitoring device 30 is indicated as "CSC" and the battery control device 40 is indicated as "BMU".

[0166] In Fig. 15, a housing 50 that is C-shaped in a plan view is used. In Fig. 15, a plurality of battery blocks 21 are arranged on the left and right, and the left and right battery blocks 21 are connected via a center portion. The battery control device 40 is arranged on the left side of Fig. 15. In such a configuration, when performing wireless communication, the battery monitoring device 30 arranged on the right side of the housing 50 basically needs to perform wireless communication by using reflected waves.

[0167] However, when a transparent part is provided in the housing 50, for example, when a transparent part such as an explosion-proof valve 55 is provided in the central part where the reflected wave is expected to pass through reliably as shown in Fig. 15, radio waves from the outside passing through the transparent part may affect wireless communication. Alternatively, the reflected wave may pass through the transparent part and escape to the outside, affecting wireless communication. Therefore, it is desirable to provide the protection mechanisms 38 and 48 as in the above embodiment so that wireless communication can be performed reliably.

[0168] In Fig. 15, it is desirable that the protection mechanism 38 is provided at least for the battery monitoring device 30 on the right side, which is considered to have a large effect on wireless communication due to external radio waves. In Fig. 15, the explosion-proof valve 55 is illustrated as the transparent part, but even if other transparent parts such as the service plug SP56, the connector 58, or a thin part are provided, wireless communication may be affected in the same way. In addition, although the transparent part is illustrated as being provided in the center, since it is not known what path the reflected wave will take to be transmitted and received, wireless communication may be affected no matter where the transparent part is provided in the housing 50.

[0169] As shown in Fig. 16, the battery monitoring device 30 may be disposed at one end in the longitudinal direction of each battery block 21. The battery blocks 21 do not need to be disposed in a row, and may be disposed separately on the left and right. If a transparent portion such as an explosion-proof valve 55 is provided in the center of the housing 50, the transparent portion will be disposed on a path that linearly connects the battery monitoring device 30 on the right side in Fig. 16 and the battery control device 40 (i.e., the transmission path of wireless communication). In this case as well, wireless communication may be affected by external radio waves that pass through the transparent portion.

[0170] However, by providing the protection mechanisms 38 and 48 as in the above embodiment, wireless communication can be ensured. In Fig. 16, it is desirable to provide the protection mechanism 38 at least for the right battery monitoring device 30, which is likely to be affected greatly by external radio waves on wireless communication. In Fig. 16, the explosion-proof valve 55 is illustrated as a transparent part, but other transparent parts such as a service plug SP56 may be provided.

[0171] 17, the battery monitoring devices 30 may be disposed at one end of each battery block 21 in the longitudinal direction, and may be disposed together in the center of the housing 50. Also, the battery blocks 21 do not need to be disposed in a line, and may be disposed separately on the left and right. Also, in each battery block 21, the battery cells 22 may be disposed separately on the left and right.

[0172] In FIG. 17, when a transparent part such as the explosion-proof valve 55 is provided in the center of the housing 50, the transparent part is arranged on a path (i.e., a transmission path of wireless communication) that linearly connects the upper battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40 in FIG. 17. In this case, wireless communication may be affected by external radio waves that pass through the transparent part. However, by providing the protection mechanisms 38 and 48 as in the above embodiment, wireless communication can be performed reliably. In FIG. 17, the protection mechanism 38 is desirably provided at least for the upper battery monitoring device 30 that is likely to be greatly affected by external radio waves on wireless communication. In FIG. 17, the explosion-proof valve 55 is illustrated as an example of the transparent part, but other transparent parts such as a service plug SP56 may be provided.

[0173] As shown in Fig. 18, the battery monitoring devices 30 may be disposed on the short side surface of each battery block 21, and may be disposed so as to be lined up in the long direction of each battery block 21. In Fig. 18, when a transparent portion such as an explosion-proof valve 55 is provided in the center of the housing 50, the transparent portion is disposed on a path that linearly connects the upper battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40 in Fig. 18 (i.e., the transmission path of wireless communication). In this case as well, wireless communication may be affected by external radio waves that pass through the transparent portion.

[0174] However, by providing the protection mechanisms 38 and 48 as in the above embodiment, wireless communication can be performed reliably. In Fig. 18, it is desirable to provide the protection mechanism 38 at least for the upper battery monitoring device 30, which is likely to have a large effect on wireless communication due to external radio waves. In Fig. 18, the explosion-proof valve 55 is illustrated as an example of a transparent part, but other transparent parts such as a service plug SP56 may be provided.

[0175] As shown in Fig. 19, one battery monitoring device 30 may be provided for two battery blocks 21. In Fig. 19, when a transparent portion such as an explosion-proof valve 55 is provided in the center of the housing 50, the transparent portion is disposed on a path (i.e., a transmission path for wireless communication) that linearly connects the battery monitoring device 30 on the left side in Fig. 19 and the battery control device 40. In this case as well, wireless communication may be affected by external radio waves that pass through the transparent portion.

[0176] However, by providing the protection mechanisms 38 and 48 as in the above embodiment, wireless communication can be ensured. In Fig. 19, it is desirable to provide the protection mechanism 38 at least for the left battery monitoring device 30, which is likely to be affected greatly by external radio waves on wireless communication. In Fig. 19, the explosion-proof valve 55 is illustrated as an example of the transparent part, but other transparent parts such as a service plug SP56 may be provided.

[0177] As shown in Fig. 20, the battery blocks 21 may be connected in parallel to form the battery pack 20. In Fig. 20, if a transparent portion such as an explosion-proof valve 55 is provided in the center of the housing 50, the transparent portion will be disposed on a path that linearly connects the upper battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40 in Fig. 20 (i.e., the transmission path for wireless communication). In this case as well, wireless communication may be affected by external radio waves that pass through the transparent portion.

[0178] However, by providing the protection mechanisms 38 and 48 as in the above embodiment, wireless communication can be performed reliably. In Fig. 20, it is desirable to provide the protection mechanism 38 at least for the upper battery monitoring device 30 where external radio waves are likely to have a large effect on wireless communication. In Fig. 20, the explosion-proof valve 55 is illustrated as an example of the transparent part, but other transparent parts such as a service plug SP56 may be provided.

[0179] In the above embodiment, a cell having a laminated structure (hereinafter, referred to as a laminated cell 122) may be adopted as the battery cell 22. In this case, the shape of the housing 50, the arrangement of the laminated cell 122, the arrangement of the cell stack 121, the arrangement of the battery monitoring device 30, and the arrangement of the battery control device 40 may be changed arbitrarily. The cell stack 121 is configured by connecting a plurality of laminated cells 122, and corresponds to the battery block 21. The number, arrangement, and shape of the explosion-proof valve 55, the seal member 54, the service plug SP56, the thin portion, or the transparent portion which is a resin portion may be changed arbitrarily. For example, it may be configured as shown in FIG. 21 to FIG. 22. In FIG. 21 to FIG. 22, the battery monitoring device 30 is indicated as "CSC" and the battery control device 40 is indicated as "BMU".

[0180] More specifically, as shown in Fig. 21, a plurality of laminate type cells 122 may be arranged in two rows, one on the left and one on the right, in the short side direction of the housing 50 (the left-right direction in Fig. 21) in a rectangular housing 50. In other words, the cell stacks 121 may be arranged in two rows. Therefore, in Fig. 21, a plurality of laminate type cells 122 are arranged in multiple rows along a predetermined arrangement direction (the longitudinal direction of the housing 50).

[0181] The battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40 may be disposed between (at the center of) the laminated cell 122 separated into left and right sides in the short-side direction. In other words, the wireless antennas 33, 43 of the battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40 may be disposed along the arrangement direction (the longitudinal direction of the housing 50) between the arranged laminated cells 122.

[0182] As a result, the battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40 are arranged on a path formed in a straight line along the longitudinal direction (the up-down direction in FIG. 21) at the center of the short side of the housing 50. Therefore, the wireless antennas 33, 43 can be arranged along the straight path, and radio waves can be reliably propagated. In other words, the straight central path becomes the transmission path for wireless communication. Note that, since the wireless communication transmission path formed in the center in the short side direction is surrounded by the cell stacks 121 on the left and right, it is easy to block external radio waves even if a transparent portion such as a seal member 54 is provided on the side wall of the housing 50.

[0183] 21, the service plug SP and the explosion-proof valve 55 are arranged on a wireless communication transmission path (a straight line connecting the battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40) formed in the center, as indicated by the dashed line. In other words, the service plug SP, the explosion-proof valve 55, and the wireless antennas 33, 43 are arranged in a line along the longitudinal direction of the housing 50. For this reason, there is a possibility that external radio waves may enter through the service plug SP and the explosion-proof valve 55, interfering with wireless communication.

[0184] 21, from the viewpoint of ease of installation and workability, the service plug SP, the battery monitoring device 30, and the battery control device 40 are arranged on the upper side of the housing 50. This means that external radio waves entering through the service plug SP or the explosion-proof valve 55 are likely to interfere with wireless communication between the battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40. However, by providing the protection mechanisms 38, 48 as in the above embodiment, wireless communication can be performed reliably.

[0185] The rectangular housing 50 is arranged so that the longitudinal direction is along the front-rear direction of the vehicle 10 and the lateral direction is along the left-right direction, but may be arranged in any other manner. In Fig. 21, it is assumed that the housing 50 is attached to the body of the vehicle 10, specifically, below the seat. The laminated cells 122 may be stacked in the vertical direction.

[0186] 22, for example, the cell stacks 121 may be arranged in multiple rows in a rectangular housing 50. The battery control device 40 is arranged on one side in the longitudinal direction of the housing 50. In this case, the battery control device 40 is arranged on the central side in the lateral direction of the housing 50. Meanwhile, the battery monitoring devices 30 are arranged on both the left and right sides, outside the cell stacks 121 in the lateral direction.

[0187] As indicated by the dashed line, the service plug SP is provided on the top surface of the housing 50, on one side in the longitudinal direction of the housing 50 (the side of the battery control device 40). The service plug SP is also disposed on the center side in the lateral direction of the housing 50. As a result, the service plug SP and the battery control device 40 are disposed in close proximity to each other, and there is a possibility that external radio waves may interfere with wireless communication via the service plug SP. However, by providing the protection mechanisms 38, 48 as in the above embodiment, wireless communication can be performed reliably.

[0188] 22 is attached to the body of the vehicle 10 so that its longitudinal direction is along the front-rear direction of the vehicle and its lateral direction is along the left-right direction. More specifically, the battery pack 11 is provided in a lower portion of the passenger compartment space in which the seats of the vehicle 10 are provided. The service plug SP is provided on the upper surface of the housing 50, making it easy to reach the service plug SP from inside the vehicle compartment.

[0189] Furthermore, a propagation space for radio waves used for wireless communication is formed between the upper surfaces of the battery cells 22 and the upper surface of the housing 50. That is, the wireless antennas 33, 43 of the battery control device 40 and the battery monitoring device 30 are arranged to protrude above the cell stack 121 in the vertical direction. This makes it possible to prevent the cell stack 121 from interfering with wireless communication.

[0190] The laminated cells 122 constituting the cell stack 121 have a flat laminate structure and are stacked in the vertical direction, making it easy to adjust the dimensions in the vertical direction. Therefore, the height dimension of the battery cells 22 can be easily adjusted so that the upper surfaces of the battery cells 22 do not protrude beyond the wireless antennas 33, 43 in the vertical direction. As a result, convenience can be improved when the battery cells 22 are mounted in a vehicle with mounting restrictions.

[0191] Moreover, the battery monitoring device 30 is disposed on the outer periphery of the cell stack 121. That is, the battery monitoring device 30 is disposed closer to the side surface 53 of the housing 50 than the cell stack 121. This makes it possible to reduce radio interference between the devices. Furthermore, by disposing the battery monitoring device 30 on the outer periphery, the wireless antenna 33 can be easily attached, and manufacturing can be performed efficiently. In particular, in a battery pack 11 having high-voltage lines, disposing the wireless antenna 33 on the outer periphery allows the wireless antenna 33 to be safely attached. The battery control device 40 may also be disposed on the outer periphery of the cell stack 121. Similar effects can be obtained.

[0192] 6, the seal member 54 is formed along the outer periphery of the housing 50. That is, the seal member 54 is provided so as to follow the battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40 arranged on the outer periphery side. Therefore, the seal member 54 is provided in the vicinity of the battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40, and external radio waves passing through the seal member 54 are likely to affect the battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40. However, by providing the protection mechanisms 38, 48 as in the above embodiment, wireless communication can be reliably performed.

[0193] 22, wireless communication is performed between the battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40, which allows for a reduction in the number of wire harnesses and other components, thereby making the device more compact. Furthermore, the use of a laminated cell 122 having a laminate structure makes it easy to adjust the height. Therefore, when the battery pack 11 is installed below the passenger compartment of the vehicle 10 where the seats are located, the passenger compartment can be made larger.

[0194] Furthermore, when a thin laminated cell 122 is used, the battery monitoring device 30 and the battery control device 40 may be disposed above the laminated cell 122 in the vertical direction.

[0195] In the above embodiment, the vertical direction is the Z direction, but the Z direction may be changed as desired. For example, the thickness direction of the surface (housing cover 52 in the above embodiment) on which the transparent portion (for example, explosion-proof valve 55 in the above embodiment) is provided may be set as the Z direction. The X direction and Y direction may also be changed as desired based on the Z direction.

[0196] The control unit and the method described in the present disclosure may be realized by a special-purpose computer provided by configuring a processor and a memory programmed to execute one or more functions embodied in a computer program. Alternatively, the control unit and the method described in the present disclosure may be realized by a special-purpose computer provided by configuring a processor with one or more dedicated hardware logic circuits. Alternatively, the control unit and the method described in the present disclosure may be realized by one or more special-purpose computers configured by a combination of a processor and a memory programmed to execute one or more functions and a processor configured with one or more hardware logic circuits. In addition, the computer program may be stored in a computer-readable non-transitory tangible recording medium as instructions executed by a computer.

[0197] The disclosure in this specification is not limited to the exemplified embodiments. The disclosure includes the exemplified embodiments and modifications based thereon by those skilled in the art. For example, the disclosure is not limited to the combination of parts and / or elements shown in the embodiments. The disclosure can be implemented by various combinations. The disclosure can have additional parts that can be added to the embodiments. The disclosure includes the omission of parts and / or elements of the embodiments. The disclosure includes the substitution or combination of parts and / or elements between one embodiment and another embodiment. The disclosed technical scope is not limited to the description of the embodiments. Some disclosed technical scopes are indicated by the description of the claims, and should be interpreted as including all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the description of the claims.

[0198] Characteristic configurations extracted from each of the above-described embodiments will be described below. [Configuration 1] A battery pack (11) including batteries (20, 21, 22), a battery monitoring device (30) that monitors the state of the batteries, a battery control device (40) that wirelessly communicates with the battery monitoring device, acquires battery information that is a monitoring result by the battery monitoring device, and executes various controls, and a housing (50) that houses the batteries, the battery monitoring device, and the battery control device, At least a part of the housing is provided with a transmission portion (54, 55, SP56) that allows transmission of radio waves, The battery pack includes a protection mechanism (38, 48) provided in the battery monitoring device and the battery control device for protecting the battery information when wireless communication is performed. [Configuration 2] The battery monitoring device includes a monitoring unit (31) that monitors a state of the battery, and a monitoring-side wireless IC (32) that transmits and receives data to and from the monitoring unit and is capable of wireless communication; The battery control device includes a control unit (41) that performs various controls, and a control-side wireless IC (42) that transmits and receives data to and from the control unit and is capable of performing wireless communication, The protection mechanism is provided in each of the monitoring unit and the control unit, 2. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the battery information is protected by the protection mechanisms on the transmitting and receiving sides cooperating to check whether the battery information is correctly transmitted and received. [Configuration 3] the protection mechanism of the monitoring unit generates an error detection code for detecting an error in the battery information when the battery information is transmitted, based on the battery information; the monitoring unit generates a data unit including at least the error detection code and the battery information, and transmits the data unit to the monitoring-side wireless IC; the monitoring-side wireless IC receives the data unit from the monitoring unit and wirelessly transmits the data unit; the control-side wireless IC wirelessly receives the data unit and transmits the data unit to the control unit; the protection mechanism of the control unit checks whether or not there is an error in the battery information of the data unit received from the control-side wireless IC based on an error detection code of the data unit; 3. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein the control unit acquires the battery information from the data unit after the inspection by the protection mechanism. [Configuration 4] The protection mechanism of the monitoring unit acquires identification information indicating a source of the battery information when the battery information is transmitted, the monitoring unit generates a data unit including at least the identification information and the battery information, and transmits the data unit to the monitoring-side wireless IC; the monitoring-side wireless IC receives the data unit from the monitoring unit and wirelessly transmits the data unit; the control-side wireless IC wirelessly receives the data unit and transmits the data unit to the control unit; the protection mechanism of the control unit performs an inspection of a transmission source based on identification information included in the data unit received from the control-side wireless IC; The battery pack according to configuration 2 or 3, wherein the control unit acquires the battery information from the data unit after the inspection by the protection mechanism. [Configuration 5] The protection mechanism of the monitoring unit generates sequence information indicating a transmission timing according to a predetermined rule when the battery information is transmitted, the monitoring unit generates a data unit including at least the sequence information and the battery information, and transmits the data unit to the monitoring-side wireless IC at a predetermined transmission timing in accordance with a predetermined rule; the monitoring-side wireless IC receives the data unit from the monitoring unit and wirelessly transmits the data unit; the control-side wireless IC wirelessly receives the data unit and transmits the data unit to the control unit; the protection mechanism of the control unit checks whether the data unit has been received at a predetermined reception timing based on sequence information included in the data unit received from the control-side wireless IC; 5. The battery pack according to any one of configurations 2 to 4, wherein the control unit acquires the battery information from the data unit after the inspection by the protection mechanism. [Configuration 6] the monitoring-side wireless IC generates wireless data by adding communication control information necessary for wireless communication and communication protection data for inspecting and protecting the communication control information to the data unit received from the control unit, and wirelessly transmits the wireless data; A battery pack described in any one of configurations 2 to 5, wherein when the control side wireless IC receives wireless data, it inspects the communication control information of the wireless data based on the communication protection data of the wireless data, then acquires a data unit of the wireless data and transmits it to the control unit. [Configuration 7] The battery pack according to any one of configurations 2 to 6, wherein the monitoring wireless IC is configured to acquire the battery information from each of the multiple monitoring units and transmit the battery information collectively by wireless. [Configuration 8] 8. The battery pack according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein the battery information includes at least one of temperature information, voltage information, and self-diagnosis information of the battery. [Configuration 9] The transmission portion is provided on any one of the surfaces (52, 53) constituting the housing, A battery pack described in any one of configurations 1 to 8, wherein, in a specified direction, the transparent portion overlaps with a transmission path of wireless communication connecting a wireless antenna (33) of the battery monitoring device and a wireless antenna (43) of the battery control device. [Configuration 10] A plurality of the battery monitoring devices are provided, The transmission portion is provided on any one of the surfaces (52, 53) constituting the housing, A battery pack as described in any one of configurations 1 to 8, wherein, in a specified direction, the transparent portion overlaps with a transmission path of wireless communication connecting a wireless antenna of any one of the battery monitoring devices to a wireless antenna of the battery control device, and at least the battery monitoring device is provided with the protection mechanism. [Configuration 11] A battery pack described in any one of configurations 1 to 8, wherein either one of the wireless antennas equipped in the battery monitoring device and the battery control device is arranged within the range of the projection dimensions of the transparent portion in a specified direction, or a transmission path for wireless communication connecting the wireless antenna of the battery monitoring device and the wireless antenna of the battery control device passes within the range of the projection dimensions. [Configuration 12] 12. The battery pack according to any one of configurations 9 to 11, wherein the predetermined direction is a thickness direction of a surface of the casing on which the transmissive portion is provided. [Configuration 13] The battery pack is mounted on a vehicle (10), The transmitting portion is provided on a surface (52, 53) of the housing other than an installation surface (51) that is installed in a vehicle, A battery pack described in any one of configurations 1 to 12, wherein either one of the radio antennas equipped in the battery monitoring device and the battery control device faces the surface on which the transparent portion is provided, and the battery monitoring device and the battery control device equipped with at least the radio antenna are provided with the protection mechanism. [Configuration 14] 14. The battery pack according to any one of configurations 1 to 13, wherein the wireless antennas of the battery monitoring device and the battery control device are disposed opposite each other within a housing so as to be capable of transmitting and receiving direct waves. [Configuration 15] 15. The battery pack according to any one of configurations 1 to 14, wherein the transmission portion is provided to sandwich either one of the battery monitoring device and the radio antenna of the battery control device in a specific direction. [Configuration 16] 16. The battery pack according to any one of configurations 1 to 15, wherein the transmission portion is provided over an entire transmission path for wireless communication connecting the wireless antenna of the battery monitoring device and the wireless antenna of the battery control device. [Configuration 17] 17. The battery pack according to any one of configurations 1 to 16, wherein, when viewed from a specific direction, the transmission portion is provided so as to surround a radio antenna provided in the battery monitoring device and the battery control device. [Configuration 18] 18. The battery pack according to any one of configurations 1 to 17, wherein the transmission portion is arranged at the same height in the vertical direction as either one of the battery monitoring device and the radio antenna of the battery control device. [Configuration 19] A plurality of batteries are arranged in a plurality of rows along a predetermined arrangement direction, The battery pack according to any one of configurations 1 to 18, wherein the wireless antennas of the battery monitoring device and the battery control device are arranged along the arrangement direction between the plurality of arranged batteries. [Configuration 20] 20. The battery pack according to claim 19, wherein the wireless antenna and the transmission portion are arranged side by side along an arrangement direction. [Configuration 21] 21. The battery pack according to any one of configurations 1 to 20, wherein the transmission portion, the battery monitoring device, and the battery control device are disposed on an upper side in a vertical direction of the casing. [Configuration 22] 19. The battery pack according to any one of configurations 1 to 18, wherein either the battery monitoring device or the battery control device is provided closer to the casing than the battery. [Configuration 23] 23. The battery pack according to any one of configurations 1 to 22, wherein either the battery monitoring device or the battery control device is disposed along the transmission portion. [Configuration 24] 24. The battery pack according to any one of configurations 1 to 23, wherein the battery is a laminated cell (122), and the battery pack is disposed below a vehicle seat in the up-down direction. [Configuration 25] The battery pack according to any one of configurations 1 to 24, wherein the transmission portion is an explosion-proof valve (55) for releasing gas inside the housing, a service plug (SP56) for disconnecting the electrical connection between the battery and the outside, or a sealing member (54) for sealing a gap in the housing. [Configuration 26] The battery pack according to any one of configurations 1 to 25, wherein a thin portion having a thickness smaller than other portions is formed in a part of the casing, and the thin portion corresponds to a transparent portion. [Configuration 27] 27. The battery pack according to any one of configurations 1 to 26, wherein at least a part or the whole of the casing is made of resin, and the part made of resin corresponds to a transparent portion. [Configuration 28] A communication method executed by a battery control device of a battery pack (11) including batteries (20, 21, 22), a battery monitoring device (30) that monitors the state of the batteries, a battery control device (40) that performs wireless communication between the battery monitoring device, acquires battery information that is a monitoring result by the battery monitoring device, and executes various controls, and a housing (50) that houses the batteries, the battery monitoring device, and the battery control device, At least a part of the housing is provided with a transmission portion (54, 55, SP56) that allows transmission of radio waves, When wireless communication is performed, the battery information transmitted wirelessly is provided with inspection data for inspecting the battery information by the battery monitoring device, A communication method in which, when the battery control device receives the battery information from the battery monitoring device, it checks whether the battery information is transmitted and received correctly using the inspection data added to the battery information. [Explanation of symbols]

[0199] Reference Signs List 11: battery pack, 20: assembled battery, 21: battery block, 22: battery cell, 30: battery monitoring device, 38: protection mechanism, 40: battery control device, 48: protection mechanism, 54: sealing member, 55: explosion-proof valve, SP56: service plug.

Claims

1. A battery pack (11) including batteries (20, 21, 22), a battery monitoring device (30) that monitors the state of the batteries, a battery control device (40) that performs wireless communication with the battery monitoring device, acquires battery information that is a monitoring result by the battery monitoring device, and executes various controls, and a housing (50) that houses the batteries, the battery monitoring device, and the battery control device, a transmission section (54, 55, SP56) that allows radio waves to pass through is provided in the housing at a position that does not overlap with a linear transmission path of wireless communication connecting the battery control device and the battery monitoring device, the battery monitoring device and the battery control device are provided with a protection mechanism (38, 48) for protecting the battery information when performing wireless communication; the battery information includes a plurality of types of information, and the battery information protected by the protection mechanism is a selected portion of the plurality of types of information included in the battery information, A battery pack in which voltage information or SOC of the battery information is protected by the protection mechanism, while temperature information of the battery information is not protected by the protection mechanism.

2. A battery pack (11) including batteries (20, 21, 22), a battery monitoring device (30) that monitors the state of the batteries, a battery control device (40) that performs wireless communication with the battery monitoring device, acquires battery information that is a monitoring result by the battery monitoring device, and executes various controls, and a housing (50) that houses the batteries, the battery monitoring device, and the battery control device, a plurality of the batteries are housed in the housing, and the battery monitoring device is disposed between the batteries; the battery monitoring device and the battery control device are provided with a protection mechanism (38, 48) for protecting the battery information when performing wireless communication; the battery information includes a plurality of types of information, and the battery information protected by the protection mechanism is a selected portion of the plurality of types of information included in the battery information, A battery pack in which voltage information or SOC of the battery information is protected by the protection mechanism, while temperature information of the battery information is not protected by the protection mechanism.

3. A battery pack (11) including batteries (20, 21, 22), a battery monitoring device (30) that monitors the state of the batteries, a battery control device (40) that performs wireless communication with the battery monitoring device, acquires battery information that is a monitoring result by the battery monitoring device, and executes various controls, and a housing (50) that houses the batteries, the battery monitoring device, and the battery control device, a transmission section (54, 55, SP56) that allows radio waves to pass through is provided in the housing at a position that does not overlap with a linear transmission path of wireless communication connecting the battery control device and the battery monitoring device, The battery monitoring device includes a monitoring unit (31) that monitors a state of the battery, and a monitoring-side wireless IC (32) that transmits and receives data to and from the monitoring unit and is capable of wireless communication; The battery control device includes a control unit (41) that executes various controls, and a control-side wireless IC (42) that transmits and receives data between the control unit and the control unit and is capable of executing wireless communication; the battery monitoring device and the battery control device are provided with a protection mechanism (38, 48) for protecting the battery information when performing wireless communication; the control-side wireless IC and the monitoring-side wireless IC are provided with a protection mechanism for protecting wireless data transmitted in wireless communication when performing wireless communication; a check is performed between the battery monitoring device and the battery control device as to whether battery information has been correctly transmitted and received, and a check is performed between the control-side wireless IC and the monitoring-side wireless IC as to whether wireless data has been correctly transmitted and received, A battery pack in which an inspection cycle between the battery monitoring device and the battery control device is longer than an inspection cycle between a control-side wireless IC and a monitoring-side wireless IC.

4. A battery pack (11) including batteries (20, 21, 22), a battery monitoring device (30) that monitors the state of the batteries, a battery control device (40) that performs wireless communication with the battery monitoring device, acquires battery information that is a monitoring result by the battery monitoring device, and executes various controls, and a housing (50) that houses the batteries, the battery monitoring device, and the battery control device, a plurality of the batteries are housed in the housing, and the battery monitoring device is disposed between the batteries; The battery monitoring device includes a monitoring unit (31) that monitors a state of the battery, and a monitoring-side wireless IC (32) that transmits and receives data to and from the monitoring unit and is capable of wireless communication; The battery control device includes a control unit (41) that executes various controls, and a control-side wireless IC (42) that transmits and receives data between the control unit and the control unit and is capable of executing wireless communication; the battery monitoring device and the battery control device are provided with a protection mechanism (38, 48) for protecting the battery information when performing wireless communication; the control-side wireless IC and the monitoring-side wireless IC are provided with a protection mechanism for protecting wireless data transmitted in wireless communication when performing wireless communication; a check is performed between the battery monitoring device and the battery control device as to whether battery information has been correctly transmitted and received, and a check is performed between the control-side wireless IC and the monitoring-side wireless IC as to whether wireless data has been correctly transmitted and received, A battery pack in which an inspection cycle between the battery monitoring device and the battery control device is longer than an inspection cycle between a control-side wireless IC and a monitoring-side wireless IC.

5. A battery pack (11) including batteries (20, 21, 22), a battery monitoring device (30) that monitors the state of the batteries, a battery control device (40) that performs wireless communication with the battery monitoring device, acquires battery information that is a monitoring result by the battery monitoring device, and executes various controls, and a housing (50) that houses the batteries, the battery monitoring device, and the battery control device, a plurality of the batteries are housed in the housing, and the battery monitoring device is disposed between the batteries; A battery pack in which a wireless antenna of the battery control device (40) is disposed inside the housing at a location other than between the batteries.

6. A battery pack (11) including batteries (20, 21, 22), a battery monitoring device (30) that monitors the state of the batteries, a battery control device (40) that performs wireless communication with the battery monitoring device, acquires battery information that is a monitoring result by the battery monitoring device, and executes various controls, and a housing (50) that houses the batteries, the battery monitoring device, and the battery control device, a plurality of the batteries are housed in the housing, and the battery monitoring device is disposed between the batteries; A transmission portion (54, 55, SP56) that allows radio waves to pass through is provided on a side wall of the housing, The battery pack is surrounded on the side of a wireless communication transmission path connecting the wireless antenna of the battery monitoring device and the wireless antenna of the battery control device by a cell stack (121).

7. A transmission portion (54, 55, SP56) that allows radio waves to pass through is provided on a side wall of the housing, A battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a side of a wireless communication transmission path connecting the wireless antenna of the battery monitoring device and the wireless antenna of the battery control device is surrounded by a cell stack (121).

8. 8. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the transparent portion is an explosion-proof valve (55) for releasing gas inside the housing, a service plug (SP56) for disconnecting an electrical connection between the battery and the outside, or a sealing member (54) for sealing a gap in the housing.

9. A battery pack according to any one of claims 1, 3, 6 and 7, wherein a thin-walled portion is formed in a part of the housing, the thin-walled portion being thinner than other parts, and the thin-walled portion corresponds to a transparent portion.

10. The battery pack according to claim 1 , wherein at least a part or the whole of the housing is made of resin, and the part made of resin corresponds to a transparent portion.

11. The battery monitoring device includes a monitoring unit (31) that monitors a state of the battery, and a monitoring-side wireless IC (32) that transmits and receives data to and from the monitoring unit and is capable of wireless communication; The battery control device includes a control unit (41) that executes various controls, and a control-side wireless IC (42) that transmits and receives data between the control unit and the control unit and is capable of executing wireless communication; the battery monitoring device and the battery control device are provided with a protection mechanism (38, 48) for protecting the battery information when performing wireless communication; The protection mechanism is provided in each of the monitoring unit and the control unit, A battery pack as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the battery information is protected by the protection mechanisms on the transmitting and receiving sides cooperating to check whether the battery information is transmitted and received correctly.

12. the protection mechanism of the monitoring unit generates an error detection code for detecting an error in the battery information when the battery information is transmitted, based on the battery information; the monitoring unit generates a data unit including at least the error detection code and the battery information, and transmits the data unit to the monitoring-side wireless IC; the monitoring-side wireless IC receives the data unit from the monitoring unit and wirelessly transmits the data unit; the control-side wireless IC wirelessly receives the data unit and transmits the data unit to the control unit; the protection mechanism of the control unit checks whether or not there is an error in the battery information of the data unit received from the control-side wireless IC based on an error detection code of the data unit; The battery pack according to claim 11 , wherein the control unit acquires the battery information from the data unit after the inspection by the protection mechanism.

13. The protection mechanism of the monitoring unit acquires identification information indicating a source of the battery information when the battery information is transmitted, the monitoring unit generates a data unit including at least the identification information and the battery information, and transmits the data unit to the monitoring-side wireless IC; the monitoring-side wireless IC receives the data unit from the monitoring unit and wirelessly transmits the data unit; the control-side wireless IC wirelessly receives the data unit and transmits the data unit to the control unit; The protection mechanism of the control unit performs an inspection of a transmission source based on identification information included in the data unit received from the control-side wireless IC, The battery pack according to claim 11 , wherein the control unit acquires the battery information from the data unit after the inspection by the protection mechanism.

14. The battery pack according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the monitoring wireless IC is configured to acquire the battery information from each of the monitoring units and transmit the battery information collectively wirelessly.

15. 15. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the battery information includes at least one of temperature information, voltage information, and self-diagnosis information of the battery.

16. The battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the wireless antennas of the battery monitoring device and the battery control device are arranged opposite each other within the housing so as to be capable of transmitting and receiving direct waves.

17. 17. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein either the battery monitoring device or the battery control device is provided closer to the casing than the battery.

18. 18. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the battery is a laminated cell (122), and the battery pack is disposed below a vehicle seat in a vertical direction.

19. A plurality of the batteries are arranged in a plurality of rows within the housing, The battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the antenna of the battery monitoring device is disposed between the rows of the batteries.

20. The battery pack according to claim 19 , wherein the wireless communication transmission path is formed linearly between the rows of the batteries.

21. The battery pack according to claim 20 , wherein the battery control device is disposed on the linear path or an extension of the linear path.

22. A plurality of the batteries are arranged in a plurality of rows within the housing, A linear path is formed between the rows of the aligned batteries, The battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein a service plug or an explosion-proof valve is arranged on the linear path or on an extension of the path.

23. The battery is housed in the housing in two or more separate compartments, The battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein a battery monitoring device for the battery arranged on one side of the housing and a battery monitoring device for the battery arranged on the other side of the housing are arranged facing each other toward the inside.

24. The battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the batteries form a cell stack.

Images