Auxiliary power supply system, module, auxiliary power supply control method, and program

Abstract

An auxiliary power supply system 1 according to the present invention is provided with a plurality of power storage devices 4 for supplying power to an electrical apparatus 3. The plurality of power storage devices 4 each have a communication function for communicating with the electrical apparatus 3. The plurality of power storage devices 4 each set, as an own communication address for use by the power storage device 4, one communication address selected from one or more unused communication addresses that are not being used among a plurality of communication addresses prepared for communicating with a communication partner.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an auxiliary power system, a module, an auxiliary power control method, and a program. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an auxiliary power system, a module, an auxiliary power control method, and a program that supply power to a backup target. [Background technology]

[0002] The in-vehicle power supply device (auxiliary power supply system) described in Patent Document 1 includes an electronic control unit, a battery (power storage device), and a capacitor. The battery supplies power to the electronic control unit. The capacitor functions as an auxiliary power supply, is connected between the battery and the electronic control unit, and supplies power to the electronic control unit when an abnormality occurs in the battery. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2005-14754 A Summary of the Invention

[0004] In the onboard power supply device described in Patent Document 1, when multiple power storage devices are provided, it is necessary to assign communication addresses to the multiple power storage devices in order to control the multiple power storage devices individually. Therefore, from the manufacturing stage of the power storage devices, it is necessary to manufacture and manage the multiple power storage devices by distinguishing them by their communication addresses. This can lead to cases where the inventory of each power storage device is insufficient or excessive depending on the communication addresses, making inventory management of each power storage device difficult.

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, an object of the present disclosure is to provide an auxiliary power supply system, a module, an auxiliary power supply control method, and a program that enable manufacturing and management of multiple power storage devices without distinguishing them by communication addresses.

[0006] An auxiliary power supply system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of power storage devices for supplying power to a backup target. Each of the plurality of power storage devices has a communication function for communicating with the same communication target. Each of the plurality of power storage devices sets one communication address selected from one or more unused communication addresses among a plurality of communication addresses prepared for communicating with the communication target as its own communication address. When the power storage device receives a start-up signal for starting up, the power storage device sets the communication address for itself from among the one or more unused communication addresses. The start-up signal is transmitted from the backup target to the multiple power storage devices in sequence. An auxiliary power supply system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of power storage devices for supplying power to a backup target. Each of the plurality of power storage devices has a communication function for communicating with the same communication target. Each of the plurality of power storage devices sets one communication address selected from one or more unused communication addresses among a plurality of communication addresses prepared for communicating with the communication target as its own communication address to be used by the power storage device. When the power storage device receives a start-up signal for starting the power storage device, the power storage device sets the own communication address from the one or more unused communication addresses. The start-up signal is transmitted from the backup target.

[0007] A module according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a module used as the power storage device of the auxiliary power supply system.

[0008] An auxiliary power control method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a method for controlling an auxiliary power system including a plurality of power storage devices for supplying power to a backup target. Each of the plurality of power storage devices has a communication function for communicating with the same communication target. The auxiliary power control method includes each of the plurality of power storage devices setting, as its own communication address, one communication address selected from one or more unused communication addresses among a plurality of communication addresses prepared for communicating with the communication target. When the power storage device receives a start-up signal for starting up, the power storage device sets the communication address for itself from among the one or more unused communication addresses. The start-up signal is transmitted from the backup target to the multiple power storage devices in sequence. An auxiliary power control method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is an auxiliary power control method for controlling an auxiliary power system including a plurality of power storage devices for supplying power to a backup target. Each of the plurality of power storage devices has a communication function for communicating with the same communication target. The auxiliary power control method includes each of the plurality of power storage devices setting, as its own communication address, one communication address selected from one or more unused communication addresses among a plurality of communication addresses prepared for communicating with the communication target. When the power storage device receives a start-up signal for starting up, the power storage device sets the own communication address from the one or more unused communication addresses. The start-up signal is transmitted from the backup target.

[0009] A program according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a program for causing one or more processors to execute the auxiliary power supply control method.

[0010] The present disclosure has an advantage that a plurality of power storage devices can be manufactured and managed without being differentiated by communication addresses. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an auxiliary power supply system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2]FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an electric device provided in the auxiliary power supply system. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a power storage device provided in the auxiliary power supply system. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of the auxiliary power supply system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] (Embodiment) (overview) The auxiliary power supply system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The configuration described in the present embodiment is merely one example of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the present embodiment, and various modifications can be made according to the design, etc., within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure.

[0013] 1, an auxiliary power supply system 1 is mounted on, for example, an automobile, and when an abnormality occurs in a main power supply 2 (such as an inability to supply power), the auxiliary power supply 5 supplies power to an electric device 3 instead of the main power supply 2. This allows the electric device 3 to continue operating using power supplied from the auxiliary power supply 5 even when power supply from the main power supply 2 becomes impossible. Note that, although the present embodiment illustrates an example in which the system is mounted on an automobile, the system may also be a moving body other than an automobile (such as an airplane, ship, or train).

[0014] In this embodiment, the auxiliary power supply 5 is composed of a plurality of power storage devices 4. This makes it possible to easily change the specifications (e.g., capacity or output voltage) of the auxiliary power supply 5 according to the specifications required by the vehicle in which it is mounted, by changing the number of the plurality of power storage devices 4. Also, a communication address is assigned to each of the plurality of power storage devices 4. This makes it possible to individually control the plurality of power storage devices 4, for example, by control from the electric device 3. Also, after the plurality of power storage devices 4 are connected to the auxiliary power supply system 1, a communication address is assigned to each of the plurality of power storage devices 4. This makes it possible to manufacture and manage the plurality of power storage devices 4 without distinguishing them by their communication addresses. As a result, it is possible to prevent the inventory of the power storage devices 4 from becoming excessive or insufficient due to the communication addresses, and makes it easier to manage the inventory of the power storage devices 4.

[0015] In this embodiment, the electrical device 3 is a backup target for the multiple power storage devices 4. Also, a case is illustrated in which the multiple power storage devices 4 supply power to the same backup target (electrical device 3). The configuration and operation of the auxiliary power supply system 1 will be described in detail below.

[0016] (composition) 1, the auxiliary power supply system 1 includes a main power supply 2, an electric device 3, and a plurality (e.g., three) of power storage devices 4 as auxiliary power supplies 5. The auxiliary power supply system 1 also includes a power supply line 6, a plurality (e.g., three) of signal lines 7, and a communication line 8. Note that at least one of the main power supply 2 and the electric device 3 does not necessarily need to be a component of the auxiliary power supply system 1. When distinguishing between the plurality of power storage devices 4, they will be referred to as power storage device 4A, power storage device 4B, power storage device 4C, and power storage device 4D.

[0017] (power supply line) The power supply path 6 is a path that supplies the output power of the main power supply 2 to the electric device 3 and the plurality of power storage devices 4. The power supply path 6 has a first power supply path 61 and a plurality of second power supply paths 62.

[0018] The first power supply path 61 is an electric path that directly supplies the output power of the main power source 2 to the electric device 3. The first power supply path 61 is provided so as to directly connect between the main power source 2 and the electric device 3. The second power supply paths 62 correspond one-to-one to the power storage devices 4, respectively, and are electric paths that supply the output power of the main power source 2 to the electric device 3 via the corresponding power storage devices 4. The second power supply paths 62 are provided so as to branch off from the first power supply path 61 and merge with the first power supply path 61 via the corresponding power storage devices 4. The second power supply path 62 has a third power supply path 62a and a fourth power supply path 62b. The third power supply path 62a is a portion that connects the power input portion of the power storage device 4 and the first power supply path 61. The fourth power supply path 62b is a portion that connects the power output portion of the power storage device 4 and the first power supply path 61. The third power supply line 62a is an electric path for supplying the output power of the main power source 2 to the power storage device 4. The fourth power supply line 62b is an electric path for supplying the output power of the power storage device 4 to the electric device 3.

[0019] (multiple signal lines) The multiple (e.g., three) signal lines 7 are electric paths for individually transmitting start-up signals from the electric device 3 to the multiple power storage devices 4. The start-up signal is a signal for starting up the power storage devices 4. The multiple signal lines 7 correspond one-to-one to the multiple power storage devices 4, and connect between the electric device 3 and the corresponding power storage devices 4.

[0020] (Communication line) The communication line 8 is an electric path for performing communication (for example, bus-type communication) between the electric device 3 and the multiple power storage devices 4. To the communication line 8, the electric device 3 and the multiple power storage devices 4 are connected.

[0021] (Main power) The main power supply 2 is, for example, a rechargeable storage battery (for example, a battery). The main power supply 2 supplies its output power to the electric device 3 via a first power supply path 61 and also supplies the output power to the plurality of power storage devices 4 via a plurality of second power supply paths 62.

[0022] (Electrical Equipment) The electric device 3 is an example of a backup target of the auxiliary power supply 5. The electric device 3 is not limited to a device, but also includes a system. When the main power supply 2 is in a normal state, the electric device 3 operates on power supplied from the main power supply 2, and when the main power supply 2 is in an abnormal state, the electric device 3 operates on power supplied from the auxiliary power supply 5 (i.e., the multiple power storage devices 4). The electric device 3 is, for example, a brake system or a steering system. The brake system is a system that controls the brake device of the automobile in response to the driver's brake pedal operation and the detection results of various sensors. The steering system is a system that controls the steering of the automobile in response to the driver's steering wheel operation and the detection results of various sensors.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 2, the electric device 3 includes a power supply circuit 31, a plurality of (eg, three) output units 32, a communication unit 33, a control unit 34, and a determination unit 35.

[0024] The power supply circuit 31 is connected to a first power supply path 61, and supplies power supplied via the first power supply path 61 to each unit of the electric device 3 (the communication unit 33, the control unit 34, the determination unit 35, etc.).

[0025] The plurality of output units 32 are units that output start-up signals individually to the plurality of power storage devices 4. The plurality of output units 32 correspond one-to-one to the plurality of power storage devices 4, and are connected to input units 42 (described later) of the corresponding power storage devices 4 via signal lines 7.

[0026] The communication unit 33 communicates with the communication units 43 included in each of the power storage devices 4 via the communication line 8. The communication unit 33 is connected to the communication units 43 of the power storage devices 4 via the communication line 8. The communication unit 33 is a communication unit that employs, for example, a bus-type communication method. As the bus-type communication method, for example, an in-vehicle network (e.g., LIN (Local Interconnect Network)) may be employed. In the bus-type communication, unicast communication with a communication partner is possible by specifying the communication address of the communication partner. Therefore, the communication unit 33 becomes able to perform unicast communication with the communication unit 43 of each power storage device 4 after each power storage device 4 sets a communication address to be used by itself (its own communication address). Note that unicast communication is one-to-one communication that is performed by specifying one communication address. The communication address used by the communication unit 33 is set in advance in the communication unit 33.

[0027] The control unit 34 controls the multiple output units 32 and the communication unit 33. More specifically, the control unit 34 transmits a start-up signal from the multiple output units 32 to the multiple power storage devices 4 in sequence, for example, when the auxiliary power supply system 1 is started. For example, the control unit 34 transmits the start-up signal to the power storage device 4A, the power storage device 4B, the power storage device 4C, and the power storage device 4D in that order. By transmitting the start-up signal, each power storage device 4 is started, and as described later, each power storage device 4 is caused to set a communication address (its own communication address) to be used by itself in communication using the communication line 8. At that time, by transmitting the start-up signal to each power storage device 4 in sequence, it is possible to prevent the communication address of each power storage device 4 from overlapping among the power storage devices 4. In this way, in this embodiment, the electric device 3 (backup target counterpart) transmits the start-up signal to each power storage device 4.

[0028] Note that the above phrase "transmitting a startup signal to each power storage device 4 in turn" means that the startup signal is transmitted to each power storage device 4 in such a way that the transmission timing of the startup signal to each power storage device 4 does not overlap (i.e., the transmission timing is staggered by a certain amount of time).

[0029] In this embodiment, the control unit 34 transmits a start-up signal from the multiple output units 32 to the multiple power storage devices 4 every time the auxiliary power system 1 is started. As a result, the control unit 34 sets its own communication address in each power storage device 4 every time the auxiliary power system 1 is started. Note that, in this embodiment, the start-up of the auxiliary power system 1 refers to the start-up of the electric appliances 3.

[0030] The control unit 34 individually controls the output power of each power storage device 4 according to a control command transmitted from the communication unit 33. For example, the control unit 34 individually increases or decreases the output voltage of each power storage device 4 according to a control command transmitted from the communication unit 33.

[0031] The determination unit 35 determines whether the main power supply 2 is normal (i.e., whether there is a defect) based on the voltage applied to the first power supply line 61. In the present embodiment, as an example, when the voltage applied to the first power supply line 61 is equal to or higher than a threshold value, the determination unit 35 determines that the main power supply 2 is normal (i.e., has no defect). Also, when the voltage applied to the first power supply line 61 is less than the threshold value, the determination unit 35 determines that the main power supply 2 is abnormal (i.e., has a defect).

[0032] When the determination unit 35 determines that the main power supply 2 is normal, the control unit 34, by a control command transmitted from the communication unit 33, causes each power storage device 4 to stop supplying power from the power storage device 4 to the electrical device 3. When the determination unit 35 determines that the main power supply 2 is abnormal, the control unit 34, by a control command transmitted from the communication unit 33, causes each power storage device 4 to start supplying power from the power storage device 4 to the electrical device 3.

[0033] In this embodiment, the electric device 3 (more specifically, the determination unit 35) determines whether the main power supply 2 is normal or not, but each power storage device 4 may determine whether the main power supply 2 is normal or not instead of the electric device 3. In this case, when each power storage device 4 determines that the main power supply 2 is abnormal, it automatically starts supplying power from each power storage device 4 to the electric device 3 via each fourth power supply path 62b.

[0034] When the electric device 3 is a brake system, the control unit 34 controls the brake device of the vehicle in response to the driver's brake pedal operation and the detection results of various sensors. When the electric device 3 is a steering system, the control unit 34 controls the steering of the vehicle in response to the driver's handle operation and the detection results of various sensors.

[0035] In this embodiment, the communication unit 33, the control unit 34, and the determination unit 35 are configured, for example, by a microcomputer (processor) mainly composed of a CPU and a memory. In other words, the communication unit 33, the control unit 34, and the determination unit 35 are realized by a computer having a CPU and a memory, and the computer functions as the communication unit 33, the control unit 34, and the determination unit 35 by the CPU executing a program stored in the memory. The program is pre-recorded in the memory, but may be provided via an electric communication line such as the Internet, or recorded on a recording medium such as a memory card.

[0036] (Electricity storage device) 3, the power storage device 4 is a component of an auxiliary power source 5 that supplies power to an electric device 3 (a backup target) when the main power source 2 is in an abnormal state. When the main power source 2 is in a normal state, the power storage device 4 stores power supplied from the main power source 2 via a third power supply path 62a, and supplies the stored power to the electric device 3 via a fourth power supply path 62b in response to a control command received from the electric device 3 via a communication line 8. In this embodiment, the multiple power storage devices 4 are connected in parallel.

[0037] The power storage device 4 includes a capacitor 41, an input unit 42, a communication unit 43, and a control unit 44.

[0038] The capacitor 41 is a component that stores power supplied from the main power supply 2 via the third power supply path 62a. The capacitor 41 is, for example, an electric double layer capacitor or an energy polymer capacitor.

[0039] The input unit 42 is a unit that receives a start signal from the electric device 3 , and is connected to the corresponding output unit 32 of the electric device 3 via a signal line 7 .

[0040] The communication unit 43 is connected to the communication line 8, and performs communication (e.g., bus-type communication) with other power storage devices 4 and electric devices 3 via the communication line 8. The communication unit 43 of each of the multiple power storage devices 4 executes a communication function of communicating with the same communication partner (electrical device 3).

[0041] When the control unit 44 receives a start-up signal from the electric appliance 3 via the input unit 42, it starts up the electric appliance 3 and sets a communication address (its own communication address) to be used by itself in communication using the communication line 8. More specifically, the control unit 44 monitors the usage status of the communication addresses of others (i.e., other power storage devices 4 and electric appliances 3) in communication using the communication line 8, and identifies the communication address of the others (a communication address already being used by the others) being used in communication using the communication line 8.

[0042] In addition, if the other person has already set his / her own communication address, the other person's own communication address is used in the communication using the communication line 8. Therefore, the control unit 44 can identify the other person's own communication address that is already being used by the other person by monitoring the usage status of the other person's communication address in the communication using the communication line 8.

[0043] Then, the control unit 44 selects one communication address from one or more unused communication addresses not used by others among the plurality of communication addresses prepared in advance, and sets the selected communication address as its own communication address. Note that the plurality of communication addresses prepared in advance are stored in the power storage device 4 (e.g., the control unit 44) in advance, for example.

[0044] After setting its own communication address, the control unit 44 broadcasts the set own communication address from the communication unit 43 to all devices (i.e., the electric device 3 and other power storage devices 4) connected to the communication line 8. As a result, the electric device 3 notifies all devices connected to the communication line 8 of its own communication address.

[0045] The control unit 44 does not include a non-transient storage unit (e.g., a flash memory) for saving the set communication address for its own use. Therefore, when the power storage device 4 is started or stopped, the control unit 44 erases the set communication address for its own use. Every time the control unit 44 receives a start-up signal from the electric device 3, it sets the communication address for its own use as described above.

[0046] The control unit 44 starts and stops the power supply to the electric device 3 via the fourth power supply path 62b in response to a control command received from the electric device 3 via the communication line 8. Furthermore, the control unit 44 increases and decreases the voltage output to the electric device 3 via the fourth power supply path 62b in response to a control command received from the electric device 3 via the communication line 8.

[0047] In this embodiment, the communication unit 43 and the control unit 44 are configured, for example, by a microcomputer (processor) mainly composed of a CPU and a memory. In other words, the communication unit 43 and the control unit 44 are realized by a computer having a CPU and a memory, and the computer functions as the communication unit 43 and the control unit 44 by the CPU executing a program stored in the memory. The program is pre-recorded in the memory, but may be provided via an electric communication line such as the Internet, or recorded on a recording medium such as a memory card.

[0048] (operation) Next, the operation of the auxiliary power supply system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. More specifically, the operation when the power storage device 4 sets (selects) its own communication address will be described.

[0049] A plurality of power storage devices 4 (4A to 4C) are connected to the auxiliary power supply system 1. In this state, the plurality of power storage devices 4 are not set with their own communication addresses used in communication by the communication unit 43 (i.e., communication using the communication line 8). In this state, the IG (ignition) switch of the vehicle is switched from off to on (S1). This starts the supply of power from the main power supply 2 to the electric device 3 via the first power supply path 61.

[0050] The electric appliance 3 is started by the start of the power supply. After starting up, the electric appliance 3 (backup target) first transmits a start-up signal to the power storage device 4A via the signal line 7 (S2). When the power storage device 4A receives the start-up signal, it starts up and sets its own communication address (S3 to S5). More specifically, the power storage device 4A monitors the use of the communication addresses of other parties in communication using the communication line 8, and identifies the communication address of the other party being used in communication using the communication line 8. The power storage device 4A then selects one communication address from one or more unused communication addresses among a plurality of communication addresses (for example, three) prepared in advance, and sets the selected communication address as its own communication address. The power storage device 4A then notifies other devices other than the power storage device 4A (the electric appliance 3 and the other power storage devices 4B and 4C) of the set communication address for itself by broadcast via the communication line 8 (S6). Note that broadcasting means transmitting to all devices connected to the communication line 8. Then, by receiving the notification, the other device recognizes that the notified communication address is the communication address of the power storage device 4A for itself (S7).

[0051] Then, when the electric appliance 3 receives the above notification from the power storage device 4A, it then transmits an activation signal to the power storage device 4B via the signal line 7 (S8). Then, when the power storage device 4B receives the activation signal, it activates and sets its own communication address in the same way as the power storage device 4A (S9 to S11). Then, the power storage device 4B notifies other devices other than the power storage device 4B (i.e., the electric appliance 3 and the other power storage devices 4A and 4C) of the set own communication address via the communication line 8 (S12). Then, by receiving the above notification, the other devices recognize that the notified communication address is the power storage device 4B's own communication address (S13).

[0052] Then, when the electric appliance 3 receives the above notification from the power storage device 4B, it then transmits an activation signal to the power storage device 4C via the signal line 7 (S14). Then, when the power storage device 4C receives the activation signal, it activates and sets its own communication address in the same way as the power storage device 4A (S15 to S17). Then, the power storage device 4C notifies other devices other than the power storage device 4C (the electric appliance 3 and the other power storage devices 4A and 4B) of the set own communication address via the communication line 8 (S18). Then, by receiving the above notification, the other devices recognize that the notified communication address is the power storage device 4C's own communication address (S19). Then, the process ends.

[0053] In this operation description, the electric device 3 transmits a start-up signal to one power storage device 4, and when it receives a notification from the power storage device 4 notifying the electric device 3 of its own communication address, it transmits the start-up signal to the next power storage device 4, thereby transmitting the start-up signal in sequence to the multiple power storage devices 4. However, the electric device 3 may transmit the start-up signal in sequence to the multiple power storage devices 4 by transmitting the start-up signal in sequence to the multiple power storage devices 4 at regular time intervals, regardless of whether it receives the notification.

[0054] (Situation in which multiple power storage devices 4 need to be identified) In the auxiliary power supply system 1, the multiple power storage devices 4 can be identified by communication addresses. Therefore, the multiple power storage devices 4 can be individually controlled by communication using the communication line 8. Below, examples of situations in which the multiple power storage devices 4 need to be individually controlled will be given.

[0055] (Example 1) When any of the multiple power storage devices 4 deteriorates and becomes unusable, it is necessary to put only the deteriorated power storage device 4 out of use. In this case, the electric device 3 receives information on the output voltage and charging state of each power storage device 4 from each power storage device 4 via the communication line 8, and determines whether each power storage device 4 has deteriorated or not based on the received information. Then, the electric device 3 starts (i.e. uses) only the non-deteriorated power storage devices 4 among the multiple power storage devices 4, and does not start (i.e. does not use) the deteriorated power storage devices 4.

[0056] (Example 2) When the temperature of the power storage device 4 is low, the charging capacity of the power storage device 4 decreases. In this case, temperature information (e.g., information on the ambient temperature) of each power storage device 4 is output to the electric device 3, and the electric device 3 individually controls each power storage device 4 via the communication line 8 to increase the output voltage of the power storage device 4 with a low temperature, thereby preventing a decrease in the charging capacity of the power storage device 4 with a low temperature. In this example 3, the power storage device 4 includes a temperature sensor (e.g., a thermistor) for measuring the temperature of the power storage device 4 (e.g., the ambient temperature).

[0057] (Example 3) In the case where the electric device 3 is a brake system, if there is variation in the output voltages of the multiple power storage devices 4 when increasing the braking force, it is necessary to increase the output voltages of the multiple power storage devices 4 while leveling out the variation in the output voltages of the multiple power storage devices 4. In this case, the electric device 3 receives output voltage information from each power storage device 4 via the communication line 8, and individually controls each power storage device 4 via the communication line 8, thereby increasing the output voltages of the multiple power storage devices 4 while leveling out the variation in the output voltages of the multiple power storage devices 4.

[0058] As in the above example, individual control of multiple power storage devices 4 is generally effective when increasing or decreasing the output voltage of multiple power storage devices 4 individually depending on the driving state of the vehicle (e.g., vehicle speed) and the ambient environment of the power storage devices 4 (e.g., ambient temperature).

[0059] (Major Effects) As described above, the auxiliary power supply system 1 according to this embodiment includes a plurality of power storage devices 4 for supplying power to a backup target (e.g., electrical device 3). Each of the plurality of power storage devices 4 has a communication function (communication unit 43) for communicating with the same communication target (e.g., electrical device 3). Each of the plurality of power storage devices 4 sets one communication address selected from one or more unused communication addresses among a plurality of communication addresses prepared for communicating with the communication target as its own communication address to be used by the device itself.

[0060] According to this configuration, after the multiple power storage devices 4 are connected to the auxiliary power supply system 1, communication addresses can be assigned to the multiple power storage devices 4. As a result, it becomes possible to manufacture and manage the multiple power storage devices 4 without distinguishing them by their communication addresses.

[0061] (Modification) The modified examples described below can be applied in appropriate combination. In the modified examples described below, differences from the embodiment will be mainly described. In the modified examples described below, the same parts as those in the embodiment may be given the same reference numerals and the description thereof may be omitted. In addition, the same functions as the auxiliary power supply system 1 according to the embodiment may be embodied in an auxiliary power supply control method, a program for causing one or more processors to execute the auxiliary power supply control method, a non-transitory recording medium on which the program is recorded, or the like. In addition, the same functions as the auxiliary power supply system 1 according to the embodiment may be embodied in a module used as the power storage device 4 of the auxiliary power supply system 1, or the like.

[0062] The above-mentioned auxiliary power control method is an auxiliary power control method for controlling an auxiliary power system 1 including a plurality of power storage devices 4 for supplying power to a backup target (e.g., an electrical device 3). In this auxiliary power control method, each of the plurality of power storage devices 4 has a communication function (communication unit 43) for communicating with the same communication target (e.g., an electrical device 3). This auxiliary power control method includes each of the plurality of power storage devices 4 setting one communication address selected from one or more unused communication addresses among a plurality of communication addresses prepared for communicating with the communication target, as its own communication address to be used by the respective devices.

[0063] (Variation 1) In the above embodiment, when one of the multiple power storage devices 4 fails, the failed power storage device 4 may be replaced with a normal power storage device 4. Furthermore, in addition to the multiple power storage devices 4, a further power storage device 4 may be added to the auxiliary power supply system 1. When a further power storage device 4 is added, the electric device 3 further has an output unit 32 for the added power storage device 4. When the replaced or added power storage device 4 receives a start-up signal from the electric device 3, it sets its own communication address as described in the above embodiment.

[0064] (Variation 2) In the above embodiment, each power storage device 4 does not save the set communication address for its own use in the non-volatile storage unit, but the set communication address for its own use may be saved in the non-volatile storage unit. In this case, each power storage device 4 sets and saves its own communication address only once when it receives a start-up signal for the first time, and does not set its own communication address even if it receives a start-up signal thereafter.

[0065] (Variation 3) In the above embodiment, the start-up signal may be an enable signal that switches between enabling and disabling the function of the power storage device 4. In this case, the power storage device 4 continues to operate while the start-up signal is input to the power storage device 4. Then, when the start-up signal stops, the power storage device 4 stops and the set communication address for itself is erased.

[0066] (Other variations) In the first embodiment, the electric device 3 is a backup target of the multiple auxiliary power sources 5, but a device other than the electric device 3 may be a backup target of the auxiliary power source 5. Also, the start-up signal is transmitted from the backup target (electrical device 3), but may be transmitted from a device other than the backup target. Also, the multiple power storage devices 4 supply power to the same backup target, but may supply power to different targets.

[0067] (summary) The auxiliary power supply system (1) of the first embodiment includes a plurality of power storage devices (4) for supplying power to a backup target (e.g., an electrical device 3). Each of the plurality of power storage devices (4) has a communication function (communication unit 43) for communicating with the same communication target (e.g., the electrical device 3). Each of the plurality of power storage devices (4) sets one communication address selected from one or more unused communication addresses among a plurality of communication addresses prepared for communicating with the communication target as its own communication address to be used by the device itself.

[0068] According to this configuration, after the multiple power storage devices (4) are connected to the auxiliary power supply system (1), communication addresses can be assigned to the multiple power storage devices (4). As a result, the multiple power storage devices (4) can be manufactured and managed without being differentiated by their communication addresses.

[0069] In the auxiliary power supply system (1) of the second aspect, in the first aspect, when the power storage device (4) receives a startup signal for starting up the power storage device (4), the power storage device (4) sets its own communication address from one or more unused communication addresses.

[0070] According to this configuration, it is possible to cause the plurality of power storage devices (4) to set their own communication addresses in response to a start-up signal.

[0071] In the auxiliary power supply system (1) of the third embodiment, in the second embodiment, the activation signal is transmitted in sequence to the plurality of power storage devices (4).

[0072] According to this configuration, the timing for setting the own communication address can be made different between the multiple power storage devices (4), thereby making it possible to assign different communication addresses to the multiple power storage devices (4).

[0073] In the auxiliary power supply system (1) of the fourth aspect, in the second or third aspect, the activation signal is transmitted from the other party to be backed up (for example, the electric device 3).

[0074] According to this configuration, it is possible to cause a plurality of power storage devices (4) to set their own communication addresses under the control of the backup target device.

[0075] In the auxiliary power supply system (1) of the fifth aspect, in any one of the first to fourth aspects, the multiple power storage devices (4) supply power to the same backup target (eg, electric device 3).

[0076] According to this configuration, it is possible to assign different communication addresses to a plurality of power storage devices (4) that supply power to the same backup target.

[0077] In the auxiliary power supply system (1) of the sixth aspect, in any one of the first to fifth aspects, the power storage device (4) sets its own communication address every time it receives a start-up signal.

[0078] According to this configuration, each power storage device (4) sets its own communication address every time it receives an activation signal, and therefore, it becomes unnecessary to store its own communication address in the non-volatile storage unit.

[0079] In the auxiliary power supply system (1) of the seventh aspect, in any one of the first to sixth aspects, a power storage device (4) can be added in addition to the plurality of power storage devices (4).

[0080] According to this configuration, after a plurality of power storage devices (4) are connected to the auxiliary power supply system (1), a further power storage device (4) can be added.

[0081] The module of the eighth aspect is a module used as the power storage device (4) of the auxiliary power supply system (1) of any one of the first to seventh aspects.

[0082] According to this configuration, it is possible to provide a module that can be used as the power storage device (4) of the auxiliary power supply system (1).

[0083] The auxiliary power control method of the ninth aspect is an auxiliary power control method for controlling an auxiliary power system (1) including a plurality of power storage devices (4) for supplying power to a backup target device (e.g., an electrical device 3). Each of the plurality of power storage devices (4) has a communication function (communication unit 43) for communicating with the same communication target device (e.g., the electrical device 3). The auxiliary power control method includes each of the plurality of power storage devices (4) setting one communication address selected from one or more unused communication addresses among a plurality of communication addresses prepared for communicating with the communication target device as its own communication address to be used by the respective devices.

[0084] According to this configuration, after the multiple power storage devices (4) are connected to the auxiliary power supply system (1), communication addresses can be assigned to the multiple power storage devices (4). As a result, the multiple power storage devices (4) can be manufactured and managed without being differentiated by their communication addresses.

[0085] A program according to a tenth aspect is a program for causing one or more processors to execute the auxiliary power supply control method according to the ninth aspect.

[0086] According to this configuration, it is possible to provide a program for causing one or more processors to execute the above-mentioned auxiliary power supply control method. [Explanation of symbols]

[0087] 1 Auxiliary Power System 3 Electrical equipment (backup target, communication partner) 4. Energy storage device 43 Communication section (communication function)

Claims

1. A plurality of power storage devices are provided for supplying power to a backup target, Each of the plurality of power storage devices is Have a communication function to communicate with the same communication partner, setting one communication address selected from one or more unused communication addresses among a plurality of communication addresses prepared for communication with the communication partner as a communication address for itself to be used by the communication partner; When the power storage device receives a start-up signal for starting up, the power storage device sets the communication address for itself from among the one or more unused communication addresses; the activation signal is transmitted from the backup target to the plurality of power storage devices in sequence; Auxiliary power system.

2. A backup system comprising a plurality of power storage devices for supplying power to a backup target, Each of the plurality of power storage devices is Have a communication function to communicate with the same communication partner, setting one communication address selected from one or more unused communication addresses among a plurality of communication addresses prepared for communication with the communication partner as a communication address for itself to be used by the communication partner; When the power storage device receives a start-up signal for starting up, the power storage device sets the communication address for itself from among the one or more unused communication addresses; The activation signal is transmitted from the backup target partner. Auxiliary power system.

3. The plurality of power storage devices supply power to the same backup target.

3. The auxiliary power supply system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. An auxiliary power system as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the storage device sets its own communication address each time it receives the startup signal.

5. In addition to the plurality of power storage devices, the power storage device can be added.

5. An auxiliary power supply system according to claim 1.

6. A storage device for use in an auxiliary power supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 5. Module.

7. An auxiliary power control method for controlling an auxiliary power system having a plurality of power storage devices for supplying power to a backup target, comprising: Each of the plurality of power storage devices has a communication function for communicating with a same communication partner, each of the plurality of power storage devices sets one communication address selected from one or more unused communication addresses among a plurality of communication addresses prepared for communication with the communication counterpart as its own communication address; When the power storage device receives a start-up signal for starting up, the power storage device sets the communication address for itself from among the one or more unused communication addresses; the activation signal is transmitted from the backup target to the plurality of power storage devices in sequence; Auxiliary power control method.

8. An auxiliary power control method for controlling an auxiliary power system having a plurality of power storage devices for supplying power to a backup target, comprising: Each of the plurality of power storage devices has a communication function for communicating with a same communication partner, each of the plurality of power storage devices sets one communication address selected from one or more unused communication addresses among a plurality of communication addresses prepared for communication with the communication counterpart as its own communication address; When the power storage device receives a start-up signal for starting up, the power storage device sets the communication address for itself from among the one or more unused communication addresses; The activation signal is transmitted from the backup target partner. Auxiliary power control method.

9. A program for causing one or more processors to execute the auxiliary power control method described in claim 7 or 8.

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