Method, program, and computer device for inspecting power storage device

Abstract

To provide an inspection method of a power storage device capable of adjusting the time required for inspection of a power storage device according to the state of the power storage device.SOLUTION: The inspection method of a power storage device includes the steps of: estimating the degree of deterioration of the power storage device (S11); determining the measurement conditions using the estimated degree of deterioration (S12); and measuring the full charge capacity of the power storage device according to the determined measurement conditions (S14). The determination of the measurement conditions (S12) includes the determination of the measurement conditions to reduce or increase the time required for measuring the full charge capacity according to the estimated degree of deterioration.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an inspection method, a program, and a computer device for an electricity storage device. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2014-185896 (Patent Document 1) discloses a technique for measuring the full charge capacity of a power storage device with high accuracy based on the SOC (State Of Charge) of the power storage device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2014-185896 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Incidentally, it is desirable for a power storage device that is used on a daily basis to be inspected periodically. Such inspections are used to check whether there is any problem with continuing to use the power storage device. For example, if the full charge capacity of the power storage device becomes smaller than a reference value, a replacement process for the power storage device is performed.

[0005] However, when attempting to measure the full charge capacity of a power storage device with high accuracy using, for example, the method described in Patent Document 1, it takes a long time to inspect the power storage device. Since a user cannot use the power storage device during inspection, regular inspections that take a long time may excessively impair user convenience.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to adjust the time required for inspecting an electricity storage device in accordance with the state of the electricity storage device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to an embodiment of a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for inspecting an electricity storage device as described below.

[0008] (Item 1) The method for inspecting a power storage device includes estimating a degree of deterioration of the power storage device, determining measurement conditions using the estimated degree of deterioration, and measuring a full charge capacity of the power storage device according to the determined measurement conditions. Determining the measurement conditions includes determining the measurement conditions so as to shorten or increase the time required to measure the full charge capacity according to the estimated degree of deterioration.

[0009] According to the above method, the measurement conditions (i.e., conditions for measuring the full charge capacity of the power storage device) change according to the estimated deterioration level of the power storage device. When the deterioration level of the power storage device is sufficiently low, it is clear that the power storage device is normal (i.e., there is no problem in continuing to use the power storage device), so it is considered that there is little need to spend time on measuring the full charge capacity. On the other hand, when the deterioration level of the power storage device is large, the full charge capacity of the power storage device may be excessively reduced, so it is desirable to measure the full charge capacity of the power storage device with high accuracy even if it takes time. In this regard, according to the above method, the measurement conditions are determined so that the time required for measuring the full charge capacity can be shortened or increased according to the estimated deterioration level of the power storage device. Therefore, when the deterioration level of the power storage device is sufficiently low, the full charge capacity can be measured in a short time, while when the deterioration level of the power storage device is large, the full charge capacity can be measured with high accuracy over a long time. In addition, when the deterioration level of the power storage device is close to the deterioration level that is desired to be measured with high accuracy, the measurement time can be extended. For example, if it is desired to measure the degree of degradation of the power storage device at about 70% with high accuracy, it is possible to measure the full charge capacity of the power storage device with high accuracy even if it takes a long time when the degree of degradation of the power storage device is about 70%, and to reduce the measurement accuracy and shorten the measurement time when the degree of degradation of the power storage device is not about 70%. In this way, the above method makes it possible to adjust the time required for inspection of the power storage device in accordance with the state of the power storage device.

[0010] The method for inspecting an electricity storage device as described above in item 1 may have the configuration as described in any one of items 2 to 8 below.

[0011] (Item 2) The inspection method for a power storage device according to item 1 further has the following features. The inspection method for a power storage device further includes determining whether the determined measurement conditions satisfy predetermined requirements, and, when it is determined that the measurement conditions satisfy the predetermined requirements, performing measurement of the full charge capacity, or determining whether or not replacement of the power storage device is necessary based on the measured full charge capacity. Determining the measurement conditions includes determining the measurement conditions such that the measurement conditions satisfy the predetermined requirements according to the estimated degree of deterioration.

[0012] It is desirable that the full charge capacity for determining whether or not the storage device needs to be replaced is measured according to conditions that satisfy predetermined requirements (e.g., requirements set by laws, regulations, or standards). According to the above method, the full charge capacity is measured according to conditions according to the estimated deterioration level, and whether or not the storage device needs to be replaced is determined based on the measured full charge capacity. This makes it easier to accurately determine whether or not the storage device needs to be replaced.

[0013] (Item 3) The method for inspecting an energy storage device according to item 1 or 2 further has the following features. The method for inspecting an energy storage device further includes determining whether the determined measurement conditions satisfy predetermined requirements. Determining the measurement conditions includes determining the measurement conditions according to the estimated degree of deterioration such that the measurement conditions satisfy the predetermined requirements. The measurement of the full charge capacity is performed when it is determined that the measurement conditions satisfy the predetermined requirements, and is not performed when it is determined that the measurement conditions do not satisfy the predetermined requirements.

[0014] According to the above method, the full charge capacity is measured according to conditions corresponding to the estimated deterioration level. This allows the full charge capacity to be measured with high accuracy. Furthermore, if the measurement conditions do not satisfy certain requirements, the deterioration level of the power storage device is estimated, but the full charge capacity is not measured according to the above-mentioned measurement conditions. This shortens the time required to inspect the power storage device, and suppresses the decrease in user convenience caused by the inspection.

[0015] (4) The method for inspecting an energy storage device according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 3 further has the following features. Measuring the full charge capacity of the energy storage device includes discharging the energy storage device, waiting until a first standby time has elapsed after completion of discharging without charging or discharging the energy storage device, charging the energy storage device after the first standby time has elapsed, waiting until a second standby time has elapsed after completion of charging without charging or discharging the energy storage device, and determining the full charge capacity of the energy storage device after the second standby time has elapsed. Determining the measurement conditions includes determining at least one of a discharge end condition and a first standby time, a charge end condition and a second standby time, using the estimated deterioration level.

[0016] According to the above method, the full charge capacity of the power storage device can be easily measured in an appropriate manner. By providing the first and second waiting times, polarization in the power storage device can be easily alleviated.

[0017] (Item 5) The inspection method for an energy storage device according to item 4 further has the following features. Discharging the energy storage device includes terminating discharging when the SOC of the energy storage device becomes equal to or lower than a first SOC value while discharging the energy storage device. Charging the energy storage device includes terminating charging when the SOC of the energy storage device becomes equal to or higher than a second SOC value while charging the energy storage device. Obtaining a full charge capacity of the energy storage device includes calculating a full charge capacity of the energy storage device using a voltage value of the energy storage device after a first standby time has elapsed and a voltage value of the energy storage device after a second standby time has elapsed.

[0018] According to the above method, the full charge capacity of the power storage device can be suitably measured. The first and second SOC values ​​can be used to appropriately set the termination conditions for charging and discharging. Furthermore, the full charge capacity of the power storage device can be calculated using the voltage value after polarization relaxation in the power storage device, making it easier to accurately determine the full charge capacity of the power storage device.

[0019] (Item 6) The method for inspecting a power storage device according to item 5 further has the following feature: Determining the measurement conditions includes lowering the first SOC value as the estimated degree of deterioration increases, and raising the second SOC value as the estimated degree of deterioration increases.

[0020] The lower the first SOC value, the longer the time required for discharging. Also, the higher the second SOC value, the longer the time required for charging. And, the greater the SOC range from the first SOC value to the second SOC value, the higher the measurement accuracy of the full charge capacity tends to be. Therefore, with the above configuration, the greater the estimated deterioration level of the power storage device, the longer the measurement time becomes, and it becomes easier to determine the measurement conditions so that the measurement accuracy is high.

[0021] (Item 7) The method for inspecting a power storage device according to any one of items 4 to 6 further has the following feature: Determining the measurement conditions includes making the first standby time longer as the estimated degree of deterioration increases, and making the second standby time longer as the estimated degree of deterioration increases.

[0022] The longer the first and second standby times are, the higher the measurement accuracy of the full charge capacity tends to be. Therefore, with the above configuration, the greater the estimated deterioration level of the power storage device is, the longer the measurement time is, and it becomes easier to determine measurement conditions such that the measurement accuracy is higher.

[0023] (Item 8) The method for inspecting an electricity storage device according to any one of items 4 to 7 further has the following feature: Determining the measurement conditions further includes making the first standby time longer as the temperature of the electricity storage device is lower, and making the second standby time longer as the temperature of the electricity storage device is lower.

[0024] The lower the temperature of the power storage device, the more difficult it is to alleviate the polarization in the power storage device. As described above, by lengthening the standby time as the temperature of the power storage device decreases, it becomes easier to sufficiently alleviate the polarization in the power storage device.

[0025] The power storage device may be a power storage device that has been used in a vehicle. Estimating the deterioration level may include estimating the deterioration level using usage history data of the vehicle.

[0026] As described above, by using the usage history data of the vehicle, it is possible to estimate the degree of deterioration of the power storage device used in the vehicle in a short period of time.

[0027] The vehicle usage history data may include data indicating a cumulative mileage of the vehicle. Estimating the deterioration level may include estimating that the deterioration level is greater as the cumulative mileage is longer.

[0028] There is a tendency that the degree of deterioration of the power storage device used in the vehicle increases as the cumulative mileage of the vehicle increases. As described above, by using the cumulative mileage of the vehicle, it is possible to easily and accurately estimate the degree of deterioration of the power storage device used in the vehicle.

[0029] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a program for causing a computer to execute the method for inspecting a power storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 8. In one aspect, there is provided a computer device including a storage device that stores the program, and a processor that executes the program stored in the storage device. In another aspect, there is provided a computer device that distributes the program. Effect of the Invention

[0030] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to adjust the time required for inspecting a power storage device in accordance with the state of the power storage device. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1]1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a service tool and a vehicle control device that execute a method for inspecting an electricity storage device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] 4 is a flowchart illustrating a method for inspecting an electricity storage device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 1A to 1C are diagrams for explaining a method for measuring a full charge capacity and a method for determining a condition for measuring the full charge capacity according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] 4 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the process shown in FIG. 3. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0032] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference characters and will not be described repeatedly.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a vehicle according to this embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1, a vehicle 100 according to this embodiment includes a battery 11 that can be charged using an EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) 300. The vehicle 100 is configured to be capable of running using electric power stored in the battery 11. The vehicle 100 according to this embodiment is an electric vehicle (BEV) that does not include an engine (internal combustion engine). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the vehicle 100 may be a PHEV (plug-in hybrid vehicle). As the battery 11, a known vehicle power storage device (for example, a liquid secondary battery, an all-solid-state secondary battery, or a battery pack) can be adopted. Examples of the vehicle secondary battery include a lithium-ion battery and a nickel-metal hydride battery. The battery 11 corresponds to an example of the "power storage device" according to the present disclosure.

[0034] The vehicle 100 further includes an inlet 60 to which the connector 320a of the EVSE 300 can be attached and detached. The inlet 60 corresponds to a charge / discharge port that functions as both a charge port and a discharge port. When the connector 320a of the charging cable 320 connected to the main body of the EVSE 300 is connected to the inlet 60 of the vehicle 100 in a parked state, the vehicle 100 is electrically connected to the EVSE 300 (hereinafter also referred to as a "plugged-in state"). On the other hand, for example, when the vehicle 100 is traveling, the vehicle 100 is not electrically connected to the EVSE 300 (hereinafter also referred to as a "plugged-out state"). Note that, although FIG. 1 shows only the inlet 60 corresponding to the power supply method of the EVSE 300, the vehicle 100 may include multiple inlets so as to be compatible with multiple types of power supply methods (for example, AC method and DC method).

[0035] The EVSE 300 is configured to receive power from an external power source (for example, a power system not shown) and supply power. The EVSE 300 incorporates a power circuit 310 and includes a charging cable 320. The power circuit 310 is electrically connected to the external power source. The power circuit 310 converts power supplied from the external power source into power suitable for supplying power to the vehicle 100, and outputs the converted power to the charging cable 320. The charging cable 320 has a connector 320a (plug) at its tip. The EVSE 300 outputs power to be supplied to the vehicle 100 from the connector 320a.

[0036] The vehicle 100 further includes a BMS (Battery Management System) 11a, an SMR (System Main Relay) 12, an MG (Motor Generator) 20, a PCU (Power Control Unit) 22, and an electronic control unit (hereinafter referred to as an “ECU (Electronic Control Unit)”) 150.

[0037] The BMS 11a monitors the state of the battery 11. In particular, the BMS 11a includes various sensors that detect the state of the battery 11 (for example, voltage, current, and temperature), and outputs the detection results to the ECU 150. The ECU 150 can acquire the state of the battery 11 (for example, temperature, current, voltage, and SOC) based on the output of the BMS 11a. The SOC (State Of Charge) indicates the remaining amount of charge, and is, for example, the ratio of the current amount of charge to the amount of charge in a fully charged state, expressed as 0 to 100%.

[0038] The vehicle 100 further includes a charger / discharger 61 and a charge / discharge relay 62. The charger / discharger 61 and the charge / discharge relay 62 are located between the inlet 60 and the battery 11. Each of the charger / discharger 61 and the charge / discharge relay 62 is controlled by the ECU 150. In this embodiment, a charge / discharge line including the inlet 60, the charger / discharger 61, and the charge / discharge relay 62 is connected between the SMR 12 and the PCU 22. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a charge / discharge line may be connected between the battery 11 and the SMR 12.

[0039] In this embodiment, the charger / discharger 61 functions as both a charging circuit and a discharging circuit. The charger / discharger 61 charges the battery 11 using power input to the inlet 60 from outside the vehicle. The charger / discharger 61 discharges the power of the battery 11 to the outside of the vehicle through the inlet 60. The charger / discharger 61 includes a power conversion circuit. The power conversion circuit includes, for example, a bidirectional inverter. The power conversion circuit may perform DC (direct current) / AC (alternating current) conversion in both directions. The charge / discharge relay 62 switches between connection / disconnection of an electric path from the inlet 60 to the battery 11. The vehicle 100 further includes a monitoring module 61a that monitors the state of the charger / discharger 61. The monitoring module 61a includes various sensors (for example, a current sensor and a voltage sensor) that detect the state of the charger / discharger 61, and outputs the detection result to the ECU 150.

[0040] In the plugged-in state, the vehicle 100 is capable of external charging (i.e., charging the battery 11 with power from outside the vehicle) and external power supply (i.e., power supply from the battery 11 to the outside of the vehicle). Power for external charging is supplied to the inlet 60 from, for example, the EVSE 300. The charger / discharger 61 converts the power (e.g., AC power) received by the inlet 60 into power (e.g., DC power) suitable for charging the battery 11, and outputs the converted power to the battery 11. Power for external power supply is supplied from the battery 11 to the charger / discharger 61. The charger / discharger 61 converts the DC power supplied from the battery 11 into power (e.g., AC power) suitable for external power supply, and outputs the converted power to the inlet 60. When either external charging or external power supply is performed, the charge / discharge relay 62 is closed (connected), and when neither external charging nor external power supply is performed, the charge / discharge relay 62 is opened (cut off).

[0041] The MG 20 is, for example, a three-phase AC motor generator. The MG 20 functions as a traction motor for the vehicle 100. The MG 20 is driven by the PCU 22 to rotate the drive wheels of the vehicle 100. The MG 20 also performs regenerative power generation and outputs the generated power to the battery 11. The vehicle 100 further includes a motor sensor 21 that monitors the state of the MG 20. The motor sensor 21 includes various sensors (for example, a current sensor, a voltage sensor, and a temperature sensor) that detect the state of the MG 20, and outputs the detection results to the ECU 150. The number of traction motors included in the vehicle 100 is arbitrary, and may be one, two, or three or more. The traction motors may be in-wheel motors.

[0042] The PCU 22 drives the MG 20 using power supplied from the battery 11. The SMR 12 switches between connection and disconnection of an electric path from the battery 11 to the PCU 22. The PCU 22 includes, for example, an inverter and a DC / DC converter. The SMR 12 and the PCU 22 are each controlled by the ECU 150. The SMR 12 is set in a closed state (connected state) when the vehicle 100 is running. The SMR 12 is also set in a closed state when power is exchanged between the battery 11 and the inlet 60 (and thus, the outside of the vehicle).

[0043] The vehicle 100 further includes an HMI (Human Machine Interface) 81 and a navigation system (hereinafter also referred to as "NAVI") 82. The HMI 81 includes an input device and a display device. The HMI 81 may include a touch panel display. The HMI 81 may include a meter panel and / or a head-up display. The NAVI 82 detects the position of the vehicle 100 using, for example, a Global Positioning System (GPS), and displays the position of the vehicle 100 on a map in real time. The NAVI 82 also performs route search by referring to map information.

[0044] A vehicle system (a system that controls the vehicle 100) including the ECU 150 is switched on (operated) / off (stopped) by a user operating a start switch 70. The start switch 70 is installed, for example, in the passenger compartment of the vehicle 100. A vehicle start switch is generally called a "power switch" or an "ignition switch", etc.

[0045] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a service tool and ECU 150 that execute the method for inspecting a power storage device according to this embodiment. With reference to Fig. 2 together with Fig. 1, ECU 150 includes a processor 151, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 152, and a storage device 153. ECU 150 may be a computer. Storage device 153 is configured to be able to save stored information. In addition to programs, storage device 153 stores information used by the programs (for example, maps, formulas, and various parameters). In this embodiment, various controls (such as charge / discharge control of battery 11) are performed in ECU 150 by processor 151 executing the programs stored in storage device 153.

[0046] Although not shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle 100 further includes various sensors (such as a position sensor, an outside air temperature sensor, a vehicle speed sensor, and an odometer) that detect the state of the vehicle 100 in real time. The ECU 150 sequentially records usage history data of the vehicle 100 in the storage device 153 based on the output of the various sensors mounted on the vehicle 100. The usage history data of the vehicle 100 may include data indicating the usage period of the vehicle 100 (e.g., the elapsed time from the start of usage), data indicating the state of the vehicle 100 during the usage period (e.g., a state transition or a histogram), and data indicating the frequency of use of the vehicle 100 (e.g., a cumulative mileage, a number of times traveled (number of trips), a total amount of charge and discharge, or a number of times of charge and discharge). Specific examples of the usage history data will be described later (see S11 in FIG. 3).

[0047] The service tool (hereinafter simply referred to as "tool") 200 includes a computer having a processor 201, a RAM 202, and a storage device 203. The tool 200 further includes an HMI 204. The HMI 204 includes an input device and a display device. The HMI 204 may be a touch panel display. The HMI 204 may include a smart speaker that accepts voice input.

[0048] ECU 150 further includes an interface 155 of DLC (Data Link Connector) 160. DLC 160 is connected to interface 155 via a communication cable. Tool 200 further includes a connector 250. Connector 250 is connected to a main body of tool 200 via a communication cable. DLC 160 is a connector that can be connected to connector 250 of tool 200, and is disposed, for example, near the driver's seat of vehicle 100. By connecting connector 250 of tool 200 to DLC 160, tool 200 becomes able to read vehicle data accumulated in storage device 153.

[0049] An inspection program is stored in storage device 203 of tool 200. The inspection method for an electricity storage device according to this embodiment (see FIG. 3 described later) is performed by processor 201 executing the inspection program stored in storage device 203. Tool 200 corresponds to an example of a "computer device" according to the present disclosure.

[0050] In this embodiment, the dealer inspects the power storage device used in the vehicle. The dealer is a store that sells vehicles manufactured by an automobile manufacturer and provides after-sales service (inspection, maintenance, etc.). For example, the dealer receives the vehicle 100 from the user of the vehicle 100, and at the dealer, a worker (e.g., a mechanic) inspects the battery 11 mounted on the vehicle 100 using the tool 200. After the inspection of the battery 11 is completed, the dealer returns the vehicle 100 to the user. If the inspection of the battery 11 determines that the battery 11 needs to be replaced, the dealer returns the vehicle 100 mounted with a new battery (e.g., a new battery) instead of the used battery 11 to the user. The vehicle 100 may be a vehicle (POV) owned by the user himself or herself, or may be a leased vehicle. The above-mentioned after-sales service by the dealer may be provided based on a subscription contract between the vehicle user and the dealer.

[0051] An example of inspecting a battery 11 used in a vehicle 100 using the method for inspecting an electricity storage device according to this embodiment will be described below.

[0052] FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a method for inspecting a power storage device according to this embodiment. In the flowchart, "S" means a step. The process shown in this flowchart is started, for example, when an operator inputs an inspection start request to the tool 200 in a state where the preparation for inspection of the battery 11 is completed. In this embodiment, before starting the inspection, the operator electrically connects the EVSE 300 installed at the dealer to the vehicle 100 in a parked state, and makes the ECU 150 and the tool 200 capable of communicating with each other. This completes the preparation for inspection of the battery 11. However, this is not limited to the above, and the vehicle 100 may be electrically connected to a charger (not shown) for inspection instead of the EVSE 300. The operator may charge the battery 11 using an external power source (not shown) for inspection.

[0053] 1 and 2 as well as FIG. 3, in S11, the tool 200 estimates the deterioration level of the battery 11. Specifically, the tool 200 acquires usage history data of the vehicle 100 from the ECU 150. In this embodiment, the cumulative mileage of the vehicle 100 is adopted as the usage history data of the vehicle 100. The tool 200 estimates the deterioration level of the battery 11 from the cumulative mileage of the vehicle 100 using a map M1 corresponding to the vehicle model of the vehicle 100 (inspection target). The map M1 is information indicating the relationship between the cumulative mileage of the vehicle 100 and the deterioration level of the battery 11. Specifically, the map M1 specifies the relationship in which the longer the cumulative mileage of the vehicle 100, the greater the deterioration level of the battery 11 used in the vehicle 100. That is, the tool 200 estimates that the longer the cumulative mileage of the vehicle 100, the greater the deterioration level of the battery 11. The tool 200 may change the map used in S11 according to the inspection target.

[0054] The vehicle usage history data used in S11 is not limited to the vehicle's cumulative mileage. For example, instead of or in addition to the vehicle's cumulative mileage, at least one of the following may be used: the number of years the vehicle has been in use, the number of times the vehicle has been driven (the number of trips), the total amount of charge and discharge of the power storage device, the number of times the power storage device has been charged and discharged, the temperature history (for example, a temperature histogram) of the power storage device, and the SOC history (for example, an SOC histogram) of the power storage device. The longer the vehicle has been in use and the more times the vehicle has been driven, the greater the degree of deterioration of the power storage device used in the vehicle tends to be. Also, the greater the total amount of charge and discharge of the power storage device and the greater the number of times the power storage device has been charged and discharged, the greater the degree of deterioration of the power storage device tends to be. Also, the longer the time the power storage device is left in a high temperature or high SOC state, the greater the degree of deterioration of the power storage device tends to be.

[0055] In the next step S12, the tool 200 determines conditions (measurement conditions) for measuring the full charge capacity (S14, S17), which will be described later, using the deterioration level of the battery 11 estimated in S11. Specifically, the tool 200 determines Chg1, Chg2, ΔT1, and ΔT2, which will be described below, based on the estimated deterioration level.

[0056] Fig. 4 is a diagram for explaining a method for measuring the full charge capacity of battery 11 and a method for determining the measurement conditions thereof. With reference to Fig. 4 together with Figs. 1 to 3, the process for measuring the full charge capacity of battery 11 includes a discharge process, a first standby process, a charge process, a second standby process, and a capacity calculation process, which will be described below.

[0057] In the discharge process, the battery 11 is discharged. When a predetermined discharge end condition is satisfied during the discharge of the battery 11, the discharge is terminated. In this embodiment, the discharge end condition is satisfied when the SOC of the battery 11 becomes equal to or lower than a first SOC value (hereinafter, referred to as "Chg1") during the discharge of the battery 11. In S12 of FIG. 3, the tool 200 lowers Chg1 as the degree of deterioration estimated in S11 increases.

[0058] In the first standby process, after the discharge process is completed, the tool waits until a first standby time (hereinafter referred to as "ΔT1") has elapsed without charging or discharging the battery 11. By leaving the battery 11 alone, polarization caused by charging and discharging is alleviated. In S12 of FIG. 3, the tool 200 lengthens ΔT1 as the degree of deterioration estimated in S11 increases. Also, in S12 of FIG. 3, the tool 200 obtains the temperature of the battery 11 from the ECU 150, and lengthens ΔT1 as the temperature of the battery 11 decreases.

[0059] Then, when ΔT1 has elapsed since the end of discharging, the tool 200 acquires the voltage value (actual measured value) of the battery 11 measured in the vehicle 100, and records the acquired voltage value (hereinafter referred to as "V1") in the storage device 203. V1 corresponds to the voltage value of the battery 11 after ΔT1 has elapsed. Note that the higher the SOC of the battery 11, the higher the voltage of the battery 11. For this reason, the voltage value (V1) measured here is the SOC of the battery 11 at the start of charging (hereinafter referred to as "SOC A V1 is the SOC A This corresponds to the actual measured value.

[0060] The charging process is started after the first standby process is completed (more specifically, SOC A is actually measured). In the charging process, the battery 11 is charged. In the charging process, the battery 11 is charged at a predetermined charging rate (for example, a constant rate). While the battery 11 is being charged, the current value (I) of the battery 11 is measured and recorded. Then, when a predetermined charging end condition is met while the battery 11 is being charged, the charging is ended. In this embodiment, the charging end condition is met when the SOC of the battery 11 becomes equal to or higher than a second SOC value (hereinafter referred to as "Chg2") while the battery 11 is being charged. In S12 of FIG. 3, the tool 200 increases Chg2 as the degree of deterioration estimated in S11 increases.

[0061] In the second standby process, after the above charging process is completed, the tool 200 waits until a second standby time (hereinafter referred to as "ΔT2") has elapsed without charging or discharging the battery 11. By leaving the battery 11 alone, polarization caused by charging and discharging is alleviated. In S12 of FIG. 3, the tool 200 lengthens ΔT2 as the degree of deterioration estimated in S11 increases. Also, in S12 of FIG. 3, the tool 200 obtains the temperature of the battery 11 from the ECU 150, and lengthens ΔT2 as the temperature of the battery 11 decreases.

[0062] Then, when ΔT2 has elapsed since the end of charging, the tool 200 acquires the voltage value (actual measured value) of the battery 11 measured in the vehicle 100, and records the acquired voltage value (hereinafter, referred to as "V2") in the storage device 203. V2 corresponds to the voltage value of the battery 11 after ΔT2 has elapsed. The voltage value (V2) measured here is the SOC (hereinafter, referred to as "SOC") of the battery 11 at the end of charging. B V2 is the SOC B This corresponds to the actual measured value.

[0063] The capacity calculation process is performed after the second standby process (more specifically, SOC B The capacity calculation process is performed after the SOC (SOC A ), the current value (I) of the battery 11 during charging, and the SOC (SOC B ) to calculate the full charge capacity of the battery 11. Specifically, the tool 200 calculates the full charge capacity of the battery 11 according to the formula "full charge capacity=ΣI / ΔSOC" shown in FIG. 4. ΣI means the integrated current value of the battery 11 during charging. ΔSOC is the SOC A From SOC B ΔSOC means the SOC range up to SOC B From SOC A The value obtained by subtracting (SOC B -SOC A The fully charged capacity of the battery 11 corresponds to the amount of electricity stored in the battery 11 when it is fully charged.

[0064] Referring again to FIG. 3, in S12, the tool 200 determines Chg1, Chg2, ΔT1, and ΔT2 as described above. In detail, the tool 200 determines Chg1, Chg2, ΔT1, and ΔT2 so that the time required to measure the full charge capacity increases as the degree of deterioration estimated in S11 increases. For example, the tool 200 lengthens each of ΔT1 and ΔT2 as the estimated degree of deterioration increases. As a result, the polarization of the battery 11 is more easily alleviated as the estimated degree of deterioration increases, and the measurement accuracy of the full charge capacity increases. However, the longer each of ΔT1 and ΔT2 increases, the longer the time required to measure the full charge capacity. Also, the tool 200 lowers Chg1 and increases Chg2 as the estimated degree of deterioration increases. As a result, the greater the estimated degree of deterioration, the greater the ΔSOC becomes, and the greater the measurement accuracy of the full charge capacity increases. However, the method of determining the measurement conditions is not limited to the above. For example, when the degree of deterioration of the power storage device is within a predetermined range (close to the degree of deterioration that needs to be measured with high accuracy), the measurement conditions may be determined so that the measurement accuracy is high (measurement time is long).

[0065] In the next step S13, tool 200 determines whether the measurement conditions determined in S12 satisfy predetermined requirements (hereinafter also referred to as "inspection requirements"). The inspection requirements according to this embodiment are satisfied when all of the following items (A) to (D) are satisfied, and are not satisfied when any of the items is not satisfied.

[0066] Item (A): Chg1 is lower than Th1.

[0067] Item (B): Chg2 is higher than or equal to Th2.

[0068] Item (C): ΔT1 is greater than or equal to Th3.

[0069] Item (D): ΔT2 is greater than or equal to Th4.

[0070] As described above, the inspection requirements according to this embodiment are defined by Th1 to Th4. Th1 to Th4 can be set arbitrarily. For example, values ​​determined by regulations such as the Automobile Three-Package Regulations, which stipulate the responsibility for repair, replacement, and return of automobiles, may be adopted as Th1 to Th4. Note that the inspection requirements are not limited to the above examples and can be set arbitrarily.

[0071] If the measurement conditions determined in S12 satisfy the above inspection requirements (YES in S13), the tool 200 measures the full charge capacity of the battery 11 in S14 according to the measurement conditions determined in S12. In this embodiment, if the deterioration level estimated in S11 exceeds a predetermined level, the tool 200 determines the measurement conditions in S12 so that the measurement conditions satisfy the inspection requirements (S13). Therefore, if the deterioration level estimated in S11 exceeds the predetermined level, the tool 200 measures the full charge capacity of the battery 11 in S14 according to the measurement conditions that satisfy the inspection requirements. This makes it easier to measure the full charge capacity of the deteriorated battery 11 with high accuracy.

[0072] In S14, the tool 200 performs the above-mentioned discharge process, the first standby process, and V1(SOC A ) measurement process, charging process, second standby process, V2(SOC B ) Measurement processing and capacity calculation processing are performed in this order (see FIG. 4).

[0073] In the discharge process, the tool 200 sends a discharge command to the ECU 150 so that the battery 11 is discharged according to the measurement conditions, and the ECU 150 controls the charger / discharger 61 according to the discharge command from the tool 200. The power output from the battery 11 during the discharge of the battery 11 is output to the outside of the vehicle, for example, through the inlet 60. However, this is not limited to this, and the power output from the battery 11 in the discharge process may be charged to an auxiliary battery (not shown) or consumed by on-board equipment (such as lighting equipment, air conditioning equipment, and heater).

[0074] In the charging process, the tool 200 sends a charging command to the ECU 150 so that the battery 11 is charged according to the measurement conditions, and the ECU 150 controls the charger / discharger 61 according to the charging command from the tool 200. This causes the battery 11 to be charged by power supplied from, for example, the EVSE 300 (power supply equipment outside the vehicle). While the battery 11 is being charged, the tool 200 successively acquires from the ECU 150 the current value (I) of the battery 11 measured by the BMS 11a. Alternatively, the tool 200 acquires from the ECU 150 the integrated value (ΣI) of the charging current after charging is completed.

[0075] In each of the first and second standby processes, the tool 200 sends a standby command to the ECU 150. In each of the V1 and V2 measurement processes, the tool 200 receives the voltage values ​​(V1, V2) of the battery 11 measured by the BMS 11a or the SOC values ​​(SOC A , SOC B ) is acquired from the ECU 150. In the capacity calculation process, the tool 200 calculates the full charge capacity of the battery 11 according to the formula "full charge capacity=ΣI / ΔSOC" shown in FIG.

[0076] When the full charge capacity of the battery 11 is measured in S14, the process proceeds to S15. In S15, the tool 200 determines whether or not the battery 11 needs to be replaced based on the full charge capacity measured in S14. Specifically, the tool 200 determines whether or not the full charge capacity measured in S14 is smaller than a predetermined reference value. The reference value can be set arbitrarily. The reference value may be determined based on the full charge capacity of the battery 11 in an initial state. If the full charge capacity measured in S14 is smaller than the reference value, it is determined that the battery 11 needs to be replaced (YES in S15), and after the battery 11 is replaced in S16, the process proceeds to S18. On the other hand, if the full charge capacity measured in S14 is equal to or greater than the reference value, it is determined that the battery 11 does not need to be replaced (NO in S15), and the process proceeds to S18 without replacing the battery 11 (S16).

[0077] In S16, the tool 200 executes a battery replacement process. For example, the tool 200 instructs the ECU 150 to make the battery 11 removable. The ECU 150 disconnects the battery 11 from the circuit in accordance with the instruction from the tool 200, and returns a reply to the tool 200 that preparation for battery replacement is complete. In response to the reply from the ECU 150, the tool 200 issues a notification to prompt the worker to replace the battery. For example, the tool 200 causes the HMI 204 to display a message prompting the worker to replace the battery. Thereafter, the worker removes the battery 11 from the vehicle 100, and installs a new battery in the vehicle 100. Then, the ECU 150 connects the new battery installed in the vehicle 100 to the circuit, and executes a predetermined initialization process. This completes the battery replacement in the vehicle 100.

[0078] In S18, the tool 200 writes information about the battery of the vehicle 100 acquired in the series of processes shown in Fig. 3 to the storage device 153 of the ECU 150. For example, if the answer is NO in S15, the full charge capacity of the battery 11 acquired in S14 is recorded in the storage device 153. If the answer is YES in S15, the specifications (including the full charge capacity) of the battery newly installed in the vehicle 100 are recorded in the storage device 153 together with the battery replacement date and time. The battery information recorded in the storage device 153 may be used for maintenance or assessment (evaluation) of the vehicle 100.

[0079] Even if the measurement conditions determined in S12 do not satisfy the above inspection requirements (NO in S13), the tool 200 measures the full charge capacity of the battery 11 in S17 according to the measurement conditions determined in S12. The measurement in S17 is performed in the same procedure as the measurement in S14, but the measurement conditions (Chg1, Chg2, ΔT1, and ΔT2) are different between S14 and S17. The measurement accuracy in S14 is higher than that in S17. However, the measurement time (time required for measurement) in S17 is shorter than that in S14. In this embodiment, a NO judgment in S13 means that the degree of deterioration of the battery 11 is sufficiently small.

[0080] When the full charge capacity of the battery 11 is measured in S17, the process proceeds to S18. In S18, the full charge capacity of the battery 11 acquired in S17 is recorded in the storage device 153 of the ECU 150. When the process of S18 is executed, the series of processes shown in FIG. 3 ends.

[0081] As described above, the method for testing the power storage device according to this embodiment includes estimating the deterioration level of the power storage device (battery 11) (S11), determining measurement conditions using the estimated deterioration level (S12), and measuring the full charge capacity of the power storage device according to the determined measurement conditions (S14). Determining the measurement conditions (S12) includes determining the measurement conditions such that the time required to measure the full charge capacity increases as the estimated deterioration level increases (see FIG. 4).

[0082] According to the above method, the measurement conditions are determined so that the greater the estimated deterioration level of the power storage device, the longer the time required to measure the full charge capacity. Therefore, when the deterioration level of the power storage device is sufficiently low, the full charge capacity can be measured in a short time, whereas when the deterioration level of the power storage device is high, the full charge capacity can be measured with high accuracy over a long time. In this way, according to the above method, it is possible to adjust the time required to inspect the power storage device in accordance with the state of the power storage device.

[0083] Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the process shown in Fig. 3. The series of processes shown in Fig. 5 is the same as the series of processes shown in Fig. 3, except that S17 (Fig. 3) is deleted.

[0084] With reference to FIG. 5, in this modification, if the deterioration level estimated in S11 exceeds a predetermined level, the tool 200 determines in S12 a measurement condition that satisfies the inspection requirements. Therefore, YES is determined in S13, and the full charge capacity of the battery 11 is measured in the following S14 according to the measurement condition determined in S12. On the other hand, if the deterioration level estimated in S11 does not exceed the above-mentioned predetermined level, the tool 200 determines in S12 a measurement condition that does not satisfy the inspection requirements. Therefore, NO is determined in S13. In this case, the measurement of the full charge capacity according to the measurement condition determined in S12 is not performed, and the series of processes shown in FIG. 5 is terminated. In this modification, NO is determined in S13, which means that the deterioration level of the battery 11 is sufficiently small.

[0085] According to the method of the above modification, if the estimated deterioration level exceeds a predetermined level, the full charge capacity is measured according to measurement conditions that satisfy the inspection requirements (S14). This allows the full charge capacity to be measured with high accuracy. If the estimated deterioration level does not exceed the predetermined level, the deterioration level of the power storage device is estimated (S11), but the full charge capacity is not measured according to the measurement conditions described above. This shortens the time required to inspect the power storage device, and reduces the decrease in user convenience caused by the inspection.

[0086] The method of estimating the deterioration of the battery 11 in S11 of FIG. 3 or FIG. 5 can be changed as appropriate. For example, the tool 200 may estimate the deterioration level of the battery 11 according to the formula "full charge capacity=ΣI / ΔSOC" shown in FIG. 4 from the state transition (e.g., transition of current and voltage) of the battery 11 measured during the use of the vehicle 100. The tool 200 may also estimate the deterioration level of the power storage device according to the Arrhenius law from at least one of a temperature histogram and an SOC histogram of the power storage device measured during the use of the vehicle 100. The BMS 11a may also have a SOH (State of Health) estimation function. The tool 200 may acquire the SOH of the battery 11 estimated by the BMS 11a from the vehicle 100 in S11 of FIG. 3 or FIG. 5. The SOH is, for example, a ratio of the current full charge capacity to the initial full charge capacity expressed as 0 to 100%. The greater the deterioration level of the power storage device, the smaller the SOH of the power storage device.

[0087] The method of determining the measurement conditions in S12 of Fig. 3 or Fig. 5 is not limited to the embodiment shown in Fig. 4. For example, it is not essential to change ΔT1 and ΔT2 according to the measured temperature of the battery 11. It is also not essential to change all of Chg1, Chg2, ΔT1, and ΔT2 according to the estimated deterioration degree of the battery 11. For example, only three, two, or one selected from Chg1, Chg2, ΔT1, and ΔT2 may be changed according to the estimated deterioration degree of the battery 11.

[0088] In the above embodiment, the charging speed is not included in the measurement conditions determined in S12 in Fig. 3. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the charging speed in measuring the full charge capacity may be variable depending on the deterioration level of the battery 11. For example, the charging speed in the charging process may be decreased as the deterioration level of the battery 11 estimated in S11 in Fig. 3 or Fig. 5 increases.

[0089] In the inspection method for the power storage device according to the embodiment described above, inspection of battery 11 is performed while battery 11 remains mounted on vehicle 100. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the power storage device may be removed from the vehicle, inspection may be performed on the removed power storage device, and the power storage device may be returned to the vehicle after the inspection is completed.

[0090] The configuration of the vehicle is not limited to the configuration described above (FIG. 1). The vehicle may be equipped with a charger (charging circuit) instead of a charger / discharger. The inspection method for the power storage device may be applied to xEVs (PHEVs, FCEVs, range extender EVs, etc.) other than BEVs. The inspection method for the power storage device may also be applied to stationary power storage systems used in buildings (houses, factories, etc.).

[0091] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the description of the embodiments described above, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0092] 11 Batteries, 100 Vehicles, 150 ECUs, 200 Service Tools, 300 EVSE.

Claims

1. determining a condition for measuring a full charge capacity of the power storage device using a deterioration degree of the power storage device; measuring a full charge capacity of the power storage device in accordance with the determined measurement conditions; and A method for inspecting an electricity storage device, comprising: the measurement conditions include a first waiting time and a second waiting time; Measuring the full charge capacity of the power storage device Discharging the power storage device; and waiting until the first standby time has elapsed without charging or discharging the power storage device after the discharge is completed; Charging the power storage device after the first standby time has elapsed; and waiting until the second standby time has elapsed without charging or discharging the power storage device after the charging is completed; determining a full charge capacity of the power storage device after the second standby time has elapsed; Including, Determining the measurement conditions The first waiting time is lengthened as the degree of deterioration increases; and The second waiting time is lengthened as the degree of deterioration increases; and A method for inspecting an electricity storage device, comprising:

2. The measurement conditions further include a first SOC value and a second SOC value, discharging the power storage device includes terminating the discharge when an SOC of the power storage device becomes equal to or lower than the first SOC value during the discharge of the power storage device; Charging the power storage device includes terminating the charging when an SOC of the power storage device becomes equal to or greater than the second SOC value during the charging of the power storage device, Determining the measurement conditions The greater the degree of deterioration, the lower the first SOC value; The greater the degree of deterioration, the higher the second SOC value; The method for inspecting an electricity storage device according to claim 1 , further comprising:

3. The method for inspecting the electricity storage device includes: determining whether the determined measurement conditions satisfy predetermined requirements; When it is determined that the measurement conditions satisfy the predetermined requirements, measuring the full charge capacity, and determining whether or not replacement of the power storage device is necessary based on the measured full charge capacity; Further comprising: The specified requirements are: A first item in which the first SOC value is equal to or less than a predetermined first threshold value; A second item in which the second SOC value is equal to or greater than a predetermined second threshold value; A third item in which the first waiting time is equal to or greater than a third threshold value; A fourth item in which the second waiting time is equal to or greater than a fourth threshold value; is satisfied when all of the above conditions are satisfied, and is not satisfied when any of the first condition, the second condition, the third condition, and the fourth condition is not satisfied.

3. The method for inspecting an energy storage device according to claim 2, wherein, when it is determined that the measurement conditions do not satisfy the specified requirements, of the measurement of the full charge capacity and the determination of the need for replacement of the energy storage device, only the measurement of the full charge capacity is performed, or neither is performed.

4. An inspection method for a storage device as described in claim 3, wherein, when it is determined that the measurement conditions do not satisfy the specified requirements, only the measurement of the full charge capacity is performed, out of the measurement of the full charge capacity and the determination of whether or not the storage device needs to be replaced.

5. Determining the measurement conditions determining the measurement conditions so as to satisfy the predetermined requirements when the degree of deterioration exceeds a predetermined level; The method for inspecting an electricity storage device according to claim 3 , comprising:

6. Determining the measurement conditions The lower the temperature of the power storage device, the longer the first standby time. The lower the temperature of the power storage device, the longer the second standby time. The method for inspecting an electricity storage device according to claim 1 , further comprising:

7. The storage device is a storage device used in a vehicle, The method for inspecting the electricity storage device includes: estimating the degree of deterioration using usage history data of the vehicle; The method for inspecting an electricity storage device according to claim 1 , further comprising:

8. The vehicle usage history data includes data indicating a cumulative mileage of the vehicle, The method for inspecting a power storage device according to claim 7 , wherein estimating the degree of deterioration includes estimating that the degree of deterioration is greater as the cumulative mileage is longer.

9. A program causing a computer to execute the method for inspecting an electricity storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A computer device comprising: a storage device that stores the program according to claim 9; and a processor that executes the program.

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