Battery exchange device and battery exchange system

Abstract

[Problem] To greatly reduce the burden placed on a user incurred by battery replacing. [Solution] This battery replacing device has a plurality of battery charging modules 11 which are arranged side by side on a body wall 12 and on which a plurality of battery packs 2 are respectively mounted. Each of the battery charging modules is provided with a tray 13 for holding the corresponding battery pack at a prescribed mounting position, a power supply terminal 42 that transmits charging power to the battery pack, and a locking member 51 that blocks falling-off of the battery pack from the mounting position. The tray is provided so as to be movable back and forth between a use position where the battery pack projects substantially in the horizontal direction from the front surface of the body wall so as to be placed on the top surface of the tray and a storage position where the tray is stored in the body wall.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery exchange device and a battery exchange system that charges a plurality of battery devices provided for a battery exchange service and lends the charged battery devices to users. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, electric vehicles such as electric motorcycles have been attracting attention from the viewpoint of solving problems of air pollution caused by exhaust gas and fuel costs. In such electric vehicles, the driving range has been extended by improving the performance of the battery device, but there is an inconvenience that it is not possible to drive continuously for a long time because of the difficulty in charging the battery device.

[0003] In order to eliminate such inconvenience, battery exchange services are becoming popular, in which electric vehicles are equipped with detachable battery devices and a battery device with low remaining power can be exchanged for a charged battery device at a battery station, thereby enabling long periods of continuous driving.

[0004] In this battery exchange service, a battery exchange device is installed at a battery station, a battery device brought in by a user is stored in the battery exchange device, and a charged battery device is lent to the user in return. Since the battery device is relatively heavy, it is possible to increase convenience for the user by making it easy for the user to exchange the battery and reducing the burden on the user.

[0005] To reduce the burden on the user who performs such battery replacement, a technique has been known in the past that makes it easier to remove the battery device by protruding one end of the stored battery device (see Patent Document 1).Also, a technique has been known that makes it easier to store and remove the battery device by tilting the storage section of the battery device toward the user (see Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 4479977 [Patent Document 2] JP 2014-072951 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] Now, as in the conventional technology, by arranging a large number of battery device storage sections (slots) in a row in the vertical and horizontal directions, it is possible to avoid a shortage of charged, lendable battery devices, but it is time-consuming to find an empty storage section to return the battery device. Furthermore, in the conventional technology, when returning a battery device, the task of inserting the battery device into the storage section is troublesome. Specifically, the battery device is aligned with the opening of the storage section and then pushed in. At this time, since the battery device is relatively heavy, it is necessary to hold the handle of the battery device with one hand and support the side or bottom of the battery device with the other hand to align the battery device, otherwise the battery device cannot be inserted into the storage section properly.

[0008] On the other hand, for example, in the case of an electric vehicle equipped with two battery devices, the user must carry the two battery devices removed from the electric vehicle in both hands to a battery exchange device in order to exchange the two battery devices. In this case, the user must search for an empty storage compartment while holding the heavy battery in both hands, and when an empty storage compartment is found, the user must insert the two battery devices held in both hands into the storage compartment one by one. This poses a problem of the burden on the user in battery exchange.

[0009] Therefore, a main object of the present disclosure is to provide a battery exchange device and a battery exchange system that can significantly reduce the burden on a user associated with battery exchange. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The battery exchange device disclosed herein is a battery exchange device that charges a plurality of battery devices provided for a battery exchange service and lends the charged battery devices to users, and has a plurality of battery charging units arranged side by side on a support body, and each of the plurality of battery devices is attached to the battery charging units. The battery charging units include a tray that holds the battery devices in a predetermined attachment position, a power supply terminal that transmits charging power to the battery devices, and a locking member that prevents the battery devices from being removed from the attachment position. The support body is wall-shaped, and the tray is arranged to be able to advance and retreat between a use position in which the battery devices are placed on the upper surface and protrude in a substantially horizontal direction from a front surface of the support body, and a storage position in which the battery devices are stored in the support body. The battery device is restrained in front of the support when attached to the battery charging section. The composition is as follows.

[0011] The battery exchange system of the present disclosure includes a plurality of battery devices provided for a battery exchange service, a battery exchange apparatus that houses and charges the battery devices and lends the charged battery devices to users, an authentication apparatus that performs processing related to user authentication of people who come to exchange batteries, and a server apparatus that is connected to the battery exchange apparatus and the authentication apparatus via a network and manages user authentication in the authentication apparatus and battery exchange in the battery exchange apparatus, the battery exchange apparatus having a plurality of battery charging units arranged in a row on a support and each of the plurality of battery devices is attached to the battery charging units, the battery charging unit includes a tray that holds the battery device in a predetermined mounting position, a connection terminal that transmits charging power and battery management information between the battery device and the tray, and a locking member that prevents the battery device from being removed from the mounting position, the support body is wall-shaped and the tray protrudes approximately horizontally from the front surface of the support body so that the battery device is placed on the upper surface, and the server device obtains authentication information about a person who comes to replace the battery from the authentication device and determines whether or not the battery can be replaced based on the authentication information, and if it is determined that the battery replacement is possible, controls the state of the tray, the connection terminal, and the locking member in the battery charging unit. Effect of the Invention

[0012] According to the present disclosure, In the charging state, the battery device is restrained in front of the support, When empty, the tray On the support Therefore, when returning the battery device, the user must return it to the empty Battery charging section In addition, the user only needs to place the battery device on the tray that has been switched from the storage state to the usage state. This significantly reduces the burden on the user in terms of battery replacement. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a battery sharing system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] Front view of the battery exchange machine 3 and the face authentication machine 4 [Diagram 3] Side view of battery exchange machine 3 [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a battery charging module 11. [Diagram 5] State transition diagram of the battery charging module 11 when returning the battery pack 2 [Figure 6] State transition diagram of the battery charging module 11 when the battery pack 2 is lent [Figure 7] A block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the battery exchange machine 3 and the face authentication machine 4. [Figure 8] A block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a battery pack 2 and a battery charging module 11. [Figure 9] A block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a management server 5. [Figure 10] A flow diagram showing the operation procedure when replacing a battery in the battery exchange machine 3 and the management server 5. [Figure 11] A flow diagram showing the operation procedure when replacing a battery in the battery exchange machine 3 and the management server 5. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a battery charging module 11 according to a modified example of the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] A first invention made to solve the above problems is a battery exchange device that charges a plurality of battery devices provided for a battery exchange service and lends the charged battery devices to users, the battery exchange device having a plurality of battery charging units arranged side by side on a support body and each of the plurality of battery devices is attached to the battery charging units, the battery charging units comprising a tray that holds the battery devices in a predetermined attachment position, a power supply terminal that transmits charging power to the battery devices, and a locking member that prevents the battery devices from being removed from the attachment position, the support body being wall-shaped, and the tray being arranged to be movable back and forth between a use position in which the battery devices are placed on the upper surface and protrude substantially horizontally from a front surface of the support body, and a storage position in which the battery devices are stored in the support body. The battery device is restrained in front of the support when attached to the battery charging section. The composition is as follows.

[0015] According to this, In the charging state, the battery device is restrained in front of the support, When empty, the tray On the support Therefore, when returning the battery device, the user must return it to the empty Battery charging section In addition, the user only needs to place the battery device on the tray that has been switched from the storage state to the usage state. This significantly reduces the burden on the user in terms of battery replacement.

[0016] In a second aspect of the present invention, the tray has a display unit that displays a charging state of the battery device.

[0017] This allows the user to check the charging state of each battery device attached to the battery charging section.

[0018] In a third aspect of the present invention, the tray is configured to be rotatable between the storage position, in which the tip side faces upward, and the use position.

[0019] This allows the tray to be operated smoothly and also saves space for the battery charging section.

[0020] In a fourth aspect of the present invention, the locking member is provided so as to be movable between a locked position in which the battery device is locked and an unlocked position in which the battery device is not locked.

[0021] According to this, the locking member moves back and forth between the locked position and the unlocked position, making it easier for the user to place the battery device on the tray and remove it from the tray. In this case, for example, the locking member may be provided on the support so as to be movable forward and backward, and may protrude from the support to restrain the battery device when the battery device is in the mounted position.

[0022] In addition, a fifth aspect of the present invention is configured such that the power supply terminal is movable between a connection position where it is connected to the battery device and a non-connection position where it is not connected to the battery device.

[0023] According to this, since the power supply terminal moves back and forth between the connected position and the non-connected position, it becomes easier for the user to place the battery device on the tray and remove it from the tray.

[0024] In addition, a sixth aspect of the present invention is configured such that the power supply terminal is provided on the tray so as to be vertically movable, and protrudes from the tray and is connected to the battery device when the battery device is in the mounted position.

[0025] This allows the power supply terminals to operate smoothly, and also protects the power supply terminals from exposure when the tray is stored.

[0026] In addition, a seventh aspect of the present invention is configured such that the battery device is placed on the tray in an upright position with a handle facing up.

[0027] According to this, the user can simply place the battery device held in his / her hand on the tray as is, thereby reducing the burden on the user.

[0028] In addition, an eighth aspect of the present invention is configured such that the support body has a recess that receives a part of the battery device, and a guide surface that guides the battery device to the mounting position is formed on the peripheral edge of the recess.

[0029] According to this, when the user presses the battery device against the support body, the battery device is naturally positioned at the mounting position, thereby reducing the burden on the user.

[0030] A ninth aspect of the present invention provides a battery exchange service comprising: a battery exchange apparatus which receives and charges the battery devices and lends the charged battery devices to users; an authentication apparatus which performs processing related to user authentication of people who come to exchange batteries; and a server apparatus which is connected to the battery exchange apparatus and the authentication apparatus via a network and manages user authentication in the authentication apparatus and battery exchange in the battery exchange apparatus, the battery exchange apparatus having a plurality of battery charging units which are arranged in a row on a support and to which each of the plurality of battery devices is attached, the battery charging units charging the battery devices The battery charging unit is equipped with a tray that holds the battery in a predetermined mounting position, a connection terminal that transmits charging power and battery management information between the battery device and the tray, and a locking member that prevents the battery device from being removed from the mounting position, wherein the support is wall-shaped and the tray protrudes approximately horizontally from the front of the support so that the battery device is placed on the upper surface, and the server device obtains authentication information about a person who comes to replace the battery from the authentication device and determines whether or not the battery can be replaced based on the authentication information, and if it determines that the battery replacement is possible, controls the state of the tray, the connection terminal, and the locking member in the battery charging unit.

[0031] According to this, as in the first aspect of the invention, the burden on the user for battery replacement can be significantly reduced. Also, only authorized users who have been registered in advance can be permitted to replace the battery.

[0032] In addition, a tenth aspect of the present invention is configured such that the server device controls the state of the tray in one of the plurality of battery charging units that is in an empty state in which no battery device is attached.

[0033] According to this, by controlling the state of the tray, the tray becomes ready for placing the battery device thereon, and the user can return the battery device.

[0034] In addition, an eleventh invention is configured such that the server device controls the state of the connection terminal and the locking member in a battery charging unit among the multiple battery charging units in which a charged, rentable battery device is attached.

[0035] According to this, by controlling the states of the power supply terminal and the locking member, the battery device can be brought into a state in which it can be removed, and the battery device can be lent to a user.

[0036] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0037] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a battery sharing system according to this embodiment.

[0038] This battery sharing system provides a service (battery exchange service) that allows multiple users to share a battery pack 2 (battery device) installed in an electric vehicle 1 such as an electric motorcycle, and includes a battery exchange machine 3 (battery exchange device), a face authentication machine 4 (authentication device), and a management server 5 (server device).

[0039] The battery exchange machine 3, the face authentication machine 4, and the management server 5 are connected via a network such as the Internet. The battery exchange machine 3 and the face authentication machine 4 may be connected to the network via wireless communication such as a mobile communication network or a wireless LAN.

[0040] The electric vehicle 1 is equipped with a battery pack 2 and runs on the power of the battery pack 2. In the example shown in Fig. 1, the electric vehicle 1 is an electric motorcycle, but it may also be a four-wheeled automobile. It may also be an electric wheelchair, an electric cart, a riding cart for theme parks, golf courses, etc., which are mobility devices that are not intended to be driven on roadways.

[0041] The battery exchange machine 3 receives and charges the battery packs 2 returned by the users, and lends the charged battery pack 2 to the users in exchange for the returned battery pack 2. The battery exchange machine 3 is installed in a battery station attached to a facility (store) such as a convenience store or a gas station.

[0042] The face authentication machine 4 performs processing related to face authentication as user authentication to identify a person who comes to exchange a battery. This face authentication machine 4 is installed in front of the battery exchange machine 3, and the user first comes in front of the face authentication machine 4 and undergoes face authentication by the face authentication machine 4, and then moves in front of the battery exchange machine 3 to perform the battery exchange work. This face authentication machine 4 is placed in the battery station adjacent to the battery exchange machine 3.

[0043] The management server 5 registers and manages people who subscribe to the battery exchange service and use the battery packs 2 as users (members) (user management).The management server 5 also registers and manages the battery packs 2 used in the battery exchange service (battery management).

[0044] In this embodiment, the battery pack 2 mounted on the electric vehicle 1 will be described as an example, but the battery-mounted device on which the battery pack 2 is mounted is not limited to the electric vehicle 1 and may be, for example, a portable power supply device.

[0045] In addition, in this embodiment, the management server 5 has two functions, face authentication and battery management, but the functions of the management server 5 may be separated into a face authentication server that performs processing related to face authentication and a battery management server that performs processing related to battery management. Furthermore, the functions of the face authentication server may be separated into a face management server that centrally manages user information (face images, specific information, etc.) and a face matching server that performs face matching processing.

[0046] In the present embodiment, face authentication is performed as user authentication for identifying a user who comes to exchange a battery, but user authentication other than face authentication may be performed. For example, authentication may be performed by communication between a user terminal having a RFID (radio frequency identifier) ​​tag, a contactless IC card, or an NFC (near field communication) function carried by the user. Also, authentication may be performed by displaying a two-dimensional code in which authentication information is stored on a smartphone as a user terminal.

[0047] Next, the battery exchange machine 3 and the face authentication machine 4 will be described. Fig. 2 is a front view of the battery exchange machine 3 and the face authentication machine 4. Fig. 3 is a side view of the battery exchange machine 3.

[0048] As shown in Fig. 2, the battery exchange machine 3 includes a plurality of battery charging modules 11 (battery charging units) to which a battery pack 2 is attached, one by one. The battery charging modules 11 are provided in a state supported by a main body wall 12 (support). The battery charging modules 11 are arranged in a plurality of vertical stages. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the battery charging modules 11 are arranged in two vertical stages.

[0049] 3, the battery pack 2 has a handle 22 provided on the upper part of the main body 21, and a user can carry the battery pack 2 by gripping the handle 22. The battery pack 2 is mounted on the electric vehicle 1 in an upright state with the handle 22 facing upward (see FIG. 1), and can be removed by a user gripping the handle 22 and pulling up the battery pack 2.

[0050] The battery charging module 11 includes a tray 13 on which one battery pack 2 is attached. The tray 13 supports the bottom surface of the body 21 of the battery pack 2. The battery pack 2 is attached to the tray 13 in an upright position with the handle 22 side facing up and tilted so that the handle 22 side faces diagonally backward. The rear side surface of the body 21 of the battery pack 2 is supported by the body wall 12.

[0051] When exchanging the battery pack 2, first, the user searches for an empty battery charging module 11 in order to return the battery pack 2, and attaches the battery pack 2 to the tray 13 of the empty battery charging module 11. Next, in order to lend out a fully charged battery pack 2, the user searches for a fully charged battery pack 2 and removes the fully charged battery pack 2 from the tray 13 of the battery charging module 11.

[0052] 2, the battery exchange machine 3 is provided with a display 15. This display 15 normally operates as a digital signage that displays content such as advertisements, and when face authentication of a person who comes to exchange a battery is successful, a guide screen regarding the battery exchange is displayed. Specifically, it is preferable to guide the user by illustrating the mounting position of the battery pack 2 to be returned and the removal position of the fully charged battery pack 2 so that the user does not get lost in the battery exchange operation.

[0053] The face authentication device 4 is provided with a camera 31 and a display 32. The camera 31 photographs a person (visitor) who comes to exchange the battery. A screen related to face recognition and the like is displayed on the display 32. The display 32 may also be configured as a touch panel display, in which case the user can operate the screen. Furthermore, privacy panels 33 are provided on both the left and right sides of the display 32.

[0054] Next, the battery charging module 11 will be described. Fig. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the battery charging module 11. Here, Fig. 4(A-1) is a front view of the battery charging module 11 in an empty state with no battery pack 2 attached. Fig. 4(A-2) is a front view of the battery charging module 11 with the battery pack 2 attached. Fig. 4(B) is a cross-sectional view of the battery charging module 11 with the battery pack 2 attached, as viewed from the side.

[0055] As shown in Fig. 4 (A-2), the tray 13 is provided with a connection terminal 41. The connection terminal 41 includes a power supply terminal 42 and a communication terminal 43. The power supply terminal 42 transmits charging power to be supplied during charging to the battery pack 2. The communication terminal 43 transmits and receives information to and from the battery pack 2. The power supply terminal 42 may also function as the communication terminal 43.

[0056] As shown in Figs. 4(A-1) and (A-2), a display unit 45 that displays the charging state of the battery pack 2 is provided on the tip side of the tray 13. The display unit 45 displays the charging state of the battery pack 2 in different colors, for example, by switching the lighting of light sources of multiple colors (such as LED lamps). For example, a fully charged state (a state available for lending) is displayed in green, and an incomplete charging state (a state not available for lending) is displayed in red. The display unit 45 is provided so as to straddle two surfaces on the tip side of the tray 13. Therefore, the user can visually recognize the display unit 45 in both the stored state shown in Fig. 4(A-1) and the usage state shown in Fig. 4(A-2).

[0057] 4(B), the tray 13 is provided so as to be movable between a storage position where it is stored in a tray storage section 47 of the main body wall 12 and a use position where it protrudes in a substantially horizontal direction from the front surface of the main body wall 12. In this embodiment, the tray 13 is provided so as to be rotatable about a support shaft 48 between a storage position where the tip side faces upward and a use position where the tip side protrudes forward.

[0058] The connection terminals 41 (power supply terminal 42 and communication terminal 43) are provided so as to be able to advance and retreat between a connection position where the battery pack 2 is connected and a non-connection position where the battery pack 2 is not connected. In this embodiment, the connection terminals 41 are provided on the tray 13 so as to be able to move up and down, and when the battery pack 2 is in the attached position, the connection terminals 41 protrude from the tray 13 and are connected to the battery pack 2. The connection terminals 41 are driven to advance and retreat by a terminal drive unit 49.

[0059] The battery charging module 11 is also provided with a locking member 51 that prevents the battery pack 2 from being removed from the mounting position. The locking member 51 is flat and restricts the upper surface of the main body 21 of the battery pack 2, thereby restraining the battery pack 2.

[0060] The locking member 51 is provided so as to be able to advance and retreat between a locked position where the battery pack 2 is restrained and an unlocked position where the battery pack 2 is not restrained. In this embodiment, the locking member 51 is provided on the body wall 12 so as to be able to move forward and backward, and when the battery pack 2 is in the mounted position, the locking member 51 protrudes from the body wall 12 to restrain the battery pack 2. The locking member 51 is driven to advance and retreat by a lock driving unit 52.

[0061] In addition, the locking member 51 in the locked state prevents the battery pack 2 from moving upward. On the other hand, the connection terminal 41 in the joined state prevents the battery pack 2 from moving forward. As a result, the locking member 51 and the connection terminal 41 cooperate to form a locking mechanism that restrains the battery pack 2, and prevents the battery pack 2 from being removed from the tray 13.

[0062] Furthermore, the body wall 12 is provided with a recess 61 for receiving a part of the battery pack 2 for each battery charging module 11. Guide surfaces 62 for guiding the battery pack 2 to a predetermined mounting position are formed on the periphery of this recess 61, particularly on the left and right edges. These guide surfaces 62 allow the user to press the battery pack 2 against the body wall 12, so that the battery pack 2 is naturally positioned at the mounting position. Furthermore, the surface of the body wall 12 may be made flat, and a recess (not shown) may be formed on the upper surface of the tray 13 so that the battery pack 2 can be positioned at the mounting position simply by placing it thereon.

[0063] When the battery pack 2 is in the mounting position, the power supply terminal 42 and the communication terminal 43 on the tray 13 side are aligned with the power supply terminal and the communication terminal on the battery pack 2 side. The guide surface 62 may be formed to have a cross section curved like an arc, or may be formed as a tapered inclined surface.

[0064] In addition, in this embodiment, a flat locking member 51 is provided, but a locking member 51 having another configuration, such as a hook shape, may be provided. In this embodiment, the locking member 51 is configured to abut against the upper surface of the main body 21 of the battery pack 2 to prevent the movement of the battery pack 2, but a locking member 51 configured to be hooked onto the handle 22 of the battery pack 2 may be provided.

[0065] In addition, in this embodiment, the tray 13 is configured to rotate in the vertical direction, but the tray 13 may be configured to slide in the front-rear direction.

[0066] Next, there will be described the operation of the battery charging module 11 when returning the battery pack 2. Fig. 5 is a state transition diagram of the battery charging module 11 when returning the battery pack 2.

[0067] In an empty battery charging module 11, when facial authentication is completed and a return permission notification is received from the management server 5, the tray 13 in the stored state opens as shown in Figure 5(A), i.e., the tray 13 rotates forward and transitions to a state in which the battery pack 2 can be placed, as shown in Figure 5(B).

[0068] Next, when the user places the battery pack 2 on the tray 13 as shown in Fig. 5(C), the connection terminals 41 (power supply terminals and communication terminals) protrude from the tray 13 and transition to a connected state as shown in Fig. 5(D). At the same time, the locking member 51 protrudes from the body wall 12 and transitions to a locked state.

[0069] Next, a description will be given of the operation of the battery charging module 11 when lending out the battery pack 2. Fig. 6 is a state transition diagram of the battery charging module 11 when lending out the battery pack 2.

[0070] When the battery charging module 11 in the fully charged state receives a rental permission notification from the management server 5, the display unit 45 flashes to guide the user to the battery pack 2 to be lent. Also, the locking member 51 retracts from the locked state shown in Fig. 6(A) to transition to the unlocked state shown in Fig. 6(B). At the same time, the connection terminal 41 descends to transition to the non-connected state.

[0071] Next, as shown in FIG. 6(C), when the user removes the battery pack 2 from the tray 13, the tray 13 closes, that is, the tray 13 rotates upward and transitions to the stored state shown in FIG. 6(D).

[0072] In this embodiment, the connection terminal 41 performs a connection operation at the same timing as the locking operation of the locking member 51, but the locking operation of the locking member 51 and the connection operation of the connection terminal 41 may be performed at different timings. In this embodiment, the connection terminal 41 performs a disconnection operation at the same timing as the unlocking operation of the locking member 51, but the unlocking operation of the locking member 51 and the connection disconnection operation of the connection terminal 41 may be performed at different timings. For example, when the battery pack 2 is returned, the connection terminal 41 may first perform a connection operation, and if the returned battery pack 2 is determined to be a service eligible item, the locking member 51 may perform a locking operation.

[0073] Next, a description will be given of the schematic configuration of the battery exchange machine 3 and the face authentication machine 4. Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the battery exchange machine 3 and the face authentication machine 4.

[0074] In addition to the battery charging module 11 and the display 15, the battery exchange machine 3 includes a charging unit 71, an input / output unit 72, a communication unit 73, a memory 74, and a processor 75.

[0075] The charging unit 71 charges the battery pack 2 via the battery charging module 11 .

[0076] The input / output unit 72 inputs and outputs information between the battery pack 2 and the battery charging module 11. For example, the model number of the battery pack 2, alerts, deterioration information, and the like are input from the battery pack 2 via the battery charging module 11. In addition, control signals for operating each part of the battery charging module 11 are output to the battery charging module 11.

[0077] The display 15 displays a guide screen regarding replacement of the battery pack 2. Furthermore, during normal times other than when a battery is being replaced, the display 15 functions as a digital signage and displays various advertisements and the like.

[0078] The communication unit 73 communicates with the management server 5 via the network.

[0079] The memory 74 stores programs executed by the processor 75 and the like.

[0080] The processor 75 performs various processes related to battery exchange by executing the programs stored in the memory 74. In this embodiment, the processor 75 performs return / rental control processing, battery information acquisition processing, and matching request processing.

[0081] In the return / lending control process, the processor 75 controls the battery charging module 11 to perform a predetermined operation for returning and lending the battery pack 2. In this embodiment, instruction information on whether or not the battery pack 2 can be lent from the management server 5 is received by the communication unit 73, and the processor 75 performs necessary control based on the instruction information from the management server 5.

[0082] In the battery information acquisition process, the processor 75 acquires battery management information (such as the model number (model identification information) of the battery pack 2) from the returned battery pack 2 via the input / output unit 72. This battery management information is transmitted from the communication unit 73 to the management server 5.

[0083] In the matching request process, the processor 75 transmits a battery matching request from the communication unit 73 to the management server 5. The battery matching request includes the model number of the battery pack 2.

[0084] In addition to the camera 31 and the display 32, the face authentication device 4 includes a communication unit 81, a memory 82, and a processor 83.

[0085] The camera 31 captures an image of a person (visitor) who comes to exchange the battery.

[0086] The display 32 displays a guide screen regarding face authentication and the like.

[0087] The communication unit 81 communicates with the management server 5 via the network.

[0088] The memory 82 stores programs executed by the processor 83 and the like.

[0089] The processor 83 performs various processes related to face authentication by executing the programs stored in the memory 82. In this embodiment, the processor 83 performs face image acquisition process, matching request process, matching result notification process, GUI control process, camera mode control process, and the like.

[0090] In the face image acquisition process, processor 83 detects a person's face from an image captured by camera 31 (face detection), cuts out a face area from the captured image (face cut-out), and acquires a face image of the subject (face image for authentication).

[0091] In the matching request process, the processor 83 transmits a face matching request from the communication unit 81 to the management server 5. This face matching request includes a face image of the visitor.

[0092] In the comparison result notification process, the processor 83 displays the comparison result acquired from the management server 5 by the communication unit 73 on the display 32, thereby notifying the user of the comparison result, that is, whether or not the battery can be replaced.

[0093] In the GUI control process, the processor 83 displays a screen related to face authentication delivered from the management server 5 on the display 32. Also, in response to an input operation by a user using the input function of the display 32 (here, a touch panel), the processor 83 acquires input information and controls the screen.

[0094] In the camera mode control process, the processor 83 switches between a face authentication mode and a crime prevention monitoring mode as an operation mode for processing images captured by the camera 31. Specifically, the processor 83 normally operates in the face authentication mode, and transitions from the face authentication mode to the crime prevention monitoring mode when a failure in face authentication is triggered. In the crime prevention monitoring mode, the images captured by the camera 31 are uploaded to the management server 5 as surveillance images. The management server 5 accumulates the surveillance images uploaded from the battery exchange machine 3. This allows the behavior of a suspicious person to be confirmed after the fact.

[0095] In addition, an interface for directly exchanging required information between the battery exchange machine 3 and the face authentication machine 4 may be provided in the battery exchange machine 3 and the face authentication machine 4.

[0096] Next, a description will be given of the schematic configuration of the battery pack 2 and the battery charging module 11. FIG 8 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the battery pack 2 and the battery charging module 11.

[0097] The battery pack 2 includes a battery cell 91 , a power supply terminal 92 , a communication terminal 93 , a charge / discharge circuit 94 , a memory 95 , and a processor 96 .

[0098] The power supply terminal 92 transmits charging power supplied from the battery charging module 11 during charging. Furthermore, the power supply terminal 92 transmits electric power of the battery cell 91 to the electric vehicle 1 when mounted on the electric vehicle 1.

[0099] The communication terminal 93 transmits and receives information between the battery charging module 11 and the battery pack 2. The power supply terminal 92 may also function as a communication terminal.

[0100] The charge / discharge circuit 94 performs an operation of charging the battery cells 91 with charging power supplied from the battery charging module 11, and an operation of discharging the battery cells 91 to supply power to the electric vehicle 1 for running.

[0101] The memory 95 stores a program executed by the processor 96. The memory 95 also stores battery management information required for managing the battery exchange service. This battery management information includes, for example, the ID of the battery pack 2 (individual identification information such as a serial number), the ID of the user who is using the battery pack 2, an alert indicating an abnormal state of the battery pack 2, history information such as the number of times the battery pack has been charged in the past, deterioration information of the battery cells 91, and the like.

[0102] The processor 96 controls each part of the battery pack 2. For example, various environmental sensors (for temperature, humidity, voltage, and current) are provided to detect abnormalities and deterioration states of the battery cells 91, and to store alerts and deterioration information in the memory 95.

[0103] The battery charging module 11 includes a display unit 45, a locking member 51, a connection terminal 41 (power supply terminal 42 and communication terminal 43), a terminal driving unit 49, a lock driving unit 52, a sensor 56, and an input / output unit 57.

[0104] The sensor 56 is attached to the battery charging module 11 and detects the battery pack 2. The sensor 56 detects when the user places the battery pack 2 on the tray 13, and also detects when the user removes the battery pack 2 from the tray 13. Note that the sensor 56 may detect when the battery pack 2 has shifted from its attached position and display a message on the display 15 to prompt the user to align the battery pack 2.

[0105] The input / output unit 57 is connected to the input / output unit 72 of the battery exchange machine 3, and is connected to the battery pack 2 via the communication terminal 43, and relays transmission and reception of information between the battery exchange machine 3 and the battery pack 2. The input / output unit 57 also outputs a display signal input from the input / output unit 72 of the battery exchange machine 3 to the display unit 45. The input / output unit 57 also outputs a drive signal input from the input / output unit 72 of the battery exchange machine 3 to the terminal drive unit 49 and the lock drive unit 52.

[0106] The charging unit 71 of the battery exchange machine 3 includes a charging control circuit 77 and a power supply unit 78. The charging control circuit 77 controls the charging power supplied from the power supply unit 78 to the battery charging module 11.

[0107] The processor 75 of the battery exchange machine 3 performs control related to charging of the battery pack 2 in the battery charging module 11. Specifically, it controls the charging control circuit 77 based on information acquired from the battery pack 2 via the input / output unit 72. It also controls the display unit 45 based on the charging information acquired from the battery pack 2, and causes the display unit 45 to display a color according to the charging state of the battery pack 2. It also controls the lock drive unit 52 that moves the lock member 51 of the battery charging module 11 forward and backward, and the terminal drive unit 49 that moves the connection terminals 41 (the power supply terminal 42 and the communication terminal 43) of the battery charging module 11 forward and backward.

[0108] Next, a description will be given of a schematic configuration of the management server 5. FIG.

[0109] The management server 5 includes a communication unit 101, a memory 102, and a processor 103.

[0110] The communication unit 101 communicates with the battery exchange machine 3 and the face authentication machine 4 via a network.

[0111] The memory 102 stores registration information (user management information) of a user management table, programs executed by the processor 103, and the like.

[0112] The processor 103 performs various processes related to face authentication and battery replacement by executing the programs stored in the memory 102. In this embodiment, the processor 103 performs information management processing, face feature extraction processing, face matching processing, battery matching processing, battery replacement instruction processing, and the like.

[0113] In the information management process, when registering a user, the processor 103 acquires facial feature information of a target person from a registration device (not shown) and registers the information in a user management table.

[0114] In the facial feature extraction process, the processor 103 extracts facial feature information from a face image of a visitor acquired from the face authentication device 4 at the time of battery replacement. In addition, at the time of user registration, facial feature information is extracted from a face image of a person to be registered as a user acquired from a registration device (not shown).

[0115] In the face matching process, the processor 103 performs face matching to determine whether or not the visitor is a legitimate user by comparing the visitor's face feature information acquired in the face feature extraction process with the face feature information registered in the user management table when the battery is replaced. Note that, since a face image of the user is acquired each time the battery is replaced, the face feature information of the user registered in the user management table may be updated using the face feature information extracted from this face image.

[0116] In the battery matching process, the processor 103 performs battery matching to determine whether or not the battery pack 2 returned by the user to the battery exchange machine 3 is an eligible product for the battery exchange service.

[0117] In the battery exchange instruction process, the processor 103 determines whether or not the battery exchange is permitted, and notifies the battery exchange machine 3 of the determination result, i.e., whether or not the battery exchange is permitted. Specifically, when the face matching process determines that the visitor is a legitimate user, and the battery matching process determines that the battery pack 2 returned by the user is a target item for the battery exchange service, an exchange permission notice that permits the battery exchange is transmitted from the communication unit 101 to the battery exchange machine 3. In addition, when the visitor is determined to be an unauthorized user, or when the battery pack 2 returned by the user is determined to be different from the battery pack 2 currently being lent to the user, an exchange non-permission notice that does not permit the battery exchange is transmitted from the communication unit 101 to the battery exchange machine 3.

[0118] In this embodiment, the facial feature extraction process is performed by the management server 5, but the facial feature extraction process may also be performed by the face authentication device 4, and the facial feature information extracted from the visitor's facial image may be provided to the management server 5.

[0119] Next, there will be described the operation procedure at the time of battery exchange in the battery exchange machine 3 and the management server 5. Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 are flow charts showing the operation procedure at the time of battery exchange in the battery exchange machine 3 and the management server 5.

[0120] 10, in the battery exchange machine 3, first, when the processor 75 detects the face of a visitor (a person who has come to exchange a battery) from the image captured by the camera 31 (Yes in ST101), it acquires a facial image of the visitor from the image captured by the camera 31 (ST102). Then, it transmits the facial image of the visitor from the communication unit 73 to the management server 5 (ST103).

[0121] In the management server 5, when the communication unit 101 receives the face image of the visitor transmitted from the battery exchange machine 3 (ST201), the processor 103 extracts the face feature information of the visitor from the received face image (ST202).

[0122] Next, processor 103 compares the visitor's facial feature information with the facial feature information registered in the user management table to determine whether or not the visitor is a legitimate user (ST203).

[0123] If the visitor is not a legitimate user (No in ST203), a return refusal notice is sent from communication section 101 to battery exchange machine 3 (ST204).

[0124] On the other hand, if the visitor is a legitimate user (Yes in ST203), a return permission notice is sent from the communication unit 101 to the battery exchange machine 3 (ST205).

[0125] When the battery exchange machine 3 receives a return non-permission notice from the management server 5 (Yes in ST104), the processor 75 displays an error screen on the display 15 to notify the user that battery exchange is not possible (ST105).

[0126] Furthermore, when a return permission notice is received from the management server 5 (Yes in ST106), the processor 75 performs control to open the tray 13 (ST107). This allows the visitor to return the battery pack 2 to the battery exchange machine 3.

[0127] 11, in the battery exchange machine 3, the processor 75 then performs control to lock the battery pack 2 in response to detecting that the battery pack 2 has been placed on the tray 13, i.e., that the battery pack 2 has been returned (ST108). Next, the model number of the battery pack 2 is read (ST109). Then, the model number of the battery pack 2 is transmitted from the communication unit 73 to the management server 5 (ST110).

[0128] In the management server 5, when the communication unit 101 receives the model number of the battery pack 2 sent from the battery exchange machine 3 (ST206), the processor 103 determines, based on the received model number, whether or not the battery pack 2 returned by the user to the battery exchange machine 3 is eligible for the battery exchange service (ST207).

[0129] Here, if the battery pack 2 returned by the user is not an eligible item for the battery exchange service (No in ST207), a rental denial notice is sent from the communication unit 101 to the battery exchange machine 3 (ST208).

[0130] On the other hand, if the battery pack 2 returned by the user is eligible for the battery exchange service (Yes in ST207), a lending permission notice is sent from the communication unit 101 to the battery exchange machine 3 (ST209).

[0131] When the battery exchange machine 3 receives a notification that rental is not permitted from the management server 5 (Yes in ST111), the processor 75 displays an error screen on the display 15 informing the user that battery replacement is not possible, and performs control to unlock the battery pack 2 brought in by the visitor so that the battery pack 2 can be returned to the visitor (ST112).

[0132] Furthermore, when a lending permission notice is received from the management server 5 (Yes in ST113), the processor 75 performs control to unlock the battery pack 2 so that the charged battery pack 2 can be lent to a user (ST114). This allows the visitor to remove the charged battery pack 2 from the battery exchange machine 3.

[0133] Next, a modified example of this embodiment will be described. Fig. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing a battery charging module 11 according to a modified example of this embodiment.

[0134] In this embodiment (see FIG. 4), the connection terminals 41 (power supply terminals and communication terminals) are provided on the tray 13, but the connection terminals 41 may be provided on the body wall 12. In addition, the locking member 51 is provided on the body wall 12, but the locking member 51 may be provided on the tray 13.

[0135] 12(A), the connection terminal 41 is provided on the body wall 12, and the locking member 51 is provided on the tray 13. In the example shown in FIG. 12(B), both the connection terminal 41 and the locking member 51 are provided on the body wall 12.

[0136] In addition, in this embodiment (see FIG. 4), the battery pack 2 is configured to be attached to the tray 13 in a vertical position with the handle side facing up, but the battery pack 2 may also be configured to be attached to the tray 13 in a horizontal position with the handle side facing forward.

[0137] 12(C), the battery pack 2 is attached to the tray 13 in a horizontal position, the connection terminals 41 are provided on the tray 13, and the locking member 51 is provided on the main body wall 12. In the example shown in Fig. 12(D), the battery pack 2 is attached to the tray 13 in a horizontal position, the connection terminals 41 are provided on the main body wall 12, and the locking member 51 is provided on the tray 13.

[0138] As described above, the embodiments have been described as examples of the technology disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited to these, and can be applied to embodiments in which modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. are made. In addition, it is also possible to combine the components described in the above embodiments to create new embodiments. [Industrial Applicability]

[0139] The battery exchange device and battery exchange system disclosed herein have the effect of significantly reducing the burden on users associated with battery exchange, and are useful as a battery exchange device and battery exchange system that charges multiple battery devices provided for battery exchange services and lends charged battery devices to users. [Explanation of symbols]

[0140] 1 Electric vehicles 2 Battery pack (battery device) 3 Battery exchange machine (battery exchange device) 4. Face recognition machine (authentication device) 5 Management server (server device) 11 Battery charging module (battery charging section) 12 Main body wall (support) 13 Tray 15 Display 19 Processors 21 Main unit 22 Handle 31 Camera 32 Display 33 Privacy Panel 41 Connection terminal 42 Power supply terminal 43 Communication terminal 45 Display section 47 Tray storage area 48 Spindle 49 Terminal drive unit 51 Locking member 52 Lock drive unit 61 Recess 62 Guide Surface

Claims

1. A battery exchange device that charges a plurality of battery devices provided for a battery exchange service and lends the charged battery devices to users, a plurality of battery charging units arranged side by side on a support body, to which the plurality of battery devices are respectively attached; This battery charging section a tray for holding the battery device in a predetermined mounting position; a power supply terminal for transmitting charging power to the battery device; a locking member that prevents the battery device from being removed from the mounting position; Equipped with The support is wall-shaped, the tray is provided so as to be movable between a use position where the tray protrudes in a substantially horizontal direction from a front surface of the support so that the battery device is placed on an upper surface thereof and a storage position where the tray is stored in the support, The battery exchange device is characterized in that the battery device is restrained in front of the support body when attached to the battery charging section.

2. 2. The battery exchange device according to claim 1, wherein the tray has a display unit that displays a charging state of the battery device.

3. 2. The battery exchange device according to claim 1, wherein the tray is rotatably provided between the storage position with the tip side facing upward and the use position.

4. 2. The battery exchange device according to claim 1, wherein the locking member is provided so as to be movable between a locking position where the battery device is restrained and an unlocking position where the battery device is not restrained.

5. 2. The battery exchange device according to claim 1, wherein the power supply terminal is provided so as to be movable between a connection position where the power supply terminal is connected to the battery device and a non-connection position where the power supply terminal is not connected to the battery device.

6. 6. The battery exchange device according to claim 5, wherein the power supply terminal is provided on the tray so as to be vertically movable, and protrudes from the tray and is connected to the battery device when the battery device is in the mounting position.

7. 2. The battery exchange device according to claim 1, wherein the battery device is placed on the tray in an upright position with a handle facing up.

8. 2. The battery exchange device according to claim 1, wherein the support has a recess for receiving a portion of the battery device, and a guide surface for guiding the battery device to the mounting position is formed on the periphery of the recess.

9. A plurality of battery devices to be provided for a battery exchange service; a battery exchange device that receives and charges the battery device and lends the charged battery device to a user; an authentication device that performs a process related to user authentication of a person who comes to replace the battery; a server device connected to the battery exchange device and the authentication device via a network, the server device managing user authentication in the authentication device and battery exchange in the battery exchange device; Equipped with The battery exchange device includes: a plurality of battery charging units arranged side by side on a support body, to which the plurality of battery devices are respectively attached; This battery charging section a tray for holding the battery device in a predetermined mounting position; a connection terminal for transmitting charging power and battery management information to and from the battery device; a locking member that prevents the battery device from being removed from the mounting position; Equipped with The support is wall-shaped, the tray protrudes from the front surface of the support in a substantially horizontal direction so that the battery device is placed on an upper surface thereof; The server device includes: acquiring authentication information on a person who has come to replace the battery from the authentication device, and determining whether or not the battery can be replaced based on the authentication information; When it is determined that the battery can be replaced, the battery exchange system controls the states of the tray, the connection terminal, and the locking member in the battery charging unit.

10. The server device includes:

10. The battery exchange system according to claim 9, wherein the state of the tray in the battery charging section that is in an empty state and does not have the battery device attached thereto is controlled among the plurality of battery charging sections.

11. The server device includes: The battery exchange system according to claim 9, characterized in that the state of the connection terminal and the locking member of the battery charging unit in which the charged, rentable battery device is attached, among the plurality of battery charging units, is controlled.

Images