Energy storage device management system

Abstract

To provide a power storage device management system that can prevent the occurrence of a shortage of power storage devices in each area and more effectively use the power storage devices.SOLUTION: A power storage device management system which is an example of an embodiment includes power storage devices that are arranged in each of a plurality of areas and each have a communication function, and a management device capable of communicating with the power storage devices. The management device stores management position information in association with identification information on the power storage devices for the plurality of power storage devices. The management device outputs information regarding handling of the power storage devices based on the management position information and at least one of first information acquired from the outside of the system and second information about the number of power storage devices acquired in the management device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a management system for a power storage device, and more particularly to a management system for a portable power storage device that can be carried around. [Background technology]

[0002] Portable power storage devices have been used as power sources for electric vehicles such as power-assisted bicycles, electric motorcycles, and electric carts, as well as for electrical equipment such as computers, printers, smartphones, and tablet terminals. Portable power storage devices are also used as emergency power sources in the event of a power outage, disaster, or the like.

[0003] In recent years, a power storage device equipped with a wireless communication module for transmitting information about the state of the power storage device to an information terminal such as a smartphone has also been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). With a power storage device equipped with a wireless communication module, information about the state of the power storage device, such as the charging rate and temperature, is transmitted to the user's smartphone or the like, allowing the user to easily check the state of the power storage device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-46571 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Portable power storage devices should be deployed in the necessary number for each specified area. For example, a large number of power storage devices should be deployed in a large evacuation shelter, and power storage devices should be deployed appropriately according to the size of the evacuation shelter. However, in reality, while there are areas with sufficient power storage devices, there may be areas with a shortage of power storage devices. For example, in areas affected by disasters such as earthquakes and floods, there is a shortage of immediately usable power storage devices, and it is expected that power storage devices will not be distributed to disaster victims who need them.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a management system for power storage devices that can prevent a situation in which a shortage of power storage devices occurs in each area and that can more effectively utilize the power storage devices. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The energy storage device management system of the present disclosure includes energy storage devices each having a communication function and arranged in a plurality of areas, and a management device capable of communicating with the energy storage devices, and the management device stores management location information for the plurality of energy storage devices in association with identification information of the energy storage devices, and outputs information regarding the handling of the energy storage devices based on the management location information and at least one of first information obtained from outside the system and second information related to the number of energy storage devices obtained by the management device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The power storage device management system according to the present disclosure can prevent a shortage of power storage devices in each area and enable more effective use of power storage devices. For example, the management system according to the present disclosure can enable efficient use of power storage devices throughout the local community. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a management system for an electricity storage device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3A] 4 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the system of the first embodiment. [Figure 3B] 4 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the system of the first embodiment. [Figure 3C] 4 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the system of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing information displayed on the information terminal of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing information displayed on the information terminal of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing information displayed on the information terminal of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating a management system for an electricity storage device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in a system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing information displayed on an information terminal according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating a management system for an electricity storage device according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] An example of an embodiment of a power storage device management system according to the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The embodiment described below is merely an example, and the present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiment. Furthermore, selective combinations of the components of the multiple embodiments and modified examples described below are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0011] The subject of the system according to the present disclosure includes a computer. The computer executes a program to realize the functions of the subject of the system according to the present disclosure. The computer includes, as its main hardware component, a processor that operates according to the program. The type of processor is not important as long as it can realize the above functions by executing the program. The processor is composed of one or more electronic circuits, including an integrated circuit (IC) or a large-scale integrated circuit (LSI). The multiple electronic circuits may be integrated into a single chip or may be provided on multiple chips. The multiple chips may be integrated into a single device or may be provided on multiple devices. The program is stored in a non-transitory storage medium, such as a computer-readable ROM, optical disk, or hard disk drive. The program may be pre-stored in the storage medium or may be supplied to the storage medium via a wide-area communication network, including the Internet.

[0012] Hereinafter, a management system 1 for an electricity storage device according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 6. Fig. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating the management system 1. Fig. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the management system 1.

[0013] 1 and 2, the management system 1 includes power storage devices 10 with communication capabilities, which are arranged in multiple areas, information terminals 20 capable of communicating with the power storage devices 10, and a management server 30 capable of communicating with the information terminals 20. The management system 1 is a system that manages power storage devices 10 in multiple areas, and preferably includes multiple information terminals 20 arranged in each area. However, it is also possible to arrange information terminals 20 in each of several areas, or to arrange one management server 30 that manages all areas. Note that the number of power storage devices 10 arranged in one area may be one or multiple.

[0014] The information terminal 20 is a terminal device having a monitor 23, and examples thereof include a smartphone, a tablet terminal, and a laptop computer owned by the user. The management system 1 is configured so that a user, particularly a facility manager, can check the status of the power storage device 10 using the information terminal 20. Note that the power storage device 10 and the management server 30 may communicate directly with each other, and information about the power storage device 10 may be sent directly from the power storage device 10 to the management server 10.

[0015] 1 illustrates a plurality of power storage devices 10 arranged in areas A and B, an information terminal 20 that manages the power storage devices 10 for each of areas A and B, and a management server 30 that can communicate with the plurality of information terminals 20. Each power storage device 10 provides information to the information terminal 20 in the same area by short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), or NFC. Although two areas A and B are illustrated in FIG. 1, the number of areas under the management of the management system 1 is not particularly limited.

[0016] Examples of areas A and B include offices, factories, public facilities (government offices, community centers, schools, hospitals, and other facilities used as evacuation shelters), and commercial facilities (stores, shopping malls, accommodation facilities, etc.). An example of areas A and B is one floor or one section within one facility. Multiple areas may be set within one facility. Furthermore, areas under the management of the management system 1 may include detached houses, apartment complexes, and other housing complexes. One information terminal 20 may manage power storage devices 10 in multiple areas.

[0017] The management server 30 stores management location information for the plurality of power storage devices 10 in association with identification information of the power storage devices 10. Preferably, the management server 30 further stores at least one of management quantity information for each of a plurality of areas and information related to the state of the power storage devices 10 in association with identification information of the power storage devices 10. An example of the identification information of the power storage devices 10 is a unique number assigned to each power storage device 10 by the management system 1 or the manufacturer. As will be described in more detail below, the management server 30 outputs information related to the handling of the power storage devices 10 based on the management location information and at least one of first information acquired from outside the management system 1 and second information related to the number of power storage devices 10 acquired by the information terminal 20 or the management server 30. The first information is, for example, meteorological disaster information.

[0018] The management location information stored in the management server 30 is information for identifying the area in which the power storage device 10 is managed. Specific examples include address data and identification numbers of the area. The address data includes, for example, an address, a postal code, a telephone number, latitude and longitude. The management location information may be stored in the power storage device 10. The management server 30 also stores information about the information terminals 20 that manage the power storage devices 10 in each area in association with the management location information. Information about the status of the power storage devices 10 includes, for example, the charge rate, degradation information, abnormality information, and storage status of the power storage devices 10. The management quantity information of the power storage devices 10 includes the number of power storage devices 10 deployed in each area.

[0019] In this embodiment, the management server 30 stores, for all areas under the management of the management system 1, management quantity information for each area as well as management location information, in association with identification information of the power storage device 10. The management server 30 may further store information on the status of the power storage device 10 for all areas under the management of the management system 1. Furthermore, the management server 30 may be communicably connected to management systems other than the management system 1 and cooperate with the other management systems.

[0020] As described above, a plurality of power storage devices 10 are deployed in areas A and B under the management of the management system 1. It is preferable that the required number of power storage devices 10 be appropriately deployed in each area; however, in the event of, for example, an earthquake, flood, or power outage, it is expected that there will be a shortage of power storage devices 10 that can be used immediately, and that the power storage devices 10 will not be distributed to users who need them. In addition, there may be an unexpected increase in demand for power storage devices 10 due to the holding of a special event, etc. The management system 1 is a system for preventing such a shortage of power storage devices 10 and realizing more effective use of the power storage devices 10.

[0021] The management server 30 is a device that stores information about the power storage device 10, including identification information and the like, and performs overall management of the power storage device 10. An example of the management server 30 is a server of the manufacturer or management business operator of the power storage device 10. Information about the power storage device 10 is registered in the management server 30 using, for example, an information terminal 20. The information terminal 20 and the management server 30 are configured to be able to communicate with each other via a wide area communication network such as an internet line or a mobile communication system. The power storage device 10 is able to communicate with the information terminal 20, but may also be able to communicate with the management server 30 via the wide area communication network. The management server 30 may be a server managed by a user.

[0022] The power storage device 10, the information terminal 20, and the management server 30 that constitute the management system 1 will be described in detail below.

[0023] [Electricity storage device 10] The power storage device 10 includes a battery module 11 and a case 14 that houses the battery module 11. The power storage device 10 is a portable power storage device that can be carried around, and is generally called a battery pack or a storage battery. The power storage device 10 also includes a communication module 12 and a control unit 13. The communication module 12 and the control unit 13 are housed in the case 14 together with the battery module 11. The battery module 11 is charged using, for example, a charger / discharger 17 (see FIG. 7 described below). The charger / discharger 17 has an outlet to which an electrical device is connected, and the power storage device 10 can be discharged while it is placed on the charger / discharger 17.

[0024] The battery module 11 may be composed of a single battery, but is preferably configured as a battery pack including multiple batteries. The shape of the batteries constituting the battery pack is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a cylindrical battery, a pouch-shaped battery, or a prismatic battery. The type of battery is also not particularly limited, but a suitable example is a high-capacity lithium-ion battery. The power storage device 10 may be provided with a connector for extracting power from the battery module 11.

[0025] The power storage device 10 is provided with measurement units such as a voltage measurement unit that measures the voltage of the battery module 11, a current measurement unit that measures the current, and a temperature sensor that measures the temperature. The control unit 13 calculates values ​​that indicate the state of the battery module 11, such as the charging rate of the battery module 11, based on these measurement values.

[0026] The communication module 12 is a circuit module for wireless communication with the information terminal 20 or the management server 30, or both. By the function of the communication module 12, information on the power storage device 10 is transmitted to the information terminal 20 or the management server 30, or both. In this embodiment, the communication module 12 may have a function for wireless communication between the power storage device 10 and the information terminal 20 located in a short distance. The configuration of the communication module 12 is not particularly limited, but may be a short-range wireless communication module from the viewpoint of reducing power consumption, etc.

[0027] A specific example is a module that performs BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) communication. BLE corresponds to version 4 of Bluetooth (registered trademark), which is a short-range wireless communication standard. Since the power consumption for BLE communication is relatively small, using a BLE module can reduce the internal power consumption of the power storage device 10. Note that Bluetooth (registered trademark) corresponds to the IEEE802.15.1 standard, which is an international standard for short-range wireless communication.

[0028] The control unit 13 has a function of controlling the operation of the power storage device 10, such as charging and discharging the battery module 11, calculating information indicating the state of the power storage device 10, and transmitting information via the communication module 12. Information about the power storage device 10 is transmitted to the information terminal 20 by the function of the communication module 12 under the control of the control unit 13. For example, the control unit 13 outputs information urging charging when the charging rate falls below a predetermined threshold, and outputs information indicating an abnormality when an abnormality occurs. The control unit 13 may also output information indicating the state of the power storage device 10 based on a request from the information terminal 20.

[0029] The control unit 13 is configured by a microcomputer including a processor and a memory. The memory includes, for example, non-volatile memory such as RAM, ROM, and a hard disk. The processor reads and executes programs installed in the memory to realize the functions of the power storage device 10. The control unit 13 may also have a protection board called a BMS board, which monitors the state of the battery module 11 and performs optimal charging and discharging.

[0030] The power storage device 10 may store at least one of management location information and message information. Furthermore, this information may be stored in the management server 30 together with identification information of the power storage device 10. For example, when the power storage device 10 is transported to another area based on first information acquired from outside the management system 1, this information stored in the power storage device 10 or the like is read by the information terminal 20 at the transport destination. As described above, the management location information is address data or the like at which the power storage device 10 is managed, and is used when returning the power storage device 10 from the transport destination. For example, when the transport destination of the power storage device 10 is an evacuation shelter, the message information is a message of encouragement to a disaster victim. The management location information and the message information can be input to the power storage device 10 using the information terminal 20.

[0031] The case 14 of the power storage device 10 may be made of metal, but is preferably made of resin from the viewpoints of communication performance, weight reduction, etc. The case 14 is generally opaque and conceals the battery module 11 and other components housed therein. The case 14 shown in FIG. 1 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, and a handle is provided at the top end of the case 14 for use when carrying the power storage device 10. In addition, a connection part 15 is provided at the bottom of the case 14 to be inserted into a battery installation part such as a charger or discharger. The connection part 15 has a terminal 15A electrically connected to the battery module 11.

[0032] The power storage device 10 is provided with a remaining capacity display button 16. The remaining capacity display button 16 is an operation unit for displaying the charging rate of the battery module 11. The power storage device 10 is also provided with an indicator, and the charging rate is displayed on the indicator by operating the remaining capacity display button 16. The indicator may include, for example, multiple lamps, and display the charging rate by changing the number of lamps that are turned on depending on the charging rate. The indicator may be a display unit that can display the charging rate numerically, or may be capable of displaying the state of the power storage device 10 other than the charging rate.

[0033] The remaining capacity display button 16 may also be used as an operation unit for shutting down the power storage device 10 and starting a long-term storage mode. For example, by performing a normal first operation of short-pressing the remaining capacity display button 16, the charging rate is displayed on the indicator, and by performing a second operation of long-pressing the remaining capacity display button 16, the power storage device 10 is shut down. As will be described in detail later, the subject of the information regarding the handling of the power storage device 10 includes a power storage device 10 in long-term storage.

[0034] The long-term storage mode is a mode in which the components of the power storage device 10 are shut down, and is initiated by a user operation. The long-term storage mode reduces the internal power consumption of the power storage device 10 by shutting down the device components, and enables the power storage device 10 to be stored for a long period of time in a state where it can be used immediately. In the long-term storage mode, it is preferable that all device components to which power is supplied from the battery module 11 are shut down. Note that the power storage device 10 in the long-term storage mode can be started using the charger / discharger 17.

[0035] In the long-term storage mode, the device components including the communication module 12 and the control unit 13 are shut down to reduce internal power consumption, while the communication function of the power storage device 10 is lost. For this reason, for the power storage device 10 in the long-term storage mode, it is not possible to check the charge rate and the like using the information terminal 30. To address this issue, the information terminal 20 or the management server 30 may store the start of the long-term storage mode and, after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of the long-term storage mode, output to the information terminal 20, for example, information that prompts the user to charge the power storage device 10. This function significantly reduces the management burden on the user and makes it easier to manage the charge state of the power storage device 10 during long-term storage.

[0036] The information terminal 20 or the management server 30 can estimate the charging rate of the power storage device 10 based on the time elapsed since the long-term storage mode was started. Therefore, even for the power storage device 10 in long-term storage, if the charging rate is low, for example, if the charging rate is below a predetermined threshold, information recommending charging can be output.

[0037] [Information terminal 20] As described above, the information terminal 20 is a management device used to manage the power storage device 10 in each of areas A and B. The information terminal 20 acquires information such as the charging rate by communicating with the power storage device 10. The information terminal 20 can also input management location information (address data), message information, etc. to the power storage device 10 and read out this information stored in the memory of the power storage device 10. The information terminal 20 includes a monitor 23 on which information acquired from the power storage device 10 is displayed. The monitor 23 is, for example, a touch panel, and also functions as an operation unit for inputting information necessary for operating the management system 1.

[0038] The information terminal 20 transmits and receives information necessary for operating the management system 1 by communicating with the management server 30. Some or all of the information acquired from the power storage device 10 is transmitted to the management server 30 via the information terminal 20. In addition, information relating to the handling of the power storage device 10 output from the management server 30 is displayed on the monitor 23 of the information terminal 20. As will be described in detail later, a user who has checked the information relating to the handling of the power storage device 10 moves, charges, discharges, purchases, etc. the power storage device 10 in accordance with or taking into consideration this information.

[0039] The information terminal 20 may be a dedicated terminal for the management system 1, but one example is a smartphone owned by the user. For example, by installing application software (hereinafter simply referred to as "app") for the management system 1, the user's smartphone can be used as the information terminal 20 of the management system 1. Only an arbitrary information terminal among the information terminals on which the app is installed may function as the information terminal 20 that receives information regarding the handling of the power storage device 10 from the management server 30.

[0040] The app of the management system 1 has, for example, two types of user registration methods. One is registration as a general user who simply uses the power storage device 10. The other is registration as an administrator who manages the power storage device 10. When registering as an administrator, it is necessary to provide contact information for receiving handling information. Examples of contact information include an email address, an SNS ID, and an app ID. The app ID may be automatically sent to the management server 30. Alternatively, the app of the management system 1 may include an app for general users and an app for administrators.

[0041] The information terminal 20 includes a processor 21 and a memory 22, similar to the control unit 13 of the power storage device 10. The processor 21 reads and executes a program (an application of the management system 1) installed in the memory 22, thereby realizing the functions of the information terminal 20. The processor 21 also acquires information about the power storage device 10 and stores it in the memory 22, and transmits necessary information to the management server 30. In this embodiment, short-range wireless communication such as BLE is used for communication between the information terminal 20 and the power storage device 10, and a wide-area communication network such as an internet line or a mobile communication system is used for communication with the management server 30.

[0042] The information terminal 20 can transmit, for example, a borrowing request to replenish the power storage device 10 to the management server 30. The request to borrow a power storage device 10 is a type of the second information related to the number of power storage devices 10 acquired by the information terminal 20 or the management server 30, and is a request to borrow a power storage device 10 from another area. The borrowing request may be output before a shortage of power storage devices 10 occurs based on a demand forecast for the power storage devices 10, or may be output after a shortage occurs. Note that the borrowing request may be output based on first information such as weather information, or may be output at a timing when the first information has not been acquired.

[0043] In the example shown in FIG. 1 , area B is a facility used as an evacuation shelter, and when a disaster occurs in the area of ​​area B and there is a shortage of power storage devices 10 to distribute to disaster victims, a request can be made to other areas via management server 30 to borrow power storage devices 10. Note that the borrowing request may be generated automatically by management server 30 when management server 30 predicts a shortage of power storage devices 10 that will occur in area B. In other words, the borrowing request is output from at least one of information terminal 20 and management server 30. As will be described in more detail later, information terminal 20 may be configured to be able to submit (transmit) a borrowing request when it receives information from management server 30 prompting it to submit a borrowing request.

[0044] [Administration Server 30] The management server 30 stores information on a plurality of power storage devices 10 and a plurality of information terminals 20, with each power storage device 10 associated with the information terminal 20. Initial registration of the power storage devices 10 and the information terminals 20 in the management server 30, changes to the registered content, etc. can be performed by operating the information terminal 20. At least a portion of the information on the registered power storage devices 10 is automatically transmitted to the management server 30 via the information terminal 20.

[0045] Like the control units of the power storage device 10 and the information terminal 20, the management server 30 includes a processor 31 and a memory 32. The management server 30 may be configured with one computer or multiple computers. The processor 31 realizes the functions of the management server 30 by reading and executing a program installed in the memory 32. The processor 31 also acquires information about the power storage device 10 and the information terminal 20 and stores the information in the memory 32.

[0046] The memory 32 of the management server 30 stores information about the power storage device 10 (product number, manufacturing date, the above-mentioned management location information, etc.), information about the information terminal 20 (email address, telephone number, SNS ID, application ID of the management system 1, etc.), information about the user, etc. The information about the power storage device 10 stored in the management server 30 may be the same as the information stored in the information terminal 20, or may be different information.

[0047] The management server 30 outputs information related to the handling of the power storage devices 10 to the information terminal 20 based on the management location information of the power storage devices 10 and at least one of first information acquired from outside the management system 1 and second information related to the number of power storage devices 10 acquired by the management server 30. The first information is external information acquired from outside the management system 1, and the second information is, for example, internal information of the management system 1 acquired from the information terminal 20. Note that the second information usually includes information about an area other than the target area where the information related to the handling of the power storage devices 10 is output, and therefore the second information can also be said to be information outside the target area.

[0048] An example of the first information is meteorological disaster information including at least one of meteorological information and disaster information. The source of the meteorological disaster information is not particularly limited. Meteorological information is, for example, a weather forecast. Disaster information is, for example, information about natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, fires, typhoons, tornadoes, and floods. Disaster information includes not only information about the occurrence of natural disasters but also information about their prediction, large-scale power outages associated with natural disasters, disasters caused by human factors, and the like. Note that in the system of the present disclosure, it is not necessary to clearly define the boundary between meteorological information and disaster information.

[0049] An example of the second information is the borrowing request. The borrowing request is information for replenishing the number of power storage devices 10 in a predetermined area when the number of power storage devices 10 in that area is insufficient or is predicted to be insufficient. The second information may also be area information registered in the management server 30 by operating the information terminal 20. For example, when area B is a facility used as an evacuation shelter, the second information may include the expected occupancy, the number of owned power storage devices 10 (i.e., management quantity information), and the ratio of the number of owned power storage devices 10 to the expected occupancy.

[0050] The management server 30 may output, as information regarding the handling of the power storage device 10, information for moving the power storage device 10 in the first area to a second area different from the first area, based on at least the management location information of the power storage device 10 and the first information. The management server 30 outputs, for example, information to the information terminal 20 in the first area to inquire about or request transportation of the power storage device 10 to the second area (hereinafter, may be referred to as a "transportation request"). The transportation request includes the reason why the power storage device 10 is needed in the second area, the time when it is needed, the number needed, the planned return time, address data of the second area, the transportation method, etc.

[0051] FIG. 1 shows a state in which a typhoon is approaching a region in which area B (second area) is located. For example, when management server 30 acquires information that a typhoon is approaching area B from external system 100 that transmits meteorological disaster information, management server 30 outputs information requesting transportation of power storage devices 10 to area B to information terminal 20 in area A (first area). In this case, it is expected that area B will have a shortage of power storage devices 10 due to a power outage caused by the typhoon, but a sufficient number of power storage devices 10 can be replenished by transporting power storage devices 10 from area A. Note that the transportation request may also be output after the occurrence of a natural disaster.

[0052] When the management server 30 acquires meteorological disaster information related to an area under its management, it outputs a transportation request to the information terminal 20 in the first area. The first area may be all areas under the management of the management server 30, but is preferably set to an area that does not belong to the area covered by the meteorological disaster information. If area A belongs to an area that is not affected by typhoons, area A can be the destination to which the transportation request is output.

[0053] Management server 30 may further output a transportation request to information terminal 20 in the first area based on the management quantity information of power storage devices 10 for each area. The management quantity information is one piece of area information (information related to the number of power storage devices 10) registered in management server 30 by information terminal 20, and therefore can be considered a type of second information. For example, the first area to which the transportation request is output may be preferentially selected from among areas not covered by the first information that are not affected by the typhoon, such as an area close to area B or an area with a large number of power storage devices 10.

[0054] The management server 30 may have map information in which the management location information of the power storage device 10 is mapped. The map information includes, for example, information in which areas under the management of the management system 1 are mapped on a map of a predetermined region. The map information may also include the number of power storage devices 10 in each area. The management server 30 may, for example, determine a first area to which a transport request for the power storage device 10 is to be output and a second area to which the power storage device 10 is to be transported, based on this map information and the path of a typhoon.

[0055] The management server 30 may further output a transportation request to the information terminal 20 in the first area based on the state of the power storage device 10. As an example, when outputting the transportation request, the destination of the information may be determined taking into consideration the charge rate of the power storage device 10. For example, the transportation request may be output preferentially to an area that has many power storage devices 10 with high charge rates or an area where the total amount of stored power in the power storage devices 10 is large. Furthermore, the management server 30 may output information recommending charging of the power storage device 10 together with the transportation request. The transportation request may include, for example, information recommending charging. In this case, the power storage device 10 can be transported in a fully charged state that is ready for immediate use. Information recommending charging may be output when there is a power storage device 10 whose charge rate is below a predetermined threshold.

[0056] The management server 30 may output information for appropriately allocating the power storage devices 10 based on the management location information of the power storage devices 10 and at least one of the first information and the second information. For example, when area B is a facility used as an evacuation shelter and the ratio of the number of power storage devices 10 owned to the expected occupancy is less than a predetermined threshold, the management server 30 outputs information to the information terminals 20 in area B urging them to replenish the power storage devices 10. The information urging them to replenish the power storage devices 10 may be output based only on the second information, and may be output at a timing when the first information such as meteorological disaster information has not been acquired.

[0057] The management server 30 may output information for appropriately deploying the power storage devices 10 at the timing when the first information is acquired. For example, the management server 30 may output information for prompting confirmation of the deployment status of the power storage devices 10 to all areas at the timing when the first information is acquired. At this time, if it is found that the number of power storage devices 10 is insufficient, measures can be taken to appropriately deploy the power storage devices 10, such as purchasing additional power storage devices 10 or borrowing power storage devices 10 from other areas.

[0058] The management system 1 is also suitable for users who have multiple bases (areas), such as stores and branches. For example, based on area information registered by the information terminals 20 at each base, the management server 30 may output information for appropriate deployment of the power storage devices 10 to the information terminals 20 at a base where the balance between the demand for and the number of power storage devices 10 owned is poor, and encourage the purchase or relocation of the power storage devices 10. Furthermore, based on meteorological disaster information, the management server 30 may output a transportation request to the information terminals 20 at other bases that belong to areas not covered by the information, to the bases that belong to areas covered by the information.

[0059] The targets of the information regarding the handling of the power storage devices 10 include power storage devices 10 that have been shut down and are in long-term storage. For example, in the above-mentioned transportation request, power storage devices 10 in long-term storage mode are set as targets to be moved with priority. Power storage devices 10 in long-term storage mode are stored without being used for a long period of time, and are therefore suitable targets for loan. Furthermore, many of the power storage devices 10 have a high charge rate and are ready for immediate use. The management server 30 may output transportation requests with priority to areas that have many power storage devices 10 in long-term storage mode. The management server 30 outputs transportation requests to the information terminals 20 of each area in descending order of the number of power storage devices 10 in long-term storage mode, for example.

[0060] When the management server 30 receives a request to borrow the power storage device 10 from the information terminal 20 in a predetermined area (second area), the management server 30 may output information to the information terminal 20 in another area (first area) different from the predetermined area to move the power storage device 10 to the predetermined area. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the manager of area B, which is in an area where a typhoon is approaching, can transmit a request to borrow the power storage device 10 to the management server 30.

[0061] When the management server 30 receives the borrowing request, it outputs a transportation request for the power storage device 10 to the information terminal 20 in a first area (area A) that is not affected by the typhoon. There are preferably multiple first areas to which the transportation request is output, and as described above, these may be determined based on the distance from area B, the number of power storage devices 10 in long-term storage mode, etc. The output destination of the transportation request is automatically selected by a function of the management server 30, but the output destination of the transportation request may also be selectable in the borrowing request.

[0062] The management server 30 may output information to the information terminals 20 in the second area to prompt them to submit a borrowing request. The information terminals 20 may be configured to be able to send a borrowing request only when they receive information prompting them to submit a borrowing request from the management server 30. For example, when the management server 30 acquires first information from the external system 100, it outputs information prompting them to submit a borrowing request to the information terminals 20 in the area that belongs to the target area of ​​the information. Note that the request to borrow the power storage device 10 may be automatically output from the management server 30 based on the management location information of the power storage device 10 and at least one of the first information and the second information.

[0063] An example of a processing procedure for outputting information relating to handling of the power storage device 10 will be described below with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 3A to 3C.

[0064] Here, an example is shown in which a request to borrow an energy storage device 10 is sent from an information terminal 20 in area B to the management server 30 based on information provided by the management server 30, and a transportation request based on the borrowing request is output from the management server 30 to the information terminal 20 in area A. Fig. 3A shows the processing procedure in the management server 30, Fig. 3B shows the processing procedure in the information terminal 20 in area B, and Fig. 3C shows the processing procedure in the information terminal 20 in area A.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 3A, the management server 30 acquires meteorological disaster information related to an area under the management of the management system 1 from the external system 100 (YES in S1). In this case, information on the power storage device 10 owned by a first area that belongs to an area not covered by the acquired meteorological disaster information is transmitted to an information terminal 20 in a second area that belongs to an area covered by the meteorological disaster information (S2). The following description will use earthquake occurrence information as an example of meteorological disaster information. Furthermore, the description will be made assuming that areas A and B are facilities used as evacuation shelters, with area A included in the first area and area B included in the second area.

[0066] The information provided in step S2 includes, for example, the ownership status of power storage devices 10 in areas that are not affected by or only slightly affected by the earthquake and are close to area B. This information may also include content that prompts the user to submit a request to borrow a power storage device 10. Prior to step S2, the management server 30 may transmit information to confirm whether or not a list of evacuation shelters for which support can be requested is required. The administrator of area B considers, for example, the extent of damage caused by the earthquake, the number of power storage devices 10 owned in area B, and the information provided in step S2, and considers whether or not to submit a request to borrow a power storage device 10.

[0067] When the management server 30 receives a borrowing request from the information terminal 20 in area B (YES in S3), it outputs a transport request for the power storage device 10 to the information terminals 20 in the first area (S4). The transport request for the power storage device 10 may be made by, first, making an inquiry to confirm whether the power storage device 10 can be lent to area B, and, second, transmitting address data of area B based on the answer. In other words, the first stage of inquiry is a proposal to lend the power storage device 10 to area B, or a question as to whether lending is possible. The output of information in the second stage is made only to information terminals 20 in areas where the power storage device 10 can be lent to area B, and this becomes a formal transport request.

[0068] The first stage inquiry (proposal to lend) may be performed before or simultaneously with the provision of information in step S2. In this case, the information in step S2 may reflect answers to questions. The transport request may be sent to individuals or small-scale users who own a small number of power storage devices 10. The transport request for individuals seeking assistance may include information about nearby evacuation shelters so that the power storage device 10 can be brought to the nearby evacuation shelter and transported together with other power storage devices 10.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 3B, the information terminal 20 in area B receives information relating to the ownership status of power storage devices 10 in other areas, which is provided by the management server 30 (YES in S10), and submits a request to borrow a power storage device 10 as necessary (S11). The borrowing request is created by the administrator of area B operating the information terminal 20 and transmitted to the management server 30. The borrowing request includes information such as the number of power storage devices 10 desired to be borrowed and the desired borrowing period. Note that if a borrowing request is not submitted, the information terminal 20 may transmit a message to the management server 30 that borrowing is not necessary.

[0070] In step S11, when a borrowing request is sent to the management server 30, a transportation request is output from the management server 30 to the information terminal 20 in the first area (S4 in FIG. 3A). As a result, the power storage device 10 is transported from the first area to area B. In the example shown in FIG. 3B, the manager of area B receives the power storage device 10 transported from area A, and the power storage device 10 is used in area B (S12).

[0071] When the power storage device 10 borrowed from area A is no longer needed, the manager of area B reads out the address data stored in the power storage device 10 (S13) and uses this address data to return the power storage device 10 to area A (S14). The address data stored in the power storage device 10 can be read out using the information terminal 20. Since many relief supplies will be gathered in the disaster area, it is expected that it will be difficult to determine the destination to return the power storage device 10, but if the address data is stored in the power storage device 10, this problem can be prevented. Furthermore, since the address data is read out using the information terminal 20, it is also preferable from the perspective of protecting personal information.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 3C, the information terminal 20 in area A receives a transportation request for the power storage device 10 from the management server 30 (YES in S20). The manager of area A determines whether to accept the transportation request, and if the transportation request is accepted, transmits an acceptance response to the management server 30 (YES in S21). As described above, the transportation request is preferably made in two stages: an inquiry about lending the power storage device 10 to area B, and output of detailed transportation information. For example, if an inquiry about lending is made in step S20 and a response of "rent available" is transmitted to the management server 30 in step S21, detailed transportation information is output from the management server 30.

[0073] The transportation request (detailed information) includes at least the address data of area B. The transportation request may also include information such as the reason why the power storage device 10 is needed, the time when it is needed, and the required quantity. If the transportation request is made in two stages, this information may be included in the first stage inquiry. If the transportation request is accepted in step S21, it is determined whether the charge rate of the power storage device 10 to be transported is appropriate (S22). If the charge rate of the power storage device 10 is low, the manager of area A charges the power storage device 10 before transportation (S23). This results in the transport of a power storage device 10 that is ready for immediate use in area B.

[0074] In step S22, for example, information prompting the user to check the charging rate of the power storage device 10 is output to the information terminal 20. The information prompting the user to check the charging rate of the power storage device 10 may be included in the transportation request or may be transmitted separately from the management server 30. Alternatively, the information may be displayed by a function of an app installed on the information terminal 20. In step S22, the charging rate of the power storage device 10 to be transported may be automatically determined, and if the charging rate is less than a predetermined threshold, information prompting the user to charge the power storage device 10 may be output.

[0075] If the charging rate of the power storage device 10 to be transported is appropriate (YES in S22), the address data of area A is input to the power storage device 10 (S24), and the manager transports the power storage device 10 with the address data input to area B (S25). Note that the address data may be registered in advance, for example, at the time of initial registration when the power storage device 10 is purchased. Furthermore, the address data may be linked to the unique number of the power storage device 10 and stored in the management server 30.

[0076] In step S24, the manager of area A operates information terminal 20 to input address data for area A into power storage device 10. This address data is read using information terminal 20 in area B and is used to return power storage device 10 to area A (S13, S14 in FIG. 3B). Note that in step S24, message information to be conveyed to the manager of area B or the like may be input to power storage device 10 together with the address data.

[0077] 4 to 6 are diagrams showing examples of information displayed on monitor 23 of information terminal 20 in relation to a request for transportation of power storage device 10 based on earthquake occurrence information.

[0078] 4 shows information relating to the ownership status of power storage devices 10 in areas neighboring area B, which is output to information terminal 20 in area B, and an inquiry about lending a power storage device 10 to area B, which is output to information terminal 20 in area A. Fig. 4 illustrates an example in which management server 30 outputs information relating to the handling of power storage devices 10 to information terminals 20 in areas A and B based on earthquake occurrence information relating to area B, but the information that triggers the output of information relating to the handling of power storage devices 10 is not limited to earthquake occurrence information.

[0079] As shown in Fig. 4, the monitor 23 of the information terminal 20 in area B displays information about the power storage devices 10 owned in areas neighboring area B in the form of a list. This list is a list related to the ownership status of power storage devices 10 in other areas, and includes information such as the addresses and contact details of evacuation shelters in neighboring cities, towns, and villages, and the number of power storage devices 10 they own. It is preferable that the evacuation shelters displayed in the list be selected, based on the earthquake occurrence information, from areas not affected by the earthquake information that will be unaffected or minimally affected by the earthquake.

[0080] The shelters included in the list may be selected based on at least one piece of information selected from the distance from area B, the number of power storage devices 10 owned, the total amount of stored power in the power storage devices 10, and the number of power storage devices 10 in the long-term storage mode, and the order in which they are listed on the list may also be determined. For example, the shelters included in the list may be listed in descending order of distance from area B, descending order of the number of power storage devices 10 owned, descending order of the total amount of stored power, or descending order of the number of power storage devices 10 in the long-term storage mode.

[0081] Furthermore, the information regarding the ownership status of power storage devices 10 in other areas states that it is possible to submit a request to borrow a power storage device 10. After checking this information, the administrator of area B can further consider the extent of damage caused by the earthquake, the number of power storage devices 10 owned in area B, and the like, and then consider whether or not to submit a borrowing request. The borrowing request includes information such as the number of power storage devices 10 required, the borrowing time, and the means of transportation.

[0082] 4, the monitor 23 of the information terminal 20 in area A displays information regarding an inquiry about lending a power storage device 10 to area B. This inquiry about lending includes information such as the reason why area B needs a power storage device 10, the number of power storage devices 10 that can be lent from area A, the lending date of the power storage device 10, the return date, and the means of transportation. The information also states that a request to borrow a power storage device 10 has been submitted from area B.

[0083] The information regarding the loan inquiry includes a response field for whether or not the borrowing request can be accommodated. In this case, if the response is "yes" to accommodate the borrowing request, detailed information such as address data required to transport the energy storage devices 10 to area B is output from the management server 30. In the detailed information regarding the loan inquiry or transportation request, for example, the number of energy storage devices 10 that need to be transported from area A is specified.

[0084] When there are multiple first areas to which a transportation request is to be output, the management server 30 may specify the number of power storage devices 10 to be transported from each area to the information terminals 20 in each area that respond to the transportation request based on the response to the lending inquiry. The management server 30 may also specify specific power storage devices 10 as targets for transportation. For example, in the transportation request, the management server 30 may specify power storage devices 10 in the long-term storage mode as targets for transportation, or may request that power storage devices 10 in the long-term storage mode be transported preferentially.

[0085] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of information displayed on the monitor 23 of the information terminal 20 in area A in relation to a transportation request. As shown in FIG. 5(a), if the charging rate of the power storage device 10 to be transported is below a predetermined threshold, information urging the user to charge the power storage device 10 may be output. The management server 30 or the information terminal 20 that has received the transportation request may, for example, acquire the charging rate of the power storage device 10, and if the acquired charging rate is below a predetermined threshold, output information urging the user to charge the power storage device 10. This makes it possible to prevent a power storage device 10 with a low charging rate from being transported. The management server 30 or the information terminal 20 may output information urging the user to check the charging rate of the power storage device 10 to be transported, without acquiring the charging rate of the power storage device 10.

[0086] As shown in FIG. 5(b), the information terminal 20 that has received the transportation request displays information that prompts the energy storage device 10 to be transported to input address data. The address data includes, for example, the postal code, address, latitude and longitude of area A, and a telephone number. The address data is input by the manager of area A using the information terminal 20 and stored in the memory of the energy storage device 10. The information terminal 20 that has received the transportation request may also display information that prompts the user to input a message along with the address data. An example of the message is a message of support addressed to the manager of area B, which is the disaster area, or to the victims. The message information stored in the energy storage device 10 is not limited to text information and may include images and videos.

[0087] 6A and 6B are diagrams showing an example of information that is read out from the power storage device 10 and displayed on the monitor 23 of the information terminal 20. As shown in FIG. 6A, the address data for area A stored in the power storage device 10 can be read out by the information terminal 20 in area B and displayed on the monitor 23. As described above, this address data is used when returning the power storage device 10 from area B to area A. Although it may be possible to search or inquire about the address data for the area to which the power storage device 10 belongs based on the unique number of the power storage device 10, it is convenient if the address data stored in the power storage device 10 can be read out by the information terminal 20.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 6(b), the message information stored in the power storage device 10 can also be read by the information terminal 20 in area B and displayed on the monitor 23. Text messages, images, videos, etc. offering support to the manager, disaster victims, etc. of area B are displayed on the monitor 23 of the information terminal 20. If the message information stored in the power storage device 10 includes inappropriate information, the information may be deleted by the management server 30 or the information terminal 20.

[0089] As described above, the management system 1 having the above configuration can prevent a shortage of power storage devices 10 in each area, and can utilize the power storage devices 10 more effectively. For example, the management system 1 can transport power storage devices 10 from an area under the management of the system where there is a surplus of power storage devices 10 to an area where a shortage of power storage devices 10 is expected due to a natural disaster or a man-made disaster. This allows the power storage devices 10 to be utilized efficiently throughout the local community. Furthermore, the management system 1 may cooperate with other management systems and be able to procure power storage devices 10 from areas under the management of the other systems.

[0090] According to the management system 1, the energy storage device 10 is transported based on a borrowing request submitted by the manager of the energy storage device 10, so that user needs can be met appropriately. Furthermore, if the energy storage device 10 in long-term storage is set as a target for transportation with priority, the energy storage device 10 can be used more effectively.

[0091] By confirming the willingness of users who are able to lend power storage devices 10 to lend the power storage devices 10 prior to a formal request for transportation, it becomes easier to adjust the number of power storage devices 10 to be transported to the disaster area. For example, based on the response to the inquiry about lending, the management server 30 can specify the number of power storage devices 10 to be transported for each area that responds to the transportation request. This makes it possible to prevent excess power storage devices 10 exceeding the required number from being transported to the disaster area.

[0092] A management system 2 according to the second embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 7 to Fig. 9. Fig. 7 is a diagram schematically illustrating the management system 2. Below, overlapping descriptions of content common to the first embodiment will be omitted, and differences from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0093] As shown in Fig. 7, in the management system 2, the management server 30 recommends charging of the power storage device 10 based on the management location information of the power storage device 10 and meteorological disaster information. When the management server 30 acquires meteorological disaster information from the external system 100, the management system 2 outputs information recommending charging of the power storage device 10 to the information terminal 20 in area A that belongs to the area covered by the information. The management system 1 recommends charging of the power storage device 10 on the premise that the power storage device 10 will be transported to the disaster area, but the management system 2 differs from the management system 1 in that it recommends charging of the power storage device 10 on the premise that the power storage device 10 will be used in area A.

[0094] The recommendation to charge by the management system 2 is preferably made based on forecast information such as information about an approaching typhoon. The manager of area A, who has checked the recommended charging information on the information terminal 20, can set the power storage device 10 with a low charge rate in the charger / discharger 17 and charge it, thereby preparing for the approach of the typhoon. For example, based on the charge rate of the power storage device 10 in area A, the management server 30 recommends charging the power storage device 10 when the charge rate is below a predetermined threshold. The recommended charging information may be displayed on the monitor 23 by a function of the information terminal 20.

[0095] 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure for recommending charging of the power storage device 10 when meteorological disaster information related to area A is acquired. As shown in FIG. 8, the management server 30 acquires meteorological disaster information related to an area under the management of the management system 1 from the external system 100 (YES in S30). In step S31, the management server 30 acquires the charging rate of the power storage device 10 for area A that belongs to the target region of the acquired meteorological disaster information. For example, the management server 30 acquires the charging rate of the power storage device 10 via the information terminal 20 in area A at the time when the meteorological disaster information is acquired.

[0096] In step S31, the management server 30 may estimate the charging rate at the time of acquiring the weather disaster information based on the previously acquired charging rate of the power storage device 10. For example, when the long-term storage mode of the power storage device 10 is started, the charging rate of the power storage device 10 is stored in the memory 32 of the management server 30, and therefore the management server 30 can estimate the charging rate of the power storage device 10 by counting the elapsed time from the start of the long-term storage mode.

[0097] The management server 30 compares the charging rate of the power storage device 10 with a predetermined threshold (S32), and if the charging rate is less than the threshold (YES in S32), outputs information recommending charging to the information terminal 20 in area A (S33). Note that it is also possible to omit steps S31 and S32 and recommend charging of the power storage device 10 in area A on the condition that meteorological disaster information related to area A is acquired, without taking into account the charging rate of the power storage device 10.

[0098] Fig. 9 shows an example of charging recommendation information displayed on monitor 23 of information terminal 20. As shown in Fig. 9, the charging recommendation information includes the reason for recommending charging and information for identifying the target for which charging is recommended. In the example shown in Fig. 9, it is shown that the reason for recommending charging is the approaching typhoon, and the target for which charging is recommended is power storage device 10 with product number XX. The charging recommendation information may also include information indicating the current charging rate. If there are multiple power storage devices 10 that require charging, the information may be provided in list format.

[0099] The management system 2 having the above configuration can charge the power storage device 10 with a low charge rate before the typhoon approaches, and can prepare for the approach of the typhoon by keeping the power storage device 10 in a state where it can be used immediately. It is expected that a power outage will occur due to the effects of the typhoon, making the power storage device 10 necessary, and the management system 2 can adequately deal with such a situation. The management server 30 may output information to the information terminal 20 in area A recommending that the information terminal 20 charge the power storage device 10 it owns and prompting the submission of the borrowing request. In particular, if area A is a facility to be used as an evacuation shelter, it is preferable that the manager of area A charge the power storage device 10 it owns and consider borrowing the power storage device 10.

[0100] The management system 3 according to the third embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of the management system 3.

[0101] As shown in FIG. 10 , the management server 30 of the management system 3 outputs information for appropriately allocating the power storage devices 10 based on the management location information of the power storage devices 10 and second information related to the number of power storage devices 10 acquired by the information terminal 20 or the management server 30. For example, when there are few power storage devices 10 in area B and the power storage devices 10 are unevenly distributed in area A, the management server 30 outputs information for moving the power storage devices 10 in area A to area B. In other words, when the power storage devices 10 are unevenly distributed in one area (area A) among a plurality of areas, the management server 30 outputs information for moving the power storage devices 10 from area A to another area (area B) based on the uneven distribution information. In the example shown in FIG. 10 , an information terminal 20 is arranged in each of areas A and B, but the power storage devices 10 in areas A and B may be managed by a single information terminal 20.

[0102] Areas A and B are, for example, areas that exist within the same facility. As an example, area A is the first floor and area B is the second floor. Charging stations are provided in areas A and B, and it is permitted to carry power storage devices 10 between areas A and B. In this case, it is expected that power storage devices 10 will be unevenly distributed in one of areas A and B, and that there will be a shortage of power storage devices 10 in the other area. The management system 3 can eliminate such uneven distribution of power storage devices 10, and prevent a shortage of power storage devices 10 in each area.

[0103] 10, information for moving some of the power storage devices 10 to area B is output to the information terminal 20 in area A. Alternatively, information for moving some of the power storage devices 10 from area A may be output to the information terminal 20 in area B. This information includes information indicating the number of power storage devices 10 to be moved from area A to area B. The information prompting the movement of the power storage devices 10 is output, for example, when the number of power storage devices 10 in each area exceeds a predetermined threshold value or falls below the predetermined threshold value.

[0104] The management system 3 outputs, for example, information regarding the handling of the power storage devices 10, particularly information for moving the power storage devices 10 between areas in order to appropriately allocate the power storage devices 10, based on the layout information of the power storage devices 10 including a predicted shortage of the power storage devices 10. The layout information of the power storage devices 10 is information indicating the layout status of the power storage devices 10 in each area and can be considered a type of second information related to the number of the power storage devices 10. The management server 30 may, for example, predict a shortage of the power storage devices 10 from the uneven distribution information of the power storage devices 10 and output information for appropriately allocating the power storage devices 10. The uneven distribution information of the power storage devices 10 can be considered a type of layout information of the power storage devices 10. Furthermore, when the ratio of the number of power storage devices 10 owned to the expected number of people accommodated in a facility used as an evacuation shelter is less than a predetermined threshold, the management server 30 may predict that the facility will have a shortage of power storage devices 10 and output information for appropriately allocating the power storage devices 10.

[0105] The above-described embodiment may be modified as appropriate without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, while the same type of power storage device 10 is illustrated in the above-described embodiment, the type of power storage device deployed in each area is not limited to the same type. Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, a transportation request for the power storage device 10 is output to the information terminal 20 in the first area by a function of the management server 30, but the transportation request information may be output directly from the information terminal 20 in the second area to the information terminal 20 in the first area.

[0106] The above-described embodiment is a system that includes a management server, which is an overall management device, and information terminals, which are management devices in each area, as management devices. However, particularly in the case of small-scale management systems, it is also possible to construct a system that does not have a management server. [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 1, 2, 3 Management system, 10 Power storage device, 11 Battery module, 12 Communication module, 13 Control unit, 14 Case, 15 Connection unit, 15A terminal, 16 Remaining charge display button, 16 Charger / discharger, 20 Information terminal, 21, 31 Processor, 22, 32 Memory, 23 Monitor, 30 Management server, 100 External system

Claims

1. power storage devices each having a communication function and each disposed in a plurality of areas; a management device capable of communicating with the power storage device; Equipped with The management device storing management location information for the plurality of power storage devices in association with identification information of the power storage devices; outputting information regarding the handling of the power storage devices based on the management location information, first information which is weather and disaster information including at least one of weather information and disaster information acquired from outside the system, and second information which is related to the number of the power storage devices acquired by the management device; when a borrowing request for replenishing the power storage device is acquired from a second area belonging to a target area of ​​the first information as the second information, determining a first area that does not belong to the target area of ​​the first information from the first information and the management location information, and outputting a transportation request for moving the power storage device from the first area to the second area as information regarding the handling of the power storage device; and a management system for an energy storage device, which stores, as the second information, management quantity information of the energy storage devices for each of the plurality of areas in association with identification information of the energy storage devices, and preferentially selects the first area to which the transportation request is to be output from areas with a large number of energy storage devices.

2. power storage devices each having a communication function and each disposed in a plurality of areas; a management device capable of communicating with the power storage device; Equipped with The management device storing management location information for the plurality of power storage devices in association with identification information of the power storage devices; outputting information regarding the handling of the power storage devices based on the management location information, first information which is weather and disaster information including at least one of weather information and disaster information acquired from outside the system, and second information which is related to the number of the power storage devices acquired by the management device; a management system for an energy storage device that stores, as the second information, management quantity information of the energy storage devices for each of the plurality of areas in association with identification information of the energy storage devices, and when the first information is acquired, determines, from the first information, the management location information, and the management quantity information, a first area that does not belong to the target area of ​​the first information and that has a lendable number of the energy storage devices, and outputs, as information regarding the handling of the energy storage devices, a transportation request to move the energy storage devices from the first area to a second area that belongs to the target area of ​​the first information.

3. The system described in claim 2, wherein the management device stores, as the second information, management quantity information of the storage devices for each of the plurality of areas in association with identification information of the storage devices, and preferentially selects the first area to which the transportation request is to be output from areas with a large number of storage devices.

4. The system described in claim 2, wherein the management device further stores the charging rate of the storage device for each of the plurality of areas in association with identification information of the storage device, and preferentially selects the first area to which the transportation request is to be output from an area with a large total amount of stored electricity in the storage device.

5. The system according to claim 2 , wherein the management device selects the first area to which the transportation request is to be outputted, preferentially from areas that are close to the second area.

6. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the management device outputs information recommending charging of the power storage device together with the transportation request.

7. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the management device further outputs information prompting confirmation of a placement status of the power storage device at a timing when the first information is acquired.

8. the management device includes an information terminal that is arranged in each of the plurality of areas and is capable of communicating with the power storage device, and a server that is capable of communicating with the plurality of information terminals; The system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the server outputs the transportation request to the information terminal in the first area when the server acquires the first information.

9. The management device includes an information terminal that is placed in each of the plurality of areas and is capable of communicating with the power storage device, and a server that is capable of communicating with the plurality of information terminals and that outputs the transportation request to the information terminal in the first area when the first information is acquired; The system described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the server accepts a borrowing request to replenish the storage device from the information terminal in the second area, and outputs the transportation request to the information terminal in the first area when the borrowing request is obtained.

10. The system according to claim 9 , wherein the borrowing request is output from at least one of the information terminal in the second area and the server.

11. The system described in claim 9 or 10, wherein the server outputs information to the information terminal in the second area to prompt the submission of the borrowing request, and when the server receives the borrowing request from the information terminal, outputs the transportation request to the information terminal in the first area to move the storage device to the second area from which the borrowing request was submitted.

12. the information for prompting submission of the borrowing request includes a list regarding the ownership status of the power storage device in the first area; The system of claim 11, wherein the first areas included in the list are listed in descending order of distance from the second area from which the borrowing request was made, in descending order of the number of storage devices owned, in descending order of the total amount of stored energy in the storage devices, or in descending order of the number of storage devices that have been shut down and are in long-term storage.

13. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the transportation request targets the power storage device that is shut down and in long-term storage.

14. The system according to claim 13 , wherein the management device prioritizes the transfer of the power storage device in long-term storage.

15. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the power storage device stores at least one of the management location information and message information.

Images