Battery units, power supply systems

Abstract

A battery unit 22a includes: a first connection terminal 41; a second connection terminal 48 configured so as to be connectable to a storage battery 42; a power conversion circuit 43 connected between the first connection terminal 41 and the second connection terminal 48; and a control circuit 44 that controls the power conversion circuit 43 and is configured so as to be able to measure the terminal voltage value V41 of the first connection terminal 41 and the current Ia flowing from the power conversion circuit 43 to the second connection terminal 48. The control circuit 44 compares the terminal voltage value V41 with a first threshold value in a state in which the current Ia flows from the power conversion circuit 43 to the second connection terminal 48 and, when the terminal voltage value V41 passes across the first threshold value, controls the power conversion circuit 43 so as to decrease the current Ia flowing from the power conversion circuit 43 to the second connection terminal 48 until the terminal voltage value V41 passes across the first threshold value again.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery unit and a power supply system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a power supply system in which a power supply device and a load are connected in parallel. The power supply system of Patent Document 1 operates in either normal mode, backup mode, or assist mode, making it possible to appropriately control the amount of power shared by the battery during peak loads without providing a complex common control device or large-scale intercommunication means. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2015 / 015570 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] A problem with battery units used in power supply systems of the prior art is that if the load changes to a heavy load while being charged by a power supply device, the battery unit is unable to detect the heavy load and continues charging, causing an overcurrent in the power supply device. While it is possible to detect the heavy load by adding a dedicated device such as a signal line to the battery unit, this would make the battery unit configuration complex. Therefore, the present disclosure aims to provide a battery unit with a simple configuration that can prevent an overcurrent from occurring in the power supply device even if a load change occurs while the battery unit is being charged. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A battery unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first connection terminal, a second connection terminal configured to be connectable to a storage battery, a power conversion circuit connected between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal, and a control circuit configured to control the power conversion circuit, measure the terminal voltage value of the first connection terminal and the value of the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, and compare the terminal voltage value with a set first threshold, the first threshold including a first value and a second value set within a voltage range including the first threshold, and when a current is flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit to reduce the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal until the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a direction opposite to the specified direction and crosses the second value.

[0006] A battery unit according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a storage battery, a first connection terminal, a second connection terminal configured to be connectable to the storage battery, a power conversion circuit connected between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal, and a control circuit configured to control the power conversion circuit, measure the terminal voltage value of the first connection terminal and the value of the charging current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, and compare the terminal voltage value with a set first threshold value, the first threshold value including a first value and a second value set within a voltage range including the first threshold value, and when the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a predetermined direction and crosses the first value while the charging current is flowing, the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit to reduce the charging current until the terminal voltage value fluctuates in the opposite direction to the predetermined direction and crosses the second value.

[0007] A power supply system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a plurality of battery units connected in parallel to an apparatus, each of the plurality of battery units including a storage battery, a first connection terminal configured to be connectable to the apparatus, a second connection terminal configured to be connectable to the storage battery, a power conversion circuit connected between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal, and a control circuit configured to control the power conversion circuit, measure a terminal voltage value of the first connection terminal and a charging current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, and compare the terminal voltage value with a set first threshold, the first threshold including a first value and a second value set within a voltage range including the first threshold, the control circuit including a memory circuit that stores the first threshold, and when the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a predetermined direction and crosses the first value while the charging current is flowing, the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit to reduce the charging current until the terminal voltage value fluctuates in the opposite direction to the predetermined direction and crosses the second value.

[0008] A power supply system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a power supply device having an output terminal connectable to an apparatus, converting input power into DC power and outputting the DC power to the output terminal, and a battery unit connected in parallel to the power supply device with respect to the apparatus, wherein the battery unit includes a storage battery, a first connection terminal connectable to the output terminal, a second connection terminal connectable to the storage battery, a power conversion circuit connected between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal, and a control circuit configured to control the power conversion circuit, measure a terminal voltage value of the first connection terminal and a charging current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, and compare the terminal voltage value with a set first threshold, wherein the first threshold includes a first value and a second value set within a voltage range including the first threshold, and when the terminal voltage value of the first connection terminal fluctuates in a predetermined direction and crosses the first value while the charging current is flowing, the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit to reduce the charging current until the terminal voltage value fluctuates in the opposite direction to the predetermined direction and crosses the second value. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] It is possible to provide a battery unit capable of suppressing overcurrent caused by load fluctuations, and a power supply system using the battery unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a power supply system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram showing an example of the configuration of a battery unit of the power supply system of FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the battery unit of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a waveform diagram showing the operation of the power supply system of FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a waveform diagram showing the operation of the power supply system of the second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram showing a battery unit according to a modified example. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration related to checking the operation of the battery unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, several embodiments of the semiconductor device of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are merely illustrative of embodiments of the present disclosure and should not be construed as limiting the present disclosure. Terms such as "first," "second," and "third" in the present disclosure are used merely to distinguish between objects and not to rank the objects.

[0012] The following detailed description includes devices, systems, and methods embodying exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. This detailed description is merely illustrative in nature and is not intended to limit the embodiments of the present disclosure or the application and uses of such embodiments.

[0013] (First embodiment) The first embodiment will be described below. (Power supply system) 1, the power supply system 11 of the first embodiment includes three power supply devices 21a, 21b, and 21c and three battery units 22a, 22b, and 22c. Note that the power supply system 11 may include one, two, or four or more power supply devices. The power supply system 11 may also include one, two, or four or more battery units.

[0014] The power supply devices 21a to 21c are connected to an AC power source 12. The AC power source 12 is, for example, a commercial power system. The power supply devices 21a to 21c are connected in parallel. Each of the power supply devices 21a to 21c is connected to a device 13. The device 13 is supplied with a DC voltage. The device 13 is, for example, a server, storage, or the like in a data center.

[0015] The power supply devices 21a, 21b, and 21c have the same configuration. Each of the power supply devices 21a to 21c includes an input terminal 31 and an output terminal 32. The input terminal 31 is configured to be connectable to an AC power supply 12. The output terminal 32 is configured to be connectable to a device 13. In this embodiment, the output terminal 32 is connected to a power line 14 to which the device 13 is connected. It can be said that the power supply devices 21a to 21c are connected in parallel by the power line 14. It can also be said that the power supply devices 21a to 21c are connected in parallel to the device 13 by the power line 14. The power supply devices 21a to 21a are configured to convert input power into DC power and output it to the output terminal 32.

[0016] Each of the power supply devices 21a to 21c includes an AC-DC converter 33, a DC-DC converter 34, and a control circuit 35. The control circuit 35 controls the AC-DC converter 33 and the DC-DC converter 34. The AC-DC converter 33 converts the AC voltage of the AC power supply 12 into a DC voltage. The DC-DC converter 34 converts the DC voltage output from the AC-DC converter 33 into a DC voltage appropriate for the device 13.

[0017] Each of the power supply devices 21a to 21c has an output characteristic (droop characteristic) in which the output voltage varies depending on the output current. The power consumption of the device 13, such as a server, varies depending on the amount of information processed. The power consumption of the device 13 is a load on the power supply devices 21a to 21c. Therefore, the load on the power supply devices 21a to 21c varies depending on the operation of the device 13.

[0018] The battery units 22a to 22c have the same configuration. The battery units 22a to 22c each have a first connection terminal 41. The first connection terminal 41 is configured to be connectable to the power supply devices 21a to 23a. In this embodiment, the first connection terminal 41 is connected to a power line 14. The power line 14 is connected to the output terminals 32 of the power supply devices 21a to 21c and the device 13. Therefore, it can be said that the first connection terminal 41 is connected to the output terminals 32 of the power supply devices 21a to 21c and the device 13. It can also be said that the battery units 22a to 22c are connected in parallel to the power supply devices 21a to 21c. The power supply devices 21a to 21c are connected to the device 13. It can also be said that the battery units 22a to 22c are connected in parallel to the device 13.

[0019] As described above, the power supply devices 21a to 21c, the battery units 22a to 22c, and the device 13 are connected to the power supply line 14. Therefore, the power supply line 14 can be referred to as a bus that connects the power supply devices 21a to 21c, the battery units 22a to 22c, and the device 13. The voltage on the power supply line 14 can be referred to as a bus voltage.

[0020] Each of the battery units 22a to 22c includes a storage battery 42, a power conversion circuit 43, and a control circuit 44. The storage battery 42 is a chargeable and dischargeable battery (secondary battery). The storage battery 42 is, for example, a lithium ion battery. The power conversion circuit 43 is configured to be able to convert the terminal voltage of the first connection terminal 41 of each of the battery units 22a to 22c. Furthermore, the power conversion circuit 43 is configured to be able to convert the voltage of the storage battery 42.

[0021] The power conversion circuit 43 generates a charging current for charging the storage battery 42 from the terminal voltage of the first connection terminal 41 of the battery units 22a to 22c. The power conversion circuit 43 also has a function of converting the voltage of the storage battery 42 into an output voltage of the first connection terminal 41. The power conversion circuit 43 is configured by, for example, a bidirectional DC-DC converter. The control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43.

[0022] (battery unit) FIG. 2 shows the electrical configuration of the battery unit 22a (22b, 22c). The battery unit 22a includes a power conversion circuit 43, a control circuit 44, voltage detection circuits 45 and 46, and a current detection circuit 47. The battery unit 22a has a second connection terminal 48 configured to be connectable to the storage battery 42. The second connection terminal 48 can be configured, for example, by a terminal connected to a terminal of the storage battery 42, an end of a cable, or the like. The second connection terminal 48 may be provided between the storage battery 42 and the power conversion circuit 43.

[0023] The voltage detection circuit 45 is connected between the first connection terminals 41 (41a, 41b). The voltage detection circuit 45 detects a voltage proportional to the terminal voltage V41 of the first connection terminal 41 (41a, 41b). The voltage detection circuit 45 includes resistors R11 and R12. The resistors R12 and R12 are connected in series between the first connection terminals 41a and 41b. The voltage detection circuit 45 is a voltage divider circuit using the resistors R11 and R12. The voltage detection circuit 45 outputs a voltage obtained by dividing the terminal voltage value V41 between the first connection terminals 41a and 41b by the resistors R11 and R12. As a result, it can be said that the voltage detection circuit 45 detects the terminal voltage value V41 of the first connection terminal 41 (41a, 41b). The control circuit 44 inputs the voltage of the voltage detection circuit 45. As a result, it can be said that the control circuit 44 is configured to be able to measure the terminal voltage value V41. The first connection terminal 41 is connected to the power line 14 shown in FIG. 1. As described above, the power line 14 can be referred to as a bus. The terminal voltage V41 at the first connection terminal 41 is equal to the bus voltage of the power line 14. Here, "equal voltages" does not necessarily mean that multiple voltage values ​​are strictly equal, but also includes being approximately equal. Therefore, the voltage detection circuit 45 can be said to detect the bus voltage.

[0024] The power conversion circuit 43 is connected between the first connection terminal 41 and the second connection terminal 48. The power conversion circuit 43 includes an inductor L11 and switching elements Q11 and Q12. A first terminal of the inductor L11 is connected to the first connection terminal 41a. A second terminal of the inductor L11 is connected to the switching elements Q11 and Q12. The switching elements Q11 and Q12 are, for example, N-channel FETs. The source of the switching element Q12 and the drain of the switching element Q11 are connected to the inductor L11. The source of the switching element Q11 is connected to the first connection terminal 41b. The gates of the switching elements Q11 and Q12 are connected to the control circuit 44. The drain of the switching element Q12 is connected to the current detection circuit 47.

[0025] The control circuit 44 outputs a control signal to the gates of the switching elements Q11 and Q12. The switching elements Q11 and Q12 are each turned on and off in response to the control signal. The power conversion circuit 43 operates as a step-up DC-DC converter from the first connection terminal 41 to the storage battery 42. The power conversion circuit 43 also operates as a step-down DC-DC converter from the storage battery 42 to the first connection terminal 41. The control circuit 44 adjusts the duty ratio of the control signal. The on and off times of the switching elements Q11 and Q12 are adjusted based on this duty ratio, and the output voltage of the power conversion circuit 43 is adjusted.

[0026] The current detection circuit 47 is connected between the power conversion circuit 43 and the second connection terminal 48. The current detection circuit 47 detects a charging current Ia flowing toward the storage battery 42 and a discharging current Ib discharged from the storage battery 42. The current detection circuit 47 includes a resistor R21 and an operational amplifier P21. A first terminal of the resistor R21 is connected to the switching element Q12, and a second terminal of the resistor R21 is connected to the high-potential terminal (positive terminal) of the storage battery 42. A low-potential terminal (negative terminal) of the storage battery 42 is connected to the first connection terminal 41. An input terminal of the operational amplifier P21 is connected to both terminals of the resistor R21. The resistor R21 generates a potential difference between both terminals due to the current flowing through it. The operational amplifier P21 outputs a potential difference generated across the resistor R21, i.e., a voltage proportional to the current flowing through the resistor R21. The potential difference generated across the both terminals of the resistor R21 depends on the amount and direction of the current flowing through the resistor R21. Therefore, the current detection circuit 47 detects the charge current Ia or discharge current Ib flowing through resistor R21 and the amount of the current based on the output voltage of operational amplifier P21. The control circuit 44 receives the output voltage of operational amplifier P21. This allows the control circuit 44 to measure the charge current Ia. The control circuit 44 also allows the control circuit 44 to measure the discharge current Ib.

[0027] The voltage detection circuit 46 is connected between both terminals of the storage battery 42. The voltage detection circuit 46 detects a voltage proportional to the inter-terminal voltage V42 of the storage battery 42. The voltage detection circuit 46 includes resistors R31 and R32. The resistors R31 and R32 are connected in series between both terminals of the storage battery 42. The voltage detection circuit 46 is a voltage divider circuit using the resistors R31 and R32. The voltage detection circuit 46 outputs a voltage obtained by dividing the inter-terminal voltage V42 of the storage battery 42 by the resistors R31 and R32. As a result, it can be said that the voltage detection circuit 46 detects the inter-terminal voltage V42 of the storage battery 42. The control circuit 44 inputs the voltage of the voltage detection circuit 46. As a result, it can be said that the control circuit 44 is configured to be able to measure the voltage V42 of the storage battery 42.

[0028] The control circuit 44 includes a memory circuit 44a, a communication circuit 44b, and a timer 44c. The memory circuit 44a is configured to be able to store at least one piece of information, which includes a first threshold value for the terminal voltage value V41.

[0029] The first threshold value is set in accordance with changes or fluctuations in the terminal voltage value V41, which varies depending on the output characteristics of the power supply devices 21a to 21c shown in Fig. 1. The information in the memory circuit 44a may be set in advance or may be set by a setting terminal 80, which will be described later. The information in the memory circuit 44a may also be set using a portable recording medium such as a memory card. A part of the memory circuit 44a may also be configured by the portable recording medium.

[0030] The communication circuit 44b is configured to be able to communicate with the setting terminal 80. The communication between the communication circuit 44b and the setting terminal 80 may be either wired communication or wireless communication. The setting terminal 80 is used to set information in the memory circuitry 44a. The setting terminal 80 may be, for example, a portable information terminal such as a notebook personal computer, a tablet, or a smartphone. The control circuit 44 stores information received from the setting terminal 80 via the communication circuitry 44b in the memory circuitry 44a. The information received via the communication circuitry 44b includes the above-mentioned first threshold. The first threshold is set according to the rated output power (rated output voltage) of the power supply devices 21a to 21c. The first threshold is also set according to the output voltage at which an overcurrent occurs in the power supply devices 21a to 21c. For example, the first threshold is set to a value (e.g., an intermediate value) between the rated output voltage of the power supply devices 21a to 21c and the output voltage at which an overcurrent occurs.

[0031] The communication circuit 44b may be used to transmit information of the control circuit 44 (for example, various types of information stored in the memory circuit 44a) to the outside. For example, the control circuit 44 transmits the information stored in the memory circuit 44a via the communication circuit 44b in response to a request from the setting terminal 80. The setting terminal 80 receives the information transmitted from the communication circuit 44b. This makes it possible to check the status of the battery unit 22a (22b, 22c) on the setting terminal 80.

[0032] The timer 44c is a timing device for obtaining, for example, elapsed time. The control circuit 44 starts and stops the timer 44c. The control circuit 44 obtains elapsed time and the like from the timer 44c (count value).

[0033] (battery unit control) (discharge from storage battery) The control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 to pass a charging current Ia, thereby charging the storage battery 42. For example, the control circuit 44 charges the storage battery 42 using a constant current, constant voltage (CCCV) charging method that manages the charging current Ia and terminal voltage value V41 for the storage battery 42. The control circuit 44 also controls the power conversion circuit 43 to generate a terminal voltage V41 at the first connection terminal 41 from the discharging current Ib of the storage battery 42 in accordance with the voltage of the device 13.

[0034] (Battery charging) The control circuit 44 obtains the amount of electricity stored in the storage battery 42. The amount of electricity stored in the storage battery 42 is indicated, for example, by the voltage V42 between the terminals of the storage battery 42. The amount of electricity stored may also be indicated by the SOC (State of Charge) of the storage battery 42. Based on the amount of electricity stored in the storage battery 42, the control circuit 44 charges the storage battery 42 using a predetermined charging method when the amount of electricity stored is equal to or less than a predetermined value. The charging method is, for example, a constant current constant voltage (CCCV) charging method. Other charging methods may also be used. The control circuit 44 charges the storage battery 42 to a predetermined amount of electricity stored using a predetermined constant current (CC), and then controls the power conversion circuit 43 to charge the storage battery 42 using a predetermined constant voltage (CV).

[0035] The control circuit 44 stores a CC target value for constant current control and a CV target value for constant voltage control in a memory circuit 44a. In constant current control, the control circuit 44 uses the current value of the charging current detected by the current detection circuit 47 as a CC measurement value, and calculates a charging control amount from the CC target value and the CC measurement value. The charging control amount can be calculated using an arithmetic method such as P calculation, PI calculation, or PID calculation. The control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 using the calculated charging control amount. As a result, the control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 so that the charging current Ia matches the CC target value. In other words, the control circuit 44 performs feedback control of the charging current Ia.

[0036] The control circuit 44 also stores a CV target value for constant voltage control in a memory circuit 44a. In constant voltage control, the control circuit 44 uses the inter-terminal voltage V42 of the storage battery 42 detected by the voltage detection circuit 46 as a CV measurement value, and calculates a charge control amount from the CV target value and the CV measurement value. The charge control amount can be calculated using an arithmetic method such as P calculation, PI calculation, or PID calculation. The control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 using the calculated charge control amount. As a result, the control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 so that the inter-terminal voltage V42 matches the CV target value. In other words, the control circuit 44 performs feedback control of the inter-terminal voltage V42.

[0037] Furthermore, in a state in which the charging current Ia is flowing, the control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 so as to adjust the charging current Ia for the storage battery 42 based on the terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage).

[0038] The control circuit 44 compares the terminal voltage V41 of the first connection terminal 41 with a first threshold value stored in the memory circuit 44a. When the terminal voltage V41 is greater than the first threshold value, the control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 to supply a charging current Ia to the storage battery 42.

[0039] The control circuit 44, while the charging current Ia is flowing, compares the terminal voltage V41 with a first threshold, and controls the power conversion circuit 43 to reduce the charging current Ia from time T11 when the terminal voltage V41 crosses the first threshold until time T16 when the terminal voltage V41 crosses the first threshold again. The terminal voltage V41 crossing the first threshold means that the terminal voltage V41 falls below the first threshold. The terminal voltage V41 crossing the first threshold again means that the terminal voltage V41 exceeds the first threshold. In other words, while the charging current Ia is flowing, the control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 to reduce the charging current Ia from time T11 (first time) when the terminal voltage V41 falls below the first threshold until time T16 when the terminal voltage V41 exceeds the first threshold.

[0040] When the terminal voltage V41 crosses over (falls below) the first threshold, the control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 so as to gradually decrease the charging current Ia. As described above, the control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43, for example, by the CCCV system, and supplies the charging current Ia to the storage battery 42. The control circuit 44 adjusts the CC target value based on the terminal voltage V41 and the first threshold value. The control circuit 44 then calculates a charge control amount from the adjusted CC target value and the CC measurement value, and controls the power conversion circuit 43 based on the charge control amount. Note that the control circuit 44 may also adjust the CV target value based on the terminal voltage V41 and the first threshold value.

[0041] The adjustment of the CC target value will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 3. Fig. 3 shows part of the processing executed by the control circuit 44, which is related to the adjustment of the charge amount for the storage battery 42. The control circuit 44 repeatedly executes the processing shown in Fig. 3 at predetermined intervals.

[0042] In step 51, the control circuit 44 detects the terminal voltage V41 as the bus voltage. In step 52, the control circuit 44 calculates the amount of error from the bus voltage (terminal voltage V41) and the bus control threshold (first threshold). For example, the control circuit 44 calculates the difference between the terminal voltage V41 and the first threshold as the amount of error.

[0043] In step 53, the control circuit 44 calculates the CC adjustment amount from the error amount. The CC adjustment amount can be calculated using a calculation method such as P calculation, PI calculation, or PID calculation.

[0044] In step 54, the control circuit 44 adjusts the CC target value by subtracting the calculated CC adjustment amount from the CC target value. In step 55, the control circuit 44 calculates a charge control amount from the adjusted CC target value and the amount of the charge current Ia, which is the CC measurement value. Then, the control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 based on the charge control amount.

[0045] Through the processing of steps 51 to 55, the control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 so that the terminal voltage V41, which is the bus voltage, is equal to the first threshold, which is the bus control threshold. When the terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage) drops, the control circuit 44 reduces the CC target value by the difference (error amount) between the terminal voltage V41 and the first threshold, thereby reducing the charging current Ia.

[0046] The battery units 22a to 22c generate a charging current Ia from the terminal voltage V41 of the first connection terminal 41 in the power conversion circuit 43, and charge the storage battery 42 with the charging current Ia. Control of the charging current Ia, that is, an increase or decrease in the charging current Ia, results in an increase or decrease in the power consumption of the battery units 22a to 22c. This results in an increase or decrease in the load on the power supply devices 21a to 21c, which manifests as a change in the output voltage of the power supply devices 21a to 21c depending on the output characteristics of the power supply devices 21a to 21c. The output voltage of the power supply devices 21a to 21c is the bus voltage of the power line 14 (bus line) connecting the power supply devices 21a to 21c and the battery units 22a to 22c, and is also the terminal voltage V41 of the battery units 22a to 22c. A voltage detection circuit 45 of the battery units 22a to 22c detects the terminal voltage V41. That is, the battery units 22a to 22c adjust the terminal voltage V41 by controlling the charging current Ia according to the terminal voltage V41. Also, the battery units 22a to 22c control the bus voltage (terminal voltage V41) by feedback of the bus voltage (terminal voltage V41).

[0047] (action) Next, the operation of the above power supply system 11 will be described. Each of the battery units 22a to 22c converts the voltage of the storage battery 42 into an output voltage of the first connection terminal 41 using a power conversion circuit 43. That is, the battery unit 22a discharges from the storage battery 42 toward the first connection terminal 41. The discharge current Ib from the storage battery 42, i.e., the output power of the battery units 22a to 22c, is supplied to the device 13. Therefore, the device 13 operates using the output power of the power supply devices 21a to 21c and the output power of the battery units 22a to 22c. When the power consumption of the device 13 exceeds the output power of the power supply devices 21a to 21c, the device 13 can be operated by supplying power from the battery units 22a to 22c. Furthermore, by supplying power from the battery units 22a to 22c, overcurrent in the power supply devices 21a to 21c can be suppressed.

[0048] While the storage battery 42 is being charged, that is, while a charging current Ia is flowing toward the storage battery 42, the load on the power supply devices 21a-21c is the sum of the load (power consumption) of the device 13 and the load (power consumption) of the battery units 22a-22c being charged. In this state, if the processing volume of the device 13 increases, the power consumption of the device 13 also increases, that is, the load on the power supply devices 21a-21c increases. This increase in load causes the output current of the power supply devices 21a-21c to become an overcurrent that is greater than the rated current of the power supply devices 21a-21c. The control circuit 44 of the battery units 22a-22c adjusts the charging current Ia to suppress the occurrence of an overcurrent in the power supply devices 21a-21c. This will be explained in detail below.

[0049] FIG. 4 shows control when charging current Ia is flowing in power supply system 11 of the second embodiment. In FIG. 4, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents voltage and load amount. In the upper part of FIG. 4, a solid line represents terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage). In the lower part of FIG. 4, a solid line represents the load (device load) due to device 13, a dashed line represents the load of the power supply device, and a dashed double-dashed line represents the load (charging load) related to charging in the battery unit. Note that, for ease of explanation, one power supply device 21a and one battery unit 22a will be described here.

[0050] The load of the device 13 increases from time T10 in Fig. 4. In this case, the load on the power supply device 21a increases, and the bus voltage (terminal voltage V41), which is the output voltage of the power supply device 21a, decreases according to the output characteristics of the power supply device 21a.

[0051] At time T11, when the bus voltage (terminal voltage V41) crosses the bus control threshold (first threshold), the control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 to reduce the charging current Ia supplied to the storage battery 42. This reduces the load caused by charging the battery unit 22a.

[0052] The control circuit 44 of each battery unit 22a calculates a charge control amount for the power conversion circuit 43 that generates the charge current Ia based on an error amount calculated from the terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage) and a first threshold (bus control threshold). Then, the control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 so that the terminal voltage V41 is equal to the first threshold. This suppresses an increase in the load on the power supply device 21a. In other words, overcurrent in the power supply device 21a is suppressed.

[0053] 4, when the charging current Ia of the battery unit 22a becomes 0 (zero), the load on the power supply device 21a also increases in accordance with the increase in the load of the device 13. The output voltage (bus voltage) of the power supply device 21a drops.

[0054] At time T13 in FIG. 4, when the load on the device 13 stabilizes (the amount of processing by the device 13 stabilizes), the load on the power supply device 21a also stabilizes. 4, when the load on the device 13 decreases (the amount of processing by the device 13 decreases), the load on the power supply device 21a also decreases, and the output voltage (bus voltage) of the power supply device 21a increases.

[0055] 4, the control circuit 44 of the battery unit 22a starts to flow the charging current Ia again based on the amount of error calculated from the terminal voltage V41 and the first threshold value, thereby stabilizing the load on the power supply device 21a.

[0056] 4, when the bus voltage (terminal voltage V41) crosses the bus control threshold (first threshold) again, the control circuit 44 stops the control to reduce the charging current Ia supplied to the storage battery 42. In other words, the control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 so that the charging current Ia corresponds to the amount of electricity stored in the storage battery 42, regardless of the terminal voltage V41.

[0057] The above-described operation is similar for each of the other power supply devices 21b and 21c, and can suppress overcurrent in the power supply devices 21b and 21c. The operation of the battery unit 22a is also similar when each of the other battery units 22b and 22c is in a charging state. The same also applies when two or more battery units are in a charging state at the same time.

[0058] In the power supply system 11 of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1, three power supply devices 21a-21c are connected in parallel to a device 13. In this power supply system 11, for example, due to variations in the characteristics of the power supply devices 21a-21c, current may concentrate in one power supply device, for example, power supply device 21a, resulting in an overcurrent state. In this overcurrent state, the power supply device 21a may generate a large amount of heat. In response to this, the battery units 22a-22c connected in parallel to the power supply devices 21a-21c reduce the charging current Ia, thereby suppressing the overcurrent in the power supply device where the current is concentrated. Note that this effect of suppressing the overcurrent can also be obtained in a power supply system including one battery unit 22a. In other words, it is sufficient to include one or more battery units.

[0059] (Check operation) Next, a method for checking the operation of the battery units 22a to 22c will be described. Fig. 7 shows the connection state during the operation check, and only one battery unit 22a is shown in Fig. 7.

[0060] The first connection terminal 41 of the battery unit 22a is connected to the output terminal 32 of the power supply device 21a via a test power line 94. A test load 91, a voltmeter 92, and an ammeter 93 are connected to the power line 94. The test load 91 is configured so that the load current and load voltage are variable and measurable. The voltmeter 92 is configured so that it can measure the voltage value of the power line 94, that is, the terminal voltage value V41 at the first connection terminal 41 of the battery unit 22a. The ammeter 93 is configured so that it can measure the current flowing through the power line 94, and, when checking operation, the current flowing toward the battery unit 22a.

[0061] In the above configuration, the storage battery 42 of the battery unit 22a is charged, i.e., a current flows from the power supply device 21a to the battery unit 22a. At this time, the ammeter 93 measures the value of the current flowing through the power line 94 in accordance with the charging current Ia (see FIG. 2) for the storage battery 42 in the battery unit 22a. In this state, the load current of the test load 91 is increased while monitoring the terminal voltage value V41 of the voltmeter 92 and the current value of the ammeter 93. If the current value of the ammeter 93 decreases at a certain terminal voltage value V1, it can be confirmed that control is being performed to reduce the charging current Ia for the storage battery 42 at that terminal voltage value V1, i.e., the battery unit 22a is operating normally. On the other hand, if the current value of the ammeter 93 does not decrease even when the load current of the test load 91 is increased and the output current of the power supply device 21a becomes an overcurrent, it can be confirmed that an abnormality has occurred in the battery unit 22a.

[0062] The above has described the operation check of one battery unit 22a. However, the operation check can be similarly performed for three battery units 22a to 22c, or two or four or more battery units as shown in FIG.

[0063] The above-described operation check can also be performed on battery units other than the battery units 22a to 22c. Instead of the battery unit 22a shown in FIG. 7, another battery unit is connected to the power supply line 94. In this state, the load current of the test load 91 is increased while monitoring the voltage value of the voltmeter 92 and the current value of the ammeter 93. If the current value of the ammeter 93 decreases at a certain voltage value, it can be determined that the other battery unit is performing control to reduce the charging current to the storage battery at that voltage value. In other words, it can be determined that the other battery unit has a configuration similar to that of the battery unit 22a of the embodiment.

[0064] (effect) As described above, the power supply system 11 of the first embodiment provides the following advantages.

[0065] (1-1) The power supply system 11 includes power supply devices 21a to 21c and battery units 22a to 22c. The battery unit 22a includes a first connection terminal 41, a second connection terminal 48 configured to be connectable to a storage battery 42, a power conversion circuit 43 connected between the first connection terminal 41 and the second connection terminal 48, and a control circuit 44 configured to control the power conversion circuit 43 and to measure a terminal voltage V41 of the first connection terminal 41 and a current Ia flowing from the power conversion circuit 43 to the second connection terminal 48. The control circuit 44 compares the terminal voltage V41 with a first threshold value when the current Ia is flowing from the power conversion circuit 43 to the second connection terminal 48, and when the terminal voltage V41 crosses the first threshold value, controls the power conversion circuit 43 to reduce the current Ia flowing from the power conversion circuit 43 to the second connection terminal 48 until the terminal voltage V41 crosses the first threshold value again.

[0066] The terminal voltage V41 is the voltage (bus voltage) on the bus (power line 14) connecting the battery units 22a to 22c, the power supply devices 21a to 21c, and the device 13, and is the output voltage of the power supply devices 21a to 21c. The power supply devices 21a to 21c have output characteristics in which the output voltage changes depending on the output current. An increase in the load due to the operating state of the device 13 leads to an increase in the output current of the power supply devices 21a to 21c, resulting in an overcurrent in the power supply devices 21a to 21c. Reducing the charging current Ia in the battery units 22a to 22c reduces the load on the battery units 22a to 22c relative to the power supply devices 21a to 21c. Therefore, by reducing the charging current of the battery units 22a to 22c, an increase in the load on the power supply devices 21a to 21c is suppressed. This makes it possible to suppress an overcurrent due to load fluctuations in the power supply devices 21a to 21c.

[0067] (1-2) When the charging current Ia is flowing, the control circuit 44 of each of the battery units 22a to 22c compares the terminal voltage V41 with a first threshold and controls the power conversion circuit 43 to reduce the charging current Ia. The terminal voltage V41 is the output voltage of each of the power supply devices 21a to 21c. The output voltage of each of the power supply devices 21a to 21c varies depending on the load. Therefore, the control circuit 44 of each of the battery units 22a to 22c can detect the load state of each of the power supply devices 21a to 21c based solely on the terminal voltage V41. Therefore, the battery units 22a to 22c do not require wiring or circuits for communicating, for example, request signals. In other words, the battery units 22a to 22c can suppress overcurrent in each of the power supply devices 21a to 21c with a simple configuration.

[0068] (1-3) The power supply system 11 includes power supply devices 21a to 21c connected in parallel. In this power supply system 11, for example, due to variations in the characteristics of the power supply devices 21a to 21c, current may concentrate in one power supply device, for example, power supply device 21a, resulting in an overcurrent state. In this way, the power supply device 21a that experiences an overcurrent state may generate a large amount of heat. In response to this, the battery units 22a to 22c connected in parallel to the power supply devices 21a to 21c reduce the charging current Ia, thereby suppressing the overcurrent in the power supply device where the current is concentrated.

[0069] (1-4) The power supply system includes power supply devices 21a to 21c and battery units 22a to 22c. The power supply devices 21a to 21c supply power to a device 13 such as a server. The battery units 22a to 22c supply power to the device 13 by discharging a storage battery 42.

[0070] The power consumption (load) of devices 13 such as servers varies depending on the amount of processing. The rated power (power capacity) of power supply devices 21a to 21c needs to be set to be larger than the maximum power consumption (peak load) of devices 13. Such a setting leads to an increase in the size of power supply devices 21a to 21c. In contrast, the power supply system 11 of the first embodiment supplies power to devices 13 from power supply devices 21a to 21c and battery units 22a to 22c. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the size of power supply devices 21a to 21c from increasing.

[0071] (Modification of the first embodiment) In the first embodiment, after the terminal voltage V41 crosses the threshold, the charging current Ia is reduced until it crosses the first threshold again. However, this is not limited to this. For example, the first threshold is set to a first value and a second value within a voltage range including the first threshold (for example, a range of ±30% of the first threshold). When the terminal voltage value V41 fluctuates in a predetermined direction, the terminal voltage value V41 is compared with the first value. Then, when the terminal voltage value V41 fluctuates in the opposite direction to the predetermined direction, the terminal voltage value V41 is compared with the second value. In other words, the control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 to reduce the charging current Ia from when the terminal voltage value V41 fluctuates in the predetermined direction and crosses the first value until when the terminal voltage value V41 fluctuates in the opposite direction to the predetermined direction and crosses the second value. When the terminal voltage value V41 fluctuates in the predetermined direction and crosses the first value, the terminal voltage V41 falls below the first value. When the terminal voltage V41 fluctuates in the direction opposite to the predetermined direction and crosses the second value, it means that the terminal voltage V41 exceeds the second threshold. The first value and the second value may be the same value, or the first value and the second value may be different values. The second value may be lower than the first value or higher than the first value. Even when the first value and the second value are used in this manner, the same effect as in the first embodiment can be obtained. The first value and the second value may be set in at least one of the battery units 22a to 22c. In other words, a power supply system may include a battery unit controlled by the first threshold and a battery unit controlled by the first value and the second value.

[0072] (Second embodiment) The second embodiment will be described below. The power supply system 11 of the second embodiment differs from the power supply system 11 of the first embodiment in the control performed when a charging current is flowing. For this reason, the configuration of the power supply system of the second embodiment will be described using the same names and symbols as the configuration of the power supply system 11 of the first embodiment, and drawings relating to the configuration will be omitted. The configuration of the power supply system 11 will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

[0073] FIG. 5 shows control when charging current Ia is flowing in power supply system 11 of the second embodiment. In FIG. 5, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents voltage and load amount. In the upper part of FIG. 5, a solid line represents terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage). In the lower part of FIG. 5, a solid line represents the load (device load) due to device 13, a dashed line represents the load of the power supply device, and a dashed double-dashed line represents the load (charging load) related to charging in the battery unit. For ease of explanation, one power supply device 21a and one battery unit 22a will be described here, as in the first embodiment.

[0074] 2 stores a second threshold value in addition to the first threshold value. The second threshold value is set to a value lower than the first threshold value. For example, the second threshold value is set to a value (e.g., an intermediate value) between the first threshold value and the output voltage at which an overcurrent occurs.

[0075] As in the first embodiment, the control circuit 44 compares the terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage) of the first connection terminal 41 with the first threshold, and controls the power conversion circuit 43 to gradually reduce the charging current Ia from time T21 when the terminal voltage V41 crosses the first threshold. The control circuit 44 also compares the terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage) with the second threshold. The control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 to set the charging current Ia to 0 (zero) at time T22 when the terminal voltage V41 crosses the second threshold. Here, "crossing the second threshold" is intended to have the same meaning as "crossing the first threshold."

[0076] As shown in Fig. 2, the power conversion circuit 43 includes switching elements Q11 and Q12. The control circuit 44 adjusts the on and off times of the switching elements Q11 and Q12 in accordance with the charge control amount, thereby gradually reducing the charging current Ia. The control circuit 44 also outputs a control signal to turn off the switching elements Q11 and Q12. This prevents the charging current Ia from flowing toward the storage battery 42, i.e., the charging current Ia becomes 0 (zero). In this way, the control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 to set the charging current Ia to 0.

[0077] The load of the device 13 increases from time T20 in FIG. 5. As shown in FIG. 5, if the increase in the load of the device 13 is large, the load of the power supply device 21a may not stabilize even if the power conversion circuit 43 is controlled to gradually reduce the charging current Ia. In such a case, the terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage) further decreases from the value at time T21 (first time). When this decreasing terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage) crosses the second threshold, the control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 to set the charging current Ia to 0 (zero). In this way, the control circuit 44 further reduces the load on the charging of the storage battery 42 compared to when the first threshold is reached.

[0078] As shown at time T22 in FIG. 5, the power conversion circuit 43 is controlled to set the charging current Ia to 0 (zero). At this time, the load on the power supply device 21a suddenly decreases, causing the terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage) to rise suddenly. This rising terminal voltage V41 exceeds the first threshold. That is, the terminal voltage V41 again crosses the first threshold. When charging of the storage battery 42 is resumed due to this change in terminal voltage V41, the load on the power supply device 21a suddenly increases due to this charging. Then, the terminal voltage V41 crosses the first threshold and the second threshold, and the charging current Ia for the storage battery 42 is controlled, causing the load on the power supply device 21a to suddenly decrease. That is, there is a risk that sudden decreases and increases in the load on the power supply device 21a will be repeated.

[0079] In response to this, the control circuit 44 disables the comparison of the terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage) with the first threshold and the comparison of the terminal voltage V41 with the second threshold for a predetermined first period from time T22 when the terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage) crosses the second threshold. The predetermined first period is set, for example, to a period until a temporary load increase is resolved based on the results of recording the load fluctuation due to the operation of the device 13. Note that the predetermined first period may be changed depending on the state of the load fluctuation due to the operation of the device (such as the rate at which the load increases (the terminal voltage V41 decreases), the value of the terminal voltage V41 when the load stabilizes, etc.). In this way, by disabling the determination and comparison of the terminal voltage V41 with the first threshold and the second threshold, repeated sudden increases and decreases in the load of the power supply device can be suppressed.

[0080] In the example shown in FIG. 5, after the charging current Ia is set to 0 (zero) at time T22, the load of the device 13 stabilizes. This also stabilizes the load of the power supply device 21a. The control circuit 44 can determine that the load has stabilized based on a change in the terminal voltage V41. In this case, the control circuit 44 can perform soft-start control from time T23 in FIG. 5. The soft-start control controls the power conversion circuit 43 to gradually increase the charging current Ia. At this time, the control circuit 44 monitors the terminal voltage V41 and controls the power conversion circuit 43 to prevent the terminal voltage V41 from suddenly changing. Then, the control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 (after time T24) to make the terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage) equal to the first threshold value (bus control threshold value). This allows the storage battery 42 to be charged while checking the load of the power supply device 21a.

[0081] (effect) As described above, the power supply system 11 of the second embodiment provides the following advantages.

[0082] (2-1) The same effects as those of the power supply system 11 of the first embodiment are achieved. (2-2) When the decreasing terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage) crosses the second threshold, the control circuit 44 controls the power conversion circuit 43 to set the charging current Ia to 0 (zero). As a result, the control circuit 44 further reduces the load on charging the storage battery 42 compared to when the terminal voltage V41 is at the first threshold. Therefore, it is possible to suppress overcurrent due to load fluctuations in the power supply devices 21a to 21c.

[0083] (2-3) The control circuit 44 disables the comparison of the terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage) with the first threshold and the comparison of the terminal voltage V41 with the second threshold for a predetermined first period from time T22 when the terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage) crosses the second threshold. The predetermined first period is set, for example, to a period until a temporary load increase is resolved based on the results of recording the load fluctuation due to the operation of the device 13. Note that the predetermined first period may be changed depending on the state of the load fluctuation due to the operation of the device (the rate at which the load increases (the terminal voltage V41 decreases), the value of the terminal voltage V41 when the load stabilizes, etc.). In this way, by disabling the determination and comparison of the terminal voltage V41 with the first threshold and the second threshold, repeated sudden increases and decreases in the load of the power supply device can be suppressed.

[0084] (2-4) The control circuit 44 can be configured to perform soft start control. The soft start control controls the power conversion circuit 43 so as to gradually increase the charging current Ia. At this time, the control circuit 44 monitors the terminal voltage V41 and controls the power conversion circuit 43 so that the terminal voltage V41 does not change suddenly. The control circuit 44 then controls the power conversion circuit 43 so that the terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage) is equal to the first threshold value (bus control threshold value). This allows the storage battery 42 to be charged while checking the loads of the power supply devices 21a to 21c.

[0085] (Example of change) The above embodiment can be modified, for example, as follows: The above embodiment and each of the following modified examples can be combined with each other as long as no technical contradiction occurs. In the following modified examples, parts common to the above embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals as in the above embodiment, and their description will be omitted.

[0086] In the above embodiment, the battery units 22a to 22c each include a storage battery 42. However, the battery units may be configured as battery units to which the storage battery 42 is connected. FIG. 6 shows a battery unit 22X according to a modified example. The battery unit 22X includes a power conversion circuit 43, a control circuit 44, voltage detection circuits 46, 46, and a current detection circuit 47. A storage battery 42 is connected to the battery unit 22X. The battery unit 22X has a second connection terminal 48X configured to be connectable to the storage battery 42. The second connection terminal 48X may be a terminal provided on the battery unit 22X, an end of a cable drawn from the battery unit 22X, or the like. The battery unit 22X configured in this manner can also achieve the same effects as those of the above embodiment. Note that a power supply system may be configured by connecting the battery unit 22X shown in FIG. 6 and at least one of the battery units 22a to 22c shown in FIG. 1 to the power line 14.

[0087] The above-described embodiment may use power supply devices 21a to 21c having output characteristics in which the output voltage increases with an increase in output current. In this case, the terminal voltage V41 crossing the first threshold indicates that the terminal voltage V41 exceeds the first threshold. Furthermore, the terminal voltage V41 crossing the first threshold again indicates that the terminal voltage V41 falls below the first threshold. In other words, while the charging current Ia is flowing, the control circuit 44 of each battery unit 22a to 22c controls the power conversion circuit to reduce the charging current Ia from the time (first time) when the terminal voltage V41 exceeds the first threshold to the time (second time) when the terminal voltage V41 falls below the first threshold. The power supply system 11 including such power supply devices 21a to 21c and battery units 22a to 22c can also achieve the same effects as those of the above-described embodiment.

[0088] In the above embodiment, the control circuit 44 may adjust the charge control amount for controlling the power conversion circuit 43 based on the calculated error amount. A switch may be provided between the power conversion circuit 43 and the storage battery 42, and the charging current Ia may be set to 0 (zero) by turning off the switch.

[0089] The control circuit 44 may switch from charging to discharging in response to a drop in the terminal voltage V41 (bus voltage) while the charging current Ia is flowing. For example, a fourth threshold value is stored in the memory circuit 44a shown in FIG. 2. The control circuit 44 compares the terminal voltage V41 with the fourth threshold value, and controls the power conversion circuit 43 to discharge from the storage battery toward the first connection terminal 41 when the terminal voltage V41 crosses over (falls below) the fourth threshold value. This reduces the load on the power supply devices 21a to 21c due to the charging current Ia. Furthermore, discharging toward the power line 14 (bus line) further reduces the load on the power supply devices 21a to 21c. The fourth threshold value may be changed as appropriate. For example, the fourth threshold value may be changed depending on the amount of charge (terminal voltage V42, SOC) of the storage battery 42.

[0090] In addition to each of the above embodiments, the amount of fluctuation in the terminal voltage V41 per unit time may be calculated. For example, a third threshold value may be stored in the memory circuit 44a shown in FIG. 2. The control circuit 44 may control the power conversion circuit 43 to reduce the charging current Ia when the amount of fluctuation in the terminal voltage V41 is equal to or greater than the third threshold value. Furthermore, the control circuit 44 may control the power conversion circuit 43 to set the charging current Ia to 0 (zero) when the amount of fluctuation is equal to or greater than the third threshold value. Furthermore, the control circuit 44 may control the power conversion circuit 43 to switch to discharging when the amount of fluctuation is equal to or greater than the third threshold value.

[0091] In each of the above embodiments, the first threshold value stored in the memory circuit 44a of the control circuit 44 for at least one battery unit among the three battery units 22a to 22c may be different from the first threshold value set for the other battery units. When a first value and a second value are set as the first threshold value, the first value and the second value for one battery unit may be different from the first value and the second value for the other battery units. Furthermore, the first threshold values ​​for the three battery units 22a to 22c may be set to different values. When a first value and a second value are set as the first threshold value, the first value and the second value for the three battery units 22a to 22c may be set to different values. A battery unit for which a lower first threshold value is set relative to the first threshold values ​​of the other battery units reduces the charging current Ia more slowly than the other battery units. In other words, setting a low first threshold value allows charging to be maintained.

[0092] The first threshold may be changed according to the amount of electricity stored in the storage battery 42 (terminal voltage V42, SOC). For example, a value proportional to the amount of electricity stored in the storage battery 42 is set as the first threshold. In this case, the power conversion circuit 43 is controlled so that the charging current Ia of a battery unit for which a higher first threshold is set is reduced more quickly than that of a battery unit for which a lower first threshold is set. This allows the storage batteries 42 of all battery units to be charged efficiently. Furthermore, the time required to fully charge the storage batteries 42 of all battery units can be shortened.

[0093] Furthermore, by setting the first threshold value for each of the battery units 22a to 22c to a different value, the load on the power supply devices 21a to 21c can be reduced in stages. For example, the first threshold values ​​are set to become lower for the battery units 22a, 22b, and 22c shown in FIG. 1 in this order. In this case, as the terminal voltage V41 decreases, the charging current Ia is reduced in order, starting with the battery unit 22a, which has the highest first threshold value set. Therefore, as the terminal voltage V41 decreases, the number of battery units whose charging current Ia is reduced increases. In this way, the charging current Ia is reduced by the number of battery units corresponding to the load on the device 13, thereby enabling efficient load reduction.

[0094] The battery units 22a-22c, 22X may be connected to a power supply device other than the power supply devices 21a-21c shown in Fig. 1, for example, a power supply device that does not have a droop characteristic. Also, the battery units 22a-22c, 22X may be connected to the power supply devices 21a-21c that have a droop characteristic and a power supply device that does not have a droop characteristic.

[0095] The phrase "at least one" as used herein means "one or more" of the desired options. As an example, the phrase "at least one" as used herein means "only one option" or "both of two options" when the number of options is two. As another example, the phrase "at least one" as used herein means "only one option" or "any combination of two or more options" when the number of options is three or more.

[0096] (Addendum) The technical ideas that can be understood from this disclosure are described below. [A1] A first connection terminal; a second connection terminal configured to be connectable to the storage battery; a power conversion circuit connected between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal; a control circuit configured to control the power conversion circuit and to measure a terminal voltage of the first connection terminal and a current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal; Including, the control circuit compares the terminal voltage with a first threshold value while a current is flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, and when the terminal voltage crosses the first threshold value, controls the power conversion circuit to reduce the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal until the terminal voltage crosses the first threshold value again. Battery unit.

[0097] [A2] The terminal voltage crossing the first threshold value means that the terminal voltage falls below the first threshold value, The terminal voltage crossing the first threshold again means that the terminal voltage exceeds the first threshold. The battery unit according to [A1].

[0098] [A3] the first connection terminal is connected between a power supply device having output characteristics in which the output voltage varies depending on the output current and an appliance connected to an output terminal of the power supply device, and is connected in parallel with the appliance to the power supply device; A battery unit described in [A1] or [A2].

[0099] [A4] a plurality of the power supply devices are connected in parallel to the device; the output characteristic is a droop characteristic in which the output voltage decreases as the output current increases; The battery unit described in [A3].

[0100] [A5] A battery unit described in any one of [A1] to [A4], wherein the control circuit, when current is flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, compares the amount of fluctuation in the terminal voltage per unit time with a third threshold value, and controls the power conversion circuit so as to reduce the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal when the amount of fluctuation is greater than or equal to the third threshold value.

[0101] [A6] the power conversion circuit is capable of converting a voltage of the storage battery; A battery unit described in any one of [A1] to [A4], wherein the control circuit, when current is flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, compares the amount of fluctuation in the terminal voltage per unit time with a third threshold value, and controls the power conversion circuit so that current flows from the storage battery to the first connection terminal when the amount of fluctuation is greater than or equal to the third threshold value.

[0102] [A7] A battery unit described in any one of [A1] to [A6], wherein the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit so as to gradually reduce the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal when the terminal voltage crosses the first threshold.

[0103] [A8] A battery unit described in any one of [A1] to [A7], wherein the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit so as to reduce the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal to zero when the terminal voltage crosses the first threshold.

[0104] [A9] A battery unit described in any one of [A1] to [A8], wherein the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit so as to reduce the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal to zero when the terminal voltage crosses a second threshold lower than the first threshold.

[0105] [A10] The battery unit described in [A9], wherein the control circuit disables the comparison of the terminal voltage with the first threshold and the comparison of the terminal voltage with the second threshold when the terminal voltage crosses the second threshold.

[0106] [A11] A battery unit described in any one of [A1] to [A10], wherein the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit so as to gradually increase the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal when the terminal voltage again crosses the first threshold.

[0107] [A12] the power conversion circuit is capable of converting a voltage of the storage battery; the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit so that a current flows from the storage battery toward the first connection terminal when the terminal voltage crosses a second threshold that is lower than the first threshold. A battery unit according to any one of [A1] to [A8].

[0108] [A13] A storage battery and A first connection terminal; a second connection terminal configured to be connectable to the storage battery; a power conversion circuit connected between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal; a control circuit configured to control the power conversion circuit and to measure a terminal voltage of the first connection terminal and a charging current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal; Including, the control circuit compares the terminal voltage with a first threshold while the charging current is flowing, and when the terminal voltage crosses the first threshold, controls the power conversion circuit to reduce the charging current until the terminal voltage crosses the first threshold again. Battery unit.

[0109] [A14] a plurality of battery units connected in parallel to the device; Each of the plurality of battery units A storage battery and a first connection terminal configured to be connectable to the device; a second connection terminal configured to be connectable to the storage battery; a power conversion circuit connected between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal; a control circuit configured to control the power conversion circuit and to measure a terminal voltage of the first connection terminal and a charging current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal; Including, the control circuit includes a memory circuit that stores a first threshold value; the control circuit compares the terminal voltage with the first threshold while the charging current is flowing, and when the terminal voltage crosses the first threshold, controls the power conversion circuit to reduce the charging current until the terminal voltage crosses the first threshold again. Power supply system.

[0110] [A15] The power supply system described in [A14], wherein the first threshold value in at least one battery unit among the plurality of battery units is set to a value different from the first threshold value in other battery units among the plurality of battery units.

[0111] [A16] The power supply system according to [A14], wherein the first threshold value for each of the plurality of battery units is set according to the amount of stored electricity in the storage battery.

[0112] [A17] The power supply system according to [A16], wherein the first threshold value of the battery unit with a low stored power amount is set lower than the first threshold value of the battery unit with a high stored power amount.

[0113] [A18] a power supply device having an output terminal configured to be connectable to a device, converting input power into DC power and outputting the DC power to the output terminal; a battery unit connected in parallel to the power supply device for the device; Including, The battery unit includes: A storage battery and a first connection terminal configured to be connectable to the output terminal; a second connection terminal configured to be connectable to the storage battery; a power conversion circuit connected between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal; a control circuit configured to control the power conversion circuit and to measure a terminal voltage of the first connection terminal and a charging current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal; Including, the control circuit compares the terminal voltage with a first threshold value while the charging current is flowing, and when the terminal voltage of the first connection terminal crosses the first threshold value, controls the power conversion circuit to reduce the charging current until the terminal voltage crosses the first threshold value again. Power supply system.

[0114] [A19] the first connection terminal is connected in parallel with the device to the output terminal, The power supply device is connected in parallel to the device in plurality, and has a droop characteristic in which the output voltage decreases as the output current increases. The power supply system according to [A18].

[0115] [B1] A first connection terminal; a second connection terminal configured to be connectable to the storage battery; a power conversion circuit connected between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal; a control circuit configured to control the power conversion circuit, measure a terminal voltage value of the first connection terminal and a current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, and compare the terminal voltage value with a set first threshold value; Including, the first threshold includes a first value and a second value set within a voltage range including the first threshold; When the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a predetermined direction and crosses the first value while a current is flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit to reduce the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal until the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction and crosses the second value. Battery unit.

[0116] [B2] The terminal voltage value fluctuating in the predetermined direction and crossing the first value means that the terminal voltage value falls below the first value, The terminal voltage value fluctuating in the direction opposite to the predetermined direction and crossing the second value means that the terminal voltage value exceeds the second value. [B1] The battery unit according to [B1].

[0117] [B3] the first connection terminal is connected between a power supply device having output characteristics in which the output voltage varies depending on the output current and an appliance connected to an output terminal of the power supply device, and is connected in parallel with the appliance to the power supply device; A battery unit described in [B1] or [B2].

[0118] [B4] a plurality of the power supply devices are connected in parallel to the device; the output characteristic is a droop characteristic in which the output voltage decreases as the output current increases; [B3] The battery unit according to [B3].

[0119] [B5] A battery unit described in any one of [B1] to [B4], wherein the control circuit, when current is flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, compares the amount of fluctuation in the terminal voltage value per unit time with a set third threshold, and controls the power conversion circuit so as to reduce the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal when the amount of fluctuation is greater than or equal to the third threshold.

[0120] [B6] the power conversion circuit is capable of converting a voltage of the storage battery; A battery unit described in any one of [B1] to [B4], wherein the control circuit, when current is flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, compares the amount of fluctuation in the terminal voltage value per unit time with a set third threshold, and controls the power conversion circuit so that current flows from the storage battery toward the first connection terminal when the amount of fluctuation is greater than or equal to the third threshold.

[0121] [B7] A battery unit described in any one of [B1] to [B6], wherein the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit so as to gradually reduce the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal when the terminal voltage value fluctuates in the predetermined direction and crosses the first value.

[0122] [B8] A battery unit described in any one of [B1] to [B7], wherein the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit so as to reduce the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal to zero when the terminal voltage value fluctuates in the predetermined direction and crosses the first value.

[0123] [B9] A battery unit described in any one of [B1] to [B8], wherein the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit so as to reduce the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal to zero when the terminal voltage value fluctuates in the predetermined direction and crosses a second threshold value lower than the first threshold value.

[0124] [B10] The battery unit described in [B9], wherein the control circuit disables the comparison of the terminal voltage value with the first threshold and the comparison of the terminal voltage with the second threshold when the terminal voltage value crosses the second threshold.

[0125] [B11] A battery unit described in any one of [B1] to [B10], wherein the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit so as to gradually increase the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal when the terminal voltage value crosses the second value in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction.

[0126] [B12] the power conversion circuit is capable of converting a voltage of the storage battery; the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit so that a current flows from the storage battery toward the first connection terminal when the terminal voltage value fluctuates in the predetermined direction and crosses a second threshold value that is lower than the first threshold value. A battery unit according to any one of [B1] to [B8].

[0127] [B13] A storage battery and A first connection terminal; a second connection terminal configured to be connectable to the storage battery; a power conversion circuit connected between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal; a control circuit configured to control the power conversion circuit, measure a terminal voltage value of the first connection terminal and a charging current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, and compare the terminal voltage value with a set first threshold value; Including, the first threshold includes a first value and a second value within a voltage range that includes the first threshold; When the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a predetermined direction and crosses the first value while the charging current is flowing, the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit to reduce the charging current until the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction and crosses the second value. Battery unit.

[0128] [B14] a plurality of battery units connected in parallel to the device; Each of the plurality of battery units A storage battery and a first connection terminal configured to be connectable to the device; a second connection terminal configured to be connectable to the storage battery; a power conversion circuit connected between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal; a control circuit configured to control the power conversion circuit, measure a terminal voltage value of the first connection terminal and a charging current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, and compare the terminal voltage value with a set first threshold value; Including, the control circuit includes a memory circuit that stores the first threshold value; the first threshold includes a first value and a second value within a voltage range that includes the first threshold; When the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a predetermined direction and crosses the first value while the charging current is flowing, the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit to reduce the charging current until the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction and crosses the second value. Power supply system.

[0129] [B15] The power supply system described in [B14], wherein the first value and the second value in at least one battery unit among the plurality of battery units are set to values ​​different from the first value and the second value in other battery units among the plurality of battery units.

[0130] [B16] The power supply system according to [B14], wherein the first value and the second value for each of the plurality of battery units are set according to the amount of electricity stored in the storage battery.

[0131] [B17] The power supply system according to [B16], wherein the first value and the second value of the battery unit with a low stored power amount are set lower than the first value and the second value of the battery unit with a high stored power amount.

[0132] [B18] a power supply device having an output terminal configured to be connectable to a device, converting input power into DC power and outputting the DC power to the output terminal; a battery unit connected in parallel to the power supply device for the device; Including, The battery unit includes: A storage battery and a first connection terminal configured to be connectable to the output terminal; a second connection terminal configured to be connectable to the storage battery; a power conversion circuit connected between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal; a control circuit configured to control the power conversion circuit, measure a terminal voltage value of the first connection terminal and a charging current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, and compare the terminal voltage value with a set first threshold value; Including, the first threshold includes a first value and a second value within a voltage range that includes the first threshold; When the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a predetermined direction and crosses the first value while the charging current is flowing, the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit to reduce the charging current until the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction and crosses the second value. Power supply system.

[0133] [B19] the first connection terminal is connected in parallel with the device to the output terminal, The power supply device is connected in parallel to the device in plurality, and has a droop characteristic in which the output voltage decreases as the output current increases. The power supply system according to [B18].

[0134] [B20] The battery unit according to any one of [B1] to [B13], wherein the first value and the second value are the same value.

[0135] [B21] The power supply system according to any one of [B14] to [B19], wherein the first value and the second value are the same value.

[0136] The above description is merely illustrative. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many more possible combinations and permutations are possible other than the components and methods (manufacturing processes) listed for the purpose of illustrating the technology of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is intended to embrace all alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the present disclosure, including the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0137] 11 Power System 12 AC power supply 13 Equipment 14 Power line 21a~21c Power supply 22a~22c, 22X battery unit 31 Input terminal 32 output terminal 33 AC-DC converter 34 DC-DC converter 35 Control circuit 41, 41a, 41b First connection terminal 42 Storage battery 43 Power Conversion Circuit 44 Control circuit 44a Memory circuit 44b Communication circuit 44c Timer 45,46 Voltage detection circuit 47 Current detection circuit 48,48X Second connection terminal Steps 51-55 80 Setting terminal 90 test load Ia charging current Ib discharge current L11 inductor P21 Op Amp Q11, Q12 switching elements R11,R12,R21,R31,R32 Resistor T10~T16 time T20~T24 time V41 terminal voltage V42 Terminal voltage

Claims

1. A first connection terminal; a second connection terminal configured to be connectable to the storage battery; a power conversion circuit connected between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal; a control circuit configured to control the power conversion circuit, measure a terminal voltage value of the first connection terminal and a current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, and compare the terminal voltage value with a set first threshold value; Including, the first threshold includes a first value and a second value set within a voltage range including the first threshold; The control circuit When the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a predetermined direction and crosses the first value while a current is flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, the power conversion circuit is controlled to reduce the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal until the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction and crosses the second value; a control circuit for controlling the power conversion circuit so as to reduce the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal when the amount of change in the terminal voltage value per unit time is equal to or greater than the third threshold value, while the current is flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal; Battery unit.

2. A first connection terminal; a second connection terminal configured to be connectable to the storage battery; a power conversion circuit connected between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal; a control circuit configured to control the power conversion circuit, measure a terminal voltage value of the first connection terminal and a current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, and compare the terminal voltage value with a set first threshold value; Including, the power conversion circuit is capable of converting a voltage of the storage battery; the first threshold includes a first value and a second value set within a voltage range including the first threshold; The control circuit When the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a predetermined direction and crosses the first value while a current is flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, the power conversion circuit is controlled to reduce the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal until the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction and crosses the second value; a control circuit for controlling the power conversion circuit so that a current flows from the storage battery to the first connection terminal when the amount of change in the terminal voltage value per unit time is equal to or greater than the third threshold value, while the current flows from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal; Battery unit.

3. The terminal voltage value fluctuating in the predetermined direction and crossing the first value means that the terminal voltage value falls below the first value, The terminal voltage value fluctuating in the direction opposite to the predetermined direction and crossing the second value means that the terminal voltage value exceeds the second value. The battery unit according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the first connection terminal is connected between a power supply device having an output characteristic in which the output voltage varies depending on the output current and an equipment connected to an output terminal of the power supply device, and is connected in parallel with the equipment to the power supply device; The battery unit according to claim 1 or 2.

5. a plurality of the power supply devices are connected in parallel to the device; the output characteristic is a droop characteristic in which the output voltage decreases as the output current increases; The battery unit according to claim 4 .

6. the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit so as to gradually reduce the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal when the terminal voltage value fluctuates in the predetermined direction and crosses the first value. The battery unit according to claim 1 or 2.

7. the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit so that the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal becomes zero when the terminal voltage value fluctuates in the predetermined direction and crosses the first value. The battery unit according to claim 1 or 2.

8. the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit so as to reduce the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal to zero when the terminal voltage value fluctuates in the predetermined direction and crosses a second threshold value that is lower than the first threshold value. The battery unit according to claim 1 or 2.

9. when the terminal voltage value crosses the second threshold, the control circuit invalidates the comparison between the terminal voltage value and the first threshold and the comparison between the terminal voltage value and the second threshold; The battery unit according to claim 8 .

10. the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit so as to gradually increase the current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal when the terminal voltage value crosses the second value in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction. The battery unit according to claim 1 or 2.

11. the power conversion circuit is capable of converting a voltage of the storage battery; the control circuit controls the power conversion circuit so that a current flows from the storage battery toward the first connection terminal when the terminal voltage value fluctuates in the predetermined direction and crosses a second threshold value that is lower than the first threshold value. The battery unit according to claim 1 or 2.

12. A storage battery and A first connection terminal; a second connection terminal configured to be connectable to the storage battery; a power conversion circuit connected between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal; a control circuit configured to control the power conversion circuit, measure a terminal voltage value of the first connection terminal and a charging current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, and compare the terminal voltage value with a set first threshold value; Including, the power conversion circuit is capable of converting a voltage of the storage battery; the first threshold includes a first value and a second value within a voltage range that includes the first threshold; The control circuit When the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a predetermined direction and crosses the first value while the charging current is flowing, the power conversion circuit is controlled to reduce the charging current until the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction and crosses the second value; while the charging current is flowing, a fluctuation amount of the terminal voltage value per unit time is compared with a set third threshold value, and when the fluctuation amount is equal to or greater than the third threshold value, the power conversion circuit is controlled so that a current flows from the storage battery to the first connection terminal. Battery unit.

13. a plurality of battery units connected in parallel to the device; Each of the plurality of battery units A storage battery and a first connection terminal configured to be connectable to the device; a second connection terminal configured to be connectable to the storage battery; a power conversion circuit connected between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal; a control circuit configured to control the power conversion circuit, measure a terminal voltage value of the first connection terminal and a charging current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, and compare the terminal voltage value with a set first threshold value; the power conversion circuit is capable of converting a voltage of the storage battery; Including, the control circuit includes a memory circuit that stores the first threshold value; the first threshold includes a first value and a second value within a voltage range that includes the first threshold; The control circuit When the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a predetermined direction and crosses the first value while the charging current is flowing, the power conversion circuit is controlled to reduce the charging current until the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction and crosses the second value; while the charging current is flowing, a fluctuation amount of the terminal voltage value per unit time is compared with a set third threshold value, and when the fluctuation amount is equal to or greater than the third threshold value, the power conversion circuit is controlled so that a current flows from the storage battery to the first connection terminal. Power supply system.

14. the first value and the second value in at least one battery unit among the plurality of battery units are set to values ​​different from the first value and the second value in other battery units among the plurality of battery units; 14. The power supply system of claim 13.

15. the first value and the second value of each of the plurality of battery units are set according to the amount of stored power of the storage battery.

14. The power supply system of claim 13.

16. setting the first value and the second value of the battery unit with a low stored power amount lower than the first value and the second value of the battery unit with a high stored power amount; 16. The power supply system of claim 15.

17. a power supply device having an output terminal configured to be connectable to a device, converting input power into DC power and outputting the DC power to the output terminal; a battery unit connected in parallel to the power supply device for the device; Including, The battery unit includes: A storage battery and a first connection terminal configured to be connectable to the output terminal; a second connection terminal configured to be connectable to the storage battery; a power conversion circuit connected between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal; a control circuit configured to control the power conversion circuit, measure a terminal voltage value of the first connection terminal and a charging current flowing from the power conversion circuit to the second connection terminal, and compare the terminal voltage value with a set first threshold value; Including, the power conversion circuit is capable of converting a voltage of the storage battery; the first threshold includes a first value and a second value within a voltage range that includes the first threshold; The control circuit When the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a predetermined direction and crosses the first value while the charging current is flowing, the power conversion circuit is controlled to reduce the charging current until the terminal voltage value fluctuates in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction and crosses the second value; while the charging current is flowing, a fluctuation amount of the terminal voltage value per unit time is compared with a set third threshold value, and when the fluctuation amount is equal to or greater than the third threshold value, the power conversion circuit is controlled so that a current flows from the storage battery to the first connection terminal. Power supply system.

18. the first connection terminal is connected in parallel with the device to the output terminal, The power supply device is connected in parallel to the device in plurality, and has a droop characteristic in which the output voltage decreases as the output current increases.

18. The power supply system of claim 17.

19. The first value and the second value are the same value. The battery unit according to claim 1 or 2.

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