Power management device, power management method, program, and power management system

Abstract

The present invention solves the problem of more favorably controlling the power storage amount in a target area where an electric vehicle charges and discharges. A power management device (10) comprises: a management unit (11) that manages the power storage amount in a target area; and a changing unit (12) that, in accordance with the power storage amount, causes a parameter to change, the parameter mapped to a user of an electric vehicle in the target area.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to techniques for managing power. [Background technology]

[0002] There are known technologies for managing electricity. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a system in which, in a parking facility where electric vehicles can be charged and discharged, the owner of the electric vehicle is charged a fee according to the amount of charge to the electric vehicle, or a fee according to the amount of discharge from the electric vehicle is paid. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-040403 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the technology described in Patent Document 1, there is a possibility that an electric vehicle may be charged when the amount of stored electricity in the parking facility (target area) is insufficient, or that an electric vehicle may be discharged when the amount of stored electricity is excessive. This poses a problem in that the amount of stored electricity in the target area cannot be properly controlled.

[0005] One aspect of the present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and one example of its purpose is to provide a technology that enables better control of the amount of stored electricity in a target area where an electric vehicle is charged and discharged. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A power management device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a management means for managing the amount of stored electricity in a target area, and a variation means for varying a parameter associated with a user of an electric vehicle in the target area in accordance with the amount of stored electricity.

[0007] A power management method according to one aspect of the present invention includes managing the amount of stored power in a target area and varying a parameter associated with a user of an electric vehicle in the target area in accordance with the amount of stored power.

[0008] A program according to one aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to function as a power management device, and causes the computer to function as a management means for managing the amount of stored electricity in a target area, and a variation means for varying parameters associated with users of electric vehicles in the target area in accordance with the amount of stored electricity.

[0009] An energy management system according to one aspect of the present invention includes an energy management device and an electric vehicle, wherein the energy management device comprises a management means for managing the amount of stored energy in a target area, a variation means for varying a parameter associated with a user of the electric vehicle in the target area in accordance with the amount of stored energy, and a proposal information generation means for generating proposal information for the user in accordance with the amount of stored energy, the proposal information being related to charging and discharging the electric vehicle, and the electric vehicle comprises a presentation means for presenting the proposal information.

[0010] An energy management system according to one aspect of the present invention includes an energy management device and a terminal device, wherein the energy management device comprises a management means for managing the amount of stored energy in a target area, a variation means for varying a parameter associated with a user of the electric vehicle in the target area in accordance with the amount of stored energy, and a proposal information generation means for generating proposal information for the user in accordance with the amount of stored energy, the proposal information being related to charging and discharging the electric vehicle, and the terminal device comprises a presentation means for presenting the proposal information.

[0011] A power management method according to one aspect of the present invention includes managing the amount of stored electricity in a target area, varying parameters associated with users of the electric vehicles in the target area according to the amount of stored electricity, generating suggested information for the users according to the amount of stored electricity, the suggested information relating to charging and discharging of the electric vehicles, and presenting the suggested information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to better control the amount of stored electricity in a target area where an electric vehicle is charged or discharged. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a power management device according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a flowchart showing the flow of a power management method according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a power management system according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a power management method according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a power management system according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a power management method according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a power management system according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a power management device according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a power management method according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the proposed information generation process shown in FIG. 9. FIG. [Figure 11]FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the variation process shown in FIG. [Figure 12] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing specific examples of information displayed on an electric vehicle when the amount of stored electricity is sufficient in the fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing specific examples of information displayed on an electric vehicle when the amount of stored electricity is insufficient in the fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a power management system according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a power management system according to a modified example of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of each device included in each exemplary embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Exemplary Embodiment 1 A first exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. This exemplary embodiment is a basic form of the exemplary embodiments described below.

[0015] <Configuration of power management device 10> The configuration of a power management apparatus 10 according to this exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the power management apparatus 10. As shown in Fig. 1, the power management apparatus 10 includes a management unit 11 and a variation unit 12. The management unit 11 is an example of a configuration that realizes the management means recited in the claims. The variation unit 12 is an example of a configuration that realizes the variation means recited in the claims.

[0016] The management unit 11 manages the amount of stored power in the target area. The variation unit 12 varies parameters associated with users of electric vehicles in the target area according to the amount of stored power. Details of each of these functional blocks will be explained in the "Flow of power management method S1" section below.

[0017] <Flow of power management method S1> The power management apparatus 10 configured as described above executes a power management method S1 according to this exemplary embodiment. The flow of the power management method S1 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a flow diagram showing the flow of the power management method S1. As shown in Fig. 2, the power management method S1 includes steps S11 to S12.

[0018] In step S11, the management unit 11 manages the amount of stored electricity in the target area.

[0019] Here, the target area is an area where charging and discharging of electric vehicles is possible. Furthermore, the "area where charging and discharging of electric vehicles is possible" may be, for example, an area that includes one or more storage batteries that can be charged and discharged to and from electric vehicles. In this case, the management unit 11 manages the amount of stored electricity in one or more storage batteries included in the target area. For example, the management unit 11 may periodically acquire the amount of stored electricity in one or more storage batteries included in the target area.

[0020] In step S12, the variation unit 12 varies the parameters associated with users of electric vehicles in the target area according to the amount of stored power.

[0021] Here, the "electric vehicle in the target area" may be, for example, an "electric vehicle that can be charged and discharged in the target area." Furthermore, the "electric vehicle that can be charged and discharged in the target area" may be an electric vehicle whose location information is included in the target area. In this case, the variation unit 12 acquires the location information of the electric vehicle, and executes the process of step S12 when the acquired location information is included in the target area. Furthermore, as another example, the "electric vehicle that can be charged and discharged in the target area" may be an electric vehicle stored in association with the target area. In this case, the variation unit 12 refers to a storage device that stores the correspondence between electric vehicles and areas, and executes the process of step S12 when the electric vehicle is associated with the target area. However, the "electric vehicle in the target area" is not limited to the above example. Furthermore, the number of "electric vehicles in the target area" may be one or more.

[0022] Furthermore, the parameter associated with a user is a parameter whose variation can provide a benefit to the user. Specific examples of parameters include compensation given to or received by a user, an evaluation level assigned to a user, a ranking among multiple users, etc. However, specific examples of parameters are not limited to the above examples.

[0023] <Example of program implementation> When the power management device 10 is configured by a computer, the following program is stored in a memory referenced by the computer. The program causes the computer to function as the power management device 10, and causes the computer to function as a management unit 11 that manages the amount of stored power in a target area, and a variation unit 12 that varies parameters associated with users of electric vehicles in the target area according to the amount of stored power.

[0024] <Advantages of this exemplary embodiment> As described above, in this exemplary embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which the amount of stored electricity in a target area is managed, and parameters associated with users of electric vehicles in the target area are varied according to the amount of stored electricity.

[0025] Therefore, according to this exemplary embodiment, it is expected that users will charge and discharge electric vehicles in the target area based on parameters that vary depending on the amount of stored power, which results in the effect of better controlling the amount of stored power in the target area where the electric vehicles charge and discharge.

[0026] Exemplary Embodiment 2 A second exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that components having the same functions as those described in the first exemplary embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted as appropriate.

[0027] <Configuration of Power Management System 1A> The configuration of a power management system 1A according to this exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the power management system 1A. As shown in Fig. 3, the power management system 1A includes a power management device 10A and an electric vehicle 20A. The power management device 10A and the electric vehicle 20A are connected so that they can communicate with each other.

[0028] The power management device 10A includes a management unit 11A, a variation unit 12A, and a proposal information generation unit 13A. The management unit 11A and the variation unit 12A are configured similarly to the management unit 11 and the variation unit 12 in the first exemplary embodiment. The proposal information generation unit 13A generates proposal information for the user, related to charging and discharging of the electric vehicle 20A, based on the amount of stored power. The electric vehicle 20A includes a presentation unit 21A that presents the proposal information. The proposal information generation unit 13A is an example of a configuration that realizes the proposal information generation means recited in the claims. The presentation unit 21A is an example of a configuration that realizes the presentation means recited in the claims. Details of the proposal information generation unit 13A and the presentation unit 21A will be described in detail in the "Flow of Power Management Method S1A" section below.

[0029] <Flow of power management method S1A> The flow of a power management method S1A according to this exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a flow diagram showing the flow of the power management method S1A. As shown in Fig. 4, the power management method S1A includes steps S21 to S24. Steps S21 to S22 are similar to steps S11 to S12 in exemplary embodiment 1, and therefore detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

[0030] In step S23, the proposal information generator 13A generates proposal information for the user, related to charging and discharging of the electric vehicle 20A, according to the amount of stored power. For example, the proposal information generator 13A may generate proposal information that proposes benefits associated with variations in parameters according to the amount of stored power. Furthermore, for example, the proposal information generator 13A may generate proposal information that proposes charging when it is determined that the amount of stored power is sufficient. Furthermore, for example, the proposal information generator 13A may generate proposal information that proposes discharging when it is determined that the amount of stored power is insufficient. Furthermore, the proposal information generator 13A transmits the generated proposal information to the electric vehicle 20A.

[0031] In step S24, the presentation unit 21A of the electric vehicle 20A presents the proposed information. For example, the presentation unit 21A may display the proposed information on a display device arranged in the electric vehicle 20A. Furthermore, for example, the presentation unit 21A may output the proposed information by voice to an audio output device arranged in the electric vehicle 20A.

[0032] <Advantages of this exemplary embodiment> As described above, in this exemplary embodiment, the power management device 10A manages the amount of stored electricity in the target area, varies parameters associated with users of electric vehicles in the target area according to the amount of stored electricity, generates suggested information for the users according to the amount of stored electricity, which is suggested information regarding charging and discharging of the electric vehicle, and the electric vehicle 20A presents the suggested information.

[0033] Therefore, according to this exemplary embodiment, it is expected that the user will charge and discharge the electric vehicle in the target area based on the parameter that varies depending on the amount of stored electricity, in accordance with the proposal information presented in the electric vehicle, which results in an effect of better controlling the amount of stored electricity in the target area where the electric vehicle charges and discharges.

[0034] Exemplary Embodiment 3 A third exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that components having the same functions as those described in the first and second exemplary embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted as appropriate.

[0035] <Configuration of Power Management System 1B> The configuration of a power management system 1B according to this exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the power management system 1B. As shown in Fig. 5, the power management system 1B includes a power management apparatus 10B and a terminal device 30B. The power management apparatus 10B and the terminal device 30B are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0036] The power management apparatus 10B includes a management unit 11B, a variation unit 12B, and a proposal information generation unit 13B. The management unit 11B, the variation unit 12B, and the proposal information generation unit 13B are the same as those in the first exemplary embodiment. and 2 The terminal device 30B is configured in the same manner as the functional blocks of the same names in the above. The terminal device 30B includes a presentation unit 31B that presents suggested information. The presentation unit 31B is an example of a configuration that realizes the presentation means described in the claims. For example, the terminal device 30B may be a computer used by a user of the electric vehicle.

[0037] <Flow of power management method S1B> The flow of a power management method S1B according to this exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a flow diagram showing the flow of the power management method S1B. As shown in FIG. 6, the power management method S1B includes steps S31 to S34. Steps S31 to S33 are substantially similar to steps S21 to S23 in the second exemplary embodiment, and therefore detailed description will not be repeated. However, this differs from the second exemplary embodiment in that the destination of the proposal information in step S33 is the terminal device 30B.

[0038] In step S34, the presentation unit 31B of the terminal device 30B presents the proposed information. For example, the presentation unit 31B may display the proposed information on a display device built into or connected to the terminal device 30B. Furthermore, for example, the presentation unit 31B may output the proposed information as audio to an audio output device built into or connected to the terminal device 30B.

[0039] <Advantages of this exemplary embodiment> As described above, in this exemplary embodiment, the power management device 10B manages the amount of stored electricity in the target area, varies parameters associated with users of electric vehicles in the target area according to the amount of stored electricity, generates suggested information for the users according to the amount of stored electricity, which is suggested information regarding charging and discharging of the electric vehicles, and the terminal device 30B presents the suggested information.

[0040] Therefore, according to this exemplary embodiment, it is expected that the user will charge and discharge the electric vehicle in the target area based on the parameter that varies depending on the amount of stored power, in accordance with the proposed information presented on the terminal device, thereby achieving an effect of better controlling the amount of stored power in the target area where the electric vehicle charges and discharges.

[0041] Exemplary Embodiment 4 A fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that components having the same functions as those described in the first to third exemplary embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted as appropriate.

[0042] <Configuration of Power Management System 1C> The configuration of a power management system 1C according to this exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the power management system 1C. As shown in FIG. 7, the power management system 1C includes a power management device 10C, an electric vehicle 20C, and a charging / discharging facility 80. Although FIG. 7 shows three electric vehicles 20C and three charging / discharging facilities 80, this is not intended to limit the number of electric vehicles 20C and the number of charging / discharging facilities 80, and this is not intended to limit the number of electric vehicles 20C to the same number. Furthermore, at each charging / discharging facility 80, any electric vehicle 20C can be charged or discharged.

[0043] The power management device 10C is communicably connected to a control device 21C included in an electric vehicle 20C via a network N1. The control device 21C is an example of a configuration that realizes the presentation means described in the claims. The power management device 10C is also communicably connected to a control device 81 included in a charging / discharging facility 80 via the network N1. The network N1 is configured, for example, by a wireless local area network (LAN), a wired LAN, a wide area network (WAN), a mobile data communication network, or a combination of some or all of these. However, the configuration of the network N1 is not limited to the above example.

[0044] In addition, Fig. 7 Although one target area 90 is shown in FIG. 1, the electric vehicles 20C and the charging / discharging facilities 80 included in the power management system 1C may be distributed across multiple target areas 90. 7 Although one electric vehicle 20C and one charging / discharging facility 80 are shown in the figure, one target area 90 may include multiple electric vehicles 20C or multiple charging / discharging facilities 80. Furthermore, the power management system 1C only needs to include at least the power management device 10C, and some or all of the electric vehicle 20C and the charging / discharging facility 80 may be configured to be located outside the power management system 1C.

[0045] (Target area 90) As shown in FIG. 7 , the target area 90 is an area that includes a charging / discharging facility 80 that allows charging / discharging of the electric vehicle 20C. Specific examples of the target area 90 include commercial facilities, entertainment facilities, educational facilities, medical facilities, etc. that include the charging / discharging facility 80. Another specific example of the target area 90 is a region that includes the charging / discharging facility 80. Such a region may be an administrative district. However, specific examples of the target area 90 are not limited to the above examples.

[0046] (Configuration of electric vehicle 20C) 7, electric vehicle 20C has control device 21C, storage battery 22C, display device 23C, and transport mechanism 24C. Electric vehicle 20C controls transport mechanism 24C with power supplied from storage battery 22C to move. Electric vehicle 20C charges and discharges storage battery 22C in target area 90.

[0047] "Charging and discharging are performed in the target area 90" may mean, for example, that the charging and discharging facility 80 where charging and discharging of the electric vehicle 20C has been detected is included in the target area 90. Furthermore, for example, "charging and discharging are performed in the target area 90" may mean that current location information of the electric vehicle 20C is included in the target area 90. In this case, the current location information of the electric vehicle 20C may be information detected using a positioning sensor mounted on the electric vehicle 20C or a positioning sensor mounted on a terminal carried by a user of the electric vehicle 20C. Furthermore, for example, "charging and discharging are performed in the target area 90" may mean that predicted location information of the electric vehicle 20C is included in the target area 90. In this case, the predicted location information of the electric vehicle 20C may be information predicted based on the travel route of the electric vehicle 20C. Furthermore, for example, "charging and discharging are performed in the target area 90" may mean that the target area 90 is registered in association with the electric vehicle 20C.

[0048] (Configuration of charging / discharging facility 80) 7, charging / discharging facility 80 has a control device 81 and a storage battery 82, and is a facility for charging / discharging electric vehicle 20C. Charging of electric vehicle 20C at charging / discharging facility 80 is performed by inputting power supplied from storage battery 82 to storage battery 22C. Discharging of electric vehicle 20C at charging / discharging facility 80 is performed by inputting power supplied from storage battery 22C to storage battery 82.

[0049] (Configuration of power management device 10C) The power management apparatus 10C is a device that manages the amount of stored power in the target area 90. The configuration of the power management apparatus 10C will be described with reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the power management apparatus 10C. As shown in FIG. 8, the power management apparatus 10C includes a control unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a communication unit 130. The control unit 110 controls each unit of the power management apparatus 10C in an integrated manner. The storage unit 120 stores various data used by the control unit 110. The communication unit 130 transmits and receives data to and from other devices under the control of the control unit 110.

[0050] The control unit 110 includes a management unit 11C, a variation unit 12C, a proposal information generation unit 13C, and a detection unit 14C. The management unit 11C manages the amount of stored power in the target area 90.

[0051] The variation unit 12C varies a parameter associated with a user of an electric vehicle 20C whose charging or discharging has been detected in the target area 90, depending on the amount of stored electricity. Specifically, the variation unit 12C determines whether the amount of stored electricity is sufficient, and if it is determined that the amount is sufficient, varies the parameter depending on the charging of the electric vehicle 20C. Furthermore, the variation unit 12C determines whether the amount of stored electricity is insufficient, and if it is determined that the amount is insufficient, varies the parameter depending on the discharging from the electric vehicle 20C. Furthermore, the parameter that the variation unit 12C varies is the consideration to be exchanged by the user of the electric vehicle 20C in the target area 90. Hereinafter, the parameter that the variation unit 12C varies will be referred to as "the consideration to be exchanged."

[0052] The proposal information generation unit 13C generates, according to the amount of stored power, proposal information for a user of the electric vehicle 20C in the target area 90, proposal information related to charging and discharging of the electric vehicle 20C. The detection unit 14C detects charging and discharging of the electric vehicle 20C in the target area 90.

[0053] The detection unit 14C is an example of a configuration that realizes the detection means described in the claims. Details of each of these units will be explained in the "Flow of power management method S1C" section below.

[0054] The various data stored in the memory unit 120 include a judgment criterion D1 and compensation information D2. The judgment criterion D1 is information that is referenced when determining whether the amount of stored power is sufficient or whether the threshold is insufficient. The compensation information D2 is information about the compensation that the user will exchange. The compensation information D2 is referenced when changing the compensation that the user will exchange. Details of this information will be explained in the "Flow of power management method S1C" section below.

[0055] <Flow of power management method S1C> The power management system 1C configured as above executes a power management method S1C according to this exemplary embodiment. The flow of the power management method S1C will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a flow diagram showing the flow of the power management method S1C. As shown in Fig. 9, the power management method S1C includes steps S101 to S111.

[0056] (Step S101) In step S101, the control device 81 of the charging / discharging facility 80 detects the amount of stored power in the storage battery 82 and transmits the detected amount of stored power to the power management device 10C.

[0057] (Step S102) In step S102, management unit 11C of power management device 10C acquires the amount of stored power. For example, management unit 11C may periodically acquire the amount of stored power of one or more charging / discharging facilities 80 included in target area 90 and store the total amount in storage unit 120. In this case, management unit 11C acquires the most recent amount of stored power stored in storage unit 120 in step S102.

[0058] (Step S103) In step S103, the variation unit 12C determines whether the amount of stored power is sufficient or insufficient. Specifically, the variation unit 12C makes the determination by referring to the determination criterion D1.

[0059] (Example of Criterion D1) For example, the judgment criterion D1 includes information indicating a sufficient condition for the amount of stored power and information indicating a shortage condition for the amount of stored power. The sufficient condition includes, for example, a condition that the amount of stored power is equal to or greater than a threshold. The shortage condition includes, for example, a condition that the amount of stored power is less than a threshold. The threshold included in the sufficient condition and the threshold included in the shortage condition do not necessarily have to be the same, but the following description will be given assuming that these thresholds are the same. In this case, the variation unit 12C determines that the amount of stored power is sufficient if the amount is equal to or greater than the threshold, and determines that the amount is insufficient if the amount is less than the threshold.

[0060] (Step S104) In step S104, the proposal information generator 13C refers to the determination result of step S103 and generates proposal information for the user of the electric vehicle 20C in the target area 90, related to charging and discharging of the electric vehicle 20C, according to the amount of stored electricity.

[0061] (Details of step S104) Details of step S104 will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing the detailed flow of the proposed information generation process in step S104.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 10, the proposal information generation process (step S104) includes steps S201 to S203.

[0063] (Step S201) In step S201, the proposal information generator 13C refers to the determination result of step S103 and branches the process. If the stored power amount is sufficient, the next step S202 is executed. If the stored power amount is insufficient, step S203, which will be described later, is executed.

[0064] (Step S202) In step S202, the proposal information generator 13C generates proposal information that proposes the benefits of charging the electric vehicle 20C.

[0065] (Step S203) In step S202, the proposal information generator 13C generates proposal information that proposes the benefits of discharging the electric vehicle 20C.

[0066] This completes the proposed information generation process, and then step S105 in FIG. 9 is executed.

[0067] (Step S105) In step S105, the proposal information generator 13C transmits the generated proposal information to the electric vehicle 20C.

[0068] (Step S106) In step S106, the control device 21C of the electric vehicle 20C displays the received proposal information on the display device 23C, thereby making the proposal information visible to the user of the electric vehicle 20C.

[0069] (User of electric vehicle 20C) Here, the user of electric vehicle 20C may be a user registered in association with electric vehicle 20C. In this case, for example, a database that stores information associating the ID of electric vehicle 20C with a user ID may be referenced. Furthermore, the user of electric vehicle 20C may be a user involved in charging and discharging electric vehicle 20C. The user involved in charging and discharging may be a user who instructs charging and discharging, or a user who gives and receives compensation for charging and discharging. Specifically, for example, a user who pays a usage fee for charging electric vehicle 20C at charging and discharging facility 80, or a user who receives compensation for discharging, may be considered to be a user of electric vehicle 20C.

[0070] (Step S107) In step S107, when the control device 81 of the charging / discharging facility 80 starts charging / discharging of the electric vehicle 20C, the control device 81 transmits start information indicating that charging / discharging has started to the power management device 10C. This step is executed, for example, when the storage battery 82 and the storage battery 22C are connected and an operation to start charging / discharging has been received from the user of the electric vehicle 20C.

[0071] (Step S108) In step S108, the detection unit 14C of the power management device 10C receives the start information from the control device 81 and detects the charging and discharging of the electric vehicle 20C in the target area 90.

[0072] (Step S109) In step S109, the variation unit 12C refers to the determination result of step S103 and varies, depending on the amount of stored electricity, the compensation to be exchanged by the user of the electric vehicle 20C whose charging or discharging has been detected in the target area 90. Specifically, for example, the variation unit 12C may refer to the compensation information D2 and vary the compensation to be exchanged by the user from a normal value.

[0073] (Examples of compensation given by users) Here, the consideration given or received by the user includes consideration paid by the user or consideration received by the user. Specific examples of consideration paid by the user include, for example, a fee paid by the user for charging at charging / discharging facility 80, parking fees for parking lots included in target area 90, tolls for roads included in target area 90, and other fees for using various services provided in target area 90. Specific examples of consideration received by the user include, for example, a fee paid to the user for discharging at charging / discharging facility 80, local currency that can be used to use services provided in target area 90, coupons, etc. However, the consideration given or received by the user is not limited to these.

[0074] (Example of compensation information D2) The consideration information D2 includes information about the consideration that is exchanged by the user and is subject to fluctuation. For example, the consideration information D2 includes information about the normal value of the consideration that is subject to fluctuation. The normal value may be a value determined according to factors other than the amount of stored electricity.

[0075] (Details of step S109) Details of step S109 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a flow chart showing the detailed flow of the variation processing in step S109.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 11, the variation process (step S109) includes steps S301 to S303.

[0077] (Step S301) In step S301, the variation unit 12C refers to the determination result of step S103 and branches the process. If the stored power amount is sufficient, the next step S302 is executed. If the stored power amount is insufficient, step S303, which will be described later, is executed.

[0078] (Step S302) In step S302, the variation unit 12C varies the value to be given or received by the user in response to charging. Specifically, for example, the variation unit 12C refers to the value information D2 and executes variation processing in response to charging.

[0079] (Example of fluctuation processing according to charging) The variation unit 12C varies the consideration to be exchanged depending on the charging so that the user's benefit from the consideration to be exchanged is increased. For example, the variation unit 12C may (i) vary the consideration to be paid by the user so that it is less than usual, or (ii) vary the consideration to be received by the user so that it is more than usual, depending on the charging. For example, as an example of (i) above, the variation unit 12C may discount the fee itself to be paid by the user depending on the charging.

[0080] Another example of (i) is a process of granting a user discount coupons for parking fees, toll fees, etc. in the target area 90. Also, a specific example of (ii) is a process of granting a user local currency.

[0081] (Step S303) In step S303, the fluctuation unit 12C fluctuates the value given or received by the user in accordance with the discharge. Specifically, for example, the fluctuation unit 12C refers to the value information D2 and executes a fluctuation process in accordance with the discharge.

[0082] (Example of fluctuation processing of compensation according to discharge) The variation unit 12C varies the consideration to be exchanged in response to the discharge so that the user's benefit from the consideration is increased. For example, the variation unit 12C may (i) vary the consideration paid by the user so that it is less than usual, or (ii) vary the consideration received by the user so that it is more than usual, in response to the discharge. For example, as an example of the above (ii), the variation unit 12C may increase the fee itself paid to the user in response to the discharge more than usual. Other specific examples of (i) and (ii) include the same specific examples as those described in step S302.

[0083] This completes the variation process, and then step S110 in FIG. 9 is executed.

[0084] (Step S110) In step S110, the variation unit 12C transmits information on the varied price to the electric vehicle 20C.

[0085] (Step S111) In step S111, the control device 21C of the electric vehicle 20C displays information about the changed price on the display device 23C, thereby allowing the user to recognize the information about the price that has changed due to charging and discharging.

[0086] (Example of a screen of electric vehicle 20C when the stored power is sufficient) A specific example of a screen displayed on the display device 23C of the electric vehicle 20C in steps S106 and S111 when it is determined in step S103 that the stored power amount is sufficient will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Hereinafter, what is displayed on the display device 23C of the electric vehicle 20C will also be simply referred to as "displayed on the electric vehicle 20C." Fig. 12 is a diagram showing a specific example of information displayed on the electric vehicle 20C when the stored power amount is sufficient.

[0087] As shown in FIG. 12, in step S106, because the amount of stored power in the target area 90 is sufficient, an example screen G1 is displayed on the electric vehicle 20C. The example screen G1 includes text information such as "There is a large amount of stored power in this area, so if you charge your vehicle from this area, you will receive a special benefit," as an example of proposal information suggesting the benefits of charging. The example screen G1 also includes an operation object G11 that accepts the operation "charge." In this example, when the user operates the operation object G11, a request to start charging is transmitted from the control device 21C of the electric vehicle 20C to the control device 81 of the charging / discharging facility 80. This causes charging of the storage battery 82 from the storage battery 22C to begin.

[0088] 12, in step S111, charging of the electric vehicle 20C in the target area 90 is detected, and therefore, screen example G2 is displayed on the electric vehicle 20C. Screen example G2 includes text information as a result of the change, saying, "Received a perk for charging! The charging price has been discounted." In this way, screen example G2 allows the user to confirm that the price they pay has changed less than usual as a result of charging.

[0089] (Example of a screen from electric vehicle 20C when the amount of stored electricity is insufficient) When it is determined in step S103 that the amount of stored power is insufficient, a specific example of a screen displayed on the electric vehicle 20C in steps S106 and S111 will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of information displayed on the electric vehicle 20C when the amount of stored power is insufficient.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 13 , in step S106, because the amount of stored electricity in the target area 90 is insufficient, an example screen G3 is displayed on the electric vehicle 20C. The example screen G3 includes text information such as "The amount of stored electricity in the area is low, so you will receive a special benefit if you discharge electricity from your vehicle to the area," as an example of proposal information suggesting the benefits of discharging. The example screen G3 also includes an operation object G31 that accepts the operation "Discharge." In this example, when a user operates the operation object G31, a discharge start request is transmitted from the control device 21C of the electric vehicle 20C to the control device 81 of the charging / discharging facility 80, and discharging from the storage battery 22C to the storage battery 82 is started.

[0091] 13, in step S111, discharge of the electric vehicle 20C in the target area 90 is detected, and therefore, screen example G4 is displayed on the electric vehicle 20C. Screen example G4 includes text information as a result of the fluctuation, saying, "Earn a reward for discharging! 500 local currency coins awarded." In this way, screen example G4 allows the user to confirm that the compensation they receive has fluctuated more than usual in response to the discharge.

[0092] <Application example> For example, the present exemplary embodiment may be applied as follows while the electric vehicle 20C is traveling within the target area 90. When suggestion information proposing benefits related to discharging is displayed on the electric vehicle 20C, the user aboard the electric vehicle 20C stops by a charging / discharging facility 80 in the target area 90 and discharges the electric vehicle 20C. The user also uses local currency received as a benefit for discharging to use any service in the target area 90. This allows for good control of the amount of stored electricity in the target area 90.

[0093] Furthermore, when the proposal information proposing the benefits of charging is displayed on the electric vehicle 20C, the user riding in the electric vehicle 20C stops by a charging / discharging facility 80 in the target area 90 and charges the electric vehicle 20C. Furthermore, the user pays a discounted charging rate as a benefit for charging. This allows the amount of stored electricity in the target area 90 to be well controlled.

[0094] Furthermore, when the electric vehicle 20C travels through multiple target areas 90, it is expected that the user will charge or discharge in the target area 90 that offers greater benefits (higher fees to be received or lower fees to be paid). As a result, the amount of stored electricity in each target area 90 is well controlled.

[0095] <Advantages of this exemplary embodiment> As described above, in this exemplary embodiment, the compensation given or received by the user is applied as a parameter associated with the user and that varies depending on the amount of stored power.

[0096] Therefore, by using this exemplary embodiment, it is expected that charging and discharging will be performed for which the user receives a higher price or for which the user pays a lower price. As a result, charging and discharging of the electric vehicle 20C will be performed more appropriately according to the amount of stored electricity, and the amount of stored electricity can be controlled more effectively.

[0097] In addition, in this exemplary embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which charging and discharging of electric vehicles 20C in the target area 90 is detected, and the compensation exchanged by the user of the electric vehicle 20C whose charging and discharging is detected is varied depending on the amount of stored electricity.

[0098] Therefore, the user of the electric vehicle 20C that has performed charging and discharging can enjoy the benefits of the change in the payment received.

[0099] Furthermore, in this exemplary embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which proposal information for users of the electric vehicle 20C in the target area 90, which is proposal information related to charging and discharging the electric vehicle 20C, is generated according to the amount of stored electricity.

[0100] Therefore, it can be expected that charging and discharging will be performed in accordance with the proposed information, and as a result, charging and discharging of the electric vehicle 20C will be performed more appropriately in accordance with the amount of stored electricity, and the amount of stored electricity can be controlled more effectively.

[0101] In addition, in this exemplary embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which it is determined whether the amount of stored electricity is sufficient, and if it is determined that the amount is sufficient, the compensation exchanged by the user is varied depending on the charging of the electric vehicle 20C.

[0102] Therefore, when the amount of stored electricity is sufficient, the fee can be varied so that the user can enjoy benefits depending on the charging. As a result, the electric vehicle 20C can be charged more appropriately and the amount of stored electricity can be controlled more effectively.

[0103] In addition, in this exemplary embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which it is determined whether the amount of stored electricity is insufficient, and if it is determined that there is an insufficiency, the compensation exchanged by the user is varied depending on the discharge from the electric vehicle 20C.

[0104] Therefore, when the amount of stored electricity is insufficient, the compensation can be changed so that the user can enjoy benefits depending on the amount of discharge. As a result, the electric vehicle 20C can be discharged more appropriately, and the amount of stored electricity can be controlled more effectively.

[0105] Exemplary Embodiment 5 A fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that components having the same functions as those described in the first to fourth exemplary embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted as appropriate.

[0106] <Configuration of Power Management System 1D> This exemplary embodiment is a modification of the above-described exemplary embodiment 4, in which the proposal information is displayed on a terminal device 30D instead of on the electric vehicle 20C. A power management system 1D according to this exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 14. Fig. 14 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the power management system 1D according to this exemplary embodiment.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 14 , the power management system 1D includes a power management device 10D, an electric vehicle 20D, a terminal device 30D, and a charging / discharging facility 80. The electric vehicle 20D is configured similarly to the electric vehicle 20C in the fourth exemplary embodiment, except that it does not necessarily include the display device 23C. Specifically, the electric vehicle 20D includes a control device 21D, a storage battery 22D, and a transport mechanism 24D. The control device 21D, the storage battery 22D, and the transport mechanism 24D are configured similarly to the corresponding components in the fourth exemplary embodiment. Note that while FIG. 14 shows three electric vehicles 20D and three charging / discharging facilities 80, this does not limit the number of electric vehicles 20D and the number of charging / discharging facilities 80, nor does it necessarily have to be the same. At each charging / discharging facility 80, any electric vehicle 20D can be charged or discharged. Furthermore, the power management system 1D only needs to include at least the power management device 10D, and the electric vehicle 20D, the terminal device 30D, and some or all of the charging / discharging facility 80 may be configured to be located outside the power management system 1D.

[0108] (Configuration of power management device 10D) 14, power management device 10D is communicatively connected to electric vehicle 20D and charging / discharging facility 80 via network N1, and is also communicatively connected to terminal device 30D. Power management device 10D is configured substantially the same as power management device 10C shown in FIG. 8, but the details of proposal information generator 13C are slightly different. Proposal information generator 13C transmits the generated proposal information to terminal device 30D instead of to electric vehicle 20D.

[0109] (Configuration of terminal device 30D) The terminal device 30D is a computer used by a user of the electric vehicle 20D. The terminal device 30D may be, but is not limited to, a smartphone, a tablet, a personal computer, a wearable computer, etc. As shown in FIG. 14 , the terminal device 30D includes a storage unit 320, a control unit 310, a communication unit 330, and a display unit 340. The control unit 310 is an example of a configuration that realizes the presentation means described in the claims. The control unit 310 controls each unit of the terminal device 30D in an integrated manner. The control unit 310 displays the proposal information received from the power management device 10D on the display unit 340. The storage unit 320 stores various data used by the control unit 310. The communication unit 330 transmits and receives data to and from other devices under the control of the control unit 310.

[0110] <Flow of the power management method executed by the power management system 1D> The power management method executed by the power management system 1D can be explained in the same manner as in the explanation of the flow of the power management method S1C described with reference to Figure 9, by replacing the control device 21C with the control unit 310 and the display device 23C with the display unit 340.

[0111] <Application example> For example, this exemplary embodiment can be applied when the user is riding in the electric vehicle 20D, but can also be applied when the user is not riding in the electric vehicle 20D as follows. A user who is not riding in the electric vehicle 20D visually recognizes, on the terminal device 30D, proposal information that proposes benefits related to discharging. As a result, the user rides in the electric vehicle 20D, heads to the charging / discharging facility 80 in the target area 90, and discharges the electric vehicle 20D. Furthermore, a user who is not riding in the electric vehicle 20D visually recognizes, on the terminal device 30D, proposal information that proposes benefits related to charging. As a result, the user rides in the electric vehicle 20D, heads to the charging / discharging facility 80 in the target area 90, and charges the electric vehicle 20D. Other points are the same as those in the application example of exemplary embodiment 4.

[0112] <Advantages of this exemplary embodiment> In this way, this exemplary embodiment can encourage users who are not riding in the electric vehicle 20D to charge and discharge the electric vehicle 20D according to the amount of electricity stored in the target area 90, thereby enabling better control of the amount of electricity stored in the target area 90.

[0113] [Variation 1] The above-described exemplary embodiments 4 and 5 can be modified so that the determination criterion D1 regarding the amount of stored electricity is changed according to the manner of use of the electric vehicles 20C and 20D. In this modification, the variation unit 12C changes the determination criterion D1 regarding the amount of stored electricity according to the manner of use of the electric vehicles 20C and 20D.

[0114] For example, the information indicating the usage mode of electric vehicles 20C, 20D may be stored in a memory referenced by control device 21C in electric vehicles 20C, 20D. In this case, variation unit 12C receives the information indicating the usage mode from control device 21C, and varies determination criterion D1 according to the usage mode indicated by the received information.

[0115] Here, the usage mode of the electric vehicles 20C, 20D is, for example, the frequency of use. The frequency of use may be the distance traveled, the time traveled, etc. in the most recent predetermined period. The frequency of use may also be the number of days during which the electric vehicles 20C, 20D were traveled for at least the minimum travel time (or the minimum travel distance) in the most recent predetermined period.

[0116] Furthermore, changing the judgment criterion D1 may mean, for example, changing a threshold value included in the judgment criterion D1. For example, the variation unit 12C may lower the threshold value included in the judgment criterion D1 for electric vehicles 20C, 20D that are used frequently (for example, equal to or greater than a predetermined value) than for electric vehicles 20C, 20D that are used less frequently (for example, less than a predetermined value). Alternatively, for example, the variation unit 12C may lower the threshold value as the frequency of use increases.

[0117] As a result, this modification can reduce opportunities for providing the user of the frequently used electric vehicles 20C, 20D with the benefit of discharging, and increase opportunities for providing the user with the benefit of charging, thereby maintaining the amount of stored electricity in the frequently used electric vehicles 20C, 20D at a sufficient level according to the frequency of use.

[0118] Furthermore, this modification can increase opportunities for users of infrequently used electric vehicles 20C, 20D to benefit from discharging, and reduce opportunities for users to benefit from charging. As a result, the amount of electricity stored in the infrequently used electric vehicles 20C, 20D can be returned to the target area 90 and used effectively.

[0119] [Variation 2] The fourth exemplary embodiment described above can be modified to include an electric vehicle 20E equipped with a power management device 10E instead of the power management device 10C and the electric vehicle 20C. A power management system 1E according to this modification will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the power management system 1E.

[0120] As shown in FIG. 15 , the power management system 1E includes a power management device 10E, an electric vehicle 20E, and a charging / discharging facility 80. The electric vehicle 20E includes a power management device 10E, a control device 21E, a storage battery 22E, a display device 23E, and a transport mechanism 24E. The control device 21E, the storage battery 22E, the display device 23E, and the transport mechanism 24E are configured similarly to the components with the same names in the fourth exemplary embodiment. The power management device 10E and the electric vehicle 20E are communicatively connected, for example, via an in-vehicle network, without necessarily via a network N1. The other components are described similarly to those in the fourth exemplary embodiment. Note that, although FIG. 15 shows three electric vehicles 20E and three charging / discharging facilities 80, this is not intended to limit the number of electric vehicles 20E and the number of charging / discharging facilities 80, and it is not intended that these facilities be the same. Furthermore, any electric vehicle 20E can be charged or discharged at each charging / discharging facility 80.

[0121] [Variation 3] The above-described exemplary embodiment 1 can be modified to include the proposal information generator 13A in exemplary embodiment 2 without including the variation unit 12. In other words, the power management device 10 according to this modification includes a management unit 11 that manages the amount of stored power in a target area, and a proposal information generator 13A that generates, in accordance with the amount of stored power, proposal information for users of electric vehicles in the target area, related to charging and discharging of the electric vehicles. Furthermore, the power management method S1 according to this modification includes step S23 in exemplary embodiment 2, instead of step S12.

[0122] As a result, according to this modification, it is expected that users will charge and discharge electric vehicles in the target area in accordance with the proposal information according to the amount of stored power, which has the effect of enabling better control of the amount of stored power in the target area where the electric vehicle charges and discharges.

[0123] As with Modification 3, Exemplary Embodiments 2 and 3 can also be modified so as not to include the variable portions 12A and 12B. In this case, each of the exemplary embodiments achieves the same effects as Modification 3.

[0124] [Other Modifications] In the above-described exemplary embodiment 4, the variation unit 12C may determine whether the stored power amount is sufficient by using an estimation model generated by machine learning. In this case, the determination criterion D1 includes the estimation model. Such an estimation model may be a model that receives as input at least the amount of stored power in the target area 90 and outputs information indicating whether the stored power amount is sufficient or insufficient.

[0125] [Software implementation example] Some or all of the functions of the devices constituting the power management apparatus 10 and the power management systems 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, and 1E may be realized by hardware such as an integrated circuit (IC chip), or by software.

[0126] In the latter case, each of the devices constituting the power management apparatus 10 and the power management systems 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, and 1E is realized, for example, by a computer that executes instructions from a program, which is software that realizes each function. An example of such a computer (hereinafter referred to as computer C) is shown in FIG. 16. The computer C includes at least one processor C1 and at least one memory C2. The memory C2 stores a program P that causes the computer C to operate as each of the devices constituting the power management apparatus 10 and the power management systems 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, and 1E. In the computer C, the processor C1 reads and executes the program P from the memory C2, thereby realizing the functions of each of the devices constituting the power management apparatus 10 and the power management systems 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, and 1E.

[0127] The processor C1 may be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), a micro processing unit (MPU), a floating point number processing unit (FPU), a physics processing unit (PPU), a microcontroller, or a combination thereof. The memory C2 may be, for example, a flash memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or a combination thereof.

[0128] The computer C may further include a RAM (Random Access Memory) for expanding the program P during execution and for temporarily storing various data. The computer C may also include a communication interface for transmitting and receiving data to and from other devices. The computer C may also include an input / output interface for connecting input / output devices such as a keyboard, mouse, display, and printer.

[0129] Furthermore, the program P can be recorded on a non-transitory tangible recording medium M that can be read by the computer C. Such a recording medium M can be, for example, a tape, a disk, a card, a semiconductor memory, or a programmable logic circuit. The computer C can acquire the program P via such a recording medium M. The program P can also be transmitted via a transmission medium. Such a transmission medium can be, for example, a communication network or broadcast waves. The computer C can also acquire the program P via such a transmission medium.

[0130] [Appendix 1] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. For example, embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in the above-described embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0131] [Appendix 2] Some or all of the above-described embodiments can also be described as follows: However, the present invention is not limited to the following described aspects.

[0132] (Appendix 1) a management means for managing the amount of stored electricity in the target area; a varying means for varying a parameter associated with a user of an electric vehicle in the target area in accordance with the amount of stored electricity; A power management device comprising:

[0133] (Appendix 2) further comprising a detection means for detecting charging and discharging of the electric vehicle in the target area; the varying means varies a parameter associated with the user of the electric vehicle for which the charging / discharging has been detected, in accordance with the amount of stored electricity. 2. The power management apparatus of claim 1.

[0134] (Appendix 3) The system further includes a proposal information generating means for generating proposal information for users of electric vehicles in the target area, the proposal information relating to charging and discharging of the electric vehicles, in accordance with the amount of stored electricity. 3. The power management device according to claim 1 or 2.

[0135] (Appendix 4) The variation means is determining whether the stored amount is sufficient, and if it is determined that the stored amount is sufficient, varying the parameter in accordance with charging of the electric vehicle; 4. A power management device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

[0136] (Appendix 5) The variation means is determining whether the amount of stored electricity is insufficient, and if it is determined that the amount of stored electricity is insufficient, varying the parameter in accordance with the discharge from the electric vehicle; 5. A power management device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

[0137] (Appendix 6) The variation means is changing the determination criteria for the stored electricity amount according to a usage mode of the electric vehicle; 6. A power management apparatus according to claim 4 or 5.

[0138] (Appendix 7) The parameter is a price to be exchanged by a user of the electric vehicle in the target area. 7. A power management device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

[0139] (Appendix 8) Managing the amount of stored electricity in the target area; Varying a parameter associated with a user of an electric vehicle in the target area according to the amount of stored power; A power management method comprising:

[0140] (Appendix 9) A program for causing a computer to function as a power management device, the program comprising: a management means for managing the amount of stored electricity in the target area; a varying means for varying a parameter associated with a user of an electric vehicle in the target area in accordance with the amount of stored electricity; A program that functions as a

[0141] (Appendix 10) a power management device and an electric vehicle; The power management device a management means for managing the amount of stored electricity in the target area; a varying means for varying a parameter associated with a user of the electric vehicle in the target area in accordance with the amount of stored power; a proposal information generating means for generating proposal information for the user, the proposal information being related to charging and discharging of the electric vehicle, in accordance with the amount of stored electricity; It is equipped with The electric vehicle includes a presentation means for presenting the proposal information. Power management system.

[0142] (Appendix 11) a power management device and a terminal device; The power management device a management means for managing the amount of stored electricity in the target area; a varying means for varying a parameter associated with a user of the electric vehicle in the target area in accordance with the amount of stored power; a proposal information generating means for generating proposal information for the user, the proposal information being related to charging and discharging of the electric vehicle, in accordance with the amount of stored electricity; It is equipped with The terminal device includes a presentation means for presenting the proposed information. Power management system.

[0143] (Appendix 12) Managing the amount of stored electricity in the target area; Varying a parameter associated with a user of the electric vehicle in the target area according to the amount of stored power; generating proposal information for the user, the proposal information relating to charging and discharging of the electric vehicle, according to the amount of stored power; presenting the suggestion information. Power management methods.

[0144] [Appendix 3] Some or all of the above-described embodiments can also be expressed as follows.

[0145] A power management device comprising at least one processor, the processor executing a management process for managing the amount of stored power in a target area, and a variation process for varying a parameter associated with a user of an electric vehicle in the target area in accordance with the amount of stored power.

[0146] The power management device may further include a memory that stores a program for causing the processor to execute the management process and the variation process. The program may also be recorded on a computer-readable, non-transitory, tangible recording medium. [Explanation of symbols]

[0147] 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E power management equipment 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D Power Management Systems 11, 11A, 11B, 11C Management Department 12, 12A, 12B, 12C variable section 13A, 13B, 13C Proposal information generation section 14C Detection unit 20, 20A, 20C, 20D, 20E Electric Vehicles 21, 21C, 81 Control device 21A, 31B Presentation section 22, 22C, 82 storage battery 23C Display device 24C Conveyor mechanism 30, 30B, 30D terminal equipment 80 Charging and discharging facilities 90 Target Area 110, 310 control unit 120, 320 storage section 130, 330 Communications Department 340 Display section C1 processor C2 Memory

Claims

1. a management means for managing the amount of stored electricity in the target area; a variation means for varying a parameter associated with a user of an electric vehicle in the target area in accordance with the amount of stored power, the variation means varying a determination criterion to be referenced when determining whether the amount of stored power is sufficient or insufficient in accordance with a usage mode including a frequency of use of the electric vehicle; a proposal information generating means for generating proposal information for a user of the electric vehicle in the target area according to the amount of stored electricity, the proposal information being related to charging and discharging of the electric vehicle; Equipped with The proposal information generating means When it is determined that the stored power amount is sufficient, proposal information is generated to propose charging; generating proposal information that proposes discharging when it is determined that the amount of stored electricity is insufficient; Power management device.

2. further comprising a detection means for detecting charging and discharging of the electric vehicle in the target area; The varying means is configured to vary a parameter associated with a user of the electric vehicle for which charging or discharging is detected. The meter is varied in accordance with the amount of stored electricity. The power management device of claim 1 .

3. The variation means is It is determined whether the amount of stored electricity is sufficient, and if it is determined that the amount of stored electricity is sufficient, Varying the parameter in response to charging of the vehicle; The power management device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The variation means is determining whether the amount of stored electricity is insufficient, and if it is determined that the amount of stored electricity is insufficient, varying the parameter in accordance with the discharge from the electric vehicle; The power management device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. Managing the amount of stored electricity in the target area; changing a parameter associated with a user of an electric vehicle in the target area according to the amount of stored power, and changing a determination criterion to be referenced when determining whether the amount of stored power is sufficient or insufficient according to a usage mode including a frequency of use of the electric vehicle; generating proposal information for a user of the electric vehicle in the target area according to the amount of stored power, the proposal information relating to charging and discharging of the electric vehicle; Including, When generating the proposal information, When it is determined that the stored power amount is sufficient, generating proposal information that proposes charging; generating proposal information that proposes discharging when it is determined that the amount of stored electricity is insufficient; Power management methods.

6. A program for causing a computer to function as a power management device, computer, a management means for managing the amount of stored electricity in the target area; According to the amount of stored electricity, parameters associated with users of electric vehicles in the target area are a variation means for varying the meter, the variation means varying a determination criterion that is referred to when determining whether the stored electricity amount is sufficient or insufficient in accordance with a usage mode including a frequency of use of the electric vehicle; a proposal information generating means for generating proposal information for a user of the electric vehicle in the target area according to the amount of stored electricity, the proposal information being related to charging and discharging of the electric vehicle; It functions as The proposal information generating means When it is determined that the stored power amount is sufficient, generating proposal information that proposes charging; generating proposal information that proposes discharging when it is determined that the amount of stored electricity is insufficient; program.

7. a power management device and an electric vehicle; The power management device a management means for managing the amount of stored electricity in the target area; According to the amount of stored electricity, a user of the electric vehicle in the target area is associated with the user. a variation means for varying the parameter, the variation means varying a determination criterion that is referred to when determining whether the stored power amount is sufficient or insufficient, in accordance with a usage mode including a frequency of use of the electric vehicle; Proposal information for the user, which is information on charging / discharging the electric vehicle, according to the amount of stored power. a proposal information generating means for generating proposal information relating to the It is equipped with the electric vehicle includes a presentation means for presenting the proposal information, The proposal information generating means When it is determined that the stored power amount is sufficient, proposal information is generated to propose charging; generating proposal information that proposes discharging when it is determined that the amount of stored electricity is insufficient; Power management system.

8. a power management device and a terminal device; The power management device a management means for managing the amount of stored electricity in the target area; According to the amount of stored power, a power source associated with a user of an electric vehicle in the target area is a variation means for varying a parameter, the variation means varying a determination criterion that is referred to when determining whether the stored power amount is sufficient or insufficient, in accordance with a usage mode including a frequency of use of the electric vehicle; Proposal information for the user, which is information on charging / discharging the electric vehicle, according to the amount of stored power. a proposal information generating means for generating proposal information relating to the It is equipped with the terminal device includes a presentation means for presenting the proposed information, The proposal information generating means When it is determined that the stored power amount is sufficient, proposal information is generated to propose charging; generating proposal information that proposes discharging when it is determined that the amount of stored electricity is insufficient; Power management system.

9. Managing the amount of stored electricity in the target area; changing a parameter associated with a user of an electric vehicle in the target area according to the amount of stored power, and changing a determination criterion to be referenced when determining whether the amount of stored power is sufficient or insufficient according to a usage mode including a frequency of use of the electric vehicle; generating proposal information for the user, the proposal information relating to charging and discharging of the electric vehicle, according to the amount of stored power; presenting the suggestion information; When generating the proposal information, When it is determined that the stored power amount is sufficient, proposal information is generated to propose charging; generating proposal information that proposes discharging when it is determined that the amount of stored electricity is insufficient; Power management methods.

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