Battery system, battery monitoring device, and method

Abstract

To provide a communication system, a communication device, and a communication method that detect incorrect association of a first device.SOLUTION: A communication system according to an embodiment includes a plurality of first devices and a second device. The second device wirelessly communicates with the plurality of first devices, and acquires information from the plurality of first devices. The second device, on the basis of, first received data acquired by wireless communication between each first device and the second device and second received data acquired by wireless communication between respective first devices, detects association states of the plurality of first devices.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention provides battery system, Battery Monitoring Equipment, and How to eat Regarding the law. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, there is known a battery monitoring system that performs wireless communication between a plurality of monitoring modules and a battery ECU (Electronic Control Unit) to acquire battery information from each monitoring module (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-87661 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In conventional battery monitoring systems, each monitoring module is configured to acquire information about a predetermined battery. If a monitoring module is installed on a battery other than the one designated, the battery ECU acquires incorrect battery information from the monitoring module. Such erroneous detection can occur not only in battery monitoring systems but also in communication systems in which a second device acquires information from multiple first devices.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and has an object to provide a communication system, a communication device, and a communication method for detecting incorrect assembly of a first device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a communication system includes a plurality of first devices and a second device. The second device wirelessly communicates with the plurality of first devices and acquires information from the plurality of first devices. The second device detects the assembly states of the plurality of first devices based on first received data acquired through the wireless communication between each of the first devices and the second device and second received data acquired through the wireless communication between each of the first devices. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one aspect of the embodiment, misassembly of the first device can be detected. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a battery system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the SBM according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the relationship between the distance between SBMs where the RSSI is measured and the RSSI. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the battery ECU according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the relationship between the first actual RSSI and the first normal RSSI when the SBM is correctly assembled in the battery block. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the relationship between the first actual RSSI and the first normal RSSI when the SBM is not correctly assembled in the battery block. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the assembly state detection process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating each of the first determination ranges. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the second judgment range in SBM. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the first actual RSSI and the first determination range when an SBM is connected to each battery block. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the first actual RSSI and the first determination range when no SBM is connected to each battery block. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the second actual RSSI and the second determination range when an SBM is connected to each battery block. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the second actual RSSI and the second determination range when no SBM is connected to each battery block. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating the assembly setting process according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] (First embodiment) A communication system, a communication device, and a communication method according to an embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiment.

[0010] The communication system is used, for example, in a battery system for a vehicle. The vehicle may be a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), an electric vehicle (EV), a fuel cell vehicle (FCV), etc. The communication system may also be used in a home power supply system.

[0011] (Battery system) The battery system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the battery system 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0012] The battery system 1 includes a battery pack 2, a plurality of monitoring modules 3 (first devices, devices), and a battery ECU 4 (second device).

[0013] The battery pack 2 is a power source that supplies power to a load such as a vehicle motor. The battery pack 2 includes multiple battery blocks 7. The battery pack 2 is configured by connecting multiple battery blocks 7 in series. While FIG. 1 shows an example in which four battery blocks 7 are connected in series, this is not limiting. The number of battery blocks 7 included in the battery pack 2 may be two, three, or five or more. The battery blocks 7 are, for example, lithium-ion secondary batteries or nickel-metal hydride secondary batteries. The battery blocks 7 include multiple cells. Hereinafter, when distinguishing between the four battery blocks 7, they may be referred to as battery block 7A, battery block 7B, battery block 7C, and battery block 7D.

[0014] The monitoring module 3 is provided corresponding to each battery block 7. If four battery blocks 7 are provided, four monitoring modules 3 are provided corresponding to each battery block 7. The monitoring modules 3 acquire information about the battery blocks 7. The monitoring modules 3 detect the voltage and temperature of the battery blocks 7. The monitoring modules 3 may also detect the voltage of each cell in the battery blocks 7. Hereinafter, the monitoring modules 3 are referred to as SBMs (Satellite Battery Modules).

[0015] When distinguishing between the four SBMs, they may be referred to as SBM3A, SBM3B, SBM3C, and SBM3D. SBM3A is attached to battery block 7A so as to acquire information about battery block 7A. Similarly, SBM3B is attached to battery block 7B. SBM3C is attached to battery block 7C. SBM3D is attached to battery block 7D.

[0016] The battery ECU 4 monitors the state of each battery block 7. Based on voltage data of each battery block 7 detected by each SBM 3 and temperature data of each battery block 7, the battery ECU 4 monitors the state of each battery block 7 and the state of the battery pack 2. For example, the battery ECU 4 monitors the deterioration state of each battery block 7 and the occurrence of an abnormality in each battery block 7. The battery ECU 4 also calculates the SOC (State of Charge) of the battery pack 2.

[0017] In the battery system 1, the battery ECU 4 and the multiple SBMs 3 transmit and receive data via wireless communication, specifically, BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy). That is, each SBM 3 is connected to the battery ECU 4 via BLE. In the battery system 1, wireless communication is established between each SBM 3 and the battery ECU 4 at startup.

[0018] The battery ECU 4 establishes a connection with each SBM 3 via wireless communication based on the address of each SBM 3 to be connected.

[0019] When each SBM 3 is assembled into the battery system 1, the battery block 7 to be monitored, i.e., the battery block 7 to be installed, is determined. Therefore, the battery blocks 7 in the battery pack 2 are managed by the addresses of the SBM 3. The battery ECU 4 wirelessly connects to the SBM 3 based on the addresses, thereby identifying the battery blocks 7 in the battery pack 2 and monitoring the status of each battery block 7.

[0020] Therefore, if an SBM 3 is installed in a battery block 7 different from the battery block 7 to which it was originally installed, causing an incorrect installation of the SBM 3, the battery ECU 4 will not be able to accurately detect the state of each battery block 7. Specifically, if the battery ECU 4 detects the state of the battery block 7 based on the address of the SBM 3 when an incorrect installation of the SBM 3 has occurred, the battery ECU 4 may erroneously detect the state of the battery block 7 in the battery pack 2. The battery system 1 according to the embodiment aims to solve this problem.

[0021] The battery ECU 4 measures the received signal strength (first received data) of advertising received from each SBM 3, specifically the RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator). Furthermore, the multiple SBMs 3 measure the received signal strength (second received data) of advertising from the SBM 3 through wireless communication between the SBMs 3. The battery ECU 4 detects the assembly state of the multiple SBMs 3 based on the results of the battery ECU 4's measurement of the RSSI of each SBM 3 and the results of the measurement of the RSSI between the SBMs 3. This will be explained in detail below.

[0022] (SBM) Next, the SBM 3 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the SBM 3 according to the first embodiment. The SBM 3 includes a communication unit 10, a control unit 11, and a storage unit 12. Note that the multiple SBMs 3 have the same configuration.

[0023] The communication unit 10 transmits and receives data via wireless communication with the battery ECU 4. The communication unit 10 receives an instruction signal for detecting the state of the battery block 7 from the battery ECU 4. The communication unit 10 transmits data relating to the state of the battery block 7 to the battery ECU 4.

[0024] The communication unit 10 receives advertising from other SBMs 3 via wireless communication. Also, the communication unit 10 transmits advertising to other SBMs 3 via wireless communication. For example, the SBM 3A receives advertising from other SBMs 3B to 3D. Also, the SBM 3A transmits advertising to other SBMs 3B to 3D.

[0025] The storage unit 12 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a random access memory (RAM) or a flash memory. The storage unit 12 stores the address of its own SBM 3. That is, the SBM 3 has a unique address and is identified by the address.

[0026] The control unit 11 includes, for example, a computer having a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM, a hard disk drive, input / output ports, and various other circuits. At least a portion of the control unit 11 can be configured with hardware such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). The control unit 11 includes a detection unit 15 and a measurement unit 16. The detection unit 15 and the measurement unit 16 may be integrated or may be further divided into multiple units.

[0027] The detection unit 15 detects the state of the battery block 7. The detection unit 15 detects the state of the battery block 7 to which the SBM 3 is assembled. The detection unit 15 detects the state of the battery block 7 when an instruction signal to detect the state of the battery block 7 is received from the battery ECU 4. Specifically, the detection unit 15 detects the voltage of the battery block 7. The detection unit 15 may detect the voltage of each cell of the battery block 7. The detection unit 15 detects the temperature of the battery block 7. The detection unit 15 may include multiple monitoring ICs (Integrated Circuits).

[0028] The measurement unit 16 measures the RSSI of advertising received from other SBMs 3. The measurement unit 16 measures the RSSI of each of the other SBMs 3. For example, the SBM 3A measures the RSSI of each of the other three SBMs 3B to 3D. The measurement results of each RSSI are transmitted to the battery ECU 4 via the communication unit 10. The measured RSSI is transmitted to the battery ECU 4 after communication between the SBM 3 and the battery ECU 4 is established. The measurement unit 16 measures the RSSI of each of the other SBMs 3, for example, when the battery system 1 is started up. The RSSI may be an average value of the top N RSSIs with the highest intensity within a predetermined measurement time.

[0029] As shown in Figure 3, the relationship between the distance between SBMs 3 and the RSSI is such that the longer the distance, the smaller the RSSI. Figure 3 is a diagram showing the relationship between the distance between SBMs 3 where RSSI is measured and the RSSI. The relationship between distance and RSSI in Figure 3 is the same between the battery ECU 4 and multiple SBMs 3.

[0030] (Battery ECU) Next, the battery ECU 4 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing the battery ECU 4 according to the first embodiment. The battery ECU 4 includes a communication unit 20, a control unit 21, and a storage unit 22.

[0031] The communication unit 20 transmits and receives data to each SBM 3 via wireless communication. The communication unit 20 transmits an instruction signal to each SBM 3 to detect the state of the battery block 7. The instruction signal is transmitted at a predetermined timing. The predetermined timing is, for example, when the battery system 1 is started or stopped. Alternatively, the predetermined timing may be when a predetermined interval has elapsed after the battery system 1 is started.

[0032] The communication unit 20 receives data relating to the state of the battery block 7 from each SBM 3. The communication unit 20 receives advertising via wireless communication from each SBM 3. The communication unit 20 receives the measurement results of the RSSI measured by each SBM 3.

[0033] When the battery system 1 is started up, the communication unit 20 receives address information transmitted from devices around the battery ECU 4 via wireless communication.

[0034] The storage unit 22 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM or a flash memory. The storage unit 22 stores the address of each SBM 3. That is, the storage unit 22 stores the addresses of the multiple SBMs 3 included in the battery system 1. The address of each SBM 3 is stored in the storage unit 22 in advance.

[0035] The memory unit 22 also stores the RSSI (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "first normal RSSI") received from each SBM3 when the SBM3 is correctly installed in each battery block 7. The memory unit 22 stores the first normal RSSI associated with the address of each SBM3. Each first normal RSSI is set in advance or measured in advance and stored in the memory unit 22. Each first normal RSSI includes an upper threshold and a lower threshold. In other words, each first normal RSSI has a predetermined normal determination range.

[0036] The memory unit 22 also stores the RSSI between each SBM3 when each SBM3 is correctly assembled in each battery block 7 (hereinafter, this may be referred to as the "second normal RSSI"). The memory unit 22 stores the second normal RSSI associated with an address corresponding to each combination of SBM3. Each second normal RSSI is set in advance or measured in advance and stored in the memory unit 22. Each second normal RSSI includes an upper threshold and a lower threshold. In other words, each second normal RSSI has a predetermined normal determination range.

[0037] The control unit 21 includes, for example, a computer having a CPU, ROM, RAM, a hard disk drive, input / output ports, and various other circuits. At least a portion of the control unit 21 can be configured with hardware such as an ASIC or FPGA. The control unit 21 includes a recognition unit 25, an instruction unit 26, a monitoring unit 27, and a detection unit 28. The recognition unit 25, the instruction unit 26, the monitoring unit 27, and the detection unit 28 may be integrated or further divided into multiple units.

[0038] The recognition unit 25 recognizes multiple SBMs 3 when the battery system 1 is started up. When the battery system 1 is started up, the recognition unit 25 authenticates an SBM 3 having an address that matches an address stored in the storage unit 22, and establishes a communication connection between each SBM 3 and the battery ECU 4.

[0039] The instruction unit 26 causes the multiple SBMs 3 to transmit instruction signals for detecting the state of each battery block 7 to which each SBM 3 is attached at a predetermined timing.

[0040] The monitoring unit 27 monitors the state of each battery block 7. Based on data on the state of each battery block 7 received from each SBM 3, the monitoring unit 27 monitors, for example, the deterioration state of each battery block 7 and the occurrence of an abnormality in each battery block 7. The monitoring unit 27 calculates the SOC of the battery pack 2.

[0041] The detection unit 28 detects the assembly state of multiple SBMs 3 based on the RSSI (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "first actual RSSI") obtained by wireless communication between each SBM 3 and the battery ECU 4, and the RSSI (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "second actual RSSI") obtained by wireless communication between each SBM 3.

[0042] Specifically, the detector 28 acquires the first actual RSSI via the communication unit 20. The detector 28 acquires the first actual RSSI of each SBM3. The first actual RSSI is managed by the address of each SBM3. The detector 28 also acquires the second actual RSSI via the communication unit 20. The second actual RSSI is managed by the address of the SBM3 that measured the RSSI. For example, the second actual RSSI measured by SBM3A includes the second actual RSSI of SBM3B, the second actual RSSI of SBM3C, and the second actual RSSI of SBM3D.

[0043] Then, based on the first actual RSSI, the detection unit 28 detects the assembly state of the multiple SBMs 3. The detection unit 28 detects the assembly state of the multiple SBMs 3 by comparing the first actual RSSI and the first normal RSSI of the same address.

[0044] For example, when four SBMs 3A to 3D are correctly installed, the first actual RSSI of each SBM 3 falls within the range of the first normal RSSI, as shown in Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the relationship between the first actual RSSI and the first normal RSSI when the SBMs 3A to 3D are correctly installed in the battery blocks 7A to 7D.

[0045] The correct assembly of the four SBMs 3A to 3D is when SBM 3A is assembled to battery block 7A, SBM 3B is assembled to battery block 7B, SBM 3C is assembled to battery block 7C, and SBM 3D is assembled to battery block 7D.

[0046] In addition, in FIG. 5, the SBM 3A is arranged closest to the battery ECU 4, and the distance from the battery ECU 4 increases in the order of SBM 3A, SBM 3B, SBM 3C, and SBM 3D.

[0047] In contrast, for example, if SBM3B and SBM3D are incorrectly assembled, with SBM3B assembled in battery block 7D and SBM3D assembled in battery block 7B, the first actual RSSI of SBM3B will be outside the first normal RSSI of SBM3B, and the first actual RSSI of SBM3D will be outside the first normal RSSI of SBM3D, as shown in Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing the relationship between the first actual RSSI and the first normal RSSI when SBM3 is not correctly assembled in battery block 7.

[0048] In this case, the detection unit 28 determines that the SBM3B and the SBM3D are not assembled correctly, and detects the incorrect assembly of the SBM3B and the SBM3D.

[0049] The detection unit 28 compares the first actual RSSI with the first normal RSSI to determine whether each SBM3 is installed normally using the battery ECU 4 as a reference, and detects the installation status of multiple SBMs 3 using the battery ECU 4 as a reference.

[0050] Furthermore, the detection unit 28 detects the assembly state of the multiple SBMs 3 based on the second actual RSSI. The detection unit 28 detects the assembly state of the multiple SBMs 3 by comparing the second actual RSSI and the second normal RSSI for the same address. The detection unit 28 compares the second actual RSSI and the second normal RSSI using a certain SBM 3 as a reference, and detects the assembly state of the multiple SBMs 3.

[0051] For example, the detection unit 28 compares the second actual RSSI of the other SBM3B to 3D measured by the SBM3A with the second normal RSSI of the other SBM3B to 3D relative to the SBM3A. The detection unit 28 compares the second actual RSSI of the SBM3B measured by the SBM3A with the second normal RSSI of the SBM3B relative to the SBM3A to detect the installation state of the SBM3B. The detection unit 28 compares the second actual RSSI of the SBM3C measured by the SBM3A with the second normal RSSI of the SBM3C relative to the SBM3A to detect the installation state of the SBM3C. Similarly, the detection unit 28 detects the installation state of the SBM3D.

[0052] Furthermore, the detection unit 28 detects the assembly state of the plurality of SBMs 3A to 3D based on the second actual RSSI of the other SBMs 3A to 3D measured by the SBMs 3B, 3C, and 3D.

[0053] The detector 28 detects the assembly states of the multiple SBMs 3 based on the second actual RSSI and the second normal RSSI, thereby enabling accurate detection of improper assembly of the SBMs 3.

[0054] If the distance between the SBMs 3 is short, the first normal RSSIs of the multiple SBMs 3 may overlap. For example, if the distance between SBM 3A and SBM 3B is short, the first normal RSSI of SBM 3A may overlap at least partially with the first normal RSSI of SBM 3B. Furthermore, if the distances between SBM 3A and SBM 3B and the battery ECU 4 are equal, it is not possible to detect misassembly of SBM 3A and SBM 3B based on the first actual RSSI and the first normal RSSI.

[0055] The detection unit 28 can solve the above problem by detecting the assembly state of the multiple SBMs 3 based on the second actual RSSI and the second normal RSSI.

[0056] If the detection result of the assembly state based on the first actual RSSI and the detection result of the assembly state based on the second actual RSSI do not detect any incorrect assembly of the multiple SBM3s, the detection unit 28 determines that the multiple SBM3s are assembled correctly.

[0057] If the detection unit 28 detects incorrect assembly in at least one of the multiple SBM3s based on the detection result of the assembly state based on the first actual RSSI and the detection result of the assembly state based on the second actual RSSI, it determines that the assembly of the multiple SBM3s is abnormal.

[0058] If multiple SBM3s are not assembled correctly, the incorrect assembly is reported. For example, a lamp indicating an abnormality is turned on, or the details of the incorrect assembly are displayed on a monitor or the like.

[0059] The detection of the assembly status of the multiple SBMs 3 may be performed when the battery system 1 is assembled, or may be performed during maintenance of the battery system 1. The detection of the assembly status of the multiple SBMs 3 may also be performed when the battery system 1 is started up. If it is determined that the multiple SBMs 3 are properly assembled, the detection does not have to be performed until the SBMs 3 are removed from the battery block 7.

[0060] Next, the assembly state detection process according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the assembly state detection process according to the first embodiment.

[0061] The battery ECU 4 acquires the first actual RSSI from each SBM 3 (S100), and acquires the second actual RSSI from each SBM 3 (S101). Note that the battery ECU 4 may acquire the second actual RSSI before the first actual RSSI, or may acquire the first actual RSSI and the second actual RSSI simultaneously.

[0062] The battery ECU 4 detects the assembly state of the plurality of SBMs 3 based on the first actual RSSI (S102), and detects the assembly state of the plurality of SBMs 3 based on the second actual RSSI (S103). Note that the battery ECU 4 may detect the assembly state based on the second actual RSSI before detecting the assembly state based on the first actual RSSI, or may perform the detections simultaneously.

[0063] The battery ECU 4 determines whether or not an incorrect assembly of the SBM 3 has been detected from at least one of the detection result of the assembly state based on the first actual RSSI and the detection result of the assembly state based on the second actual RSSI (S104).

[0064] If the battery ECU 4 does not detect any incorrect assembly of the SBM 3 from either the assembly state detection result based on the first actual RSSI or the assembly state detection result based on the first actual RSSI (S104: No), it determines that the assembly of the multiple SBM 3 is normal (S105).

[0065] If incorrect assembly of the SBM3 is detected from at least one of the assembly state detection results based on the first actual RSSI and the assembly state detection results based on the second actual RSSI (S104: Yes), the battery ECU 4 determines that the assembly of the multiple SBM3s is abnormal (S106).

[0066] The battery system 1 includes multiple SBMs 3 and a battery ECU 4. The battery ECU 4 communicates wirelessly with the multiple SBMs 3 and acquires information from the multiple SBMs 3. The battery ECU 4 detects the assembly state of the multiple SBMs 3 based on a first actual RSSI acquired through wireless communication between each SBM 3 and the battery ECU 4, and a second actual RSSI acquired through wireless communication between each SBM 3.

[0067] This allows the battery system 1 to accurately detect the assembly states of the multiple SBMs 3. For example, the battery system 1 can detect the assembly states of the multiple SBMs 3 based on the measurement results of the second actual RSSI, even if there are multiple SBMs 3 that are at the same distance from the battery ECU 4. Therefore, the battery system 1 can accurately detect incorrect assembly of the SBMs 3.

[0068] Furthermore, by detecting the assembly state of the multiple SBMs 3 based on the first actual RSSI, the battery system 1 can increase the degree of freedom in the layout of the multiple SBMs 3 and accurately detect improper assembly of the SBMs 3. By detecting the assembly state of the multiple SBMs 3 based on the second actual RSSI, the battery system 1 can increase the degree of freedom in the layout of the multiple SBMs 3 and accurately detect improper assembly of the SBMs 3.

[0069] The SBM 3 acquires information about the battery block 7. The battery ECU 4 monitors the state of the battery block 7.

[0070] This allows the battery system 1 to accurately detect erroneous assembly of the SBM 3 to the battery block 7, and to prevent erroneous detection of information about the battery block 7 when the SBM 3 is erroneously assembled.

[0071] (Second embodiment) Next, a battery system 1 according to a second embodiment will be described. Here, differences from the first embodiment will be described. The same components as those in the first embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0072] The installation state of the multiple SBMs 3 includes the installation position of each SBM 3. The battery ECU 4 according to the second embodiment detects the positions of the multiple SBMs 3 based on the first actual RSSI and the second actual RSSI.

[0073] The storage unit 22 of the battery ECU 4 stores the IDs (identifiers) of the multiple SBMs 3 in the battery system 1 in association with the addresses (address information) of the multiple SBMs 3. The IDs of the multiple SBMs 3 in the battery system 1 are set corresponding to the arrangement of the multiple SBMs 3 in the battery system 1. In other words, the IDs of the multiple SBMs 3 indicate the position information of the SBMs connected to each battery block 7.

[0074] In the initial state when multiple SBMs 3 are not assembled in a battery block 7, the storage unit 22 stores only the ID of the SBM 3 corresponding to each battery block 7. In other words, in the initial state, the address of each SBM 3 is not associated with the ID of the SBM 3 corresponding to the battery block 7.

[0075] The control unit 21 associates the IDs of the multiple SBM3s corresponding to the battery block 7 with the addresses of the multiple SBM3s based on the received signal strength. When the IDs of the multiple SBM3s are associated with the addresses of the SBM3s, the storage unit 22 stores the addresses of the SBM3s corresponding to the IDs of the SBM3s. Note that the addresses of the SBM3s corresponding to the IDs of the SBM3s can be updated. For example, when the addresses of the SBM3s corresponding to the IDs of the SBM3s are updated, the addresses of the new SBM3s are overwritten.

[0076] The storage unit 22 also stores RSSI determination ranges (hereinafter referred to as "first determination ranges") for the distance between the battery ECU 4 and each SBM 3 connected to each battery block 7. The first determination ranges are set according to the distance between the battery ECU 4 and each SBM 3 connected to each battery block 7. Each first determination range includes an upper threshold and a lower threshold.

[0077] For example, if the SBMs connected to the four battery blocks 7A to 7D are SBMs 3a to 3d, a first determination range corresponding to the distance between the battery ECU 4 and SBM 3a is set and stored as shown in FIG. 8. Similarly, a first determination range corresponding to the distance between the battery ECU 4 and each of SBMs 3b to 3d is set and stored. Each first determination range is set in advance or measured in advance and stored in the storage unit 22. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating each first determination range. In FIG. 8, SBM 3a is closest to the battery ECU 4, followed by SBMs 3b, SBMs 3c, and SBMs 3d, in that order. Therefore, the first determination range of SBM 3a is the largest, followed by the first determination range of SBM 3b, the first determination range of SBM 3c, and the first determination range of SBM 3d. Note that the first determination ranges may overlap depending on the arrangement of the battery ECU 4 and each SBM 3.

[0078] In the following, "3a," "3b," "3c," and "3d" of each of the SBMs 3a to 3d indicate the IDs of multiple SBMs 3. "3a" is the ID of the SBM 3 connected to battery block 7A. "3b" is the ID of the SBM 3 connected to battery block 7B. "3c" is the ID of the SBM 3 connected to battery block 7C. "3d" is the ID of the SBM 3 connected to battery block 7D.

[0079] The storage unit 22 also stores RSSI determination ranges (hereinafter referred to as "second determination ranges") for the distances between the SBMs 3 connected to each battery block 7. The second determination ranges are set according to the distances between the SBMs 3. Each second determination range includes an upper threshold and a lower threshold.

[0080] For example, for SBM 3a, as shown in FIG. 9, a second judgment range corresponding to the distance between SBM 3a and the other SBMs 3b to 3d is set and stored for each of SBMs 3b to 3d. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the second judgment range for an SBM. In FIG. 9, SBM 3b is closest to SBM 3a, followed by SBM 3c and SBM 3d, in order of increasing distance from SBM 3a. Similarly, a second judgment range is set and stored for each of SBMs 3b to 3d. Each second judgment range is set or measured in advance and stored in storage unit 22. Note that the second judgment ranges may overlap depending on the arrangement of the SBMs.

[0081] The detection unit 28 of the battery ECU 4 determines whether a setting request signal for the IDs of multiple SBMs 3 has been received. The setting request signal is a signal that requests association of the IDs of multiple SBMs 3 with the addresses of multiple SBMs 3. The setting request signal is transmitted from an external device. The setting request signal is transmitted when assembly work for multiple SBMs 3 is being performed. The setting request signal is transmitted when maintenance is being performed on the battery system 1.

[0082] When the setting request signal is received, the detection unit 28 associates the ID of the SBM 3 corresponding to each battery block 7 with the address of each SBM 3. After the SBM 3 is connected to each battery block 7, the detection unit 28 associates the IDs of the multiple SBM 3 with the addresses of the SBM 3.

[0083] The detector 28 acquires the first actual RSSI via the communicator 20. The detector 28 also acquires the second actual RSSI via the communicator 20. Based on the acquired first actual RSSI and the acquired second actual RSSI, the detector 28 associates the ID of the SBM 3 corresponding to each battery block 7 with the address of each SBM 3. The association between the ID of the SBM 3 corresponding to each battery block 7 and the address of each SBM 3 will be described in detail below.

[0084] The detection unit 28 determines whether the connection of the SBM 3 is normal. The detection unit 28 determines whether the SBM 3 is connected to each battery block 7. If the SBM 3 is connected to each battery block 7, the detection unit 28 determines that the connection of the SBM 3 is normal. If the SBM 3 is not connected to each battery block 7, the detection unit 28 determines that the connection of the SBM 3 is abnormal, not normal. Specifically, the detection unit 28 determines whether the SBM 3 is connected to each battery block 7, based on the first actual RSSI.

[0085] For example, when multiple first judgment ranges do not overlap and each of the first actual RSSIs of four SBMs 3 is included in one first judgment range as shown in FIG. 10, the detection unit 28 determines that an SBM 3 is connected to each battery block 7. On the other hand, when multiple (e.g., two) first actual RSSIs are included in one first judgment range as shown in FIG. 11, the detection unit 28 determines that an SBM 3 is not connected to each battery block 7. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the first actual RSSIs and the first judgment ranges when an SBM 3 is connected to each battery block 7. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the first actual RSSIs and the first judgment ranges when an SBM 3 is not connected to each battery block 7. Furthermore, when no first actual RSSIs are included in one first judgment range, the detection unit 28 determines that an SBM 3 is not connected to each battery block 7.

[0086] When multiple first determination ranges overlap, multiple first actual RSSIs may be included in the overlapping determination ranges. In this case, the number of allowable first actual RSSIs is determined according to the number of overlapping determination ranges.

[0087] Furthermore, the detection unit 28 determines whether or not the SBM 3 is connected to each battery block 7 based on the second actual RSSI.

[0088] For example, when multiple second judgment ranges do not overlap and each second actual RSSI for the SBM 3A is included in one second judgment range as shown in FIG. 12, the detection unit 28 determines that an SBM 3 is connected to each battery block 7. On the other hand, when multiple (e.g., two) second actual RSSIs are included in one second judgment range as shown in FIG. 13, the detection unit 28 determines that an SBM 3 is not connected to each battery block 7. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of the second actual RSSI and the second judgment range when an SBM 3 is connected to each battery block 7. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the second actual RSSI and the second judgment range when an SBM 3 is not connected to each battery block 7. Furthermore, when no second actual RSSI is included in one second judgment range, the detection unit 28 determines that an SBM 3 is not connected to each battery block 7.

[0089] The above-mentioned determination based on the second actual RSSI is performed for the second actual RSSI in each of the SBMs 3A to 3D. When multiple second determination ranges overlap, multiple second actual RSSIs may be included in the overlapping determination ranges. In this case, the number of second actual RSSIs that are allowed is determined according to the number of overlapping determination ranges.

[0090] Then, when the detection unit 28 determines that an SBM3 is connected to each battery block 7 based on the first actual RSSI and the second actual RSSI, it determines that an SBM3 is connected to each battery block 7.

[0091] When the detection unit 28 determines based on the first actual RSSI that an SBM 3 is not connected to each battery block 7, it determines that an SBM 3 is not connected to each battery block 7. Furthermore, when the detection unit 28 determines based on the second actual RSSI that an SBM 3 is not connected to each battery block 7, it determines that an SBM 3 is not connected to each battery block 7.

[0092] In this way, the detection unit 28 determines that an SBM3 is connected to each battery block 7 only when it determines that an SBM3 is connected to each battery block 7 based on the first actual RSSI and the second actual RSSI.

[0093] If the detection unit 28 determines that the connection of the SBM3 is normal, it associates the ID of the SBM3 corresponding to each battery block 7 with the address of each SBM3 and stores the association in the storage unit 22. Specifically, the detection unit 28 detects the installation position of each SBM3 based on the first actual RSSI. The detection unit 28 associates the ID of the SBM3 corresponding to each battery block 7 with the address of each SBM3. The detection unit 28 then stores the association result between the ID of the SBM3 corresponding to each battery block 7 and the address of each SBM3 in the storage unit 22.

[0094] 10, the detection unit 28 associates the address of SBM3A, where the first actual RSSI included in the first judgment range of SBM3a was measured, with the ID of SBM3a, which corresponds to battery block 7A. The detection unit 28 also associates the address of SBM3B, where the first actual RSSI included in the first judgment range of SBM3b was measured, with the ID of SBM3b, which corresponds to battery block 7B. The detection unit 28 also associates the address of SBM3C, where the first actual RSSI included in the first judgment range of SBM3c was measured, with the ID of SBM3c, which corresponds to battery block 7C. The detection unit 28 also associates the address of SBM3D, where the first actual RSSI included in the first judgment range of SBM3d was measured, with the ID of SBM3d, which corresponds to battery block 7D.

[0095] Furthermore, detection unit 28 may associate the ID of the SBM3 corresponding to each battery block 7 with the address of each SBM3 based on the second actual RSSI. In this case, detection unit 28 detects the installation position of each SBM3 based on the second actual RSSI. Detection unit 28 associates the ID of the SBM3 corresponding to each battery block 7 with the address of each SBM3. Then, detection unit 28 stores the result of associating the ID of the SBM3 corresponding to each battery block 7 with the address of each SBM3 in storage unit 22.

[0096] For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the detection unit 28 associates the address of SBM3B, where the second actual RSSI included in the second judgment range of SBM3b, with the ID of SBM3b corresponding to battery block 7B. The detection unit 28 also associates the address of SBM3C, where the second actual RSSI included in the second judgment range of SBM3c, with the ID of SBM3c corresponding to battery block 7C. The detection unit 28 also associates the address of SBM3D, where the second actual RSSI included in the second judgment range of SBM3d, with the ID of SBM3d corresponding to battery block 7D. The detection unit 28 then associates the address of the remaining SBM3A with the ID of SBM3a corresponding to battery block 7A. Note that the detection unit 28 may associate the IDs of SBM3a-3d corresponding to each battery block 7 with the addresses of SBM3A-3D based on the second actual RSSI of each of SBM3B-3D. The detection unit 28 may associate the IDs of the SBMs 3a to 3d corresponding to each battery block 7 with the addresses of the SBMs 3a to 3d based on the second actual RSSIs of the multiple SBMs 3. This allows the battery ECU 4 to accurately determine the installation position of each SBM 3, even if there are multiple SBMs 3 close to the battery ECU 4, for example.

[0097] If the result of the association based on the first actual RSSI matches the result of the association based on the second actual RSSI, detection unit 28 may store the result of the association in storage unit 22. If the result of the association based on the first actual RSSI does not match the result of the association based on the second actual RSSI, detection unit 28 does not store the association between the ID of the SBM3 corresponding to each battery block 7 and the address of each SBM3 in storage unit 22. This allows battery ECU 4 to accurately detect the installation position of each SBM3 and accurately store the association between the ID of the SBM3 corresponding to each battery block 7 and the address of each SBM3 in storage unit 22.

[0098] The detector 28 notifies the memory unit 22 that the SBM3 configuration is complete when the detector 28 associates the ID of the SBM3 corresponding to each battery block 7 with the address of each SBM3 and stores the associated information in the memory unit 22. The detector 28 notifies the memory unit 22 that the SBM3 configuration is not complete when an SBM3 is not connected to each battery block 7. That is, the detector 28 notifies the memory unit 22 that the SBM3 configuration is not complete when an SBM3 is not connected to each battery block 7. The detector 28 may also notify the memory unit 22 that the SBM3 configuration is not complete when the result of the association based on the first actual RSSI and the result of the association based on the second actual RSSI do not match. The detector 28, for example, lights up a lamp indicating each notification. The detector 28 may also display the content of each notification on a monitor or the like.

[0099] Next, the assembly setting process according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 14. Fig. 14 is a flowchart illustrating the assembly setting process according to the second embodiment.

[0100] The battery ECU 4 determines whether or not a setting request signal has been received (S200). If the battery ECU 4 has not received a setting request signal (S200: No), the battery ECU 4 ends this processing.

[0101] When the battery ECU 4 receives the setting request signal (S200: Yes), it acquires the first actual RSSI from each SBM 3 (S201) and acquires the second actual RSSI from each SBM 3 (S202). Note that the battery ECU 4 may acquire the second actual RSSI before the first actual RSSI, or may acquire the first actual RSSI and the second actual RSSI simultaneously.

[0102] The battery ECU 4 determines whether or not an SBM 3 is connected to each battery block 7 (S203). The battery ECU 4 determines whether or not an SBM 3 is connected to each battery block 7 based on the first actual RSSI and the second actual RSSI.

[0103] If an SBM 3 is connected to each battery block 7 (S203: Yes), the battery ECU 4 detects the installation position of each SBM 3 based on the first actual RSSI and the second actual RSSI (S204).The battery ECU 4 then associates the ID of the SBM 3 corresponding to each battery block 7 with the address of each SBM 3 and stores this in the storage unit 22 (S205).The battery ECU 4 notifies that the setting of the SBM 3 has been completed (S206).

[0104] If the SBM 3 is not connected to each battery block 7 (S203: No), the battery ECU 4 notifies that the setting of the SBM 3 is not complete (S207). In other words, the battery ECU 4 notifies that the connection of the SBM 3 to the battery block 7 is not complete.

[0105] In the battery system 1, it may be determined whether the connection of the SBMs 3 is normal based on the first actual RSSI and the second actual RSSI, and the ID of the SBMs 3 corresponding to each battery block 7 may be associated with the address of each SBM 3 based on the first actual RSSI. In the battery system 1, it may be determined whether the connection of the SBMs 3 is normal based on the first actual RSSI and the second actual RSSI, and the ID of the SBMs 3 corresponding to each battery block 7 may be associated with the address of each SBM 3 based on the second actual RSSI. In the battery system 1, it may be determined whether the connection of the SBMs 3 is normal based on the first actual RSSI, and the ID of the SBMs 3 corresponding to each battery block 7 may be associated with the address of each SBM 3 based on the first actual RSSI. In the battery system 1, it may be determined whether the connection of the SBM3 is normal or not based on the second actual RSSI, and the ID of the SBM3 corresponding to each battery block 7 may be associated with the address of each SBM3 based on the first actual RSSI and the second actual RSSI.

[0106] The battery ECU 4 detects the installation position of each SBM 3 based on the first actual RSSI between each SBM 3 and the battery ECU 4.

[0107] This eliminates the need for a worker to perform management and setting tasks for the ID of the SBM3 corresponding to each battery block 7 and the address of the SBM3 actually connected to each battery block 7 when assembling the SBM3 to each battery block 7. For example, this eliminates the need for a worker to perform management and setting tasks for the ID of the SBM3 corresponding to each battery block 7 and the address of the SBM3 actually connected to each battery block 7. Therefore, the battery system 1 can improve work efficiency when connecting an SBM3 to each battery block.

[0108] Furthermore, the battery system 1 can identify each SBM connected to each battery block 7 by detecting the installation position of each SBM 3 based on the first actual RSSI between each SBM 3 and the battery ECU 4. Therefore, the battery system 1 can associate the ID of the SBM 3 corresponding to each battery block 7 with the address of each SBM 3, regardless of the installation position of the multiple SBMs 3. Therefore, the battery system 1 can accurately detect the state of each battery block 7, regardless of the installation position of the multiple SBMs 3. Furthermore, the battery system 1 can prevent incorrect installation of SBMs 3 to each battery block 7. Furthermore, a worker can connect an SBM 3 to each battery block 7 without worrying about the arrangement of the SBM 3 relative to each battery block 7. Therefore, the battery system 1 can improve work efficiency when connecting an SBM 3 to each battery block 7.

[0109] The battery ECU 4 detects the installation position of each SBM 3 based on the second actual RSSI between each SBM 3.

[0110] This eliminates the need for a worker to perform management and setting tasks for the ID of the SBM 3 corresponding to each battery block 7 and the address of the SBM 3 actually connected to each battery block 7 when assembling the SBM 3 to each battery block 7. For example, this eliminates the need for a worker to perform management and setting tasks for the ID of the SBM 3 corresponding to each battery block 7 and the address of the SBM 3 actually connected to each battery block 7. Therefore, the battery system 1 can improve work efficiency when connecting an SBM 3 to each battery block 7.

[0111] Furthermore, the battery system 1 can identify each SBM connected to each battery block 7 by detecting the installation position of each SBM 3 based on the second actual RSSI between each SBM 3 and the battery ECU 4. Therefore, the battery system 1 can associate the ID of the SBM 3 corresponding to each battery block 7 with the address of each SBM 3, regardless of the installation position of the multiple SBMs 3. Therefore, the battery system 1 can accurately detect the state of each battery block 7, regardless of the installation position of the multiple SBMs 3. Furthermore, the battery system 1 can prevent incorrect installation of SBMs 3 to each battery block 7. Furthermore, workers can connect SBMs 3 to each battery block 7 without worrying about the arrangement of the SBMs relative to each battery block 7. Therefore, the battery system 1 can improve work efficiency when connecting SBMs 3 to each battery block.

[0112] Furthermore, when the battery system 1 is unable to identify the position of the SBMs 3 connected to each battery block 7 based on the first actual RSSI, it can detect the installation position of each SBM 3 based on the second actual RSSI between each SBM 3. Therefore, the battery system 1 can improve the accuracy of detecting the position of the SBMs 3 connected to each battery block 7.

[0113] The battery ECU 4 stores the IDs of the SBMs 3 corresponding to the arrangement of the plurality of SBMs 3 and the addresses of the respective SBMs 3 in association with each other based on the first actual RSSI and the second actual RSSI.

[0114] This eliminates the need for a worker to perform management and setting tasks for the ID of the SBM 3 corresponding to each battery block 7 and the address of the SBM 3 actually connected to each battery block 7 when assembling the SBM 3 to each battery block 7. For example, this eliminates the need for a worker to perform management and setting tasks for the ID of the SBM 3 corresponding to each battery block 7 and the address of the SBM 3 actually connected to each battery block 7. Therefore, the battery system 1 can improve work efficiency when connecting an SBM 3 to each battery block 7.

[0115] If the battery ECU 4 cannot detect the connection of each SBM 3 to the battery block 7, it notifies that the connection of the SBM 3 to the battery block 7 is incomplete.

[0116] This allows the battery ECU 4 to prevent work from continuing in a state where the SBM 3 is not connected to each battery block 7.

[0117] A battery ECU 4 according to a modified example may detect the assembly state based on the second actual RSSI when the assembly state of at least one SBM 3 cannot be detected from the detection results of the assembly states of multiple SBMs 3 based on the first actual RSSI.

[0118] As a result, when detecting the assembly state of multiple SBMs 3, the battery system 1 according to the modified example can reduce the processing load for detecting the assembly state of multiple SBMs 3 and reduce power consumption.

[0119] Furthermore, if the battery ECU 4 according to the modified example cannot detect the assembly state of at least one SBM 3 from the assembly state detection result based on the first actual RSSI, the battery ECU 4 according to the modified example may instruct the multiple SBMs 3 to acquire the second actual RSSI. Then, the battery ECU 4 according to the modified example acquires the second actual RSSI from the multiple SBMs 3 and detects the assembly states of the multiple SBMs 3 based on the second actual RSSI.

[0120] Note that the battery ECU 4 according to the modified example may instruct the multiple SBMs 3 to acquire only the second actual RSSI for the SBM 3 whose assembly state cannot be detected based on the first actual RSSI.

[0121] As a result, when detecting the assembly state of multiple SBMs 3, the battery system 1 according to the modified example can suppress measurement of RSSI between multiple SBMs 3, thereby reducing the processing load and power consumption.

[0122] As a result, the battery system 1 according to the modified example can accurately detect the state of each battery block 7 regardless of the assembly state of the multiple SBMs 3.

[0123] Further advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described above. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0124] 1 Battery system (communication system) 2 battery packs 3 Monitoring module (first device, device) 4 Battery ECU (second device) 7 Battery Block 10. Communications Department 11 Control section 15 Detector 16 Measurement section 20 Communications Department 21 Control section 25 Recognition part 26 Instruction section 27 Monitoring Department 28 Detector

Claims

1. A plurality of modules provided corresponding to each of a plurality of battery blocks, each module acquiring information about each of the battery blocks; a battery monitoring device that acquires information about the plurality of battery blocks from the plurality of modules via wireless communication and monitors the states of the plurality of battery blocks; Equipped with a first module included in the plurality of modules transmits reception strength data including strengths of wireless signals from other modules excluding the first module to the battery monitoring device via wireless communication; The battery monitoring device detects the assembly state of the plurality of modules based on the strength of the wireless signal from each module and the reception strength data.

2. The battery system according to claim 1 , wherein the battery monitoring device detects the assembly position of each of the modules based on the strength of a wireless signal from each of the modules.

3. The battery system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the battery monitoring device detects an assembly position of each of the modules based on the reception intensity data.

4. 4. The battery system according to claim 2, wherein the battery monitoring device stores an identifier corresponding to the arrangement of the plurality of modules and address information of each of the modules in association with each other based on the strength of a wireless signal from each of the modules.

5. 5. The battery system according to claim 2, wherein the battery monitoring device notifies the user that the connection of each module to the battery block is incomplete when the battery monitoring device cannot detect the connection of each module to the battery block.

6. The battery system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the battery monitoring device detects the assembly status of the plurality of modules based on the reception strength data when the assembly status of at least one of the plurality of modules cannot be detected based on the strength of the wireless signal from each of the modules.

7. A battery system as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein when the battery monitoring device cannot detect the assembly status of at least one of the plurality of modules based on the strength of the wireless signal from each of the modules, it instructs each of the plurality of modules to obtain the strength of the wireless signal from modules other than its own module.

8. A communication unit provided corresponding to each of the plurality of battery blocks, acquiring information about each battery block and wirelessly communicating with the plurality of modules including the first module; a detection unit that acquires, from the first module, reception strength data including the strength of the wireless signals from other modules acquired by the first module, and detects an assembly state of the plurality of modules based on the acquired reception strength data and the strength of the wireless signals from each module; A battery monitoring device comprising:

9. A step of providing a plurality of battery blocks corresponding to each of the plurality of battery blocks, acquiring information about each of the battery blocks, and wirelessly communicating with a plurality of modules including the first module; acquiring, from the first module via wireless communication, reception strength data including strengths of wireless signals from other modules acquired by the first module; and detecting an assembly state of the plurality of modules based on the acquired reception strength data and the strength of the wireless signal from each module.

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