Information processing device, information processing system, information processing method, and computer program

Abstract

To provide an information processing device, an information processing system, an information processing method, and a computer program.SOLUTION: An information processing device includes an acquisition unit that acquires state data indicating the state of a monitored device that is a power storage element or a power supply related device from a communication device of the monitored device, or a communication device of a system including a plurality of monitored devices, through communication, a storage processing unit that stores the acquired state data in a storage medium in association with identification data of the monitored device or system, and a transmission processing unit that transmits display information for displaying the state data stored in the storage medium and the communication state with the communication device at once while distinguishing them for each of the monitored devices or systems in response to external requests or as events.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing system, an information processing method, and a computer program that receive information on a power storage element and / or a power supply-related device. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART The use of power storage elements in large-scale systems that temporarily store power generated using renewable energy or power generated by existing power generation systems is expanding.

[0003] In systems that use energy storage elements, maintenance activities that support stable operation of the system, including diagnosing the state of the energy storage elements, estimating the state of charge (SOC), and predicting the lifespan, are important. Maintenance activities are required not only for the energy storage elements, but also for power-related devices that work in conjunction with the energy storage elements, such as power conditioners, uninterruptible power supplies, and rectifiers. A technology has been proposed that enables maintenance workers to remotely obtain (remotely monitor) the status of the energy storage elements and power-related devices included in the system via a server device (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-115215 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] As the use of systems using energy storage elements expands, the systems and devices that maintenance workers must handle are becoming more diverse. When an abnormality or an event requiring attention is predicted in a monitored system, improvements are needed to enable maintenance workers to quickly determine, remotely, whether the problem is occurring in the system or the monitored device, before visiting the site to conduct a detailed investigation.

[0006] One aspect of the present invention provides an information processing device, an information processing system, an information processing method, and a computer program that enable easy identification of the location of a problem in a monitored system or monitored device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An information processing device of one embodiment of the present invention includes an acquisition unit that acquires status data indicating the status of a monitored device via communication from a communication device of the monitored device, which is a storage element or a power supply-related device, or from a communication device of a system that includes multiple monitored devices; a storage processing unit that stores the acquired status data in a storage medium in association with identification data of the monitored device or system; and a transmission processing unit that transmits display information in response to an external request or as an event, to display the status data stored in the storage medium and the communication status with the communication device together, while distinguishing them for each monitored device or system. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of a remote monitoring system. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hierarchical structure of a group of power storage modules and a connection topology of communication devices. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of a device included in the remote monitoring system. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing in a communication device. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a data processing procedure in the server device. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an information processing procedure in the server device. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure for presenting information from a server device to a client device. [Figure 8]10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure for presenting information from a server device to a client device. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the function of an automatic monitor unit. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a specific example of a Web page presented by the server device. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a specific example of a Web page presented by the server device. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a specific example of a Web page presented by the server device. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a specific example of a Web page presented by the server device. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a specific example of a Web page presented by the server device. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an information processing procedure in a server device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a specific example of a Web page presented by the server device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit that acquires, via communication, status data indicating the status of a monitored device, which is a storage element or a power supply-related device, from a communication device of the monitored device, or from a communication device of a system that includes multiple monitored devices; a storage processing unit that stores the acquired status data in a storage medium in association with identification data of the monitored device or system; and a transmission processing unit that transmits display information, in response to an external request or as an event, to display the status data stored in the storage medium and the communication status with the communication device in a collectively, while distinguishing them for each monitored device or system.

[0010] The power storage element may be a lithium ion battery or a lead battery, but is not limited to these and may be other secondary batteries, primary batteries, or capacitors.

[0011] The energy storage element may be an energy storage cell, or may be an energy storage module in which a plurality of energy storage cells are connected in series and / or in parallel. The energy storage element may be an energy storage unit (hereinafter also referred to as a "bank") in which a plurality of energy storage modules are connected in series. The energy storage element may be an energy storage unit (hereinafter also referred to as a "domain") in which a plurality of energy storage modules or banks are connected in parallel.

[0012] The power supply-related device may be any of a power conditioner, an uninterruptible power supply, a rectifier, a DC power supply, a charger or a charger / discharger for an electric vehicle.

[0013] The information processing device may monitor a system including multiple power storage elements or power supply-related devices, or may monitor a power storage system including only power storage elements.The information processing device may monitor a system including only power supply-related devices, or may monitor a system including multiple power storage elements and power supply-related devices.

[0014] In the above configuration, based on the status obtained from the communication device of the monitored device or the communication device of the system, information is obtained that distinguishes between the status detected in the monitored device or the monitored device included in the system, and the communication status detected between the monitored device and the information processing device.

[0015] With the above configuration, even when a large number of systems or monitored devices are being monitored, a maintenance worker who views the screen displayed based on the display information can recognize the location of the status shown for each system or monitored device, and can grasp the status of each at a glance.

[0016] The information processing device may include an analysis processing unit that acquires measurement data for each of the monitored devices and, based on the acquired measurement data, analyzes the presence or absence of abnormalities or signs of abnormalities in the monitored devices or systems using an algorithm for each of the monitored devices or systems, and the transmission processing unit may transmit display information for each of the monitored devices or systems that displays the analysis results by the analysis processing unit separately from the status data and the communication status.

[0017] In the above configuration, the information processing device estimates the status not only from status data obtained by communication from the communication device of the monitored device but also from the information processing device itself, which accumulates measurement data measured by the monitored device. The information processing device can distinguish and display the status detected by the monitored device, the communication status, and the analysis results.

[0018] With the above configuration, a maintenance worker can distinguish between the state obtained from the monitored device and the analysis results that estimate abnormalities and signs of abnormalities, and grasp the state accordingly.

[0019] The display information may be information for distinguishing and displaying the analysis results for the monitored device or any monitored device included in the system.

[0020] According to the above configuration, the maintenance worker can grasp, for each system or monitored device, which object in the system or monitored device has detected the detected condition. For example, even if the management device for a lithium-ion battery itself has not detected an abnormality, the maintenance worker can visually distinguish in advance whether a sign of an abnormality has been detected based on the analysis results. This allows the maintenance worker to determine the maintenance action to be taken, and the maintenance action can be expected to be efficient.

[0021] The display information may be information for displaying the state of the monitored device or system by distinguishing at which location within the monitored device or system the state was detected.

[0022] With the above configuration, a maintenance worker can grasp the detected state or communication state of each power storage element or monitored device included in the system or monitored device for each system or monitored device. By being able to visually distinguish in advance whether an abnormality has been detected in the lead-acid battery or the lithium-ion battery, the maintenance worker can determine the maintenance activities to be carried out, which is expected to result in efficient maintenance activities.

[0023] The display information may be information for collectively displaying a graphic visually indicating the status data and the communication status at a corresponding location in the list of the monitored devices or systems.

[0024] In the above configuration, the status and communication status are displayed graphically for each monitored device or system, allowing the maintenance worker to easily grasp the status visually.

[0025] The display information may include information for transitioning to a screen that displays, for each monitored device or system, detailed information about the parts included in the monitored device or system or the monitored device in accordance with the hierarchical structure of the monitored device or system.

[0026] In the above configuration, the display information for indicating the location of the status includes information that allows transition to a screen for displaying detailed information of the monitored system or monitored device according to the hierarchy. This allows the maintenance worker to roughly distinguish the location and understand the status of the system or monitored device, and then actually understand what the status is at which location in the system or monitored device.

[0027] The information processing device includes an acquisition unit that acquires status data indicating the status of a monitored device via communication from a communication device of the monitored device, which is a storage element or a power supply-related device, or from a communication device of a system that includes multiple monitored devices, and a transmission processing unit that transmits display information for each monitored device or system in response to an external request or as an event, to distinguish between the communication status between the information processing device and the communication device and the communication status between the communication device and the monitored device.

[0028] In the above configuration, based on the status obtained from the communication device of the monitored device or the communication device of the system, information can be obtained that can be displayed separately as to whether it indicates the communication status between the information processing device itself and the communication device, or the communication status between the communication device and the monitored device.

[0029] The information processing system is a monitored device that is a power storage element or a power supply-related device, or a system including a plurality of monitored devices, and includes: a plurality of communication devices mounted on or connected to the monitored device; an information processing device capable of communicating with the plurality of communication devices; and a client device having a display unit capable of communicating with the information processing device. The information processing device sequentially acquires status data indicating the status of the monitored device from the plurality of communication devices, associates the acquired status data with identification data of the monitored device or system, and stores the acquired status data in a storage medium. In response to an external request or as an event, the information processing device creates display information for collectively displaying the status data stored in the storage medium and the communication status with the communication devices, while distinguishing them for each monitored device or system, and transmits the created display information to the client device.

[0030] The information processing method sequentially acquires status data indicating the status of a monitored device via communication from the communication device of the monitored device, which is a storage element or a power supply-related device, or from the communication device of a system including multiple monitored devices, stores the acquired status data in a storage medium in association with identification data of the monitored device or system, and transmits display information in response to an external request or as an event to display the status data stored in the storage medium and the communication status with the communication device together, while distinguishing them for each monitored device or system.

[0031] The computer program causes a computer that is capable of communicating with a communication device of a monitored device that is a storage element or a power supply-related device, or a communication device of a system that includes multiple monitored devices, to sequentially acquire status data indicating the status of the monitored device from the communication device of the monitored device or the communication device of the system, store the acquired status data in a storage medium in association with identification data of the monitored device or system, and, in response to an external request or as an event, transmit display information for displaying the status data stored in the storage medium and the communication status with the communication device together, while distinguishing them for each monitored device or system.

[0032] The present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings showing embodiments thereof.

[0033] (First embodiment) 1 is a diagram showing an overview of a remote monitoring system 100. The remote monitoring system 100 enables remote access to information relating to the energy storage elements and power supply-related devices included in a mega solar power generation system S, a thermal power generation system F, and a wind power generation system W. A rectifier (DC power supply device) D installed in an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) U, a stabilized power supply system, etc. may also be remotely monitored.

[0034] A power conditioning system (PCS) P and a power storage system 101 are installed in parallel in the mega solar power generation system S, the thermal power generation system F, and the wind power generation system W. The power storage system 101 may be configured by arranging a plurality of containers C, each housing a power storage module group L, in parallel. The power storage system 101, the power storage module group L, and the power conditioner P may be placed inside a building (power storage room). The power storage module group L includes a plurality of power storage elements. The power storage elements are preferably rechargeable, such as secondary batteries such as lead-acid batteries and lithium-ion batteries, or capacitors. Some of the power storage elements may be non-rechargeable primary batteries.

[0035] In the remote monitoring system 100, a communication device 1 (see FIG. 2) is mounted on / connected to each of the power storage systems 101 or power supply-related devices (P, U, D and a management device M described below) in the systems S, F, and W to be monitored. The remote monitoring system 100 includes the communication device 1, a server device 2 (information processing device: terminology in the claims) that collects information from the communication device 1, a client device 3 for viewing the collected information, and a network N that is a communication medium between the devices.

[0036] The communication device 1 may be a terminal device (measurement monitor) that communicates with a battery management unit (BMU) provided in the energy storage element to receive information about the energy storage element, or may be a controller compatible with ECHONET / ECHONETLite (registered trademark). The communication device 1 may be an independent device, or a network card-type device that can be mounted on a power conditioner P or a group of energy storage modules L. The communication device 1 is, for example, an independent communication device installed to collect status data via wireless communication from a slave unit that measures the internal resistance, voltage, current, temperature, etc. of the energy storage element, which is a lead-acid battery. The communication device 1 is, for example, a network card-type device that is incorporated into an energy storage device in which lithium-ion batteries are connected in series, and is connected to a control board of the energy storage device.

[0037] One communication device 1 is provided for each group consisting of multiple storage modules in order to acquire information about a group of storage modules L in the storage system 101. Multiple power conditioners P are connected to enable serial communication, and the communication device 1 is connected to the control unit of any one of the power conditioners P that serves as the representative.

[0038] The server device 2 includes a web server function, and presents information obtained from the communication device 1 installed in / connected to each device to be monitored in response to access from the client device 3.

[0039] The network N includes a public communication network N1, which is the so-called Internet, and a carrier network N2 that realizes wireless communication according to a predetermined mobile communication standard. The public communication network N1 includes a general optical fiber line, and the network N includes a dedicated line to which the server device 2 is connected. The network N may also include an ECHONET / ECHONETLite-compatible network. The carrier network N2 includes a base station BS, and if the client device 3 is a communication terminal, it can communicate with the server device 2 from the base station BS via the network N. An access point AP is connected to the public communication network N1, and if the client device 3 is a communication terminal, it can send and receive information to and from the server device 2 from the access point AP via the network N. A communication device 1 installed / connected to the systems S, F, and W or independent power-related devices P, U, and D can communicate with the server device 2 or the client device 3 from the network within the system via the public communication network N1 and then the network N.

[0040] The power storage module group L of the power storage system 101 has a hierarchical structure. A communication device 1 that transmits information about the power storage elements to a server device 2 acquires information about the power storage elements included in the power storage module group L from a management device M provided in the power storage module group L. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the hierarchical structure of the power storage module group L and a connection configuration of the communication device 1. The power storage module group L is configured in a hierarchical structure of, for example, banks in which a plurality of power storage cells (also referred to as cells) are connected in series, and domains in which a plurality of banks are connected in parallel.

[0041] In the example of FIG. 2, one management device M is provided for each of the banks numbered 1 to N and for each domain in which the banks are connected in parallel. The management device M provided for each bank communicates via serial communication with a control board (CMU: Cell Monitoring Unit) with a communication function built into each energy storage module, and acquires measurement data (current, voltage, temperature, internal resistance, etc.) of the energy storage cells in the energy storage module. The management device M of a bank performs management processes such as detecting an abnormality in the communication state with the control board in the communication module and detecting an abnormal voltage of each cell. The management device M of a bank transmits measurement data obtained from the energy storage module of each bank to the management device M provided in the domain. The management device M of a domain aggregates information such as measurement data and detected abnormalities obtained from the management devices M of the banks belonging to that domain. In the example of FIG. 2, the communication device 1 is connected to the management device M of the domain. Alternatively, the communication device 1 may be connected to both the management device M of the domain and the management device M of the bank.

[0042] In the remote monitoring system 100, a server device 2 uses a communication device 1 mounted on / connected to each device to collect information such as the state of the power storage system 101, such as SOC and SOH (State Of Health), abnormalities detected by the power supply-related devices themselves, and abnormalities detected by the communication device 1. Based on the collected states and the accumulated measurement data in addition to detected abnormalities, the server device 2 can derive and present the state of the monitored devices included in the power storage system 101 using an algorithm suitable for each system and device.

[0043] Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the devices included in the remote monitoring system 100. As shown in Fig. 3, the communication device 1 includes a control unit 10, a storage unit 11, a first communication unit 12, and a second communication unit 13. The control unit 10 is a processor using a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and controls each component unit and executes processing using built-in memories such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0044] The storage unit 11 uses a nonvolatile memory such as a flash memory. The storage unit 11 stores a device program 1P that is read and executed by the control unit 10. The device program 1P includes a communication program conforming to SSH (Secure Shell), SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), etc. The storage unit 11 stores information collected by the processing of the control unit 10, event logs, and other information. The information stored in the storage unit 11 can also be read via a communication interface such as a USB, the terminals of which are exposed on the housing of the communication device 1. The device program 1P stored in the storage unit 11 may be a device program 4P stored in the recording medium 4 that the control unit 10 reads and copies to the storage unit 11.

[0045] The first communication unit 12 is a communication interface that realizes communication with a monitored device to which the communication device 1 is connected. The first communication unit 12 uses, for example, a serial communication interface that complies with RS232C or RS485. For example, a power supply-related device such as a power conditioner P includes a control unit that has a serial communication function that complies with RS485, and the first communication unit 12 communicates with the control unit. When the control boards included in the power storage module group L are connected by a CAN (Controller Area Network) bus and communication between the control boards is realized by CAN communication, the first communication unit 12 is a communication interface based on the CAN protocol. The first communication unit 12 may also be a communication interface that complies with the ECHONET / ECHONETLite standard.

[0046] The second communication unit 13 is an interface that realizes communication via the network N, and uses a communication interface such as Ethernet (registered trademark) or a wireless communication antenna. The control unit 10 can be connected to the server device 2 for communication via the second communication unit 13. The second communication unit 13 may be a communication interface that complies with the ECHONET / ECHONETLite standard.

[0047] In the communication device 1 configured in this manner, the control unit 10 acquires measurement data of the storage element obtained by the device in which the communication device 1 is mounted / connected, via the first communication unit 12. When a state such as an abnormality or caution state of the device, or an abnormality or caution state of the storage element, is detected in the device in which the communication device 1 is mounted / connected, the control unit 10 acquires the state data. The control unit 10 functions as an SNMP agent by reading and executing an SNMP program, and may respond to an information request from the server device 2 to transmit the measurement data, or, when an abnormality or caution state is detected, the state data.

[0048] The server device 2 uses a server computer and includes a control unit 20, a storage unit 21, and a communication unit 22. In the first embodiment, the server device 2 is described as a single server computer, but the processing may be distributed among multiple server computers.

[0049] The control unit 20 is a processor using a CPU or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and uses built-in memories such as ROM and RAM to control each component and execute processing. The control unit 20 executes communication and information processing based on a server program 21P stored in the storage unit 21. The server program 21P includes a web server program, and the control unit 20 functions as a web server that executes providing web pages to the client device 3. Based on the server program 21P, the control unit 20 collects information from the communication device 1 as an SNMP server.

[0050] The storage unit 21 uses a nonvolatile memory such as a hard disk or a flash memory. The above-mentioned server program 21P and data processing program 22P are stored in the storage unit 21. The server program 21P and data processing program 22P stored in the storage unit 21 may be the server program 51P and data processing program 52P that are read by the control unit 20 and copied to the storage unit 21 from the recording medium 5.

[0051] The storage unit 21 stores measurement data of the power conditioner P and the storage module group L of the storage system 101 to be monitored, which is collected by processing by the control unit 20. If the monitoring targets include other power supply-related devices (rectifier D, uninterruptible power supply U, etc.), the measurement data for those devices is also stored. The measurement data is associated with identification information (numbers, symbols) that identifies the system or device. The measurement data of the storage module group L is stored according to a hierarchical structure of domain, bank, module, or cell.

[0052] The storage unit 21 stores a plurality of images for displaying the status of the power storage module group L or power supply related devices P, U, D to be monitored. The plurality of images are stored in the storage unit 21 in association with identification information for identifying the power storage module group L or power supply related devices P, U, D to be monitored. The plurality of images include images representing the power storage module group L or the power supply related devices P, U, D. These images are, for example, icons, marks, or illustrations that can identify the type of the power storage module group L, i.e., whether it is a lead-acid battery or a lithium-ion battery. The plurality of images are icons, marks, or illustrations that can identify the type of the power supply related devices P, U, D, i.e., whether it is a power conditioner P, an uninterruptible power supply U, or a rectifier D. The plurality of images include images showing the layout of the power storage module group L or the power supply related devices P, U, D. These images are photographs such as aerial photographs, satellite photographs, 2D maps, blueprints, CAD drawings, or illustrations. These images may be stored by uploading from the client device 3. The location or range of the power storage module group L or power supply related devices P, U, D to be monitored is stored for each image, which may be a photograph, map, blueprint, drawing, or illustration. The information indicating the location or range is, for example, coordinate information corresponding to the image. If the image is an aerial photograph, satellite photograph, or map, the information may be latitude and longitude information and information indicating the relative position. The multiple images stored in the storage unit 21 may include images such as illustrations, icons, and animations that represent the status (abnormal / normal / caution) of the power storage module group L or power supply related devices P, U, D. In addition to images for displaying the status, the storage unit 21 may also store design data such as style sheets and scripts for visually outputting the status of the power storage system 101 and the power supply related devices P, U, D on a web basis.

[0053] The communication unit 22 is a device that realizes communication connection and transmission and reception of information via the network N. Specifically, the communication unit 22 is a network card compatible with the network N.

[0054] The client device 3 is a computer used by an operator such as a manager or maintenance worker of the power storage system 101 of the power generation systems S, F, and W. The client device 3 may be a desktop or laptop personal computer, or may be a so-called smartphone or tablet communication terminal. The client device 3 includes a control unit 30, a storage unit 31, a communication unit 32, a display unit 33, and an operation unit 34.

[0055] The control unit 30 is a processor using a CPU. The control unit 30 displays a web page provided by the server device 2 on the display unit 33 based on a client program 3P stored in the storage unit 31. The client program 3P is incorporated into a web page provided by the web server function of the server device 2, and includes a script temporarily stored in the client device 3 and a web browser program, and is a program for displaying a web-based screen based on the operation of the server device 2.

[0056] The storage unit 31 uses a nonvolatile memory such as a hard disk or a flash memory. Various programs including a client program 3P are stored in the storage unit 31. The client program 3P may be a client program 6P stored in the recording medium 6 that is read by the control unit 30 and copied to the storage unit 31.

[0057] The communication unit 32 uses a network card for wired communication, a wireless communication device for mobile communication connected to a base station BS (see FIG. 1), or a wireless communication device compatible with connection to an access point AP (see FIG. 1). The control unit 30 can establish a communication connection or send and receive information via the network N with the server device 2 or a communication device 1 mounted on / connected to each device using the communication unit 32.

[0058] The display unit 33 uses a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. The display unit 33 displays an image of a web page provided by the server device 2 through processing based on the client program 3P of the control unit 30. The display unit 33 may be a display with a built-in touch panel or a display without a built-in touch panel.

[0059] The operation unit 34 is a user interface such as a keyboard and pointing device, or a voice input unit, which can input and output data to and from the control unit 30. The operation unit 34 may be a touch panel of the display unit 33, or physical buttons provided on the housing. The operation unit 34 notifies the control unit 30 of operation information by the user.

[0060] In the remote monitoring system 100 configured as described above, the server device 2 periodically acquires status data and measurement data of the monitored system or monitored device from the communication device 1 based on the data processing program 22P and stores the data in the storage unit 21 (acquisition unit, storage processing unit). The monitored system or monitored device is configured with one or more of a power storage system 101 including a power storage module group L, a power conditioner P, an uninterruptible power supply U, and a rectifier D. The server device 2 stores configuration data indicating a hierarchical structure of the power storage module group L (domains, banks, modules, cells) and / or power supply-related devices P, U, D in the monitored system. The configuration data indicating the hierarchical structure may be set in advance for each system, or may be derived from data transmitted from the communication device 1 in which data is linked to each other in a parent-child relationship. When a power supply-related device P, U, D used alone is the monitored device, the server device 2 stores configuration data indicating that the monitored device is being used alone. The server device 2 can create screen information that visually shows the status at each level according to the hierarchical structure of the storage module group L (domain, bank, module, cell) and / or power-related devices P, U, D in the system to be monitored, and present it in response to a request from the client device 3.

[0061] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of processing in the communications device 1. The communications device 1 mounted on or connected to the management device M and other power-related devices P, U, and D repeatedly executes the following processing procedure periodically or in response to a request from the server device 2.

[0062] The control unit 10 of the communication device 1 determines whether or not communication with the mounted / connected monitoring target device is possible using the first communication unit 12 (step S101). If it is determined that communication is possible (S101: YES), the control unit 10 acquires data transmitted from the monitoring target device (step S102). The control unit 10 stores the data in the storage unit 11 in association with identification data for identifying which storage element the data belongs to (step S103), and proceeds to step S106.

[0063] In step S102, the control unit 10 acquires measurement data obtained from the monitored device. If an abnormality or a caution state is detected in the monitored device, the control unit 10 also acquires status data indicating the abnormality or caution state. The status data includes date and time information when the abnormal state was detected.

[0064] If it is determined in step S101 that communication is not possible (S101: NO), the control unit 10 detects a communication abnormality between the monitored device and the communication device 1 (step S104), stores a log of the communication abnormality with the monitored device in association with identification data that identifies the monitored device and date and time information (step S105), and proceeds to the next step S106.

[0065] Before the processing of step S105, the control unit 10 may determine whether the monitored device is in an abnormal or caution state by processing by the communications device 1 in the device program 1P based on the acquired measurement data and / or status data. In this case, the control unit 10 stores the status data indicating the abnormal or caution state determined by the communications device 1 in association with the identification data and date and time information of the monitored device.

[0066] The control unit 10 determines whether or not connection to the network N is possible through the second communication unit 13 (step S106). If it is determined that connection is possible (S106: YES), the control unit 10 transmits the stored measurement data and, if stored, a communication abnormality log or status data from the second communication unit 13 to the server device 2 (step S107), and ends one round of processing.

[0067] If it is determined that connection is not possible (S106: NO), the control unit 10 stores a log of the communication abnormality with the server device 2 (step S108) and ends one processing iteration. The communication abnormality log stored in step S108 is transmitted in step S107 together with the measurement data from the monitored device stored while communication was not possible.

[0068] Of the processing steps shown in the flowchart of FIG. 4, the processing from steps S101 to S104 and the processing from steps S106 to S108 may be executed independently.

[0069] The communication device 1 can store the results (status data) of determining whether the monitored device (energy storage module group L) is in an abnormal or caution state, distinguish between a communication abnormality between the monitored device and the communication device 1, and a communication abnormality between the communication device 1 and the server device 2, and transmit them to the server device 2.

[0070] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a data processing procedure in the server device 2. The server device 2 periodically executes the following processing for each communication device 1, using information about each monitored system or monitored device that is periodically acquired from and stored in the server device 2 from the communication device 1. The server device 2 may execute the processing each time it detects a transmission from the communication device 1.

[0071] The control unit 20 of the server device 2 determines whether communication with a target communication device 1 is possible among the multiple communication devices 1 included in the monitored system or monitored device (step S201). In step S201, when processing is performed periodically, the control unit 20 determines whether a communication connection can be established using the address of a selected communication device 1 among the multiple communication devices 1. When detecting a transmission from the communication device 1, the control unit 20 determines whether transmissions from the communication device 1 have been received a predetermined number of times or more within a predetermined period of time in the past.

[0072] If it is determined that communication with the target communication device 1 is possible (S201: YES), the control unit 20 receives data including measurement data transmitted from the communication device 1, stores it in the memory unit 21 (step S202), and terminates the process. The process of step S202 corresponds to the "acquisition unit" and the "storage processing unit." The measurement data acquired in step S202 is associated with identification data of the communication device 1 that sent it, identification data of the device being monitored by the communication device 1, date and time information, etc. In step S202, the control unit 20 stores the received data together with the identification data.

[0073] If it is determined that communication with the target communication device 1 is not possible (S201: NO), the control unit 20 stores a log of the communication abnormality in association with the identification data and date and time information of the target communication device 1 (step S203), and ends the process. Steps S202 and S203 correspond to a "storage processing unit."

[0074] 5, the storage unit 21 of the server device 2 sequentially stores measurement data, status data indicating an abnormality or a caution state, a communication abnormality log that identifies the abnormal location, and the like, identifying the source communication device 1. The control unit 20 stores configuration data for determining to which system or monitored device each communication device 1 belongs. Therefore, for each system or monitored device, it is possible to determine that an abnormality or a caution state has been detected in one or more communication devices 1 included in the system or monitored device.

[0075] Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of an information processing procedure in the server device 2. The server device 2 executes the information of each system or monitored device acquired from each communication device 1 and stored according to the processing procedure shown in Fig. 5 in response to a request from the client device 3 or as an event. The event may be a periodic detection, or may be the detection of a change in the status of each system or monitored device, such as the occurrence of an abnormality.

[0076] The control unit 20 selects one piece of identification data for identifying the system or the monitored device (step S301).

[0077] The control unit 20 determines whether communication with the communication device 1 mounted on / connected to the monitored device identified by the selected identification data or the monitored device included in the system is possible (step S302). If it is determined that communication is possible (S302: YES), the control unit 20 temporarily stores normal communication on the first communication path in association with the identification data selected in step S301 (step S303), and proceeds to step S305. The first communication path indicates the communication path between the server device 2 and the communication device 1.

[0078] If it is determined that communication is not possible (S302: NO), the control unit 20 temporarily stores the communication abnormality in the first communication path in association with the identification data selected in step S301 (step S304), and proceeds to step S305.

[0079] The control unit 20 determines whether or not an abnormality or a caution state has been detected in the monitored device identified by the selected identification data or in a monitored device included in the system (step S305). When the control unit 20 receives status data indicating an abnormality or a caution state detected in the monitored device via the communication device 1, the control unit 20 sequentially stores this in the storage unit 21. In step S305, the control unit 20 determines whether or not status data associated with date and time information within a predetermined period from the current time has been stored.

[0080] If the control unit 20 determines that an abnormality or caution state has been detected in the monitored device (S305: YES), it temporarily stores the abnormality or caution state in the monitored device in association with the identification data selected in step S301 (step S306), and proceeds to step S308.

[0081] If it is determined that no abnormality or caution state has been detected in the monitored device (S305: NO), the normal state of the monitored device is temporarily stored in association with the identification data selected in step S301 (step S307), and processing proceeds to step S308.

[0082] The control unit 20 determines whether or not there is a communication abnormality between the communication device 1 included in the system or monitoring target device identified by the selected identification data and the monitoring target device (step S308).

[0083] In step S308, if the control unit 20 has stored a log (status data) of an abnormality or a caution state detected by the processing of the communications device 1 itself, the control unit 20 may also determine that there is an abnormality in this abnormality.

[0084] If it is determined that there is a communication abnormality between the communication device 1 and the monitored device (S308: YES), the control unit 20 temporarily stores the communication abnormality in the second communication path in association with the identification data selected in step S301 (step S309), and proceeds to step S311. The second communication path indicates the communication path between the monitored device and the communication device 1.

[0085] If it is determined that there is no communication abnormality detected by the communication device 1 with the monitored device (S308: NO), the control unit 20 temporarily stores the normal communication on the second communication path in association with the identification data selected in step S301 (step S310), and proceeds to step S311.

[0086] The control unit 20 executes an analysis process based on the measurement data accumulated in the storage unit 21 for the power storage element or power supply related device included in the system or monitored device identified by the selected identification data, using an algorithm for each type, and stores the result (step S311). The analysis process in step S311 corresponds to the "analysis processing unit."

[0087] In step S311, for example, if the power storage system 101 included in the system includes lithium-ion battery storage elements, the control unit 20 derives the SOC of the cells for each hierarchical level using an algorithm for lithium-ion batteries. For example, if the power storage system 101 has the structure shown in FIG. 2 , the hierarchical levels are domains, banks, and modules. The control unit 20 derives the SOC not only for each cell but also for each domain, bank, and module. The control unit 20 derives the remaining lifespan based on accumulated measurement data. For example, if the power storage system 101 included in the system includes lead-acid battery storage elements, the control unit 20 derives the SOC and remaining lifespan for the entire power storage system 101 or for each divisible unit using an algorithm for lead-acid batteries. The control unit 20 may refer to data such as the purchase date and maintenance inspection date in a customer information database and determine whether the power storage elements can be safely used until the warranty period expires based on the relationship between the remaining lifespan and the warranty period of the storage elements. Additionally, when the system includes a power conditioner P or when the monitored device is a power conditioner P, the control unit 20 determines the degree of wear of deteriorating parts or the presence or absence of signs of abnormality. The control unit 20 may also determine the lifespan (degree of wear) of the uninterruptible power supply U and rectifier D included in the system or the uninterruptible power supply U and rectifier D that are monitored devices, and the presence or absence of signs of abnormality.

[0088] The control unit 20 determines whether all the identification data have been selected (step S312). If it is determined that all the identification data have not been selected (S312: NO), the control unit 20 returns the process to step S301 and selects the next identification data.

[0089] If it is determined that all the identification data have been selected (S312: YES), the process ends.

[0090] 5 and 6, the control unit 20 of the server device 2 holds information on communication abnormalities, abnormal states or caution states, and analysis results that are updated periodically or in response to events for each monitored system or monitored device. The client device 3 can request the information being updated by the server device 2 as needed, and display the list on the display unit 33 so that the operator can easily view it.

[0091] 7 and 8 are flowcharts showing an example of a processing procedure for presenting information from the server device 2 to the client device 3. When the server device 2 receives a login request from the web browser of the client device 3, the server device 2 starts the following processing.

[0092] The control unit 20, as a Web server, receives login data together with a login request from the client device 3 (step S401). In step S401, the control unit 20 receives a key such as an ID and a password that identify an operator, such as a maintenance worker or manager, who uses the client device 3. The control unit 20 may receive biometric information instead of a password.

[0093] Based on the received login data, the control unit 20 extracts identification data of the system or monitored device having access authority associated with the ID that identifies the operator (step S402). If authentication of the received login data fails in step S402, the control unit 20 skips the subsequent processing and ends the process.

[0094] The control unit 20 refers to the communication abnormality, the detected abnormality or caution state, and the analysis result stored for the system or monitored device identified by the extracted identification data (step S403).

[0095] The control unit 20 creates web page data including a list of the extracted systems or monitored devices based on design data such as a style sheet stored in the storage unit 21 (step S404). In step S404, the control unit 20 creates web page data to display icons visually indicating communication anomalies, detected anomalies or caution states, and analysis results for each system or monitored device referenced in step S403, in association with the list. Specifically, the control unit 20 creates screen information for each system or monitored device, showing the presence or absence of anomalies or caution states detected in the monitored device, the presence or absence of communication anomalies in the second communication path, the presence or absence of communication anomalies in the first communication path, and the results of the analysis process, using icons corresponding to the respective states. The screen also includes link information to a screen displaying detailed information that enables confirmation of the hierarchical status of the energy storage elements included in the system or monitored device, and the presence or absence of anomalies or caution states in each component of the power-related devices (see FIG. 10).

[0096] The control unit 20 transmits the created Web page information to the client device 3 that has issued the login request (step S405).

[0097] The client device 3 transmits login data via the communication unit 32 (step S501), and then receives data of a web page including a list of systems or monitored devices to which the client device 3 has access rights (step S502). The control unit 30 displays the web page on the display unit 33 (step S503).

[0098] As described above, the web page displayed in step S503 displays icons visually indicating communication anomalies, detected anomalies or warning states, and analysis results for each system or monitored device, all in association with a list of monitored systems or monitored devices. This allows an operator such as a maintenance worker or administrator to visually confirm which systems or monitored devices are in an abnormal or warning state and which are normal.

[0099] The displayed web page includes link information for displaying detailed information about each system or monitored device. The control unit 30 accepts the selection of link information on the web page (step S504), and transmits a request for data of the web page indicated by the selected link information to the server device 2 (step S505).

[0100] The control unit 20 of the server device 2 receives a data request specifying the link information (step S406) and, based on the link information, transmits web page data for displaying details of the selected system or device to the client device 3 (step S407). The processing in step S407 corresponds to the "transmission processing unit." The web page data transmitted in step S407 is configured to allow transitions between levels according to the hierarchical structure of the selected system or monitored device. Each web page includes images showing the location of the selected system or device within the building, container C, or battery panel, as well as graphic data such as illustrations, icons, and animations to represent the status of each level. These graphics may be selectable via the operation unit 34. Upon selection, the control unit 30 uses the web browser's functions to transition to a web page at another level based on the link information associated with the graphic (see FIGS. 12 and 14). The control unit 30 then uses a script to display the numerical values ​​of the measurement data for the device or component on the screen.

[0101] The control unit 30 of the client device 3 receives the web page data (step S506) and, based on the received data, displays a web page showing details on the display unit 33 (step S507). Thereafter, while the web page display in step S507 is maintained, the control unit 30 receives from the server device 2 the status or detected status data of the target hierarchy derived from the measurement data of the selected system or monitored device, based on the script (automatic update) included in the web page data, and updates and displays the status data on the web page. Figure 9 illustrates the function of the automatic monitor unit 2P. As shown in Figure 9, the automatic monitor unit 2P's function, which is based on the web server program and design data included in the server program 21P and the web browser program included in the client program 3P, automatically updates the status display. The automatic monitor unit 2P may transmit data to the client device 3 via https communication, for example, at intervals of 10 or 15 seconds.

[0102] The control unit 30 determines whether link information to another hierarchical level has been selected on the Web page showing details of the target system or monitored device (step S508). If it is determined that link information has been selected, for example, by selecting a graphic associated with the link information (S508: YES), the control unit 30 transmits a request for Web page data for displaying details of the selected hierarchical level to the server device 2 based on the associated link information (step S509). If it is determined that no link information has been selected (S508: NO), the control unit 30 proceeds to step S512.

[0103] The control unit 20 of the server device 2 receives the request for data specifying the link information (step S408), and transmits Web page data for displaying details of the selected layer based on the link information to the client device 3 (step S409). The control unit 20 transmits the Web page data (S409) every time it receives a request for data specifying link information (S408) until an operation to end the display of the Web page is performed on the client device 3.

[0104] The control unit 30 of the client device 3 receives data of a web page showing details of the selected hierarchical level (step S510). The control unit 30 then causes the display unit 33 to display the web page showing details of the selected hierarchical level (step S511). In step S511, as shown in FIG. 9 , while the web page display is maintained, the control unit 30 receives from the server device 2 the state of the target hierarchical level derived based on the measurement data of the selected hierarchical level, based on the script (automatic update) included in the web page data of the selected hierarchical level, and updates and displays the state in the web page.

[0105] The control unit 30 determines whether an operation to end the display of the web page of the target system or the monitored device has been accepted (step S512), and if it is determined that the operation has not been accepted (S512: NO), the control unit 30 returns the process to step S508. In step S512, the control unit 30 may determine that an operation to end the display has been accepted if the web browser has been closed, logout has been selected, or transition to the web page displayed in step S502 has been selected.

[0106] If it is determined that the end operation has been accepted (S512: YES), the control unit 30 ends the information presentation process.

[0107] In the processing procedures shown in Figures 7 and 8, it has been explained that the web page for displaying information about the system or the monitored device includes an automatic update script, and the status of each tier is automatically updated (also referred to as an automatic monitoring function). Each time an automatic update occurs, the content of the web page is updated based on the status of each tier and the results of the analysis process, which are derived by the server device 2 periodically or in response to an event, according to the procedure shown in Figure 6. Alternatively, the status update may be configured such that an update request is sent from the client device 3 to the server device 2 each time the operator operates the operation unit 34 of the client device 3 to select another tier or the highest tier. In this case, in response to the event of receiving an update request, the server device 2 may derive the status of each tier and perform analysis for the target system according to the procedure shown in Figure 6, or may periodically send the derived data.

[0108] Specific examples of web pages presented by the server device 2 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIGS. 10 to 14 are diagrams showing specific examples of web pages presented by the server device 2. FIG. 10 shows a web screen 330 (a screen displayed on the display unit 33 of the client device 3) showing a list of systems or monitored devices for which the logged-in operator has been granted authority. In the example of FIG. 10, the name of the mega solar power generation system S shown in FIG. 1, "XY City Mega Solar System," the name of the wind power generation system W, "WZ Power Plant System," and other systems, such as "K Railway System," "X Factory UPS," and "W Factory Power Storage System," are each displayed as a list.

[0109] The web screen 330 in Fig. 10 includes icons 331 indicating the status of each of the system and monitored devices, separated into the categories of "Monitored Device," "Communication," and "Analysis Results." The icon 331 in the "Monitored Device" category indicates whether an abnormality or a warning state has been detected in the monitored devices within the system and in individual monitored devices. The icon 331 in the "Communication" category indicates whether the server device 2 has detected an abnormality in the first communication path, i.e., in the communication between the server device 2 and the communication device 1 included in the system and monitored devices. The icon 331 in the "Analysis Results" category indicates the results of analysis processing performed by the server device 2 based on measurement data for the system and monitored devices.

[0110] In FIG. 10 , the icon 331 represents three items: “abnormal,” “caution,” and “normal (no problem).” For example, in the “XY City Mega Solar System,” the icons 331 for the “Monitored Device,” “Communication,” and “Analysis Results” items are all “normal.” That is, in the “XY City Mega Solar System,” no abnormalities or cautions have been detected in the monitored device, the communication device 1, or the server device 2. In the “WZ Power Plant System,” the icon 331 for the “Monitored Device” item represents “abnormal,” the icon 331 for the “Communication” item represents “normal,” and the icon 331 for the “Analysis Results” item represents “caution.” That is, in the “WZ Power Plant System,” an abnormality has been detected in the monitored device, communication between the server device 2 and the communication device 1 is normal, and the server device 2 has determined that caution is required for the monitored device. In the “K Railway System,” the icons 331 for the “Monitored Device” and “Analysis Results” items represent “normal,” and the icon 331 for the “Communication” item represents “abnormal.”

[0111] The operator can use the web screen 330 displayed after logging in to identify whether an anomaly or a communication anomaly has been detected in each system or monitored device, and identify the location of the anomaly. The web screen 330 allows the operator to identify the cause of a local failure. The web screen 330 allows the operator to recognize that the analysis results of the server device 2 indicate the detection of a possible anomaly, even if no anomaly or warning state has been detected in the monitored device or communication device 1 at the time of checking the screen. The server device 2 performs an analysis appropriate for the type of energy storage element or power-related device included in the system or monitored device. The web screen 330 allows the operator to check the results of anomaly detection using different approaches to the system or monitored device without performing multiple operations. Furthermore, for communication anomalies, the operator can distinguish whether the anomaly is between the monitored device and communication device 1 or between the communication device 1 and the server device 2.

[0112] 10, a "MAP" icon 332 is displayed in association with each system or monitored device. The "MAP" icon 332 is associated with link information to a screen showing details of the target system or monitored device. When link information is selected, the control unit 30 of the client device 3 specifies the link information and requests a web page showing details of the system or monitored device from the server device 2.

[0113] FIG. 11 shows an example of a screen 333 that appears when the "MAP" icon 332 of a system or monitored device is selected. The screen 333 in FIG. 11 is displayed when the "WZ power plant system" in the list of systems or monitored devices shown in FIG. 10 is selected by operating the operation unit 34 of the client device 3. The screen 333 includes a layout image K (a line drawing such as a CAD drawing, or a photograph) showing the arrangement of a large number of energy storage module groups L. The screen 333 in FIG. 11 shows the system configuration and status at the top level of the hierarchical structure of the "WZ power plant system." The screen 333 in FIG. 11 also includes a layout image K of all eight energy storage rooms that make up the "WZ power plant system." The layout image K in FIG. 11 shows a battery panel containing three banks that make up the domain as a single small rectangle. Along with the layout image K, the screen 333 also includes a graphic object 334 that visually represents the status of the "WZ power plant system."

[0114] The graphic object 334 is a graphic that is superimposed on the system layout image K and indicates the state of the energy storage element placed at that location. The color and display form of the graphic object 334 may be changed depending on the state (abnormal / caution / normal) of the entire system on which the graphic object 334 is superimposed.

[0115] Screen 333 includes a display item field 335. In the example shown in FIG. 11, display item field 335 includes four types of icons: "All," "Voltage," "Current," and "Temperature." Screen 333 also includes an individual information field 338 for individually switching the unit of status display in each layer. Individual information field 338 includes buttons for selecting units such as voltage, current, temperature, resistance, and capacitance. When a unit is selected in individual information field 338, the buttons in individual information field 338 and display item field 335 indicate whether "Voltage," "Current," or "Temperature" is selected. When a unit is selected in individual information field 338, graphic object 334 displays the presence or absence of an abnormality / caution status for that unit for the measurement data and the degree of abnormality. In FIG. 11, "Voltage" is selected. When the "Voltage" button is selected in the individual information column 338, the screen 333 shows the status of the "Voltage" item, i.e., whether the voltage is abnormal or not, by the color and display form of the graphic object 334 superimposed on the rectangle corresponding to each monitored device (energy storage element).

[0116] The "All" item in the display item column 335 is selectable. When the "All" item is selected, the screen 333 shows the status of the "Voltage," "Current," and "Temperature" communication items using the color and display form of the graphic object 334. By operating the individual information column 338 and the display item column 335, the screen 333 displays the status based on different measurement data while using the same layout image K.

[0117] Furthermore, while the graphic object 336 displays information on a bank-by-bank basis, the individual information field 338 displays, by text or the like, the value of the selected unit of voltage, current, or temperature for the battery panel unit represented by a small rectangle on the layout image K in Fig. 11. When the operator selects "voltage" in the individual information field 338 and selects a small rectangle on the screen 333 using the operation unit 34, the total voltage or average voltage of the battery panel of the selected small rectangle is displayed in or around the small rectangle.

[0118] The buttons or icons for "All," "Voltage," "Current," and "Temperature" in the display item column 335 in FIG. 11 each display an icon 351 indicating the status determined from the perspective of each item. "All" includes items other than voltage, current, and temperature, such as the communication status. The "Communication Status" on the screen 333 for showing details of the system or monitored device indicates the communication status on the second communication path, i.e., the status of communication between the monitored device and the communication device 1, and can be distinguished from the communication abnormality shown on the web screen 330 in FIG. 10. In other words, because communication between the communication device 1 and the server device 2 is normal, real-time detailed information can be displayed on the screen 333. However, if there is a communication abnormality between the communication device 1 and each monitored device, it is displayed individually on the screen 333.

[0119] The icons 351 represent three states: "Abnormal," "Caution," and "Normal (No problem)." In the example of Fig. 11, the "All" button displays the icon 351 indicating the "Abnormal" state, and the "Voltage" button displays the icon 351 indicating the "Caution" state. The "Current" and "Temperature" buttons display the "Normal" icon 351.

[0120] Screen 333 in FIG. 11 includes a graphic object 336 that indicates the SOC of the energy storage elements included in the system. Graphic object 336 may indicate the SOC of a single evaluation unit, which may be a group of multiple modules, multiple banks, or multiple domains (the overall SOC of the multiple modules or banks). Screen 333 in FIG. 11 displays the SOC value of the evaluation unit along with graphic object 336. The SOC value is calculated, for example, based on the SOC value calculated for each bank to which multiple modules are connected. The SOC value is calculated, for example, as an average value.

[0121] By presenting information as shown on screen 333 in FIG. 11, even for a large-scale ESS including a huge number of modules, the layout image K and graphic objects 334 and 336 allow the operator checking screen 333 to grasp the overall situation.

[0122] The screen information describing screen 333 includes a script that transitions to displaying the state of a lower hierarchical level when a module, bank, or domain (i.e., a selection target in layout image K, which may be the same as the evaluation unit of SOC) in layout image K is selected.

[0123] The screen 333 may include a hierarchical menu 337 that displays the hierarchical levels of the power storage system 101. In Fig. 11, the hierarchical menu 337 shows the "All" hierarchical level corresponding to the top hierarchical level. The hierarchical levels in the hierarchical menu 337 include link information for returning to the screen 333 of the top hierarchical level each time the hierarchical level transitions from the top hierarchical level to a lower hierarchical level.

[0124] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a screen 333 transitioning to a status display of another layer. FIG. 12 is displayed on the web browser of the client device 3 by the automatic monitor unit 2P when a portion corresponding to one of the storage compartments (e.g., a portion corresponding to the third storage compartment from the left in block A) is selected on the layout image K shown in FIG. 11 . The screen 333 in FIG. 12 includes a reduced version of the overall layout image K of the upper layer before the transition on the left side of the screen, and a layout image K of the selected storage compartment on the right side. The screen 333 in FIG. 12 indicates the location of the selected storage compartment on the overall map of the upper layer by highlighting it on the reduced layout image K of the upper layer. In the example of FIG. 12 , the location of the selected storage compartment is highlighted by a rectangular object on the layout image K of the upper layer. Alternatively, the location on the upper layer may be indicated by changing the color of the corresponding portion on the layout image K of the upper layer or by superimposing an object.

[0125] In the example of Fig. 12, the screen 333 after the transition includes a layout image K that shows a group of power storage modules L in units included in a power storage compartment. The small rectangle corresponding to the smallest unit included in the screen 333 of Fig. 12 corresponds to a battery panel that stores three banks. At a level below the level shown by the screen 333 of Fig. 12, for a group of modules L that is in an abnormal state, the color or display form of the graphic object 334 may be changed depending on the degree of the abnormality or caution state.

[0126] 12, the screen 333 also includes a display item column 335 of display content with an icon 351. In the hierarchy of FIG. 12, the operator can also visually determine whether an abnormality / caution / normality exists in any of the items "All," "Voltage," "Current," and "Temperature."

[0127] By presenting the information shown on screen 333 in Figures 11 and 12, the layout image K and graphic object 334 allow the operator to grasp in detail what kind of action is needed at what location and with what degree of urgency for a large-scale ESS that includes a huge number of modules.

[0128] 12, when a portion corresponding to one of the units is selected on the layout image K of the screen 333, the screen 333 transitions to a screen (not shown) that displays the layout image K of the unit in a larger size. When a portion corresponding to one of the battery panels is selected on the layout image K of the unit, the screen 333 transitions to a screen (not shown) that displays the layout image K of the battery panel in a larger size. In this way, when the "MAP" icon 332 is selected on the web screen 330 that includes a list of systems or monitored devices in FIG. 10, the client device 3 displays a screen 333 that displays in detail the status of each hierarchical level to which transitions can be made according to the hierarchical structure of the system or monitored device.

[0129] FIG. 13 shows another example of a screen 333 that is displayed when the "MAP" icon 332 of a system or a monitored device is selected. The screen 333 in FIG. 13 is displayed when the monitored device "X Factory UPS" from the list of systems or monitored devices shown in FIG. 10 is selected by operating the operation unit 34 of the client device 3. The screen 333 includes a layout image K (diagram) showing the configuration of an uninterruptible power supply U named "X Factory UPS." The screen 333 in FIG. 13 shows the entire system of the "X Factory UPS." The layout image K on the screen 333 includes a diagram (circuit diagram) of the circuit that makes up the "X Factory UPS" and a block showing a storage element. The screen 333 includes a graphic object 334 that visually represents the status of the "X Factory UPS" together with the layout image K.

[0130] 13, a graphic object 334 included in a screen 333 showing details of the system or the monitored device shows the status of the component or power storage element placed in that location. In the example of Fig. 13, the screen 333 also includes a script that transitions to displaying the status of a lower level (more detailed) when a circuit or power storage element in the layout image K of the uninterruptible power supply U is selected.

[0131] 13, the screen 333 also includes a display item column 335 of display contents with icons 351. Even for a monitored device used alone, the operator can visually determine whether an abnormality / caution / normality exists in any of the items "all," "voltage," "current," and "temperature."

[0132] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing another example of the screen 333 that has transitioned to a status display of another hierarchical level. FIG. 14 is displayed on a web browser by the automatic monitor unit 2P when a block of a storage element is selected on the layout image K shown in FIG. 13. The screen 333 of FIG. 14 includes the layout image K of the selected storage element on the left side of the screen, and displays details of the object (module) selected in the layout image K on the left side on the right side. In FIG. 14, the storage element represents a storage battery panel including multiple modules. The layout image K indicates the modules included in the storage battery panel with rectangles. In FIG. 14, the control unit 30 of the client device 3 displays on the right side of the screen 333 that the selected module is in a caution state. In addition, a detailed explanation of the module configuration may be displayed on the right side.

[0133] 14, the screen 333 also includes a display item column 335 of display content with an icon 351. As shown in Fig. 14, for each hierarchical level, the operator can visually determine whether an abnormality / caution / normality exists in any of the items "All," "Voltage," "Current," and "Temperature."

[0134] 14 also includes an individual information field 338. The individual information field 338 displays specific numerical values ​​such as the voltage, internal resistance, temperature, and current of the storage element of the layer corresponding to any rectangle (e.g., module) on the layout image K.

[0135] As shown in FIG. 14, even if the monitored device is used alone, the information presented on screen 333, using the layout image K of the device and the graphic object 334, allows the operator to grasp in detail what kind of action is required in which part of the device and with what degree of urgency.

[0136] (Second embodiment) In the second embodiment, the server device 2 presents a screen that enables the user to identify whether the status of the system or device to be monitored is the status of a device or component included in the system or device to be monitored.

[0137] The configuration of the remote monitoring system 100 of the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, except for the following details of the processing in the server device 2. Of the configuration of the remote monitoring system 100 of the second embodiment, the configurations common to the remote monitoring system 100 of the first embodiment are assigned the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0138] 15 is a flowchart showing an example of an information processing procedure in the server device 2 of the second embodiment. The same step numbers are assigned to steps common to the processing procedure shown in FIG. 6, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0139] In the second embodiment, when it is determined that an abnormality or a caution state has been detected in a monitored device (S305: YES), the control unit 20 of the server device 2 temporarily stores the abnormality or caution state in the monitored device for each type of monitored device in association with the identification data selected in step S301 (step S326). The status data transmitted from the communication device 1 when an abnormality or a caution state is detected is associated with the identification data of the monitored device being monitored (see S202). Therefore, in step S326, the control unit 20 can determine whether the monitored device for which status data has been detected is a power storage element, a power conditioner P, an uninterruptible power supply U, or a rectifier D, based on the identification data of the monitored device and the configuration data of the monitored system or monitored device stored in the server device 2.

[0140] The control unit 20 performs processing (S309, S310) according to the result of determining whether or not there was a communication abnormality with the monitored device in step S308, and then performs analysis processing based on the measurement data accumulated in the memory unit 21 using an algorithm for each type, and stores the analysis results by type (step S321).

[0141] According to the processing procedure of the second embodiment, the control unit 20 of the server device 2 stores information on communication abnormalities, abnormal or caution states, and analysis results, which are updated periodically or in response to events, for each monitored system or monitored device, sorted by type of monitored device. The client device 3 appropriately requests the information being updated by the server device 2 and displays it as a list on the display unit 33, allowing the operator to easily visually identify where and what type of abnormality is occurring on the initial web screen 330.

[0142] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of a web page presented by the server device 2. The web screen 330 shows a list of systems or monitored devices for which the logged-in operator has been granted authority. The web screen 330 displayed on the client device 3 in the second embodiment includes icons 331 indicating the status of each system and monitored device, separated into the following categories: "Monitored Device," "Communication," and "Analysis Results." The icons 331 in the "Monitored Device" category indicate whether an abnormality or a cautionary state has been detected in the monitored device or in any monitored device within the system. The icons 331 may be separated by component if a standalone monitored device has components that need to be distinguished. The icons 331 in the "Analysis Results" category indicate the results of an analysis performed by the server device 2 based on measurement data for the system and monitored devices, separating the monitored devices.

[0143] 16, icons 339 that identify the type of monitored device or monitored device included in the system, i.e., a power storage element, a power conditioner P, an uninterruptible power supply U, a rectifier D, etc., are displayed in the "Monitored Device" and "Analysis Results" items of the list. Icons 331 that indicate "Abnormal," "Caution," and "Normal (No Problem)" are displayed next to the icon 339 that indicates the type of monitored device.

[0144] In FIG. 16, for example, the "XY City Mega Solar System" includes a power storage system 101 composed of lithium-ion batteries and a power conditioner P, and the icons 331 for the "Monitored Device," "Communication," and "Analysis Results" items are all "Normal." The "WZ Power Plant System" includes a power storage system 101 containing both lithium-ion batteries and lead-acid batteries, and a power conditioner P, and shows that a caution state has been detected in the lead-acid battery power storage system 101. The web screen 330 shows that the server device 2 has determined that caution is required for the lead-acid battery included in the "WZ Power Plant System." The "K Railway System" includes a lead-acid battery power storage system 101 and a rectifier D, and the icons 331 for the "Monitored Device" and "Analysis Results" items are all "Normal," while the icon 331 for the "Communication" item is all "Abnormal."

[0145] In this way, the Web screen 330 of the second embodiment allows the operator to distinguish and recognize in detail the location of each system or monitored device, whether an abnormality has been detected in the monitored device itself or whether a communication abnormality has occurred. The Web screen 330 allows the operator to identify a malfunction occurring on-site in terms of which device is causing the malfunction.

[0146] The embodiments disclosed above are illustrative in all respects and are not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, and includes all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0147] 1. Communication Devices 10 Control Unit 2. Server device (information processing device) 20 Control Unit 21 Storage unit (storage medium) 3. Client Device 30 Control Unit 33 Display section 330 Web Screen 333 screens 331,332,339 icons

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires, via communication, status data indicating the status of a monitoring target device, which is a power storage element or a power supply-related device, and measurement data of each of the monitoring target devices from a communication device of the monitoring target device, or from a communication device of a system including a plurality of the monitoring target devices; a storage processing unit that stores the acquired status data in a storage medium in association with identification data of the monitored device or system; an analysis processing unit that analyzes the presence or absence of an abnormality or a sign of an abnormality in the monitored device or system using an algorithm for each monitored device or system based on the acquired measurement data; a transmission processing unit that transmits display information for collectively displaying, in response to an external request or as an event, the status data stored in the storage medium, the communication status with the communication device, and the analysis result by the analysis processing unit, while distinguishing them for each of the monitored devices or systems; An information processing device comprising:

2. The display information is information for distinguishing and displaying the analysis results for the monitored device or for a monitored device included in the system. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. The display information is information for displaying the state of the monitored device or system while distinguishing at which location within the monitored device or system the state was detected. The information processing device according to claim 2 .

4. The display information is information for collectively displaying the status data and a graphic visually indicating the communication status at a corresponding location in the list of the monitored devices or systems. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The display information includes, for each of the monitoring target devices or systems, information for transitioning to a screen that displays detailed information about the monitoring target device or a part included in the monitoring target device or system in accordance with the hierarchical structure of the monitoring target device or system. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The screen displaying the detailed information is a screen in which a graphic representing a partial state of the system or device is superimposed on a layout image showing the position or arrangement of the selected system or device at the installation location according to the hierarchical structure. The information processing device according to claim 5 .

7. an acquisition unit that acquires, via communication, status data indicating the status of a monitoring target device, which is a power storage element or a power supply-related device, and measurement data of each of the monitoring target devices from a communication device of the monitoring target device, or from a communication device of a system including a plurality of the monitoring target devices; an analysis processing unit that analyzes the presence or absence of an abnormality or a sign of an abnormality in the monitored device or system using an algorithm for each monitored device or system based on the acquired measurement data; a transmission processing unit that, in response to an external request or as an event, displays, for each of the monitored devices or systems, a communication state between the device itself and a communication device and a communication state between the communication device and the monitored device while distinguishing between them, and transmits display information for displaying the analysis results by the analysis processing unit while distinguishing between the communication states; An information processing device comprising:

8. a monitoring target device that is a power storage element or a power supply-related device, or a system including a plurality of monitoring target devices, a plurality of communication devices mounted on or connected to the monitoring target device; an information processing device capable of communicating with the plurality of communication devices; a client device having a display unit that can be connected to the information processing device for communication; An information processing system comprising: The information processing device includes: Sequentially acquiring status data indicating the status of the monitoring target devices and measurement data of each of the monitoring target devices from the plurality of communication devices; storing the acquired status data in a storage medium in association with identification data of the monitored device or system; Based on the acquired measurement data, an algorithm for each of the monitored devices or systems is used to analyze whether or not there is an abnormality or a sign of an abnormality in the monitored device or system; In response to an external request or as an event, creating display information for displaying the status data stored in the storage medium, the communication status with the communication device, and the analysis results all at once while distinguishing them for each of the monitored devices or systems; The created display information is transmitted to the client device. Information processing system.

9. Sequentially acquiring status data indicating the status of a monitoring target device, which is a power storage element or a power supply-related device, and measurement data of each monitoring target device via communication from a communication device of the monitoring target device, which is a power storage element or a power supply-related device, or a communication device of a system including a plurality of monitoring target devices; storing the acquired status data in a storage medium in association with identification data of the monitored device or system; Based on the acquired measurement data, an algorithm for each of the monitored devices or systems is used to analyze whether or not there is an abnormality or a sign of an abnormality in the monitored device or system; In response to an external request or as an event, display information is transmitted for displaying the status data stored in the storage medium, the communication status with the communication device, and the analysis results all at once while distinguishing them for each of the monitored devices or systems. Information processing methods.

10. A computer that can be connected to a communication device of a monitored device that is a power storage element or a power supply-related device, or a communication device of a system that includes multiple monitored devices, Sequentially acquiring status data indicating the status of the monitored devices and measurement data of each of the monitored devices from a communication device of the monitored devices or a communication device of the system; storing the acquired status data in a storage medium in association with identification data of the monitored device or system; Based on the acquired measurement data, an algorithm for each of the monitored devices or systems is used to analyze whether or not there is an abnormality or a sign of an abnormality in the monitored device or system; In response to an external request or as an event, display information is transmitted for displaying the status data stored in the storage medium, the communication status with the communication device, and the analysis results all at once while distinguishing them for each of the monitored devices or systems. A computer program that executes a process.

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