Control method, information processing device, program, and storage device

Abstract

A battery exchange device (1) allows battery holding units (32) to receive batteries (3) from users or to provide the batteries (3) stored in the battery holding units (32) to the users. The battery exchange device (1) obtains exchangeability information. The exchangeability information has information on whether or not the battery holding units (32) can receive the batteries (3) from the users or on whether or not the battery holding units (32) can provide the batteries (3) to the users. The exchangeability information has information on an exchangeable number that is the number of batteries (3) that the battery holding units (32) can receive from the users or the number of batteries (3) the battery holding units (32) can provide to the users. The battery exchange device (1) makes the light-emitting portion (33) of each of the battery holding units (32) emit light on the basis of the exchangeability information.

Description

Control method, information processing device, program, and storage device

[0001] The present invention relates to a control method, an information processing device, a program, and a storage device.This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-170041, filed on October 24, 2022, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] A battery sharing service, which allows multiple users to share batteries attached to various electric power devices such as electric vehicles and power supplies, is known. A user of the battery sharing service can replace the battery in the electric power device by removing a depleted battery from the electric power device and returning it to a battery station, and then attaching a charged battery rented from the battery station to the electric power device. A known technology related to such a battery sharing service is a battery exchange device that includes multiple holding units to which multiple batteries are attached and removed, and multiple light-emitting units corresponding to the multiple holding units, and controls the behavior of the light-emitting units depending on the position of the holding unit selected for replacement (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-137957

[0004] However, in the technology related to battery sharing services, it is desirable to improve the convenience of battery stations used by users. However, if the user is unable to recognize that the battery station cannot meet the user's needs, for example, when the number of available batteries is less than the number of batteries the user needs, the user may not realize that the battery station cannot meet the user's needs until the user actually performs various input operations at the battery station, which may result in a loss of convenience.

[0005] The aspects of the present invention have been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and have an object to provide a control method, an information processing device, a program, and a storage device that can improve convenience.

[0006] In order to solve the above problems and achieve the object, the present invention employs the following aspects: (1) A control method according to one aspect of the present invention is a control method for a storage device (for example, battery exchange device 1 in the embodiment), in which the storage device includes a plurality of storage sections (for example, battery holding sections 32 in the embodiment) for storing items (for example, batteries 3 in the embodiment) and at least one light-emitting section (for example, light-emitting section 33 in the embodiment) provided on an outer surface (for example, inner wall surface 32A in the embodiment) of the storage device, and includes a receiving step (for example, steps S06 to S08 in the embodiment) of receiving the items from a user of the storage device at the storage sections or providing the items being stored in the storage sections to the user of the storage device; The method includes an acquisition step (e.g., step S01, step S46, step S48, step S50 in the embodiment) of acquiring transferability information including the transferable number, which is whether the item can be received at the pipe section, or whether the item stored in the storage section can be provided to the user, or the number of items that can be received at the storage section from the user, or the number of items stored in the storage section that can be provided to the user, and an emission step (e.g., step S01, step S47, step S49, step S51 in the embodiment) of causing the light-emitting section to emit light based on the transferability information.

[0007] (2): In the above aspect (1), the transfer possibility information may include the number of items that can be transferred, and the light emitting step may cause the light emitting unit to emit light at a level that correlates with the number of items that can be transferred.

[0008] (3): In the above aspect (2), the at least one light-emitting element may have a plurality of light-emitting elements (e.g., light-emitting element 33 in the embodiment), and the light-emitting step may cause the light-emitting elements to emit light in a number that correlates with the number of items that can be transferred.

[0009] (4) In the above aspect (3), the light emitting step may cause the light emitting units to emit light in a number that matches the number of items that can be transferred.

[0010] (5) In the above aspect (3) or (4), the plurality of light-emitting units may be provided in the plurality of storage units or in the vicinity of the plurality of storage units, respectively.

[0011] (6): In the above aspect (5), before the transfer step, there may be another light-emitting step (for example, this may be the same as step S01 in the embodiment) of illuminating the light-emitting unit to indicate that the storage unit is the one that receives the item or the storage unit that provides the item.

[0012] (7): In the above aspect (6), the light-emitting mode of the light-emitting unit in the light-emitting step (e.g., a predetermined standby light-emitting mode or a predetermined standby flashing mode in the embodiment) may be different from the light-emitting mode of the light-emitting unit in the other light-emitting step (e.g., a predetermined lit or flashing state in the embodiment).

[0013] (8): In any one of the above aspects (5) to (7), the storage device has an interface unit (for example, the operation panel 34 in the embodiment) that has at least one of an input unit (for example, the operation panel 34 in the embodiment) through which information from the user is input, and an output unit (for example, the operation panel 34 in the embodiment) through which information to the user is output, and when the light-emitting units used in the light-emitting step among all of the plurality of light-emitting units are a specific group of light-emitting units (for example, the light-emitting units 33 of each of the third battery holding unit 32-2, the sixth battery holding unit 32-5, the ninth battery holding unit 32-8, and the twelfth battery holding unit 32-11 in the embodiment), the specific group of light-emitting units may be arranged in the vicinity of the interface unit.

[0014] (9) In the above aspect (8), the specific light-emitting unit group may be arranged on a vertical plane that passes through the interface unit.

[0015] (10): An information processing device according to one aspect of the present invention (e.g., the first battery exchange device 1a, the management server device 300 in the embodiments) includes a control unit (e.g., the integrated control device 65 in the embodiments) that controls a storage device (e.g., the battery exchange device 1 in the embodiments), and the storage device includes a plurality of storage units (e.g., the battery holding unit 32 in the embodiments) that store items (e.g., the battery 3 in the embodiments), and at least one light-emitting unit (e.g., the light-emitting unit 33 in the embodiments) provided on an outer surface (e.g., the inner wall surface 32A in the embodiments) of the storage device, and the control unit controls a user of the storage device. The storage unit receives the item from the user, or provides the item being stored in the storage unit to the user of the storage device, and the control unit acquires delivery possibility information including the number of items that can be received from the user at the storage unit, or the number of items that can be provided to the user at the storage unit, which is the number of items that can be received from the user at the storage unit, or the number of items that can be provided to the user at the storage unit, and the control unit causes the light-emitting unit to emit light based on the delivery possibility information.

[0016] (11): A program according to one aspect of the present invention is a program executed by a computer that controls a storage device (e.g., battery exchange device 1 in the embodiment), the storage device having a plurality of storage units (e.g., battery holding units 32 in the embodiment) that store items (e.g., batteries 3 in the embodiment) and at least one light-emitting unit (e.g., light-emitting unit 33 in the embodiment) provided on an outer surface (e.g., inner wall surface 32A in the embodiment) of the storage device, and the program causes the computer to execute a receiving step (e.g., steps S06 to S08 in the embodiment) of receiving the items from a user of the storage device at the storage units or providing the items being stored in the storage units to the user of the storage device. ), an acquisition step (e.g., step S01, step S46, step S48, step S50 in the embodiment) of acquiring transferability information including the transferable number, which is whether the item can be received from the user in the storage unit, or whether the item stored in the storage unit can be provided to the user, or the number of the items that can be received from the user in the storage unit, or the number of the items stored in the storage unit that can be provided to the user, and an emission step (e.g., step S01, step S47, step S49, step S51 in the embodiment) of causing the light-emitting unit to emit light based on the transferability information.

[0017] (12) A storage device according to one aspect of the present invention stores the program according to aspect (11) above.

[0018] According to the above aspect (1), by illuminating the light-emitting unit based on the transfer possibility information, the user can be informed of whether or not the storage device can be used by visually checking or observing from a position away from the storage device, without, for example, requiring the user to perform an input operation or approach the storage device, thereby improving convenience.

[0019] In the case of the above aspect (2), the user can know the number of items that can be transferred by the degree of illumination of the light-emitting unit, and can easily determine whether the number of items required by the user has been met. In the case of the above aspect (3), the user can know the number of items that can be transferred by the number of lights emitted by the light-emitting unit, and can easily determine whether the number of items required by the user has been met. In the case of the above aspect (4), the user can directly know the number of items that can be transferred by the number of illuminating light-emitting units, and can easily determine whether the number of items required by the user has been met. In the case of the above aspect (5), the light-emitting unit is provided in or near the storage unit, so the user can easily assume that the light-emitting action of the light-emitting unit is an action related to the number of items that can be transferred.

[0020] In the case of the above-mentioned aspect (6), the light-emitting step for notifying whether the storage device is available or not and the other light-emitting step for indicating the storage unit where the item is to be received or provided can be executed while sharing the light-emitting unit to distinguish between different operations.In the case of the above-mentioned aspect (7), the light-emitting step for notifying whether the storage device is available or not and the other light-emitting step for indicating the storage unit where the item is to be received or provided can be easily recognized by the difference in the light-emitting mode of the light-emitting unit.

[0021] In the case of the above aspect (8), the plurality of light-emitting units that operate in the light-emitting step are arranged near the interface unit that contributes to guiding the user's line of sight, so that the user can easily know whether or not the storage device can be used even by visual inspection or visual confirmation from a position distant from the storage device, thereby improving convenience. In the case of the above aspect (9), the plurality of light-emitting units that operate in the light-emitting step can be made even easier for the user to recognize.

[0022] According to at least one of the above aspects (10), (11) and (12), by illuminating the light-emitting unit based on the transfer possibility information, it is possible to inform the user whether or not the storage device can be used by visually checking or observing from a position away from the storage device, without requiring the user to perform an input operation or approach the storage device, thereby improving convenience.

[0023] 7 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a battery replacement device in the management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of a battery replacement device on the controlling side in the management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of a battery replacement device on the controlled side in the management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. A flowchart showing the operation of returning and lending a battery replacement unit in the management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. A diagram showing an example of the state of the light-emitting unit of the battery replacement device in accordance with the operation of returning and lending a battery replacement unit in the management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. A flowchart showing the control of a lighting request for the light-emitting unit of the battery replacement device in the management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. A flowchart showing the standby control shown in FIG. 7. A flowchart showing the standby control shown in FIG. 7. A diagram showing an example of the state of the light-emitting unit of the battery replacement device when the number of loanable units under the parallel condition in the standby control shown in FIG. 9 is four or more. A diagram showing an example of the state of the light-emitting unit of the battery replacement device when the number of loanable units under the series condition in the standby control shown in FIG. 9 is two. A diagram showing an example of the state of the light-emitting unit of the battery replacement device when the number of loanable units under the series condition in the standby control shown in FIG. 9 is one. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the state of the light-emitting unit of the battery exchange device when the number of loanable batteries under the parallel condition and the series condition in the standby control shown in FIG. 9 is zero.

[0024] A management system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The management system according to the embodiment is, for example, a system for managing a so-called battery sharing service, which is a service in which a plurality of users (consumers) share the use of power storage devices (e.g., batteries) that are attached to and detached from various power devices such as electric vehicles and power supply devices. The storage device according to the embodiment is, for example, a battery exchange device that provides (provides) and receives batteries to users (e.g., users or power devices) in the management system of the battery sharing service.

[0025] (Battery Sharing Service System) FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a management system (battery sharing service system) 100 according to an embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 1 , the battery sharing service system 100 according to an embodiment includes, for example, at least one battery replacement unit 200 that holds a plurality of batteries 3, and a management server device 300. The battery 3 has, for example, a box-like outer shape with a handle. The battery 3 is a replaceable, so-called cassette-type power storage device (secondary battery). The battery replacement unit 200 and the management server device 300 are connected, for example, via a wired or wireless communication network (network) NW. The network NW may be, for example, the Internet, a mobile communication network, a LAN (Local Area Network), or a WAN (Wide Area Network). For example, the LAN is a wired LAN (Local Area Network) of a predetermined standard such as Ethernet, or a wireless LAN of various standards such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0026] 1, the battery sharing service system 100 includes, for example, four battery replacement units 200, i.e., a first battery replacement unit 200-1, a second battery replacement unit 200-2, a third battery replacement unit 200-3, and a fourth battery replacement unit 200-4. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the battery replacement unit 200 includes, for example, three battery replacement devices 1, i.e., a first battery replacement device 1a, a second battery replacement device 1b, and a third battery replacement device 1c. As described below, one of all the battery replacement devices 1 in the battery replacement unit 200 (e.g., the first battery replacement device 1a) has a configuration for collectively controlling all the battery replacement devices 1 in the battery replacement unit 200. Each battery replacement device 1 in the battery replacement unit 200 is connected in parallel to an external AC power source 500, such as a commercial power source connected to a power grid.

[0027] The management server device 300 communicates, for example, directly or via a network NW, with a terminal device T1 used by an administrator Pa who manages the battery sharing service system 100, and outputs predetermined information regarding the status of the battery replacement unit 200 to the terminal device T1. The terminal device T1 is, for example, a stationary or portable personal computer. The management server device 300 communicates, for example, via the network NW with a terminal device T2 used by a security personnel Pb in charge of maintaining the battery replacement unit 200, and outputs predetermined information regarding the status of the battery replacement unit 200 to the terminal device T2. The terminal device T2 is, for example, a portable terminal device such as a smartphone or tablet. The management server device 300 communicates with and manages multiple battery replacement units 200 via the network NW. For example, the management server device 300 receives information indicating the status of each battery replacement unit 200 (unit information) from each battery replacement unit 200, and determines and controls the status of each battery replacement unit 200 based on the unit information.

[0028] A user of the battery sharing service system 100 according to the embodiment is provided with an electric power device 400 to which a battery 3 is detachably attached. The electric power device 400 is, for example, an electric vehicle, an electric mobile body, an electric machine, a power supply device, and various electrical equipment. Examples of electric vehicles include electric automobiles, saddle-ride vehicles, and kick scooters equipped with a motor driven by the power of the battery 3 as a power source, hybrid vehicles combining a motor and an internal combustion engine, and fuel cell vehicles combining the battery 3 and a fuel cell. Examples of electric mobile bodies include robots, aircraft, and floating and underwater mobile bodies. Examples of electric machines include construction machinery equipped with a motor as a power source. The power supply device is, for example, a stationary or mobile power supply device that discharges and charges the battery 3. The electric power device 400 includes, for example, a battery housing (not shown) that houses the battery 3 and a connection (not shown) to which the battery 3 is connected.

[0029] The power device 400 may include a storage unit (not shown) that stores installation information related to the number of batteries 3 installed (e.g., the number of batteries attached or connected) and the connection configuration. The connection configuration of the batteries 3 may be, for example, a series connection of a plurality of batteries 3, a parallel connection, or a combination of series and parallel connections. The installation information may be, for example, information on the number of batteries 3 installed in the power device 400 and the connection configuration, or type identification information related to the type of the power device 400 associated with the information on the number of batteries 3 installed and the connection configuration. The power device 400 may directly transmit and receive various information to and from the battery replacement unit 200, for example, during processing operations such as user authentication when using a battery sharing service and reserving a rental battery 3.

[0030] A user of the battery sharing service system 100 has a user device used for user authentication when using the battery sharing service. The user device is, for example, a contactless or contact IC card equipped with an IC (Integrated Circuit) chip compatible with short-range wireless communication of a predetermined standard, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or the like. The user device stores user information. The user information includes, for example, identification information such as a user ID (IDentifier) ​​exclusively assigned to each user or each power device 400, authentication information such as a password, and installation information regarding the number and connection form of batteries 3 installed in the power device 400.

[0031] A user of the battery sharing service system 100 may have, for example, a communication terminal (not shown) connected to the battery replacement unit 200 and the management server device 300 via the network NW. The communication terminal is, for example, a mobile information terminal such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a personal computer. The communication terminal transmits and receives various information in response to input operations by the user or input from the power device 400 during processing operations such as user authentication and battery rental reservations when the user or the power device 400 uses the battery sharing service.

[0032] (Battery) The battery 3 includes, for example, a power storage unit, a battery control unit, and a battery connection unit. The power storage unit includes, for example, a plurality of battery cells connected in series or parallel. The battery cells are, for example, secondary batteries such as lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and all-solid-state batteries, capacitors such as electric double-layer capacitors, or combined batteries that combine secondary batteries and capacitors. The battery cells are repeatedly charged and discharged.

[0033] The battery control unit is, for example, a so-called BMU (Battery Management Unit) that monitors and controls the state of the power storage unit. The battery control unit is, for example, a software function unit that functions when a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) executes a predetermined program. The software function unit is, for example, an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) that includes a processor such as a CPU, a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores programs, a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores data, and electronic circuits such as a timer. Note that at least a portion of the battery control unit may be an integrated circuit such as an LSI (Large Scale Integration).

[0034] The battery control unit includes, for example, a battery sensor and a battery storage unit. The battery sensor includes, for example, various sensors that detect the state of the power storage unit. The battery sensor includes, for example, a voltage sensor, a current sensor, and a temperature sensor. The battery sensor outputs signals of various detected values, such as voltage, current, and temperature, related to the state of the power storage unit. The battery storage unit stores, for example, information about the battery 3 and a predetermined program. The information about the battery 3 (battery information) includes, for example, identification information such as a battery ID (IDentifier) ​​exclusively assigned to each battery 3, the manufacturing date and time, the initial capacity, information about the state of the power storage unit based on the output of the battery sensor, a charge and discharge history, a storage time in the battery replacement unit 200, and a usage history.

[0035] The battery connection unit includes, for example, connection terminals for a power line for transmitting and receiving power and a communication line for transmitting and receiving information. The battery connection unit is connected, for example, to a connection unit (not shown) provided in a battery holding unit 32 (described later) of the battery replacement unit 200 and a connection unit (not shown) provided in a battery storage unit (not shown) of the power device 400. For example, the battery connection unit is a female connector, and the connection units of the battery holding unit 32 and the power device 400 are male connectors. For example, when the battery connection unit is connected to a connection unit (not shown) of the power device 400, power is exchanged between the power device 400 and the power storage unit, and information such as installation information is transmitted from the power device 400 to the battery 3. For example, when the battery connection section is connected to the connection section (not shown) of the battery replacement unit 200, power is exchanged between the battery replacement unit 200 and the power storage section, and information regarding the battery replacement device 1 and the battery holding section 32 is transmitted from the battery replacement unit 200 to the battery 3, and battery information is transmitted from the battery storage section to the battery replacement unit 200 and the management server device 300.

[0036] (Battery Replacement Apparatus) FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the battery replacement apparatus 1 (first battery replacement apparatus 1a) in the management system (battery sharing service system) 100 of the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions, which are orthogonal to one another in three-dimensional space, are parallel to each other. For example, the X-axis direction is parallel to the left-right direction (horizontal direction) of the battery replacement unit 200. The Y-axis direction is parallel to the front-rear direction (depth direction) of the battery replacement unit 200. The Z-axis direction is parallel to the up-down direction of the battery replacement unit 200. For example, when viewed from the perspective of a user using the battery replacement apparatus 1, the front side is the front, the back side is the back, the right-hand side is the right, and the left-hand side is the left.

[0037] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the battery replacement unit 200 includes at least one battery replacement apparatus 1, e.g., a first battery replacement apparatus 1a, a second battery replacement apparatus 1b, and a third battery replacement apparatus 1c. As shown in FIG. 2 , each battery replacement apparatus 1 has an external shape, e.g., a rectangular box formed independently. For example, the front portion 10F of the housing 10 of the battery replacement apparatus 1 includes a panel portion 31 with a vent hole formed between the interior and the exterior, and multiple battery holding portions 32. The external shape of the battery holding portion 32 is, for example, a slot-like shape extending downward from the front to the rear, and is box-shaped with an opening through which the battery 3 is inserted. For example, the battery holding portion 32 holds the battery 3 so as to accommodate at least a portion of the battery 3 (e.g., a battery connection portion, etc.) or expose at least a portion of the battery 3 (e.g., a handle portion, etc.). The battery holding portion 32 includes, for example, a pair of light-emitting portions 33 that allow the user to see the light of a lamp body 69 (described later). The light-emitting unit 33 includes, for example, a light guide that guides light from the lamp 69 to the outside. The pair of light-emitting units 33 are provided, for example, on the left and right inner wall surfaces 32A of the tip of the battery holding unit 32 that protrudes forward from the front part 10F of the housing 10. The pair of light-emitting units 33 are provided on a surface (outer surface: inner wall surface 32A) that is visible from the outside even when the battery 3 is held in the battery holding unit 32.

[0038] The plurality of battery holding units 32 are, for example, twelve battery holding units 32 arranged in three rows in the left-right direction and four rows in the up-down direction. The twelve battery holding units 32 are, for example, the first battery holding unit 32-0, the second battery holding unit 32-1, the third battery holding unit 32-2, ..., the tenth battery holding unit 32-9, the eleventh battery holding unit 32-10, and the twelfth battery holding unit 32-11. The twelve battery holding units 32 are, for example, arranged sequentially from the first battery holding unit 32-0 at the upper right end to the battery holding unit 32-11 at the lower left end in a vertical arrangement, with priority given to an arrangement from right to left in the left-right direction and vice versa. Identification information, such as a holding unit ID, exclusively assigned to the plurality of battery holding units 32 is set, for example, to have a ranking according to their positions. For example, the ranking of the identification information of the 12 battery holding units 32 is set to decrease from relatively high to relatively low in the order of the first battery holding unit 32-0, the second battery holding unit 32-1, ..., the 11th battery holding unit 32-10, and the 12th battery holding unit 32-11.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 1 , the battery exchange apparatuses 1 are arranged, for example, adjacent to each other in a row in the left-right direction. Identification information, such as exchange apparatus IDs, exclusively assigned to the battery exchange apparatuses 1 is set to have a ranking according to, for example, the order of communication. For example, the rankings of the identification information of the three battery exchange apparatuses 1 are set to decrease from relatively high to relatively low, in the order of the first battery exchange apparatus 1a, the second battery exchange apparatus 1b, and the third battery exchange apparatus 1c. For example, the three battery exchange apparatuses 1 are arranged such that the first battery exchange apparatus 1a, which has the highest identification information ranking, has the other battery exchange apparatuses 1 arranged alternately to the left and right in descending order of identification information ranking. In other words, the second battery exchange apparatus 1b is arranged adjacent to the first battery exchange apparatus 1a on the left, and the third battery exchange apparatus 1c is arranged adjacent to the first battery exchange apparatus 1a on the right. For example, the first battery replacement device 1a, which has the highest ranking of identification information, is the side that controls all of the battery replacement devices 1 in the battery replacement unit 200 in an integrated manner, and the second battery replacement device 1b and the third battery replacement device 1c, which have relatively lower rankings of identification information, are the sides that are controlled by the first battery replacement device 1a.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 2 , only the first battery exchange apparatus 1a, which has the highest identification information ranking among all the battery exchange apparatuses 1, includes, for example, an operation panel 34 provided on the panel unit 31 in addition to a configuration for integrated control of all the battery exchange apparatuses 1. The operation panel 34 includes, for example, an input / output device serving as a user interface and a reading / writing device. The input / output device may be, for example, a touch panel with a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic electroluminescence (EL) display, a microphone for voice input, and a speaker for sound output. The reading / writing device transmits and receives various information to and from a user device used for user authentication, for example. The operation panel 34 is connected to, for example, an integrated control device 65, accepts input operations and voice inputs by an operator such as a user, and outputs signals corresponding to the input operations and voice inputs to the integrated control device 65. The operation panel 34 presents, for example, various information regarding the operation of receiving and lending batteries 3 in each battery holding unit 32 of all the battery exchange apparatuses 1.

[0041] The operation panel 34 is disposed, for example, above the third battery holding unit 32-2, the sixth battery holding unit 32-5, the ninth battery holding unit 32-8, and the twelfth battery holding unit 32-11, which are disposed on the leftmost side of the plurality of battery holding units 32. For example, in a front view of the first battery exchange apparatus 1a viewed from the front to the rear, the operation panel 34 is disposed on an extension line of the direction (Z-axis direction) in which the pairs of light-emitting units 33 of the third battery holding unit 32-2, the sixth battery holding unit 32-5, the ninth battery holding unit 32-8, and the twelfth battery holding unit 32-11 are aligned. For example, the pairs of light-emitting units 33 of the third battery holding unit 32-2, the sixth battery holding unit 32-5, the ninth battery holding unit 32-8, and the twelfth battery holding unit 32-11 are disposed on an imaginary vertical plane passing through the operation panel 34.

[0042] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration (first power transmission path 50-C) of the battery replacement apparatus 1 (first battery replacement apparatus 1a) on the controlling side in the management system (battery sharing service system) 100 of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration (second power transmission path 50-S) of the battery replacement apparatus 1 (second battery replacement apparatus 1b and third battery replacement apparatus 1c) on the controlled side in the management system (battery sharing service system) 100 of the embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the first battery replacement apparatus 1a, which is the controlling battery replacement apparatus 1, has a first power transmission path 50-C as its electrical configuration, and the second battery replacement apparatus 1b and third battery replacement apparatus 1c, which are the controlled battery replacement apparatuses 1, have a second power transmission path 50-S as their electrical configuration. Each of the first power transmission path 50-C and the second power transmission path 50-S is an electrical circuit provided inside the housing 10 and is electrically connected to the AC power supply 500. Each of the first power transmission path 50-C and the second power transmission path 50-S includes, for example, a circuit breaker 60, an AC / DC converter 61, a DC / DC converter group 62, a plurality of interface boards (I / F boards) 63, and a housing control board 64. The second power transmission path 50-S further includes an integrated control device 65.

[0043] The circuit breaker 60 is connected, for example, between an external AC power supply 500 and an AC / DC converter 61. The AC / DC converter 61 is, for example, an AC-DC converter that converts AC power into DC power. The AC / DC converter 61 is connected, for example, between the circuit breaker 60 and a DC / DC converter group 62. The AC / DC converter 61 converts, for example, AC power input from the AC power supply 500 into DC power and outputs the DC power to the DC / DC converter group 62. The AC / DC converter 61 is connected to the DC / DC converter group 62 by, for example, a power line (power supply line) P1 indicated by a solid line in FIGS. 3 and 4 .

[0044] The DC / DC converter group 62 includes, for example, a plurality of charging DC / DC converters 66-1, a plurality of charging / discharging DC / DC converters 66-2, a plurality of cooling DC / DC converters 67, and a control power supply DC / DC converter 68. The total number of the charging DC / DC converters 66-1 and the charging / discharging DC / DC converters 66-2 is, for example, the same as the number of battery holding units 32. Each of the charging DC / DC converters 66-1 is, for example, a DC-DC converter that performs unidirectional step-down voltage conversion. Each charging DC / DC converter 66-1 is connected, for example, by a power line (power supply line) P1 between the AC / DC converter 61 and a connection unit (not shown) of the battery holding unit 32. Each charging DC / DC converter 66-1, for example, steps down the voltage of DC power input from the AC / DC converter 61 and outputs the stepped-down DC power to the connection unit of the battery holding unit 32.

[0045] Each of the multiple charge / discharge DC / DC converters 66-2 is, for example, a DC-DC converter that performs bidirectional step-down voltage conversion. Each charge / discharge DC / DC converter 66-2 includes, for example, a first DC-DC converter for charging the battery 3 and a second DC-DC converter for discharging the battery 3. The first DC-DC converter of each charge / discharge DC / DC converter 66-2 is connected, for example, by a power line (power supply line) P1 between the AC / DC converter 61 and a connection portion (not shown) of the battery holding unit 32. The second DC-DC converter of each charge / discharge DC / DC converter 66-2 is connected, for example, to the connection portion (not shown) of the battery holding unit 32 by a power line (power supply line) P1, and is also connected to the multiple interface boards 63, the housing control board 64, and the integrated control device 65 by a control power line (power supply line) P2 indicated by dashed lines in FIGS. 3 and 4 . Each charge / discharge DC / DC converter 66-2, for example, steps down the voltage of the DC power input from the AC / DC converter 61 and outputs the stepped-down DC power to the connection portion of the battery holding unit 32. For example, during periods of power off when the power supply from the external AC power source 500 is stopped, each charge / discharge DC / DC converter 66-2 steps down the voltage of the DC power input by discharging the battery 3 connected to the connection portion of the battery holding unit 32 and outputs the stepped-down DC power to the multiple interface boards 63, the housing control board 64, and the integrated control device 65. As a result, each charge / discharge DC / DC converter 66-2 ensures the power required to operate the battery exchange device 1 even during periods of power off.

[0046] The plurality of cooling DC / DC converters 67 are, for example, two cooling DC / DC converters 67. The plurality of cooling DC / DC converters 67 are connected to the AC / DC converter 61 by, for example, a power line (power supply line) P1. The plurality of cooling DC / DC converters 67 are connected to a cooling device 35, such as an air conditioner (CU), which is provided with a heat exchange fan, a capacitor, and the like and is arranged inside the housing 10. The cooling DC / DC converter 67 converts DC power supplied from the AC / DC converter 61 into DC power of a voltage suitable for the cooling device 35 and supplies the converted DC power to the cooling device 35. The control power supply DC / DC converter 68 is connected to the AC / DC converter 61 by, for example, a power line (power supply line) P1, and is connected to the plurality of interface boards 63, the housing control board 64, and the integrated control device 65 by a control power line (power supply line) P2. The control DC / DC converter 68 converts the DC power supplied from the AC / DC converter 61 into DC power of a voltage suitable for the multiple interface boards 63, the housing control board 64, and the integrated control device 65, and supplies the converted DC power to the multiple interface boards 63, the housing control board 64, and the integrated control device 65.

[0047] The number of the interface boards 63 is, for example, the same as the number of the battery holding units 32. Each interface board 63 is disposed, for example, at the rear end of each battery holding unit 32. Each interface board 63 is connected to the charging DC / DC converter 66-1 or the charging / discharging DC / DC converter 66-2, the housing control board 64, the connection unit of the battery holding unit 32, and the lamp body 69 via control lines (signal lines) S indicated by dashed lines in FIGS. 3 and 4 . Each interface board 63 controls the power conversion of the charging DC / DC converter 66-1 or the charging / discharging DC / DC converter 66-2 and the lighting state of the lamp body 69. Each interface board 63 controls the power conversion of the charging DC / DC converter 66-1 or the charging / discharging DC / DC converter 66-2, for example, to control operations such as charging and discharging of the batteries 3 held in the battery holding unit 32. Each interface board 63 controls operations related to the receipt and lending of the batteries 3 in each battery holding unit 32, for example. Each interface board 63 controls the operation of movable parts, such as connection parts, opening / closing members, and fixing members, provided in each battery holding unit 32. The movable parts may include, for example, a mechanism for automatically transferring the battery 3 between the battery exchange apparatus 1 and the power device 400. Each interface board 63 transmits and receives various information to and from the battery 3 when a connection part driven by an appropriate actuator of the battery holding unit 32 is connected to a battery connection part of the battery 3. For example, each interface board 63 outputs battery information acquired from the battery memory unit of the battery 3 to the housing control board 64. The lamps 69 are, for example, light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The number of lamps 69 is, for example, the same as the number of battery holding units 32. The lighting state of each lamp 69 is controlled in response to a control signal output from the integrated control device 65 and transmitted to each interface board 63 via the housing control board 64 of each battery exchange apparatus 1.

[0048] The housing control board 64 is a software function unit that functions when a predetermined program is executed by a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The software function unit is an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) that includes a processor such as a CPU, a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores programs, a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores data, and electronic circuits such as a timer. At least a portion of the housing control board 64 may be an integrated circuit such as an LSI (Large Scale Integration).

[0049] The housing control board 64 is connected to the AC / DC converter 61, the multiple interface boards 63, the multiple cooling DC / DC converters 67, the control power supply DC / DC converter 68, and the sound generator 70, for example, by control lines (signal lines) S. The housing control board 64 controls the operation of each interface board 63, the power conversion of each converter 61, 67, 68, and the operation of the sound generator 70. The housing control board 64 controls the power conversion of the AC / DC converter 61, for example, depending on the number of batteries 3 to be charged simultaneously. The sound generator 70 is, for example, a buzzer. The operating state of the sound generator 70 is controlled in response to a control signal output from the integrated control device 65 and transmitted to the housing control board 64 of each battery exchange machine 1.

[0050] The housing control board 64 is connected to the housing control board 64 of the other battery exchange apparatus 1 by communication lines C shown by solid lines in Figures 3 and 4. Furthermore, the housing control board 64 of the first battery exchange apparatus 1a is connected to the integrated control apparatus 65 by the communication lines C. The network topology (connection form) of the multiple battery exchange apparatuses 1 connected by the communication lines C is, for example, a serially connected ring type. For example, in order from relatively high to relatively low in the communication order of the multiple battery exchange apparatuses 1, the housing control board 64 of the first battery exchange apparatus 1a is connected to the housing control board 64 of the second battery exchange apparatus 1b, the housing control board 64 of the second battery exchange apparatus 1b is connected to the housing control board 64 of the third battery exchange apparatus 1c, and the housing control board 64 of the third battery exchange apparatus 1c is connected to the housing control board 64 of the first battery exchange apparatus 1a. The housing control board 64 of each battery exchange apparatus 1 controls each battery holding unit 32 and the battery 3 of each battery holding unit 32 based on a control command received from the integrated control device 65 of the first battery exchange apparatus 1a.

[0051] The integrated control device 65 is a software function unit that functions when a predetermined program is executed by a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The software function unit is an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) that includes a processor such as a CPU, a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores programs, a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores data, and electronic circuits such as a timer. At least a part of the integrated control device 65 may be an integrated circuit such as an LSI (Large Scale Integration).

[0052] The integrated control device 65 is connected to the housing control board 64 of the first battery replacement apparatus 1a by a communication line C, and is also connected to the operation panel 34 by a control line (signal line) S. The integrated control device 65 controls the operation of the housing control board 64 and the operation panel 34. The integrated control device 65 comprehensively controls the housing control boards 64 of all battery replacement apparatuses 1. The integrated control device 65 comprehensively controls, for example, communication with the management server device 300 via the network NW and communication between the multiple battery replacement apparatuses 1 within the battery replacement unit 200. Within the battery replacement unit 200, the integrated control device 65 is the side that controls a communication method of a predetermined standard, such as EtherCAT (registered trademark). The communication method controlled by the integrated control device 65 within the battery replacement unit 200 is, for example, a method in which a packet from the controlling side (first battery replacement device 1a) is passed in sequence to all controlled sides (second battery replacement device 1b and third battery replacement device 1c) and then returned to the controlling side, and each battery replacement device 1 reads and writes only the area assigned to it within the packet.

[0053] (Operation of the Management System) The processing operation of the management system 100 of the embodiment will be described below. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of returning and lending the battery replacement unit 200 in the management system (battery sharing service system) 100 of the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the state of the light-emitting unit 33 of the battery replacement device 1 accompanying the operation of returning and lending the battery replacement unit 200 in the management system (battery sharing service system) 100 of the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5 , first, the integrated control device 65 sets the battery replacement unit 200 to a standby state (open for business) to wait for the user to start using it (step S01). The integrated control device 65 displays information such as the fact that the system is open for business and the operation content for starting the replacement on the operation panel 34, for example. In a standby state during business hours, the integrated control device 65, for example, turns off the display device of the operation panel 34 and causes the pair of light emitting units 33 of the battery holding unit 32 that holds a lendable battery 3 (for example, a fully charged battery 3) or the battery holding unit 32 that does not hold a battery 3 (for example, a returnable battery holding unit 32) to emit light in a predetermined lighting or blinking state. Furthermore, as will be described later, the integrated control device 65 causes the pair of light emitting units 33 of a predetermined battery holding unit 32 to emit light in a predetermined standby light emitting mode, for example.

[0054] For example, the integrated control device 65 acquires transferability information based on unit information indicating the status of the battery replacement unit 200 and battery information on the batteries 3 stored in the battery holding unit 32. The transferability information includes, for example, information on whether the battery holding unit 32 can receive batteries 3 from a user or an electric power device 400, or whether batteries 3 can be provided to a user or an electric power device 400. The transferability information includes, for example, information on the number of batteries 3 that the battery holding unit 32 can receive from a user or an electric power device 400, or the number of batteries 3 that can be provided to a user or an electric power device 400, that is, the transferable number. The integrated control device 65 causes the light-emitting unit 33 of each battery holding unit 32 to emit light based on the transferability information. For example, in a predetermined standby light-emitting mode, the integrated control device 65 causes the light-emitting unit 33 to emit light at a level of illumination that correlates with the transferable number. For example, in a predetermined standby light-emitting mode, the integrated control device 65 causes the light-emitting units 33 to emit light in a number that correlates with the number of batteries that can be transferred (for example, a number that matches the number of batteries that can be transferred). For example, the integrated control device 65 sets the predetermined standby light-emitting mode to be different from the light-emitting mode of the light-emitting units 33 for the battery holding units 32 that hold lendable batteries 3 or the returnable battery holding units 32.

[0055] Next, the integrated control device 65 determines whether or not input of user information has been detected (step S02). For example, the integrated control device 65 determines whether or not a user device held by the user has been detected by the reading and writing device of the operation panel 34. If the integrated control device 65 has not detected input of user information (NO in step S02), the process proceeds to End. On the other hand, if the integrated control device 65 has detected input of user information (YES in step S02), the process proceeds to step S03.

[0056] Next, the integrated control device 65 acquires authentication information and onboard information from, for example, user information stored in the user device, and executes user authentication processing (step S03). For example, the integrated control device 65 turns off the pairs of light-emitting units 33 of all battery holding units 32 from the time the user device is detected until the user authentication processing is completed.

[0057] Next, upon successful user authentication, the integrated control device 65 acquires, for example, the contracted number N of batteries 3 from the installation information of the user device, i.e., information on the number of batteries 3 installed in the power device 400, and presents the contracted number N of batteries 3 on the operation panel 34 (step S04). The integrated control device 65, for example, sets the open / close members of the battery holding units 32 that do not hold batteries 3 to the open state. The integrated control device 65, for example, causes the pair of light-emitting units 33 of the battery holding units 32 that do not hold batteries 3 to emit light in a predetermined normal flashing pattern as shown in FIG. 6A . Note that the total number of battery holding units 32 that do not hold batteries 3 (the number of available slots) in the battery replacement unit 200 is set to two in the normal reference state. Furthermore, the integrated control device 65 may cancel the execution of the series of processes by proceeding to End, for example, when the user device is detected again or a predetermined time has elapsed while the contracted number N of batteries 3 is being presented on the operation panel 34.

[0058] 5 , the integrated control device 65 then starts loop processing according to the contracted number N of batteries 3, that is, processing from step S06 to step S09 shown below (step S05). For example, as described above, when the number of available slots in the battery replacement unit 200 is set to two in the normal reference state and the contracted number N of batteries 3 is three or more, the integrated control device 65 executes loop processing to repeatedly replace batteries 3 in units of up to two batteries 3 multiple times. For example, when the contracted number N of batteries 3 is two or less, the integrated control device 65 executes loop processing only once. For example, when the contracted number N of batteries 3 is four, the integrated control device 65 executes loop processing only twice.

[0059] Next, the integrated control device 65 presents a return instruction on the operation panel 34 (step S06). For example, as described above, the integrated control device 65 instructs the battery exchange device 1 to return a maximum of two batteries because the number of available slots in the battery exchange unit 200 is set to two in the normal reference state. For example, when the integrated control device 65 detects the return of the battery 3 due to the insertion of a battery 3 into a battery holding unit 32 that does not hold a battery 3, the integrated control device 65 switches the light emitting elements 33 of the battery holding unit 32 to which the battery 3 has been returned from a predetermined normal flashing pattern shown in FIG. 6A to a predetermined return flashing pattern shown in FIG. 6B. For example, when the integrated control device 65 detects the return of the battery 3, it causes the sound generator 70 of the battery exchange device 1 including the battery holding unit 32 to which the battery 3 has been returned to generate a predetermined sound.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 5 , the integrated control device 65 then acquires battery information from the battery 3 returned to the battery holding unit 32 and executes the returned battery authentication process (step S07). The integrated control device 65 determines whether the returned battery 3 is a genuine product, for example, based on the identification information in the battery information. For example, upon starting the returned battery authentication process, the integrated control device 65 fixes the battery 3 stored in the battery holding unit 32 with a fixing member. For example, upon executing the returned battery authentication process, the integrated control device 65 causes the pair of light-emitting units 33 of the battery holding unit 32 in which the battery 3 is stored to emit light in a predetermined storage-lighted state shown in FIG. 6C. When the returned battery authentication process is completed, for example, due to a successful return battery authentication, the integrated control device 65 switches the pair of light-emitting units 33 of the battery holding unit 32 in which the battery 3 is stored from the predetermined storage-lighted state shown in FIG. 6C to a predetermined standby-lighted-off state shown in FIG. 6D and turns them off.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 5 , the integrated control device 65 then presents a removal instruction on the operation panel 34 (step S08). For example, because the number of available slots in the battery replacement unit 200 is set to two in the normal reference state, as described above, the integrated control device 65 instructs removal of up to two batteries at a time. First, in the battery holding unit 32 holding a battery 3 waiting for lending or in preparation for lending, the integrated control device 65 fixes the battery 3 with the fixing members and turns off the pair of light-emitting units 33 in the predetermined preparatory off state shown in FIG. 6( e). Next, in the battery holding unit 32 holding a lendable battery 3, the integrated control device 65 releases the battery 3 from the fixing members and switches the pair of light-emitting units 33 from the predetermined preparatory off state shown in FIG. 6( e) to the predetermined lending flashing state shown in FIG. 6( f). Next, for example, when the integrated control device 65 detects the removal of a lendable battery 3 from the battery holding unit 32, the integrated control device 65 switches the light emitting units 33 of the battery holding unit 32 from which the battery 3 was removed from the predetermined lending blinking shown in (f) of Fig. 6 to the predetermined removal blinking shown in (g) to illuminate the unit. Note that the predetermined removal blinking may be set to a different blinking state for the last removed battery 3 according to the contracted number N of batteries 3 from that for the other removed batteries 3. Next, for example, the integrated control device 65 switches the light emitting units 33 of the battery holding unit 32 from which the lendable battery 3 was removed from the predetermined removal blinking shown in (g) of Fig. 6 to the predetermined normal blinking for waiting for return shown in (a) or the predetermined standby off for completion of replacement shown in (h).

[0062] Next, the integrated control device 65 determines whether or not to continue the loop processing according to the contracted number N of batteries 3 (step S09). For example, the integrated control device 65 determines whether or not the replacement corresponding to the contracted number N of batteries 3 has been completed. If the integrated control device 65 determines to continue the loop processing (YES in step S09), the processing returns to step S06. On the other hand, if the integrated control device 65 determines not to continue the loop processing (NO in step S09), the processing proceeds to step S10.

[0063] Next, the integrated control device 65 notifies on the operation panel 34 that the replacement corresponding to the contracted number N of batteries 3 has been completed (step S10). Next, the integrated control device 65 sets a standby state corresponding to either open, closed, or unavailable depending on the state of the battery replacement unit 200, etc. (step S11), and proceeds to end the process.

[0064] 7 is a flowchart showing control of a lighting request for the light emitting unit 33 of the battery replacement device 1 in the management system (battery sharing service system) 100 of the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7 , first, the integrated control device 65 determines whether or not maintenance (maintenance work) is being performed on the battery replacement unit 200 (step S21). If maintenance work is being performed (YES in step S21), the integrated control device 65 proceeds to step S22. On the other hand, if maintenance work is not being performed (NO in step S21), the integrated control device 65 proceeds to step S23. Then, the integrated control device 65 executes predetermined maintenance control and proceeds to the end of the process (step S22).

[0065] Next, the integrated control device 65 determines whether the battery replacement unit 200 is on standby (step S23). When the battery replacement unit 200 is on standby, this is a standby state corresponding to, for example, open hours, closed hours, or unavailable hours. If the integrated control device 65 is on standby (YES in step S23), the process proceeds to step S24. On the other hand, if the integrated control device 65 is not on standby (NO in step S23), the process proceeds to step S25. Then, the integrated control device 65 executes a predetermined standby control, which will be described later, and proceeds to the end of the process (step S22).

[0066] Next, the integrated control device 65 starts a loop process corresponding to each of all battery holding units 32 (slots) of the battery replacement unit 200, i.e., the process from step S26 to step S29 described below (step S25). For example, the integrated control device 65 executes the loop process a number of times equal to the number of battery holding units 32 (slots). Next, the integrated control device 65 determines whether the battery holding unit 32 is currently replacing the battery 3 (step S26). If the battery holding unit 32 is currently replacing the battery 3 (YES in step S26), the integrated control device 65 proceeds to step S27. On the other hand, if the battery holding unit 32 is not currently replacing the battery 3 (NO in step S26), the integrated control device 65 proceeds to step S28. Then, the integrated control device 65 executes a predetermined replacement control and proceeds to the end of the process (step S27). The integrated control device 65 also turns off the pair of light-emitting units 33 of the battery holding unit 32 (step S28). Next, the integrated control device 65 determines whether to continue the loop processing depending on the number of all battery holding units 32 (step S29). For example, the integrated control device 65 determines whether the determination of whether replacement is in progress has been completed for all battery holding units 32. If the integrated control device 65 determines to continue the loop processing (YES in step S29), the process returns to step S26. On the other hand, if the integrated control device 65 determines not to continue the loop processing (NO in step S29), the process proceeds to the end.

[0067] 8 and 9 are flowcharts showing the standby control shown in FIG. 7 . FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the state of the light-emitting unit 33 of the battery exchange apparatus 1 when the number of loanable batteries under the parallel condition in the standby control shown in FIG. 9 is four or more. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the state of the light-emitting unit 33 of the battery exchange apparatus 1 when the number of loanable batteries under the series condition in the standby control shown in FIG. 9 is two. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the state of the light-emitting unit 33 of the battery exchange apparatus 1 when the number of loanable batteries under the series condition in the standby control shown in FIG. 9 is one. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the state of the light-emitting unit 33 of the battery exchange apparatus 1 when the number of loanable batteries under the parallel condition and the series condition in the standby control shown in FIG. 9 is zero.

[0068] 8 , first, the integrated control device 65 sets the number of active slots to zero (step S31). The number of active slots is, for example, the number of battery holding units 32 in which a return or loan operation is being performed among all the battery holding units 32 in the battery replacement unit 200. Next, the integrated control device 65 starts a loop process corresponding to each of all the battery holding units 32 (slots) in the battery replacement unit 200, that is, the process from step S33 to step S40 shown below (step S32). For example, the integrated control device 65 executes the loop process a number of times equal to the number of battery holding units 32 (slots).

[0069] Next, the integrated control device 65 determines whether the battery holding unit 32 (slot) is in the process of returning the battery 3 (step S33). If the battery holding unit 32 is in the process of being returned (YES in step S33), the integrated control device 65 proceeds to step S34. On the other hand, if the battery holding unit 32 is not in the process of being returned (NO in step S33), the integrated control device 65 proceeds to step S36. Then, the integrated control device 65 causes the pair of light-emitting units 33 of the battery holding unit 32 being returned to emit light in a predetermined storage illumination mode, for example, as shown in FIG. 6C (step S34). Next, the integrated control device 65 updates the current number of active slots by adding "1" to the number of active slots, and proceeds to step S40 (step S35).

[0070] Next, the integrated control device 65 determines whether the battery holding unit 32 (slot) is currently lending out a battery 3 (step S36). If the battery holding unit 32 (slot) is currently lending out a battery 3, the integrated control device 65 proceeds to step S37. On the other hand, if the battery holding unit 32 is not currently lending out a battery (step S36, NO), the integrated control device 65 proceeds to step S39. Then, the integrated control device 65 causes the pair of light-emitting units 33 of the currently lending battery holding unit 32 to light up in a predetermined lending flashing pattern, for example, as shown in FIG. 6(f) (step S37). Next, the integrated control device 65 updates the number of active slots by adding "1" to the current number of active slots, and proceeds to step S40 (step S38). The integrated control device 65 also turns off the pair of light-emitting units 33 of the battery holding unit 32 (step S39).

[0071] Next, the integrated control device 65 determines whether to continue the loop processing depending on the number of all battery holding units 32 (slots) (step S40). For example, the integrated control device 65 determines whether the determination of whether all battery holding units 32 are being returned or loaned has been completed. If the integrated control device 65 determines to continue the loop processing (YES in step S40), the process returns to step S33. On the other hand, if the integrated control device 65 determines not to continue the loop processing (NO in step S40), the process proceeds to step S41 shown in FIG. 9.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 9 , the integrated control device 65 then determines whether or not the pair of light-emitting devices 33 of a predetermined battery holding unit 32 need to be illuminated in a predetermined standby illumination mode (e.g., a predetermined standby flashing mode, etc.) (step S41). If the predetermined standby illumination mode (e.g., a predetermined standby flashing mode, etc.) is to be executed (YES in step S41), the integrated control device 65 proceeds to step S42. On the other hand, if the predetermined standby illumination mode (e.g., a predetermined standby flashing mode, etc.) is not to be executed (NO in step S41), the integrated control device 65 proceeds to end the process. Next, the integrated control device 65 determines whether or not the battery replacement unit 200 is open for business (step S42). If the integrated control device 65 is open for business (YES in step S42), the integrated control device 65 proceeds to step S43. On the other hand, if the integrated control device 65 is not open for business (NO in step S42), i.e., closed or unavailable for business, the integrated control device 65 proceeds to end the process. Next, the integrated control device 65 determines whether or not the number of active slots is zero (step S43). If the number of active slots is zero (YES in step S43), the integrated control device 65 proceeds to step S44. On the other hand, if the number of active slots is not zero (NO in step S43), that is, if there is a battery holding unit 32 in which a return or loan operation is being performed, the integrated control device 65 proceeds to end the process.

[0073] Next, the integrated control device 65 starts a loop process corresponding to each of all battery holding units 32 (slots) of the battery replacement unit 200, that is, the process from step S45 to step S52 shown below (step S44). For example, the integrated control device 65 executes the loop process the same number of times as the number of battery holding units 32 (slots). Next, the integrated control device 65 turns off the pair of light-emitting units 33 of the battery holding units 32 (step S45).

[0074] Next, the integrated control device 65 determines whether the number of batteries 3 available for lending that corresponds to the case where the multiple batteries 3 in the power device 400 are connected in parallel (parallel condition) is four or more (step S46). Note that a combination of batteries 3 available for lending that corresponds to the parallel condition is, for example, a combination of batteries 3 in which the difference in state, such as power amount, voltage, and temperature, is less than a predetermined value. If the number of batteries 3 available for lending under the parallel condition is four or more (YES in step S46), the integrated control device 65 proceeds to step S47. On the other hand, if the number of batteries 3 available for lending under the parallel condition is not four or more (NO in step S46), the integrated control device 65 proceeds to step S48. Then, the integrated control device 65 causes each pair of light-emitting units 33 of the ninth battery holding unit 32-8 and the twelfth battery holding unit 32-11 (the ninth and twelfth slots) among the multiple battery holding units 32 arranged below the operation panel 34 to emit light in a predetermined standby light-emitting mode (for example, a predetermined standby flashing, etc.), and proceeds to step S49 (step S47).

[0075] Next, the integrated control device 65 determines whether the number of rentable batteries 3 corresponding to the case where the multiple batteries 3 in the power device 400 are connected in series (series condition) is two or more (step S48). The rentable batteries 3 corresponding to the series condition are, for example, batteries 3 with a predetermined or greater amount of power. If the number of rentable batteries 3 under the series condition is two or more (YES in step S48), the integrated control device 65 proceeds to step S49. On the other hand, if the number of rentable batteries 3 under the series condition is not two or more (NO in step S48), the integrated control device 65 proceeds to step S50. Then, the integrated control device 65 causes the pair of light-emitting units 33 of the sixth battery holding unit 32-5 (sixth slot) among the multiple battery holding units 32 arranged below the operation panel 34 to emit light in a predetermined standby light-emitting mode (e.g., predetermined standby blinking), and proceeds to step S51 (step S49).

[0076] Next, the integrated control device 65 determines whether the number of rentable batteries 3 corresponding to the series connection of the multiple batteries 3 in the power device 400 (series condition) is one or more (step S50). If the number of rentable batteries 3 under the series condition is one or more (YES in step S50), the integrated control device 65 proceeds to step S51. On the other hand, if the number of rentable batteries 3 under the series condition is not one or more (NO in step S50), that is, if there are no rentable batteries 3, the integrated control device 65 proceeds to step S52. Then, for example, the integrated control device 65 causes the pair of light-emitting units 33 of the third battery holding unit 32-2 (third slot) among the multiple battery holding units 32 arranged below the operation panel 34 to emit light in a predetermined standby light-emitting mode (e.g., predetermined standby blinking, etc.), and proceeds to step S52 (step S51).

[0077] When the number of batteries 3 available for loan under parallel conditions is four or more in the standby state of the battery replacement unit 200 during business hours, the integrated control device 65 causes each pair of light-emitting units 33 of all battery retention units 32 (the third battery retention unit 32-2, the sixth battery retention unit 32-5, the ninth battery retention unit 32-8, and the twelfth battery retention unit 32-11) located below the operation panel 34 to emit light in a predetermined standby light-emitting mode (e.g., predetermined standby blinking, etc.) as shown in Fig. 10. When the number of batteries 3 available for loan under series conditions is two or more in the standby state of the battery replacement unit 200 during business hours, the integrated control device 65 causes each pair of light-emitting units 33 of the third battery retention unit 32-2 and the sixth battery retention unit 32-5, among all battery retention units 32 located below the operation panel 34, to emit light in a predetermined standby light-emitting mode (e.g., predetermined standby blinking, etc.) as shown in Fig. 11. When the number of batteries 3 available for loan under the series condition is one while the battery replacement unit 200 is in a standby state during business hours, the integrated control device 65 causes the pair of light-emitting units 33 of the third battery retention unit 32-2 among all the battery retention units 32 arranged below the operation panel 34 to light up in a predetermined standby light-emitting mode (for example, a predetermined standby blinking mode) as shown in Fig. 12. When the number of batteries 3 available for loan under the parallel condition or the series condition is zero while the battery replacement unit 200 is in a standby state during business hours, the integrated control device 65 turns off the pairs of light-emitting units 33 of all the battery retention units 32 (the third battery retention unit 32-2, the sixth battery retention unit 32-5, the ninth battery retention unit 32-8, and the twelfth battery retention unit 32-11) arranged below the operation panel 34 as shown in Fig. 13.

[0078] Next, the integrated control device 65 determines whether to continue the loop processing depending on the number of all battery holding units 32 (slots) (step S52). For example, the integrated control device 65 determines whether the determination of lending availability has been completed for all battery holding units 32. If the integrated control device 65 determines to continue the loop processing (YES in step S52), the process returns to step S45. On the other hand, if the integrated control device 65 determines not to continue the loop processing (NO in step S52), the process proceeds to the end.

[0079] As described above, according to the management system (battery sharing service system) 100 of the embodiment, the light emitting unit 33 is illuminated based on the transfer availability information when the battery replacement unit 200 is in a standby state (open for business), thereby making it possible to notify the user of the business state of the battery replacement unit 200. For example, the user can be notified of whether or not the battery replacement unit 200 is available for use by visually checking or confirming the same from a position away from the battery replacement unit 200, without requiring the user to perform an input operation or approach the battery replacement unit 200, thereby improving convenience.

[0080] The user can indirectly or directly ascertain the number of batteries that can be transferred from the degree of light emission of the light-emitting unit 33 or the number of light-emitting units 33 that are emitting light, and can easily determine whether the number of batteries 3 required by the user is met. Since the light-emitting unit 33 is provided in the battery holding unit 32, the user can easily assume that the light-emitting action of the light-emitting unit 33 is an action related to the number of batteries that can be transferred.

[0081] The light-emitting unit 33 can be shared to distinguish between the light-emitting operation for notifying whether the standby battery replacement unit 200 can be used and the other light-emitting operation for indicating the battery holding unit 32 that receives or provides the battery 3. The light-emitting operation for notifying whether the standby battery replacement unit 200 can be used and the other light-emitting operation for indicating the battery holding unit 32 that receives or provides the battery 3 can be easily recognized by the difference in the light-emitting pattern of the light-emitting unit 33.

[0082] The multiple light-emitting units 33, which operate to indicate the availability of the battery replacement unit 200 in a standby state, are positioned near (e.g., below) the operation panel 34, which contributes to guiding the user's line of sight, so that even when visually inspecting or checking from a position distant from the battery replacement unit 200, the user can easily know whether or not the battery replacement unit 200 can be used, thereby improving convenience.

[0083] (Modifications) The following describes modifications of the embodiment. Note that the same parts as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted or simplified. In the above-described embodiment, the integrated control device 65, in the processing of steps S46 to S51, illuminates the light-emitting units 33 in a number that corresponds to or indicates the number of batteries that can be transferred in the predetermined standby light-emitting mode. However, this is not limited to this. For example, the integrated control device 65 may illuminate the light-emitting units 33 in a number that correlates with the number of batteries that can be transferred (e.g., a number proportional to the number of batteries that can be transferred). For example, when the number of batteries 3 that can be rented in parallel is four or more, the integrated control device 65 may illuminate each pair of light-emitting units 33 in the 12 battery holding units 32. For example, when the number of batteries 3 that can be rented in series is two or more, the integrated control device 65 may illuminate each pair of light-emitting units 33 in the six battery holding units 32. For example, when the number of batteries 3 that can be lent out under the serial connection condition is one, the integrated control device 65 may cause each pair of light emitting units 33 of the six battery holding units 32 to emit light.

[0084] In the above-described embodiment, the integrated control device 65, in the processing of steps S46 to S51, causes the light-emitting units 33 to emit light in a number that correlates with the number of items that can be transferred (e.g., a number that matches the number of items that can be transferred), in a predetermined standby light-emitting mode. However, this is not limited to this. For example, in a predetermined standby light-emitting mode, the integrated control device 65 may cause the light-emitting units 33 to emit light at a degree of light that correlates with the number of items that can be transferred. The degree of light emission may be, for example, at least one of the number of light-emitting units 33 that emit light, the amount of light emitted by at least one light-emitting unit 33, the intensity of the color of the emitted light, and the degree of conspicuousness of the light-emitting color.

[0085] In the above-described embodiment, the light emitting unit 33 is provided in the battery holding unit 32, but this is not limitative and the light emitting unit 33 may be provided, for example, in the vicinity of the battery holding unit 32 or the like.

[0086] In the above-described embodiment, at least one of the processes executed by the integrated control device 65 may be executed by a control device provided in the management server device 300 .

[0087] In the above-described embodiment, the network topology (connection form) of the multiple battery exchange devices 1 in the battery exchange unit 200 is a ring type, but this is not limited to this and may be other connection forms such as a line type, a tree type, or a star type.

[0088] In the above-described embodiment, the first battery replacement apparatus 1a is provided with a configuration (e.g., the integrated control device 65, etc.) for collectively controlling all of the battery replacement apparatuses 1 in the battery replacement unit 200. However, this is not limiting. For example, the configuration for collectively controlling all of the battery replacement apparatuses 1 may be provided separately from the battery replacement apparatus 1.

[0089] In the above-described embodiment, the DC / DC converter group 62 includes a plurality of charging DC / DC converters 66-1 and a plurality of charging / discharging DC / DC converters 66-2, but is not limited to this and may include only a plurality of charging DC / DC converters 66-1 or only a plurality of charging / discharging DC / DC converters 66-2.

[0090] In the above-described embodiment, the integrated control device 65 determines whether a user device held by the user is detected by the reading and writing device of the operation panel 34 in the user input detection in step S02, but this is not limiting. For example, the integrated control device 65 may allow the user to directly return the battery 3 to the battery holding unit 32 without or before detecting the user device. The integrated control device 65 may acquire authentication information and installation information from user information associated with identification information such as a battery ID, based on battery information acquired from the battery 3 returned by the user. In this case, the integrated control device 65 may omit the return instruction process (step S06) the first time the loop process from steps S06 to S09 is executed.

[0091] In addition, a program for implementing all or part of the functions of the battery replacement unit 200 and the management server device 300 of the present invention may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded on the recording medium may be loaded into a computer system and executed to perform all or part of the processing performed by the battery replacement unit 200 and the management server device 300. Note that the term "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices. The term "computer system" also includes a WWW system equipped with a website provision environment (or display environment). The term "computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as floppy disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, as well as storage devices such as hard disks built into computer systems. The term "computer-readable recording medium" also includes devices that retain a program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory (RAM) within a computer system that acts as a server or client when the program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line.

[0092] The program may also be transmitted from a computer system storing the program in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves in the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" that transmits the program refers to a medium that has the function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line. The program may also be a program that realizes part of the aforementioned functions. Furthermore, the program may be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can realize the aforementioned functions in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system.

[0093] The embodiments of the present invention are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are intended to be included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims.

[0094] 1...battery exchange device (storage device), 1a...first battery exchange device (information processing device), 10...housing, 32...battery holding section (storage section), 32A...inner wall surface (external surface), 32-2...third battery holding section, 32-5...sixth battery holding section, 32-8...ninth battery holding section, 32-11...twelfth battery holding section), 33...light-emitting section, 34...operation panel (input section, output section, interface section), 64...housing control board, 65...integrated control device, 100...battery sharing service system (management system), 200...battery exchange unit, 300...management server device (information processing device), 400...power device, 500...AC power supply.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a storage device, The storage device comprises a plurality of storage sections for storing articles, and at least one light-emitting section provided on a surface visible from the outside of the storage device. A receiving step of receiving the article from the user of the storage device in the storage unit, or providing the article being stored in the storage unit to the user of the storage device, An acquisition step to acquire transferability information including whether the storage unit can receive the articles from the user, or whether the storage unit can provide the user with the articles stored in the storage unit, or the number of articles that can be received from the user by the storage unit, or the number of articles that the storage unit can provide to the user, which is the number of articles that can be transferred. Based on the transferability information, a light-emitting step is performed to cause the light-emitting unit to emit light. has A control method characterized by the following:

2. The aforementioned transferability information includes the number of transferable items. The light-emitting step involves causing the light-emitting unit to emit light in a degree that correlates with the number of items that can be exchanged. The control method according to feature 1.

3. The at least one light-emitting unit has a plurality of light-emitting units, The aforementioned light-emitting step involves causing the light-emitting unit to emit light in a number that correlates with the number of items that can be exchanged. The control method according to feature 2.

4. The light-emitting step involves emitting light from a number of light-emitting units that matches the number of units that can be exchanged. The control method according to feature 3.

5. The multiple light-emitting units are provided in the multiple storage units, or in the vicinity of the multiple storage units. The control method according to feature 3.

6. Prior to the aforementioned exchange step, the process includes another light-emitting step in which the light-emitting unit is illuminated to indicate that the storage unit is receiving the article or providing the article. The control method according to feature 5.

7. The emission mode of the light-emitting unit in the light-emitting step, To make the light emission mode of the light-emitting unit different from that of the other light emission steps. The control method according to feature 6.

8. The storage device has an interface unit having at least one of an input unit into which information from the user is input, and an output unit into which information for the user is output. When a group of light-emitting units used in the light-emitting step is designated as a specific group of light-emitting units, the specific group of light-emitting units is arranged near the interface unit. The control method according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized by the following:

9. The aforementioned specific light-emitting unit group is arranged on a vertical plane passing through the interface unit. The control method according to feature 8.

10. It is equipped with a control unit that controls the storage device, The storage device comprises a plurality of storage sections for storing articles, and at least one light-emitting section provided on a surface visible from the outside of the storage device. The control unit, The storage unit receives the articles from the user of the storage device, or provides the articles being stored in the storage unit to the user of the storage device. The control unit, The system acquires transferability information including whether the storage unit can receive the articles from the user, whether the storage unit can provide the user with the articles stored in the storage unit, or the number of articles that can be received from the user by the storage unit, or the number of articles stored in the storage unit that can be provided to the user. The control unit, Based on the transferability information, the light-emitting unit is made to emit light. An information processing device characterized by the following:

11. A program to be executed by a computer that controls the storage device, The storage device comprises a plurality of storage sections for storing articles, and at least one light-emitting section provided on a surface visible from the outside of the storage device. To the aforementioned computer, A receiving step of receiving the article from the user of the storage device in the storage unit, or providing the article being stored in the storage unit to the user of the storage device, An acquisition step to acquire transferability information including whether the storage unit can receive the articles from the user, or whether the storage unit can provide the user with the articles stored in the storage unit, or the number of articles that can be received from the user by the storage unit, or the number of articles that the storage unit can provide to the user, which is the number of articles that can be transferred. Based on the transferability information, a light-emitting step is performed to cause the light-emitting unit to emit light. Make it run A program characterized by the following features.

12. The program described in claim 11 is stored. A computer-readable storage device characterized by the following features.