Energy storage information processing method, energy storage information processing device, and computer program

Abstract

In this energy storage information processing method, a computer: acquires capacity deterioration progression data based on a simulation before the start of operation of a system including an energy storage element; derives a system guaranteed deterioration progression with respect to the deterioration progression data; calculates a guaranteed capacity value for a prescribed period from the derived system guaranteed deterioration progression; and outputs the calculated guaranteed capacity value.

Description

Electricity storage information processing method, electricity storage information processing device, and computer program

[0001] The present invention relates to a power storage information processing method, a power storage information processing device, and a computer program.

[0002] The use of energy storage elements is expanding to stabilize and effectively utilize power generated by renewable power generation systems or existing power generation systems. Patent Document 1 discloses a container-type energy storage unit that is installed outdoors. By using an ESS (Energy Storage System; those using storage batteries are called Battery ESS or BESS) that includes such an energy storage unit, it becomes possible to stably supply power generated by the renewable power generation system. Furthermore, in recent years, there has been an expectation that ESSs will be used in energy trading.

[0003] Patent No. 6455282

[0004] An ESS includes a group of energy storage elements called a bank or string, in which a plurality of energy storage cells are connected in series. If, for example, some of the energy storage elements in an ESS deteriorate, the performance of the ESS as a whole may decrease (the storage capacity and discharge capacity may decrease). Therefore, ESS users may request that ESS manufacturers, service providers, and maintenance providers (hereinafter referred to as "providers") guarantee the capacity of the ESS.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an electricity storage information processing method, an electricity storage information processing device, and a computer program that enable capacity guarantee of an electricity storage facility.

[0006] In a storage information processing method according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a computer obtains data on the deterioration progression of capacity based on a simulation of a system including a storage element before the system starts operation, derives a system guaranteed deterioration progression for the deterioration progression data, calculates a guaranteed capacity value for a specified period from the derived system guaranteed deterioration progression, and outputs the calculated guaranteed capacity value.

[0007] According to one aspect of the energy storage information processing method, a system guaranteed deterioration trend is derived from deterioration trend data based on a simulation before operation begins, and a guaranteed capacity value for a specified period is appropriately output from the system guaranteed deterioration trend.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a power storage information processing system. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an information processing device. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an information terminal device. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a container of the power storage system. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an electrical connection configuration of the power storage system. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure executed by the information processing device. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of an output screen for warranty information. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure executed by the information processing device after operation has started. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing another example of an output screen for warranty information. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of an output screen for warranty information.

[0009] First, an outline of the electricity storage information processing method, the electricity storage information processing device, and the computer program will be described.

[0010] (1) A method for processing energy storage information includes a computer acquiring data on the deterioration progression of capacity based on a simulation of a system including an energy storage element before the system is put into operation, deriving a system guaranteed deterioration progression for the deterioration progression data, calculating a guaranteed capacity value for a specified period from the derived system guaranteed deterioration progression, and outputting the calculated guaranteed capacity value.

[0011] In the present disclosure, the energy storage element is preferably a rechargeable battery such as a lithium-ion battery or a lead-acid battery, or a capacitor. The energy storage element may be a storage cell such as a lithium-ion battery, a module in which a plurality of storage cells are connected, a bank in which a plurality of modules are connected, a storage board including a plurality of banks, or a storage unit including a plurality of storage boards.

[0012] The simulation before the start of system operation preferably involves estimating and outputting data on the deterioration of the capacity of the energy storage elements by inputting a load pattern (assumed load pattern) that is expected to be applied to the energy storage elements during system operation, but is not limited to this. The expected load pattern typically includes a time-series power load pattern (charge / discharge pattern), but is not limited to this.

[0013] The capacity may be a storable capacity or a dischargeable capacity of a storage element (e.g., a storage cell). The system guaranteed degradation transition is typically derived (e.g., calculated) to have a predetermined relationship with the degradation transition of the capacity of the storage element, and transitions at a value lower than the degradation transition of the capacity of the storage element, but is not limited thereto.

[0014] The capacity guarantee value is typically calculated based on the progression of system guaranteed deterioration at predetermined intervals (each relatively short time interval relative to the expected life of the entire system, such as every year or every three years), but is not limited to this, and a constant value may be calculated as the guaranteed capacity value over the expected life of the entire system.

[0015] The present applicant possesses technology for determining the capacity degradation of a system including energy storage elements through simulations based on assumed load patterns (see, for example, Patent Nos. 6428957 and 7173180). The present inventors have conceived of applying this simulation technology to the "before service" stage of system proposal in order to realize the capacity guarantee desired by users of energy storage facilities. That is, the present inventors have discovered that, before the system begins operation, appropriate data on the deterioration transition of capacity is obtained based on simulations, a system-guaranteed deterioration transition is derived for the capacity deterioration transition data, and an appropriate guaranteed capacity value can be obtained from the system-guaranteed deterioration transition.

[0016] A capacity guarantee is a promise made by a system provider to a user that the system will deliver the capacity indicated as a guaranteed capacity value for a specified period of time. For example, for users who use ESS in energy trading, it is important that the system delivers the capacity as expected in order to make a profit from the energy trading. Such users have a need to obtain an appropriate capacity guarantee from the provider to prepare for the risk of the capacity not being delivered due to manufacturing variations or abnormal events in the energy storage elements.

[0017] If the guaranteed capacity value is set too high, the provider is more likely to have to replace the storage element free of charge, which will excessively reduce the provider's profits. On the other hand, if the guaranteed capacity value is set too low, some users may feel less secure and satisfied.

[0018] The above configuration (1) allows an appropriate guaranteed capacity value to be presented to the user based on a simulation performed before operation begins, thereby increasing the user's sense of security and satisfaction without excessively reducing the provider's profits. Even after operation begins, both the provider and the user can refer to this guaranteed capacity value calculated before operation begins to help determine preventive maintenance and operational changes (e.g., changes to the charging and discharging frequency and upper and lower voltage limits (operating SOC ranges) of the system (energy storage equipment), changes to the set temperature, and changes to charging and discharging power). After operation begins, events such as updating load equipment to energy-saving models may reduce the discharge power (discharging current) required to drive the load. In such cases, the guaranteed capacity value may be referenced to determine whether to change the charging and discharging power (e.g., to allocate more energy resources to energy trading). The provider can present simulation results during the pre-service stage and propose products and services that best meet the user's needs.

[0019] (2) In the above-described energy storage information processing method (1), the computer may calculate the system guaranteed deterioration progression by subtracting a deterioration capacity corresponding to the environmental temperature of the system based on a simulation performed before the start of operation from the acquired deterioration progression data.

[0020] The environmental temperature may be a predicted temperature of the ambient atmosphere (outside air or air-conditioned ambient atmosphere) of the system. For proper calculation, it is preferable to use a predicted temperature inside the storage panel as the environmental temperature, and may be a predicted temperature of one or more storage elements (such as the worst-temperature cell or module) that are expected to be the hottest depending on their arrangement inside the storage panel.

[0021] The configuration (2) above allows the computer to calculate a guaranteed capacity value for each system that is neither too high nor too low, taking into account the deterioration of the storage elements, which is affected by the actual environmental temperature of each system. At the pre-service stage, the provider can propose optimal products and services according to each user's usage environment (for example, whether the outside temperature is high or low, whether there is an air conditioning system, and whether the container or storage panel is installed indoors or outdoors).

[0022] (3) In the storage information processing method of (1) or (2) above, the computer may calculate the system guaranteed deterioration progression by subtracting a deterioration capacity corresponding to the storage element configuration of the system (e.g., the electrical connection configuration of the storage elements) from the acquired deterioration progression data.

[0023] The inventors have discovered that a guaranteed capacity value that is neither too high nor too low can be calculated by considering the scale of the system and the number and combination of the above-mentioned energy storage cells, energy storage modules, banks, and storage panels. For example, when considering the electrical connection configuration of the energy storage elements, the greater the number of parallel-connected banks and storage panels, the greater the tendency for current variation between the banks, resulting in differences in the rate of capacity degradation of the energy storage elements. In addition, capacity degradation is also affected by manufacturing variations and failure rates of management devices that manage the energy storage elements, such as cell management units (CMUs) and battery management units (BMUs), the number of which increases or decreases depending on the scale of the system.

[0024] The configuration described in (3) above allows the computer to calculate a guaranteed capacity value for each system that is neither too high nor too low, taking into account the deterioration of the storage elements, which is affected by the storage element configuration. By taking into account the inter-bank current variation, which has a particularly large impact in large-scale systems such as ESSs, a more appropriate guaranteed capacity value can be calculated. During the pre-service stage, providers can propose optimal products and services tailored to each user's needs (output voltage, daily charging / discharging power, etc.).

[0025] (4) In any one of the above-mentioned energy storage information processing methods (1) to (3), the computer may output data that visualizes the deterioration progression and / or the system guaranteed deterioration progression, and the progression of the guaranteed capacity value, over time after the start of operation.

[0026] The above configuration (4) allows providers to present visualized, easy-to-understand data at the pre-service stage, enhancing the persuasiveness and reliability of their proposals. Users can smoothly make internal adjustments and decisions by comparing the visualized data (guaranteed capacity data) presented by the provider with their own long-term needs (output voltage over a period of 10 years or more, daily charge / discharge power, etc.). The degradation transition, guaranteed system degradation transition, and guaranteed capacity value may be output simultaneously on a graph, or a portion of them may be output depending on the user's selection, or they may be output in order.

[0027] (5) In any one of the energy storage information processing methods (1) to (4) above, the computer may derive a trend in actual capacity based on measurement data for a system including the energy storage element after operation has begun, and output data that visualizes the derived trend in actual capacity together (for example, superimposed) with at least one of the trend in deterioration, the trend in system guaranteed deterioration, and the trend in the guaranteed capacity value over time after operation has begun.

[0028] The above configuration (5) enables the provider to improve the quality and user satisfaction of not only pre-service but also operation monitoring services (e.g., remote monitoring services, periodic report services, etc.) as part of after-service. For example, by presenting to the user the output (e.g., screen display) of visualized data showing the transition of actual capacity based on measurement data after the start of system operation, together with the predicted degradation transition after the start of operation, the system guaranteed degradation transition derived before and after the start of operation, and / or the guaranteed capacity value calculated before and after the start of operation, the provider can increase the user's confidence in the system operation.

[0029] (6) In any one of the energy storage information processing methods (1) to (5) above, the computer may derive an actual capacity based on measurement data for a system including the energy storage element after operation has begun, and may issue a warning if the derived actual capacity is less than the guaranteed capacity value for the corresponding period (including when it is predicted to be less than the guaranteed capacity value).

[0030] The actual capacity may be derived as a current value, or as a value for a future time (e.g., one month, several months, or one year from now) based on measurement data. The configuration (6) above allows the provider to further enhance its operation monitoring service and increase users' trust in system operation. Upon receiving a warning, the user can be sure that the capacity has fallen below the guaranteed capacity value or is predicted to fall below it, and can receive repairs or service (e.g., advance consultation service) within the guaranteed scope from the provider. The provider can then perform preventive maintenance on the system in a planned manner.

[0031] (7) In the energy storage information processing method of (5) or (6) above, when at least one of repairs, such as adding, replacing, or changing the operation of the energy storage element, is carried out on a system including the energy storage element after operation has started, the computer may acquire data on the deterioration trend of the capacity based on a simulation after the repair is carried out, and output data that visualizes at least one of the deterioration trend and the system guaranteed deterioration trend after the repair is carried out, and the trend of the guaranteed capacity value for the specified period.

[0032] The configuration of (7) above makes it possible to visualize the recovery of the actual capacity and state of health (SOH) of a storage element that has shown a greater-than-expected decline through repairs, and reflect this in the operation monitoring service. In this way, providers can further enhance their operation monitoring services and increase users' trust in system operation.

[0033] (8) The energy storage information processing device includes a processing unit that acquires data on the deterioration progression of capacity based on a simulation conducted before the start of operation of a system including an energy storage element, derives a system guaranteed deterioration progression for the deterioration progression data, calculates a guaranteed capacity value for a specified period from the derived system guaranteed deterioration progression, and outputs the calculated guaranteed capacity value.

[0034] The electricity storage information processing device may be used near a system including the electricity storage element. Alternatively, the electricity storage information processing device may be installed in a remote location away from the system including the electricity storage element, or may be installed overseas. In this case, the electricity storage information processing device can output the calculated guaranteed capacity value to users in the country or region where the system including the electricity storage element is installed.

[0035] (9) The computer program causes the computer to execute a process of acquiring data on the deterioration progression of capacity based on a simulation conducted before the start of operation of a system including a storage element, deriving a system guaranteed deterioration progression for the deterioration progression data, calculating a guaranteed capacity value for a specified period from the derived system guaranteed deterioration progression, and outputting the calculated guaranteed capacity value.

[0036] The computer program may be executed by a server device, a client device, or both. The computer program may be executed by a provider or a user.

[0037] The present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: a power storage information processing system that implements the power storage information processing method of the present disclosure;

[0038] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of an electricity storage information processing system 100. The electricity storage information processing system 100 includes an information processing device 1 (server device) and an information terminal device 2 (client device). The information processing device 1 can present operation and maintenance related information, including information related to capacity guarantee, for an electricity storage system 5 including an electricity storage element to a user or provider of the electricity storage system 5 via the information terminal device 2. As shown on the left side of Fig. 1 , the electricity storage information processing system 100 can present operation and maintenance related information to each user of each electricity storage system 5 for a plurality of electricity storage systems 5 having different configurations.

[0039] In a first example, the power storage system 5 is used in a mega solar power generation system. The power storage system 5 may include a power supply-related device 52 such as a power conditioner in addition to a large number of power storage elements 51. The power generation system using the power storage system 5 may alternatively be a wind power generation system, a hydroelectric power generation system, a biomass power generation system, a geothermal power generation system, or a thermal power generation system. In the first example, the power storage system 5 is charged and discharged on a daily basis.

[0040] In a second example, the power storage system 5 is used in a backup power system (emergency power system) together with a power converter such as a converter or inverter. In the future, backup power systems may be charged and discharged not only during emergencies such as power outages but also on a daily basis to the extent that it does not affect the backup power supply in emergencies. By providing the capacity guarantee service described below to the power storage system 5 that is charged and discharged on a daily basis, user satisfaction can be improved. In a third example (not shown), the power storage system 5 is connected to a power grid (grid interconnection) and used to suppress voltage and frequency fluctuations in the power grid. In a fourth example (not shown), the power storage system 5 is installed on the premises of a power consumer, such as a factory, and used for energy management such as business continuity planning (BCP) measures and peak shifting. In a fifth example (not shown), the power storage system 5 is used for power trading in the electricity market. The power storage system 5 may be used in a combination of the first to fifth applications described above.

[0041] Each power storage system 5 includes a communication device 6 for transmitting the system configuration (electrical connection configuration such as the number of parallel banks, placement of management devices, etc.) and measurement data of the power storage elements 51 to the remote monitoring system 300, or is connected to the communication device 6. The communication device 6 is provided near the system (so-called edge) and sequentially transmits measurement data of the target power storage elements 51 to the remote monitoring system 300. The communication device 6 may be a network interface card.

[0042] The remote monitoring system 300 collects and stores data on the power storage system 5 transmitted from the communication device 6 via the network N. The data on the power storage system 5 includes data on the connection configuration of the power storage elements 51. The remote monitoring system 300 can identify which power storage system 5 the data transmitted from the communication device 6 pertains to, and store the data according to the connection configuration of the power storage elements 51. The data on the power storage system 5 includes measurement data such as the voltage and current values ​​of the power storage elements 51. The remote monitoring system 300 performs predetermined processing on the measurement data, and executes processing such as identifying or estimating the state of the power storage elements 51 included in the power storage system 5, predicting the lifespan of the power storage elements 51 if the current operation is continued, and detecting abnormalities or signs of abnormalities in the power storage system 5 as a whole or in parts thereof.

[0043] If the communication device 6 and the remote monitoring system 300 are not constantly connected via the network N, measurement data for a predetermined period of time stored in the communication device 6 or the BMU may be provided to the remote monitoring system 300 via a storage medium or an information terminal device 2 used by a maintenance worker.

[0044] The customer data management system 400 is a system that stores data of customers (users) of the power storage system 5. The customer data includes data such as a customer ID, a customer name, and the model of the power storage elements 51 that constitute the power storage system 5 of the customer.

[0045] In the electricity storage information processing system 100, the information processing device 1 can be communicatively connected to a remote monitoring system 300 and a customer data management system 400 via a network MN. The information processing device 1 can acquire data related to the electricity storage system 5 from the remote monitoring system 300. The remote monitoring system 300 may be integrated with the information processing device 1. The customer data management system 400 may also be integrated with the information processing device 1.

[0046] In the electricity storage information processing system 100, the information processing device 1 can present information to the information terminal device 2 via the network N. The information terminal device 2 can be used by a sales representative, a maintenance worker, or a user of the electricity storage system 5. The information terminal device 2 can display, on a display unit 23, operation and maintenance related information presented by the information processing device 1 or presented from the remote monitoring system 300.

[0047] The network N is the so-called Internet. The network N may include a carrier network that realizes wireless communication according to a predetermined mobile communication standard. The network N may also include a general optical fiber line.

[0048] The network MN is a local network for a manufacturer or maintenance company of the energy storage element 51. The network MN may be, for example, Ethernet (registered trademark) or an optical fiber line. The network MN may include a virtual private network (VPN) and connect the systems 100, 300, and 400 in different locations as a local network.

[0049] In the electricity storage information processing system 100 configured in this manner, the information processing device 1 can present information about the capacity guarantee of the electricity storage system 5 to the user through the display unit 23 of the information terminal device 2, both at a stage before the decision to introduce the electricity storage system 5 is made (before-service stage) and also during operation of the system after introduction. When data such as the specifications, connection configuration, and expected load pattern of the electricity storage elements 51 in the electricity storage system 5 desired by the user is input using the information terminal device 2, the information processing device 1 performs processing such as deriving an approximate estimate of the capacity of the entire electricity storage system 5 of interest and predicting the progression of capacity degradation over the usage period, and visualizes the data to present it to the information terminal device 2.

[0050] The configuration and processing for realizing such an electricity storage information processing system 100 will be described below.

[0051] 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the information processing device 1. While the information processing device 1 will be described below as a single server computer, it may also be configured as multiple server computers that can communicate with each other, with processing distributed. The information processing device 1 includes a processing unit 10, a storage unit 11, and a communication unit 12.

[0052] The processing unit 10 is a processor using a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and / or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The processing unit 10 executes processing based on an information processing program P1 stored in the storage unit 11.

[0053] The storage unit 11 uses a nonvolatile memory such as a hard disk, flash memory, or SSD (Solid State Drive). The storage unit 11 stores data referenced by the processing unit 10. The storage unit 11 stores a web server program and an information processing program P1. Using the information processing program P1, the processing unit 10 diagnoses, predicts the lifespan, and predicts the deterioration progression of the energy storage elements 51 of the target energy storage system 5, as described below, and also creates information related to the capacity guarantee of the energy storage system 5. Using the web server program, the processing unit 10 presents information related to the above-mentioned diagnosis, lifespan prediction, deterioration progression prediction, and capacity guarantee to the information terminal device 2 via a web page, and also performs a web server function of accepting information from a user.

[0054] The information processing program P1 stored in the storage unit 11 may be an information processing program P9 stored in the storage medium 9 that has been read by the processing unit 10 and copied to the storage unit 11. The information processing program P1 may also be downloaded from another program server device via the communication unit 12 and stored therein.

[0055] The communication unit 12 is a communication device compatible with the network MN and the network N. The processing unit 10 can be connected to the remote monitoring system 300 and the customer data management system 400 connected to the network MN via the communication unit 12. The processing unit 10 may be able to read data from a production management system at a manufacturer via the network MN via the communication unit 12.

[0056] 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the information terminal device 2. The information terminal device 2 is a computer operated by a sales representative or maintenance worker of a manufacturer, or a user (system administrator or customer) of the power storage system 5. The information terminal device 2 may be a desktop or laptop personal computer, a tablet terminal, or a smartphone.

[0057] The information terminal device 2 includes a processing unit 20 , a storage unit 21 , a communication unit 22 , a display unit 23 , and an operation unit 24 .

[0058] The processing unit 20 is a CPU or a GPU. The storage unit 21 uses a non-volatile memory such as a hard disk, flash memory, or SSD. The storage unit 21 stores data referenced by the processing unit 20. The storage unit 21 stores a web browser program. The processing unit 20 executes the web browser program and logs in to a web server provided by the information processing device 1 using an account assigned to the person operating the information terminal device 2. The processing unit 20 enables the general-purpose information terminal device 2 to be used as an information display device for each operator, depending on whether the account belongs to a sales representative, a maintenance worker, or a user.

[0059] The communication unit 22 is a communication device that realizes a communication connection with the network N. The communication unit 22 enables the processing unit 20 to communicate with the information processing device 1.

[0060] The display unit 23 is a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. The display unit 23 may be a display with a built-in touch panel. The operation unit 24 is a user interface such as a mouse and keyboard that can input and output data to and from the processing unit 20. The operation unit 24 may be a touch panel built into the display unit 23. The operation unit 24 may be a voice input unit.

[0061] In the energy storage information processing system 100 configured in this manner, we will explain the process of predicting the deterioration progression of capacity for the energy storage system 5 before purchase, the energy storage system 5 before construction, and the energy storage system 5 after operation has begun, and visualizing and presenting warranty information based on the predicted deterioration progression.

[0062] [Simulation before operation begins] First, in order to predict the progression of deterioration, it is necessary to provisionally set configuration information for the power storage system 5 before the customer decides to purchase. A sales representative estimates the type of power storage elements 51, the number of power storage elements 51, the number of power storage elements 51 in series, and the number of power storage elements 51 in parallel, based on the amount of power storage capacity required by the customer. Upon receiving input of the estimated configuration data for the power storage system 5 and the expected load pattern data, the information processing device 1 predicts the progression of deterioration of the entire power storage system 5 using a predetermined algorithm. This prediction of the progression of deterioration may alternatively be executed by an analysis unit of the customer data management system 400 or the remote monitoring system 300.

[0063] The configuration data of the power storage system 5 is described, for example, as the number of banks including a plurality of power storage modules connected in series, each of which is configured by connecting a plurality of power storage cells in series. The number of power storage modules included in the bank or the number of power storage cells included in the power storage module may be described as data on the bank in the configuration data. The configuration data may also describe data on a power storage panel or domain configured by arranging banks in parallel.

[0064] Fig. 4 shows an example of the configuration of the container C of the power storage system 5, and Fig. 5 shows an example of the electrical connection configuration of the power storage system 5. Fig. 5 shows the electrical connection configuration of one power storage board included in the power storage system 5.

[0065] The power storage system 5 shown in FIG. 4 includes multiple (e.g., nine) power storage panels housed in a container C. Although not shown, the container C may be omitted and the power storage system 5 may be configured by installing multiple power storage panels outdoors. Each power storage panel may include, for example, three banks. When a low output voltage is required (when fewer power storage modules need to be connected in series), the power storage panel may include, for example, six banks. Each of banks #1, #2, and #3 shown in FIG. 5 is provided with a bank management device 53. The power storage system 5 includes a domain management device M that collects data from the bank management device 53. The domain management device M is connected to a communication device 6. The domain management device M and the communication device 6 may be housed in a control panel built into the container C, separate from the power storage panels. The communication device 6 securely transmits data to the remote monitoring system 300 (see FIG. 1) via a wireless or wired connection.

[0066] 4 and 5 includes, for example, the number of power storage boards, the number of banks included in each power storage board, the number of power storage modules included in each bank, and the model number of each power storage module from the manufacturer. When the power storage system 5 is configured to include a plurality of containers C, the configuration data may include the number of containers C.

[0067] When the information processing device 1 of the power storage information processing system 100 receives configuration data and expected load pattern data of the power storage system 5 before operation begins (for example, before the system is constructed), it executes a simulation of the deterioration progression of the power storage system 5 and creates a web page showing warranty information based on the results. Alternatively, the remote monitoring system 300 may execute the simulation, and the information processing device 1 may acquire the results. The web page showing warranty information may be replaced with document data.

[0068] The following describes visualization of warranty information and output of visualized data by the information processing device 1. Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure executed by the information processing device 1. When a request to output warranty information is received from a sales representative or an information terminal device 2 logged in with a user account, the processing unit 10 of the information processing device 1 executes the following processing.

[0069] The processing unit 10 receives configuration data of the power storage system 5 to be simulated from the information terminal device 2 (step S101). Based on the received configuration data, the processing unit 10 identifies a product in which the storage element 51 to be used is used (step S102). The processing unit 10 calculates the deterioration progression of the cells in the storage element 51 included in the identified product using an assumed load pattern and an assumed operating temperature separately obtained (step S103). For example, the processing unit 10 may identify the model number of the power storage module in step S102 and calculate the deterioration progression of the cells (storage cells) included in the power storage module. The processing unit 10 may also identify the model number of the power storage panel in step S102 and calculate the deterioration progression of the bank included in the power storage panel. In step S103, the processing unit 10 may read the deterioration progression corresponding to the model number of the power storage module from a database of a manufacturer, such as a production management system.

[0070] The processing unit 10 uses the deterioration transition of the battery cells calculated in step S103 to predict the capacity deterioration transition of the power storage system 5 corresponding to the configuration data received in step S101 (step S104). The capacity deterioration transition may be output and displayed as a capacity deterioration curve. A known method may be appropriately adopted as a method for deriving the capacity deterioration transition in step S104.

[0071] The processing unit 10 calculates a system guaranteed deterioration transition based on the predicted deterioration transition of the capacity of the entire system (step S105). In step S105, the processing unit 10 specifies a deterioration capacity (margin) that is expected to be subtracted from the capacity deterioration transition of step S104, the deterioration capacity corresponding to predicted temperature data (for example, temperature data of the worst temperature cell) in the power storage panel of the power storage system 5, the number of banks, the number of power storage panels, etc., and calculates the system guaranteed deterioration transition by subtracting the specified margin from the capacity deterioration transition of step S104.

[0072] The processing unit 10 calculates the guaranteed capacity value for each predetermined period (1 year, 3 years, etc.) into which the expected life of the entire system is divided, based on the calculated transition of guaranteed deterioration of the system (step S106). Depending on the situation, the processing unit 10 may compare the guaranteed capacity value with a charge / discharge test (capacity confirmation test) conducted on-site (in the vicinity of the power storage system 5).

[0073] The processing unit 10 stores the received configuration data, capacity degradation transition, system guarantee degradation transition, and guaranteed capacity value data for each predetermined period in association with data identifying the guarantee information output request (step S107).

[0074] The processing unit 10 creates a plot (data points) showing the capacity degradation transition predicted in step S104 from the planned operation start date, and a plot showing the guaranteed capacity value calculated in step S106 from the planned operation start date (step S108). The processing unit 10 creates a web page including a graph based on the created plot (step S109), outputs the created web page data (step S110), and ends the process.

[0075] 7 shows an example of a warranty information output screen 230. The output screen 230 in FIG. 7 is displayed on the display unit 23 based on the data of the web page that the information terminal device 2 acquires from the information processing device 1.

[0076] The output screen 230 includes a graph 231 that combines a curve showing the change in capacity degradation of the entire system with a curve showing the change in the guaranteed capacity value. The graph 231 shows the passage of time in years since the start of operation on the horizontal axis, and the capacity of the power storage system 5 that is the target of the simulation on the vertical axis. The output screen 230 in Fig. 7 shows the change in capacity degradation with a double line, the change in system guaranteed degradation with a dashed dotted line, and the guaranteed capacity value with a thick solid line.

[0077] 7 , the system guaranteed degradation transition curve is calculated by subtracting a margin from the capacity degradation transition curve. As described above, the margin is calculated in consideration of predicted temperature data in the power storage board of the power storage system 5 to be simulated and inter-bank current variations depending on the number of banks and the number of power storage boards.

[0078] 7, the curve (thick stepped curve) showing the guaranteed capacity value is derived so that the capacity value at the intersection of the system guaranteed degradation transition curve and the end (last day of the interval) of each predetermined period (e.g., one year) is the guaranteed capacity value for each predetermined period. As such, the curve showing the guaranteed capacity value preferably has a shape that follows the system guaranteed degradation transition curve, and more preferably has a shape that follows the system guaranteed degradation curve (moves below the curve) without exceeding it.

[0079] The output screen 230 in FIG. 7 is output to the display unit 23 of the information terminal device 2 based on the operation of the sales representative. This allows the user to intuitively grasp predicted information on how the power storage system 5 will deteriorate in the future as the system is operated, and information on the amount of capacity guaranteed by the provider in relation to that deterioration. In the output screen 230 in FIG. 7 , the guaranteed capacity value is set high at the beginning of operation, which is more consistent with the expectations of the customer (user). The customer can smoothly make internal adjustments and decision-making by comparing the visualized data (capacity guarantee data) presented by the provider with their own long-term needs (such as output voltage over a period of 10 years or more, daily charge / discharge power amount, etc.).

[0080] [Presenting Warranty Information After Operation Starts] When the power storage system 5 starts operation, the remote monitoring system 300 (see FIG. 1 ) monitors the power storage system 5. The remote monitoring system 300 remotely acquires measurement data such as the voltage, current, and temperature of the power storage elements 51 via the network N via the communication equipment 6 included in the power storage system 5 and stores the data sequentially. The remote monitoring system 300 periodically, or in response to a request from a system administrator, performs a health status diagnosis and lifespan prediction of the entire system based on the acquired measurement data, and outputs the execution results to the information terminal device 2. As a health status diagnosis, the remote monitoring system 300 diagnoses whether there are any abnormalities or signs of abnormalities, and also performs processing to confirm whether the power storage system 5 is being operated within the performance range estimated before or at the time of operation start.

[0081] Even after the start of operation, the information processing device 1 can update the deterioration transition and the transition of the guaranteed capacity value by estimating the capacity of the entire system using a predetermined algorithm based on the measurement data of the power storage system 5.

[0082] 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure executed by the information processing device 1 after the start of operation. The processing unit 10 of the information processing device 1 executes the following processing when a time equivalent to a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of operation.

[0083] The processing unit 10 receives identification data of the power storage system 5 in operation from the information terminal device 2 (step S201). Using the received identification data, the processing unit 10 acquires configuration data of the power storage system 5 identified by the identification data from the remote monitoring system 300 or the customer data management system 400 (step S202).

[0084] The processing unit 10 derives the storage capacity (actual capacity) of the entire power storage system 5 based on the acquired configuration data and the measurement data for the power storage system 5 (step S203). In step S203, the processing unit 10 may read out the result of derivation of the state of health (SOH: State of Health, the ratio of the current fully charged capacity to the fully charged capacity when new; capacity maintenance rate) periodically performed by the remote monitoring system 300. In step S203, the processing unit 10 may estimate the storage capacity from the measurement data acquired by the remote monitoring system 300.

[0085] The processing unit 10 acquires temperature measurement data of the power storage system 5 in operation from the remote monitoring system 300 (step S204). In step S204, the processing unit 10 may acquire temperature data for each season inside the container C, or may acquire temperature data for each power storage panel or each power storage module.

[0086] The processing unit 10 stores the derived storage capacity (actual capacity) and temperature measurement data in association with the identification data and date and time information acquired in step S201 (step S205).

[0087] The processing unit 10 determines whether the calculated storage capacity is equal to or greater than the current guaranteed capacity value (step S206). If it is determined in step S206 that the storage capacity is equal to or greater than the guaranteed capacity value (S206: YES), the processing unit 10 proceeds to step S207.

[0088] The processing unit 10 predicts the transition of capacity deterioration from the present time of the power storage system 5 based on the transition of the actual capacity from the start of operation to the present time (step S207). As a method for predicting the transition of capacity deterioration in step S207, a known method or the like may be adopted, similar to step S104 of the processing procedure shown in FIG.

[0089] The processing unit 10 calculates a system guaranteed deterioration transition from the current time based on the capacity deterioration transition of the entire system predicted in step S207 (step S208). In step S208, the processing unit 10 may predict the system guaranteed deterioration transition by specifying a margin corresponding to the temperature data acquired in step S204, the number of banks, the number of power storage panels, etc., from the capacity deterioration transition derived in step S207, and subtracting the specified margin.

[0090] The processing unit 10 calculates the transition of the guaranteed capacity value for each predetermined period (1 year, 3 years, etc.) that divides the expected life of the entire system from the transition of the guaranteed deterioration of the system calculated in step S208 (step S209).

[0091] The processing unit 10 creates a graph that visualizes a plot showing the deterioration trend of the actual capacity from the start of operation to the present time, a plot showing the deterioration trend of the system guaranteed capacity from the present time calculated in step S207, and a plot showing the guaranteed capacity value for each specified period (step S210).

[0092] The processing unit 10 creates a Web page including the created graph (step S211), outputs the data of the created Web page (step S212), and ends the process.

[0093] In step S207, if the reduction in actual capacity can be suppressed by performing some repair (replacement, addition, temperature adjustment) in the subsequent operation, the processing unit 10 may predict the progress of capacity deterioration when the repair is performed before or after step S210. In this case, in step S210, the processing unit 10 creates the details of the repair and a graph of the progress of capacity deterioration when the repair is performed.

[0094] If it is determined in step S206 that the storage capacity (actual capacity) is less than the guaranteed capacity value (S206: NO), the processing unit 10 notifies the information terminal device 2 of the user who is the system administrator and the information terminal device 2 of the provider of the deterioration (step S213). In step S213, the processing unit 10 may send an email, a message, or the like, or may display a screen notifying the deterioration on a web page. The processing unit 10 creates a graph including a plot of the transition of the storage capacity up to the point in time when the storage capacity (actual capacity) of the power storage system 5 fell below the guaranteed capacity value and a plot of the guaranteed capacity value at that time (S214), and proceeds to step S211.

[0095] The processing procedure shown in FIG. 8 makes it possible to properly grasp the current state using actual capacity and measured temperature data based on measurement data after the system has started operation, and to make future predictions based on that data and compare them with guaranteed capacity values.

[0096] 9 shows another example of the warranty information output screen 232. The output screen 232 in FIG. 9 is displayed on the display unit 23 based on the data of the web page that the information terminal device 2 acquires from the information processing device 1.

[0097] The output screen 232 after the start of operation includes a graph 233 that combines a curve showing the change in capacity deterioration and a curve showing the change in the guaranteed capacity value. The graph 233 shows the passage of time in years since the start of operation on the horizontal axis, and the capacity of the power storage system 5 that is the target of the simulation on the vertical axis.

[0098] 9 shows the predicted change in capacity degradation calculated after three years using a double line. The output screen 232 also shows the predicted change in capacity degradation at the start of operation using a double dashed line, and as shown in the enlarged view in the figure, the predicted change in system guaranteed degradation at the start of operation using a thinner two-dot chain line, and the predicted guaranteed capacity value at the start of operation using a thinner line.

[0099] In the output screen 232 of FIG. 9 , the capacity deterioration trend (double line) newly predicted after three years by executing the processing procedure shown in FIG. 8 is decreasing year by year compared to the capacity deterioration trend (double dashed line) predicted at the start of operation.

[0100] In such a case, it is considered that the progression of deterioration can be suppressed by changing the operation method (for example, adjusting the temperature). In Fig. 9, the double dashed dotted line shows the progression of capacity deterioration when the temperature setting inside the container C is repaired to alleviate deterioration compared to the case indicated by the double dashed line (for example, when the operation method is changed from 25 degrees (°C) set at the beginning of operation to maintaining it at 24 degrees). As shown by this double dashed dotted line, it is possible to prompt the user or system administrator to change the operation method of the power storage system 5.

[0101] 10 shows another example of the warranty information output screen 234. The output screen 234 of Fig. 10 is displayed on the display unit 23 based on the data of the web page that the information terminal device 2 acquires from the information processing device 1.

[0102] The output screen 234 shown in Fig. 10 includes a degradation notification message. Other elements of the output screen 234 are the same as those in Fig. 9. The output screen 234 in Fig. 10 includes a graph 235 that displays the progress of the actual capacity, the progress of the guaranteed capacity value, and a notification message. The notification message allows the user to intuitively understand that the actual capacity has decreased more than expected and fallen below the guaranteed capacity value.

[0103] The embodiments disclosed above are illustrative in all respects and are not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, and includes all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0104] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 100 Electricity storage information processing system 1 Information processing device (electricity storage information processing device) 10 Processing unit 11 Storage unit P1 Information processing program (computer program) 2 Information terminal device 23 Display unit 230, 232, 234 Output screen

Claims

1. A computer acquires data on the deterioration transition of the capacity based on a pre-operation simulation of a system including a power storage element, derives a system-guaranteed deterioration transition for the data on the deterioration transition, calculates a guaranteed capacity value for a predetermined period from the derived system-guaranteed deterioration transition, and outputs the calculated guaranteed capacity value. A power storage information processing method.

2. The computer calculates the system-guaranteed deterioration transition by subtracting the deterioration capacity corresponding to the environmental temperature of the system based on the pre-operation simulation from the acquired data on the deterioration transition. The power storage information processing method according to claim 1.

3. The computer calculates the system-guaranteed deterioration transition by subtracting the deterioration capacity corresponding to the power storage element configuration of the system from the acquired data on the deterioration transition. The power storage information processing method according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The computer outputs data for visualizing the transition of at least one of the deterioration transition and the system-guaranteed deterioration transition, and the transition of the guaranteed capacity value with respect to the passage of time after the start of operation. The power storage information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The computer derives the transition of the actual capacity based on the measurement data of the system including the power storage element after the start of operation, and outputs data for visualizing the derived transition of the actual capacity together with at least one of the deterioration transition, the system-guaranteed deterioration transition, and the transition of the guaranteed capacity value with respect to the passage of time after the start of operation. The power storage information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The computer derives the actual capacity based on the measurement data of the system including the power storage element after the start of operation, and notifies a warning when the derived actual capacity is less than the guaranteed capacity value for the corresponding period. The power storage information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. For the system including the energy storage element after the start of operation, when at least any one of repairs such as addition, replacement, and operation change of the energy storage element is carried out, the computer executes data acquisition of the deterioration transition of the capacity based on the simulation after the implementation of the repair, and outputs data for visualizing at least any one of the deterioration transition after the implementation of the repair and the system guaranteed deterioration transition, and the transition of the guaranteed capacity value during the predetermined period. The energy storage information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The guaranteed capacity value is output as a stepped curve. The energy storage information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The guaranteed capacity value is output as a curve along the system guaranteed deterioration transition. The energy storage information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The guaranteed capacity value is output as a curve that does not exceed the system guaranteed deterioration transition. The energy storage information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. An energy storage information processing apparatus including a processing unit that executes a process of acquiring data on the deterioration transition of the capacity based on a simulation before the start of operation of a system including an energy storage element, deriving a system guaranteed deterioration transition for the data on the deterioration transition, calculating a guaranteed capacity value for a predetermined period from the derived system guaranteed deterioration transition, and outputting the calculated guaranteed capacity value.

12. A computer program that causes a computer to execute a process of acquiring data on the deterioration transition of the capacity based on a simulation before the start of operation of a system including an energy storage element, deriving a system guaranteed deterioration transition for the data on the deterioration transition, calculating a guaranteed capacity value for a predetermined period from the derived system guaranteed deterioration transition, and outputting the calculated guaranteed capacity value.

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