Battery information output method, battery information output device, and computer program

Abstract

This battery information output method causes a computer to: receive input of a battery type of a target lead-acid battery by using a warranty table that stores data of at least one of a warranty period and a warranty distance of a lead-acid battery according to the battery type of the lead-acid battery; refer to the warranty table from the battery type; and output at least one of the warranty period and the warranty distance of the target lead-acid battery.

Description

Battery Information Output Method, Battery Information Output Device, and Computer Program

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery information output method, a battery information output device, and a computer program for a lead-acid battery.

[0002] Since lead-acid batteries used in mobile bodies such as vehicles and industrial equipment such as uninterruptible power supply devices are power supply sources for various electronic devices, unexpected malfunction may directly lead to power supply interruption. Therefore, when a lead-acid battery is suspected of malfunction, it is brought to a sales store or a maintenance service provider.

[0003] When there is a malfunction, if it is within the compensation period, the function can be restored early by replacement, so the user hopes for replacement, but it is necessary to confirm whether it is within the compensation period. By registering the information with the compensation service of the lead-acid battery manufacturer at the time of purchase, it becomes easier to determine whether it is within the compensation period.

[0004] Patent Document 1 describes registering the model number of a stationary battery unit in which a plurality of storage batteries are unitized and the maintenance target period of the battery unit in a system for evaluating performance in relation to the maintenance management of the stationary battery unit.

[0005] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-011366

[0006] Unlike the stationary battery unit disclosed in Patent Document 1, the compensation period of a lead-acid battery mounted on industrial equipment varies depending not only on the device itself but also on the type, grade, and usage environment of the industrial equipment. Even for lead-acid batteries of the same model number, the compensation period varies depending on the usage method of the industrial equipment on which the lead-acid battery is mounted. It is difficult for sales stores or maintenance service providers to accurately grasp these differences in compensation periods. Furthermore, it may vary depending on the time of sale, and even just determining whether it is within the compensation period is very complicated.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a battery information output method, a battery information output device, and a computer program for a lead-acid battery used by a sales store or a maintenance service provider.

[0008] A battery information output method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure involves a computer that uses a compensation table that stores data for at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of a lead-acid battery corresponding to the battery type of the lead-acid battery, receives input of the battery type of a target lead-acid battery, refers to the compensation table based on the battery type, and outputs at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of the target lead-acid battery.

[0009] This is a schematic diagram of the service system for lead-acid batteries in this embodiment. This is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the server device. This shows an example of the contents of the compensation table. This is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the client device. This is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure in the service system. This is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure in the service system. This is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure in the service system. This is a diagram showing an example of an input screen. This is a diagram showing another example of an input screen. This is a diagram showing another example of an input screen. This is a diagram showing another example of an input screen. This is a diagram showing another example of an input screen. This is a diagram showing another example of an input screen. This is a diagram showing another example of an input screen. This is a diagram showing another example of an input screen.

[0010] First, an overview of the battery information output method, battery information output device, and computer program disclosed herein will be described.

[0011] (1) The battery information output method involves a computer using a compensation table that stores data for at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of a lead-acid battery corresponding to the battery type of the lead-acid battery, receiving input of the battery type of the target lead-acid battery, referring to the compensation table from the battery type, and outputting at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of the target lead-acid battery.

[0012] The lead-acid batteries covered by the battery information output method of this disclosure are not limited to those mounted in vehicles, but may also be mounted on mobile devices such as agricultural machinery, forklifts, ships, and small airplanes. Lead-acid batteries may also be mounted on industrial equipment such as emergency power supplies, uninterruptible power supplies, lighting equipment, communication equipment, and measuring instruments.

[0013] Even lead-acid batteries manufactured by the same company have numerous variations, which are distinguished by the type of vehicle or equipment they are installed in. Determining the warranty period or mileage for these variations is difficult even for dealers or maintenance providers. In cases where a vehicle or equipment equipped with a lead-acid battery fails to start, such as when the engine or motor fails to start, the user or agent brings the lead-acid battery itself or the vehicle or equipment to the lead-acid battery dealer or maintenance provider. In this case, determining whether the lead-acid battery is within its warranty period or mileage is difficult due to the numerous variations mentioned above. However, since the warranty period or mileage is automatically output, it becomes easy to determine these and take appropriate action accordingly.

[0014] (2) In the battery information output method described in (1) above, the compensation table may distinguish between the battery type and the type of vehicle or equipment on which the lead-acid battery is installed, and store at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of the lead-acid battery. The computer may receive the type of vehicle or equipment on which the target lead-acid battery is installed, refer to the compensation table based on the battery type and the type of vehicle or equipment, and output at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of the target lead-acid battery.

[0015] With the above configuration, when specifications related to the depletion of lead-acid batteries differ, such as not only the battery type but also the size of the vehicle or equipment, and whether or not it has an idle stop system, it is possible to appropriately determine whether the lead-acid battery in question is within the scope of the warranty period or warranty distance by setting either a warranty period or warranty distance separately for these differences.

[0016] (3) In the battery information output method described in (1) or (2) above, the type of vehicle or equipment may be distinguished by four-wheeled vehicle, two-wheeled vehicle, presence or absence of idle stop specification, battery specifications, forklift, and agricultural machinery.

[0017] With the above configuration, it is possible to appropriately determine whether the battery is within the warranty period or warranty distance, depending on the specifications related to the consumption of the lead-acid battery, such as whether it is a four-wheeled vehicle, a two-wheeled vehicle, whether or not it has an idle stop system, battery standards (JIS or EN), agricultural machinery, and the type of vehicle such as a forklift.

[0018] (4) In any one of the battery information output methods described in (1) to (3) above, the computer may output a list of battery types that distinguish the type of vehicle or equipment on which the lead-acid battery is installed, and may accept input of the battery type of the target lead-acid battery by selection from the list.

[0019] With the above configuration, a wide variety of battery types and combinations of vehicle or equipment specifications can be easily set by selecting from a list.

[0020] (5) In any one of the battery information output methods described in (1) to (4) above, the computer may receive input of a set of the start date of use and the date of failure of the target lead-acid battery, or a set of the mileage at the start of use and the mileage at the time of failure, calculate the period from the start of use of the target lead-acid battery based on the set of the start date of use and the date of failure of the target lead-acid battery, or the mileage based on the set of the mileage at the start of use and the mileage at the time of failure, determine whether the period from the start of use is within the compensation period read from the compensation table, or whether the mileage is within the compensation distance, and output the determination result.

[0021] With the above configuration, if the lead-acid battery in question is determined to need replacement through a claim process, information will also be output regarding whether the replacement is covered under warranty and free of charge. This reduces the possibility of operators mistakenly offering users a free battery replacement. It also enables appropriate suggestions based on the usage period.

[0022] (6) The battery information output device includes a storage unit that stores a compensation table which stores data for at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of a lead-acid battery according to the battery type of the lead-acid battery, and a processing unit that receives input of the battery type of the target lead-acid battery, refers to the compensation table based on the battery type, and outputs at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of the target lead-acid battery.

[0023] (7) The computer program uses a compensation table that stores data for at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of the lead-acid battery corresponding to the battery type of the lead-acid battery to receive input of the battery type of the target lead-acid battery, refers to the compensation table based on the battery type, and executes a process to output at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of the target lead-acid battery.

[0024] The battery information output method, battery information output device, and computer program of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings illustrating their embodiments. Hereinafter, a method for presenting the warranty period for a lead-acid battery will be described using as an example a service system for handling claims related to lead-acid batteries used by businesses that perform maintenance such as inspection or repair of lead-acid batteries.

[0025] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the service system 100 for lead-acid batteries according to this embodiment. The service system 100 supports the work of workers by outputting a judgment procedure when a lead-acid battery dealer or maintenance company receives a complaint from a user or agent regarding a lead-acid battery, and enables the digitization of work records for complaints. The service system 100 also makes it possible to share work records from lead-acid battery dealers or maintenance companies with lead-acid battery manufacturers.

[0026] The service system 100 includes a server device (battery information output device) 1 managed by the lead-acid battery manufacturer and a plurality of client devices 2 used at various locations of lead-acid battery retailers or maintenance operators. Data can be sent and received between the server device 1 and the client devices 2 via a network N. Network N includes network N1, which is the manufacturer's local network or dedicated line. Network N may also include a public communication network N2, which is the so-called Internet, and a carrier network N3.

[0027] Workers at dealerships or maintenance businesses receive complaints from users or agents regarding defects in lead-acid batteries. Using client device 2, workers access server device 1 and input information about the lead-acid battery brought in with the complaint, as well as information about the vehicle or equipment in which the battery was installed. This allows them to receive support through a web application provided by server device 1. Traditionally, upon receiving a complaint, workers would fill out a paper form, record measurement results using a tester or visual inspection results, and take appropriate action based on the judgment. In contrast, with the service system 100 of this embodiment, workers are generally not required to use paper forms. By inputting information into the web application screen provided by server device 1, workers receive instructions on how to handle the complaint and judgment results regarding the lead-acid battery's condition, enabling them to create a work record.

[0028] The following describes the configuration and processing procedures of the service system 100 of this embodiment, which enables support for workers' tasks and the digitization of work records.

[0029] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of server device 1. Server device 1 is a server computer or a personal computer. In the following description, server device 1 will be described as being composed of a single server computer, but it may also be configured with multiple server computers connected via a network for distributed processing.

[0030] The server device 1 comprises a processing unit 10, a storage unit 11, and a communication unit 12. The processing unit 10 uses one of the following processors: a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and an NPU (Neural Processing Unit). The processing unit 10 incorporates and uses memory, which is a temporary storage medium, such as SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) or DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory). Based on the battery information output program P1 stored in the storage unit 11, the processing unit 10 executes a process to output information about the lead-acid battery to the client device 2.

[0031] The storage unit 11 uses non-volatile memory such as a hard disk, flash memory, or SSD (Solid State Drive). The storage unit 11 stores data that the processing unit 10 references. The storage unit 11 stores the battery information output program P1 (program product). The battery information output program P1 may be a copy of the battery information output program P9 stored in the storage medium 9, read by the processing unit 10 and stored in the storage unit 11. The battery information output program P1 may also be a program downloaded from a device by another program server via the communication unit 12 and stored.

[0032] The memory unit 11 stores a malfunction determination flow according to the type of lead-acid battery and the type of vehicle or equipment in which the lead-acid battery was installed. The memory unit 11 also stores a compensation table 111 that stores compensation period data according to the type of lead-acid battery and the type of vehicle or equipment in which the lead-acid battery was installed. Here, the type of lead-acid battery is distinguished by its model number. Based on the model number, sealed type (VRLA (Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid), also called sealed battery) and liquid type (also called vented battery) can be distinguished. The type of vehicle or equipment is divided into whether it is a vehicle, agricultural machinery, or a ship. If it is equipment and not a vehicle, the type of equipment is divided into emergency power supply, uninterruptible power supply, lighting equipment, communication equipment, and measuring equipment. Even if the object in which it is installed is a vehicle, the type of vehicle is divided into whether it is a two-wheeled vehicle, a four-wheeled vehicle, an idling stop (IS) specification, a battery standard (JIS or EN), or a forklift, etc. The types of vehicles or equipment are not limited to these. The types of equipment in which the lead-acid battery in question was installed may also be categorized by the vehicle manufacturer.

[0033] The memory unit 11 stores account data for workers of a retail store or maintenance business. The worker's account data includes an account ID, the name of the retail store or maintenance business, regional data identifying the location of the store or business, and contact data such as a telephone number and email address.

[0034] The storage unit 11 stores the lead-acid battery's serial number, the lead-acid battery's condition, and information about the vehicle or equipment in which it is installed in the claim database 112, in association with the identification data (document ID) of the document recording the claim for the lead-acid battery. The claim database 112 may be stored in an external storage device and be readable and writable by the processing unit 10.

[0035] The communication unit 12 enables communication with the client device 2 via the network N. Specifically, the communication unit 12 is a network card. The communication unit 12 may be a wireless communication device connected to a carrier network N3, or a wireless communication device for Wi-Fi. The processing unit 10 can send and receive data with the client device 2 via the communication unit 12.

[0036] Figure 3 shows an example of the contents of compensation table 111. Compensation table 111 stores the compensation period and compensation distance, corresponding to the battery model registered by the lead-acid battery manufacturer and the type of vehicle or equipment to which the lead-acid battery is installed. When a new battery model is manufactured, the compensation period and compensation distance are added for the new battery model. Even for the same battery model, different compensation periods and compensation distances may be added, corresponding to the version, shipping period, or usage period.

[0037] In the example of compensation table 111 in Figure 3, it is recorded that a lead-acid battery with model name "ABC-001-001" for four-wheeled vehicles is a VRLA. For this lead-acid battery with model name "ABC-001-001", if the vehicle it was installed in was an "idling stop (IS) vehicle", a compensation period of "24 months" and a compensation distance of "40,000 km" are recorded. For lead-acid batteries with the same model name, if the vehicle it was installed in was a "four-wheeled vehicle (standard vehicle)", a compensation period of "36 months" and a compensation distance of "100,000 km" are recorded. If the vehicle it was installed in was a "charge control vehicle", a compensation period of "36 months" and a compensation distance of "60,000 km" are recorded. If different compensation periods and distances are set depending on the time of use, that is, whether it is an old or new lead-acid battery, it would be good to store corresponding records as well.

[0038] Similarly, the lead-acid battery with model name "EFG-002-001" for hybrid vehicles is also recorded as VRLA. For the lead-acid battery with model name "EFG-002-001", a warranty period of "36 months" and a warranty distance of "60,000 km" are recorded. If, at the time a claim is received, the usage period of the lead-acid battery in question includes a period further than the specified period, i.e., if it has been in use for a long time, the warranty period and warranty distance may not be the same and may be set to be shorter.

[0039] Similarly, the lead-acid battery with model name "XYZ-040-001" for large vehicles is stored as being liquid-type. For the lead-acid battery with model name "XYZ-040-001" for large vehicles, if the installed equipment is "Idling Stop (IS)", the warranty period is stored as "12 months" and the warranty distance as "30,000 km". For lead-acid batteries with the same model name, if the installed equipment is "Standard vehicle (non-Idling Stop)", the warranty period is stored as "24 months" and the warranty distance as "60,000 km".

[0040] Similarly, the lead-acid battery with model name "HIJ-050-001" for motorcycles is recorded as being liquid-type. For the lead-acid battery with model name "HIJ-050-001" for motorcycles, the warranty period of "24 months" and the warranty distance of "80,000 km" are recorded.

[0041] In the compensation table 111 of Figure 3, the compensation period for the lead-acid battery with model name "KLM-060-001" for agricultural machinery is recorded as "24 months" and the compensation distance as "60,000 km". Other applications for lead-acid batteries may include agricultural machinery, forklifts, ships, etc. The compensation period and compensation distance may differ depending on the grade of the application, including "Standard" and "High Class".

[0042] As described above, various compensation periods and compensation distances are stored according to the battery type of the lead storage battery and the type of vehicle or equipment on which it was mounted. Even lead storage batteries manufactured by the same manufacturer have a number of variations and are classified according to the type of vehicle or equipment to be mounted. It is difficult for even a sales store or a maintenance business operator to grasp these compensation periods and compensation distances. If the service system 100 of the present disclosure is not used, there is a possibility that, even though the target lead storage battery brought in from a user or an agency is outside the range of the compensation period and the compensation distance, it may be determined as a free replacement and become a burden. On the other hand, by using the service system 100 of the present disclosure, an operator can easily grasp whether it is outside the range of the compensation period and the compensation distance by inputting the battery type and the type of equipment on which it was mounted into the client device 2, and can proceed with claim processing along the corresponding flow.

[0043] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the client device 2. The client device 2 is a laptop-type or desktop-type personal computer. The client device 2 may also be a smartphone or a tablet terminal.

[0044] The client device 2 includes a processing unit 20, a storage unit 21, a communication unit 22, a display unit 23, an operation unit 24, and an imaging unit 25.

[0045] The processing unit 20 includes one or more processors such as a CPU, MPU, GPU, NPU, etc. The processing unit 20 executes the client program stored in the storage unit 21. The processing unit 20 transmits and receives data to and from the server device 1 based on the client program P2. The client program P2 includes a web browser program.

[0046] The storage unit 21 uses a non-volatile memory such as a hard disk, a flash memory, or an SSD. The storage unit 21 stores data referred to by the processing unit 20. The storage unit 21 stores various programs including the client program P2. The client program P2 may be a copy that the processing unit 10 reads out the client program P8 (program product) stored in the storage medium 8 and stores in the storage unit 11. The client program P2 may be downloaded and stored from another program server or device via the communication unit 12.

[0047] The communication unit 22 realizes communication with the server device 1 via the network N. The communication unit 22 is, for example, a network card. The communication unit 22 may be a wireless communication device connected to the carrier network N3, or may be a wireless communication device for WiFi. The processing unit 20 can transmit and receive data to and from the server device 1 by the communication unit 22.

[0048] The display unit 23 is a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. The display unit 23 displays the GUI (Graphical User Interface) of various application programs. The processing unit 20 causes the display unit 23 to display a screen based on the data provided from the server device 1 based on the client program P2.

[0049] The operation unit 24 is a user interface such as a keyboard and a mouse capable of input and output with the processing unit 20. The operation unit 24 may be a touch panel built in the display unit 23. The operation unit may be a physical button, or the operation unit 24 may be an audio input / output unit including a microphone.

[0050] The imaging unit 25 can image a sheet, a two-dimensional code, or an image indicating the battery type attached to the package of the lead storage battery. The imaging unit 25 may image the battery type printed or engraved on the casing of the lead storage battery. The imaging unit 25 is not essential.

[0051] This section describes the process of receiving a claim for a lead-acid battery in the service system 100 configured in this way, determining whether it falls within the warranty period or warranty distance, making a judgment about the defect based on the result of that judgment, and recording the work as digital data. Figure 5-7 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure in the service system 100. An employee of a dealer or maintenance company that has received a claim for a lead-acid battery uses the client device 2 to input the account data that has been assigned to the employee in advance (login). The server device 1 and the client device 2 execute the following processes when the account data is input to the client device 2.

[0052] The processing unit 20 of the client device 2 sends a request for the claim input screen, along with the operator's account data, to the server device 1 (step S201).

[0053] When the processing unit 10 of the server device 1 receives a request from the input screen (step S101), it issues a claim slip ID (step S102) and creates claim data for the lead-acid battery (step S103). In step S103, the processing unit 10 identifies the account ID of the dealer or maintenance business operator associated with the worker's account data included in the request and adds it to the claim data.

[0054] The processing unit 10 creates an input screen that reflects the slip ID and account ID (step S104), and sends the data from the created input screen to the client device 2 (step S105).

[0055] The processing unit 20 of the client device 2 receives data from the input screen (step S202) and displays the input screen on the display unit 23 (step S203). The processing unit 20 receives input from the input screen displayed on the display unit 23 to determine whether the target battery is a battery that was installed in the vehicle or equipment when new (new battery) or a battery that has been replaced (repair battery) (step S204). The processing unit 20 determines whether it has been input that it is a new battery (step S205), and if it determines that it has been input that it is a new battery (S205: YES), it accepts input of the battery model (step S206). In step S206, the processing unit 20 may accept character input via the operation unit 24, or it may accept it by character recognition from an image captured by the imaging unit 25 of a sheet or the like that which has the battery model written on it and is attached to the housing of the lead-acid battery.

[0056] The processing unit 20 receives input of the type of vehicle or equipment in which the target lead-acid battery was installed (step S207). In step S207, the processing unit 20 may skip depending on the battery type. For example, if the battery type is compatible with both idle-stop vehicles and normal vehicles, the processing unit 20 will receive input for either type in step S207, but if the battery type is exclusively for idle-stop vehicles, the processing in step S207 will be skipped.

[0057] The processing unit 20 transmits to the server device 1 that the target lead-acid battery is a new battery, the input battery model number, and the type of vehicle or equipment in which the lead-acid battery was installed (step S208). In step S208, if the operator is entering information on the input screen displayed on the web application, the entered information may be automatically transmitted to the server device 1 in the background by a script associated with the input screen.

[0058] The processing unit 10 of the server device 1 receives information that the battery is new, the input battery model, and the type of vehicle or equipment in which the lead-acid battery was installed (step S106).

[0059] The processing unit 10 of the server device 1 refers to the compensation table 111 based on the battery type of the received lead-acid battery and the type of vehicle or equipment in which the lead-acid battery was installed (step S107). The processing unit 10 reads the corresponding compensation period and compensation distance from the compensation table 111 (step S108).

[0060] The processing unit 10 transmits the read compensation period and compensation distance to the client device 2 (step S109), updates the input screen displayed on the client device 2, and outputs the compensation period and compensation distance (step S110). The processing unit 10 then proceeds to the next step S121.

[0061] In the client device 2, if it is determined in step S205 that the battery is a replacement battery and not a new battery (S205: NO), the processing unit 20 accepts the input of a battery type search string and a search instruction on the input screen (step S209). The processing unit 20 displays a list of battery types that match the search string in a selectable format (step S210). In step S210, even if the battery type is the same, the list is displayed in a selectable format that distinguishes between the types of vehicles or equipment that can be equipped with that battery type of lead-acid battery.

[0062] The processing unit 20 accepts the selection of a battery type from the list (step S211). The processing unit 20 transmits the battery type of the selected lead-acid battery and the type of vehicle or equipment in which the lead-acid battery was installed to the server device 1 (step S212).

[0063] When the processing unit 20 of the client device 2 receives the battery type of the selected lead-acid battery and the type of vehicle or equipment in which the lead-acid battery is installed (step S111), it proceeds to step S107.

[0064] The processing unit 10 determines a determination flow stored in the storage unit 11 based on the battery type of the lead-acid battery and the type of vehicle or equipment in which the lead-acid battery was installed (step S121). The processing unit 10 then updates the input screen displayed on the client device 2 according to the items entered on the input screen according to the determined determination flow (step S122). In step S122, the processing unit 10 may transmit the determination flow and cause the client device 2 to update the input screen based on the determination flow.

[0065] The processing unit 20 of the client device 2 accepts input of the start date of use and the failure date of the claimed lead-acid battery on the updated input screen (step S213). Each time the operator makes an input to an empty item on the displayed input screen or selects an unselected option using the operation unit 24, the processing unit 20 displays an interface for accepting input of the start date of use and the failure date on the input screen updated by the server device 1 at some point, and accepts the input. In step S213, the processing unit 20 may display a calendar as a pop-up, allowing the user to select the start date of use and the failure date on the calendar. The processing unit 20 transmits the accepted data on the start date of use and the failure date of the claimed lead-acid battery to the server device 1 (step S214).

[0066] When the processing unit 10 of the server device 1 receives data from the client device 2 regarding the start date of use and the date of failure of the claimed lead-acid battery (step S123), it determines whether the date of failure falls within the warranty period based on the warranty period read in step S114 (step S124). The processing unit 10 sends the determination result to the client device 2 and updates the input screen (step S125).

[0067] The processing unit 20 of the client device 2 accepts input of the manufacturer, name, model, mileage at the time the lead-acid battery in question was installed in the vehicle or equipment, and the mileage at the time of the failure (step S215). If the lead-acid battery was installed in equipment, the processing unit 20 accepts input of data such as cumulative operating time instead of mileage. In step S215, each time the operator makes an input to an empty item on the displayed input screen or selects an unselected option using the operation unit 24, the processing unit 20 displays an interface for accepting input of data related to the vehicle or equipment on the input screen, which is updated by the server device 1, based on the data on the input screen, and accepts the input. The processing unit 20 transmits the data received in step S215 regarding the vehicle or equipment in question to the server device 1 (step S216).

[0068] The order of the processing steps S213 and S215 may be reversed.

[0069] When the processing unit 10 of the server device 1 receives vehicle or equipment data transmitted from the client device 2 (step S126), it determines whether the mileage on the day of the failure is within the compensation distance, based on the compensation distance read in step S114, according to the vehicle's mileage or the equipment's cumulative operating time included in the received data (step S127). In step S127, if a lead-acid battery is installed in the equipment, the processing unit 10 instead determines whether the cumulative operating time on the day of the failure is within the compensation operating time. The processing unit 10 transmits the determination result to the client device 2 and updates the input screen (step S128).

[0070] The processing unit 20 receives input for each item on the input screen (step S217) and transmits the data of the received items to the server device 1 (step S218). In step S217, the processing unit 20 receives input of data that the operator can know for the items displayed on the input screen, which is updated according to the judgment flow determined on the server device 1, and transmits it to the server device 1 each time it is received. As a result, items are entered on the input screen and the necessary items are updated sequentially.

[0071] When the processing unit 10 of the server device 1 receives data for each item transmitted from the client device 2 (step S129), it determines the judgment result and the action to be taken based on the judgment flow (step S130) and transmits them to the client device 2 (step S131). Until the judgment result and the final action to be taken are determined, the processing unit 10 repeatedly executes the processes of steps S129 and S130 according to the determined judgment flow and updates the input screen sequentially.

[0072] The processing unit 20 of the client device 2 receives the judgment result and action details (step S219) and displays the received judgment result and action details on the display unit 23 (step S220). The processing unit 20 accepts the registration by selecting the claim registration interface displayed on the input screen (step S221). Once the registration is accepted on the input screen, the server device 1 is notified.

[0073] Upon receiving the registration notification, the processing unit 10 of the server device 1 stores various data in the claim DB 111 in association with the slip ID issued in step S102 (step S132), and terminates the process. In step S132, the processing unit 10 stores the data for each item received from the client device 2, the determination result determined by the processing unit 10 itself, and the processing details.

[0074] Next, the processing procedure shown in Figure 5-7 will be explained with reference to the example display. The following example will focus on lead-acid batteries installed in vehicles, but the same procedure applies not only to vehicles but also to industrial equipment such as emergency power supply systems, uninterruptible power supplies, lighting equipment, communication equipment, and measuring instruments that are equipped with lead-acid batteries, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0075] Figure 8 shows an example of the input screen 230. The input screen 230 is displayed on the display unit 23 after the operator enters account data using the client device 2. The input screen 230 shown in Figure 8 is displayed on a web browser.

[0076] The input screen 230 shown in Figure 8 includes a complaint reception screen 231 for inputting data related to complaint reception. The complaint reception screen 231 shown in Figure 8 is pre-filled with the slip ID "12345" and the ID of the store where the complaint was received, "T987-654," based on the account data sent from the client device 2 along with the complaint request.

[0077] As shown in Figure 8, the claim acceptance screen 231 includes radio buttons 2311 that accept input indicating whether the lead-acid battery subject to the claim is a battery that was installed in a new vehicle (new battery) or a battery that has been replaced (repair battery). The claim acceptance screen 231 also includes a display field 2312 that displays the battery model of the lead-acid battery subject to the claim, which is entered via the input field 2313 described later or by search.

[0078] In the claim acceptance screen 231 shown in Figure 8, the radio button 2311 has been selected as "new battery". As a result, in the claim acceptance screen 231 in Figure 8, the battery type input field 2313, the vehicle selection list 2314, and the registration button 2315 are enabled, while the battery type search string input field 2316 and the search button 2317 are disabled. In the claim acceptance screen 231 shown in Figure 8, next to the battery type input field 2313 and the vehicle selection list 2314, a camera icon 2318 is displayed to activate the imaging unit 25 and take an image of the sheet or other item attached to the lead-acid battery housing that contains the battery type.

[0079] Figure 9 shows another example of the input screen 230. Figure 9 shows the updated claim acceptance screen 231 after the battery type string has been entered into the battery type input field 2313 shown in Figure 8 and the registration button 2315 has been pressed. In Figure 9, the battery type name "ABC-001-001" is entered into the input field 2313, and then "4-wheeled vehicle (standard vehicle)" is selected in the vehicle type selection list 2314. When the registration button 2315 is selected, the model name "ABC-001-001" is reflected in the display field 2312. The vehicle type selection list 2314 becomes active and selectable when there are multiple types of vehicles that can be equipped with the lead-acid battery of the battery type entered in the input field 2313.

[0080] When the processing unit 10 of the server device 1 receives the input result shown in Figure 9 from the client device 2, it refers to the compensation table 111 stored in the storage unit 11 and reads out the compensation period and compensation distance. In Figure 9, the compensation period "36 months" and compensation distance "100,000 km" are displayed in the compensation data field 2319. As shown in Figures 8 and 9, for new batteries, the compensation period and compensation distance referenced from the compensation table 111 are automatically output by inputting the battery model.

[0081] Figure 10 shows another example of the input screen 230. The input screen 230 shown in Figure 10 is a screen that is displayed on the display unit 23 after the operator has entered account data using the client device 2, similar to Figure 8. In the example shown in Figure 10, the slip ID "12356" and the ID of the store where the complaint was received, "T987-654", have already been entered.

[0082] In the claim acceptance screen 231 of the input screen 230 shown in Figure 10, the radio button 2311 has been selected as "repair battery". As a result, in the claim acceptance screen 231 of Figure 10, the battery type input field 2313 is hidden, and the battery type search string input field 2316 and the search button 2317 are enabled. In the claim acceptance screen 231 of Figure 10, "XYZ" is entered in the battery type search string input field 2316.

[0083] Figure 11 shows another example of the input screen 230. In Figure 11, the search button 2317 is selected in the battery type search string input field 2316 of the claim acceptance screen 231 shown in Figure 10. In Figure 11, the pop-up search results screen 232 is superimposed on the claim acceptance screen 231.

[0084] The search results screen 232 includes a list 2321 of battery types in the search results, an OK button 2322 to confirm the selected battery type, and a Cancel button 2323 to return to the input screen 230 without making a selection. The list 2321 includes radio buttons to select which battery type to choose. The list 2321 associates the name of the battery type with the type of vehicle or equipment that can be equipped with the lead-acid battery of that type, allowing for selection based on the type of vehicle or equipment that can be equipped with the battery. In the example shown in Figure 11, among the search results for the search string "XYZ", the battery type "XYZ-040-001" of the lead-acid battery installed in an "idling stop (IS) vehicle" is selected.

[0085] Figure 12 shows another example of the input screen 230. Figure 12 shows the claim acceptance screen 231 that is displayed when a battery type is selected from the list 2321 displayed on the search results screen 232 shown in Figure 11 and the OK button 2322 is selected. In the claim acceptance screen 231 of Figure 12, the selected battery type "XYZ-040-001" is reflected, and furthermore, the compensation period "12 months" and compensation distance "30,000 km" corresponding to the battery type "XYZ-040-001" and "Idling Stop (IS) vehicle" are displayed in the compensation data field 2319. As shown in Figure 10-12, for replacement batteries, the compensation period and compensation distance referenced from the compensation table 111 are automatically output by searching for the battery type.

[0086] Figure 13 shows another example of the input screen 230. The input screen 230 in Figure 13 is displayed when the compensation period and compensation distance are output to the compensation data field 2319 on the claim acceptance screen 231 shown in Figure 9 or Figure 12. Figure 13 shows a screen that follows the claim acceptance screen 231 shown in Figure 12.

[0087] In the input screen 230 of Figure 13, the complaint reception screen 231 displays input fields 2331 for the start date of use, 2332 for the date of malfunction, and a comment display field 2333. Next to the input fields 2331 for the start date of use and 2332 for the date of malfunction, calendar icons 2334 and 2335 are displayed to output a calendar screen for entering dates on a calendar. In the complaint reception screen 231 of Figure 13, the start date of use "2022 / 05 / 01" is entered in input field 2331, and the date of malfunction "2024 / 10 / 30" is entered in input field 2332.

[0088] Figure 14 shows another example of the input screen 230. In the claim acceptance screen 231 of the input screen 230 shown in Figure 14, the processing unit 10 of the server device 1 has determined whether the date of failure occurred within the warranty period, based on the input of the start date of use and the date of failure, and this result is reflected. In the example shown in Figures 13 and 14, the warranty period is read as "12 months" and the warranty distance is read as "30,000 km", while the processing unit 10 determines that the date of failure entered in input field 2332 is "18 months" past the start date of use entered in input field 2331. As a result, in the claim acceptance screen 231 of Figure 14, the processing unit 10 of the server device 1 determines and displays a warning comment in the comment display field 2333 that says, "The warranty period has expired!"

[0089] Figure 15 shows another example of the input screen 230. Figure 15 shows the mounted vehicle screen 234 of the input screen 230, which accepts data on the mounted vehicle (mounted equipment) that can be displayed by inputting data as shown in Figures 7-14, on the claim acceptance screen 231 of the input screen 230. The mounted vehicle screen 234 includes fields for accepting input of the manufacturer, name, and model of the vehicle or equipment in which the claimed lead-acid battery was installed, if it is a vehicle. The mounted vehicle screen 234 includes an input field 2341 for the mileage at the time the claimed lead-acid battery was installed and put into use, and an input field 2342 for the mileage at the time of the failure. The mounted vehicle screen 234 includes a distance display field 2343 for outputting the calculated mileage since the claimed lead-acid battery was installed, and a compensation distance display field 2344 for displaying the compensation distance read from the compensation table 111. The vehicle installation screen 234 includes fields for receiving information on the manufacturer and part number if the equipment in which the claim-covered lead-acid battery was installed is not a vehicle, input fields 2345 for the cumulative operating time of the equipment at the time of commencement of use, and input fields 2346 for the cumulative operating time at the time the malfunction occurred.

[0090] In the vehicle screen 234 shown in Figure 15, the input field 2341 for the mileage at the time the lead-acid battery subject to the claim was installed and put into use shows "5000" km, and the input field 2342 for the mileage at the time of the malfunction shows "32000" km.

[0091] Figure 16 shows another example of the input screen 230. In the vehicle screen 234 of the input screen 230 shown in Figure 16, the mileage at the start of use and the mileage at the time of failure (failure recognition) have been entered, and the processing unit 10 of the server device 1 has determined whether the mileage from the start of use at the time of failure is within the warranty period, and this result is reflected. In the example shown in Figure 16, the warranty distance is read as "30,000 km", while the processing unit 10 determines that the mileage of the vehicle in which the claim-covered lead-acid battery was installed, calculated from the distances entered in input fields 2341 and 2342, is "27,000 km". As a result, the comment "Within warranty distance" is displayed in the comment display field 2347 on the vehicle screen 234 in Figure 16.

[0092] In the embodiment described above, both the compensation period and compensation distance were read from the data of the claimed lead-acid battery, and it was determined whether or not the data was within the compensation period and whether or not it was within the compensation distance. However, it is also possible to determine only one of the compensation period or compensation distance.

[0093] In the embodiments described above, it was explained that for lead-acid batteries of the same battery type, the same warranty period and warranty distance are set regardless of the manufacturing date or sales date. However, even for lead-acid batteries of the same battery type, different warranty periods and warranty distances may be set if the versions differ depending on the period in which they were manufactured. In this case, the processing unit 10 may read at least one of the appropriate warranty period and warranty distance from the records of the manufacturing date and sales date associated with the serial number of the lead-acid battery, or from the manufacturing date or sales date information entered by the worker.

[0094] As shown in Figure 8-15, after numbers or strings are selected or entered into each input field on the input screen 230, the input fields are disabled as appropriate, or the data is automatically reflected in the comment field, making it easy for dealerships or maintenance service providers to fully grasp the warranty period or warranty distance.

[0095] This reduces the workload for individual dealerships and maintenance service providers, enabling them to offer appropriate services. It also prevents situations where lead-acid batteries with non-manufacturing defects are unnecessarily sent to the manufacturer, or where batteries are replaced free of charge even though they are outside the warranty period or mileage. Since the assessment results can be documented, presenting this document as a report to the end user will increase their satisfaction.

[0096] The embodiments disclosed above are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are included.

[0097] 100 Service System 1 Server device 10 Processing unit 11 Storage unit P1 Battery information output program 2 Client device 20 Processing unit 23 Display unit

Claims

1. A battery information output method in which a computer uses a compensation table that stores data for at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of a lead-acid battery corresponding to the battery type of the lead-acid battery, accepts input of the battery type of a target lead-acid battery, refers to the compensation table from the battery type, and outputs at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of the target lead-acid battery.

2. The battery information output method according to claim 1, wherein the compensation table distinguishes the type of vehicle or equipment on which the lead-acid battery is installed in addition to the battery type, and stores at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of the lead-acid battery, and the computer receives the type of vehicle or equipment on which the target lead-acid battery is installed, refers to the compensation table based on the battery type and the type of vehicle or equipment, and outputs at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of the target lead-acid battery.

3. The battery information output method according to claim 2, wherein the type of vehicle or equipment is distinguished by four-wheeled vehicle, two-wheeled vehicle, presence or absence of idle stop specification, battery specifications, forklift, and agricultural machinery.

4. The battery information output method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the computer outputs a list of battery types that distinguish the type of vehicle or equipment on which the lead-acid battery is installed, and accepts input of the battery type of the target lead-acid battery by selection from the list.

5. The battery information output method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the computer receives input of a set of the start date of use and the date of failure of the target lead-acid battery, or a set of mileage at the start of use and the mileage at the time of failure, calculates the period from the start of use of the target lead-acid battery based on the set of the start date of use and the date of failure of the target lead-acid battery, or the mileage based on the set of mileage at the start of use and the mileage at the time of failure, determines whether the period from the start of use is within the compensation period read from the compensation table, or whether the mileage is within the compensation distance, and outputs the determination result.

6. A battery information output device comprising a storage unit that stores a compensation table containing data for at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of a lead-acid battery according to the battery type of the lead-acid battery, a processing unit that receives input of the battery type of the target lead-acid battery, refers to the compensation table from the battery type, and outputs at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of the target lead-acid battery.

7. A computer program that uses a compensation table that stores data for at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of a lead-acid battery corresponding to the battery type of the lead-acid battery, accepts the battery type of a target lead-acid battery as input, refers to the compensation table based on the battery type, and executes a process that outputs at least one of the compensation period and compensation distance of the target lead-acid battery.

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