WO2022202156A1 - Electricity storage device management system and electricity storage device management method - Google Patents

Abstract

The electricity storage device management system of one example of the embodiments comprises: an electricity storage device including a communication module; and a management device capable of wireless communication with the electricity storage device. The electricity storage device has a long storage mode in which device constituent units are shut down. The management device is configured so as to perform at least either a process of outputting first information on the long storage of the electricity storage device after a predetermined period of time has elapsed from the start of the long storage mode or a process of outputting second information on the long storage of the electricity storage device when an operation for starting the long storage mode is performed. The management device outputs, for example, information for prompting charging of the electricity storage device as the first information.

Description

POWER STORAGE DEVICE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND POWER STORAGE DEVICE MANAGEMENT METHOD

The present disclosure relates to a power storage device management system and a power storage device management method, and more particularly to a portable power storage device management system and management method.

Conventionally, portable power storage devices have been used as power sources for electric vehicles such as electrically assisted bicycles, electric motorcycles, and electric carts, as well as electrical equipment such as computers and printers. Portable power storage devices are also used as emergency power sources in the event of a power outage, disaster, or the like.

In recent years, a power storage device equipped with a wireless communication module for transmitting information about the state of the power storage device to an information terminal such as a smartphone has also been proposed (see Patent Document 1, for example). According to the power storage device provided with the wireless communication module, information about the state of the power storage device, such as the charging rate and temperature, is transmitted to the user's smartphone or the like, making it easy to check the state of the power storage device.

JP 2017-46571 A

By the way, it is desirable that the power storage device can be stored for a long time in a state where it can be used immediately. In particular, it is assumed that a power storage device used as an emergency power supply will be stored without being used for a long period of time (for example, three months or longer).

In order to store a power storage device for a long time in a state where it can be used immediately, it is necessary to reduce the internal power consumption of the device. is not easy. On the other hand, it is conceivable to shut down these devices to reduce internal power consumption, but in that case, the user cannot check the state of the power storage device through the information terminal. For this reason, problems may occur such as insufficient charge amount when using the power storage device, or an increased management burden on the user.

A power storage device management system according to the present disclosure includes a power storage device including a communication module and a management device capable of wireless communication with the power storage device, the power storage device having a long-term storage mode for shutting down device constituent devices, and managing the power storage device. The device outputs first information related to long-term management of the power storage device after a predetermined period of time has passed since the start of the long-term storage mode, and when an operation for starting the long-term storage mode is performed, the long-term storage of the power storage device is performed. It is characterized in that it is configured to execute at least one process of outputting the second information related to storage.

A method for managing a power storage device according to the present disclosure is a method for managing a power storage device that includes a communication module and has a long-term storage mode for shutting down device components, wherein after a predetermined period of time has passed since the start of the long-term storage mode, the power storage device at least one of outputting first information related to long-term storage and outputting second information related to long-term storage of the power storage device when an operation is performed to start the long-term storage mode. characterized by

According to the power storage device management system and management method according to the present disclosure, the power storage device can be stored for a long period of time in a ready-to-use state. In the long-term storage mode, internal power consumption during storage is reduced because the device components are shut down. Since the user can obtain information related to long-term storage of the power storage device after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of the long-term storage mode, it is possible to appropriately manage the power storage device during long-term storage.

1 is a diagram schematically showing a management system for a power storage device as an example of an embodiment; FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a management system for a power storage device; FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of long-term storage processing of a power storage device; It is a flow chart which shows the modification of long-term storage processing. 6 is a flow chart showing an example of storage state optimization processing. It is a figure which shows the 1st notification screen displayed on an information terminal. It is a figure which shows the 2nd notification screen displayed on an information terminal. It is a figure which shows the 3rd notification screen displayed on an information terminal. It is a figure which shows the 4th notification screen displayed on an information terminal. It is a figure which shows the modification of a management system. It is a figure which shows the modification of a management system.

Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of a power storage device management system and a management method according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are merely examples, and the present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments. It is also within the scope of the present disclosure to selectively combine each component of multiple embodiments and modifications described below.

The subject of the system according to the present disclosure is equipped with a computer. The main functions of the system of the present disclosure are implemented by the computer executing the program. A computer has a processor that operates according to a program as a main hardware configuration. Any type of processor can be used as long as it can implement the above functions by executing a program. A processor is composed of one or more electronic circuits, including integrated circuits (ICs) or large scale integrated circuits (LSIs). A plurality of electronic circuits may be integrated on one chip or may be provided on a plurality of chips. A plurality of chips may be integrated into one device, or may be provided in a plurality of devices. Also, the program is stored in a non-temporary storage medium such as a computer-readable ROM, optical disk, hard disk drive, or the like. The program may be pre-stored in a storage medium, or may be supplied to the storage medium via a wide area network including the Internet.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the system and method according to the present disclosure will be described by taking a portable power storage device 10 including a communication module 12 as an example, but the system and method according to the present disclosure are installed at a specific location. It can also be applied to a stationary power storage device. However, the system and method according to the present disclosure are particularly useful in portable power storage device 10 .

FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing a power storage device management system 1 that is an example of an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the management system 1. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the management system 1 includes a portable power storage device 10 including a communication module 12, and a management device capable of wireless communication with the power storage device 10. FIG. Although the details will be described later, the power storage device 10 has a long-term storage mode for shutting down device components. The management device is configured to output predetermined information related to long-term storage of power storage device 10 after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the long-term storage mode of power storage device 10 was started. An example of the predetermined information is information prompting charging of power storage device 10 .

The management device is further configured to output predetermined information related to long-term storage of power storage device 10 when an operation is performed to start the long-term storage mode. In this specification, predetermined information that is output after a predetermined period of time has passed since the start of the long-term storage mode is defined as "first information", and predetermined information that is output when an operation is performed to start the long-term storage mode. shall be referred to as "second information". The management device outputs the second information, for example, when receiving an operation signal for starting the long-term storage mode, or when receiving a start signal indicating transition to the long-term storage mode based on this operation. do.

In this embodiment, a management server 20 and an information terminal 30 are provided as the management device. The management server 20 and the information terminal 30 are configured so as to be able to communicate via a wide area communication network such as an Internet line or a mobile communication system. The power storage device 10 includes a communication module 12 and a control unit 13, and provides the management device with the state of charge (SOC), temperature, long-term storage mode start information, and the like. Power storage device 10 may be configured to be capable of wireless communication only with information terminal 30 , and information on power storage device 10 may be transmitted to management server 20 via information terminal 30 .

In this case, the management server 20 acquires the long-term storage mode start information via the information terminal 30 . Information about starting the long-term storage mode of power storage device 10 is stored at least in management server 20 . For example, the management server 20 calculates the predetermined period (hereinafter referred to as "predetermined period T1") based on the state of the power storage device 10 at the start of the long-term storage mode, or receives information on the predetermined period T1 from the information terminal 30. is obtained, and predetermined information related to long-term storage of the power storage device 10 is output to the information terminal 30 after the predetermined period T1 has elapsed. According to the management system 1, the power storage device 10 can be stored for a long period of time in a ready-to-use state.

The power storage device 10 is used in many places, such as offices, factories, public facilities (government offices, public halls, schools, hospitals, etc.), commercial facilities (stores, shopping malls, etc.), and homes. The power storage device 10 is managed by a user such as an owner or administrator. An example of the information terminal 30 that configures the management system 1 is a terminal device such as a smart phone, a mobile phone, a tablet terminal, or a personal computer owned by the user. The management system 1 is configured so that a user, particularly a facility manager, can check the state of the power storage device 10 using the information terminal 30 .

The management server 20 that configures the management system 1 is a device that stores information about the power storage device 10 and manages the power storage device 10 in an integrated manner. For example, the start information of the long-term storage mode of power storage device 10 may be stored only in management server 20 or may be stored in both management server 20 and information terminal 30 . An example of the management server 20 is a server of a manufacturer of the power storage device 10, a management company, or the like. Note that the management server 20 may be a server managed by a user.

A plurality of power storage devices 10 may be included in the management system 1 . The management server 20 manages information for each registered power storage device 10 . For example, when there are a plurality of power storage devices 10 in the long-term storage mode, the management server 20 manages the predetermined period T1 for each power storage device 10 . Registration of power storage device 10 in management server 20 is performed using information terminal 30 . Moreover, when the user possesses a plurality of power storage devices 10 , the plurality of power storage devices 10 may be managed by one information terminal 30 . Alternatively, when the user possesses many power storage devices 10 , the information terminal 30 used for management may be divided for each group of a predetermined number of power storage devices 10 .

1 and 2 illustrate a plurality of power storage devices 10, one information terminal 30 that manages each power storage device 10, and a management server 20 that can communicate with the information terminal 30. FIG. Each power storage device 10 provides information to the information terminal 30 by short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), and NFC, for example. 1 and 2, the management server 20 of the management system 1 may manage information on many power storage devices 10 owned by other users. . For example, information terminals 30 of other users are connected to the management server 20, and information of other power storage devices 10 is registered.

The power storage device 10, the management server 20, and the information terminal 30 that constitute the management system 1 will be described in detail below.

[Power storage device 10]
The power storage device 10 includes a battery module 11 and a case 14 that accommodates the battery module 11 . The power storage device 10 is a portable power storage device that can be carried around, and is generally called a battery pack. The power storage device 10 also includes a communication module 12 and a control unit 13 . The communication module 12 and the control unit 13 are accommodated in the case 14 together with the battery module 11 . The battery module 11 is charged using a charger/discharger 40, for example. The charger/discharger 40 may have an outlet 43 to which an electrical device is connected, and may allow the power storage device 10 to be discharged while the power storage device 10 is installed in the charger/discharger 40 .

The battery module 11 may be configured with a single battery, but preferably is configured as an assembled battery including a plurality of batteries. The shape of the batteries constituting the assembled battery is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, cylindrical batteries, pouch-shaped batteries, or rectangular batteries. The type of battery is not particularly limited, but a preferred example is a high-capacity lithium ion battery. Power storage device 10 may be provided with a connector for extracting power from battery module 11 .

The power storage device 10 is provided with measuring devices such as, for example, a voltmeter that measures the voltage of the battery module 11, an ammeter that measures the current, and a temperature sensor that measures the temperature. The control unit 13 calculates a value indicating the state of the battery module 11 such as the charging rate of the battery module 11 based on these measured values. The charging rate can be calculated based on the voltage of the battery module 11 measured by a voltmeter. Also, the control unit 13 may calculate the degree of deterioration of the battery module 11 based on these measured values.

The case 14 may be a metal case, but is preferably a resin case from the viewpoint of communication performance, weight reduction, and the like. The case 14 is generally opaque and hides the battery module 11 and the like housed inside. The case 14 shown in FIG. 1 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, and a handle 15 used when carrying the power storage device 10 is provided at the upper end of the case 14 . In addition, a connection portion 16 is provided at the bottom of the case 14 to be inserted into a battery installation portion such as a charger and a discharger. The connecting portion 16 has a terminal 16A electrically connected to the battery module 11 .

A remaining amount display button 17 and an indicator 18 are provided on the case 14 . The remaining amount display button 17 is an operation unit for displaying the charging rate of the battery module 11 on the indicator 18 . The indicator 18 includes, for example, a plurality of lamps, and displays the charging rate by changing the number of lamps to be lit according to the charging rate. Indicator 18 may be a display unit capable of displaying the charging rate numerically, or may be capable of displaying the state of power storage device 10 other than the charging rate.

The remaining amount display button 17 may also be used as an operation unit for shutting down the power storage device 10 and starting the long-term storage mode. For example, by performing a normal first operation of short-pressing the remaining amount display button 17, the charging rate is displayed on the indicator 18, and by performing a second operation of long-pressing the remaining amount display button 17, charging Device 10 is shut down. Note that the operation unit for executing the long-term storage mode may be provided separately from the remaining amount display button 17 .

In this embodiment, operation information for starting the long-term storage mode by long-pressing the remaining amount display button 17 or start information for the long-term storage mode is output from the power storage device 10 and acquired by the information terminal 30 . An example of the operation information is an operation signal indicating that the remaining amount display button 17 has been pressed for a long time. An example of start information is a start signal indicating that components of power storage device 10 are shut down and transition to the long-term storage mode. End information of the long-term storage mode, that is, information indicating that power storage device 10 has been activated and returned from the long-term storage mode is similarly output from power storage device 10 and acquired by information terminal 30 .

The power storage device 10 outputs information including at least one of the charging rate and temperature of the power storage device 10, for example, along with operation information or start information for the long-term storage mode. Information terminal 30 acquires at least one of the charging rate and temperature of power storage device 10 at the time when an operation to start the long-term storage mode is performed. Although details will be described later, information such as the charging rate and temperature of the power storage device 10 acquired at this time may be used for calculating the predetermined period T1 and optimizing the storage state of the power storage device 10 . Information such as the charging rate and temperature of power storage device 10 need not be acquired at the same time as operation information or start information for the long-term storage mode.

The communication module 12 is a device for wirelessly communicating with the management device. Information on the power storage device 10 is transmitted to the management device by the function of the communication module 12 . In the present embodiment, any device may be used as long as it has a wireless communication function between the power storage device 10 and the information terminal 30 existing in a short distance. Although the configuration of the communication module 12 is not particularly limited, it is preferably a short-range wireless communication module from the viewpoint of reducing power consumption.

A specific example is a module that performs BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) communication. BLE corresponds to version 4 of Bluetooth (registered trademark), which is a short-range wireless communication standard. Since the power consumption for BLE communication is relatively small, the internal power consumption of the power storage device 10 can be suppressed by using the BLE module. Note that Bluetooth (registered trademark) conforms to the IEEE802.15.1 standard, which is an international standard for short-range wireless communication.

The control unit 13 performs, for example, charge/discharge of the battery module 11, calculation of information indicating the state of the power storage device 10, transmission of information via the communication module 12, start of long-term storage mode based on operation of the remaining amount display button 17, etc. It has a function of controlling the operation of the power storage device 10 . Information of the power storage device 10 is transmitted to the information terminal 30 by the function of the communication module 12 under the control of the control unit 13 . For example, the control unit 13 outputs information prompting charging when the charging rate is less than a predetermined threshold, and outputs information indicating an abnormality when an abnormality occurs. Further, control unit 13 may output information indicating the state of power storage device 10 based on a request from information terminal 30 .

The control unit 13 is composed of a microcomputer including a processor and memory. The memory includes, for example, nonvolatile memory such as RAM, ROM, and hard disk. The processor implements the function of power storage device 10 by reading and executing a program installed in the memory. Also, the control unit 13 may have a protection substrate called a BMS substrate, and monitors the state of the battery module 11 to perform optimal charging and discharging.

Here, the long-term storage mode of the power storage device 10 will be described. The long-term storage mode is a mode for shutting down the device components, as described above. In the long-term storage mode, internal power consumption of power storage device 10 is suppressed by shutting down device components, and power storage device 10 can be stored for a long time in a ready-to-use state. For example, the long-term storage mode is effective when storing power storage device 10 in a predetermined state of charge without using it for a long period of three months or longer. By setting the power storage device 10 to the long-term storage mode, a predetermined state of charge (for example, a charging rate of 70% or more) can be maintained for a long period of time without frequent charging.

　In long-term storage mode, it is preferable to shut down at least the equipment that consumes a lot of power. Shutdown is to completely or substantially cut off the supply of power from the battery module 11 to other device components to stop the function of the device. In the long-term storage mode, it is preferable that the communication module 12 and the control unit 13, which consume relatively large power, be shut down. In this embodiment, in the long-term storage mode, all device components to which power is supplied from the battery module 11 are shut down.

In the long-term storage mode, the device components including the communication module 12 and the control unit 13 are shut down to reduce internal power consumption, while the power storage device 10 loses its communication function. Therefore, it is not possible to check the charging rate or the like using the information terminal 30 for the power storage device 10 in the long-term storage mode. In order to deal with this point, the management system 1 stores the start of the long-term storage mode, and after a predetermined period of time has passed since the start, for example, outputs information prompting charging of the power storage device 10 to the information terminal 30 . This function greatly reduces the user's management burden, and facilitates management of the state of charge of power storage device 10 during long-term storage.

　The long-term storage mode is started by the user's operation. In this embodiment, the long-term storage mode is started by pressing the remaining amount display button 17 for a long time. At this time, information indicating the state of the power storage device 10 such as the charging rate and temperature of the battery module 11 may be transmitted to the management device. The management device may output information prompting charging when the charging rate of power storage device 10 that starts the long-term storage mode is lower than a predetermined value. Further, when the temperature of power storage device 10 deviates from the appropriate range, information may be output to prompt storage at an appropriate temperature. Alternatively, the management system 1 may be configured to prohibit the start of the long-term storage mode when the storage state such as the charging rate, temperature, etc. of the power storage device 10 is not appropriate.

Whether or not the storage state of the power storage device 10 for which the remaining amount display button 17 has been long-pressed is appropriate may be determined by the power storage device 10 or by the management device. Regardless of which device makes this determination, it is possible to output information to the information terminal 30 for optimizing the storage state. In the present embodiment, when the storage state of the power storage device 10 is appropriate, all device constituent devices are shut down to shift to the long-term storage mode. Before shutting down, power storage device 10 transmits a long-term storage mode start signal to the management device as necessary.

The power storage device 10 in the long-term storage mode can be activated using the charger/discharger 40 . The charger/discharger 40 includes a charge/discharge circuit 41, a cord 42, and an outlet 43, and functions as a charger by connecting the cord 42 to a power supply. Charger/discharger 40 has a recess into which connection portion 16 of power storage device 10 can be inserted. A positive terminal 44, a negative terminal 45, a detection terminal 46, and communication terminals D and R are provided in the recess. Detection terminal 46 is a terminal having a function of detecting that power storage device 10 is connected.

When the power storage device 10 in the long-term storage mode is connected to the charger/discharger 40, the current flowing through the detection terminal 46 triggers the power storage device 10 to start up and return from the long-term storage mode. In the charger/discharger 40, the negative terminal 45 and the detection terminal 46 are electrically connected. Therefore, when the power storage device 10 is inserted into the recess of the charger/discharger 40, the minus terminal 45 and the detection terminal 46 are short-circuited on the side of the charger/discharger 40, and the current flowing through this short-circuit activates the controller 13 (microcomputer). . As a result, power storage device 10 returns from the long-term storage mode. Note that the device used to activate power storage device 10 may be a charger that does not have a discharge function.

[Management server 20]
The management server 20 stores information on the power storage device 10 as described above. In the management server 20, for example, information on a plurality of power storage devices 10 and a plurality of information terminals 30 is stored in a state in which each power storage device 10 is associated with the information terminal 30 used to manage each power storage device 10. It is Initial registration of power storage device 10 and information terminal 30 to management server 20 , change of registered contents, and the like can be performed by operating information terminal 30 . At least part of the information on registered power storage device 10 is automatically transmitted to management server 20 via information terminal 30 .

The management server 20 has a processor 21 and a memory 22 in the same manner as the control unit 13 of the power storage device 10 . The management server 20 may be composed of one computer, or may be composed of a plurality of computers. The processor 21 implements the functions of the management server 20 by reading and executing the programs installed in the memory 22 . Processor 21 also acquires information on power storage device 10 and information terminal 30 and stores the information in memory 22 .

The information on the power storage device 10 stored in the memory 22 of the management server 20 includes information on long-term storage. Specific examples of the information include whether or not the long-term storage mode is being executed. Second date and time information including a scheduled date or scheduled date and time for outputting predetermined information such as charging recommendation can be used. The second date/time information is calculated based on the first date/time information and the predetermined period T1. The management server 20 may acquire information about the state of the power storage device 10, such as the charging rate and temperature of the power storage device 10 at that time, as well as acquiring the start information of the long-term storage mode. The management server 20 may store the same information as the information stored in the information terminal 30 as the information related to the power storage device 10, or may store different types of information.

In the management server 20, for example, in addition to the long-term storage information, product information (product number, date of manufacture, etc.) of the power storage device 10, information related to the information terminal 30 (mail address, telephone number, SNS ID, information application ID of the management system 1 installed in the terminal 30), information on the user of the power storage device 10, and the like are stored. The information of the information terminal 30 such as the e-mail address is used when the management server 20 transmits information regarding long-term storage of the power storage device 10 .

The management server 20 outputs first information related to long-term storage of the power storage device 10 to the information terminal 30 after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the long-term storage mode of the power storage device 10 was started. The management server 20 has, for example, a calendar function, and transmits the first information to the information terminal 30 when the current time reaches the scheduled date and time for outputting the first information. Predetermined period T1 may be a predetermined fixed period, or may be calculated from the state of power storage device 10 at the start of the long-term storage mode. Also, the management server 20 may acquire information on the predetermined period T1 from the information terminal 30 .

An example of the first information output from the management server 20 is information prompting charging of the power storage device 10 . Predetermined period T1 is set, for example, to a period in which the charging rate of power storage device 10 is estimated to fall to a predetermined value (eg, 70%), or is set to a period several days shorter than the estimated period. By transmitting information prompting charging of power storage device 10 to information terminal 30 after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of the long-term storage mode, it is possible to effectively prevent storage of power storage device 10 from being continued at a low charging rate. can. The number of transmissions of information prompting charging of power storage device 10 may be one or more.

The management server 20, for example, sends a charging time notification as illustrated in FIG. 7 to be described later to the information terminal 30 to prompt the user to charge the power storage device 10 during long-term storage. In addition, the management server 20 may transmit information on an estimated current charging rate as information prompting charging of the power storage device 10 . Alternatively, as information related to long-term storage, the elapsed time from the start of the long-term storage mode, information prompting periodic confirmation of the state of power storage device 10, and the like may be transmitted. Such information does not directly encourage charging, but it calls the user's attention and, as a result, prompts charging.

When the management server 20 outputs the first information related to long-term storage of the first power storage device 10, for example, the management server 20 also outputs the first information about the second power storage device 10 under the same administrator. may For example, when the remaining period until the predetermined period T1 of the second power storage device 10 elapses is less than a predetermined threshold value, for example, less than one month, the management server 20 determines whether the second power storage device 10 The first information is also output. A plurality of second power storage devices 10 may be used as long as they satisfy this condition. For example, by outputting information prompting charging of the second power storage device 10 whose predetermined period T1 is approaching, it becomes possible to charge a plurality of power storage devices 10 at once, thereby reducing the user's workload. be.

[Information terminal 30]
The information terminal 30 is used when acquiring information from the power storage device 10 and confirming the state of the power storage device 10 . Information terminal 30 has monitor 33 for displaying information of power storage device 10 . The information terminal 30 may be a dedicated terminal for the management system 1, but one example is a smart phone owned by the user. For example, a user's smart phone can be used as the information terminal 30 of the management system 1 by installing application software (hereinafter simply referred to as "app") of the management system 1 .

Of the information terminals on which the application is installed, only an arbitrary information terminal may operate as the information terminal 30 included in the management system 1. For this reason, when registering as a user of an application, it is preferable to be able to perform at least two stages of registration, which will be described later. The first step is registration as a user for simply using the power storage device 10 . As a second step, registration as an administrator for managing the power storage device 10, such as preliminary charging of the power storage device 10 shown in the present embodiment and handling of abnormalities (hereinafter referred to as administrator registration) is. When registering as an administrator, a request may be made to provide contact information for receiving information prompting charging shown in this embodiment. ID information of SNS etc. are mentioned.

The information terminal 30 has a processor 31 and a memory 32, similar to the power storage device 10 and the management server 20. The processor 31 implements the functions of the information terminal 30 by reading and executing a program (an application of the management system 1) installed in the memory 32. FIG. The processor 31 also acquires information on the power storage device 10 and stores it in the memory 32 , and also transmits necessary information to the management server 20 . In this embodiment, short-range wireless communication such as BLE is used for communication between the information terminal 30 and the power storage device 10, and a wide area communication network such as an Internet line or a mobile communication system is used for communication with the management server 20. FIG.

The information terminal 30 acquires operation information or start information for the long-term storage mode of the power storage device 10 . In the present embodiment, the information terminal 30 acquires an operation signal by pressing the remaining amount display button 17 for a long time or start information of the long-term storage mode based on the operation. The long-term storage mode of the power storage device 10 may be started by the judgment of the control unit 13, and is started by the management device that receives the operation signal of the remaining amount display button 17 and transmits a shutdown signal or a permission signal to the power storage device 10. may be The shutdown signal or permission signal of the management device may be sent automatically, or may be sent based on the operation of the information terminal 30 by the user.

For example, based on the state of the power storage device 10, the information terminal 30 calculates a predetermined period T1 counted from the start of the long-term storage mode, and transmits information on the calculated predetermined period T1 to the management server 20. Alternatively, the predetermined period T1 may be calculated by the management server 20 or the power storage device 10, or may be a predetermined fixed period. In this embodiment, the management server 20 transmits information prompting charging of the power storage device 10 to the information terminal 30 after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of the long-term storage mode, and the information is displayed on the monitor 33 of the information terminal 30. .

When the predetermined period T1 is a fixed period determined in advance, the date when the information terminal 30 is scheduled to transmit information prompting charging to the information terminal 30 from the first date and time information including the start date or the start date and time of the long-term storage mode. Alternatively, second date and time information including the scheduled date and time may be calculated and the information may be transmitted to the management server 20 . In addition, complicated calculations such as calculating the predetermined period T1 (second date and time information) using a simple formula, table, etc., based on at least one of the charging rate and temperature of power storage device 10 at the start of the long-term storage mode. is unnecessary, the information terminal 30 may calculate the predetermined period T1.

On the other hand, if the calculation is relatively complicated, such as when obtaining the degree of deterioration of the power storage device 10 and calculating the predetermined period T1 based on the degree of deterioration, the management server 20 may calculate the predetermined period T1. The degree of deterioration of the power storage device 10 can be calculated, for example, from temporal changes in the capacity, internal resistance, etc. of the battery module 11 . The power storage device 10 may periodically measure values such as the capacity and internal resistance of the battery module 11 and transmit the values to the management server 20 , and the management server 20 may calculate the degree of deterioration of the power storage device 10 . In addition, the degree of deterioration of the power storage device 10 is calculated by counting the number of charge/discharge cycles of the battery module 11 using the relationship between the values of capacity, internal resistance, etc. obtained in advance by experiments and the like and the number of charge/discharge cycles. You may

For example, when the charging rate of the power storage device 10 when an operation for starting the long-term storage mode is performed is less than a predetermined threshold, the information terminal 30 indicates that the power storage device 10 should be charged as the second information. The prompting information is output to the monitor 33 . The determination of whether or not the charging rate of power storage device 10 is less than the threshold value may be made by power storage device 10 or may be made by information terminal 30 . When the information terminal 30 makes this determination, the charging rate of the power storage device 10 is obtained together with the operation signal at the timing when the remaining amount display button 17 is pressed for a long time, for example. The predetermined threshold may be set to a charge rate of 80% or higher, or may be set to a substantially fully charged value.

By checking the state of charge when the power storage device 10 is stored for a long period of time, and urging to optimize the state of charge when the state of charge is low, it is possible to prevent the power storage device 10 from being stored for a long period of time with a low state of charge. When the management device outputs a shutdown signal or permission signal to start the long-term storage mode, the shutdown signal or permission signal may be output on condition that the charging rate of the power storage device 10 is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold. . Alternatively, a signal prohibiting transition to the long-term storage mode may be output to power storage device 10 when the charging rate of power storage device 10 is less than a predetermined threshold.

For example, when the temperature of the power storage device 10 when an operation for starting the long-term storage mode is performed is out of the predetermined threshold range, the information terminal 30 indicates storage at an appropriate temperature as the second information. The prompting information is output to the monitor 33 . The determination as to whether the temperature of power storage device 10 is out of the threshold range may be made by power storage device 10 or by information terminal 30 . When the information terminal 30 makes this determination, the temperature of the power storage device 10 is obtained together with the operation signal at the timing when the remaining amount display button 17 is pressed for a long time, for example. As the predetermined threshold range, only an upper limit value such as less than 40° C. may be set, but upper and lower limit values are preferably set.

The temperature of the power storage device 10 is checked when the power storage device 10 is stored for a long period of time, and if the storage temperature is not appropriate, optimizing the storage temperature is urged to prevent long-term storage of the power storage device 10 in an inappropriate temperature environment. can. When a shutdown signal or permission signal is output from the management device to start the long-term storage mode, the shutdown signal or permission signal may be output on condition that the temperature of the power storage device 10 is within a predetermined threshold range. . Alternatively, when the temperature of power storage device 10 is out of a predetermined threshold range, a signal prohibiting transition to the long-term storage mode may be output to power storage device 10 .

For example, when an operation for starting the long-term storage mode is performed and the power storage device 10 acquires the start information of the long-term storage mode, the information terminal 30 outputs information including the timing of the next maintenance as the second information. may be output to the monitor 33 . The monitor 33 displays, for example, the recommended next charging time. The information terminal 30 calculates the next recommended charging date or recommended date and time (second date and time information) of the power storage device 10 based on the first date and time information including the start date or date and time of the long-term storage mode. This information allows the user to know in advance when maintenance is required and to confirm that long-term storage mode has been initiated.

An example of the long-term storage mode processing process will be described in detail below with reference to the flow charts of FIGS. 6 to 9 will also be referred to as appropriate. 6 to 9 show examples of notification screens displayed on the monitor 33 of the information terminal 30 in the long-term storage mode.

FIG. 3 shows the processing procedures of each of the power storage device 10, the management server 20, and the information terminal 30 that make up the management system 1. FIG. Note that steps S10 and S14 in FIG. 3 are performed by the user. The management process for long-term storage of power storage device 10 includes a step of outputting first information related to power storage device 10 after a period of time has elapsed since the start of the long-term storage mode. The management process of the present embodiment further includes a step of outputting second information related to long-term storage of power storage device 10 when an operation is performed to start the long-term storage mode.

Information about long-term storage of the power storage device 10 is transmitted from the power storage device 10 to the information terminal 30 by short-range wireless communication such as BLE, and is transmitted to the management server 20 via the information terminal 30, as described above. As described above, in the management system 1, the contact information of the user registered as an administrator (administrator registration) when installing the application in the management terminal 30 is registered in advance. If not registered in advance, for example, the user's e-mail address may be transmitted from the information terminal 30 to the management server 20 (S30), and the e-mail address may be registered in the management server 20 (S20). Further, in the management server 20, a user registered as an administrator and information on the power storage device 10 managed by the user may be stored in association with each other, and the information on the power storage device 10 may be managed independently. It may be registered with the server 20 .

The long-term storage mode of the power storage device 10 is started by the user's operation (S10). In this embodiment, a long-pressing operation of the remaining amount display button 17 is set as an operation for starting the long-term storage mode. When the remaining amount display button 17 is pressed for a long time, the power storage device 10 transmits an operation signal for the long-term storage mode through the functions of the communication module 12 and the control unit 13 based on this operation signal (S11). At this time, information on the charging rate and temperature of power storage device 10 may be output together with the operation signal. Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the storage state is appropriate (S12), and if the storage state is appropriate, after outputting a long-term storage mode start signal, the device configuration including the communication module 12 and the control unit 13 The equipment is shut down, and power storage device 10 shifts to the long-term storage mode (S12).

In S12, it is preferable to determine whether the charging rate and temperature of the power storage device 10 are appropriate for long-term storage. A specific determination method is the same as in S321 and S323 of FIG. 5, which will be described later. When it is determined that the storage condition of the power storage device 10 is not appropriate, the device components are not shut down, and the user performs optimization of the storage condition such as charging of the power storage device 10 and temperature adjustment (S14). The user optimizes the storage state according to the error display (S36) described later.

In S11, the operation signal transmitted from the power storage device 10 is acquired by the information terminal 30 (S31). Subsequently, when a long-term storage mode start signal is received from power storage device 10 (S32), processing of information terminal 30 proceeds to S33, and information including the next maintenance (charging) timing is displayed on monitor 33. FIG. The next charging time is calculated based on the charging rate, temperature, degree of deterioration, and the like of power storage device 10, as described above. When performing the storage state optimization processing of S12 and S14, the next charging date may be set by adding a predetermined number of days to the start date of the long-term storage mode. Note that the management server 20 may calculate the next charging time and output information including the next charging time to the information terminal 30 .

FIG. 6 is an example of a notification screen for the next maintenance (charging) time. On the notification screen shown in FIG. 6, along with information specifying the power storage device 10 for which the long-term storage mode has been started, "The next maintenance (charging) time is XX year △ month ◇. We will contact you." It contains information that informs you of the next charging time. This information allows the user to know in advance when the next charge is due and also to confirm that the long-term storage mode has been initiated. Maintenance information is displayed on the screen of the application of the management system 1, for example. Alternatively, it may be notified by e-mail or the like via the management server 20 .

The information terminal 30 transmits the long-term storage mode start information to the management server 20 in S34. Management server 20 stores information about the long-term storage mode in association with information terminal 30 for each power storage device 10 (S21). The management server 20 transmits a charging recommendation mail to the registered mail address of the information terminal 30 after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of the long-term storage mode (S22, S23). The charging recommendation mail is received by the information terminal 30 and displayed on the monitor 33 (S35). Note that the charging recommendation information may be sent to an application of the management system 1 installed in the information terminal 30, a pre-registered SNS, or the like, together with the e-mail or instead of the e-mail.

FIG. 7 is an example of a notification screen (mail) of recommended charging information. The notification screen shown in FIG. 7 displays information identifying the power storage device 10 in long-term storage that needs charging, along with the message, "The time for maintenance (charging) is approaching. Thank you very much." With this information, the user can grasp the power storage device 10 that needs to be charged, and continuation of storage with a low charging rate is effectively suppressed. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the recommended charging information is notified by e-mail, but it may be displayed on the screen of the application of the management system 1, similarly to the maintenance information.

In S32, if the start signal for the long-term storage mode is not received, it means that the storage state of the power storage device 10 is not appropriate, so the information terminal 30 outputs an error display to the monitor 33 (S36). The error display includes information indicating that the long-term storage mode cannot be entered. The information terminal 30 acquires the determination result of S12 from the power storage device 10 or acquires the charging rate and the temperature from the power storage device 10 to determine whether the storage state is appropriate, and displays an error display in a diagram to be described later. 8. Information as shown in FIG. 9 may be output.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a modification of the processing shown in FIG. In the flowchart of FIG. 4, the same reference numerals are used for steps with the same processing contents as in the flowchart of FIG. The processing of the management server 20 is the same as the processing shown in FIG. The example shown in FIG. 4 is different from the example shown in FIG. different. Furthermore, in the example shown in FIG. 4, information terminal 30 determines whether the storage state of power storage device 10 is appropriate. The shutdown signal is generated when it is determined in S301 and S302 that the storage state of power storage device 10 is appropriate.

When the remaining amount display button 17 is long pressed in S10, the power storage device 10 transmits the operation signal to the information terminal 30 by the functions of the communication module 12 and the control unit 13 (S100). When the information terminal 30 acquires a long-pressing operation signal of the remaining amount display button 17 in S300, the information terminal 30 executes storage state optimization processing in S301, and stores a shutdown signal when it determines that the storage state is appropriate. It transmits to the device 10 (S302, S303). On the other hand, if the storage condition is not appropriate, information for improving the storage condition is output (S322, S324 in FIG. 5), and the processing flow returns to S300.

When the power storage device 10 acquires a shutdown signal from the information terminal 30 in S101, the power storage device 10 shuts down the device components including the communication module 12 and the control unit 13, and the power storage device 10 shifts to the long-term storage mode (S101). In other words, in the process shown in FIG. 4, when the state of power storage device 10 is not appropriate based on determination by information terminal 30, shutdown of power storage device 10 is not executed and transition to the long-term storage mode is prohibited. be done.

FIG. 5 shows the processing procedure for optimizing the storage state in S301 of FIG. The information terminal 30 determines whether or not the charging rate of the power storage device 10 acquired in S300 of FIG. 3 is appropriate for long-term storage (S321). Specifically, the charging rate is compared with a predetermined threshold to determine whether the charging rate is less than the threshold. When the information terminal 30 determines that the charging rate of the power storage device 10 is less than the threshold value, the information terminal 30 outputs information prompting charging of the power storage device 10 to the monitor 33 (S322). On the other hand, when the charging rate of the power storage device 10 is equal to or higher than the threshold, S322 is skipped and the process proceeds to S323. The threshold is set to 80% to 100%, for example.

FIG. 8 is an example of a notification screen of information prompting charging of the power storage device 10 . The notification screen shown in FIG. 8 displays information specifying the power storage device 10 that needs to be charged, along with the message, "The battery capacity is not appropriate for long-term storage processing. Please be sure to charge the battery to XX% or more before storage." .” contains information prompting charging. This information effectively suppresses the start of long-term storage of power storage device 10 when the charging rate is low. The information prompting charging is displayed on the screen of the application of the management system 1, for example. Alternatively, it may be notified by e-mail or the like via the management server 20 .

The information terminal 30 determines whether the temperature of the power storage device 10 acquired in S101 of FIG. 4 is appropriate for long-term storage (S323). Specifically, the temperature is compared with a predetermined threshold range to determine whether the temperature is outside the threshold range. When the information terminal 30 determines that the temperature of the power storage device 10 is out of the threshold range, the information terminal 30 outputs to the monitor 33 information prompting storage at an appropriate temperature (S324). On the other hand, if the temperature of power storage device 10 is within the threshold range, S324 is skipped and the optimization process ends. The threshold range is set to 10° C. to 40° C., for example.

Fig. 9 is an example of an information notification screen that prompts storage at an appropriate temperature. The notification screen shown in FIG. 9 includes information specifying power storage devices 10 whose storage temperature is not appropriate, along with the message "The temperature of the battery is not appropriate for long-term storage. Please.” contains information that encourages storage at an appropriate temperature. This information effectively prevents power storage device 10 from being stored for a long period of time in an inappropriate temperature environment. Information prompting appropriate temperature management is displayed on the screen of the application of the management system 1, for example. Alternatively, it may be notified by e-mail or the like via the management server 20 .

As described above, according to the management system 1 having the configuration described above, the power storage device 10 can be stored for a long period of time in a ready-to-use state. According to the management system 1, even if the power storage device 10 is stored without being used for a long period of time, the power storage device 10 does not have a sufficient amount of charge when the power storage device 10 is used, or the power storage device 10 needs to be charged frequently. It is possible to effectively suppress the occurrence of problems such as an increase in the management burden.

In the long-term storage mode, internal power consumption of the power storage device 10 is suppressed by shutting down device components including the communication module 12 and the control unit 13, so a high charging rate can be maintained for a long period of time. In the long-term storage mode, the communication function with the power storage device 10 is lost, but after a predetermined period of time has passed since the start of the long-term storage mode, the user can receive charging recommendation information, so the power storage device 10 during long-term storage can be managed appropriately. can do. Furthermore, by calculating the timing for outputting recommended charging information based on the state of the power storage device 10, for example, the degree of deterioration of the power storage device 10, that is, the timing when charging becomes necessary due to a decrease in the charging rate, more appropriate management becomes possible. Become.

In addition, when the long-term storage mode of power storage device 10 is started, if the charging rate of power storage device 10 is low, charging is encouraged, thereby effectively preventing power storage device 10 from being stored for a long period of time in a state where the charging rate is low. can be suppressed to Similarly, when the temperature of power storage device 10 deviates from the appropriate range, storage at an appropriate temperature is encouraged to effectively prevent long-term storage of power storage device 10 in an inappropriate temperature environment. can be suppressed.

In addition, when the management device such as the management server 20 outputs the recommended charging information for the first power storage device 10, the recommended charging information is also output for the second power storage device 10 whose time to recommend charging is approaching. By doing so, the user can collectively charge a plurality of power storage devices 10 that need to be charged. If it is possible to receive information on a plurality of power storage devices 10 that will soon need to be charged at once, and charge them all at once, usability will be greatly improved. As described above, a plurality of second power storage devices 10 may be provided.

In the above-described embodiment, information on the power storage device 10 including information on long-term storage is transmitted to the management server 20 via the information terminal 30 . In this case, since a short-range wireless communication module such as BLE with low power consumption can be used as the communication module 12 of the power storage device 10, the internal power consumption of the power storage device 10 can be reduced.

By storing information about long-term storage of the power storage device 10 in the management server 20 and outputting charging recommendation information from the management server 20, for example, even if the user's smartphone (information terminal 30) is changed during long-term storage, It is possible to transmit the charging recommendation information to an e-mail address or the like registered in the management server 20 . That is, the user can receive charging recommendation information with a new smartphone (information terminal 30 ) without changing the registration information of the management server 20 .

It should be noted that the above-described embodiment can be appropriately modified in design within the scope that does not impair the purpose of the present disclosure. 10 and 11 show configurations of management systems 1X and 1Y, which are modifications of the above embodiment.

The management system 1X illustrated in FIG. 10 differs from the management system 1 in that information regarding long-term storage of the power storage device 10 is transmitted to the management server 20 without going through the information terminal 30. On the other hand, in common with the management system 1 , the management server 20 is configured to transmit charging recommendation information to the information terminal 30 after a predetermined period of time has passed since the long-term storage mode of the power storage device 10 was started. In this case, similarly to the management system 1, the power storage device 10 can be stored for a long period of time in a ready-to-use state.

In the management system 1X, the power storage device 10 needs to communicate with the management server 20. As described above, the management server 20 is the server of the manufacturer of the power storage device 10, the management company, or the like, and is located in a location where short-range wireless communication cannot be performed. In this case, for the communication module 12 of the power storage device 10, for example, a communication module capable of wide-area communication such as an LTE module, a 4G module, a 5G module, or the like is used. In addition, the power storage device 10 may be equipped with a SIM for data communication.

A management system 1Y illustrated in FIG. 11 has in common with the management system 1 in that information regarding long-term storage of the power storage device 10 is transmitted to the information terminal 30 . On the other hand, it differs from the management system 1 in that information regarding long-term storage is not sent to the management server 20 . In the management system 1Y, only the information terminal 30 may be used as the management device. In this case, the information terminal 30 stores all information related to long-term storage by the function of the application of the management system 1Y installed in the information terminal 30, and outputs charging recommendation information after a predetermined period of time has passed since the start of the long-term storage mode.

Information related to long-term storage of the power storage device 10, such as charging recommendation information, is displayed on the monitor 33 of the information terminal 30, for example, as an application screen of the management system 1Y. The management system 1Y does not use the management server 20 for long-term storage processing of the power storage device 10, but can store the power storage device 10 for a long time in a ready-to-use state, similarly to the management systems 1 and 1X.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, when the state of the power storage device 10 is not appropriate, the transition to the long-term storage mode is prohibited, but it is also possible to shift to the long-term storage mode regardless of the state of the power storage device 10. is. In this case as well, if information prompting optimization of the storage state is output after the fact, for example, the user who checked the notification screen of FIG. before starting long-term storage mode. Further, it is assumed that the user who has confirmed the notification screen of FIG. 9 stores power storage device 10 under an appropriate temperature environment.

In the above-described embodiment, the second information is output to the monitor 33 of the information terminal 30 when the operation for starting the long-term storage mode is performed, and the first information is output after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of the long-term storage mode. Although it is output to the monitor 33, for example, only the first information may be output. Alternatively, the configuration may be such that only the second information is output.

1 Management system, 10 power storage device, 11 battery module, 12 communication module, 13 control unit, 14 case, 15 handle, 16 connection unit, 16A terminal, 17 remaining amount display button, 18 indicator, 20 management server, 21, 31 processor , 22, 32 memory, 30 information terminal, 33 monitor, 40 charger/discharger, 41 charge/discharge circuit, 42 cord, 43 outlet, 44 plus terminal, 45 minus terminal, 46 detection terminal

Claims (13)

1. a power storage device including a communication module;
   a management device capable of wireless communication with the power storage device;
   with
   The power storage device has a long-term storage mode for shutting down device components,
   The management device outputs first information related to long-term storage of the power storage device after a predetermined period of time has passed since the start of the long-term storage mode, and when an operation for starting the long-term storage mode is performed. and outputting second information relating to long-term storage of said power storage device.
2. 2. The power storage device management system according to claim 1, wherein said management device outputs information prompting charging of said power storage device as said first information.
3. 3. The management device calculates a next recommended charging date for the power storage device based on a start date of the long-term storage mode, and outputs information on the next recommended charging date as the second information. The management system for the power storage device according to 1.
4. The power storage device management system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said management device calculates said predetermined period based on the state of said power storage device at the start of said long-term storage mode.
5. When the charging rate of the power storage device when the operation for starting the long-term storage mode is performed is less than a predetermined threshold, the management device prompts charging of the power storage device as the second information. 5. The power storage device management system according to claim 1, which outputs information.
6. When the temperature of the power storage device when the operation for starting the long-term storage mode is performed deviates from a predetermined threshold range, the management device prompts storage at an appropriate temperature as the second information. 5. The power storage device management system according to claim 1, which outputs information.
7. The power storage device includes a first power storage device and a second power storage device,
   When the management device outputs the first information about the first power storage device, if the remaining period of time until the predetermined time period of the second power storage device elapses is less than a predetermined threshold, 7. The power storage device management system according to claim 1, further outputting said first information about said second power storage device.
8. The management device is an information terminal and a management server,
   The power storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the management server acquires start information of the long-term storage mode via the information terminal and outputs the predetermined information to the information terminal. management system.
9. the management device is a management server;
   8. The power storage device management system according to claim 1, wherein said management server outputs said predetermined information to an information terminal registered in advance.
10. The management device is an information terminal having a monitor,
    8. The power storage device management system according to claim 1, wherein said information terminal outputs said predetermined information to said monitor.
11. A charger including a detection terminal that detects the power storage device,
    The power storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein when the power storage device is connected to the charger, the power storage device returns from the long-term storage mode triggered by a current flowing through the detection terminal. A management system for power storage devices.
12. The power storage device management system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said communication module of said power storage device is a BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) module.
13. A management method for a power storage device including a communication module and having a long-term storage mode for shutting down device components, comprising:
    outputting first information related to the power storage device after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of the long-term storage mode; A method of managing a power storage device, which performs at least one of outputting related second information.
    

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