AU2016238069A1

AU2016238069A1 - Storage battery management device, control device, storage battery module, and storage battery management method

Info

Publication number: AU2016238069A1
Application number: AU2016238069A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Yuichiro TERAMOTO; Takahiro YOSHIMATSU; Akira Yoshitake
Original assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co Ltd
Current assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co Ltd
Priority date: 2015-03-26
Filing date: 2016-03-16
Publication date: 2017-09-14
Anticipated expiration: 2036-03-16
Also published as: WO2016152100A1; AU2016238069C1; JP2016185044A; AU2016238069B2

Abstract

Provided is a storage battery management device which can decrease the work involved in setting information related to control of charging, etc. A storage battery management device (30) is characterized by comprising: a characteristic information acquisition unit (31) that acquires characteristic information from a storage battery module (11); and a notification unit (34) that notifies control conditions based on the characteristic information to a power source control device (40) which performs control on charging and/or discharging of the storage battery module (11). Due to this configuration, the storage battery management device (30) can perform control of charging, etc. under appropriate conditions even if an operator has forgotten to perform the information setting work.

Description

DESCRIPTION

STORAGE BATTERY MANAGEMENT DEVICE, CONTROL DEVICE, STORAGE BATTERY MODULE, AND STORAGE BATTERY MANAGEMENT 5 METHOD

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001]

The present invention typically relates to a storage battery 10 management device, a control unit, a storage battery module, and a storage battery management method, and more particularly, relates to a storage battery management device for managing charging or discharging of the storage battery module, the control device, the storage battery module, and the storage battery management method. 15

BACKGROUND ART

[0002]

Conventionally, a charging circuit has been known as a circuit for controlling charging voltage according to temperature of a battery, when a 20 rechargeable lithium-ion battery (hereinafter, referred to as a storage battery) is charged (see Patent Literature l).

[0003]

The charging circuit described in Patent Literature 1 includes a power supply circuit and a control circuit. The control circuit includes a storage unit 25 that stores a voltage (threshold voltage) depending on temperature of a storage battery, and acquires, from the storage unit, the threshold voltage depending on the temperature detected by a temperature detector. The power supply 1 9408325_1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU circuit controls charging of the storage battery based on the threshold voltage acquired by the control circuit.

[0004] A storage battery module needs to be replaced with a new one at a 5 certain time, because the performance thereof is deteriorated by charging and discharging repeatedly. In the storage battery module before and after replacement, a threshold voltage of the storage battery module before the replacement may be different from a threshold voltage of the storage battery module after the replacement. 10 [0005]

In the charging circuit of Patent Literature 1, as mentioned above, the control circuit stores a threshold voltage in advance. Accordingly, to charge a storage battery module after replacement properly, the threshold voltage stored in the control circuit needs to be changed to a threshold voltage of the 15 storage battery module after replacement. At this time, an operator may forget to re-set, i.e., change the threshold voltage.

Citation List Patent Literature 20 [0006] PTL V Unexamined Japanese Patent Publication No. 2009-22078 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0007] 25 The present invention is made in view of the above-mentioned problem, and aims to provide a storage battery management device, a control device, a storage battery module, and a storage battery management method that can 2

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU control charging or the like under appropriate conditions even if an operator has forgotten to set information.

[0008]

The storage battery management device in accordance with an aspect 5 of the present invention includes a characteristic information acquisition unit that acquires characteristic information from a storage battery module, and a notification unit that notifies a power source control device, which controls at least one of charging or discharging of the storage battery module, of a control condition based on the characteristic information. 10 [0009]

Further, the control device in accordance with an aspect of the present invention includes the above-mentioned storage battery management device and the power source control device. When receiving a control condition from the storage battery management device, the power source control device 15 controls the storage battery module based on the control condition.

[0010]

Still further, the storage battery module in accordance with an aspect of the present invention includes a storage battery, a storage unit that stores characteristic information on at least one of charging and discharging, and an 20 output unit that outputs the characteristic information to the storage battery management device that manages the characteristic information.

[0011]

Furthermore, the storage battery management method in accordance with an aspect of the present invention includes characteristic information 25 acquisition processing that acquires characteristic information from a storage battery module, and notification processing that notifies a power source control device, which controls at least one of charging or discharging of the storage 3 9408325 1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU battery module, of a control condition based on the characteristic information.

[0012]

The storage battery management device, the control device, the storage battery module, and the storage battery management method which are 5 mentioned above make it possible to control charging or the like under appropriate conditions, even if an operator has forgotten to set information.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] 10 FIG. 1 is a view explaining a configuration of a power storage system in a first exemplary embodiment. FIG.2 is a flow chart explaining an operation of a storage battery management device in the power storage system. FIG. 3 is a view explaining a configuration of a first modification of the 15 power storage system. FIG. 4 is a flow chart explaining an operation in which the storage battery management device in the first modification of the power storage system determines the minimum charging current value as a control condition. FIG. 5 is a flow chart explaining an operation in which the storage 20 battery management device in the first modification of the power storage system determines the minimum discharging current value as a control condition. FIG. 6 is a view explaining a configuration of a power storage system in a second exemplary embodiment. 25 FIG. 7 is a view explaining a configuration of a storage battery module in the above power storage system. FIG. 8 is a flow chart explaining an operation of the storage battery 4 9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU module in the power storage system. FIG.9 is a flow chart explaining an operation of a storage battery management device in the power storage system. FIG. 10 is a view explaining a configuration of a power storage system 5 in the first modification of the power storage system. FIG. 11 is a flow chart explaining an operation in which the storage battery module in the first modification of the power storage system determines a charging current value as characteristic information. FIG. 12 is a flow chart explaining an operation in which the storage 10 battery module in the first modification of the power storage system determines a discharging current value as characteristic information.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0014]

15 1. FIRST EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT

Hereinafter, power storage system 1 in an exemplary embodiment will be described.

[0015]

As shown in FIG. 1, power storage system 1 in the exemplary 20 embodiment includes battery systems 10 constituted by a plurality of storage battery modules 11, and control device 20. Power storage system 1 is a system of which control device 20 controls at least one of charging or discharging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 by using characteristic information stored in each of the plurality of storage battery 25 modules 11.

[0016]

Storage battery module 11 outputs the characteristic information, 5

9408325 1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU which shows characteristics of storage battery module 11 mentioned above, to control device 20. In the present exemplary embodiment, the characteristic information is information on at least one of charging or discharging.

[0017] 5 Control device 20 controls at least one of charging or discharging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11. When acquiring the characteristic information from each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11, control device 20 selects a control condition based on the acquired characteristic information. Control device 20 controls at least one of charging 10 or discharging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 based on the selected control condition. Hereinafter, the case where the control condition is related to charging will be described.

[0018] (Storage battery module 11) 15 As shown in FIG. 1, each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 includes storage battery 12, temperature sensor 13, storage unit 14, and output unit 15. In the present exemplary embodiment, the plurality of storage battery modules 11 are of an identical type and have the same performance in the specifications. 20 [0019]

Storage battery 12 is a lithium ion battery, for example.

[0020]

Temperature sensor 13 measures battery temperature (environmental information) of storage battery 12, and outputs the result to control device 20. 25 [0021]

Storage unit 14 stores a first full charge voltage value when the battery temperature belongs to a first temperature range, and a second full charge 6

9408325,1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU voltage value when the battery temperature belongs to a second temperature range. Herein, the first temperature range is a range in which the battery temperature becomes higher than a predetermined threshold, so that the performance of storage battery module 11 is demonstrated as usual without 5 any restrictions in the specifications. Hereinafter, the first full charge voltage value when the battery temperature belongs to the first temperature range is referred to as a normal voltage value. Further, the second temperature range is a range in which the battery temperature becomes less than or equal to the predetermined threshold, so that the performance of storage battery module 11 10 is restricted in the specifications. Hereinafter, the second full charge voltage value when the temperature belongs to the second temperature range is referred to as a restriction voltage value. Specifically, the first temperature range is correlated with the normal voltage value, and the second temperature range is correlated with the restriction voltage value, respectively, and these 15 values are stored in storage unit 14. Further, in the present exemplary embodiment, the restriction voltage value is smaller than the normal voltage value. Accordingly, when the battery temperature is less than or equal to the predetermined threshold, the charging energy at that time is reduced as compared with charging energy at a normal time (when the battery 20 temperature is higher than the predetermined threshold), thereby obtaining the long life. Further, as mentioned above, the plurality of storage battery modules 11 are of an identical type and have the same performance in the specifications. Therefore, the normal voltage values stored in storage units 14 of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 each are the same. Further, the 25 restriction voltage values are also the same for each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11.

[0022] 7

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU

Output unit 15 hands over (outputs) the characteristic information to control device 20. In the present exemplary embodiment, the characteristic information includes a first full charge condition that is constituted by a group of the normal voltage value and the first temperature range, and a second full 5 charge condition that is constituted by a group of the restriction voltage value and the second temperature range.

[0023]

Note that, storage batteries 12 included in the plurality of storage battery modules 11 are connected in series with one another to connect the 10 plurality of storage battery modules 11 electrically.

[0024] (Control device 20)

Control device 20 is, for example, a power conditioner, and includes storage battery management device 30 and power source control device 40, as 15 shown in FIG. 1.

[0025]

Storage battery management device 30 is a device for managing the characteristic information. In the present exemplary embodiment, the characteristic information is information on at least one of charging or 20 discharging of storage battery module 11. Storage battery management device 30 acquires the characteristic information from each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11, and selects a control condition suitable for the plurality of storage battery modules 11 by using the characteristic information. As shown in FIG. 1, storage battery management device 30 includes 25 characteristic information acquisition unit 31, discrimination information acquisition unit 32, processing unit 33, and notification unit 34. Storage battery management device 30 has a memory that is readable by a processor or 8

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU a computer. The processor executes a program stored in the memory to achieve each function of storage battery management device 30. The program is offered through electric telecommunication lines such as the Internet, or is offered through a recording medium that is readable by a computer. 5 [0026]

Characteristic information acquisition unit 31 acquires a plurality of characteristic information each including the first full charge condition and the second full charge condition from the plurality of storage battery modules 11 at the beginning of charging. 10 [0027]

Discrimination information acquisition unit 32 acquires discrimination information for selecting a control condition (in the present exemplary embodiment, a condition for controlling charging) for the plurality of storage battery modules 11 at the beginning of charging. Specifically, discrimination 15 information acquisition unit 32 acquires battery temperature of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 (storage batteries 12) from temperature sensor 13 corresponding thereto as discrimination information.

[0028]

Processing unit 33 selects a control condition suitable for the plurality 20 of storage battery modules 11 by using each of the plurality pieces of characteristic information acquired by characteristic information acquisition unit 31. Specifically, processing unit 33 selects either the first full charge condition or the second full charge condition as a full charge condition (suitable condition) for each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 by using the 25 discrimination information acquired by discrimination information acquisition unit 32 to acquire a plurality of full charge conditions (suitable conditions). Processing unit 33 selects one full charge condition (suitable condition) 9

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU including the minimum voltage value among the plurality of full charge conditions (suitable conditions) acquired by processing unit 33, as the control condition.

[0029] 5 To cause the power source control device to control each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 (storage batteries 12) based on the voltage value included in the control condition selected by processing unit 33, notification unit 34 notifies power source control device 40, mentioned above, of the control condition. 10 [0030]

Power source control device 40 is a device for charging each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 (storage batteries 12) by using generated power of solar battery 50. Power source control device 40 controls at least one of charging or discharging of each of the plurality of storage 15 battery modules 11 (storage batteries 12) based on the control condition notified from storage battery management device 30. For instance, power source control device 40 receives the control condition (full charge condition) from storage battery management device 30. Power source control device 40 charges each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 by using the 20 generated power of solar battery 50 such that a fully charged voltage value of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 is adjusted to the voltage value indicated by the full charge condition received from storage battery management device 30. Specifically, power source control device 40 measures a voltage value of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 when 25 each of the plurality storage battery modules 11 is charged. If the measured voltage value agrees with the voltage value indicated by the full charge condition, power source control device 40 will stop charging. 10

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU

[0031]

Further, power source control device 40 converts electric power from at least one of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 or solar battery 50 into alternating current, and supplies the electric power to load 51 provided 5 in facilities. In the case where the electric power of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 is supplied to load 51, power source control device 40 controls discharging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11.

[0032]

Note that, power source control device 40 has a processor and a 10 memory, and the processor executes a program stored in the memory to achieve each function of power source control device 40. The program is offered through electric telecommunication lines such as the Internet, or is offered through a recording medium that is readable by a computer.

[0033] 15 Next, an operation in which storage battery management device 30 determines the control condition will be described with reference to the flow chart shown in FIG. 2.

[0034]

Characteristic information acquisition unit 31 of storage battery 20 management device 30 acquires the plurality of characteristic information from the plurality of storage battery modules 11 (Step S5). Specifically, characteristic information acquisition unit 31 acquires the characteristic information including the first full charge condition and the second full charge condition from each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11. 25 Discrimination information acquisition unit 32 of storage battery management device 30 acquires battery temperatures (discrimination conditions) of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 (storage batteries 12) from a plurality 11 9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU of temperature sensors 13 (Step S10).

[0035]

Processing unit 33 of storage battery management device 30 performs a selection processing, i.e., selects a control condition suitable for the plurality of 5 storage battery modules 11 by using each of the plurality pieces of characteristic information acquired by characteristic information acquisition unit 31 (Step Si5). For instance, for each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11, processing unit 33 selects a full charge condition (suitable condition) from the first full charge condition and the second full charge 10 condition according to the battery temperature acquired from the corresponding storage battery module. Herein, the first full charge condition and the second full charge condition are included in the characteristic information and acquired from the corresponding one of the plurality of storage battery modules 11. Specifically, when the battery temperature is 15 higher than a predetermined threshold, processing unit 33 selects the first full charge condition. When the battery temperature is lower than or equal to the predetermined threshold, processing unit 33 selects the second full charge condition. Processing unit 33 acquires a plurality of full charge conditions (suitable conditions) by selecting full charge conditions (suitable conditions) for 20 all of the plurality of storage battery modules 11. If the plurality of full charge conditions (suitable conditions) selected by processing unit 33 indicate the first full charge condition, processing unit 33 will select the above-mentioned first full charge condition as the control condition. If the second full charge condition is selected for at least one of the plurality of storage 25 battery modules 11, processing unit 33 will select the second full charge condition as the control condition.

[0036] 12

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU

Notification unit 34 of storage battery management device 30 notifies power source control device 40 of the control condition (full charge condition) selected by processing unit 33 (Step S20). Power source control device 40 controls a fully charged voltage of each of the plurality of storage battery 5 modules 11 based on the voltage value included in the control condition (full charge condition) notified from notification unit 34.

[0037]

In the present exemplary embodiment, storage battery system 10 is constituted by the plurality of storage battery modules 11, but not limited to 10 this. Storage battery system 10 may be constituted by at least one storage battery module 11. For instance, when storage battery system 10 is constituted by one storage battery module 11, storage battery management device 30 acquires characteristic information from the storage battery module 11, and selects a control condition suitable for the storage battery module 11 by 15 using the characteristic information acquired by storage battery management device 30. In the case where the characteristic information includes the first full charge condition and the second full charge condition, when the battery temperature is higher than a predetermined threshold, storage battery management device 30 determines a voltage value included in the first full 20 charge condition acquired from the storage battery module 11, as a control condition. When the battery temperature is lower than or equal to the predetermined threshold, storage battery management device 30 determines a voltage value included in the second full charge condition acquired from the storage battery module 11, as a control condition. 25 [0038]

Further, storage battery management device 30 of the present exemplary embodiment acquires the characteristic information and the 13

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU discrimination information at the beginning of charging, but not limited to this. Storage battery management device 30 may acquire the characteristic information and the discrimination information at predetermined periods (e.g., every three hours). Note that, the numerical value is employed as an 5 example, but the period is not intended to be limited to the numerical value.

[0039]

Storage unit 14 of storage battery module 11 in the present exemplary embodiment stores two kinds of voltage values (the normal voltage value and the restriction voltage value), but not limited to this. Storage unit 14 of 10 storage battery module 11 may store multiple kinds of voltage values. The multiple kinds of voltage values are correlated with multiple temperature ranges different from one another in one-to-one correspondence. Output unit 15 outputs the characteristic information, which includes a plurality of groups each being constituted by a voltage value and a temperature range correlated 15 with the voltage value, to storage battery management device 30. Storage battery management device 30 selects a voltage value according to the battery temperature acquired by discrimination information acquisition unit 32 among the respective voltage values included in the characteristic information.

[0040] 20 Further, the plurality of storage battery modules 11 are of an identical type and have the same performance in the specifications, but not limited to this. For the plurality of storage battery modules 11, different types and different performance may be mixed. In this case, the normal voltage value and the restriction voltage value are different for every different types of 25 storage battery modules 11. When selecting the first full charge conditions from the plurality of storage battery modules 11, processing unit 33 of storage battery management device 30 selects a first full charge condition including 14

9408325 1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU the minimum voltage value among the selected first full charge conditions as the control condition. When selecting the second full charge conditions for at least one storage battery module 11 among the plurality of storage battery modules 11, processing unit 33 selects a second full charge condition including 5 the minimum voltage value among the selected second full charge conditions as the control condition.

[0041]

Further, the plurality of storage batteries 12 are connected in series, but not limited to this. The plurality of storage batteries 12 may be connected 10 in parallel, or in a combination of in series and in parallel.

[0042]

Note that, in the present exemplary embodiment, the voltage value is employed as the full charge condition, but not limited to this. A charging rate (SOC: State of Charge) of storage battery module 11 may be employed as the 15 full charge condition. For instance, storage unit 14 of storage battery module 11 stores a group of the first temperature range and a charging rate of "100%," and a group of the second temperature range and a charging rate of "80%." Output unit 15 outputs the characteristic information including these groups to storage battery management device 30. When the battery temperature of 20 each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 belongs to the first temperature range, storage battery management device 30 selects a charging rate of 100% as the charging rate. When the battery temperature of at least one storage battery module 11 belongs to the second temperature range, processing unit 33 of storage battery management device 30 selects a charging 25 rate of 80% as the charging rate. At this time, each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 includes a measuring circuit for measuring the charging rate of storage battery 12. Based on the result measured by the measuring 15

9408325_1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU circuit of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11, power source control device 40 controls charging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 such that the measured result is adjusted to the charging rate selected by storage battery management device 30. 5 [0043]

2. FIRST MODIFICATION OF FIRST EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT

In this place, at least one of a charging current value or a discharging current value is employed as the control condition, instead of the full charge condition. Herein, the charging current value is a value of current to be 10 inputted into each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 by power source control device 40 when each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 is charged. Further, the discharging current value is a value of current to be inputted from each of the plurality of storage battery module 11 by power source control device 40 when each of the plurality of storage battery modules 15 11 is discharged.

[0044]

Hereinafter, a different point from the first exemplary embodiment will be described mainly. Note that, in the present modification, the same numerals are assigned to the same components as in the first exemplary 20 embodiment, and the description is omitted as necessary.

[0045]

Power storage system 1 of the present modification includes storage battery system 10 and control device 20, as shown in FIG. 3.

[0046] 25 As shown in FIG. 3, storage battery system 10 includes a plurality of storage battery modules 11. Each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 includes storage battery 12, storage unit 14, and output unit 15. Storage 16

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU unit 14 stores the maximum value (the maximum charging current value, hereinafter, referred to as "first maximum charging current value") of current to be inputted in charging mode, and the maximum value (the maximum discharging current value, hereinafter, referred to as "first maximum 5 discharging current value") of current to be outputted in discharging mode. Output unit 15 outputs the first maximum charging current value and the first maximum discharging current value, which are stored in storage unit 14, to storage battery management device 30 as the characteristic information. Note that, a plurality of storage batteries 12 each are connected in series to 10 connect the plurality of storage battery modules 11 electrically.

[0047]

Control device 20 includes storage battery management device 30 and power source control device 40, as shown in FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. 3, storage battery management device 30 includes characteristic information 15 acquisition unit 31, processing unit 33, notification unit 34, and current value acquisition unit 35.

[0048]

Characteristic information acquisition unit 31 acquires the charging current value and the discharging current value from each of the plurality of 20 storage battery modules 11 as the characteristic information when control device 20 is activated.

[0049]

When control device 20 is activated, current value acquisition unit 35 acquires the maximum value (the maximum charging current value, 25 hereinafter, referred to as "second maximum charging current value") of current allowed to be outputted into each of the plurality storage battery modules 11 from power source control device 40 when power source control 17

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU device 40 controls charging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11. Further, current value acquisition unit 35 acquires the maximum value (the maximum discharging current value, hereinafter, referred to as "second maximum discharging current value") of current allowed to be inputted into 5 power source control device 4 from each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 when power source control device 40 controls discharging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11.

[0050]

Processing unit 33 selects a control condition suitable for the plurality 10 of storage battery modules by using at least one of the first maximum charging current value or the first maximum discharging current value which are acquired by characteristic information acquisition unit 31. For instance, when characteristic information acquisition unit 31 acquires the first maximum charging current values from the plurality of storage battery 15 modules 11, processing unit 33 selects a minimum current value (charge limiting value) among the acquired first maximum charging current values. Processing unit 33 selects the smaller current value (charging control current value) of the charging limiting value selected by processing unit 33 and the second maximum charging current value acquired by current value acquisition 20 unit 35, as the control condition. Further, when characteristic information acquisition unit 31 acquires the first maximum discharging current values from the plurality of storage battery modules 11, processing unit 33 selects a minimum current value (discharge limiting value) among the acquired first maximum discharging current values. Processing unit 33 selects the smaller 25 current value (discharging control current value) of the discharge limiting value selected by processing unit 33 and the second maximum discharging current value acquired by current value acquisition unit 35, as the control 18

9408325J (GH Matters) P106736.AU condition.

[0051]

Notification unit 34 notifies power source control device 40 of the control condition (the charging control current value or the discharging control 5 current value) selected by processing unit 33.

[0052]

In the case where the control condition is the charging control current value, power source control device 40 controls charging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 (storage batteries 12) based on the charging 10 control current value. In the case where the control condition is the discharging control current value, power source control device 40 controls discharging of each storage battery module 11 (storage battery 12) based on the discharging control current value.

[0053] 15 Next, an operation in which storage battery management device 30 of the present modification determines the control condition will be described with reference to the flow charts shown in FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0054]

The operation in which storage battery management device 30 of the 20 present modification determines the charging control current value as the control condition will be described with reference to the flow chart shown in FIG. 4.

[0055]

Characteristic information acquisition unit 31 acquires the first 25 maximum charging current values from the plurality of storage battery modules 11 as the characteristic information (Step S50). Current value acquisition unit 35 acquires the second maximum charging current value from 19

9408325_1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU power source control device 40 (Step S55).

[0056]

Processing unit 33 performs selection processing, i.e., selects the control condition suitable for the plurality of storage battery modules 11 by 5 using each of the plurality pieces of characteristic information acquired by characteristic information acquisition unit 31 (Step S60). Specifically, processing unit 33 selects a smaller current value (charging control current value) of the minimum current value (charging limiting value) among the first maximum charging current values and the second maximum charging current 10 value, as the control condition.

[0057]

Notification unit 34 notifies power source control device 40 of the control condition (charging control current value) selected by processing unit 33 (Step S65). Power source control device 40 controls current to be inputted 15 into each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 in charging mode based on the control condition (charging control current value) notified from notification unit 34.

[0058]

Next, the operation in which storage battery management device 30 of 20 the present modification determines the discharging control current value as the control condition will be described with reference to the flow chart shown in FIG. 5.

[0059]

Characteristic information acquisition unit 31 acquires the first 25 maximum discharging current values from the plurality of storage battery modules 11 as the characteristic information (Step Si00). Current value acquisition unit 35 acquires the second maximum discharging current value 20 9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU from power source control device 40 (Step S105).

[0060]

Processing unit 33 performs selection processing, i.e., selects a control condition suitable for the plurality of storage battery modules 11 by using each 5 of the plurality pieces of characteristic information acquired by characteristic information acquisition unit 31 (Step S110). Specifically, processing unit 33 selects a smaller current value (discharging control current value) of the minimum current value (discharge limiting value) among the first maximum discharging current values and the second maximum discharging current 10 value, as the control condition.

[0061]

Notification unit 34 notifies power source control device 40 of the control condition (discharging control current value) selected by processing unit 33 (Step S115). Power source control device 40 controls current to be 15 outputted from each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 in discharging mode based on the control condition (discharging control current value) notified from notification unit 34.

[0062]

Note that, storage battery management device 30 of the present 20 modification has such a configuration that storage battery management device 30 does not include above-mentioned discrimination information acquisition unit 32, but not limited to this. Storage battery management device 30 of the present modification may include discrimination information acquisition unit 32, and storage battery module 11 may include temperature sensor 13. In 25 this case, control device 20 controls charging and discharging based on a current value related to charging and discharging current as well as charging based on the full charge condition. Since the case of charging based on the 21

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU full charge condition has already been described, the description thereof is omitted here.

[0063]

Further, storage battery system 10 of the present modification is 5 constituted by the plurality of storage battery modules 11, but not limited to this. Storage battery system 10 may be constituted by at least one storage battery module 11. For instance, in the case where battery systems 10 is constituted by one storage battery module 11, storage battery management device 30 acquires characteristic information from the storage battery module 10 11, and selects a control condition suitable for the storage battery module 11 by using the acquired characteristic information. In the case where the characteristic information is a charging current value, storage battery management device 30 selects a smaller current value of the first maximum charging current value acquired from the storage battery module 11 and the 15 second maximum charging current value, as the control condition. Furthermore, in the case where the characteristic information is a discharging current value, storage battery management device 30 selects a smaller current value of the first maximum discharging current value acquired from the storage battery module 11 and the second maximum discharging current 20 value, as the control condition.

[0064]

Further, storage battery management device 30 of the present modification selects the charging control current value by using the plurality of first maximum charging current values and the second maximum charging 25 current value, but not limited to this. Storage battery management device 30 may select a charging control current value from the plurality of first maximum charging current values. In this case, power source control device 22

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU 40 compares the charging control current value and the maximum charging current value stored in itself, and selects a smaller current value of the two values. Then, power source control device 40 controls charging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 by using the selected current value. Further, storage battery management device 30 may select a discharging control current value from the plurality of first maximum discharging current values. In this case, power source control device 40 compares the discharging control current value and the maximum discharging current value stored in itself, and selects a smaller current value of the two values. Then power source control device 40 controls discharging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 by using the selected current value.

[0065]

3. SECOND MODIFICATION OF FIRST EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT

In the first exemplary embodiment, storage battery management device 30 selects the full charge voltage value according to the battery temperature, but not limited to this. Storage battery management device 30 may select the full charge voltage value according to a control mode that is set, in addition to selecting the full charge voltage value according to the battery temperature.

[0066]

To control charging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11, power source control device 40 sets one control mode among a plurality of control modes. Herein, as the plurality of control modes, a normal mode, a long life mode, a self-control mode, and the like are employed. The normal mode is a mode for charging an electric energy of 100% constantly without restricting electric energy to be charged in storage battery module 11, regardless of the battery temperature of each of the plurality of storage battery 23

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU modules 11. The long life mode is a mode for restricting the electric energy to be charged therein to achieve a long life of storage battery module 11. For instance, the long life mode restricts the upper limit of electric energy to be charged therein. The self-control mode is a mode for selecting the full charge 5 voltage value according to the battery temperature as described in the first exemplary embodiment to achieve both of the normal mode and the long life mode.

[0067]

At the beginning of charging, storage battery management device 30 10 discriminates a mode that is set as the control mode. When the control mode is the normal mode, storage battery management device 30 selects the above-mentioned normal voltage value as control information. When the control mode is the long life mode, storage battery management device 30 selects the above-mentioned restriction voltage value as the control information. When 15 the control mode is the self-control mode, storage battery management device 30 operates in the same manner as the first exemplary embodiment. Therefore, the description is omitted here. Note that, when the control mode is the long life mode, storage battery management device 30 selects the restriction voltage value as the control information, but not limited to this. 20 Storage battery management device 30 may select a voltage value lower than the normal voltage value as the control information.

[0068]

Further, in the present modification, storage battery module 11 sets a voltage value used in the normal mode as a third full charge condition, and 25 sets a voltage value used in the long life mode as a fourth full charge condition. Further, storage battery module 11 includes these voltage values in the characteristic information, and outputs them to storage battery management 24

9408325_1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU device 30.

[0069]

4. SECOND EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT

In the first exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of storage 5 battery modules 11 outputs the plurality of full charge conditions (the first full charge conditions and the second full charge conditions) to storage battery management device 30. However, the present exemplary embodiment differs from the first exemplary embodiment in that each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 outputs one full charge condition to storage battery 10 management device 30.

[0070]

Hereinafter, a different point from the first exemplary embodiment will be described mainly. Note that, the same numerals are assigned to the same components as in the first exemplary embodiment. Therefore, the description 15 is omitted as necessary.

[0071]

Power storage system 1 of the present exemplary embodiment includes storage battery system 10 constituted by a plurality of storage battery modules 11, and control device 20, as shown in FIG. 6. 20 [0072]

Each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 in the present exemplary embodiment outputs characteristic information, which depends on its own battery temperature and indicates characteristics of the corresponding one of the plurality of storage battery modules 11, to control device 20. 25 [0073]

When acquiring the characteristic information from the plurality of storage battery modules 11, control device 20 of the present exemplary 25

9408325 1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU embodiment selects a control condition suitable for storage battery module 11 from the acquired characteristic information. Control device 20 controls at least one of charging or discharging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 based on the selected control condition. Hereinafter, the case 5 where the control condition is a charging condition will be described.

[0074] (Storage battery module 11)

Each of the plurality of storage-battery modules 11 includes storage battery 12, temperature sensor 13, storage unit 14, output unit 15, and 10 determination unit 16, as shown in FIG. 7. Storage battery module 11 has a processor and a memory, and the processor executes a program stored in the memory to achieve a function of determination unit 16 of storage battery module 11. The program is offered through electric telecommunication lines such as the Internet, or is offered through a recording medium that is readable 15 by a computer.

[0075]

Determination unit 16 determines the full charge condition to be transmitted to storage battery management device 30. Specifically, determination unit 16 determines whether or not the battery temperature 20 measured by temperature sensor 13 is higher than a predetermined threshold. When determining that the battery temperature is higher than a predetermined threshold, determination unit 16 determines the normal voltage value as the full charge condition. When determining that the battery temperature is lower than or equal to the predetermined threshold, 25 determination unit 16 determines the restriction voltage value as the full charge conditions.

[0076] 26

9408325 1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU

Output unit 15 outputs the full charge condition as the characteristic information. Specifically, at every time when determination unit 16 determines the full charge condition to be transmitted to storage battery management device 30, output unit 15 outputs the determined full charge 5 condition to control device 20 as the characteristic information.

[0077]

Note that, like the first exemplary embodiment, the plurality of storage batteries 12 each are connected in series to connect the plurality of storage battery modules 11 electrically. 10 [0078] (Control device 20)

Control device 20 is a power conditioner for charging each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 by using electric power, such as generated power of solar battery 50, from the outside. Control device 20 15 includes storage battery management device 30 and power source control device 40, as shown in FIG. 6.

[0079]

As shown in FIG. 6, storage battery management device 30 includes characteristic information acquisition unit 31, processing unit 33, and 20 notification unit 34. Storage battery management device 30 has a processor and a memory, and the processor executes a program stored in the memory to achieve each function of storage battery management device 30. The program is offered through electric telecommunication lines such as the Internet, or is offered through a recording medium that is readable by a computer. 25 [0080]

Characteristic information acquisition unit 31 acquires a plurality pieces of characteristic information, serving as the full charge condition, from 27

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU the plurality of storage battery modules 11 at the beginning of charging.

[0081]

Processing unit 33 selects a control condition suitable for the plurality of storage battery modules by using the plurality pieces of characteristic 5 information acquired by characteristic information acquisition unit 31. Specifically, processing unit 33 selects the minimum voltage value among voltage values indicated by the plurality pieces of characteristic information (full charge conditions) outputted from the plurality of storage battery modules 11, as the control condition. 10 [0082]

To control each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 based on the control condition selected by processing unit 33, notification unit 34 notifies power source control device 40 of the control condition.

[0083] 15 The function of power source control device 40 in the present exemplary embodiment is the same as that of the first exemplary embodiment 1. Therefore, the description thereof is omitted here.

[0084]

Next, an operation in which storage battery module 11 determines the 20 characteristic information to be outputted to storage battery management device 30 and an operation in which storage battery management device 30 determines the control condition will be described with reference to the flow charts shown in FIGS. 8 and 9.

[0085] 25 FIG. 8 is a flow chart explaining the operation in which storage battery module 11 determines characteristic information to be outputted to storage battery management device 30. 28 9408325_1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU [0086]

Determination unit 16 of storage battery module 11 determines the full charge condition to be transmitted to storage battery management device 30 (Step S150). Specifically, when the battery temperature measured by 5 temperature sensor 13 is higher than a predetermined threshold, determination unit 16 determines the normal voltage value as the full charge condition. When the battery temperature is lower than or equal to the predetermined threshold, determination unit 16 determines the restriction voltage value as the full charge condition. Output unit 15 outputs the full 10 charge condition determined by determination unit 16 to control device 20 as the characteristic information (Step Si55).

[0087] FIG. 9 is a flow chart explaining the operation in which storage battery management device 30 determines the control condition. 15 [0088]

Characteristic information acquisition unit 31 of storage battery management device 30 acquires a plurality pieces of characteristic information from the plurality of storage battery modules 11 (Step S200). Processing unit 33 of storage battery management device 30 performs selection processing, i.e., 20 selects a control condition suitable for the plurality of storage battery modules 11 by using the plurality pieces of characteristic information acquired by characteristic information acquisition unit 31 (Step S205). Specifically, processing unit 33 selects the minimum voltage value among voltage values indicated by the plurality of characteristic information (full charge conditions) 25 as a control condition. Notification unit 34 of storage battery management device 30 notifies power source control device 40 of the control condition selected by processing unit 33 (Step S210). Power source control device 40 29

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU controls a fully charged voltage of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 based on the control condition notified from notification unit 34.

[0089]

Storage battery management device 30 of the present exemplary 5 embodiment acquires the characteristic information at the beginning of charging, but not limited to this. Like the first exemplary embodiment, storage battery management device 30 of the present exemplary embodiment may acquire characteristic information at predetermined periods (e.g., every three hours). Note that, the numerical value is employed as an example, but 10 the period is not intended to be limited to the numerical value.

[0090]

Further, the plurality of storage batteries 12 are connected in series, but not limited to this. The plurality of storage batteries 12 may be connected in parallel, or in a combination of in series and in parallel. 15 [0091]

Note that, in the present exemplary embodiment, the voltage value is used as the full charge condition, but not limited to this. As the full charge condition, a charging rate (SOC) may be used. For instance, when the battery temperature measured by temperature sensor 13 is higher than a 20 predetermined threshold, determination unit 16 determines a charging rate of 100% as the charging rate. When the battery temperature is lower than or equal to the predetermined threshold, determination unit 16 determines a charging rate of 80% as the charging rate. Storage battery management device 30 selects the minimum charging rate among charging rates determined 25 by the plurality of storage battery modules 11, and notifies power source control device 40. At this time, each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 includes a measuring circuit for measuring a charging rate of 30

9408325 1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU storage battery 12. Based on the result measured by the measuring circuit of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11, power source control device 40 controls charging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 such that the measured result is adjusted to the charging rate notified from storage 5 battery management device 30.

[0092]

5. FIRST MODIFICATION OF SECOND EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT

In this place, like the first modification of the first exemplary embodiment, at least one of the charging current value or the discharging 10 current value is employed as the control condition. Hereinafter, a different point from the second exemplary embodiment will be described mainly. Note that, in the present modification, the same numerals are assigned to the same components as in the second exemplary embodiment, and the description is omitted as necessary. 15 [0093]

As shown in FIG. 10, power storage system 1 of the present modification includes storage battery system 10 constituted by a plurality of storage battery module 11, and control device 20.

[0094] 20 Each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 includes storage battery 12, temperature sensor 13, storage unit 14, output unit 15, and determination unit 16 (see FIG. 7). Storage battery module 11 has a processor and a memory, and the processor executes a program stored in the memory to achieve a function of determination unit 16 of storage battery 25 module 11. The program is offered through electric telecommunication lines such as the Internet, or is offered through a recording medium that is readable by a computer. 31

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU

[0095]

Storage unit 14 stores the maximum charging current value (first charging current value) and the maximum discharging current value (first discharging current value) when the battery temperature is higher than a 5 predetermined threshold. Furthermore, storage unit 14 stores the maximum charging current value (second charging current value) and the maximum discharging current value (second discharging current value) when the battery temperature is lower than or equal to the predetermined threshold.

[0096] 10 Determination unit 16 determines characteristic information to be transmitted to storage battery management device 30. Specifically, determination unit 16 determines whether the battery temperature, which is measured by temperature sensor 13, is higher than a predetermined threshold or not. When determining that the battery temperature is higher than the 15 predetermined threshold, determination unit 16 acquires the first charging current value and the first discharging current value from storage unit 14. When determining that battery temperature is lower than or equal to the predetermined threshold, determination unit 16 acquires the second charging current value and the second discharging current value from storage unit 14. 20 Note that, in the case where it is not necessary to distinguish the first charging current value from the second charging current value, these values are collectively referred to as the first maximum charging current value. Further, in the case where it is not necessary to distinguish the first discharging current value from the second discharging current value, these 25 values are collectively referred to as the first maximum discharging current value.

[0097] 32

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU

Output unit 15 outputs the first maximum charging current value and the first maximum discharging current value, which are acquired by determination unit 16, to control device 20 as the characteristic information.

[0098] 5 Next, control device 20 of the present modification will be described.

[0099]

Control device 20 includes storage battery management device 30 and power source control device 40, as shown in FIG. 10. As shown in FIG. 10, storage battery management device 30 includes characteristic information 10 acquisition unit 31, processing unit 33, notification unit 34, and current value acquisition unit 35.

[0100]

Characteristic information acquisition unit 31 acquires the charging current value and the discharging current value, which are outputted from 15 each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11, as the characteristic information.

[0101]

Current value acquisition unit 35 acquires, from power source control device 40, the second maximum charging current value at the time when 20 power source control device 40 controls charging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11. Further, current value acquisition unit 35 acquires, from power source control device 40, the second maximum discharging current value at the time when power source control device 40 controls discharging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11. 25 [0102]

When the charging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 is controlled, processing unit 33 selects a control condition suitable for the 33

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU plurality of storage battery modules 11 by using the first maximum charging current values acquired by characteristic information acquisition unit 31. When the discharging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 is controlled, processing unit 33 selects a control condition suitable for the plurality of storage battery modules 11 by using the first maximum discharging current values acquired by characteristic information acquisition unit 31. For instance, processing unit 33 selects the minimum current value (charging limiting value) among the first maximum charging current values, and selects a smaller current value (charging control current value) of the charging limiting value selected by processing unit 33 and the second maximum charging current value, as the control condition. Further, processing unit 33 selects the minimum current value (discharging limiting value) among the first maximum discharging current values, and selects a smaller current value (discharging control current value) of the discharging limiting value selected by processing unit 33 and the second maximum discharging current value, as the control condition.

[0103]

[0104]

When the control condition is the charging control current value, power source control device 40 controls charging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 based on a current value indicated by the control condition. When the control condition is the discharging control current value, power source control device 40 controls discharging of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 based on a current value indicated by the control condition. 34

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU

[0105]

Next, an operation in which each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 of the present modification determines characteristic information to be outputted to storage battery management device 30 will be described 5 with reference to the flow charts shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. Note that, the operation in which storage battery management device 30 of the present modification determines the control condition can be achieved by the above-mentioned operations shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. Therefore, the description thereof is omitted here. 10 [0106]

First, the operation of determining a charging current value as characteristic information will be described with reference to the flow chart shown in FIG. 11.

[0107] 15 Determination unit 16 of storage battery module 11 determines the first maximum charging current value to be transmitted to storage battery management device 30 (Step S250). Specifically, when the battery temperature measured by temperature sensor 13 is higher than a predetermined threshold, determination unit 16 determines the first charging 20 current value as the first maximum charging current value to be transmitted. When the battery temperature is lower than or equal to the predetermined threshold, determination unit 16 determines the second charging current value as the first maximum charging current value to be transmitted.

[0108] 25 Output unit 15 outputs the first maximum charging current value determined by determination unit 16 to control device 20 as the characteristic information (Step S255). 35 9408325_1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU [0109]

Next, the operation of determining a discharging current value as characteristic information will be described with reference to the flow chart shown in FIG. 12. 5 [0110]

Determination unit 16 of storage battery module 11 determines the first maximum discharging current value to be transmitted to storage battery management device 30 (Step S300). Specifically, when the battery temperature measured by temperature sensor 13 is higher than a 10 predetermined threshold, determination unit 16 determines the first discharging current value as the first maximum discharging current value to be transmitted. When the battery temperature is lower than or equal to the predetermined threshold, determination unit 16 determines the second discharging current value as the first maximum discharging current value to 15 be transmitted.

[0111]

Output unit 15 outputs the first maximum discharging current value determined by determination unit 16 to control device 20 as the characteristic information (Step S305). 20 [0112]

As described in the first modification of the first exemplary embodiment, storage battery management device 30 of the present modification may select a charging control current value from a plurality of first maximum charging current values, and may select a discharging control 25 current value from a plurality of first maximum charging current values, individually. In this case, power source control device 40 is the same as power source control device 40 described in the second modification of the first 36

9408325 1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU exemplary embodiment. Therefore, the description thereof is omitted here.

[0113]

6. SECOND MODIFICATION OF SECOND EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT

In the second exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 outputs the full charge condition determined according to the battery temperature to storage battery management device 30 as the characteristic information, but not limited to this. As described in the second modification of the first exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 also may include fully charged voltage values each corresponding to the normal mode and the long life mode in the characteristic information, in addition to the full charge condition determined according to the battery temperature.

[0114]

In this case, like the second modification of the first exemplary embodiment, when the control mode is the normal mode, storage battery management device 30 of the present modification selects the normal voltage value as control information, for example. When the control mode is the long life mode, storage battery management device 30 selects the restriction voltage value as the control information, for example. When control mode is the self-control mode, storage battery management device 30 operates in the same manner as the second exemplary embodiment. Therefore, the description is omitted here. Note that, when the control mode is the long life mode, storage battery management device 30 selects the restriction voltage value as the control information, but not limited to this. Storage battery management device 30 may select a voltage value lower than the normal voltage value as the control information.

[0115] 37

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU

Further, in the present modification, storage battery module 11 further includes a voltage value used in the normal mode, and a voltage value used in the long life mode in the characteristic information, and outputs them to storage battery management device 30. 5 [0116]

7. OTHER MODIFICATIONS

In this way, the present invention has been described based on each of the exemplary embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned exemplary embodiments and modifications. For instance, 10 the following modifications may be applicable.

[0117] (1) In each of the above-mentioned exemplary embodiments, power source control device 40 charges each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 by using generated power of solar battery 50, but not limited to 15 this.

[0118]

Power source control device 40 may charge each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 by using electric power other than the electric power of solar battery 50, such as electric power generated by using nature 20 energy such as a wind force, hydraulic power, and geothermal energy, or commercial electric power obtained from a commercial power source.

[0119] (2) In each of the above-mentioned exemplary embodiments, each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 includes temperature sensor 13, but 25 not limited to this. Storage battery system 10 may include one temperature sensor 13 as a whole. In this case, the battery temperature obtained from one temperature sensor 13 is treated as temperature of each of the plurality of 38

9408325 1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU storage battery modules 11 (storage batteries 12) in storage battery management device 30.

[0120] (3) The above-mentioned exemplary embodiments and modifications 5 may be combined.

[0121]

8. SUMMARY

As can be seen from each of the above-mentioned exemplary embodiments, storage battery management device 30 of a first embodiment in 10 accordance with the present invention includes characteristic information acquisition unit 31 and notification unit 34. Characteristic information acquisition unit 31 acquires characteristic information from storage battery module 11. Notification unit 34 notifies power source control device 40, which controls at least one of charging or discharging of storage battery module 11, of 15 a control condition based on the characteristic information.

[0122]

According to the configuration, storage battery management device 30 acquires the characteristic information from storage battery module 11, and notifies power source control device 40 of the control condition based on the 20 characteristic information. Accordingly, storage battery management device 30 can control charging or the like under an appropriate condition (the control condition) even if an operator has forgotten to set information.

[0123]

Further, power source control device 40 controls a plurality of storage 25 battery modules 11. In storage battery management device 30 of a second embodiment in accordance with the present invention, characteristic information acquisition unit 31 acquires a plurality pieces of characteristic 39 9408325J (GH Matters) P106736.AU information from the plurality of storage battery modules 11 in storage battery management device 30 of the first embodiment. Storage battery management device 30 further includes processing unit 33 that selects the control condition suitable for the plurality of storage battery modules 11 by using the plurality pieces of characteristic information acquired by characteristic information acquisition unit 31.

[0124]

According to the configuration, storage battery management device 30 can control charging or the like of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 under an appropriate condition (the control condition), even if an operator has forgotten to set information.

[0125]

In storage battery management device 30 of a third embodiment in accordance with the present invention, each of the plurality pieces of characteristic information includes a plurality of full charge conditions related to determination of full charge in storage battery management device 30 of the second embodiment. Storage battery management device 30 further includes discrimination information acquisition unit 32 that acquires discrimination information for selecting one full charge condition from the plurality of full charge conditions for each of the plurality pieces of characteristic information. Processing unit 33 selects one full charge condition among the plurality of full charge conditions for each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 as a suitable condition by using the discrimination information that corresponds to the corresponding one of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 to acquire a plurality of suitable conditions. Processing unit 33 selects one suitable condition suitable for the plurality of storage battery modules 11 among the plurality of suitable conditions acquired by processing unit 33, as the control 40 9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU condition.

[0126]

According to the configuration, storage battery management device 30 can set a full charge condition, which is related to determination of full charge, 5 suitable for the plurality of storage battery modules 11. Storage battery management device 30 selects the most severe condition among the plurality of full charge conditions selected by processing unit 33 as the control condition by using the discrimination information, thereby making it possible to perform charging control for all of the plurality of storage battery modules 11. 10 [0127]

In storage battery management device 30 of a fourth embodiment in accordance with the present invention, for storage battery management device 30 of the third embodiment, the discrimination information is operating environment information related to an operating environment of storage 15 battery module 11. Each of the plurality of full charge conditions is a fully charged voltage value according to the operating environment of storage battery module 11. Processing unit 33 selects one full charge condition among the plurality of full charge conditions for each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 as a suitable condition by using the operating environment 20 information that corresponds to the corresponding one of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 to acquire a plurality of suitable conditions. Processing unit 33 selects one suitable condition serving as the full charge condition indicating the minimum voltage value among the plurality of suitable conditions acquired by processing unit 33, as the control condition. 25 [0128]

According to the configuration, storage battery management device 30 can set a fully charged voltage value suitable for the plurality of storage 41

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU battery modules 11.

[0129]

In storage battery management device 30 of a fifth embodiment in accordance with the present invention, for storage battery management device 5 30 of the fourth embodiment, the operating environment information is battery temperature of storage battery module 11. Discrimination information acquisition unit 32 acquires battery temperature for each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11. Processing unit 33 selects the full charge condition according to the battery temperature of each of the plurality of 10 storage battery module 11 as a suitable condition to acquire a plurality of suitable conditions.

[0130]

According to the configuration, storage battery management device 30 selects the full charge condition according to the battery temperature for each 15 of the plurality of storage battery modules 11. Accordingly, when acquiring the battery temperature of each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11, storage battery management device 30 can select the optimal voltage value for each of the plurality of storage battery modules.

[0131] 20 In storage battery management device 30 of a sixth embodiment in accordance with the present invention, for storage battery management device 30 of the second embodiment, each of the plurality pieces of characteristic information expresses a full charge condition related to determining whether storage battery module 11 is fully charged or not. Processing unit 33 selects 25 one full charge condition suitable for the plurality of storage battery modules 11 among the plurality of full charge conditions, as the control condition.

[0132] 42

9408325_1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU

According to the configuration, storage battery management device 30 can set a full charge condition, which is related to determination of full charge, suitable for the plurality of storage battery modules 11.

[0133] 5 In storage battery management device 30 of a seventh embodiment in accordance with the present invention, for storage battery management device 30 of the sixth embodiment, each of the plurality of full charge conditions expresses a fully charged voltage value. Processing unit 33 selects the full charge condition expressing the minimum voltage value among the plurality of 10 full charge conditions acquired by characteristic information acquisition unit 31.

[0134]

According to the configuration, storage battery management device 30 can set a fully charged voltage value suitable for all of the plurality of storage 15 battery modules 11.

[0135]

In storage battery management device 30 of an eighth embodiment in accordance with the present invention, for storage battery management device 30 of the second embodiment, each of the plurality pieces of characteristic 20 information expresses the maximum charging current value (first maximum charging current value) allowed to be inputted into storage battery module 11 in charging. Processing unit 33 selects the minimum charging current value among a plurality of maximum charging current values acquired by characteristic information acquisition unit 31, as a charge limiting value. 25 [0136]

According to the configuration, storage battery management device 30 can select a charging current value suitable for all of the plurality of storage 43 9408325J (GH Matters) P106736.AU battery modules 11.

[0137]

At storage battery management device 30 of a ninth embodiment in accordance with the present invention, for storage battery management device 30 of the second embodiment, each of the plurality pieces of characteristic information expresses the maximum discharging current value (first maximum discharging current value) allowed to be outputted from storage battery module 11 in discharging. Processing unit 33 selects the minimum discharging current value among a plurality of maximum discharging current values acquired by characteristic information acquisition unit 31, as a discharge limiting value.

[0138]

According to the configuration, storage battery management device 30 can select the discharging current value suitable for all of the plurality of storage battery modules 11.

[0139]

For storage battery management device 30 of the eighth embodiment, storage battery management device 30 of a tenth embodiment in accordance with the present invention further includes current value acquisition unit 35. Current value acquisition unit 35 acquires, from the power source control device, the maximum charging current value (second maximum charging current value) allowed to be inputted into each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 from power source control device 40 when power source control device 40 charges the plurality of storage battery modules 11. Processing unit 33 selects a smaller current value of the charge limiting value selected by processing unit 33 and the second maximum charging current value, as the control condition. 44 9408325 1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU [0140]

According to the configuration, storage battery management device 30 can set the optimal current value when the plurality of storage battery modules 11 are charged. 5 [0141]

For storage battery management device 30 of the ninth embodiment, storage battery management device 30 of an eleventh embodiment in accordance with the present invention further includes current value acquisition unit 35. Current value acquisition unit 35 acquires, from power 10 source control device 40, the maximum discharging current value (second maximum discharging current value) allowed to be inputted into power source control device 40 from each of the plurality of storage battery modules 11 when power source control device 40 discharges the plurality of storage battery modules 11. Processing unit 33 selects a smaller current value of the 15 discharge limiting value selected by processing unit 33 and the second maximum discharging current value, as the control condition.

[0142]

According to the configuration, storage battery management device 30 can set the optimal current value when the plurality of storage battery 20 modules 11 are discharged.

[0143]

Control device 20 of a twelfth embodiment in accordance with the present invention includes storage battery management device 30 in any one of the first to the eleventh embodiments, and power source control device 40. 25 When receiving the control condition from storage battery management device 30, power source control device 40 controls storage battery module 11 based on the control condition. 45

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU

[0144]

According to the configuration, control device 20 can reduce operations for setting information on charging control or the like.

[0145] 5 Storage battery module 11 of a thirteenth embodiment in accordance with the present invention includes storage battery 12, storage unit 14 that stores characteristic information on at least one of charging or discharging, and output unit 15 that outputs the characteristic information to storage battery management device 30 that manages the characteristic information. 10 [0146]

According to the configuration, storage battery module 11 can cause storage battery management device 30 to control charging or the like under appropriate conditions, even if an operator has forgotten to set the information. 15 [0147]

In storage battery module 11 of a fourteenth embodiment in accordance with the present invention, for storage battery module 11 of the thirteenth embodiment, storage unit 14 stores a plurality pieces of characteristic information. Each of the plurality pieces of characteristic information is a 20 voltage value that is depended on an operating environment and related to determination of full charge. Storage battery module 11 further includes determination unit 16 that determines one voltage value from the plurality of voltage values stored in storage unit 14 according to the operating environment. Output unit 15 outputs the voltage value determined by 25 determination unit 16.

[0148]

According to the configuration, storage battery module 11 can output 46

9408325_1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU the optimal fully charged voltage value according to the operating environment.

[0149]

In storage battery module 11 of a fifteenth embodiment in accordance 5 with the present invention, for storage battery module 11 of the fourteenth embodiment, the operating environment is battery temperature of storage battery module 11. Determination unit 16 determines one voltage value according to the battery temperature among the plurality of voltage values stored in storage unit 14. 10 [0150]

According to the configuration, storage battery module 11 can output the optimal fully charged voltage value according to the battery temperature.

[0151]

The storage battery management method of a sixteenth embodiment in 15 accordance with the present invention includes characteristic information acquisition processing and notification processing. The characteristic information acquisition processing acquires characteristic information from storage battery module 11. The notification processing notifies power source control device 40, which controls at least one of charging or discharging of 20 storage battery module 11, of a control condition based on the characteristic information.

[0152]

According to the storage battery management method, operations for setting information on charging control or the like can be reduced. 25

REFERENCE MARKS IN THE DRAWINGS

[0153] 47

9408325_1 (GHMatters) P106736.AU 11 storage battery module 12 storage battery 14 storage unit 15 output unit 5 10 16 determination unit 30 storage battery management device 31 characteristic information acquisition unit 32 discrimination information acquisition unit 33 processing unit 34 notification unit 35 current value acquisition unit 40 power source control device 48

9408325_1 (GH Matters) P106736.AU

Claims

1. A storage battery management device comprising: a characteristic information acquisition unit that acquires characteristic information from a storage battery module! and a notification unit that notifies a power source control device of a control condition based on the characteristic information, the power source control device controlling at least one of charging or discharging of the storage battery module.

2. The storage battery management device according to claim 1, wherein the storage battery module comprises a plurality of storage battery modules, and the characteristic information comprises a plurality pieces of characteristic information wherein the power source control device controlling at least one of charging or discharging of the plurality of storage battery modules, the characteristic information acquisition unit acquires the plurality pieces of characteristic information from the plurality of storage battery modules, and the storage battery management device further comprise a processing unit that selects the control condition suitable for the plurality of storage battery modules by using the plurality pieces of characteristic information acquired by the characteristic information acquisition unit.

3. The storage battery management device according to claim 2, wherein each of the plurality pieces of characteristic information includes a plurality of full charge conditions related to determination of full charge, the storage battery management device further comprises a discrimination information acquisition unit that acquires discrimination information for selecting one full charge condition from the plurality of full charge conditions for each of the plurality pieces of characteristic information, and the processing unit selects one full charge condition among the plurality of full charge conditions for each of the plurality of storage battery modules as a suitable condition by using the discrimination information that corresponds to a corresponding one of the plurality of storage battery modules to acquire a plurality of suitable conditions, and selects one suitable condition suitable for the plurality of storage battery modules among the plurality of suitable conditions acquired by the processing unit, as the control condition.

4. The storage battery management device according to claim 3, wherein the discrimination information is operating environment information related to an operating environment of each of the plurality of storage battery modules, each of the plurality of full charge conditions is a fully charged voltage value according to the operating environment of each of the plurality of storage battery modules, and the processing unit selects one full charge condition among the plurality of full charge conditions for each of the plurality of storage battery modules as the suitable condition by using the discrimination information that corresponds to a corresponding one of the plurality of storage battery modules to acquire the plurality of suitable conditions, and selects one suitable condition serving as the full charge condition indicating a minimum voltage value among the plurality of suitable conditions acquired by the processing unit, as the control condition.

5. The storage battery management device according to claim 4, wherein the operating environment information is battery temperature of each of the plurality of storage battery modules, the discrimination information acquisition unit acquires the battery temperature for each of the plurality of storage battery modules as the operating environment information, and for each of the plurality of storage battery modules, the processing unit selects the suitable condition according to the battery temperature of a corresponding one of the plurality of storage battery modules to acquire the plurality of suitable conditions.

6. The storage battery management device according to claim 2, wherein each of the plurality pieces of characteristic information expresses a full charge condition related to determining full charge of each of the plurality of storage battery modules, and the processing unit selects one full charge condition suitable for the plurality of storage battery modules among the plurality of full charge conditions as the control condition.

7. The storage battery management device according to claim 6, wherein each of the plurality of full charge conditions expresses a fully charged voltage value, and the processing unit selects the full charge condition indicating a minimum voltage value among the plurality of full charge conditions acquired by the characteristic information acquisition unit.

8. The storage battery management device according to claim 2, wherein each of the plurality pieces of characteristic information expresses a corresponding one of a plurality of first maximum charging current values each being allowed to be inputted into each of the plurality of storage battery modules in charging mode, and the processing unit selects a minimum charging current value among the plurality of first maximum charging current values acquired by the characteristic information acquisition unit as a charge limiting value.

9. The storage battery management device according to claim 2, wherein each of the plurality pieces of characteristic information expresses a corresponding one of a plurality of first maximum discharging current values each being allowed to be outputted from each of the plurality of storage battery modules in discharging mode, and the processing unit selects a minimum discharging current value among the plurality of first discharging current values acquired by the characteristic information acquisition unit as a discharge limiting value.

10. The storage battery management device according to claim 8, further comprising a current value acquisition unit that acquires, from the power source control device, a second maximum charging current value allowed to be inputted into each of the plurality of storage battery modules from the power source control device when the power source control device charges the plurality of storage battery modules, wherein the processing unit selects a smaller current value of the charge limiting value selected by the processing unit and the second maximum charging current value as the control condition.

11. The storage battery management device according to claim 9, further comprising a current value acquisition unit that acquires, from the power source control device, a second maximum discharging current value allowed to be inputted into the power source control device from each of the plurality of storage battery modules when the power source control device discharges the plurality of storage battery modules, wherein the processing unit selects a smaller current value of the discharge limiting value selected by the processing unit and the second maximum discharging current value as the control condition.

12. A control device comprising: the storage battery management device according to any one of claims 1 to 11! and the power source control device, wherein the power source control device controls the storage battery module based on the control condition when receiving the control condition from the storage battery management device.

13. A storage battery module comprising: a storage battery! a storage unit that stores characteristic information on at least one of charging or discharging! and an output unit that outputs the characteristic information to a storage battery management device that manages the characteristic information.

14. The storage battery module according to claim 13, wherein the characteristic information comprises a plurality of characteristic information, the storage unit stores the plurality pieces of characteristic information, and each of the plurality pieces of characteristic information is a corresponding one of a plurality of voltage values that are depended on an operating environment and related to determination of full charge, wherein the storage battery module further comprises a determination unit that determines one voltage value from the plurality of voltage values stored in the storage unit according to the operating environment, and the output unit outputs the one voltage value determined by the determination unit.

15. The storage battery module according to claim 14, wherein the operating environment is battery temperature of the storage battery module, and the determination unit determines one voltage value according to the battery temperature among the plurality of voltage values stored in the storage unit.

16. A storage battery management method comprising: characteristic information acquisition processing that acquires characteristic information from a storage battery module! and notification processing that notifies a power source control device of a control condition based on the characteristic information, the power source control device controlling at least one of charging or discharging of the storage battery module.