JP7225570B2 - Information processing method, information processing system, communication device, and computer program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an information processing method, an information processing system, a communication device, and a computer program for presenting information on power storage elements and/or power supply related devices.

Electric storage devices are widely used in uninterruptible power supplies, DC or AC power supplies included in stabilized power supplies, and the like. The use of power storage elements in large-scale systems that store power generated by renewable energy or existing power generation systems is expanding.

In an uninterruptible power supply, a stabilized power supply, or a power generation system, maintenance activities for storage elements are important. A technology that enables users or maintenance personnel of storage elements to remotely obtain information on the state of charge (SOC) or life expectancy of storage elements included in these systems via a server device. is proposed.

For example, Patent Literature 1 proposes a system that enables an operator to remotely view the predicted value of the deterioration rate of a power storage element via a server device and a network.

In Patent Document 2, in order to replace a power storage element in an uninterruptible power supply, the timing of battery replacement is announced based on a monitoring program via a service center and a network, and the user and operator send information using e-mail or the like. A system for exchanging is disclosed.

JP 2015-121520 A JP-A-2002-287857

Electricity storage elements such as lead-acid batteries or lithium-ion batteries are increasingly being applied to industrial applications other than in-vehicle applications (automobile applications, motorcycle applications). For example, a power storage device may be installed side by side in a photovoltaic power generation system. In this case, the storage element is connected to the power conditioner. In a large-scale photovoltaic power generation system called a mega-solar, a very large number of power storage elements and power conditioners are installed and used. A large number of power storage devices and power conditioners are installed and used to achieve power peak shaving in factories or large-scale facilities. Also in railroad applications, a large number of power storage elements and rectifiers, which are DC or AC power supply devices, are installed and used. A conventional maintenance support system does not assume a case where such a large number of power storage elements and power supply-related devices are installed in a distributed power supply system or a business entity.

In parallel with the penetration of the IoT (Internet of Things) into society, there are increasing expectations for the realization of remote monitoring of power storage elements and power supply-related devices, and the realization of highly convenient value-added services based on remote monitoring.

The present invention provides an information processing method, an information processing system, a communication device, and a computer program capable of presenting information on storage elements and/or power supply-related devices in accordance with connection configurations of storage elements and/or power supply-related devices. intended to

In the information processing method, information is processed by a communication device connected to a power storage element or a power-related device and an information processing device that transmits and receives information to and from the communication device. The communication device acquires information including the state of the power storage element or the power source-related device, and based on the acquired information, the hierarchical structure of the power storage device or the power source-related device with other power storage devices or other power source-related devices. Alternatively, data having a structure corresponding to the connection mode is created, and the created data is transmitted to the information processing device. Based on the structure of the data received from the communication device, the information processing apparatus stores the power storage element in a form corresponding to a hierarchical structure or a connection form of a plurality of power storage elements or power supply related apparatuses including the power storage element or power supply related apparatus. In response to an external request, display information for displaying information including the state of the element or power source related device is transmitted to the request source.

It is a figure which shows the outline|summary of a remote monitoring system. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a remote monitoring system; FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a hierarchical structure of a power storage module group and a connection form of a communication device; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of the hierarchical structure of the power storage module group and the connection form of the communication device; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of a connection configuration of communication devices; 4 is a flow chart showing an example of a setting acceptance procedure in a communication device; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of contents of setting information stored in a communication device; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of contents of setting information stored in a communication device; 4 is a flow chart showing an example of an information transmission procedure of each communication device; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the content of data transmitted to the server device; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the content of data transmitted to the server device; It is a flowchart which shows an example of the data acquisition procedure in a server apparatus. It is a figure which shows the specific example of the data acquisition in a server apparatus. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen presented by a server apparatus. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen presented by a server apparatus. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen presented by a server apparatus. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen presented by a server apparatus. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen presented by a server apparatus. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen presented by a server apparatus. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen which accepts grouping.

In the information processing method, information is processed by a communication device connected to a power storage element or a power-related device and an information processing device that transmits and receives information to and from the communication device. The communication device acquires information including the state of the power storage element or the power source-related device, and based on the acquired information, the hierarchical structure of the power storage device or the power source-related device with other power storage devices or other power source-related devices. Alternatively, data having a structure corresponding to the connection mode is created, and the created data is transmitted to the information processing device. Based on the structure of the data received from the communication device, the information processing apparatus stores the power storage element in a form corresponding to a hierarchical structure or a connection form of a plurality of power storage elements or power supply related apparatuses including the power storage element or power supply related apparatus. In response to an external request, display information for displaying information including the state of the element or power source related device is transmitted to the request source.

With the above configuration, the structure of data created by the communication device can be recognized by the information processing device, and information can be hierarchically displayed in accordance with the hierarchical structure of the power storage element or the power source-related device.

When the power storage element is configured by connecting a plurality of modules each including a plurality of power storage cells, the communication device preferably creates data in a hierarchical manner based on the connection configuration of the power storage cells and the modules. If the energy storage device includes multiple modules each containing multiple energy storage cells, the data may be, for example, as follows. It is hierarchical data in which one data (folder/directory) includes a plurality of data (files) respectively corresponding to a plurality of modules, and each data further includes data of a plurality of storage cells.

When the electric storage element is configured by connecting in parallel a bank in which a plurality of modules each including a plurality of electric storage cells are connected in series, the hierarchical structure of the electric storage element may specifically be as follows. One data (folder/directory) includes a plurality of data (folders/directories) corresponding to parallel banks. Hierarchical data in which each data (folder/directory) includes a plurality of data (files) corresponding to a plurality of modules belonging to a bank, and the plurality of data (files) further includes data of a plurality of storage cells. is.

A plurality of communication devices may be used in different hierarchies depending on the hierarchical structure of the storage elements or power-related devices. In this case, each communication device preferably creates and transmits data that does not overlap with other communication devices corresponding to lower layers or higher layers. With the above configuration, the data communication load can be reduced, and the processing load of the communication device can be reduced.

The display information provided from the information processing device includes information for displaying the first icon indicating each power storage element or power source related device according to the hierarchical structure of the power storage device or power source related device. The first icons are displayed in a tree-like structure corresponding to the hierarchical structure, but it is possible to collapse and hide part or all of the tree according to the selection/non-selection of the second icons.

An information processing system includes a communication device connected to a power storage element or a power source-related device, and an information processing device that transmits and receives information to and from the communication device. The communication device includes an acquisition unit that acquires information including the state of the power storage element or the power source-related device, and based on the acquired information, the power storage device or another power storage device of the power source-related device or another power source-related device. and a transmission unit for transmitting the generated data to the information processing apparatus. Based on the structure of the data received from the communication device, the information processing apparatus stores the power storage element in a form corresponding to a hierarchical structure or a connection form of a plurality of power storage elements or power supply related apparatuses including the power storage element or power supply related apparatus. A display information transmission unit is provided for transmitting display information for displaying information including the state of the element or the power supply-related device to a request source in response to a request from the outside.

A communication device is connected to a power storage element or a power source-related device, and acquires information including a state of the power storage device or the power source-related device obtained from a communication unit that communicates with the power storage device or the power source-related device. a creation unit that creates data having a structure according to a hierarchical structure or connection form of the storage element or the power storage element or the power supply related device with another storage element or the other power supply related device from the information; and a creation unit that transmits the created data. and a transmitting unit.

The computer program causes a computer having a display unit to receive and display information on the power storage element and the power source-related device. The computer program causes the computer to display display information indicating the states of the power storage element and the power source-related device for each system including the power storage device or the power source-related device, or the location where the power storage device or the power source-related device is installed. each time, based on the requesting step and the display information transmitted in response to the request, a first icon indicating information identifying the storage element or the power source related device is displayed in the hierarchical structure, and each layer is expanded. When the second icon is selected, a step of displaying the corresponding first icon in tree form is executed.

The present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings showing its embodiments.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overview of a remote monitoring system 100. As shown in FIG. The remote monitoring system 100 enables remote access to information on storage elements and power supply-related devices included in the mega solar power generation system S, the thermal power generation system F, and the wind power generation system W. FIG. An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) U, a rectifier (DC power supply or AC power supply) D installed in a stabilized power supply system for railways, etc. is also remotely monitored.

The mega solar power generation system S, the thermal power generation system F, and the wind power generation system W are provided with a power conditioner (PCS: Power Conditioning System) P and a power storage system 101 in parallel. The power storage system 101 is configured by arranging a plurality of containers C each containing a power storage module group L in parallel. The power storage module group L includes a plurality of power storage elements. The storage element is preferably a rechargeable battery such as a lead-acid battery and a lithium-ion battery, or a rechargeable battery such as a capacitor. A portion of the storage element may be a non-rechargeable primary battery.

In the remote monitoring system 100, a communication device 1 (see FIG. 2) is installed/ Connected. The remote monitoring system 100 includes a communication device 1, a server device 2 (information processing device) that collects information from the communication device 1, a client device 3 (communication terminal device) for viewing the collected information, network N, which is the communication medium for

The communication device 1 may be a terminal device (measurement monitor) that communicates with a battery management unit (BMU: Battery Management Unit) provided in the storage element to receive information on the storage element, or may be an ECHONET/ECHONET Lite (registered trademark). ) compliant controller. The communication device 1 may be an independent device, or may be a network card type device that can be mounted on the power conditioner P or the power storage module group L. One communication device 1 is provided for each group consisting of a plurality of power storage modules in order to acquire information on the power storage module group L in the power storage system 101 . A plurality of power conditioners P are connected so as to be capable of serial communication, and the communication device 1 is connected to the control unit of one of the representative power conditioners P. FIG.

The server device 2 includes a web server function, and presents information obtained from the communication device 1 mounted/connected to each device to be monitored in response to access from the client device 3 (display information transmission unit). The communication device 1 also includes a web server function, and has a web-based interface for setting the communication device 1 according to access from a client device. The interface through which information is presented by the server device 2 includes a link to the interface of the communication device 1, and the client device 3 can be directly connected to the communication device 1 for remote operation of the communication device 1. be.

The network N includes a public communication network N1, which is the so-called Internet, and a carrier network N2 that realizes wireless communication according to a predetermined mobile communication standard. The public communication network N1 includes general optical lines, and the network N includes dedicated lines to which the server device 2 connects. Network N may include an ECHONET/ECHONET Lite compatible network. The carrier network N2 includes a base station BS, and the client device 3 can communicate with the server device 2 via the network N from the base station BS. An access point AP is connected to the public communication network N1, and the client device 3 can transmit and receive information to and from the server device 2 via the network N from the access point AP.

In this way, the remote monitoring system 100 uses the communication device 1 mounted on or connected to each device to be monitored, and the state of the storage element in the storage system 101, such as the SOC and SOH (State Of Health) detected by the device, The server device 2 collects information such as abnormalities. The collected information is presented collectively via the server device 2 .

As shown in FIG. 2 , the communication device 1 includes a control section 10 , a storage section 11 , a first communication section 12 and a second communication section 13 . The control unit 10 is a processor using a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and uses built-in memories such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory) to control each component and execute processing.

The storage unit 11 uses a non-volatile memory such as flash memory. A device program 1P read and executed by the control unit 10 is stored in the storage unit 11 . The device program 1P includes a built-in OS (Operating System) using Linux (registered trademark), etc., a web server running on the OS, SSH (Secure Shell), SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), etc. Program included. The device program 1P may be obtained by reading the device program 4P stored in the recording medium 4 and duplicating it in the storage unit 11. FIG. A mailer program may be included in the device program 1P, and an e-mail may be automatically sent to a preset e-mail address when an abnormality occurs. These programs may be stored in a memory (ROM) built into the control unit 10 . The storage unit 11 stores information collected by the processing of the control unit 10, information such as event logs, and the like. Information stored in the storage unit 11 can also be read out via a communication interface such as a USB whose terminals are exposed on the housing of the communication device 1 .

The first communication unit 12 is a communication interface that realizes communication with a monitored apparatus to which the communication device 1 is connected. The first communication unit 12 uses, for example, a serial communication interface such as RS-232C or RS-485. For example, the power conditioner P has a control unit having a serial communication function conforming to RS-485, and the first communication section 12 communicates with the control unit. When the control boards provided in the power storage module group L are connected by a CAN (Controller Area Network) bus and communication between the control boards is realized by CAN communication, the first communication unit 12 is a communication interface based on the CAN protocol. . The first communication unit 12 may be a communication interface conforming to the ECHONET/ECHONET Lite standard.

The second communication unit 13 is an interface that realizes communication via the network N, and uses a communication interface such as Ethernet (registered trademark) or a wireless communication antenna. The control unit 10 can communicate with the server device 2 or the client device 3 via the second communication unit 13 . The second communication unit 13 may be a communication interface compatible with the ECHONET/ECHONET Lite standard.

In the communication device 1 configured as described above, the control unit 10 acquires information including state information obtained by the apparatus to which the communication device 1 is connected via the first communication unit 12 (“acquisition unit”). equivalent to ). By reading and executing a Web server program, the control unit 10 can receive a communication connection from the server device 2 or the client device 3 as a Web server and present information. The control unit 10 can remotely receive a shutdown function via SSH. By reading and executing the SNMP program, the control unit 10 can function as an SNMP agent and respond to information requests from the server device 2 .

The server device 2 uses a server computer and includes a control section 20 , a storage section 21 and a communication section 22 . In this embodiment, the server device 2 is explained as one server computer, but processing may be distributed among a plurality of server computers.

The control unit 20 is a processor using a CPU, and uses built-in memories such as ROM and RAM to control each component and execute processing. The control unit 20 executes information processing based on the server program 2P stored in the storage unit 21 . The server program 2P includes a web server program, and the control unit 20 functions as a web server that provides web pages to the client device 3 and accepts logins to web services. The control unit 20 can also collect information from the communication device 1 as an SNMP server based on the server program 2P.

The storage unit 21 uses a non-volatile memory such as a hard disk or flash memory. In addition to storing the above-described server program 2P in the storage unit 21, information including state information of the power conditioner P and the storage module group L of the power storage system 101 to be monitored is collected by the processing of the control unit 20. memorize The server program 2P may be obtained by reading out the server program 5P stored in the recording medium 5 and duplicating it in the storage unit 21 .

The communication unit 22 is a communication device that realizes communication connection via the network N and transmission and reception of information. Specifically, the communication unit 22 is a network card compatible with the network N. FIG.

The client device 3 is a computer used by an operator such as a manager or a maintenance person of the power storage system 101 of the power generation systems S, F, and W. FIG. The client device 3 may be a desktop or laptop personal computer, or a so-called smartphone or tablet communication terminal. The client device 3 includes a control section 30 , a storage section 31 , a communication section 32 , a display section 33 and an operation section 34 .

The control unit 30 is a processor using a CPU. The control unit 30 causes the display unit 33 to display a web page provided by the server device 2 or the communication device 1 based on the client program 3P including the web browser stored in the storage unit 31 .

The storage unit 31 uses a non-volatile memory such as a hard disk or flash memory. Various programs including the client program 3P are stored in the storage unit 31 . The client program 3P may be obtained by reading out the client program 6P stored in the recording medium 6 and duplicating it in the storage section 11. FIG.

The communication unit 32 uses a communication device such as a network card for wired communication, a wireless communication device for mobile communication that connects to the base station BS (see FIG. 1), or a wireless communication device that supports connection to the access point AP. . The control unit 30 can communicate with the server apparatus 2 or the communication device 1 via the network N or transmit/receive information with the communication unit 32 .

The display unit 33 uses a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. The display unit 33 displays an image of a web page provided by the server device 2 by processing based on the client program 3P of the control unit 30 . The display unit 33 is preferably a display with a built-in touch panel, but may be a display without a built-in touch panel.

The operation unit 34 is a user interface such as a keyboard and pointing device capable of input/output with the control unit 30, or a voice input unit. The operation unit 34 may use a touch panel of the display unit 33 or physical buttons provided on the housing. The operation unit 34 notifies the control unit 20 of operation information by the user.

In the remote monitoring system 100 configured in this manner, various states including the states of the power conditioner P, the power storage module group L (the management device M described later), the uninterruptible power supply U, and the rectifier D are controlled by the server device 2. Information is acquired periodically from the communication device 1 or in response to a request from the client device 3 and stored in the storage unit 21 . In the storage unit 21, information for identifying devices (P, M, U, D) from which information is acquired and acquired time information are stored in association with each other. The latest information and its history stored in the storage unit 21 are processed by the server device 2 so that they can be obtained from the client device 3 via a Web page or as data (downloaded). The server device 2 can comprehensively present the information acquired from the power storage element or each power source-related device using the communication device 1 to the client device 3 .

The power storage module group L has a hierarchical structure. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the hierarchical structure of the power storage module group L and the connection form of the communication device 1. As shown in FIG. The power storage module group L includes, for example, a power storage module (also referred to as a module) in which a plurality of power storage cells (also referred to as cells) are connected in series, a bank in which a plurality of power storage modules are connected in series, and a domain in which a plurality of banks are connected in parallel. It has a hierarchical structure. In the example of FIG. 3, one management device M is provided for each of the banks numbered (#) 1 to N and for each domain in which the banks are connected in parallel. A management device M provided for each bank communicates with a control board (CMU: Cell Monitoring Unit) with a communication function built in each power storage module by serial communication, and monitors the state of the power storage module and the internal cells. Acquisition of (current, voltage, temperature), balance adjustment for each bank according to each state, and management processing such as detection of abnormality in communication state are executed. The management device M of each bank transmits the information of the power storage module of each bank to the management device M provided for each domain. The domain management device M collects information obtained from the bank management devices M belonging to the domain. In the example of FIG. 3, the communication device 1 is connected to the management device M for each domain.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of the hierarchical structure of the power storage module group L and the connection form of the communication device 1. As shown in FIG. In the example of FIG. 4, the power storage module group L is composed of only one bank in which a plurality of power storage modules are connected in series (standalone). In the example of FIG. 4, the communication device 1 is connected only to the management device M for each bank.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing another example of the connection form of the communication device 1. As shown in FIG. In FIG. 5, for ease of explanation, a plurality of communication devices 1 used in one domain are labeled with identifiable communication devices 1a, 1b, 1c, . . . 1n. The hierarchical structure of the power storage module group L in FIG. 5 is the same as in FIG. A communication device 1a is connected to a management device M for each domain. The communication device 1b is connected to the management device M of the first (#1) bank, and the communication device 1c is connected to the management device M of the second (#2) bank. A plurality of communication devices 1 are used for the number of domains and the number of banks.

As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the hierarchical structure of the storage elements in the storage module group L and the connection form of the communication device 1 vary depending on the usage, location, and the like of the storage elements. The server device 2 automatically hierarchically presents information including the state of the power storage element or the power source-related device collected from the communication device 1 according to various hierarchical structures and connection forms. For this purpose, the following processing is performed.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing an example of a setting acceptance procedure in the communication device 1. As shown in FIG. The communication device 1 initially connects a monitor and a keyboard to the input/output interface for the control unit 10 at the place where the communication device 1 is installed, and accepts the following settings. The setting of the communication device 1 may be performed by remote control.

The control unit 10 receives its own communication settings for communicating with the server device 2 or the client device 3 (step S101). Specifically, network information such as the IP address (IPv4 and IPv6) of the communication device 1 itself, gateway, DNS address, global address, and global address of the server device 2 is accepted. The control unit 10 stores this information in the storage unit 11 or the built-in memory, and the second communication unit 13 connects to the network N based on this.

The control unit 10 of the communication device 1 receives a setting as to which layer of the management apparatus M in the layered structure of the storage elements is connected (whether or not there is a lower layer) (step S102). In step S102, the control unit 10 accepts a selection of whether it is connected to the management device M of the domain or connected to the management device M of the bank. When connected to the management device M of the bank, if there is a higher domain, it is preferable to receive the setting of which domain the bank belongs to.

The control unit 10 accepts setting of a relationship with another communication device 1 (step S103). Specifically, in step S103, the control unit 10 connects the other communication device 1 is connected or not. Alternatively, a setting as to whether or not another communication device 1 is connected to the upper-layer management apparatus M may be accepted. Specifically, when the management device M to which the control unit 10 is connected corresponds to the domain, the control unit 10 receives a setting as to whether or not the communication device 1 is connected to the management device M of the lower layer bank.

The control unit 10 receives setting of identification information for identifying storage elements covered by the connected management apparatus M and systems including the storage elements (step S104). The identification information includes a location ID (identification number, symbol or name) for identifying the location where the system is installed, and a minor ID (identification number, symbol, or name). The location ID and minor ID may be issued by the server device 2 .

Based on the settings accepted in steps S101 to S104, the control unit 10 stores setting information including network information, hierarchical structure, connection relationship, and identification information in the storage unit 11 or the built-in memory (step S105), and ends the process. .

In the processing procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. 6, each communication device 1 is configured to receive communication settings and connection relationship settings, but the communication device 1 may automatically detect and set connection relationships. When mutual communication is performed within the power storage system 101 by CAN connection, it is preferable to set one of the devices as a master, and create and transmit hierarchical data according to the connection configuration between the communication devices 1 .

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of setting information stored in the communication device 1. As shown in FIG. FIG. 7A shows setting information stored in the communication device 1 in the connection configuration of FIG. In the example shown in FIG. 7A, the communication device 1 is only connected to a management device M in a domain containing multiple banks. Therefore, "domain" and the identification number of the domain are set as the connection management device (hierarchy of the connected management device M), and the relationship with the other communication devices 1 is "no lower layer" (lower layer, i.e., bank (the other communication device 1 does not exist in the management apparatus M) is set. In the example shown in FIG. 7A, a location ID and a minor ID are set as identification information.

FIG. 7B shows setting information stored in the communication device 1 in the connection configuration of FIG. In the example shown in FIG. 7B, communication device 1 is only connected to management device M in one bank. Therefore, "bank" is set as the connection management device. In consideration of the presence of other banks in the same installation location, bank identification numbers may be set together. As for the relationship with other communication devices 1, "no lower layer" (the management apparatus M and other communication devices 1 do not exist in the lower layer, that is, the module) is set. In the example shown in FIG. 7B, a location ID and a minor ID are set as identification information.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing another example of contents of the setting information stored in the communication device 1. As shown in FIG. FIG. 8A shows setting information stored in the communication device 1a connected to the domain management apparatus M in the connection configuration of FIG. 5 corresponding to FIGS. 8A and 8B, a plurality of communication devices 1a-1n are connected in a hierarchical structure. In the communication device 1a connected to the domain management device M in FIG. 5, as shown in FIG. 8A, the "domain" is set as the connection management device, and the identification number of the "domain" is set. . In the communication device 1a, the relationship with the other communication devices 1 is set to "lower layer" (other communication devices 1b-1n exist in the lower layer, that is, the management device M of the bank).

FIG. 8B shows setting information stored in the communication device 1c connected to the management device M of the bank (#2). The setting information in the communication devices 1b, . . . , 1n of the other banks is the same as that in FIG. In the communication device 1c connected to the management device M of the bank (#2) in FIG. 5, as shown in FIG. 8B, "bank" is set as the connection management device, and the identification number ( #2) is set. The identification number (#1) of the domain to which the bank belongs is also set. In the communication device 1c, the relationship with the other communication devices 1 is set to "no lower layer" (the management apparatus M and other communication devices 1 do not exist in the lower layer, that is, the power storage module).

A processing procedure in each communication device based on the setting information illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8 will be described. FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing an example of the information transmission procedure of each communication device 1 . The control unit 10 of the communication device 1 continuously repeats the following processing procedure while it is activated.

The control unit 10 determines whether or not it is the predetermined timing for acquiring the state (step S201). Predetermined timing means whether the cycle time has elapsed, the number of information (predetermined units) stored in the storage unit 11, the amount of information has reached a predetermined set time or quantity, or whether there has been a notification from the management device M etc. If it is determined that it is not the predetermined timing (S201: NO), it waits until it is determined that it is the predetermined timing.

When the control unit 10 determines that it is the predetermined timing (S201: YES), the control unit 10 acquires from the management device M the information on the state of the storage elements in the storage module group L that is acquired by the management device M to which it is connected. (step S202). The control unit 10 stores the acquired information together with the time information in the storage unit 11 (step S203).

The control unit 10 refers to the setting information (step S204) and determines whether or not another communication device 1 exists in the lower layer (there is a lower layer) (step S205). If it is determined that another communication device 1 exists in the lower layer (S205: YES), the control unit 10 stores data describing the state in the layer of the connection management device indicated by the setting information based on the information acquired in step S202. Create (step S206, corresponding to the "creation unit"). Step S206 may be executed by the management apparatus M. The data created in step S206 includes status information and time information for each layer on which calculations such as averages of current, voltage, and temperature have been performed by the management apparatus M. FIG. The data format is a text data file, a CSV file handled by a spreadsheet application program, or the like. It may be a graph showing information in chronological order or a data file in which the graph is visualized. The control unit 10 temporarily stores the created data in the storage unit 11 or the built-in RAM as a folder corresponding to the hierarchy of the connection management device indicated by the setting information (step S207). The process of storing as a folder includes assigning the same directory name (or path name) corresponding to the connected hierarchy to a plurality of data files describing acquired state information and created state information. The process of step S205 may determine whether or not another communication device 1 exists in the upper layer.

The control unit 10 determines whether or not it is time to transmit the created data (step S208). The determination of the transmission timing in step S208 is made in the same way as in step S201, whether the cycle time has elapsed, the number of information stored in the storage unit 11, or whether the amount of information has reached a predetermined set time or amount, or whether an inquiry has been made by the server device 2. was there, etc.

If it is determined that it is the transmission timing in step S208 (S208: YES), the control unit 10 compresses the folder stored in the storage unit 11 or the built-in RAM (step S209). The control unit 10 associates the connection management device and the identification information of its own device (communication device 1) included in the setting information referred to in step S204, and stores the compressed folder in the folder of the server device 2 included in the setting information. It transmits to the server device 2 based on the global address (step S210, corresponding to the “transmitting unit”). The control unit 10 ends the processing, and the processing after step S201 is started again.

If it is determined in step S208 that it is not the transmission timing (S208: NO), the control unit 10 terminates the process and restarts the process from step S201.

If it is determined in step S205 that there is no other communication device 1 (no lower layer) (S205: NO), the control unit 10 stores data describing the state of the hierarchy of the connection management device indicated by the setting information, It is created based on the information acquired in step S202 (step S211). The control unit 10 acquires the state of the lower layer from the management device M of the lower layer (step S212), and creates data describing the state of the lower layer (step S213). Steps S211 and S213 may be performed by the management device M. The data created in steps S211 and S213 include state information and time information for each layer on which calculations such as calculating averages of current, voltage, and temperature in each layer have been performed. The data format is a text data file, a CSV file related to spreadsheet calculation, or the like. It may be a graph showing information in chronological order or a data file in which the graph is visualized.

The control unit 10 stores the state information obtained from each management device M and the data created in step S213 in subfolders corresponding to the lower layers, and stores the data created in step S211 as hierarchical folders including the storage unit 11 Alternatively, it is stored in the built-in RAM (step S214). The control unit 10 advances the process to step S208.

10 and 11 are diagrams showing examples of the contents of data transmitted to the server device 2. FIG. The hierarchical structures of data shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 correspond to the hierarchical structures of the storage elements and the connection modes of the communication device 1 shown in FIGS. folder and folder to be compressed are schematically shown.

FIG. 10A corresponds to the hierarchical structure of the storage elements including the domains and banks shown in FIG. 3 and the connection form of the communication device 1 connected only to the management apparatus M of the domain. In a hierarchical structure in which one domain includes a plurality of banks, the communication device 1 is connected only to the management device M of the domain. In this case, the communication device 1 creates a folder FA in which data files including information obtained from the management apparatus M of each layer are accommodated in subfolders having a hierarchical data structure as shown in FIG. 10A. When transmitting data to the server apparatus 2, the communication device 1 creates and transmits a folder ZFA by compressing the folder FA.

FIG. 10B corresponds to the hierarchical structure of the storage elements of a single bank shown in FIG. 4 and the connection form of the communication device 1 that is connected only to the management device M of that bank. In the hierarchical structure of only one bank, the communication device 1 is connected only to the management device M of that bank. In this case, the communication device 1 acquires data obtained by the control board of each power storage module from the management device M, and creates a folder FB containing the data in subfolders having a hierarchical data structure as shown in FIG. 10B. When transmitting data to the server apparatus 2, the communication device 1 creates and transmits a folder ZFB obtained by compressing the folder FB.

FIG. 11 corresponds to the hierarchical structure of storage elements including domains and banks shown in FIG. 5 and the connection form of a plurality of communication devices 1 connected to the respective management apparatuses M of the domains and banks. A communication device 1 is connected to each of the management device M of the domain and the management device M of the bank. Among the communication devices 1, the communication device 1a connected to the domain does not acquire the state of the lower layer because the control unit 10 determines that the communication device 1a is connected to the domain, and the state of the lower layer is not acquired, and the hierarchy of the connection management apparatus indicated by the setting information (FIG. 8A) is obtained. A folder FCa containing data describing the state is created. Folder FCa does not contain subfolders that contain underlying state data. Communication devices 1b, 1c, . Folders FCb, FCc, . Each communication device 1a, 1b, 1c, . . . , 1n creates folders ZFCa, ZFCb, ZFCc, .

FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing an example of a data acquisition procedure in the server device 2. As shown in FIG. In the server apparatus 2, the control unit 20 receives the data (folder) transmitted from the communication device 1 (step S301). Based on the connection management device and identification information associated with the received data, the control unit 20 determines whether or not other data (folders) corresponding to upper and lower layers of the hierarchical structure are stored in the storage unit 21. (Step S302). In step S302, for example, when the control unit 20 receives data (folders) from the communication device 1 whose connection management device is a domain and a bank having the same location ID and minor ID, judged to be equivalent.

If it is determined in step S302 that other data has already been stored in the storage unit 21 (S302: YES), the control unit 20 stores the corresponding other data (folder) and the data received in step S301. as a hierarchical structure, the data in the storage unit 21 is updated (step S303), and the process ends.

If it is determined in step S302 that other data is not stored (S302: NO), the control unit 20 stores the received data in the storage unit 21 (step S304), and terminates the process.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of data acquisition in the server device 2. As shown in FIG. The example shown in FIG. 13 corresponds to the hierarchical structure of the storage elements and the connection form of the plurality of communication devices 1 shown in FIG. Folders ZFCa, ZFCb, ZFCc, . . . , and ZFCn transmitted from 1c, . When receiving the folder ZFCa from the communication device 1a, the control unit 20 of the server device 2 identifies the corresponding location ID "12345", the minor ID "(000001) 1 system", and the connection management device as a domain. The identification information with the number "1" and the information of the connection management device are received. When the control unit 20 receives folders ZFCb, ZFCc, etc. from the communication devices 1b, 1c, etc., the corresponding location ID "12345" (identification number), minor ID "(000001) system 1" ( identification number and name), the identification information indicating that the connection management device is a bank and its identification number, and the information of the connection management device.

The control unit 20 of the server device 2 can recognize that the location ID and minor ID are the same, one connection management device is the domain, and the other connection management device is the bank. It is determined that the data is stored (S302: YES). Decompressed folders ZFCb, ZFCc, . and saves (updates) in the storage unit 21 (S303).

When the control unit 20 of the server device 2 receives a plurality of folders corresponding to domains with the same location ID (or the same minor ID, or the same group ID, which will be described later) and different identification numbers, the folders are included in the same system. It is possible to recognize that it is data of multiple domains that

In this way, when the communication device 1 exists in each layer, the communication device 1 in the upper layer does not duplicate the data in the lower layer, but the server apparatus 2 mutually corresponds to the upper and lower layers. It can be recognized as data. The server device 2 stores data including status information obtained from the management device M of each layer in a data structure that matches the hierarchical structure of the storage elements, similar to the configuration in which one communication device 1 is connected to the domain. can be memorized.

14 to 19 are diagrams showing examples of screens presented by the server apparatus 2. FIG. A user (operator) uses the client device 3 to use the remote monitoring system 100 and logs in via a login screen provided by the web server of the server device 2 . Based on the screen information transmitted from the server apparatus 2, the client apparatus 3 causes the display unit 33 to display a Web screen 330 including a list of system or apparatus names extracted from the login information, as shown in FIG. In the example of FIG. 14, names such as “XY city mega solar system” for mega solar power generation system S and “WZ power plant system” for thermal power plant system F shown in FIG. ) as a link.

A web screen 330 provided from the server device 2 includes menus 331 such as "system search", "life expectancy", "download", and "report". The menu 331 includes "new registration" and "edit". The web screen 330 includes a button 332 for logout or termination operation.

By selecting "New registration" or "Edit" on the web screen 330 of FIG. It is possible to manually set the connection configuration of the communication device 1 connected to the network, network settings, and the like. As described above, as long as the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. , it is possible to automatically present information according to the hierarchical structure of the storage elements.

15 and 16 are diagrams showing examples of screens collectively displaying information for each system. 15 and 16 are examples of screens displayed in step S206 in which the server apparatus 2 automatically recognizes and displays the hierarchical structure of the power storage module group L based on the data obtained from the communication device 1. FIG. Specifically, FIG. 15 shows that the web screen 330 displayed in FIG. 34 is a screen displayed on the display unit 33 when selected by the operation of 34. FIG. In the screen example of FIG. 15, a name ( An icon 333 containing an identification number) is displayed. For the power storage module group L, a “+” icon 334 for expanding the hierarchical structure, an icon 335 for displaying detailed information of each module, and an icon 336 for displaying detailed information (real time) are arranged. ing. The icon 336 is arranged together with identification information (device ID) of the communication device 1 connected to the power storage module group L. FIG.

FIG. 16 is an example of a screen displayed when icon 334 for expanding the hierarchical structure of power storage module group L in FIG. 15 is selected. As shown in FIG. 3 or 5, the power storage system 101 of the "XY city mega solar system" is a bank in which a plurality of modules each including n (n is a natural number, 12 in this embodiment) cells are connected in series. , in parallel. As shown in FIG. 16, when an icon 334 corresponding to one of the domains is selected, a list corresponding to banks belonging to that domain is expanded. Similarly, when an icon 334 corresponding to one bank is selected, a list of power storage modules belonging to that bank is expanded. Each power storage module includes n cells, and when one of the power storage modules is selected on the screen 330 by operating the operation unit 34 of the client device 3, a list (image) of cells included in the module is expanded. be done. This hierarchical structure is recognized by the server apparatus 2 from the layered data obtained from the communication device 1 as shown in FIG. In FIG. 16, icons 336 for obtaining detailed information are arranged in a hierarchy corresponding to the management apparatus M to which the communication device 1 is mounted/connected. The arrangement example of the icons 336 is not limited to FIG. When the communication device 1 is connected only to the management device M of the domain (FIG. 3), the icon 336 is arranged only in the domain.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a display example of detailed information. FIG. 17 is an example of a page displayed when icon 335 of the hierarchy corresponding to the domain of power storage module group L in FIG. 16 is selected. In FIG. 17, as "domain information", the domain status (normal/abnormal), the number of banks included in the domain (total number of banks), the number of operating banks among all banks (number of operating banks), the domain The total voltage, current, cell voltage, SOC, and temperature distribution (maximum, average, and minimum values) are displayed. These pieces of information are displayed based on the status information data for each layer created by the domain management device M or the communication device 1 connected to the management device M. FIG. “Data date and time” is also displayed on the web screen 330 of the display unit 33 . “Data date and time” is based on time information included in data for each layer created by the communication device 1 . The "domain information" contains links to detailed information of the banks included in the domain for the number of banks.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a display example of detailed information. FIG. 18 is an example of a page displayed when the icon 335 of the hierarchy corresponding to the bank in FIG. 16 is selected. This page is also displayed when the link to detailed information of the bank is selected in FIG. In FIG. 18, as "bank information", the state of the bank (normal/abnormal), the number of modules included in the bank (number of modules), the total voltage, current value and SOC of the bank, voltage and temperature distribution included in the bank. is displayed. These pieces of information are displayed based on data of state information for each layer created by the management device M of the bank or the communication device 1 connected to the management device M. FIG. “Data date and time” is also displayed on the web screen 330 of the display unit 33 . The "bank information" contains links to detailed information of the power storage modules included in the bank as many as the number of modules.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a display example of detailed information. FIG. 19 is an example of a page displayed when the icon 335 of the hierarchy corresponding to the module in FIG. 16 is selected. This page is also displayed when the link to the detailed information of the module in FIG. 18 is selected by operating the operation unit 34 of the client device 3 . In FIG. 19, as "module information", the voltage of each cell included in the power storage module and the output of temperature sensors provided in two cell groups are displayed. The information displayed in FIG. 19 is based on data acquired by the communication device 1 via the management device M in the power storage module.

The screens of pages for each hierarchy of the power storage module group L displayed in FIGS. 17 to 19 are examples, and for example, the power storage module group L is not aggregated as a domain, and the power storage module group L is configured with a plurality of banks in parallel. If there are (more than one bank shown in FIG. 4), the top layer is displayed as a bank. If the power storage module group L consists only of one bank, that is, for example, 16 power storage modules connected in series (FIG. 4), only the module information (FIG. 18) obtained from the corresponding communication device 1 is displayed.

In this way, the communication device 1 hierarchizes the data according to the hierarchical structure of the power storage elements and the form of connection with the other communication device 1, and transmits the data to the server device 2, whereby the data shown in FIGS. It is possible to present information according to the hierarchical structure without manual setting in the server device 2 .

By selecting "edit" on the web screen 330 of FIG. 14, the hierarchical structure of the storage elements included in the selected system and the connection configuration of the communication device 1 connected to these storage elements or power supply-related devices can be displayed. , network settings, etc. can be performed manually. If there is an error in the hierarchical structure recognized by the server device 2, or if it is desired to change the presentation format, it is possible to present the information intended by the user (operator) by selecting "Edit". "Edit" may include the ability to set groupings of storage elements or power-related devices. In a power storage system 101 or the like that includes a large number of power storage module groups L as shown in FIG. Information may need to be grouped, for example, managed separately according to time.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for accepting grouping. A web screen 330 shown in FIG. 20 includes first and second selection menus 337 and 338, a device selection screen 339, and a move button 340. FIG. The grouping screen includes a first selection menu 337 for selecting an editing source group (all devices in FIG. 20) and a second selection menu 338 for selecting an editing destination (destination) group. The second selection menu 338 initially includes a first group and an additional menu of groups for selection. All the communication devices 1 in the same system are initially included in the first group, and the identification information of each communication device 1 is stored in the storage section 21 in association with the identification information (number) of the first group. There is. A device selection screen 339 displays a list of the communication devices 1 assigned to the groups selected by the first and second selection menus 337 and 338 . Move button 340 accepts movement of communication device 1 selected in device selection screen 339 . When a new grouping is desired, a group is added using the second selection menu 338 by operating the operation unit 34 of the client device 3 . When the button 340 to move the communication device 1 is selected for the communication device 1 selected by operating the operation unit 34 of the client apparatus 3 among the communication devices 1 of the group selected in the first selection menu 337 , to the group selected in the second selection menu 338 . The server device 2 stores the identification information of the moved communication device 1 in the storage unit 21 in association with the identification information (number) of the destination group.

By hierarchizing the data transmitted from the communication device 1 in this manner, the server device 2 automatically obtains the hierarchized data, and the web page corresponding to the hierarchical structure of the power storage module group L is generated on the server. It can be presented from device 2 . For a large-scale power storage system including a very large number of power storage cells, it is preferable to display information hierarchically (break down) such as domain level, bank level, module level, and cell level. Even when a large number of storage cells are included, there is no need to manually set the hierarchical structure of the storage module group L, as described above.

The server device 2 can present information not only about the power storage module group L having a hierarchical structure, but also about power supply-related devices such as the power conditioner P and the like. When a plurality of power conditioners P are connected in series, the communication device 1 is mounted/connected to the control unit of one of the representative power conditioners P as described above. The communication device 1 connected to the representative power conditioner P transmits data including the number of power conditioners P connected and the status of each power conditioner P according to the order of connection through communication between the control units. is created and transmitted to the server device 2 . By receiving this data, the server device 2 can automatically recognize the number of power conditioners P and the connection configuration and present the information.

It is not possible to store a data structure that matches the connection form or hierarchical structure by simply transmitting data including the state of each power storage element or power supply-related device from the communication device 1 to the server device 2 in association with identification information. . In this case, it is necessary for the server device 2 to store the relationship between the identification information by, for example, receiving a setting operation from the operator. Information that even if storage elements (modules or cells) or the like are simply connected in series, the order of connection is the order of identification number 1, identification number 2, identification number 3, . . . is not stored, information on each storage element cannot be presented according to the connection form. Moreover, in the case of a hierarchical structure, it is impossible to display information reflecting the hierarchical structure unless the identification numbers 4 and 5 are set below the identification number 1. FIG. On the other hand, the communication device 1 has already created a data structure according to the connection form or hierarchical structure before transmitting. Even if they are simply connected in series, the communication device 1 stores, for example, the identification number of the immediately upstream communication device 1 and the identification number of the downstream communication device 1, and based on these information, the rosary is generated. By transmitting the connected data, the server device 2 can store the data including the serial connection state of each power storage element or the power source-related device and present the information in that order.

In the above-described embodiments, automatic presentation of hierarchical states has been described for power storage elements having a hierarchical structure of domains and banks. A similar process can be applied to the case of connecting in parallel the power storage module group L in which a plurality of power storage elements included in the uninterruptible power supply U and the rectifier D are connected.

The embodiments disclosed above are illustrative in all respects and are not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the scope of the claims, and is intended to include all changes within the meaning and scope of equivalence to the scope of the claims.

1 communication device 10 control unit 11 storage unit 1P device program 2 server device 20 control unit 21 storage unit 2P server program

Claims (9)

An information processing method in which information is processed by a communication device connected to a power storage element or a power supply-related device and an information processing device that transmits and receives information to and from the communication device, respectively,
The communication device is
Acquiring information including the state of the storage element or power supply-related device,
based on the acquired information, creating data having a structure corresponding to a hierarchical structure or connection form of the power storage element or the power source-related device with another power storage device or other power source-related device;
transmitting the created data to the information processing device;
The information processing device is
Based on the structure of the data received from the communication device, the power storage element or the power source-related device in a form corresponding to the hierarchical structure or connection configuration of a plurality of power storage devices or power source-related devices including the power storage device or the power source-related device. An information processing method for transmitting display information for displaying information including the state of to a request source in response to an external request. wherein the power storage element is configured by connecting a plurality of modules each including a plurality of power storage cells,
The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein the communication device creates data in a hierarchical manner based on a connection configuration of the power storage cells and modules. The storage element is configured by connecting in parallel a bank in which a plurality of modules each including a plurality of storage cells are connected in series,
2. The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein said communication device creates data hierarchically based on a hierarchical structure of said banks and domains in which a plurality of said banks are connected in parallel. The communication device is
is connected to the other communication device based on setting information including a hierarchical structure indicating which of the layers of the bank and the domain corresponds and information indicating a connection relationship with another communication device, 4. The information processing method according to claim 3, wherein data is created that does not overlap with data acquired and created by the other communication device. The information processing device is
A first icon indicating information for identifying the storage element or the power supply-related device is displayed in the hierarchical structure, and when a second icon for expanding each layer is selected, the corresponding first icon is displayed in a tree form. The information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising transmitting information. An information processing method in which information is processed by a communication device connected to a power storage element or a power supply-related device and an information processing device that transmits and receives information to and from the communication device, respectively,
The storage element is configured by connecting in parallel a bank in which a plurality of modules each including a plurality of storage cells are connected in series,
The communication device is
Acquiring information including the state of the storage element or power supply-related device,
creating data having a hierarchical structure based on the hierarchical structure of the banks of the electric storage elements and domains in which a plurality of the banks are connected in parallel, based on the acquired information;
transmitting the created data to the information processing device;
The information processing device is
Based on the structure of the data received from the communication device, information including the state of the power storage element or the power source related device is displayed in a form corresponding to the hierarchical structure of a plurality of power storage devices including the power storage device or the power source related device. Send display information to the requester in response to an external request
Information processing methods. An information processing system including a communication device connected to a power storage element or a power supply-related device and an information processing device that transmits and receives information to and from the communication device,
The communication device is
an acquisition unit that acquires information including the state of the power storage element or the power source-related device;
a creation unit that creates data having a structure corresponding to a hierarchical structure or connection form of the power storage element or the power source-related device with another power storage device or another power source-related device, based on the acquired information;
a transmission unit that transmits the created data to the information processing device,
The information processing device is
Based on the structure of the data received from the communication device, the power storage element or the power source-related device in a form corresponding to the hierarchical structure or connection configuration of a plurality of power storage devices or power source-related devices including the power storage device or the power source-related device. An information processing system comprising: a display information transmission unit that transmits display information for displaying information including the state of to a request source in response to an external request. a communication unit connected to a power storage element or a power source-related device and communicating with the power storage device or the power source-related device;
an acquisition unit that acquires information including the state of the power storage element or the power supply-related device obtained from the communication unit;
a creation unit that creates data having a structure corresponding to a hierarchical structure or connection form of the power storage element or the power source-related device with another power storage device or another power source-related device from the information;
A communication device comprising: a transmitter for transmitting created data; A computer program for receiving and displaying information on a power storage element and/or a power supply-related device on a computer having a display unit,
to the computer;
A step of requesting display information indicating the state of the power storage element and/or the power source-related device for each system including the power storage device or the power source-related device, or for each location where the power storage device or the power source-related device is installed. , and based on the display information sent in response to the request,
A first icon indicating information for identifying the power storage element or the power source related device is displayed in a hierarchical structure or a structure corresponding to a connection form of the power storage device or the power source related device with another power storage device or other power source related device. , displaying the corresponding first icons in tree form when a second icon for expanding each layer is selected.

Images