JP7321854B2 - Management device and control system - Google Patents

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to management devices and control systems.

As a battery, there is a secondary battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery. Secondary batteries can be repeatedly charged and discharged, and batteries such as secondary batteries are widely used in mobile phones, large-scale power storage facilities, and the like. In addition, batteries such as secondary batteries are used for installation in vehicles, backup power sources such as solar cells, installation in power leveling devices, and the like, and the range of use of secondary batteries and the like is expanding. In the usage pattern as described above, a battery pack including a single battery or a battery module is mounted in a device. In a battery module, multiple batteries are electrically connected in series and/or in parallel. Charging and discharging of the battery pack is controlled by a control device provided in the battery pack or a control device provided in the device separately from the battery pack.

Further, in recent years, with the development of communication systems such as the Internet, control systems for controlling a plurality of devices each equipped with the aforementioned battery pack have begun to exist. As such a control system, a system that acquires information on multiple vehicles (electric vehicles) and allocates one of the multiple vehicles that is closest to the user, and a system that controls multiple transport robots in the factory. and a system that In the above-described control system, each of the plurality of devices is provided with a slave management device (control device) such as a battery management system (BMS), and the master management device (control device) is , information on each battery pack (one or more batteries) of a plurality of devices is acquired via the slave management device. Based on the acquired information, the master management device (central management device) transmits a control command to the slave management device (battery management device), and the slave management device receives the control command from the master management device. and the like to control the charging and discharging of the battery packs of the plurality of devices.

Here, when a secondary battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery is used in a battery pack, the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential of the battery deviate from the reference state such as the initial state at the start of use. The battery pack deteriorates, such as a decrease in the capacity of the battery. In the control system described above, which controls a plurality of devices each equipped with a battery pack, deterioration of the battery packs caused by deviations of the positive electrode potential and negative electrode potential of the battery from the reference state is appropriately controlled for each of the plurality of devices. It is required to judge Further, in the control system described above, when the battery pack of each of the plurality of devices deteriorates, it is required to appropriately recover the deterioration of the battery pack, such as a decrease in the capacity of the battery pack.

JP 2018-156744 A

The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a management device that appropriately determines the deterioration of a battery pack for each of a plurality of devices in a control system for a plurality of devices, and restores the deteriorated battery pack appropriately. It is in. Another object of the present invention is to provide a control system including this management device.

According to an embodiment, in a control system for controlling a plurality of devices each equipped with a battery pack including one or more batteries, there is provided a management device that manages the state of each battery pack of a plurality of devices. . The management device includes a controller, and the controller acquires information indicating the state of each battery pack of a plurality of devices. Based on the acquired information, the controller determines whether the degree of deterioration of each battery pack of the plurality of devices exceeds a specified range. The controller maintains the recovery target battery pack, which is at least part of the battery packs whose degree of deterioration exceeds a specified range, in a state in which it has not been charged for a specified time, and the recovery target battery pack is mounted. Restrict the use of equipment for a specified period of time. The controller holds normal battery packs, which are battery packs whose degree of deterioration is within a specified range, in a state of being charged from a predetermined state. The controller determines the upper limit number of battery packs of a plurality of devices that can be in a less charged state than a predetermined state, and the recovery target battery packs that are held in a less charged state than a predetermined state. Get the real-time count of Only when the real-time number of battery packs to be recovered is smaller than the upper limit number for the target non-normal battery packs among the non-normal battery packs whose degree of deterioration exceeds the specified It is held for a specified time in a state that is not charged from the state of .

According to an embodiment, a control system is provided that includes the management device described above and a plurality of devices. Each of the plurality of devices includes a battery pack, and each battery pack includes one or more batteries.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a battery whose state is managed by a management device (central management device) according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an enlarged area A of the battery of FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the relationship between the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential with respect to the state of charge in the battery of FIG. 1 and the like. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the voltage relationship between the positive electrode and the negative electrode with respect to the state of charge of the battery when the relationship between the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential with respect to the state of charge is as an example of FIG. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a battery pack in which one or more batteries such as those shown in FIG. 1 are provided. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a vehicle in which the battery pack or the like shown in FIG. 5 is mounted. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing another example of a vehicle in which the battery pack or the like shown in FIG. 5 is mounted, which is different from that shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing another example of a vehicle in which the battery pack or the like shown in FIG. 5 is mounted, which is different from FIGS. Drawing 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a control system concerning an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing processing in one state management with a plurality of battery packs, which is performed by the controller of the central management device or the like in the control system of FIG. 9 and the like. FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing an example of a battery pack deterioration determination process performed by a controller or the like of a central management apparatus in the control system of FIG. 9 or the like. FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing an example of recovery processing from deterioration of the battery pack, which is performed by the controller of the central management device or the like in the control system shown in FIG. 9 or the like. FIG. 13 is a flow chart showing an example of a process of setting priorities for recovery of abnormal battery packs, which is performed by a controller or the like of the central management device in the control system of FIG. 9 or the like. FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing an example of determination processing based on a certain priority of abnormal battery packs, which is performed by the controller of the central management device in the control system of FIG. 9 and the like.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings.

In the following embodiments, control systems are provided for controlling multiple devices. In the control system, a battery pack is mounted on each of a plurality of devices. The control system also includes a master management device (control device) that manages the states of the battery packs of the plurality of devices. Each of the plurality of devices has, for example, a slave management device. In each of the plurality of devices, the slave management device controls charging and discharging of the battery pack based on control commands and the like from the master management device. That is, in each of the plurality of devices, the slave management device serves as a charge/discharge control device that controls charge/discharge of the battery pack. Each battery pack of a plurality of devices includes one or more batteries. The one or more batteries may be a single battery or a battery module formed from a plurality of batteries. In a battery module, a plurality of batteries are electrically connected in at least one of series and parallel.

[battery]
A single battery will be described below. One or more batteries described below can be used in the battery pack whose state is managed by the master management device (control device) of the present embodiment. The battery is, for example, a secondary battery such as a nonaqueous lithium ion secondary battery.

(Battery configuration)
FIG. 1 shows an example of a battery 1, and FIG. 2 shows an enlarged range A of the battery (secondary battery) 1 in FIG.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the battery 1 includes a bag-shaped exterior member 8, an electrode group 2, and an electrolyte (not shown). The electrode group 2 and the electrolyte are housed inside the exterior member 8 . An electrolyte (not shown) is held in the electrode group 2 . The battery 1 is formed by sealing the exterior member 8 in a state in which the electrode group 2 and the electrolyte are housed inside the exterior member 8 . In one example of FIGS. 1 and 2, the exterior member 8 is formed from a laminate film including two resin layers and a metal layer interposed between these resin layers.

The electrode group 2 includes a negative electrode 3 , a separator 4 and a positive electrode 5 . The separator 4 is interposed between the negative electrode 3 and the positive electrode 5 and electrically insulates between the negative electrode 3 and the positive electrode 5 . In one example of FIGS. 1 and 2, the electrode group 2 has a structure in which the separator 4 is interposed between the positive electrode 5 and the negative electrode 3 and is spirally wound. be. In another example, the electrode group 2 has a structure in which a positive electrode 5, a separator 4, a negative electrode 3 and a separator 4 are laminated in this order.

The negative electrode 3 includes at least a negative electrode current collector 3a and a negative electrode mixture layer 3b. The negative electrode mixture layer 3b is arranged on both sides or one side of the negative electrode current collector 3a. Similarly, the positive electrode 5 includes at least a positive electrode current collector 5a and a positive electrode mixture layer 5b. The positive electrode mixture layer 5b is arranged on both sides or one side of the positive electrode current collector 5a.

The battery 1 also includes a negative electrode terminal 6 and a positive electrode terminal 7 as electrode terminals. The negative terminal 6 is connected to the negative current collector 3a, and the positive terminal 7 is connected to the positive current collector 5a. In one example of FIGS. 1 and 2 , the negative terminal 6 and the positive terminal 7 extend outside from the opening of the exterior member 8 . By heat-sealing the thermoplastic resin layer on the inner surface of the exterior member 8, the opening of the exterior member 8 is closed.

In the battery as described above, the electrode group is charged and discharged by positive and negative reactions mediated by lithium ions. The negative electrode, the positive electrode, the electrolyte, the separator, the electrode terminal, the exterior member, and the like, that is, each component of the battery, will be described in detail below.

1) negative electrode
The negative electrode includes a negative electrode current collector and a negative electrode mixture layer disposed on the negative electrode current collector. The negative electrode mixture layer can be arranged on one side or both sides of the negative electrode current collector. The negative electrode mixture layer contains a negative electrode active material.

The negative electrode current collector is a metal body, and the metal body contains at least one metal selected from the group consisting of aluminum, copper, zinc, nickel, titanium and stainless steel. The metal body can comprise one metal among the aforementioned metals. The metal body can also contain two or more of the metals mentioned above. In one example, the metal body is a metal foil, eg, made of one of the aforementioned metals. In another example, the metal body is, for example, an alloy foil containing two or more of the aforementioned metals. As for the shape of the metal body, other than foil, for example, a mesh, a porous body, and the like can be mentioned. From the viewpoint of improving energy density and output, it is desirable that the metal body has a foil shape with a small volume and a large surface area. Also, the surface of the negative electrode current collector may be coated with a carbon-containing layer. In this case, the negative electrode mixture layer is arranged on the carbon-containing layer.

The negative electrode active material can include a titanium-containing oxide. Examples of titanium-containing oxides include titanium oxides, lithium-titanium-containing composite oxides, niobium-titanium-containing composite oxides, and sodium-niobium-titanium-containing composite oxides. The Li absorption potential of the titanium-containing oxide is desirably in the range of 0.7 V (vs. Li/Li ⁺ ) to 3 V (vs. Li/Li ⁺ ). Here, when the Li absorption potential of the titanium-containing oxide is lower than 1 V, a side reaction may occur between the negative electrode active material and the electrolyte. On the other hand, when the Li absorption potential is higher than 3V, the battery voltage becomes low. The negative electrode active material may contain one or more of the titanium-containing oxides described above.

Examples of titanium oxides include monoclinic structure titanium oxide, rutile structure titanium oxide, and anatase structure titanium oxide. The titanium oxide of each crystal structure can be represented by TiO ₂ for the composition before charging and by Li _x TiO ₂ (where x is 0≦x≦1) after charging. In addition, the pre-charged structure of titanium oxide having a monoclinic structure can be expressed as TiO ₂ (B).

Examples of lithium-titanium-containing composite oxides include spinel-structured lithium-titanium oxides (for example, Li _4+x Ti ₅ O ₁₂ (where x is −1≦x≦3)) and ramsdellite-structured lithium-titanium oxides (for example, , Li _2+x Ti ₃ O ₇ (−1≦x≦3)), Li _1+x Ti ₂ O ₄ (0≦x≦1), Li _1.1+x Ti _1.8 O ₄ (0≦x≦1), Li _1.07+x Ti _1.86 O ₄ (0≦x≦1), Li _x TiO ₂ (0<x≦1), and the like. Lithium-titanium oxides include, for example, lithium-titanium composite oxides in which a different element is introduced into the aforementioned lithium-titanium oxide, such as a spinel structure or a ramsdellite structure.

Examples of niobium-titanium-containing composite oxides include _{LiaTiMbNb2 ±} βO7 _±σ (0≤a≤5 _, 0≤b≤0.3, 0≤β≤0.3, 0≤σ≤0 .3, and M is at least one element selected from the group consisting of Fe, V, Mo and Ta).

Examples of sodium niobium titanium-containing composite oxides include the general formula Li _2+v Na _2-w M1 _x Ti _6-yz Nb _y M2 _z O _14+δ (0≦v≦4, 0<w<2, 0≦x <2, 0<y≦6, 0≦z<3, y+z<6, −0.5≦δ≦0.5, M1 is at least one selected from the group consisting of Cs, K, Sr, Ba, Ca and M2 includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Zr, Sn, V, Ta, Mo, W, Fe, Co, Mn, Al). Things etc. are mentioned.

In the lithium ion secondary battery, the negative electrode active material preferably contains either niobium element or titanium-containing oxide. As a result, even if the battery deteriorates due to a decrease in capacity or the like, the deterioration of the battery can be greatly recovered by maintaining the battery in a state in which the degree of charge is low, such as a state in which the battery is not charged more than a predetermined state. In particular, it is more preferable that the negative electrode active material contains a niobium-titanium-containing composite oxide. As a result, the amount of recovery from deterioration of the battery due to maintaining the state in which the degree of charge is low, such as a state in which the battery is not charged more than a predetermined state, is further increased. In addition, since the negative electrode active material contains a niobium-titanium-containing composite oxide, the increased internal resistance of the battery is reduced (recovered) by holding the battery in a state in which it is not charged from a predetermined state.

Also, the negative electrode active material may include a carbonaceous material such as graphite, silicon, and silicon oxide. Graphite contained in the negative electrode active material absorbs and releases lithium. Examples of graphite materials include artificial graphite, natural graphite, and the like. Artificial graphite can be obtained, for example, by heat-treating a carbon precursor such as petroleum- or coal-derived pitch, synthetic pitch, mesophase pitch, coke, or resin at 2000 to 3000° C. under an inert atmosphere.

The negative electrode active material is included in the negative electrode in the form of particles, for example. The negative electrode active material particles can be single primary particles, secondary particles that are aggregates of primary particles, or mixtures of single primary particles and secondary particles. The shape of the particles is not particularly limited, and can be, for example, spherical, elliptical, flat, fibrous, and the like. Moreover, the diameter of the secondary particles of the active material is preferably 500 nm or more and 50 μm or less. If the diameter of the secondary particles is less than 500 nm, aggregation and the like may affect the coatability of the active material. Moreover, when the diameter of the secondary particles is larger than 50 μm, the Li diffusion distance inside the active material becomes long, which may make it difficult to obtain sufficient reactivity.

Also, the negative electrode mixture layer may further include a conductive agent and a binder in addition to the negative electrode active material described above. Examples of conductive agents include carbonaceous materials such as acetylene black, carbon black, graphite, carbon nanofibers, and carbon nanotubes. As the conductive agent, one of the carbonaceous materials described above may be used alone, or a plurality of the carbonaceous materials described above may be used.

The binder binds the active material, conductive agent, and current collector. Examples of binders include rubbers such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF), fluororubbers, styrene-butadiene (SBR), acrylic resins, and cellulose. Carboxymethyl cellulose etc. are mentioned as a cellulose used for an agent.

The compounding ratio of the negative electrode active material, the conductive agent and the binder in the negative electrode mixture layer is 80% by weight or more and 95% by weight or less of the negative electrode active material, 1% by weight or more and 18% by weight or less of the conductive agent, and the binder. is preferably in the range of 1% by weight or more and 7% by weight or less. If the conductive agent is less than 1% by weight, the current collecting performance of the negative electrode mixture layer may deteriorate, and the large current performance of the battery may deteriorate. Moreover, when the binder is less than 1% by weight, the binding between the negative electrode mixture layer and the negative electrode current collector may deteriorate, and the cycle performance may deteriorate. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of increasing the capacity, the content of the conductive agent is preferably 18% by weight or less, and the content of the binder is preferably 7% by weight or less.

A negative electrode can be manufactured, for example, by the following method. First, a slurry is prepared by suspending a negative electrode active material, a conductive agent, and a binder in a solvent. Next, the prepared slurry is applied to one side or both sides of the negative electrode current collector. Then, the negative electrode mixture layer is formed by drying the coating film on the negative electrode current collector. After that, the negative electrode current collector and the negative electrode mixture layer formed on the negative electrode current collector are pressed. Further, instead of pressing, the negative electrode active material, the conductive agent and the binder may be formed into pellets and used as the negative electrode mixture layer.

2) positive electrode
The positive electrode includes a positive electrode current collector and a positive electrode mixture layer disposed on the positive electrode current collector. The positive electrode mixture layer may be formed on one side or both sides of the positive electrode current collector. The positive electrode mixture layer contains a positive electrode active material. Also, the positive electrode material mixture layer may contain a conductive agent and a binder. The positive electrode current collector is a metal body containing the same metal as the metal forming the negative electrode current collector. The positive electrode current collector can be formed in the same shape as the negative electrode current collector, for example, in the shape of a metal foil.

As the positive electrode active material, for example, a compound capable of intercalating and deintercalating lithium can be used. Examples of positive electrode active materials include lithium manganese composite oxides, lithium nickel composite oxides, lithium cobalt aluminum composite oxides, lithium nickel cobalt manganese composite oxides, spinel-type lithium manganese nickel composite oxides, lithium manganese cobalt composite oxides, Lithium iron oxide, lithium fluorinated iron sulfate, and phosphoric acid compounds of olivine crystal structure (e.g., Li _x FePO ₄ (0≦x≦1), Li _x MnPO ₄ (0≦x≦1)), nickel cobalt selected from the group consisting of manganese-containing composite oxides (Li _x Ni _1-y-z Co _y Mn _z O ₂ ; 0<x≦1, 0<y<1, 0<z<1, y+z<1); including at least one Phosphate compounds with an olivine crystal structure are excellent in thermal stability.

Examples of positive electrode active materials from which a high positive electrode potential can be obtained include the following. That is, for example, lithium-manganese composite oxides such as Li _x Mn ₂ O ₄ (0<x≦1) and Li _x MnO ₂ (0<x≦1), nickel-cobalt-manganese-containing composite oxides (Li _x Ni _{1-y -z} Co _y Mn _z O ₂ ; 0<x≦1, 0<y<1, 0<z<1, y+z<1), for example Li _x Ni _1-y Al _y O ₂ (0<x≦1, 0 < y ≤ 1), lithium nickel aluminum composite oxides such as Li _x CoO ₂ (0 < x ≤ 1), such as lithium cobalt composite oxides, such as Li _x Ni _1-yz Co _y Mn _z O ₂ (0<x≦1, 0<y≦1, 0≦z≦1) and other lithium-nickel-cobalt composite oxides, such as Li _{x Mny} Co _1-y O ₂ (0<x≦1, 0<y≦1) 1) Lithium-manganese-cobalt composite oxides such as spinel-type lithium-manganese-nickel composite oxides such as Li _x Mn _2-y Ni _y O ₄ (0<x≦1, 0<y<2), such as Li _x FePO ₄ (0<x≦1), _{LixFe1 - yMnyPO4} ( ₀ <x≦1, 0≦y≦1) and _LixCoPO4 (0<x≦1) _, etc. Lithium phosphorous oxides and fluorinated iron sulfates such as Li _x FeSO ₄ F (0<x≦1) are included.

As the positive electrode active material, one of the active materials described above may be used alone, or two or more of the active materials described above may be used.

The positive electrode mixture layer can contain a conductive agent similar to the conductive agent contained in the negative electrode mixture layer. In this case, examples of conductive agents include carbonaceous materials such as acetylene black, carbon black, graphite, carbon nanofibers, and carbon nanotubes. As the conductive agent of the positive electrode mixture layer, one of the carbonaceous materials described above may be used alone, or a plurality of the carbonaceous materials described above may be used.

Further, like the binder in the negative electrode mixture layer, the binder binds the active material, the conductive agent, and the current collector in the positive electrode mixture layer. The positive electrode mixture layer can contain the same binder as the binder contained in the negative electrode mixture layer. In this case, examples of the binder include rubbers such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF), fluororubber, styrene-butadiene (SBR), acrylic resin, and cellulose. Carboxymethyl cellulose etc. are mentioned as a cellulose used for a binder.

The compounding ratio of the positive electrode active material, the conductive agent and the binder in the positive electrode mixture layer is 80% by weight or more and 95% by weight or less of the positive electrode active material, 2% by weight or more and 18% by weight or less of the conductive agent, and the binder. is preferably in the range of 1% by weight or more and 7% by weight or less. By setting the compounding ratio of the conductive agent to 3% by weight or more, the conductivity of the positive electrode can be ensured. Further, by setting the compounding ratio of the conductive agent to 18% by weight or less, it is possible to reduce the decomposition of the electrolytic solution on the surface of the conductive agent under high temperature storage. Sufficient electrode strength can be obtained by setting the compounding ratio of the binder to 1% by weight or more. Further, by setting the blending ratio of the binder to 7% by weight or less, the blending amount of the binder that serves as an insulating material in the positive electrode is reduced, so that the internal resistance can be reduced.

For the positive electrode, the positive electrode mixture layer is formed on the positive electrode current collector in the same manner as in the case of forming the negative electrode mixture layer on the negative electrode current collector in the negative electrode.

3) electrolyte
A non-aqueous electrolyte can be used as the electrolyte. A nonaqueous electrolytic solution, which is a nonaqueous electrolyte, is prepared by dissolving an electrolyte in an organic solvent. In the non-aqueous electrolyte, the electrolyte concentration is preferably in the range of 0.5 mol/L or more and 2.5 mol/L or less.

Examples of electrolytes dissolved in organic solvents include lithium perchlorate ( _LiClO4 ), lithium hexafluorophosphate ( _LiPF6 ), lithium tetrafluoroborate ( _LiBF4 ), lithium arsenic hexafluoride (LiAsF). ₆ ), lithium salts such as lithium trifluoromethanesulfonate (LiCF ₃ SO ₃ ) and lithium bistrifluoromethylsulfonylimide (LiN(CF ₃ SO ₂ ) ₂ ), and mixtures thereof. Also, the electrolyte is preferably resistant to oxidation even at a high potential, and it is most preferable to use LiPF ₆ as the electrolyte.

Examples of organic solvents in which electrolytes are dissolved include cyclic carbonates such as propylene carbonate (PC), ethylene carbonate (EC), and vinylene carbonate; diethyl carbonate (DEC), dimethyl carbonate (DMC), and methyl ethyl carbonate. linear carbonates such as (MEC); cyclic ethers such as tetrahydrofuran (THF), 2-methyltetrahydrofuran (2MeTHF), and dioxolane (DOX); linear ethers such as dimethoxyethane (DME) and diethoxyethane (DEE); γ-butyrolactone (GBL), acetonitrile (AN), and sulfolane (SL). These organic solvents can be used alone or as a mixed solvent.

Also, a gel non-aqueous electrolyte can be used instead of the non-aqueous electrolyte. The gel-like non-aqueous electrolyte is prepared by combining the above non-aqueous electrolyte and a polymer material. Examples of polymeric materials that are composited with non-aqueous electrolytes include polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF), polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and polyethylene oxide (PEO), and mixtures thereof.

Further, as the non-aqueous electrolyte, instead of the non-aqueous electrolyte and gel non-aqueous electrolyte, a room-temperature molten salt (ionic melt) containing lithium ions or a solid electrolyte may be used. Examples of solid electrolytes include polymer solid electrolytes and inorganic solid electrolytes. A polymer solid electrolyte is prepared by dissolving an electrolyte in a polymer material and solidifying it. An inorganic solid electrolyte is a solid substance having Li ion conductivity.

4) Separator
As the separator, a synthetic resin porous film, non-woven fabric, or the like can be used. In this case, materials for forming the porous film and nonwoven fabric include, for example, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), cellulose, glass fiber, and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF). Among the above materials, cellulose is superior in Li diffusibility and the like. Therefore, it is preferable to use cellulose as the material for forming the separator.

Further, as described above, when a solid electrolyte is used as the non-aqueous electrolyte, the solid electrolyte may be used as a separator, and the positive electrode and the negative electrode may be electrically insulated by the solid electrolyte. Solid electrolytes used as separators include LATP (Li _1+x Al _x Ti _2-x (PO ₄ ) ₃ ; 0.1≦x≦0.4) having a NASICON skeleton, amorphous LIPON (Li _2.9 PO _3.3 N _0.46 ) and garnet-type LLZ (Li ₇ La ₃ Zr ₂ O ₁₂ ) oxides are preferred.

5) Electrode terminal
Electrode terminals can include, for example, external terminals and internal terminals. In one example, the external terminals are, for example, the conductive tabs of the electrodes (positive and negative). In another example, as will be described later, a conductive exterior member such as a metal can is provided on the battery unit, and external terminals can be formed on the exterior member. Internal terminals include, for example, electrode leads. Further, the shape of the internal terminal is not particularly limited, and the internal terminal is formed, for example, in a strip shape, a disk shape, a washer shape, a spiral shape, or a corrugated plate shape.

The electrode terminal is preferably made of at least one metal selected from the group consisting of aluminum, zinc, titanium and iron, or an alloy of these metals. Examples of alloys include aluminum alloys and stainless steel.

6) Exterior material
As the exterior member, either a laminated film bag-like container or a metal container can be used. Examples of the shape of the exterior member include flat type, square type, cylindrical type, coin type, button type, sheet type, and laminated type.

As the laminate film, for example, a multilayer film can be used, and the multilayer film can include a plurality of resin layers and metal layers arranged between the resin layers. In this case, the metal layer is preferably aluminum foil or aluminum alloy foil from the viewpoint of weight reduction. Polymer materials such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), nylon, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) can be used for the resin layer. The laminate film is molded into the shape of the exterior member by, for example, sealing by heat sealing. Also, the thickness of the laminate film is preferably 0.5 mm or less, more preferably 0.2 mm or less.

The metal container is preferably made of, for example, at least one metal selected from the group consisting of aluminum, zinc, titanium and iron, or an alloy of these metals. Specifically, examples of alloys include aluminum alloys and stainless steel. In addition, the thickness of the metal container is preferably 0.5 mm or less in order to suppress the weight of the battery, and the thickness is 0.2 mm or less in terms of preventing moisture from entering from the outside of the battery and maintaining strength. is more preferable.

Moreover, when using a metal container as an exterior member, an electrode terminal (external terminal) can also be formed in a metal container.

(Battery characteristics)
The characteristics of the battery as described above will be described below. A parameter indicating the degree of charge of the battery includes the state of charge (SOC). In the battery, the state of charge is 0% when the voltage (potential difference) between the positive electrode and the negative electrode reaches the first voltage value V1. In the battery, the state of charge is 100% when the voltage (potential difference) between the positive electrode and the negative electrode reaches the second voltage value V2 larger than the first voltage value V1. In a battery, a 0% charged state is a fully discharged state, and a 100% charged state is a fully charged state. Also, in one example, the first voltage value V1 is set to 1.5V and the second voltage value V2 is set to 3.0V.

The state of charge is the ratio of the remaining capacity of the battery up to the fully discharged state to the full charge capacity of the battery from the fully discharged state to the fully charged state, and is indicated, for example, as a percentage. Here, the current capacity of the battery including full charge capacity, remaining capacity, etc. is indicated by the product of current and time, and is indicated in units such as (A·h) and (mA·h). Hereinafter, this current capacity is simply referred to as capacity. In addition, in a battery, the voltage between the positive electrode and the negative electrode increases as the state of charge increases from the fully discharged state to the fully charged state.

Here, in the battery pack to be mounted on the device, in order to reduce the risk of the device stopping during normal use of the device, the state of charge, for example, in the range of 50% or more and 90% or less, is relatively low. The battery is repeatedly charged and discharged mainly in the high range. Therefore, during normal use of the device, the battery is held in a state of being charged from a predetermined state, that is, in a relatively charged state or the like, and is held in a highly charged state. As described above, when a battery is held in a highly charged state for a long time, the battery deteriorates, for example, by decreasing its capacity. For example, by repeating charging and discharging in a high state of charge, the charging capacity (full charge capacity) of the battery from a fully discharged state (0% state of charge) to a fully charged state (100% state of charge), and full charge The discharge capacity of the battery from the fully discharged state to the fully discharged state decreases from when the battery starts to be used (initial state). The causes of the decrease in battery capacity include physical deterioration of the electrode group including deterioration of the positive electrode active material and deterioration of the negative electrode active material, and the positive electrode potential from the reference state such as the initial state when the battery is started to be used. A deviation of the negative electrode potential and the like can be mentioned.

Here, it is extremely difficult to restore the physical deterioration of the electrode group. However, it is possible to restore the deviation of the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential from the reference state by a recovery process or the like under predetermined conditions to be described later, and bring the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential closer to the reference state such as the initial state. . In the battery, when the deviation from the reference state of the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential is recovered, the reduced capacity is recovered and the deterioration is recovered. It is presumed that the deviation of the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential from the reference state is caused by the difference in the amount of self-discharge between the positive electrode and the negative electrode. Therefore, it is presumed that it is possible to recover the deviation of the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential from the reference state by using the difference in the amount of self-discharge between the positive electrode and the negative electrode.

The deviation from the reference state of the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential will be described below. FIG. 3 shows an example of the relationship between the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential with respect to the charged state, and FIG. 4 shows the positive electrode with respect to the charged state when the relationship between the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential with respect to the charged state is as shown in the example of FIG. It shows the relationship of the voltage (potential difference) with the negative electrode. In FIG. 3, the horizontal axis indicates the state of charge (SOC), and the vertical axis indicates the potential. In FIG. 4, the horizontal axis indicates the state of charge (SOC), and the vertical axis indicates voltage. In FIGS. 3 and 4, the state of charge is indicated in percentage and the unit of potential and voltage is indicated in (V). 3 and 4, the positive electrode potential, the negative electrode potential, and the voltage in the reference state such as the initial state are indicated by solid lines, and the positive electrode potential, the negative electrode potential, and the voltage in the state γ in which the capacity is lowered with respect to the reference state are indicated by broken lines. .

As described above, when the battery is held in a highly charged state for a long time, the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential of the battery deviate to the high potential side with respect to the reference state, as in the state γ in FIG. In the state γ where the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential deviate to the high potential side compared to the reference state, the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential in the charged state of 0% and near 0% are higher than those in the reference state. In the state γ, the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential in the 100% and nearly 100% charged states are higher than those in the reference state.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 4, when the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential deviate to the high potential side compared to the reference state such as the state γ, the fully discharged state (the charged state is 0%) and the fully charged state (the charged state) is 100%), the voltage is higher than in the reference state. For example, in the state γ, the voltage is higher than the reference state over the entire range of the charged state from 20% to 80%. Therefore, when the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential shift to the high potential side from the reference state, the voltage curve shifts from the reference state to the high voltage side in a part of the range between the fully discharged state and the fully charged state. deviate.

Regardless of whether the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential deviate from the reference state, in the battery, the state in which the voltage between the positive electrode and the negative electrode reaches the first voltage value V1 (for example, 1.5 V) is defined as the fully discharged state. (SOC is 0%). Regardless of whether or not the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential deviate from the reference state, the battery is fully charged when the voltage between the positive electrode and the negative electrode reaches the second voltage value V2 (for example, 3.0 V). (SOC is 100%). Therefore, even if the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential deviate from the reference state, the voltage of the battery in the fully discharged state does not change from the first voltage value V1, and the voltage of the battery in the fully charged state remains at the second voltage value V1. It does not change from the voltage value V2.

[Battery pack]
Next, a battery pack including one or more of the aforementioned batteries will be described. A battery pack includes a single battery or a battery module formed from a plurality of batteries. When the battery pack is provided with a battery module, the battery module electrically connects a plurality of batteries in at least one of series and parallel. As for the battery pack, the state of charge is defined as a parameter indicating the degree of charge in the same manner as for one battery. Here, if the number m of batteries in series in a battery or a battery module is defined, in a state where the open circuit voltage (OCV) of the battery pack is m times the first voltage value V1, The state of charge (SOC) becomes 0% and the battery pack is fully discharged. When the open circuit voltage of the battery pack becomes m times the second voltage value V2, the state of charge (SOC) of the battery pack reaches 100% and the battery pack is fully charged.

In addition, by repeatedly charging and discharging the battery pack in a highly charged state, one or more batteries forming the battery pack are degraded, for example, by decreasing capacity as described above. Therefore, by repeatedly charging and discharging the battery pack in a highly charged state, the capacity of the battery pack decreases and the battery pack deteriorates.

In addition, by holding the battery pack in a highly charged state for a long time, one or more batteries in the battery pack have a positive electrode potential and a negative electrode potential that are higher than the reference state (initial state), as described above. shift to the side. As a result, in the batteries forming the battery pack, the voltage in a part of the range between the completely discharged state (0% charged state) and the fully charged state (100% charged state) is higher than the reference state. get higher Therefore, by holding the battery pack in a highly charged state for a long time, the voltage curve such as the open circuit voltage of the battery pack changes to the reference state (initial state) to the high voltage side.

Also, the battery pack can be provided with a battery management device such as a battery management system (BMS) that manages the state of the battery pack. A battery management device (management device) is, for example, a control device and can include a controller. The controller includes a processor or integrated circuit (control circuit) including a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), and a storage medium such as a memory. One or more processors or integrated circuits may be provided in the controller. The controller performs processing by executing a program or the like stored in a storage medium or the like.

The controller acquires information indicating the state of the battery pack, such as information regarding the degree of charge (state of charge) of the battery pack and information regarding the temperature of the battery pack. In one example, the controller performs at least one of controlling charging/discharging of the battery pack and adjusting the temperature of the battery pack based on the acquired information. Note that the battery management device including the controller described above need not be provided in the battery pack. In one example, the battery management device is formed outside the battery pack and separately from the battery pack. In this case, for example, an integrated circuit or the like formed in the device in which the battery pack is mounted is used as the controller of the battery management device.

FIG. 5 shows an example of the battery pack 10. As shown in FIG. In one example of FIG. 5, the battery pack 10 includes a battery module 11 formed from a plurality of batteries 1, and in the battery module 11, the plurality of batteries 1 are electrically connected in series. Each of the batteries 1 has a configuration similar to that of any of the batteries described above, and has characteristics similar to those of the batteries described above. 5, the battery management device 12 described above is provided in the battery pack 10, and the battery management device 12 includes the controller 13 described above. The controller 13 has the same configuration as the controller described above, and performs the same processing as the controller described above.

In an example of FIG. 5, a power source 15 capable of supplying power to the battery module 11 (battery pack 10) and a load 16 capable of supplying power from the battery module 11 (battery pack 10) are provided outside the battery pack 10. be provided. The battery pack 10 is charged by being supplied with power from the power source 15 or the like. Also, the battery pack 10 is discharged by supplying power to the load 16 and the like. Examples of the power source 15 include a battery or battery module separate from the battery pack 10, a generator, and the like. The load 16 includes an electric motor, lights, and the like. In another example, instead of the load 16 or in addition to the load 16, an electric storage device to which electric power is supplied from the battery pack 10 may be provided. In this case, the battery pack 10 is discharged by supplying power to the capacitor. The storage device can store the power supplied from the battery pack 10 . Also, in another example, a motor generator may be provided. In this case, power can be supplied from the battery pack 10 to the motor generator, and power can be supplied from the motor generator to the battery pack 10 . That is, the motor-generator functions as both a power source and a load.

Battery pack 10 includes drive circuit 17 . The drive circuit 17 is arranged between each of the power supply 15 and the load 16 and the battery module 11 . The controller 13 controls the power supply from the battery pack 10 (battery module 11 ) to the load 16 and the power supply from the power supply 15 to the battery pack 10 by controlling the drive circuit 17 . That is, the controller 13 controls charging and discharging of the battery pack 10 by controlling driving of the drive circuit 17 . Therefore, the battery management device 12 functions as a charge/discharge control device that controls charge/discharge of the battery pack 10 . The drive circuit 17 includes a relay circuit that switches between power output from the battery pack 10 and power input to the battery pack 10 . The drive circuit 17 may also include a conversion circuit that converts power from the power source 15 into DC power supplied to the battery module 11 . The conversion circuit also converts the DC power from the battery module 11 into power to be supplied to the load 16 . Transformation circuits may include transformation circuits, DC/AC transformation circuits, AC/DC transformation circuits, and the like.

The battery pack 10 also includes a current detection circuit 21 and a voltage detection circuit 22 . The current detection circuit 21 detects current flowing through the battery module 11 . The voltage detection circuit 22 detects the voltage applied to the battery module 11 (battery pack 10 ), such as the open circuit voltage of the battery module 11 . The controller 13 acquires information about current detected by the current detection circuit 21 and information about voltage detected by the voltage detection circuit 22 . Then, the controller 13 controls the driving of the drive circuit 17 based on the acquired information about current and voltage, and controls charging and discharging of the battery pack 10 (battery module 11).

In one example, the battery pack 10 is provided with a temperature detector such as a thermistor and a temperature regulator such as a heater (none of which are shown). In this case, the temperature detector detects the temperature of the battery pack 10 (battery module 11), and the controller 13 acquires information regarding the temperature detected by the temperature detector. Then, the controller 13 controls the operation of the temperature adjuster and adjusts the temperature of the battery pack 10 based on the acquired temperature information and the like.

[Equipment equipped with a battery pack]
Next, a device equipped with the aforementioned battery pack including one or more batteries will be described. Battery packs are used as power sources mounted on vehicles, power sources mounted on carrier robots, stationary power sources, and power sources for electronic devices such as digital cameras. A hybrid vehicle (HV), an electric vehicle (EV), a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), and the like are examples of vehicles in which a battery pack is mounted. Moreover, as a carrier robot on which a battery pack is mounted, an automated guided vehicle (AGV) used in a factory or the like is exemplified.

FIG. 6 shows an example of a vehicle 25 in which the battery pack 10 is mounted. In one example of FIG. 6, the battery pack 10 mounted on the vehicle 25 includes the battery module 11 and the drive circuit 17 described above. Although not shown in FIG. 6, the battery pack 10 is provided with the current detection circuit 21 and the voltage detection circuit 22 described above. Also, the battery pack 10 may be provided with the temperature detector and the temperature regulator described above. In one example of FIG. 6 , a battery management device (charge/discharge control device) 12 having a controller 13 is provided outside the battery pack 10 in the vehicle 25 . Therefore, an integrated circuit or the like formed in the vehicle 25 is used as the controller 13 of the battery management device 12 . In another example, the battery management device 12 may be provided in the battery pack 10 mounted on the vehicle 25 . In this case, an integrated circuit or the like formed in the battery pack 10 is used as the controller 13 of the battery management device 12 .

6, the power source 15 and the load 16 are mounted outside the battery pack 10. As shown in FIG. The power source 15 may be a generator mounted on the vehicle 25 . Also, a mechanism that generates regenerative energy of the power of the vehicle 25 may be used as the power source 15 . An example of the load 16 is an electric motor mounted on the vehicle 25 . In another example, power may be supplied to the battery pack 10 from a power source external to the vehicle. In this case, a stationary power supply provided in a charging station or the like serves as a power supply for supplying power to the battery pack 10 .

In addition, in the example of FIG. 6 , a central management device (management device) 26 is provided outside the vehicle 25 . Central controller 26 is a central controller and may comprise controller 27 . The controller 27 includes a processor or integrated circuit (control circuit) including a CPU, ASIC, FPGA, etc., and a storage medium such as a memory. One or more processors or integrated circuits may be provided in the controller 27 . The controller 27 performs processing by executing a program or the like stored in a storage medium or the like.

A battery management device 12 mounted on a vehicle 25 can communicate with a central management device (central control device) 26 by wire or wirelessly, and can exchange information such as signals with the central management device 26 . The controller 27 of the central management device 26 receives information indicating the state of the battery pack 10 mounted on the vehicle 25, such as information regarding the degree of charge (state of charge) of the battery pack 10 and information regarding the temperature of the battery pack 10. Acquired from the controller 13 of the battery management device 12 . In addition, the controller 27 of the central management device 26, based on the acquired information, issues a control command such as a command regarding control of charging/discharging of the battery pack 10 and a command regarding control of the temperature of the battery pack 10 to the battery management device. 12 to the controller 13 . The controller 13 controls charging and discharging of the battery pack 10 based on control commands and the like from the controller 27 . Therefore, in the example of FIG. 6, the central management device 26 is the master management device (control device), and the battery management device 12 is the slave management device (control device).

In another example, the battery management device (slave management device) 12 mounted on the vehicle 25 does not control the charging and discharging of the battery pack 10, the temperature of the battery pack 10, etc. good. In this case, the controller 27 of the central management device 26 directly controls the driving of the drive circuit 17 and the charging/discharging of the battery pack 10 without going through the battery management device 12 . The controller 27 of the central management device (master management device) 26 directly controls the operation of the temperature regulator and the like to control the temperature of the battery pack 10 without going through the battery management device 12 . In this example as well, information indicating the state of the battery pack 10 mounted on the vehicle 25 is transmitted from the battery management device 12 to the central management device 26 .

FIG. 7 shows another example of the vehicle 25 in which the battery pack 10 is mounted, different from FIG. In the example of FIG. 7 as well, the battery pack 10 mounted on the vehicle 25 includes the battery module 11 (one or more batteries 1) and the drive circuit 17 described above. Although not shown in FIG. 7, the battery pack 10 may be provided with the above-described current detection circuit 21 and voltage detection circuit 22, and the battery pack 10 may be provided with the above-described temperature detector and temperature regulator. good. A load 16 such as an electric motor is mounted outside the battery pack 10 in the vehicle 25 .

However, in the example of FIG. 7 , the power supply device 28 is provided outside the vehicle 25 , and the power supply device 28 is equipped with the power supply 15 that supplies power to the battery pack 10 of the vehicle 25 . Also, the power supply device 28 is equipped with the aforementioned battery management device 12 having the controller 13 . Therefore, an integrated circuit or the like formed in the power supply device 28 is used as the controller 13 of the battery management device 12 . In one example of FIG. 7, the vehicle 25 is either an electric vehicle (EV), a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), or the like, and the power supply device 28 is a stationary power supply device provided in a charging station or the like. By electrically connecting the power supply 15 of the power supply device 28 to the battery pack 10 , the battery pack 10 can be charged, and power can be supplied from the power supply device 28 to the vehicle 25 .

In the example of FIG. 7 , the vehicle 25 in which the battery pack 10 is mounted is not provided with the battery management device 12 . A power supply device 28 that supplies power to the vehicle 25 is provided with the battery management device 12 . In a state in which power can be supplied from the power supply device 28 to the vehicle 25, the controller 13 of the battery management device 12 sends information regarding the degree of charge (state of charge) of the battery pack 10 and information regarding the temperature of the battery pack 10 to the vehicle 25. Information indicating the state of the mounted battery pack 10 is acquired. In addition, in a state where power supply device 28 can supply power to vehicle 25 , controller 13 of battery management device 12 controls power output from power source 15 and driving of drive circuit 17 to charge and discharge battery pack 10 . Control. Note that the controller 13 of the battery management device 12 may control the temperature of the battery pack 10 while the power supply device 28 can supply power to the vehicle 25 .

In the example of FIG. 7, the above-described central management device (central control device) 26 having a controller 27 is provided outside the vehicle 25 and the power supply device 28, that is, separately from the vehicle 25 and the power supply device 28. be done. The battery management device 12 mounted on the power supply device 28 can communicate with the central management device 26 by wire or wirelessly, and can exchange information such as signals with the central management device 26 . The controller 27 of the central management device 26 is in a state where the power supply device 28 can supply power to the vehicle 25, and the battery mounted on the vehicle 25, such as information on the degree of charge of the battery pack 10 and information on the temperature of the battery pack 10. Information indicating the state of the pack 10 is acquired from the controller 13 of the battery management device 12 . Further, in a state in which power can be supplied from the power supply device 28 to the vehicle 25, the controller 27 of the central management device 26, based on the acquired information, issues a command related to control of charging and discharging of the battery pack 10 and a temperature control of the battery pack 10. to the controller 13 of the battery management device 12 . The controller 13 controls charging and discharging of the battery pack 10 based on control commands and the like from the controller 27 . Therefore, in the example of FIG. 7 as well, the central management device 26 is the master management device (control device), and the battery management device 12 is the slave management device (control device).

In another example, the battery management device (slave management device) 12 mounted on the power supply device 28 does not have to control charging and discharging of the battery pack 10, control the temperature of the battery pack 10, and the like. good too. In this case, in a state in which power can be supplied to the vehicle 25 from the power supply 28, the controller 27 of the central management device (master management device) 26 directly outputs and drives the power supply 15 without going through the battery management device 12. It controls the driving of the circuit 17 and the like, and controls the charging and discharging of the battery pack 10 and the like. Also, the controller 27 of the central management device 26 directly controls the operation of the temperature regulator and the like without going through the battery management device 12 to control the temperature of the battery pack 10 . In this example as well, information indicating the state of the battery pack 10 mounted on the vehicle 25 is transmitted from the battery management device 12 to the central management device 26 when the power supply device 28 can supply power to the vehicle 25 .

In another example, the power supply 28 is not provided with the battery management device 12 , and instead the central management device 26 with the controller 27 is mounted on the power supply 28 . Then, in a state in which power can be supplied from the power supply device 28 to the vehicle 25, the controller 27 of the central management device (central control device) 26 is mounted on the vehicle 25 directly from the aforementioned current detection circuit 21, voltage detection circuit 22, etc. Information indicating the state of the battery pack 10 is acquired. When the vehicle 25 can be supplied with power from the power supply 28, the controller 27 of the central management device 26 directly controls the output from the power supply 15 and the driving of the drive circuit 17, and charges and discharges the battery pack 10. to control.

FIG. 8 shows another example of the vehicle 25 in which the battery pack 10 is mounted, which is different from FIGS. In the example of FIG. 8 as well, the battery pack 10 mounted on the vehicle 25 includes the battery module 11 (one or more batteries 1) and the drive circuit 17 described above. Although not shown in FIG. 7, the battery pack 10 may be provided with the above-described current detection circuit 21 and voltage detection circuit 22, and the battery pack 10 may be provided with the above-described temperature detector and temperature regulator. good. A load 16 such as an electric motor is mounted outside the battery pack 10 in the vehicle 25 .

Further, in the example of FIG. 8, similarly to the example of FIG. 6, the vehicle 25 is equipped with a battery management device 12X including the controller 13X. In the example of FIG. 8, as in the example of FIG. 7, a power supply device 28 mounted with the power supply 15 is provided outside the vehicle 25, and the power supply device 28 is provided with a battery management device 12Y having a controller 13Y. be done. By electrically connecting the power supply 15 of the power supply device 28 to the battery pack 10 , the battery pack 10 can be charged, and power can be supplied from the power supply device 28 to the vehicle 25 .

In the example of FIG. 8, the controller 13X of the battery management device 12X provides information regarding the degree of charge (state of charge) of the battery pack 10, information regarding the temperature of the battery pack 10, and the like. Get status information. Further, when power supply device 28 can supply power to vehicle 25, controller 13X of battery management device 12X controls driving of drive circuit 17, and controller 13Y of battery management device 12Y controls power output from power source 15. Control. Accordingly, charging and discharging of the battery pack 10 are controlled by the battery management devices (charge and discharge control devices) 12X and 12Y. Note that the controller 13X of the battery management device 12X may control the temperature of the battery pack 10 in a state where the power supply device 28 can supply power to the vehicle 25 .

Further, in the example of FIG. 8, similarly to the example of FIG. 7, the aforementioned central management device ( A central controller 26 is provided. The battery management device 12X, the battery management device 12Y, and the central management device 26 can exchange information by wire or wirelessly. The controller 27 of the central management device 26 is in a state where the power supply device 28 can supply power to the vehicle 25, and the battery mounted on the vehicle 25, such as information on the degree of charge of the battery pack 10 and information on the temperature of the battery pack 10. Information indicating the state of the pack 10 is acquired from the controller 13X of the battery management device 12X. Further, in a state in which power can be supplied from the power supply device 28 to the vehicle 25, the controller 27 of the central management device 26, based on the acquired information, issues a command related to control of charging and discharging of the battery pack 10 and a temperature control of the battery pack 10. to the controllers 13X and 13Y of the battery management devices 12X and 12Y. The controllers 13X, 13Y and the like control charging and discharging of the battery pack 10 based on control commands and the like from the controller 27. FIG. Therefore, even in the example of FIG. 8, the central management device 26 is a master management device (control device), and the battery management devices 12X and 12Y are slave management devices (control devices).

In one example, the battery management device 12X of the vehicle 25 does not control driving of the drive circuit 17 in a configuration in which the battery management devices 12X and 12Y are provided as in the example of FIG. The controller 13Y of the battery management device 12Y of the power supply 28 controls driving of the drive circuit 17 in a state where the power supply 28 can supply power to the vehicle 25 . In another example, in a configuration in which battery management devices 12X and 12Y are provided in the same manner as in the example of FIG. Does not control charging/discharging. Then, in a state in which power can be supplied from the power supply device 28 to the vehicle 25, the controller 27 of the central management device (master management device) 26 directly controls the output from the power supply 15 and the It controls the driving of the drive circuit 17 and controls the charging and discharging of the battery pack 10 .

Note that even if the device on which the battery pack is mounted is a device other than a vehicle such as a transport robot, the central management device (central control device) can control the battery pack mounted on the device in the same manner as in any of the examples described above. Gets information indicating the status of That is, the central management device acquires information indicating the state of the battery pack mounted on the device via the battery management device described above or directly from a detection circuit, a detector, or the like provided in the battery pack. . Further, even if the device on which the battery pack is mounted is a device other than a vehicle such as a transport robot, the central management device (central control device) can manage the state of That is, with the above-described battery management device as a slave management device, the central management device manages the state of the battery pack mounted on the device, and the slave management device or the like controls charging and discharging of the battery pack.

[Control system]
In embodiments, a control system is provided comprising a plurality of the aforementioned devices with battery packs installed therein. The control system comprises the aforementioned central management device (central control device). The central management device manages the state of each battery pack of a plurality of devices, and sets, for example, conditions regarding charging and discharging of each battery pack. In each of the plurality of devices, in the same manner as in any of the examples described above, the central management device manages the battery pack mounted thereon, and the central management device sets the charging/discharging conditions and the like. A controller of the central management device acquires information indicating the state of each battery pack of a plurality of devices. Also, the controller of the central management device determines whether or not the battery packs of the plurality of devices have deteriorated beyond a specified range based on the acquired information. Then, the controller of the central management unit holds the recovery target battery pack, which is at least part of the battery packs that have deteriorated beyond the specified range, in a state in which it has not been charged from a specified state for a specified time. Restrict the use of the equipment in which the pack is installed for a specified period of time. Therefore, some or all of the battery packs that have deteriorated beyond the specified range become recovery target packs for which deterioration recovery processing described below is performed.

Further, in the control system, a battery management device may be provided for each device such as a vehicle on which a battery pack is mounted. In this case, the battery management device becomes a slave management device with the central management device as the master management device. The battery management device controls the driving of the drive circuit based on the charging/discharging conditions set by the central management device, etc., and controls the current flowing through each battery pack and the voltage applied to each battery pack. . That is, the battery management device controls charging and discharging of the battery pack based on the conditions set by the central management device. In one example, the central controller transmits a command to perform the recovery process to the battery management device, and the battery management device sets the charging/discharging conditions in the recovery process based on the command from the central controller. Then, the battery management device controls charging and discharging of the battery pack based on the set conditions.

FIG. 9 shows an example of a control system 30 comprising the central management device 26 described above. In the example control system 30 of FIG. 9 , a plurality of vehicles 25 are provided as equipment on which the battery pack 10 is mounted. The plurality of vehicles 25 includes vehicles 25A-25C. Vehicle 25A is provided with battery management device 12A as a slave management device (control device), and battery management device 12A transmits information indicating the state of battery pack 10A to controller 27 of central management device 26 . Also, based on a control command from the controller 27 of the central management device 26, the controller 13A of the battery management device 12A controls charging and discharging of the battery pack 10A.

Further, the vehicle 25B is provided with a battery management device 12B, and the battery management device 12B transmits information indicating the state of the battery pack 10B to the controller 27 of the central management device 26 . However, the battery management device 12B does not control charging and discharging of the battery pack 10B. The charging and discharging of the battery pack 10B is controlled by the controller 27 of the central management device 26 based on the information from the battery management device 12B. Further, the vehicle 25C is not equipped with a battery management device. Here, the control system 30 is provided with the aforementioned power supply device 28α such as a stationary power supply device, and the power supply device 28α is equipped with the power supply 15α and the battery management device 12α as a slave management device (control device). . Information indicating the state of the battery pack 10C of the vehicle 25C is acquired by the battery management device 12α in a state where the power supply device 28α can supply power to the vehicle 25C. Then, the battery management device 12α transmits the acquired information indicating the state of the battery pack 10C to the controller 27 of the central management device 26 . Further, in a state in which power supply device 28α can supply power to vehicle 25C, controller 13α of battery management device 12α controls charging and discharging of battery pack 10C based on control commands from controller 27 of central management device 26 .

In each of the vehicles 25 other than the vehicles 25A to 25C, the state of the mounted battery pack 10 is managed by the central management device 26 in the same manner as in any of the examples described above. In addition, even in a control system in which a plurality of devices other than a vehicle, such as a transport robot, are provided as devices on which the battery packs 10 are mounted, the states of the battery packs of the plurality of devices are controlled in the same manner as the control system 30 of FIG. to manage.

A user interface 31 is also provided in the control system 30 of FIG. The user interface 31 includes operation members that are operated by an operator or the like. Buttons, dials, touch panels, remote controllers, and the like are examples of operation members. The controller 27 of the central management device 26 performs processing related to charging/discharging of each battery pack 10 of the vehicle 25 based on the operation command input by the operation member. The user interface 31 also includes a notification device for notifying information to workers and the like. The notification device makes a notification by any one of screen display, sound transmission, lighting of light, and the like. Information about each battery pack 10 , such as information indicating the real-time status of each battery pack 10 of the vehicle 25 , is announced by the notification device.

FIG. 10 shows a control system 30 or the like in FIG. 9, in which the controller 27 of the central management device (central control device) 26 and/or the controller 13 of the battery management device 12 or the like performs one operation with a plurality of battery packs 10 . It shows the processing in one state management. In one example, the processing shown in FIG. 10 is periodically determined by the controller 27 at predetermined intervals after the start of use of one battery pack 10, and is determined by the controller 27 and/or the controller 13 of the battery management device 12. Degradation recovery processing is performed. In another example, the operator or the like can input an operation command to perform the processing shown in FIG. 10 is performed. For a battery pack (eg, 10C) installed in a vehicle (eg, 25C) in which no battery management device is installed, the controller 27 etc. may perform the processing shown in FIG. In the control system 30 or the like of FIG. 9, the controller 27 or the like performs the processing of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 10, in managing one state of a plurality of battery packs, the controller 27 first performs a determination process regarding deterioration of the target battery pack (S41). Then, the controller 27 determines whether or not the degree of deterioration of the target battery pack is within a specified range (within a normal range) based on the determination result of the determination process (S42). That is, it is determined whether or not the target battery pack has deteriorated beyond a specified range.

If the degree of deterioration of the target battery pack is within the specified range (S42-Yes), the controller 27 maintains the battery pack at a higher degree of charge than the predetermined state (S43). That is, the controller 27 determines that the target battery pack is a normal battery pack whose degree of deterioration is within a specified range, and maintains the battery pack in a charged state from a predetermined state. As a result, the vehicle (equipment) equipped with the target battery pack (normal battery pack) is used in the normal mode (usually used). In one example, the controller 27 keeps the battery pack more charged than a predetermined state by maintaining the voltage of the battery pack (open circuit voltage) within a first voltage range. When the voltage of the battery pack is maintained within the first voltage range, the voltage value of the battery pack in the fully charged state is lower than the voltage value of the battery pack in the fully discharged state (m×V1). (m x V2). In another example, the controller 27 maintains the remaining capacity of the battery pack at 50% or more of the full charge capacity, that is, maintains the state of charge (SOC) of the battery pack at 50% or more. , the battery pack is held in a charged state from a predetermined state.

If the target battery pack has deteriorated beyond the specified range (S42-No), the controller 27 acquires the real-time number N1 of battery packs undergoing recovery processing, which will be described later. An upper limit number (first upper limit number) N1max of battery packs for which recovery processing can be performed is acquired (S44). Here, the number N1 indicates the real-time number of battery packs (recovery target battery packs) that are held in a state less charged than a predetermined state among battery packs of a plurality of devices. Further, the upper limit number N1max is a limitable number that can limit the use among a plurality of vehicles 25 (equipment) of the control system 30. Indicates the number of possible states for which there is no state. The upper limit number (first upper limit number) N1max may be set by the controller 27 based on demand for use of the plurality of vehicles 25, or may be stored in the storage medium of the controller 27. FIG.

After acquiring the number N1 of battery packs undergoing recovery processing in real time and the upper limit number N1max, the controller 27 determines whether the number N1 of battery packs undergoing recovery processing is smaller than the upper limit number N1max. (S45). When the number N1 of battery packs for which recovery processing is being performed (the number of battery packs to be recovered in real time) is equal to or greater than the upper limit number N1max (S45-No), the controller 27 removes the target battery pack from a predetermined state. A high degree of charge is maintained (S43). That is, the controller 27 maintains the battery pack in a charged state from a predetermined state, as in the case where the battery pack is the normal battery pack described above.

If the number N1 of battery packs for which recovery processing is being performed is smaller than the upper limit number N1max (S45-Yes), the controller 27 performs recovery processing for deterioration of the target battery pack (S46). That is, the controller 27 determines that the target battery pack is a recovery target battery pack for which degradation recovery processing is to be performed, and performs recovery processing for recovering the deterioration of the battery pack. When the deterioration recovery process is completed, the controller 27 maintains the target battery pack at a higher degree of charge than a predetermined state (S43).

(Determination process of deterioration of battery pack)
The process of determining deterioration of the battery pack (for example, S41 in FIG. 10) will be described below. Information about whether the degree of deterioration is within a specified range (within a normal range) is set by the determination process for each battery pack of a plurality of devices. Then, based on the information set by the determination process, the controller 27 or the like determines whether the degree of deterioration of each battery pack is within a specified range, as in the process of S42 described above. In one example, the controller 27 determines whether the number of battery packs that have deteriorated beyond a specified range based on the number N1 of battery packs undergoing the recovery process and the above-described upper limit number N1max, as in the process of S45 described above. It is determined whether or not to perform the recovery process for each of the battery packs that are in use.

FIG. 11 shows an example of determination processing of deterioration of the battery pack. In the determination process (S41) of the example of FIG. 11, the controller 27 determines the real-time capacity (full charge capacity) Q It is determined whether (k) can be acquired (S51). The capacity Q(k) may be obtained by charging the target battery pack from a completely discharged state (0% charged state) to a fully charged state (100% charged state). The controller 27 may also calculate the real-time capacity (fully charged capacity) Q(k) based on the amount of charge during the most recent charge or the amount of discharge during the most recent discharge.

If the real-time capacity Q(k) can be acquired (S51-Yes), the controller 27 obtains the real-time capacity Q from the previously acquired capacity (fully charged capacity) Q(k-1) for the target battery pack. A subtraction value obtained by subtracting (k) is calculated. Then, the controller 27 determines whether or not the calculated subtraction value (Q(k-1)-Q(k)) is greater than or equal to the capacity threshold ΔQth (S52). If the subtraction value (Q(k-1)-Q(k)) is equal to or greater than the capacity threshold ΔQth (S52-Yes), the controller 27 sets the determination parameter η to 1 for the target battery pack ( S53). On the other hand, if the subtraction value (Q(k-1)-Q(k)) is smaller than the capacity threshold ΔQth (S52-No), the controller 27 sets the determination parameter η to 0 for the target battery pack. (S59).

Here, the capacities Q(k), Q(k-1), etc. of the target battery pack are information relating to the capacities of one or more batteries provided in the battery pack. Therefore, by making the determination of S52, the deterioration of the battery pack is determined based on the information regarding the capacity of one or more batteries provided in the target battery pack. Also, the capacities Q(k), Q(k-1), etc. of the target battery pack are information indicating the state of the battery pack.

If the real-time capacity Q(k) of the target battery pack cannot be acquired in S51 (S51-No), the controller 27 calculates the open circuit voltage of the target battery pack in a specific state of charge (specific degree of charge). Va is acquired (S55). Then, the controller 27 calculates a subtraction value by subtracting the reference voltage Varef from the acquired open circuit voltage Va for the target battery pack. Then, the controller 27 determines whether or not the calculated subtraction value (Va-Varef) is greater than or equal to the voltage threshold value ΔVath (S56). If the subtraction value (Va-Varef) is equal to or greater than the voltage threshold value ΔVath (S56-Yes), the controller 27 sets the determination parameter η to 1 for the target battery pack (S53). On the other hand, if the subtraction value (Va-Varef) is smaller than the voltage threshold value ΔVath (S56-No), the process proceeds to S57.

In one example, a state in which the state of charge of the battery pack is a specific value in the range of 20% to 80% is set as the specific state of charge of the battery pack. For example, a 50% state of charge of the battery pack is set as the aforementioned particular state of charge of the battery pack. In another example, a state in which the battery pack is charged under predetermined conditions from a fully discharged state, or a state in which the battery pack is discharged from a fully charged state under predetermined conditions is a specific state of charge of the battery pack. is set as For example, a state in which a specific amount of charge (for example, 100 mA·h) is charged from a fully discharged state, or a state in which a specific amount of discharge (for example, 100 mA·h) is discharged from a fully charged state is set as a specific state of charge of the battery pack. . The reference voltage Varef indicates the open circuit voltage of the battery pack in a specific state of charge in the aforementioned reference state (initial state) such as when the battery pack starts to be used. Information about the reference voltage Varef is stored in a storage medium or the like of the controller 27 .

Here, the open circuit voltage Va and the like in a specific state of charge of the target battery pack is information indicating the relationship between the state of charge (degree of charge) and the voltage in the battery pack. Therefore, by making the determination of S56, the deterioration of the battery pack is determined based on the information indicating the relationship between the state of charge and the voltage of the target battery pack. Also, the open circuit voltage Va and the like in a specific state of charge of the target battery pack is information indicating the state of the battery pack.

In addition, when a device in which a battery pack is mounted is used in a normal mode, charging and discharging of the battery pack are repeated in areas where the state of charge is high. Therefore, when a device in which a battery pack is mounted is used in the normal mode, the positive and negative potentials of one or more batteries in the battery pack deviate to the high potential side with respect to the reference state. In some range between the fully discharged state and the fully charged state, the voltage curve deviates from the reference state to the high voltage side. Further, when the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential of one or more batteries in the battery pack deviate to the high potential side from the reference state, the battery pack deteriorates, such as a decrease in the capacity of the battery pack. Therefore, the degree of deterioration of the battery pack can be determined based on information indicating the relationship between the state of charge and the voltage of the battery pack, such as the open circuit voltage Va in a specific state of charge.

If the subtraction value (Va-Varef) is smaller than the voltage threshold value ΔVath in S56 (S56-No), the controller 27 calculates the elapsed time Ya from the start of use or from the previous deterioration recovery process for the target battery pack. (S57). Then, the controller 27 determines whether or not the obtained elapsed time Ya for the target battery pack is equal to or greater than the time threshold Yath (S58). If the elapsed time Ya is equal to or greater than the time threshold Yath (S58-Yes), the controller 27 sets the determination parameter η to 1 for the target battery pack (S53). On the other hand, if the elapsed time Ya is shorter than the time threshold Yath (S58-No), the controller 27 sets the determination parameter η to 0 for the target battery pack (S59).

In one example, information indicating the relationship between the elapsed time Ya and the degree of deterioration of the battery pack is stored in the storage medium or the like of the controller 27 . Then, based on the above-described stored information, the controller 27 determines how long the elapsed time Ya from the start of use or from the previous deterioration recovery process must be before the degree of deterioration exceeds the specified range. judge. Then, the controller 27 sets the threshold Yth based on the determination result.

Here, the elapsed time Ya from the start of use of the target battery pack or from the previous deterioration recovery process is information related to the usage history of the battery pack. Therefore, by performing the determination of S58, the deterioration of the battery pack is determined based on the information regarding the usage history of the target battery pack. Also, the elapsed time Ya of the target battery pack and the like are information indicating the state of the battery pack.

In addition, when a device equipped with a battery pack is used in the normal mode (usually used), as described above, the electrode group of one or more batteries in the battery pack may deteriorate, or one or more of the battery pack may deteriorate. , the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential of the battery deviate to the high potential side with respect to the reference state. As a result, the battery pack deteriorates, for example, the capacity of the battery pack decreases. Therefore, it is possible to determine the degree of deterioration of the battery pack based on the information regarding the usage history of the battery pack, such as the elapsed time Ya.

In the process of FIG. 11, the determination parameter η is set as information regarding whether the degree of deterioration is within a specified range for each of the plurality of battery packs. When the determination parameter η is set to 0, the controller 27 determines that the deterioration of the target battery pack is within the specified range (within the normal range). That is, the controller 27 determines that the target battery pack is a normal battery pack. On the other hand, when the determination parameter η is set to 1, the controller 27 determines that the target battery pack has deteriorated beyond the specified range. That is, the controller 27 determines that the target battery pack is an abnormal battery pack.

10, when there is an abnormal battery pack for which the determination parameter η is set to 1, the controller 27 acquires the number N1 of battery packs undergoing recovery processing. Then, if there is an abnormal battery pack with the determination parameter η set to 1, the controller 27 uses the number N1 and the upper limit number N1max to perform the determination of S45 in FIG.

Further, in the example of FIG. 11, the determination (S51) based on the real-time capacity Q(k) of the target battery pack, that is, the determination based on information regarding the capacity of one or more batteries provided in the battery pack is performed. However, it is not limited to this. In a modification, the controller 27 does not perform the processing of S51 and S52, and performs one or more of the determination based on the open circuit voltage Va (S56) and the determination based on the elapsed time Ya (S58). Based on, the determination parameter η is set. In this case, regardless of whether the capacity Q(k) can be obtained, the controller 27 obtains the open circuit voltage Va in the specific state of charge of the target battery pack (S55). Then, the controller 27 sequentially performs the processes after S56.

Further, in a modification, the controller 27 sets the determination parameter η based only on the aforementioned determination (S56) based on the open circuit voltage Va. That is, the controller 27 determines deterioration of the battery pack based only on the information indicating the relationship between the degree of charge and the voltage of the target battery pack. In this modification, when the subtraction value (Va-Varef) is equal to or greater than the voltage threshold value ΔVath (S56-Yes), the controller 27 sets the determination parameter η to 1 for the target battery pack. On the other hand, if the subtraction value (Va-Varef) is smaller than the voltage threshold ΔVath (S56-No), the controller 27 sets the determination parameter η to 0 for the target battery pack.

Further, in another modification, the controller 27 sets the determination parameter η based only on the above-described determination (S58) based on the elapsed time Ya. In other words, the controller 27 makes a determination regarding the deterioration of the battery pack based only on the information regarding the usage history of the target battery pack. In this modification, when the elapsed time Ya is equal to or greater than the time threshold Yath (S58-Yes), the controller 27 sets the determination parameter η to 1 for the target battery pack. On the other hand, if the elapsed time Ya is shorter than the time threshold Yath (S58-No), the controller 27 sets the determination parameter η to 0 for the target battery pack.

Also, in one variant, instead of the open circuit voltage Va, the controller 27 obtains the real-time open circuit voltage (voltage) at different states of charge with respect to each other. Then, the controller 27 obtains an average value Vb of the plurality of obtained open circuit voltages. In one example, the controller 27 obtains the real-time open circuit voltage of the battery pack of interest at each of 30% state of charge, 50% state of charge, and 70% state of charge. The controller 27 then takes the average of the three open circuit voltages as the real-time average value Vb. In this modification, a reference value Vbref is used instead of the reference voltage Varef. In calculating the reference value Vbref, the open circuit voltages in the plurality of charging states different from each other are obtained in the reference state (initial state). Then, the average of the acquired open circuit voltages is calculated as the reference value Vbref. Further, in this modified example, a voltage threshold ΔVbth is set instead of the voltage threshold ΔVath.

In this modification, the controller 27 uses the average value Vb instead of the open circuit voltage Va as information indicating the relationship between the state of charge (degree of charge) and the voltage in the battery pack. Then, the controller 27 uses the average value Vb, the reference value Vbref, and the voltage threshold value ΔVbth to perform determination processing in the same manner as the processing of S56. In this modified example, the determination parameter η is set in the same manner as in the example of FIG. 11 except that the determination process is performed using the average value Vb, the reference value Vbref, and the voltage threshold value ΔVbth. Then, the controller 27 determines deterioration of the battery pack as described above based on the determination parameter η.

In another variation, instead of the open circuit voltage Va, the controller 27 controls the target battery pack between fully discharged (0% state of charge) and fully charged (100% state of charge). Get the voltage curve. In one example, the battery pack is charged under predetermined conditions, such as from a fully discharged state to a fully charged state, such as constant current charging of the battery pack at a 1C rate. Then, the controller 27 plots the voltage of the battery pack against the degree of charge (state of charge) in charging under predetermined conditions, and plots the voltage curve (charge voltage) of the battery pack from the fully discharged state to the fully charged state. curve). In another example, the battery pack is discharged under predetermined conditions, such as constant current discharge of the battery pack at a 1C rate, from a fully charged state to a fully discharged state. Then, the controller 27 obtains a voltage curve (discharge voltage curve) from a fully charged state to a fully discharged state by plotting the voltage of the battery pack against the charged state in discharging under predetermined conditions. In this modification, the storage medium of the controller 27 or the like stores the voltage curve between the fully discharged state and the fully charged state in the reference state (initial state) described above. Then, the controller 27 acquires the shift amount ε of the voltage curve in real time from the voltage curve in the reference state in a partial range between the fully discharged state and the fully charged state. Further, in this modified example, a shift threshold εth is set instead of the voltage threshold ΔVath.

In this modified example, the controller 27 uses the shift amount ε as information indicating the relationship between the state of charge (degree of charge) and the voltage in the battery pack instead of the open circuit voltage Va. Then, the controller 27 determines whether or not the shift amount ε is greater than or equal to the shift threshold value εth instead of the process of S56. Then, when the shift amount ε is equal to or greater than the shift threshold εth, the controller 27 sets the determination parameter η to one. On the other hand, if the shift amount ε is smaller than the shift threshold value εth, the process proceeds to S57, and the controller 27 sequentially performs the processes after S57 in the same manner as in the example of FIG. Also in this modification, the controller 27 determines deterioration of the battery pack as described above, based on the determination parameter η.

In another modification, the controller 27 controls the real-time state of charge (SOC) in a state where the open circuit voltage (voltage) becomes a specific voltage value instead of the open circuit voltage Va for the target battery pack. Obtain αa. In this modified example, a reference state of charge (reference SOC) αaref is used instead of the reference voltage Varef. The reference state of charge αaref indicates the state of charge of the battery pack at a specific voltage value in the aforementioned reference state (initial state). Here, the specific voltage value is any value within a range that is larger than the voltage value (m×V1) of the battery pack in the fully discharged state and smaller than the voltage value (m×V2) of the battery pack in the fully charged state. is. However, in the battery pack as described above, even if the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential of one or more batteries deviate from the reference state, the state of charge is 0% and close to 0%, and the state of charge is 100% and close to 100%. , the voltage does not deviate significantly from the reference state. Therefore, the specific voltage value is preferably a value apart from the voltage value (m×V1) and the voltage value (m×V2). is set to the average value of the voltage value (m×V2) at , or a value close to the average value.

In this modified example, a state-of-charge threshold Δαath is set instead of the voltage threshold ΔVath. Further, in this modification, the controller 27 uses the real-time state of charge αa of the battery pack at a specific voltage value instead of the open circuit voltage Va as information indicating the relationship between the state of charge (degree of charge) and the voltage in the battery pack. used as In this modification, the controller 27 calculates a subtraction value by subtracting the real-time state of charge αa from the reference state of charge αaref instead of the process of S56. Then, the controller 27 determines whether or not the calculated subtraction value (αaref−αa) is equal to or greater than the state-of-charge threshold Δαath. If the subtraction value (αaref−αa) is greater than or equal to the state-of-charge threshold Δαath, the controller 27 sets the determination parameter η to one. On the other hand, if the subtraction value (αaref−αa) is smaller than the state-of-charge threshold Δαath, the process proceeds to S57, and the controller 27 sequentially performs the processes from S57 onward in the same manner as in the example of FIG. Also in this modification, the controller 27 determines deterioration of the battery pack as described above, based on the determination parameter η.

Further, similar to the example using the average value Vb of a plurality of open circuit voltages instead of the open circuit voltage Va, in a modification, instead of the state of charge αa, in a plurality of states having different voltage values, Get real-time state of charge (SOC). Then, the controller 27 obtains an average value αb of the plurality of obtained states of charge. In this modification, a reference value αbref is used instead of the reference state of charge αaref. In calculating the reference value αbref, in the reference state (initial state) described above, the state of charge in the plurality of states with different voltage values is obtained. Then, the average of the plurality of acquired states of charge is calculated as the reference value αbref. Further, in this modification, a state-of-charge threshold Δαbth is set instead of the state-of-charge threshold Δαath.

In this modification, the controller 27 uses the average value αb instead of the state of charge αa as information indicating the relationship between the state of charge (degree of charge) and the voltage in the battery pack. Then, the controller 27 calculates a subtraction value by subtracting the real-time average value αb from the reference value αbref instead of the processing of S56. Then, the controller 27 determines whether or not the calculated subtraction value (αbref−αb) is greater than or equal to the state-of-charge threshold Δαbth. If the subtraction value (αbref−αb) is greater than or equal to the state-of-charge threshold Δαbth, the controller 27 sets the determination parameter η to one. On the other hand, if the subtraction value (αbref−αb) is smaller than the state-of-charge threshold Δαbth, the process proceeds to S57, and the controller 27 sequentially performs the processes after S57 in the same manner as in the example of FIG. Also in this modification, the controller 27 determines deterioration of the battery pack as described above, based on the determination parameter η.

Also, in a modification, instead of the elapsed time Ya, the controller 27 acquires the net charge/discharge time Yb from the start of use or from the previous recovery process. In this modified example, a time threshold Ybth is set instead of the time threshold Yath. In this modified example, the controller 27 uses the net charging/discharging time Yb instead of the elapsed time Ya as information related to the usage history of the battery pack. Then, the controller 27 uses the net charging/discharging time Yb and the time threshold Ybth to perform determination processing in the same manner as the processing of S58. In this modified example, the determination parameter η is set in the same manner as in the example of FIG. 11 except that the determination process is performed using the net charge/discharge time Yb and the time threshold Ybth. Then, the controller 27 determines deterioration of the battery pack as described above based on the determination parameter η.

In a modification, instead of the elapsed time Ya, the controller 27 acquires the net traveled distance Yc from the start of use of the vehicle (equipment) in which the battery pack is mounted or from the previous recovery process. In this modified example, a distance threshold Ycth is set instead of the time threshold Yath. In this modification, the controller 27 uses the net traveled distance Yc instead of the elapsed time Ya as information related to the usage history of the battery pack (equipment in which the battery pack is mounted). Then, the controller 27 uses the net traveling distance Yc and the distance threshold value Ycth to perform determination processing in the same manner as the processing of S58. In this modified example, the determination parameter η is set in the same manner as in the example of FIG. 11 except that the determination process is performed using the net traveled distance Yc and the distance threshold Ycth. Then, the controller 27 determines deterioration of the battery pack as described above based on the determination parameter η.

In the embodiments and the like, the degree of deterioration is determined as described above for each battery pack of a plurality of devices. Therefore, it is appropriately determined whether the degree of deterioration of each battery pack of a plurality of devices is within a specified range. Therefore, for each battery pack, it is appropriately determined whether it is a normal battery pack whose degree of deterioration is within a specified range or an abnormal battery pack whose deterioration exceeds the specified range.

(Battery pack deterioration recovery process)
The recovery process for deterioration of the battery pack (battery pack to be recovered) (for example, S46 in FIG. 10) will be described below. The recovery process is performed on at least some of the abnormal battery packs, which are battery packs that have deteriorated beyond a prescribed range. Then, even for abnormal battery packs, recovery processing is performed only when the real-time number N1 of battery packs for which recovery processing is being performed is smaller than the upper limit number (restrictable number) N1max. In the recovery process, the controller 27 holds the recovery target battery pack, which is the target battery pack for the recovery process, in a state in which it has not been charged for a specified time. Through the recovery process, the positive electrode potential and negative electrode potential of one or more batteries in the recovery target battery pack (battery pack) are brought closer to the reference state such as the initial state. As a result, in the recovery target battery pack, the capacity or the like that has decreased due to the deviation of the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential of one or more batteries from the reference state is recovered, and the deterioration of the recovery target pack is recovered.

FIG. 12 shows an example of recovery processing for deterioration of a battery pack (battery pack to be recovered). In the recovery process (S46) of FIG. 12, the controller 27 acquires the real-time number N2 of battery packs (recovery target battery packs) whose charging and discharging are stopped while not being charged from a predetermined state. , the upper limit number (second upper limit number) N2max of battery packs that can stop charging/discharging is acquired (S61). Here, the number N2 indicates the real-time number of battery packs for which charging and discharging are stopped among the battery packs for which recovery processing is being performed. In addition, the upper limit number N2max is the number of possible stops that can be stopped among a plurality of vehicles 25 (equipment) of the control system 30, and charging and discharging can be stopped among a plurality of battery packs 10. Show the possible number. The upper limit number (second upper limit number) N2max may be set by the controller 27 based on demand for use of the plurality of vehicles 25, or may be stored in the storage medium of the controller 27. FIG.

After acquiring the number N2 of battery packs whose charging/discharging has been stopped (recovery target battery packs) and the upper limit number N2max in real time, the controller 27 determines that the number N2 of battery packs whose charging/discharging has been stopped is smaller than the upper limit number N2max. (S62). If the number N2 of battery packs whose charging/discharging is stopped is smaller than the upper limit number N2max (S62-Yes), the controller 27 maintains the battery pack at a state of charge lower than the predetermined state (S63). That is, the controller 27 causes the battery pack to be subjected to the recovery process to be discharged from a predetermined state to a less charged state.

In one example, the controller 27 keeps the battery pack less charged than the predetermined state by maintaining the voltage of the battery pack (open circuit voltage) in the second voltage range. The second voltage range is lower than the above-described first voltage range, which is a voltage holding range such as when the battery pack is determined to be a normal battery pack. In addition, when the voltage of the battery pack is maintained in the second voltage range, the voltage value of the battery pack is lower than the voltage value of the battery pack in the fully charged state (m×V2). Close to the voltage value (m×V1). In another example, the controller 27 maintains the remaining capacity of the battery pack at 40% or less of the full charge capacity, that is, maintains the state of charge (SOC) of the battery pack at 40% or less. , the battery pack is held in a less charged state than a predetermined state.

If the number N2 of battery packs (recovery target battery packs) whose charge/discharge is stopped (recovery target battery packs) is smaller than the upper limit number N2max (S62-Yes), the controller 27 stops charge/discharge of the recovery target battery pack ( S64). Through the processes of S63 and S64, the recovery target battery pack is held in a state where the degree of charge is lower than the predetermined state and the charge and discharge are stopped. In addition, by stopping charging and discharging of the battery pack to be recovered, use of the vehicle (device) in which the battery pack to be recovered (battery pack) is mounted is stopped. Therefore, if the number N2 of recovery target battery packs (battery packs) whose charging and discharging are stopped is smaller than the upper limit number N2max, the vehicle ( equipment).

Then, the controller 27 determines whether or not the elapsed time Xa from the start of the recovery process exceeds the reference time Xaref (S65). In one example, the reference time Xaref is set to 3 days. If the elapsed time Xa is equal to or less than the reference time Xaref (S65-No), the process returns to S63, and the controller 27 sequentially performs the processes after S63. That is, the battery pack to be subjected to the recovery process is continuously maintained in a state with a lower degree of charge than the predetermined state, and charging and discharging are continuously stopped. If the elapsed time Xa exceeds the reference time Xaref (S65-Yes), the controller 27 terminates the deterioration recovery process of the target battery pack (recovery target battery pack). Then, the controller 27 puts the battery pack, for which the recovery process has been completed, into a state with a higher degree of charge than a predetermined state, and enables charging and discharging (S43). As a result, the device equipped with the battery pack for which recovery processing has been completed is used in the normal mode.

By performing the processes of S63 to S65 as described above, the battery pack to be subjected to the recovery process stops charging and discharging for a specified time (reference time Xaref) in a state in which it has not been charged from a predetermined state. As a result, the use of the device in which the battery pack is mounted is stopped for the specified time.

If the number N2 of battery packs whose charging/discharging is stopped in S62 is equal to or greater than the upper limit number N2max (S62-No), the controller 27 sets the battery pack to a degree of charge lower than the predetermined state, as in the processing of S63. (S66). That is, the controller 27 causes the battery pack to be subjected to the recovery process to be discharged from a predetermined state to a less charged state.

However, if the number N2 of recovery target battery packs (battery packs) whose charge/discharge has been stopped is equal to or greater than the upper limit number N2max (S62-No), the controller 27 makes the recovery target battery pack chargeable/dischargeable. Therefore, the recovery target battery pack is held in a chargeable/dischargeable state with a lower degree of charge than the predetermined state. In addition, due to repeated charging and discharging of the battery pack to be recovered while the degree of charge is lower than the predetermined state, the vehicle (equipment) in which the battery pack to be recovered (battery pack) is installed enters the above-mentioned normal mode (normal used) in a different mode. Therefore, when the number N2 of recovery target battery packs (battery packs) whose charging and discharging are stopped is equal to or greater than the upper limit number N2max, the vehicle in which the recovery target packs are mounted is operated in a mode (different state) different from the normal mode. Limit the use of the vehicle (equipment) by using it.

The controller 27 then determines whether or not the elapsed time Xa from the start of the recovery process exceeds the reference time Xaref (S67), similarly to the process of S65. If the elapsed time Xa is equal to or less than the reference time Xaref (S67-No), the process returns to S66, and the controller 27 sequentially performs the processes after S66. That is, the battery pack to be subjected to the recovery process is continuously maintained in a chargeable/dischargeable state with a lower degree of charge than the predetermined state. If the elapsed time Xa exceeds the reference time Xaref (S67-Yes), the controller 27 terminates the deterioration recovery process of the target battery pack (recovery target pack). Then, the controller 27 puts the battery pack, for which the recovery process has been completed, into a state with a higher degree of charge than a predetermined state (S43). As a result, the device equipped with the battery pack for which recovery processing has been completed is used in the normal mode.

Note that in the example of FIG. 11, the reference times Xaref having the same length are used in the determinations of S65 and S67, but the present invention is not limited to this. In one example, the reference time Xa1ref may be used in the determination of S65, and the reference time Xa2ref different in length from the reference time Xa1ref may be used in the determination of S67.

In the embodiments and the like, the recovery target battery pack is held for a specified time in a state with a lower degree of charge than a predetermined state. By maintaining the degree of charge of the battery pack (battery pack to be recovered) in a relatively low range, the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential deviate from the reference state to the high potential side in one or more batteries of the battery pack. recovers, and the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential approach the reference state such as the initial state. As a result, the battery pack that has been subjected to the recovery process is appropriately recovered from the reduced capacity and the like, and the deteriorated battery pack is recovered appropriately.

Further, in the aforementioned recovery process of maintaining the recovery target battery pack in a state with a lower degree of charge than the predetermined state, the controller 27 sets the temperature of one or more batteries in the recovery target battery pack to within the range of 30° C. or higher and 50° C. or lower. is preferably adjusted to In this case, each battery pack is provided with a temperature detector such as a thermistor and a temperature regulator such as a heater. Based on the information about the temperature of the battery pack from the temperature detector, the controller 27 transmits a command or the like regarding the operation of the temperature adjuster to the controller 13 of the battery management device 12 serving as a slave. Then, the controller 13 controls the operation of the temperature adjuster based on a command or the like to adjust the temperature of the recovery target battery pack.

In the above-described recovery process of maintaining the battery pack to be recovered in a state of charge lower than a predetermined state, the difference in self-discharge amount between the positive and negative electrodes of one or more batteries is used to restore the positive electrode potential of one or more batteries. and the deviation of the negative electrode potential from the reference state is recovered. Therefore, in the recovery process, the temperature of one or more batteries is raised compared to the normal mode (during normal use) of the battery pack, thereby increasing the rate of self-discharge and increasing the positive electrode potential and the potential of the one or more batteries. The recovery of the negative electrode potential deviation is promoted.

Here, by setting the temperature of the battery pack to 30° C. or higher, the amount of self-discharge at the positive electrode and the negative electrode increases in one or more batteries, and the speed of recovery from the deviation of the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential increases. As a result, in the battery pack, the speed of recovering from the decrease in capacity is increased, and the speed of recovery from deterioration is increased. In addition, by setting the temperature of the battery pack to 50° C. or less, irrecoverable deterioration such as deterioration of the electrode group and the electrolytic solution is suppressed in one or more batteries. Therefore, by adjusting the temperature of the recovery target pack in the range of 30° C. or more and 50° C. or less in the recovery process, recovery of the deviation from the reference state of the positive electrode potential and the negative electrode potential of one or more batteries of the recovery target pack more facilitated. This further promotes recovery of deterioration of the recovery target pack.

(Modified example in which recovery priority is set)
Note that, in a modification, the controller 27 sets a recovery priority M for each battery pack that has deteriorated beyond a specified range (abnormal battery pack). Then, for each abnormal battery pack, the controller 27 determines whether or not to perform recovery processing based on the order of priority M of recovery, that is, whether or not to maintain a state in which the battery pack has not been charged from a predetermined state. do. In addition, the controller 27 determines whether or not to stop charging and discharging for each recovery target battery pack for which recovery processing is performed.

FIG. 13 shows an example of processing for setting the recovery priority order M. In FIG. As shown in FIG. 13, in setting the priority order M, the controller 27 first performs deterioration determination processing for the battery packs of all devices (S71). That is, it is determined whether or not the degree of deterioration of all battery packs is within a specified range. In addition, in S71, for example, the processes of S41 and S42 in FIG. 10 and the like are performed for each of the battery packs. Then, the controller 27 acquires information about each abnormal battery pack that has deteriorated beyond the specified range (S72). The information acquired in S72 includes the degree of deterioration of each of the abnormal battery packs, and the types of active materials (positive electrode active material and negative electrode active material) used in one or more batteries in each of the abnormal battery packs. and the like.

Then, the controller 27 sets recovery priority M for each of the abnormal battery packs based on the information acquired in S72 (S73). The priority M indicates the priority of performing the recovery process among the abnormal battery packs, and the smaller the number indicating the priority M, the higher the priority of the recovery process. In one example, the controller 27 sets the number indicated by the priority order M to a smaller value for an abnormal battery pack with a higher degree of deterioration, that is, sets a higher priority for recovery processing.

In another example, the plurality of battery packs of the control system includes a battery pack including a carbonaceous material as a negative electrode active material for one or more batteries, and a carbonaceous material as a negative electrode active material for one or more batteries. There are battery packs that do not contain solid materials. Then, the controller 27 sets the number indicated by the priority order M to be smaller for the abnormal battery pack containing no carbonaceous material as the negative electrode active material than for the abnormal battery pack containing the carbonaceous material as the negative electrode active material. That is, the priority of recovery processing is set higher for an abnormal battery pack that does not contain a carbonaceous material as a negative electrode active material than for an abnormal battery pack that contains a carbonaceous material as a negative electrode active material. In fact, in a battery pack containing a carbonaceous material as a negative electrode active material, the degree of recovery from deterioration by the recovery treatment described above is smaller than that of a battery pack not containing a carbonaceous material as a negative electrode active material. Therefore, by setting the priority order M as described above based on whether or not the carbonaceous material is contained as the negative electrode active material, priority is given to abnormal battery packs (battery packs) having a greater degree of recovery by the recovery process. , recovery processing is performed.

In this modification, it is determined whether or not to perform the recovery process for each abnormal battery pack based on the priority order M set as described above. FIG. 14 shows an example of determination processing based on one priority M of abnormal battery packs. As shown in FIG. 14, in the determination process, the controller 27 acquires the recovery priority order M of the battery pack, and sets the upper limit number (first upper limit number) M1max of battery packs for which the recovery process can be performed. (S81). Here, the upper limit number M1max is, like the upper limit number N1max described above, a limitable number capable of limiting use among a plurality of vehicles 25 (devices) of the control system 30. indicates the number of batteries that can be in a less charged state than a predetermined state.

After obtaining the priority M and the maximum number M1max of the target battery pack, the controller 27 determines whether or not the number indicating the priority M of the battery pack is equal to or less than the maximum number M1max (S82). If the number indicating the priority order M is greater than the upper limit number M1max (S82-No), the controller 27 maintains the target battery pack at a higher degree of charge than the predetermined state (S83). That is, the controller 27 maintains the battery pack in a charged state from a predetermined state, as in the case where the battery pack is the normal battery pack described above.

If the number indicating the priority order M is equal to or less than the upper limit number M1max (S82-Yes), the controller 27 determines that the target battery pack is a recovery target pack for which degradation recovery processing is to be performed. Then, the controller 27 performs the above-described recovery process for the target battery pack, and the process proceeds to S84.

In S84, the controller 27 acquires the upper limit number (second upper limit number) M2max of battery packs for which charging and discharging can be stopped (S84). Here, the upper limit number M2max is, similarly to the upper limit number N2max, the number of possible stoppages that can be stopped among the plurality of vehicles 25 (devices) of the control system 30. Among the plurality of battery packs 10, Indicates the number of times the charge/discharge can be stopped.

After obtaining the upper limit number M2max, the controller 27 determines whether or not the number indicating the priority order M of the battery pack is equal to or less than the upper limit number M2max (S85). If the number indicating the priority order M of the target battery pack is equal to or less than the upper limit number M2max (S85-Yes), the controller 27 charges the battery pack to a state lower than the predetermined state, as in the processing of S63 in FIG. The degree is held (S86). That is, the controller 27 causes the battery pack to be subjected to the recovery process to be discharged from a predetermined state to a less charged state.

Then, if the number indicating the priority order M of the recovery target battery pack (battery pack) is equal to or less than the upper limit number M2max (S85-Yes), the controller 27 performs the recovery target battery pack is stopped (S87). By the processing of S86 and S87, the recovery target battery pack is held in a state where the degree of charge is lower than the predetermined state and the charge and discharge are stopped. In addition, by stopping charging and discharging of the battery pack to be recovered, use of the vehicle (equipment) in which the battery pack to be recovered (battery pack) is mounted is stopped.
Then, the controller 27 determines whether or not the elapsed time Xa from the start of the recovery process exceeds the reference time Xaref (S88), similarly to the process of S65 in FIG. If the elapsed time Xa is equal to or less than the reference time Xaref (S88-No), the process returns to S86, and the controller 27 sequentially performs the processes after S86. That is, the battery pack to be subjected to the recovery process is continuously maintained in a state with a lower degree of charge than the predetermined state, and charging and discharging are continuously stopped. If the elapsed time Xa exceeds the reference time Xaref (S88-Yes), the controller 27 terminates the deterioration recovery process of the target battery pack (recovery target battery pack). Then, the controller 27 puts the battery pack, for which the recovery process has been completed, into a state with a higher degree of charge than a predetermined state, and enables charging and discharging (S83). As a result, the device equipped with the battery pack for which recovery processing has been completed is used in the normal mode.

By performing the processes of S86 to S88 as described above, the battery pack to be subjected to the recovery process stops charging and discharging for a specified time (reference time Xaref) in a state in which it has not been charged from a predetermined state. As a result, the use of the device in which the battery pack is mounted is stopped for the specified time.

In S85, if the number indicating the priority order M of the target battery pack is greater than the upper limit number M2max (S85-No), the controller 27 controls the battery pack to have a degree of charge lower than the predetermined state, as in the process of S86. (S89). However, if the number indicating the priority order M of the recovery target battery pack (battery pack) is greater than the upper limit number M2max (S85-No), the controller 27 makes the recovery target pack chargeable/dischargeable. Therefore, the recovery target pack is held in a chargeable/dischargeable state with a lower degree of charge than the predetermined state. In addition, as the recovery target pack is repeatedly charged and discharged while the charge level is lower than the predetermined state, the vehicle (equipment) in which the recovery target pack (battery pack) is installed enters the above-mentioned normal mode (normal use). used in different modes.

The controller 27 then determines whether or not the elapsed time Xa from the start of the recovery process exceeds the reference time Xaref (S90), similarly to the process of S88. If the elapsed time Xa is equal to or less than the reference time Xaref (S90-No), the process returns to S89, and the controller 27 sequentially performs the processes after S89. That is, the battery pack to be subjected to the recovery process is continuously maintained in a chargeable/dischargeable state with a lower degree of charge than the predetermined state. If the elapsed time Xa exceeds the reference time Xaref (S89-Yes), the controller 27 terminates the deterioration recovery process of the target battery pack (recovery target battery pack). Then, the controller 27 puts the battery pack, for which the recovery process has been completed, into a state with a higher degree of charge than a predetermined state (S83). As a result, the device equipped with the battery pack for which recovery processing has been completed is used in the normal mode.

In this modification, if the number of abnormal battery packs that have deteriorated beyond the specified range is greater than the upper limit number (restrictable number) M1max, recovery processing is performed in order from the abnormal battery packs with the highest recovery priority. done. For this reason, among the abnormal battery packs, the deterioration recovery process is performed appropriately from the abnormal battery packs having a high degree of deterioration, such as abnormal battery packs, which have a high priority for restoration. In other words, the use of a device mounted with an abnormal battery pack having a high priority for recovery is prioritized and restricted.

In addition, in this modification, when the number of recovery target battery packs to be subjected to recovery processing is greater than the upper limit number (stoppable number) M2max, charge/discharge is stopped in order from the recovery target packs with the highest recovery priority. . For this reason, charging and discharging are appropriately stopped from the recovery target battery packs having a high recovery priority such as the recovery target battery packs having a large degree of deterioration among the recovery target battery packs. In other words, the device in which the recovery target battery pack having the higher recovery priority is mounted is preferentially stopped. It should be noted that the battery pack to be recovered, whose charging and discharging are not stopped, is also maintained in a state with a lower degree of charge than the predetermined state by the recovery processing, as described above. Therefore, the deterioration of the recovery target battery pack whose charge/discharge is not stopped is also appropriately recovered by the recovery process.

According to the management device of at least one embodiment or example described above, it is determined whether or not the battery pack of each of a plurality of devices has deteriorated beyond a prescribed range. Then, the recovery target battery pack, which is at least part of the battery packs that have deteriorated beyond the specified range, is held in a state that has not been charged for a specified time, and the device in which the recovery target battery pack is mounted is stored. Restrict use for a specified period of time. As a result, in a control system for a plurality of devices, it is possible to provide a management device that appropriately determines the deterioration of the battery packs for each of the plurality of devices and appropriately recovers the deteriorated battery packs.

While several embodiments of the invention have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the scope of the invention described in the claims and equivalents thereof.
Additional remarks are described below.
[1] In a control system for controlling a plurality of devices each equipped with a battery pack including one or more batteries, a management device for managing the state of the battery pack of each of the plurality of devices,
Acquiring information indicating the state of the battery pack of each of the plurality of devices;
Determining whether the battery pack of each of the plurality of devices has deteriorated beyond a specified range based on the acquired information,
A device in which a battery pack to be recovered, which is at least a part of the battery pack that has deteriorated beyond the specified range, is held for a specified time in a state in which it has not been charged from a predetermined state, and the battery pack to be recovered is installed. restricting the use of the
A management device comprising a controller.
[2] The management device of [1], wherein the controller maintains normal battery packs, which are battery packs whose degree of deterioration is within the specified range, in a state of being charged from the predetermined state.
[3] The controller
By maintaining the voltage of the normal battery pack in the first voltage range, the normal battery pack is held in a state charged from the predetermined state,
By maintaining the voltage of the recovery target battery pack in a second voltage range lower than the first voltage range, the recovery target battery pack is held in a state less charged than the predetermined state.
[2] management device.
[4] The controller
The upper limit number of the battery packs of the plurality of devices that can be in a state less charged than the predetermined state, and the recovery target held in a state less charged than the predetermined state Get the real-time number of battery packs,
Only when the real-time number of the battery packs to be recovered is smaller than the upper limit number for the target abnormal battery pack among the abnormal battery packs that are the battery packs that have deteriorated beyond the specified range, Hold for the specified time in a state less charged than the predetermined state;
The management device according to any one of [1] to [3].
[5] The controller
obtaining an upper limit number of the battery packs of the plurality of devices that can be in a less charged state than the predetermined state;
setting a recovery priority for each of the abnormal battery packs that are the battery packs that have deteriorated beyond the specified range;
For an abnormal battery pack whose priority number is equal to or less than the upper limit number, the abnormal battery pack is held in a state in which it has not been charged from the predetermined state for the predetermined time;
An abnormal battery pack in which the number indicating the priority order is greater than the upper limit number is held in a state of being charged from the predetermined state.
The management device according to any one of [1] to [3].
[6] The controller, based on the degree of deterioration of each of the abnormal battery packs and the type of active material used in the one or more batteries in each of the abnormal battery packs, The management device of [5], which sets the priority of each abnormal battery pack.
[7] The controller may
enabling the recovery target battery pack to be charged and discharged for the specified time in a state where it has not been charged from the predetermined state; or
stopping charging and discharging of the battery pack to be recovered for the specified time while the battery pack is not charged from the predetermined state;
The management device according to any one of [1] to [3].
[8] The controller
Real-time information on the upper limit number of the battery packs of the plurality of devices that can stop charging and discharging, and the recovery target battery pack whose charging and discharging has been stopped in a state that has not been charged from the predetermined state. get the number,
If the real-time number of recovery target battery packs whose charging/discharging is stopped is smaller than the upper limit number for the target recovery target battery pack, charging/discharging is performed in a state that is less charged than the predetermined state. stop for a specified time,
If the real-time number of recovery target battery packs whose charge/discharge has been stopped is equal to or greater than the upper limit number, the target recovery target battery pack is charged for the specified time while being charged less than the predetermined state. enable discharge,
The management device of [7].
[9] The controller may
obtaining an upper limit number of the battery packs of the plurality of devices that can stop charging and discharging;
setting a recovery priority for each of the recovery target battery packs;
For a battery pack to be recovered whose priority number is equal to or less than the upper limit number, charging and discharging are stopped for the specified time while the battery pack has not been charged since the specified state;
For the battery pack to be recovered, in which the number indicating the priority order is greater than the upper limit number, charging/discharging is allowed for the specified time in a state in which the battery pack has not been charged from the predetermined state.
The management device of [7].
[10] Based on the degree of deterioration of each of the recovery target battery packs and the type of active material used in the one or more batteries in each of the recovery target battery packs, the controller determines the The management device of [9], which sets the priority of each recovery target battery pack.
[11] The controller reduces the remaining capacity of the one or more batteries of the recovery target battery pack to 40% or less of the full charge capacity in a state in which the battery pack has not been charged since the predetermined state, [1] to The management device according to any one of [10].
[12] For each of the battery packs, the controller displays any one of information on the capacity of the one or more batteries, information on the relationship between the state of charge and voltage, and information on the usage history. The management device according to any one of [1] to [11], which is acquired as the information.
[13] the management device according to any one of [1] to [12];
the plurality of devices each comprising the battery pack, each of the battery packs comprising the one or more batteries;
A control system comprising:
[14] The control system of [13], wherein one or more of the plurality of devices is either a vehicle or a carrier robot.

Reference Signs List 1 battery 3 negative electrode 5 positive electrode 10, 10A to 10C battery pack 11 battery module 12, 12A, 12B, 12X, 12Y, 12α battery management device 13, 13A, 13X, 13Y, 13α... controller, 15, 15α... power supply, 16... load, 17... drive circuit, 21... current detection circuit, 22... voltage detection circuit, 25, 25A to 25C... vehicle, 26... central management device (management device), 27 …controller.

Claims (8)

In a control system for controlling a plurality of devices each equipped with a battery pack comprising one or more batteries, a management device for managing the state of the battery pack of each of the plurality of devices,
Acquiring information indicating the state of the battery pack of each of the plurality of devices;
Determining whether the degree of deterioration of each of the battery packs of the plurality of devices exceeds a specified range based on the acquired information,
A battery pack to be recovered, which is at least a part of the battery packs whose degree of deterioration exceeds the specified range, is held in a state in which it has not been charged for a specified time, and the battery pack to be recovered is mounted. limit the use of the equipment to be used for the specified time;
holding a normal battery pack, which is a battery pack whose degree of deterioration is within the prescribed range, in a state of being charged from the predetermined state;
The upper limit number of the battery packs of the plurality of devices that can be in a state less charged than the predetermined state, and the recovery target held in a state less charged than the predetermined state Get the real-time number of battery packs,
The number of recovery target battery packs in real time is smaller than the upper limit number for target non-normal battery packs among the target non-normal battery packs that are the battery packs whose degree of deterioration exceeds the specified range. only when the battery is held for the specified time in a state less charged than the predetermined state;
A management device comprising a controller. The controller is
By maintaining the voltage of the normal battery pack in the first voltage range, the normal battery pack is held in a state charged from the predetermined state,
By maintaining the voltage of the recovery target battery pack in a second voltage range lower than the first voltage range, the recovery target battery pack is held in a state less charged than the predetermined state.
2. The management device of claim 1. 3. The management system according to claim 1, wherein the controller reduces the remaining capacity of the one or more batteries in the battery pack to be recovered to 40% or less of a full charge capacity in a state in which the batteries are not charged from the predetermined state. Device. For each of the battery packs, the controller uses any one of information on the capacity of the one or more batteries, information on the relationship between the state of charge and voltage, and information on the usage history as the information indicating the state. 4. A management device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, for obtaining. A management device according to any one of claims 1 to 4;
the plurality of devices each comprising the battery pack, each of the battery packs comprising the one or more batteries;
A control system comprising: 6. The control system of claim 5, wherein one or more of said plurality of devices are either vehicles or carrier robots. In a control system for controlling a plurality of devices each equipped with a battery pack comprising one or more batteries, a management device for managing the state of the battery pack of each of the plurality of devices,
Acquiring information indicating the state of the battery pack of each of the plurality of devices;
Determining whether the degree of deterioration of each of the battery packs of the plurality of devices exceeds a specified range based on the acquired information,
A battery pack to be recovered, which is at least a part of the battery packs whose degree of deterioration exceeds the specified range, is held in a state in which it has not been charged for a specified time, and the battery pack to be recovered is mounted. limit the use of the equipment to be used for the specified time;
holding a normal battery pack, which is a battery pack whose degree of deterioration is within the prescribed range, in a state of being charged from the predetermined state;
obtaining an upper limit number of the battery packs of the plurality of devices that can be in a less charged state than the predetermined state;
setting a recovery priority for each of the abnormal battery packs, which are the battery packs in which the degree of deterioration exceeds the specified range;
For an abnormal battery pack whose priority number is equal to or less than the upper limit number, the abnormal battery pack is held in a state in which it has not been charged from the predetermined state for the predetermined time;
An abnormal battery pack in which the number indicating the priority order is greater than the upper limit number is held in a state of being charged from the predetermined state.
A management device comprising a controller. Based on the degree of deterioration of each of the abnormal battery packs and the type of active material used in the one or more batteries in each of the abnormal battery packs, the controller determines the non-normal 8. The management device according to claim 7, wherein said priority of each normal battery pack is set.