Non-contact power transmission device and non-contact power reception system

Abstract

The present invention provides a non-contact power transmission and reception technology that achieves high usability while taking into account safety. The non-contact power transmission device (100) supplies the generated power for transmission to the non-contact power reception device (200) through wireless power supply. It includes a power generation unit for transmission power (120) that generates the power for transmission, and a control unit (117) that controls the generation of the power for transmission. The control unit (117) controls the generation of the power for transmission by the power generation unit for transmission (200) according to the surrounding environment in which at least one of the non-contact power transmission device (100) and the non-contact power reception device (200) is located or the device state of at least one of them.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a non-contact power transmission and reception technology for non-contact power transmission and reception. Background Art

[0002] Since non-contact power supply does not have metal contacts, it can prevent poor contact or electric leakage caused by moisture, dirt, dust, etc. Also, since it is easy to ensure waterproofness, it can be adopted in electrical appliances that can be used in a humid environment.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a bathtub with a non-contact power supply function, which describes the following content: "It includes a drive control unit, and the drive control unit constitutes a drive object detection unit and a drive unit. Among them, the drive object detection unit generates a detectable period for driving only one of a plurality of non-contact power supply units at regular intervals, and the non-contact power supply unit to be driven is sequentially switched in each detectable period. In the detectable period, the impedance of the power reception side received from the non-contact power supply unit being driven is measured, and based on the measured impedance, it is determined whether a non-contact power reception unit is arranged face-to-face on the non-contact power supply unit. Thus, it is possible to detect whether a non-contact power reception unit is arranged face-to-face on each non-contact power supply unit; and a drive unit that drives only the non-contact power supply unit on which the non-contact power reception unit is arranged face-to-face (quoted from the abstract of the specification)".

[0004] Patent Document 2 discloses a display system for a non-contact power supply system, which describes the following content: "The display system for a non-contact power supply system includes a display unit that visually displays image information transmitted from an electric shaver that is a non-contact power supply object. The electric shaver includes a power reception unit, an authentication information holding unit, a camera unit, and a first wireless communication unit. The power transmission device includes a second wireless communication unit, an authentication circuit, and a display unit, and performs power transmission on the condition that the received authentication information is authenticated by the authentication circuit, and visually displays in real time the image information transmitted in real time from the camera device of the electric shaver on the display unit (quoted from the abstract of the specification)".

[0005] Prior Art Documents

[0006] Patent Documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-159684

[0008] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-50127 Summary of the Invention

[0009] Technical Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0010] According to Patent Document 1, it is possible to detect a non-contact power supply unit in which a power supply target electrical appliance is provided among a plurality of non-contact power supply units, and unnecessary power consumption is suppressed to achieve energy saving. According to Patent Document 2, the convenience of an electrical appliance as a non-contact power supply object is improved. However, the issue of safety is not considered in each document.

[0011] For example, if there is a metallic foreign object such as a metal sheet in the wireless power supply area, the metallic foreign object may be heated by the influence of the wireless power supply. In addition, as described above, the application of non-contact power supply to electrical appliances in a humid environment has been promoted. When an electrical appliance is used in a humid environment, for example, the waterproof insulation performance is likely to deteriorate.

[0012] The present invention has been completed in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a non-contact power transmission and reception technology that achieves high usability while taking safety into consideration.

[0013] Technical means for solving the problem

[0014] The present invention provides a non-contact power transmission device that supplies generated power transmission power to a non-contact power reception device by wireless power supply, characterized by including: a power transmission power generation unit that generates the power transmission power; and a control unit that controls the generation of the power transmission power by the power transmission power generation unit, and the control unit controls the generation of the power transmission power by the power transmission power generation unit according to at least one of the surrounding environment or the device state of at least one of the non-contact power transmission device and the non-contact power reception device.

[0015] The present invention also provides a non-contact power transmission and reception system, characterized by including the non-contact power transmission device and the non-contact power reception device, and the non-contact power reception device includes: a battery that is charged using the power transmission power supplied from the non-contact power transmission device; and a battery remaining amount detection unit that detects the remaining amount of the battery, and when the remaining amount reaches below a predetermined threshold, a remaining amount reduction signal is sent to the non-contact power transmission device, and the control unit of the non-contact power transmission device, when receiving the remaining amount reduction signal, causes the power transmission power generation unit to generate the power transmission power.

[0016] Advantages of the invention

[0017] By using the technology of the present invention, it is possible to provide a non-contact power transmission and reception technology that achieves high usability while taking safety into consideration. In addition, technical problems, features, and effects other than the above will be clarified by the description of the following embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Figure 1 It is an explanatory diagram for explaining a usage example of the non-contact power transmission and reception system according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 It is a structural diagram of the non-contact power transmission and reception system of the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 3 It is a functional block diagram of the control unit of the non-contact power transmission device of the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 4 It is a flowchart of the power transmission power generation process of the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 5 It is a flowchart of the power transmission power generation process of Modification Example 1 of the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 6 It is a flowchart of the power transmission power generation process of Modification Example 2 of the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 7 It is a flowchart of the power transmission power generation process of Modification Example 3 of the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 8 It is a flowchart of the power transmission power generation process of Modification Example 4 of the first embodiment.

[0026] Figure 9 It is a flowchart of the power transmission power generation process of Modification Example 5 of the first embodiment.

[0027] Figure 10 It is a functional module diagram of the control unit of the non-contact power transmission device of the second embodiment.

[0028] Figure 11 It is a flowchart of the power transmission power generation process of the second embodiment.

[0029] Figure 12 It is a functional module diagram of the control unit of the non-contact power transmission device of the third embodiment.

[0030] Figure 13 It is a flowchart of the power transmission power generation process of the third embodiment.

[0031] Figure 14 It is a functional module diagram of the control unit of the non-contact power transmission device of the fourth embodiment.

[0032] Figure 15 It is a flowchart of the process performed by the control unit of the non-contact power transmission device of the fourth embodiment.

[0033] Figure 16 It is a flowchart of the power transmission power generation process of the fourth embodiment.

[0034] Figure 17It is a flowchart of the transmission power generation process of the fifth embodiment.

[0035] Figure 18 It is a flowchart of the transmission power generation process of the sixth embodiment.

[0036] Figure 19 It is a functional block diagram of the control unit of a modified example of the sixth embodiment.

[0037] Figure 20 It is an explanatory diagram for explaining a usage example of the non-contact power transmission and reception system of a modified example of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 21 It is an explanatory diagram for explaining a usage example of the non-contact power transmission and reception system of a modified example of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 22 It is an explanatory diagram for explaining a usage example of the non-contact power transmission and reception system of a modified example of the present invention. Detailed Embodiments

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In this specification, for parts having the same function, the same reference numerals are used and repeated explanations are omitted as long as there is no special explanation.

[0041] <<First Embodiment>>

[0042] First, a usage example of the non-contact power transmission and reception system 101 of the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 It is a usage example in which the non-contact power transmission device 100 of this embodiment supplies power to the foam generator 220 disposed in the bathtub 350 of the bathroom 330 as the non-contact power reception device 200.

[0043] [Non-contact Power Transmission System]

[0044] The non-contact power transmission and reception system 101 of this embodiment includes a non-contact power transmission device 100, a foam generator 220 as the non-contact power reception device 200, and various detection units for detecting the state in the bathroom 330. In this embodiment, the detection units include a lighting-on detection unit 301, a human body sensor unit 302, a user authentication sensor unit 303, a water sensor unit 304, and a door switch locking detection unit 305. These detection units are provided in the bathroom 330.

[0045] The non-contact power transmission device 100 generates power for transmission using an AC power supply supplied from the commercial power supply 370, and supplies power to the non-contact power receiving device 200 (foam generator 220) through wireless power supply (non-contact power supply). In the present embodiment, the non-contact power transmission device 100 is arranged, for example, inside the bathroom 330. Moreover, the generation of the power for transmission is controlled accordingly based on the detection signals detected by various detection units provided in the bathroom 330. The foam generator 220 is immersed in the bathtub 350 in a state of not being in contact with the non-contact power transmission device 100. The functions are realized using the power received from the non-contact power transmission device 100 through wireless power supply. It is also possible to first charge the power received through wireless power supply into an internal battery, and then use the battery power to realize the functions.

[0046] The foam generator 220 of the present embodiment realizes, for example, the functional operation of generating foam (bubbles) in the water in the bathtub 350. The foam generated by the foam generator 220 can improve the cleaning effect of human pores and enhance heat preservation and moisture retention.

[0047] The lighting-on detection unit 301 detects whether the bathroom lighting 360 in the bathroom 330 is on. When it is detected that the bathroom lighting 360 is on, a lighting-on detection signal is generated and sent to the non-contact power transmission device 100. In the present embodiment, for example, an illuminance sensor or the like is used as the lighting-on detection unit 301. In the present embodiment, the illuminance around the illuminance sensor is detected at a prescribed time interval, and when the illuminance near the illuminance sensor is equal to or higher than a prescribed value, a lighting-on detection signal is output.

[0048] The bathroom lighting 360 is provided, for example, on the ceiling portion of the bathroom wall 331 or the like. The lighting is turned on and off by a lighting switch (SW) 361 arranged near the bathroom door 332 and located outside the bathroom 330. Thus, when it is possible to be linked with the lighting SW361, it is also possible to determine whether it is on or off based on the ON / OFF operation signal of the lighting SW361, and output a lighting-on detection signal.

[0049] The human body sensor unit 302 detects whether there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330. The presence or absence of the person 390 in the bathroom 330 is determined at a prescribed time interval, and when it is detected that there is a person 390, a human body detection signal is generated and sent to the non-contact power transmission device 100. The human body sensor unit 302 uses, for example, infrared rays, ultrasonic waves, visible light, etc. to detect the presence or absence of the person 390.

[0050] The user authentication sensor unit 303 performs personal authentication and sends the result as a personal authentication signal to the non-contact power transmission device 100. The personal authentication signal includes information indicating whether the authentication is successful. Personal authentication is performed using, for example, fingerprints, retinas, facial features, etc.

[0051] The water sensor unit 304 detects whether the foam generator 220 is immersed in water. When it detects that the foam generator 220 is immersed in water, it generates a water immersion detection signal and sends it to the non-contact power transmission device 100. It can also detect the temperature of the water in the bathtub 350 and send it to the non-contact power transmission device 100 as a water temperature detection signal.

[0052] The door switch lock detection unit 305 detects the opening, closing (locking) of the bathroom door 332 via the doorknob 333. When it detects the opening or closing of the bathroom door 332, it sends a door switch detection signal to the non-contact power transmission device 100. That is, when it detects that the bathroom door 332 is locked (i.e., a locking operation is detected), it sends a locking detection signal, and when it detects that the lock of the bathroom door 332 is released (i.e., an unlocking operation is detected), it sends an unlocking detection signal.

[0053] In order to heat the water in the bathtub 350, the bathroom 330 may also be provided with a bathtub water temperature heating device 340. The bathtub water temperature heating device 340 includes a power switch 342 and a heating unit 341. Similar to the non-contact power transmission device 100, the bathtub water temperature heating device 340 receives the supply of AC power from the commercial power supply 370 and uses the heating unit 341 to heat the water in the bathtub 350 to a desired temperature.

[0054] It is not necessary to provide all of the above detection units. Necessary detection units can be provided accordingly according to each control process.

[0055] [Non-contact power transmission device]

[0056] As described above, the non-contact power transmission device 100 of the present embodiment receives the supply of AC power from the commercial power supply 370 and generates the power transmission power supplied to the foam generator 220 according to the detection signals detected by each detection unit. Figure 2 It shows the structure of the non-contact power transmission and reception system 101 of the present embodiment for achieving this purpose.

[0057] As shown in this figure, the non-contact power transmission device 100 of the present embodiment includes a rectification unit 111, a power transmission power generation unit 120, a power transmission coil 116, a control unit 117, a memory unit 118, a display operation input unit 121, a sound input / output processing unit 124, a short-range wireless communication unit 123, and a bus 129.

[0058] The power transmission power generation unit 120 includes a DC-DC converter unit 112 and a power transmission power generation and amplification unit 115. The power transmission power generation and amplification unit 115 includes a resonance frequency generation unit 113 and an amplification unit 114. The short-range wireless communication unit 123 includes a communication unit 122 and a transceiver antenna 125. Except for the rectification unit 111 and the power transmission coil 116, each structural unit is connected to each other via the bus 129.

[0059] In addition, status detection units such as the lighting activation detection unit 301, the human body sensor unit 302, the user authentication sensor unit 303, the water sensor unit 304, and the door switch locking detection unit 305 are also connected to the bus 129.

[0060] The alternating current power from the commercial power supply 370 is rectified by the rectification unit 111 and supplied to the DC-DC converter unit 112, which converts it into a DC power supply voltage. The DC-DC converter unit 112 is controlled according to the instructions output by the control unit 117, and alternately outputs the DC power supply voltage from the DC-DC converter unit 112, and supplies this power supply voltage as the power supply for the amplifier unit 114 in the power transmission power generation and amplification unit 115.

[0061] The resonance frequency generation unit 113 in the power transmission power generation and amplification unit 115 generates a clock signal with a frequency that is the resonance frequency of magnetic resonance coupling type wireless power supply, and outputs it to the amplifier unit 114. The amplifier unit 114 amplifies the clock signal from the resonance frequency generation unit 113 according to the DC power supply voltage from the DC-DC converter unit 112, and supplies it as power transmission power to the power transmission coil 116.

[0062] The control unit 117 includes a CPU 117c and a RAM 117r. The CPU 117c controls each unit in the contactless power transmission device 100 by loading the program stored in the storage unit 118 into the RAM 117r and executing it. During the control process, the data pre-stored in the storage unit 118 and the signals obtained from each detection unit and other structural units via the bus 129 are used.

[0063] For example, the control unit 117 controls the power transmission operation of the contactless power transmission device 100 according to the input / output signals of the lighting activation detection unit 301, the human body sensor unit 302, the user authentication sensor unit 303, the water sensor unit 304, the door switch locking detection unit 305, the display operation input unit 121, the sound input / output processing unit 124, and the short-range wireless communication unit 123, and uses the information stored and saved in the storage unit 118. The details of the control by the control unit 117 will be described later.

[0064] The memory unit 118 is a device such as a flash memory, and is used to store the programs used by the control unit 117 and various information set and input through the display operation input unit 121. The various information stored is, for example, the power receiving device identification information (identification information) and personal authentication information, etc. Among them, the identification information is used to indicate that the foam generator 220 set is the target device for wireless power supply from the contactless power transmission device 100, and the personal authentication information is generated through the user's personal authentication. They are used in other embodiments described later.

[0065] The display operation input unit 121 is composed of a liquid crystal panel or the like, and is used to display the operating state of the non-contact power transmission device 100. The displayed operating state includes, for example, power ON / OFF, power mode of the transmitted power, and the like. In addition, input from the user can be received through the display surface of the liquid crystal panel. The received input is, for example, an operation input such as turning on the power of the non-contact power transmission device, and inputting pre-registered power receiving device identification information, personal authentication information, and the like.

[0066] The short-range wireless communication unit 123 is controlled by the control unit 117, and exchanges information with the foam generator 220 within the range where short-range wireless communication is possible. Short-range wireless communication uses, for example, an electronic tag. However, it is not limited to this, and various methods and means of short-range wireless communication can be used. For example, Bluetooth (registered trademark), IrDA (Infrared Data Association), Zigbee (registered trademark), HomeRF (Home Radio Frequency, registered trademark), or wireless LAN (IEEE802.11a, IEEE802.11b, IEEE802.11g) can be used.

[0067] The sound input / output processing unit 124 processes the sound input to or output from the non-contact power transmission device 100. For example, it includes a microphone for inputting external sound and a speaker for outputting sound to the outside. In this embodiment, various alarms are output in sound according to an instruction from the control unit 117.

[0068] [Non-contact power receiving device (foam generator)]

[0069] Next, the structure of the foam generator 220 as the non-contact power receiving device 200 will be described. As Figure 2 shown, the foam generator 220 of this embodiment includes a power receiving coil 216, a rectifying unit 211, a DC voltage and current supply unit 212, a battery remaining amount detection unit 213, a battery 214, a functional unit 215, a control unit 217, a memory unit 218, a display operation input unit 221, a short-range wireless communication unit 223, and a sound input / output processing unit 224. The short-range wireless communication unit 223 includes a communication unit 222 and a transceiver antenna 225. Among these units, except for the power receiving coil 216, the rectifying unit 211, and the battery 214, they are connected to each other via a bus 229.

[0070] In the foam generator 220, the power receiving coil 216 receives the transmitted power from the transmission coil 116, rectifies it into DC by the rectifying unit 211, stabilizes the voltage by the DC voltage and current supply unit 212, supplies an output current corresponding to the received power to the battery 214, and charges the battery 214.

[0071] The functional unit 215 uses the power supply supplied from the battery 214 to generate foam in water.

[0072] The control unit 217 includes a CPU 217c and a RAM 217r. The CPU 217c loads the operation program stored in the storage unit 218 into the RAM 217r for execution to control each unit and perform various processes.

[0073] The memory unit 218 is a device such as a flash memory, and is used to store and save various programs used by the control unit 217, and information such as the power receiving device identification information set and input through the display operation input unit 221.

[0074] The display operation input unit 221 is composed of a liquid crystal panel or the like, and is used to display the operating state of the foam generator 220. The displayed operating state includes power ON / OFF, etc. In addition, input can be received from the user through the display surface of the liquid crystal panel. The received input is, for example, an operation input such as turning on the power of the foam generator 220, and registering and inputting the power receiving device identification information in advance.

[0075] The short-range wireless communication unit 223 has the same structure as the short-range wireless communication unit 123. It is controlled by the control unit 217, and transceives information such as the power receiving device identification information with the non-contact power transmission device 100 within the range where short-range wireless communication can be performed. <s

[0076] The battery level detection unit 213 detects the level of the battery 214 and generates a battery level detection signal. The control unit 217 sends the battery level detection signal to the non-contact power transmission device 100 via the short-range wireless communication unit 223. The non-contact power transmission device 100 receives the battery level detection signal via the short-range wireless communication unit 223, and controls the power transmission power accordingly according to the received battery level detection signal.

[0077] The battery level detection signal can be sent to the non-contact power transmission device 100 every time it is detected, or can be sent to the non-contact power transmission device 100 when the level reaches a predetermined level. For example, the signal is sent when the battery 214 is fully charged, when a predetermined threshold is reached, etc.

[0078] [Functional module]

[0079] The function of the control unit 117 of the non-contact power transmission device 100 will be described. In the present embodiment, power transmission power generation is started when there is a high possibility that there is a person 390 around the non-contact power transmission device 100. That is, when it is determined that the non-contact power transmission device 100 is arranged in such a surrounding environment, power transmission power generation is started.

[0080] Specifically, when the control unit 117 of the present embodiment detects that the person 390 is in the bathroom 330, it instructs the power transmission power generation unit 120 to start generating power transmission power. And when a full charge signal is received via the short-range wireless communication unit 123, it instructs the power transmission power generation unit 120 to stop generating power transmission power.

[0081] To achieve this, the control unit 117 of the present embodiment is as Figure 3 As shown, the control unit 117 of the present embodiment includes a signal receiving unit 410, a person detection unit 420, a power transmission power generation instruction unit 431, and a power transmission power generation stop instruction unit 432.

[0082] The signal receiving unit 410 receives signals from each detection unit and outputs them to each functional unit of the control unit 117. In the present embodiment, the human detection signal from the human body sensor 302 is output to the person detection unit 420. In addition, in the present embodiment, when a battery remaining amount detection signal is received from the foam generator 220 via the short-range wireless communication unit 123, it is output to the power transmission power generation stop instruction unit 432.

[0083] The person detection unit 420 receives signals from each detection unit and detects (discriminates) whether there is (exists, does not exist) a person 390 in the bathroom 330. In the present embodiment, when a human detection signal from the human body sensor unit 302 is received, it is determined that there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330. When it is determined that there is a person 390, the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 starts generating power transmission power.

[0084] When the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 receives a person detection signal from the person detection unit, it issues an instruction to the power transmission power generation unit 120 to generate power transmission power. In the present embodiment, it instructs the DC-DC converter unit 112 to output at a predetermined DC power supply voltage. In addition, in the amplifier unit 114, the clock signal output from the resonance frequency generation unit 113 is amplified at a predetermined amplification factor and supplied to the power transmission coil 116.

[0085] The power transmission power generation stop instruction unit 432 is used to issue an instruction to the power transmission power generation unit 120 to stop generating power transmission power. In the present embodiment, when a battery remaining amount detection signal indicating that the battery 214 is fully charged is received via the signal receiving unit 410, a stop instruction is issued.

[0086] [Power Transmission Power Generation Processing]

[0087] The following describes the flow of the power transmission power generation processing performed by the control unit 117 of the present embodiment. Figure 4 is the processing flow of the power transmission power generation processing of the present embodiment. The power transmission power generation processing starts to execute when the non-contact power transmission device 100 is started.

[0088] The battery remaining amount detection signal is not sent every time the battery remaining amount is detected, but is sent to the non-contact power transmission device 100 when the battery 214 is fully charged. Therefore, the processing on the side of the foam generator 220 when receiving the supply of power transmission power is also described here.

[0089] The person detection unit 420 determines whether a person 390 is detected in the bathroom 330 (step S1101). In the present embodiment, it is determined whether a human body detection signal is received via the signal receiving unit 410. If not received, it remains in standby and continues to monitor the human body detection signal.

[0090] On the other hand, when a person 390 is detected (step S1101: "Yes"), that is, when a person detection signal is received, the person detection unit 420 sends a person detection signal to the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431, instructing to start generating power transmission power.

[0091] The power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 receives the person detection signal and causes the power transmission power generation unit 120 to start generating power transmission power (step S1102). The generated power transmission power is transmitted to the foam generator 220 via the power transmission coil 116. That is, the power transmission coil 116 starts sending power transmission power (step S1103).

[0092] On the side of the foam generator 220, the power receiving coil 216 starts receiving the power transmission power (step S1201). Then, the control unit 217 starts charging the battery 214 with the received power (step S1202).

[0093] During the charging process, the battery remaining amount detection unit 213 monitors the charging status of the battery 214. When the battery 214 is fully charged (step S1203), a charging completion signal indicating that the battery is fully charged is sent as the battery remaining amount detection signal (step S1204).

[0094] When the signal receiving unit 410 receives the charging completion signal via the short-range wireless communication unit 123 (step S1104), it sends it to the power transmission power generation stop instruction unit 432. The power transmission power generation stop instruction unit 432 receives this signal and instructs the power transmission power generation unit 120 to stop generating power transmission power (step S1105), ending the process.

[0095] As described above, by adopting the present embodiment, the non-contact power transmission device 100 is operated to transmit power to the non-contact power receiving device 200, that is, the foam generator 220, only when it is determined that there is a high possibility that there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330. That is, power transmission is performed only when there is a high possibility that there is a person 390 near the non-contact power transmission device 100.

[0096] Thus, by adopting this embodiment, the person 390 can confirm the surrounding environment before the non-contact power transmission device 100 generates and transmits power. In this way, the non-contact power transmission device 100 operates only when there is a high possibility that the monitor is nearby, and it is possible to prevent foreign objects or unexpected objects from being charged. That is, it is possible to prevent foreign objects or unexpected objects from being charged, which may cause heating or fire. Unexpected foreign objects include, for example, IC cards.

[0097] In addition, the person 390 can also confirm the state of the non-contact power receiving device 200 used in the bathroom 330. Thus, for example, when using the non-contact power receiving device 200 in a humid environment such as the bathroom 330, it is also possible to confirm whether the waterproof insulation performance has deteriorated before power supply. Thus, by adopting this embodiment, a non-contact power transmission and reception system 101 with high safety can be provided.

[0098] In addition, by adopting this embodiment, it is possible to receive power wirelessly to the battery 214 regardless of the operation of the functional unit 215 of the foam generator 220. After the charging operation starts, even if the functional unit 215 of the foam generator 220 stops operating, the charging operation can continue until charging is completed. Thus, it is possible to make the functional unit 215 always start operating with the battery 214 fully charged, and further improvement in convenience can be achieved.

[0099] In addition, while charging can be performed in the bathroom 330, the operation of the functional unit 215 of the foam generator 220 can be continuously used. The foam generator 220 will not have a situation where the remaining battery capacity of the battery 214 is insufficient, and the functional operation of the foam generator 220 can be used continuously and for a long time during the period in the bathroom 330. Thus, by adopting this embodiment, a non-contact power transmission and reception system 101 with high usability can be achieved while ensuring safety.

[0100] In addition, the control unit 117 can also measure the time from the start of power transmission and stop generating power transmission power when the charging completion signal is not received even after a specified period. Thus, even when the battery remaining capacity detection function of the non-contact power receiving device 200 malfunctions, overcharging can be prevented, and a non-contact power transmission and reception system 101 with higher safety can be provided.

[0101] In addition, when the control unit 117 receives the charging completion signal from the foam generator 220 and stops generating power transmission power, it can notify the situation that the charging has been completed. The notification is performed, for example, by displaying on at least one of the display operation input units 121 and 221 of the non-contact power transmission device 100 and the non-contact power receiving device 200, and / or by performing sound output from the sound input / output processing units 124 and 224.

[0102] <Modification Example 1>

[0103] In the above-described embodiment, the presence or absence of the person 390 is detected at the start, and then power transmission continues until the battery 214 is fully charged even if the person 390 is not present. However, it is not limited to this. For example, after the start of power transmission, it is also possible to constantly monitor whether there is a person 390 near the non-contact power transmission device 100, and stop power transmission when the possibility of there being no person 390 is high.

[0104] The functions and processing flows of each part of this modification example will be described below.

[0105] In this modification example, when the human detection unit 420 does not receive a human body detection signal for a continuous specified period, it determines that there is no person 390 in the bathroom 330. Then, it outputs a no-person detection signal to the power transmission power generation stop instruction unit 432.

[0106] Subsequently, when the power transmission power generation stop instruction unit 432 receives a no-person detection signal from the human detection unit 420, it also issues a stop instruction.

[0107] Use Figure 5 to describe the power transmission power generation processing flow performed by the control unit 117 of this modification example. In this processing flow, the same processing as that of the above-described embodiment described in Figure 4 is labeled with the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are omitted. In this modification example, the power transmission power generation processing also starts to be executed when the non-contact power transmission device 100 is activated. The battery remaining amount detection signal is sent to the non-contact power transmission device 100 when the battery 214 is fully charged.

[0108] The processing flow before the start of power transmission (steps S1101 to S1103) and the processing on the side of the foam generator 220 (steps S1201 to 1204) are the same as those of the above-described embodiment.

[0109] After the start of power transmission, the human detection unit 420 monitors the reception of the human body detection signal from the human body sensor unit 302 (step S1111). When the human body detection signal is not received, it determines whether the state of not receiving the signal has passed a specified period (step S1112). If the specified time has not passed, the monitoring of the human body detection signal continues. If the specified time has passed, a no-person signal is output to the power transmission power generation stop instruction unit 432, and the process proceeds to step S1105.

[0110] In this way, according to this modification example, it is always monitored whether there is a person 390 near the non-contact power transmission device 100 after the start of power transmission, and power transmission is stopped when the possibility of no person 390 is relatively high. Thereby, wireless power supply to the foam generator 220 can be performed while monitoring safety in a state where the user can notice. Also, since power transmission is stopped when there is no person 390 who can monitor the power transmission of the non-contact power transmission device 100, a non-contact power reception system with higher safety can be realized.

[0111] <Modification Example 2>

[0112] In the above-described embodiment, the human body sensor unit 302 is used to detect whether there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330. However, the detection of the presence or absence of the person 390 is not limited to this. For example, it is also possible to determine whether there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330 based on whether the bathroom lighting 360 is lit. That is, when the bathroom lighting 360 is lit, it is determined that there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330.

[0113] In this case, when the signal receiving unit 410 receives a lighting-on detection signal from the lighting-on detection unit 301, it outputs the signal to the person detection unit 420. When the person detection unit 420 receives the lighting-on detection signal via the signal receiving unit 410, it determines that there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330. Then, the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 starts generating power transmission power.

[0114] Figure 6 The flowchart of the power transmission power generation process of this modification example is shown. In this figure, the same processes as those in the above-described embodiment are also denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are omitted. In addition, the power transmission power generation process starts to be executed when the non-contact power transmission device 100 is activated. The battery remaining amount detection signal is sent to the non-contact power transmission device 100 when the battery 214 is fully charged.

[0115] In this modification example, step S1101 of the power transmission power generation process in the above-described embodiment is replaced with step S1121. In step S1121, the person detection unit 420 detects whether a person 390 is detected in the bathroom 330 based on whether it receives a lighting-on detection signal via the signal receiving unit 410. Other processes are the same as those in the above-described embodiment.

[0116] According to this modification example, when the bathroom lighting 360 is lit, it is determined that there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330, and the non-contact power transmission device 100 is operated. Since, as in the above-described embodiment, the non-contact power transmission device 100 is operated in a state where there is a high possibility that there is a person 390 near the non-contact power transmission device 100, a non-contact power reception system 101 with high safety can be provided. Depending on the environment in the bathroom 330, compared with using the human body sensor unit 302, the lighting-on detection unit 301 using an illuminance sensor can sometimes detect with higher sensitivity. In such a case, this modification example is effective.

[0117] This modification example may also, in the same manner as the above-described modification example 1, continue to monitor the lighting-on detection signal even after the start of power transmission, and when the lighting-on detection signal is not received for a continuous specified period, it is determined that there is no person 390 in the bathroom 330, and the power transmission is stopped.

[0118] <Modification Example 3>

[0119] In addition, for the presence or absence of a person 390 in the bathroom 330, for example, it can also be determined based on whether the bathroom lighting 360 is lit and whether there is a switch operation on the bathroom door 332. That is, when the bathroom lighting 360 is lit and there is a switch operation on the bathroom door 332, it is determined that there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330.

[0120] In this case, when the signal reception unit 410 receives the lighting-on detection signal from the lighting-on detection unit 301, it outputs it to the person detection unit 420. And when it receives the door switch detection signal from the door switch locking detection unit 305, it outputs it to the person detection unit 420.

[0121] When the person detection unit 420 receives the lighting-on detection signal and the door switch detection signal via the signal reception unit 410, it determines that there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330. Then, the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 starts generating power transmission power.

[0122] Figure 7 Shows the flow of the power transmission power generation process of this modification example. In this figure, the same processing as in the above-described embodiment is also labeled with the same reference numerals, and repeated explanations are omitted. In addition, the power transmission power generation process starts to be executed when the non-contact power transmission device 100 is started. The battery remaining amount detection signal is sent to the non-contact power transmission device 100 when the battery 214 is fully charged.

[0123] In this modification example, step S1101 of the power transmission power generation process in the above-described embodiment is replaced with step S1131 and step S1132.

[0124] First, the human detection unit 420 determines whether it has received a lighting-on detection signal via the signal reception unit 410 (step S1131). If not received, the human detection unit 420 continues to monitor the lighting-on detection signal.

[0125] On the other hand, if the lighting-on detection signal is received in step S1131, the human detection unit 420 determines whether it has received a door switch detection signal via the signal reception unit 410 (step S1132). If not received, it returns to step S1131 and continues to monitor the detection signal.

[0126] On the other hand, if the door switch detection signal is received in step S1132, the human detection unit 420 determines that there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330 and transfers to step S1102. The subsequent processing is the same as that of the above-described embodiment.

[0127] Among them, the determination of whether the lighting-on detection signal is received and the determination of whether the door switch detection signal is received can be performed in either order.

[0128] According to this modification example, when the bathroom lighting 360 is lit and there is a switch operation of the bathroom door 332, it is determined that there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330, and the non-contact power transmission device 100 is operated. Since, as in the above-described embodiment, the non-contact power transmission device 100 is operated in a state where there is a high possibility that there is a person 390 near the non-contact power transmission device 100, a non-contact power reception system 101 with high safety can be provided.

[0129] In this embodiment, since the switch operation of the bathroom door 332 is also added to the determination, it is possible to more accurately determine whether there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330.

[0130] In addition, this modification example can also, as in the above-described modification example 1, continue to monitor the lighting-on detection signal after the start of power transmission, and if the lighting-on detection signal is not received for a continuous specified period, it is determined that there is no person 390 in the bathroom 330 and the power transmission is stopped.

[0131] This modification example can also be such that the door switch detection signal is monitored after the start of power transmission, and if the door switch detection signal is received again, it is determined that the person 390 has left the bathroom 330 and the power transmission is stopped.

[0132] <Modification Example 4>

[0133] It is also possible to further add the detection by the human body sensor unit 302 in Modification 3. That is, when the human detection unit 420 receives the lighting-on detection signal, the door switch detection signal, and the human body detection signal via the signal reception unit 410, it determines that there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330. Then, the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 starts generating the power transmission power.

[0134] Figure 8 Fig. shows the flow of the power transmission power generation process of this modification. In this figure, the same processing as in the above-described embodiment is denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated description is omitted. In addition, the power transmission power generation process starts to be executed on the occasion of the activation of the non-contact power transmission device 100. The battery remaining amount detection signal is sent to the non-contact power transmission device 100 when the battery 214 is fully charged.

[0135] In this modification, instead of step S1101 of the power transmission power generation process of the above-described embodiment, it includes step S1141, step S1142, and step S1143.

[0136] First, the human detection unit 420 determines whether it has received the lighting-on detection signal via the signal reception unit 410 (step S1141). If not received, the human detection unit 420 continues to monitor the lighting-on detection signal.

[0137] On the other hand, if the lighting-on detection signal is received in step S1141, the human detection unit 420 determines whether it has received the door switch detection signal via the signal reception unit 410 (step S1142). If not received, it returns to step S1141 and continues to monitor the detection signal.

[0138] On the other hand, if the door switch detection signal is received in step S1142, the human detection unit 420 determines whether it has received the human body detection signal via the signal reception unit 410 (step S1143). If not received, it returns to step S1141 and continues to monitor the detection signal.

[0139] On the other hand, if the human body detection signal is received in step S1143, the human detection unit 420 determines that there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330 and proceeds to step S1102. The subsequent processing is the same as that of the above-described embodiment.

[0140] Among them, the processing order of determining whether the lighting-on detection signal is received, determining whether the door switch detection signal is received, and determining whether the human body detection signal is received can be arbitrary.

[0141] According to this modification example, when the bathroom lighting 360 is lit, the bathroom door 332 is operated, and a human detection signal is received, it is determined that there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330, and the non-contact power transmission device 100 is operated. That is, the output of three different sensors is used to determine whether there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330. Thus, regardless of the environment of the bathroom 330, the presence or absence of a person 390 can be detected with high accuracy.

[0142] As a result, since the non-contact power transmission device 100 is operated in a state where there is a high possibility of a person being near the non-contact power transmission device 100 as in the above-described embodiment, a non-contact power reception system 101 with high safety can be provided.

[0143] In addition, this modification example may not use whether a door switch detection signal is received for determination. That is, it may also be determined that there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330 when a lighting-on detection signal and a human detection signal are received.

[0144] This modification example may also, as in the above-described modification examples, continue to monitor at least one of the lighting-on detection signal and the human detection signal after the start of power transmission, and when the detection signal of the monitoring target is not received for a continuous predetermined period, it is determined that there is no person 390 in the bathroom 330, and the power transmission is stopped.

[0145] This modification example may also be such that the door switch detection signal is monitored after the start of power transmission, and when the door switch detection signal is received again, it is determined that the person 390 has left the bathroom 330, and the power transmission is stopped.

[0146] <Modification Example 5>

[0147] The presence or absence of a person 390 in the bathroom 330 may also be determined based on the lock detection signal and the unlock detection signal output by the door switch lock detection unit 305.

[0148] Generally, the bathroom 330 is locked when a person 390 enters it. And the bathroom 330 is locked first and then unlocked when the person 390 in the bathroom 330 leaves the bathroom 330. Thus, this modification example utilizes this point to determine whether there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330.

[0149] In this case, when the signal reception unit 410 receives the lock detection signal from the door switch lock detection unit 305, it outputs it to the person detection unit 420. When the unlock detection signal is received, it outputs it to the power transmission power generation stop instruction unit 432.

[0150] When the person detection unit 420 receives the lock detection signal via the signal reception unit 410, it determines that there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330. Then, the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 is instructed to start generating power for power transmission.

[0151] When the power transmission power generation stop instruction unit 432 receives the unlocking detection signal via the signal receiving unit 410 during the power transmission power generation, it causes the power transmission power generation unit 120 to stop generating the power transmission power.

[0152] Figure 9 FIG. shows the flow of the power transmission power generation process of this modification. In this figure, the same processing as in the above-described embodiment is also denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description is omitted. In addition, the power transmission power generation process starts to be executed when the non-contact power transmission device 100 is activated. The battery remaining amount detection signal is sent to the non-contact power transmission device 100 when the battery 214 is fully charged.

[0153] In this modification, instead of the step S1101 of generating the power transmission power in the above-described embodiment, the step S1151 is included.

[0154] That is, the person detection unit 420 determines whether the locking detection signal is received via the signal receiving unit 410 (step S1151). If not received, the person detection unit 420 continues to monitor the locking detection signal.

[0155] On the other hand, when the locking detection signal is received in step S1151, the person detection unit 420 determines that there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330 and proceeds to step S1102.

[0156] In this modification, after the power transmission starts, the power transmission power generation stop instruction unit 432 monitors the unlocking detection signal (step S1152). When the unlocking detection signal is received, the process proceeds to step S1105 to cause the power transmission power generation unit 120 to stop generating the power transmission power.

[0157] This modification may also be such that, when the power transmission power generation has already started, even if the person 390 is no longer in the bathroom 330, the power transmission continues until the charging is completed. In this case, the processing of step S1152 may not be performed.

[0158] <<Second Embodiment>>

[0159] Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In this embodiment, the non-contact power transmission device 100 charges the foam generator 220 regardless of whether there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330. However, in this embodiment, the power during charging is changed according to the presence or absence of the person 390 in the bathroom 330. That is, when it is determined that there is a person 390 in the bathroom 330, the power transmission is performed at a lower power than when it is determined that there is no person 390.

[0160] In this way, in the present embodiment, the power of the generated power transmission is changed according to whether the non-contact power transmission device 100 is arranged in an environment where there are people 390 nearby or in an environment where there are no people 390. Thereby, the present embodiment can improve safety.

[0161] The structure of the non-contact power transmission and power reception system 101 of the present embodiment is basically the same as that of the first embodiment. Hereinafter, the description will mainly focus on the structure different from that of the first embodiment. The present embodiment will also be described by taking the case where the foam generator 220 disposed in the bathtub 350 of the bathroom 330 is used as the non-contact power reception device 200.

[0162] In addition, in the present embodiment, the power transmission power generation unit 120 can generate power transmission power at two levels. The power transmission power with the higher power is referred to as high-power transmission power, and the power transmission power with the lower power is referred to as low-power transmission power.

[0163] The power transmission power of each power can be obtained by changing the DC voltage output from the DC-DC converter unit 112 to the amplifier unit 114 under the instruction of the control unit 117.

[0164] That is, in the present embodiment, when the power transmission power generation unit 120 receives an instruction to generate high-power transmission power from the control unit 117, a higher DC voltage is output from the DC-DC converter unit 112 to the amplifier unit 114 compared to when it receives an instruction to generate low-power transmission power. The output DC voltage corresponding to each power is predetermined and stored in the memory unit 118 or the like.

[0165] [Functional module]

[0166] Figure 10 It is a functional module diagram of the control unit 117 of the non-contact power transmission device 100 of the present embodiment. As shown in this figure, in addition to the structure of the first embodiment, the control unit 117 of the present embodiment is further provided with a power determination unit 440.

[0167] The power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 of the present embodiment issues an instruction to the power transmission power generation unit 120 to generate power transmission power at the power determined by the power determination unit 440. At the moment when the non-contact power transmission device 100 is started, the power transmission power generation unit 120 starts to generate power transmission power at a predetermined power. Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, the case where the initial power is high power will be taken as an example for description.

[0168] After the power transmission starts, the power determination unit 440 determines the power according to the detection result of the person detection unit 420 and outputs it to the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431.

[0169] In the present embodiment, when a person 390 is detected in the bathroom 330 by the person detection unit 420, it is determined to be low power. On the other hand, when no person 390 is detected, it is determined to be high power.

[0170] The detection of the person 390 by the person detection unit 420 can use any of the methods described in the first embodiment and its modified examples.

[0171] [Power transmission power generation process]

[0172] The following describes the process of the power transmission power generation process performed by the control unit 117 of the present embodiment. Figure 11 This is the processing flow of the power transmission power generation process of the present embodiment. The power transmission power generation process starts to execute when the non-contact power transmission device 100 is activated. In addition, the battery remaining amount detection signal is not sent every time the battery remaining amount is detected, but is sent to the non-contact power transmission device 100 when the battery 214 is fully charged.

[0173] When the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 detects the activation of the non-contact power transmission device 100, it first causes the power transmission power generation unit 120 to generate high-power transmission power (step S2101).

[0174] After the power transmission power starts to be generated, the person detection unit 420 determines whether a person 390 is detected in the bathroom 330 (step S2102). The determination result is output to the power determination unit 440.

[0175] When no person 390 is detected, the power determination unit 440 determines that the high-power transmission power is the transmission power to be generated, and instructs the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431. The power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 receives this instruction and causes the power transmission power generation unit 120 to generate high-power transmission power (step S2103).

[0176] On the other hand, when a person 390 is detected, the power determination unit 440 determines that the low-power transmission power is the transmission power to be generated, and instructs the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431. The power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 receives this instruction and causes the power transmission power generation unit 120 to generate low-power transmission power (step S2104).

[0177] The power transmission power generation stop instruction unit 432 determines whether an instruction to stop the non-contact power transmission device 100 or an instruction to stop generating the transmission power is received (step S2105). When these instructions are received, the power transmission power generation unit 120 is caused to stop generating the transmission power (step S2108), and the process ends.

[0178] Among them, the instruction to stop the non-contact power transmission device 100 and the instruction to stop generating power transmission power are received, for example, through the display operation input unit 121. The power transmission power generation stop instruction unit 432 receives these instructions via the signal receiving unit 410.

[0179] In step S2105, when no stop instruction is received, the power transmission power generation stop instruction unit 432 determines whether a charging completion signal is received from the foam generator 220 (step S2106). When the charging completion signal is received, the process proceeds to step S2108.

[0180] On the other hand, when the charging completion signal is not received, the power determination unit 440 returns to step S2102 and continues the process.

[0181] As described above, with this embodiment, the non-contact power transmission device 100 generally generates power transmission power at high power and supplies it to the non-contact power receiving device 200. In this case, in the non-contact power receiving device 200, the battery 214 is charged at high speed.

[0182] On the other hand, when there is a person 390 near the non-contact power transmission device 100, the power transmission power is generated and supplied at low power. Thereby, it is possible to reduce the exposure of the human body to high-power electricity and improve the safety of the human body when using the non-contact power transmission and reception system 101 in the bathroom 330.

[0183] In this way, with this embodiment, it is possible to realize a non-contact power transmission and reception system 101 that takes into account both efficiency and safety.

[0184] In addition, it may be configured that during the period of generating power transmission power at high power, the control unit 117 outputs to indicate that the power transmission power is being generated and transmitted at high power. The output is performed, for example, by displaying on the display operation input units 121 and 221 of at least one of the non-contact power transmission device 100 and the non-contact power receiving device 200, and / or by performing sound output from the sound input / output processing units 124 and 224, etc.

[0185] In addition, it may be configured that during the period of generating power transmission power at low power, similarly output is performed to indicate that the power transmission power is being generated and transmitted at low power.

[0186] In addition, the above embodiment may also be controlled to generate power transmission power at low power at startup, and then generate power transmission power at high power when no person 390 is detected.

[0187] <<Third Embodiment>>

[0188] Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Similar to the second embodiment, power transmission is performed regardless of whether there is a person in the bathroom 330. In this embodiment, the power of the power transmission is changed accordingly according to the surrounding environment of the non-contact power receiving device 200, that is, the foam generator 220. This embodiment is independent of whether there is a person.

[0189] There is a case where the inside of the foam generator 220 generates heat due to wireless power supply, resulting in a decrease in work efficiency or a limitation in the received power. In view of this, in this embodiment, the power of the power transmission generated by the non-contact power transmission device 100 is changed accordingly according to the cooling ability (cooling environment) of the foam generator 220 in the environment where the foam generator 220 is located.

[0190] Specifically, when the foam generator 220 is not immersed in the water in the bathtub 350, the power transmission power of the lowest power (first power) is generated and supplied to the foam generator 220. When the foam generator 220 is immersed in the water in the bathtub 350, the power of the power to be generated and supplied is changed accordingly according to the water temperature. For example, when the water temperature is less than a predetermined water temperature threshold, the power transmission power of the highest power (third power) is generated and supplied. When the water temperature is above the water temperature threshold, the power transmission power of the power between the first power and the third power (second power) is generated and supplied to the foam generator 220.

[0191] Hereinafter, in this embodiment, it is described that the first power is lower than the second power as described above, but the high or low of both is not limited thereto. Depending on the air temperature and the water temperature, the second power may also be set lower than the first power.

[0192] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described mainly focusing on the structure different from the first embodiment.

[0193] [Functional module]

[0194] Figure 12 A functional module diagram showing the control unit 117 of this embodiment is shown. As shown in this figure, the control unit 117 of this embodiment includes a signal receiving unit 410, a power transmission power generation instruction unit 431, a power transmission power generation stop instruction unit 432, and a power determination unit 440.

[0195] When the non-contact power transmission device 100 of this embodiment is started, the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 issues an instruction to the power transmission power generation unit 120 to generate the power transmission power at the power determined by the power determination unit 440.

[0196] The power determination unit 440 determines the power accordingly according to the configuration state of the non-contact power receiving device 200, that is, the foam generator 220, and outputs it to the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431.

[0197] In this embodiment, when the foam generator 220 is not immersed in water, it is determined that the lowest first power is used as the power for power transmission. On the other hand, when the foam generator 220 is immersed in water and the water temperature is lower than the water temperature threshold, it is determined that the highest third power is used as the power for power transmission. In addition, when it is immersed in water but the water temperature is above the water temperature threshold, it is determined that the second power, which is the power between the first power and the third power, is used as the power for power transmission.

[0198] The power determination unit 440 determines whether the foam generator 220 is immersed in water based on whether a water immersion detection signal is received from the water sensor 304. The water immersion detection signal is received via the signal receiving unit 410.

[0199] In addition, when the water sensor detects the water level and outputs the water level as a water level signal, the power determination unit 440 compares the installation position of the foam generator 220 with the water level to determine whether the foam generator 220 is immersed in water. The installation position of the foam generator 220 is obtained based on, for example, the size data of the foam generator 220. The size data of the foam generator 220 is stored in advance in the memory unit 118 or the like.

[0200] The water temperature is determined using the water temperature detection signal of the water sensor unit 304. The water temperature detection signal is also received via the signal receiving unit 410.

[0201] [Power Transmission Power Generation Process]

[0202] The following describes the flow of the power transmission power generation process performed by the control unit 117 of this embodiment. Figure 13 This is the processing flow of the power transmission power generation process of this embodiment. The power transmission power generation process of this embodiment starts to execute when the non-contact power transmission device 100 is activated. In addition, when the battery 214 is fully charged, a battery remaining amount detection signal is sent to the non-contact power transmission device 100.

[0203] The power determination unit 440 determines whether a water immersion signal is received (step S3101). When a water immersion signal is received, it is determined that the first power is used as the power for power transmission, and the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 is notified.

[0204] The power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 receives the notification and causes the power transmission power generation unit 120 to generate power for power transmission at the first power (step S3103).

[0205] On the other hand, in the case where a water immersion signal is not received, the power determination unit 440 determines whether the water temperature is equal to or higher than a water temperature threshold TH1 (step S3102). If it is equal to or higher than the water temperature threshold TH1, it is determined to use the second power as the power for power transmission and notifies the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431.

[0206] The power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 receives the notification and causes the power transmission power generation unit 120 to generate power transmission power at the second power (step S3103).

[0207] On the other hand, in the case where it is lower than the water temperature threshold TH1, it is determined to use the third power as the power for power transmission and notifies the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431.

[0208] The power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 receives the notification and causes the power transmission power generation unit 120 to generate power transmission power at the third power (step S3103).

[0209] The processing after determining the power of the power transmission power is the same as that after step S2105 of the second embodiment. That is, the control unit 117 of the present embodiment continuously performs the above processing until a stop instruction or charging completion is received.

[0210] As described above, in the present embodiment, in the case where the foam generator 220 is disposed in an environment where the water temperature in the bathtub 350 is low and the cooling property is high, high-power electricity is supplied to the foam generator 220 to charge the battery 214 of the foam generator 220. On the other hand, in the case where the water temperature is equal to or higher than a specified temperature, power is transmitted to the foam generator 220 at a power lower than the high-power electricity. Further, in the case where the foam generator 220 is not immersed in water, power is transmitted to the foam generator 220 at a power different from the case of being immersed in water.

[0211] Accordingly, in the present embodiment, it is possible to improve the heat dissipation property corresponding to the water temperature in the bathtub 350 in which the foam generator 220 is immersed, and while suppressing the heat generation in the foam generator 220, charge the battery 214 of the foam generator 220 at a higher cooling efficiency and at a higher speed.

[0212] In the above-described embodiment, only one water temperature threshold is set, but the water temperature threshold is not limited to one. By setting a plurality of thresholds and setting so as to transmit power at a lower power as the water temperature is lower according to each threshold, it is possible to more finely classify and control the power transmission power and further optimize the charging operation corresponding to the cooling performance.

[0213] In addition, the present embodiment may be combined with the first embodiment and its modified examples.

[0214] <<Fourth Embodiment>>

[0215] Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In this embodiment, power is transmitted only to the non-contact power receiving device 200 that has been registered in advance as an object of power transmission. That is, in this embodiment, when a pre-registered non-contact power receiving device 200 exists around the non-contact power transmission device 100, the non-contact power transmission device 100 generates power for transmission.

[0216] Below, this embodiment will be described mainly focusing on the structure different from the first embodiment.

[0217] [Functional Modules]

[0218] In this embodiment, the non-contact power receiving device 200 that is pre-registered as a power supply object (power supply target) of the power for transmission is registered in advance. Figure 14 A functional module of the control unit 117 of this embodiment that realizes this is shown.

[0219] As shown in this figure, the control unit 117 of this embodiment includes a prior information registration unit 451, a comparison unit 452, a power transmission generation instruction unit 431, and a power transmission generation stop instruction unit 432.

[0220] The prior information registration unit 451 pre-registers the non-contact power receiving device 200 that is allowed to receive power. In this embodiment, for example, the identification information of the non-contact power receiving device 200 that is permitted (power receiving device identification information) is obtained and stored in the memory unit 118 as registration information 459.

[0221] The power receiving device identification information is obtained, for example, by receiving an input from the user via the display operation input unit 121. It can also be obtained via the short-range wireless communication unit 123.

[0222] Before generating the power for transmission, the comparison unit 452 performs authentication. In this embodiment, an identification information request is generated and sent to the non-contact power receiving device 200. Then, the received power receiving device identification information in the reply is compared with the power receiving device identification information registered as the registration information 459 for authentication. If both are the same, the authentication is considered successful; if they are different, the authentication is considered failed. Then, the authentication result is sent to the power transmission generation instruction unit 431.

[0223] The transmission and reception of the authentication information request and the authentication information are performed via the short-range wireless communication unit 123 and the short-range wireless communication unit 223.

[0224] On the non-contact power receiving device 200 side, the power receiving device identification information obtained as the registration information 459 is also pre-held. When an identification information request is received from the non-contact power transmission device 100, it is replied to the non-contact power transmission device 100 that sent the request.

[0225] Figure 15Shows the overall processing flow performed by the control unit 117 of the present embodiment.

[0226] As shown in this figure, in the present embodiment, first, the prior information registration unit 451 performs prior registration processing (step S4301). Then, after the prior registration processing, the control unit 117 performs power transmission power generation and power transmission processing (step S4302). This prior registration processing is performed independently of the power transmission power generation and power transmission processing.

[0227] [Power Transmission Power Generation Processing]

[0228] The following is according to Figure 16 Explains the power transmission power generation processing flow performed by the control unit 117 of the present embodiment in which the prior registration processing has been completed.

[0229] First, the comparison unit 452 generates an authentication information request and sends it to the foam generator 220 (step S4101).

[0230] The foam generator 220 that has received the authentication information request (step S4201) replies with the power receiving device identification information it holds as the authentication information to the non-contact power transmission device 100 of the requester (step S4202).

[0231] When the comparison unit 452 receives the reply of the power receiving device identification information via the signal receiving unit 410 as the authentication information corresponding to the authentication information request (step S4102), it performs authentication (step S4103). Here, if the authentication fails, the process ends directly.

[0232] An error message can also be generated at this time and displayed on the display operation input unit 121 or output from the sound input / output processing unit 124.

[0233] On the other hand, in the case of successful authentication, the comparison unit 452 notifies the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 of the successful authentication. Then, the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 receives the notification and causes the power transmission power generation unit 120 to start generating power transmission power (step S1102). The subsequent processing is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0234] As described above, by adopting the present embodiment, power transmission power is supplied only to the non-contact power receiving devices 200 that have been previously registered. Thus, it is possible to prevent power transmission from the non-contact power transmission device 100 to non-contact power receiving devices that do not belong to the power supply target. That is, it is possible to perform non-contact power transmission only to the non-contact power receiving devices 200 that are pre-registered and suitable for the non-contact power transmission device 100. Therefore, the usability during use is better, and the improvement of safety can be achieved.

[0235] In addition, when the authentication check between the non-contact power transmission and reception devices is working properly and the power transmitted to the non-contact power reception device 200 is greater than the previously known amount, there may be a metallic foreign object within the wireless power supply area, resulting in wireless power supply to the metallic foreign object as well. Thus, it can also be configured such that on the non-contact power transmission device 100 side, the supplied power is monitored, and when the above situation occurs, wireless power supply is stopped to prevent the risk of abnormal heating of the metallic foreign object due to wireless power supply.

[0236] This embodiment can also be combined with the above-described first embodiment, its modified example, second embodiment, and third embodiment.

[0237] <<Fifth Embodiment>>

[0238] The fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In this embodiment, instead of authenticating the power transmission target, i.e., the non-contact power reception device 200, a person 390 (user) near the non-contact power transmission device 100 is authenticated. In this embodiment, when the person 390 near the non-contact power transmission device 100 is a person who has been previously registered, power transmission power is generated. That is, in this embodiment, when there is a previously registered user around the non-contact power transmission device 100, the non-contact power transmission device 100 generates power transmission power.

[0239] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described mainly focusing on the structure different from the fourth embodiment. The structure of the non-contact power transmission device 100 and the functional modules of the control unit 117 in this embodiment are basically the same as those in the fourth embodiment. However, since the authentication target in this embodiment is a person, the processing in this regard is different.

[0240] The prior information registration unit 451 in this embodiment previously registers the personal authentication information of the user. In this embodiment, for example, the user is prompted to input personal authentication information via the display operation input unit 121, and the input from the user is received. The received personal authentication information is registered as the registration information 459 in the storage unit 118.

[0241] The comparison unit 452 performs user authentication before generating the power transmission power. In this embodiment, the user is prompted to input authentication information. Here, similar to the prior registration process, for example, the user is prompted to input personal authentication information via the display operation input unit 121. For example, an authentication information input screen is generated and displayed on the liquid crystal panel or the like of the display operation input unit 121.

[0242] Then, for example, when the input of the authentication information is received, authentication is performed by comparing it with the registration information 459. If both are the same, the authentication is considered successful; if they are different, the authentication is considered failed. Then, the authentication result is sent to the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431.

[0243] [Power Generation Process for Power Transmission]

[0244] The following will Figure 17 describe the process of the power generation process for power transmission performed by the control unit 117 of the present embodiment that has completed the pre-registration process.

[0245] First, the comparison unit 452 makes a request for input of authentication information (step S5101). Here, for example, an authentication information input screen is generated and the user is waited to input authentication information.

[0246] When the comparison unit 452 receives the input of authentication information via the signal reception unit 410 (step S5102), it performs authentication (step S5103). Here, if the authentication fails, the process ends directly.

[0247] At this time, an error message can also be generated and displayed on the display operation input unit 121 or output from the sound input / output processing unit 124.

[0248] On the other hand, in the case of successful authentication, the comparison unit 452 notifies the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 of the successful authentication. Then, the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 receives the notification and causes the power transmission power generation unit 120 to start generating power for power transmission (step S1102). The subsequent processing is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0249] As described above, with the present embodiment, power for power transmission is generated and transmitted when there is a pre-registered user nearby. That is, on the basis of confirming whether the user is a user who can use the non-contact power transmission device 100 without problems, the non-contact power transmission device 100 is used.

[0250] For example, it is possible to prevent the use of the non-contact power transmission device 100 when there is a person wearing a pacemaker nearby, etc. In addition, it is possible to prevent the non-contact power transmission device 100 from being used by infants and the like whose safety of the usage environment is difficult to confirm. On the other hand, it does not interfere with the function of using the foam generator 220 in the bathtub 350 by these users. Thus, a non-contact power reception system 101 with high safety and without sacrificing convenience can be provided.

[0251] In the present embodiment, the result of user authentication can also be notified to the user. The notification method is the same as the notification methods of the above-described embodiments.

[0252] The present embodiment can also be combined with the above-described embodiments and their modified examples.

[0253] <<Sixth Embodiment>>

[0254] A sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In this embodiment, when the battery level of the non-contact power receiving device 200 decreases, charging is automatically performed during a period when there is usually no one. Here, the rechargeable time is registered in advance as prior information. That is, in this embodiment, according to the device state of the non-contact power receiving device 200, when the probability that there is no person 390 around the non-contact power transmission device 100 is high, the non-contact power transmission device 100 generates transmission power.

[0255] The non-contact power transmission and reception system 101 of this embodiment has substantially the same structure as the fourth embodiment. However, as described above, the information registered in advance in this embodiment is different from that in the fourth embodiment.

[0256] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described mainly focusing on the structure different from that of the fourth embodiment.

[0257] The prior information registration unit 451 of this embodiment accepts user registration of the rechargeable time in advance. The rechargeable time is the operable time of the non-contact power transmission device 100. During this period, the non-contact power transmission device 100 is operated to generate transmission power.

[0258] The comparison unit 452 of this embodiment, when receiving a remaining amount decrease signal described later from the non-contact power receiving device 200 (foam generator 220), compares the current time with the rechargeable time to determine whether the current time is the rechargeable time. Then, the determination result is sent to the transmission power generation instruction unit 431.

[0259] In this embodiment, the registration of the battery level threshold is accepted in advance on the non-contact power receiving device 200 (foam generator 220) side and is registered in the memory unit 218 in advance.

[0260] Regarding the registration of the battery level threshold, for example, a setting screen can be displayed on the display operation input unit 221, and input can be accepted via this setting screen.

[0261] The battery level threshold is a value such that when the battery level reaches below this threshold, charging of the battery 214 starts, that is, the non-contact power transmission device 100 starts generating transmission power.

[0262] In the above-described embodiments, the case where the battery level detection unit 213 on the foam generator 220 side outputs a charging completion signal when the battery 214 is fully charged has been described as an example. However, in this embodiment, the battery level detection unit 213 detects the battery level at a predetermined time interval and compares it with the above-described battery level threshold each time it is detected. Then, when the detected battery level reaches below the battery level threshold, a remaining amount decrease signal is sent to the non-contact power transmission device 100.

[0263] [Power generation process for power transmission]

[0264] The following is Figure 18 to describe the process of the power generation process for power transmission performed by the control unit 117 of the present embodiment that has completed the pre-registration process.

[0265] In the present embodiment, on the side of the foam generator 220, the battery remaining amount detection unit 213 detects the battery remaining amount at a predetermined time interval and compares it with a pre-registered battery remaining amount threshold (step S6201). Then, when the detected battery remaining amount reaches or falls below the battery remaining amount threshold, a remaining amount reduction signal is generated and sent to the non-contact power transmission device 100 via the short-range wireless communication unit 223 (step S6202).

[0266] When the remaining amount reduction signal is received via the signal receiving unit 410, the comparison unit 452 compares the current time with the rechargeable time to determine whether the current time is a time when automatic charging is possible (step S6102). If it is not a rechargeable time, the process is directly terminated.

[0267] At this time, an error message may also be generated and displayed on the display operation input unit 121 or output from the sound input / output processing unit 124. Alternatively, it may be configured to wait until the rechargeable time.

[0268] On the other hand, when it is determined that it is a rechargeable time, the comparison unit 452 notifies the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 of the power transmission power generation instruction. Then, the power transmission power generation instruction unit 431 receives the notification and causes the power transmission power generation unit 120 to start generating power for power transmission (step S1102). The subsequent processing is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0269] As described above, by adopting the present embodiment, when the non-contact power receiving device 200 is in a state where the battery 214 needs to be charged, if the current time is a time pre-registered as rechargeable, the non-contact power transmission device 100 automatically generates power for power transmission and supplies power to the non-contact power receiving device 200. Thus, the non-contact power receiving device 200 can be automatically charged. In particular, if a time when there is a high possibility that there is no one 390 near the non-contact power transmission device 100 is pre-registered as the rechargeable time, a non-contact power transmission and reception system 101 with high safety and good usability can be provided.

[0270] The above-described embodiment is configured to register the battery remaining amount threshold on the side of the non-contact power receiving device 200 and compare the battery remaining amount with the threshold on the side of the non-contact power receiving device 200, but is not limited thereto.

[0271] For example, it can also be configured such that the battery remaining amount threshold is registered in advance in the memory unit 118 of the non-contact power transmission device 100. Then, on the non-contact power receiving device 200 side, each time the battery remaining amount detection unit 213 detects the battery remaining amount, the battery remaining amount is transmitted to the non-contact power transmission device 100 via the short-range wireless communication unit 223. Then, in the control unit 117, it is determined whether the battery remaining amount is below the battery remaining amount threshold.

[0272] <Modification Example>

[0273] In the above-described embodiment, the recharge time is set by the user. However, it is not limited to such a method. For example, when the recharge time is a time when there is a high possibility that there is no one 390 near the non-contact power transmission device 100, it can also be configured such that the control unit 117 learns such a time period and automatically sets the recharge time.

[0274] Figure 19 A functional module of the control unit in this case is shown. This modification example includes a person detection unit 420 and a learning unit 460.

[0275] The person detection unit 420 is the same as the person detection unit 420 in the above-described embodiments. That is, it receives signals from each detection unit and detects whether there is anyone 390 in the bathroom 330. In this embodiment, at this time, the time information of the period when no one 390 is detected (no-person period) is also obtained together and sent to the learning unit 460.

[0276] The learning unit 460 accumulates the time information of the no-person periods within each specified period and performs statistical processing to calculate the recharge period. In this embodiment, for example, the information on whether there is no one in each time period is accumulated in units of 1 hour per 1 day (24 hours). Then, the time periods in which it is determined that there is no one with a specified ratio or more in the accumulated information are calculated (determined) as the recharge periods.

[0277] By having such a learning function, a non-contact power transmission and reception system 101 with higher convenience can be realized.

[0278] <Modification Example>

[0279] In the above-described embodiments and modification examples, the case where the non-contact power transmission device 100 includes the lighting-on detection unit 301, the human body sensor unit 302, the user authentication sensor unit 303, and the door switch locking detection unit 305 has been described as an example. However, it can also be configured such that the non-contact power receiving device 200 includes these detection units, and the detection detection signals are sent to the non-contact power transmission device 100 via short-range wireless communication.

[0280] In addition, the lighting activation detection unit 301, the human body sensor unit 302, the user authentication sensor unit 303, and the door switch locking detection unit 305 can also be arranged at the optimal positions within the bathroom 330 as devices other than the non-contact power transmission device 100. In this case, each detection unit includes a short-range wireless communication unit, and the detection output signals of each detection unit are transmitted to the non-contact power transmission device 100 via short-range wireless communication.

[0281] In addition, as Figure 20 shown, the water sensor unit 304 can also be arranged on the side of the foam generator 220. Figure 20 FIG. is an example diagram schematically showing the case where the water sensor unit 304 is arranged on the side of the foam generator 220. In Figure 20 , Figure 1 the structure parts that have been marked with the same reference numerals have the same functions as those Figure 1 described. Therefore, their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0282] In the example shown in this figure, in the non-contact power receiving device 200, i.e., the foam generator 220, the water immersion detection signal and the water temperature detection signal detected and generated by the water sensor unit 304 are transmitted to the non-contact power transmission device 100 via short-range wireless communication. Thus, the same operations and effects as those Figure 1 described in the above-described embodiments can be obtained.

[0283] Furthermore, by arranging the water sensor unit 304 on the side of the foam generator 220, the water temperature can be detected accurately and reliably, and it can be detected that the foam generator 220 is immersed in water within the bathtub 350.

[0284] In this modification example, multiple water sensor units 304 can also be arranged. Thus, the detection accuracy of the state and water temperature of the foam generator 220 can be further improved.

[0285] In addition, in the above-described embodiments and modification examples, the foam generator 220 that generates foam within the bathtub is taken as an example of the non-contact power receiving device 200, but the non-contact power receiving device 200 is not limited thereto. For example, any non-contact power receiving device 200 that is used within the bathroom and charges the battery 214 within the device via wireless power supply can be used, and its type can be arbitrary. For example, it can also be a massage device, a portable information terminal such as a smartphone, an electric shaver, a hair remover, a fine hair trimmer, an electric toothbrush, or other care and beauty devices. In addition, although there are some differences in the applicable embodiments and modification examples depending on whether they are used in water, it is only the difference in the operation of the functional unit 215, and the same operations and effects can be obtained.

[0286] Figure 21Schematically shows an example of a case where a portable information terminal 230 such as a smartphone is used as the contactless power receiving device 200. Figure 21 middle, Figure 1 、 Figure 20 、 Figure 2 The components marked with the same reference numerals have the same functions as those described in the respective figures, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0287] exist Figure 21 In the example, contactless power transmission device 100 is installed outside bathroom 330. In this case, portable information terminal 230 is placed at one end of bathtub 350, for example. Portable information terminal 230 receives wireless power from contactless power transmission device 100, which is installed outside bathroom 330, across bathroom wall 331, to charge battery 214. In this case, portable information terminal 230 only needs to be within the wireless power supply area of contactless power transmission device 100.

[0288] According to the example in this figure, portable information terminal 230 can be used freely in bathroom 330 without any installation restrictions while charging battery 214 via wireless power supply. For example, it can be held in the hand and operated while charging battery 214. This allows for free use without worrying about the remaining battery level, significantly improving the usability of the portable information terminal.

[0289] Figure 22 2 is a diagram schematically showing an example of a case where an electric shaver 240 is used as the contactless power receiving device 200. In this figure, Figure 1 、 Figure 20 、 Figure 2 The components marked with the same reference numerals have the same functions as those described in the respective figures, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0290] As shown in this figure, electric shaver 240 is placed on a stand 241 before use and receives wireless power from contactless power transmission device 100 via stand 241 to charge battery 214. Alternatively, contactless power transmission device 100 can be placed in bathroom 330, for example, next to mirror 382 or faucet 383.

[0291] In this case, if the electric shaver 240 is within the wireless power supply area of the contactless power transmission device 100, the electric shaver 240 can be used without worrying about the remaining battery level while the battery is being charged by wireless power.

[0292] In addition, when the non-contact power receiving device 200 is a portable information terminal 230 or an electric shaver 240, a forgetting prevention process may be provided in the power transmission power generation process of the non-contact power transmission device 100.

[0293] For example, after charging is completed and the user leaves the bathroom 330 and there is no one in the bathroom 330, it is detected whether the non-contact power receiving device 200 has been forgotten. For the detection of whether there is no one, the above-mentioned human detection unit 420 can be used for detection.

[0294] In addition, regarding whether the non-contact power receiving device 200 exists in the bathroom 330, for example, it can be detected in such a way that a presence confirmation signal is sent from the non-contact power transmission device 100 to the non-contact power receiving device 200 using the short-range wireless communication function. When the non-contact power receiving device 200 receives a presence confirmation signal from another device, it makes a reply to the sending device.

[0295] When the control unit 117 of the non-contact power transmission device 100 receives a reply to the sent presence confirmation signal, it determines that the device exists.

[0296] When the control unit 117 of the non-contact power transmission device 100 determines that there is no one 390 after charging is completed and the non-contact power receiving device 200 exists nearby, it determines that the power receiving device has been forgotten. Then, the control unit 117 outputs a warning.

[0297] Here, the output warning is, for example, a warning display on the display operation input unit 121 of the non-contact power transmission device 100, a sound notification output from the sound input / output processing unit 124, a warning display on the display operation input unit 221 of the non-contact power receiving device 200, a sound notification output from the sound input / output processing unit 224, etc.

[0298] When the non-contact power receiving device 200 is a portable information terminal 230, a notification may also be sent to the terminal by email or the like. In this case, the non-contact power transmission device 100 pre-registers the email address of the device to be powered and the like as registration information 459.

[0299] In addition, in the above-described embodiments and various modifications, the case of using electromagnetic induction as the method of wireless power supply (non-contact power transmission) has been described as an example, but the wireless power supply is not limited to this method. For example, it may also be a method using magnetic resonance or microwave power supply.

[0300] In addition, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and modifications, and includes various modifications. For example, the above-described embodiments and modifications have been described in detail for easy understanding of the present invention, but are not limited to necessarily including all the structures described. A part of the structure of a certain embodiment or modification can be replaced with the structure of other embodiments or modifications, and the structure of other embodiments or modifications can also be added to the structure of a certain embodiment or modification. Furthermore, for a part of the structure of each embodiment or modification, other structures can be added, deleted, or replaced.

[0301] In addition, for each of the above structures, functions, processing units, processing elements, etc., for example, a part or all of them can be implemented in hardware by integrated circuit design or the like. Each of the above structures, functions, etc. can also be implemented in software by a processor interpreting and executing a program that realizes each function. Information such as programs, tables, and files that realize each function can be stored in the memory units 118 and 218, or recording devices such as hard disks and SSDs (Solid State Drives), or recording media such as IC cards, SD cards, and DVDs.

[0302] In addition, the control lines and information lines show the parts necessary for explanation, and do not necessarily show all the control lines and information lines on the product. In fact, it can be considered that almost all the structures are interconnected.

[0303] Description of Reference Numerals

[0304] 100: Non-contact power transmission device, 101: Non-contact power reception system, 111: Rectification unit, 112: DC-DC converter unit, 113: Resonant frequency generation unit, 114: Amplification unit, 115: Transmission power generation and amplification unit, 116: Transmission coil, 117: Control unit, 117c: CPU, 117r: RAM, 118: Memory unit, 120: Transmission power generation unit, 121: Display operation input unit, 122: Communication unit, 123: Short-range wireless communication unit, 124: Sound input / output processing unit, 125: Transceiving antenna, 129: Bus,

[0305] 200: Non-contact power reception device, 211: Rectification unit, 212: DC voltage and current supply unit, 213: Battery remaining amount detection unit, 214: Battery, 215: Function unit, 216: Power reception coil, 217: Control unit, 217c: CPU, 217r: RAM, 218: Memory unit, 220: Foam generator, 221: Display operation input unit, 222: Communication unit, 223: Short-range wireless communication unit, 224: Sound input / output processing unit, 225: Transceiving antenna, 229: Bus, 230: Portable information terminal, 240: Electric shaver, 241: Mounting table,

[0306] 301: Lighting Turn-on Detection Unit, 302: Human Sensor Unit, 303: User Authentication Sensor Unit, 304: Water Sensor Unit, 305: Door Switch Locking Detection Unit, 330: Bathroom, 331: Bathroom Wall, 332: Bathroom Door, 333: Door Handle, 340: Bathtub Water Temperature Heating Device, 341: Heating Unit, 342: Power Switch, 350: Bathtub, 360: Bathroom Lighting, 361: Lighting SW, 370: Mains Electricity, 382: Mirror, 383: Faucet, 390: Person

[0307] 410: Signal Receiving Unit, 420: Human Detection Unit, 431: Transmission Power Generation Instruction Unit, 432: Transmission Power Generation Stop Instruction Unit, 440: Power Determination Unit, 451: Prior Information Registration Unit, 452: Comparison Unit, 459: Registered Information, 460: Learning Unit

Claims

1. A non-contact power transmission device that supplies generated power for power transmission to a non-contact power receiving device by wireless power supply, characterized in that, Comprising: A power transmission power generation unit that generates the power transmission power; And A control unit that controls the generation of the power transmission power by the power transmission power generation unit, The control unit controls the generation of the power transmission power by the power transmission power generation unit according to the surrounding environment in which at least one of the non-contact power transmission device and the non-contact power receiving device is located or the device state of at least one of them, and, The control unit includes a learning unit that accumulates the period during which a person is detected around the non-contact power transmission device, and determines a rechargeable period based on the result of the accumulation, When the control unit receives a margin reduction signal indicating that the remaining amount of the battery of the non-contact power receiving device has reached below a predetermined threshold from the non-contact power receiving device, the control unit causes the power transmission power generation unit to generate the power transmission power, and even when receiving the margin reduction signal, if it is not the rechargeable period currently, the control unit does not cause the power transmission power generation unit to generate the power transmission power.

2. The non-contact power transmission device according to claim 1, wherein: When the control unit determines that a person is detected within a predetermined range around the non-contact power transmission device, the control unit causes the power transmission power generation unit to generate the power transmission power.

3. The non-contact power transmission device according to claim 2, wherein: When the control unit receives a human detection signal from a human body sensor, the control unit determines that the person is detected, wherein the human body sensor outputs the human detection signal when a person is detected within the range.

4. The non-contact power transmission device according to claim 3, wherein: After the power transmission power starts to be generated, when the control unit does not detect a person within the range within a specified period, the control unit causes the power transmission power generation unit to stop generating the power transmission power.

5. The non-contact power transmission device according to claim 2, wherein: When the control unit receives a lighting-on detection signal from a lighting-on detection unit, the control unit determines that the person is detected, wherein the lighting-on detection unit outputs the lighting-on detection signal when the lighting within the range is turned on.

6. The non-contact power transmission device according to claim 2, wherein: When the control unit receives a lighting-on detection signal from a lighting-on detection unit and a door switch detection signal from a door switch lock detection unit, the control unit determines that the person is detected, wherein the lighting-on detection unit outputs the lighting-on detection signal when the lighting within the range is turned on, and the door switch lock detection unit outputs the door switch detection signal when a switch operation of the door for entering the range occurs.

7. The non-contact power transmission device according to claim 2, wherein: When the control unit receives the lighting-on detection signal from the lighting-on detection unit and the human detection signal from the human sensor, it determines that the person has been detected. Here, the lighting-on detection unit outputs the lighting-on detection signal when the lighting within the range is turned on, and the human sensor outputs the human detection signal when a person is detected within the range.

8. The contactless power transmission device according to claim 2, characterized in that: When the control unit receives the locking detection signal from the door switch locking detection unit, it determines that the person has been detected. Here, the door switch locking detection unit outputs the locking detection signal when a locking operation for the door to enter the range occurs.

9. The contactless power transmission device according to claim 8, characterized in that: When the control unit receives the unlocking detection signal from the door switch locking detection unit after the power transmission power starts to be generated, it causes the power transmission power generation unit to stop generating the power transmission power. Here, the unlocking detection signal is output when the unlocking operation of the door occurs.

10. The contactless power transmission device according to claim 2, characterized in that: When the control unit does not detect a person within the range, it causes the power transmission power generation unit to generate power transmission power with a higher power than that generated when it is determined that the person has been detected.

11. The contactless power transmission device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control unit changes the power of the power transmission power to be generated by the power transmission power generation unit according to the cooling environment of the contactless power receiving device.

12. The contactless power transmission device according to claim 1, characterized in that: It further includes a memory unit that pre-stores the identification information of the contactless power receiving device that is the supply target, When the control unit detects the contactless power receiving device whose identification information is stored in the memory unit around the contactless power transmission device, it causes the power transmission power generation unit to generate the power transmission power.

13. The contactless power transmission device according to claim 1, characterized in that: It further includes a memory unit that pre-stores the authentication information of the user, When the control unit detects the user whose authentication information is stored in the memory unit around the contactless power transmission device, it causes the power transmission power generation unit to generate the power transmission power.

14. The contactless power transmission device according to claim 1, characterized in that: It further includes a memory unit that pre-stores the rechargeable period.

15. A non-contact power receiving system for power transmission, characterized in that, Comprising: The contactless power transmission device according to claim 1; and The contactless power receiving device, The contactless power receiving device includes: The battery that is charged using the power transmission power supplied from the contactless power transmission device; and A battery remaining amount detection unit that detects the remaining amount of the battery and, when the remaining amount reaches below the predetermined threshold, sends the remaining amount reduction signal to the contactless power transmission device, When the control unit of the contactless power transmission device receives the remaining amount reduction signal, it causes the power transmission power generation unit to generate the power transmission power.

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