Receiver, receiving method, transmitter and sending method

Abstract

[Problem] Provide a technology capable of reducing the possibility of electric power affecting a human body while increasing charging efficiency in the case of a wireless power supply. [Solution] Provide a receiver including: a wireless communication unit that receives radio waves transmitted from a transmitter; a display control unit that controls display of at least one of reception intensity of the radio waves transmitted from the transmitter in the wireless communication unit and predetermined information according to the reception intensity; and a contactless communication unit that receives electric power wirelessly transmitted from the transmitter when the reception intensity exceeds a threshold value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a receiver, a receiving method, a transmitter and a transmitting method. Background Art

[0002] Electric power is required to operate the equipment. Generally, the equipment is charged by feeding power from a power source via a wired line. However, it is troublesome to connect a connector to the equipment or insert a plug into a socket every time the equipment is charged. Therefore, in recent years, a technology for charging the equipment by wireless power feeding from a charger is also known (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Citation List

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-209011 Summary of the invention

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] However, in the case of charging equipment by wireless power feeding, not all the power sent from the charger reaches the equipment. For example, in the case where there is a person between the equipment and the charger, there is a case where at least a part of the power sent from the charger may collide with the person. In this case, not only the charging efficiency may be reduced, but also the power may affect the person's body (human body).

[0008] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a technology capable of improving charging efficiency at the time of wireless power feeding and reducing the possibility that the power may affect the human body.

[0009] Solution to the problem

[0010] According to the present disclosure, a receiver is provided, comprising: a wireless communication unit configured to receive radio waves sent from a transmitter; a display control unit configured to control the display of at least one of a reception intensity of the radio waves sent from the transmitter at the wireless communication unit and predetermined information based on the reception intensity; and a contactless communication unit configured to receive power wirelessly sent from the transmitter when the reception intensity exceeds a threshold value.

[0011] According to the present disclosure, a receiving method at a receiver is provided, comprising: receiving radio waves sent from a transmitter; controlling the reception intensity of the radio waves sent from the transmitter at the receiver and the display of at least one of predetermined information according to the reception intensity; and receiving power wirelessly sent from the transmitter when the reception intensity exceeds a threshold value.

[0012] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a transmitter including: a wireless communication unit configured to transmit radio waves to a receiver; and a contactless communication unit configured to wirelessly transmit power to the receiver when a reception intensity of the radio waves transmitted to the receiver at the receiver exceeds a threshold.

[0013] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a transmission method including: transmitting a radio wave to a receiver; and wirelessly transmitting power to the receiver if the radio wave transmitted to the receiver exceeds a threshold value.

[0014] Advantageous Effects of the Invention

[0015] As described above, according to the present disclosure, a technology is provided that is capable of improving charging efficiency and reducing the possibility that power may affect the human body when wireless power is fed. Note that the above effects are not necessarily limited, and it is possible to obtain any effect described in this specification or other effects that can be detected from this specification together with or instead of the above effects. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 : is a view for explaining an overview of a power feeding system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 2 is a view illustrating a functional configuration example of a receiver according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 3 is a view illustrating a functional configuration example of the transmitter according to this embodiment.

[0019] Figure 4 is a sequence diagram illustrating an operation example of the power feeding system according to this embodiment.

[0020] Figure 5 is a view illustrating a display example of a reception level.

[0021] Figure 6 is a view illustrating another display example of the reception level.

[0022] Figure 7 is a view illustrating a display example of information according to a direction in which a transmitter exists.

[0023] Figure 8 is a view illustrating a functional configuration example of a receiver according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Fig. 9 is a view illustrating a functional configuration example of the transmitter according to this embodiment.

[0025] Fig.10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an operation example of the power feeding system according to this embodiment.

[0026] Fig.11 is a view illustrating a functional configuration example of a transmitter according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Fig.12 is a sequence diagram illustrating an operation example of the power feeding system according to this embodiment.

[0028] Fig.13 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration example of a receiver. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the present specification and the accompanying drawings, components having substantially the same functional configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0030] In addition, in this specification and the accompanying drawings, different numbers are sometimes used after the same reference numeral to distinguish multiple structural elements having substantially the same or similar functional configurations from each other. However, in the case where it is not necessary to particularly distinguish the multiple structural elements having substantially the same or similar functional configurations, only the same reference numeral is attached. In addition, different letters are sometimes used after the same reference numeral to distinguish similar structural elements according to different embodiments. However, in the case where it is not necessary to particularly distinguish such similar structural elements, only the same reference numeral is attached.

[0031] Note that the description will be provided in the following order.

[0032] 0. Overview

[0033] 1. First Embodiment

[0034] 1.1. Example of functional configuration of the receiver

[0035] 1.2. Example of transmitter function configuration

[0036] 1.3. Functional details of the power feed system

[0037] 2. Second Embodiment

[0038] 2.1. Example of functional configuration of receiver

[0039] 2.2. Example of transmitter functional configuration

[0040] 2.3. Functional details of the power feed system

[0041] 3. Third embodiment

[0042] 3.1. Example of transmitter functional configuration

[0043] 3.2. Functional details of the power feed system

[0044] 4. Hardware Configuration Example

[0045] 5. Conclusion

[0046] <0.Overview>

[0047] Figure 1 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a power feeding system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 , the power feeding system 1 exists in the real space 90. Figure 1 In the example shown, a case is assumed in which the real space 90 is a closed space (room) surrounded by a floor surface, a wall surface, and a ceiling surface. However, the real space 90 does not have to be a closed space (room). For example, the real space 90 may be a space in which part or all is open to the outside (such as, for example, outdoors). The power feeding system 1 includes a receiver (Rx) 10 and a transmitter (Tx) 20.

[0048] The transmitter (Tx) 20 may wirelessly transmit power to the receiver (Rx) 10. In this case, the transmitter (Tx) 20 may transmit power while specifying a transmission direction using an antenna having directivity. The receiver (Rx) 10 may receive wireless power feed by receiving power wirelessly transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20. Figure 1 , in a real space 90, there is a user 40 using a receiver (Rx) 10. Then, a person 50 exists between the receiver (Rx) 10 and the transmitter (Tx) 20.

[0049] Here, in the case of charging the receiver (Rx) 10 by wireless power feeding, all the power transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 does not necessarily reach the receiver (Rx) 10. For example, Figure 1 As shown in , when a person 50 exists between the receiver (Rx) 10 and the transmitter (Tx) 20, there is a case where at least a part of the power transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 collides with the person 50. In this case, (because the power is absorbed or reflected by the person 50), there is a possibility that not only the charging efficiency will be reduced, but also the power will affect the body (human body) of the person 50.

[0050] Therefore, in this specification, a technology capable of improving charging efficiency at the time of wireless power feeding and capable of reducing the possibility that power affects a human body will be mainly described.

[0051] Specifically, the transmitter (Tx) 20 transmits radio waves (hereinafter also referred to as "beacons") before transmitting power. Then, the user 40 moves the receiver (Rx) 10 until the reception intensity of the radio waves at the receiver (Rx) 10 exceeds a threshold value. Figure 1 The diagram shows a state in which the receiver (Rx) 10 is moved by the user 40 and the receiver (Rx) 10 is represented as receivers (Rx) 10-1, 10-2, and 10-3 at three time points. Then, when the reception strength of the beacon at the receiver (Rx) 10 exceeds the threshold, power is transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20.

[0052] refer to Figure 1 , because the reception strength of the beacon at the receiver (Rx) 10 - 2 exceeds the threshold, the power transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 is received at the receiver (Rx) 10 - 2 . Figure 1 An example is illustrated in which the direction of power to be transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 is specified so that the power transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 reaches the receiver (Rx) 10-2 after being reflected by the wall surface. Such specification of the transmission direction of power will be described in detail later.

[0053] An overview of the embodiments of the present disclosure has been described above.

[0054] <1. First Embodiment>

[0055] Subsequently, a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0056] [1.1. Functional configuration example of the receiver]

[0057] First, a functional configuration example of a receiver (Rx) according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Figure 2 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a receiver (Rx) according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 As shown in , the receiver (Rx) 10A according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure includes a non-contact communication unit 120 (power receiving unit), a storage unit 130 , a wireless communication unit 140 , a control unit 150A, and a display unit 160 .

[0058] Note that in this specification, the example in which the contactless communication unit 120 (power receiving unit), the storage unit 130, the wireless communication unit 140, the control unit 150A, and the display unit 160 exist inside the same device (receiver (Rx) 10A) will be mainly described. However, there is no particular limitation on the location of these blocks. For example, a part of these blocks may exist at a server, etc.

[0059] The contactless communication unit 120 includes a communication circuit and receives wireless power feeding by receiving power wirelessly transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20A. Any scheme can be used as a wireless power feeding scheme. For example, as a wireless power feeding scheme, a magnetic field coupling scheme can be used, an electric field coupling scheme can be used, or an evanescent wave (evanscentwave) scheme can be used. As a magnetic field coupling scheme, an electromagnetic induction scheme can be used, or a magnetic field resonance scheme can be used.

[0060] The storage unit 130 is a recording medium that stores a program to be executed by the control unit 150A or stores data required to execute the program. In addition, the storage unit 130 temporarily stores data for operation by the control unit 150A. The storage unit 130 may be a magnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage device, an optical storage device, or a magneto-optical storage device.

[0061] The wireless communication unit 140 includes a communication circuit and has a function of performing communication with the transmitter (Tx) 20A. For example, the wireless communication unit 140 has a function of receiving a beacon from the transmitter (Tx) 20A. In the first embodiment of the present disclosure, it will be assumed that the wireless communication unit 140 includes an antenna that wirelessly receives a beacon from the transmitter (Tx) 20A. In addition, in the first embodiment of the present disclosure, it will be assumed that the wireless communication unit 140 receives a beacon from the transmitter (Tx) through near field communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0062] The control unit 150A performs control on the corresponding units of the receiver (Rx) 10A. Figure 2 As shown in , the control unit 150A includes a communication control unit 151, a radio field strength measuring unit 152, and a display control unit 153. These respective functional blocks will be described in detail later. Note that the control unit 150A may be composed of, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or the like. In the case where the control unit 150A is composed of a processing device such as a CPU, such a processing device may be composed of an electronic circuit.

[0063] The display unit 160 displays various information. In the first embodiment of the present disclosure, it will be mainly assumed that the display unit 160 includes a display that can perform display so that the user can view. The display may be a liquid crystal display or an organic electroluminescent (EL) display.

[0064] The functional configuration example of the receiver (Rx) 10A according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above.

[0065] [1.2. Functional configuration example of transmitter]

[0066] Subsequently, a functional configuration example of the transmitter (Tx) 20A according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Figure 3 1 is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of a transmitter (Tx) 20A according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 As shown in , the transmitter (Tx) 20A according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure includes a wireless communication unit 210A, a contactless communication unit 220, a storage unit 230, and a control unit 250A.

[0067] Note that in this specification, an example in which the wireless communication unit 210A, the contactless communication unit 220, the storage unit 230, and the control unit 250A exist inside the same device (transmitter (Tx) 20A) will be mainly described. However, there is no particular limitation on the location of these blocks. For example, a part of these blocks may exist at a server, etc.

[0068] The wireless communication unit 210A includes a communication circuit, and has a function of performing communication with the receiver (Rx) 10A. For example, the wireless communication unit 210A has a function of sending a beacon to the receiver (Rx) 10A. In the first embodiment of the present disclosure, it will be assumed that the wireless communication unit 210A includes a directional antenna (such as, for example, an array antenna) that wirelessly sends a beacon to the receiver (Rx) 10A. In addition, in the first embodiment of the present disclosure, it will be assumed that the wireless communication unit 210A sends a beacon to the receiver (Rx) 10A through near field communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0069] The contactless communication unit 220 includes a communication circuit, and performs wireless power feeding by wirelessly sending power to the receiver (Rx) 10A. As described above, any scheme can be used as a wireless power feeding scheme. For example, as a wireless power feeding scheme, a magnetic field coupling scheme can be used, an electric field coupling scheme can be used, or an evanescent wave scheme can be used. As a magnetic field coupling scheme, an electromagnetic induction scheme can be used, or a magnetic field resonance scheme can be used.

[0070] The storage unit 230 is a recording medium that stores a program to be executed by the control unit 250A or stores data required to execute the program. In addition, the storage unit 230 temporarily stores data for operation by the control unit 250A. The storage unit 230 may be a magnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage device, an optical storage device, or a magneto-optical storage device.

[0071] The control unit 250A performs control on the corresponding units of the transmitter (Tx) 20A. Figure 3As shown in , the control unit 250A includes a communication control unit 251 and a reception strength determination unit 252. These corresponding functional blocks will be described in detail later. Note that the control unit 250A can be composed of, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or the like. In the case where the control unit 250A is composed of a processing device such as a CPU, such a processing device can be composed of an electronic circuit.

[0072] The functional configuration example of the transmitter (Tx) 20A according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above.

[0073] [1.3. Functional details of the power feeding system]

[0074] Subsequently, the functions of the power feeding system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail. Figure 4 is a sequence diagram illustrating an operation example of the power feeding system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 In addition, reference will be made to Figures 1 to 3 Description is provided. First, at the transmitter (Tx), the wireless communication unit 210A transmits a beacon with directionality according to the control of the communication control unit 251 (S11-1). In this case, the transmission direction of the beacon can be any direction. At the receiver (Rx), the beacon is received by the wireless communication unit 140.

[0075] The radio field strength measuring unit 152 measures the reception strength of the beacon received by the wireless communication unit 140 at the wireless communication unit 210A (S12-1). Then, the display control unit 153 controls the display unit 160 so that the reception strength at the wireless communication unit 140 of the beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) is displayed by the display unit 160. Alternatively, the display control unit 153 may control the display unit 160 so that predetermined information according to the reception strength is displayed by the display unit 160. Alternatively, the display control unit 153 may control the display unit 160 so that the reception strength and the predetermined information according to the reception strength are displayed together by the display unit 160.

[0076] Here, the predetermined information is not particularly limited. For example, the display control unit 153 may perform control to display the reception level corresponding to the reception intensity as predetermined information. The reception level may be divided into any number of stages. That is, the reception level may include two stages, or may include equal to or greater than three stages. It is noted that the distance information identified from the reception intensity may be used as the reception level. For example, the relationship between the reception intensity and the distance satisfies the relationship that the reception intensity is inversely proportional to the square of the distance.

[0077] Figure 5 is a view illustrating a display example of a reception level. Figure 5In particular, the figure shows the case where the reception level includes two stages. Figure 5 , receivers (Rx) 10-1 to 10-3 are illustrated, and Figure 1 The receivers (Rx) 10-1 to 10-3 shown in FIG.

[0078] As from Figure 1 As can be seen, the beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 arrives at the receiver (Rx) 10-1 from the right oblique forward direction (at a slightly steep angle) with respect to the receiver (Rx) 10-1. That is, the reception intensity of the beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 at the receiver (Rx) 10-1 corresponds to a low reception level. Therefore, the display control unit 153 may perform control to display the low reception level (at Figure 5 In the example shown, the character string 161 - 1 is “No Good”. The user who sees this display attempts to move the receiver (Rx) 10 - 1 to increase the reception level.

[0079] In addition, if Figure 1 As can be seen, the beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 arrives at the receiver (Rx) 10-3 from the left oblique forward direction (at a very steep angle) with respect to the receiver (Rx) 10-3. That is, the reception intensity of the beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 at the receiver (Rx) 10-3 corresponds to a low reception level. Therefore, the display control unit 153 may perform control to display the low reception level (at Figure 5 In the example shown, the character string 161 - 1 is “No Good”. The user who sees this display attempts to move the receiver (Rx) 10 - 1 to increase the reception level.

[0080] On the other hand, as Figure 1 As can be seen, the beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 arrives at the receiver (Rx) 10-2 from a substantially forward direction (at a gentle angle) with respect to the receiver (Rx) 10-2. That is, the reception intensity of the beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 at the receiver (Rx) 10-2 corresponds to a high reception level. Therefore, the display control unit 153 may perform control to display a high reception level (at Figure 5 In the example shown, the character string 161 - 2 is “Good”.) The user who sees this display attempts to keep the receiver (Rx) 10 - 1 at that position.

[0081] Figure 6 is a view illustrating another display example of the reception level. Figure 6 In particular, the figure shows a situation where the reception level includes four stages (strong, slightly weak, weak, and very weak). Figure 6 , similar to Figure 5, receivers (Rx) 10-1 to 10-3 are illustrated, and Figure 1 The receivers (Rx) 10-1 to 10-3 shown in FIG.

[0082] As from Figure 1 As can be seen, the beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 arrives at the receiver (Rx) 10-1 from the right oblique forward direction (at a slightly steep angle) with respect to the receiver (Rx) 10-1. That is, the reception intensity of the beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 at the receiver (Rx) 10-1 corresponds to a "slightly weak" reception level. Therefore, the display control unit 153 may perform control to display the "slightly weak" reception level (at Figure 6 In the example shown, two bars 161 - 3 ). A user seeing this display attempts to move the receiver (Rx) 10 - 1 to increase the reception level.

[0083] In addition, if Figure 1 As can be seen, the beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 arrives at the receiver (Rx) 10-3 from the left oblique forward direction (at a very steep angle) with respect to the receiver (Rx) 10-3. That is, the reception intensity of the beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 at the receiver (Rx) 10-3 corresponds to a "very weak" reception level. Therefore, the display control unit 153 may perform control to display the "very weak" reception level (at Figure 6 In the example shown, one bar 161-5). A user seeing this display attempts to move the receiver (Rx) 10-1 to increase the reception level.

[0084] On the other hand, as Figure 1 As can be seen, the beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 arrives at the receiver (Rx) 10-2 from a substantially forward direction (at a gentle angle) with respect to the receiver (Rx) 10-2. That is, the reception intensity of the beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 at the receiver (Rx) 10-2 corresponds to a "strong" reception level. Therefore, the display control unit 153 may perform control to display a "strong" reception level (in Figure 6 In the example shown, three bars 161-4). A user seeing this display attempts to keep the receiver (Rx) 10-1 in that position.

[0085] Alternatively, the display control unit 153 may control the display of information according to the direction in which the transmitter (Tx) 20 exists as predetermined information. For example, the display control unit 153 may specify the direction in which the transmitter (Tx) 20 exists, and may cause the direction to which the receiver (Rx) is to move to be displayed with an arrow so that the direction of the receiver (Rx) matches the direction in which the transmitter (Tx) 20 exists. In this case, the distance that the receiver (Rx) is to move may be expressed by the length of the arrow. Note that any method may be used to detect the direction in which the transmitter (Tx) 20 exists. For example, in the case where the wireless communication unit 140 includes an antenna having directivity (such as, for example, an array antenna), the direction in which the transmitter (Tx) 20 exists may be detected based on the direction in which a beacon is received by the antenna.

[0086] Figure 7 2 is a diagram illustrating a display example of information according to a direction in which a transmitter (Tx) 20 exists. Figure 7 , receivers (Rx) 10-1 to 10-3 are illustrated, and Figure 1 The receivers (Rx) 10 - 1 to 10 - 3 shown in FIG.

[0087] As from Figure 1 As can be seen, the beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 arrives at the receiver (Rx) 10-1 from the right oblique forward direction (at a slightly steep angle) based on the receiver (Rx) 10-1. Therefore, because the receiver (Rx) should be moved slightly to the right to match the direction of the receiver (Rx) with the direction in which the transmitter (Tx) 20 exists, the display control unit 153 may perform control to display a short right arrow 161-6. The user who sees this display attempts to move the receiver (Rx) slightly to the right to increase the reception level.

[0088] In addition, if Figure 1 As can be seen, the beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 arrives at the receiver (Rx) 10-3 from the left oblique forward direction (at a very steep angle) based on the receiver (Rx) 10-3. Therefore, since the receiver (Rx) should be greatly moved to the right to match the direction of the receiver (Rx) with the direction in which the transmitter (Tx) 20 exists, the display control unit 153 may perform control to display a long right arrow 161-8. The user who sees such a display attempts to move the receiver (Rx) greatly to the left to increase the reception level.

[0089] On the other hand, as Figure 1As can be seen, the beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 arrives at the receiver (Rx) 10-2 from a generally forward direction (at a gentle angle) with respect to the receiver (Rx) 10-2. Therefore, since it is not necessary to particularly move the receiver (Rx) so that the direction of the receiver (Rx) matches the direction in which the transmitter (Tx) 20 exists, the display control unit 153 can perform control to display a character string 161-7 indicating that the reception level is sufficient. The user who sees such a display tries to keep the receiver (Rx) 10-2 at that position.

[0090] Here, the reception level of the first beacon at the receiver (Rx) is expressed as "Prx1". At the receiver (Rx), the wireless communication unit 140 transmits the reception level (=Prx1) to the transmitter (Tx) according to the control performed by the communication control unit 151 (S13-1). At the transmitter (Tx), the wireless communication unit 210A receives the reception level (=Prx1), and the reception strength determination unit 252 determines whether the reception level (=Prx1) exceeds a threshold value (=Prx_threshold).

[0091] Here, it will be assumed that the reception level (=Prx1) is equal to or lower than the threshold value (=Prx_threshold) determined by the reception strength determination unit 252 (S14-1). In this case, the wireless communication unit 210A transmits a beacon with directionality again (S11-2). In this case, the transmission direction of the beacon may be any direction. That is, the transmission direction of the beacon may be the same as the transmission direction of the previous beacon, or may be different from the transmission direction of the previous beacon.

[0092] Similar to the time of receiving the first beacon, the radio field strength measuring unit 152 measures, at the wireless communication unit 210A, the reception strength of the second beacon received by the wireless communication unit 140. Then, the display control unit 153 controls the display unit 160 so that at least one of the reception strength of the second beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20A at the wireless communication unit 140 and predetermined information according to the reception strength is displayed by the display unit 160.

[0093] Here, the reception level of the second beacon at the receiver (Rx) is expressed as "Prx2". At the receiver (Rx), the wireless communication unit 140 transmits the reception level (=Prx2) to the transmitter (Tx). At the transmitter (Tx), the wireless communication unit 210A receives the reception level (=Prx2), and the reception strength determination unit 252 determines whether the reception level (=Prx2) exceeds a threshold value (=Prx_threshold).

[0094] Here, it will be assumed that the reception level (=Prx2) is equal to or less than the threshold value (=Prx_threshold) determined by the reception strength determination unit 252 (S14-2). In this case, the wireless communication unit 210A transmits a beacon with directionality again. It is assumed that the same operation is repeated thereafter, and the wireless communication unit 210A transmits the n-th beacon with directionality (S11-n). In this case, the transmission direction of the beacon may be an arbitrary direction. That is, the transmission direction of the beacon may be the same as the transmission direction of the previous beacon, or may be different from the transmission direction of the previous beacon.

[0095] Similar to when the first beacon is received, the radio field strength measuring unit 152 measures, at the wireless communication unit 210A, the reception strength of the n-th beacon received by the wireless communication unit 140. Then, the display control unit 153 controls the display unit 160 so that at least one of the reception strength at the wireless communication unit 140 of the n-th beacon transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20A and predetermined information according to the reception strength is displayed by the display unit 160.

[0096] Here, the reception level of the nth beacon at the receiver (Rx) is represented as "Prxn". At the receiver (Rx), the wireless communication unit 140 transmits the reception level (=Prxn) to the transmitter (Tx). At the transmitter (Tx), the wireless communication unit 210A receives the reception level (=Prxn), and the reception strength determination unit 252 determines whether the reception level (=Prxn) exceeds a threshold value (=Prx_threshold).

[0097] Here, it will be assumed that the case where the reception level (=Prxn) exceeds the threshold value (=Prx_threshold) is determined by the reception strength determination unit 252 (S14-n). In this case, the contactless communication unit 220 wirelessly transmits power to the receiver (Rx) (S15). In this case, the contactless communication unit 220 only needs to transmit power in the Rx direction while setting the transmission direction of the previous beacon (nth beacon) to the direction in which the receiver (Rx) exists (hereinafter also referred to as "Rx direction").

[0098] When the contactless communication unit 120 receives the power transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) at the receiver (Rx), charging of the receiver (Rx) is started by using the power received by the contactless communication unit 120 (S16). Thereafter, there may be a case where the receiver (Rx) also moves in association with the movement of the user (S17). In this case, for example, in the case where a sensor for detecting movement (such as, for example, an acceleration sensor) is provided at the receiver (Rx), the wireless communication unit 140 transmits sensor information (such as, for example, acceleration) detected by the sensor to the transmitter (Tx) (S18).

[0099] The wireless communication unit 210A receives the sensor information, and the communication control unit 251 calculates the amount of movement (movement direction and movement distance) of the receiver (Rx) based on the sensor information. Then, the communication control unit 251 specifies the current position of the receiver (Rx) while adding the amount of movement of the receiver (Rx) to the position of the receiver (Rx) at the previous power transmission. Here, the position of the receiver (Rx) at the previous power transmission may be detected by the transmitter (Tx) or may be detected by the receiver (Rx).

[0100] The communication control unit 251 specifies a new Rx direction based on the specified current position of the receiver (Rx), and the contactless communication unit 220 transmits power in the Rx direction (S19) according to the control performed by the communication control unit 251. In this way, the receiver (Rx) is followed by the transmitter (Tx) (S20).

[0101] According to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, if the user sees the reception strength of the beacon sent from the transmitter (Tx) at the receiver (Rx) or the display of at least one of the predetermined information according to the reception strength, the user moves the receiver (Rx) so that the reception strength becomes larger. In this way, the possibility of at least a part of the power sent from the transmitter (Tx) colliding with a person is reduced. In addition, in this way, it is possible to improve the charging efficiency and reduce the possibility of power affecting the human body when wireless power is fed. Furthermore, according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to easily specify the direction in which power is to be sent by utilizing a beacon with directionality.

[0102] The first embodiment of the present disclosure has been described.

[0103] <2. Second Embodiment>

[0104] Subsequently, a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. The second embodiment of the present disclosure is different from the first embodiment of the present disclosure in that the power feeding system 1 includes a receiver (Rx) 10B ( Figure 8), and includes a transmitter (Tx) 20B ( Fig. 9 ). Therefore, the receiver (Rx) 10B and the transmitter (Tx) 20B will be mainly described below, and detailed descriptions about components in the second embodiment of the present disclosure that are common to the first embodiment of the present disclosure will be omitted.

[0105] [2.1. Functional configuration example of receiver]

[0106] Subsequently, a functional configuration example of the receiver (Rx) 10B according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Figure 8 10B is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of a receiver (Rx) 10B according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the receiver (Rx) 10A ( Figure 2 ), the receiver (Rx) 10B according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure includes a sensor unit 110, and includes a control unit 150B instead of the control unit 150A. Therefore, the sensor unit 110 and the control unit 150B will be mainly described below, and detailed descriptions of other components will be omitted.

[0107] The sensor unit 110 includes a sensor for detecting the position of the receiver (Rx) 10B. The sensor for detecting the position of the receiver (Rx) 10B is not particularly limited. For example, the sensor for detecting the position of the receiver (Rx) 10B may be a global positioning system (GPS) sensor, or may be a sensor for receiving a radio signal from a base station. The satellite signal detected by the GPS sensor may be used to estimate the position of the receiver (Rx) 10B. In addition, the reception strength of the radio signal from the base station may be used for the indoor position estimation technology of the receiver (Rx) 10B.

[0108] In addition, the sensor unit 110 includes a sensor that detects the relative position of a person based on the position of the receiver (Rx) 10B. The sensor that detects the relative position of a person based on the position of the receiver (Rx) 10B may include an image sensor or may include an infrared (IR) sensor. Alternatively, the sensor that detects the relative position of a person may include a microphone or may include a sonar. Alternatively, the sensor that detects the relative position of a person may include a capacitive sensor or may include a pressure sensor. Alternatively, the sensor that detects the relative position of a person may include an odor sensor.

[0109] The control unit 150B performs control on the corresponding units of the receiver (Rx) 10B. Figure 8, the control unit 150B includes a position acquisition unit 154 in addition to the communication control unit 151, the radio field strength measurement unit 152, and the display control unit 153. That is, compared with the control unit 150A, the control unit 150B additionally includes the position acquisition unit 154. Therefore, the position acquisition unit 154 will be mainly described below, and a detailed description of the communication control unit 151, the radio field strength measurement unit 152, and the display control unit 153 will be omitted.

[0110] The functional configuration example of the receiver (Rx) 10B according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above.

[0111] [2.2. Functional configuration example of transmitter]

[0112] Subsequently, a functional configuration example of the transmitter (Tx) 20B according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Fig. 9 20B is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of a transmitter (Tx) 20B according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. , with the transmitter (Tx) 20A ( Figure 3 ), the transmitter (Tx) 20B according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure includes a wireless communication unit 210B instead of the wireless communication unit 210A, and includes a control unit 250B instead of the control unit 250A. Therefore, the wireless communication unit 210B and the control unit 250B will be mainly described below, and detailed descriptions of other components will be omitted.

[0113] The wireless communication unit 210B includes a communication circuit and has a function of performing communication with the receiver (Rx) 10A. For example, the wireless communication unit 210B has a function of sending a beacon to the receiver (Rx) 10A. In the second embodiment of the present disclosure, it will be assumed that the wireless communication unit 210A includes a non-directional antenna that wirelessly sends a beacon to the receiver (Rx) 10A. In addition, in the second embodiment of the present disclosure, it will be assumed that the wireless communication unit 210B sends a beacon to the receiver (Rx) 10A through near field communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0114] The control unit 250B performs control on the corresponding units of the transmitter (Tx) 20B. Fig. 9 , the control unit 250B further includes a direction specifying unit 253 in addition to the communication control unit 251 and the reception strength determining unit 252. That is, compared with the control unit 250A, the control unit 250B additionally includes the direction specifying unit 253. Therefore, the direction specifying unit 253 will be mainly described below, and the detailed description of the communication control unit 251 and the reception strength determining unit 252 will be omitted.

[0115] The functional configuration example of the transmitter (Tx) 20B according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above.

[0116] [2.3. Functional details of the power feeding system]

[0117] Subsequently, functional details of the power feeding system according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Fig.10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an operation example of the power feeding system according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.10 In addition, reference will be made to Figure 1 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 In the second embodiment of the present disclosure, at the transmitter (Tx), the wireless communication unit 210B transmits a non-directional beacon instead of a beacon having directionality according to the control of the communication control unit 251 (S21-1, S21-2, S21-3).

[0118] Similar to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, a case where the reception level (=Prxn) exceeds the threshold value (=Prx_threshold) determined by the reception strength determination unit 252 will be assumed (S14-n). In this case, the wireless communication unit 210B sends a position acquisition request to grasp the direction in which the receiver (Rx) exists (S22). At the receiver (Rx), the wireless communication unit 140 receives the position acquisition request. The position acquisition unit 154 acquires the position of the receiver (Rx) based on the sensor information detected by the sensor that detects the position of the receiver (Rx) 10B described above (S24).

[0119] In addition, the position acquisition unit 154 acquires the position of the receiver (Rx) based on sensor information detected by a sensor that detects the relative position of a person with respect to the position of the receiver (Rx). For example, in the case where the sensor that detects the relative position of a person includes an image sensor, the relative position of the person can be acquired based on the position of at least a part of the body of the person (such as, for example, a face) in an image detected by the image sensor.

[0120] Alternatively, in the case where the sensor for detecting the relative position of a person includes an IR sensor, and in the case where the body temperature of a person is detected by the IR sensor, the relative position of the person can be acquired based on the position where the body temperature of the person is detected. The IR sensor can also be used to detect the heat of the receiver (Rx). That is, it can be set so that charging is not performed when the temperature detected by the IR sensor is greater than a threshold value.

[0121] In the case where the sensor for detecting the relative position of a person includes a microphone, the relative position of the person can be acquired based on the intensity and direction of the person's speech voice detected by the microphone. Alternatively, in the case where the sensor for detecting the relative position of a person includes a microphone, the relative position of the person can be acquired using artificial intelligence based on the sound of the person's movement (such as, for example, footsteps) detected by the microphone. In the case where the sensor for detecting the relative position of a person includes a sonar, the relative position of the person can be acquired based on the intensity and direction of the ultrasonic wave detected by the sonar.

[0122] Alternatively, in the case where the sensor for detecting the relative position of a person includes a capacitance sensor or a pressure sensor, the relative position of the person may be acquired based on the intensity and detection direction detected by the capacitance sensor or the pressure sensor. Alternatively, in the case where the sensor for detecting the relative position of a person includes an odor sensor, the relative position of the person may be acquired based on the intensity and detection direction of a predetermined substance emitted from the person detected by the odor sensor.

[0123] Note that other methods may be used to detect the position of a person. For example, in the case where a pressure sensor is embedded in a floor, the position of a person may be acquired based on the position where pressure is detected by the pressure sensor embedded in the floor. Alternatively, in the case where a sensor (such as, for example, a position detection sensor) is embedded in an item worn on a human body (such as, for example, shoes, glasses, clothes, and belts), the position of a person may be acquired based on the position detected by the sensor embedded in the worn item.

[0124] Alternatively, in the case where a camera is provided in the receiver (Rx) 10B and the environment around the person (such as, for example, a ceiling), the position of the person can be acquired based on the position of at least a part of the person's body (such as, for example, a face) in an image captured by the camera.

[0125] Alternatively, the relative position of the person and the relative position of the receiver (Rx) 10B with respect to the position of the transmitter (Tx) (i.e., the position of the receiver (Rx) 10B with respect to the position of the transmitter (Tx)) can be specified based on a room map created using simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM). In this case, in a mode in which the room is pre-divided into a plurality of areas and the direction of the person and the direction of the transmitter (Tx) are determined for each area, the relative position of the person and the relative position of the transmitter (Tx) can be specified based on this mode.

[0126] The wireless communication unit 140 sends a position acquisition response (S23) including the position of the receiver (Rx) 10B and the relative position of the person with respect to the position of the receiver (Rx) 10B to the transmitter (Tx). At the transmitter (Tx), the wireless communication unit 210B receives the position of the receiver (Rx) 10B and the relative position of the person with respect to the position of the receiver (Rx) 10B, and the direction specifying unit 253 calculates the position of the person based on the position of the receiver (Rx) and the relative position of the person. Then, the direction specifying unit 253 calculates the route from the transmitter (Tx) to the receiver (Rx) based on the position of the receiver (Rx) and the position of the person. In this case, the direction specifying unit 253 can calculate the shortest route by considering the reflection or absorption of the person. In addition, the direction specifying unit 253 can calculate the shortest route by further considering the reflection of the wall.

[0127] The non-contact communication unit 220 wirelessly transmits power in the direction along the route calculated by the direction specification unit 253 (S15). The subsequent operations can be performed in a similar manner to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0128] According to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, in a manner similar to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the possibility of at least a portion of the power sent from the transmitter (Tx) colliding with a person is reduced. In addition, in this way, it is possible to improve the charging efficiency and reduce the possibility of power affecting the human body when wireless power is fed. In addition, according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to easily specify the direction in which power is to be sent based on the position information detected by the receiver (Rx) by using a non-directional beacon.

[0129] The second embodiment of the present disclosure has been described.

[0130] <3. Third embodiment>

[0131] Subsequently, a third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. The third embodiment of the present disclosure is different from the first embodiment of the present disclosure in that the power feeding system 1 includes a transmitter (Tx) 20C ( Fig.11 ). Therefore, the transmitter (Tx) 20C will be mainly described below, and detailed descriptions of the components in the third embodiment of the present disclosure that are the same as those in the first embodiment of the present disclosure will be omitted.

[0132] [3.1. Functional configuration example of transmitter]

[0133] Subsequently, a functional configuration example of the transmitter (Tx) 20C according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Fig.11 20C is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of a transmitter (Tx) 20C according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.11As shown in FIG. , with the transmitter (Tx) 20A ( Figure 3 ), the transmitter (Tx) 20C according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure includes the sensor unit 110, includes a control unit 150C instead of the control unit 150A, and includes a wireless communication unit 210B instead of the wireless communication unit 210A. Therefore, the sensor unit 110, the wireless communication unit 210B, and the control unit 150C will be mainly described below, and detailed descriptions of other components will be omitted.

[0134] The sensor unit 110 includes a sensor that detects the position of the receiver (Rx) 10A. The sensor that detects the position of the receiver (Rx) 10A is not particularly limited. For example, the sensor that detects the position of the receiver (Rx) 10A may include an image sensor or may include an IR sensor. Alternatively, the sensor that detects the position of the receiver (Rx) 10A may be a sensor that receives a radio signal from the receiver (Rx) 10A. The reception strength of the radio signal from the receiver (Rx) 10A may be used in a technique for estimating the indoor position of the receiver (Rx) 10A.

[0135] In addition, the sensor unit 110 includes a sensor for detecting the position of a person. The sensor for detecting the position of a person may include an image sensor or may include an IR sensor. Alternatively, the sensor for detecting the position of a person may include a microphone or may include a sonar. Alternatively, the sensor for detecting the position of a person may include a capacitive sensor or may include a pressure sensor. Alternatively, the sensor for detecting the position of a person may include an odor sensor. Note that in the third embodiment of the present disclosure, it will be mainly assumed that the sensor unit 110 is set at the transmitter (Tx) 20C. In this case, the position of the receiver (Rx) 10A and the person with the position of the transmitter (Tx) 20C as a reference can be detected. However, the sensor unit 110 may be provided outside the transmitter (Tx) 20C (such as, for example, in a room where the transmitter (Tx) 20C is provided). In this case, if the sensor unit 110 detects the position of the transmitter (Tx) 20C in addition to the corresponding positions of the receiver (Rx) 10A and the person, the position of the receiver (Rx) 10A and the person with the position of the transmitter (Tx) 20C as a reference can be detected.

[0136] The control unit 250C performs control on the corresponding units of the transmitter (Tx) 20C. Fig.11, the control unit 250C includes a position acquisition unit 154 and a direction specification unit 253 in addition to the communication control unit 251 and the reception strength determination unit 252. That is, compared with the control unit 150A, the control unit 150C additionally includes the position acquisition unit 154 and the direction specification unit 253. Therefore, the position acquisition unit 154 and the direction specification unit 253 will be mainly described below, and the detailed description of the communication control unit 251 and the reception strength determination unit 252 will be omitted.

[0137] The functional configuration example of the transmitter (Tx) 20C according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above.

[0138] [3.2. Functional details of the power feeding system]

[0139] Subsequently, functional details of the power feeding system according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Fig.12 is a sequence diagram illustrating an operation example of the power feeding system according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.12 In addition, reference will be made to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Fig.11 In the third embodiment of the present disclosure, at the transmitter (Tx), the wireless communication unit 210B transmits a non-directional beacon instead of a beacon having directionality according to control performed by the communication control unit 251 (S21-1, S21-2, S21-3).

[0140] Similar to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, it will be assumed that the reception level (=Prxn) exceeds the threshold value (=Prx_threshold) determined by the reception strength determination unit 252 (S14-n). In this case, the position acquisition unit 154 acquires the position of the receiver (Rx) based on the sensor information detected by the sensor that detects the position of the receiver (Rx) described above (S24).

[0141] In addition, the position acquisition unit 154 acquires the position of the person based on the sensor information detected by the sensor that detects the position of the person. For example, in the case where the sensor that detects the position of the person includes an image sensor, the position of the person can be acquired based on the position of at least a part of the person's body (such as, for example, the face) in the image detected by the image sensor.

[0142] Alternatively, in a case where the sensor detecting the position of a person includes an IR sensor, and in a case where the body temperature of the person is detected by the IR sensor, the position of the person may be acquired based on the position where the body temperature of the person is detected.

[0143] In the case where the sensor for detecting the position of a person includes a microphone, the position of the person can be acquired based on the intensity and direction of the person's speech voice detected by the microphone. Alternatively, in the case where the sensor for detecting the position of a person includes a microphone, the position of the person can be acquired using artificial intelligence based on the sound of the person's movement (such as, for example, footsteps) detected by the microphone. In the case where the sensor for detecting the position of a person includes a sonar, the position of the person can be acquired based on the intensity and direction of the ultrasonic wave detected by the sonar.

[0144] Alternatively, in the case where the sensor for detecting the position of a person includes a capacitance sensor or a pressure sensor, the position of the person may be acquired based on the intensity and detection direction detected by the capacitance sensor or the pressure sensor. Alternatively, in the case where the sensor for detecting the position of a person includes an odor sensor, the position of the person may be acquired based on the intensity and detection direction of a predetermined substance emitted from the person detected by the odor sensor.

[0145] It is noted that other methods can be used to detect the position of a person in a manner similar to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. The direction specifying unit 253 calculates the route from the transmitter (Tx) to the receiver (Rx) based on the position of the receiver (Rx) and the position of the person. In this case, the direction specifying unit 253 can calculate the shortest route by considering the reflection or absorption of the person. In addition, the direction specifying unit 253 can calculate the shortest route by further considering the reflection of the wall. It is noted that an example will be described here in which the transmitter (Tx) obtains the corresponding positions of the person and the receiver (Rx) after receiving the reception level from the receiver (Rx). However, the timing for obtaining the corresponding positions of the person and the receiver (Rx) is not limited. For example, the transmitter (Tx) can obtain the corresponding positions of the person and the receiver (Rx) at a timing substantially the same as the timing of sending a beacon from the transmitter (Tx).

[0146] The contactless communication unit 220 wirelessly transmits power in the direction along the route calculated by the direction specifying unit 253 (S15). Subsequent operations can be performed in a manner similar to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. However, in the first embodiment of the present disclosure, such a configuration has been described in which the transmitter (Tx) 20A specifies the current position of the receiver (Rx) 10A based on the sensor information detected by the receiver (Rx) 10A, specifies a new Rx direction based on the current position of the receiver (Rx) 10A, and transmits power in the specified Rx direction. With this configuration, the transmitter (Tx) 20A can follow the receiver (Rx) 10A. However, in the third embodiment of the present disclosure, the position of the receiver (Rx) 10A and the person can be detected by the sensor unit 110 of the transmitter (Tx) 20C. Therefore, in the third embodiment of the present disclosure, the current position of the receiver (Rx) 10A and the person can be detected by the sensor unit 110, a new Rx direction can be specified based on the current position of (Rx) 10A and the person, and power can be transmitted in the specified Rx direction. With this configuration, the receiver (Rx) 10A can be followed by the transmitter (Tx) 20C.

[0147] According to the third embodiment of the present disclosure, in a manner similar to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the possibility of at least a portion of the power sent from the transmitter (Tx) colliding with a person is reduced. In addition, in this way, it is possible to improve the charging efficiency when wireless power is fed and reduce the possibility of power affecting the human body. In addition, according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to easily specify the direction in which power is to be sent based on the position information detected by the transmitter (Tx) by using a non-directional beacon.

[0148] The third embodiment of the present disclosure has been described.

[0149] <4. Hardware Configuration Example>

[0150] Next, we will refer to Fig.13 The hardware configuration of the receiver 10 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is described. Fig.13 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration example of the receiver 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.13 The hardware configuration example shown in is merely an example of the receiver 10. Fig.13 In the boxes shown in , unnecessary components can be deleted. Fig.13 The hardware configuration example shown in may be an example of the hardware configuration of the transmitter (Tx) 20 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Also in this case, it is also possible to Fig.13 Delete unnecessary components from the box shown in the figure.

[0151] like Fig.13As shown in FIG. 9 , the receiver 10 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 901, a read-only memory (ROM) 903, and a random access memory (RAM) 905. In addition, the receiver 10 includes a host bus 907, a bridge 909, an external bus 911, an interface 913, an input device 915, an output device 917, a storage device 919, a driver 921, a connection port 923, and a communication device 925. Moreover, the receiver 10 includes an imaging device 933 and a sensor 935. Alternatively or additionally to the CPU 901, the receiver 10 may also include a processing circuit such as a digital signal processor (DSP) or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0152] The CPU 901 functions as an arithmetic processing device and a control device, and controls the overall operation or a part of the operation of the receiver 10 according to various programs recorded in the ROM 903, the RAM 905, the storage device 919, or the removable recording medium 927. The ROM 903 stores programs, operating parameters, etc. used by the CPU 901. The RAM 905 temporarily stores programs used when executing the CPU 901 and parameters that are appropriately changed when executing such programs. The CPU 901, the ROM 903, and the RAM 905 are connected to each other via a host bus 907 configured according to an internal bus such as a CPU bus. In addition, the host bus 907 is connected to an external bus 911 such as a peripheral component interconnect / interface (PCI) bus via a bridge 909.

[0153] The input device 915 is a device operated by the user, such as a button. The input device 915 may include a mouse, a keyboard, a touch screen, a button, a switch, a joystick, etc. The input device 915 may include a microphone configured to detect a user's voice. The input device 915 may be a remote control device using, for example, infrared radiation and other types of radio waves. Alternatively, the input device 915 may be an external connection device 929 corresponding to the operation of the receiver 10, such as a mobile phone. The input device 915 includes an input control circuit that generates an input signal based on information input by the user to output the generated input signal to the CPU 901. The user inputs various data to the receiver 10 and indicates a processing operation by operating the input device 915. In addition, an imaging device 933 (described later) may be used as an input device by capturing an image of the movement of the user's hand or capturing the user's finger. In this case, the pointing position may be determined according to the movement of the hand or the direction of the finger.

[0154] The output device 917 includes a device that can visually or audibly report the acquired information to the user. The output device 917 can be, for example, a display device (such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic electroluminescent (EL) display), a sound output device (such as a speaker or headphones), etc. In addition, the output device 917 may include a plasma display panel (PDP), a projector, a hologram, a printer, etc. The output device 917 outputs the result obtained by the processing performed by the receiver 10 in the form of text or video (such as an image), or as a sound (such as voice and audio sound). In addition, the output device 917 may include a lamp for illuminating the surrounding environment, etc.

[0155] The storage device 919 is a device for data storage, which is an example of a storage unit of the receiver 10. The storage device 919 includes, for example, a magnetic storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a semiconductor storage device, an optical storage device, or a magneto-optical storage device. The storage device 919 stores therein a program executed by the CPU 901 and various data, various data acquired from the outside, and the like.

[0156] The drive 921 is a reader / writer for a removable recording medium 927 such as a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, and a semiconductor memory, and is built in the receiver 10 or externally connected to the receiver 10. The drive 921 reads out information recorded on the mounted removable recording medium 927, and outputs the information to the RAM 905. The drive 921 writes records in the mounted removable recording medium 927.

[0157] The connection port 923 is a port for directly connecting equipment to the receiver 10. The connection port 923 may be a USB (Universal Serial Bus) port, an IEEE1394 port, a Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) port, or the like. In addition, the connection port 923 may be an RS-232C port, an optical audio terminal, an HDMI (registered trademark) (High Definition Multimedia Interface) port, or the like. Connecting the external connection equipment 929 to the connection port 923 makes it possible to exchange various data between the receiver 10 and the external connection equipment 929.

[0158] The communication device 925 is a communication interface, which includes, for example, a communication device for being connected to a network 931. The communication device 925 can be, for example, a wired or wireless local area network (LAN), Bluetooth (registered trademark) or a communication card for a wireless USB (WUSB). The communication device 925 can also be, for example, a router for optical communication, a router for an asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL) or a modem for various communications. For example, the communication device 925 sends and receives signals on the Internet or sends and receives signals to another communication device by using a predetermined protocol such as TCP / IP. The network 931 to which the communication device 925 is connected is a network established by a wired or wireless connection. The network 931 is, for example, the Internet, a home LAN, infrared communication, radio communication or satellite communication.

[0159] The imaging device 933 is a device that captures an image of a real space and generates a captured image by using an image sensor such as a charge coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) and various components such as a lens for controlling image formation of a subject image on the image sensor. The imaging device 933 can capture a still image or a moving image.

[0160] The sensor 935 is a variety of sensors such as a distance sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a vibration sensor, an optical sensor, and a sound sensor. The sensor 935 acquires information about the state of the receiver 10 (such as the posture of the housing of the receiver 10) and information about the surrounding environment of the receiver 10 (such as the luminous intensity and noise around the receiver 10). The sensor 935 may include a global positioning system (GPS) sensor that receives a GPS signal to measure the latitude, longitude, and altitude of the device.

[0161] <5. Conclusion>

[0162] As described above, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when a user sees the display of at least one of the reception strength of a beacon sent from a transmitter (Tx) at a receiver (Rx) and predetermined information according to the reception strength, the user moves the receiver (Rx) so that the reception strength becomes larger. In this way, the possibility of at least a portion of the power sent from the transmitter (Tx) colliding with a person is reduced. In addition, in this way, the charging efficiency can be improved and the possibility of power affecting the human body can be reduced when wireless power is fed.

[0163] The preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the above examples. Those skilled in the art can find various replacements and modifications within the scope of the appended claims, and it should be understood that they will naturally fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0164] For example, the above mainly describes a case where the position of the transmitter (Tx) 20 is fixed and the power transmission direction is specified by the transmitter (Tx) 20 based on the position of the receiver (Rx) 10, the position of the person, the position of the wall, etc. and power is transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 in the specified transmission direction. However, the transmitter (Tx) 20 may be able to move. In this case, after the transmitter (Tx) 20 moves to a position where the power does not collide with the person and the position closest to the receiver, power can be transmitted from the transmitter (Tx) 20 to the receiver (Rx) 10. The transmitter (Tx) 20 can also be installed on a robot and can also be applied to a transmitter in a factory. In addition, the receiver (Rx) 10 can be an IoT device.

[0165] In the second embodiment of the present disclosure, the case where the position of the receiver (Rx) 10B and the position of the person are detected by the receiver (Rx) 10B has been described, and in the third embodiment of the present disclosure, the case where the position of the receiver (Rx) 10A and the position of the person are detected by the transmitter (Tx) 20C has been described. However, the position of the receiver (Rx) 10 may be detected by the receiver (Rx) 10, the position of the person may be detected by the transmitter (Tx) 20, the position of the receiver (Rx) 10 may be detected by the transmitter (Tx) 20, and the position of the person may be detected by the receiver (Rx) 10.

[0166] In addition, if the above-mentioned operation of the receiver (Rx) 10 is implemented, the location of the corresponding components is not particularly limited. As a specific example, part or all of the corresponding blocks set at the control unit 150 may exist at a server or the like. In addition, if the above-mentioned operation of the transmitter (Tx) 20 is implemented, the location of the corresponding components is not particularly limited. As a specific example, part or all of the corresponding blocks set at the control unit 250 may exist at a server or the like.

[0167] In addition, it is possible to create a program for causing hardware such as a CPU, ROM, and RAM incorporated in a computer to perform functions equivalent to the functions of the control unit 150 as described above. In addition, a computer-readable recording medium having the program recorded thereon may also be provided. In addition, it is possible to create a program for causing hardware such as a CPU, ROM, and RAM incorporated in a computer to perform functions equivalent to the functions of the control unit 250 as described above. In addition, a computer-readable recording medium having the program recorded thereon may also be provided.

[0168] In addition, the effects described in this specification are merely illustrative or exemplary effects, and are not restrictive. That is, the technology according to the present disclosure can achieve other effects that are obvious to those skilled in the art based on the description of this specification together with or instead of the above effects.

[0169] Furthermore, the present technology may also be configured as follows.

[0170] (1) A receiver comprising:

[0171] a wireless communication unit configured to receive a radio wave transmitted from the transmitter;

[0172] a display control unit configured to control display of at least one of a reception intensity of a radio wave transmitted from the transmitter at the wireless communication unit and predetermined information according to the reception intensity; and

[0173] A non-contact communication unit is configured to receive power wirelessly transmitted from a transmitter if a reception intensity exceeds a threshold value.

[0174] (2) The receiver according to (1),

[0175] The display control unit controls the display of the reception strength.

[0176] (3) The receiver according to (1),

[0177] The display control unit controls display of a reception level corresponding to the reception intensity as predetermined information.

[0178] (4) The receiver according to (1),

[0179] The display control unit controls display of information according to the direction in which the transmitter exists as predetermined information.

[0180] (5) A receiving method at a receiver, comprising:

[0181] receiving radio waves sent from a transmitter;

[0182] controlling display of at least one of reception intensity of a radio wave transmitted from a transmitter at a receiver and predetermined information according to the reception intensity; and

[0183] The power wirelessly transmitted from the transmitter is received in a case where the reception strength exceeds a threshold value.

[0184] (6) A transmitter, comprising:

[0185] a wireless communication unit configured to transmit radio waves to a receiver; and

[0186] The non-contact communication unit is configured to wirelessly transmit power to the receiver if the reception intensity of the radio waves transmitted to the receiver at the receiver exceeds a threshold value.

[0187] (7) The transmitter according to (6),

[0188] wherein the wireless communication unit transmits directional radio waves, and

[0189] In a case where the reception intensity of the radio wave having directivity at the receiver exceeds a threshold value, the contactless communication unit transmits power in the transmission direction of the radio wave.

[0190] (8) The transmitter according to (6),

[0191] Therein, in a case where the reception intensity exceeds a threshold value, the contactless communication unit transmits power in a direction along a route from the transmitter to the receiver, the route being calculated based on the position of the receiver and the position of the person.

[0192] (9) The transmitter according to (8),

[0193] Among them, when the reception intensity exceeds the threshold value, the non-contact communication unit transmits the power in the direction along the shortest route calculated in consideration of reflection or absorption by a person.

[0194] (10) The transmitter according to (9),

[0195] Here, when the reception intensity exceeds the threshold value, the non-contact communication unit transmits the power in the direction along the shortest route calculated also in consideration of reflection caused by the wall surface.

[0196] (11) The transmitter according to any one of (8) to (10),

[0197] The transmitter includes a direction specifying unit configured to calculate a route.

[0198] (12) The transmitter according to any one of (8) to (11),

[0199] The position of the person is calculated based on the relative position of the person detected by the receiver relative to the receiver and the position of the receiver.

[0200] (13) The transmitter according to any one of (8) to (11),

[0201] The position of the person is detected by the transmitter.

[0202] (14) A sending method, comprising:

[0203] sending radio waves to a receiver; and

[0204] Power is wirelessly transmitted to the receiver in the event that the reception intensity of the radio waves transmitted to the receiver at the receiver exceeds a threshold value.

[0205] Reference numerals list

[0206] 1 Power feeding system

[0207] 10(10A, 10B) Receiver

[0208] 110 Sensor unit

[0209] 120 Contactless communication unit

[0210] 130 storage units

[0211] 140 Wireless Communication Unit

[0212] 150(150A, 150B, 150C) Control Unit

[0213] 151 Communication control unit

[0214] 152 Radio field strength measurement unit

[0215] 153 Display control unit

[0216] 154 Position acquisition unit

[0217] 160 Display Units

[0218] 20(20A, 20B, 20C) Transmitter

[0219] 210 (210A, 210B) wireless communication unit

[0220] 220 Contactless communication unit

[0221] 230 storage units

[0222] 250(250A, 250B, 250C) Control Unit

[0223] 251 Communication control unit

[0224] 252 Receiving strength determination unit

[0225] 253 Direction specifying unit

[0226] 40 users

[0227] 50 people

[0228] 90 Real Space

Claims

1. A receiver, comprising: a wireless communication unit configured to receive a radio wave transmitted from the transmitter; a sensor unit configured to detect a position of the receiver and a relative position of a person with respect to the position of the receiver; a display control unit configured to control display of at least one of a reception intensity of a radio wave transmitted from the transmitter at the wireless communication unit and predetermined information according to the reception intensity; as well as a non-contact communication unit configured to receive the power wirelessly transmitted from the transmitter if the reception intensity exceeds a threshold value, wherein the display control unit controls the display of information according to the direction in which the transmitter exists as the predetermined information, the display being used to indicate to the user in which direction the receiver should be moved so that the direction of the receiver matches the direction in which the transmitter exists so as to increase the reception strength, wherein the wireless communication unit receives a non-directional beacon transmitted from the transmitter before receiving the power transmitted from the transmitter, and transmits the position of the receiver and the relative position of the person with respect to the position of the receiver to the transmitter in response to a position acquisition request from the transmitter when the reception strength of the non-directional beacon exceeds the threshold value, and The contactless communication unit receives power sent from the transmitter along the shortest route, which is a transmission route from the transmitter to the receiver calculated based on the position of the receiver and the position of the person, after the transmitter calculates the position of the person based on the position of the receiver and the relative position of the person with respect to the position of the receiver, and taking into account reflection or absorption of the person and reflection of the wall.

2. The receiver according to claim 1, The display control unit controls the display of the reception intensity.

3. The receiver according to claim 1, The display control unit controls display of a reception level corresponding to the reception intensity as the predetermined information.

4. A receiving method at a receiver, comprising: receiving radio waves sent from a transmitter; detecting the position of the receiver and the relative position of the person relative to the position of the receiver; controlling display of at least one of reception intensity of radio waves transmitted from the transmitter at the receiver and predetermined information according to the reception intensity; as well as receiving power wirelessly transmitted from the transmitter if the reception strength exceeds a threshold, wherein the controlling includes controlling the display of information according to the direction in which the transmitter exists as the predetermined information, the display being used to indicate to the user in which direction the receiver should be moved so that the direction of the receiver matches the direction in which the transmitter exists so as to increase the reception strength, The receiving method also includes: receiving a non-directional beacon transmitted from the transmitter before receiving power transmitted from the transmitter, and transmitting the position of the receiver and the relative position of the person with respect to the position of the receiver to the transmitter in response to a position acquisition request from the transmitter if the reception strength of the non-directional beacon exceeds the threshold value, and Receive power sent from a transmitter along the shortest route, wherein the shortest route is a transmission route from the transmitter to the receiver calculated based on the position of the receiver and the position of the person after the transmitter calculates the position of the person based on the position of the receiver and the relative position of the person with respect to the position of the receiver, and taking into account reflection or absorption of the person and reflection of the wall.

5. A transmitter, comprising: a wireless communication unit configured to transmit radio waves to a receiver; as well as a non-contact communication unit configured to wirelessly transmit power to the receiver if a reception intensity of a radio wave transmitted to the receiver at the receiver exceeds a threshold value, wherein the wireless communication unit transmits a radio wave having directivity to the receiver, so that the receiver controls display of at least one of a reception intensity of the radio wave transmitted from the transmitter at the receiver and predetermined information according to the reception intensity, and controls display of information according to a direction in which the transmitter exists as the predetermined information, the display being used to indicate to a user in which direction the receiver should be moved so that the direction of the receiver matches the direction in which the transmitter exists so as to be able to increase the reception intensity, and the non-contact communication unit transmits power in a transmission direction of the radio wave when the reception intensity of the radio wave having directivity at the receiver exceeds a threshold value, wherein the transmitter transmits a non-directional beacon to the receiver before transmitting power, and, when the reception strength of the non-directional beacon by the receiver exceeds the threshold, transmits a position acquisition request to the receiver to receive from the receiver the position of the receiver and the relative position of the person based on the position of the receiver, and The transmitter calculates the position of the person based on the position of the receiver and the relative position of the person with respect to the position of the receiver, calculates the shortest route from the transmitter to the receiver based on the position of the receiver and the position of the person while taking into account the reflection or absorption of the person and the reflection of the wall, and sends power to the receiver along the shortest route.

6. The transmitter according to claim 5, Wherein the transmitter comprises a direction specifying unit configured to calculate the route.

7. The transmitter according to claim 5, The position of the person is detected by the transmitter.

8. A sending method, comprising: Sending radio waves to a receiver; as well as wirelessly transmitting power to the receiver when the reception intensity of the radio waves transmitted to the receiver at the receiver exceeds a threshold value, wherein a radio wave having directivity is transmitted to the receiver, so that the receiver controls display of at least one of reception intensity of the radio wave transmitted from the transmitter at the receiver and predetermined information according to the reception intensity, and controls display of information according to the direction in which the transmitter exists as the predetermined information, the display being used to indicate to a user in which direction the receiver should be moved so that the direction of the receiver matches the direction in which the transmitter exists so as to be able to increase the reception intensity, and transmitting electric power in a transmission direction of the radio wave when the reception intensity of the radio wave having directivity at the receiver exceeds a threshold value, wherein, before transmitting the power, a non-directional beacon is transmitted to the receiver, and when the reception strength of the non-directional beacon by the receiver exceeds the threshold, a position acquisition request is transmitted to the receiver to receive from the receiver the position of the receiver and the relative position of the person with respect to the position of the receiver, and The position of the person is calculated based on the position of the receiver and the relative position of the person with respect to the position of the receiver, and the shortest route from the transmitter to the receiver is calculated based on the position of the receiver and the position of the person, taking into account the reflection or absorption of the person and the reflection of the wall, and power is sent to the receiver along the shortest route.

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