Wireless power supply device for vehicle and wireless power supply method for vehicle

Abstract

A wireless power supply device for a vehicle and a wireless power supply method for a vehicle are provided, which can improve the chance of implementing power supply at startup. The wireless power supply device for a vehicle (SD) of the present invention is used in a vehicle, and supplies power to a power receiving device (a smart phone RD in one example) by wireless. The power supply is stopped when the temperature is above or exceeds a predetermined first temperature threshold. The wireless power supply device for a vehicle SD comprises a power transmission unit (3) for supplying power to the power receiving device by wireless; a temperature measuring unit (2) for measuring the temperature of the power transmission unit (3); and a control unit (1) which controls the power transmission unit (3) to supply power to the power receiving device by wireless when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit (2) is below or below a predetermined second temperature threshold higher than the first temperature threshold or is lower than the second temperature threshold at startup.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle wireless power supply device for supplying power to a power receiving device wirelessly and a vehicle wireless power supply method. Background Art

[0002] A wireless power supply system including a power receiving device that consumes power and a wireless power supply device that wirelessly supplies power to the power receiving device is widely used and adopted by various devices. Such a wireless power supply system is disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, for example.

[0003] The power transmission device disclosed in Patent Document 1 is a power transmission device that transmits power to a power receiving device wirelessly, and includes a detection mechanism that detects the temperature inside or around the power transmission device, a setting mechanism that sets the value of power that can be output by the power receiving device under the condition that the temperature detected by the detection mechanism does not exceed a predetermined temperature when power is transmitted to the power receiving device, and a power transmission mechanism that transmits power to the power receiving device based on the power value set by the setting mechanism.

[0004] The power transmission device disclosed in the patent document 2 is composed of a main body having a first coil that receives power supply from a commercial power supply and a terminal having a second coil that is electromagnetically inductively coupled to the first coil. In the power transmission device that supplies power from the main body to the terminal in a non-contact manner via the first and second coils, an overheating prevention device is provided in the main body for automatically stopping the power supply to the terminal when a temperature above a specified temperature is detected.

[0005] Prior art literature

[0006] Patent Literature

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-045845

[0008] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2001-258182 Summary of the invention

[0009] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0010] However, the power transmission device disclosed in the patent document 1 is a device that transmits power to the power receiving device based on the value of the power that the power receiving device can output under the condition that the temperature does not exceed the prescribed temperature. However, originally, when power transmission starts, if the prescribed temperature is exceeded, power transmission cannot be performed. The power transmission device disclosed in the patent document 2 automatically stops the power supply to the terminal when a temperature above the prescribed temperature is detected, so power transmission cannot be performed either. Therefore, when these devices are used in vehicles, for example, if the vehicle is parked in an environment where the temperature rises (for example, an environment exposed to the sun, etc.), when the vehicle is started, the prescribed temperature is exceeded and the power receiving device cannot be powered by the wireless power supply system. In these devices, for example, until the temperature around the wireless power supply system is lowered by the outside air or the vehicle air conditioner, the power receiving device cannot be powered by the wireless power supply system, and the power supply time during driving is shortened. Depending on the situation, it is also possible that the vehicle has arrived at the destination before the prescribed temperature is lowered and the power supply to the power receiving device by the wireless power supply system is started, and power cannot be supplied by these devices.

[0011] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a wireless power supply device for a vehicle and a wireless power supply method for a vehicle that can increase the chance of performing power supply at the time of startup.

[0012] Means for solving problems

[0013] The inventors have conducted various studies and found that the above-mentioned object can be achieved by the following invention. That is, a vehicle wireless power supply device according to one aspect of the present invention is used in a vehicle, and supplies power to a power receiving device by wireless, and stops the power supply when the temperature is higher than or exceeds a predetermined first temperature threshold. The vehicle wireless power supply device includes: a power transmission unit that supplies power to the power receiving device by wireless; a temperature measuring unit that measures the temperature of the power transmission unit; and a control unit that controls the power transmission unit in a manner that supplies power to the power receiving device by wireless when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit is lower than or equal to a predetermined second temperature threshold that is higher than the first temperature threshold, or is lower than the second temperature threshold, when starting. Preferably, in the above-mentioned vehicle wireless power supply device, the first temperature threshold is a temperature at which a person can safely use the vehicle wireless power supply device (a temperature set from the perspective of ensuring the safety of a person). Preferably, in the above-mentioned vehicle wireless power supply device, the first temperature threshold is a temperature at which a person feels hot when the person touches the vehicle wireless power supply device. Preferably, in the above-mentioned vehicle wireless power supply device, the first temperature threshold is a predetermined temperature within the range of 45°C to 50°C. Preferably, in the above-mentioned wireless power supply device for a vehicle, after the control unit is started, during the period until the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit becomes less than the first temperature threshold or becomes below the first temperature threshold for the first time, when power supply starts, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit is below a prescribed second temperature threshold that is higher than the first temperature threshold or is lower than the second temperature threshold, the control unit controls the power transmitting unit in such a manner as to wirelessly power the power receiving device.

[0014] Usually, the first temperature threshold is set to a temperature at which a person feels hot in order to ensure the safety of a person, and is set lower than the operation guarantee temperature that guarantees the operation of the wireless power supply device for a vehicle. Therefore, power can be supplied even if it is above the first temperature threshold. Moreover, in the case where the vehicle is parked in an environment where the temperature rises, when the vehicle is started, the occupants have already recognized (anticipated) that the vehicle is getting hot based on experience, so since the power receiving device is placed on the wireless power supply device for a vehicle based on this recognition, it is considered that there is no problem in supplying power above the first temperature threshold. Taking advantage of this situation, when the above-mentioned wireless power supply device for a vehicle is started, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit is below or below a prescribed second temperature threshold that is higher than the first temperature threshold or is less than the second temperature threshold, the power transmitting unit is controlled in such a way that power is supplied to the power receiving device by wireless, thereby increasing the chance of power supply when the wireless power supply device for a vehicle is started.

[0015] In another embodiment, in the above-mentioned wireless power supply device for vehicle, the control unit controls the power transmission unit so as not to supply power to the power receiving device wirelessly when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit exceeds the second temperature threshold or is equal to or higher than the second temperature threshold at the time of the startup. Preferably, in the above-mentioned wireless power supply device for vehicle, the control unit controls the power transmission unit so as not to supply power to the power receiving device wirelessly when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit becomes lower than a third temperature threshold lower than the first temperature threshold or becomes lower than the third temperature threshold during the power supply, and controls the power transmission unit so as to stop supplying power when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit exceeds the first temperature threshold or becomes higher than the first temperature threshold during the power supply, and controls the power transmission unit so as to restart supplying power when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit becomes lower than the third temperature threshold or becomes lower than the third temperature threshold when power supply is required but power supply is stopped. Preferably, in the above-mentioned wireless power supply device for a vehicle, when the control unit does not supply power to the power receiving device wirelessly at the time of startup, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit becomes less than the third temperature threshold or becomes below the third temperature threshold, the control unit controls the power transmitting unit in a manner to start the power supply, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit exceeds the first temperature threshold or becomes above the first temperature threshold, the control unit controls the power transmitting unit in a manner to stop the power supply, and when power supply is required but power supply is stopped, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit becomes less than the third temperature threshold or becomes below the third temperature threshold, the control unit controls the power transmitting unit in a manner to start the power supply again.

[0016] This vehicle wireless power supply device controls the power transmission unit so as not to wirelessly supply power to the power receiving device when the temperature measured by the temperature measurement unit exceeds the second temperature threshold or is equal to or higher than the second temperature threshold during startup, and can therefore be used appropriately.

[0017] In another embodiment, in the above-mentioned wireless power supply device for vehicle, the second temperature threshold is an operation guarantee temperature for guaranteeing the operation of the wireless power supply device for vehicle. Preferably, in the above-mentioned wireless power supply device for vehicle, the second temperature threshold is a predetermined temperature within a range of 85°C to 100°C.

[0018] Since the second temperature threshold of the wireless power supply device for a vehicle is an operation guarantee temperature for guaranteeing the operation of the wireless power supply device for a vehicle, power can be appropriately supplied while ensuring the operation.

[0019] In another embodiment, in the above-mentioned wireless power supply device for vehicle, when the control unit supplies power to the power receiving device wirelessly at the time of startup, the control unit controls the power transmitting unit so as to supply power to the power receiving device wirelessly at a power value based on the difference between the second temperature threshold and the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit. Preferably, in the above-mentioned wireless power supply device for vehicle, the control unit sets the power value based on the difference so that the power value becomes smaller as the difference becomes smaller.

[0020] The wireless power supply device for a vehicle usually increases in temperature due to wireless power supply, and the rate of temperature increase per unit time depends on the magnitude of the power value of the power supply. The wireless power supply device for a vehicle controls the power transmission unit in a manner of wirelessly supplying power to the power receiving device at a power value based on the difference between the second temperature threshold and the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit, thereby further extending the power supply time and increasing the amount of power supplied.

[0021] Another aspect of the present invention is a wireless power supply method for a vehicle, which is used in a vehicle, and supplies power to a power receiving device wirelessly, and stops the power supply when the temperature is above a prescribed first temperature threshold or exceeds the first temperature threshold. The method comprises: a temperature measuring step for measuring the temperature of the power transmitting unit; and a power supply step, which, when started, supplies power to the power receiving device wirelessly when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring step is below a prescribed second temperature threshold that is higher than the first temperature threshold or is lower than the second temperature threshold.

[0022] This vehicle wireless power supply method wirelessly supplies power to the power receiving device at startup when the temperature measured in the temperature measurement step is lower than or equal to a predetermined second temperature threshold higher than the first temperature threshold or lower than the second temperature threshold, thereby increasing the chance of power supply at startup.

[0023] Effects of the Invention

[0024] The vehicle wireless power supply device and vehicle wireless power supply method of the present invention can increase the chance of power supply at startup. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] Figure 1 It is a diagram for explaining a wireless power supply system for a vehicle including a wireless power supply device for a vehicle in an embodiment.

[0026] Figure 2 1 is a flowchart showing the operation of the wireless power supply device for a vehicle.

[0027] Figure 3 Yes means Figure 2 Flowchart of the process in the normal power supply mode shown.

[0028] Figure 4 Yes means Figure 2 Flowchart of the process of the startup power supply mode shown.

[0029] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing, as an example, a change in temperature of the wireless power supply device for a vehicle with respect to elapsed time after activation in the normal power supply mode.

[0030] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing, as an example, a change in temperature of the wireless power supply device for a vehicle with respect to elapsed time after startup in the startup power supply mode.

[0031] Figure 7 1 is a diagram showing, as a comparative example, a temperature change of the wireless power supply device for a vehicle of the comparative example with respect to the elapsed time after startup in the wireless power supply device for a vehicle of the comparative example not having the startup power supply mode.

[0032] Figure 8 1 is a flowchart showing the processing in the startup power supply mode in a modified form.

[0033] Description of Reference Numerals

[0034] VC Passenger car (an example of a vehicle)

[0035] SS Vehicle Wireless Power Supply System

[0036] SD Vehicle Wireless Power Supply Device

[0037] RD Smartphone (an example of a power receiving device)

[0038] 1. Control Unit

[0039] 2 Temperature measurement unit

[0040] 3 Power transmission unit

[0041] 11 Normal power supply control unit

[0042] 12 Power supply control unit at startup DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] Hereinafter, one or more embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. In addition, in each figure, the components marked with the same reference numerals represent the same components, and their descriptions are appropriately omitted. In this specification, in the case of a general term, it is indicated by a reference numeral with the suffix omitted, and in the case of referring to a separate component, it is indicated by a reference numeral with the suffix marked.

[0044] The vehicle wireless power supply device in the embodiment is a device for a vehicle, which supplies power to a power receiving device by wireless, and stops the power supply when the temperature is above a predetermined first temperature threshold or exceeds the first temperature threshold. In addition, in the present embodiment, the vehicle wireless power supply device includes: a power transmission unit that supplies power to the power receiving device by wireless; a temperature measuring unit that measures the temperature of the power transmission unit; and a control unit that controls the power transmission unit in a manner that supplies power to the power receiving device by wireless when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit at startup is below a predetermined second temperature threshold that is higher than the first temperature threshold or is lower than the second temperature threshold. The power receiving device can be any device as long as it can receive power from the vehicle wireless power supply device by wireless. That is, the power receiving device can be an electrical device that is powered by wireless and directly consumes the power supplied, or it can be an electrical device that temporarily charges a storage element (such as a capacitor, an electrical double-layer capacitor, a secondary battery, etc.) with the power supplied and then consumes it indirectly. Here, a smartphone that charges a secondary battery is used as an example of the power receiving device, and the above-mentioned vehicle wireless power supply device is described in more detail using a vehicle wireless power supply system including the smartphone and the vehicle wireless power supply device.

[0045] Figure 1 It is a diagram for explaining a wireless power supply system for a vehicle including a wireless power supply device for a vehicle in an embodiment. Figure 1 (A) is a block diagram showing the configuration of a wireless power supply system for a vehicle. Figure 1 (B) is a diagram showing an example of a vehicle.

[0046] The vehicle wireless power supply system SS in the embodiment is, for example, Figure 1 As shown in (A), a smartphone (an example of a power receiving device) RD and a vehicle wireless power supply device SD are provided.

[0047] A smartphone RD is an electrical device having a wireless power receiving function for receiving power wirelessly, a charging and discharging function for charging and discharging the supplied power, a mobile communication function for performing mobile communication, and an information processing function for performing specified information processing such as a browser, mail (Mailer), game software, and video playback software.

[0048] The wireless power supply method that supplies power wirelessly is a method of transmitting power without a direct connection mechanism such as a metal contact or a connector (i.e., wirelessly), such as a magnetic field coupling method (electromagnetic induction method, magnetic field resonance method), an electric field coupling method, a microwave method, and an ultrasonic method. In this embodiment, as long as it is a method of heating up the vehicle wireless power supply device SD through wireless power supply, the magnetic field coupling method is used as an example. There are various methods for this magnetic field coupling method, and any method can be used, but here the Qi standard, which is an international standard for wireless power supply and adopted by many smartphones, is used for explanation. The Qi standard is a standard formulated by the Wireless Power Consortium in view of the fact that there are many wireless power supply methods that were originally developed independently and the devices are incompatible. The Qi standard not only supplies power through magnetic field coupling, but also communicates unidirectionally from the receiving side (receiving device) to the sending side (wireless power supply device). In this unidirectional communication, binary ASK (Amplitude Shift Keying) is used to change the load on the receiving side. In this one-way communication, the power receiving side sends power supply requests, power values, and power supply terminations to the power transmitting side. Once the power receiving side receives power, it periodically sends communication signals (data packets) at specified time intervals. This allows the power transmitting side to determine whether the object placed on the power transmission surface is an electrical device using the Qi standard or other foreign objects.

[0049] Therefore, the smartphone RD includes, as the wireless power receiving function, a power receiving coil (power receiving unit) formed by winding a linear conductor, a power receiving communication circuit connected to the power receiving coil and based on the Qi standard, a secondary battery for charging and discharging power, and a charging circuit connected to the power receiving coil and the secondary battery, respectively, and rectifying the power received by the power receiving coil and charging the secondary battery. The power charged to the secondary battery is used to implement the mobile communication function and the information processing function. In the smartphone RD, as the request for power supply, the power value of the power supply, and the end of the power supply, a charging request, a charging power value, and a charging end are used, respectively.

[0050] As described above, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD is used in a vehicle to wirelessly supply power to a smartphone RD as an example of the power receiving device, and stops the power supply when the temperature is above a predetermined first temperature threshold (or when the first temperature threshold is exceeded), for example, Figure 1 As shown in (A) of FIG. 1 , the control unit 1 , the temperature measuring unit 2 , and the power transmitting unit 3 are provided.

[0051] The vehicle wireless power supply device SD can be used in any vehicle such as a car, a bus, a truck, a train, etc. Figure 1 VC shown in (B). In the passenger car VC, for example, the power transmission unit 3 of the vehicle wireless power supply device SD is arranged at the bottom of the recess of the storage box provided on the center console arranged between the driver's seat and the front passenger seat. For example, the power transmission unit 3 is arranged in the bottom plate forming the bottom or on the back of the bottom plate. By arranging the power transmission unit 3 in the recess of the storage box, the smartphone RD is placed in the recess of the storage box during power supply, and even if the passenger car VC shakes, the smartphone RD can be prevented from flying out of the recess of the storage box, and the vehicle wireless power supply device SD can continue to supply power.

[0052] The power transmission unit 3 is connected to the control unit 1, and according to the control of the control unit 1, wirelessly supplies power from a power source (not shown) to the power receiving coil of the smartphone RD coupled to the magnetic field, for example, a power transmission coil formed by winding a linear conductor. The power transmission coil can be formed by winding a conductor wire (such as a copper wire, etc.) coated with insulation, or can be formed by etching a conductor layer (such as a metal layer such as copper) formed on a substrate into a spiral shape.

[0053] Temperature measuring unit 2 is connected to control unit 1 and measures the temperature of power transmission unit 3 according to control of control unit 1. Temperature measuring unit 2 includes, for example, a thermistor disposed at or around power transmission unit 3 and its peripheral circuits.

[0054] The control unit 1 is a device that controls each unit 2 and 3 according to the functions of each unit 2 and 3 of the vehicle wireless power supply device SD, and controls the power supply to the smartphone RD via wireless. The control unit 1 is composed of, for example, a microcomputer. Alternatively, the control unit 1 may be a circuit formed by individual components such as transistors, capacitors, and resistors.

[0055] In the case where the control unit 1 is composed of a microcomputer, various prescribed programs and various prescribed data are stored in the microcomputer. The various prescribed programs include, for example, a control program for controlling each part 2 and 3 of the vehicle wireless power supply device SD according to its function, a power supply control program for controlling the power supply to the smartphone RD via wireless, etc. The power supply control program includes a normal power supply control program for processing the normal power supply mode described later, and a startup power supply control program for processing the startup power supply mode described later. The various prescribed data include, for example, the first to third temperature thresholds described later, etc., which are required when executing each program.

[0056] The control unit 1 has a startup power supply mode and a normal power supply mode in order to wirelessly supply power to the smartphone RD, and functionally includes a normal power supply control unit 11 and a startup power supply control unit 12 in response thereto.

[0057] The normal power supply control unit 11 is a control unit that executes the normal power supply mode, which is a mode in which the power transmission unit 3 supplies power to the smartphone RD wirelessly, and stops the power supply when the temperature is above a predetermined first temperature threshold (or when the temperature exceeds the first temperature threshold). In the normal power supply mode, more specifically, when the power supply starts, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 is below the first temperature threshold (or when it is lower than the first temperature threshold), the normal power supply control unit 11 controls the power transmission unit 3 to start the power supply, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 exceeds the first temperature threshold (or when it becomes above the first temperature threshold) during the power supply, the power transmission unit is controlled to stop the power supply, and when the power supply is required but the power supply is stopped, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 becomes lower than a predetermined third temperature threshold that is lower than the first temperature threshold and is set in advance (or when it becomes lower than the third temperature threshold), the power transmission unit 3 is controlled to start (restart) the power supply.

[0058] The first and third temperature thresholds are appropriately set, for example, from a practical point of view. For example, the first temperature threshold is a temperature at which a person can safely use the vehicle wireless power supply device SD (a temperature set from the perspective of ensuring the safety of the person). Or, for example, the first temperature threshold is a temperature at which a person feels hot when the person comes into contact with the vehicle wireless power supply device SD. Or, for example, the first temperature threshold is a specified temperature within the range of 45°C to 50°C. The third temperature threshold is a temperature lower than the first temperature threshold, for example, 5°C, 10°C, etc.

[0059] The startup power supply control unit 12 is a control unit that executes the startup power supply mode, which is a mode in which, when the wireless power supply device SD for a vehicle is started, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 is lower than the predetermined second temperature threshold value that is higher than the first temperature threshold value (or lower than the second temperature threshold value), the power transmission unit 3 is controlled so that power is supplied to the smartphone RD by wireless. In the present embodiment, when the smartphone RD is supplied by wireless at the startup, the startup power supply control unit 12 controls the power transmission unit 3 so that power is supplied to the smartphone RD by wireless at a power value based on the difference between the second temperature threshold value and the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2. Preferably, the startup power supply control unit 12 sets the power value based on the difference so that the power value becomes smaller as the difference becomes smaller. In the startup power supply mode, the startup power supply control unit 12 further controls the power transmission unit 3 so that power is not supplied to the smartphone RD by wireless when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 exceeds the second temperature threshold value (is higher than the second temperature threshold value) at the startup.

[0060] Furthermore, the control unit 1 controls the power transmission unit 3 to continue power supply when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 becomes lower than the third temperature threshold (or becomes lower than the third temperature threshold) during power supply when power is supplied to the smartphone RD by wireless at the time of the startup, and when power is supplied, the control unit 1 controls the power transmission unit 3 to stop power supply when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 exceeds the first temperature threshold (or becomes higher than the first temperature threshold) during power supply, and controls the power transmission unit 3 to restart power supply when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 becomes lower than a predetermined third temperature threshold (or becomes lower than the third temperature threshold) which is set in advance and is lower than the first temperature threshold when power supply is required but power supply is stopped. That is, the control unit 1 terminates the startup power supply mode executed by the startup power supply control unit 12 and starts the normal power supply mode executed by the normal power supply control unit 11 when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 becomes lower than the third temperature threshold (or becomes lower than the third temperature threshold) during power supply when power is supplied to the smartphone RD by wireless at the time of the startup, and when power is supplied, the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 becomes lower than the third temperature threshold (or becomes lower than the third temperature threshold) during power supply.

[0061] When the control unit 1 does not wirelessly supply power to the smartphone RD at the time of the startup, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 becomes lower than the third temperature threshold (or becomes lower than the third temperature threshold), the control unit 1 controls the power transmission unit 3 to start the power supply, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 exceeds the first temperature threshold (or becomes higher than the first temperature threshold), the control unit 1 controls the power transmission unit 3 to stop the power supply, and when power supply is required but the power supply is stopped, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 becomes lower than the third temperature threshold (or becomes lower than the third temperature threshold), the control unit 1 controls the power transmission unit 3 to restart the power supply. That is, when the smartphone RD is not wirelessly supplied at the time of the startup, the control unit 1 ends the startup power supply mode executed by the startup power supply control unit 12 and starts the normal power supply mode executed by the normal power supply control unit 11.

[0062] The second temperature threshold is appropriately set, for example, from a practical point of view. For example, the second temperature threshold is an operation guarantee temperature that guarantees the operation of the vehicle wireless power supply device SD. Or, for example, the second temperature threshold is a specified temperature in the range of 85°C to 100°C. The temperature thresholds are in the relationship of (second temperature threshold)>(first temperature threshold)>(third temperature threshold).

[0063] Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described. Figure 2 1 is a flowchart showing the operation of the wireless power supply device for a vehicle. Figure 3 Yes means Figure 2 Flowchart of the process in the normal power supply mode shown. Figure 4 Yes means Figure 2 Flowchart of the process of the startup power supply mode shown.

[0064] In the vehicle wireless power supply device SD in the vehicle wireless power supply system SS having such a configuration, Figure 2 When the passenger car VC is started, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD is started accordingly and initialization of each necessary part is performed (S1).

[0065] Next, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines whether the power supply request is accepted through the control unit 1 (S2). More specifically, the control unit 1 determines whether a communication signal (charging request signal) containing a charging request is received from the smartphone RD in the power transmission unit 3. If the result of the determination is that the charging request signal is received, the control unit 1 determines that there is a power supply request (yes), and then executes processing S3. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that the charging request signal is not received, the control unit 1 determines that there is no power supply request (no), and then executes the processing of the normal power supply mode described later (S5), and ends this processing.

[0066] For example, a passenger gets on a passenger car VC and puts a smartphone RD into the recess of the storage box. The smartphone RD monitors the remaining charge of the secondary battery, and when the remaining charge is below a predetermined threshold value (remaining charge threshold) that requires charging, the charging request signal is sent from the power receiving coil. The charging request signal also contains the charging power value (power supply power value).

[0067] In the process S3, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD measures the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 by the temperature measuring unit 2 through the control unit 1. The temperature of the power transmission unit 3 measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 is output from the temperature measuring unit 2 to the control unit 1, and the control unit 1 obtains the temperature of the power transmission unit 3.

[0068] After the processing S3, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines through the control unit 1 whether the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 exceeds the first temperature threshold (or whether it is above the first temperature threshold) at the time of the startup (S4). When the result of the determination is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 exceeds the first temperature threshold (or when the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 is above the first temperature threshold) (Yes), the control unit 1 performs the processing of the power supply mode at startup described later (S6), and ends the present processing. On the other hand, when the result of the determination is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 does not exceed the first temperature threshold (or when the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 is not above the first temperature threshold) (No), in other words, when the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 is below the first temperature threshold (or when the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 is lower than the first temperature threshold) (No), the control unit 1 performs the processing of the normal power supply mode described later (S5), and ends the present processing.

[0069] Next, the process S5 in the normal power supply mode will be described.

[0070] In the process S5 of the normal power supply mode, Figure 3 First, follow the Figure 2In the above-mentioned process S2, the wireless power supply device SD for vehicle controls the power transmission unit 3 (S11) by the normal power supply control unit 11 of the control unit 1 so that the power supply value (power supply value) contained in the charging request signal is wirelessly supplied to the smartphone RD from the power transmission unit 3. Thus, the power supply is wirelessly supplied to the smartphone RD from the power transmission unit 3.

[0071] Next, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines whether the power supply end is accepted (S12) through the normal power supply control unit 11. More specifically, the normal power supply control unit 11 determines whether a communication signal (charging end signal) containing the charging end is received from the smartphone RD in the power transmission unit 3. If the result of the determination is that the charging end signal is received, the normal power supply control unit 11 determines that the power supply has ended (yes), and then executes processing S21. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that the charging end signal is not received, the normal power supply control unit 11 determines that the power supply has not ended (no), and then executes processing S13.

[0072] In the process S13, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD measures the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 by the temperature measuring unit 2 through the normal power supply control unit 11. The temperature of the power transmission unit 3 measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 is output from the temperature measuring unit 2 to the control unit 1, so that the normal power supply control unit 11 obtains the temperature of the power transmission unit 3. In addition, in the process S13, the normal power supply control unit 11 may also wait for the execution of the process for a predetermined time (standby time), that is, after executing the so-called waiting process, the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 is measured by the temperature measuring unit 2. As a result, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD can wait for the temperature change of the power transmission unit 3 during the approximately standby time.

[0073] After the processing S13, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines whether the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 in the processing S13 exceeds the first temperature threshold (or becomes above the first temperature threshold) (S14) through the normal power supply control unit 11. When the result of the determination is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 exceeds the first temperature threshold (or when the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 becomes above the first temperature threshold) (Yes), the normal power supply control unit 11 then performs the processing S15. On the other hand, when the result of the determination is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 does not exceed the first temperature threshold (or when the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 does not become above the first temperature threshold) (No), the normal power supply control unit 11 then returns the processing to the processing S11. Therefore, when the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 in the processing S13 does not exceed the first temperature threshold (or when the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 does not become above the first temperature threshold), the power supply is continued.

[0074] Meanwhile, in the process S15, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD stops the power supply of the power transmission unit 3 by the normal power supply control unit 11. As a result, the temperature rise of the power transmission unit 3 reaches the peak, and then the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 decreases.

[0075] After the process S15, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD measures the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 by the temperature measuring unit 2 through the normal power supply control unit 11, similarly to the process S13 (S16). In addition, in the process S16, similarly to the process S13, the normal power supply control unit 11 may measure the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 by the temperature measuring unit 2 after the execution of the waiting process.

[0076] After the process S16, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines whether the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 in the process S16 has become lower than the third temperature threshold (or whether it has become below the third temperature threshold) (S17) through the normal power supply control unit 11. If the result of the determination is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 has become lower than the third temperature threshold (or if the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 has become below the third temperature threshold) (Yes), the normal power supply control unit 11 returns the process to the process S11. Thus, in the process S16, if the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 has become lower than the third temperature threshold (or if the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 has not become below the third temperature threshold), the power supply that is required but stopped based on the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 is restarted and the power is supplied. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 has not become lower than the third temperature threshold (or if the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 has not become below the third temperature threshold) (No), the normal power supply control unit 11 returns the process to the process S16. Thus, the process S16 and the process S17 are repeated until the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 becomes lower than the third temperature threshold.

[0077] On the other hand, in the process S21, as the power supply is determined to be finished in the process S12, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD controls the power transmission unit 3 to stop the power supply through the normal power supply control unit 11. Thus, the power supply is stopped.

[0078] After the processing S21, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines whether the power supply request has been accepted (S22) through the normal power supply control unit 11, similar to the above-mentioned processing S2. If the result of the determination is that the charging request signal is received, the normal power supply control unit 11 determines that there is a power supply request (yes), and then executes processing S13. Thus, when a new power supply request is received, power supply is implemented in the normal power supply mode. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that the charging request signal is not received, the normal power supply control unit 11 determines that there is no power supply request (no), and then executes processing S23.

[0079] In the process S23, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines whether the operation is terminated through the control unit 1. If the result of the determination is that the operation is terminated (yes), the control unit 1 terminates the present process. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that the operation is not terminated (no), the control unit 1 returns the process to the process S22. Thus, the processes S22 and S23 are repeated until a new power supply request is accepted. The end of the operation For example, if the operation of the passenger car VC is terminated due to parking, the operation of the vehicle wireless power supply device SD is terminated accordingly. In addition, during the execution of each process from S11 to S17, if the operation is terminated, the present process is terminated, for example, by interruption processing.

[0080] By executing the processing of this normal power supply mode, the normal power supply control unit 11 controls the power transmission unit 3 in a manner to start the power supply when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 is below the first temperature threshold (or is less than the first temperature threshold) at the start of power supply; during power supply, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 exceeds the first temperature threshold (or becomes above the first temperature threshold), the power transmission unit 3 is controlled in a manner to stop the power supply; when power supply is required but power supply is stopped, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 becomes lower than a predetermined third temperature threshold that is lower than the first temperature threshold and is preset (or becomes below the third temperature threshold), the power transmission unit 3 is controlled in a manner to start (restart) the power supply.

[0081] Next, the process S6 in the startup power supply mode will be described.

[0082] In the process S6 of the startup power supply mode, Figure 4 In the process, first, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines whether the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 in the process S3 exceeds the second temperature threshold (or whether it is above the second temperature threshold) (S31) through the startup power supply control unit 12 of the control unit 1. If the result of the determination is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 exceeds the second temperature threshold (or the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 is above the second temperature threshold) (Yes), the startup power supply control unit 12 then executes Figure 3 The above-mentioned processing S13 (S37) shown in the figure. Thus, the processing of the power supply mode at startup is terminated, and the processing of the normal power supply mode is executed. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 does not exceed the second temperature threshold (or the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 does not become above the second temperature threshold) (No), the power supply control unit 12 at startup next executes processing S32.

[0083] In this process S32, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD controls the power transmission unit 3 by the startup power supply control unit 12 so as to wirelessly supply power to the smartphone RD with a power value based on the difference between the second temperature threshold and the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 in the process S3. Thus, power is wirelessly supplied to the smartphone RD from the power transmission unit 3. For example, when the second temperature threshold is set to 85°C and the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 in the process S3 is 55°C, the power transmission unit 3 is controlled so as to supply power with a power value of 4W that is preliminarily associated with the difference of 30°C between the two. Moreover, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 in the process S3 is 70°C, the power transmission unit 3 is controlled so as to supply power with a power value of 2W that is preliminarily associated with the difference of 15°C between the two. In this way, the startup power supply control unit 12 sets the power value based on the difference so that the power value becomes smaller as the difference becomes smaller.

[0084] After the processing S32, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines whether the power supply end is accepted (S33) through the power supply control unit 12 at startup, similar to the above-mentioned processing S12. If the result of the determination is that the charging end signal is received, the power supply control unit 12 at startup determines that the power supply has ended (Yes), and then executes processing S41. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that the charging end signal is not received, the power supply control unit 12 at startup determines that the power supply has not ended (No), and then executes processing S34.

[0085] In this process S34, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD measures the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 through the temperature measuring unit 2 through the startup power supply control unit 12, similarly to the above-mentioned process S13. In addition, in this process S34, similarly to the above-mentioned process S13, the startup power supply control unit 12 may measure the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 through the temperature measuring unit 2 after the execution of the waiting process.

[0086] After the processing S34, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines whether the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 in the processing S34 has become lower than the third temperature threshold (or whether it has become below the third temperature threshold) (S35) through the startup power supply control unit 12. If the result of the determination is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 has become lower than the third temperature threshold (or the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 has become below the third temperature threshold) (yes), the startup power supply control unit 12 will then change the power value based on the difference to the charging power value (power supply power value) contained in the charging request signal, and then execute Figure 3The above-mentioned processing S11 (S36) shown. Thus, in the case where the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 in the processing S34 becomes lower than the third temperature threshold (or when the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 becomes lower than the third temperature threshold), the processing of the startup power supply mode is terminated, and the processing of the normal power supply mode is performed. On the other hand, when the result of the judgment is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 is not lower than the third temperature threshold (or when the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 does not become lower than the third temperature threshold) (No), the startup power supply control unit 12 then returns the processing to the processing S32. Thus, the processing S32 to the processing S35 are repeated until the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 is lower than the third temperature threshold.

[0087] On the other hand, in the process S41, as the power supply is determined to be finished in the process S33, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD controls the power transmission unit 3 to stop the power supply by the startup power supply control unit 12. Thus, the power supply is stopped.

[0088] After the processing S41, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines whether the power supply request has been accepted (S42) through the power supply control unit 12 at startup, similar to the above-mentioned processing S2. If the result of the determination is that the charging request signal is received, the power supply control unit 12 at startup determines that there is a power supply request (yes), and then executes processing S37. Thus, when a new power supply request is received, power supply is implemented in the normal power supply mode. In addition, as shown by the dotted line, processing S31 can also be executed next, and power supply is implemented in the power supply mode at startup. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that the charging request signal is not received, the power supply control unit 12 at startup determines that there is no power supply request (no), and then executes processing S43.

[0089] In the process S43, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines whether the operation is completed through the control unit 1. If the result of the determination is that the operation is completed (yes), the control unit 1 ends the present process. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that the operation is not completed (no), the control unit 1 returns the process to the process S42. Thus, the processes S42 and S43 are repeated until a new power supply request is accepted. In addition, during the execution of each process from S31 to S36, if the operation of the passenger car VC is completed, the present process is terminated, for example, by an interrupt process.

[0090] By executing this startup power supply mode processing, when the vehicle wireless power supply device SD is started, the startup power supply control unit 12 controls the power transmission unit 3 in a manner to wirelessly supply power to the smartphone RD when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 is below the second temperature threshold (or is lower than the second temperature threshold), and during the startup, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 exceeds the second temperature threshold (is above the second temperature threshold), controls the power transmission unit 3 in a manner not to wirelessly supply power to the smartphone RD.

[0091] The operations in the normal power supply mode and the startup power supply mode will be described in more detail by taking an example together with a comparative example. Figure 5 This is a diagram showing, as an example, a change in temperature of the wireless power supply device for a vehicle with respect to elapsed time after activation in the normal power supply mode. Figure 6 This is a diagram showing, as an example, a change in temperature of the wireless power supply device for a vehicle with respect to elapsed time after startup in the startup power supply mode. Figure 7 1 is a diagram showing, as a comparative example, a temperature change of the wireless power supply device for a vehicle of the comparative example with respect to the elapsed time after startup in the wireless power supply device for a vehicle of the comparative example not having the startup power supply mode. Figures 5 to 7 The horizontal axes are the elapsed time from the start timing t0, and the vertical axes are the temperatures of the wireless power supply device SD for vehicles. The wireless power supply device for vehicles of the comparative example is a device that does not have a power supply mode at startup and stops the power supply when the power supply is above or exceeds the prescribed first temperature threshold. The first to third temperature thresholds in the wireless power supply device SD for vehicles of the present embodiment are temperature Tth1, temperature Tth2, and temperature Tth3, respectively. The first and third temperature thresholds in the wireless power supply device SD for vehicles of the comparative example are temperature THL and temperature THS, respectively. Here, temperature Tth1 and temperature THL are the same value, and temperature Tth3 and temperature THS are the same value.

[0092] exist Figure 5 In the case where the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 at the start timing t0 does not exceed the first temperature threshold value Tth1, the execution Figure 2 After each of the processes S1 to S4 in the above process, the process S5 of the normal power supply mode is executed. Figure 3 In the process S11, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD starts to supply power. Figure 5As shown, the power transmission unit 3 starts to heat up. During the power supply of the wireless power supply device SD for vehicles and the heating of the power transmission unit 3, each process from process S11 to process S14 is repeatedly executed. If the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 exceeds the first temperature threshold value Tth1 after the elapsed time t1, process S15 is executed and the wireless power supply device SD for vehicles stops power supply. Then, each process from process S16 to process S17 is repeatedly executed. Due to the power supply stop, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , the temperature rise of the power transmission unit 3 reaches the peak, and then the power transmission unit 3 cools down. As described above, the processing of the processing S16 and the processing S17 are repeatedly performed. Figure 5 As shown, if the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 becomes lower than the third temperature threshold value Tth3 after the time t2, the process S11 is executed to start power supply again. Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 starts to rise. Thereafter, the above-mentioned processes are executed until the power supply is completed.

[0093] On the other hand, Figure 6 In the case where the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 at the start timing t0 exceeds the first temperature threshold value Tth1, Figure 2 In the process, each process from process S1 to process S4 is executed, and then process S6 of the power supply mode at startup is executed. Figure 4 In the process, processing S31 is executed. When the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 at the start timing t0 does not exceed the second temperature threshold value Tth2, processing S32 is executed, and the vehicle wireless power supply device SD starts to supply power with a power value based on the difference between the second temperature threshold value Tth2 and the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 at the start timing t0. Due to this power supply, Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the power transmission unit 3 starts to heat up. In the power supply of the wireless power supply device for vehicle SD, each process from process S32 to process S35 is repeatedly executed. If the temperature inside the passenger car VC decreases due to the intake of outside air into the passenger car VC and the operation of the vehicle air conditioner, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown, the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 also starts to drop accordingly. If the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 becomes lower than the third temperature threshold value Tth3 after the time t11, the process S36 is executed to end the startup power supply mode and execute the normal power supply mode. Figure 6 As shown, power supply continues. Afterwards, each process is performed as described above in the normal power supply mode until the end of receiving power supply. In this way, in the startup power supply mode, even if the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 exceeds the first temperature threshold value Tth1 at startup, power supply starts from the startup timing t0 when it does not exceed the second temperature threshold value Tth2.

[0094] In contrast, in the wireless power supply device for a vehicle of the comparative example, Figure 7As shown, when the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 exceeds the first temperature threshold Tth1 at startup, power supply is not started until time t21 elapses when the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 becomes lower than the third temperature threshold Tth3.

[0095] Therefore, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD in the embodiment can increase the chance of performing power supply at the time of startup, compared with the vehicle wireless power supply device in the comparative example.

[0096] Usually, the first temperature threshold is set to a temperature at which a person feels hot in order to ensure the safety of a person, and is set lower than the operation guarantee temperature for guaranteeing the operation of the wireless power supply device SD for a vehicle. Therefore, even if it is above the first temperature threshold, power can be supplied. Moreover, when the vehicle is parked in an environment where the temperature rises, when the vehicle is started, the occupants have already recognized (anticipated) that the vehicle is getting hot, so since the smartphone (power receiving device) RD is placed on the wireless power supply device SD for a vehicle based on this recognition, it is considered that there is no problem with power supply above the first temperature threshold. Taking advantage of this situation, the wireless power supply device SD for a vehicle in the embodiment and the wireless power supply method for a vehicle installed therein, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 is higher than the first temperature threshold, lower than the prescribed second temperature threshold or lower than the second temperature threshold, the power transmission unit 3 is controlled in a manner that the smartphone (power receiving device) RD is powered by wireless, so that the opportunity for power supply can be increased when the wireless power supply device SD for a vehicle is started.

[0097] When the above-mentioned vehicle wireless power supply device SD and vehicle wireless power supply method are started, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 exceeds the second temperature threshold or is above the second temperature threshold, the power transmission unit 3 is controlled in a manner that power is not supplied to the smartphone RD (an example of a power receiving device) wirelessly, so that they can be used appropriately.

[0098] In the above-described vehicle wireless power supply device SD and vehicle wireless power supply method, the second temperature threshold is an operation guarantee temperature for guaranteeing the operation of the vehicle wireless power supply device SD, and thus power can be appropriately supplied under guaranteed operation.

[0099] The vehicle wireless power supply device usually heats up due to wireless power supply, and the rate of temperature rise per unit time depends on the magnitude of the power value of the power supply. The above-mentioned vehicle wireless power supply device SD and vehicle wireless power supply method control the power transmission unit 3 in a manner of wirelessly supplying power to the smartphone RD at a power value based on the difference between the second temperature threshold and the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2, thereby further extending the power supply time and increasing the amount of power supplied.

[0100] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 at startup exceeds the second temperature threshold or is above the second temperature threshold, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD controls the power transmission unit 3 in a manner not to wirelessly supply power to the smartphone RD, and moves from the startup power supply mode to the normal power supply mode. However, due to the intake of outside air into the vehicle and the operation of the vehicle air conditioner, the temperature inside the vehicle decreases. Therefore, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 becomes lower than the second temperature threshold, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD may also control the power transmission unit 3 in a manner to wirelessly supply power to the smartphone RD.

[0101] More specifically, after being activated, the control unit 1 controls the power transmission unit 3 in such a manner that power is wirelessly supplied to the power receiving device (here, a smartphone RD, an example thereof) when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 is below the second temperature threshold or below the second temperature threshold during the period until the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 becomes lower than the first temperature threshold for the first time, when power supply starts. If the control unit 1 starts power supply near the time when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 is below the second temperature threshold, the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 exceeds the second temperature threshold in a short time due to temperature rise. Therefore, here, the control unit 1 controls the power transmission unit 3 ((second temperature threshold)>(fourth temperature threshold)>(first temperature threshold)>(third temperature threshold)) through the power supply control unit 12 at startup so that power is wirelessly supplied to the power receiving device (here, a smartphone RD, an example thereof) when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 is below the fourth temperature threshold, which is set in advance and higher than the first temperature threshold, or below the fourth temperature threshold.

[0102] In this modified embodiment, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD operates as follows. Figure 8 1 is a flowchart showing the processing in the startup power supply mode in a modified form.

[0103] In the process S6 of the startup power supply mode in this variation, Figure 8In the wireless power supply device SD for a vehicle, first, the power supply control unit 12 at startup determines whether the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 in the process S3 exceeds the second temperature threshold (or whether it becomes above the second temperature threshold) (S51). If the result of the determination is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 exceeds the second temperature threshold (or if the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 becomes above the second temperature threshold) (Yes), the power supply control unit 12 at startup next executes the process S54. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 does not exceed the second temperature threshold (or if the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 does not become above the second temperature threshold) (No), the power supply control unit 12 at startup next executes the process S52.

[0104] In this process S52, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD controls the power transmission unit 3 through the startup power supply control unit 12 in the same manner as in the above-mentioned process S32, so as to wirelessly supply power to the smartphone RD at a power value based on the difference between the second temperature threshold and the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 in the process S3. Thus, power is wirelessly supplied from the power transmission unit 3 to the smartphone RD.

[0105] After the processing S52, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines whether the power supply end is accepted (S53) through the power supply control unit 12 at startup, similar to the above-mentioned processing S12. If the result of the determination is that the charging end signal is received, the power supply control unit 12 at startup determines that the power supply has ended (yes), and then executes processing S61. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that the charging end signal is not received, the power supply control unit 12 at startup determines that the power supply has not ended (no), and then executes processing S54.

[0106] In this process S54, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD measures the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 through the temperature measuring unit 2 through the startup power supply control unit 12, similarly to the above-mentioned process S13. In addition, in this process S54, similarly to the above-mentioned process S13, the startup power supply control unit 12 may measure the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 through the temperature measuring unit 2 after the execution of the waiting process.

[0107] After the processing S54, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines whether the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 in the processing S54 has become lower than the third temperature threshold (or whether it has become below the third temperature threshold) (S55) through the startup power supply control unit 12. If the result of the determination is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 has become lower than the third temperature threshold (or the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 has become below the third temperature threshold) (yes), the startup power supply control unit 12 will then change the power value based on the difference to the charging power value (power supply power value) contained in the charging request signal, and then execute Figure 3 The above-mentioned processing S11 (S59) shown. Thus, in the case where the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 in the processing S54 becomes lower than the third temperature threshold (or when the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 becomes lower than the third temperature threshold), the processing of the startup power supply mode is terminated and the processing of the normal power supply mode is executed. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 does not become lower than the third temperature threshold (or when the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 does not become lower than the third temperature threshold) (No), the startup power supply control unit 12 then executes the processing S56.

[0108] In the process S56, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines whether the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 in the process S54 becomes lower than the fourth temperature threshold (or becomes below the fourth temperature threshold) through the startup power supply control unit 12. If the result of the determination is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 becomes lower than the fourth temperature threshold (or the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 becomes below the fourth temperature threshold) (yes), the startup power supply control unit 12 returns the process to the process S52. Thus, the power supply is wirelessly supplied from the power transmission unit 3 to the smartphone RD with the power value based on the difference. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 does not become lower than the fourth temperature threshold (or the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 does not become below the fourth temperature threshold) (no), the startup power supply control unit 12 next executes the process S57.

[0109] In the process S57, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines whether the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 in the process S54 exceeds the second temperature threshold (or becomes above the second temperature threshold) through the startup power supply control unit 12. If the result of the determination is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 exceeds the second temperature threshold (or the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 becomes above the second temperature threshold) (yes), the startup power supply control unit 12 then controls the power transmission unit 3 in a manner of stopping power supply (S58, stop power supply), and then returns the process to the process S54. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 does not exceed the second temperature threshold (or the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 does not become above the second temperature threshold) (no), the startup power supply control unit 12 then returns the process to the process S54.

[0110] On the other hand, in the process S61, as the power supply is determined to be finished in the process S53, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD controls the power transmission unit 3 to stop the power supply by the startup power supply control unit 12. Thus, the power supply is stopped.

[0111] After the processing S61, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines whether the power supply request is accepted (S62) through the power supply control unit 12 at startup, similar to the above-mentioned processing S2. If the result of the determination is that the charging request signal is received, the power supply control unit 12 at startup determines that there is a power supply request (yes), and then executes processing S51. Thus, when a new power supply request is received, power supply is implemented through the power supply mode at startup. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that the charging request signal is not received, the power supply control unit 12 at startup determines that there is no power supply request (no), and then executes processing S63.

[0112] In the process S63, the vehicle wireless power supply device SD determines whether the operation is completed through the control unit 1. If the result of the determination is that the operation is completed (yes), the control unit 1 ends the present process. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that the operation is not completed (no), the control unit 1 returns the process to the process S62. Thus, the processes S62 and S63 are repeated until a new power supply request is accepted. In addition, during the execution of each process from S51 to S59, if the operation of the passenger car VC is completed, the present process is terminated, for example, by interruption processing.

[0113] For example, at startup, when the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 exceeds the first temperature threshold, Figure 2 In the process, each process from process S1 to process S4 is executed, and then process S6 of the power supply mode at startup is executed. Figure 8In the process, processing S51 is executed, and at the time of the startup, if the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 exceeds the second temperature threshold, processing S54 is executed, and each process from processing S54 to processing S58 is repeated until the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 becomes less than the fourth temperature threshold (or until it becomes below the fourth temperature threshold). If the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 becomes less than the fourth temperature threshold (or becomes below the fourth temperature threshold), processing S52 is executed from processing S56 to supply power based on the power value of the difference. Thereafter, for example, if the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 becomes less than the third temperature threshold (or becomes below the third temperature threshold) before the power supply ends, processing S11 is executed from processing S55 to shift from the startup power supply mode to the normal power supply mode. Or, for example, afterwards, if the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 exceeds the second temperature threshold again (or becomes above the second temperature threshold) before the power supply is ended, processing S58 is executed from processing S57, the power supply is stopped, and the processing returns to processing S54, and each process from processing S54 to processing S58 is repeated again until the temperature of the power transmission unit 3 becomes lower than the fourth temperature threshold (or until it becomes below the fourth temperature threshold).

[0114] By executing the processing of the startup power supply mode of this modified form, the startup power supply control unit 12 controls the power transmission unit 3 so that power is supplied to the smartphone RD by wireless when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 is lower than the second temperature threshold (or lower than the second temperature threshold) at the startup of the wireless power supply device for vehicle SD, and controls the power transmission unit 3 so that power is not supplied to the smartphone RD by wireless when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 exceeds the second temperature threshold (or is higher than the second temperature threshold) at the startup. In addition, in this modified form, the startup power supply control unit 12 further controls the power transmission unit 3 so that power is supplied to the smartphone RD by wireless when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 exceeds the second temperature threshold (or is higher than the second temperature threshold) after the startup until the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 becomes lower than the first temperature threshold for the first time (or becomes lower than the first temperature threshold for the first time) at the start of power supply when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 2 is lower than the second temperature threshold (or lower than the second temperature threshold (the fourth temperature threshold)) at the start of power supply.

[0115] In order to express the present invention, the present invention is appropriately and fully described above with reference to the accompanying drawings and through the embodiments, but it should be considered that it is easy for those skilled in the art to change and / or improve the above embodiments. Therefore, as long as the changes or improvements implemented by those skilled in the art do not deviate from the scope of the rights of the claims recorded in the claims, the changes or improvements are interpreted as being included in the scope of the rights of the claims.

Claims

1. A wireless power supply device for a vehicle, which is used in a vehicle and supplies power to a power receiving device wirelessly, wherein the wireless power supply device for a vehicle is characterized by comprising: A power transmission unit, which supplies power to the power receiving device wirelessly; a temperature measuring unit configured to measure a temperature of the power transmission unit; and a control unit that controls the power transmission unit, The control unit includes: a normal power supply mode in which the power transmission unit supplies power to the power receiving device wirelessly and stops the power supply when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit is equal to or higher than a predetermined first temperature threshold; and a startup power supply mode in which, when the wireless power supply device for a vehicle is started, the power transmission unit is controlled so as to supply power to the power receiving device wirelessly when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit is equal to or lower than a predetermined second temperature threshold that is higher than the first temperature threshold. The control unit controls the power transmission unit so that the power receiving device is supplied with power wirelessly at a power value set based on a difference between the second temperature threshold and the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit at the time of the startup, and sets the power value based on the difference so that the power value becomes smaller as the difference becomes smaller. When the control unit wirelessly supplies power to the power receiving device at the time of startup and, during power supply, when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit becomes lower than a prescribed third temperature threshold that is lower than the first temperature threshold, the control unit terminates execution of the startup power supply mode and starts execution of the normal power supply mode.

2. The wireless power supply device for a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The control unit controls the power transmission unit so as not to wirelessly supply power to the power receiving device when the temperature measured by the temperature measurement unit exceeds the second temperature threshold value during the startup.

3. The wireless power supply device for a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The second temperature threshold is an operation guarantee temperature for guaranteeing the operation of the wireless power supply device for a vehicle.

4. The wireless power supply device for a vehicle according to claim 2, wherein: The second temperature threshold is an operation guarantee temperature for guaranteeing the operation of the wireless power supply device for a vehicle.

5. A vehicle wireless power supply method, used in a vehicle, for wirelessly supplying power to a power receiving device, the vehicle wireless power supply method comprising: a temperature measuring step of measuring a temperature of a power transmitting unit that wirelessly supplies power to the power receiving device; and a power supply step of wirelessly supplying power to the power receiving device, The power supply process includes: a normal power supply mode in which the power transmission unit supplies power to the power receiving device wirelessly and stops the power supply when the temperature measured by the temperature measurement process is equal to or higher than a predetermined first temperature threshold; and a startup power supply mode in which, at startup, when the temperature measured by the temperature measurement process is equal to or lower than a predetermined second temperature threshold that is higher than the first temperature threshold, the power supply is supplied to the power receiving device wirelessly. In the power supply step, when power is supplied to the power receiving device wirelessly at the time of the startup, power is supplied to the power receiving device wirelessly according to a power value set based on a difference between the second temperature threshold and the temperature measured in the temperature measuring step, and the power value based on the difference is set in such a manner that the power value becomes smaller as the difference becomes smaller. In the power supply process, when power is supplied to the power receiving device wirelessly at the time of startup, and during power supply, when the temperature measured by the temperature measurement process becomes lower than a prescribed third temperature threshold value that is lower than the first temperature threshold value, execution of the startup power supply mode is terminated and execution of the normal power supply mode is started.

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