Charging device, power receiving device, and method

Abstract

There is a problem that, since the power transmission power transmitted from the power transmission coil attenuates according to the distance, when a power receiving device such as, for example, a smartphone is installed with an attached cover, the difference between the power transmission power and the power received by the power receiving coil increases, so that normal charging cannot be performed. Therefore, a charging device is provided, for example, including a transmission unit that periodically transmits a response request, a reception unit that receives a response to the response request from the power receiving device, a determination unit that determines whether or not a power intensity indicated by the response and corresponding to the response request received by the power receiving device is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, and a power control unit that increases the output power corresponding to the response request when it is determined that the power intensity is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to charging devices, receiving devices, and methods. Background Technology

[0002] This provides contactless charging (also known as wireless power supply, wireless transmission, etc.) using electromagnetic induction to charge devices such as smartphones placed on a charging device (charging stand). In contactless charging using electromagnetic induction, the power supplied by the power supply coil mounted in the charging device is received by the power receiving coil mounted in the device, thus allowing the device to be charged without being connected to a charging cable or the like.

[0003] While this contactless charging method is convenient, it also presents a problem: if a metallic foreign object is placed between the transmitting and receiving coils, the current flowing through the foreign object can cause incorrect charging. Furthermore, excessive current flowing through the metallic foreign object may cause abnormal heating, leading to dangerous accidents such as burns, device damage, or fires.

[0004] Therefore, in Qi version 1.1 and later, which is the international standard for contactless charging, charging devices used for contactless charging must implement foreign object detection (FOD) functionality. FOD functionality enables the charging device to detect metallic foreign objects and to either stop charging or not start charging when a metallic foreign object is detected, thereby preventing dangerous accidents in advance.

[0005] In the FOD function, when there is a large difference between the power transmitted from the transmitting coil and the power received by the receiving coil, it is determined that the current has flowed through the metallic foreign object, thereby performing the detection of the metallic foreign object.

[0006] Citation List

[0007] Non-patent literature

[0008] Non-patent document 1: WPC (Wireless Power Consortium), The Qi specifications "Introduction to the Power Class 0 Specification" version 1.2.4, [pdf], [Searched on May 15, 2020], Internet. <URL:https: / / www.wirelesspowerconsortium.com / knowledge-base / specifications / download-the-qi-specifications.html> Summary of the Invention

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] However, since the power transmitted from the transmitting coil decreases with distance, there is a problem that receiving devices with covers, such as smartphones, may increase the difference between the power received by the receiving coil and the power received by the receiving device, thus hindering normal charging.

[0011] Therefore, this disclosure proposes a charging device, a receiving device, and a method configured to perform non-contact charging normally even for a receiving device with a cover.

[0012] Solution to the problem

[0013] According to this disclosure, a charging device includes: a transmitting unit that periodically transmits a response request; a receiving unit that receives a response to the response request from a powered device; a determining unit that determines whether the power intensity of the response request received by the powered device, indicated by the response, is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold; and a power control unit that increases the output power when it determines that the power intensity is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold.

[0014] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, a charging device includes: a measuring unit that periodically measures the Q value of a coil; a detection unit that detects changes in the Q value from a predetermined reference value; a transmitting unit that transmits a response request when it detects a change in the Q value from the predetermined reference value; a receiving unit that receives a response to the response request from a powered device; and a power control unit that increases the output power when it detects a change in the Q value from the predetermined reference value and does not receive a response.

[0015] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, a charging device includes: a transmitting unit that periodically transmits a response request; a receiving unit that receives a response to the response request from a powered device; and a power control unit that, when no response is received, periodically increases the output power until a response is received, periodically decreases the output power until a response is received when the output power has been increased to a first threshold, and periodically increases the output power until a response is received when the output power has been decreased to a second threshold.

[0016] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, a power receiving device includes: a detection unit that detects the installation of a cover; an adjustment unit that adjusts a FOD parameter when the cover is detected to avoid erroneously detecting the presence of a foreign object as the state of the cover being installed; a calculation unit that calculates the power received by the charging device based on the parameter; and a transmission unit that transmits the power received to the charging device.

[0017] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, a power receiving device includes: a display unit displaying a user interface (UI) for inputting whether a cover is installed; an input receiving unit receiving input via the UI indicating whether a cover is installed; a detection unit detecting that a cover is installed when an input indicates that a cover is installed; an adjustment unit adjusting a FOD parameter when a cover is detected to prevent the presence of a cover from being mistakenly detected as the presence of a foreign object; a calculation unit calculating the power received by a charging device based on the parameter; and a transmission unit transmitting the power received by a charging device.

[0018] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, a charging device further includes: a receiving unit that receives a notification from a powered device indicating that a cover is installed on the powered device; and an adjusting unit that, upon receiving the notification, adjusts a FOD threshold to prevent the presence of a foreign object from being mistakenly detected as the state of having a cover installed.

[0019] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, a method includes: a charging device periodically sending a response request; receiving a response to the response request from a powered device; determining whether the power intensity of the response request received by the powered device, indicated by the response, is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold; and increasing the output power when the power intensity is determined to be equal to or less than the predetermined threshold.

[0020] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, a method includes: a charging device periodically sending a response request; receiving a response to the response request from a powered device; measuring the Q value of a coil; detecting a change in the Q value from a predetermined reference value; and increasing the output power when a change in the Q value from the predetermined reference value is detected and no response request is received.

[0021] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, a method includes: a charging device periodically sending a response request; receiving a response to the response request from a powered device; periodically increasing the output power until a response is received when no response is received; periodically decreasing the output power until a response is received when the output power has been increased to a first threshold; and periodically increasing the output power until a response is received when the output power has been decreased to a second threshold.

[0022] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, a method includes: a receiving device detecting the presence of a cover; adjusting FOD parameters when the presence of a cover is detected to prevent the presence of a cover from being mistakenly detected as the presence of a foreign object; calculating the power received by a charging device based on the parameters; and sending the power received to the charging device.

[0023] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, a method includes: a powered device displaying a user interface (UI) for inputting whether a cover is installed; receiving input via the UI indicating whether a cover is installed; adjusting FOD parameters when the input indicates that a cover is installed to prevent the presence of a foreign object from being mistakenly detected as the presence of a cover; calculating the powered power presented to a charging device based on the parameters; and sending the powered power to the charging device.

[0024] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, a method includes: a charging device receiving a notification from a powered device indicating that a cover is installed on the powered device; and upon receiving the notification, adjusting a FOD threshold to prevent the state of having a cover installed from being mistakenly detected as the presence of a foreign object. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is an illustration illustrating an example of the charging device 100 and the receiving device 200 according to this embodiment.

[0026] Figure 2 This is an illustration illustrating an example of contactless charging via a power supply coil 102 and a power receiving coil 201 according to this embodiment.

[0027] Figure 3 This is an illustration illustrating an example of a power receiving device 200 with a cover 500 according to this embodiment.

[0028] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a contactless charging system according to this embodiment.

[0029] Figure 5 This is an illustration illustrating an example of the control phase of a contactless charging system according to this embodiment.

[0030] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating the exemplary functional configuration of the microcomputer 104 according to the first and third embodiments of this embodiment.

[0031] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the power supply control process according to the first embodiment of this example.

[0032] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary functional configuration of a microcomputer 104 according to a second embodiment of this embodiment.

[0033] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the power supply control process according to the second embodiment of this example.

[0034] Figure 10This is a flowchart illustrating the power supply control process according to the third embodiment of this example.

[0035] Figure 11 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary functional configuration of a microcomputer 205 according to the fourth embodiment of this embodiment.

[0036] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the power control process according to the fourth embodiment of this example.

[0037] Figure 13 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary functional configuration of a microcomputer 205 according to the fifth embodiment of this embodiment.

[0038] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating the power control process according to the fifth embodiment of this example.

[0039] Figure 15 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary functional configuration of a microcomputer 104 according to a sixth embodiment of this embodiment.

[0040] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating the control process of the FOD function according to the sixth embodiment of this example.

[0041] Figure 17 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary hardware configuration of the power receiving device 200 according to this embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that in this specification and the drawings, substantially identical parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0043] Please note that the instructions will be given in the following order.

[0044] 1. Function Overview

[0045] 2. Functional details

[0046] 2.1. First Embodiment

[0047] 2.2. Second Embodiment

[0048] 2.3. Third Embodiment

[0049] 2.4. Fourth Embodiment

[0050] 2.5. Fifth Embodiment

[0051] 2.6. Sixth Embodiment

[0052] 3. Exemplary Hardware Configuration

[0053] 4. Conclusion

[0054] <1. Functional Overview>

[0055] First, the charging device 100 and the receiving device 200 according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 This is an illustration illustrating an example of the charging device 100 and the receiving device 200 according to this embodiment.

[0056] The charging device 100 is a so-called wireless charger configured to supply power to and charge the powered device 200 without the need for metal contacts, connectors, etc. The charging device 100 is, for example, in... Figure 1 The device shown on the left is plate-shaped and is used by placing it on the floor or similar surface. Additionally, the charging device 100 is connected to a power source (not shown) via a power cord and receives supplied power. Note that the shape, size, color, etc., of the charging device 100 are not limited to... Figure 1 As shown in the diagram, it can be, for example, a bracket type that can be erected on the floor for use.

[0057] The powered device 200 is, for example, a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, a tablet PC, or a game console. Figure 1 As shown on the right, the receiving device 200 is configured to be placed on the charging device 100 to receive supplied power through contactless charging without being directly connected to a power source or the like.

[0058] Next, the contactless charging according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 2 This diagram illustrates an example of contactless charging via a power supply coil 102 and a power receiving coil 201 according to this embodiment. The power supply coil 102, included in the charging device 100, generates a magnetic field (magnetic flux) when electricity flows from the power source through the power supply coil 102. For example... Figure 2 As shown in the diagram, the receiving coil 201 included in the receiving device 200 generates an induced current when it is near a magnetic field, and the receiving device 200 can be charged using electricity.

[0059] Notice, Figure 2 The power supply coil 102 and power receiving coil 201 shown in the diagram are for illustrative purposes only. In reality, they are located inside the charging device 100 and the power receiving device 200, respectively, and therefore cannot be seen from the outside.

[0060] like Figure 2 As shown in the diagram, the receiving device 200 can receive power supplied by the charging device 100 through contactless charging. However, in some cases, contactless charging cannot be performed normally for the receiving device 200 with a cover. Figure 3This is an illustration illustrating an example of a power receiving device 200 with a cover 500 according to this embodiment. Figure 3 As shown in the diagram, for example, when the cover 500 covers the back of the power receiving device 200, such as in Figure 1 As shown in the diagram on the right, in some cases, even when the receiving device 200 is placed on the charging device 100, non-contact charging cannot be performed normally. In this embodiment, to solve this problem, a non-contact charging system according to the first to sixth embodiments will be described.

[0061] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a contactless charging system according to this embodiment. The contactless charging system includes a DC power supply 3, a charging device 100, and a receiving device 200.

[0062] The charging device 100 is connected to the DC power supply 3 via a power line and receives power supplied from the DC power supply 3. Additionally, the charging device 100 includes a switching circuit 101 that converts DC power to AC power, a power supply coil 102 that supplies AC power to the receiving device 200, a communication data demodulation circuit 103 that demodulates received data from the receiving device 200, a microcomputer 104 that controls various processes in the contactless charging system, and a memory 105 that stores various programs of the microcomputer 104, various parameters required by the contactless charging system, etc. The various processes controlled by the microcomputer 104 differ in different embodiments, and their details will be described later in the respective embodiments.

[0063] The receiving device 200 receives power supplied from the charging device 100 via a receiving coil 201 through contactless charging. Additionally, the receiving device 200 includes a receiving coil 201 for receiving power supplied from the charging device 100, a rectifier circuit 202 for converting AC power to DC power, a low-dropout linear regulator (LDO) 203 for adjusting the output power from the rectifier circuit 202 and transmitting the adjusted output power to the charging circuit 206, a communication data modulation circuit 204 for modulating data transmitted to the charging device 100, a microcomputer 205 for controlling various processes in the contactless charging system, a charging circuit 206 for controlling the charging of the secondary battery 208, a memory 207 for storing various programs of the microcomputer 205, various parameters required by the contactless charging system, etc., and a secondary battery 208 (i.e., the so-called battery). The microcomputer 205 will be described in detail in each embodiment later.

[0064] <2. Functional Details>

[0065] The contactless charging system will now be described in each embodiment, but first, the control phase of the contactless charging system will be described. Figure 5This is a diagram illustrating an example of the control phase of a contactless charging system according to this embodiment.

[0066] The selection phase is the initial state. The contactless charging system returns to the selection phase when an abnormality is detected during the charging of the powered device 200 in other phases, or when the charging of the powered device 200 is completed.

[0067] The ping phase involves the charging device 100 intermittently supplying power to detect the status of the powered device 200. During this intermittent power supply, the charging device 100 receives signal strength packets (SSPs) from the powered device 200. The SSP indicates the strength of the power received by the powered device 200 from the charging device 100 (received power). Upon receiving an SSP, the contactless charging system enters the identification and configuration phase. Note that if the detected object is not the powered device 200, an SSP is not received, and the contactless charging system returns to the selection phase.

[0068] During the identification and configuration phase, individual information and configuration information are sent from the receiving device 200, and the charging device 100, upon receiving this information, begins preparation for power transmission. When preparation for power transmission is complete, the contactless charging system enters the power transmission phase and begins supplying power to the receiving device 200.

[0069] <<2.1. First Embodiment>>

[0070] Next, the first embodiment of this example will be described. In a conventional contactless charging system, when the charging device 100 receives an SSP from the receiving device 200, the charging device 100 determines that it can normally supply power to the receiving device 200 and maintains the output power at this time. Subsequently, the charging device 100 supplies power to the receiving device 200 using the maintained output power. Therefore, when the power received by the receiving device 200 is reduced due to the cover 500 or the like installed on the receiving device 200, in some cases, the charging of the receiving device 200 cannot be performed normally.

[0071] Therefore, in the first embodiment, the charging device 100 adjusts the output power of the charging device 100 (i.e., the power supplied from the charging device 100 to the powered device 200) based on the SSP indicating the power received by the powered device 200, so that the powered device 200 is charged normally.

[0072] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating the exemplary functional configuration of the microcomputer 104 according to the first and third embodiments of this embodiment. Figure 6As shown in the figure, the microcomputer 104 according to the first embodiment includes a transmitting unit 110, a receiving unit 120, a determining unit 130, a power control unit 140, and a control unit 190 that controls each component included in the microcomputer 104.

[0073] (Sending Unit 110)

[0074] According to the first embodiment, the sending unit 110 periodically sends response requests. The sending of response requests is used to detect intermittent power supply to the powered device 200. In addition, if no response to the response request is received from the powered device 200 within a certain period of time after the response request is sent, the sending unit 110 sends the response request again.

[0075] (Receiver Unit 120)

[0076] According to the first embodiment, the receiving unit 120 receives a response (i.e., SSP) from the powered device 200 to a response request sent by the sending unit 110. The charging device 100 determines that it is supplying power to a legitimate recipient by receiving a response from the powered device 200 in this manner. In other words, when no response is received from the powered device 200, the charging device 100 performs control to prevent power supply from starting, or to stop power supply if it has already started.

[0077] (Decision Unit 130)

[0078] According to the first embodiment, the determination unit 130 determines whether the power intensity of the response indication received by the receiving unit 120 and the response request received by the powered device 200 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold.

[0079] (Power Control Unit 140)

[0080] According to the first embodiment, the power control unit 140 increases the output power when the determination unit 130 determines that the power intensity of the response request received by the powered device 200 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. This configuration enables the output power to be increased to the power required for normal charging of the powered device 200.

[0081] Next, we will refer to Figure 7 The process of controlling the power supply according to the first embodiment is described. Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the power supply control process according to the first embodiment of this example.

[0082] First, such as Figure 7As shown in the diagram, the transmitting unit 110 of the charging device 100 sends a response request for detecting the powered device 200 (step S101). Note that this response request is a signal for detecting the powered device 200, but it is not sent by specifying a particular powered device 200.

[0083] Next, if no response request is received when approaching the charging device 100 (step S102: No), the powered device 200 moves closer to the charging device 100 and waits for the response request to be received. On the other hand, if a response request is received (step S102: Yes), the powered device 200 sends a response to the response request to the charging device 100 (step S103). This response is an SSP, indicating the strength of the power received when the response request is received by the powered device 200.

[0084] Next, if the receiving unit 120 of the charging device 100 does not receive a response to the response request from the powered device 200 within a certain period of time after the response request is sent (step S104: No), the process returns to step S101, and the sending unit 110 sends the response request again.

[0085] On the other hand, when the receiving unit 120 receives a response to the response request from the powered device 200 (step S104: Yes), the determination unit 130 of the charging device 100 determines, based on the received response, whether the power intensity of the response request received by the powered device 200 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold (step S105).

[0086] When it is determined that the power intensity of the response request received by the powered device 200 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold (step S106: Yes), the power control unit 140 of the charging device 100 increases the output power (step S107). After step S107, the process returns to step S101, and the sending unit 110 resends the response request using the increased output power in step S107.

[0087] On the other hand, when it is determined that the power intensity of the response request received by the powered device 200 is greater than a predetermined threshold (step S106: No), the process proceeds to the identification & configuration stage (step S108). After step S108, Figure 7 The process shown in the diagram ends, but the process then enters the identification and configuration phase to begin preparations for power transmission to the powered device 200.

[0088] <<2.2. Second Embodiment>>

[0089] Next, the second embodiment of this example will be described. In a conventional contactless charging system, due to the cover 500 or the like installed on the receiving device 200, in some cases, the charging device 100 cannot receive the SSP sent from the receiving device 200 that it normally receives, and cannot detect the receiving device 200. Therefore, in some cases, the charging device 100 does not start supplying power to the receiving device 200, and cannot charge the receiving device 200 normally.

[0090] Therefore, in the second embodiment, the charging device 100 measures the Q value (quality factor) of the power supply coil 102. Thus, even if no SSP is received from the power receiving device 200, when a change in the Q value is detected, it is assumed that the power receiving device 200 has been detected, and the output power is increased until the SSP is received.

[0091] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary functional configuration of the microcomputer 104 according to the second embodiment of this embodiment. For example... Figure 8 As shown in the figure, the microcomputer 104 according to the second embodiment includes a transmitting unit 110, a receiving unit 120, a determining unit 130, a power control unit 140, a measuring unit 150, a detection unit 160, and a control unit 190 that controls each of the components included in the microcomputer 104.

[0092] (Sending Unit 110)

[0093] When the detection unit 160 detects a change in the Q value measured by the measurement unit 150 from a predetermined reference value, the transmission unit 110, according to the second embodiment, sends a response request. Furthermore, if the transmission unit 110 does not receive a response to the response request from the powered device 200 within a certain time after sending the response request, the power control unit 140 increases the output power and then sends the response request again.

[0094] (Receiver Unit 120)

[0095] The construction of the receiving unit 120 according to the second embodiment is similar to that of the first embodiment.

[0096] (Decision Unit 130)

[0097] The determination unit 130 in the second embodiment is constructed similarly to that in the first embodiment.

[0098] (Power Control Unit 140)

[0099] When the detection unit 160 detects a change in the Q value measured by the measurement unit 150 from a predetermined reference value, and no response to the response request is received from the powered device 200, the power control unit 140 according to the second embodiment increases the output power. This configuration enables the output power to be increased, allowing the powered device 200 to charge normally. Furthermore, increasing the output power when the Q value changes suppresses unnecessary power consumption.

[0100] Furthermore, when the determination unit 130 determines that the power intensity of the response request received by the powered device 200, as indicated by the response received by the receiving unit 120, is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the power control unit 140 increases the output power. The control of the power control unit 140 is similar to that in the first embodiment, thereby enabling the output power to be increased to the power required for normal charging of the powered device 200.

[0101] (Measurement Unit 150)

[0102] The measuring unit 150 of the second embodiment periodically measures the Q value of the power supply coil 102.

[0103] (Detection Unit 160)

[0104] According to the second embodiment, the detection unit 160 detects the change in the Q value measured by the measurement unit 150 from a predetermined reference value.

[0105] Next, we will refer to Figure 9 The process of controlling the power supply according to the second embodiment is described. Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the power supply control process according to the second embodiment of this example.

[0106] First, such as Figure 9 As shown in the diagram, the measuring unit 150 of the charging device 100 measures the Q value of the power supply coil 102 (step S201). When the detection unit 160 of the charging device 100 does not detect a change in the Q value from a predetermined reference value (step S202: No), the process returns to step S201, and the measuring unit 150 measures the Q value again.

[0107] On the other hand, when the detection unit 160 detects a change in the Q value measured by the measurement unit 150 from a predetermined reference value (step S202: Yes), the transmitting unit 110 of the charging device 100 sends a response request for detecting the powered device 200 (step S203). Note that this response request is a signal for detecting the powered device 200, but it is not sent by specifying a particular powered device 200.

[0108] Next, if no response request is received when approaching the charging device 100 (step S204: No), the powered device 200 moves closer to the charging device 100 and waits for the response request to be received. On the other hand, if a response request is received (step S204: Yes), the powered device 200 sends a response to the response request to the charging device 100 (step S205). This response is an SSP, indicating the strength of the power received when the response request is received by the powered device 200.

[0109] Next, if the receiving unit 120 of the charging device 100 does not receive a response to the response request from the powered device 200 within a certain period of time after the response request is sent (step S206: No), the power control unit 140 of the charging device 100 increases the output power (step S207). After step S207, the process returns to step S201, and the sending unit 110 resends the response request using the increased output power in step S207.

[0110] On the other hand, when the receiving unit 120 receives a response to the response request from the powered device 200 (step S206: Yes), the process enters the identification & configuration stage (step S208). Note that when a response to the response request is received (step S206: Yes), the process according to the first embodiment can be performed. Figure 7 The process proceeds through step S105 and subsequent steps, instead of immediately entering the identification and configuration phase. Therefore, when it is determined that the power received by the power receiving device 200 is insufficient for charging, the output power of the charging device 100 can be increased.

[0111] <<2.3. Third Embodiment>>

[0112] Next, a third embodiment of this embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, when no response to the response request is received from the powered device 200 (step S206: No), the output power is increased (step S207), and then the response request is sent again (step S203). Therefore, unless a response to the response request is received from the powered device 200, there is a possibility that the output power will continuously increase.

[0113] Therefore, in the third embodiment, when no response to the response request is received from the powered device 200, the charging device 100 increases its output power to a predetermined threshold (corresponding to the first threshold) until a response is received. Furthermore, after increasing the output power to the predetermined threshold, the charging device 100 decreases the output power to a predetermined threshold (corresponding to the second threshold) until a response is received. Then, after the output power is decreased to the predetermined threshold, the output power is increased again until a response is received, and the increase and decrease of the output power between the second threshold and the first threshold is repeated until a response is received.

[0114] The microcomputer 104 in the third embodiment has the same functional configuration as that in the first embodiment, thereby providing a reference... Figure 6 The block diagram describes each function of the third embodiment.

[0115] (Sending Unit 110)

[0116] The construction of the transmitting unit 110 according to the third embodiment is similar to that of the first embodiment.

[0117] (Receiver Unit 120)

[0118] The structure of the receiving unit 120 according to the third embodiment is similar to that of the first embodiment.

[0119] (Decision Unit 130)

[0120] The determination unit 130 according to the third embodiment is constructed similarly to that in the first embodiment.

[0121] (Power Control Unit 140)

[0122] When no response to a response request is received from the powered device 200, the power control unit 140 according to the third embodiment periodically increases the output power until a response is received. Furthermore, when the output power has been increased to a first threshold, the power control unit 140 periodically decreases the output power until a response is received. Additionally, when the output power has been decreased to a second threshold, the power control unit 140 periodically increases the output power until a response is received.

[0123] Note that in the power control unit 140, the determination may not be performed until a response is received, but rather when the determination unit 130 determines that the power intensity of the response request indicated by the response received by the receiving unit 120 and received by the powered device 200 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. This configuration allows the output power to be increased or decreased to the power required for normal charging of the powered device 200.

[0124] Next, we will refer to Figure 10The process of controlling the power supply according to the third embodiment is described. Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the power supply control process according to the third embodiment of this example.

[0125] Figure 10 Steps S301 to S303 shown in the diagram are the same as those according to the first embodiment. Figure 7 Steps S101 to S103 are similar.

[0126] Next, if the receiving unit 120 of the charging device 100 does not receive a response to the response request from the powered device 200 within a certain period of time after sending the response request (step S304: No), the power control unit 140 of the charging device 100 increases or decreases the output power (step S305). In step S305, the power control unit 140 increases and decreases the output power at a predetermined rate, such that the increase and decrease of the output power repeatedly occurs between a predetermined second threshold and a first threshold. After step S305, the process returns to step S301, and the sending unit 110 resends the response request using the output power increased and decreased in step S305.

[0127] Note that, as described above, the power control unit 140 may not make a determination until a response is received (the "yes" determination in step S304), but rather when the determination unit 130 determines that the power intensity of the response request indicated by the response received by the receiving unit 120 and received by the powered device 200 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold.

[0128] On the other hand, when the receiving unit 120 receives a response to the response request from the powered device 200 (step S304: Yes), the process enters the identification & configuration stage (step S306). Note that when a response to the response request is received (step S304: Yes), the process according to the first embodiment can proceed. Figure 7 The process proceeds through step S105 and subsequent steps, instead of immediately entering the identification and configuration phase. Therefore, when it is determined that the power received by the power receiving device 200 is insufficient for charging, the output power of the charging device 100 can be increased.

[0129] <<2.4. Fourth Embodiment>>

[0130] Next, the fourth embodiment of this example will be described. In the conventional FOD function, when there is a large difference between the power supplied from the power supply coil 102 and the power received by the power receiving coil 201, the charging device 100 assumes that a metallic foreign object has been detected and either does not start charging or stops charging. Therefore, when the cover 500 is installed on the power receiving device 200, the difference between the power supplied and the power received becomes larger, and the cover 500 is incorrectly detected as having a foreign object, which may prevent the charging device 100 from charging normally.

[0131] Therefore, in the fourth embodiment, when the installation of the cover 500 is detected, in addition to the power received as indicated in response to a response request from the charging device 100, the charging device 200 also considers the installation of the cover 500 for presenting the charging device 100.

[0132] Figure 11 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary functional configuration of the microcomputer 205 according to the fourth embodiment of this invention. For example... Figure 11 As shown in the figure, the microcomputer 205 according to the fourth embodiment includes a detection unit 210, an adjustment unit 220, a calculation unit 230, a transmission unit 240, and a control unit 290 that controls the various components included in the microcomputer 205.

[0133] (Detection unit 210)

[0134] The detection unit 210 according to the fourth embodiment detects that a cover 500 is installed on the powered device 200. The detection of the cover 500 is performed using electrical methods, mechanical methods, etc., utilizing a detection component included in the cover 500. More specifically, for example, the signal line level changing from H to L is detected by electrically connecting the signal line of the detection unit 210 to the signal line of the cover 500 via metal contacts or a connector. Alternatively, the signal line level changing from H to L is detected by moving the reed switch of the detection unit 210 closer to a magnet included in the cover 500. Alternatively, the installation of the cover 500 can be detected, for example, by pressing the mechanical switch of the detection unit 210 using a mechanical protrusion of the cover 500.

[0135] (Adjustment unit 220)

[0136] When the detection unit 210 detects that the cover 500 is installed, the adjustment unit 220 according to the fourth embodiment adjusts the FOD parameter to avoid mistakenly detecting the presence of the cover 500 as the presence of a foreign object. More specifically, for example, the FOD parameter used when the cover 500 is detected is changed. Therefore, when the cover 500 is detected, the difference between the power supply and the power received due to the increased power supply caused by the cover 500 can be adjusted.

[0137] (Calculation Unit 230)

[0138] According to the fourth embodiment, the calculation unit 230 calculates the power received by the charging device based on the FOD parameters. Therefore, when the cover 500 is detected, the calculation unit 230 calculates the power received by adding up the power lost due to the cover 500.

[0139] (Sending unit 240)

[0140] According to the fourth embodiment, the transmitting unit 240 transmits the power received by the computing unit 230 to the charging device 100.

[0141] Next, we will refer to Figure 12 The process of controlling the power received according to the fourth embodiment is described. Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the power control process according to the fourth embodiment of this example.

[0142] First, such as Figure 12 As shown in the diagram, when the detection unit 210 of the power receiving device 200 detects that the cover 500 is installed (step S401: Yes), the adjustment unit 220 of the power receiving device 200 adjusts the FOD parameter to avoid erroneously detecting the state of the cover 500 being installed as the presence of foreign objects (step S402).

[0143] On the other hand, if the detection unit 210 of the power receiving device 200 does not detect that the cover 500 is installed (step S401: no), the process proceeds to step S403 instead of step S402.

[0144] Next, the calculation unit 230 of the power receiving device 200 calculates the power received by the charging device based on the FOD parameters (step S403). When the cover 500 is detected, the FOD parameters used here are the FOD parameters adjusted by the adjustment unit 220.

[0145] Next, the transmitting unit 240 of the receiving device 200 sends the receiving power calculated by the computing unit 230 to the charging device 100 as a response to the response request from the charging device 100 (step S404).

[0146] Next, the receiving unit 120 of the charging device 100 determines whether it has received power from the receiving device 200 (step S405). Step 405 is, for example, the same as according to the first embodiment. Figure 7 The determination is similar to step S104 in the process, and as follows: Figure 7 As shown in the diagram, proceed to step S101 or step S105 and subsequent steps according to the determination result.

[0147] In other words, although the charging device 100 according to the fourth embodiment does not recognize the presence of the cover 500, it takes into account the presence of the cover 500 in addition to the power received by the receiving device 200. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the erroneous detection of the presence of the cover 500 as the presence of a foreign object.

[0148] <<2.5. Fifth Embodiment>>

[0149] Next, the fifth embodiment of this embodiment will be described. In the fourth embodiment, since the cover 500 needs to include a detection component, it is impossible to detect the installation of the cover 500 on commercially available covers or the like that do not include the detection component.

[0150] Therefore, in the fifth embodiment, the user of the powered device 200 inputs whether or not the cover 500 is installed via a user interface (UI) displayed on the powered device 200.

[0151] Figure 13 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary functional configuration of the microcomputer 205 according to the fifth embodiment of this embodiment. For example... Figure 13 As shown in the figure, the microcomputer 205 according to the fifth embodiment includes a detection unit 210, an adjustment unit 220, a calculation unit 230, a transmission unit 240, a display unit 250, an input receiving unit 260, and a control unit 290 that controls each component included in the microcomputer 205.

[0152] (Detection unit 210)

[0153] When the input receiving unit 260 receives an input indicating whether the cover 500 is installed, the detection unit 210 according to the fifth embodiment detects that the cover 500 is installed on the power receiving device 200.

[0154] (Adjustment unit 220)

[0155] The construction of the adjustment unit 220 according to the fifth embodiment is similar to that of the fourth embodiment.

[0156] (Calculation Unit 230)

[0157] The construction of the computing unit 230 according to the fifth embodiment is similar to that of the fourth embodiment.

[0158] (Sending unit 240)

[0159] The construction of the transmitting unit 240 according to the fifth embodiment is similar to that of the fourth embodiment.

[0160] (Display unit 250)

[0161] According to the fifth embodiment, the display unit 250 displays a UI for inputting whether the cover 500 is installed. This UI is pre-downloaded from, for example, the website of the manufacturer of the charging device 100 and installed on the powered device 200.

[0162] (Input receiving unit 260)

[0163] According to the fifth embodiment, the input receiving unit 260 receives input indicating whether or not the cover 500 is installed via a UI displayed on the display unit 250. This means, for example, obtaining an input value selected by the user indicating whether or not the cover 500 is installed via the UI displayed on the display unit 250.

[0164] Next, we will refer to Figure 14 The process of controlling the power received according to the fifth embodiment is described. Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating the power control process according to the fifth embodiment of this example.

[0165] First, such as Figure 14 As shown in the diagram, the display unit 250 of the powered device 200, for example, responds to a request from a user to display a UI for inputting whether the cover 500 is installed (step S501).

[0166] Next, the input receiving unit 260 of the power receiving device 200 receives input via UI input displayed on the display unit 250 regarding whether the cover 500 is installed (step S502).

[0167] Next, the detection unit 210 of the power receiving device 200 determines whether a cover 500 is detected on the power receiving device 200 based on the input received by the input receiving unit 260 regarding whether the cover 500 is installed (step S503). Step S503 and subsequent steps are the same as those according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 12 The determination in step S401 and subsequent steps is similar.

[0168] <<2.6. Sixth Embodiment>>

[0169] Next, a sixth embodiment of this embodiment will be described. In the fourth and fifth embodiments, when the power receiving device 200 detects that the cover 500 is installed, the power receiving device 200 adjusts the FOD parameter and calculates the power receiving power taking into account the installation of the cover 500.

[0170] In contrast to these embodiments, in the sixth embodiment, when the power receiving device 200 detects that the cover 500 is installed, the power receiving device 200 does not adjust the FOD parameter, but the charging device 100 adjusts the FOD threshold.

[0171] Figure 15This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary functional configuration of the microcomputer 104 according to the sixth embodiment of this embodiment. For example... Figure 15 As shown in the figure, the microcomputer 104 according to the sixth embodiment includes a transmitting unit 110, a receiving unit 120, a determining unit 130, a power control unit 140, a measuring unit 150, a detecting unit 160, an adjusting unit 170, and a control unit 190 that controls each of the components included in the microcomputer 104.

[0172] (Sending Unit 110)

[0173] The transmitting unit 110 according to the sixth embodiment can employ functions similar to those in the first or second embodiment.

[0174] (Receiver Unit 120)

[0175] According to the sixth embodiment, the receiving unit 120 receives from the power receiving device 200 a notification that the power receiving device 200 is equipped with a cover 500.

[0176] (Decision Unit 130)

[0177] The determination unit 130 according to the sixth embodiment can employ functions similar to those in the first or second embodiment.

[0178] (Power Control Unit 140)

[0179] The power control unit 140 according to the sixth embodiment can employ functions similar to those of the first or second embodiment.

[0180] (Measurement Unit 150)

[0181] The construction of the measurement unit 150 according to the sixth embodiment is similar to that of the second embodiment. In the sixth embodiment, the microcomputer 104 may not include the measurement unit 150 if the Q value of the power supply coil 102 is not measured.

[0182] (Detection Unit 160)

[0183] The detection unit 160 according to the sixth embodiment is constructed similarly to that in the second embodiment. In the sixth embodiment, the microcomputer 104 may not include the detection unit 160 if the change in the Q value of the power supply coil 102 is not detected.

[0184] (Adjustment unit 170)

[0185] When the receiving unit 120 receives a notification indicating that a cover 500 has been installed on the power receiving device 200, the adjustment unit 170 according to the sixth embodiment adjusts the FOD threshold to prevent the state of the cover 500 being installed from being mistakenly detected as the presence of a foreign object. The FOD threshold is a threshold used to detect metallic foreign objects and the difference between the power supplied and the power received.

[0186] Therefore, upon receiving a notification from the power receiving device 200 indicating that the cover 500 is installed, the adjustment unit 170 adjusts the FOD threshold to avoid mistakenly detecting the installation of the cover 500 as the presence of a foreign object, even if the difference between the power supply and the power received is slightly large. However, this adjustment of the FOD threshold also has the disadvantage of making the detection of actual foreign objects difficult.

[0187] Next, we will refer to Figure 16 The process of controlling the FOD function according to the sixth embodiment is described. Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating the control process of the FOD function according to the sixth embodiment of this embodiment.

[0188] First, such as Figure 16 As shown in the diagram, the power receiving device 200 determines whether a cover 500 is detected installed on the power receiving device 200 (step S601). Step S601 is the same as that according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 12 Step S401 or according to the fifth embodiment Figure 14 Step S503 is similar. In other words, the processing of the sixth embodiment can be performed after determining whether the cover 500 has been installed according to the fourth or fifth embodiment.

[0189] If no cover 500 is detected on the power receiving device 200 (step S601: No), Figure 16 The process shown in the diagram is now complete.

[0190] On the other hand, when it is detected that a cover 500 is installed on the power receiving device 200 (step S601: Yes), the power receiving device 200 sends a notification to the charging device 100 indicating that the cover 500 is installed (step S602).

[0191] Next, if no notification is received indicating that the cover 500 is installed (step S603: No), the receiving unit 120 of the charging device 100 waits to receive the notification.

[0192] On the other hand, upon receiving a notification indicating that the cover 500 is installed (step S603: Yes), the adjustment unit 170 of the charging device 100 adjusts the FOD threshold to prevent the state of the cover 500 being installed from being mistakenly detected as the presence of a foreign object (step S604). After step S604, Figure 16The process shown in the diagram is now complete.

[0193] <3. Exemplary Hardware Configuration>

[0194] Finally, an exemplary hardware configuration of the powered device 200 according to an embodiment of this disclosure will be described. Figure 17 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary hardware configuration of a power receiving device 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. See also Figure 17 The powered device 200 includes, for example, a processor 871, a read-only memory (ROM) 872, a random access memory (RAM) 873, a host bus 874, a bridge 875, an external bus 876, an interface 877, an input device 878, an output device 879, a storage device 880, a driver 881, a connection port 882, and a communication device 883. Note that the hardware configuration shown here is merely an example, and some of the components may be omitted. Additionally, components other than those shown here may also be included.

[0195] (Processor 871)

[0196] The processor 871 functions as, for example, an arithmetic processing device or a control device, and controls all or part of the operation of each component based on various programs recorded in ROM 872, RAM 873, storage device 880, or removable recording medium 901. Of course, the processor 871 can be composed of multiple processors.

[0197] (ROM 872, RAM 873)

[0198] ROM 872 is a unit that stores programs read by processor 871, data used for calculations, etc. RAM 873 temporarily or permanently stores, for example, programs read by processor 871, various parameters that change appropriately when the program is run.

[0199] (Host bus 874, bridge 875, external bus 876, and interface 877)

[0200] The processor 871, ROM 872, and RAM 873 are interconnected, for example, via a host bus 874 configured for high-speed data transfer. Meanwhile, the host bus 874 is connected, for example, via a bridge 875 to an external bus 876 configured for lower-speed data transfer. Furthermore, the external bus 876 is connected to the various components via an interface 877.

[0201] (Input device 878)

[0202] Input device 878 may include, for example, a mouse, keyboard, touch panel, button, switch, joystick, etc. Additionally, input device 878 may sometimes use a remote control configured to transmit control signals using infrared or other radio waves. Furthermore, input device 878 includes voice input devices such as microphones, and sensor devices such as accelerometers and gyroscopes.

[0203] (Output device 879)

[0204] Output device 879 is a device configured to visually or audibly notify a user of acquired information, such as a display device like a cathode ray tube (CRT), LCD, or OLED, an audio output device like a speaker or headphones, a printer, a mobile phone, or a fax machine. Furthermore, output device 879 according to this disclosure includes various vibrating devices configured to output tactile stimulation.

[0205] (Storage device 880)

[0206] Storage device 880 is a device for storing various types of data. Storage device 880 may be, for example, a magnetic storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a semiconductor storage device, an optical storage device, a magneto-optical storage device, etc.

[0207] (Driver 881)

[0208] The drive 881 is, for example, a means of reading information recorded on a removable recording medium 901 such as a disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk or semiconductor memory, or a means of writing information to the removable recording medium 901.

[0209] (Connect to port 882)

[0210] Connection port 882 is, for example, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port, an IEEE 1394 port, a Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) port, an RS-232C port, or a port for connecting external connection devices 902 such as optical audio terminals.

[0211] (communication device 883)

[0212] Communication device 883 is a communication device for connecting to a network, such as a communication card for wired or wireless LAN, Bluetooth (registered trademark), or wireless USB (WUSB), an optical communication router, an asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL) router, various communication modems, etc.

[0213] (Removable recording medium 901)

[0214] The removable recording medium 901 is, for example, a DVD medium, a Blu-ray (registered trademark) medium, an HD DVD medium, or various semiconductor storage media. Of course, the removable recording medium 901 can also be, for example, an IC card with a contactless IC chip, an electronic device, etc.

[0215] (External connection device 902)

[0216] External connection device 902 is, for example, a printer, portable music player, digital camera, digital video camera, IC recorder, etc.

[0217] Note that the memory 207 of the power receiving device 200 according to this embodiment is implemented by ROM 802, RAM 803, and storage device 810. Furthermore, the control unit 290 of the microcomputer 205 of the power receiving device 200 according to this embodiment, implemented by processor 801, reads control programs from ROM 802, RAM 803, etc., to implement the detection unit 210, adjustment unit 220, calculation unit 230, transmission unit 240, display unit 250, input receiving unit 260, etc., and executes the control programs. In addition, the transmission unit 240 according to this embodiment is implemented by communication device 813 and transmits data to external devices via host bus 804, bridge 805, external bus 806, and interface 807.

[0218] <4. Conclusion>

[0219] As described above, the charging device 100 includes:

[0220] Sending unit 110 periodically sends response requests;

[0221] The receiving unit 120 receives a response to the response request from the powered device;

[0222] The determination unit 130 determines whether the power intensity of the response request received by the powered device 200, as indicated by the response to the response request, is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold; and

[0223] The power control unit 140 increases the output power when it determines that the power intensity is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold.

[0224] This configuration enables the charging device 100 to perform contactless charging normally, even when the power received by the receiving device 200 is reduced due to the cover 500 installed on the receiving device 200.

[0225] In addition, the charging device 100 includes:

[0226] Measurement unit 150 periodically measures the Q value of the coil;

[0227] Detection unit 160 detects the change in Q value from a predetermined reference value;

[0228] The sending unit 110 sends a response request when it detects a change in the Q value from a predetermined reference value;

[0229] Receiving unit 120 receives a response to a response request from powered device 200; and

[0230] The power control unit 140 increases the output power when it detects a change in the Q value from a predetermined reference value and does not receive a response to a response request.

[0231] This configuration enables the charging device 100 to detect the powered device 200 due to changes in the Q value and to perform contactless charging normally, even when the charging device 100 does not receive an SSP from the powered device 200 because the cover 500 is installed on the powered device 200.

[0232] In addition, the charging device 100 includes:

[0233] Sending unit 110 periodically sends response requests;

[0234] Receiving unit 120 receives a response to a response request from a powered device; and

[0235] The power control unit 140 periodically increases its output power until a response to the response request is received when no response is received.

[0236] Once the output power has been increased to the first threshold, the output power is periodically reduced until a response to the response request is received.

[0237] Once the output power has been reduced to the second threshold, the output power is periodically increased until a response to the response request is received.

[0238] This configuration allows the charging device 100 to perform contactless charging normally, even when the power received by the receiving device 200 is reduced due to the cover 500 installed on the receiving device 200, while avoiding the problem of continuously increasing output power.

[0239] In addition, the power receiving device 200 includes:

[0240] Detection unit 210, detection unit 210 detects the installation of cover 500;

[0241] The adjustment unit 220 adjusts the FOD parameter when it detects that the cover 500 is installed, so as to avoid mistakenly detecting the state of the cover 500 being installed as the presence of foreign objects.

[0242] Calculation unit 230 calculates the power received by charging device 100 based on FOD parameters; and

[0243] The transmitting unit 240 transmits the received power to the charging device 100.

[0244] This configuration enables the receiving device 200 to perform contactless charging normally without mistakenly detecting the presence of a foreign object when the cover 500 is installed.

[0245] In addition, the power receiving device 200 includes:

[0246] Display unit 250 displays a UI for inputting whether cover 500 is installed;

[0247] The input receiving unit 260 receives input via the UI indicating whether the cover 500 is installed.

[0248] The detection unit 210 detects that the cover 500 is installed when the input indication of whether the cover 500 is installed is indicated.

[0249] The adjustment unit 220 adjusts the FOD parameter when it detects that the cover 500 is installed, so as to avoid mistakenly detecting the state of the cover 500 being installed as the presence of foreign objects.

[0250] Calculation unit 230 calculates the power received by the charging device based on FOD parameters; and

[0251] The transmitting unit 240 transmits the received power to the charging device 100.

[0252] This configuration enables the receiving device 200 to perform contactless charging normally even when the cover 500 does not include the detection components, without mistakenly detecting the presence of foreign objects when the cover 500 is installed.

[0253] In addition, the charging device 100 includes:

[0254] Receiving unit 120 receives from power receiving device 200 a notification indicating that cover 500 is installed on power receiving device 200; and

[0255] The adjustment unit 170 adjusts the FOD threshold when it receives a notification indicating that the cover 500 is installed, so as to avoid erroneously detecting the presence of foreign objects as the state of the cover 500 being installed.

[0256] This configuration enables the charging device 100 to perform contactless charging normally without mistakenly detecting the presence of a foreign object when the cover 500 is installed.

[0257] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to these examples. Those skilled in the art will readily derive various changes and modifications from the technical concept set forth in the claims, and it should be understood that such changes and modifications are naturally within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0258] Furthermore, the effects described herein are merely illustrative or exemplary, and not restrictive. In other words, other effects that will be apparent to those skilled in the art, as described herein, can be achieved in conjunction with or in lieu of the effects described above, according to the technology of this disclosure.

[0259] List of reference numerals

[0260] 3DC power supply

[0261] 100 charging device

[0262] 101 Switching Circuit

[0263] 102 power transmission coil

[0264] 103 Communication Data Demodulation Circuit

[0265] 104 Microcomputer

[0266] 105 memory

[0267] 110 Transmitting Unit

[0268] 120 receiving unit

[0269] 130 decision unit

[0270] 140 power control unit

[0271] 150 measurement units

[0272] 160 detection units

[0273] 170 adjustment unit

[0274] 190 control unit

[0275] 200 power receiving devices

[0276] 201 Receiving Coil

[0277] 202 rectifier circuit

[0278] 203LDO

[0279] 204 Communication Data Modulation Circuit

[0280] 205 Microcomputer

[0281] 206 charging circuit

[0282] 207 memory

[0283] 208 secondary battery

[0284] 210 detection unit

[0285] 220 adjustment unit

[0286] 230 computing units

[0287] 240 transmitting unit

[0288] 250 display units

[0289] 260 Input Receiver Unit

[0290] 290 control unit

[0291] 500 Shields

Claims

1. A charging device, comprising: The sending unit periodically sends response requests; A receiving unit that receives a response to the response request from a powered device; The determination unit determines whether the power intensity of the response request indicated by the response and received by the powered device is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. as well as The power control unit increases the output power when it determines that the power intensity is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold. The power control unit also periodically increases the output power until the response is received, even when no response is received. Once the output power has been increased to a first threshold, the output power is periodically reduced. Once the output power has been reduced to the second threshold, the output power is periodically increased until the response is received.

2. A charging device, comprising: The sending unit periodically sends response requests; A receiving unit that receives a response to the response request from a powered device; as well as A power control unit, which periodically increases its output power until it receives the response if it does not receive the response. Once the output power has been increased to a first threshold, the output power is periodically reduced. Once the output power has been reduced to the second threshold, the output power is periodically increased until the response is received.

3. The charging device according to claim 2 further includes... The determination unit determines whether the power intensity of the response request indicated by the response and received by the powered device is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. The periodic increase of the output power until the response is received includes periodically increasing the output power until the response indicating a power intensity higher than the predetermined threshold is received.

4. A charging method, comprising: The charging device performs the following processing: Send response requests periodically; Receive a response to the response request from the powered device; Determine whether the power intensity of the response request indicated by the response and received by the powered device is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold; When it is determined that the power intensity is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold, the output power is increased; If no response is received, the output power is periodically increased until the response is received; When the output power has been increased to a first threshold, the output power is periodically reduced; and Once the output power has been reduced to the second threshold, the output power is periodically increased until the response is received.

5. A charging method, comprising: The charging device performs the following processing: Send response requests periodically; Receive a response to the response request from the powered device; If no response is received, the output power is periodically increased until the response is received; When the output power has been increased to a first threshold, the output power is periodically reduced; and Once the output power has been reduced to the second threshold, the output power is periodically increased until the response is received.

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