Power supply device and power supply system

Abstract

A power supply device and a power supply system are provided. The power supply device can be normally authenticated by any of a plurality of game devices to which the power supply device is connected. The power supply device can be connected to a first game device and a second game device, and can supply power to a connected device, i.e., a connection device, among the first game device and the second game device. The power supply device has a communication control section that performs transmission and reception of data to and from the connection device, a determination section that determines which of the first game device and the second game device the connection device is based on data received by the communication control section from the connection device, and a storage section that stores a first ID corresponding to the first game device and a second ID corresponding to the second game device. The communication control section transmits the first ID or the second ID to the connection device based on a determination result of the determination section.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a power supply device for supplying power to a gaming device, and a power supply system comprising the power supply device and the gaming device. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an example of a power supply device. In Patent Document 1, the power supply device is connected to a power receiving device. The power supply device sends device information to the power receiving device. The power receiving device performs authentication and verification based on the device information received from the power supply device to confirm whether the connected power supply device is an appropriate device.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-24409 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] When a power supply device is connected to a different type of power receiving device (hereinafter referred to as another device), the other device authenticates the power supply device in the same way as the power receiving device. In this case, the power supply device sends the same device information as described above to the other device.

[0008] However, while the powered device can authenticate using the device information received from the power supply device, another device may not be able to authenticate using the device information received from the power supply device.

[0009] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to solve the aforementioned problems and provide a power supply device and power supply system that can be properly authenticated by any of the various connected gaming devices.

[0010] Solution for solving the problem

[0011] In order to achieve the aforementioned purpose, the power supply device and power supply system disclosed herein can, for example, adopt a structure as shown in (1) to (10) below. (1)

[0013] One example of the power supply device disclosed herein is a power supply device capable of being connected to a first gaming device and a second gaming device, and capable of supplying power to the connected device, i.e., the connecting device, in the first gaming device and the second gaming device. The power supply device comprises:

[0014] The communication control unit transmits and receives data for the connection device;

[0015] The determination unit determines, based on data received by the communication control unit from the connection device, whether the connection device is the first type of game device or the second type of game device; and

[0016] The storage unit stores a first ID corresponding to the first type of gaming device and a second ID corresponding to the second type of gaming device.

[0017] The communication control unit sends the first ID or the second ID to the connection device based on the determination result of the determination unit.

[0018] According to the structure described in (1), the determination unit determines whether the connection device connected to the power supply is a first type of game device or a second type of game device. Based on the determination result of the determination unit, the communication control unit sends the ID corresponding to the connection device from the first ID and the second ID to the connection device. Therefore, regardless of whether the connection device connected to the power supply is a first type of game device or a second type of game device, the power supply device can be properly authenticated by the connection device. (2)

[0020] In the structure described in (1),

[0021] Alternatively, the communication control unit may send first data, which includes a combination of voltage and current values, to the connection device, and after sending the first data, receive second data, which also includes a combination of voltage and current values, from the connection device at least once.

[0022] Alternatively, the determination unit may determine whether the connection device is the first type of game device or the second type of game device based at least on the number of times the second data is received.

[0023] According to the structure described in (2), if the number of times the first game device sends the second data to the power supply device is different from the number of times the second game device sends the second data to the power supply device, the determination unit can determine which of the first game device and the second game device the connection device is. (3)

[0025] In the structure described in (1) or (2),

[0026] Alternatively, the power supply device may provide power to the connection device in accordance with the USB-PD standard.

[0027] Alternatively, the determination unit may determine whether the connection device is the first type of game device or the second type of game device based at least on information corresponding to a specific revision or a structured VDM version contained in the data received from the connection device.

[0028] Based on the structure described in (3), if the specific revision of the USB-PD standard in the first gaming device is different from that in the second gaming device, the determination unit can determine which of the two gaming devices the connection device is.

[0029] Furthermore, based on the structure described in (3), if the structured VDM version of the USB-PD standard in the first gaming device is different from that in the second gaming device, the determination unit can determine whether the connection device is the first gaming device or the second gaming device. (4)

[0031] In any of the structures described in (1) to (3),

[0032] Alternatively, the power supply device may include an output control unit that outputs image data to an external display device connected to the power supply device.

[0033] Alternatively, if the communication control unit receives image data from the connection device after the communication control unit sends the first ID or the second ID to the connection device, the output control unit outputs the image data received by the communication control unit to the external display device.

[0034] After the communication control unit sends the first ID or the second ID to the connection device, and then receives image data from the connection device, since the connection device has successfully authenticated the power supply device, it is assumed that the connection device has sent image data to the power supply device. Therefore, in this case, the output control unit outputs the image data received by the communication control unit to the external display device. Thus, according to the structure described in (4), the operation of displaying image data from the connection device to the external display device via the power supply device can be performed smoothly. (5)

[0036] In any of the structures described in (1) to (4),

[0037] Alternatively, when the communication control unit receives corresponding image data corresponding to a specified image from the connection device, the data capacity of the corresponding image data is different when the connection device is the first type of game device compared to the data capacity of the corresponding image data when the connection device is the second type of game device.

[0038] According to the structure described in (5), the power supply device is able to receive image data of a quality corresponding to the type of the connected device and output the image data to an external display device. (6)

[0040] In any of the structures described in (1) to (5),

[0041] Alternatively, the power supply device may include a fan that allows air to circulate between the interior and exterior of the power supply device.

[0042] Alternatively, the number of revolutions per unit time of the fan may differ when the connecting device is the first type of gaming device compared to the number of revolutions per unit time of the fan when the connecting device is the second type of gaming device.

[0043] According to the structure described in (6), the power supply device can change the fan speed depending on the type of connected device. For example, if the power supply device generates more heat when connected to a first gaming device than when connected to a second gaming device, the power supply device can make the fan speed higher when connected to the first gaming device than when connected to the second gaming device. (7)

[0045] In the structure described in (6),

[0046] Alternatively, the power supply device may include a mounting portion for mounting the connecting device.

[0047] Alternatively, the power supply device may have an opening for air circulation at a position opposite to the connecting device installed on the mounting portion.

[0048] According to the structure described in (7), for example, when the connecting device has an opening facing the opening of the power supply device, air flowing through the fan can circulate between the power supply device and the connecting device. This promotes airflow within the power supply device and the connecting device. As a result, the cooling effect within the power supply device and the connecting device can be improved. (8)

[0050] In any of the structures described in (1) to (7),

[0051] Alternatively, if the determination unit determines that the connection device is the first type of game device, the communication control unit sends and receives data to the connection device based on the USB 3.0 standard; if the determination unit determines that the connection device is the second type of game device, the communication control unit sends and receives data to the connection device based on the USB 2.0 standard.

[0052] According to the structure described in (8), the power supply device and the connection device can exchange data with each other according to the standard corresponding to the type of the connection device to which they are connected. (9)

[0054] In any of the structures described in (1) to (8),

[0055] Alternatively, the first type of gaming device may be a successor to the second type of gaming device.

[0056] According to the structure described in (9), the power supply device that supports connection to the second game device can also support connection to the first game device, which is a successor device that began to circulate in the market at a later time than the second game device. (10)

[0058] One example of the power supply system disclosed herein includes:

[0059] Any one of the power supply devices (1) to (9); and

[0060] The connecting device is connected to the power supply device.

[0061] Specifically, if the connecting device obtains an ID from the communication control unit of the power supply device that is different from the corresponding ID in the first ID and the second ID, it will not send image data to the communication control unit of the power supply device.

[0062] The power supply device provides power to the connecting device.

[0063] According to the structure described in (10), the connection device does not send image data to the power supply device that has failed authentication, but can be powered by the power supply device.

[0064] The effects of the invention

[0065] According to the power supply device and power supply system disclosed herein, it can be properly authenticated by any of the various game devices connected to it. Attached Figure Description

[0066] Figure 1This is a perspective view schematically illustrating the power supply system involved in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0067] Figure 2 It is a schematic representation Figure 1 Cross-sectional view of section II-II.

[0068] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the electrical structure of the power supply system according to the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0069] Figure 4 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of communication processing for a power supply device and its connection devices.

[0070] Figure 5 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of communication processing for a power supply device and its connection devices.

[0071] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process performed by a power supply device.

[0072] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process performed by a power supply device.

[0073] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process performed by a power supply device.

[0074] Figure 9 This is a diagram used to illustrate the differences in the operation of the power supply system corresponding to the type of connection device. Detailed Implementation

[0075] (Implementation Method)

[0076] The power supply system involved in the embodiments of this disclosure will be described.

[0077] Figure 1 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating the power supply system involved in the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 2 It is a schematic representation Figure 1 Cross-sectional view of section II-II. Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the electrical structure of the power supply system according to the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0078] For ease of explanation, the connecting device 30 is shown installed in the position of the power supply device 20 in this specification and figures (in other words, Figure 1 In the state shown, the depth direction of the power supply device 20 is called the X direction, the width direction of the power supply device 20 is called the Y direction, and the height direction of the power supply device 20 is called the Z direction. The X, Y, and Z directions are orthogonal to each other. In the Z direction, the mounting portion 21B of the housing 21 of the power supply device 20 (refer to...) Figure 1 and Figure 2 The bottom side of the mounting part 21B is called "bottom", and the opening side (opposite to the bottom side) of the mounting part 21B is called "top".

[0079] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, the power supply system 10 according to the embodiments of this disclosure includes a power supply device 20 and a connection device 30 connected to the power supply device 20. Furthermore, in this specification, connection generally refers to electrical connection.

[0080] In this embodiment, the connection device 30 is a gaming device. However, the connection device 30 is not limited to gaming devices; it could also be a smartphone or personal computer, for example.

[0081] like Figure 1 As shown, the connecting device 30 includes a main body 31 and two controllers 32 that can be installed and removed relative to the main body 31.

[0082] The overall shape of the main body 31 is approximately cuboid. However, the shape of the main body 31 is not limited to an approximately cuboid shape.

[0083] like Figure 3 As shown, the main body 31 includes a control unit 33, a terminal 34, and a display unit (not shown).

[0084] The control unit 33 performs information processing to implement various functions of the connection device 30. The control unit 33 includes, for example, a processor. In addition, the processor may also include, for example, communication circuitry for transmitting and receiving data with an external device (e.g., the power supply device 20).

[0085] A processor includes at least one of the following: CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Microprocessor Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), MCU (Micro Controller Unit), and ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). Storage includes, for example, volatile memory and non-volatile memory. Volatile memory includes, for example, RAM, SRAM, and DRAM. Non-volatile memory includes, for example, ROM, HDD, SSD, and flash memory. For example, the processor performs various information processing tasks by executing programs stored in the storage.

[0086] Terminal 34 is disposed on the lower wall 31A of the main body 31 (see reference). Figure 1 and Figure 2 Terminal 34 is connected to the control unit 33. Additionally, when the connecting device 30 is connected to the power supply device 20, terminal 34 is connected to terminal 211 of the power supply device 20.

[0087] The display unit is located on the side wall 31B of the main body 31 (see reference). Figure 1 and Figure 2 For example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) is capable of displaying images.

[0088] like Figure 1 As shown, two controllers 32 are mounted on both sides of the main body 31 in the Y direction. The controllers 32 can be attached to or detached from the main body 31 using known methods such as fitting, sliding, or magnets. Furthermore, the number of controllers 32 included in the connecting device 30 is not limited to two. Alternatively, the connecting device 30 may not include controllers 32.

[0089] Controller 32 is used to operate connection device 30. Controller 32 can be wired to main body 31. Alternatively, controller 32 can remotely operate connection device 30 via a network such as the Internet. In this case, multiple users located in different locations can play games executed by connection device 30. Each of the two controllers 32 has, for example, a joystick and operation buttons (not shown).

[0090] Figure 1 , Figure 2 as well as Figure 3The power supply device 20 shown can function as a charger for the connection device 30 connected to it. That is, the power supply device 20 can supply power to the connection device 30. Furthermore, the power supply device 20 can expand the functionality of the connection device 30 connected to it. For example, expanding the functionality of the connection device 30 means connecting it to a wired LAN (Local Area Network) via the power supply device 20. Additionally, for example, expanding the functionality of the connection device 30 means displaying an image shown on the display unit of the connection device 30 on an external display device 40 connected to the power supply device 20 (see reference 40). Figure 3 The external display device 40 is connected via terminal 213 of the power supply device 20 (see below). Figure 1 It is connected to the power supply unit 20. The external display device 40 is, for example, a television set and an external monitor.

[0091] The power supply device 20 can be connected to both a first-type game device and a second-type game device. The device connected to the power supply device 20 in either the first-type or second-type game device is a connecting device 30. That is, when the first-type game device is connected to the power supply device 20, the first-type game device is the connecting device 30; when the second-type game device is connected to the power supply device 20, the second-type game device is the connecting device 30.

[0092] Both the first and second gaming devices are gaming equipment, but they are different devices. For example, the display units of the first and second gaming devices display images at different resolutions. Furthermore, for example, the CPU of the first gaming device has higher computing power than the CPU of the second gaming device.

[0093] In this embodiment, the first gaming device is a successor to the second gaming device. The first gaming device began to circulate in the market later than the second gaming device.

[0094] As described above, the power supply device 20 can provide power and functional expansion to the first type of game device as a successor device, and can also provide power and functional expansion to the second type of game device as a precursor device.

[0095] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the power supply device 20 has an internal space 21A (see reference). Figure 2The housing 21 has a mounting portion 21B for mounting the connecting device 30. In this embodiment, the mounting portion 21B is a groove provided in the upper wall 21C of the housing 21. By inserting the connecting device 30 into the mounting portion 21B, which is the groove, the power supply device 20 supports the connecting device 30. Furthermore, the shape of the housing 21 is not limited to that shown. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The shape shown.

[0096] like Figure 3 As shown, a terminal 211 is provided on the housing 21 of the power supply device 20. The terminal 211 is provided on the bottom wall 21Ba of the mounting portion 21B (see reference). Figure 1 and Figure 2 Terminal 211 is connected to the control unit 24 of the power supply device 20. When the connecting device 30 is installed on the mounting part 21B of the power supply device 20, terminal 211 is connected to terminal 34 of the connecting device 30. Thus, the control unit 24 of the power supply device 20 is connected to the control unit 33 of the connecting device 30. In other words, in this embodiment, the power supply device 20 is connected to the connecting device 30 by installing the connecting device 30 on the mounting part 21B.

[0097] Furthermore, the connection method between the power supply device 20 and the connecting device 30 is not limited to the method described above (i.e., the method of connecting the power supply device 20 and the connecting device 30 by mounting the connecting device 30 to the mounting portion 21B). For example, the power supply device 20 and the connecting device 30 may also be connected via a wire or the like. In this case, the connecting device 30 may not necessarily need to be mounted on the power supply device 20, and therefore the power supply device 20 may not have a mounting portion 21B.

[0098] like Figure 1 As shown, terminals 212, 213, and 214 are provided on the housing 21 of the power supply device 20. Terminals 212, 213, and 214 are located on the side wall 21D of the housing 21. The side wall 21D is one of the outer walls of the housing 21, facing the Y direction. In this embodiment, terminal 212 is a USB (Universal Serial Bus) Type-C terminal. In this embodiment, terminal 213 is an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) terminal, which connects to an external display device 40 (see reference 40) via a wire. Figure 3 In this embodiment, terminal 214 is a LAN (Local Area Network) terminal. Figure 3 As shown, terminals 212, 213, and 214 are connected to the control unit 24 of the power supply device 20.

[0099] like Figure 2 As shown, the power supply device 20 includes a substrate 22 and a fan 23. The substrate 22 and the fan 23 are disposed in the internal space 21A of the housing 21. Various electronic components, such as a control unit 24 and internal storage media, are mounted on the substrate 22. The fan 23 circulates air between the internal space 21A of the housing 21 and the outside of the housing 21.

[0100] like Figure 3 As shown, the fan 23 is driven and controlled by the control unit 24. By driving the fan 23, air circulation is promoted in the internal space 21A of the housing 21.

[0101] The following is a detailed explanation. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, an opening 21F is provided on the side wall 21E of the housing 21. The side wall 21E is one of the outer walls of the housing 21, facing the X direction. Figure 2 As shown, an opening 21G is provided on the bottom wall 21Ba of the mounting portion 21B of the housing 21. When the fan 23 is driven, the fan 23, located near the opening 21G, draws air from outside the housing 21 into the internal space 21A of the housing 21 through the opening 21G. That is, in this embodiment, the fan 23 functions as an intake fan. The air drawn into the internal space 21A is exhausted to the outside of the housing 21 through the opening 21G. Alternatively, the fan 23 can also function as an exhaust fan. In this case, the fan 23 is, for example, located near the opening 21G.

[0102] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, the connecting device 30 has openings 30B and 30C. For example... Figure 2 As shown, opening 30B is provided on the lower wall 31A of the main body 31 of the connecting device 30. (As indicated...) Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, opening 30C is provided on the upper wall 31C of the main body 31 of the connecting device 30. Air can circulate between the internal space 30A of the connecting device 30 and the outside through openings 30B and 30C.

[0103] With the connecting device 30 installed on the power supply device 20, the opening 30B of the connecting device 30 and the opening 21G of the power supply device 20 face each other in the Z direction. Therefore, air exhausted from the opening 21G to the outside of the housing 21 of the power supply device 20 by the drive of the fan 23 of the power supply device 20 enters the internal space 30A of the connecting device 30 through the opening 30B. The air that has entered the internal space 30A is exhausted to the outside of the connecting device 30 through the opening 30C.

[0104] Furthermore, the connecting device 30 may also have a fan in the internal space 30A. In this case, the fan provided in the internal space 30A promotes the flow of air from the opening 30B through the internal space 30A to the opening 30C.

[0105] In this embodiment, air flows from the internal space 21A of the housing 21 of the power supply device 20 to the internal space 30A of the connecting device 30, but it is also possible for air to flow from the internal space 30A to the internal space 21A, in the opposite direction. In this case, for example, the fan of the connecting device 30 functions as an intake fan.

[0106] like Figure 3 As shown, the power supply device 20 includes a control unit 24 and a storage unit 26.

[0107] For example, the control unit 24 executes the program stored in the storage unit 26, thereby realizing the functions of the decision unit 25, the communication control unit 27, and the output control unit 28, which will be described later. The control unit 24 includes, for example, a processor. The processor includes at least one of a CPU, MPU, GPU, DSP, FPGA, SoC (System on a chip), and ASIC. In addition, the processor may also include communication circuitry for transmitting and receiving data with an external device (e.g., connection device 30).

[0108] Storage unit 26 may be, for example, volatile memory or non-volatile memory. Volatile memory may be, for example, RAM, SRAM, DRAM, etc. Non-volatile memory may be, for example, ROM, HDD, SSD, flash memory, etc.

[0109] At least a first ID and a second ID are stored in the storage unit 26. The first ID is an identification ID corresponding to the first type of game device. The second ID is an ID specific to the second type of game device. In this embodiment, the first ID is the product ID of the first type of game device, and the second ID is the product ID of the second type of game device. The product ID is, for example, a serial number inherent to the product. Alternatively, the first ID and the second ID could also be other IDs such as a supplier ID. The supplier ID is, for example, an ID inherent to the company.

[0110] The communication control unit 27 transmits and receives data to the connection device 30 connected to the power supply unit 20. The transmission and reception of data to the connection device 30 are performed via terminals 211 and 34.

[0111] The determination unit 25 determines whether the connection device 30 is the first type of game device or the second type of game device based on the data received by the communication control unit 27 from the connection device 30.

[0112] Based on the determination result of the determination unit 25, the communication control unit 27 sends the first ID or the second ID to the connection device 30.

[0113] The output control unit 28 converts the display port signal (a signal containing image and audio data) sent from the connection device 30 to the power supply device 20 into an HDMI signal containing image and audio data, and outputs it to the external display device 40 via terminal 213. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the output control unit 28 obtains the display port signal from the connection device 30 via the communication control unit 27.

[0114] Below, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 The processing performed by the determination unit 25, communication control unit 27, output control unit 28, and connection device 30 of the power supply device 20 will be explained in more detail.

[0115] Figure 4 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of communication processing for a power supply device and its connection devices. Figure 5 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of communication processing for a power supply device and its connection devices. Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process performed by a power supply device.

[0116] Either the first game device or the second game device is installed in the mounting portion 21B of the power supply device 20. Consequently, the terminal 34 of the connecting device 30 (in other words, either the first game device or the second game device) installed in the mounting portion 21B is connected to the terminal 211 of the power supply device 20. That is, the connecting device 30 is connected to the power supply device 20.

[0117] In this embodiment, the power supply from the power supply device 20 to the connection device 30 supports the USB-PD (Universal Serial Bus-Power Delivery) standard. Therefore, when the connection device 30 is connected to the power supply device 20, data transmission and reception based on the USB-PD standard are performed between the power supply device 20 and the connection device 30. Specifically, in Figure 4 and Figure 5 Power contract processing is carried out in SQ11-SQ15. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In SQ21-SQ22, DR_Swap (Data Role_Swap) processing is performed. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The Discover Identity process is performed in SQ31-SQ32.

[0118] (The first case handled)

[0119] Below, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 6 Here is an example illustrating the process when the first type of game device is connected to the power supply device 20, that is, when the connecting device 30 is the first type of game device (hereinafter referred to as the first example).

[0120] When the connection device 30 is connected to the power supply device 20, the communication control unit 27 sends first data to the connection device 30. Figure 4 SQ11, Figure 6 (S110). The first data includes a combination of voltage and current values. In the first example, the power supply device 20 functions as a battery with a power of 45W and a current limit of 3A. Therefore, the first data transmitted by the power supply device 20 includes four combinations of voltage and current values ​​that satisfy the aforementioned power and current value conditions. For example, the four combinations of voltage and current values ​​are 5V and 3A, 9V and 3A, 15V and 3A, and 20V and 2.25A. Furthermore, the number of combinations of voltage and current values ​​is not limited to four, and the voltage and current values ​​are not limited to the aforementioned values. The transmission and reception of data between the power supply device 20 and the connection device 30 are performed via terminal 34 of the connection device 30 and terminal 211 of the power supply device 20.

[0121] The connection device 30, having received the first data, sends the second data to the communication control unit 27. Figure 4 (SQ12). The second data includes a combination of voltage and current values. In the first example, the upper limit of the voltage value of the first gaming device is 15V. In addition, in the first example, the first gaming device can vary the current value according to the voltage value. Therefore, the connection device 30 of the first gaming device selects 15V as the upper limit from the four voltage values ​​(5V, 9V, 15V, 20V) included in the first data, and selects a current value of 3A corresponding to the voltage value of 15V. Therefore, the connection device 30 sends the combination of 15V and 3A to the communication control unit 27 as the second data.

[0122] In addition, the first type of gaming device can change the current value, so a current value of 2.25A can also be selected. However, in this example, since the voltage value corresponding to the current value of 2.25A exceeds the upper limit of 20V, the current value of 2.25A is not selected.

[0123] When the communication control unit 27 receives the second data ( Figure 6 S120: "Yes"), sends an Accept signal to the connection device 30. Figure 4 SQ13, Figure 6S130), waiting to receive the DR_Swap signal from the connection device 30. Figure 6 (S140).

[0124] In the absence of receiving the second data, the communication control unit 27 ( Figure 6 S120: "No"), does not send an Accept signal to the connection device 30, but waits to receive the DR_Swap signal from the connection device 30 or waits to receive the second data from the connection device 30. Figure 6 (S120, S140).

[0125] In the first example, the connection device 30 receives an Accept signal for the transmission of the second data. Upon receiving the Accept signal, the connection device 30 sends a DR_Swap signal to the communication control unit 27. Figure 4 (SQ21). When the communication control unit 27 receives the DR_Swap signal ( Figure 6 S140: "Yes"), sends an Accept signal to the connection device 30. Figure 4 SQ22, Figure 6 (S150).

[0126] When DR_Swap processing begins, the power contract processing ends. In the first example, during power contract processing, the communication control unit 27 received the second data once. However, the number of times the communication control unit 27 receives the second data is not limited to once. For example, the communication control unit 27 may receive the second data twice, as in the second example described later, or it may receive the second data three or more times. That is, the communication control unit 27 receives the second data from the connection device 30 at least once after sending the first data. Additionally, due to poor connection, the communication control unit 27 may not receive the second data.

[0127] The connection device 30, having received the Accept signal for the DR_Swap signal, sends a request (REQ) signal to the communication control unit 27. Figure 4 (SQ31). When the communication control unit 27 receives the REQ signal ( Figure 6 S160: "Yes"), the determination unit 25 determines which type of game device 30, the first or the second, is based on the number of times the second data is received. Figure 6 (S170).

[0128] In the first case, as described above, the second data is received once. Figure 6S170: "Yes". Therefore, the determination unit 25 determines that the connection device 30 is a first type of game device. The determination unit 25 instructs the communication control unit 27 to send the first ID corresponding to the first type of game device to the connection device 30. According to the instruction from the determination unit 25, the communication control unit 27 reads the first ID from the storage unit 26 and sends the first ID to the connection device 30. Figure 4 SQ32, Figure 6 (S180). The first ID is included in the acknowledgment signal (ACK signal) sent by the communication control unit 27 in response to the REQ signal.

[0129] The connection device 30 authenticates the power supply device 20 based on the received first ID corresponding to the first type of gaming device. In the first example, since the connection device 30 is the first type of gaming device, the authentication is successful.

[0130] The authentication of the power supply device 20 by the connection device 30 may fail. For example, even though the first gaming device is connected to the power supply device 20, a second ID corresponding to the second gaming device may be mistakenly sent from the power supply device 20 to the connection device 30, which is the first gaming device. Figure 6 If the connection device 30 fails to authenticate (S170: "No", S190: "Yes", S200), the authentication fails. In other words, if the connection device 30 obtains an ID from the communication control unit 27 that is different from the corresponding ID in the first ID and second ID, the authentication fails.

[0131] Regardless of whether authentication is successful or not, the power supply device 20 sends an ACK signal to the connection device 30 before supplying power to the connection device 30. Figure 6 (S210).

[0132] On the other hand, the power supply device 20 does not send an ACK signal to the connection device 30. Figure 6 S190: "No"), no power is supplied to the connection device 30. For example, in the first example and the second example to be described below, the communication control unit 27 sends an ACK signal containing the first ID when the second data is received once, and sends an ACK signal containing the second ID when the second data is received twice. Therefore, if the second data is not received due to poor communication or other reasons, or if the second data is received three or more times, the communication control unit 27 does not send an ACK signal.

[0133] (The second case handled)

[0134] Below, refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6This section describes an example of the process when a second type of game device is connected to the power supply device 20, specifically when the connecting device 30 is a second type of game device (hereinafter referred to as the second example).

[0135] When the connection device 30 is connected to the power supply device 20, the communication control unit 27 sends first data to the connection device 30. Figure 5 SQ11, Figure 6 (S110). In the second example, the power supply device 20 functions as a battery with a power of 45W and a current limit of 3A, just like in the first example, and sends the same first data as in the first example.

[0136] The connection device 30, having received the first data, sends the second data to the communication control unit 27. Figure 5 (SQ12). In the second example, the second data contains the same combination of voltage and current values ​​as in the first example. In the second example, similar to the first gaming device, the upper limit of the voltage value of the second gaming device is 15V. In addition, in the second example, the current value initially sent by the second gaming device to the communication control unit 27 is a fixed value (0.5A in the second example). Therefore, the connection device 30, as the second gaming device, selects the upper limit of 15V from the voltage value in the first data, but the current value is 0.5A. Therefore, the connection device 30 sends the combination of 15V and 0.5A to the communication control unit 27 as the second data.

[0137] When the communication control unit 27 receives the second data ( Figure 6 S120: "Yes"), sends an Accept signal to the connection device 30. Figure 5 SQ13, Figure 6 S130), waiting to receive the DR_Swap signal from the connection device 30. Figure 6 (S140).

[0138] In the absence of receiving the second data, the communication control unit 27 ( Figure 6 S120: "No"), does not send an Accept signal to the connection device 30, but waits to receive the DR_Swap signal from the connection device 30 or waits to receive the second data from the connection device 30. Figure 6 (S120, S140).

[0139] In the second case, the connection device 30, having received the Accept signal for the transmission of the second data, again transmits the second data to the communication control unit 27. Figure 5(SQ14). Based on the same voltage value of 15V and power of power supply device 20 of the second data transmitted previously, the current value of the second data is reset to the optimal value of 3A. Therefore, connection device 30 sends a combination of 15V and 3A to communication control unit 27 as the second data.

[0140] When the communication control unit 27 receives the second data for the second time ( Figure 6 S120: "Yes"), sends an Accept signal to the connection device 30. Figure 5 SQ15, Figure 6 S130), waiting to receive the DR_Swap signal from the connection device 30. Figure 6 (S140).

[0141] In the second case, the connection device 30, which receives the Accept signal for the second data transmission, sends a DR_Swap signal to the communication control unit 27. Figure 5 (SQ21). When the communication control unit 27 receives the DR_Swap signal ( Figure 6 S140: "Yes"), sends an Accept signal to the connection device 30. Figure 5 SQ22, Figure 6 (S150).

[0142] When DR_Swap processing begins, the power contract processing ends. In the second case, during power contract processing, the communication control unit 27 received the second data twice.

[0143] The connection device 30, having received the Accept signal for the DR_Swap signal, sends a request (REQ) signal to the communication control unit 27. Figure 5 (SQ31). When the communication control unit 27 receives the REQ signal ( Figure 6 S160: "Yes"), similar to the first example, the determination unit 25 determines whether the connection device 30 is the first type of game device or the second type of game device based on the number of times the second data is received. Figure 6 (S170).

[0144] In the second case, as described above, the second data was received twice. Figure 6 S170: "No", S180: "Yes". Therefore, the determination unit 25 determines that the connection device 30 is a second type of game device. The determination unit 25 instructs the communication control unit 27 to send the second ID corresponding to the second type of game device to the connection device 30. According to the instruction from the determination unit 25, the communication control unit 27 reads the second ID from the storage unit 26 and sends the second ID to the connection device 30. Figure 5SQ32, Figure 6 (S200). The second ID is included in the ACK signal sent by the communication control unit 27 in response to the REQ signal.

[0145] The connection device 30 authenticates the power supply device 20 based on the received second ID corresponding to the second type of gaming device. In the second example, since the connection device 30 is the second type of gaming device, authentication is successful.

[0146] Regardless of whether authentication is successful or not, the power supply device 20 begins supplying power to the connection device 30 after sending an ACK signal to the connection device 30. Figure 6 S210). On the other hand, the power supply device 20 does not send an ACK signal to the connection device 30 ( Figure 6 S190: "No"), no power is supplied to the connecting device 30.

[0147] (The third case handled)

[0148] In the first and second examples described above, the determination unit 25 determines whether the connection device 30 is a first type of game device or a second type of game device based on the number of times the second data is received. However, as in the third and fourth examples described below, the determination unit 25 may also determine whether the connection device 30 is a first type of game device or a second type of game device based on the data contained in the REQ signal.

[0149] Below, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 7 Here is an example illustrating the process when the first or second type of game device is connected to the power supply device 20 (hereinafter referred to as the third example). Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process performed by a power supply device.

[0150] In the third example, the processing until the connecting device 30 sends the REQ signal is the same as in the first example. In other words, Figure 4 and Figure 5 The processing of SQ31 and earlier, and Figure 7 The processing prior to S160 is the same as in the first example. Therefore, the description of these processes is omitted.

[0151] In the third example, the REQ signal sent by the connection device 30 contains data with a specific revision number. Figure 4 and Figure 5 (SQ31).

[0152] When the communication control unit 27 receives the REQ signal ( Figure 7S160: "Yes"), the determination unit 25 determines, based on the specific revision number contained in the REQ signal, whether the connecting device 30 is the first type of game device or the second type of game device. Figure 7 (S310).

[0153] In the third example, when the first type of gaming device is connected to the power supply device 20, i.e., when the connecting device 30 is the first type of gaming device, the specific revision number contained in the REQ signal is "3" ( Figure 4 SQ31, Figure 7 S310: "Yes". In this case, the determination unit 25 determines that the connection device 30 is a first type of game device and instructs the communication control unit 27 to send the first ID corresponding to the first type of game device to the connection device 30.

[0154] On the other hand, in the third example, when the second type of gaming device is connected to the power supply device 20, that is, when the connecting device 30 is the second type of gaming device, the specific revision number contained in the REQ signal is "2" ( Figure 5 SQ31, Figure 7 S310: "No", S320: "Yes". In this case, the determination unit 25 determines that the connection device 30 is a second type of game device and instructs the communication control unit 27 to send the second ID corresponding to the second type of game device to the connection device 30.

[0155] Similar to the first example, the communication control unit 27 reads the first ID or the second ID from the storage unit 26 according to the instruction from the determination unit 25, and sends the first ID or the second ID to the connection device 30. Figure 4 and Figure 5 SQ32, Figure 7 (S180, S200).

[0156] Similar to the first example, the connection device 30 authenticates the power supply device 20 based on the received first ID or second ID.

[0157] Similar to the first example, after sending an ACK signal to the connection device 30, the power supply device 20 performs power supply to the connection device 30. Figure 7 (S210).

[0158] On the other hand, the power supply device 20 does not send an ACK signal to the connection device 30. Figure 7S320: "No"), no power is supplied to the connection device 30. For example, in the third case, the communication control unit 27 sends an ACK signal containing the first ID when the specific revision number is "3", and sends an ACK signal containing the second ID when the specific revision number is "2". Therefore, in the case of specific revision numbers other than "2" and "3", the communication control unit 27 does not send an ACK signal.

[0159] (The fourth case handled)

[0160] Below, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 8 This section describes an example of the process when either the first or second type of gaming device is connected to the power supply device 20 (hereinafter referred to as the fourth example). Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process performed by a power supply device.

[0161] In the fourth example, the processing until the connecting device 30 sends the REQ signal is the same as in the first example. In other words, Figure 4 and Figure 5 The processing of SQ31 and earlier, and Figure 8 The processing prior to S160 is the same as in the first example. Therefore, the description of these processes is omitted.

[0162] In the fourth example, the REQ signal sent by the connection device 30 contains data including the number of the structured VDM (Vendor Defined Message) version.

[0163] When the communication control unit 27 receives the REQ signal ( Figure 8 S160: "Yes"), the determination unit 25 determines, based on the structured VDM version number contained in the REQ signal, whether the connecting device 30 is the first type of game device or the second type of game device. Figure 8 (S410).

[0164] In the fourth example, when the first gaming device is connected to the power supply device 20, i.e., when the connecting device 30 is the first gaming device, the REQ signal contains a structured VDM version numbered "2.1". Figure 4 SQ31, Figure 8 S410: "Yes". In this case, the determination unit 25 determines that the connection device 30 is a first type of game device and instructs the communication control unit 27 to send the first ID corresponding to the first type of game device to the connection device 30.

[0165] On the other hand, in the fourth example, when the second type of gaming device is connected to the power supply device 20, that is, when the connecting device 30 is the second type of gaming device, the structured VDM version number contained in the REQ signal is "1.0". Figure 5 SQ31, Figure 8 (S410: "No", S420: "Yes"). In this case, the determination unit 25 determines that the connection device 30 is a second type of game device and instructs the communication control unit 27 to send the second ID corresponding to the second type of game device to the connection device 30.

[0166] Similar to the first example, the communication control unit 27 reads the first ID or the second ID from the storage unit 26 according to the instruction from the determination unit 25, and sends the first ID or the second ID to the connection device 30. Figure 4 and Figure 5 SQ32, Figure 8 (S180, S200).

[0167] Similar to the first example, the connection device 30 authenticates the power supply device 20 based on the received first ID or second ID.

[0168] Similar to the first example, after sending an ACK signal to the connection device 30, the power supply device 20 performs power supply to the connection device 30. Figure 8 (S210).

[0169] On the other hand, the power supply device 20 does not send an ACK signal to the connection device 30. Figure 8 S420: "No"), no power is supplied to the connection device 30. For example, in the fourth case, the communication control unit 27 sends an ACK signal containing the first ID when the structured VDM version number is "2.1", and sends an ACK signal containing the second ID when the structured VDM version number is "1.0". Therefore, in the case of structured VDM version numbers other than "2.1" and "1.0", the communication control unit 27 does not send an ACK signal.

[0170] In the first, second, third, and fourth examples, the connection device 30 does not send the DR_Swap and REQ signals to the communication control unit 27 unless it receives the Accept signal. In this case, for example, if the connection device 30 has not received the Accept signal even after a preset time has elapsed since sending the second data, it notifies the user that the connection with the power supply device 20 is faulty. Similarly, if the connection device 30 has not received the Accept signal even after a preset time has elapsed since sending the DR_Swap signal, it notifies the user that the connection with the power supply device 20 is faulty. Notification may be made, for example, through a display on the display unit of the connection device 30, or through a buzzer or sound from the speaker of the connection device 30.

[0171] In the first, second, third, and fourth examples, if the connection device 30 does not receive an ACK signal even after a preset time has elapsed since sending the REQ signal, it notifies the user that there is a connection problem with the power supply device 20. This may occur, for example, if a device different from both the first and second game devices is connected to the power supply device 20. Furthermore, in the first and second examples, the determination of the first and second game devices is executed if the number of times the second data is received meets a predetermined condition (the first condition). In the third example, the determination of the first and second game devices is executed if a specific revision meets a predetermined condition (the second condition). In the fourth example, the determination of the first and second game devices is executed if the structured VDM version meets a predetermined condition (the third condition). In other words, in each of the first, second, third, and fourth examples, the determination of the first and second game devices is executed by satisfying one of the three predetermined conditions (the first, second, and third conditions), and an ID corresponding to the first or second game device is sent. However, it is also possible to determine the first and second game devices by satisfying two or three of the three specified conditions, and then send the ID corresponding to the first or second game device. Alternatively, it is also possible to determine the first and second game devices by satisfying conditions different from the three specified conditions in addition to satisfying at least one of the three specified conditions, and then send the ID corresponding to the first or second game device.

[0172] (Post-authentication processing)

[0173] Figure 9This is a diagram used to illustrate the differences in operation of the power supply system corresponding to the type of connection device. Below, refer to... Figure 9 This is to explain the difference in the operation of the power supply system after the connection device 30 authenticates the power supply device 20.

[0174] like Figure 9 As shown in the "Power Supply" column, the power supply device 20 supplies power to the connection device 30 regardless of whether the connection device 30 is a first type of game device or a second type of game device.

[0175] On the other hand, in this embodiment, if the power supply device 20 does not send an ACK signal, for example, if the power supply device 20 is connected to other devices besides the first game device and the second game device, the power supply device 20 does not supply power to the connection device 30.

[0176] The transmission and reception of data between the connection device 30 and the power supply device 20 shall only take place if the power supply device 20 is successfully authenticated by the connection device 30.

[0177] For example, the data transmission and reception between the aforementioned connection device 30 and the power supply device 20 is performed via terminals 34 and 211 between the connection device 30 and the power supply device 20. Furthermore, the data transmission and reception between the aforementioned connection device 30 and the power supply device 20 also includes the transmission of image data from the connection device 30 to the power supply device 20 for displaying an image to an external display device 40.

[0178] When the connection device 30 is a first type of gaming device and when the connection device 30 is a second type of gaming device, the data transmission and reception between the connection device 30 and the power supply device 20 differs. In this embodiment, as... Figure 9 As shown in the "Data Transmission and Reception" section, when the determination unit 25 determines that the connection device 30 is a first type of game device, the communication control unit 27 transmits and receives data from the connection device 30 based on the USB 3.0 standard. On the other hand, when the determination unit 25 determines that the connection device 30 is a second type of game device, the communication control unit 27 transmits and receives data from the connection device 30 based on the USB 2.0 standard.

[0179] On the other hand, in this embodiment, when the power supply device 20 is connected to a device other than the first game device and the second game device, the transmission and reception of data between the connection device 30 and the power supply device 20 is not performed.

[0180] The connection device 30 sends image data (specifically, display port signals) to the power supply device 20 only if authentication of the power supply device 20 is successful, according to the instruction of the control unit 33. Therefore, the connection device 30 does not send image data to the power supply device 20 if authentication of the power supply device 20 fails. In other words, the control unit 33 of the connection device 30 does not instruct the power supply device 20 to send image data if authentication of the power supply device 20 fails. For example, if the connection device 30 obtains an ID from the communication control unit 27 that is different from the corresponding ID in the first ID and second ID, it does not send image data to the communication control unit 27.

[0181] When the connection device 30 sends corresponding image data to the power supply device 20, which corresponds to a specified image, the data capacity of the corresponding image data sent by the first gaming device differs from that sent by the second gaming device. For example, the first gaming device sends image data corresponding to a 4K resolution, while the second gaming device sends image data corresponding to a 2K resolution. In this case, even if the image data is used to display the same image, the data capacity of the image data sent by the first gaming device is larger than that sent by the second gaming device.

[0182] Therefore, when the communication control unit 27 receives corresponding image data from the connection device 30, the data capacity of the corresponding image data is different when the connection device 30 is a first type of game device compared to when the connection device 30 is a second type of game device.

[0183] The fan 23 is driven at different speeds depending on the type of connection device 30. For example, as Figure 9 As shown in the "Fan" section, when the connecting device 30 is a first type of gaming device, the fan 23 is driven at a first speed; when the connecting device 30 is a second type of gaming device, the fan 23 is driven at a second speed, which is slower than the first speed. Furthermore, the second speed can also be faster than the first speed. As described above, the number of revolutions per unit time of the fan 23 when the connecting device 30 is a first type of gaming device differs from the number of revolutions per unit time of the fan 23 when the connecting device 30 is a second type of gaming device. In the example above, the number of revolutions per unit time of the fan 23 when the connecting device 30 is a first type of gaming device is greater than the number of revolutions per unit time of the fan 23 when the connecting device 30 is a second type of gaming device.

[0184] On the other hand, when the power supply device 20 is connected to a device other than the first and second gaming devices, the fan 23 may or may not be driven. In this embodiment, when the power supply device 20 is connected to another device, the fan 23 is driven at the second speed.

[0185] Furthermore, by appropriately combining any of the embodiments and variations described above, the respective effects can be achieved. Additionally, in the embodiments and variations described above, information corresponding to IDs and versions, such as product ID, first ID, second ID, specific revision, and structured VDM version, is a number, but this information is not limited to numbers. For example, as information corresponding to the IDs and versions, identifiers or other information besides numbers may also be used.

[0186] The invention has been fully described with reference to the accompanying drawings and in connection with preferred embodiments; however, various modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such modifications and variations are to be understood as included therein, provided they do not depart from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

[0187] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0188] 10: Power supply system

[0189] 20: Power supply device

[0190] 21B: Installation Department

[0191] 23: Fan

[0192] 25: Judgment Department

[0193] 26: Storage Department

[0194] 27: Communications Control Department

[0195] 28: Output Control Unit

[0196] 30: Connecting device

[0197] 30B: Open

[0198] 40: External display device

Claims

1. A power supply device capable of connecting to a first gaming device and a second gaming device, and capable of supplying power to a connected device, i.e., a connecting device, in the first gaming device and the second gaming device, the power supply device comprising: The communication control unit transmits and receives data for the connection device; The determination unit determines, based on data received by the communication control unit from the connection device, whether the connection device is the first type of game device or the second type of game device; and The storage unit stores a first ID corresponding to the first type of gaming device and a second ID corresponding to the second type of gaming device. in, The communication control unit sends the first ID or the second ID to the connection device based on the determination result of the determination unit.

2. The power supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The communication control unit sends first data, which includes a combination of voltage and current values, to the connection device. After sending the first data, it receives second data, which also includes a combination of voltage and current values, from the connection device at least once. The determination unit determines, at least based on the number of times the second data is received, which type of game device the connection device is, the first type or the second type.

3. The power supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The power supply device provides power to the connection device in accordance with the USB power supply standard, namely the USB-PD standard. The determination unit determines whether the connecting device is the first type of game device or the second type of game device based at least on information corresponding to a specific revision or a structured VDM version contained in the data received from the connecting device.

4. The power supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The power supply device includes an output control unit, which outputs image data to an external display device connected to the power supply device. When the communication control unit receives image data from the connection device after sending the first ID or the second ID to the connection device, the output control unit outputs the image data received by the communication control unit to the external display device.

5. The power supply device according to claim 1, wherein, When the communication control unit receives corresponding image data corresponding to a specified image from the connection device, the data capacity of the corresponding image data is different when the connection device is the first type of game device compared to the data capacity of the corresponding image data when the connection device is the second type of game device.

6. The power supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The power supply device includes a fan that allows air to circulate between the inside and outside of the power supply device. The number of revolutions per unit time of the fan when the connecting device is the first type of gaming device is different from the number of revolutions per unit time of the fan when the connecting device is the second type of gaming device.

7. The power supply device according to claim 6, wherein, The power supply device includes a mounting portion for mounting the connecting device. The power supply device has an opening for air circulation at a position opposite to the connecting device installed on the mounting part.

8. The power supply device according to claim 1, wherein, If the determination unit determines that the connection device is the first type of game device, the communication control unit sends and receives data to the connection device based on the USB 3.0 standard. If the determination unit determines that the connection device is the second type of game device, the communication control unit sends and receives data to the connection device based on the USB 2.0 standard.

9. The power supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The first type of gaming device is a successor to the second type of gaming device.

10. A power supply system, comprising: The power supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 9; and The connecting device is connected to the power supply device. in, If the connecting device obtains an ID from the communication control unit of the power supply device that is different from the corresponding ID in the first ID and the second ID, it will not send image data to the communication control unit of the power supply device. The power supply device provides power to the connecting device.

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