Rotation power supply system

Abstract

To provide an inexpensive system that is capable of efficiently performing charging of a plurality of devices under the restriction of limited power supply capacity.MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEM: The rotation power supply system constantly acquires total power supply current value information and controls ON / OFF of power supply of a power supply outlet that supplies electric power to a power supply group. When adjustment is made to the number of power supply outlets in each cycle of rotation power supply, power supply is turned ON / OFF based on predetermined order information which has been initially determined. Current measurement is not performed for each power supply outlet but a total power supply current value measurement is performed, so that the number of components can be reduced and an inexpensive system can be achieved.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a rotational power supply system for charging a plurality of information devices or the like that use rechargeable batteries. [Background technology]

[0002] Although ICT-based education has begun in elementary and junior high schools, as of March 2019, the penetration rate of PC terminals (tablet terminals, laptop PCs, etc. that are lightweight and portable and have built-in rechargeable batteries) provided to each school was only one for every 5.4 children and students nationwide. For this reason, the FY2019 supplementary budget proposal approved by the Cabinet in December 2019 included a move to realize the so-called GIGA School Initiative, which provides one PC terminal per student (5th and 6th grades of elementary school, 1st grade of junior high school). Furthermore, the FY2020 supplementary budget was passed in April 2020, and it was decided to advance the support for terminal provision that was scheduled to be achieved in FY2023 (1st to 4th grades of elementary school, 2nd grade of junior high school, 3rd grade of junior high school). Although it is unlikely that all students enrolled in a school will use PC terminals at the same time, it is becoming a situation where students in a class will use their own PC terminal at the same time to participate in classes. If there are around 40 students in a class, at least the same number of PC terminals will be provided. Before a class, the rechargeable batteries need to be fully charged so that they can be used during the class time, but conventional schools do not have enough power outlets in the classrooms for the number of students. For this reason, a storage cabinet that can store PC terminals and has a number of power outlets inside for the number of PC terminals is proposed and is commercially available. Since schools are purchasing / preparing storage cabinets for storing and charging PCs, demand is increasing, and various companies are trying to enter the market. Patent Document 1 provides a control device and storage system for a storage cabinet that stores information devices, which can display that charging is complete when charging is completed and information devices such as PC terminals can be used without requiring wiring work for special outlets or wiring. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2016-108122 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the above-mentioned conventional technology, under the constraint of a limited power supply capacity, a charging output circuit connectable to a group of information devices divided into a plurality of groups and a current measurement circuit for measuring the current flowing when the charging output circuit is connected to the group of information devices are provided. A timer is provided for each of the plurality of groups, and each timer measures the cumulative current flow time of each group, and charging is completed when the cumulative current flow time of each group reaches a preset value and the current value flowing during charging of each group reaches a preset value. Charging of the information devices of the corresponding group is started according to a predetermined charging order for each group, and control is performed to switch from single current flow for each group according to the predetermined charging order to simultaneous current flow for multiple groups including the group in the next order based on the measurement result of the charging current for each group by the current measurement circuit. Therefore, a current measurement circuit is required for each charging group, and the cumulative charging time must be measured and recorded for each charging group, which requires many equipment components and is costly. In addition, because charging is switched for each predefined group, unless the settings are revised and updated when charging starts, charging may occur in a suboptimal group switching order (charging may not finish in the shortest time).When trying to optimize charging, there are problems such as the need to select and determine the optimal order each time charging starts, and the time and effort required to revise and update the order each time charging starts.

[0005] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a rotational power supply system that can charge in a nearly optimal order while reducing the effort required for setup, and has few components (i.e., is inexpensive) under the constraints of a limited power supply capacity. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems related to a charging control device, the present application As a first invention, A power supply unit (A) having a plurality of power supply outlets for supplying power to a power supply group having a plurality of power supply sockets; a total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) that acquires total supply current value information, which is information on the total supply current value in the power supply unit (A); a group switch unit (C) having a group switch for turning on and off power supply for at least one or more power supply outlets; a sequence information storage unit (D) that stores sequence information that defines the order in which a unit of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" of the group switch is turned on and off with respect to another unit of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" of the group switch; a new selection cancellation threshold current value information storage unit (E) that stores new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) that is information regarding a threshold current value for executing a selection cancellation process that is a process for canceling the selection of a new power supply outlet during a power supply outlet selection operation that sequentially selects power supply outlets; a new power supply outlet selection operation determination unit (F) for determining whether to cancel the selection of a new outlet during a power supply outlet selection operation based on the total supply current value information acquired by the total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) and the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) that is held; and a rotation execution unit (G) that controls a group switch unit (C) to execute a rotation process that, when a predetermined condition is satisfied during power supply, stops power supply to at least some of the power supply outlets that are currently supplying power based on the stored sequence information, and then selects at least some of the power supply outlets that are not supplying power based on the total supply current value information and new selection cancellation threshold current value information, and supplies power to the power supply outlets including the newly selected power supply outlet.

[0007] Furthermore, as a second invention, based on the first invention, The rotation execution unit (G) provides a rotation power supply system having a new selection non-execution means (H) that does not execute new selection of a power supply outlet without based on the total supply current value information and new selection cancellation threshold current value information when all power supply outlets have been selected as a result of selecting a power supply outlet that is not supplying power.

[0008] Furthermore, as a third invention, based on either the first or second invention, The rotation execution unit (G) provides a rotation power supply system having an exception control means (J) for controlling the group switch unit (C) so that, even if the specified condition is satisfied, if power is being supplied to all of the power supply outlets, the power supply outlets are not stopped from supplying power, and a new power supply outlet is not selected, and power supply to all of the power supply outlets is continued as is (power supply does not necessarily have to be in progress).

[0009] Furthermore, as a fourth invention, based on any one of the first to third inventions, a timer information storage unit (K) for storing timer information for determining a timing of a rotation process that satisfies the predetermined condition for reviewing the power supply outlet to be supplied with power after starting power supply in combination with a new power supply outlet; The Rotational Executive Division (G) The rotation power supply system has a timer control means (M) for controlling a group switch section (C) based on timer information that defines predetermined conditions.

[0010] Furthermore, as a fifth invention, based on any one of the first to fourth inventions, At the timing of the round-robin process for reviewing the power supply outlets to be powered, based on the order information being held, select at least one or more of the power supply outlets that are currently being powered, and stop the selection process for stopping the power supply to the selected power supply outlet. It further includes a selection process stop threshold current value information holding unit (N) for holding the power supply stop selection process stop threshold current value information (Ic), which is information indicating the power supply stop selection process stop threshold current value, which is the threshold current value for stopping the power supply to at least one or more of the power supply outlets that are currently being powered. The round-robin execution unit (G) Based on the acquired total supply current value information, the held power supply stop selection process stop threshold current value information (Ic), and the held order information, provides a round-robin power supply system having power supply stop processing control means (P) for controlling the group switch unit (C) to perform a process of stopping the power supply to at least one or more of the power supply outlets that are currently being powered.

[0011] Furthermore, as a sixth invention, based on any one of the first to fifth inventions, ("To prevent the overconsumption of power due to a sudden increase in the total supply current value caused by the connection of a new load to a power supply outlet when mainly not executing the selection process of power supply outlets by round-robin execution", or, "To prevent the overconsumption of power due to a sudden increase in the total supply current value that greatly exceeds Ia at once by the selection process of power supply outlets during round-robin execution") It has a power supply stop threshold current value information holding unit (Q) for holding the power supply stop threshold current value information (Ib), which is information indicating the power supply stop threshold current value, which is the threshold current value for stopping the power supply to at least one or more of the power supply outlets that are currently being powered, and having a relationship of Ia < Ib or Ia ≤ Ib, Based on the acquired total supply current value information and the held power supply stop threshold current value information (Ib), it has a power supply stop control unit (R) for controlling the group switch unit (C) to stop the power supply to at least one or more of the power supply outlets that are currently being powered. Furthermore, it provides a round-robin power supply system having the above.

[0012] Furthermore, as a seventh invention, based on any one of the first to sixth inventions, The power supply unit (A) further includes a service outlet group (S) having at least one power supply outlet; The total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) acquires total supply current value information, which is information on the total supply current value including the service outlet group (S), The rotation execution unit (G) provides a rotation power supply system that executes processing to start and stop power supply to the power supply outlets excluding the service outlet group (S).

[0013] Furthermore, as an eighth invention, based on any one of the first to seventh inventions, The present invention provides a rotational power supply system in which the power supply unit (A) has a plurality of power supply groups each having a plurality of power supply outlets, instead of the power supply unit (A).

[0014] Furthermore, the present invention provides respective operation methods and respective operation programs corresponding to the rotation power supply systems of the first to eighth aspects of the present invention. The respective operation programs may be recorded on a recording medium.

[0015] Furthermore, in the first to eighth aspects of the present invention, there are provided rotational power supply systems in which "current" is read as "power", respective operation methods corresponding to the respective rotational power supply systems, and respective operation programs. The respective operation programs may be recorded on a recording medium.

[0016] Furthermore, there is provided a storage facility equipped with the rotational power supply system of the first to eighth aspects of the present invention.

[0017] Furthermore, the present invention provides a classroom equipped with a storage facility equipped with the rotational power supply system according to the first to eighth aspects of the present invention. Effect of the Invention

[0018] The present invention, which has the above-described main configuration, can provide a rotational power supply system that can charge in a nearly optimal order while reducing the effort required for setup, even under the constraints of a limited power supply capacity, with few components (i.e., inexpensive). [Brief description of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] Functional block diagram of the invention according to embodiment 1 [Diagram 2] Operational flow chart of the invention according to the first embodiment [Diagram 3] Hardware diagram of the invention according to embodiment 1 [Figure 4] Functional block diagram of the invention according to embodiment 2 [Diagram 5] Operational flow chart of the invention according to the second embodiment [Figure 6] Hardware diagram of the invention according to the second embodiment [Figure 7] Functional block diagram of the invention according to embodiment 3 [Figure 8] Operational flow chart of the invention according to the third embodiment [Figure 9] Hardware diagram of the invention according to the third embodiment [Figure 10] Functional block diagram of the invention according to embodiment 4 [Figure 11] Operational flow chart of the invention according to the fourth embodiment [Figure 12] Hardware diagram of the invention according to the fourth embodiment [Figure 13] Functional block diagram of the invention according to embodiment 5 [Figure 14] Operational flow chart of the invention according to the fifth embodiment [Figure 15] Hardware diagram of the invention according to the fifth embodiment [Figure 16] Functional block diagram of the invention according to embodiment 6 [Figure 17] Operational flow chart of the invention according to the sixth embodiment [Figure 18] Hardware diagram of the invention according to the sixth embodiment [Figure 19] Functional block diagram of the invention according to embodiment 7 [Figure 20a] Functional block diagram of the invention according to embodiments 1 to 7 [Figure 20b] Functional block diagram of the invention according to embodiment 8 [Figure 20c] Functional block diagram of the invention management terminal of FIG. 20a and FIG. 20b [Figure 21a] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a change in current value during operation of the invention according to the first embodiment. [Figure 21b] FIG. 1 is a graph showing a change in current value during operation of the invention according to the first embodiment. [Figure 21c] Schematic diagram showing the change in current value over time when charging a PC terminal [Figure 22a] Another display diagram of the flowchart of the invention according to the first to eighth embodiments. [Figure 22b] Another display diagram of the flowchart of the invention according to the first to eighth embodiments. [Diagram 23] Schematic diagram of a storage cabinet using the invention according to the first to seventh embodiments [Figure 24] Schematic diagram of a rotational power supply system according to the first to seventh embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described using an embodiment, and the "current" used in the description can be read as "power." Since the voltage of electricity provided for general commercial use is approximately a predetermined value, the object of the present invention can be achieved even if it is configured with power expressed as the product of current and voltage. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments.

[0021] <Embodiment 1 Overview> Claim 1 (Basic) The rotation power supply system of the first embodiment is connected to an external power source such as an outlet installed on the wall of a school classroom, receives power supply, and measures and acquires a total supply current value of charging current of PC terminals and the like connected for charging to the rotation power supply system and a power supply group that receives power from the power supply outlets of the rotation power supply system. A group switch unit (C) is provided that can turn power supply ON / OFF for each of a plurality of power supply outlets that supply power to the power supply group. A new power supply outlet selection operation determination unit (F) determines the execution of a selection operation that sequentially selects and turns ON a power supply outlet based on the retained order information, and a rotation execution unit (G) controls the group switch unit (C) to execute the rotation process.

[0022] FIG. 23 shows a schematic diagram of a storage cabinet for PC terminals (tablet terminals, laptop PCs, and other lightweight, portable devices with built-in rechargeable batteries) using the rotational power supply system of the present invention, viewed from the left side. The storage cabinet (2300) is installed near the wall surface (2316) of a facility such as a school, and the rotational power supply system (2301) receives power from a power outlet (2309) on the facility side, and supplies power to each part of the storage cabinet (2300). The storage cabinet (2300) is supported on the facility floor (2315) by lockable wheels (2308) provided on the bottom of the housing. In addition to the wheels, an adjuster bolt for temporary fixing may be provided on the bottom. The door (2303) of the storage unit, which is lockable and allows the inside to be seen through a window fitted with a transparent acrylic plate, is opened to reveal a tablet terminal (2311) stored upright in a space partitioned by a support plate (2317) on an internal shelf (2305). A charging cable (2312) is connected to a connection terminal of the tablet terminal (2311) and is connected to an AC adapter (2313). The AC adapter (2313) is plugged into a power strip (2304) through a hole in a partition plate (2302) with holes for passing cords, etc., installed at the back of the storage room where the tablet terminal (2311) is stored, and is ready to charge. In FIG. 23, one power strip (2304) has eight power outlets, as shown on the right side of the storage unit (2300). In the schematic diagram of the storage unit, eight power outlets are lined up from the front to the back. In addition, the installation of a partition as shown in Figure 23 to separate the storage area for the PC and other devices from the storage area for the AC adapter is in accordance with the standard specification example for charging storage units described in the "Standard Specifications for the Realization of the GIGA School Initiative" issued by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology on March 30, 2020, which aims to prevent the wiring of multiple AC adapters from becoming mixed up. The storage of tablets in a vertical position is also in accordance with the above specification example.

[0023] In the example of Fig. 23, six power taps (2304) are placed inside the storage vault (2300), and each is plugged into a power supply outlet on the side of the rotational power supply system (2301). A service outlet (2306) is provided at the upper part of the rear of the storage vault (2300). In addition, a facility LAN outlet (2310) near a facility power outlet (2309) on the facility wall (2316) is connected to the rotational power supply system (2301) by a LAN cable. This is used for monitoring the status of the rotational power supply system (2301) and for rewriting and updating settings via the facility wired LAN line. Although not shown in the figure, a wireless LAN transmission / reception system may be installed in the storage and storage (2300), power may be supplied from the rotation power supply system, and a LAN communication cable may be connected to the rotation power supply system (2301) to monitor the status of the rotation power supply system (2301) and rewrite and update the settings, as in the case of a wired LAN. A service LAN outlet (2307) may be provided near the service outlet (2306) at the upper rear of the storage and storage (2300). By connecting the service LAN outlet (2307) to the facility's wired LAN line, for example, a teacher's PC can be preferentially connected to the facility's network line. It is assumed that the PC terminals and tablet terminals used by students will use wireless LAN. When streaming video with a heavy line load or video calls via a web camera with a remote location are projected using a teacher's PC as part of a lesson, it is preferable to connect the teacher's PC to a wired LAN because it makes it easier to secure communication bandwidth. A projector used for image projection can be placed on the top plate of the storage cabinet, and the service outlet can be used as a power source for the projector. The service outlet may have multiple power supply outlets, not just one.

[0024] The rechargeable batteries and AC adapters installed in PC terminals and tablets generate a small amount of heat while charging. When storing around 40 devices, the ambient temperature inside the storage unit will rise during charging, although not all devices may be charged at the same time due to rotational power supply. For example, the bottom of the storage unit can be made of mesh steel plate, and when the temperature sensor inside the storage unit detects that the ambient temperature has reached a specified temperature or higher, the exhaust fan installed at the upper back or other location can be turned on to exhaust heat. Alternatively, although not shown in the figure, it is preferable to have an LCD display, LED numeric display, LED lamp, etc. as a display that displays the supply current value (or power value) and the number of the power supply outlet currently being powered. Alternatively, it can be configured to turn on the lights that illuminate the interior of the storage unit as needed when the door of the storage unit is opened. When providing a power source for the interior lighting, it should be powered from a service outlet series that is not subject to rotation in the rotational power supply system. LED lighting is preferable because it consumes little power and has a long life. It is also convenient to have a DC output of about 5V or 12V in addition to the general commercial AC 100V as a service outlet. Power for driving temperature sensors and exhaust fans, display displays, LED lighting, etc. are also supplied from the rotating power supply system power supply and are subject to current or power monitoring.

[0025] FIG. 24 shows the schematic configuration of the rotating power supply system installed in FIG. 23. Inside the metal case (2400), there are a power supply unit, safety device, ammeter (2401), relay (2402), power relay control (2403) arranged on a printed circuit board, MPU, crystal oscillator, various memories (2404), various communications (2405), LED control, dip switch (2410), power supply outlet (2406), service outlet (2407), external power supply connection port (2408), communication cable socket (2409), etc. The external power supply connection port (2408) can use, for example, a C14 type inlet conforming to IEC60320. The power cord can be removed, which is convenient and does not get in the way when moving the storage unit to another classroom. The cutout of the power supply unit, safety device, and ammeter (2401) is a device that cuts off the current supply to prevent damage to equipment and smoke and fire accidents caused by overheating when an excessive current that exceeds the minimum maximum rated current of the facility side power supply and the wiring components of the rotation power supply system and the storage facility is about to flow to the rotation power supply system. It is more preferable to have a lightning surge protection system at the same time. The relay (2402) may be an electromagnetic relay, a MOS FET relay, or other switches that can be turned on and off remotely. The various communications (2405) control input and output such as I2C communication used to communicate with the ammeter of the power supply unit, safety device, and ammeter (2401), LAN communication for connecting to the facility's wired LAN or wireless LAN input / output devices, and serial communications such as RS232C for other input and output. The LED control dip switch (2410) is used to control the lighting of the LEDs that indicate the operating status of the rotation power supply system, to display the power supply outlet that is supplying power, to switch the operation mode such as turning off the power supply to each of the multiple power supply outlets individually, to set the switching order when the rotation process is executed, and to set the timer period when the rotation process is executed. The dip switch can also be configured to set the current value that will be the ON / OFF judgment criterion for each power supply outlet when the rotation process is executed, which will be described later. This current value can also be configured to be set from a PC terminal outside the rotation power supply system via a LAN line.

[0026] In the example of Fig. 24, six power supply outlets (2406) are shown, and as in the example of Fig. 23, the power supply outlets are connected to the power taps one by one for use, but the cord may be extended outside the metal case (2400) and directly connected to the power tap without going through the power supply outlet. In the example of Fig. 23, the power tap corresponds to the power supply group. The power supply outlet on the power tap may not be a general 100V AC outlet, but may be a USB terminal, or may have both. Also, instead of a power tap, it may be a configuration that branches into a desired number of single-port power outlets. If it branches into single-port power outlets, it has the effect of increasing the degree of freedom in the layout design of the power outlets in the storage unit. In FIG. 24, the power outlets (2406) are attached to the side of the metal case, but a cord with a single-port power outlet at the end, the same number as the power outlets (2406), may be extended from the metal case (2400) and distributed inside the storage unit. The purchaser of the storage unit can purchase the required number of commercially available power taps and install them.

[0027] Since the standard number of students in an elementary or junior high school is 40, it is preferable that one storage unit equipped with a rotational power supply system be configured to be able to charge the PC terminals used by 40 students. More preferably, it should have at least one power supply outlet that can give priority to charging the PC terminals of teachers who are providing instruction. The maximum rating of a general outlet is 1500W (15A), so classroom wall outlets are usually of the same standard. Therefore, the upper limit of the power supplied to the rotational power supply system is also 1500W. The power required to charge a general tablet terminal using an AC adapter is about 10W to 16W. When charging the above tablet by connecting it to a power strip with multiple power supply outlets, for example, if the power strip has eight power supply outlets, the power required is 16W x 8 = 128W, and if the power supply is 100V, the power required is 1.28A. In the case of a rotational power supply system that supplies power from a power supply outlet that supports six power strips with eight power supply outlets each to serve a class of around 40 people, if tablets with a charging power of 16W are connected to all 48 power supply outlets, the total power required will be 16 (W / unit) x 48 (units) = 768 (W). This is below the maximum rated power of 1500W. However, the charging power of a typical laptop computer is 45W per unit, so by the same calculation, the total becomes 45 x 48 = 2160W, which exceeds the maximum rated power. As a result, it is not possible to charge all the devices at the same time, and rotational power supply is necessary.

[0028] The rotation execution unit (G) controls the selection and switching of the power supply outlet to supply power for charging. In the description of the first embodiment, it is assumed that the selection and switching is performed by a device with a configuration similar to that of a PC, as shown in FIG. 3 to be described later. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and the control may be performed by a logic circuit built into an FPGA or an ASIC. In either configuration, the switch operation may be performed by an electromagnetic relay or a MOS FET relay, or by using a switch that can be turned on and off remotely by other methods. Also, as in the embodiment to be described later, a service outlet that is a power supply outlet configured not to be included in the target of rotation for devices to which power is to be supplied preferentially, such as for charging a teacher's PC terminal, may be provided separately. It can also be used to turn on a projector (generally about 300 W) for explaining lessons while continuing to charge devices for students. Although details will be described later, even if a load is suddenly added to a power supply outlet or a service outlet of a power supply group that supplies power from a power supply outlet that is a target of rotation power supply during rotation power supply for charging, the target of rotation power supply can be adjusted and changed, and the order can be changed to continue power supply.

[0029] In this specification, when referring to a power supply outlet or a power supply group, expressions such as "power supply ON", "power supply ON", "power supply", "power supply OFF", "power supply OFF", "power supply stop", and "power supply interruption" include turning on and off each switch responsible for the power supply outlet or power supply group, even if not specifically stated.

[0030] <Functional configuration of embodiment 1> 1 is a diagram showing the functional blocks of the rotation power supply system of this embodiment. As shown in the figure, the rotation power supply system (0100) of the first embodiment is composed of a power supply unit (A) (0101), a group switch unit (C) (0102), a rotation execution unit (G) (0103), a total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) (0104), a sequence information storage unit (D) (0105), a new power supply outlet selection operation determination unit (F) (0106), and a new selection cancellation threshold current value information storage unit (E) (0107).

[0031] The above functional blocks are merely an example for implementing the present invention, and functions may be omitted or new functions may be added as appropriate within the scope that does not contradict the problems to be overcome by the present invention and its effects.

[0032] Each of the functional blocks constituting the rotational power supply system described below can be realized by hardware, software, or both. Specifically, in the case of using a computer, the following may be mentioned: a CPU, a main memory, a GPU, an image memory, a graphic board, a bus, or a secondary storage device (such as a hard disk, a non-volatile memory, a storage medium such as a CD or a DVD, and a drive for reading these media, etc.), an input device such as an operation button used for inputting information, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, an electronic pen used solely for touching a touch panel, a joystick or a joystick-like pointer position input device, and other external peripheral devices, as well as interfaces for the external peripheral devices, a GPS receiving interface, a GPS arithmetic unit, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, a rotation detection sensor, a processing unit for the signals of these sensors, a camera, an image file processing circuit, a communication interface, a barcode reader, a POS terminal, a face authentication device, an encryption device, a biometric authentication device such as a fingerprint authentication device, a palm print authentication device, and a retina authentication device, and driver programs and other application programs for controlling the hardware. In particular, it utilizes smartphones, tablet devices, mobile phones, smart watches, personal computers, data center server equipment, wired and wireless networks and interfaces, etc.

[0033] The CPU performs calculations according to the programs deployed on the main memory, and processes and stores data input from input devices and other interfaces and held in the memory or hardware, and generates commands to control the hardware and software. The programs may be realized as multiple modularized programs, or may be realized as a single program by combining two or more programs.

[0034] The present invention may also be partially configured as software. Furthermore, storage media on which such software is recorded are naturally included within the technical scope of the present invention (this is not limited to this embodiment, but applies throughout the entire specification).

[0035] <Description of the configuration of embodiment 1> <Embodiment 1 Power supply unit (A) (0101)> The power supply unit (A) (0101) is configured to have a plurality of power supply outlets for supplying power to a power supply group having a plurality of power supply sockets. The power supply outlet and the power supply socket may be a general two-hole type for home use, but a three-hole type with a ground electrode is preferable. One power supply group and a power supply outlet correspond one-to-one, but the power supply group connected to the power supply outlet corresponds to a general power tap (a power supply cord with a power plug on one end and multiple power supply sockets on the other end), and is used by inserting a plug into the power supply outlet. A single plug may branch into multiple power taps. Also, instead of a power tap, a type in which a single plug branches into multiple power cords each leading to a single outlet may be used. The power supply socket of the power tap may be a USB terminal type instead of a general commercial power supply socket compatible with 100V AC, or may have both a 100V AC outlet and a USB terminal. 23 and 24, six power supply outlets were used, but the effects of the present invention can be obtained with any number of outlets, not just six. If there are fewer outlets, such as two, the rotating power supply effect is less effective, and if there are more outlets, there is the disadvantage of increased costs due to the increased number of parts.

[0036] <Embodiment 1 Group Switch Unit (C) (0102)> The group switch unit (C) (0102) is configured to have a group switch for turning on and off power supply for at least one or more power supply outlets. The group switch is disposed for each power supply outlet for supplying power to at least one or more power supply groups, and operates to turn on or off power supply to the power supply outlet for which it is responsible under the control of a rotation execution unit (G) (0103) described later. The group switches themselves may be provided near the power supply outlets for which they are responsible, or may be disposed near a package that is slightly away from the power supply outlets and includes other rotation execution units (G) (0103), a new power supply outlet selection operation determination unit (F) (0106), an order information storage unit (D) (0105), a new selection cancellation threshold current value information storage unit (E) (0107), and the like. The on / off of the switch may be performed using an electromagnetic relay or a MOS FET relay, or may be performed by operating contacts with a motor, and is not limited to the embodiment as long as it can be turned on / off for at least one or more power supply outlets. In the embodiment of a sixth embodiment described below, no power supply outlet is provided, and a power supply group having a plurality of power supply outlets is connected to a group switch directly by a cord.

[0037] <Embodiment 1 Rotation Execution Unit (G) (0103)> The rotation execution unit (G) (0103) is configured to control the group switch unit (C) (0102) to execute a rotation process, which is a process of stopping power supply to at least some of the power supply outlets that are currently supplying power based on the retained sequence information when a predetermined condition is satisfied during power supply execution, and then selecting at least some of the power supply outlets that are not supplying power based on the total supply current value information and the new selection cancellation threshold current value information, and supplying power to the power supply outlets including the newly selected power supply outlet, based on the total supply current value information and the new selection cancellation threshold current value information. When a predetermined condition is satisfied during power supply, the rotation execution unit (G) (0103) stops power supply to at least one of the power supply outlets that are currently supplying power, starting with the power supply outlet with the earliest order, based on the order information stored in the order information storage unit (D) (0105). At this point, power supply continues to be supplied to the power supply outlets that were not subject to the power supply stop. Next, power supply is turned on for one of the power supply outlets that was not supplying power, starting with the power supply outlet with the earliest order. If the stored new selection stop threshold current value information (Ia) is greater than the total supply current value information, the operation of turning on power supply to the power supply outlet with the earliest order among the power supply outlets that are not currently supplying power is repeated. If the total supply current value information exceeds the new selection stop threshold current value information (Ia), the new power supply outlet selection operation determination unit (F) (0106) determines the cancellation of the operation of selecting a new power supply outlet and starting power supply. Power supply to the power supply outlet that is currently supplying power is continued until the next specified timing. The condition for the new power supply outlet selection operation determination unit (F) (0106) to determine whether to cancel selection may also be when the total supply current value information becomes equal to or greater than the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia).

[0038] <Embodiment 1: Total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) (0104)> The total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) (0104) is configured to constantly acquire total supply current value information, which is information on the total supply current value in the power supply unit (A). The current value information may be power value information multiplied by the voltage. In that case, the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) and the like may also have power values ​​as their contents. The total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) (0104) acquires information on the current value supplied to the entire rotation power supply system (0100) including the power supply unit (A) (0101), i.e., information on the total supply current value including peripheral devices that receive current supply from the rotation power supply system (0100) (excluding the case where the LAN is PoE). Current values ​​consumed by the rotation execution unit (G) (0103), the order information storage unit (D) (0105), the new selection cancellation threshold current value information storage unit (E) (0107), and the like other than the power supply unit (A) (0101) may also be included. It does not have to be included. In addition, due to its nature, the total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) (0104) is preferably placed closest to the external power source in the rotation power supply system (0100), but it is more preferable to provide a safety device between the external power source and the total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) (0104) to prevent failure due to overcurrent, as in the configuration shown in Figure 24 described above.

[0039] <First embodiment: Sequence information storage unit (D) (0105)> The sequence information storage unit (D) (0105) is configured to store sequence information that defines the ON / OFF sequence of the power outlet unit defined by the term "for each" of the group switch and the sequence of the power outlet unit defined by the term "for each" of the group switch. For example, when a number n is assigned to a plurality of Nmax power outlets, numbers are assigned starting from n=1 to n=Nmax. An example of sequence information is that the power outlets are turned ON / OFF in ascending order of the numbers, and after Nmax, they return to 1, and proceed again in ascending order from 1, 2, and so on. The sequence may be reversed to descending order, or may be a completely fixed random order for the numbers and names assigned to the power outlets. It is sufficient that some kind of continuous loop-like sequence is determined and stored as sequence information. Also, one group switch may be configured to turn on / off two or more power outlets. The rotation information can be configured so that it can be accessed and viewed / edited from a PC terminal outside the power rotation system via a LAN line, etc. It can also be configured so that it can be set directly by providing DIP switches and indicator LEDs inside the power rotation system. In that case, it is preferable to take measures such as locking the equipment or sealing it with screws that require special tools to open and close, so that students cannot easily access the equipment and rewrite or erase the settings.

[0040] <First embodiment: New power supply outlet selection operation determination unit (F) (0106)> The new power supply outlet selection operation determination unit (F) (0106) is configured to determine whether to cancel the selection of a new outlet during the power supply outlet selection operation, based on the total supply current value information acquired by the total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) and the retained new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia). When a predetermined condition is satisfied during power supply, the rotation execution unit (G) (0103) stops power supply to at least one of the power supply outlets that are currently supplying power, starting with the power supply outlet with the earliest order, based on the order information stored in the order information storage unit (D) (0105). At this point, power supply continues to be supplied to the power supply outlets that were not subject to the power supply stop. Next, power supply is turned on for one of the power supply outlets that was not supplying power, starting with the power supply outlet with the earliest order. If the stored new selection stop threshold current value information (Ia) is greater than the total supply current value information at that time, the operation of turning on power supply to the one power supply outlet with the earliest order among the power supply outlets that is not supplying power is repeated. If the total supply current value information at that time exceeds the new selection stop threshold current value information (Ia), the new power supply outlet selection operation determination unit (F) (0106) determines to stop the operation of selecting a new power supply outlet and starting power supply. Power supply to the power supply outlet that is currently supplying power is continued until the next specified timing. The condition for the new power supply outlet selection operation determination unit (F) (0106) to determine whether to cancel the selection may be when the total supply current value information becomes equal to or greater than the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia). When turning on power supply to the earliest-ordered power supply outlet among the power supply outlets that are not supplying power, more than one may be turned on at a time.

[0041] <First embodiment: New selection cancellation threshold current value information storage unit (E) (0107)> The new selection cancellation threshold current value information storage unit (E) (0107) is configured to store new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), which is information on the threshold current value for executing a selection cancellation process, which is a process for canceling the selection of a new power supply outlet during a power supply outlet selection operation in which power supply outlets are selected sequentially. The new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) is compared with the total supply current value information acquired by the total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) (0104) and is used to determine whether or not to cancel the selection operation of a new power supply outlet to supply power. Like the sequence information, the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) can be configured to be accessed and viewed / edited from a PC terminal or the like outside the rotation power supply system via a LAN line or the like. It can also be configured to be directly set by providing DIP switches and display LEDs within the rotation power supply system. In that case, it is preferable to take measures such as locking the equipment or sealing it with screws that require special tools to open and close, so that students cannot easily access the equipment and rewrite or erase the settings.

[0042] <Processing flow of embodiment 1> 2 is a flowchart of the operation process of the rotation power supply system of embodiment 1. As shown in this figure, the rotation power supply system of embodiment 1 has a sequence information storage step (d) (S0201), a new selection cancellation threshold current value information storage step (e) (S0202), a total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S0203), a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S0204), and a rotation execution step (g) (S0206).

[0043] When the rotation power supply system of the present invention is started, a sequence information holding step (d) (S0201) performs processing to hold sequence information that defines the order in which a unit of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" of a group switch for turning on and off power supply for at least one or more power supply outlets is turned on and off with respect to other units of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" above, and a new selection cancellation threshold current value information holding step (e) (S0202) performs processing to hold new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), which is information regarding the threshold current value for executing a selection cancellation process that is a process for canceling the selection of a new power supply outlet during a power supply outlet selection operation that selects power supply outlets sequentially, a total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S0203) performs a process of acquiring total supply current value information which is information on the total supply current value in the power supply unit (A), and a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S0204) performs a process of returning to after the new selection cancellation threshold current value information storage step (e) (S0202) if the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) has not been reached and power supply to all power supply outlets has not been turned on, based on the total supply current value information acquired by the total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) and the stored new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), and otherwise performs a process of determining whether to cancel the selection of a new power supply outlet during the power supply outlet selection operation;

[0044] After supplying power for a predetermined time until the timer times out, a total supply current value information acquisition unit step (b) (S0205) performs processing to acquire total supply current value information which is information on the total supply current value in the power supply unit (A), and a rotation execution step (g) (S0206) performs processing to control the group switch unit (C) to execute a rotation process which is a process of stopping power supply to at least some of the power supply outlets currently supplying power based on the stored sequence information when a predetermined condition is met during power supply, acquiring total supply current value information after power supply to some of the outlets is stopped, and then selecting at least some of the power supply outlets not supplying power based on the total supply current value information and the new selection stop threshold current value information (Ia), and starting power supply to the power supply outlets including the newly selected power supply outlet, and if power supply is to be continued, returning to the step after the new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S0204). This is an operating method for causing a rotation power supply system to execute a series of processes as described above.

[0045] <Description of Hardware in First Embodiment> 3 is a diagram for explaining hardware configured by the main board and its peripheral devices of the rotating power supply system which is the computer (calculator) of embodiment 1. It is configured by "CPU" (0301), "non-volatile memory" (0302), "main memory" (0303), "graphics card" (0304), "I / O controller" (0305) including LED control, relay control and DIP switches, "USB, IEEE1394, LAN terminal, I2C" (0306), "BIOS" (0307), "PCI slot" (0308), "real-time clock" (0309) including a crystal oscillator, and "chipset" (0310) consisting of a north bridge and a south bridge.

[0046] The various programs and data (information) stored in the non-volatile memory are expanded into the main memory when the system is started up, and upon receiving an execution command, the CPU sequentially executes the programs to perform calculations using the data.

[0047] That is, in addition to the OS (operating system) and device drivers, the non-volatile memory contains a total supply current value information acquisition program, a sequence information retention program, a new selection cancellation threshold current value information retention program, a new power supply outlet selection operation determination program, and a rotation execution program, and retains the total supply current value information, sequence information, and new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) as data. These are expanded into the main memory when the system is started up on a computer, and when a startup command is received, the CPU sequentially performs calculations using the programs and data.

[0048] <Outline of embodiment 2> Claim 2 (When all power supply outlets are turned ON for the first time) The second embodiment is based on the rotation power supply system of the first embodiment, and is configured to have a new selection non-execution means (H) in the rotation execution unit (G) that, when a predetermined condition is satisfied during power supply and power supply to at least some of the power supply outlets currently supplying power is stopped based on the retained sequence information, and then a power supply outlet that is not supplying power is selected, resulting in a state in which all power supply outlets have been selected, does not execute a new selection of a power supply outlet without based on the total supply current value information and the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia).

[0049] <Configuration of the Second Embodiment> FIG 4 shows a functional block diagram of a rotation power supply system of embodiment 2 based on embodiment 1. As described above, in addition to embodiment 1, the rotation execution unit (G) (0403) is further configured to have a new selection non-execution means (H) (0408) in the rotation execution unit (G) (0403). Since everything other than the new selection non-execution means (H) (0408) is the same as embodiment 1, only the new selection non-execution means (H) (0408) will be explained below.

[0050] <Description of the configuration of embodiment 2> <Embodiment 2: New selection non-execution means (H) (0408)> The "new selection non-execution means (H)" (0408) is configured to not execute new selection of a power supply outlet without reference to the total supply current value and the new selection cancellation threshold current value (Ia) when all power supply outlets are selected as a result of selecting a power supply outlet that is not supplying power. That is, for example, when the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) is exceeded for the first time after all power supply outlets are selected, or when the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) is exceeded or not exceeded even when power supply to all power supply outlets is turned ON, the new selection process is stopped and the group switch unit is controlled so that power supply can be continued until a predetermined condition (time-up, etc.) is satisfied.

[0051] <Processing flow of embodiment 2> 5 is a flowchart of the operation process of the rotation power supply system of embodiment 2. As shown in this figure, the rotation power supply system of embodiment 2 has a sequence information holding step (d) (S0501), a new selection cancellation threshold current value information holding step (e) (S0502), a total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S0503), a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S0504), a rotation execution step (g) (S0506), and a new selection non-execution sub-step (h) (S0509) in the rotation execution step (g) (S0506).

[0052] When the rotation power supply system of the present invention is started, a sequence information holding step (d) (S0501) performs processing to hold sequence information that defines the order in which a unit of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" of a group switch for turning on and off power supply for at least one or more power supply outlets is turned on and off with respect to other units of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" above, and a new selection cancellation threshold current value information holding step (e) (S0502) performs processing to hold new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) that is information on the threshold current value for executing a selection cancellation process that is a process for canceling the selection of a new power supply outlet during a power supply outlet selection operation that selects power supply outlets sequentially, and a total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S0503) performs processing to acquire total supply current value information which is information on the total supply current value at the power supply unit (A); a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S0504) performs processing to return to after the new selection cancellation threshold current value information storage step (e) (S0502) if the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) has not been reached and all power supply outlets have not been turned on, based on the total supply current value information acquired in the total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S0503) and the stored new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia); otherwise,

[0053] After supplying power for a predetermined time until the timer times out, a total supply current value information acquisition unit step (b) (S0505) performs processing to acquire total supply current value information, which is information on the total supply current value in the power supply unit (A), a rotation execution step (g) (S0506) performs processing to control the group switch unit (C) so as to stop power supply to at least some of the power supply outlets currently supplying power based on the retained sequence information when a predetermined condition is satisfied during power supply execution, a total supply current value information acquisition unit step (b) (S0507) performs processing to acquire total supply current value information, and a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S0508) performs processing to acquire the total supply current value information acquired in the total supply current value information acquisition unit step (b) (S0507) and the new selection stop threshold current value information ( Based on the total supply current value information and the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), it is determined whether to cancel the selection of a new outlet during the power supply outlet selection operation, and if the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) is exceeded or is equal to or greater than the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), the process proceeds to new selection non-execution sub-step (h) (S0509) in rotation execution step (g) (S0506), and if all power supply outlets have been selected as a result of selecting a power supply outlet that is not supplying power, a new selection of a power supply outlet is not performed based on the total supply current value information and the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), and the process returns to after new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S0504), and if power supply is to be continued in any other case, the process returns to after new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S0504). This is an operating method for causing the rotation power supply system to execute a series of processes as described above. In addition, when the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) becomes greater than the total supply current value information, there are two criteria: when it is equal to or greater than the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), or when it exceeds it. Either condition judgment method may be used to operate the rotation power supply system of the present invention.

[0054] <Embodiment 2: Description of Hardware> 6 is a diagram for explaining hardware configured by the main board and its peripheral devices of the rotating power supply system which is the computer (calculator) of the embodiment 2. It is configured by "CPU" (0601), "non-volatile memory" (0602), "main memory" (0603), "graphics card" (0604), "I / O controller" (0605) including LED control, relay control and DIP switch, "USB, IEEE1394, LAN terminal, I2C" (0606), "BIOS" (0607), "PCI slot" (0608), "real-time clock" (0609) including a crystal oscillator, and "chipset" (0610) consisting of a north bridge and a south bridge.

[0055] The various programs and data (information) stored in the non-volatile memory are expanded into the main memory when the system is started up, and upon receiving an execution command, the CPU sequentially executes the programs to perform calculations using the data.

[0056] That is, in addition to the OS (operating system) and device drivers, the non-volatile memory contains a total supply current value information acquisition program, a sequence information retention program, a new selection cancellation threshold current value information retention program, a new power supply outlet selection operation determination program, a rotation execution program, and a new selection non-execution subprogram, and retains the total supply current value information, sequence information, and new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) as data. These are expanded into the main memory when the system is started up on a computer, and when a start-up command is received, the CPU sequentially performs calculations using the programs and data.

[0057] <Outline of the third embodiment> Claim 3 (After a predetermined condition is met when all power supply outlets are ON) The third embodiment is based on the rotation power supply system of the second embodiment, The Rotational Executive Team (G) Even when a predetermined condition is satisfied, if power is being supplied to all of the power supply outlets, the power supply outlets are not stopped and a new power supply outlet is not selected, and power supply to all of the power supply outlets can be continued as is (power supply does not necessarily have to be in progress). This configuration has an exception control means (J) for controlling the group switch section (C).

[0058] <Configuration of embodiment 3> Fig. 7 shows a functional block diagram of a rotation power supply system of the third embodiment based on the second embodiment. As described above, in addition to the second embodiment, the rotation execution unit (G) (0703) is further configured to have an exception control means (J) (0709). Since everything except the exception control means (J) (0709) is the same as the second embodiment, only the exception control means (J) (0709) will be described below. Note that the same effects can be obtained even if the first embodiment is used as a base.

[0059] <Description of the configuration of embodiment 3> <Third embodiment: Exception control means (J) (0709)> The "exception control means (J)" (0709) is configured to have an exception control means (J) for controlling the group switch section (C) so that, even if a predetermined condition is satisfied, if power is being supplied to all of the power supplying outlets, the power supplying outlets are not stopped and no new power supplying outlets are not selected, and power supply to all of the power supplying outlets can be continued as is (power supply does not necessarily have to be running). When a predetermined condition, such as a time-up set by a timer, is satisfied, and if power is being supplied to all of the power supplying outlets, exception control is performed so that power supply to all of the outlets can be continued without turning on and off the power supply to the power supplying outlets. The reason why power supply does not necessarily have to be running is that as charging of the rechargeable battery of the device progresses, the supply current value required for charging decreases, and even if the group switch is turned on (power supply is continuing), a state in which no current is actually being supplied (power supply is not being executed) is reached.

[0060] <Processing flow of embodiment 3> 8 is a flowchart of the operation process of the rotation power supply system of embodiment 3. As shown in this figure, the rotation power supply system of embodiment 3 has a sequence information storage step (d) (S0801), a new selection cancellation threshold current value information storage step (e) (S0802), a total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S0803), a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S0804), a rotation execution step (g) (S0806), an exception control substep (j) (S0807) in the rotation execution step (g) (S0806), and a new selection non-execution substep (h) (S0810).

[0061] When the rotation power supply system of the present invention is started, a sequence information holding step (d) (S0801) performs processing to hold sequence information that defines the order in which a unit of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" of a group switch for turning on and off power supply for at least one or more power supply outlets is turned on and off with respect to other units of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" above, and a new selection cancellation threshold current value information holding step (e) (S0802) performs processing to hold new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) that is information on the threshold current value for executing a selection cancellation process that is a process for canceling the selection of a new power supply outlet during a power supply outlet selection operation that selects power supply outlets sequentially, and a total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S0803) performs processing to acquire total supply current value information which is information on the total supply current value at the power supply unit (A); a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S0804) performs processing to return to after the new selection cancellation threshold current value information storage step (e) (S0802) if the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) has not been reached and all power supply outlets have not been turned on, based on the total supply current value information acquired in the total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S0803) and the stored new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia); otherwise,

[0062] After supplying power for a predetermined time until the timer times out, a total supply current value information acquisition unit step (b) (S0805) performs processing to acquire total supply current value information, which is information on the total supply current value at the power supply unit (A), and if a predetermined condition is met during power supply, an exception control substep (j) (S0807) in a rotation execution step (g) (S0806) performs processing to return processing to after a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S0804) so ​​that processing can continue as is if all power supply outlets are supplying power, and otherwise performs processing to acquire total supply current value information in a total supply current value information acquisition unit step (b) (S0808), and a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S0809) performs processing to acquire total supply current value information. Based on the total supply current value information and the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) acquired in acquisition step (b) (S0808), it is determined whether to cancel the selection of a new outlet during the power supply outlet selection operation, and if the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) is exceeded or is equal to or greater than the new selection cancellation threshold current value information, proceed to new selection non-execution sub-step (h) (S0810) in rotation execution step (g) (S0806); if the selection of a power supply outlet that is not supplying power results in all power supply outlets being selected as a result, a new selection of a power supply outlet is not executed based on the total supply current value and the new selection cancellation threshold current value, and the process returns to after new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S0804); In other cases, if power supply is to be continued, the process returns to the step (f) (S0804) for determining whether or not a new power supply outlet is to be selected. This is an operation method for causing the rotational power supply system to execute a series of processes. In addition, when the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) becomes greater than the total supply current value information, there are two criteria: when it is equal to or greater than the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), or when it exceeds it. Either condition judgment method may be used to operate the rotation power supply system of the present invention.

[0063] <Embodiment 3: Description of Hardware> 9 is a diagram for explaining hardware configured by the main board and its peripheral devices of the rotating power supply system which is the computer (calculator) of embodiment 3. It is configured by "CPU" (0901), "non-volatile memory" (0902), "main memory" (0903), "graphics card" (0904), "I / O controller" (0905) including LED control, relay control and DIP switches, "USB, IEEE1394, LAN terminal, I2C" (0906), "BIOS" (0907), "PCI slot" (0908), "real-time clock" (0909) including a crystal oscillator, and "chipset" (0910) consisting of a north bridge and a south bridge.

[0064] The various programs and data (information) stored in the non-volatile memory are expanded into the main memory when the system is started up, and upon receiving an execution command, the CPU sequentially executes the programs to perform calculations using the data.

[0065] That is, in addition to the OS (operating system) and device drivers, the non-volatile memory contains a total supply current value information acquisition program, a sequence information retention program, a new selection cancellation threshold current value information retention program, a new power supply outlet selection operation determination program, a rotation execution program, a new selection non-execution subprogram, and an exception control subprogram, and stores the total supply current value information, sequence information, and new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) as data. These are expanded into the main memory when the system is started up on a computer, and when a start-up command is received, the CPU sequentially performs calculations using the programs and data.

[0066] <Outline of the fourth embodiment> Claim 4 (rotational power supply, timer) The fourth embodiment is based on the rotation power supply system of the third embodiment, and further includes a timer information holding unit (K) that holds timer information which is information for determining the timing of the rotation process for reconsidering the power supply outlets to be supplied with power after power supply is started with a new combination of power supply outlets, and the rotation execution unit (G) is configured to include a timer control means (M) that controls the group switch unit (C) based on the timer information.

[0067] <Configuration of embodiment 4> Fig. 10 shows a functional block diagram of a rotation power supply system of the fourth embodiment based on the third embodiment. As described above, in addition to the third embodiment, the fourth embodiment further includes a timer information storage unit (K) (1010) and a timer control means (M) (1011) in the rotation execution unit (G) (1003). Since the fourth embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except for the timer information storage unit (K) (1010) and the timer control means (M) (1011), only the timer information storage unit (K) (1010) and the timer control means (M) (1011) will be described below. The same effects can be obtained even if the first or second embodiment is used as a base.

[0068] <Description of the Configuration of the Fourth Embodiment> <Fourth embodiment: Timer information storage unit (K) (1010)> The "timer information storage unit (K)" (1010) is configured to store timer information, which is information for determining the timing of a rotation process for reviewing the power supply outlets to be supplied with power after starting power supply with a new combination of power supply outlets. The timer information is information indicating the cycle of timing for changing at least some of the power supply outlets to be supplied with power after rotation process is executed, and may be the number of timer counts or time information indicating how many seconds after the timer starts to turn off the timer with respect to the real-time count. When a cyclic timer is used, the time until one cycle or the number of time counts becomes the timer information. If the timer information consisting of the timing cycle can be changed without a hardware limit on the number of times (if the timer information is written in an EPROM, EEPROM, etc., a limit on the number of times it can be changed), the system can be configured to allow access and viewing / editing from a PC terminal or the like outside the rotation power supply system via a LAN line or the like. It can also be configured to allow direct setting by providing DIP switches and display LEDs within the rotation power supply system. In that case, it is preferable to take measures such as locking the equipment to prevent students from easily accessing it and rewriting or erasing the settings, or sealing it with screws that require special tools to open and close.

[0069] <Embodiment 4: Timer control means (M) (1011)> The "timer control means (M)" (1011) is configured in the rotation execution unit (G) (1003) so as to control the group switch unit (C) (1002) based on timer information that defines predetermined conditions. Stopping the timer after a predetermined timer count included in the timer information has elapsed (hereinafter referred to as time-up) triggers the rotation execution unit (G) (1003) to control the rotation process that turns on / off the group switch corresponding to the power supply outlet to maintain or change the ON / OFF state of power supply to the power supply outlet that is the target of power supply. Time-up is one of the "predetermined conditions during power supply execution" that triggers a review of the power supply outlet that is the target of power supply. When a predetermined timer count has elapsed, the timer count may be stopped and reset to zero, or the timer information may be updated to a value obtained by adding the interval to the timer count so as to achieve a predetermined interval, and the timer information may be stored again in the timer information storage unit (K).

[0070] <Processing flow of embodiment 4> 11 is a flowchart of the operation process of the rotation power supply system of embodiment 4. As shown in this figure, the rotation power supply system of embodiment 4 has a sequence information holding step (d) (S1101), a new selection cancellation threshold current value information holding step (e) (S1102), a timer information holding step (k) (S1103), a total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S1104), a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S1105), a rotation execution step (g) (S1107), an exception control substep (j) (S1108) in the rotation execution step (g) (S1107), a timer control substep (m) (S1110), and a new selection non-execution substep (h) (S1113).

[0071] When the rotation power supply system of the present invention is started, a sequence information holding step (d) (S1101) performs processing to hold sequence information that defines the order in which a unit of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" of a group switch for turning on and off power supply for at least one or more power supply outlets is turned on and off with respect to other units of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" above, a new selection cancellation threshold current value information holding step (e) (S1102) performs processing to hold new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) that is information regarding the threshold current value for executing a selection cancellation process that is a process for canceling the selection of a new power supply outlet during a power supply outlet selection operation that sequentially selects power supply outlets, and a timer information holding step (k) (S1103) a total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S1104) performs a process of acquiring total supply current value information which is information on the total supply current value at the power supply unit (A), and a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S1105) performs a process of returning to the step after the timer information storage step (k) (S1103) based on the total supply current value information acquired in the total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S1104) and the stored new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) if the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) has not been reached and power is not being supplied to all power supply outlets, and otherwise performs a process of determining whether to cancel the selection of a new outlet during the power supply outlet selection operation;

[0072] After supplying power for a predetermined time until the timer times out, a total supply current value information acquisition unit step (b) (S1106) performs processing to acquire total supply current value information, which is information on the total supply current value in the power supply unit (A), and an exception control substep (j) (S1108) in the rotation execution step (g) (S1107) performs processing to return processing to after the new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S1105) so that the operation can continue as is if all power supply outlets are supplying power, and otherwise performs processing to acquire total supply current value information in a total supply current value information acquisition unit step (b) (S1109), and a timer control substep (m) (S1110) performs processing to control the group switch unit (C) based on the timer information, and a new power supply outlet selection operation A judgment step (f) (S1111) judges whether to cancel the selection of a new outlet during the power supply outlet selection operation based on the total supply current value information and the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) acquired in the total supply current value information acquisition unit step (b) (S1112), and when the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) is reached, a new selection non-execution substep (h) (S1113) in the rotation execution step (g) (S1107) performs a process of returning the process to after the new power supply outlet selection operation judgment step (f) (S1105) without executing a new selection of a power supply outlet not based on the total supply current value and the new selection cancellation threshold current value when all power supply outlets have been selected as a result of selecting a power supply outlet that is not supplying power; In other cases, if power supply is to be continued, the process returns to the step (f) (S1105) for determining whether or not a new power supply outlet is to be selected. This is an operation method for causing the rotational power supply system to execute a series of processes. In addition, when the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) becomes greater than the total supply current value information, there are two criteria: when it is equal to or greater than the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), or when it exceeds it. Either condition judgment method may be used to operate the rotation power supply system of the present invention.

[0073] <Embodiment 4: Description of Hardware> 12 is a diagram for explaining hardware configured by the main board and its peripheral devices of the rotating power supply system, which is the computer (calculator) of embodiment 4. It is configured by "CPU" (1201), "non-volatile memory" (1202), "main memory" (1203), "graphics card" (1204), "I / O controller" (1205) including LED control, relay control, and DIP switches, "USB, IEEE1394, LAN terminal, I2C" (1206), "BIOS" (1207), "PCI slot" (1208), "real-time clock" (1209) including a crystal oscillator, and "chipset" (1210) consisting of a north bridge and a south bridge.

[0074] The various programs and data (information) stored in the non-volatile memory are expanded into the main memory when the system is started up, and upon receiving an execution command, the CPU sequentially executes the programs to perform calculations using the data.

[0075] That is, in addition to the OS (operating system) and device drivers, the non-volatile memory contains a total supply current value information acquisition program, a sequence information retention program, a new selection cancellation threshold current value information retention program, a new power supply outlet selection operation determination program, a rotation execution program, a new selection non-execution subprogram, an exception control subprogram, a timer information retention program, and a timer control subprogram, and retains the total supply current value information, sequence information, new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), and timer information as data. These are expanded into the main memory when the system is started up on a computer, and upon receiving a start-up command, the CPU sequentially performs calculations using the programs and data.

[0076] <Outline of the 5th embodiment> Claim 5 (Rotation power supply: Stopping the selection of a new group and turning it on Ic) The fifth embodiment is based on the rotation power supply system of any one of the first to fourth embodiments, and further includes a power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value information holding unit (N) that holds power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value information (Ic) which is information indicating a power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value which is a threshold current value for interrupting the selection process of interrupting power supply to at least one or more of the power supply outlets currently supplying power, based on the retained sequence information, at the timing of the rotation process of reconsidering the power supply outlets to be supplied with power, and the rotation execution unit (G) is configured to control the group switch unit (C) to perform a process of turning off power supply to at least one or more of the power supply outlets currently supplying power, based on the acquired total supply current value information, the retained power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value information (Ic), and the retained sequence information.

[0077] <Configuration of embodiment 5> Fig. 13 shows a functional block diagram of a rotation power supply system of the fifth embodiment based on the fourth embodiment. As described above, in addition to the fourth embodiment, the rotation execution unit (G) further includes a power supply interruption processing control unit (P) (1313) and a power supply interruption selection processing interruption threshold current value information storage unit (N) (1312). Since the power supply interruption selection processing interruption threshold current value information storage unit (N) (1312) and the power supply interruption processing control unit (P) (1313) are the same as the second embodiment, only the power supply interruption selection processing interruption threshold current value information storage unit (N) (1312) and the power supply interruption processing control unit (P) (1313) will be described below. The same effects can be obtained even if the first or third embodiment is used as a base.

[0078] <Description of the configuration of embodiment 5> <Fifth embodiment: Power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value information storage unit (N) (1312)> The 'power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value information storage unit (N)' (1312) is configured to store power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value information (Ic) which is information indicating a power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value which is a threshold current value for interrupting the selection process of interrupting power supply to at least one or more power supply outlets currently supplying power, based on the stored order information at the timing of the rotation process of reviewing the power supply outlets to be supplied with power. The stored power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value information (Ic) can be configured to be accessed and viewed / edited from a PC terminal or the like outside the rotation power supply system via a LAN line. It can also be configured to allow direct setting by providing DIP switches and display LEDs within the rotation power supply system. In that case, it is preferable to take measures such as locking the equipment or sealing it with screws that require special tools to open and close, so that students cannot easily access the equipment and rewrite or erase the settings.

[0079] <Embodiment 5: Power supply interruption processing control means (P) (1313)> The "power supply interruption processing control means (P)" (1313) is configured in the rotation execution unit (G) to control the group switch unit (C) to perform processing to interrupt power supply to at least one or more of the power supply outlets currently supplying power, based on the acquired total supply current value information, the retained power supply interruption selection processing interruption threshold current value information (Ic), and the retained sequence information. When a certain condition is met during power supply, such as a timeout, the rotation execution unit (G) (1303) suspends power supply to at least one of the power supply outlets currently supplying power, starting with the power supply outlet with the earliest order, based on the order information stored in the order information storage unit (D) (1305). At this point, power supply continues to be supplied to power supply outlets that were not targeted for power supply suspension. Power supply is suspended one by one for the power supply outlets currently supplying power, in the order until the total supply current value information falls below the selection processing suspension threshold current value information (Ic) for power supply suspension. When the total supply current value information falls below the selection processing suspension threshold current value information (Ic), the process of suspending power supply is suspended. Next, power is turned on for one of the power supply outlets that was not supplying power, starting with the earliest one. If the stored new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) is greater than the total supply current value information, the operation of turning on power for the earliest one of the power supply outlets that is not supplying power is repeated. If the total supply current value information exceeds the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), the new power supply outlet selection operation determination unit (F) (1306) determines to cancel the operation of selecting a new power supply outlet and starting power supply. Power supply to the power supply outlet that is currently supplying power is continued until the next specified timing. The rotation execution unit (G) (1303) may stop the power supply interruption process when the total supply current value information falls below the power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value information (Ic).The new power supply outlet selection operation determination unit (F) (1306) may stop the selection when the total supply current value information becomes equal to or greater than the new selection interruption threshold current value information (Ia).

[0080] <Processing flow of embodiment 5> FIG. 14 is a flowchart of the operation process of the rotation power supply system of the fifth embodiment. As shown in this figure, the rotation power supply system of embodiment 5 has a sequence information retaining step (d) (S1401), a new selection cancellation threshold current value information retaining step (e) (S1402), a power supply cancellation selection process cancellation threshold current value information retaining step (n) (S1403), a timer information retaining step (k) (S1404), a total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S1405), a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S1406), a rotation execution step (g) (S1408), an exception handling sub-step (j) (S1409) in the rotation execution step (g) (S1408), a power supply cancellation process control sub-step (p) (S1410), a timer control sub-step (m) (S1412), and a new selection non-execution sub-step (h) (S1415).

[0081] When the rotation power supply system of the present invention is started, a sequence information holding step (d) (S1401) performs processing for holding sequence information that defines the order in which a unit of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" of a group switch for turning on and off power supply for at least one or more power supply outlets is turned on and off with respect to another unit of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" of the group switch, a new selection stop threshold current value holding step (e) (S1402) performs processing for holding new selection stop threshold current value information (Ia) that is information on a threshold current value for executing a selection stop process that is a process for stopping the selection of a new power supply outlet during a power supply outlet selection operation that selects power supply outlets sequentially, and a selection process stop threshold current value information holding step (n) (S1403) for stopping power supply stops power supply to at least one or more of the power supply outlets currently supplying power based on the held sequence information at the timing of the rotation process for reviewing the power supply outlets to be supplied with power. A timer information storing step (k) (S1404) stores the timer information and turns on at least one of the power supply outlets that is not being supplied with power based on the stored order information. A total supply current value information acquiring step (b) (S1405) stores total supply current value information that is information on the total supply current value in the power supply unit (A). and in a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S1406), if the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) has not been reached and all power supply outlets have not been turned on, based on the total supply current value information acquired in the total supply current value information acquisition unit step (b) (S1405) and the stored new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), the process returns to after the timer information storage step (k) (S1404), and otherwise performs a process to determine whether to cancel the selection of a new outlet during the power supply outlet selection operation,

[0082] After supplying power for a predetermined time until the timer expires, a total supply current value information acquisition unit step (b) (S1407) performs processing to acquire total supply current value information, which is information on the total supply current value at the power supply unit (A), and an exception control substep (j) (S1409) in a rotation execution step (g) (S1408) returns processing to after a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S1406) so that the processing can continue as is if all power supply outlets are supplying power, and stops power supply in other cases. The process proceeds to a process control sub-step (p) (S1410), in which the group switch unit (C) is controlled so as to stop power supply to at least one of the power supply outlets currently supplying power based on the stored order information until the total supply current value information acquired in the total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S1411) becomes equal to or less than the stored power supply stop selection process stop threshold current value information (Ic), and a timer control sub-step (m) (S1412) controls a timer a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S1413) determines whether to cancel the selection of a new outlet during the power supply outlet selection operation based on the total supply current value information acquired in the total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S1414) and the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia); and if the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) is reached or exceeded, a new selection non-execution substep (h) (S1415) in the rotation execution step (g) (S1408) selects a power supply outlet that is not supplying power, and if all power supply outlets have been selected as a result, performs processing to return to the processing after the new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S1406) without performing a new selection of a power supply outlet not based on the total supply current value and the new selection cancellation threshold current value; and in other cases if power supply is to be continued, performs processing to return to the processing after the new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S1406). This is an operating method for causing the rotation power supply system to execute a series of processes. In addition, when the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) becomes greater than the total supply current value information, there are two criteria: when it is equal to or greater than the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), or when it exceeds it. Either condition judgment method may be used to operate the rotation power supply system of the present invention. In the power supply interruption process control sub-step (p) (S1412) in the rotation execution step (g) (S1410), the power supply interruption process for the power supply outlets currently supplying power is continued until the total supply current value information becomes equal to or less than the power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value information (Ic), but it may also be continued until the total supply current value information becomes less than the power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value information (Ic).

[0083] <Embodiment 5: Description of Hardware> 15 is a diagram for explaining hardware configured by the main board and its peripheral devices of the rotating power supply system, which is the computer (calculator) of embodiment 5. It is configured by "CPU" (1501), "non-volatile memory" (1502), "main memory" (1503), "graphics card" (1504), "I / O controller" (1505) including LED control, relay control, and DIP switches, "USB, IEEE1394, LAN terminal, I2C" (1506), "BIOS" (1507), "PCI slot" (1508), "real-time clock" (1509) including a crystal oscillator, and "chipset" (1510) consisting of a north bridge and a south bridge.

[0084] The various programs and data (information) stored in the non-volatile memory are expanded into the main memory when the system is started up, and upon receiving an execution command, the CPU sequentially executes the programs to perform calculations using the data.

[0085] That is, in addition to the OS (operating system) and device drivers, the non-volatile memory contains a total supply current value information acquisition program, a sequence information retention program, a new selection abort threshold current value information retention program, a new power supply outlet selection operation determination program, a rotation execution program, a new selection non-execution subprogram, an exception control subprogram, a timer information retention program, a timer control subprogram, a power supply abort selection process abort threshold current value information retention program, and a power supply abort process control subprogram, and retains the total supply current value information, sequence information, new selection abort threshold current value information (Ia), timer information, and power supply abort selection process abort threshold current value information (Ic) as data. These are expanded into the main memory when the system is started up on a computer, and when a start-up command is received, the CPU sequentially performs calculations using the programs and data.

[0086] <Outline of embodiment 6> Claim 6 (Rotary power supply: Stop power supply to powered outlet after time-up Ib) The sixth embodiment is based on the rotation power supply system of any one of the first to fifth embodiments, and is further configured to have a power supply interruption threshold current value information holding unit (Q) that holds power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib), which is information indicating a power supply interruption threshold current value that is a threshold current value for interrupting power supply to at least one or more of the power supply outlets currently supplying power, and a power supply interruption control unit (R) that controls the group switch unit (C) to interrupt power supply to at least one or more of the power supply outlets currently supplying power based on the acquired total supply current value information and the held power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib), "mainly in order to prevent excessive power consumption due to a sudden increase in the total supply current value that occurs when a new load is connected to a power supply outlet when the selection process of a power supply outlet due to rotation execution is not being executed" or "in order to prevent excessive power consumption due to a sudden increase in the total supply current value that occurs when the selection process of a power supply outlet due to rotation execution significantly exceeds Ia at one time."

[0087] <Configuration of embodiment 6> Fig. 16 shows a functional block diagram of a rotation power supply system of the sixth embodiment based on the fifth embodiment. As described above, the sixth embodiment is further configured to have a power supply interruption control unit (R) (1615) and a power supply interruption threshold current value information storage unit (Q) (1614) in addition to the fifth embodiment. Since the sixth embodiment is the same as the fifth embodiment except for the power supply interruption control unit (R) (1615) and the power supply interruption threshold current value information storage unit (Q) (1614), only the power supply interruption control unit (R) (1615) and the power supply interruption threshold current value information storage unit (Q) (1614) will be described below. The same effect can be obtained even if the sixth embodiment is based on any one of the first to fourth embodiments.

[0088] <Description of the configuration of embodiment 6> <Sixth embodiment: Power supply interruption threshold current value information storage unit (Q) (1614)> The 'power supply interruption threshold current value storage unit (Q)' (1614) is configured to store power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib), which is information indicating the power supply interruption threshold current value, which is the threshold current value for interrupting power supply to at least one of the power supply outlets currently supplying power. When a new PC terminal is added to a power supply group supplied from a power supply outlet during power supply, or when a load such as a PC terminal or a projector is added to a service outlet in a fifth embodiment described later, causing the total supply current value information to be equal to or exceed the power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib), this is one of the "predetermined conditions during power supply" that trigger a review of the power supply outlet to which power is being supplied. The power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib) usually exceeds the new selection interruption threshold current value information (Ia). The power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib) can be configured so that it can be accessed from a PC terminal or the like outside the rotation power supply system via a LAN line or the like and can be viewed and edited. It can also be configured so that it can be set directly by providing DIP switches and display LEDs within the rotation power supply system. In that case, it is preferable to take measures such as locking the equipment or sealing it with screws that require special tools to open and close, so that children and students do not easily access the equipment and rewrite or erase the settings.

[0089] <Embodiment 6: Power supply interruption control unit (R) (1615)> The 'power supply interruption control unit (R)' (1615) is configured to control the group switch unit (C) to interrupt power supply to at least one or more of the power supply outlets that are currently supplying power, based on the acquired total supply current value information and the retained power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib). During power supply after the rotation process is executed, if the total supply current value information increases due to the addition of a PC terminal, etc., and exceeds the power supply stop threshold current value information (Ib), this meets certain conditions and triggers the rotation process to review the power supply outlets to be supplied with power. Even if power is being supplied to all power supply outlets, it triggers a review of the power supply targets. Based on the stored sequence information, power supply is turned off one by one in order of the earliest sequence, until the total supply current value information is equal to or less than the power supply stop selection process stop threshold current value information (Ic). Next, power is turned on for the power supply outlets that are not being supplied with power, based on the stored sequence information, until it exceeds the new selection stop threshold current value information (Ia). Once the selection to turn on power is canceled, power is supplied until the time is up. Alternatively, rotation processing is started based on timer information, power supply outlets that are currently supplying power are turned off, power supply interruption processing is stopped based on the total supply current value information and the power supply stopping selection processing stop threshold current value information (Ic), and then power supply is turned on for the next power supply outlet that was not supplying power based on the stored sequence information.If the total supply current value information becomes equal to or exceeds the new selection stop threshold current value information (Ia) and the power supply stop threshold current value information (Ib), power supply is turned off one by one starting from the power supply outlet that is currently supplying power based on the stored sequence information, and power supply OFF is repeated until the total supply current value information becomes equal to or less than the power supply stop threshold current value information (Ib).Alternatively, the power supply outlets that are turned off may be only the power supply outlets that turned on power immediately before the total supply current value information became equal to or exceeded the power supply stop threshold current value information (Ib).

[0090] <Processing flow of embodiment 6> 17 is a flowchart of the operation process of the rotation power supply system of embodiment 6. As shown in this figure, the rotation power supply system of embodiment 6 includes a sequence information holding step (d) (S1701), a new selection stop threshold current value information holding step (e) (S1702), a power supply stop selection process stop threshold current value information holding step (n) (S1703), a power supply stop threshold current value information holding step (q) (S1704), a timer information holding step (k) (S1705), and a total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S1706). The method includes a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S1707), a power supply interruption control step (r) (S1709), a rotation execution step (g) (S1710), an exception control sub-step (j) (S1711) within the rotation execution step (g) (S1708), a power supply interruption processing control sub-step (p) (S1712), a timer control sub-step (m) (S1714), and a new selection non-execution sub-step (h) (S1717).

[0091] When the rotation power supply system of the present invention is started, a sequence information holding step (d) (S1701) performs processing to hold sequence information that defines the order in which a power supply outlet unit defined by the term "for each" of a group switch for turning on and off power supply for at least one or more power supply outlets is turned on and off with respect to other power supply outlet units defined by the term "for each" above, and a new selection cancellation threshold current value information holding step (e) (S1702) performs processing to hold sequence information that defines the order in which a power supply outlet unit is turned on and off with respect to other power supply outlet units defined by the term "for each" above, and A process is performed to retain new selection termination threshold current value information (Ia) which is information regarding a threshold current value for executing a selection termination process which is a process for canceling the selection of a new power supply outlet during operation, and a power supply termination selection termination threshold current value information retaining step (n) (S1703) indicates a power supply interruption selection termination threshold current value which is a threshold current value for canceling a selection process for interrupting power supply to at least one or more power supply outlets currently supplying power, based on the retained order information, at the timing of a rotation process for reviewing the power supply outlets to be supplied with power. A power supply interruption threshold current value information holding step (q) (S1704) holds power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib) which is information indicating a power supply interruption threshold current value which is a threshold current value for interrupting power supply to at least one of the power supply outlets currently supplying power, and a timer information holding step (k) (S1705) holds timer information and turns on at least one of the power supply outlets that is not currently supplying power based on the held order information. A total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S1706) performs processing to acquire total supply current value information, which is information on the total supply current value in the power supply unit (A), and a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S1707) returns processing to after the timer information retention step (k) (S1705) if the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) has not been reached and power supply is not turned on for all power supply outlets, based on the total supply current value information acquired in the total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S1706) and the retained new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia);Otherwise, the process determines whether to cancel the selection of a new outlet during the power outlet selection operation.

[0092] After supplying power for a predetermined time until the timer times out, a total supply current value information acquisition unit step (b) (S1708) performs processing to acquire total supply current value information, which is information on the total supply current value in the power supply unit (A), and a power supply stop control step (r) (S1709)If the acquired total supply current value information exceeds or is equal to or greater than the stored power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib), the group switch unit (C) is controlled to interrupt power supply to at least one of the power supply outlets that are currently supplying power, and the process is returned to before the total supply current value information acquisition unit step (b) (S1708). If the acquired total supply current value information is less than the power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib), a process is performed to interrupt power supply to the power supply outlets. An exception control substep (j) (S1711) in the rotation execution step (g) (S1710) If the power supply outlet is currently being supplied, the process returns to the step (f) (S1707) for determining whether or not the power supply outlet is being supplied so that the process can continue as is. Otherwise, the process proceeds to the sub-step (p) (S1712) for controlling power supply interruption, and the process of interrupting power supply to at least one of the power supply outlets currently being supplied based on the order information stored is performed until the total supply current value information acquired in the total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S1713) becomes equal to or less than the stored selection processing interruption threshold current value information (Ic). A process for controlling the group switch unit (C) is performed in a timer control substep (m) (S1714) for controlling the group switch unit (C) based on timer information. A new power supply outlet selection operation decision step (f) (S1715) decides whether to cancel the selection of a new outlet during the power supply outlet selection operation based on the total supply current value information acquired in the total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S1716) and the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia). If the current value exceeds the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), the rotation execution step is started. In the non-new selection substep (h) (S1717) of substep (g) (S1710), if all power supplying outlets have been selected as a result of selecting a power supplying outlet that is not supplying power, the process returns to after new power supplying outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S1707) without selecting a new power supplying outlet not based on the total supply current value and the new selection cancellation threshold current value, and in other cases where power supply is to be continued, the process returns to before new power supplying outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S1707). This is an operating method for causing the rotational power supply system to execute a series of processes like this. In addition, when the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) becomes greater than the total supply current value information, there are two criteria: when it is equal to or greater than the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), or when it exceeds it. Either condition judgment method may be used to operate the rotation power supply system of the present invention. In the power supply interruption process control sub-step (p) (S1712) in the rotation execution step (g) (S1710), the power supply interruption process for the power supply outlets currently supplying power is continued until the total supply current value information becomes equal to or less than the power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value information (Ic), but it may also be continued until the total supply current value information becomes less than the power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value information (Ic).

[0093] <Embodiment 6: Description of Hardware> 18 is a diagram for explaining hardware configured by the main board and its peripheral devices of the rotating power supply system, which is the computer (calculator) of embodiment 6. It is configured by "CPU" (1801), "non-volatile memory" (1802), "main memory" (1803), "graphics card" (1804), "I / O controller" (1805) including LED control, relay control, and DIP switches, "USB, IEEE1394, LAN terminal, I2C" (1806), "BIOS" (1807), "PCI slot" (1808), "real-time clock" (1809) including a crystal oscillator, and "chipset" (1810) consisting of a north bridge and a south bridge.

[0094] The various programs and data (information) stored in the non-volatile memory are expanded into the main memory when the system is started up, and upon receiving an execution command, the CPU sequentially executes the programs to perform calculations using the data.

[0095] That is, in addition to the OS (operating system) and device drivers, the non-volatile memory has a total supply current value information acquisition program, a sequence information storage program, a new selection abort threshold current value information storage program, a new power supply outlet selection operation determination program, a rotation execution program, a new selection non-execution subprogram, an exception control subprogram, a timer information storage program, a timer control subprogram, a power supply abort selection process abort threshold current value information storage program, a power supply abort process control subprogram, a power supply abort threshold current value information storage program, and a power supply abort control program, and stores the total supply current value information, sequence information, new selection abort threshold current value information (Ia), timer information, power supply abort selection process abort threshold current value information (Ic), and power supply abort threshold current value information (Ib) as data. These are expanded in the main memory when the system is started on the computer, and when a start command is received, the CPU sequentially performs calculations using the programs and data.

[0096] <Outline of the seventh embodiment> Claim 7 (Rotational power supply service outlet) The seventh embodiment is based on the rotation power supply system of any one of the first to sixth embodiments, and is configured such that the power supply unit (A) further has a service outlet group (S) having at least one power supply outlet, the total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) acquires total supply current value information which is information on the total supply current value including the service outlet group (S), and the rotation execution unit (G) executes processing to start and stop power supply to the power supply outlets excluding the service outlet group (S).

[0097] <Configuration of embodiment 7> Fig. 19 shows a functional block diagram of a rotation power supply system of embodiment 7 based on embodiment 6. As described above, in addition to embodiment 6, the seventh embodiment is configured to have a service outlet group (S) (1916) in the power supply unit (A) (1901). Since everything except the service outlet group (S) (1916) is the same as embodiment 6, only the service outlet group (S) (1916) will be described below. Note that the same effects can be obtained even if any one of embodiments 1 to 5 is used as a basis.

[0098] <Description of the configuration of embodiment 7> <Embodiment 7 Service Outlet Group (S) (1916)> The "service outlet group (S)" (1916) is configured such that the power supply unit (A) further has a service outlet group (S) having at least one power supply outlet, the total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) acquires total supply current value information which is information on the total supply current value including the service outlet group (S) (1916), and the rotation execution unit (G) executes processing to start and stop power supply to the power supply outlets excluding the service outlet group (S) (1916). As described above, the total supply current value information for a power supply unit (A) that has multiple power supply outlets includes the current value of the service outlet group (S), and affects the decision to turn the group switch on or off for each power supply outlet when rotation processing is performed. If a device with high power consumption (current) is connected to the service outlet group (S) (1916), the current that can be supplied to the power supply outlet will be reduced accordingly compared to the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) and the power supply cancellation threshold current value information (Ib), and the time required to charge a device that is currently being charged will increase. If a device with a power consumption exceeding the maximum rated current is connected to the service outlet group (S) (1916), damage to the rotational power supply system and connected PC terminals, etc. can be prevented if a safety device is provided between the external power source and the total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) (1904).

[0099] Except for the presence of the service outlet group (S), the process flow and hardware configuration are the same as those in the sixth embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0100] <Outline of the 8th embodiment> Claim 8 (Rotational power supply, multiple power taps) The eighth embodiment is based on the rotation power supply system of any one of the first to seventh embodiments, and is configured such that, instead of the power supply unit (A), the power supply unit (A) has a plurality of power supply groups each having a plurality of power supply outlets.

[0101] The configuration of embodiment 8 based on embodiment 1 is shown in Fig. 20b. Similar effects can be obtained based on embodiments 2 to 7. A power tap (2008), which is a power supply group equipped with multiple power supply outlets, is directly connected to a relay switch (2009). If the number of power supply outlets provided by the power tap (2008) is predetermined, the components of the power supply outlet (2015) in Fig. 20a will not be necessary, making it possible to reduce the price by the cost of parts and processing fees.

[0102] The power outlet may be a two-hole type, which is common for household use, but a three-hole type with a ground electrode is preferable. In a power strip, which is a representative example of a power supply group, the parallel linear two-pole plugs of the electrodes of the multiple outlets should be arranged in the direction shown in the power strip (2008) in Fig. 20b so that they are perpendicular to the arrangement of the power supply outlets. Some AC adapters for charging information terminals have an integrated AC adapter section and a plug section for the power supply outlet, and if they are arranged in a direction rotated 90 degrees from the direction shown in Fig. 20b, they will interfere with adjacent power supply outlets and will not be able to be used closely together. Alternatively, they may be arranged so that every other outlet is on one side of the power supply group and the other side, so that the spacing between the power supply outlets on one side is wider than if they were all arranged on one side. A single power supply group may be branched into multiple power strips, or instead of a power strip, it may be branched into multiple cords with a single outlet at one end, which will also provide the same effect of rotational power supply. It is preferable to avoid having the power outlet facing up as much as possible. This is because there is a concern that if dust gets into the power outlet or if water is accidentally spilled on the top of the storage unit and gets on the power outlet due to heavy rain, it could cause a short circuit. The power outlet of the power strip (2008) can be a standard 100V commercial AC outlet, a USB type terminal, or both. This is because there are now some commercially available mobile devices that use a USB type terminal to connect the AC adapter to the charging cable.

[0103] The configuration of the first to seventh embodiments is shown in FIG. 20a. A power supply outlet (2015) is provided between a power tap (2008) and a relay switch (2009). The power supply outlet (2015) has a female socket shape, and is connected by inserting a plug (male type) provided on the end of the power tap (2008) to supply power to the power tap. In this configuration, the power tap (2008) can be changed without redoing the wiring. Therefore, for example, the number of power supply outlets provided in the power taps (2008) connected to power supply outlets n=1 and n=2 may be different between the two.

[0104] In the rotation power supply system, the new selection stop threshold current value information (Ia), order information, and, although not shown in Figs. 20a and 20b, power supply stop threshold current value information (Ib), power supply stop selection processing stop threshold current value information (Ic), timer information, etc. are stored in the system. The system can be configured to remotely edit, delete, and register information from an external management terminal via a communication line. Figs. 20a and 20b show an example using a wired LAN. Other general communication lines such as wireless LAN, mobile phone lines, and telephone lines may also be used. In the figure, the communication unit controls communication between the rotation power supply system and the outside, and the ID holding unit holds the ID number assigned to the rotation power supply system. The ID number may be set by the user, or a unique number may be set by a manufacturer other than the user and used by the user. Even if the ID number is set by the user, a unique number that the manufacturer or an authorized person can set and refer to may be held separately. The ID number is used to identify the target rotation power supply system when rewriting each of the above information via a communication line. The control unit receives instructions from the external management terminal through the communication unit, and accesses the corresponding function to rewrite the corresponding information. The status information storage unit stores status information that associates the operation history and operation status of the rotation power supply system, and the setting status of each piece of information, with time information.

[0105] FIG. 20c shows the configuration of a management terminal outside the rotation power supply system. The management terminal is used by a user such as a school that has introduced the rotation power supply system of the present invention, or / and by a management company that has been entrusted with management by the user such as a school. The management terminal is composed of an input reception unit that receives instruction information for the user or management company to grasp the status of the rotation management system and rewrite information, an address acquisition unit that acquires address information such as the ID number and / or IP address of the rotation power supply system being managed, an ID storage unit that accumulates and holds the acquired address information, a control command storage unit that stores control commands sent from the administrator terminal to each rotation power supply system, an information storage unit that accumulates and holds status information obtained from each rotation power supply system, and a communication unit that communicates with the rotation power supply system to be managed via a LAN line or the like.

[0106] For users such as schools that have introduced and use a rotation power supply system, it is preferable to grant multiple levels of authority, for example, a teacher in charge of each class has the authority to edit only the settings of the rotation power supply system for the class he or she is in charge of, and the scope of authority is expanded as the position of the head of the grade, vice principal, principal, etc. increases, and teachers or full-time staff assigned to system management work can edit the information of all rotation power supply systems. Furthermore, when a user such as a school entrusts the maintenance and management of the rotation power supply system to a management company outside the school, the management company can respond to abnormalities by obtaining and viewing each status information from the status information storage unit in each rotation power supply system. For example, if an abnormality occurs at night or on a holiday, or if the operating time that predicts a breakdown will be reached in the near future, it is possible to recommend maintenance inspection or part replacement. The management company can also edit each information of each rotation power supply system on behalf of the user.

[0107] <Example of rotational power supply system operation> To explain the operation of the rotation power supply system, an example of the operation of the rotation power supply system with the configuration in Fig. 20b will be explained using Fig. 21. Note that the same explanation can be obtained when using the configuration in Fig. 20a by replacing "power supply group" with "power supply outlet that supplies power to the power supply group." Note that, for the sake of simplicity, the following explanation will be made assuming that the same model of PC terminal is connected to each power supply outlet for charging.

[0108] The table in Fig. 21a shows the current value of each power supply group during operation and the ON / OFF transition of each group switch. In the table, ◯ indicates a switch ON and × indicates a switch OFF.

[0109] Figure 21b is a graph showing the transition of the total current value at each timer lapse, and the figure below the graph shows simply whether power is being supplied to each power supply group (ON) or not (OFF). 15.0A on the vertical axis of the graph in Figure 21b indicates the maximum rated current value of the device, 13.0A (Ib) indicates the power supply interruption threshold current value, 10.0A (Ia) indicates the new selection interruption threshold current value, and 4.0A (Ic) indicates the power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value. In the following explanation, they are written as Ib, Ia, and Ic.

[0110] Figure 21c shows an overview of the change in current value over time when charging one PC terminal. Generally, charging a rechargeable battery first proceeds in constant current mode with the voltage increasing, and then the current gradually decreases as the mode switches to constant voltage mode. The PC terminal used in this explanation requires a current of 0.5A per unit in constant current mode at the start of charging, but the current gradually decreases after charging has progressed. When charging begins, of the six power supply groups (each with eight power supply outlets) that make up the rotation power supply system, power supply group No. 4 has only six power supply outlets connected, No. 5 has only five power supply outlets connected, and all eight of the other power supply groups are connected.

[0111] The diagram below the graph in Figure 21b also shows the ON / OFF order of the group switches. In this example, the numbers progress in ascending order from 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and then after No. 6 it goes back to 1, creating a loop. As long as the rotation order is fixed, it does not necessarily have to follow the order mentioned above.

[0112] (1) At the start As shown in the "Start" column in the table in Figure 21a, power is supplied to No. 1. The current value reaches Ic at 4.0 A, but since it has not yet reached Ia, power is also supplied to No. 2. Since the total supply current value is 8.0 A, power is then supplied to No. 3. Since it exceeds Ia but is below Ib, the new selection is canceled and power supply to the already selected power supply group is not turned off. The timer starts with power supplied to Nos. 1, 2, and 3 turned on.

[0113] (2) After the timer has run out of time As shown in the "After 1 lapse" column in table in Figure 21a, the power supply group No. 1, which has the earliest order, is turned OFF. The total supply current value is 8.0 A, which is not below Ic, so the next power supply group, No. 2, is also turned OFF. Since it now reaches 4.0 A and Ic, the process of turning OFF the power supply groups that were currently supplying power is completed. No. 3 is now in a state where it is still supplying power. Next, the process switches to turning ON the power supply groups that were not supplying power. As shown in the right-hand column of "After 1 lapse" in the table in Figure 21a, start by turning on No. 4, which was not receiving power. When No. 4 is turned on, the current becomes 7.0A, and when No. 5 is also turned on, it becomes 9.5A. When No. 6 is turned on, the current becomes 13.5A, which exceeds Ia, so new selection from No. 6 onwards is cancelled, but since it has also exceeded Ib, No. 3 is turned off. Therefore, even though the current value is 9.5A, which is below Ia, the timer is started with No. 4, 5 and 6 turned on.

[0114] (3) After the timer has run out for 2 seconds As shown in the "After 2" column in the table in Figure 21a, power is turned off starting from No. 4. When the two power supply groups No. 4 and No. 5 are turned off, the current drops to 4.0 A, which is below Ic, so the power supply OFF process is stopped. As shown in the right column of the "After 2 lapses" column in Figure 21a, while keeping power supplied to No. 6, turn on No. 1, which was not being powered. Since the total supply current value is 8.0 A, which is smaller than Ia, turn on power supply to the next power supply group, No. 2. Since the current supply value is now 12.0 A and exceeds Ia, stop turning on the power supply groups from No. 3 onwards, and start the timer with power supply to power supply groups No. 6, 1 and 2 turned on.

[0115] (4) After the timer has reached the specified time k+l After the timer has elapsed for the specified time 2, the rotational power supply continues while monitoring the total supply current value. After the timer has elapsed for the specified time k+l, charging enters constant voltage mode and the current value gradually decreases over time. Therefore, the current value required for charging by each power supply group has decreased compared to after 2 has elapsed. As shown in the "After k+l" column in the table in Figure 21a, immediately after k+l has elapsed, power was being supplied to the power supply groups No. 3, 4, 5, and 6, and 6.8 A was flowing. If you turn off the power in order starting with No. 3, which has the earliest order, the current falls below Ic when No. 4 is turned off. As shown in the right column of the "After k+l" column in table in Figure 21a, when No. 1, which was not supplying power, is turned on, the current is 5.3 A, which is smaller than Ia. When No. 2 is then turned on, the current becomes 7.3 A, which is still smaller than Ia. Even when No. 3, which was supplying power but was turned off, is turned on again, the current is 9.3 A, which is still less than Ia. Therefore, when the remaining No. 4 is then turned on, the current becomes 10.5 A, which exceeds Ia, but is less than Ib, so the timer is started with all power supply groups turned on.

[0116] (5) After K+l As described above, the timer was started with all power supply groups turned on. If no PC terminals are added during power supply and Ib is exceeded, the charging current is decreasing even with all power supply groups turned on, so the timer is started again. If no PC terminals are added to the charging target or a device with high power consumption is connected to the service outlet and the current does not exceed Ib, the power supply group power supply ON / OFF is not reviewed and power supply to all power supply groups continues. However, as described above, the timer checks whether power is being supplied to all power supply groups and whether the total supply current value information is above Ib at regular intervals set by the timer. Charging is usually performed from the evening when classes for the day end until the next morning, so there is no significant overcharging even if power supply is continued. Some PC terminals and tablet products have an overcharging prevention function on the main unit or AC adapter, and such products are preferable.

[0117] Since the total supply current value information is constantly acquired and monitored, if a load is added to the power supply group or service outlet during power supply and the total supply current value is Ib or more, the following processing may be performed. As shown in Fig. 22b in the "Flow of processing for rotational power supply" described later, power supply suspension control is performed to turn off the power supply group with the earliest order among the power supply groups to be rotated during power supply, and the power supply groups are turned off in order until the value falls below Ib, at which point the power-off operation is stopped and power supply is continued only for the power supply group currently being supplied, until the timer reaches a preset time.

[0118] Also, since the total supply current value information is constantly acquired, a current supply end threshold current value information storage unit may be provided for acquiring and storing current supply end threshold current information, which is information on the current supply end threshold current value that is a threshold for terminating the current supply. In a state in which the rotation execution unit (G) controls the group switch unit (C) to supply power to all power supply groups, when the total supply current value information falls below the current supply end threshold current value information, the rotation execution unit (G) may control the group switch unit (C) to turn off power supply to all power supply groups. Alternatively, the power supply may be turned off by at least one of the following means: a timer control unit (M) controls the group switch unit (C) to turn off power supply using information on the elapsed time from the rotation power supply start time. Overcharging of the rechargeable battery of the PC terminal or tablet can be prevented during relatively long holidays such as weekends and summer holidays. Conversely, the rotation power supply may be started by the timer control unit (M) after a set time has elapsed or at a set date and time. In that case, the rotation power supply system can be started using a timer before the end of a long vacation, and charging can be completed before the devices are used in classes, etc.

[0119] <Process flow of rotation power supply> Figures 22a and 22b show an example of a flowchart based on embodiment 6. The same processing is performed in the case where a service outlet group is provided based on embodiment 7. Figures 22a and 22b also show the correspondence between each step and Figure 17 showing the processing flow of embodiment 6.

[0120] The explanation will be based on FIG. 22a. The difference from FIG. 22b is that after the rotation process is started, power supply is basically continued and the rotation process is continued even if the total supply current value information exceeds the power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib). However, as described later, this does not include the case where the total supply current value information exceeds Ib with only one power supply outlet or power supply group turned on. In FIG. 22a, power supply is continued even if the total supply current value information exceeds Ib, so it may be based on the fifth embodiment, but as described above, a judgment using Ib is included to exclude the case where the total supply current value information exceeds Ib with only one power supply outlet or power supply group turned on, so the sixth embodiment is based on the sixth embodiment. As in the configuration of FIG. 20ab, a safety device is provided to prevent the flow of a maximum rated current or more between the external power source, and the safety device can cut off the current if the maximum rated current is exceeded even if Ib is exceeded. Although the term "power supply group" is used in FIG. 22a and FIG. 22b, the explanation can be the same even if it is replaced with "power supply outlet that supplies power to the power supply group".

[0121] The left side shows the flow of the rotation power supply process. The "start" process corresponds to step (d) (S1701), step (S1702) of storing order information, step (n) (S1703) of storing new selection cancellation threshold current value information, step (q) (S1704) of storing threshold current value information for power supply cancellation, and step (k) (S1705) of storing timer information.

[0122] First, set "n = the 1st ON". If the total current value information exceeds the power supply cut-off threshold current value information (Ib), there may be a situation outside the assumed use or an abnormality where a device that allows a very large current to flow is connected to one of the power supply outlets or power supply groups. Therefore, turn off the power supply, activate the alarm and warning lights, and end the process. If it does not exceed Ib, in the next part of "I < Ia", it is determined whether the total supply current value information when power is supplied to the first power supply outlet or power supply group for the first time is less than the new selection stop threshold current value information (Ia). If true (Y), the process of turning on the power supply outlet or power supply group until it reaches or exceeds the new selection stop threshold current value information (Ia) corresponds to the total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S1706), "Power supply outlet selection, power on", and the new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) (S1707).

[0123] Next, in the part from "Timer ON" to "Timer OFF", power is supplied to the power supply outlet or power supply group that has the power on for the predetermined time of the timer. The process from after the timer is turned off to the branch for determining whether all power supply groups are in the process of power supply corresponds to the total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S1708), the round-robin execution step (g) (S1710), and the exception control sub-step (j) (S1711). In the case of the determination branch (Y) of "Are all power supply groups in the process of power supply?", the process returns before the timer is turned on, and a process of restarting power supply to all power supply groups is performed.

[0124] Next, from the determination branch (N) of "Are all power supply groups in the process of power supply?" to "I ≤ Ic", one by one, starting from the earliest in order among the power supply outlets or power supply groups that are in the process of power supply, are turned off, and the process is repeated until it becomes less than or equal to the power supply cut-off selection process stop threshold current value information (Ic). This process corresponds to the power supply cut-off process control sub-step (p) (S1712) and the total supply current value information acquisition step (b) (S1713) within the round-robin execution step (g) (S1710).

[0125] Next, from "ON for the smallest power supply group that is off" to "I≦Ib", power is supplied to the power supply outlets or power supply groups that were not supplying power, one by one, starting from the earliest one in order, until the current value exceeds the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia). If the current value exceeds the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) and exceeds the power supply cancellation threshold current value information (Ib), if there is only one power supply outlet or power supply group that is supplying power, power supply is turned off, an alarm and a warning light are turned on, and the process ends. This is because there is a possibility that an unexpected device has been connected or an abnormality has occurred. If power is being supplied to multiple power supply outlets or power supply groups, the timer is started again. If the current exceeds the power supply cancellation threshold current value information (Ib) and the rated current value of the rotation supply system is exceeded, a safety device can be provided as shown in FIG. 20 to keep the equipment safe. This part of the process corresponds to the timer control substep (m) (S1714) to the new selection non-execution substep (h) (S1717).

[0126] The other processing flow will be explained using Fig. 22b. In Fig. 22b, two types of flows are operated simultaneously. One is the short flow on the right side which is always in operation. The total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) constantly monitors the total supply current value information, and when the value exceeds the power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib), it performs processing to turn off power supply to the power supply outlets or power supply groups that are currently supplying power, one by one starting with the earliest one in order, until the value falls below the power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib).

[0127] Another flow in FIG. 22b will be explained. The process from system startup to the branch for determining whether all power supply groups are supplying power after the timer is off is the same as that in FIG. 22a described above, so the explanation will be omitted. If all power supply outlets or power supply groups are supplying power, proceed to the branch for "I≦Ib". If "I≦Ib", the previous process of timer ON is returned, and processing is performed to resume power supply to all power supply outlets or power supply groups. If "I>Ib" (exceeds the power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib)) or if the "Are all power supply groups supplying power?" branch is N, the power supply outlets or power supply groups that are supplying power are turned off one by one starting from the earliest one. If the current value falls below the power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib), the timer is started again. If the current value falls below the power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib) and there are 0 power supply outlets or power supply groups, processing ends. This part of the process corresponds to the timer control sub-step (m) (S1714) to the new selection non-execution sub-step (h) (S1717).

[0128] In the description of the embodiment, for the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), the power supply cancellation selection processing cancellation threshold current value information (Ic), and the power supply cancellation threshold current value information (Ib), it does not depend on the purpose of the present invention whether the value is included in the processing judgment, such as "exceeds," "greater than," "less than," or "less than." The same effect can be obtained regardless of the setting. In addition, if the maximum rated current value for the device is not exceeded, it is also possible to configure the rotation power supply to continue even if the power supply cancellation threshold current value information (Ib) is exceeded in the power supply cancellation control step (r). However, since the margin between the maximum rated current value and the power supply cancellation threshold current value becomes small, it is preferable to configure the power supply cancellation threshold current value information (Ib) not to be exceeded.

[0129] <5. Effects> By using a rotation power supply system with the above configuration, it is possible to charge in a nearly optimal order by switching on and off the power supply to power supply outlets or power supply groups in a predetermined order, while keeping the facility's limited power capacity under constraints and requiring fewer components (i.e., less costly), and reducing the effort required for setup. [Explanation of symbols]

[0130] Rotating Power Supply System··0100 Power supply section··0101 Group switch section··0102 Rotational Executive Department··0103 Total supply current value information acquisition section···0104 Sequence information storage unit ··· 0105 New power outlet selection operation determination unit···0106 New selection cancellation threshold current value information storage unit···0107

Claims

1. A power supply unit (A) having a plurality of power supply outlets for supplying power to a power supply group having a plurality of power supply sockets; a total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) that acquires total supply current value information, which is information on a total supply current value in the power supply unit (A); a group switch unit (C) having a group switch for turning on and off power supply for at least three or more power supply outlets; a sequence information storage unit (D) that stores sequence information that defines the order in which a unit of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" of the group switch is turned on and off with respect to another unit of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" of the group switch; a new selection cancellation threshold current value information storage unit (E) that stores new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), which is information regarding a threshold current value for executing a selection cancellation process that is a process for canceling the selection of a new power supply outlet during a power supply outlet selection operation that sequentially selects power supply outlets; a new power supply outlet selection operation determination unit (F) for determining whether to cancel the selection of a new outlet during a power supply outlet selection operation based on the total supply current value information acquired by the total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) and the new outlet selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) that is held; a rotation execution unit (G) that controls the group switch unit (C) to execute a rotation process that, when a predetermined condition is satisfied during power supply, stops power supply to at least some of the power supply outlets that are currently supplying power based on the stored sequence information, and then selects at least some of the power supply outlets that are not supplying power based on the total supply current value information and the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia), and supplies power to the power supply outlets including the newly selected power supply outlet; A rotating power supply system having the above configuration.

2. 2. The rotation charging system of claim 1, wherein the rotation execution unit (G) has a new selection non-execution means (H) for not executing a new selection of a power supply outlet without using the total supply current value information and the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) when all power supply outlets have been selected as a result of selecting a power supply outlet that is not supplying power.

3. 3. The rotation charging system according to claim 1, wherein the rotation execution unit (G) has an exception control means (J) for controlling the group switch unit (C) so that, even if the predetermined condition is satisfied, if power is being supplied to all of the power supply outlets, the rotation execution unit (G) does not stop power supply from the power supply outlets and does not select a new power supply outlet, and continues supplying power to all of the power supply outlets.

4. a timer information storage unit (K) for storing timer information which is information for determining the timing of a rotation process that satisfies the predetermined condition for reviewing the power supply outlet to be supplied with power after starting power supply in combination with a new power supply outlet, The rotating executive team (G) 4. The rotation power supply system according to claim 1, further comprising a timer control means (M) for controlling the group switch section (C) on the basis of timer information defining the predetermined conditions.

5. a power supply interruption threshold current value information storage unit (N) that stores power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ic) indicating a power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value that is a threshold current value for selecting at least one or more power supply outlets from among the power supply outlets currently supplying power based on the stored order information at the timing of a rotation process for reviewing the power supply outlets that are the target of power supply, and interrupting a selection process for interrupting power supply to the selected power supply outlets, The rotation execution unit (G) a power supply interruption processing control means (P) for controlling the group switch unit (C) to perform processing for interrupting power supply to at least one of the power supply outlets currently supplying power, based on the acquired total supply current value information, the stored power supply interruption selection processing interruption threshold current value information (Ic) and the stored order information; The rotation power supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. a power supply interruption threshold current value information holding unit (Q) that holds power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib) that is information indicating a power supply interruption threshold current value that is a threshold current value for interrupting power supply to at least one or more power supply outlets that are currently supplying power, the power supply interruption threshold current value having a relationship of Ia<Ib or Ia≦Ib; a power supply interruption control unit (R) that controls a group switch unit (C) so as to interrupt power supply to at least one of the power supply outlets that are currently supplying power, based on the acquired total supply current value information and the stored power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib); The rotation power supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising:

7. The power supply unit (A) further includes a service outlet group (S) having at least one power supply outlet; The total supply current value information acquisition unit (B) acquires total supply current value information, which is information on the total supply current value including the service outlet group (S), 7. The rotation power supply system according to claim 1, wherein the rotation execution unit (G) executes processing for starting and stopping power supply to the power supply outlets other than the service outlet group (S).

8. 8. The rotational power supply system according to claim 1, wherein the power supply unit (A) is replaced by a power supply unit (A) having a plurality of power supply groups each having a plurality of power supply outlets.

9. A power supply unit (A) having a plurality of power supply outlets for supplying power to a power supply group having a plurality of power supply sockets; A method for operating a rotational power supply system including a computer having a group switch unit (C) having a group switch for turning on and off power supply for at least three or more power supply outlets, a total supply current value information acquisition step (b) of acquiring total supply current value information which is information on the total supply current value at the power supply unit (A); a sequence information retaining step (d) for retaining sequence information that defines the order in which a unit of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" of the group switch is turned on and off with respect to another unit of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" of the group switch; a new selection cancellation threshold current value information holding step (e) for holding new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) which is information regarding a threshold current value for executing a selection cancellation process which is a process for canceling the selection of a new power supply outlet during a power supply outlet selection operation which sequentially selects power supply outlets; a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) for determining whether to cancel the selection of a new outlet during the power supply outlet selection operation based on the total supply current value information acquired in the total supply current value information acquisition step (b) and the stored new outlet selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia); a rotation execution step (g) of controlling the group switch unit (C) to execute a rotation process which is a process of stopping power supply to at least some of the power supply outlets currently supplying power based on the stored sequence information when a predetermined condition is satisfied during power supply execution, and then selecting at least some of the power supply outlets not supplying power based on the total supply current value information and the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) and supplying power to the power supply outlets including the newly selected power supply outlet; A method for operating a rotational power supply system including a computer having the above configuration.

10. 10. The method for operating a rotation charging system as described in claim 9, wherein the rotation execution step (g) includes a new selection non-execution substep (h) of not executing a new selection of a power supply outlet without based on the total supply current value information and the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) when all power supply outlets have been selected as a result of selecting a power supply outlet that is not supplying power.

11. 11. The method for operating a rotation charging system according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the rotation execution step (g) includes an exception control substep (j) of controlling the group switch unit (C) so that, when power is being supplied to all of the power supply outlets, the power supply outlets are not stopped from supplying power even when the predetermined condition is satisfied, and a new power supply outlet is not selected, and power supply to all of the power supply outlets is continued as is.

12. a timer information retaining step (k) for retaining timer information for determining a timing of a rotation process for reviewing the power supply outlets to be supplied with power after starting power supply with a new combination of power supply outlets, The rotation execution step (g) is 12. A method for operating a rotation power supply system including a computer according to any one of claims 9 to 11, further comprising a timer control sub-step (m) of controlling a group switch section (C) based on timer information defining a predetermined condition.

13. a power supply interruption threshold current value information holding step (n) for selecting at least one of the power supply outlets currently supplying power based on the stored order information at a timing of a rotation process for reviewing the power supply outlets to be supplied with power, and holding power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ic) indicating a power supply interruption threshold current value for interrupting a selection process, the threshold current value being a threshold current value for interrupting a selection process for interrupting power supply to the selected power supply outlet, The rotation execution step (g) is a power supply interruption process control substep (p) for controlling the group switch unit (C) to interrupt power supply to at least one of the power supply outlets currently supplying power, based on the acquired total supply current value information, the stored power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value information (Ic) and the stored order information; A method for operating the rotation power supply system according to any one of claims 9 to 12.

14. a power supply interruption threshold current value information holding step (q) for holding power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib) which is information indicating a power supply interruption threshold current value that is a threshold current value for interrupting power supply to at least one or more power supply outlets of the power supply outlets currently supplying power, and which has a relationship of Ia<Ib or Ia≦Ib; a power supply interruption control step (r) of controlling the group switch unit (C) so as to interrupt power supply to at least one of the power supply outlets currently supplying power based on the acquired total supply current value information and the stored power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib); A method for operating a rotation power supply system according to any one of claims 9 to 13, further comprising:

15. The power supply unit (A) further includes a service outlet group (S) having at least one power supply outlet; In the total supply current value information acquisition step (b), total supply current value information is acquired, which is information on the total supply current value including the service outlet group (S); 15. The method for operating a rotation power supply system according to claim 9, wherein in the rotation execution step (g), processing for starting and stopping power supply is executed for the power supply outlets excluding the service outlet group (S).

16. A method for operating a rotational power supply system according to any one of claims 9 to 15, wherein the power supply unit (A) is replaced by a power supply unit (A) having a plurality of power supply groups each having a plurality of power supply outlets.

17. A power supply unit (A) having a plurality of power supply outlets for supplying power to a power supply group having a plurality of power supply sockets; A method for operating a rotational power supply system including a computer having a group switch unit (C) having a group switch for turning on and off power supply for at least three or more power supply outlets, a total supply current value information acquisition step (b) of acquiring total supply current value information which is information on the total supply current value at the power supply unit (A); a sequence information retaining step (d) for retaining sequence information that defines the order in which a unit of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" of the group switch is turned on and off with respect to another unit of a power supply outlet defined by the term "for each" of the group switch; a new selection cancellation threshold current value information holding step (e) for holding new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) which is information regarding a threshold current value for executing a selection cancellation process which is a process for canceling the selection of a new power supply outlet during a power supply outlet selection operation which sequentially selects power supply outlets; a new power supply outlet selection operation determination step (f) for determining whether to cancel the selection of a new outlet during the power supply outlet selection operation based on the total supply current value information acquired in the total supply current value information acquisition step (b) and the stored new outlet selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia); a rotation execution step (g) of controlling the group switch unit (C) to execute a rotation process which is a process of stopping power supply to at least some of the power supply outlets currently supplying power based on the stored sequence information when a predetermined condition is satisfied during power supply execution, and then selecting at least some of the power supply outlets not supplying power based on the total supply current value information and the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) and supplying power to the power supply outlets including the newly selected power supply outlet; A program readable and executable by a rotating power supply system including a computer having the program.

18. 18. A program readable and executable by a rotation power supply system including a computer as claimed in claim 17, wherein the rotation execution step (g) includes a new selection non-execution substep (h) of not executing a new selection of a power supply outlet without based on the total supply current value information and the new selection cancellation threshold current value information (Ia) if all power supply outlets have been selected as a result of selecting a power supply outlet that is not supplying power.

19. 19. A program readable and executable by a rotation power supply system including a computer according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the rotation execution step (g) includes an exception control substep (j) of controlling the group switch unit (C) so that, when power is being supplied to all of the power supply outlets, the power supply outlets are not stopped and a new power supply outlet is not selected even when the predetermined condition is satisfied, and power supply to all of the power supply outlets is continued as is.

20. a timer information retaining step (k) for retaining timer information for determining a timing of a rotation process for reviewing the power supply outlets to be supplied with power after starting power supply with a new combination of power supply outlets, The rotation execution step (g) is A program readable and executable by a rotation power supply system including a computer according to any one of claims 17 to 19, comprising a timer control sub-step (m) of controlling a group switch unit (C) based on timer information defining predetermined conditions.

21. a power supply interruption threshold current value information holding step (n) for selecting at least one of the power supply outlets currently supplying power based on the stored order information at a timing of a rotation process for reviewing the power supply outlets to be supplied with power, and holding power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ic) indicating a power supply interruption threshold current value for interrupting a selection process, the threshold current value being a threshold current value for interrupting a selection process for interrupting power supply to the selected power supply outlet, The rotation execution step (g) is 21. A program readable and executable by a rotation power supply system including a computer according to any one of claims 17 to 20, comprising a power supply interruption process control substep (p) of controlling a group switch unit (C) to perform a process of interrupting power supply to at least one of the power supply outlets currently supplying power, based on the acquired total supply current value information, the retained power supply interruption selection process interruption threshold current value information (Ic), and the retained order information.

22. a power supply interruption threshold current value information holding step (q) for holding power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib) which is information indicating a power supply interruption threshold current value that is a threshold current value for interrupting power supply to at least one or more power supply outlets of the power supply outlets currently supplying power, and which has a relationship of Ia<Ib or Ia≦Ib; a power supply interruption control step (r) of controlling the group switch unit (C) so as to interrupt power supply to at least one of the power supply outlets currently supplying power based on the acquired total supply current value information and the stored power supply interruption threshold current value information (Ib); Further having A program readable and executable by a rotation power supply system including the computer according to any one of claims 17 to 21.

23. The power supply unit (A) further includes a service outlet group (S) having at least one power supply outlet; In the total supply current value information acquisition step (b), total supply current value information is acquired, which is information on the total supply current value including the service outlet group (S); A program that can be read and executed by a rotation power supply system including a computer according to any one of claims 17 to 22, wherein in the rotation execution step (g), processing is executed to start and stop power supply to power supply outlets excluding the service outlet group (S).

24. A program that can be read and executed by a rotation power supply system including a computer according to any one of claims 17 to 23, in which the power supply unit (A) is replaced by a power supply unit (A) having a plurality of power supply groups each having a plurality of power supply outlets.

25. 9. The rotational power supply system according to claim 1, wherein all terms "current" used in the claims are read as "power".

26. A method for operating a rotational power supply system according to any one of claims 9 to 16, wherein all "currents" used in the claims are read as "power".

27. 25. An operating program for a rotational power supply system including the computer according to any one of claims 17 to 24, wherein all terms "current" used in the claims are read as "power".

28. A storage facility equipped with the rotational power supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

29. A classroom comprising the storage cabinet according to claim 28.

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