Wireless charger

Abstract

Even when a camera unit is attached to the main body of the portable information processing device, the arrangement between the charging coil of the wireless charger and the charging coil of the portable information processing device is maintained in a desired state, thereby maintaining high charging efficiency. [Solution] The wireless charger of the embodiment is a wireless charger that wirelessly charges an information processing device having a camera section protruding from an information processing device body having a built-in charging coil via a charging coil, and comprises a mounting section having a first surface on which the information processing device body is placed and which has a built-in charging coil, and a second surface facing the camera section at a distance when the information processing device body is placed at a predetermined position on the first surface, and which retracts the camera section.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a wireless charger.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, wireless charging is a mechanism based on electromagnetic induction between coils respectively possessed by a charger and a smartphone, and the charging performance is affected by the shape of each coil, the degree of coincidence of the centers, and the distance between the coils. We are developing a wireless charger with a moving coil method that can achieve center coincidence.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] [[ID=3,4]] By the way, in recent smartphones, there has been a tendency for the protrusion amount of the camera part from the back surface of the smartphone to increase for the purpose of improving the camera performance. As a result, when a smartphone is placed on a wireless charger, the camera part catches on the charging surface, causing the back surface of the smartphone to float and increasing the distance between the coils, resulting in a problem of deterioration of the charging performance. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a wireless charger that can maintain the arrangement relationship between the charging coil of the wireless charger and the charging coil of the portable information processing device in a desired state and maintain high charging efficiency even when the portable information processing device body has a camera part protruding therefrom.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] To solve the above problems, the wireless charger of the embodiment is a wireless charger that wirelessly charges an information processing device having a camera section protruding from an information processing device body having a built-in charging coil via a charging coil, and comprises a mounting section having a first surface on which the information processing device body is placed and which has the charging coil built-in, and a second surface having which faces the camera section at a distance when the information processing device body is placed at a predetermined position on the first surface and which retracts the camera section. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to this disclosure, since the camera unit is retracted to the camera retraction unit while the main information processing device is mounted on the mounting unit, the arrangement relationship between the charging coil and the coil being charged can be maintained in a predetermined state without being affected by the camera unit protruding from the main information processing device, thereby maintaining high charging efficiency. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an external perspective view (part 1) of the wireless charger according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an external perspective view (part 2) of the wireless charger according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a plan view of the wireless charger according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a side view of the wireless charger according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the usage state of the wireless charger according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the mounting state of the wireless charger when it is installed in a vehicle. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an external perspective view (part 1) of the wireless charger in a non-use state according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an external perspective view (part 2) of the wireless charger in a non-use state according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a plan view of the wireless charger according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line D-D of FIG. 9. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an external perspective view (part 1) of the wireless charger in the usage state according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an external perspective view (part 2) of the wireless charger in the usage state according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view in the usage state corresponding to the D-D cross-section of FIG. 9. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a plan view of the charger main body unit 40. <s [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is an external perspective view of the charger main body unit 40. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is an explanatory view of the usage state of the wireless charger according to the second embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is an explanatory view of the mounted state (non-usage state) of the wireless charger according to the second embodiment on a vehicle. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is an explanatory view of the mounted state (usage state) of the wireless charger according to the second embodiment on a vehicle. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is an external perspective view of the wireless charger according to the third embodiment in the non-usage state. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a plan view of the wireless charger according to the third embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A of FIG. 20 in the non-usage state. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is an external perspective view of the wireless charger according to the third embodiment in the usage state. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A of FIG. 20 in the usage state. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is an explanatory view of the usage state of the wireless charger according to the third embodiment.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0008] Next, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. [1] First Embodiment FIG. 1 is an external perspective view (part 1) of the wireless charger according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is an external perspective view (part 2) of the wireless charger according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a plan view of the wireless charger according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a side view of the wireless charger according to the first embodiment. In each figure, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis have the tip direction of the arrow as the positive direction and the rear end direction of the arrow as the negative direction (the same shall apply hereinafter).

[0009] The wireless charger 10 according to the first embodiment is, for example, installed and used in a tray or the like provided in the center console of a vehicle. The wireless charger 10 includes an upper case 11, a lower case 12, and a power connector 16. The upper case 11 has a rectangular shape in plan view (when viewed from the positive Z-axis direction). The upper case 11 also includes a camera retraction portion 13, a main body placement portion 14, and a step portion 15.

[0010] The camera retraction portion 13 is formed on the tip side in the X-axis direction (positive X-axis direction) of the upper case 11. This camera retraction portion 13 is set such that the height of the step portion 15 is greater than the protruding height of the camera portion protruding from a portable information processing device such as a smartphone that is the charging target, so that the camera portion protruding from the portable information processing device serving as the charging target does not come into contact and get damaged. The upper surface of this camera retraction portion 13 corresponds to the second surface F2.

[0011] The main body placement portion 14 is provided on the rear end side in the X-axis direction (negative X-axis direction), and the main body of the portable information processing device is placed thereon during charging of the portable information processing device. The upper surface of the main body placement portion 14 corresponds to the first surface F1. On the inner surface of the upper case 11 of the main unit mounting section 14, that is, on the back surface of the first surface F1, a charging coil unit 14A (see Figure 3) equipped with a charging coil is provided parallel to the plane of the main unit mounting section 14, and charging is performed using electromagnetic coupling.

[0012] In this case, as shown in Figure 1, the mounting surface of the main body mounting section 14 is not a horizontal surface, but rather forms an inclined surface at a predetermined angle θ.

[0013] This is because, when the main body of the portable information processing device is placed on the device, the side of the camera section of the portable information processing device is placed in contact with the stepped portion 15, thereby preventing misalignment of the portable information processing device, suppressing changes in its position relative to the charging coil located inside the portable information processing device, and ensuring more reliable charging.

[0014] The stepped portion 15 is the part that connects the camera retraction portion 13 and the main body mounting portion 14, and as described above, by bringing the side of the camera portion of the portable information processing device into contact with it, the displacement of the portable information processing device during charging is suppressed.

[0015] Figure 3 is a plan view of the wireless charger according to the first embodiment. A charging coil unit 14A, equipped with a charging coil, is positioned on the back side of the mounting surface of the main unit mounting section 14 of the wireless charger 10.

[0016] The lower case 12 works in conjunction with the upper case 11 to house the charging circuit, including the charging coil, and the power connector 16. In Figures 1 and 2, first engaging pieces 12A are provided on both sides of the lower case 12 of the wireless charger 10 in the Y-axis direction, and are engaged with first engaging projections 11B provided on the Y-axis side of the upper case 11.

[0017] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, a second engaging piece 12B is provided on the negative X-axis side surface (down-right side surface in Figure 2) of the lower case 12 of the wireless charger 10, and engages with a second engaging projection 11C provided on the negative X-axis side surface of the upper case 11. As a result, the upper case 11 and the lower case 12 are formed as a single unit, preventing the intrusion of liquids such as water and dust into the interior.

[0018] This charging coil unit 14A is electrically controlled under the control of a control circuit (not shown) so that the position of the charging coil built into the portable information processing device and the effective charging coil are in the position that maximizes charging efficiency.

[0019] Figure 4 is a side view of the wireless charger according to the first embodiment. The lower end portion of the lower case 12 of the wireless charger 10 is provided with multiple engagement holes 12C, which engage with engagement projections 11D provided on the upper case 11, thereby more firmly integrating the upper case 11 and the lower case 12.

[0020] As shown in Figure 4, the first surface F1 constituting the main body mounting section 14 is inclined at a predetermined angle θ when the second surface F2 constituting the camera retraction section 13 is considered a horizontal plane, such that the height decreases as it moves away from the camera retraction section 13 along the direction in which the information processing device body extends.

[0021] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the usage state of the wireless charger according to the first embodiment. When placing the portable information processing device SP along the main body mounting surface of the main body mounting section 14 of the wireless charger 10, it is preferable to place it so that the side surface of the camera section CU of the portable information processing device SP is in contact with the surface, as shown in Figure 5.

[0022] This is to ensure that the portable information processing device SP is held stably, suppress misalignment of the portable information processing device during charging, and prevent a decrease in charging efficiency between the charging coil and the non-charging coil.

[0023] The Z-axis negative surface of the camera unit CU of the portable information processing device SP is designed so that it does not come into contact with the upper surface of the camera retraction unit 13 due to the height of the stepped portion 15. Therefore, the charging coil of the portable information processing device PH can face the charging coil of the wireless charger 10 in a more intimate position.

[0024] Furthermore, the Z-axis negative surface of the camera unit CU will not be scratched or otherwise damaged on the upper surface of the camera retraction unit 13 due to the height of the stepped portion 15, which would affect the shooting process.

[0025] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the mounting state of the wireless charger when it is installed in a vehicle. The wireless charger 10 is installed in the vehicle, for example, mounted on a tray TR located on the front console FC.

[0026] In this case, the contact surface 11A of the upper case 11 is positioned to contact the back side of the tray TR, and only the camera retraction portion 13, the main unit mounting portion 14, and the stepped portion 15 of the upper case 11 protrude from the upper side of the tray TR. Therefore, the wireless charger 10 can be installed without unnecessarily restricting the functionality of the tray TR located on the front console FC.

[0027] Furthermore, since the front console FC is originally positioned in a location that is convenient for the vehicle's occupants (including the driver), it becomes easier for occupants to operate the portable information processing device SP for charging.

[0028] As described above, according to the wireless charger 10 of the first embodiment, even when the portable information processing device is equipped with a camera portion protruding from the main body of the portable information processing device, the mounted portable information processing device can be stably charged, and the arrangement relationship between the charging coil and the coil to be charged can be maintained in a more favorable state. Therefore, it is possible to maintain a high charging efficiency.

[0029] [2] Second embodiment Figure 7 is an external perspective view (part 1) of the wireless charger in a non-use state according to the second embodiment. Figure 8 is an external perspective view (part 2) of the wireless charger in a non-use state according to the second embodiment.

[0030] The wireless charger 30 of the second embodiment, like the wireless charger 10 of the first embodiment, is used by being installed, for example, on a tray provided on the center console of a vehicle. As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the wireless charger 30 comprises an upper case 31, a lower case 32, a pop-up section 33, fixing brackets 34A to 34C, and a power connector 37.

[0031] Figure 9 is a plan view of the wireless charger according to the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 9, the upper case 31 has a rectangular shape when viewed from above (from the positive Z-axis direction). Furthermore, the upper case 31 includes a contact surface 31A and an upper plate 35.

[0032] The top plate 35 is provided with an operating opening 35A that allows the operator 36 to protrude. Furthermore, the part of the top plate 35 surrounding the operating opening 35A is designated as the camera-facing surface 35B (= second surface F2), as will be described later. Furthermore, the top plate 35 is provided with a rectangular opening 35C in which a pop-up section 33 is formed to pop up.

[0033] The lower case 32 works in cooperation with the upper case 31 to function as the casing for the wireless charger 30 and houses the pop-up section 33. Furthermore, the lower case 32 is secured to the vehicle by fasteners such as screws, which include fixing brackets 34A to 34C used for vehicle installation.

[0034] As shown in Figure 8, when not in use, the pop-up section 33 is housed in the upper case 31 and protrudes from the top plate 35 by a height H0 (for example, 0.8 mm).

[0035] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 9. In Figure 7, the pop-up section 33 can be made to pop up from the top plate 35 by sliding the operator 36 to the left, which disengages an engagement (not shown), and rotates clockwise around a pivot shaft 39 rotatably supported by the upper case 31, due to the biasing force of the spring 42.

[0036] Figure 11 is an external perspective view (part 1) of the wireless charger in use according to the second embodiment. Figure 12 is a perspective view (part 2) of the wireless charger in use according to the second embodiment.

[0037] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, in the operating state, the wireless charger 30 has a pop-up section 33 that rotates and protrudes from the upper case 31, with one end face of the pop-up section 33 appearing as a stepped section 33A. In this state, the height from the top surface of the upper plate 35 on the rotating end side of the pop-up section 33 (upper right side in Figure 11 and lower right side in Figure 12) is height H1, and the height of the stepped section 33A is height H2.

[0038] Here, the height H1 is set such that when the portable information processing device intended to be charged is placed at a predetermined position on the first surface F1 (the surface in the positive Z-axis direction), which is the upper surface of the pop-up section 33, the end of the portable information processing device does not touch the camera-facing surface 35B (= second surface F2), which is the upper surface of the top plate 35.

[0039] Furthermore, the height H2 is set such that the height H2 of the stepped portion 33A is greater than the height of the protruding camera portion of the portable information processing device, such as a smartphone, which is the target of charging, when the stepped portion 33A and the camera-facing surface 35B (= second surface F2) work together as the pop-up portion 33 rotates to function as a camera retraction portion, so that the camera portion protruding from the portable information processing device is not scratched by contact.

[0040] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the usage state corresponding to the DD cross-section in Figure 9. The pop-up section 33 is rotated clockwise by the elastic force of the spring 42 around a pivot shaft AX rotatably supported by the upper case 31, until the contact section 33B contacts the back surface of the upper surface plate 35, allowing it to protrude from the rectangular opening 35C of the upper case 31.

[0041] Before describing the usage state of the second embodiment, the structure of the charger body unit 40 inside the wireless charger 30 of the second embodiment will be described. In the wireless charger 30 of the second embodiment, the charger main unit 40, including the pop-up section 33, is housed in the upper case 31 and the lower case 32.

[0042] Figure 14 is a plan view of the charger main unit 40. Figure 15 is an external perspective view of the charger main unit 40. The charger main unit 40 includes a pop-up section 33 and a pivot shaft 39. The pop-up section 33, the pop-up section rotation drive unit 41, and the rotation shaft 39 are supported by the lower case 32.

[0043] At this time, the spring 42 biases the pop-up portion 33 upward, as indicated by arrow AR2 in Figure 13, causing the pop-up portion 33 to protrude from the rectangular opening 35C. The spring 42 then brings the pop-up portion 33 into contact with the upper case 31, maintaining the pop-up state.

[0044] Incidentally, the upper case 31 is provided with a rectangular opening 35C, and there is a gap between the rectangular opening 35C and the pop-up section 33. Therefore, a drainage path 43 is provided around the pop-up section 33 at a position corresponding to the rectangular opening 35C of the lower case 32, to prevent liquids such as water that have entered through the gap from reaching electrical circuits such as the charging board.

[0045] The liquid collected via the drainage path 43 is then discharged to the outside of the wireless charger 30 through an opening 32A provided on the bottom surface of the lower case 32. This prevents malfunctions of the wireless charger 30 caused by liquid entering the case.

[0046] Figure 16 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the usage state of the wireless charger according to the second embodiment. When using the wireless charger 30, in the non-use state, as shown in Figure 7, the pop-up section 33 is housed within the case formed by the upper case 31 and the lower case 32. Therefore, the engagement (not shown) is released by sliding the operator 36 in the release direction.

[0047] As a result, the pivot shaft 39, which is rotatably supported by the upper case 31, rotates clockwise due to the biasing force of the spring 42 (described later), causing the pop-up portion 33 to pop up and protrude from the upper plate 35, resulting in the usage state shown in Figure 11.

[0048] In this usage state, when placing the portable information processing device SP along the main mounting surface of the pop-up section 33 of the wireless charger 30, it is preferable to place it so that the side surface of the camera section CU of the portable information processing device SP abuts against the stepped section 33A, as shown in Figure 16.

[0049] This is to stably hold the portable information processing device SP, suppress displacement of the portable information processing device during charging, and suppress a decrease in charging efficiency between the charging coil and the non-charging coil, similar to the first embodiment.

[0050] In this case, the Z-axis negative surface of the camera unit CU of the portable information processing device SP does not come into contact with the upper surface of the camera retraction unit 13 due to the height of the stepped portion 33A, thereby enabling the charging coil of the portable information processing device PH to face the charging coil of the wireless charger 30 in a more intimate position.

[0051] Furthermore, because the height of the stepped portion 33A is low, the surface of the camera unit CU in the negative Z-axis direction does not come into contact with the upper surface of the camera retraction portion 13, preventing scratches or other damage that could affect shooting.

[0052] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 13, the end of the protruding pop-up section 33 in the negative X-axis direction in Figure 16 is at a height H1 from the top plate 35. Therefore, a gap GP is always formed between the end of the portable information processing device SP in the negative X-axis direction and the top plate 35.

[0053] Therefore, the end of the portable information processing device SP in the negative X-axis direction does not come into contact with the top plate 35, ensuring that the main body of the portable information processing device SP is in close contact with the top surface of the pop-up section 33, thereby preventing a decrease in charging efficiency.

[0054] Figure 17 is an explanatory diagram of the mounting state (non-use state) of the wireless charger of the second embodiment on a vehicle. The wireless charger 30 is installed in the vehicle, for example, mounted on a tray TR located on the front console FC.

[0055] In this case, the contact surface 31A of the upper case 31 is fixed to the back side of the tray TR by fixing brackets 34A to 34C so that it contacts the back side of the tray TR. In this state, the amount of protrusion from the top plate 35 of the pop-up section 33 is very small (for example, 0.8 mm), so it does not interfere with the function of the tray TR.

[0056] Figure 18 is an explanatory diagram of the mounting state (in use) of the wireless charger of the second embodiment on a vehicle. As shown in Figure 18, in the operating state, only the camera retraction section 13, the main unit mounting section 14, and the stepped section 33A of the upper case 31 protrude from the upper surface of the tray TR.

[0057] Therefore, even in this state, and even when the portable information processing device SP is not installed, the functions of the tray TR provided on the front console FC are not unnecessarily restricted.

[0058] Furthermore, since the front console FC is originally positioned in a location that is convenient for the vehicle's occupants (including the driver), it becomes easier for occupants to operate the portable information processing device SP for charging.

[0059] [3] Third embodiment Figure 19 is a perspective view of the wireless charger of the third embodiment in a non-use state.

[0060] The wireless charger 50 of the third embodiment, like the wireless charger 10 of the first embodiment and the wireless charger 30 of the second embodiment, is used by being installed, for example, on a tray provided on the center console of a vehicle.

[0061] As shown in Figure 19, the wireless charger 50 comprises an upper case 51, a lower case 52, a press-button 53, and a power connector (not shown). Here, the upper case 51 and the lower case 52 constitute the casing. Furthermore, the upper case 51 includes a contact surface 51A, an upper plate 55 corresponding to the main body mounting surface, and a pressing surface 56.

[0062] As will be described later, the contact surface 51A is for contacting and securing the wireless charger 50 to the back side of a tray provided in the vehicle when the wireless charger 50 is mounted in the vehicle, and is provided in a U-shape at the bottom of the upper case 51.

[0063] The upper surface of the top plate 55 corresponds to the first surface F1 on which the main body of the information processing device is mounted. In the third embodiment, the upper surface (=first surface F1) of the upper plate 55 is not inclined but is horizontal, but it can also be made inclined, as in the first or second embodiment.

[0064] The upper surface of the press portion 53 is the camera-facing surface 53C (= second surface F2) that faces the camera portion of the portable information processing device, as will be described later. The push-down portion 53 is held in a pressed state by a push latch mechanism (described later) when pushed down by the user in the negative Z-axis direction, and returns to its original position when pushed down again by the user in the negative Z-axis direction, releasing the latch.

[0065] In other words, when the pressing portion 53 is pressed down, as will be described later, a part of the side surface of the upper case 51 forms a stepped portion 51B, and at least a part of the upper surface of the pressing portion 53 forms a second surface F2, which constitutes a camera retraction portion. Furthermore, a U-shaped contact surface 53A is provided at the lower part of the pressing portion 53, and, similar to the contact surface 51A, it contacts the back side of the tray provided in the vehicle when the wireless charger 50 is mounted in the vehicle.

[0066] The lower case 52 works in conjunction with the upper case 51 to function as the casing for the wireless charger 50.

[0067] Figure 20 is a plan view of the wireless charger according to the third embodiment. As shown in Figure 20, the upper case 51 has a rectangular shape when viewed from above (from the positive Z-axis direction).

[0068] Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 20 AA in a non-use state. The pressing portion 53 has a guide member 53B that extends downward and is pressed down by the user when the wireless charger 50 is put into use. As a result, the guide member 53B slides within the guide groove 51C provided in the upper case 51 and is pushed downward, causing its lower surface to contact the pressing receiving surface 56.

[0069] At this time, the latch movable part 61A, which constitutes the push latch mechanism 61 provided on the upper case 51, is pushed down as the pressing part 53 descends.

[0070] Figure 22 is an external perspective view of the wireless charger of the third embodiment in use. In Figure 19, by pressing down the pressing portion 53 in the negative Z-axis direction, the guide member 53B slides within the guide groove 51C and is pushed downward, and the pressing portion 53 is latched and fixed with its lower surface in contact with the pressing portion receiving surface 56.

[0071] As a result, the wireless charger 50 is in the state shown in Figure 22, with a portion of the side of the upper case 51 forming a stepped portion 51B.

[0072] Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 20 AA in use. When the pressing portion 53 is pressed down by the user, the guide member 53B slides within the guide groove 51C provided in the upper case 51 and is pushed downward, so that the lower surface of the pressing portion 53 is in contact with the pressing portion receiving surface 56.

[0073] In this state, the latch movable part 61A, which constitutes the push latch mechanism 61 provided on the upper case 51, is pushed down and latched by the latch fixing part 61B, so that the pressing part 53 remains in the pressed-down state. As a result, the side surface of the upper case 51 facing the pressing portion 53 is made into a stepped portion 51B.

[0074] Figure 24 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the usage state of the wireless charger according to the third embodiment. When using the wireless charger 50, in the non-use state, as shown in Figure 19, the upper surface of the press-button 53 is flush with the top plate 55, so press down on the press-button 53.

[0075] As a result, the pressing portion 53 remains pressed down, the stepped portion 51B appears, and the usage state shown in Figure 22 is achieved.

[0076] In this usage state, the portable information processing device SP is placed along the upper surface of the top plate 55 of the wireless charger 50. In this case, as shown in Figure 24, it is preferable to place the portable information processing device SP so that the side surface of the camera unit CU is in contact with the stepped portion 51B.

[0077] This is to stably hold the portable information processing device SP, suppress displacement of the portable information processing device during charging, and suppress a decrease in charging efficiency between the charging coil and the non-charging coil, as in the cases of each of the embodiments described above.

[0078] In this case, the Z-axis negative surface of the camera unit CU of the portable information processing device SP is configured such that it does not come into contact with the upper surface of the press-button 53, which acts as a camera retraction part, due to the height of the stepped portion 51B, i.e., the amount of pressure applied to the press-button 53. This allows the charging coil of the portable information processing device PH to face the charging coil of the wireless charger 50 in a more intimate position.

[0079] Furthermore, the Z-axis negative surface of the camera unit CU does not come into contact with the upper surface of the pressing part 53, which acts as the camera retraction part, due to the height of the stepped part 51B, preventing scratches or other damage that could affect shooting.

[0080] When the wireless charger 50 of the third embodiment is mounted on a vehicle, the wireless charger 50 is mounted on the vehicle in the same manner as in the second embodiment, for example, on a tray TR provided on the front console FC.

[0081] In this case, the contact surface 51A of the upper case 51 and the contact surface of the pressing part 53 are fixed in place so that they contact the back side of the tray TR. In this state, the pressing portion 53 and the top plate 55 of the wireless charger 50 are flush with each other, so the bottom of the tray TR is almost flat and does not interfere with the function of the tray TR.

[0082] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the wireless charger 50 has its press-button portion 53 pressed down when in use, so the portable information processing device SP can maintain a horizontal position within the tray TR and is placed naturally, without causing any discomfort.

[0083] Furthermore, since the front console FC is originally positioned in a location that is convenient for the vehicle's occupants (including the driver), it becomes easier for occupants to operate the portable information processing device SP for charging.

[0084] As described above, according to each embodiment, since the camera unit is retracted to the camera retraction unit while the information processing device body is mounted, the arrangement relationship between the charging coil and the coil to be charged can be maintained in a predetermined state without being affected by the camera unit protruding from the information processing device body, and the charging efficiency can be maintained at a high level.

[0085] While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These novel embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents.

[0086] The above explanation focused on in-car wireless chargers, but the same principles apply to stationary wireless chargers as well.

[0087] Furthermore, the effects described in the embodiments of this specification are merely illustrative and not limiting, and other effects may also occur.

[0088] [Note] This embodiment can also be implemented in the following ways. The first embodiment of the wireless charger is a wireless charger that wirelessly charges an information processing device having a camera section protruding from an information processing device body containing a charging coil via a charging coil, A mounting section having a first surface on which the information processing device body is placed, and which incorporates the charging coil, With the information processing device body placed at a predetermined position on the first surface, the camera retraction unit has a second surface that faces the camera unit at a distance from it, and retracts the camera unit, It is equipped with. According to this embodiment, even if a camera unit is provided that protrudes from the main body of the portable information processing device, the protruding camera unit does not affect the mounting state of the portable information processing device, and the arrangement relationship between the charging coil of the wireless charger and the charging coil of the portable information processing device can be maintained in a desired state, thereby maintaining high charging efficiency. The wireless charger of the second embodiment is provided with a stepped portion having a predetermined height at a position connecting one end of the first surface and one end of the second surface, in addition to the wireless charger of the first embodiment. According to this embodiment, the stepped portion prevents the surface of the camera unit that intersects the optical axis direction from coming into contact with the wireless charger, thereby preventing damage to the camera unit. In the third embodiment of the wireless charger, the height of the stepped portion is set to be greater than the protruding amount of the camera portion of the information processing device to be charged, compared to the wireless charger of the second embodiment. According to this embodiment, it is possible to reliably protect the camera unit without affecting the mounting state of the portable information processing device. The fourth embodiment of the wireless charger is the same as the second embodiment of the wireless charger, wherein the stepped portion is capable of contacting the side surface of the camera portion. According to this embodiment, the mounting position of the portable information processing device can be maintained in a predetermined position, and consequently, the arrangement relationship between the charging coil of the wireless charger and the charging coil of the portable information processing device can be maintained in a desired state, thereby maintaining high charging efficiency. The fifth embodiment of the wireless charger is the same as the fourth embodiment of the wireless charger, wherein the first surface is inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the horizontal plane when the second surface is a horizontal plane, and its height decreases along the direction in which the information processing device body extends. According to this embodiment, the side of the camera unit can be kept in contact with the stepped portion, more reliably maintaining the desired arrangement between the charging coil of the wireless charger and the charging coil of the portable information processing device, thereby maintaining high charging efficiency. A wireless charger of the sixth embodiment comprises a casing and a pop-up section in the wireless charger of the first embodiment, The pop-up section is housed within the casing when not in use, and when in use, it rotates around a predetermined pivot axis as the pivot point, with a portion of it protruding from the upper surface of the casing, so that the upper surface of the pop-up section constitutes the first surface. A portion of the side surface of the pop-up section constitutes a stepped section having a predetermined height. A portion of the upper surface of the casing constitutes the second surface, forming the camera retraction section. According to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the wireless charger of the first embodiment, it can have a flatter shape when not in use, for example, even when the wireless charger is installed on the tray of the front console of a vehicle, it does not interfere with the function of the tray when not in use. Even if a camera part is provided that protrudes from the main body of the portable information processing device, the protruding camera part does not affect the mounting state of the portable information processing device, the arrangement relationship between the charging coil of the wireless charger and the coil to be charged of the portable information processing device can be maintained in a desired state, and the charging efficiency can be maintained at a high level. The seventh embodiment of the wireless charger is the same as the sixth embodiment of the wireless charger, and includes an engaging portion that engages with the pop-up portion in the non-use state to maintain the stored state, and disengages the engagement when transitioning to the use state, The device includes a spring that, when the engagement of the engaging portion is released, applies a driving force to rotate the pop-up portion by its biasing force. According to this embodiment, the pop-up portion is reliably rotated and held in a predetermined position when the wireless charger is in use, maintaining the desired arrangement between the charging coil of the wireless charger and the coil being charged of the portable information processing device, thereby maintaining high charging efficiency. The eighth aspect of the wireless charger is the same as the sixth aspect of the wireless charger, wherein the information processing device, which is intended to be charged, is placed on the first surface, and the end of the information processing device is housed within the casing such that it is spaced apart from the upper surface of the casing, and the device protrudes from the casing by a predetermined amount. According to this embodiment, when an information processing device intended to be charged is placed on the first surface, the ends of the information processing device do not come into contact with the upper surface of the casing, so that the arrangement relationship between the charging coil of the wireless charger and the coil to be charged of the portable information processing device can be maintained in a desired state. The ninth aspect of the wireless charger is the same as the seventh aspect of the wireless charger, wherein the operator of the engaging portion is provided in an opening provided in a part of the second surface so as not to protrude from the casing. According to this embodiment, since the operator does not protrude from the upper surface of the wireless charger, the upper surface of the wireless charger can be kept almost flat when the wireless charger is not in use, without worsening the usability of the installation location of the wireless charger, and the design can also be enhanced. A wireless charger of the tenth embodiment comprises a casing and a pressing part in the wireless charger of the first embodiment, When the pressing portion is not in use, its upper surface is flush with the upper surface of the casing, which is the first surface. In the operating state, pressing down the pressing portion forms a stepped portion having a predetermined height on a part of the side surface of the casing, and at least a part of the upper surface of the pressing portion forms the camera retraction portion as the second surface. According to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the wireless charger of the first embodiment, it is possible to have a flatter shape when not in use, and the design can be improved without worsening the usability of the installation location when not in use. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0089] 10, 30, 50 Wireless Charger 11,31,51 Upper case 11A,31A,51A,53A Contact surface 11B 1st engagement protrusion 11C 2nd engagement protrusion 11D Engagement protrusion 12,32,52 Lower case 13 Camera retraction section 14 Main unit mounting section 14A charging coil unit 15,33A,51B Stepped section 16,37 Power connector 32A aperture 33 Pop-up section 35,55 Top plate 35A operation opening 35B, 53C Camera-facing surface 35C rectangular opening 36 Operators 39. Rotating shaft 40 Charger main unit 42 springs 43 Drainage routes 51C Guide groove 53 Pressing part 53B Guide member 56 Pressing part receiving surface 61 Push latch mechanism 61A Latch movable part 61B Latch fixing part F1 front page F2 2nd side H0, H1, H2 Height θ Predetermined angle

Claims

1. A wireless charger that wirelessly charges an information processing device, which has a camera unit protruding from the main body of an information processing device that has a built-in charging coil, via a charging coil, A mounting section having a first surface on which the information processing device body is mounted, and which incorporates the charging coil, With the information processing device body placed at a predetermined position on the first surface, the camera retraction unit has a second surface that faces the camera unit at a distance from it, and retracts the camera unit, A wireless charger equipped with [features / equipment].

2. A stepped portion having a predetermined height is provided at a position connecting one end of the first surface and one end of the second surface. The wireless charger according to claim 1.

3. The height of the stepped portion is set to be greater than the protrusion of the camera portion of the information processing device to be charged. The wireless charger according to claim 2.

4. The stepped portion is made capable of contacting the side surface of the camera portion. The wireless charger according to claim 2.

5. The first surface is inclined such that, when the second surface is considered a horizontal plane, it forms a predetermined angle with respect to the horizontal plane and its height decreases along the direction in which the information processing device body extends. The wireless charger according to claim 4.

6. It comprises a casing and a pop-up section, The pop-up section is housed within the casing when not in use, and when in use, it rotates around a predetermined pivot axis as the pivot point, with a portion of it protruding from the upper surface of the casing, so that the upper surface of the pop-up section constitutes the first surface. A portion of the side surface of the pop-up section constitutes a stepped section having a predetermined height. A portion of the upper surface of the casing constitutes the second surface, forming the camera retraction section. The wireless charger according to claim 1.

7. An engaging portion that, in the non-use state, engages with the pop-up portion to maintain the stored state, and releases the engagement when transitioning to the use state, The device includes a spring that, when the engagement of the engaging portion is released, applies a driving force to rotate the pop-up portion by its biasing force, The wireless charger according to claim 6.

8. With the information processing device, which is intended to be charged, placed on the first surface, the end of the information processing device is spaced apart from the upper surface of the casing, and the device is housed within the casing, with a predetermined amount protruding from the casing. The wireless charger according to claim 6.

9. The operator of the engagement portion is provided within an opening in a part of the second surface, so as not to protrude from the casing. The wireless charger according to claim 7.

10. It comprises a casing and a pressing part, When the pressing portion is not in use, its upper surface is flush with the upper surface of the casing, which is the first surface. In the operating state, pressing down the pressing portion forms a stepped portion having a predetermined height on a part of the side surface of the casing, and at least a part of the upper surface of the pressing portion forms the second surface, which constitutes the camera retraction portion. The wireless charger according to claim 1.

Images