Adapter for power supply device for rapid charging and power supply method using same

The power supply adapter automatically adjusts voltage to match the set voltage of electronic devices, addressing instability and failure issues by detecting and correcting voltage differences, ensuring stable power supply and reducing power consumption.

JP7597368B2Active Publication Date: 2024-12-10PACKAGING TECH CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2021048849
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2021-03-23
Publication Date
2024-12-10
Estimated Expiration
2041-03-23

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing power supply devices for quick charging lack the ability to automatically adjust output voltage to match the set voltage of electronic devices, leading to potential instability or failure due to voltage deviations and excessive output voltages.

Method used

A power supply adapter that includes an automatic voltage adjustment section to detect and correct voltage differences between the output voltage of the power supply device and the set voltage, using a configuration with a first and second connector, a power supply condition information storage unit, and an information output unit to transmit correction information, allowing for precise voltage adjustment.

Benefits of technology

The adapter effectively prevents voltage deviations and ensures stable power supply to electronic devices, even in the presence of abnormalities, while reducing power consumption and extending the power supply time of the device.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Patent Text Reader

Abstract

To provide an adapter for a power supply device for quick charging capable of preventing deviation of an output voltage of the power supply device and a set voltage by automatically adjusting a voltage to be output to an electronic apparatus, and a power supply method.SOLUTION: An adapter for a power supply device for quick charging is used by being connected between the power supply device for quick charging for outputting predetermined power based on power supply conditions information including at least a set voltage and correction information and an electronic apparatus using predetermined power from the power supply device, and includes: a first connector; a second connector; and a predetermined power supply instruction device provided between the first connector and the second connector. The power supply instruction device includes: a power supply conditions information storage unit; an information output unit; and an automatic voltage adjustment unit for detecting an output voltage to generate correction information from difference between the output voltage and a set voltage.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1
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Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an adapter for a power supply device for rapid charging and a power supply method using the same, and more particularly to an adapter for a power supply device for rapid charging that can automatically adjust the voltage output to an electronic device to a set voltage, and a power supply method using the same. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there have been power supply devices that output a specified rated voltage to supply power to PC peripherals, etc. However, with the rapid advancement of electronic devices in recent years, there have been cases where operation was unstable or the device did not work at the specified rated voltage. Among these, a rapid charging function that outputs a predetermined power based on power supply condition information from an external source and can supply power at a relatively high voltage that matches the power supply conditions of an electronic device is beginning to attract attention. This is because the quick charging function not only shortens the charging time of electronic devices, but also provides high convenience, such as being able to be used with electronic devices that require relatively high power and reducing losses such as heat generation. Known standards for the quick charging function include the Universal Serial Bus Power Delivery (USB PD) standard and the Quick Charge (QC) standard developed by Qualcomm, Inc. of the United States. In such a rapid charging function, the power supply device and the electronic device each typically have means for sending and receiving power supply condition information, and by exchanging power supply condition information between the two, the power supply device can supply a specified amount of power to the electronic device.

[0003] On the other hand, many electronic devices do not have a means for transmitting and receiving power supply condition information, and therefore such electronic devices cannot obtain high convenience by supplying power using the quick charging function. Therefore, various techniques for solving this problem have been proposed in the past.

[0004] As one example, an access device that is used by connecting between a power supply device and an electronic device has been disclosed (see Patent Document 1). More specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, the access device 130 includes a first interface 131, a second interface 133, a processing circuit 135, a voltage detection module 137, a presentation module 139, a temperature detection module 141, and a wake-up module. An example is shown in which a power supply device 150 capable of outputting a first set voltage and a second set voltage is connected, and a first electric heating device 161 and a second electric heating device 163 are connected to the second interface 133 as electronic devices. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-191606 (Claims, drawings, etc.) Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, although the access device disclosed in Patent Document 1 can preset two output voltages and selectively supply one, the QC2.0 standard limits the settable values ​​to four: 5V, 9V, 12V, and 20V, and in effect the output voltage cannot be set to any other voltage. In other words, the set voltage of the QC2.0 standard could not be set to any voltage other than that determined by the combination of 3.3V, 0.6V, or 0V applied to the D+ and D- terminals of the power supply device. Therefore, for example, even if 12V was selected as the set voltage, if the output voltage dropped to 11.6V due to an increase in internal resistance caused by heat generation in the electronic device or power consumption by the access device itself, there was a problem that the output voltage could not be adjusted. Furthermore, if an excessively high voltage is output due to an abnormality in the power supply device or the like, the output voltage cannot be automatically reduced to the set voltage, which can cause a problem of breakdown of electronic equipment.

[0007] Therefore, after extensive research, the inventors of the present invention discovered that by providing a specified automatic voltage adjustment unit in the power supply instruction device, it is possible to automatically prevent a deviation between the output voltage in a power supply device for rapid charging and a set voltage, and thus completed the present invention. That is, an object of the present invention is to provide an adapter for a power supply device for rapid charging, which is capable of automatically adjusting the voltage output to an electronic device, and a power supply method using the same. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The present invention provides an adapter for a power supply device for rapid charging, which outputs a predetermined power based on power supply condition information including at least a set voltage, and is used by connecting it between an electronic device that uses the predetermined power from the power supply device, and is characterized by having the following configurations (i) to (ii).By providing such an adapter for a power supply device, the above-mentioned problems can be solved. (i) A configuration including a first connector connected to a power supply device for rapid charging (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as a power supply device), a second connector connected to an electronic device, and a power supply instruction device between the first and second connectors that requests the power supply device for rapid charging to output a predetermined power, and increases or decreases the output voltage based on correction information that indicates a required fluctuation value of the output voltage of the power supply device, thereby adjusting a detected voltage difference, which is the difference between the output voltage of the power supply device and a set voltage, to a value within a predetermined threshold value. (ii) The power supply instruction device includes a power supply condition information storage unit that stores power supply condition information indicating the power conditions for driving the electronic device, an information output unit that transmits the power supply condition information and correction information to a specified terminal of the first connector, and an automatic voltage adjustment unit that detects an output voltage and generates correction information from the difference between the output voltage and a set voltage. In other words, even if a difference occurs between the output voltage of the electronic device and the output voltage, a specified automatic voltage adjustment unit can automatically adjust it, effectively preventing a discrepancy between the output voltage in the power supply device and the set voltage, and outputting at a specified voltage. Furthermore, in the event that an excessively high voltage is output due to an abnormality in the power supply device, the output voltage can be reduced to a set voltage to prevent breakdown of electronic equipment.

[0009] In configuring the power supply device adaptor of the present invention, it is preferable that the automatic voltage adjustment section is configured to generate, as the correction signal, a pulse signal train whose number is based on the fluctuation requirement value. In other words, when the output voltage is greater than the set voltage, a predetermined number of pulse signal trains are generated to reduce the voltage by the fluctuation request value, which is the difference between the voltage being output and the predetermined voltage, and when the output voltage is less than the set voltage, a predetermined number of pulse signal trains are generated to increase the voltage by the fluctuation request value. By configuring it in this manner, the output voltage of the power supply device for rapid charging can be adjusted with a resolution based on the number of pulse signals, making it possible to more effectively prevent deviation between the output voltage in the power supply device and the set voltage, and to output at a specified voltage.

[0010] In configuring the power supply device adaptor of the present invention, it is preferable that the automatic voltage regulator detects the output voltage via a voltage divider circuit. Such a configuration eliminates the need to provide an additional component such as a voltmeter IC for detection, making it easier to miniaturize the entire adapter.

[0011] In constructing the power supply device adapter of the present invention, it is preferable that the automatic voltage adjustment unit is connected to an environment response unit that requests the generation of correction information based on the output of a sensor that measures at least one of the temperature, humidity, light intensity, and CO2 concentration as the surrounding environment. By configuring in this manner, the output power can be adjusted based on the surrounding temperature, brightness, etc., thereby reducing the power consumption of the automatic voltage adjustment unit and effectively extending the power supply time of the power supply device.

[0012] In configuring the power supply device adapter of the present invention, it is preferable that the power supply instruction device is provided with a sleep prevention unit that supplies a current of a predetermined value or more from the power supply device for rapid charging to the electronic device at least at predetermined time intervals. By providing a sleep prevention unit in this manner and passing current through something other than the electronic device, the sleep function of the power supply device can effectively prevent power supply from being stopped even when power consumption by the electronic device connected to the power supply device has stopped.

[0013] Another aspect of the present invention is a power supply method using an adapter for a power supply device for rapid charging, which is connected between a power supply device for rapid charging that outputs a predetermined power based on power supply condition information including at least a set voltage and an electronic device that uses the predetermined power from the power supply device, and which has the following configurations (i) to (ii). (i) a first connector connected to a power supply device, a second connector connected to an electronic device, and a power supply instruction device between the first connector and the second connector, which requests the power supply device to supply power, and increases or decreases the output voltage of the power supply device based on correction information indicating a required fluctuation value of the output voltage of the power supply device, thereby adjusting a detected voltage difference, which is a difference between the output voltage of the power supply device and a set voltage, to a value within a predetermined threshold value; (ii) The power supply instruction device includes a power supply condition information storage unit that stores power supply condition information indicating the power conditions for driving the electronic device, an information output unit that transmits the power supply condition information and correction information to a specified terminal of the first connector, and an automatic voltage adjustment unit that detects an output voltage and generates correction information from the difference between the output voltage and a set voltage. The power supply method is characterized by including the following steps (1) to (4). (1) A step in which the information output unit transmits power supply condition information to a predetermined terminal of the first connector. (2) A step in which the power supply device receives the power supply condition information and outputs a predetermined power based on the power supply condition information. (3) A process in which the automatic voltage adjustment unit detects the voltage of a specified output power, calculates the difference between the detected output voltage and a set voltage to obtain a detected voltage difference, and generates correction information if the detected voltage difference exceeds a threshold value. (4) A step in which the power supply instruction device increases or decreases the output voltage of the power supply device based on the correction information to adjust the detected voltage difference to a value within a predetermined threshold value. By implementing in this manner, the output voltage output to the electronic device can be automatically adjusted by a specified automatic voltage adjustment unit using a power supply device for rapid charging, thereby effectively preventing deviation between the output voltage and the set voltage. Furthermore, in the event that an excessively high voltage is output due to an abnormality in the power supply device, the output voltage can be reduced to a set voltage to prevent breakdown of electronic equipment.

[0014] In carrying out the present invention, it is preferable that the automatic voltage adjustment unit determines a detected voltage difference by taking the difference between the average value of the output voltage at times X1 to X5 and the set voltage, where X1 is the time when the output voltage is detected and X2 to X5 are the times when the output voltage is detected at predetermined time intervals from X1, and generates correction information when the detected voltage difference exceeds a threshold value. By implementing in this manner, it is possible to prevent the automatic voltage regulator from generating erroneous correction information due to noise in the output voltage, reduce the power consumption of the automatic voltage regulator, and effectively extend the power supply time of the power supply device.

[0015] In implementing the present invention, it is preferable that the automatic voltage adjustment unit sets the voltage output by the power supply device when it has not received power supply condition information as the initial voltage, and when the detected initial voltage exceeds a predetermined value, does not transmit power supply condition information or correction information from the information output unit. By implementing this in this manner, a self-check (sometimes referred to as an initial self-check) can be performed to diagnose whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the power supply device before the high voltage for rapid charging is reached. Furthermore, by performing this initial self-check, even if an abnormality occurs in the power supply device, it is possible to maintain the output of the initial voltage and turn on a warning lamp or the like built into the adapter.

[0016] In carrying out the present invention, it is preferable that the automatic voltage adjustment unit stops transmission of the power supply condition information and the correction information from the information output unit if the detected voltage difference exceeds a predetermined value within a predetermined time from β, where β is the time when the correction information is generated after step (4) is performed, as the initial voltage. By implementing it in this manner, a self-check (sometimes called an intermediate self-check) can be performed while the power supply device is supplying power to check whether any abnormality has occurred in the power supply device. Furthermore, by performing such an intermediate self-check, even if an abnormality occurs in the power supply device, it is possible to maintain the output of the initial voltage and to light a warning lamp or the like built into the adapter. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram provided for explaining an adapter for a power supply device for rapid charging according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] 2(a) and 2(b) are diagrams provided for explaining the sleep prevention unit. [Diagram 3] Figure 3(a) is a block diagram provided to explain the usage configuration of the environmental response unit, and Figure 3(b) is a block diagram provided to explain the appearance of the environmental response unit when an air cooler fan is installed in an air-conditioned suit as an example of how the environmental response unit is used. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart provided for explaining an example of the operation of the automatic voltage adjustment unit. [Diagram 5] 5(a) to (c) are block diagrams provided for explaining the wiring cutting structure of the adapter. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram provided for explaining an example of pulse transmission in the QC3.0 standard. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram provided for explaining the outer shape of the adaptor for a power supply device for rapid charging according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 8(a) to 8(c) are diagrams provided for explaining a modified example of the adaptor for a rapid charging power supply device of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram provided for explaining a conventional power supply device adaptor. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0018] [First embodiment] The adapter for a power supply device for rapid charging of the first embodiment is, as illustrated in FIG. 1, an adapter for a power supply device for rapid charging (hereinafter, may be simply referred to as an adapter) 10 that is connected between a power supply device for rapid charging 12 that outputs a predetermined power based on power supply condition information including at least a set voltage, and an electronic device 14 that uses the predetermined power from the power supply device 12, and is characterized by having the following configurations (i) to (ii). (i) A configuration including a first connector 11 connected to a power supply device 12, a second connector 13 connected to an electronic device 14, and a power supply instruction device between the first connector 11 and the second connector 13, which requests the power supply device 12 for rapid charging to output a predetermined power, and increases or decreases the output voltage of the power supply device 12 based on correction information indicating a required fluctuation value of the output voltage of the power supply device 12, thereby adjusting the detected voltage difference, which is the difference between the output voltage and a set voltage, to a value within a predetermined threshold value. (ii) The power supply instruction device includes a power supply condition information storage unit that stores power supply condition information indicating the power conditions for driving the electronic device, an information output unit that transmits the power supply condition information and correction information to a specified terminal of the first connector, and an automatic voltage adjustment unit that detects an output voltage and generates correction information from the difference between the output voltage and a set voltage. Below, with reference to the drawings as appropriate, a specific description will be given of the power supply device 12, the electronic device 14, the first connector 11, the second connector 13, the power supply condition information storage unit 15, the information output unit 17, the automatic voltage adjustment unit 21, the power supply instruction device 50, etc., which constitute the power supply device adapter of the first embodiment.

[0019] 1.Power supply device The power supply device is a device that is connected to the first connector of the adapter and outputs a specified DC power of the rapid charging standard to the electronic device based on power supply condition information described below, and also increases or decreases the voltage output to the output line based on correction information indicating a fluctuation request value described below, to re-output the specified DC power of the rapid charging standard. Specifically, the power supply device is preferably configured to increase or decrease the voltage being output by a predetermined voltage every time the power supply device receives one of the predetermined pulse signals. More specifically, when the output voltage is greater than the set voltage, a pulse signal train is generated the number of which is an integer obtained by dividing the fluctuation request value by the predetermined voltage that decreases per pulse, plus 1. On the other hand, when the output voltage is less than the set voltage, it is preferable to generate a pulse signal train the number of which is an integer obtained by dividing the fluctuation request value by the predetermined voltage that increases per pulse. Such a power supply device can be configured by including a microcomputer or the like in a power control circuit. The reason for this is that the output voltage of the power supply device for rapid charging can be adjusted with a resolution based on the number of pulse signals, making it possible to more effectively prevent deviation between the output voltage in the power supply device and the set voltage, and to output at a specified voltage. For example, the QC standard is a standard that increases the voltage by 200 mV each time a specific pulse signal is received via the D+ terminal, and decreases the voltage by 200 mV each time a specific pulse signal is received via the D- terminal, while the USB PD PPS standard is a standard that increases the voltage by 20 mV each time a specific pulse signal is received via the CC terminal, and decreases the voltage by 20 mV each time another specific pulse signal is received via the CC terminal.

[0020] Therefore, it is more preferable that the power supply device is a device having a 3.6 to 20 V quick charging function that complies with at least either the USB PD standard or the QC standard. Specifically, preferred examples include an AC adapter that is used by connecting to a 100V AC outlet, a portable battery using a lithium battery or a gallium nitride battery, an automobile battery, a fuel cell, or a power generation device such as solar or wind power. The reason for this is that such a power supply device can preferably receive power supply condition information from the power supply instruction device and output a specified power based on the power supply condition information, thereby more effectively preventing malfunctions of electronic devices. Here, the quick charging standard is a standard that was established to quickly charge electronic devices such as smartphones and tablet terminals by passing a higher voltage or current than the conventional 5 V and 0.5 A from a USB connector. The main quick charging standards known are USB PD1.0 to 3.0 and QC1.0 to 5.0, but they also include functions that are provided independently by mobile phone companies and electronic device manufacturers and operate based on power supply condition information.

[0021] 2.Electronic equipment The electronic device is a device that is connected to the second connector of the adapter and is driven by receiving the predetermined direct current power that complies with the rapid charging standard and is output from the power supply device. Specifically, the devices preferably include fans (including circulators), ventilation fans, heaters, coolers, vacuum cleaners, refrigerators, warming cabinets, notebook PCs, lights, displays, radios, televisions, ultrasonic transmitters, metal detectors, fish finders, portable game consoles, and communication modems. The reason for this is that such electronic devices generally have a power consumption within the rapid charging standard, and can therefore receive power from a power supply device that meets the rapid charging standard, preventing the voltage from becoming excessively low and causing the electronic device to fail to operate. Moreover, the driving power of the electronic device is preferably within a range of 2.5 to 100W. The reason for this is that with this level of power consumption, the adapter can be operated within the ranges of the USB PD and QC standards, eliminating the need for additional boost circuits, making it easier to miniaturize the entire adapter. Therefore, the power consumption of the electronic device to be driven is more preferably within a range of 10 to 90 W, and even more preferably within a range of 15 to 80 W.

[0022] 3. First connector The first connector is a connector for connecting to an opening of a power supplying device, which includes a terminal for receiving power supply condition information, which will be described later, and a terminal for power supplying of the power supplying device. Specifically, it is preferable to use a USB standard connector such as USB-A (sometimes referred to as USB TYPE-A), USB-B (sometimes referred to as USB TYPE-B, mini USB TYPE-B, or micro USB TYPE-B), USB-C (USB TYPE-C), or a Lightning connector. Moreover, it is preferable that the first connector is provided with at least a VBUS terminal as an output line, and either a CC line based on the USB PD standard or a D+, D- line based on the QC standard. The reason for this is that such a connector has at least the terminals necessary for power supply according to the fast charging standard, eliminating the need for additional terminals, making it easier to miniaturize the entire adapter.

[0023] 4. Second connector The second connector is a connector for connecting an output line for transmitting the power output from the power supply device to an electronic device. Specifically, it is preferable to use at least one of a DC circular plug, a DC circular jack, a DC square plug, a DC square jack, a cigar plug, a cigar jack, an audio stereo plug, an audio stereo jack, a board-to-wire connection plug, a board-to-wire connection jack, and the like. The reason for this is that such a connector has at least the terminals necessary for supplying DC power, eliminating the need for additional terminals, and making it easier to reduce the size of the entire adapter.

[0024] 5. Power supply indicator As illustrated in FIG. 1, the power supply instruction device 50 is a device that requests the power supply device 12 to output a specified power of the rapid charging standard by transmitting power supply condition information described below to a specified terminal of the first connector 11. That is, the power supply instruction device 50 is a device that adjusts the output voltage of the output power of the power supply device 12 by transmitting correction information in addition to the power supply condition information to a predetermined terminal of the first connector 11. Specifically, it is preferable that the circuit board be a composite circuit board that combines multiple PICs and emulator ICs. The reason for this is that by providing such an automatic voltage adjustment unit 21, the wiring for transmitting power supply condition information and the wiring for detecting the output voltage of the power supply device can be arranged in a space-saving manner, making it easier to miniaturize the entire adapter.

[0025] Here, the power supply condition information is an electrical signal that is transmitted to the power supply device for rapid charging as power information for driving the electronic device, in order to instruct the power supply device on predetermined information such as a set voltage and a set current. Therefore, it is preferable that the power supply condition information includes at least one set voltage. For example, it is preferable that the set voltage includes at least information on 5V, 9V, 12V, 15V, and 20V, which are one of the USB PD and QC standards, and the set current includes information on 1A, 3A, 3.25A, and 5A. In addition, it is preferable that the power supply condition information is recorded in a power supply condition information storage unit described below, and that one type of voltage condition, or one type of voltage condition and one type of current condition, is read by an information output unit described below and transmitted to the power supply instruction device. The reason for this is that by selecting power supply condition information that matches the power supply device and electronic device, there is no need to rewrite the power supply condition information even when using an electronic device with different power supply condition information, and this makes it possible to more effectively prevent a discrepancy between the output voltage of the power supply device and the set voltage.

[0026] The correction information is an electrical signal that indicates a required fluctuation value, which is a voltage to be increased or decreased from the output voltage, and is transmitted to the rapid charging power supply device so as to bring the detected voltage difference to a value within a predetermined threshold value. That is, the correction information is a pulse signal train of at least one of the USB PD PPS standard and the QC3.0 standard, and is preferably set in the range of 20 to 1000 mV. The reason for this is that the correction information can be in accordance with either the USB PD PPS standard, which is a fast charging standard, or the QC3.0 standard. Specifically, when the output voltage Vx is 11.5V, the set voltage is 12V, and the unit of correction information is 200mV, the detected voltage difference is 0.5V, so it is preferable to set the correction information to +0.4V.

[0027] In order to smoothly and quickly process the information described below, the power supply instruction device preferably has some or all of the following configurations 1) to 8). Below, we will explain in detail the configuration of: 1) automatic voltage adjustment unit, 2) information output unit, 3) power supply condition information storage unit, 4) sleep prevention unit, 5) environmental response unit, 6) boost processing unit, 7) operation selection unit, 8) power supply unit, and 9) sleep return unit.

[0028] (1) Automatic voltage regulator The automatic voltage regulator detects the output voltage of the power supply device and sets predetermined correction information. Specifically, the automatic voltage regulator 21 is preferably present inside the power supply instruction device 50 and connected to a voltage dividing circuit of resistors R5 and R6 in series, as exemplified in Fig. 1. The other end of the resistor R5 is preferably connected to the output line 19, and the other end of the resistor R6 is preferably connected to ground. That is, the output voltage of the power supply device is detected as the voltage value at the midpoint of resistors R5 and R6 of the dividing circuit, that is, the output voltage Vx. The automatic voltage regulator 21 grasps the set voltage Vn, which is a value equivalent to the voltage division ratio of the set voltage. Furthermore, it is preferable that the difference between Vx and Vn is set as a detected voltage difference, and when the detected voltage difference is equal to or exceeds a preset threshold value V0, the output voltage is determined to be abnormal and correction information is generated. The reason for this is that even if a difference occurs between the output voltage of the electronic device and the output voltage, the specified automatic voltage adjustment unit can automatically adjust the output voltage, effectively preventing a deviation between the output voltage and the set voltage, and outputting at a specified voltage.

[0029] As an example, assume that the voltage division ratio input to the automatic voltage regulator is 1 / 5, the actually detected output voltage is 2.32 V, the set voltage Vn is 12 V, and the threshold value V0 is 0.1 V. Then, the output voltage Vx before voltage division is 11.6 V, and the detected voltage difference |Vx-Vn| is 0.4 V, which is larger than the threshold value V0, and therefore the output voltage is determined to be abnormal. Then, the automatic voltage adjustment unit generates correction information as +0.4V based on the magnitude relationship between the output voltage Vx and the set voltage Vn. At this time, for example, if the quick charging standard of the power supply device is QC3.0, the power supply instruction device transmits two 0.6V pulse signals as a pulse signal train to the D+ terminal and continues to apply 0.6V to the D- terminal as shown in Fig. 6. This makes it possible to adjust the output voltage.

[0030] Furthermore, the threshold value V0 varies depending on the allowable voltage of the electronic device and the output voltage of the power supply device, but is preferably set to a value within the range of 0.02 to 1V, for example. The reason for this is that such a threshold value makes it possible to change the output voltage within the range of allowable voltages for many electronic devices, and more effectively prevents deviations between the output voltage of the power supply device and the set voltage. Therefore, the threshold value V0 is more preferably set to a value within the range of 0.1 to 0.8V, and further preferably to a value within the range of 0.2 to 0.6V.

[0031] (2) Information output section The information output unit 17 is configured to be able to transmit the power supply condition information and correction information set in the power supply instruction device 50 to a predetermined terminal of the first connector 11, as exemplified in FIG. Specifically, it is preferable that the circuit is configured with a microcomputer, an emulator IC, and the like. It is also preferable that the power supply condition information and correction information set in the power supply instruction device 50 can be transmitted by selecting a predetermined terminal from among the multiple terminals of the first connector 11. The reason for this is that by configuring it in this manner, the first connector 11 is a USB-C connector, and when it is connected to either the D+ terminal, the D- terminal, or the CC terminal, it is possible to transmit power supply condition information and correction information in accordance with the standards of the power supply device being used. Therefore, it is preferable to initially send power supply condition information to the CC terminal using the USB PD standard, and if there is no response from the power supply device for a specified period of time, send power supply condition information and correction information to the D+ terminal and D- terminal using the QC standard. The reason for this is that switching can be performed automatically without the user having to change the destination of the power supply condition information and the correction information, thereby improving versatility.

[0032] Furthermore, the information output unit is not limited to any particular configuration as long as it is capable of transmitting power supply condition information and correction information to a specified terminal of the first connector, but it is preferable that the information output unit has an information output port for each combination of the terminal of the first connector to be output, the power supply condition information, and the correction information. That is, in the first connector 11, there are three terminals for transmitting power supply condition information and correction information, namely, a CC terminal, a D+ terminal, and a D- terminal, and when there are two types of power supply condition information and correction information, it is preferable that the first connector 11 has six information output ports. The reason for this is that the circuit configuration between the information output section and the first connector becomes simple.

[0033] It is also preferable that the information output unit 17 does not have separate information output ports for the power supply condition information and the correction information as shown in FIG. 1, but separates the information output ports only by the terminals of the first connector 11. That is, in the first connector 11, when there are three terminals for transmitting the power supply condition information and the correction information, that is, a CC terminal, a D+ terminal, and a D- terminal, it is preferable to have three information output ports regardless of the number of types of the power supply condition information and the correction information. In this case, it is preferable to have a configuration in which the type of the power supply condition information and the correction information output from one information output port can be changed. The reason for this is that by reducing the number of information output ports of information output section 17 required for output, information output section 17 can be made smaller, which makes it easier to make adapter 10 smaller overall. Specifically, it is preferable that the circuit connecting the power supply instruction device 50 and the D+ and D- terminals of the first connector 11 is configured with a voltage divider circuit including resistors R1, R2, R3, and R4. The connection relationship between these is as follows. More specifically, resistors R1 and R2 are connected in series to form a voltage divider circuit, and the midpoint of the voltage divider circuit is connected to the D- terminal of the first connector 11 and an information output port P2 (one of the information output ports of the power supply instruction device 50) of the information output unit 17. The other end of resistor R1 is connected to Vdd, and the other end of resistor R2 is connected to ground. Resistors R3 and R4 are connected in series to form a voltage divider circuit. The midpoint of the voltage divider circuit is connected to the D+ terminal of the first connector 11, the other end of resistor R3 is connected to Vdd, and the other end of resistor R4 is connected to an information output port P1 (one of the information output ports of the power supply instruction device 50) of the information output unit 17. The other end of resistor R1 is connected to Vdd, and the other end of resistor R2 is connected to ground.

[0034] Specifically, it is preferable that the information output port P3 of the information output unit 17 (one of the information output ports of the power supply instruction device 50) is connected to the CC terminal of the first connector 11 conforming to the USB-C standard. In such a circuit, for example, resistors R1 and R3 are configured with 10KΩ resistors, resistors R2 and R4 are configured with 2.2KΩ resistors, 3.3V is supplied as Vdd, and the potential of the information output port of the information output unit 17 is set to L (=0V) or H (=3.3V), then information of 0.6V or 3.3V can be applied to the D+ terminal and D- terminal. Therefore, for example, power supply condition information corresponding to the power supply protocol of the QC standard can be output. Meanwhile, the information output unit 17 can output a pulse signal train conforming to the USB PD PPS standard to the CC terminal via the information output port P3. The pulse signal conforming to the USB PD PPS standard can be generated by a program stored in advance in the power supply instruction device 50.

[0035] (3) Power supply condition information storage section The power supply condition information storage unit 15 has recorded therein power supply condition information including at least a set voltage as the power output by the power supply device 12, as exemplified in FIG. Specifically, it is preferable that the device is configured with a microcomputer and a memory IC. The reason for this is that in a later process, the power supply condition information can be changed by a program and multiple pieces of power supply condition information can be stored, making it possible to more effectively prevent deviations between the output voltage of the power supply device and the set voltage. For example, the power supply condition information storage unit stores power supply condition information for driving the power supply device under power supply conditions stipulated in at least the USB PD standard or the QC standard as a predetermined power supply standard, i.e., the power supply condition information includes at least a set voltage, and stores information for generating an electrical signal such as a combination of a set voltage and a set current, a transmission interval, etc. More specifically, the power supply condition information storage unit 15 in this case stores various types of power supply condition information defined by standards such as USB2.0, USB3.x, USB PD, PD PPS, QC1.0, QC2.0, QC3.0, etc. Furthermore, power supply condition information unique to a mobile phone manufacturer may also be stored.

[0036] (4) Sleep prevention section As shown in FIG. 1, the power supply instruction device is configured to supply a current of a predetermined value or more from a power supply device for rapid charging to the electronic device at least at predetermined time intervals to prevent the electronic device from going into sleep. Specifically, when the power supply device has one connection port, it is preferable that the power supply instruction device has a sleep prevention unit. When the power supply device has two or more connection ports, the power supply instruction device does not have to have a sleep prevention unit. The reason for this is that when power consumption by an electronic device connected to the power supply device is stopped, the sleep function of the power supply device can be more effectively prevented from being unintentionally activated and causing power supply to be stopped. Here, the time interval for supplying the current to the sleep prevention unit may be determined in accordance with the power supply device, but is preferably within a range of 1 to 30 seconds. Therefore, the time interval for supplying the current to the sleep prevention unit is more preferably within the range of 2 to 20 seconds, and further preferably within the range of 3 to 10 seconds. Moreover, the current of the sleep prevention unit is preferably within a range of 20 to 400 mA. Therefore, the current of the sleep prevention unit is more preferably within a range of 30 to 300 mA, and further preferably within a range of 40 to 200 mA. The reason for this is that by setting such a time period, it is possible to effectively prevent the sleep function from being activated, while keeping the current consumed for preventing sleep low.

[0037] The hardware part of the sleep prevention part 29 shown in Fig. 2(a) is composed of a program in the power supply instruction device and a switch part as a constant current element part. In this circuit, a pulse is input to the switch part at a predetermined cycle, and a constant current current of a magnitude sufficient to prevent the sleep mode can be periodically realized, so that the power supply of the power supply device can be maintained. For reference, in the case of a power supply device that outputs voltage to two wires, one on the high voltage side and one on the low voltage side, it is preferable that the hardware portion of the sleep prevention unit be configured as shown in FIG. 2(b). That is, a rectifier 29b consisting of a diode bridge is connected between the output lines consisting of two wires. A constant current circuit that operates intermittently and is composed of a constant current element unit and a switch unit is connected to the cathode side of the rectifier 29b. In the case of a circuit such as that shown in Fig. 2(b), sleep prevention can be achieved even if the polarity of the voltage supplied to the output lines consisting of two wires is reversed.

[0038] (5) Environmental Affairs Department 3(a), the environment response unit 25 is configured to connect sensor ports 25b and 25c to a sensor group 25a that detects the environmental condition in which the electronic device 41 is used, and to compare the environmental condition detected by the sensor group 25a with a predetermined threshold value, and to request the generation of correction information based on the comparison result. That is, in cooperation with the sensor group 25a that detects the environmental state in which the electronic device 41 connected to the second connector 13 is used, the power supply conditions to the electronic device 41 are changed to the most preferable power supply conditions. Specifically, the sensor group 25a may be configured according to the purpose, and preferably includes at least one sensor for measuring environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, light intensity, and CO2 concentration as the surrounding environment. The reason for this is that excessive operation of electronic devices can be automatically prevented based on the state of the surrounding environment, thereby reducing power consumption in the automatic voltage adjustment unit and effectively extending the power supply time of the power supply device.

[0039] 3(b) is a diagram for explaining an example of use of the environment-responsive unit 25. When supplying power to a cooling fan as electronic device 41 attached to the air-conditioned suit 45, if a temperature sensor M1 and / or a humidity sensor M2 are provided in the air-conditioned suit 45 and these sensors are connected to the environment-responsive unit 25 of the adapter 10 of the present invention, the rotation speed of the cooling fan of the air-conditioned suit 45 can be changed based on the sensor outputs of temperature, humidity, etc. Then, for example, when the temperature and / or humidity inside the air-conditioned suit 45 reaches or exceeds a certain level, the power supply conditions of the power supply device 43 can be automatically changed so that the rotation speed of the cooling fan increases.

[0040] (6) Boost processing unit As shown in FIG. 1, the boost processing unit 27 is configured to boost the voltage output from the power supply device 12 to a desired voltage. Moreover, when the boosting process is required, the switch section 27b selects the contact 19b to switch to the boosting circuit 27a. On the other hand, when the boosting process is not required, the switch section 27b is configured to select the contact 19a. Specifically, it is preferable that the boost processing unit 27 is composed of a program in the power supply instruction device 50, a boost circuit 27a consisting of a DC-DC converter provided outside the power supply instruction device, and a switch unit 27b provided in the middle of the output line 19 for switching the boost circuit 27a between connected and disconnected. The reason for this is that the boost processing unit 27 is capable of outputting a voltage that exceeds the maximum voltage of 20V of the power supply device for rapid charging.

[0041] (7) Operation selection section 1, the operation selection unit 31 is configured to select which of the power supply condition information stored in the power supply condition information storage unit 15 to use, and / or select which of the environmental response unit 25, the boost processing unit 27, the sleep prevention unit 29, etc. to drive when the operation selection unit 31 has the environmental response unit 25, the boost processing unit 27, the sleep prevention unit 29, etc. Specifically, the operation selection unit 31 is configured to select, for example, the power supply condition information of QC2.0 and voltage 9v from the power supply condition information stored in the power supply condition information storage unit 15, and to select not to drive the environmental response unit 25 and the boost processing unit 27, but to drive the sleep prevention unit 29. Such a selection result is formed and is made to be recognized by the control unit 50a of the power supply instruction device 50. The operation selection unit 31 may have any suitable configuration, for example, an n-bit DIP switch that can be adjusted by the user of the adapter 10 with his / her own finger or a tool.

[0042] (8) Power supply section As shown in FIG. 2, the power supply unit 23 is configured with a regulator circuit, and serves as a power supply for driving the components within the power supply instruction device 50, such as the PIC and emulator IC. The power supply unit 23 is configured to receive the voltage supplied to the output line (VBUS) 19 and generate the drive voltage Vdd for the adapter 10. Therefore, the power supply unit 23 has a function as a trigger source that starts the operation of the adapter 10. Specifically, it is preferably a regulator IC. The reason for this is that if a regulator IC is used, the power supply unit can be built into the board, making it easier to miniaturize the entire adapter.

[0043] Moreover, the output voltage of the power supply unit 23 is preferably within a range of 3 to 5V. The reason for this is that with this output voltage, by receiving an input of 5V, which is the USB standard output voltage, the adapter can be operated without using a separate power supply, making it easier to make the entire adapter smaller. Therefore, the output voltage of the power supply unit 23 is more preferably within the range of 3.1 to 4.8V, and even more preferably within the range of 3.2 to 4.6V.

[0044] (9) Sleep return section Although not specifically shown, the sleep recovery unit is configured to recover the power supply device from the sleep state without reinserting the first connector when the power supply device goes into the sleep state. Specifically, it is preferable that the ground terminal of the first connector and the ground terminal of the power supply unit are configured by a switch that switches between a connected state and a non-connected state. In other words, it is preferable that the sleep recovery unit normally keeps the ground terminal of the first connector and the ground terminal of the power supply unit in a connected state, and when recovering from sleep, temporarily disconnects them so that they are floating from the ground potential, and then connects them again. The reason for this is that such a configuration makes it possible to perform an apparent replacement and resume the sleep state as necessary, thereby reducing the power consumption of the automatic voltage adjustment unit and effectively extending the power supply time of the power supply device.

[0045] 6. Adapter appearance The external shape of the adapter for a power supply device for rapid charging in the first embodiment is preferably cable-shaped, but as shown in Figures 7(a) to (b), it may also be configured in such a way that the first connector 11 and the second connector 13 are directly attached to a rectangular parallelepiped adapter 10 or an L-shaped adapter 10'. The reason for this is that by placing first connector 11 and second connector 13 close to each other, it becomes easier to reduce the size of adapter 10 as a whole. That is, an example of the adapter for a power supply device for rapid charging of the first embodiment is configured such that the first connector 11 is a TYPE-A male USB connector 11x, and the second connector 13 is a DC round jack 13x. In this case, it is preferable that the length L1 is within a range of 8 to 100 mm, the width W1 is within a range of 8 to 100 mm, and the height H1 is within a range of 5 to 50 mm. It is also preferable that the length L2 is within a range of 8 to 100 mm, the width W2 is within a range of 8 to 200 mm, and the height H2 is within a range of 5 to 50 mm. It is preferable that the length L3 is within a range of 8 to 100 mm, and the width W3 is within a range of 8 to 100 mm. The reason for this is that the connectors of the USB standard and the DC connector standard can be arranged comfortably and without creating excessively large gaps, making it easy to make the adapter smaller overall.

[0046] 7. Variation 1 A modified example of the adapter for a power supply device for rapid charging of the first embodiment is an adapter 10a having a first connector which is a TYPE-C male USB connector 11a and a second connector which is a DC plug 13a, as shown in FIG. 8(a). Another modified example is an adapter 10b in which the first connector is a TYPE-C male USB connector 11b with an extension cable, and the second connector is a DC round jack 13x, as shown in FIG. 8(b). And yet another modified example is an adapter 10c in which the first connector is a TYPE-C male USB connector 11b with an extension cable, and the second connector is a DC round plug 13b with an extension cable, as shown in FIG. 8(c).

[0047] 8. Variation 2 As shown in FIG. 5(a), an adaptor 10x of the second modification preferably has a wire cutting structure 60 in addition to the configuration of the adaptor 10 of the first embodiment. That is, the wiring cutting structure 60 is configured to cut the printed circuit board of the adapter 10x at a portion where wiring connecting the write port 50b and the main body of the adapter 10x is provided, and is configured to prevent internal information of the adapter 10x from being changed from the outside while the adapter 10x functions normally. Furthermore, if the adapter 10x has an environment response unit 25, a boost processing unit 27, a sleep prevention unit 29, etc., the wiring connecting each of these units to the write port is also cut. Here, the cutting points are set to points that do not impair the functions of the adapter 10x.

[0048] Specifically, in the example of Fig. 5(b), a notch 61 for breaking off is provided between the write port 50b and the main body of the adapter 10x, and the write port 50b is separated from the main body of the adapter 10x at the boundary of this notch 61. Therefore, after breaking off, a break mark 60x remains on the adapter 10 as shown in Fig. 5(b). As shown in FIG. 5(c), the adaptor 10y of the second modified example is an example in which the write port 50b (see FIG. 1), which is used to write information to the power supply instruction device 50, has not yet been broken off. In this example, the power supply condition information is written via the write port 50b, and when the writing is completed, the main body of the adaptor 10y is separated from the write port by using the wiring cutting structure 60. Therefore, it is preferable that the breakage marks 60x remain on the adaptor 10y after the breakage, as shown in FIG.

[0049] [Second embodiment] A second embodiment is a power supplying method using an adapter for a power supplying device for rapid charging, which outputs a predetermined power based on power supplying condition information including at least a set voltage and correction information, and an electronic device that uses the predetermined power from the power supplying device, and which is connected between the power supplying device and the electronic device and has the following configurations (i) to (ii): (i) a first connector connected to a power supply device, a second connector connected to an electronic device, and a power supply instruction device between the first connector and the second connector, which requests the power supply device to supply power, and increases or decreases the output voltage of the power supply device based on correction information indicating a required fluctuation value of the output voltage of the power supply device, thereby adjusting a detected voltage difference, which is a difference between the output voltage of the power supply device and a set voltage, to a value within a predetermined threshold value; (ii) The power supply instruction device includes a power supply condition information storage unit that stores power supply condition information indicating the power conditions for driving the electronic device, an information output unit that transmits the power supply condition information and correction information to a specified terminal of the first connector, and an automatic voltage adjustment unit that detects the output voltage and sets correction information indicating the amount of increase or decrease in the output voltage. The power supply method includes the following steps (1) to (4) in order. (1) A step in which the information output unit transmits power supply condition information to a predetermined terminal of the first connector. (2) A step in which the power supply device receives the power supply condition information and outputs a predetermined power based on the power supply condition information. (3) A process in which the automatic voltage adjustment unit detects the voltage of a specified output power, calculates the difference between the detected output voltage and a set voltage to obtain a detected voltage difference, and generates correction information if the detected voltage difference exceeds a threshold value. (4) A step in which the power supply instruction device increases or decreases the output voltage of the power supply device based on the correction information to adjust the detected voltage difference to a value within a predetermined threshold value.

[0050] 1. Preparation process The preparation process is a process that should be performed before process (1) and involves setting power supply condition information from outside in the power supply condition information storage unit and connecting a power supply device and electronic device that comply with the rapid charging standard to the connectors at both ends. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, a writing device (not shown) is connected to a writing port 50b provided on the adapter 10, power supply condition information is written using a specified programming, and then the writing device is removed from the writing port 50b. Here, if necessary, it is preferable to disconnect the write port 50b and the operation selection unit 31 from the adapter 10 using a wiring disconnection structure (see FIG. 5) after the power supply condition information has been written. The reason for this is that doing so prevents the user from overwriting the power supply condition information with incorrect information, and by eliminating the wiring cutting structure, it also contributes to making the adapter 10 smaller.

[0051] On the other hand, although not specifically shown, if the write port is located at an unused terminal in the first connector, it is also preferable to connect a writing device to the first connector and write the power supply condition information using a specified programming. The reason for this is that users who do not have a specific writing device are prevented from rewriting the power supply condition information, while manufacturers and maintenance personnel who have a specific writing device can easily rewrite the information in a later process. That is, it is preferable that a power supply device adaptor in which the write port is arranged in an unused terminal of the first connector is used when the power supply condition information is changed in a later process.

[0052] After writing or the like is completed, the adapter 10 is connected to the power supply device 12 via the first connector 11 and to the electronic device 14 via the second connector 13 as shown in FIG. Next, an initial voltage, typically 5V DC, is applied to output line 19 from a power supply. Then, power supply unit 23 receives this voltage and generates Vdd, which is the drive voltage for adapter 10. Drive voltage Vdd is applied to necessary parts in adapter 10, including power supply instruction device 50, so that power supply instruction device 50 and the like start up. Furthermore, the control unit 50a reads the state of the operation selection unit 31 and the power supply condition information storage unit 15, and recognizes which of the power supply condition information for operating the power supply device 12, the environmental response unit 25, etc. to drive. Finally, the control unit 50a starts an operation according to the recognized information, etc. In other words, it transitions to a corresponding subroutine program, and the preparation process ends.

[0053] 2.Process (1) Step (1) is a step in which the information output unit transmits power supply condition information to a predetermined terminal of the first connector. That is, the information output unit selects and reads either one of the set voltage or a combination of one set voltage and one set current from the power supply condition information recorded in the power supply condition information storage unit. Specifically, in the case of the QC standard, information on whether multiple pins in the information output unit should be turned on, off, or open based on the required output voltage is input to the power supply condition information storage unit, and in the case of the USB PD standard, information on the set voltage and set current expressed in hexadecimal is input based on the required output voltage. Next, in accordance with the destination pin information attached to the read power supply condition information, in the case of the QC standard, the power supply condition information is sent to the D+ and D- terminals of the first connector of the power supply device, whereas in the case of the USB PD standard, the power supply condition information is sent to the CC terminal of the first connector.

[0054] 3.Process (2) Step (2) is a step in which the power supply device receives the power supply condition information and outputs a predetermined power based on the power supply condition information. That is, the power supply device receives the transmitted power supply condition information and determines whether an electrical signal conforming to a compatible quick charging standard, either the USB PD standard or the QC standard, has been transmitted. Next, if the rapid charging standard of the power supply device matches the transmitted power supply condition information, the power supply device outputs the power (e.g., 13V) specified in the power supply condition information, and if they do not match, the power supply device supplies power at an initial voltage (e.g., 5V).

[0055] 4.Process (3) Step (3) is a step in which the automatic voltage adjustment unit detects the voltage of the outputted specified power, calculates the difference between the detected output voltage and the set voltage to obtain a detected voltage difference, and generates correction information if the detected voltage difference exceeds a threshold value. That is, the automatic voltage adjustment unit detects the voltage of the outputted predetermined power, and calculates the output voltage detected via the voltage divider circuit back from the voltage division ratio to obtain the output voltage. Next, the difference between the obtained output voltage and the power supply condition information stored in the power supply condition information storage unit is calculated to obtain a detected voltage difference. Then, the detected voltage difference is compared with a threshold value previously recorded in the automatic voltage adjustment unit, and correction information is generated if the detected voltage difference is greater.

[0056] In addition, regarding the method of detecting the output voltage by the automatic voltage adjustment unit, if the time when the output voltage is detected is designated as X1, and the times when the output voltage is detected at predetermined time intervals from X1 are designated as X2 to X5, it is preferable to obtain a detected voltage difference by taking the difference between the average value of the output voltage at times X1 to X5 and the set voltage, and generate correction information when the detected voltage difference exceeds a threshold value. The reason for this is that it is possible to prevent the automatic voltage regulator from generating erroneous correction information due to noise in the output voltage, thereby reducing the power consumption of the automatic voltage regulator and effectively extending the power supply time of the power supply device. Therefore, it is more preferable to calculate the average of the three numerical values ​​excluding the maximum and minimum numerical values ​​at the points X1 to X5. It is also preferable to generate correction information when the detected voltage differences are the same in sign and in positive.

[0057] Furthermore, it is preferable that the automatic voltage adjustment unit satisfies the following relational expression (a) when the time point when the output voltage is detected is α1, the time point when the output voltage is detected a predetermined time after α1 is α2, and the time point when the output voltage is detected a predetermined time after α2 is α3. (α2-α1)<(α3-α2) (a) Here, the value of (α2-α1) is preferably within the range of 0.05 to 3600 seconds. Moreover, the value of (α3-α2) is preferably within the range of 0.1 to 3600 seconds. The reason for this is that fine adjustments can be made at the start of power supply, when the output voltage fluctuates greatly, and when the output voltage fluctuations have settled down, the power consumption of the automatic voltage adjustment unit can be reduced, thereby effectively extending the power supply time of the power supply device. Therefore, the value of (α2-α1) is more preferably within the range of 0.1 to 1800 seconds, and further preferably within the range of 0.2 to 600 seconds. Moreover, the value of (α3-α2) is more preferably within the range of 0.2 to 1800 seconds, and further preferably within the range of 0.4 to 600 seconds.

[0058] 5.Process (4) Step (4) is a step in which the power supply instruction device increases or decreases the output voltage of the power supply device based on the correction information to adjust the detected voltage difference to a value within a predetermined threshold value. That is, the information output unit reads the correction information generated by the automatic voltage adjustment unit. Next, the power supply condition information is sent to the specified first connector, and the read correction information is sent to the power supply device, and the output voltage of the power supply device is increased or decreased to adjust the detected voltage difference to a value within a predetermined threshold value. Specifically, it is preferable that the step is a step of transmitting a predetermined pulse signal sequence, in particular a pulse signal sequence conforming to the USB PD PPS standard or the QC3.0 standard, the number of which is increased by the fluctuation request value.

[0059] 6.Other processes (1) Initial self-check process As another step, it is preferable to have an initial self-check step between the preparation step and step (1). That is, the power supply device outputs an initial voltage without receiving power supply condition information. Next, the automatic voltage adjustment unit detects the output voltage at the output initial voltage. Then, the detected initial voltage is compared with a preset value to determine whether or not to transmit power supply condition information and correction information. Specifically, it is preferable that the preset value is set to 0.2V, and if the detected output voltage (initial voltage of 5V based on the USB standard) is less than 4.8V or more than 5.2V immediately after connecting the adapter to the power supply device, the power supply condition information and correction information are not transmitted. This is because an initial check can be performed to see if there is an abnormality in the power supply device before the high voltage for quick charging is reached, and even if an abnormality occurs in the power supply device, the output at the initial voltage can be maintained without completely stopping the power supply.

[0060] (2) Intermediate self-check process As another step, it is preferable to have an intermediate self-check step after step (4). That is, the time point when the output voltage increased or decreased based on the correction information generated in step (3) is detected is designated as Y1. Next, the times when the output voltage is detected at predetermined time intervals from time point Y1 are designated as Y2 to Y5. Then, this is a step of comparing the average of the detected voltage differences at times Y1 to Y5 with a predetermined value preset in the automatic voltage adjustment unit to determine whether or not to transmit the power supply condition information and the correction information. Specifically, it is preferable to stop the power supply condition information and the correction information when the preset value is 0.2 V and the average of the detected voltage differences at the time points Y1 to Y5 is 0.8 V. At this time, the output voltage of the power supply device from which the power supply condition information and the correction information have not been received becomes the initial voltage. For example, the average of the detected voltage differences at times Y1 to Y5 is 0.8 V when the set voltage is 12 V and the detected output voltage is 12.8 V at time Y1, 12.8 V at time Y2, 13.2 V at time Y3, 12.6 V at time Y4, and 12.6 V at time Y5, etc. The reason for this is that even if the power supply device is in use, a self-check can be performed midway to check whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the power supply device, and even if an abnormality has occurred in the power supply device, the power supply can be maintained at the initial voltage without completely stopping.

[0061] (3) Switching process between USB PD and QC standards As another step, it is preferable to have a step of switching between the USB PD standard and the QC standard between the steps (1) and (2). That is, first, the information output unit outputs power supply condition information based on the USB PD standard from the power supply condition information recorded in the power supply condition information storage unit to the CC terminal of the first connector. Next, if a signal indicating that the power supply condition information has been received is not returned from the power supply device within a specified time, it is preferable to have a step of transmitting power supply condition information based on the QC standard to the D+ and D- terminals of the first connector. This is because the output voltage output to the electronic device can be automatically adjusted by a predetermined automatic voltage adjustment unit, regardless of which rapid charging standard the power supply device complies with.

[0062] 7. Example of operation (1) Example of operation of the automatic voltage regulator (Example 1) Operation example 1 is an example in which the automatic voltage regulator detects the output voltage and generates correction information in step (3) as shown in FIG. Here, a first operational example of the automatic voltage regulator will be described with reference to FIGS. First, in the automatic voltage regulator 21, a threshold value V0 is set as a target for comparing the detected voltage difference (step S50 in FIG. 4). Next, the power supply device 12 retrieves the set voltage Vn of the power supply condition information instructed by the power supply instruction device 50 from the power supply condition information storage unit 15 (step S51 in FIG. 4). Moreover, the output voltage Vx supplied to the output line 19 is taken in and detected from the voltage detection circuit 21a (step S52 in FIG. 4). Here, the set voltage Vn can be calculated backwards from the voltage division ratio of the voltage detection circuit 21a. Furthermore, the automatic voltage regulator 21 determines whether or not a detected voltage difference, which is the difference between the output voltage Vx and the set voltage Vn, is within a threshold range (step S53 in FIG. 4). If the detected voltage difference is within the threshold value, it can be determined that the power supply device is operating normally and that there is no initial fluctuation in the power receiving unit of the electronic device, and therefore the voltage adjustment process is terminated (step S63 in FIG. 4).

[0063] On the other hand, when the detected voltage difference is not within the threshold value, the automatic voltage regulator 21 determines whether the abnormal determination time Tx has elapsed (step S54 in FIG. 4). Here, the abnormal determination time Tx is an arbitrary time that is considered preferable for making an abnormal determination. Specifically, it is a time that is appropriate for monitoring the initial fluctuations of the electronic device, or a time that is appropriate for monitoring pulse dropout or malfunction when the information output unit 17 outputs the power supply condition information to the first connector 11. If this time is too long, the intention to perform abnormal processing will be delayed. When the abnormal determination time Tx has not elapsed, if the voltage monitoring time T1 (T1 < Tx) has elapsed, the automatic voltage regulator 21 reads the voltage of the voltage monitoring circuit (steps S55 and S52 in FIG. 4). Also, when the abnormal determination time Tx has elapsed, correction information based on the detected voltage difference is generated (step S61 in FIG. 4). Then, it returns to the step of capturing the set voltage Vn of the power supply condition information in step S51. At this time, an alert may be issued by a display unit or the like provided on the adapter 10.

[0064] (2) Operation example in the case of QC3.0 (operation example 2) Operation example 2 is an example in the case where the fast charging standard of the power supply device is QC3.0 in steps (1) to (4). First, the information output unit 17 controls the potentials of the information output ports P1 and P2 to set the D+ terminal and the D- terminal to 0.6V each (initialization). This voltage state is maintained for a predetermined time (here, 1000 msec or more). Next, the information output unit 17 controls the potentials of the information output ports P1 and P2 to set the D+ terminal to 0.6V and the D- terminal to 3.3V. This voltage state is maintained for a predetermined time (here, 1 msec or more). Thereby, the instruction of the QC3.0 mode to the power supply device is completed. Next, the information output unit 17 controls the potentials of the information output ports P1 and P2 to apply pulses standardized by QC3.0 to the D+ terminal and the D- terminal. In QC3.0, the power supply voltage can be specified in 0.2V steps depending on the number of pulses with a pulse width of 40 msec applied to the D+ and D- terminals at 0.6V / 3.3V. Therefore, if you want to increase the power supply voltage, fix the D- terminal at 3.3V and apply the required number of pulses with a pulse width of 40 ms that increase from 0.6V to 3.3V to the D+ terminal. Conversely, if you want to decrease the power supply voltage, fix the D+ terminal at 0.6V and apply the required number of pulses with a pulse width of 40 ms that decrease from 3.3V to 0.6V to the D- terminal. By performing the above operation, the power supply condition information for the QC3.0 mode is instructed to the power supply device.

[0065] (3) Example of operation for USB PD PPS (Example 3) Operation example 3 is an example in which the rapid charging standard of the power supply device in steps (1) to (4) is the USB PD PPS standard. First, as shown in FIG. 1, the information output unit 17 transmits power supply condition information standardized by USB PD from the information output port P3 to the CC terminal of the first connector 11. As a result, the power supply device outputs one of the voltages 5V, 9V, 15V, or 20V depending on the data content of the power supply condition information. At the same time, the automatic voltage regulator generates correction information for the pulse signal train standardized by the USB PD PPS standard. The power supply condition information is superimposed on a data signal and transmitted to the CC terminal of the first connector 11 via the information output unit 17. The power supply device then outputs the received correction information so as to increase the voltage of 5V, 9V, 15V, or 20V output based on the power supply condition information by 20 mV per pulse.

[0066] (4) Example of operation of the environmental response unit (Example 4) The operation example 4 is an example in which the environment response unit is operated as another process. 1, when a selection is made to operate the environment response unit 25, the control unit 50a starts the environment response unit 25. In response to this, the environment response unit 25 recognizes the currently specified power supply condition A and retrieves the sensor threshold value St from the memory. Next, the environment response unit 25 takes in the sensor output Ss and compares it with the sensor threshold value St. If the sensor output Ss is, for example, larger than the sensor threshold value (there may be a usage where the sensor output Ss is smaller than the sensor threshold value), the environment response unit 25 instructs the information output unit 17 to output another power supply condition B. On the other hand, if the sensor output Ss is smaller than or equal to the sensor threshold, the environment response unit 25 judges whether the processing end time has come. Here, the processing end time is any time that is considered preferable in terms of using the environmental information. It may be infinite. If this is too short, the environmental information will not be reflected. If the processing end time has not yet come, the environment response unit 25 goes to retrieve the sensor output Ss. Moreover, if the processing end time has come but the sensor output Ss does not exceed the sensor threshold value St, the power supply condition A is maintained.

[0067] (5) Operation example of the boost processing unit (operation example 5) Operation example 5 is an example in which a boost processing unit is operated as another process. 1, when it is selected to operate the boost processing unit 27, the control unit 50a starts the boost processing unit 27. In response to this, the boost processing unit 27 retrieves the boost voltage Vm, which is the target voltage, from the memory. Next, the boost processing unit 27 enables the boost circuit 27a and controls its operation by a known method (such as applying an on-off pulse). At that time, the boost processing unit 27 takes in the output voltage Vx detected by the voltage detection circuit 21a of the automatic voltage adjustment unit 21 and compares it with the boost voltage Vm. At this time, when the output voltage Vx falls within a predetermined range with respect to the boosted voltage Vm, the boost process ends. Then, when the output voltage Vx is within a predetermined range of the boost voltage Vm, the boost processing unit 27 judges whether the processing end time has come. Here, the processing end time is any time that is preferable for continuing the boost processing. It may be infinite. If this is too short, the boost cannot be performed. On the other hand, if the processing end time has not yet come, the boost processing unit 27 takes in the output voltage Vx detected by the voltage detection circuit 21a and compares it with the boosted voltage Vm. On the other hand, if the processing end time has come but the output voltage Vx does not fall within a predetermined range for the boosted voltage Vm, an alert or the like is issued as necessary and the boost processing is terminated.

[0068] (6) Example of operation of the sleep prevention unit (Example 6) Operation example 6 is an example in which a sleep prevention unit is operated as another process. First, the sleep prevention unit 29 outputs an ON signal pulse of a predetermined pulse width to the switch unit of the sleep prevention circuit 29a. Furthermore, since the sleep prevention circuit 29a flows a predetermined current defined by the constant current element, current consumption occurs in the output line 19. Therefore, the power supply device recognizes that current consumption is occurring, and can prevent the device from entering the sleep mode. Next, the sleep prevention unit 29 judges whether the processing end time has come. Here, the processing end time is any time that is preferable for continuing sleep prevention. Normally, sleep prevention is performed while the adapter 10 is being used, so it is sufficient to set the time as long as the adapter 10 is operating, that is, infinity. However, it is also possible to set a predetermined end time. If the processing end time has not yet come, the sleep prevention unit 29 outputs an ON signal pulse to the sleep prevention circuit 29a. The cycle for outputting the ON signal pulse is set to a time at which the power supply device does not enter the sleep mode. [Industrial Applicability]

[0069] The present invention relates to an adapter for a power supply device for rapid charging that can automatically adjust and output a voltage to an electronic device, and a power supply method using the same. In other words, a specified amount of power can be supplied even to electronic devices that do not support rapid charging, and in the event that an excessively high voltage is output due to an abnormality in the power supply device, the output voltage can be reduced to a set voltage to prevent breakdown of the electronic devices. Moreover, the power consumption of the automatic voltage regulator can be reduced, and the power supply time of the power supply device can be effectively extended. Furthermore, since an additional boost circuit or the like is no longer necessary, the adapter as a whole can be made smaller. Therefore, when used as an adapter for a notebook PC, it is expected that it will effectively prevent the operation of the notebook PC from becoming unstable even when it is connected to a power source with large output fluctuations, such as those installed on bullet trains or automobiles. Furthermore, when used as an adapter for a cooling fan attached to the clothing of a construction worker, etc., the output voltage will not change even if voltage modulation such as repeated changes in the strength of the cooling fan is performed, and it is expected that the cooling fan will be effectively prevented from breaking down. Furthermore, when used as an adapter for an onboard fish finder, even if a communication error occurs, the automatic voltage regulator will adjust to make up for the lack of voltage, effectively preventing power shortages in electronic devices. In other words, the present invention has extremely high industrial applicability.

[0070] 10, 10x, 10y: Adapter for power supply device 11: 1st connector 13: 2nd connector 15: Power supply condition information storage unit 17: Information output unit 19: Output line 21: Automatic voltage regulator 21a: Voltage detection circuit 23: Power supply section 25: Environmental response section 25a: Sensor group 27: Boost processing unit 27a: Boost circuit 27b: Switch section 29: Sleep prevention section 31: Operation selection unit 50: Power supply instruction device 50a: Control unit 50b: Write port 60: Wiring cutting structure 60x: Breaking marks 61:Notch

Claims

1. An adaptor for a power supply device is connected between a power supply device for rapid charging, which outputs a predetermined power based on power supply condition information including at least a set voltage, and an electronic device that uses the predetermined power from the power supply device, a first connector connected to the power supply device, a second connector connected to the electronic device, and a power supply instruction device between the first connector and the second connector, which requests the power supply device to output a predetermined power, and increases or decreases the output voltage of the power supply device based on correction information indicating a required fluctuation value of the output voltage of the power supply device, so that a detected voltage difference, which is a difference between the output voltage and a set voltage, is within a predetermined threshold value; The power supply instruction device is an adapter for a power supply device for rapid charging, which is provided with: a power supply condition information storage unit that stores the power supply condition information indicating the power conditions for driving the electronic device; an information output unit that transmits the power supply condition information and the correction information to a specified terminal of the first connector; and an automatic voltage adjustment unit that detects the output voltage and generates the correction information from the difference between the output voltage and a set voltage.

2. 2. The adaptor for a power supply device for rapid charging according to claim 1, wherein the automatic voltage adjustment unit is configured to generate, as the correction information, a pulse signal train whose number is based on a fluctuation requirement value.

3. 3. The adaptor for a power supply device for rapid charging according to claim 1, wherein the automatic voltage adjustment unit detects the output voltage via a voltage divider circuit.

4. The automatic voltage regulator detects the temperature, humidity, light intensity and CO2 as the surrounding environment. 2 The adapter for a power supply device for rapid charging according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it is connected to an environmental response unit that requests the generation of the correction information based on a sensor output that measures at least one of the concentrations of.

5. 5. The adaptor for a power supply device for rapid charging according to claim 1, wherein the power supply instruction device is provided with a sleep prevention unit that prevents the power supply device from going into sleep mode by supplying a current of a predetermined value or more from the power supply device to the electronic device at least at predetermined time intervals.

6. A power supply method using an adaptor for a power supply device for rapid charging, which outputs a predetermined power based on power supply condition information including at least a set voltage, and an electronic device that uses the predetermined power from the power supply device, the adaptor comprising: a first connector connected to the power supply device, a second connector connected to the electronic device, and a power supply instruction device between the first connector and the second connector, which requests the power supply device to supply power, and increases or decreases the output voltage of the power supply device based on correction information indicating a required fluctuation value of the output voltage of the power supply device, thereby adjusting a detected voltage difference, which is a difference between the output voltage of the power supply device and the set voltage, to a value within a predetermined threshold value, the power supply instruction device includes a power supply condition information storage unit that stores power supply condition information indicating power conditions for driving the electronic device, an information output unit that transmits the power supply condition information and the correction information to a predetermined terminal of the first connector, and an automatic voltage adjustment unit that detects the output voltage and generates the correction information from a difference between the output voltage and a set voltage; The power supply method further comprises the following steps (1) to (4): (1) A step in which the information output unit transmits the power supply condition information to a predetermined terminal of the first connector. (2) The power supply device receives the power supply condition information and outputs the predetermined power based on the power supply condition information. (3) The automatic voltage adjustment unit detects the voltage of the specified power output, calculates the difference between the detected output voltage and the set voltage to obtain the detected voltage difference, and generates the correction information when the detected voltage difference exceeds a threshold value. (4) A step in which the power supply instruction device increases or decreases an output voltage of the power supply device based on the correction information to adjust the detected voltage difference to a value within a predetermined threshold value.

7. The power supply method according to claim 6, characterized in that the automatic voltage adjustment unit determines the detected voltage difference by taking the difference between the average value of the output voltage at times X1 to X5 and the set voltage, assuming that the time point when the output voltage is detected is X1 and that the times when the output voltage is detected at predetermined time intervals from X1 are X2 to X5, and generates the correction information when the detected voltage difference exceeds a threshold value.

8. The power supply method according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the automatic voltage adjustment unit is configured to set an initial voltage to a voltage output by the power supply device when the power supply device has not received the power supply condition information, and to not transmit the power supply condition information and the correction information from the information output unit when the detected initial voltage exceeds a predetermined value.

Citation Information

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