Power Supply System

Abstract

To facilitate installation of a power supply mat in a suitable place.SOLUTION: A power supply system includes a computer (server 500) which evaluates advantages obtained in installing a power supply mat which carries out wireless power supply to a mobile body, for each of a plurality of places in a target region where the power supply mat may be installed. A power supply method includes: evaluating advantages obtained in installing a power supply mat which carries out wireless power supply to a mobile body, for each of a plurality of places in a target region where the power supply mat may be installed; and displaying an evaluation result of the advantages for each of the places in the target region.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a power supply system and a power supply method. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, JP 2018-157686 A (Patent Document 1) discloses that when a vehicle travels along a power supply lane in which multiple power supply units are provided along a driving lane, if the presence of a foreign object is detected on the road in front of the vehicle, power supply from power supply units located within a specified range before or after the point where the presence of the foreign object is detected is stopped or suppressed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2018-157686 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The power supply unit described in Patent Document 1 is buried in the road. Each of the multiple power supply units includes one power transmission coil. In response to this, the present inventors propose a power supply mat that can be easily installed. The power supply mat is installed on a floor or a wall, for example, and is configured to wirelessly supply power to a moving object that approaches the power supply mat.

[0005] The power supply mat has a high degree of freedom in terms of installation location. Since there are many possible installation locations for the power supply mat, it is not necessarily easy for the user to select an installation location for the power supply mat.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to make it easier to install a power supply mat in an appropriate location. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A power supply system according to a first aspect of the present disclosure includes a computer that evaluates the benefits that can be obtained by installing a power supply mat that wirelessly supplies power to a moving object for each of a plurality of locations within a target area where the power supply mat can be installed.

[0008] Hereinafter, the computer is also referred to as the "evaluation computer." The location evaluated by the evaluation computer is also referred to as the "evaluation target." The advantage obtained when the power supply mat is installed in the evaluation target is also referred to as the "installation advantage."

[0009] The evaluation computer may be a stationary server or may be installed in a mobile terminal. Examples of the mobile body include unmanned mobile bodies (automated guided vehicles (AGVs), drones, etc.) and vehicles (cars, ships, etc.).

[0010] The evaluation computer evaluates the installation merit for each evaluation target in the target area. The user can refer to the installation merit evaluated by the evaluation computer when selecting an installation location for the power supply mat. Therefore, the evaluation computer can easily select an installation location for the power supply mat. The user can easily install the power supply mat in an appropriate location.

[0011] The evaluation computer may be configured to evaluate the installation merits of each location in the target area using results of observation (observation results) of at least one of the behavior of each mobile object, the remaining battery power of each mobile object, and the density of people during a predetermined period in which one or more mobile objects are used in the target area. Hereinafter, the above-mentioned predetermined period is also referred to as an "observation period."

[0012] The evaluation computer evaluates the installation merits using the above observation results, making it easier to obtain accurate evaluation results.

[0013] The evaluation computer may be configured to evaluate that the greater the traffic volume of moving objects in a location during the observation period, the greater the benefit that would be obtained by installing the power supply mat.

[0014] If a power supply mat is installed in a location with a high volume of mobile traffic, it is expected that the frequency of use of the power supply mat will be high. High frequency of use of the power supply mat means that the benefits of installing the mat are great. With the above configuration, it becomes easier to accurately evaluate the benefits of installing the mat.

[0015] The evaluation computer may be configured to evaluate that the longer the time that the moving object stayed in a location during the observation period, the greater the benefit that would be obtained by installing the power supply mat.

[0016] If a power supply mat is installed in a location where mobile objects spend a lot of time, it is expected that the usage time of the power supply mat will be long. A long usage time of the power supply mat means that the installation benefit is large. With the above configuration, it becomes easier to accurately evaluate the installation benefit.

[0017] The evaluation computer may be configured to evaluate that the greater the benefit that would be obtained by installing the power supply mat in a location where the remaining amount of stored power in the moving body during the observation period is, the greater the benefit that would be obtained by installing the power supply mat.

[0018] If a power supply mat is installed in a location where the remaining power of a mobile object is low, it is expected that the mobile object with low remaining power (i.e., the mobile object requiring power supply) will be able to receive power from the power supply mat. The fact that the installation of the power supply mat allows the mobile object requiring power supply to receive power from the power supply mat means that the installation has a great merit. The above configuration makes it easier to accurately evaluate the merit of the installation.

[0019] The remaining amount of stored electricity in a mobile body can be expressed, for example, by the State of Charge (SOC) of a power storage device included in the mobile body. The SOC is expressed, for example, as a ratio of the current amount of stored electricity to the amount of stored electricity in a fully charged state, on a scale of 0 to 100%.

[0020] The evaluation computer may be configured to evaluate that the lower the density of people in a location during the observation period, the greater the benefit that would be obtained by installing the power supply mat.

[0021] If the power supply mat is installed in a place with low human density, it is expected that the power supply mat will be easily accessible to moving objects. The ease with which moving objects can use the power supply mat means that there is a large benefit to installing the power supply mat. With the above configuration, it becomes easier to accurately evaluate the benefit of installing the power supply mat.

[0022] The evaluation computer may be configured to use the observation results from the observation period to suggest improvements that will increase the benefits that will be obtained when the power supply mat is installed in the installation location desired by the user.

[0023] When a user has a desired location to install the power supply mat, the evaluation computer proposes an improvement plan that will increase the benefits of installing the power supply mat in the desired location. This makes it easier for the user to install the power supply mat in a location that offers the greatest benefits. With the above configuration, the user can more effectively use the power supply mat.

[0024] Examples of remedial measures include changing the layout within the target area or changing the control of the moving object.

[0025] Any of the power supply systems described above may further include a display device. The evaluation computer may be configured to cause the display device to display an evaluation result of the installation merit for each location in the target area.

[0026] In the above configuration, after the evaluation computer performs the above-mentioned evaluation, the evaluation result is displayed on the display device, so that the user can see the evaluation result and select the installation location of the power supply mat.

[0027] The evaluation computer may be configured to evaluate that the more difficult the power supply mat is to deteriorate, the greater the benefit that can be obtained by installing the power supply mat. The evaluation computer may be configured to select, for each location in the target area, the power supply mat that provides the greatest benefit when installed from among options including multiple types of power supply mats.

[0028] According to the above configuration, deterioration of the power supply mat after installation can be easily suppressed.

[0029] In any of the power supply systems described above, the power supply mat may have a flexibility that allows it to be rolled into a cylindrical shape. Since such a power supply mat can be rolled into a cylindrical shape, it is easy to carry.

[0030] In any of the power supply systems described above, the power supply mat may be formed by combining a plurality of plate materials. The power supply mat may be configured to be disassembled into a plurality of plate materials. Each of the plurality of plate materials may include one or more power transmission coils. Since such a power supply mat is configured to be disassembled into a plurality of plate materials, it is easy to carry.

[0031] In any of the above-described power supply systems, the power supply mat may include a plurality of power transmission coils. The power supply mat may be configured to supply power to a moving object traveling on the power supply mat using the plurality of power transmission coils. With this configuration, the moving object can receive power from the power supply mat while traveling.

[0032] A power supply method according to a second aspect of the present disclosure includes evaluating the benefits to be gained by installing a power supply mat for each of a plurality of locations within a target area where a power supply mat that wirelessly supplies power to a moving body may be installed, and displaying the evaluation results of the installation benefits for each location within the target area.

[0033] Like the power supply system described above, the power supply method described above also makes it easier to install the power supply mat in an appropriate location. Effect of the Invention

[0034] According to the present disclosure, it becomes possible to easily install a power supply mat in an appropriate location. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0035] [Figure 1]1 is a diagram showing a power supply mat according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 2 is a diagram showing an example of a state in which the power supply mat shown in FIG. 1 is in use. FIG. [Diagram 3] 1A to 1C are diagrams for explaining a configuration of a moving object, a power supply mat, and a power supply facility thereof in a power supply system according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 4 is a flowchart showing a power supply method according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining functions of a computer (server) according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of a usage mode of a moving object in the factory shown in FIG. 5. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a first example of an evaluation result of an installation merit. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a second example of an evaluation result of the installation merit. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a third example of an evaluation result of the installation merit. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a fourth example of an evaluation result of the installation merit. [Figure 11] 11 is a flowchart showing a process for evaluating the installation merit executed by a computer (server) according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a first example of an improvement measure that provides a large installation merit and its effect in the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a second example of an improvement measure that provides a large installation merit and its effect in the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a modification of the process executed by the computer illustrated in FIG. 5. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a lift-up mat. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a wall-mounted mat. [Figure 17] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a power supply mat selected for each location in a target area, which is displayed by the process shown in FIG. 14. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0036] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference characters and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0037] [Embodiment 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a power supply mat according to this embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1, the power supply mat 100 includes a sheet base material 110 and a plurality of power transmission coils 120 provided inside the sheet base material 110. The power supply mat 100 is configured to be portable. The weight of the power supply mat 100 is light enough to be carried by one or several people, for example. In addition, a power supply facility (see FIG. 3) of the power supply mat 100 described later is configured to be detachable from the power supply mat 100. The power supply mat 100 has flexibility to the extent that it can be rolled up into a cylindrical shape. FIG. 1 shows the power supply mat 100 in a state in which it is partially rolled up into a cylindrical shape. However, the power supply mat 100 can also be rolled up entirely into a cylindrical shape. By rolling the power supply mat 100 into a cylindrical shape, the power supply mat 100 becomes easier to carry. The power supply mat 100 may be stored in a state in which it is rolled up into a cylindrical shape. The power supply mat 100 can also be spread out into a sheet shape. The power supply mat 100 is used in a spread out state (see FIG. 2 described later). The power-supply mat 100 can be treated as a carpet. The power-supply mat 100 is configured to be installable on an indoor floor. The power-supply mat 100 may be installed in an indoor passageway (e.g., an intersection of passageways). After being installed on the floor, the power-supply mat 100 may be fixed with a removable fastener (e.g., a clamp or a gripper).

[0038] In this embodiment, the power supply mat 100 in the unfolded state has a rectangular outer shape (planar shape). However, the outer shape of the power supply mat 100 is not limited to a rectangular shape and can be changed as appropriate. The outer shape of the power supply mat 100 may be a polygon other than a square (triangle, pentagon, hexagon, etc.), or may be a circle. In this embodiment, the multiple power transmission coils 120 included in the power supply mat 100 are built into the sheet base material 110. However, this is not limited, and the power transmission coils 120 may be provided so as to be exposed on the surface of the power supply mat 100. The sheet base material 110 is formed of, for example, resin. However, the material of the sheet base material 110 can be changed as appropriate. The power transmission coil 120 is formed of, for example, metal. However, the material of the power transmission coil 120 can be changed as appropriate. For example, the power transmission coil 120 may be formed of a conductive resin. The number of power transmission coils 120 included in the power supply mat 100 is arbitrary, and may be 2 or more and less than 10, 10 or more and less than 100, or 100 or more.

[0039] In this embodiment, a plurality of power transmission coils 120 are regularly arranged vertically and horizontally on the mat surface (the main surface of the power supply mat 100). The power transmission coils 120 are arranged, for example, in a lattice pattern. However, the arrangement of the power transmission coils 120 is not limited to this, and can be changed as appropriate. The power transmission coils 120 may be arranged irregularly. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the power transmission coil 120 is formed in a regular hexagon in a plan view, but the shape of the power transmission coil 120 can be changed as appropriate. The planar shape of the power transmission coil 120 may be a polygon other than a hexagon (for example, a rectangle) or may be a circle. The size of the power transmission coil 120 may also be changed as appropriate according to the application of the power supply mat 100 (for example, the structure of a moving body using the power supply mat 100).

[0040] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a state in which the power supply mat 100 is in use. In the example shown in FIG. 2, moving objects 201 to 208 are placed on the power supply mat 100. A plurality of power transmission coils 120 included in the power supply mat 100 are configured to be able to supply power to different moving objects individually. Wireless power supply is performed to the moving objects from the power transmission coil 120 electromagnetically coupled with the power receiving coil (secondary coil) of the moving objects. Any method of wireless power transmission (WPT) may be used, and may be a magnetic resonance method or an electromagnetic induction method. Other methods may also be adopted.

[0041] Each of the moving bodies 201 to 208 is a small BEV (electric vehicle) configured to be able to travel indoors. Each of the moving bodies 201 to 206 is an automated guided vehicle (AGV). Each of the moving bodies 207 and 208 is a one-seater electric vehicle.

[0042] The moving bodies 201-205 are the same type of AGV. Each of the moving bodies 201-205 is used to transport luggage. In the example shown in FIG. 2, each of the moving bodies 201-203 carries luggage alone. Meanwhile, the moving bodies 204 and 205 work together to carry large luggage that cannot be carried by a single vehicle. Each of the moving bodies 201-205 is suitable for transportation indoors. In the following, each of the moving bodies 201-205 will be referred to as "AGV 200" unless a distinction is made between them.

[0043] The mobile object 206 is an AGV with a delivery box. The delivery box may be configured to be lockable and unlockable. The delivery box may be lockable and unlockable only by a specific person (e.g., a person who has been successfully authenticated). The delivery box may be configured to be temperature adjustable. The delivery box may be a cooler.

[0044] Each of the moving bodies 207 and 208 is configured to be capable of being manually driven by a person riding thereon, or to be autonomously driven without a person riding thereon. The moving body 207 is equipped with a handlebar. The moving body 208 is equipped with a handlebar and a seat. Each of the moving bodies 207 and 208 is suitable as a vehicle for moving indoors.

[0045] 3 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of a moving object that receives power from the power supply mat 100, and the configuration of a power supply facility of the power supply mat 100. In the following, the configuration of an AGV 200 will be explained as an example of the moving object.

[0046] 2 and 3, the power supply system according to this embodiment includes a power supply mat 100, a power supply module 300, and a camera 350. The power supply module 300 corresponds to a power supply facility of the power supply mat 100. The power supply module 300 is electrically connected to the power supply mat 100 via a cable. The power supply module 300 includes a power supply circuit 310. The power supply circuit 310 is configured to receive power from a power system PG and supply power to each of the multiple power transmission coils 120 included in the power supply mat 100. The power system PG is a power network constructed by a power plant and a power transmission and distribution facility (not shown). The power system PG supplies AC power (for example, three-phase AC power) to the power supply module 300. The power supply circuit 310 includes a power conversion circuit. The power supply circuit 310 converts the power supplied from the power system PG into power suitable for the power supply mat 100 and supplies the converted power to the power supply mat 100.

[0047] The camera 350 is configured to receive power from the power supply module 300 and capture an image of the periphery of the power supply mat 100 from above the power supply mat 100. The power supply module 300 includes a power supply circuit (not shown) for the camera 350 in addition to the power supply circuit 310 for the power supply mat 100. The camera 350 may be attached to a wall. Alternatively, a support for supporting the camera 350 may be provided. In addition to an imaging element, the camera 350 includes a processor and an image processing circuit for analyzing the image captured by the imaging element. The camera 350 captures an image of the entire surface of the power supply mat 100 and identifies an object (living body or object) present on the power supply mat 100. The state of the power supply mat 100 is monitored by the camera 350.

[0048] The power supply mat 100 further includes, inside the sheet base material 110 (FIG. 1), a plurality of magnetic markers 121, a power control circuit 130, a wireless communication device 140, and a mat controller 150 that controls the power control circuit 130. The mat controller 150 may be a computer including a processor, a random access memory (RAM), a storage device, and a communication I / F (interface). In this embodiment, the processor of the mat controller 150 executes a program stored in the storage device, thereby performing various controls in the power supply mat 100. However, the various controls in the power supply mat 100 are not limited to being executed by software, and may also be executed by dedicated hardware (electronic circuitry).

[0049] The power control circuit 130 includes a connection switching circuit. This connection switching circuit is configured to receive power from the power supply circuit 310 and switch between connection / disconnection between each power transmitting coil 120 included in the power supply mat 100 and the power supply circuit 310. The connection switching circuit of the power control circuit 130 may include a switch provided for each power transmitting coil 120. In this embodiment, the connection switching circuit is a normally-off type switch circuit. When the mat controller 150 is in a stopped state (including a sleep state), each power transmitting coil 120 included in the power supply mat 100 is disconnected from the power supply circuit 310.

[0050] The power control circuit 130 further includes a power conversion circuit. This power conversion circuit is configured to apply a predetermined voltage to each of the power transmitting coils 120 electrically connected to the power supply circuit 310. Specifically, the power conversion circuit of the power control circuit 130 may include a resonant circuit (for example, an LC resonant circuit), a filter circuit, an inverter, and a PFC (Power Factor Correction) circuit. As will be described in detail later, the mat controller 150 controls the power control circuit 130 so as to apply a voltage suitable for wireless power transfer to the power transmitting coil 120 coupled to the power receiving coil (secondary coil) and to apply a weak voltage to the power transmitting coil 120 not coupled to the power receiving coil (secondary coil).

[0051] The multiple magnetic markers 121 are provided corresponding to the multiple power transmitting coils 120. That is, a magnetic marker 121 is provided for each power transmitting coil 120 included in the power supply mat 100. The magnetic marker 121 indicates the position of the corresponding power transmitting coil 120. The moving object can detect the position of the power transmitting coil 120 corresponding to the magnetic marker 121 by detecting the magnetism emitted by the magnetic marker 121 with a magnetic sensor.

[0052] Not only a power line but also a communication line is provided inside the cable connecting the power supply mat 100 and the power supply module 300. In this embodiment, the power supply mat 100 and the power supply module 300 are configured to be able to communicate with each other. The mat controller 150 is configured to control the power supply circuit 310 in the power supply module 300. In addition, the camera 350 is connected to the power supply mat 100 via the power supply module 300 so as to be able to communicate with each other. Information acquired by the camera 350 is input to the mat controller 150 via the power supply module 300.

[0053] The AGV 200 includes a battery 210, a receiving coil 220 that receives power contactlessly from the transmitting coil 120, a charging circuit 230 that charges the battery 210 using the power received by the receiving coil 220, a wireless communication device 240, and an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 250 that controls the charging circuit 230.

[0054] As the battery 210, a known vehicle power storage device (for example, a liquid secondary battery, an all-solid-state secondary battery, or a battery pack) can be used. Examples of vehicle secondary batteries include a lithium-ion battery and a nickel-metal hydride battery. Other power storage devices such as an electric double layer capacitor may be used instead of the secondary battery. The charging circuit 230 functions as an on-board charger for the battery 210. As the ECU 250, a computer including a processor, a RAM, a storage device, and a communication I / F can be used. In this embodiment, various controls in the AGV 200 are performed by the processor executing a program stored in the storage device in the ECU 250. However, the various controls in the AGV 200 are not limited to being executed by software, and can also be executed by dedicated hardware (electronic circuitry).

[0055] The AGV 200 is an autonomous vehicle configured to be able to run unmanned using power stored in a battery 210. Although not shown in the figure, the AGV 200 further includes an electric motor, a BMS (Battery Management System), an autonomous driving sensor, and a navigation system having map information. The AGV 200 runs on the power generated by the electric motor by supplying power from the battery 210 to the electric motor. The BMS also includes various sensors that detect the state of the battery 210 (e.g., current, voltage, and temperature), and the detection results are input to the ECU 250. For example, the charging power (charging current and charging voltage) of the battery 210 is detected by the BMS. The BMS also estimates the SOC (State Of Charge) of the battery 210, and the estimation result is input to the ECU 250.

[0056] The autonomous driving sensor is a sensor used for autonomous driving. However, the autonomous driving sensor may be used in a predetermined control when autonomous driving is not being performed. The autonomous driving sensor includes a sensor that acquires information for recognizing the external environment of the AGV 200 and a sensor that acquires information regarding the position and attitude of the AGV 200. The autonomous driving sensor includes at least one of a camera, a millimeter wave radar, and a lidar. Furthermore, the autonomous driving sensor includes an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) and a GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor.

[0057] The AGV 200 is configured to be capable of autonomous driving without a human driver according to a predetermined driving schedule. The driving schedule includes, for example, a departure time and an arrival time at a destination. The driving schedule may be set by any method. For example, a user may operate a user terminal (e.g., a mobile terminal) capable of wireless communication with the AGV 200 to set the driving schedule and the destination in the ECU 250. Alternatively, a user may operate a service tool connected to the AGV 200 so as to be capable of wired communication, or an HMI (Human Machine Interface) provided in the AGV 200 to set the driving schedule and the destination in the ECU 250.

[0058] The ECU 250 is configured to execute automatic driving (including automatic parking) according to a predetermined automatic driving program. The ECU 250 executes automatic driving of the AGV 200 by controlling an accelerator device, a brake device, and a steering device (none of which are shown) of the AGV 200 using various information acquired by an automatic driving sensor. The automatic driving program may be updated successively by OTA (Over The Air).

[0059] The charging circuit 230 is located between the battery 210 and the power receiving coil 220, and is controlled by the ECU 250. The charging circuit 230 includes a power conversion circuit. When the battery 210 is charged by the power supplied from the power transmitting coil 120 to the power receiving coil 220, the ECU 250 controls the charging circuit 230 so that appropriate power is input from the power receiving coil 220 to the battery 210. The charging circuit 230 converts the AC power input from the power receiving coil 220 into DC power, and outputs the DC power to the battery 210. Specifically, the charging circuit 230 may include a resonant circuit (for example, an LC resonant circuit), a filter circuit, and a rectifier circuit.

[0060] The AGV 200 further includes a position sensor module 221 that detects the position of the AGV 200 on the mat surface (the main surface of the power supply mat 100). The position sensor module 221 is used to align the power transmitting coil 120 and the power receiving coil 220. The position sensor module 221 is provided, for example, on the bottom surface of the AGV 200. The position sensor module 221 includes a plurality of magnetic sensors. The plurality of magnetic sensors may be arranged in a lattice pattern. Each magnetic sensor included in the position sensor module 221 detects magnetism emitted from the magnetic marker 121. The AGV 200 is configured to travel on the power supply mat 100 while aligning the power transmitting coil 120 and the power receiving coil 220 based on the detection result of the position sensor module 221.

[0061] In this embodiment, the power supply mat 100 and the AGV 200 are configured to be able to communicate with each other. The mat controller 150 and the ECU 250 may wirelessly communicate with each other via the wireless communication devices 140 and 240. Any communication method may be used. The mat controller 150 and the ECU 250 may be configured to perform short-range communication (for example, direct communication within a range around the power supply mat 100) such as NFC (Near Field Communication) or Bluetooth (registered trademark). The mat controller 150 and the ECU 250 may be configured to perform wireless communication using a wireless LAN (Local Area Network). The AGV 200 may include an RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) device. The mat controller 150 may be configured to receive a signal emitted from the RFID device of the AGV 200.

[0062] Although the configuration of the AGV 200 has been described above, each of the moving bodies 206 to 208 shown in Fig. 2 also has an internal configuration similar to the configuration shown in Fig. 3. If necessary, the above-mentioned circuit configuration may be modified to realize the same function.

[0063] In this embodiment, when no moving object is present within a predetermined area around the power supply mat 100, the mat controller 150 of the power supply mat 100 is in a stopped state (for example, a sleep state). Then, when a first moving object enters the above-mentioned predetermined area, the mat controller 150 is started. For example, when the camera 350 recognizes a moving object around the power supply mat 100, it may be determined that the moving object has entered the predetermined area. Also, when the wireless communication device 140 receives a signal emitted from an RFID device of the moving object, it may be determined that the moving object has entered the predetermined area. Also, the power supply system may be configured to determine whether or not the moving object has entered the predetermined area by using geofencing technology.

[0064] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a power supply method according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, when a predetermined charging start condition is met, the moving object starts the process shown in FIG. 4. The predetermined charging start condition is met, for example, when the moving object enters a predetermined area around the power supply mat 100. In the following, each step in the flowchart is simply represented as "S". In addition, although the following describes a case where the process shown in FIG. 4 is executed by the AGV 200, the process shown in FIG. 4 can also be executed by other moving objects (for example, the moving objects 206 to 208 shown in FIG. 2).

[0065] 4 together with FIG. 3, the ECU 250 of the AGV 200 transmits a power supply request (a signal requesting power supply) to the power supply mat 100 in S11.

[0066] When the power supply mat 100 receives the power supply request from the AGV 200 (ECU 250), the mat controller 150 starts the process shown in Fig. 4. Note that in S11, information for authentication may be transmitted from the moving object to the power supply mat 100. Then, the mat controller 150 may start the process shown in Fig. 4 only for the moving object that has been successfully authenticated.

[0067] In S21, the mat controller 150 determines whether any of the power transmitting coils 120 included in the power supply mat 100 is electromagnetically coupled to the power receiving coil 220 (secondary coil) of the AGV 200. The mat controller 150 may determine whether the power transmitting coil 120 and the power receiving coil 220 are electromagnetically coupled based on a coupling coefficient between the power transmitting coil 120 and the power receiving coil 220. The mat controller 150 may determine whether any of the power transmitting coils 120 is electromagnetically coupled to the power receiving coil 220 of the AGV 200 while supplying weak power to each power transmitting coil 120 included in the power supply mat 100.

[0068] When the power transmission coil 120 electromagnetically coupled to the power receiving coil 220 (hereinafter also referred to as a "coupling coil") is present in the power supply mat 100, YES is determined in S21, and the process proceeds to S22. In S22, the mat controller 150 controls the power control circuit 130 so that wireless power transmission (WPT) is performed from the coupling coil to the power receiving coil 220. In S22, a voltage for wireless power supply is applied to the coupling coil. However, when a predetermined object (for example, a foreign object such as a metal piece) is detected by the camera 350 on the power supply mat 100 (particularly in the vicinity of the coupling coil), WPT (S22) may be prohibited. When the coupling coil is not present in the power supply mat 100, NO is determined in S21, and the process proceeds to S23. In S23, the mat controller 150 controls the power control circuit 130 so that weak power is supplied to each power transmission coil 120 included in the power supply mat 100.

[0069] The mat controller 150 continues the above-mentioned processes of S21 to S23 until receiving a charging completion notification from the AGV 200. In S24, the mat controller 150 determines whether or not the power supply mat 100 has received a charging completion notification.

[0070] Meanwhile, the AGV 200 performs charging while traveling in S12. Specifically, the AGV 200 travels on the power supply mat 100 while aligning the power transmitting coil 120 and the power receiving coil 220 based on the detection result of the position sensor module 221. The AGV 200 receives power from the power supply mat 100 while traveling. Then, the battery 210 is charged by the power supplied from the power transmitting coil 120 of the power supply mat 100 to the power receiving coil 220 of the AGV 200. The power transmitting coil 120 that supplies power to the traveling AGV 200 changes depending on the position of the AGV 200. While the battery 210 is being charged, the ECU 250 controls the charging circuit 230 to adjust the charging power.

[0071] The AGV 200 continues traveling and charging as described above until a predetermined charging completion condition is satisfied. In S13, the ECU 250 judges whether the charging completion condition is satisfied. In this embodiment, the charging completion condition is satisfied when the AGV 200 passes the power supply mat 100. The ECU 250 may judge that the AGV 200 has passed the power supply mat 100 when the power receiving coil 220 stops receiving power from the power supply mat 100. The charging completion condition is also satisfied when the SOC of the battery 210 becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined SOC value (for example, an SOC value indicating full charge). When the charging completion condition is satisfied (YES in S13), the ECU 250 transmits a charging completion notification to the power supply mat 100 in S14. Then, when the power supply mat 100 receives the charging completion notification (YES in S24), the series of processes shown in FIG. 4 ends.

[0072] As described above, the power supply mat 100 is configured to wirelessly supply power to a moving object (for example, any of the moving objects 201 to 208 shown in FIG. 2). The power supply mat 100 is easy to carry (see FIG. 1), so there is a high degree of freedom in the installation of the power supply mat 100. Since there are many possible installation locations for the power supply mat 100, it is not necessarily easy for a user to select an installation location for the power supply mat 100. Therefore, the power supply system according to this embodiment includes a server 500, which will be described below, to make it easier to install the power supply mat 100 in an appropriate location. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the functions of the server 500.

[0073] 5 together with FIG. 3, the server 500 is configured to evaluate the installation merit (i.e., the merit obtained when the power supply mat 100 is installed) for each of a plurality of locations in a target area where the power supply mat 100 can be installed. The server 500 corresponds to an example of a "computer" according to the present disclosure.

[0074] The server 500 includes a processor 510, a storage device 520, and a communication device 530. The processor 510 may be a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The storage device 520 is configured to be able to store various information. The communication device 530 includes various communication I / Fs. The server 500 is configured to communicate with the outside through the communication device 530.

[0075] Storage device 520 stores information used by the programs (for example, maps, formulas, and various parameters) in addition to the programs executed by processor 510. In this embodiment, various processes in server 500 are performed by processor 510 executing the programs stored in storage device 520. However, the various processes in server 500 are not limited to being executed by software, and can also be executed by dedicated hardware (electronic circuitry).

[0076] The power supply system according to this embodiment further includes a display device 600. The display device 600 is configured to display information according to an instruction from the server 500. In this embodiment, a touch panel display is used as the display device 600. The display device 600 receives input from a user, and upon receiving input from the user, outputs a signal corresponding to the input to the server 500. In this embodiment, the display device 600 also serves as an input device for the server 500. However, this is not limiting, and the input device may be provided separately from the display device.

[0077] The server 500 belongs to, for example, a rental company of the power supply mat 100. The server 500 is configured to evaluate the installation merit for each location in the target area using the results of observing the behavior of each moving object and the remaining amount of stored power of each moving object (observation results) during a predetermined observation period in which multiple moving objects are used in the target area. The evaluation of the installation merit is performed, for example, before the rental of the power supply mat 100. In the example shown in FIG. 6, before the rental company rents out the power supply mat 100 to the factory 800, the server 500 evaluates the installation merit for each of multiple locations in the area R100 in the factory 800. In this embodiment, the area R100 in the factory 800 corresponds to an example of the "target area" according to the present disclosure.

[0078] In the factory 800, mobile objects M-1 to M-3 are used in the area R100. Each of the mobile objects M-1 to M-3 is an AGV having the same configuration as the AGV 200 shown in Fig. 3. Fig. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of a usage mode of the mobile objects M-1 to M-3 in the factory 800.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 6, the moving object M-1 moves between area #1 and area #4 to transport luggage. The moving object M-1 travels between area #1 and area #4 along route R1. The moving object M-2 moves between area #1 and area #9 to transport luggage. The moving object M-2 travels between area #1 and area #9 mainly along route R21 to transport luggage. However, when route R21 is congested, the moving object M-2 travels between area #1 and area #9 along route R22. The moving object M-3 moves between area #2 and area #6 to transport luggage. The moving object M-3 travels between area #2 and area #6 along route R3. In this manner, the moving objects M-1 to M-3 are used to transport luggage in the business of the factory 800.

[0080] 5, during the observation period, the moving objects M-1 to M-3 are used as described above in the same manner as in normal operations (see FIG. 6). During the observation period, the behavior and remaining charge of each of the moving objects M-1 to M-3 operating normally in the area R100 are measured and recorded. During the observation period, each of the moving objects M-1 to M-3 repeatedly executes the process shown in the flowchart F1 at a predetermined cycle.

[0081] In flow chart F1, in S101, ECU 250 (FIG. 3) records the position of the moving object in area R100 in a storage device. The position of the moving object is measured, for example, by an automatic driving sensor. The position data acquired in S101 indicates the behavior of the moving object. In S102, ECU 250 records the SOC of battery 210 (FIG. 3) in the storage device. The SOC of battery 210 is measured, for example, by a BMS. The SOC data acquired in S102 indicates the remaining charge of the moving object.

[0082] After the observation period has elapsed, the server 500 extracts the data (observation results during the observation period) recorded by the above process (flowchart F1) from each of the moving objects M-1 to M-3. The server 500 may obtain the data from each of the moving objects M-1 to M-3 by communicating (wireless communication or wired communication) with each of the moving objects M-1 to M-3. Furthermore, the data may be sent from each of the moving objects M-1 to M-3 to the server 500 via a predetermined storage medium (or a service tool).

[0083] Server 500 evaluates the installation merit for each of a plurality of locations in region R100 through the process shown in flowchart F2. The process shown in flowchart F2 may be started in response to an instruction from a user, or may be started automatically when server 500 obtains data necessary for the evaluation.

[0084] In S201, processor 510 analyzes the observation results during the observation period (i.e., the position data and SOC data acquired from each of moving bodies M-1 to M-3), and in S202, evaluates the installation merit for each location in region R100 based on the analysis results. Then, in S203, processor 510 causes display device 600 to display the evaluation results of the installation merit.

[0085] The evaluation method and evaluation results will be described below with reference to Figures 7 to 9. In each figure, the evaluation results of the installation merits are represented by A to E. The evaluation results of the installation merits are A, B, C, D, and E in descending order.

[0086] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a first example of the evaluation result of the installation merit. In this example, referring to FIG. 7 together with FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the installation merit was evaluated using the traffic volume of the mobile object as an index. The server 500 calculated the traffic volume (passing frequency) of the mobile object based on the behavior of the mobile object during the observation period measured in S101 of the flowchart F1 shown in FIG. 5, particularly the transition of the position of the mobile object. The server 500 evaluated that the greater the traffic volume of the mobile object during the observation period, the greater the merit obtained when the power supply mat 100 is installed. Specifically, among the locations D11 to D19, the locations D11, D12, D15, and D18 were each evaluated as "A". The location D11 was evaluated as "A" because the mobile object M-1 frequently passes through the location along the route R1 (see FIG. 6). The locations D12 and D15 were each evaluated as "A" because the mobile object M-2 passes through the location along both the routes R21 and R22 (see FIG. 6). The location D18 was evaluated as "A" because the moving object M-3 passes through it according to the route R3 and the moving object M-2 passes through it according to the route R22 (see FIG. 6).

[0087] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a second example of the evaluation result of the installation merit. In this example, referring to FIG. 8 together with FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the installation merit was evaluated using the stay time of the moving object as an index. The server 500 obtained the stay time of the moving object for each location based on the behavior of the moving object during the observation period measured in S101 of the flowchart F1 shown in FIG. 5. The server 500 evaluated that the longer the stay time of the moving object during the observation period, the greater the merit obtained by installing the power supply mat 100. Specifically, of the locations D21 to D29, the location D21 was evaluated as "A". The evaluation of the vicinity of areas #1, #2, #4, #6, and #9 where the delivery of the luggage is performed was relatively high.

[0088] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a third example of the evaluation result of the installation merit. In this example, referring to FIG. 9 together with FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the installation merit was evaluated using the remaining charge of the mobile body as an index. The server 500 obtained the remaining charge of the mobile body (SOC of the battery 210) for each location based on the transition of the remaining charge of the mobile body during the observation period measured in S102 of the flowchart F1 shown in FIG. 5. The server 500 evaluated that the greater the merit obtained by installing the power supply mat 100 in a location where the remaining charge of the mobile body during the observation period became lower. Specifically, of the locations D31 to D39, the location D35 was evaluated as "B". Since the travel distance of the mobile body on the route R1 was short (see FIG. 6), the location D31 was evaluated low.

[0089] The server 500 may individually display a plurality of evaluation results with different indices (for example, the evaluation results shown in FIGS. 7 to 9) on the display device 600 in accordance with an instruction from a user. The factory manager (manager of the factory 800) may check all the evaluation results and then decide on the installation location of the power supply mat 100. In response to a request from the factory manager, the rental company of the power supply mat 100 may bring the power supply mat 100 into the factory 800 and install the power supply mat 100 in a location decided by the factory manager with reference to the evaluation results (i.e., the installation merits of each location within the target area R100).

[0090] As described above, the server 500 evaluates the installation merit for each of a plurality of evaluation targets (for example, the locations D11 to D19 shown in FIG. 7) in the target area R100. When selecting an installation location for the power supply mat 100, the user can refer to the installation merit evaluated by the server 500. Thus, the server 500 can easily select an installation location for the power supply mat 100. This makes it easier for the user to install the power supply mat 100 in an appropriate location.

[0091] The power supply method according to the first embodiment includes evaluating the merits obtained when the power supply mat 100 is installed for each of a plurality of locations in a target area where the power supply mat 100 that wirelessly supplies power to a moving object can be installed (S202 in FIG. 5), and displaying the evaluation results of the merits for each location in the target area (S203 in FIG. 5). This power supply method makes it easier for the user to install the power supply mat 100 in an appropriate location.

[0092] The indexes for evaluating the merits of installing the power supply mat 100 are not limited to the traffic volume, stay time, and remaining power storage amount of the mobile objects described above. For example, the merits of installing the power supply mat 100 may be evaluated using the density of people as an index. For example, during an observation period, human behavior may be observed by one or more cameras (not shown) installed in an area R100 in the factory 800. The server 500 may obtain the density of people at each location in the area R100 based on the behavior of people during the observation period measured by the one or more cameras.

[0093] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing a fourth example of the evaluation result of the installation merit. In this example, referring to Fig. 10 together with Figs. 5 and 6, the installation merit is evaluated using the density of people as an index. The server 500 evaluated that the lower the density of people in a place during the observation period, the greater the merit obtained when the power supply mat 100 is installed. Specifically, among the places D41 to D49, the places D44 and D46 had high density of people in the observation period and were evaluated as "E".

[0094] The factory manager may check the above evaluation results and exclude places with high crowding (for example, places D44 and D46 shown in FIG. 10) from the candidates for the installation location of the power supply mat 100.

[0095] The server 500 may comprehensively evaluate the merits of installation using all of the above-mentioned traffic volume, dwell time, remaining battery power, and human density as indicators, and display the comprehensive evaluation result on the display device 600.

[0096] [Embodiment 2] A power supply system according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Since the second embodiment has many commonalities with the first embodiment, differences will be mainly described and a description of the commonalities will be omitted.

[0097] The server 500 according to the second embodiment is configured to propose an improvement measure that will increase the benefits obtained when the power supply mat 100 is installed in a user's desired installation location. Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing a process related to evaluation of the installation benefits executed by the server 500 according to the second embodiment. The server 500 executes the process shown in Fig. 11 instead of the process related to the flowchart F2 shown in Fig. 5.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 11, in S200, the server 500 (FIG. 5) determines an evaluation index. For example, the server 500 requests a customer (e.g., a factory manager) to select an evaluation index from a predetermined selection. The selection of the evaluation index includes, for example, the traffic volume, stay time, and remaining power storage capacity of the mobile object, and the density of people. Then, the server 500 determines the index selected by the customer as the evaluation index. The following describes a case where the customer selects the remaining power storage capacity of the mobile object. The customer may wish not to charge the power storage device of the mobile object until the remaining power storage capacity of the mobile object becomes low in order to extend the operating time of the mobile object or to suppress deterioration of the power storage device.

[0099] In S201 and S202, the installation merit is evaluated based on the index determined in S200. After that, in S203, the evaluation result of the installation merit (for example, see FIG. 9) is displayed. In S201 to S203 in FIG. 11, processes similar to S201 to S203 in FIG. 5 are executed.

[0100] In S204, the server 500 acquires the installation location of the power supply mat 100 desired by the user (hereinafter also referred to as the "desired location"). For example, the server 500 requests the customer to select the desired location from a predetermined selection. The options for the installation location of the power supply mat 100 are, for example, the locations D31 to D39 shown in FIG. 9. The following describes a case where the customer selects the location D36.

[0101] In S205, the server 500 uses the observation results during the observation period (i.e., the position data and SOC data obtained from each of the mobile bodies M-1 to M-3) to sequentially check through simulation how the installation benefits of location D36 change while changing the conditions that affect the installation benefits of location D36, and determines whether there are conditions (improvement measures) that will increase the installation benefits of location D36.

[0102] If it is determined that there is no improvement measure that will increase the installation merit of the location D36 (NO in S205), the series of processes shown in Fig. 11 ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is an improvement measure that will increase the installation merit of the location D36 (YES in S205), the server 500 causes the display device 600 (Fig. 5) to display the improvement measure that will increase the installation merit of the location D36 and its effect in S206.

[0103] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a first example of an improvement measure that increases the installation merit and its effect. With reference to FIG. 12, in this example, the server 500 proposes, as an improvement measure, changing the travel control of the moving object M-2. Specifically, the travel control of the moving object M-2 is changed so that the moving object M-2 travels along the route R21 when heading from the area #1 to the area #9, and travels along the route R22 when returning from the area #9 to the area #1. The above-mentioned simulation (S205 in FIG. 11) has shown that by changing the travel control of the moving object M-2 in this way, the installation merit of the location D36 increases from "C" (see FIG. 9) to "A". Furthermore, the server 500 may propose to make the moving object M-2 travel slower in the location D36 in order to increase the amount of charging power per charging.

[0104] If the customer accepts the above-mentioned improvement measures, the travel control of the moving body M-2 may be changed by rewriting the automatic driving program of the moving body M-2. The server 500 may rewrite the automatic driving program of the moving body M-2 by communication (wireless communication or wired communication) with the moving body M-2. The automatic driving program may also be installed in the moving body M-2 from the server 500 via a predetermined storage medium (or a service tool). Alternatively, the customer may rewrite the automatic driving program of the moving body M-2 without using the server 500.

[0105] In the power supply system according to the second embodiment, the server 500 is configured to use the observation results during the observation period to propose an improvement measure that will increase the benefits obtained when the power supply mat 100 is installed in the installation location desired by the user. When the user has a desired location to install the power supply mat, the evaluation computer performs the above-mentioned evaluation and then proposes an improvement measure that will increase the installation benefits for the desired installation location. This makes it easier for the user to install the power supply mat in a location that will increase the installation benefits. The above configuration makes it easier for the user to effectively use the power supply mat.

[0106] An evaluation index other than the remaining amount of stored power of a mobile object may be selected in S200 of Fig. 11. Below, a case will be described in which a customer selects the traffic volume of mobile objects in S200 of Fig. 11, and selects location D13 (Fig. 7) in S204 of Fig. 11. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing a second example of an improvement measure that provides a large installation benefit and its effect.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 13, in this example, the server 500 proposes, as an improvement measure, to swap areas #4 and #7 and change the travel control of the moving object M-1. The travel control of the moving object M-1 is changed so that the moving object M-1 travels back and forth between areas #1 and #4 (where area #7 was before the improvement) along route R1A. The above-mentioned simulation (S205 in FIG. 11) showed that by changing the layout in the target area R100 and the travel control of the moving object M-1 in this way, the installation merit of the location D13 increases from "B" (see FIG. 7) to "A." In addition, the installation merit of the location D13A close to area #4 was also evaluated as "A."

[0108] A trained model obtained by machine learning using AI (artificial intelligence) may be used in the above simulation (S205 in FIG. 11). The trained model may be a model trained to output an improvement measure (for example, a layout within the area R100 or a control mode of a moving object) that makes the installation merit of the desired location higher than the evaluation result when the observation result during the observation period (see FIG. 5), the evaluation result (S202 in FIG. 11), and the desired location (S204 in FIG. 11) are input. Accumulated big data of observation results may be used to train the model.

[0109] [Other embodiments] The server 500 may be configured to evaluate that the more difficult the power supply mat is to deteriorate, the greater the benefit obtained when the power supply mat is installed. The server 500 may be configured to select, for each location in the target area, the power supply mat that provides the greatest benefit when installed from among options including a plurality of types of power supply mats. The server 500 may execute the process related to the flowchart F2A shown in FIG. 14 instead of the process related to the flowchart F2 shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a modified example of the flowchart F2 shown in FIG. 5.

[0110] 14, in S301, processor 510 acquires map information (map data) of the target area. The map information may be information indicating a floor map. Server 500 may acquire the map information of the target area from an external computer that manages the target area. A user may input the map information of the target area to server 500.

[0111] In the next step S302, the processor 510 uses map information of the target area to select, for each location within the target area, from among options including multiple types of power supply mats, the power supply mat that offers the greatest installation benefit (the power supply mat that is least likely to deteriorate).

[0112] The power supply mat options include, for example, a standard mat, a waterproof mat, a lift mat, and a wall mat. The standard mat is a power supply mat with standard specifications. For example, the power supply mat 100 shown in FIG. 1 corresponds to the standard mat. The waterproof mat is a power supply mat with waterproof specifications. For example, a power supply mat with a waterproof treatment such as a waterproof coating applied to the surface of a standard specification power supply mat corresponds to a waterproof mat.

[0113] The lift-up mat is a power supply mat equipped with a lift-up mechanism. Fig. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the lift-up mat. Referring to Fig. 15, the lift-up mat 100A is formed into a sheet shape by combining one first plate material 101 and a plurality of second plate materials 102.

[0114] The first plate material 101 is electrically connected to the power supply module 300 via a cable. The first plate material 101 has a sheet base material 110A, and a power control circuit 130, a wireless communication device 140, and a mat controller 150 are built into the sheet base material 110A.

[0115] Each of the multiple second plate materials 102 includes a sheet base material 110B, a lifting mechanism 110C, and a power transmitting coil 120. The power transmitting coil 120 is provided on the surface of the sheet base material 110B. However, this is not limited, and the power transmitting coil 120 may be built into the sheet base material 110B. The lifting mechanism 110C is provided with respect to the sheet base material 110B, and is configured to be able to adjust the height of the sheet base material 110B. The lifting mechanism 110C may be adjusted by a person. The lifting mechanism 110C may also be raised and lowered according to an instruction from the mat controller 150.

[0116] The second plate material 102 includes one power transmitting coil 120. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the second plate material 102 may include two or more power transmitting coils 120. The second plate material 102 may have a connector for connecting electric wires (for example, electric wires connected to the power transmitting coils 120) of adjacent second plate materials 102. The second plate material 102 may further have a locking mechanism for fixing the connected connector. Power supplied from the power system PG is supplied to each second plate material 102 via the power supply module 300 and the first plate material 101. A power supply circuit 310 included in the power supply module 300 supplies power to the power transmitting coils 120 included in each second plate material 102.

[0117] By combining a plurality of second plate materials 102 with one first plate material 101, a lift-up mat 100A having a function equivalent to that of the power supply mat 100 shown in FIG. 1 is formed. However, the height of each second plate material 102 of the lift-up mat 100A can be adjusted. In addition, the size of the lift-up mat 100A can be adjusted by changing the number of second plate materials 102. The lift-up mat 100A is configured to be disassembled. The plurality of second plate materials 102 that are combined to form the lift-up mat 100A can be returned to individual small pieces (second plate materials 102). The lift-up mat 100A is configured to be disassembled into one first plate material 101 and a plurality of second plate materials 102. Therefore, the lift-up mat 100A is easy to carry. In addition, when some of the plurality of second plate materials 102 that constitute the lift-up mat 100A break down or deteriorate, only the corresponding second plate material 102 can be replaced.

[0118] The wall-mounted mat is a power supply mat that can be installed on a wall. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the wall-mounted mat. Referring to FIG. 16, the wall-mounted mat 100B is installed on, for example, an indoor wall. The installation method may be a wall-hanging method or a pasting method. The wall-mounted mat 100B includes a plurality of power transmission coils 120, a power control circuit 130, a wireless communication device 140, and a mat controller 150. The AGV 200A is configured to be able to use the wall-mounted mat 100B. The AGV 200A basically has a configuration similar to that of the AGV 200 shown in FIG. 3. However, the AGV 200A includes a power receiving coil 220A provided on the side of the vehicle body in addition to the power receiving coil 220 (FIG. 3) provided on the lower part of the vehicle body. The power receiving coil 220A is configured to receive power in a non-contact manner from the power transmitting coil 120 of the wall-mounted mat 100B installed on the wall.

[0119] Referring again to FIG. 14, in this modified example, the moving body used in the target area is configured to be able to use all of the above-mentioned standard mats, waterproof mats, lift-up mats, and wall-mounted mats. In S302, for each location in the target area, a power supply mat suited to that location (more specifically, a power supply mat that is least likely to deteriorate) is selected. If multiple types of power supply mats have the same resistance to deterioration, one type of power supply mat is selected according to a predetermined priority order. In this modified example, the order of priority is standard mats, waterproof mats, lift-up mats, and wall-mounted mats.

[0120] In the next step S303, the processor 510 causes the display device 600 to display the power supply mat for each location within the target area selected in the above step S302.

[0121] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a power supply mat for each location in the target area displayed in S303 of FIG. 14. Referring to FIG. 17, in this example, the area R200 corresponds to the target area. Among the locations D51 to D55 included in the area R200, a waterproof mat was selected for the location D51, a wall-attached mat for each of the locations D52 and D54, a lift mat for the location D53, and a standard mat for the location D55. The location D51 is outdoors. If a standard mat is installed outdoors, it will get wet in the rain and will be easily deteriorated, so a waterproof mat was selected for the location D51. The locations D52 and D54 are narrow passages. In narrow passages, the power supply mat will be stepped on by people and will be easily deteriorated, so a wall-attached mat was selected for each of the locations D52 and D54. There is a step in the location D53. The step hinders the movement of the moving object. When the moving object goes over the step, an impact is likely to be applied to the power supply mat. For this reason, the lift mat that can reduce the step was selected for location D53. For location D55, the standard mat, waterproof mat, lift mat, and wall mat were all equally resistant to deterioration. For this reason, the standard mat, which has the highest priority, was selected.

[0122] The target area is not limited to a factory, but may be other business establishments (for example, schools, hospitals, hotels, banks, or shopping centers) or may be residential areas. The target area may also be outdoors. The server 500 may be configured to evaluate the installation merits of each location in the target area using traffic information (for example, information indicating the traffic volume and congestion level of mobile objects) of the outdoor target area. The installation merits may also be evaluated for purposes other than the rental of power supply mats.

[0123] The mobile body to which the power supply mat is applied is not limited to the vehicles shown in Figs. 2 and 3. The mobile body is not limited to a BEV without an internal combustion engine, and may be a PHEV (plug-in hybrid vehicle) with an internal combustion engine. It is not essential that the mobile body is configured to be unmanned and capable of automatic operation. The mobile body may be manually operated by a person. The mobile body may be charged while stopped rather than while traveling. The mobile body may be an agricultural machine, a walking robot, a drone, a robot cleaner, or a space probe, or may be a railroad car, a ship, or an airplane.

[0124] The above-described various modifications may be implemented in any combination.

[0125] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the description of the embodiments described above, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0126] 100 Power supply mat, 100A Lift mat, 100B Wall mat, 101 First plate material, 102 Second plate material, 110, 110A, 110B Sheet base material, 110C Lift mechanism, 120 Power transmission coil, 121 Magnetic marker, 130 Power control circuit, 140 Wireless communication device, 150 Mat controller, 200, 200A AGV, 201 to 208 Mobile body, 210 Battery, 220, 220A Power receiving coil, 221 Position sensor module, 230 Charging circuit, 240 Wireless communication device, 250 ECU, 300 Power module, 310 Power circuit, 350 Camera, 500 Server, 510 Processor, 520 Storage device, 530 Communication device, 600 Display device, 800 Factory, PG Power system, R100, R200 region.

Claims

1. A power supply system comprising: a computer that evaluates a merit obtained when a power supply mat that wirelessly supplies power to a moving object is installed at each of a plurality of locations within a target area where the power supply mat can be installed, the computer comprising: The computer is configured to evaluate the merit for each location in the target area using a result of observing at least one of a behavior of each moving object, a remaining amount of stored electricity of each moving object, and a density of people during a predetermined period in which one or more moving objects are used in the target area; The power supply system is configured such that the computer uses the observation results for the specified period to propose improvement measures that will increase the benefits that will be obtained if the user installs the power supply mat in a desired installation location.

2. The power supply system according to claim 1 , wherein the computer is configured to evaluate that the greater the traffic volume of the moving objects in the predetermined period is, the greater the benefit that will be obtained by installing the power supply mat.

3. The power supply system according to claim 1 , wherein the computer is configured to evaluate that the greater the benefit that would be obtained by installing the power supply mat in a location where the moving object has stayed for a longer period of time in the predetermined period of time, the greater the advantage that would be obtained by installing the power supply mat.

4. The power supply system according to claim 1 , wherein the computer is configured to evaluate that the greater the benefit that would be obtained by installing the power supply mat in a location where the remaining amount of stored power of the moving body during the specified period is, the greater the advantage that would be obtained by installing the power supply mat.

5. The power supply system according to claim 1 , wherein the computer is configured to evaluate that the benefit obtained by installing the power supply mat is greater in a location with a lower density of people during the specified period.

6. The power supply system further includes a display device, The power supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the computer is configured to cause the display device to display an evaluation result of the merit for each location within the target area.

7. The computer is configured to evaluate that the greater the benefit obtained by installing the power supply mat, the less likely the power supply mat is to deteriorate; The power supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the computer is configured to select, for each location within the target area, a power supply mat that provides the greatest benefit from among options including a plurality of types of power supply mats.

8. The power supply system according to claim 1 , wherein the power supply mat has a flexibility sufficient to be rolled up into a cylindrical shape.

Images