System and battery level notification method

Abstract

This technology relates to a moving body and a method for battery level notification enabling easy check of the level of batteries for the moving body. A moving body comprising: a mounting unit which can mount n of batteries, n being two or more; and an output unit which reports the level of the batteries when the number of mounted batteries is changed. This technology can be applied to, for example, a drone.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present technology relates to system and a battery remaining amount notification method, and is particularly suitable for use when notifying the remaining amount of a battery of a mobile object. system and a battery remaining amount notification method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, it has been proposed to notify the remaining battery level of a drone using the color and lighting / blinking of an LED (Light Emitting Diode) (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Literature

Patent Literature

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the invention described in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to turn on the power of the aircraft to check the remaining battery level. In addition, a certain amount of time is required before the aircraft starts up and the remaining battery level can be checked.

[0005] The present technology has been made in view of such circumstances, and enables easy and rapid confirmation of the remaining battery level of a mobile object such as a drone.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] A mobile object according to one aspect of the present technology includes: a mounting portion capable of mounting 2 or more n batteries; and an output unit configured to notify a remaining amount of the batteries when the number of mounted batteries is changed.

[0007] One aspect of this technology is a battery level notification method in which a mobile device capable of carrying 2 to n batteries notifies the remaining battery level when the number of batteries installed changes.

[0008] In one aspect of this technology, the remaining battery level is notified when the number of batteries installed changes. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This block diagram shows an example configuration of a mobile device and a mobile body to which this technology is applied. [Figure 2] This is a flowchart illustrating the battery level notification process performed by the mobile device shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] This is an external view showing an example configuration of a drone to which this technology is applied. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating the battery level notification process performed by the drone. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the display of the power status LED. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of a mobile device display screen. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of the display in the battery level indicator area. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of the display in the battery level indicator area. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of the battery management screen. [Figure 10] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating the flight control process performed by the drone. [Figure 11] This is a block diagram showing an example of a computer configuration. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The following describes the configurations for implementing this technology. The explanation will proceed in the following order. 1. Embodiment 2. Specific Examples 3. Modification Example 4. Other Notes

[0011] <<1. Embodiment>> First, an embodiment of the present technology will be described with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.

[0012] <Configuration Example of Mobile Body 11 and Mobile Device 12> FIG. 1 shows a functional configuration example of a portion mainly related to processing of notifying a remaining battery level among the configurations of a mobile body 11 and a mobile device 12 to which the present technology is applied.

[0013] The mobile body 11 is configured by, for example, a battery-driven mobile body such as a drone or a robot.

[0014] The mobile device 12 is configured by a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a PC (Personal Computer), a remote controller, or the like. The mobile device 12 is used, for example, for outputting information transmitted from the mobile body 11, remotely operating the mobile body 11, and the like.

[0015] The mobile body 11 includes a control section 21, an input section 22, a drive section 23, an output section 24, a communication section 25, and a battery section 26.

[0016] The control section 21 controls each part of the mobile body 11. The control section 21 includes a battery management section 31, an operation control section 32, and a UI (user interface) control section 33.

[0017] The battery management section 31 manages batteries 42-1 to 42-n mounted in battery slots 41-1 to 41-n of the battery section 26. For example, the battery management section 31 detects the states (e.g., voltage, remaining capacity, etc.) of the batteries 42-1 to 42-n, and controls the output of current from the batteries 42-1 to 42-n.

[0018] The motion control unit 32 controls the movement and various operations of the mobile body 11 by controlling the drive unit 23 and other components.

[0019] The UI control unit 33 controls the user interface in the mobile device 11 and the mobile device 12. For example, the UI control unit 33 controls the input of various commands and data by the input unit 22. For example, the UI control unit 33 controls the output of various information by the output unit 24. For example, the UI control unit 33 generates information about the mobile device 11 to be output to the mobile device 12 and transmits it to the mobile device 12 via the communication unit 25.

[0020] The input unit 22 is equipped with various input devices and supplies input commands, data, etc., to the control unit 21. Examples of input devices provided by the input unit 22 include touch panels, buttons, switches, and levers.

[0021] The drive unit 23 includes, for example, a prime mover (e.g., motor, engine, etc.) and a drive mechanism, and moves the mobile body 11 using the power of batteries 42-1 to 42-n under the control of the operation control unit 32.

[0022] The output unit 24 is equipped with various output devices and outputs various information related to the mobile unit 11. Examples of output devices provided by the output unit 24 include display devices such as LCDs (Liquid Crystal Displays), light-emitting devices such as LEDs, and sound output devices such as speakers, sirens, and alarms. Examples of various information related to the mobile unit 11 include information indicating the status of the mobile unit 11 and information for operating the mobile unit 11.

[0023] The communication unit 25 communicates with the mobile device 12 via wireless communication. The communication method of the communication unit 25 is not particularly limited, and any wireless communication method can be used.

[0024] The battery unit 26 is equipped with battery slots 41-1 to 41-n (n≧2). Batteries 42-1 to 42-n are installed in each of the battery slots 41-1 to 41-n, respectively. In other words, the battery unit 26 is equipped with a mounting section capable of accommodating n batteries.

[0025] Hereafter, when it is not necessary to distinguish between battery slots 41-1 through 41-n individually, they will simply be referred to as battery slot 41. Hereafter, when it is not necessary to distinguish between batteries 42-1 through 42-n individually, they will simply be referred to as battery 42.

[0026] The battery unit 26, under the control of the battery management unit 31, supplies current from each battery 42 to each part of the moving body 11, such as the prime mover, which is equipped in the drive unit 23.

[0027] The battery unit 26 supplies battery information indicating the status of the battery 42 to the control unit 21. The battery information includes, for example, whether or not a battery 42 is installed in each battery slot 41, as well as the remaining charge and voltage of each battery 42.

[0028] The battery unit 26 notifies the control unit 21 of any change in the battery's mounting state. Examples of changes in the battery's mounting state include the insertion of the battery 42 into the battery slot 41 and the removal of the battery 42 from the battery slot 41.

[0029] The mobile device 12 includes a control unit 61, an input unit 62, an output unit 63, and a communication unit 64.

[0030] The control unit 61 controls various parts of the mobile device 12. The control unit 61 includes a UI control unit 71 and a remote control control unit 72.

[0031] The UI control unit 71 controls the user interface of the mobile device 12. For example, the UI control unit 71 controls the input of various commands and data by the input unit 62. For example, the UI control unit 71 controls the output of various information by the output unit 63.

[0032] The remote control unit 72 controls the remote operation of the mobile device 11 using the mobile device 12. For example, the remote control unit 72 transmits commands to the mobile device 11, which are input using the input unit 22, to the mobile device 11 via the communication unit 64.

[0033] The input unit 62 is equipped with various input devices and supplies input commands, data, etc., to the control unit 61. Examples of input devices provided by the input unit 62 include touch panels, buttons, switches, and levers.

[0034] The output unit 63 is equipped with various output devices and outputs various types of information. Examples of output devices provided by the output unit 63 include display devices such as LCDs, light-emitting devices such as LEDs, and audio output devices such as speakers, sirens, and alarms.

[0035] The communication unit 64 communicates with the mobile unit 11 using wireless communication in the same manner as the communication unit 25 of the mobile unit 11.

[0036] <Battery level notification process> Next, with reference to Figure 2, the battery level notification process performed by the mobile unit 11 will be described.

[0037] This process is executed, for example, when the power to the mobile unit 11 is turned off.

[0038] In step S1, the battery management unit 31 determines whether the number of batteries 42 installed has changed. This process is repeated until it is determined that the number of batteries 42 has changed.

[0039] For example, when the battery unit 26 detects the insertion of the battery 42 into the battery slot 41 or the removal of the battery 42 from the battery slot 41, it notifies the control unit 21 of the change in the battery 42's installation status.

[0040] In response, the battery management unit 31 determines that the number of batteries 42 installed has changed, and the process proceeds to step S2.

[0041] In step S2, the battery management unit 31 calculates the total battery charge. Specifically, the battery management unit 31 obtains battery information from the battery unit 26 and calculates the total battery charge based on the battery information. For example, the battery management unit 31 calculates the total battery charge as the maximum, minimum, or average value of the remaining charge of each battery 42 installed in the battery slot 41.

[0042] In step S3, the mobile unit 11 notifies the integrated battery level based on the calculation result of the integrated battery level. For example, the output unit 24, under the control of the UI control unit 33, notifies the integrated battery level for a predetermined time (e.g., 10 seconds) by at least one of a visual or auditory method. That is, after the number of batteries 42 installed changes, the integrated battery level is notified for a predetermined time.

[0043] Furthermore, for example, the UI control unit 33 transmits information indicating the remaining integrated battery level to the mobile device 12 via the communication unit 25.

[0044] In response, the UI control unit 71 of the mobile device 12 receives information indicating the integrated battery level from the mobile body 11 via the communication unit 64. The output unit 63, under the control of the UI control unit 33, notifies the integrated battery level for a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) by at least one of visual and auditory methods.

[0045] The method for notifying the integrated battery level in the mobile device 11 and the mobile device 12 is not particularly limited. For example, the integrated battery level may be notified by the illumination or flashing of an LED or other lamp. For example, the integrated battery level may be notified by a screen with a GUI (Graphical User Interface). For example, the integrated battery level may be notified by voice.

[0046] After that, the process returns to step S1, and the processes from step S1 onward are executed.

[0047] As described above, the integrated battery level of the mobile unit 11 is notified simply by attaching or removing the battery 42 from the mobile unit 11. This allows the user to easily and quickly check the integrated battery level without turning on the mobile unit 11 or performing any special operations. Furthermore, it eliminates the need to implement a special button or other means on the mobile unit 11 to check the integrated battery level. In addition, since it is assumed that users often want to know the battery level of the battery 42 immediately after attaching it, the integrated battery level will be notified at an appropriate time.

[0048] Furthermore, when the mobile unit 11 is powered on, the total battery level is always notified, regardless of whether, for example, the number of batteries 42 installed changes.

[0049] <<2. Specific Examples>> Next, specific examples of embodiments of this technology will be described with reference to Figures 3 to 10, and then with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

[0050] This specific example shows a case where the drone 101 in Figure 3 is used as the mobile body 11 in Figure 1.

[0051] The configuration of the functions of the drone 101 is assumed to be the same as the configuration of the functions of the mobile body 11 in Figure 1.

[0052] However, the drone 101 is equipped with two battery slots 41, battery slot 41-1 and battery slot 41-2, and is capable of accommodating a maximum of two batteries 42.

[0053] Furthermore, the drone 101 cannot begin flight unless batteries 42 are installed in all battery slots 41. This ensures that, for example, if one battery 42 malfunctions during flight, the drone can continue flying with the remaining batteries 42 without crashing.

[0054] Figure 3 shows an example of the external configuration of the drone 101 as seen from the rear.

[0055] A battery level LED 112 is provided on the back of the main body 111 of the drone 101.

[0056] The battery level LED 112 displays the total battery level of the battery 42 installed in the battery slot 41, as will be described later with reference to Figure 5.

[0057] In addition, flight status LEDs 113-1 to 113-4 are provided near each propeller. Flight status LEDs 113-1 to 113-4 are LEDs that indicate the flight status of the drone 101. Flight status LEDs 113-1 to 113-4 blink, for example, when the battery 42 is running low.

[0058] In the following, if there is no need to distinguish between Flight Status LED113-1 through Flight Status LED113-4 individually, they will simply be referred to as Flight Status LED113.

[0059] Furthermore, for example, a button and an LED are provided on the back of each battery 42 (the back surface of the main body 111 of the drone 101). When the button on each battery 42 is pressed, the remaining charge of each battery 42 is individually displayed by the LED.

[0060] <Battery level notification process> Next, referring to the flowchart in Figure 4, we will explain the battery level notification process performed by the drone 101.

[0061] This process is executed, for example, when the power to drone 101 is turned off.

[0062] In step S101, it is determined whether the number of batteries 42 installed has changed, similar to the process in step S1 in Figure 1. This process is repeated until it is determined that the number of batteries 42 has changed. If it is determined that the number of batteries 42 has changed, the process proceeds to step S102.

[0063] In step S102, the battery management unit 31 determines whether all batteries 42 are installed. If batteries 42 are installed in all battery slots 41, the battery management unit 31 determines that all batteries 42 are installed, and the process proceeds to step S103.

[0064] In step S103, the total battery charge is calculated in the same manner as in step S2 of Figure 1. Hereafter, the smaller of the remaining charge of battery 42-1 and the remaining charge of battery 42-2 will be treated as the total battery charge.

[0065] In step S104, the total battery level is notified, similar to the process in step S3 of Figure 1.

[0066] Here, with reference to Figure 5, a specific example of a method for notifying the integrated battery level will be explained. Figure 5 shows an example of the display of the battery level LED 112.

[0067] In this example, the battery level LED 112 displays the total battery level using four LEDs. Hereafter, the leftmost LED will be referred to as the 1st LED, the second LED from the left as the 2nd LED, the third LED from the left as the 3rd LED, and the rightmost LED as the 4th LED.

[0068] In Figure 5, the white circles in the LED display indicate that the LED is lit or blinking. The black circles in the LED display indicate that the LED is off. In the conditional expression in Figure 5, "bat" represents the total battery level.

[0069] For example, if the total battery level is 0% or less than or equal to 5%, the first LED will blink rapidly, and the second through fourth LEDs will turn off.

[0070] For example, if 5% < total battery level ≤ 25%, the first LED will light up, and the second through fourth LEDs will turn off.

[0071] For example, if 25% < total battery level ≤ 50%, the first and second LEDs will light up, and the third and fourth LEDs will turn off.

[0072] For example, if 50% < total battery level ≤ 75%, the first to third LEDs will light up, and the fourth LED will turn off.

[0073] For example, if 75% < total battery level ≤ 100%, the first through fourth LEDs will light up.

[0074] After that, the process returns to step S101, and the processes from step S101 onward are executed.

[0075] On the other hand, in step S102, if there is at least one battery slot 41 in which no battery 42 is installed, the battery management unit 31 determines that at least some of the batteries 42 are not installed, and proceeds to step S105.

[0076] In step S105, the mobile unit 11 stops notifying the integrated battery level. For example, if the output unit 24 is notifying the integrated battery level, it stops notifying the integrated battery level under the control of the UI control unit 33. As a result, for example, the battery level LED 112 turns off.

[0077] If the integrated battery level is not being notified, that state will continue.

[0078] After that, the process returns to step S101, and the processes from step S101 onward are executed.

[0079] As described above, the user can check the battery level of the drone 101 simply by inserting batteries 42 into all battery slots 41, without even turning on the power of the drone 101.

[0080] Furthermore, since the total battery level is not notified until all battery slots 41 are equipped with batteries 42 and the drone 101 is ready to fly, the user can easily notice if there are any battery slots 41 that do not have batteries 42 installed.

[0081] Furthermore, when the drone 101 is powered on, for example, the battery level LED 112 will notify the total battery level regardless of whether the number of batteries 42 installed has changed.

[0082] <Method for notifying the status of the battery 42 in the mobile device 12> Next, with reference to Figures 6 to 9, an example of a method for notifying the status of the battery 42 in the mobile device 12 will be described.

[0083] For example, when the drone 101 is powered on and in a state where it can communicate with the drone 101, the mobile device 12 periodically receives battery information from the drone 101 and notifies the mobile device 12 of the status of the battery 42 based on the received battery information.

[0084] Figure 6 shows an example of a display screen 201 that is displayed on the display device provided in the output unit 24 of the mobile device 12. The display screen 201 is a screen that is displayed in an application for checking the status of the drone 101 or for remote control.

[0085] The display screen 201 is broadly divided into display areas 211 to 213. Display area 211 is arranged in a band shape at the top edge of the display screen 201, and display area 213 is arranged in a band shape at the bottom edge of the display screen 201. Display area 212 is located between display areas 211 and 213.

[0086] The display area 211 is an area where the status of the drone 101 and the status of the mobile device 12 are displayed. The status of the drone 101's battery 42 is displayed in the display area 211.

[0087] Display area 212 is the area where images taken by the drone 101 and a map showing the current location of the drone 101 are displayed. In addition, various icons indicating the status of the drone 101 and the status of the camera mounted on the drone 101 are displayed in display area 212.

[0088] The display area 213 is an area where buttons for remotely controlling the drone 101, as well as control buttons for the display screen 201, are displayed.

[0089] Next, with reference to Figures 7 and 8, an example of the battery level display in the display area 211 will be described.

[0090] The battery level of the drone 101 is displayed in the battery level display area 221, which is enclosed by a dotted line frame in Figure 7. Specifically, the battery level display area 221 displays the specific battery level (48%), the flight time available with the current battery level (9 min), and a battery level graph.

[0091] The flight time is defined, for example, as the time from the current moment until the battery level reaches a dangerous level and a forced landing is initiated.

[0092] The battery level graph displays the total battery level using bars extending from left to right, with 100% being the maximum value. The left end of the battery level graph represents 0%, and the right end represents 100%. The color of the bars is set to different colors depending on the range of the total battery level. For example, the bar color is set to red when the total battery level is between 0% and the critical level, to yellow when it is between the critical level and the warning level, and to white when it is above the warning level.

[0093] The warning level is, for example, the level at which a warning about low battery level is initiated. The danger level is, for example, the level at which drone 101 initiates a forced landing.

[0094] Figure 8 shows the state of the display area 211 when the integrated battery level falls below a dangerous level.

[0095] When the integrated battery level falls below a dangerous level, for example, the battery level indicator area 221 and its surroundings will change color to red. This allows the user to quickly notice that the integrated battery level has fallen below a dangerous level.

[0096] Furthermore, by performing operations such as pressing the setting button 222 at the right end of the display area 211, the battery management screen 241 shown in Figure 9 is displayed. The battery management screen 241 is broadly divided into display areas 251 to 255.

[0097] The display area 251 shows the status of each battery 42. For example, the voltage, temperature, and remaining charge of battery 42-1 installed in battery slot 41-1, as well as the voltage, temperature, and remaining charge of battery 42-2 installed in battery slot 41-1, are displayed.

[0098] Display area 252 displays information about battery 42-1 installed in battery slot 41-1. For example, it displays the current capacity, maximum capacity, number of charge cycles, model number, serial number, and manufacturing date and time of battery 42-1.

[0099] Display area 253 displays information about battery 42-2 installed in battery slot 41-2. For example, it displays the current capacity, maximum capacity, number of charge cycles, model number, serial number, and manufacturing date and time of battery 42-2.

[0100] Display area 254 shows the warning level setting screen. The warning level can be set, for example, within a range of 10% to 50% of the total battery level.

[0101] Display area 255 shows the danger level setting screen. The danger level can be set, for example, within a range of 0% to 20% of the total battery level. However, the danger level cannot be set to a value higher than the warning level.

[0102] As described above, the user can use the mobile device 12 to check the status and specifications of the drone 101's battery 42, and to set warning levels and danger levels.

[0103] <Flight control processing> Next, the flight control process performed by the drone 101 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 10.

[0104] This process is initiated, for example, when the mobile device 12, under user control, sends a command to the drone 101 to begin flight.

[0105] In step S151, the battery management unit 31 determines whether all batteries 42 are installed. Specifically, the battery management unit 31 obtains battery information from the battery unit 26. If the battery management unit 31 determines, based on the battery information, that all batteries 42 are installed, the process proceeds to step S152.

[0106] In step S152, the battery management unit 31 determines whether the battery level meets the flight conditions. For example, the battery management unit 31 calculates the integrated battery level and the difference in remaining charge between the batteries 42 based on the battery information. If the integrated battery level is greater than threshold TH1 and the difference in remaining charge between the batteries 42 is less than threshold TH2, the battery management unit 31 determines that the battery level meets the flight conditions, and the process proceeds to step S153.

[0107] The threshold TH1 is set to, for example, the danger level or warning level mentioned above. The threshold TH2 may be a fixed value or it may be changeable by the user.

[0108] In step S153, the battery management unit 31 determines whether the battery voltage meets the flight conditions. For example, the battery management unit 31 calculates the voltage difference between the batteries 42 based on the battery information. If the voltage of each battery 42 is within the normal range and the voltage difference between the batteries 42 is less than the threshold TH3, the battery management unit 31 determines that the battery voltage meets the flight conditions, and the process proceeds to step S154.

[0109] The threshold TH3 can be a fixed value, or it can be changed by the user.

[0110] In step S154, the battery management unit 31 determines whether the voltages of each battery 42 are equal. Specifically, the battery management unit 31 obtains battery information from the battery unit 26. Based on the obtained battery information, the battery management unit 31 calculates the voltage difference between the batteries 42. If the voltage difference between the batteries 42 is less than the threshold TH4, the battery management unit 31 determines that the voltages of each battery 42 are equal, and the process proceeds to step S155.

[0111] The threshold TH4 is set to a value smaller than the threshold TH3 used in the processing of step S153.

[0112] In step S155, the drone 101 flies using all of the batteries 42. Specifically, the battery unit 26, under the control of the battery management unit 31, supplies current from both battery 42-1 and battery 42-2 to the drive unit 23. As a result, the drive unit 23 is driven by current from both battery 42-1 and battery 42-2. The motion control unit 32 controls the drive unit 23 to make the drone 101 fly.

[0113] The process then proceeds to step S157.

[0114] On the other hand, in step S154, if the voltage difference between the batteries 42 is greater than or equal to the threshold TH4, the battery management unit 31 determines that the voltages of each battery 42 are not equal, and proceeds to step S156.

[0115] In step S156, the drone 101 flies using the battery 42 with the higher voltage. Specifically, the battery unit 26, under the control of the battery management unit 31, supplies current from the battery 42 with the higher voltage among batteries 42-1 and 42-2 to the drive unit 23. As a result, the drive unit 23 is driven only by the current from the battery 42 with the higher voltage. The operation control unit 32 controls the drive unit 23 to make the drone 101 fly.

[0116] The process then proceeds to step S157.

[0117] In step S157, the battery management unit 31 determines whether the battery voltage is normal or not. For example, if the voltage of all batteries 42 is within the normal range, the battery management unit 31 determines that the battery voltage is normal and proceeds to step S158.

[0118] In step S158, the battery management unit 31 determines whether the integrated battery level is below the warning level. Specifically, the battery management unit 31 calculates the integrated battery level based on the battery information. If the battery management unit 31 determines that the integrated battery level is below the warning level, the process proceeds to step S159.

[0119] In step S159, the drone 101 issues a warning about low battery level. For example, the UI control unit 33 causes the flight status LED 113 to flash red. The UI control unit 33 also outputs a warning sound from the output unit 24.

[0120] In step S160, the battery management unit 31 determines whether the total battery charge is below the critical level. If it is determined that the total battery charge is above the critical level, the process proceeds to step S161.

[0121] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S158 that the total battery level is greater than the warning level, the processes in steps S159 and S160 are skipped, and the process proceeds to step S161.

[0122] In step S161, the motion control unit 32 determines whether or not the aircraft has landed. If it is determined that the aircraft has not yet landed, the process returns to step S154.

[0123] Subsequently, steps S154 through S161 are repeatedly executed until it is determined in step S157 that the battery voltage is abnormal, or in step S160 that the total battery charge is below a dangerous level, or in step S161 that landing has occurred.

[0124] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S161 that the aircraft has landed, the flight control process is terminated.

[0125] If it is determined in step S160 that the total battery level is below a dangerous level, the process proceeds to step S162.

[0126] In step S157, for example, if the battery management unit 31 determines that the battery voltage is abnormal if the voltage of at least one battery 42 is outside the normal range, the process proceeds to step S162.

[0127] In step S162, the drone 101 is forced to land. That is, the motion control unit 32 controls the drive unit 23 to force the drone 101 to land.

[0128] After that, the flight control process ends.

[0129] On the other hand, in step S153, if the voltage of at least one battery 42 is outside the normal range, or if the voltage difference between the batteries 42 is greater than or equal to the threshold TH3, the battery voltage determines that the flight conditions are not met, and the flight control process ends. In other words, in this case, the drone 101 will not fly.

[0130] In step S152, the battery management unit 31 determines that the battery level does not meet the flight conditions if the integrated battery level is less than or equal to threshold TH1, or if the difference in remaining charge between batteries 42 is greater than or equal to threshold TH2, and terminates the flight control process. In other words, in this case, the drone 101 will not fly.

[0131] If it is determined in step S151 that at least some of the batteries 42 are not installed, the flight control process terminates. In other words, in this case, the drone 101 will not fly.

[0132] In this way, the drone 101 can be flown appropriately according to the state of the battery 42, and accidents and dangerous situations can be avoided.

[0133] <<3. Variant Example>> The following describes some modifications of the embodiments of the present technology described above.

[0134] <Variations regarding notification conditions for integrated battery level> For example, if the number of batteries 42 installed changes, the total battery level may be notified when the number of batteries 42 installed meets a predetermined condition, and the total battery level may not be notified when the number of batteries 42 installed does not meet the predetermined condition.

[0135] Specifically, for example, if the number of batteries 42 installed changes, the total battery level may be notified when the number of batteries 42 installed is above a predetermined threshold, and the total battery level may not be notified when the number of batteries 42 installed is below the predetermined threshold. In the example of the drone 101 described above, two such thresholds are set.

[0136] Furthermore, if the number of batteries 42 installed does not meet the predetermined conditions, the integrated battery remaining amount may be treated as 0 or unknown, or the integrated battery remaining amount may be calculated using the same calculation method as when the number of batteries 42 installed meets the predetermined conditions.

[0137] For example, the total battery level may be notified only when battery 42 is installed, or only when battery 42 is removed.

[0138] <Variations regarding flight conditions> The above explanation illustrates an example where the difference in remaining charge between batteries 42 is used as one of the conditions for permitting the flight of the drone 101. In contrast, for example, if the maximum number of batteries 42 that can be installed is three or more, the maximum, minimum, or average value of the difference in remaining charge between batteries 42 is used for comparison with the threshold TH2.

[0139] The above explanation illustrates an example where whether or not all batteries 42 are installed is used as one of the conditions for permitting the flight of the drone 101. In contrast, for example, if the maximum number of batteries 42 that can be installed is three or more, then whether or not the number of installed batteries 42 is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (e.g., two) may be used as one of the conditions for permitting the flight of the drone 101.

[0140] This also applies to the movement conditions of mobile devices other than drone 101.

[0141] <Modified example of current supply for battery 42> The above explanation shows an example where, when the voltage difference between the batteries 42 is greater than or equal to the threshold TH4, current is supplied from the battery 42 with the higher voltage. In contrast, when the maximum number of batteries 42 installed is three or more, for example, current may be supplied from the battery 42 with the highest voltage, or current may be supplied from one or more batteries 42 whose voltage is above a predetermined threshold.

[0142] <Other variations> For example, if the number of batteries 42 installed changes, the remaining charge of each individual battery 42 may be notified along with the total battery charge, or instead of the total battery charge.

[0143] For example, the battery management unit 31 of the mobile unit 11 may be configured to actively detect changes in the mounting status of the battery 42 without receiving notification from the battery unit 26.

[0144] For example, a transmitter may be provided between the mobile unit 11 and the mobile device 12, so that the mobile unit 11 and the mobile device 12 communicate via the transmitter. In this case, the mobile unit 11 and the transmitter communicate wirelessly. The transmitter and the mobile device 12 may communicate via either wired or wireless communication.

[0145] This technology can be applied not only to the drones mentioned above, but also to other mobile devices powered by batteries, such as vehicles, motorcycles, ships, airplanes, robots, and personal mobility devices, where the batteries can be attached and detached by the user.

[0146] <<4. Others>> <Example of computer configuration> The series of processes described above can be executed by hardware or by software. When the series of processes are executed by software, the programs that make up that software are installed on a computer. Here, a computer includes computers built into dedicated hardware, as well as general-purpose personal computers that can perform various functions by installing various programs.

[0147] Figure 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a computer that executes the series of processes described above by a program.

[0148] In computer 1000, the CPU (Central Processing Unit) 1001, ROM (Read Only Memory) 1002, and RAM (Random Access Memory) 1003 are interconnected by a bus 1004.

[0149] An input / output interface 1005 is further connected to the bus 1004. An input / output interface 1005 is connected to an input unit 1006, an output unit 1007, a storage unit 1008, a communication unit 1009, and a drive 1010.

[0150] The input section 1006 consists of input switches, buttons, a microphone, an image sensor, etc. The output section 1007 consists of a display, a speaker, etc. The storage section 1008 consists of a hard disk or non-volatile memory, etc. The communication section 1009 consists of a network interface, etc. The drive 1010 drives removable media 1011 such as a magnetic disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or semiconductor memory.

[0151] In the computer 1000 configured as described above, the CPU 1001 loads, for example, a program stored in the memory unit 1008 into the RAM 1003 via the input / output interface 1005 and the bus 1004, and executes it, thereby performing the series of processes described above.

[0152] The program executed by computer 1000 (CPU 1001) can be provided by recording it on removable media 1011, such as a packaged media. The program can also be provided via wired or wireless transmission media, such as a local area network, the internet, or digital satellite broadcasting.

[0153] In computer 1000, programs can be installed in the storage unit 1008 via the input / output interface 1005 by inserting the removable media 1011 into the drive 1010. Alternatively, programs can be received by the communication unit 1009 via a wired or wireless transmission medium and installed in the storage unit 1008. Furthermore, programs can be pre-installed in the ROM 1002 or the storage unit 1008.

[0154] The programs executed by the computer may be programs that are processed chronologically in the order described herein, or they may be programs that are processed in parallel or at necessary times, such as when a call is made.

[0155] Furthermore, in this specification, a system means a collection of multiple components (devices, modules (parts), etc.), regardless of whether all components are located in the same enclosure or not. Therefore, multiple devices housed in separate enclosures and connected via a network, and a single device in which multiple modules are housed in one enclosure, are both considered systems.

[0156] Furthermore, the embodiments of this technology are not limited to those described above, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of this technology.

[0157] For example, this technology can be configured as cloud computing, where a single function is shared and processed collaboratively by multiple devices via a network.

[0158] Furthermore, each step described in the flowchart above can be performed by a single device, or it can be divided and performed by multiple devices.

[0159] Furthermore, if a single step includes multiple processes, those processes can be executed by a single device or shared among multiple devices.

[0160] <Examples of configuration combinations> This technology can also be configured as follows:

[0161] (1) A mounting section capable of accommodating 2 to n batteries, An output unit that notifies the remaining battery level when the number of batteries installed changes. A mobile device equipped with the following features. (2) The output unit, when the number of batteries installed changes, will notify the remaining battery level if the number of batteries installed meets a predetermined condition, and will not notify the remaining battery level if the number of batteries installed does not meet the condition. The mobile body described in (1) above. (3) The output unit, when the number of installed batteries changes, notifies the remaining battery level when the number of installed batteries is n, and does not notify the remaining battery level when the number of installed batteries is less than n. The mobile body described in (2) above. (4) The output unit notifies the remaining battery level when the number of batteries installed changes while the power is off. The mobile body described in any of (1) to (3) above. (5) When the power is on, the output unit notifies the remaining battery level regardless of whether the number of batteries installed has changed. The mobile body described in (4) above. (6) The output unit notifies the remaining battery level for a predetermined period of time after the number of batteries installed changes. The mobile body described in any of (1) to (5) above. (7) A battery management unit that detects the remaining charge of the battery mounted in the mounting part The mobile body further comprises any of the above (1) to (6). (8) The battery management unit calculates the maximum, minimum, or average remaining charge of the battery installed in the mounting unit. The output unit notifies the remaining battery level based on the calculation result of the maximum, minimum, or average remaining battery level. The mobile body described in (7) above. (9) A drive unit that moves the mobile body using the power of the battery, The operation control unit that controls the drive unit and Furthermore, The operation control unit will not move the moving body if the difference in remaining charge between the batteries is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold. The mobile body described in (7) or (8) above. (10) The battery management unit, when the voltage difference between the batteries is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, causes the battery with the highest voltage to supply current to the drive unit, and when the voltage difference between the batteries is less than the predetermined threshold, causes each battery to supply current to the drive unit. The mobile body described in (9) above. (11) A drive unit that moves the mobile body using the power of the aforementioned battery. The mobile body further comprises any of the above (1) to (8). (12) The aforementioned mobile object is a drone. The mobile body described in any of (1) to (11) above. (13) A mobile body capable of carrying 2 or more n batteries, The system notifies the user of the remaining battery level when the number of batteries installed changes. How to be notified of battery level.

[0162] Furthermore, the effects described herein are merely illustrative and not limiting; other effects may also occur. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0163] 11 Mobile unit, 12 Mobile device, 21 Control unit, 23 Drive unit, 24 Output unit, 26 Battery unit, 31 Battery management unit, 32 Operation control unit, 33 UI control unit, 41-1 to 41-n Battery slots, 42-1 to 42-n Batteries, 101 Drone, 112 Battery level LED, 113-1 to 113-4 Flight status LED

Claims

1. A mobile body having a mounting section capable of accommodating 2 or more n batteries, The output unit that notifies the remaining battery level and A system equipped with, The output unit, when the number of batteries installed changes, will notify the remaining battery level if the number of batteries installed meets a predetermined condition, and will not notify the remaining battery level if the number of batteries installed does not meet the condition. system.

2. A mobile body having a mounting section capable of attaching two or more n batteries, The output unit that notifies the remaining battery level and A system equipped with, The output unit notifies the remaining battery level when the number of batteries installed changes while the power to the mobile unit is turned off. system.

3. The output unit, when the number of installed batteries changes, will notify the remaining battery level when the number of installed batteries is n, and will not notify the remaining battery level when the number of installed batteries is less than n. The system according to claim 1.

4. The output unit, when the power of the mobile unit is turned on, notifies the remaining battery level regardless of whether or not the number of batteries installed has changed. The system according to claim 2.

5. The output unit notifies the remaining battery level for a predetermined period of time after the number of batteries installed changes. The system according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The moving body is A battery management unit that detects the remaining charge of the battery mounted in the mounting part The system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising:

7. The battery management unit calculates the maximum, minimum, or average remaining charge of the battery installed in the mounting unit. The output unit notifies the remaining battery level based on the calculation result of the maximum, minimum, or average remaining battery level. The system according to claim 6.

8. The moving body is A drive unit that moves the mobile body using the power of the battery, The operation control unit that controls the drive unit and Furthermore, The operation control unit will not move the moving body if the difference in remaining charge between the batteries is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold. The system according to claim 6.

9. The battery management unit, when the voltage difference between the batteries is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, causes the battery with the highest voltage to supply current to the drive unit, and when the voltage difference between the batteries is less than the predetermined threshold, causes each battery to supply current to the drive unit. The system according to claim 8.

10. The moving body is A drive unit that moves the mobile body using the power of the aforementioned battery. The system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising:

11. The aforementioned mobile device is a drone. The system according to claim 1 or 2.

12. The moving body is The output section The system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising:

13. A method for notifying the remaining battery level of a mobile device capable of being equipped with 2 or more n batteries, When the number of batteries installed changes, When the number of batteries installed meets the predetermined conditions, the remaining battery charge is notified. If the number of batteries installed does not meet the above conditions, the remaining battery level will not be notified. How to be notified of battery level.

14. When the number of batteries installed changes, When the number of batteries installed is n, the remaining charge of the batteries is notified. When the number of batteries installed is less than n, the remaining battery level is not notified. The battery level notification method according to claim 13.

15. A method for notifying the remaining battery level of a mobile body capable of being equipped with two or more n batteries, When the number of batteries installed in the mobile device changes while the power to the mobile device is turned off, the remaining battery level is notified. How to be notified of battery level.

16. When the power of the mobile device is turned on, the remaining battery level is notified regardless of whether or not the number of batteries installed has changed. The battery level notification method according to claim 15.

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