Wireless power-feeding apparatus

The wireless power supply device addresses the challenge of supplying power to two coils while maintaining a thin profile by using a movement system with overlapping movement ranges for the power transmission coils, achieving efficient and compact power delivery.

WO2025126757A1PCT designated stage expired Publication Date: 2025-06-19PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/JP2024/040258
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-12-11
Filing Date
2024-11-13
Publication Date
2025-06-19

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing wireless power supply devices are unable to efficiently supply power to two power transmission coils while maintaining a thin profile.

Method used

A wireless power supply device with a movement system that includes two power transmission units, each with a power transmission coil and pedestal, a position detection device, and a housing. The movement system uses X-axis and Y-axis rails and drive units to move the power transmission coils based on the detected position of the power reception coil, allowing for overlapping movement ranges to reduce thickness.

Benefits of technology

The device achieves a thinner profile while enabling efficient power supply to two power transmission coils, enhancing usability and efficiency.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The purpose of the present disclosure is to suppress the thickness of a wireless power-feeding device while enabling supply of power to two power-transmitting coils. A first X-axis drive unit (5A) integrally moves a first power transmission unit (8A) and a first Y-axis rail (6A) along a first X-axis rail (4A). A first Y-axis drive unit (7A) integrally moves the first power transmission unit (8A) and the first X-axis rail (4A) along a first Y-axis rail (6A). The first X-axis rail (4A) is disposed on the same plane as a second X-axis rail (4B). The first Y-axis rail (6A) is disposed on the same plane as a second Y-axis rail (6B). At least a portion of the movement range (R10A) of a first power-transmitting coil (81A) overlaps at least a portion of the movement range (R10B) of a second power-transmitting coil (81B).
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Description

Wireless power supply device

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a wireless power supply device, and more particularly to a wireless power supply device that transmits power from a transmitting coil to a receiving coil.

[0002] The contactless charger described in Patent Document 1 includes a lower case, an upper case, a two-dimensional movement mechanism, and a circuit board. The two-dimensional movement mechanism has a transmitting coil attached inside the lower case. The circuit board is located on the underside of the upper case. The upper case is placed over the lower case. When a rechargeable battery with a receiving coil attached is placed on the top surface of the upper case, the circuit board detects the position of the rechargeable battery, the two-dimensional movement mechanism moves the transmitting coil near the rechargeable battery, and the transmitting coil supplies power to the rechargeable battery.

[0003] The contactless charger described in Patent Document 1 is not capable of supplying power to two power transmission coils.

[0004] JP 2013-005665 A

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a wireless power supply device that can supply power to two power transmission coils while reducing the thickness of the wireless power supply device.

[0006] A wireless power supply device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a first power transmission unit, a second power transmission unit, a position detection device, a mobile system, and a housing. The first power transmission unit includes a first power transmission coil that transmits power to a power receiving coil included in a power receiving terminal and a first base that holds the first power transmission coil. The second power transmission unit includes a second power transmission coil that transmits power to the power receiving coil and a second base that holds the second power transmission coil. The position detection device detects the position of the power receiving coil. The mobile system moves at least one of the first power transmission coil and the second power transmission coil based on the position of the power receiving coil detected by the position detection device, and moves the first power transmission coil or the second power transmission coil to a position facing the power receiving coil. The housing accommodates the first power transmission unit, the second power transmission unit, the mobile system, and the position detection device. The mobile system includes a first mobile unit and a second mobile unit. The first moving unit includes a first X-axis rail, a first Y-axis rail, a first X-axis driver, and a first Y-axis driver. The first X-axis rail extends along the X-axis direction. The first Y-axis rail is movably connected to the first X-axis rail via the first base and extends along the Y-axis direction intersecting the X-axis direction. The first X-axis driver moves the first power transmission unit and the first Y-axis rail together along the first X-axis rail. The first Y-axis driver moves the first power transmission unit and the first X-axis rail together along the first Y-axis rail. The second moving unit includes a second X-axis rail, a second Y-axis rail, a second X-axis driver, and a second Y-axis driver. The second X-axis rail extends along the X-axis direction. The second Y-axis rail is movably connected to the second X-axis rail via the second base and extends along the Y-axis direction. The second X-axis driving unit moves the second power transmission unit and the second Y-axis rail together along the second X-axis rail. The second Y-axis driving unit moves the second power transmission unit and the second X-axis rail together along the second Y-axis rail. The first X-axis rail is disposed on the same plane as the second X-axis rail. The first Y-axis rail is disposed on the same plane as the second Y-axis rail.At least a portion of the movement range of the first power transmitting coil overlaps with at least a portion of the movement range of the second power transmitting coil.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a plan view illustrating an example of a state when a wireless power supply device according to a first embodiment is powered on. FIG. 2 is a plan view illustrating another example of a state when a wireless power supply device according to the first embodiment is powered on. FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating yet another example of a state when a wireless power supply device according to the first embodiment is powered on. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a main part of the wireless power supply device according to the first embodiment, seen from above. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a main part of the wireless power supply device according to the first embodiment, seen from below. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the wireless power supply device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the wireless power supply device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the wireless power supply device and a power receiving terminal according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a basic operation of the wireless power supply device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a detailed operation of the wireless power supply device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a plan view of the wireless power supply device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a main part of a wireless power supply device according to a first modification, seen from below. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a main part of a wireless power supply device according to a second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a main part of the wireless power supply device according to the second embodiment. Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of the wireless power supply device of the same. Fig. 16 is a plan view of a main part of a wireless power supply device according to a third embodiment. Fig. 17 is a plan view of a main part of a wireless power supply device according to a fourth embodiment. Fig. 18 is a plan view of a main part of a wireless power supply device according to a fifth embodiment. Fig. 19 is a plan view of a main part of a wireless power supply device according to a sixth embodiment. Fig. 20 is a plan view of a main part of a wireless power supply device according to a seventh embodiment.

[0008] In the following embodiments, the wireless power supply device 1 of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the following embodiments are merely a part of various embodiments of the present disclosure. The following embodiments can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved. Furthermore, the following embodiments, including modified examples, may be realized in appropriate combinations.

[0009] Furthermore, the drawings described in the following embodiments are schematic drawings, and the ratios of the sizes and thicknesses of the components in the drawings do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios.

[0010] In addition, arrows representing front, back, left, right, up, down, and so on in each drawing are merely shown for the purpose of explanation and have no substance. Also, arrows representing the X-axis and Y-axis in each drawing are merely shown for the purpose of explanation and have no substance.

[0011] Furthermore, the front-rear, left-right, and up-down directions in this disclosure are merely examples and are not intended to limit the directions in which the wireless power supply device 1 may be used.

[0012] In addition, the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction intersect each other. In the present disclosure, it is described that the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction are perpendicular to each other, that the X-axis direction coincides with the left-right direction, and that the Y-axis direction coincides with the front-rear direction, but it is not essential that the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction are perpendicular to each other.

[0013] Furthermore, the flowcharts shown in each drawing (such as FIG. 9 ) are merely examples of a method of using (controlling) the wireless power supply device 1 according to the present disclosure, and the order of processing may be changed as appropriate, and processing may be added or omitted as appropriate.

[0014] 1 to 7 illustrate a wireless power supply device 1 of this embodiment. When a power receiving terminal 9 (see FIG. 7) is placed in a power transmittable area 210 (see FIG. 7) provided on the surface of the wireless power supply device 1, the wireless power supply device 1 supplies power to the power receiving terminal 9. The power receiving terminal 9 has, for example, an electric circuit that operates using power received from the wireless power supply device 1. The power receiving terminal 9 also has, for example, a battery, and charges the battery using the power received from the wireless power supply device 1.

[0015] 1 , the wireless power supply device 1 of this embodiment includes a first power transmission unit 8A, a second power transmission unit 8B, a position detection device 3 (see FIG. 6 ), a mobile system M1, and a housing 2. The first power transmission unit 8A includes a first power transmission coil 81A that transmits power to a power receiving coil 91 included in the power receiving terminal 9, and a first base 82A that holds the first power transmission coil 81A. The second power transmission unit 8B includes a second power transmission coil 81B that transmits power to the power receiving coil 91, and a second base 82B that holds the second power transmission coil 81B. The position detection device 3 detects the position of the power receiving coil 91. The mobile system M1 moves at least one of the first power transmission coil 81A and the second power transmission coil 81B based on the position of the power receiving coil 91 detected by the position detection device 3, and moves the first power transmission coil 81A or the second power transmission coil 81B to a position facing the power receiving coil 91. The housing 2 houses the first power transmission unit 8A, the second power transmission unit 8B, the mobile system M1, and the position detection device 3. The mobile system M1 includes a first mobile unit M1a and a second mobile unit M1b.

[0016] The first moving unit M1a includes a first X-axis rail 4A, a first Y-axis rail 6A, a first X-axis driver 5A, and a first Y-axis driver 7A. The first X-axis rail 4A extends along the X-axis direction. The first Y-axis rail 6A is movably connected to the first X-axis rail 4A via a first pedestal 82A and extends along the Y-axis direction, which intersects with the X-axis direction. The first X-axis driver 5A moves the first power transmission unit 8A and the first Y-axis rail 6A together along the first X-axis rail 4A. The first Y-axis driver 7A moves the first power transmission unit 8A and the first X-axis rail 4A together along the first Y-axis rail 6A. Thus, the first moving unit M1a moves the first power transmission unit 8A in the X-axis and Y-axis directions.

[0017] The second moving unit M1b has a second X-axis rail 4B, a second Y-axis rail 6B, a second X-axis driver 5B, and a second Y-axis driver 7B. The second X-axis rail 4B extends along the X-axis direction. The second Y-axis rail 6B is movably connected to the second X-axis rail 4B via a second pedestal 82B and extends along the Y-axis direction. The second X-axis driver 5B moves the second power transmission unit 8B and the second Y-axis rail 6B together along the second X-axis rail 4B. The second Y-axis driver 7B moves the second power transmission unit 8B and the second X-axis rail 4B together along the second Y-axis rail 6B. Therefore, the second moving unit M1b moves the second power transmission unit 8B in the X-axis and Y-axis directions.

[0018] The first X-axis rail 4A is disposed on the same plane as the second X-axis rail 4B. The first Y-axis rail 6A is disposed on the same plane as the second Y-axis rail 6B. At least a portion of the movement range R10A of the first power transmission coil 81A overlaps with at least a portion of the movement range R10B of the second power transmission coil 81B.

[0019] The above configuration has the advantage of making the moving system M1 thinner than when the first moving unit M1a is stacked on the second moving unit M1b in the direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, and therefore makes it possible to make the wireless power supply device 1 thinner.

[0020] (Details) (1) Overall Configuration The wireless power supply device 1 of this embodiment will be described in more detail below.

[0021] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 6 , the wireless power supply device 1 includes a first power transmission unit 8A, a second power transmission unit 8B, a position detection device 3, a moving system M1, a housing 2, and a controller 14.

[0022] Hereinafter, each of the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B will also be referred to as a power transmission unit 8. Furthermore, each of the first power transmission coil 81A and the second power transmission coil 81B will also be referred to as a power transmission coil 81. Furthermore, each of the first base 82A and the second base 82B will also be referred to as a base 82.

[0023] The first X-axis rail 4A and the second X-axis rail 4B are also referred to as X-axis rails 4. The first X-axis drive unit 5A and the second X-axis drive unit 5B are also referred to as X-axis drive units 5. The first Y-axis rail 6A and the second Y-axis rail 6B are also referred to as Y-axis rails 6. The first Y-axis drive unit 7A and the second Y-axis drive unit 7B are also referred to as Y-axis drive units 7.

[0024] As shown in Fig. 8 , the wireless power supply device 1 further includes a plurality of (two in Fig. 8 ) power transmission circuits 83 and a communication circuit 84. In Fig. 8 , double lines connecting components represent power lines, and single lines connecting components represent communication lines.

[0025] (2) Housing As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the housing 2 has a cover 21 and a base 22.

[0026] The cover 21 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The cover 21 has an opening on the bottom surface. The cover 21 also has a display device 211. The display device 211 displays a predetermined information, as described below. The display device 211 includes, for example, a display. The area in which the display device 211 is provided includes at least a portion of the power transmission area 210. When the power receiving terminal 9 is placed in the power transmission area 210, one of the two power transmission coils 81 moves to a position facing the power receiving coil 91 of the power receiving terminal 9 and transmits power to the power receiving coil 91.

[0027] The base 22 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The base 22 has an opening 220 on its upper surface. The opening 220 of the base 22 faces the opening on the lower surface of the cover 21. The cover 21 is attached to the base 22 and covers the opening 220 of the base 22. The two power transmission units 8, the position detection device 3, and the mobile system M1 are housed in the space between the cover 21 and the base 22. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 6 , the two power transmission units 8 and the mobile system M1 are disposed below the position detection device 3.

[0028] (3) Controller, Power Transmission Circuit, and Communication Circuit The controller 14 includes a computer system having one or more processors and a memory. At least some of the functions of the controller 14 are realized by the processor of the computer system executing a program recorded in the memory of the computer system. The program may be recorded in the memory, or may be provided via a telecommunications line such as the Internet, or may be provided by being recorded on a non-transitory recording medium (such as a memory card) that can be read by the computer system.

[0029] 1, the controller 14 has an identification unit 141 and a movement control unit 142. Note that these merely indicate functions realized by the controller 14 and do not necessarily indicate actual configurations.

[0030] The identification unit 141 determines the position of the power receiving coil 91 based on the detection result of the position detection device 3. The movement control unit 142 controls the movement of the two power transmission units 8 by controlling the operations of the first X-axis drive unit 5A, the second X-axis drive unit 5B, the first Y-axis drive unit 7A, and the second Y-axis drive unit 7B of the movement system M1.

[0031] The controller 14 may be housed in the housing 2 as shown in Fig. 1 . Alternatively, the controller 14 may be disposed outside the housing 2. Furthermore, the controller 14 may be a component of a device separate from the wireless power supply device 1.

[0032] The two power transmitting circuits 83 correspond one-to-one to the two power transmitting coils 81. Each power transmitting circuit 83 supplies power to the corresponding power transmitting coil 81.

[0033] Each power transmission circuit 83 includes, for example, a full-bridge inverter or a class D or class E oscillator circuit. The power transmission circuit 83 is connected, for example, to a DC power supply and converts DC power input from the DC power supply into AC power for output. This AC power is supplied to the power transmission coil 81 via a cable and is sent into space by the power transmission coil 81.

[0034] The communication circuit 84 wirelessly communicates with the communication circuit 94 of the power receiving terminal 9, and receives, for example, information about the power receiving terminal 9 that is necessary for transmitting power from the power transmitting coil 81 to the power receiving coil 91. This information is sent to the controller 14 and is used to control the transmission frequency of the transmission power sent by the power transmitting coil 81, control the magnitude of the transmission power, and so on.

[0035] The controller 14, the two power transmission circuits 83, and the communication circuit 84 may be integrated into one package, or may be distributed across multiple packages.

[0036] (4) Position Detection Device As shown in Fig. 6, the position detection device 3 has a first detection unit 31 and a second detection unit 32. The first detection unit 31 includes a plurality of first search coils 310. The second detection unit 32 includes a plurality of second search coils 320.

[0037] The first detector 31 and the second detector 32 are each shaped like a plate. The first detector 31 overlaps the second detector 32 in the up-down direction.

[0038] The position detection device 3 has, for example, a printed circuit board, which may be, for example, a double-sided board or a multi-layer board. The printed circuit board includes a first layer (for example, a layer provided on the upper surface) and a second layer (for example, a layer provided on the lower surface or a layer between the upper and lower surfaces) that overlaps the first layer in the vertical direction. The multiple first search coils 310 are arranged on the first layer of the printed circuit board, and the multiple second search coils 320 are arranged on the second layer of the printed circuit board.

[0039] Each of the first search coils 310 has a rectangular shape. The longitudinal direction of each of the first search coils 310 is aligned in the front-rear direction. The first search coils 310 are aligned in the left-right direction.

[0040] Each of the second search coils 320 has a rectangular shape. The longitudinal direction of each of the second search coils 320 is aligned in the left-right direction. The second search coils 320 are lined up in the front-rear direction.

[0041] Furthermore, the identification unit 141 of the controller 14 supplies pulse signals to the plurality of first search coils 310 and the plurality of second search coils 320 .

[0042] When the power receiving terminal 9 is placed on the upper surface of the cover 21, the power receiving coil 91 of the power receiving terminal 9 is excited by a pulse signal and outputs an echo signal to the opposing first search coil 310 among the multiple first search coils 310. The first search coil 310 receives the echo signal and outputs it to the identification unit 141. The identification unit 141 determines the X coordinate of the power receiving coil 91 based on the position information of each of the multiple first search coils 310 and the level of the echo signal. For example, the identification unit 141 determines the X coordinate of the first search coil 310 among the multiple first search coils 310 whose echo signal level is equal to or greater than a threshold and is the largest, as the X coordinate of the power receiving coil 91.

[0043] Furthermore, when the power receiving terminal 9 is placed on the upper surface of the cover 21, the power receiving coil 91 of the power receiving terminal 9 is excited by a pulse signal and outputs an echo signal to the opposing second search coil 320 among the plurality of second search coils 320. The second search coil 320 receives the echo signal and outputs it to the identification unit 141. The identification unit 141 determines the Y coordinate of the power receiving coil 91 based on the position information of each of the plurality of second search coils 320 and the level of the echo signal. For example, the identification unit 141 determines the Y coordinate of the second search coil 320 among the plurality of second search coils 320 whose echo signal level is equal to or greater than a threshold and is the largest, as the Y coordinate of the power receiving coil 91.

[0044] In this way, the identification unit 141 determines the position of the power receiving coil 91 on the upper surface of the cover 21. The position detection device 3 detects the position of the power receiving coil 91 and generates a signal (echo signal) that the identification unit 141 uses to determine the position of the power receiving coil 91 on the upper surface of the cover 21.

[0045] Similarly, when multiple power receiving terminals 9 (i.e., multiple power receiving coils 91 ) are placed on the top surface of the cover 21 , the identification unit 141 determines the position of each of the multiple power receiving coils 91 on the top surface of the cover 21 .

[0046] (5) Power Receiving Terminal As shown in Fig. 7 , the power receiving terminal 9 has a power receiving coil 91. The shape of the power receiving coil 91 is, for example, circular. However, the shape of the power receiving coil 91 is not limited to circular and may be, for example, rectangular. In the present disclosure, the term "rectangle" is a concept that includes square and oblong shapes.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 8 , the power receiving terminal 9 includes a load 92 , a power receiving circuit 93 , a communication circuit 94 , and a controller 95 in addition to a power receiving coil 91 .

[0048] The load 92 includes a battery and a circuit that operates using power supplied from the battery. Note that it is not essential for the power receiving terminal 9 to have a battery, and the power receiving terminal 9 may be able to attach a battery.

[0049] The power receiving terminal 9 charges a battery with the power received by the power receiving coil 91. The power receiving terminal 9 is, for example, a mobile phone such as a smartphone, a tablet computer, a digital camera, a record player, or a charger.

[0050] The power receiving circuit 93 may include various circuits such as a rectifier circuit, a frequency conversion circuit, a constant voltage / constant current control circuit, a modulation / demodulation circuit for communication, etc. The power receiving circuit 93 converts the high-frequency AC power received by the power receiving coil 91 into DC power or low-frequency AC power that can be used by the load 92. The power receiving circuit 93 may also include various sensors that measure the voltage, current, etc. output from the power receiving coil 91.

[0051] The communication circuit 94 wirelessly communicates with the communication circuit 84 of the power transmitting unit 8 and transmits, for example, information about the power receiving terminal 9 that is necessary for power transmission from the power transmitting coil 81 to the power receiving coil 91 .

[0052] The controller 95 controls the operations of the load 92 , the power receiving circuit 93 , and the communication circuit 94 .

[0053] (6) Power Transmission Units Next, the two power transmission units 8 (i.e., the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B) will be described.

[0054] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 4 , each of the two power transmission units 8 includes a power transmission coil 81 and a base 82 .

[0055] The two power transmission units 8 have a common configuration, and therefore, unless otherwise specified, only one of the power transmission units 8 will be described below.

[0056] The shape of the power transmission coil 81 is, for example, circular. However, the shape of the power transmission coil 81 is not limited to circular and may be, for example, rectangular. The axial direction of the power transmission coil 81 is aligned with the up-down direction.

[0057] A cable is connected to the power transmission coil 81. The power transmission coil 81 receives power via the cable.

[0058] The power transmitting coil 81 transmits power in a contactless manner to the opposing power receiving coil 91. The power transmitting coil 81 transmits power to the power receiving coil 91 by, for example, an electromagnetic coupling (electromagnetic induction) method or a magnetic field resonance method.

[0059] The power transmitting coil 81 is held by a pedestal 82. More specifically, the power transmitting coil 81 is disposed on the upper surface of the pedestal 82. The first power transmitting coil 81A is connected to the first X-axis rail 4A and the first Y-axis rail 6A via a first pedestal 82A. The second power transmitting coil 81B is connected to the second X-axis rail 4B and the second Y-axis rail 6B via a second pedestal 82B.

[0060] The base 82 of the power transmission unit 8 may be provided with ferrite on the upper surface that contacts the power transmission coil 81. The ferrite arranged below the power transmission coil 81 in this manner weakens the electromagnetic coupling between the power transmission coil 81 and the base 82, the X-axis rail 4, the Y-axis rail 6, and the like that are located below the power transmission coil 81, thereby providing the excellent effect of enabling the power transmission coil 81 to transmit AC power efficiently.

[0061] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the base 82 has a top plate 823 , an X-axis rail guide 824 , and a Y-axis rail guide 825 .

[0062] The top plate 823 has a plate-like shape. The thickness direction of the top plate 823 is aligned with the up-down direction. The power transmission coil 81 is disposed on the upper surface of the top plate 823.

[0063] The shape of the base 82 seen from above matches the shape of the top plate 823 seen from above. The shape of the base 82 seen from above is, for example, rectangular. However, the shape of the base 82 seen from above is not limited to rectangular and may be, for example, circular.

[0064] The Y-axis rail guide 825 protrudes from the lower surface of the top plate 823. The pedestal 82 is supported by a rail main body 61 (rail main body 61A of the first Y-axis rail 6A or rail main body 61B of the second Y-axis rail 6B) of the Y-axis rail 6, which will be described later, in the Y-axis rail guide 825. That is, the first pedestal 82A is supported by the rail main body 61A of the first Y-axis rail 6A in the Y-axis rail guide 825. Furthermore, the second pedestal 82B is supported by the rail main body 61B of the second Y-axis rail 6B in the Y-axis rail guide 825.

[0065] The Y-axis rail guide 825 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The Y-axis rail guide 825 has a through-hole 8250 that passes through the Y-axis rail guide 825 in the Y-axis direction. The rail main body 61 of the Y-axis rail 6 passes through the through-hole 8250. This allows the base 82 to be supported by the rail main body 61.

[0066] The X-axis rail guide 824 is provided on the underside of the Y-axis rail guide 825. The pedestal 82 is supported by a rail main body 41 (rail main body 41A of the first X-axis rail 4A or rail main body 41B of the second X-axis rail 4B) of the X-axis rail 4, which will be described later, in the X-axis rail guide 824. That is, the first pedestal 82A is supported by the rail main body 41A of the first X-axis rail 4A in the X-axis rail guide 824. Furthermore, the second pedestal 82B is supported by the rail main body 41B of the second X-axis rail 4B in the X-axis rail guide 824.

[0067] The X-axis rail guide 824 includes two hook portions 8241 and two protrusion portions 8242 .

[0068] The two hook portions 8241 face each other in the Y-axis direction.

[0069] Each of the two hook portions 8241 has a base end portion 8241a and a tip end portion 8241b. The base end portion 8241a protrudes downward from the lower surface of the Y-axis rail guide 825. The tip end portion 8241b protrudes in the Y-axis direction from the lower end of the base end portion 8241a. The tip end portion 8241b faces the lower surface of the Y-axis rail guide 825.

[0070] The two protrusions 8242 protrude from the lower surface of the Y-axis rail guide 825. The two protrusions 8242 face each other in the Y-axis direction.

[0071] The rail body 41 of the X-axis rail 4 is passed between the tip end portions 8241b of each of the two hook portions 8241 and the underside of the Y-axis rail guide 825. Furthermore, the rail body 41 of the X-axis rail 4 is passed between the two base end portions 8241a. Furthermore, the rail body 41 of the X-axis rail 4 is passed between the two protrusions 8242. In this way, the base 82 is supported by the rail body 41.

[0072] The power transmission unit 8 is movable in the X-axis direction along the X-axis rail 4. More specifically, the power transmission unit 8 slides in the X-axis direction relative to the rail main body 41 of the X-axis rail 4 while contacting the rail main body 41 at the X-axis rail guide 824. Furthermore, when the power transmission unit 8 moves in the X-axis direction along the X-axis rail 4, the Y-axis rail 6 receives a force in the X-axis direction from the Y-axis rail guide 825 of the power transmission unit 8, and therefore the Y-axis rail 6 also moves integrally with the power transmission unit 8 in the X-axis direction.

[0073] The power transmission unit 8 is movable in the Y-axis direction along the Y-axis rail 6. More specifically, the power transmission unit 8 slides in the Y-axis direction relative to the rail main body 61 while contacting the rail main body 61 of the Y-axis rail 6 at the Y-axis rail guide 825. Furthermore, when the power transmission unit 8 moves in the Y-axis direction along the Y-axis rail 6, the X-axis rail 4 receives a force in the Y-axis direction from the X-axis rail guide 824 of the power transmission unit 8, and therefore the X-axis rail 4 also moves integrally with the power transmission unit 8 in the Y-axis direction.

[0074] (7) Mobile System Next, each component of the mobile system M1 will be described.

[0075] The first X-axis rail 4A and the second X-axis rail 4B are provided so as to be movable in the Y-axis direction, and the first Y-axis rail 6A and the second Y-axis rail 6B are provided so as to be movable in the X-axis direction.

[0076] The first X-axis driving unit 5A, the second X-axis driving unit 5B, the first Y-axis driving unit 7A, and the second Y-axis driving unit 7B are fixed to the housing 2.

[0077] (7.1) First X-Axis Rail and Second X-Axis Rail As shown in FIG. 1, the first X-axis rail 4A has a rail body 41A and a rack gear 42A.

[0078] The rail main body 41A extends in the X-axis direction. That is, the longitudinal direction of the rail main body 41A is along the X-axis direction.

[0079] The rack gear 42A is connected to one end (left end) of the rail main body 41A.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 1, the second X-axis rail 4B has a rail body 41B and a rack gear 42B.

[0081] The rail main body 41B extends in the X-axis direction. That is, the longitudinal direction of the rail main body 41B is along the X-axis direction.

[0082] The rack gear 42B is connected to one end (right end) of the rail main body 41B.

[0083] The first X-axis rail 4A and the second X-axis rail 4B face each other in the Y-axis direction. More specifically, the first X-axis rail 4A is disposed in front of the second X-axis rail 4B.

[0084] The first X-axis rail 4A is disposed on the same plane as the second X-axis rail 4B. In other words, the vertical distance from the bottom surface 200 (see FIG. 1) of the housing 2 to the first X-axis rail 4A is equal to the vertical distance from the bottom surface 200 to the second X-axis rail 4B. Here, "equal" does not necessarily mean that the difference between the two values ​​is strictly zero, but may also mean that the difference between the two values ​​is less than 10% of the larger value, for example.

[0085] (7.2) First Y-Axis Rail and Second Y-Axis Rail As shown in FIG. 1, the first Y-axis rail 6A has a rail body 61A and a rack gear 62A.

[0086] The rail main body 61A extends in the Y-axis direction. That is, the longitudinal direction of the rail main body 61A is along the Y-axis direction.

[0087] The rack gear 62A is connected to one end (front end) of the rail main body 61A.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 1, the second Y-axis rail 6B has a rail body 61B and a rack gear 62B.

[0089] The rail main body 61B extends in the Y-axis direction. That is, the longitudinal direction of the rail main body 61B is along the Y-axis direction.

[0090] The rack gear 62B is connected to one end (rear end) of the rail main body 61B.

[0091] The first Y-axis rail 6A and the second Y-axis rail 6B face each other in the X-axis direction. More specifically, the first Y-axis rail 6A is disposed to the left of the second Y-axis rail 6B.

[0092] The first Y-axis rail 6A is disposed on the same plane as the second Y-axis rail 6B. In other words, the vertical distance from the bottom surface 200 (see FIG. 1) of the housing 2 to the first Y-axis rail 6A is equal to the vertical distance from the bottom surface 200 to the second Y-axis rail 6B. Here, "equal" does not necessarily mean that the difference between the two values ​​is strictly zero, but may also mean, for example, that the difference between the two values ​​is less than 10% of either larger value.

[0093] (7.3) First X-Axis Drive Unit and Second X-Axis Drive Unit As shown in FIG. 1, each of the two X-axis drive units 5 (i.e., the first X-axis drive unit 5A and the second X-axis drive unit 5B) has a motor 51, a ball screw 52, ​​and a plurality of pinion gears 53 (three in FIG. 1).

[0094] The motor 51 rotates the ball screw 52. A helical screw is provided on the circumferential surface of the ball screw 52. The axial direction of the ball screw 52 is aligned with the X-axis direction.

[0095] The multiple pinion gears 53 are aligned in the X-axis direction. Each pinion gear 53 meshes with a ball screw 52. When the ball screw 52 rotates, each pinion gear 53 rotates.

[0096] When the first power transmission unit 8A is within the movement range R10A of the first power transmission unit 8A, the rack gear 62A of the first Y-axis rail 6A meshes with at least one of the multiple pinion gears 53 of the first X-axis drive unit 5A. When this at least one pinion gear 53 rotates and applies a force in the X-axis direction to the rack gear 62A, the first Y-axis rail 6A moves in the X-axis direction together with the first power transmission unit 8A.

[0097] When the second power transmission unit 8B is within the movement range R10B of the second power transmission unit 8B, the rack gear 62B of the second Y-axis rail 6B meshes with at least one of the multiple pinion gears 53 of the second X-axis drive unit 5B. When the at least one pinion gear 53 rotates and applies a force in the X-axis direction to the rack gear 62B, the second Y-axis rail 6B moves in the X-axis direction together with the second power transmission unit 8B.

[0098] One of the first X-axis driving unit 5A and the second X-axis driving unit 5B (first X-axis driving unit 5A in FIG. 1) is disposed in front of the movement range R10A of the first power transmission coil 81A and the movement range R10B of the second power transmission coil 81B. The other of the first X-axis driving unit 5A and the second X-axis driving unit 5B (second X-axis driving unit 5B in FIG. 1) is disposed behind the movement range R10A of the first power transmission coil 81A and the movement range R10B of the second power transmission coil 81B.

[0099] (7.4) First Y-axis drive unit and second Y-axis drive unit As shown in FIG. 1, each of the two Y-axis drive units 7 (i.e., the first Y-axis drive unit 7A and the second Y-axis drive unit 7B) has a motor 71, a ball screw 72, and multiple (three in FIG. 1) pinion gears 73.

[0100] The motor 71 rotates the ball screw 72. A helical screw is provided on the circumferential surface of the ball screw 72. The axial direction of the ball screw 72 is aligned with the Y-axis direction.

[0101] The multiple pinion gears 73 are aligned in the Y-axis direction. Each pinion gear 73 meshes with a ball screw 72. When the ball screw 72 rotates, each pinion gear 73 rotates.

[0102] When the first power transmission unit 8A is within the movement range R10A of the first power transmission unit 8A, the rack gear 42A of the first X-axis rail 4A meshes with at least one of the multiple pinion gears 73 of the first Y-axis drive unit 7A. When the at least one pinion gear 73 rotates and applies a force in the Y-axis direction to the rack gear 42A, the first X-axis rail 4A moves in the Y-axis direction together with the first power transmission unit 8A.

[0103] When the second power transmission unit 8B is within the movement range R10B of the second power transmission unit 8B, the rack gear 42B of the second X-axis rail 4B meshes with at least one of the multiple pinion gears 73 of the second Y-axis drive unit 7B. When the at least one pinion gear 73 rotates and applies a force in the Y-axis direction to the rack gear 42B, the second X-axis rail 4B moves in the Y-axis direction together with the second power transmission unit 8B.

[0104] One of the first Y-axis drive unit 7A and the second Y-axis drive unit 7B (the first Y-axis drive unit 7A in FIG. 1) is disposed to the left of the movement range R10A of the first power transmission coil 81A and the movement range R10B of the second power transmission coil 81B. The other of the first Y-axis drive unit 7A and the second Y-axis drive unit 7B (the second Y-axis drive unit 7B in FIG. 1) is disposed to the right of the movement range R10A of the first power transmission coil 81A and the movement range R10B of the second power transmission coil 81B.

[0105] (8) Basic Operation Next, the basic operation of the wireless power supply device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0106] In the following description, it is assumed that the power receiving terminal 9 has a battery, and that power transmission from the power transmitting coil 81 to the power receiving coil 91 ends when charging of the battery is completed.

[0107] 9 illustrates an example of the operation of the wireless power supply device 1 when one power receiving terminal 9 is located in the power transmission area 210 (see FIG. 7 ). The position detection device 3 detects the position of the power receiving coil 91 in the power transmission area 210 (step ST1). When the identification unit 141 of the controller 14 determines the position of the power receiving coil 91, the movement control unit 142 of the controller 14 determines which of the two power transmitting coils 81 is to be moved to a position facing the power receiving coil 91. The movement control unit 142 then controls the mobile system M1 to move the power transmitting coil 81 to a position facing the power receiving coil 91 (step ST2). When the movement of the power transmitting coil 81 is complete, power transmission from the power transmitting coil 81 to the power receiving coil 91 begins (step ST3). The power receiving terminal 9 charges its battery using the power received by the power receiving coil 91.

[0108] When charging of the battery in the power receiving terminal 9 is completed (step ST4: Yes), power transmission from the power transmitting coil 81 to the power receiving coil 91 is terminated (step ST5).

[0109] (9) Initial Position When the mobile system M1 is powered on, the mobile system M1 may move the two power transmission units 8 to their respective initial positions. That is, the control method for the mobile system M1 may include a process of moving the first power transmission coil 81A and the second power transmission coil 81B to their corresponding initial positions when the mobile system M1 is powered on.

[0110] Furthermore, each power transmitting coil 81 may also be moved to its initial position when power transmission from the power transmitting coil 81 to the power receiving coil 91 is completed. That is, the control method for the mobile system M1 may include a process of moving one of the first power transmitting coil 81A and the second power transmitting coil 81B to its initial position when power transmission from one of the first power transmitting coil 81A and the second power transmitting coil 81B to the power receiving coil 91 is completed. Each power transmitting coil 81 may be moved to its initial position after a predetermined time has elapsed since power transmission was completed.

[0111] 1 to 3 each show an example of a state in which two power transmission units 8 are in their initial positions.

[0112] 1 , at least a portion of a movement range R10A of the first power transmission coil 81A overlaps with at least a portion of a movement range R10B of the second power transmission coil 81B. The first power transmission coil 81A moves on a first plane, and the second power transmission coil 81B moves on a second plane that is coplanar with the first plane. The first and second planes are planes that extend along both the X-axis and Y-axis directions. That is, the first and second planes are planes that are perpendicular to the up-down direction.

[0113] The movement range R10A of the first power transmission coil 81A and the movement range R10B of the second power transmission coil 81B are each a square or a rectangle. The combined range of the movement range R10A of the first power transmission coil 81A and the movement range R10B of the second power transmission coil 81B is called a combined range R10 (see FIG. 1 ).

[0114] When the first power transmitting coil 81A and the second power transmitting coil 81B are in their corresponding initial positions, the first power transmitting coil 81A and the second power transmitting coil 81B are disposed at the furthest distance from each other in the example shown in Fig. 1. More specifically, in the example shown in Fig. 1, the first power transmitting coil 81A is disposed at the front left corner of the movement range R10A, and the second power transmitting coil 81B is disposed at the rear right corner of the movement range R10B. In other words, the first power transmitting coil 81A and the second power transmitting coil 81B are disposed on either side of the center R101 of the combined range R10.

[0115] 2, when the first power transmission coil 81A and the second power transmission coil 81B are located at their corresponding initial positions, the first power transmission coil 81A and the second power transmission coil 81B are arranged adjacent to each other. Furthermore, in the example shown in FIG. 2, the first power transmission coil 81A and the second power transmission coil 81B are arranged adjacent to the center R101 of the combined range R10. Alternatively, the first power transmission coil 81A and the second power transmission coil 81B may be arranged adjacent to each other, and at least one of the first power transmission coil 81A and the second power transmission coil 81B may be arranged to overlap the center R101 of the combined range R10. Therefore, the first power transmission coil 81A and the second power transmission coil 81B may be arranged adjacent to each other, and at least one of the first power transmission coil 81A and the second power transmission coil 81B may be arranged adjacent to or overlap the center R101 of the combined range R10.

[0116] When the first power transmitting coil 81A and the second power transmitting coil 81B are in their corresponding initial positions, in the example shown in FIG. 3 , the second power transmitting coil 81B is disposed adjacent to the center R101 of the summation range R10, and the first power transmitting coil 81A is disposed furthest from the center R101 of the summation range R10. More specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 3 , the first power transmitting coil 81A is disposed at the front left corner of the movement range R10A. Note that the second power transmitting coil 81B may be disposed so as to overlap the center R101 of the summation range R10. Alternatively, the first power transmitting coil 81A may be disposed adjacent to or overlapping the center R101 of the summation range R10, and the second power transmitting coil 81B may be disposed furthest from the center R101 of the summation range R10. More specifically, the second power transmitting coil 81B may be disposed at the rear right corner of the movement range R10B. That is, one of the first power transmitting coil 81A and the second power transmitting coil 81B may be arranged adjacent to or overlapping the center R101 of the combined range R10, and the other may be arranged furthest from the center R101 of the combined range R10.

[0117] 1 and 3, the initial positions of the first power transmitting coil 81A and the second power transmitting coil 81B are spaced apart, which has the effect of reducing the possibility of interference (contact) between the first power transmitting coil 81A and the second power transmitting coil 81B. Furthermore, since the power receiving terminal 9 is often placed near the center of the power transmittable area 210 (see FIG. 1), the examples shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 have the effect of shortening the time required to move the power transmitting coil 81 to a position facing the power receiving coil 91.

[0118] 3 , when the initial position of one of the first power transmitting coil 81A and the second power transmitting coil 81B is adjacent to or overlaps with the center R101 of the combined range R10, and the initial position of the other is the furthest from the center R101 of the combined range R10, the initial positions of the first power transmitting coil 81A and the second power transmitting coil 81B may be changed each time a predetermined condition is satisfied. The predetermined condition may be, for example, when one of the power transmitting coils 81 ends power transmission. Alternatively, the predetermined condition may be, for example, when the mobile system M1 is powered on. When the initial position of the first power transmission coil 81A is adjacent to or overlaps with the center R101 of the combined range R10 and the initial position of the second power transmission coil 81B is farthest from the center R101 of the combined range R10, if a specified condition is met, the initial positions of the second power transmission coil 81B may then be changed so that the initial position of the second power transmission coil 81B is adjacent to or overlaps with the center R101 of the combined range R10 and the initial position of the first power transmission coil 81A is farthest from the center R101 of the combined range R10. Furthermore, when a predetermined condition is satisfied in a case where the initial position of the second power transmission coil 81B is adjacent to or overlaps with the center R101 of the combined range R10 and the initial position of the first power transmission coil 81A is farthest from the center R101 of the combined range R10, the initial positions of the first power transmission coil 81A may be changed so that the initial position of the first power transmission coil 81A is adjacent to or overlaps with the center R101 of the combined range R10 and the initial position of the second power transmission coil 81B is farthest from the center R101 of the combined range R10. This has the effect of reducing the possibility that only one of the power transmission coils 81 whose initial position is set near the center R101 is frequently selected as the power transmission coil 81 that transmits power. This has the effect of averaging out the operating time of the power transmission circuit 83 and enabling the life of the power transmission circuit 83 to be extended.

[0119] (10) Example of Operation Corresponding to Two Power Receiving Terminals Next, an example of operation corresponding to the case where two power receiving terminals 9 are arranged in the power transmission area 210 will be described with reference to Fig. 7 and Fig. 10. The following description includes an explanation of the process of determining which of the two power transmitting coils 81 is to be moved to a position facing the power receiving coil 91.

[0120] In the following, charging the receiving terminal 9 with the transmitting coil 81 means that the transmitting coil 81 moves to a position opposite the receiving coil 91 of the receiving terminal 9, and the receiving terminal 9 charges the battery using the power transmitted from the transmitting coil 81 and received by the receiving coil 91.

[0121] Of the two power receiving terminals 9, the power receiving terminal 9 that is placed first in the power transmission area 210 is also referred to below as the first power receiving terminal 9A. Also, of the two power receiving terminals 9, the power receiving terminal 9 that is placed later in the power transmission area 210 is also referred to below as the second power receiving terminal 9B.

[0122] 7 , the initial position P1 of the first power transmitting coil 81A is near the left front vertex of the rectangular power transmitting area 210, and the initial position P2 of the second power transmitting coil 81B is near the right rear vertex of the power transmitting area 210.

[0123] The distance between the initial position of the first power transmitting coil 81A and the second power receiving coil 91B is defined as a distance Dc, and the distance between the initial position of the second power transmitting coil 81B and the second power receiving coil 91B is defined as a distance Dd.

[0124] 10 , the position detection device 3 detects the position of the first power receiving coil 91A in the power transmission area 210 (step ST11). After the identification unit 141 of the controller 14 determines the position of the power receiving coil 91, the movement control unit 142 of the controller 14 calculates the distances Da and Db (step ST12). If Da≦Db holds (step ST13: Yes), the first power receiving terminal 9A is charged by the first power transmitting coil 81A (step ST14). That is, the first power transmitting coil 81A moves to a position facing the first power receiving coil 91A, and the first power receiving terminal 9A charges its battery using the power transmitted from the first power transmitting coil 81A and received by the first power receiving coil 91A.

[0125] If the charging of the first power receiving terminal 9A is completed without the position detection device 3 detecting the second power receiving coil 91B (step ST15: No, step ST16: Yes), the process ends.

[0126] If the position detection device 3 detects the second power receiving coil 91B before charging of the first power receiving terminal 9A is completed (step ST15: Yes), the movement control unit 142 calculates the distance Dc (step ST17).

[0127] If Da≦Dc holds (step ST18: Yes), the first power receiving terminal 9A continues to be charged by the first power transmitting coil 81A, while the second power receiving terminal 9B is charged by the second power transmitting coil 81B (step ST19).

[0128] On the other hand, if Da > Dc is satisfied in step ST18 (step ST18: No), the first power receiving terminal 9A is charged by the second power transmitting coil 81B, and the second power receiving terminal 9B is charged by the first power transmitting coil 81A (step ST25). That is, the first power transmitting coil 81A stops charging the first power receiving terminal 9A, moves to a position opposite the second power receiving coil 91B, and charges the second power receiving terminal 9B. Also, the second power transmitting coil 81B moves to a position opposite the first power receiving coil 91A, and charges the first power receiving terminal 9A.

[0129] After step ST19 or step ST25, when charging of each power receiving terminal 9 is completed (step ST26), the process ends.

[0130] Next, a case where Da>Db is satisfied in step ST13 (step ST13: No) will be described. In this case, the first power receiving terminal 9A is charged by the second power transmitting coil 81B (step ST20).

[0131] If the charging of the first power receiving terminal 9A is completed without the position detection device 3 detecting the second power receiving coil 91B (step ST21: No, step ST22: Yes), the process ends.

[0132] If the position detection device 3 detects the second power receiving coil 91B before charging of the first power receiving terminal 9A is completed (step ST21: Yes), the movement control unit 142 calculates the distance Dd (step ST23).

[0133] If Db≦Dd holds (step ST24: Yes), the second power receiving terminal 9B is charged by the first power transmitting coil 81A while continuing to charge the first power receiving terminal 9A by the second power transmitting coil 81B (step ST25).

[0134] On the other hand, if Db > Dd is true in step ST24 (step ST24: No), the first power receiving terminal 9A is charged by the first power transmitting coil 81A, and the second power receiving terminal 9B is charged by the second power transmitting coil 81B (step ST19). That is, the second power transmitting coil 81B stops charging the first power receiving terminal 9A, moves to a position opposite the second power receiving coil 91B, and charges the second power receiving terminal 9B. Also, the first power transmitting coil 81A moves to a position opposite the first power receiving coil 91A and charges the first power receiving terminal 9A.

[0135] After step ST19 or step ST25, when charging of each power receiving terminal 9 is completed (step ST26), the process ends.

[0136] As described above, when the position of the receiving coil 91 is detected by the position detection device 3, the controller 14 selects the transmitting coil 81 from the first transmitting coil 81A and the second transmitting coil 81B to be moved to a position opposite the receiving coil 91 based on the position of the receiving coil 91 detected by the position detection device 3 and the initial position.

[0137] More specifically, with regard to power transmission to the first receiving coil 91A, if Da≦Db holds, the first transmitting coil 81A is moved to a position opposite the first receiving coil 91A, and if Da>Db holds, the second transmitting coil 81B is moved to a position opposite the first receiving coil 91A.

[0138] Furthermore, if the position detection device 3 detects the position of the second power receiving coil 91B while power is being transmitted from the first power transmitting coil 81A to the first power receiving coil 91A and Da≦Dc is satisfied, the mobile system M1 moves the second power transmitting coil 81B to a position opposite the second power receiving coil 91B. On the other hand, if the position detection device 3 detects the position of the second power receiving coil 91B while power is being transmitted from the first power transmitting coil 81A to the first power receiving coil 91A and Da>Dc is satisfied, the mobile system M1 moves the first power transmitting coil 81A to a position opposite the second power receiving coil 91B and moves the second power transmitting coil 81B to a position opposite the first power receiving coil 91A.

[0139] Furthermore, if the position detection device 3 detects the position of the second power receiving coil 91B while power is being transmitted from the second power transmitting coil 81B to the first power receiving coil 91A and Db≦Dd holds, the mobile system M1 moves the first power transmitting coil 81A to a position opposite the second power receiving coil 91B. On the other hand, if the position detection device 3 detects the position of the second power receiving coil 91B while power is being transmitted from the second power transmitting coil 81B to the first power receiving coil 91A and Db>Dd holds, the mobile system M1 moves the second power transmitting coil 81B to a position opposite the second power receiving coil 91B and moves the first power transmitting coil 81A to a position opposite the first power receiving coil 91A.

[0140] This has the effect of reducing the distance traveled by each of the first power transmitting coil 81A and the second power transmitting coil 81B while reducing interference between the first power transmitting coil 81A and the second power transmitting coil 81B.

[0141] (11) Display Processing The control method for the wireless power supply device 1 further includes a display processing for controlling the display device 211 (see FIGS. 7 and 11 ) to display a predetermined display on the display device 211. More specifically, the display processing causes the display device 211 to display at least one of the position of the first power transmitting coil 81A, the position of the second power transmitting coil 81B, the power transmitting area 210 of the first power transmitting coil 81A and the second power transmitting coil 81B, and a recommended area recommended as a location for placing the power receiving terminal 9. This makes it easier for the user to determine where to place the power receiving terminal 9.

[0142] 11 is a plan view of the housing 2. A display device 211 is disposed on the top surface of the housing 2. When the power receiving terminal 9 is disposed in a power transmittable area 210 provided on the top surface of the housing 2, power is transmitted from the power transmitting coil 81 to the power receiving terminal 9.

[0143] The power transmission area 210 is an area on the top surface of the housing 2 that faces the movement range (total range R10 (see FIG. 1 )) of the two power transmission coils 81. In FIG. 11 , the power transmission area 210 and the outer edge of the display device 211 (approximately) coincide with each other, but the power transmission area 210 and the outer edge of the display device 211 do not have to coincide with each other.

[0144] When the power receiving terminal 9 is placed in a search area 212 provided on the top surface of the housing 2, the position detection device 3 detects the position of the power receiving terminal 9. The search area 212 is an area on the top surface of the housing 2 that faces the multiple first search coils 310 (see FIG. 6 ) and the multiple second search coils 320 (see FIG. 6 ). As an example, as shown in FIG. 11 , the search area 212 includes the power transmittable area 210.

[0145] The display device 211 displays the position of the first power transmitting coil 81A by, for example, illuminating an area facing the first power transmitting coil 81A. The display device 211 also displays the position of the second power transmitting coil 81B by, for example, illuminating an area facing the second power transmitting coil 81B.

[0146] The display device 211 displays the power transmittable area 210 by, for example, lighting up the power transmittable area 210 .

[0147] When the power receiving terminal 9 is located within the search area 212 but outside the power transmittable area 210, the display device 211 displays, for example, an arrow 213 indicating the direction in which the power receiving terminal 9 should be moved, thereby displaying a recommended area that is recommended as a location for the power receiving terminal 9. The arrow 213 points in the direction in which the power transmittable area 210 is located. Alternatively, the display device 211 may illuminate a portion (for example, near the center) of the power transmittable area 210 to display the portion as a recommended area.

[0148] If the power receiving terminal 9 is equipped with a display device such as a display, the power receiving terminal 9 may perform processing equivalent to display processing in response to a signal received from the wireless power supply device 1. That is, the power receiving terminal 9 may display at least one of the position of the first power transmitting coil 81A, the position of the second power transmitting coil 81B, the power transmittable area 210, and the recommended area. For example, the power receiving terminal 9 may display an arrow 213 indicating the direction in which the power receiving terminal 9 should be moved.

[0149] (12) Conditions to be Satisfied by the Wireless Power Supply Apparatus Next, with reference to FIG. 2, conditions to be satisfied by the wireless power supply apparatus 1 when at least one of the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B moves will be described.

[0150] If both sides in the X-axis direction are defined as left and right, respectively, the first Y-axis rail 6A is disposed to the left of the second Y-axis rail 6B.

[0151] The distance from a first center line 600A that passes through the center of the first Y-axis rail 6A along the Y-axis direction to the right end of the first Y-axis rail 6A is defined as a first distance Wa. The distance from a second center line 600B that passes through the center of the second Y-axis rail 6B along the Y-axis direction to the left end of the second Y-axis rail 6B is defined as a second distance Wb. The distance between the first center line 600A and the second center line 600B is defined as a distance La.

[0152] If both sides in the Y-axis direction are defined as the front and rear, respectively, the first X-axis rail 4A is disposed in front of the second X-axis rail 4B.

[0153] The distance from a third center line 400A that passes through the center of the first X-axis rail 4A and runs along the X-axis direction to the rear end of the first X-axis rail 4A is defined as a third distance Wc. The distance from a fourth center line 400B that passes through the center of the second X-axis rail 4B and runs along the X-axis direction to the front end of the second X-axis rail 4B is defined as a fourth distance Wd. The distance between the third center line 400A and the fourth center line 400B is defined as a distance Lb.

[0154] At this time, it is preferable that the movement system M1 moves at least one of the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B so as to satisfy La ≥ Wa + Wb and Lb ≥ Wc + Wd, which has the effect of suppressing interference between the first X-axis rail 4A and the second X-axis rail 4B, and between the first Y-axis rail 6A and the second Y-axis rail 6B.

[0155] 2, a first protrusion that protrudes to the right from the first Y-axis rail 6A is provided in the movement range R10A (see FIG. 1) of the first power transmission unit 8A. More specifically, a first protrusion that protrudes to the right from the first Y-axis rail 6A is provided on the first pedestal 82A of the first power transmission unit 8A. The right side portion of the first pedestal 82A corresponds to the first protrusion. Here, the distance from the first center line 600A to the right end of the first protrusion is defined as distance Waa.

[0156] 2, a second protrusion that protrudes to the left from the second Y-axis rail 6B is provided in the movement range R10B (see FIG. 1) of the second power transmission unit 8B. More specifically, a second protrusion that protrudes to the left from the second Y-axis rail 6B is provided on the second pedestal 82B of the second power transmission unit 8B. The left portion of the second pedestal 82B corresponds to the second protrusion. Here, the distance from the second center line 600B to the left end of the second protrusion is defined as distance Wbb.

[0157] 2, a third protrusion that protrudes rearward from the first X-axis rail 4A is provided in the movement range R10A of the first power transmission unit 8A. More specifically, a third protrusion that protrudes rearward from the first Y-axis rail 6A is provided on the first pedestal 82A of the first power transmission unit 8A. The rear portion of the first pedestal 82A corresponds to the third protrusion. Here, the distance from the third center line 400A to the rear end of the third protrusion is defined as distance Wcc.

[0158] 2, a fourth protrusion that protrudes forward from the second X-axis rail 4B is provided in the movement range R10B of the second power transmission unit 8B. More specifically, a fourth protrusion that protrudes forward from the second X-axis rail 4B is provided on the second pedestal 82B of the second power transmission unit 8B. The front portion of the second pedestal 82B corresponds to the fourth protrusion. Here, the distance from the fourth center line 400B to the front end of the fourth protrusion is defined as distance Wdd.

[0159] It is preferable that the mobile system M1 moves at least one of the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B so as to satisfy at least one of La ≥ Waa + Wbb and Lb ≥ Wcc + Wdd, which has the effect of suppressing interference between the first to fourth protrusions and other components, and interference between the first to fourth protrusions themselves.

[0160] Furthermore, the distance between the first center line 600A and the right end of the first power transmission unit 8A is defined as distance Ta. The distance between the second center line 600B and the left end of the second power transmission unit 8B is defined as distance Tb. The width of the first power transmission unit 8A in the X-axis direction is defined as width Sa (see FIG. 3). The width of the second power transmission unit 8B in the X-axis direction is defined as width Sb (see FIG. 3).

[0161] Furthermore, the distance between the third center line 400A and the rear end of the first power transmission unit 8A is defined as distance Tc (see FIG. 2). The distance between the fourth center line 400B and the front end of the second power transmission unit 8B is defined as distance Td (see FIG. 2). The width of the first power transmission unit 8A in the Y-axis direction is defined as width Sc (see FIG. 3). The width of the second power transmission unit 8B in the Y-axis direction is defined as width Sd (see FIG. 3).

[0162] It is preferable that the mobile system M1 moves at least one of the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B so as to satisfy at least one of La ≥ Ta + Tb, Lb ≥ Tc + Td, 2La ≥ Sa + Sb, and 2Lb ≥ Sc + Sd, which has the effect of suppressing interference between the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B.

[0163] (Modification 1) A wireless power supply device 1 according to Modification 1 of Embodiment 1 will be described below with reference to Fig. 12. Components similar to those in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted. The configuration of the above-described Embodiment 1 will be referred to as a basic example below.

[0164] In this modified example 1, the shape of the base 82 is different from that of the basic example. That is, the base 82 of this modified example 1 has an X-axis rail guide 824f instead of the X-axis rail guide 824 (see FIG. 5) of the basic example.

[0165] The X-axis rail guide 824f is provided on the underside of the Y-axis rail guide 825. The X-axis rail guide 824f is shaped like a rectangular parallelepiped. The X-axis rail guide 824f has a through-hole 8240 that passes through the X-axis rail guide 824f in the X-axis direction. The rail main body 41 of the X-axis rail 4 passes through the through-hole 8240. This allows the base 82 to be supported by the rail main body 41.

[0166] (Embodiment 2) Hereinafter, a wireless power supply device 1 and a control method according to embodiment 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 13 to Fig. 15. The configuration of the wireless power supply device 1 of embodiment 2 is the same as the configuration of the wireless power supply device 1 of embodiment 1, and therefore, the same reference numerals are used for each component, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0167] 13 and 14 are schematic diagrams showing the positional relationship of a first power transmitting coil 81A, a second power transmitting coil 81B, a first power receiving coil 91A, and a second power receiving coil 91B when viewed from above. In FIGS. 13 and 14, each coil is represented by a single circle corresponding to its outer periphery.

[0168] When power is being transmitted from the first power transmitting coil 81A to the first power receiving coil 91A, if the second power receiving coil 91B is placed in the power transmission area 800A near the first power transmitting coil 81A, it is preferable to perform a warning process, etc., which will be described later. Similarly, when power is being transmitted from the second power transmitting coil 81B to the first power receiving coil 91A, if the second power receiving coil 91B is placed in the power transmission area 800B near the second power transmitting coil 81B, it is preferable to perform a warning process, etc., which will be described later.

[0169] The power transmission areas 800A and 800B are predetermined areas.

[0170] The power transmission area 800A includes an area facing the first power transmission coil 81A. The power transmission area 800A moves together with the first power transmission coil 81A. As an example, as shown in FIG. 13 , the power transmission area 800A is an area surrounding the first power transmission coil 81A when viewed from above.

[0171] The power transmission area 800B includes an area facing the second power transmission coil 81B. The power transmission area 800B moves together with the second power transmission coil 81B. As an example, as shown in FIG. 13 , the power transmission area 800B is an area surrounding the second power transmission coil 81B when viewed from above.

[0172] (14) Control Method The control method of the mobile system M1 includes, as processes executed by the controller 14, a stop process, a warning process, a first restart process, and a second restart process.

[0173] (14.1) First Example First, the stop process, warning process, first restart process, and second restart process that are executed in a state where power is being transmitted from the first power transmitting coil 81A to the first power receiving coil 91A will be described.

[0174] When power is being transmitted from the first power transmitting coil 81A to the first power receiving coil 91A, if the position detection device 3 detects that the second power receiving coil 91B is located within the power transmission area 800A of the first power transmitting coil 81A, as shown in Figure 13, a stop process is executed to stop power transmission by the first power transmitting coil 81A.

[0175] When the stop process is performed, a warning process is executed to warn the user. The warning process is executed, for example, immediately before the stop process, simultaneously with the stop process, or immediately after the stop process. In the warning process, the user is warned, for example, by flashing the display device 211 or by displaying characters indicating a warning on the display device 211. Alternatively, in the warning process, the user is warned, for example, by sound.

[0176] After the stop process, if only one of the first power receiving coil 91A and the second power receiving coil 91B is located within the power transmission area 800A of the first power transmitting coil 81A, a first restart process is executed to resume power transmission by the first power transmitting coil 81A.

[0177] If a predetermined time has elapsed since the execution of the stop process and both the first power receiving coil 91A and the second power receiving coil 91B are located within the power transmission area 800A of the first power transmitting coil 81A, as shown in FIG. 13 , a second restart process is executed. In the second restart process, as shown in FIG. 14 , the first power transmitting coil 81A is moved away from the second power receiving coil 91B, and the second power transmitting coil 81B is moved to a position facing the second power receiving coil 91B. More specifically, the first power transmitting coil 81A is moved away from the second power receiving coil 91B so that the second power receiving coil 91B is located outside the power transmission area 800A, and the second power transmitting coil 81B is moved so that the second power receiving coil 91B is located within the power transmission area 800B. As a result, power is transmitted from the first power transmitting coil 81A to the first power receiving coil 91A, and power is transmitted from the second power transmitting coil 81B to the second power receiving coil 91B.

[0178] If the user removes the second power receiving terminal 9B when the warning process is performed, charging of the first power receiving terminal 9A can be resumed without moving the first power transmitting coil 81A. This has the effect of suppressing a decrease in the efficiency of power transmission from the first power transmitting coil 81A to the first power receiving coil 91A due to movement of the first power transmitting coil 81A during the second restart process. On the other hand, it has the effect of increasing the possibility of charging the second power receiving terminal 9B compared to when the second restart process is not performed.

[0179] As a modified example, the second restart process may be performed without waiting for a predetermined time to elapse after the stop process. That is, after the stop process, the first power transmitting coil 81A may be moved away from the second power receiving coil 91B, the second power transmitting coil 81B may be moved to a position facing the second power receiving coil 91B, and power may be transmitted from the first power transmitting coil 81A to the first power receiving coil 91A and from the second power transmitting coil 81B to the second power receiving coil 91B. In this case, the warning process may be omitted.

[0180] (14.2) Second Example Next, the stop process, warning process, first restart process, and second restart process that are executed in a state where power is being transmitted from the second power transmitting coil 81B to the first power receiving coil 91A will be described.

[0181] When power is being transmitted from the second power transmission coil 81B to the first power receiving coil 91A, if the position detection device 3 detects that the second power receiving coil 91B is located within the power transmission area 800B of the second power transmission coil 81B, a stop process is executed to stop power transmission by the second power transmission coil 81B.

[0182] When the stop process is performed, a warning process is executed to warn the user. The warning process is executed, for example, immediately before the stop process, simultaneously with the stop process, or immediately after the stop process. In the warning process, the user is warned, for example, by flashing the display device 211 or by displaying characters indicating a warning on the display device 211. Alternatively, in the warning process, the user is warned, for example, by sound.

[0183] After the stop process, if only one of the first power receiving coil 91A and the second power receiving coil 91B is located within the power transmission area 800B of the second power transmitting coil 81B, a first restart process is executed to resume power transmission by the second power transmitting coil 81B.

[0184] If both the first power receiving coil 91A and the second power receiving coil 91B are located within the power transmission area 800B of the second power transmitting coil 81B after a predetermined time has elapsed since the execution of the stop process, a second restart process is executed. In the second restart process, the second power transmitting coil 81B is moved away from the second power receiving coil 91B, and the first power transmitting coil 81A is moved to a position facing the second power receiving coil 91B. More specifically, the second power transmitting coil 81B is moved away from the second power receiving coil 91B so that the second power receiving coil 91B is located outside the power transmission area 800B, and the first power transmitting coil 81A is moved so that the second power receiving coil 91B is located within the power transmission area 800A. As a result, power is transmitted from the second power transmitting coil 81B to the first power receiving coil 91A, and power is transmitted from the first power transmitting coil 81A to the second power receiving coil 91B.

[0185] As a modified example, the second restart process may be performed without waiting for a predetermined time to elapse after the stop process. That is, after the stop process, the second power transmitting coil 81B may be moved away from the second power receiving coil 91B, the first power transmitting coil 81A may be moved to a position facing the second power receiving coil 91B, power may be transmitted from the second power transmitting coil 81B to the first power receiving coil 91A, and power may be transmitted from the first power transmitting coil 81A to the second power receiving coil 91B. In this case, the warning process may be omitted.

[0186] (14.3) Details of the First Example Next, a series of flows of the stop process, warning process, first restart process, and second restart process of "(14.1) First Example" will be described with reference to Fig. 15 . Note that "(14.2) Second Example" is an example in which the first power transmission coil 81A and the second power transmission coil 81B of "(14.1) First Example" are simply interchanged. Therefore, simply interchange the first power transmission coil 81A and the second power transmission coil 81B in the following description can explain a series of flows of the stop process, warning process, first restart process, and second restart process of "(14.2) Second Example."

[0187] First, the first power transmitting coil 81A moves to a position facing the first power receiving coil 91A, and the first power receiving terminal 9A is charged by the first power transmitting coil 81A (step ST31). After that, the position detection device 3 detects the second power receiving coil 91B (step ST32).

[0188] If the second power receiving coil 91B is located within the power transmission area 800A of the first power transmitting coil 81A (step ST33: Yes), a stop process and a warning process are executed (steps ST34 and ST35). If the first power receiving coil 91A or the second power receiving coil 91B moves out of the power transmission area 800A of the first power transmitting coil 81A before a predetermined time has elapsed (step ST36: No), a first restart process is executed to restart power transmission by the first power transmitting coil 81A (step ST45). Then, when charging of the power receiving terminal 9 by the first power transmitting coil 81A is completed (step ST46), the process ends.

[0189] On the other hand, if the first power receiving coil 91A and the second power receiving coil 91B are still located within the power transmission area 800A of the first power transmitting coil 81A even after a predetermined time has elapsed after the stop process and the warning process (step ST36: Yes, step ST37: Yes), a second restart process is executed (step ST38). That is, as shown in Fig. 14 , the first power transmitting coil 81A is moved away from the second power receiving coil 91B, and the second power transmitting coil 81B is moved to a position facing the second power receiving coil 91B.

[0190] If at least one of the first power receiving terminal 9A and the second power receiving terminal 9B is chargeable (step ST39: Yes), charging of the chargeable power receiving terminal 9 is started (step ST40), and when charging is completed (step ST41), the process ends. However, depending on the arrangement of the first power receiving coil 91A and the second power receiving coil 91B, it is possible that neither the first power receiving terminal 9A nor the second power receiving terminal 9B is chargeable after step ST38 is executed (step ST39: No). In this case, the wireless power supply device 1 outputs an error (step ST42). The error output may be, for example, an error message displayed on the display device 211 or a sound to notify the user of the error.

[0191] In addition, if the second receiving coil 91B is located outside the power transmission area 800A of the first transmitting coil 81A in step ST33 (step ST33: No), for example, the second receiving terminal 9B is charged by the second transmitting coil 81B (step ST43), and when charging is completed (step ST44), the processing is terminated.

[0192] As a variant of this embodiment, when the second receiving coil 91B is detected in step ST32, if Da > Dc holds (see step ST18 in Figure 10), the first receiving terminal 9A may be charged by the second transmitting coil 81B, and the second receiving terminal 9B may be charged by the first transmitting coil 81A.

[0193] Also, in "(14.2) Second Example," when the second power receiving coil 91B is detected while the first power receiving terminal 9A is being charged by the second power transmitting coil 81B, if Db > Dd holds (see step ST24 in Figure 10), the first power receiving terminal 9A may be charged by the first power transmitting coil 81A and the second power receiving terminal 9B may be charged by the second power transmitting coil 81B.

[0194] Third Embodiment A wireless power supply device 1 according to a third embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 16. The same components as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0195] The first center line 600A is a straight line that passes through the center of the first Y-axis rail 6A and extends along the Y-axis direction. The center 801A of the first power transmission coil 81A is located closer to the second Y-axis rail 6B (to the right) than the first center line 600A.

[0196] The second center line 600B is a straight line along the Y-axis direction that passes through the center of the second Y-axis rail 6B. The center 801B of the second power transmission coil 81B is located closer to the first Y-axis rail 6A (to the left) than the second center line 600B.

[0197] According to the present embodiment, even when two power receiving coils 91 are arranged side by side in the Y-axis direction in the power transmittable area 210, the two power transmitting coils 81 are more likely to move to positions facing the two power receiving coils 91, respectively, than in the first embodiment. This has the effect of increasing the possibility that two power receiving terminals 9 can be charged by the two power transmitting coils 81. It also has the effect of improving the efficiency of power transmission from the two power transmitting coils 81 to the two power receiving coils 91.

[0198] For example, the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B may be arranged so that the center 801A of the first power transmission coil 81A and the center 801B of the second power transmission coil 81B are aligned in the Y-axis direction when the first Y-axis rail 6A and the second Y-axis rail 6B are closest to each other.

[0199] The distance between the center 801A of the first power transmission coil 81A and the first center line 600A is preferably at least half the width of the rail main body 61A in the X-axis direction. This makes it easier to arrange the first power transmission coil 81A and the second power transmission coil 81B side by side in the Y-axis direction. It is particularly preferable that the distance be half the width of the rail main body 61A in the X-axis direction.

[0200] Furthermore, the distance between the center 801B of the second power transmission coil 81B and the second center line 600B is preferably at least half the width of the rail main body 61B in the X-axis direction. It is particularly preferable that the distance be half the width of the rail main body 61B in the X-axis direction.

[0201] Fourth Embodiment A wireless power supply device 1 according to a fourth embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 17. The same components as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0202] The third center line 400A is a straight line along the X-axis direction that passes through the center of the first X-axis rail 4A. The center 801A of the first power transmission coil 81A is located closer to the second X-axis rail 4B (more rearward) than the third center line 400A.

[0203] The fourth center line 400B is a straight line along the X-axis direction that passes through the center of the second X-axis rail 4B. The center 801B of the second power transmission coil 81B is located closer to the first X-axis rail 4A (front side) than the fourth center line 400B.

[0204] According to the present embodiment, even when two power receiving coils 91 are arranged side by side in the X-axis direction in the power transmittable area 210, the two power transmitting coils 81 are more likely to move to positions facing the two power receiving coils 91, respectively, than in the first embodiment. This has the effect of increasing the possibility that two power receiving terminals 9 can be charged by the two power transmitting coils 81. It also has the effect of improving the efficiency of power transmission from the two power transmitting coils 81 to the two power receiving coils 91.

[0205] For example, the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B may be arranged so that the center 801A of the first power transmission coil 81A and the center 801B of the second power transmission coil 81B are aligned in the X-axis direction when the first X-axis rail 4A and the second X-axis rail 4B are closest to each other.

[0206] The distance between the center 801A of the first power transmission coil 81A and the third center line 400A is preferably at least half the width of the rail main body 41A in the Y-axis direction. This makes it easier to arrange the first power transmission coil 81A and the second power transmission coil 81B side by side in the X-axis direction. It is particularly preferable that the distance be half the width of the rail main body 41A in the Y-axis direction.

[0207] Furthermore, the distance between the center 801B of the second power transmission coil 81B and the fourth center line 400B is preferably at least half the width of the rail main body 41B in the Y-axis direction. It is particularly preferable that the distance be half the width of the rail main body 41B in the Y-axis direction.

[0208] Note that embodiment 4 may be realized in combination with embodiment 3. That is, center 801A of first power transmission coil 81A may be located closer to the second Y-axis rail 6B (to the right) than first center line 600A, and closer to the second X-axis rail 4B (to the rear) than third center line 400A. Center 801B of second power transmission coil 81B may be located closer to the first Y-axis rail 6A (to the left) than second center line 600B, and closer to the first X-axis rail 4A (to the front) than fourth center line 400B.

[0209] Fifth Embodiment A wireless power supply device 1 according to a fifth embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 18. The same components as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0210] The configuration of this embodiment is applicable to both the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B.

[0211] The base 82 includes a rotation mechanism 821. The rotation mechanism 821 holds the power transmitting coil 81 rotatably about a central axis 822 that is perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The central axis 822 is provided at a position different from the center 801 of the power transmitting coil 81.

[0212] As an example, the central axis 822 is provided on the center line 600 of the Y-axis rail 6. The center line 600 is a straight line that passes through the center of the Y-axis rail 6 and extends along the Y-axis direction. As an example, the central axis 822 may be provided on the center line 400 of the X-axis rail 4. The center line 400 is a straight line that passes through the center of the X-axis rail 4 and extends along the X-axis direction. As an example, the central axis 822 may be provided at the intersection of the center line 400 and the center line 600.

[0213] The base 82 includes, for example, a rotation mechanism 821, a top plate 823, and a movable part 826. The power transmission coil 81 is fixed to the movable part 826. An X-axis rail guide 824 and a Y-axis rail guide 825 are fixed to the top plate 823 (see FIG. 5 ). The rotation mechanism 821 is mechanically fixed to the movable part 826 and protrudes from the movable part 826. The rotation mechanism 821 is, for example, a shaft of a motor that constitutes the rotation drive unit 15.

[0214] The movement system M1 further includes a rotation drive unit 15. The rotation drive unit 15 is fixed to the top plate 823. For example, the rotation drive unit 15 is disposed on the upper surface of the top plate 823 (between the top plate 823 and the movable part 826). The rotation drive unit 15 includes, for example, a motor. The motor is connected to the rotation mechanism 821. The motor applies a rotational force to the movable part 826 via the rotation mechanism 821, causing the movable part 826 to rotate. The power transmission coil 81 rotates together with the movable part 826.

[0215] That is, the power transmitting coil 81 and the movable part 826 rotate relative to the top plate 823 around a central axis 822 that is provided at a position different from the center 801 of the power transmitting coil 81. For example, the movable part 826 can rotate to the position shown by the dashed line in FIG.

[0216] Rotation of the power transmission coil 81 displaces the power transmission coil 81. This has the effect of widening the power transmission area 210. For example, when the Y-axis rail 6 is located at the left end, the power transmission area 210 can be widened to the left by rotating the power transmission coil 81 and positioning it more to the left. Furthermore, when the X-axis rail 4 is located at the rear end, the power transmission area 210 can be widened to the rear by rotating the power transmission coil 81 and positioning it more to the rear.

[0217] Furthermore, for example, when two Y-axis rails 6 are close to each other, the same effect as in embodiment 3 can be obtained by rotating the first power transmission coil 81A so that the center 801A of the first power transmission coil 81A is positioned on the side closer to the second Y-axis rail 6B (on the right side) than the first center line 600A, as shown in Fig. 16 of embodiment 3. Furthermore, when two Y-axis rails 6 are close to each other, the same effect as in embodiment 3 can be obtained by rotating the second power transmission coil 81B so that the center 801B of the second power transmission coil 81B is positioned on the side closer to the first Y-axis rail 6A (on the left side) than the second center line 600B, as shown in Fig. 16 of embodiment 3.

[0218] Furthermore, for example, when two X-axis rails 4 are close to each other, the same effect as in embodiment 4 can be obtained by rotating the first power transmission coil 81A so that the center 801A of the first power transmission coil 81A is located closer to the second X-axis rail 4B (rearward) than the third center line 400A, as shown in Fig. 17 of embodiment 4. Furthermore, when two X-axis rails 4 are close to each other, the same effect as in embodiment 4 can be obtained by rotating the second power transmission coil 81B so that the center 801B of the second power transmission coil 81B is located closer to the first X-axis rail 4A (frontward) than the fourth center line 400B, as shown in Fig. 17 of embodiment 4.

[0219] The motor of the rotational drive unit 15 may be arranged so that the output shaft of the motor is aligned in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. In this case, even if the motor is long in the direction along the output shaft, it is possible to achieve a thinner wireless power supply device 1. The rotational drive unit 15 may further include a conversion mechanism that converts the rotational force of the motor's output shaft into rotational force about an axis aligned in the vertical direction. The conversion mechanism may include, for example, multiple gears.

[0220] Sixth Embodiment A wireless power supply device 1 according to a sixth embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 19. The same components as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0221] The wireless power supply device 1 of this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the base 82 of each of the two power transmission units 8 has a circular shape. As a whole, each of the two power transmission units 8 has a circular shape.

[0222] The following describes the conditions that the wireless power supply device 1 must satisfy when at least one of the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B of this embodiment moves.

[0223] The distance between a first center line 600A that passes through the center of the first Y-axis rail 6A and extends along the Y-axis direction and a second center line 600B that passes through the center of the second Y-axis rail 6B and extends along the Y-axis direction is defined as distance La. The distance between a third center line 400A that passes through the center of the first X-axis rail 4A and extends along the X-axis direction and a fourth center line 400B that passes through the center of the second X-axis rail 4B and extends along the X-axis direction is defined as distance Lb. The first power transmission unit 8A has a circular shape with a radius Ra. The second power transmission unit 8B has a circular shape with a radius Rb.

[0224] At this time, the mobile system M1 2 +Lb 2 ≧(Ra+Rb) 2 It is preferable to move at least one of the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B so as to satisfy the following condition: This has the effect of suppressing interference between the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B.

[0225] Furthermore, the distance in the X-axis direction between the center 801A of the first power transmission unit 8A and the center 801B of the second power transmission unit 8B is defined as distance Lc. The distance in the Y-axis direction between the center 801A of the first power transmission unit 8A and the center 801B of the second power transmission unit 8B is defined as distance Ld. In this embodiment, the center 801A of the first power transmission unit 8A is on the first center line 600A. The center 801B of the second power transmission unit 8B is on the second center line 600B. Therefore, the mobile system M1 has a distance Lc 2 + Ld 2 ≧(Ra+Rb) 2 It is also preferable to move at least one of the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B so as to satisfy the following condition.

[0226] In this embodiment, the center 801A of the first power transmission unit 8A is on the first center line 600A. The center 801B of the second power transmission unit 8B is on the second center line 600B. Therefore, the distance Lc is equal to the distance La.

[0227] In this embodiment, the center 801A of the first power transmission unit 8A is on the third center line 400A. The center 801B of the second power transmission unit 8B is on the fourth center line 400B. Therefore, the distance Ld is equal to the distance Lb.

[0228] In this embodiment, similarly to the fifth embodiment, the power transmission coil 81 may be configured to be rotatable.

[0229] Seventh Embodiment A wireless power supply device 1 according to a seventh embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 20. The same components as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0230] The wireless power supply device 1 of this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the base 82 of each of the two power transmission units 8 has a circular shape. As a whole, each of the two power transmission units 8 has a circular shape.

[0231] The following describes the conditions that the wireless power supply device 1 must satisfy when at least one of the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B of this embodiment moves.

[0232] The distance between a first center line 600A that passes through the center of the first Y-axis rail 6A and extends along the Y-axis direction and a second center line 600B that passes through the center of the second Y-axis rail 6B and extends along the Y-axis direction is defined as distance La. The distance between a third center line 400A that passes through the center of the first X-axis rail 4A and extends along the X-axis direction and a fourth center line 400B that passes through the center of the second X-axis rail 4B and extends along the X-axis direction is defined as distance Lb. The first power transmission unit 8A has a circular shape with a radius Ra. The second power transmission unit 8B has a circular shape with a radius Rb.

[0233] If the negative side in the X-axis direction is defined as the left, the first Y-axis rail 6A is disposed to the left of the second Y-axis rail 6B.

[0234] The center 801A of the first power transmitting coil 81A is shifted in the X-axis direction from the first center line 600A by a positive shift amount Pa. In other words, when the center 801A is located to the right of the first center line 600A, the shift amount Pa is a positive value.

[0235] The center 801B of the second power transmitting coil 81B is shifted in the X-axis direction from the second center line 600B by a negative deviation amount Pb. In other words, when the center 801B is to the left of the second center line 600B, the deviation amount Pb is a negative value.

[0236] If the negative side in the Y-axis direction is defined as the front, the first X-axis rail 4A is disposed in front of the second X-axis rail 4B.

[0237] The center 801A of the first power transmitting coil 81A is shifted in the Y-axis direction by a positive deviation Pc from the third center line 400A. In other words, when the center 801A is located behind the third center line 400A, the deviation Pc is a positive value.

[0238] The center 801B of the second power transmitting coil 81B is shifted in the Y-axis direction by a negative deviation amount Pd from the fourth center line 400B. In other words, when the center 801B is located in front of the fourth center line 400B, the deviation amount Pd is a negative value.

[0239] At this time, the mobile system M1 is (La-Pa+Pb) 2 +(Lb-Pc+Pd) 2 ≧(Ra+Rb) 2It is preferable to move at least one of the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B so as to satisfy the following condition: This has the effect of suppressing interference between the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B.

[0240] Also, as in the sixth embodiment, the mobile system M1 has Lc 2 + Ld 2 ≧(Ra+Rb) 2 It is also preferable to move at least one of the first power transmission unit 8A and the second power transmission unit 8B so as to satisfy the following condition (see FIG. 19).

[0241] In this embodiment, similarly to the fifth embodiment, the power transmission coil 81 may be configured to be rotatable.

[0242] (Modifications of Embodiments 1 to 7) Modifications of Embodiments 1 to 7 are listed below. The following modifications may be realized in appropriate combination.

[0243] The entity that executes the wireless power supply device 1 or the control method according to the present disclosure includes a computer system. The computer system is primarily composed of a processor and a memory as hardware. At least a portion of the functions of the entity that executes the wireless power supply device 1 or the control method according to the present disclosure are realized by the processor executing a program stored in the memory of the computer system. The program may be pre-stored in the memory of the computer system, provided via a telecommunications line, or provided by being stored on a non-transitory recording medium readable by the computer system, such as a memory card, an optical disk, or a hard disk drive. The processor of the computer system is composed of one or more electronic circuits including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a large-scale integrated circuit (LSI). The integrated circuits, such as ICs and LSIs, are referred to by different names depending on the degree of integration, and include integrated circuits called system LSIs, very large-scale integration (VLSI), or ultra-large-scale integration (ULSI). Furthermore, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), which is programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or a logic device capable of reconfiguring the connections within the LSI or the circuit partitions within the LSI, can also be employed as a processor. Multiple electronic circuits may be integrated into a single chip or distributed across multiple chips. Multiple chips may be integrated into a single device or distributed across multiple devices. The computer system referred to here includes a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, the microcontroller is also composed of one or more electronic circuits, including a semiconductor integrated circuit or a large-scale integrated circuit.

[0244] In addition, in the embodiment, multiple functions that are integrated into one housing may be distributed across multiple housings. For example, the controller 14 may be provided outside the housing 2 that houses the mobile system M1.

[0245] In the present disclosure, when comparing two values, "greater than or equal to" may be used instead of "greater than." There is no technical difference between "greater than or equal to" and "greater than or equal to." Similarly, "less than" may be used instead of "less than or equal to."

[0246] (Summary) The above-described embodiments and the like disclose the following aspects.

[0247] A wireless power supply device (1) according to a first aspect includes a first power transmission unit (8A), a second power transmission unit (8B), a position detection device (3), a mobile system (M1), and a housing (2). The first power transmission unit (8A) includes a first power transmission coil (81A) that transmits power to a power receiving coil (91) included in a power receiving terminal (9) and a first base (82A) that holds the first power transmission coil (81A). The second power transmission unit (8B) includes a second power transmission coil (81B) that transmits power to the power receiving coil (91) and a second base (82B) that holds the second power transmission coil (81B). The position detection device (3) detects the position of the power receiving coil (91). The moving system (M1) moves at least one of the first power transmission coil (81A) and the second power transmission coil (81B) based on the position of the power receiving coil (91) detected by the position detection device (3), and moves the first power transmission coil (81A) or the second power transmission coil (81B) to a position facing the power receiving coil (91). The housing (2) accommodates a first power transmission unit (8A), a second power transmission unit (8B), the moving system (M1), and the position detection device (3). The moving system (M1) includes a first moving unit (M1a) and a second moving unit (M1b). The first moving unit (M1a) has a first X-axis rail (4A), a first Y-axis rail (6A), a first X-axis drive unit (5A), and a first Y-axis drive unit (7A). The first X-axis rail (4A) is aligned along the X-axis direction. The first Y-axis rail (6A) is movably connected to the first X-axis rail (4A) via a first base (82A) and extends along the Y-axis direction intersecting the X-axis direction. The first X-axis drive unit (5A) moves the first power transmission unit (8A) and the first Y-axis rail (6A) together along the first X-axis rail (4A). The first Y-axis drive unit (7A) moves the first power transmission unit (8A) and the first X-axis rail (4A) together along the first Y-axis rail (6A). The second movement unit (M1b) has a second X-axis rail (4B), a second Y-axis rail (6B), a second X-axis drive unit (5B), and a second Y-axis drive unit (7B). The second X-axis rail (4B) extends along the X-axis direction. The second Y-axis rail (6B) is movably connected to the second X-axis rail (4B) via a second base (82B) and extends along the Y-axis direction. The second X-axis drive unit (5B) moves the second power transmission unit (8B) and the second Y-axis rail (6B) together along the second X-axis rail (4B).The second Y-axis drive unit (7B) moves the second power transmission unit (8B) and the second X-axis rail (4B) together along the second Y-axis rail (6B). The first X-axis rail (4A) is disposed on the same plane as the second X-axis rail (4B). The first Y-axis rail (6A) is disposed on the same plane as the second Y-axis rail (6B). At least a portion of the movement range (R10A) of the first power transmission coil (81A) overlaps with at least a portion of the movement range (R10B) of the second power transmission coil (81B).

[0248] According to the above configuration, there is an effect that the wireless power supply device (1) can be made thinner.

[0249] In addition, in the wireless power supply device (1) according to the second aspect, in the first aspect, the center (801A) of the first power transmission coil (81A) is located closer to the second Y-axis rail (6B) than the first center line (600A) that passes through the center of the first Y-axis rail (6A) and runs along the Y-axis direction.

[0250] According to the above configuration, when two power receiving coils (91) are arranged side by side in the Y-axis direction, the efficiency of power transmission to the two power receiving coils (91) can be improved.

[0251] In addition, in the wireless power supply device (1) according to the third aspect, in the first or second aspect, the center (801B) of the second power transmission coil (81B) is located closer to the first Y-axis rail (6A) than the second center line (600B) that passes through the center of the second Y-axis rail (6B) and runs along the Y-axis direction.

[0252] According to the above configuration, when two power receiving coils (91) are arranged side by side in the Y-axis direction, the efficiency of power transmission to the two power receiving coils (91) can be improved.

[0253] In addition, in the wireless power supply device (1) according to the fourth aspect, in any one of the first to third aspects, the center (801A) of the first power transmission coil (81A) is located closer to the second X-axis rail (4B) than a third center line (400A) that passes through the center of the first X-axis rail (4A) and runs along the X-axis direction.

[0254] According to the above configuration, when two power receiving coils (91) are arranged side by side in the X-axis direction, the efficiency of power transmission to the two power receiving coils (91) can be improved.

[0255] In addition, in the wireless power supply device (1) according to the fifth aspect, in any one of the first to fourth aspects, the center (801B) of the second power transmission coil (81B) is located closer to the first X-axis rail (4A) than a fourth center line (400B) that passes through the center of the second X-axis rail (4B) and runs along the X-axis direction.

[0256] According to the above configuration, when two power receiving coils (91) are arranged side by side in the X-axis direction, the efficiency of power transmission to the two power receiving coils (91) can be improved.

[0257] In addition, in a wireless power supply device (1) according to a sixth aspect, in any one of the first to fifth aspects, the first base (82A) includes a rotation mechanism (821). The rotation mechanism (821) holds the first power transmitting coil (81A) rotatably about a first central axis that is orthogonal to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The first central axis is provided at a position different from the center (801A) of the first power transmitting coil (81A).

[0258] The above configuration has the effect of widening the range of movement (R10A) of the first power transmission coil (81A).

[0259] In addition, in a wireless power supply device (1) according to a seventh aspect, in any one of the first to sixth aspects, the second base (82B) includes a rotation mechanism (821). The rotation mechanism (821) holds the second power transmitting coil (81B) rotatably about a second central axis orthogonal to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The second central axis is provided at a position different from the center (801B) of the second power transmitting coil (81B).

[0260] The above configuration has the effect of widening the range of movement (R10B) of the second power transmitting coil (81B).

[0261] In addition, the wireless power supply device (1) according to an eighth aspect is the wireless power supply device (1) of any one of the first to seventh aspects, further including a controller (14). The controller (14) selects one of the first power transmission coil (81A) and the second power transmission coil (81B) to be moved to a position facing the power receiving coil (91) according to the position of the power receiving coil (91) detected by the position detection device (3).

[0262] The above configuration has the effect of, for example, quickly moving the power transmitting coil (81) to a position facing the power receiving coil (91).

[0263] In addition, in the wireless power supply device (1) according to the ninth aspect, in the eighth aspect, the mobile system (M1) moves the first power transmitting coil (81A) and the second power transmitting coil (81B) to their corresponding initial positions when the mobile system (M1) is powered on. When the position detection device (3) detects the position of the power receiving coil (91), the controller (14) selects one of the first power transmitting coil (81A) and the second power transmitting coil (81B) to move to a position facing the power receiving coil (91) based on the position of the power receiving coil (91) detected by the position detection device (3) and the initial position.

[0264] The above configuration has the effect of, for example, quickly moving the power transmitting coil (81) to a position facing the power receiving coil (91).

[0265] Furthermore, in the wireless power supply device (1) according to a tenth aspect, in the ninth aspect, when the first power transmission coil (81A) and the second power transmission coil (81B) are in their corresponding initial positions, the first power transmission coil (81A) and the second power transmission coil (81B) are disposed farthest from each other, the first power transmission coil (81A) and the second power transmission coil (81B) are adjacent to each other, and at least one of the first power transmission coil (81A) and the second power transmission coil (81B) is The first power transmission coil (81A) and the second power transmission coil (81B) are arranged adjacent to or overlapping the center (R101) of the combined range (R10) which is the sum of the movement range (R10A) of the first power transmission coil (81A) and the movement range (R10B) of the second power transmission coil (81B), or one of the first power transmission coil (81A) and the second power transmission coil (81B) is arranged adjacent to or overlapping the center (R101) of the combined range (R10), and the other is arranged furthest from the center (R101) of the combined range (R10).

[0266] The above configuration has the effect of, for example, quickly moving the power transmitting coil (81) to a position facing the power receiving coil (91).

[0267] In addition, in a wireless power supply device (1) according to an eleventh aspect, in the ninth or tenth aspect, the distance between the initial position of the first power transmitting coil (81A) and the power receiving coil (91) is defined as a distance Da. The distance between the initial position of the second power transmitting coil (81B) and the power receiving coil (91) is defined as a distance Db. If Da≦Db holds, the controller (14) moves the first power transmitting coil (81A) to a position facing the power receiving coil (91), and if Da>Db holds, the controller (14) moves the second power transmitting coil (81B) to a position facing the power receiving coil (91).

[0268] The above configuration has the effect of enabling the power transmitting coil (81) to be quickly moved to a position facing the power receiving coil (91).

[0269] In a wireless power supply device (1) according to a twelfth aspect, in the eleventh aspect, the power receiving coil (91) is a first power receiving coil (91A). The position detection device (3) further detects the position of a second power receiving coil (91B) separate from the first power receiving coil (91A). The distance between the initial position of the first power transmitting coil (81A) and the second power receiving coil (91B) is defined as a distance Dc. When the position detection device (3) detects the position of the second power receiving coil (91B) while power is being transmitted from the first power transmitting coil (81A) to the first power receiving coil (91A), if Da≦Dc holds, the mobile system (M1) moves the second power transmitting coil (81B) to a position opposite the second power receiving coil (91B), and if Da>Dc holds, moves the first power transmitting coil (81A) to a position opposite the second power receiving coil (91B) and moves the second power transmitting coil (81B) to a position opposite the first power receiving coil (91A).

[0270] According to the above configuration, it is possible to suppress interference between the first power transmitting coil (81A) and the second power transmitting coil (81B), while quickly moving the first power transmitting coil (81A) and the second power transmitting coil (81B) to a position opposite the first power receiving coil (91A) and the second power receiving coil (91B).

[0271] In addition, in a wireless power supply device (1) according to a thirteenth aspect, in the eleventh or twelfth aspect, the power receiving coil (91) is a first power receiving coil (91A). The position detection device (3) further detects the position of a second power receiving coil (91B) separate from the first power receiving coil (91A). The distance between the initial position of the second power transmitting coil (81B) and the second power receiving coil (91B) is defined as a distance Dd. When the position detection device (3) detects the position of the second power receiving coil (91B) while power is being transmitted from the second power transmitting coil (81B) to the first power receiving coil (91A), if Db≦Dd holds, the mobile system (M1) moves the first power transmitting coil (81A) to a position opposite the second power receiving coil (91B), and if Db>Dd holds, moves the second power transmitting coil (81B) to a position opposite the second power receiving coil (91B) and moves the first power transmitting coil (81A) to a position opposite the first power receiving coil (91A).

[0272] According to the above configuration, it is possible to suppress interference between the first power transmitting coil (81A) and the second power transmitting coil (81B), while quickly moving the first power transmitting coil (81A) and the second power transmitting coil (81B) to a position opposite the first power receiving coil (91A) and the second power receiving coil (91B).

[0273] Furthermore, a wireless power supply device (1) according to a fourteenth aspect is the wireless power supply device (1) of any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, further including a display device (211). The display device (211) displays at least one of the position of the first power transmitting coil (81A), the position of the second power transmitting coil (81B), an area (210) where power can be transmitted by the first power transmitting coil (81A) and the second power transmitting coil (81B), and a recommended area recommended as a location for placing the power receiving terminal (9).

[0274] The above configuration has the effect of making it easier for the user to determine where to place the power receiving terminal (9).

[0275] Furthermore, in a wireless power supply device (1) according to a fifteenth aspect, in any one of the first to fourteenth aspects, if both sides in the X-axis direction are defined as left and right, respectively, the first Y-axis rail (6A) is disposed to the left of the second Y-axis rail (6B). The distance from a first center line (600A) passing through the center of the first Y-axis rail (6A) along the Y-axis direction to the right end of the first Y-axis rail (6A) is defined as a first distance Wa. The distance from a second center line (600B) passing through the center of the second Y-axis rail (6B) along the Y-axis direction to the left end of the second Y-axis rail (6B) is defined as a second distance Wb. The distance between the first center line (600A) and the second center line (600B) is defined as a distance La. If both sides in the Y-axis direction are defined as front and rear, respectively, the first X-axis rail (4A) is disposed in front of the second X-axis rail (4B). The distance from a third center line (400A) that passes through the center of the first X-axis rail (4A) and runs along the X-axis direction to the rear end of the first X-axis rail (4A) is defined as a third distance Wc. The distance from a fourth center line (400B) that passes through the center of the second X-axis rail (4B) and runs along the X-axis direction to the front end of the second X-axis rail (4B) is defined as a fourth distance Wd. The distance between the third center line (400A) and the fourth center line (400B) is defined as a distance Lb. The movement system (M1) moves at least one of the first power transmission unit (8A) and the second power transmission unit (8B) so as to satisfy La ≧ Wa + Wb and Lb ≧ Wc + Wd.

[0276] The above configuration has the effect of suppressing interference between the first X-axis rail (4A) and the second X-axis rail (4B), and between the first Y-axis rail (6A) and the second Y-axis rail (6B).

[0277] In addition, in the wireless power supply device (1) according to the sixteenth aspect, in the fifteenth aspect, when a first protrusion protruding to the right from the first Y-axis rail (6A) is provided within the range (R10A) of movement of the first power transmission unit (8A), the distance from the first center line (600A) to the right end of the first protrusion is defined as distance Waa. When a second protrusion protruding to the left from the second Y-axis rail (6B) is provided within the range (R10B) of movement of the second power transmission unit (8B), the distance from the second center line (600B) to the left end of the second protrusion is defined as distance Wbb. When a third protrusion protruding rearward from the first X-axis rail (4A) is provided within the range (R10A) of movement of the first power transmission unit (8A), the distance from the third center line (400A) to the rear end of the third protrusion is defined as distance Wcc. When a fourth protrusion protruding forward from the second X-axis rail (4B) is provided within the movement range (R10B) of the second power transmission unit (8B), the distance from the fourth center line (400B) to the front end of the fourth protrusion is defined as a distance Wdd. The movement system (M1) moves at least one of the first power transmission unit (8A) and the second power transmission unit (8B) so as to satisfy at least one of La ≥ Waa + Wbb and Lb ≥ Wcc + Wdd.

[0278] According to the above configuration, there is an effect that interference between the first protrusion and the second protrusion, and interference between the third protrusion and the fourth protrusion can be suppressed.

[0279] In addition, in a wireless power supply device (1) according to a seventeenth aspect, in the fifteenth or sixteenth aspect, the distance between the first center line (600A) and the right end of the first power transmission unit (8A) is defined as distance Ta. The distance between the second center line (600B) and the left end of the second power transmission unit (8B) is defined as distance Tb. The width of the first power transmission unit (8A) in the X-axis direction is defined as width Sa. The width of the second power transmission unit (8B) in the X-axis direction is defined as width Sb. The distance between the third center line (400A) and the rear end of the first power transmission unit (8A) is defined as distance Tc. The distance between the fourth center line (400B) and the front end of the second power transmission unit (8B) is defined as distance Td. The width of the first power transmission unit (8A) in the Y-axis direction is defined as width Sc. The width of the second power transmission unit (8B) in the Y-axis direction is defined as width Sd. The mobile system (M1) moves at least one of the first power transmission unit (8A) and the second power transmission unit (8B) so as to satisfy at least one of La≧Ta+Tb, Lb≧Tc+Td, 2La≧Sa+Sb, and 2Lb≧Sc+Sd.

[0280] The above configuration has the effect of suppressing interference between the first power transmission unit (8A) and the second power transmission unit (8B).

[0281] In addition, in a wireless power supply device (1) according to an eighteenth aspect, in any one of the fifteenth to seventeenth aspects, the first power transmission unit (8A) has a circular shape with a radius Ra. The second power transmission unit (8B) has a circular shape with a radius Rb. The mobile system (M1) has a 2 +Lb 2 ≧(Ra+Rb) 2 At least one of the first power transmission section (8A) and the second power transmission section (8B) is moved so as to satisfy the following condition.

[0282] The above configuration has the effect of suppressing interference between the first power transmission unit (8A) and the second power transmission unit (8B).

[0283] In addition, in a wireless power supply device (1) according to a 19th aspect, in any one of the 15th to 18th aspects, the first power transmission unit (8A) has a circular shape with a radius Ra. The second power transmission unit (8B) has a circular shape with a radius Rb. When the negative side in the X-axis direction is defined as the left, the first Y-axis rail (6A) is disposed to the left of the second Y-axis rail (6B). The center (801A) of the first power transmission coil (81A) is shifted in the X-axis direction from the first center line (600A) by a positive offset amount Pa. The center (801B) of the second power transmission coil (81B) is shifted in the X-axis direction from the second center line (600B) by a negative offset amount Pb. When the negative side in the Y-axis direction is defined as the front, the first X-axis rail (4A) is disposed in front of the second X-axis rail (4B). The center (801A) of the first power transmission coil (81A) is shifted in the Y-axis direction from the third center line (400A) by a positive shift amount Pc. The center (801B) of the second power transmission coil (81B) is shifted in the Y-axis direction from the fourth center line (400B) by a negative shift amount Pd. The moving system (M1) is (La - Pa + Pb). 2 +(Lb-Pc+Pd) 2 ≧(Ra+Rb) 2 The movement of at least one of the first power transmission unit (8A) and the second power transmission unit (8B) is controlled so as to satisfy the following condition.

[0284] The above configuration has the effect of suppressing interference between the first power transmission unit (8A) and the second power transmission unit (8B).

[0285] Furthermore, in the wireless power supply device (1) according to the twentieth aspect, in any one of the first to nineteenth aspects, if both sides in the X-axis direction are the left and the right, respectively, one of the first Y-axis drive unit (7A) and the second Y-axis drive unit (7B) is arranged to the left of the movement range (R10A) of the first power transmission coil (81A) and the movement range (R10B) of the second power transmission coil (81B), and the other is arranged to the right of the movement range (R10A) of the first power transmission coil (81A) and the movement range (R10B) of the second power transmission coil (81B). If both sides in the Y-axis direction are defined as the front and rear, one of the first X-axis drive unit (5A) and the second X-axis drive unit (5B) is arranged in front of the movement range (R10A) of the first power transmission coil (81A) and the movement range (R10B) of the second power transmission coil (81B), and the other is arranged behind the movement range (R10A) of the first power transmission coil (81A) and the movement range (R10B) of the second power transmission coil (81B).

[0286] The above configuration has the advantage of reducing the possibility that the first X-axis drive unit (5A), the second X-axis drive unit (5B), the first Y-axis drive unit (7A), and the second Y-axis drive unit (7B) will interfere with the movement of the power transmission unit (8).

[0287] In addition, a wireless power supply device (1) according to a 21st aspect is any one of the first to 20th aspects, further including a controller (14). The power receiving coil (91) is a first power receiving coil (91A). The position detection device (3) further detects the position of a second power receiving coil (91B) separate from the first power receiving coil (91A). When the position detection device (3) detects that the second power receiving coil (91B) is located within a predetermined power transmission area (800A) of the first power transmitting coil (81A) while power is being transmitted from the first power transmitting coil (81A) to the first power receiving coil (91A), the controller (14) performs a stop process for stopping power transmission by the first power transmitting coil (81A), a warning process for warning the user when the stop process is performed, and a warning process for warning the user when only one of the first power receiving coil (91A) and the second power receiving coil (91B) is located within the power transmission area (800A) of the first power transmitting coil (81A) after the stop process. and a second restart process, which, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the execution of the stop process and both the first power receiving coil (91A) and the second power receiving coil (91B) are located within the power transmission area (800A) of the first power transmitting coil (81A), moves the first power transmitting coil (81A) away from the second power receiving coil (91B), moves the second power transmitting coil (81B) to a position opposite the second power receiving coil (91B), and transmits power from the first power transmitting coil (81A) to the first power receiving coil (91A) and from the second power transmitting coil (81B) to the second power receiving coil (91B).

[0288] According to the above configuration, if the user removes the second power receiving coil (91B) when the warning process is performed, power transmission to the first power receiving coil (91A) can be continued without moving the first power transmitting coil (81A). This has the effect of suppressing a decrease in the efficiency of power transmission from the first power transmitting coil (81A) to the first power receiving coil (91A) due to movement of the first power transmitting coil (81A) in the second restart process. On the other hand, it has the effect of increasing the likelihood of power transmission to the second power receiving coil (91B) compared to when the second restart process is not performed.

[0289] In addition, a wireless power supply device (1) according to a 22nd aspect is any one of the first to 21st aspects, further including a controller (14). The power receiving coil (91) is a first power receiving coil (91A). The position detection device (3) further detects the position of a second power receiving coil (91B) separate from the first power receiving coil (91A). When the position detection device (3) detects that the second power receiving coil (91B) is located within a predetermined power transmission area (800B) of the second power transmitting coil (81B) while power is being transmitted from the second power transmitting coil (81B) to the first power receiving coil (91A), the controller (14) performs a stop process for stopping power transmission by the second power transmitting coil (81B), a warning process for warning the user when the stop process is performed, and a warning process for warning the user when only one of the first power receiving coil (91A) and the second power receiving coil (91B) is located within the power transmission area (800B) of the second power transmitting coil (81B) after the stop process. and a second restart process in which, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the execution of the stop process and both the first power receiving coil (91A) and the second power receiving coil (91B) are located within the power transmission area (800B) of the second power transmitting coil (81B), the second power transmitting coil (81B) is moved away from the second power receiving coil (91B), the first power transmitting coil (81A) is moved to a position facing the second power receiving coil (91B), power is transmitted from the second power transmitting coil (81B) to the first power receiving coil (91A), and power is transmitted from the first power transmitting coil (81A) to the second power receiving coil (91B).

[0290] According to the above configuration, if the user removes the second power receiving coil (91B) when the warning process is performed, power transmission to the first power receiving coil (91A) can be continued without moving the second power transmitting coil (81B). This has the effect of preventing a decrease in the efficiency of power transmission from the second power transmitting coil (81B) to the first power receiving coil (91A) due to movement of the second power transmitting coil (81B) in the second restart process. On the other hand, it has the effect of increasing the likelihood of power transmission to the second power receiving coil (91B) compared to when the second restart process is not performed.

[0291] The configurations other than the first aspect are not essential for the wireless power supply device (1) and can be omitted as appropriate.

[0292] Not limited to the above-described aspects, various configurations (including modified examples) of the wireless power supply device (1) according to the embodiment can be embodied as a control method, a (computer) program, or a non-transitory recording medium on which a program is recorded.

[0293] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 wireless power supply device 2 housing 3 position detection device 4A first X-axis rail 4B second X-axis rail 5A first X-axis drive unit 5B second X-axis drive unit 6A first Y-axis rail 6B second Y-axis rail 7A first Y-axis drive unit 7B second Y-axis drive unit 8A first power transmission unit 8B second power transmission unit 9 power receiving terminal 14 controller 81A first power transmission coil 81B second power transmission coil 82A first base 82B second base 91 power receiving coil 91A first power receiving coil 91B second power receiving coil 210 power transmittable area 211 display device 400A third center line 400B fourth center line 600A first center line 600B second center line 800A power transmission area 800B power transmission area 801A Center 801B Center 821 Rotation mechanism M1 Movement system M1a First moving part M1b Second moving part R10 Total range R10A Moving range R10B Moving range R101 Center

Claims

1. A power receiving device comprising: a first power transmitting unit including a first power transmitting coil that transmits power to a power receiving coil of a power receiving terminal and a first base that holds the first power transmitting coil; a second power transmitting unit including a second power transmitting coil that transmits power to the power receiving coil and a second base that holds the second power transmitting coil; a position detection device that detects a position of the power receiving coil; and a moving system that moves at least one of the first power transmitting coil and the second power transmitting coil based on the position of the power receiving coil detected by the position detection device, and moves the first power transmitting coil or the second power transmitting coil to a position facing the power receiving coil; and a housing that accommodates the first power transmitting unit, the second power transmitting unit, the moving system, and the position detection device, wherein the moving system includes a first moving unit and a second moving unit, and the first moving unit comprises: a first X-axis rail along the X-axis direction; the second moving unit comprises: a first Y-axis rail movably connected to the first X-axis rail via the first pedestal and extending along a Y-axis direction intersecting the X-axis direction; a first X-axis drive unit configured to integrally move the first power transmission unit and the first Y-axis rail along the first X-axis rail; and a first Y-axis drive unit configured to integrally move the first power transmission unit and the first X-axis rail along the first Y-axis rail; the second moving unit comprises: a second X-axis rail extending along the X-axis direction; a second Y-axis rail movably connected to the second X-axis rail via the second pedestal and extending along the Y-axis rail; a second X-axis drive unit configured to integrally move the second power transmission unit and the second Y-axis rail along the second X-axis rail; and a second Y-axis drive unit configured to integrally move the second power transmission unit and the second X-axis rail along the second Y-axis rail; the first X-axis rail is disposed on the same plane as the second X-axis rail, the first Y-rail is disposed on the same plane as the second Y-rail, and at least a part of a movement range of the first power transmitting coil overlaps with at least a part of a movement range of the second power transmitting coil.

2. The wireless power supply device according to claim 1, wherein the center of the first power transmission coil is located closer to the second Y-axis rail than a first center line that passes through the center of the first Y-axis rail and runs along the Y-axis direction.

3. The wireless power supply device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the center of the second power transmission coil is located closer to the first Y-axis rail than a second center line that passes through the center of the second Y-axis rail and runs along the Y-axis direction.

4. The wireless power supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a center of the first power transmitting coil is located closer to the second X-axis rail than a third center line that passes through the center of the first X-axis rail and runs along the X-axis direction.

5. A wireless power supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a center of the second power transmitting coil is located closer to the first X-axis rail than a fourth center line that passes through the center of the second X-axis rail and runs along the X-axis direction.

6. A wireless power supply device as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first base includes a rotation mechanism that holds the first power transmission coil rotatably around a first central axis that is perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, and the first central axis is provided at a position different from the center of the first power transmission coil.

7. A wireless power supply device as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the second base includes a rotation mechanism that holds the second power transmission coil rotatably around a second central axis perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, and the second central axis is located at a position different from the center of the second power transmission coil.

8. The wireless power supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a controller that selects one of the first and second power transmission coils to be moved to a position facing the receiving coil depending on the position of the receiving coil detected by the position detection device.

9. The wireless power supply device of claim 8, wherein the mobile system moves the first power transmitting coil and the second power transmitting coil to their corresponding initial positions when the mobile system is powered on, and when the position of the receiving coil is detected by the position detection device, the controller selects one of the first power transmitting coil and the second power transmitting coil to be moved to a position opposite the receiving coil based on the position of the receiving coil detected by the position detection device and the initial position.

10. The wireless power supply device according to claim 9, wherein, when the first power transmission coil and the second power transmission coil are in their corresponding initial positions, the first power transmission coil and the second power transmission coil are positioned farthest from each other; the first power transmission coil and the second power transmission coil are adjacent to each other, and at least one of the first power transmission coil and the second power transmission coil is positioned adjacent to or overlapping the center of a combined range that is a combination of the movement range of the first power transmission coil and the movement range of the second power transmission coil; or one of the first power transmission coil and the second power transmission coil is positioned adjacent to or overlapping the center of the combined range, and the other is positioned farthest from the center of the combined range.

11. A wireless power supply device as described in claim 9 or 10, wherein the distance between the initial position of the first power transmitting coil and the receiving coil is distance Da, the distance between the initial position of the second power transmitting coil and the receiving coil is distance Db, and the controller moves the first power transmitting coil to a position facing the receiving coil if Da≦Db holds, and moves the second power transmitting coil to a position facing the receiving coil if Da>Db holds.

12. The wireless power supply device according to claim 11, wherein the receiving coil is a first receiving coil, the position detection device further detects the position of a second receiving coil separate from the first receiving coil, a distance between the initial position of the first transmitting coil and the second receiving coil is a distance Dc, and when the position detection device detects the position of the second receiving coil while transmitting power from the first transmitting coil to the first receiving coil, the mobile system, if Da≦Dc is satisfied, moves the second transmitting coil to a position opposite the second receiving coil, and if Da>Dc is satisfied, moves the first transmitting coil to a position opposite the second receiving coil and moves the second transmitting coil to a position opposite the first receiving coil.

13. The wireless power supply device according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the receiving coil is a first receiving coil, the position detection device further detects a position of a second receiving coil separate from the first receiving coil, a distance between the initial position of the second transmitting coil and the second receiving coil is a distance Dd, and when the position detection device detects the position of the second receiving coil while transmitting power from the second transmitting coil to the first receiving coil, the mobile system, if Db≦Dd is satisfied, moves the first transmitting coil to a position opposite the second receiving coil, and if Db>Dd is satisfied, moves the second transmitting coil to a position opposite the second receiving coil and moves the first transmitting coil to a position opposite the first receiving coil.

14. The wireless power supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising a display device that displays at least one of the position of the first power transmission coil, the position of the second power transmission coil, an area in which the first power transmission coil and the second power transmission coil can transmit power, and a recommended area recommended as a location for placing the power receiving terminal.

15. If both sides in the X-axis direction are defined as left and right, respectively, the first Y-axis rail is disposed to the left of the second Y-axis rail, and a distance from a first center line passing through the center of the first Y-axis rail along the Y-axis direction to the right end of the first Y-axis rail is defined as a first distance Wa, a distance from a second center line passing through the center of the second Y-axis rail along the Y-axis direction to the left end of the second Y-axis rail is defined as a second distance Wb, and a distance between the first center line and the second center line is defined as a distance La, if both sides in the Y-axis direction are defined as a front and a rear, respectively, the first X-axis rail is disposed in front of the second X-axis rail, and a distance from a third center line passing through the center of the first X-axis rail along the X-axis direction to the rear end of the first X-axis rail is defined as a third distance Wc, a distance from a fourth center line passing through the center of the second X-axis rail along the X-axis direction to the front end of the second X-axis rail is defined as a fourth distance Wd, and a distance between the third center line and the fourth center line is defined as a distance Lb, The wireless power supply device according to claim 1 , wherein the mobile system moves at least one of the first power transmission unit and the second power transmission unit so as to satisfy La≧Wa+Wb and Lb≧Wc+Wd.

16. When a first protrusion protruding to the right from the first Y-axis rail is provided within the movement range of the first power transmission unit, the distance from the first center line to the right end of the first protrusion is distance Waa; when a second protrusion protruding to the left from the second Y-axis rail is provided within the movement range of the second power transmission unit, the distance from the second center line to the left end of the second protrusion is distance Wbb; when a third protrusion protruding rearward from the first X-axis rail is provided within the movement range of the first power transmission unit, the distance from the third center line to the rear end of the third protrusion is distance Wcc; when a fourth protrusion protruding forward from the second X-axis rail is provided within the movement range of the second power transmission unit, the distance from the fourth center line to the front end of the fourth protrusion is distance Wdd; and the movement system satisfies the following conditions: La ≧ Waa + Wbb Lb ≧ Wcc + Wdd The wireless power supplying device according to claim 15 , wherein at least one of the first power transmitting unit and the second power transmitting unit is moved so as to satisfy at least one of the following conditions.

17. The wireless power supply device according to claim 15 or 16, wherein: a distance between the first center line and a right end of the first power transmission unit is distance Ta; a distance between the second center line and a left end of the second power transmission unit is distance Tb; a width of the first power transmission unit in the X-axis direction is width Sa; a width of the second power transmission unit in the X-axis direction is width Sb; a distance between the third center line and a rear end of the first power transmission unit is distance Tc; a distance between the fourth center line and a front end of the second power transmission unit is distance Td; a width of the first power transmission unit in the Y-axis direction is width Sc; and a width of the second power transmission unit in the Y-axis direction is width Sd; and the moving system moves at least one of the first power transmission unit and the second power transmission unit so as to satisfy at least one of La≧Ta+Tb Lb≧Tc+Td 2La≧Sa+Sb 2Lb≧Sc+Sd.

18. The first power transmission unit has a circular shape with a radius of Ra, the second power transmission unit has a circular shape with a radius of Rb, and the mobile system has a radius of La. 2 +Lb 2 ≧(Ra+Rb) 2 The wireless power supply device according to claim 15, wherein at least one of the first power transmission unit and the second power transmission unit is moved so as to satisfy the following:

19. The first power transmitting unit has a shape of a circle with a radius Ra, the second power transmitting unit has a shape of a circle with a radius Rb, when the negative side in the X-axis direction is defined as the left, the first Y-axis rail is disposed to the left of the second Y-axis rail, the center of the first power transmitting coil is shifted in the X-axis direction from the first center line by a positive deviation amount Pa, the center of the second power transmitting coil is shifted in the X-axis direction from the second center line by a negative deviation amount Pb, when the negative side in the Y-axis direction is defined as the front, the first X-axis rail is disposed in front of the second X-axis rail, the center of the first power transmitting coil is shifted in the Y-axis direction from the third center line by a positive deviation amount Pc, and the center of the second power transmitting coil is shifted in the Y-axis direction from the fourth center line by a negative deviation amount Pd, and the movement system has a distance of (La-Pa+Pb) 2 +(Lb-Pc+Pd) 2 ≧(Ra+Rb) 2 The wireless power supply device according to claim 15, further comprising: controlling movement of at least one of the first power transmission unit and the second power transmission unit so as to satisfy the following:

20. The wireless power supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein, when both sides in the X-axis direction are defined as the left and the right, one of the first Y-axis driving unit and the second Y-axis driving unit is arranged to the left of the range of movement of the first power transmitting coil and the range of movement of the second power transmitting coil, and the other is arranged to the right of the range of movement of the first power transmitting coil and the range of movement of the second power transmitting coil; and, when both sides in the Y-axis direction are defined as the front and the rear, one of the first X-axis driving unit and the second X-axis driving unit is arranged in front of the range of movement of the first power transmitting coil and the range of movement of the second power transmitting coil, and the other is arranged behind the range of movement of the first power transmitting coil and the range of movement of the second power transmitting coil.

21. The wireless power supply device further includes a controller, wherein the receiving coil is a first receiving coil, and the position detection device further detects the position of a second receiving coil different from the first receiving coil, and the controller performs a stop process of stopping power transmission by the first transmitting coil when the position detection device detects that the second receiving coil is located within a predetermined power transmission area of ​​the first transmitting coil while power is being transmitted from the first transmitting coil to the first receiving coil, a warning process of warning a user when the stop process is performed, and a first resume process of resuming power transmission by the first transmitting coil when only one of the first receiving coil and the second receiving coil is located within the power transmission area of ​​the first transmitting coil after the stop process. the wireless power supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, further comprising: a second restart process that, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the stop process was executed and both the first power receiving coil and the second power receiving coil are located within the power transmission area of ​​the first power transmitting coil, moves the first power transmitting coil away from the second power receiving coil, moves the second power transmitting coil to a position facing the second power receiving coil, transmits power from the first power transmitting coil to the first power receiving coil, and transmits power from the second power transmitting coil to the second power receiving coil.

22. The wireless power supply device further includes a controller, wherein the receiving coil is a first receiving coil, and the position detection device further detects a position of a second receiving coil different from the first receiving coil, and the controller performs a stop process of stopping power transmission by the second transmitting coil when the position detection device detects that the second receiving coil is located within a predetermined power transmission area of ​​the second transmitting coil while power is being transmitted from the second transmitting coil to the first receiving coil, a warning process of warning a user when the stop process is performed, and a first restart process of restarting power transmission by the second transmitting coil when only one of the first receiving coil and the second receiving coil is located within the power transmission area of ​​the second transmitting coil after the stop process. the wireless power supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 21, further comprising: a second restart process that, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the stop process was executed and both the first power receiving coil and the second power receiving coil are located within the power transmission area of ​​the second power transmitting coil, moves the second power transmitting coil away from the second power receiving coil, moves the first power transmitting coil to a position facing the second power receiving coil, transmits power from the second power transmitting coil to the first power receiving coil, and transmits power from the first power transmitting coil to the second power receiving coil.

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