Specification
Description
Title oflnvention
TRANSMISSION DEVICE, RECEPTION DEVICE, AND COMMUNICATION
SYSTEM
Technical Field
[0001]
The present disclosure relates to a transmission device, a reception device,
10 and a communication system.
Background Art
[0002]
Recently, with an mcrease m attention to social environments, a
15 management device capable of controlling the supply of power to an electronic
device (for example, an intelligent tap, a smart tap, or the like) connected by a power
line (for example, control for selectively stopping the supply of power to a device
that need not be supplied with power, or the like) has emerged. The above
management device uses, for example, technology for using a power line, which is
20 called Power Line Communication (PLC), as a communication line. Technology
for performing c@fmunication tru·ough -a power lineusingPLC may be, for example,
Patent Literature I.
Citation List
25 Patent Literature
[0003]
Patent Literature 1 : JP 2003-110471A
Summmy of Invention
30 Technical Problem
[0004]
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However, if existing PLC teclmology is used to perform wired
communication, a device performing communication may need to have, for example,
a communication device that includes a relatively large circuit called a PLC modem.
Therefore, if existing PLC is used to perform wired conmmnication, there is a fear
5 that the cost of a device performing commtmication may increase, and there is also a
fear that the size of a device performing communication may be re~trictecL In
addition, if existing PLC is used to perform wired communication, when power is not
supplied to a device perfmming communication (for example, when the device is in a
dormant state such as a state in which a main power supply is off), communication
'
10 cannot be performed.
[0005]
Therefore, there is a demand for a new wired communication method.
[0006]
The present disclosure proposes a new and improved transmission device,
15 reception device, and communication system that can perfmm wired communication.
Solution to Problem
[0007]
According to the present disclosure, for example, there is provided a
20 transmission device including a terminal connected electrically to a terminal of
anotner device, and·a mmsmission unitconfigtu·ea·to transmit information ·tmongh
the terminal by performing a load modulation according to contact between the
terminal and the terminal of the other device.
25
[0008]
Also, the transmission unit may transmit the information regardless of
whether a signal indicating an instruction of a user is input after contact is made
between the terminal and the terminal of the other device.
[0009]
Also, the transmission unit may receive power supply through the te1minal
30 by the contact between the terminal and the terminal of the other device.
[0010]
3173
Also, the transmission tmit may receive a high frequency signal from the
terminal as (h·ive power.
[0011]
Also, the transmission device may further include a drive unit configured to
5 drive by receiving a direct current or an alternating current having a lower frequency
than the ,high frequency signal from the terminal as the drive power, wherein the
drive unit may receive the direct cunent or the alternating ctment according to a
result of an authentication process executed in the other device using the information.
[0012]
10 Also, the high frequency signal may be a frequency used m Radio
Frequency IDentification (RFID).
[0013]
Also, the frequency may include a frequency used 111 contactless
communication.
15 [0014]
Also, the frequency may include at least one of 130 to 135kHz, 13.56 MHz,
56 MHz, 433 MHz, 954.2 MHz, 954.8 MHz, 2441.75 MHz, or 2448.875 MI-Iz.
[00 15]
Also, the transmission device may include a ftlter configured to pass the
20 high frequency signal and block the direct current or the alternating currenl.
25
-rooi6J--
Also, the transmission device may include at least two terminals, and the
other device may include at least two terminals.
[0017]
Also, the terminal of the transmission device may be a tetminal provided at
a plug, and the terminal of the other device may be a terminal provided at an outlet.
[0018]
Also, the transmission device may include a display unit configured to
display an image or a character.
30 [0019]
Also, the transmission device may be a vehicle that charges a built-in
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battery by receiving power supply, and rotates a wheel using power of the built~ in
battery.
[0020]
Also, according to the present disclosme, there is provided a reception
5 device including a high frequency signal output unit configured to output a high
frequency signal, and a reception unit configured to re~eive infonnation transmitted
from a transmission device by load modulation when a terminal of the transmission
device and a terminal of the reception device are in contact with each other.
10
[0021]
Also, the high ii·equency signal may be output when the contact between the
terminal of the transmission device and the terminal of the reception device is
detected.
[0022]
Also, the high frequency signal output tmit may output the high fi·equency
15 signal repeatedly.
[0023]
Also, the high fi·equency signal output unit may superimpose the high
frequency signal having a higher frequency than a direct current or an alternating
cmTent t1owing through a power line, on the direct current or the alternating current.
20 [0024]
--Atso, the-hig!T-tl·equency signal-may oe a frequency used in-Radio
Frequency IDentification (RFID).
[0025]
Also, the frequency may include a frequency used m contactless
25 communication.
[0026]
Also, the frequency may include at least one of 130to 135kHz, 13.5G MHz,
56 MHz, 433 MHz, 954.2 MHz, 954.8 MHz, 2441.75 MHz, or 2448.875 MHz.
[0027]
30 Also, the reception device may further include a filter configured to pass the
high frequency signal and block the alternating current.
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[0028]
Also, the terminal of the transmission device may be a tmminal provided at
a plug, and the terminal of the reception device may be a terminal provided at an
outlet.
5 [0029]
Also, the transmission device may include at least two terminals, and the
reception device may include at least two terminals.
[0030]
Also, the transmission device may be identified based on the information
,,
10 transmitted from the transmission device by the load modulation.
15
[0031]
Also, the reception device may include a display unit configured to display
an image and/or a character.
[0032]
Also, the reception device may be avehicle.
[0033]
Also, according to the present disclosure, tor example, there is provided a
communication system including a transmission device and a reception device,
wherein the transmission device includes a terminal connected electrically to a
20 terminal of the reception device, and a transmission unit configmed to transmit
infonnaticm through tl:Ie terminaloy performing -load-modulation ·according to
contact between the terminal and the terminal of the reception device, and wherein
the reception nnit includes a high frequency signal output unit configured to output a
high frequency signal, and a reception unit configured to receive the information
25 transmitted from the transmission device by the load modulation when the tem1inal
of the transmission device and the terminal of the reception device are in contact
with each other.
[0034]
Also, according to the present disclosure, for example, there is provided a
30 management device including a connection unit configured to connect an external
power line connected to an electronic device and an internal power line in the
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management device, a management side power line communication unit configmed
to perform communication with the electronic device by a high fi·equency signal,
which is superimposed on a power line corresponding to a connection of the internal
power line and the external power line and has a frequency higher than a frequency
5 of power supplied through the power line to the electronic device, tln·ough the power
line, a communication filter connected between the management side power line
'
communication unit and the internal power line and configured to block at least a
signal of the frequency of the power among signals transmitted from the internal
power line and pass the high frequency signal, and a management unit configured to
'
10 identify the electronic device connected to the external power line connected to the
connection unit, based on identification information that is received by the
management side power line communication unit tln·ough the power line and is used
to identify the electronic device, wherein the power line communication unit
transmits a first high frequency signal, which is a high frequency signal for causing
15 the identification inforn1ation to be transmitted to the electronic device, through the
power line, and receives the identification information transmitted by load
modulation as the high fi'equency signal from the electronic device driven by
obtaining power from the tlrst high frequency signal.
20
[0035]
By such a cont1guration, for example, an electronic device connected by a
-poweF111l.e canoe iden tiJ:iecl. --
[0036]
Also, the management side power line communication unit may transmit a
second high frequency signal, which is the high frequency signal for causing a
25 predetermined process to be performed by the electronic device connected to the
external power line, through the power line, and receive a response signal with
respect to the second high frequency signal transmitted by load modulation as the
high frequency signal from the electronic device driven by obtaining power from the
second high frequency signal.
30 [0037]
Also, the management device may further include a communication tmit
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configured to perform communication with an external device, wherein the
management unit may transmit the second high frequency signal according to a result
of the communication with the external device to the management side power line
communication unit.
5 [0038]
Also, the management device may further include a power consumption
measurement unit configured to measure a power consumption of the electronic
device connected to the external power line connected to the connection unit,
wherein the management unit may store information about the power consumption
10 measured by the power consumption measurement unit, in associction with
connection state information indicating the electronic device connected to the
external power line connected to the com1ection unit, conesponding to the electronic
device measured by the power consumption measurement unit.
[0039]
15 Also, the management device may further include a power supply unit
configured to selectively connect an internal power supply or an external power
supply and the internal power line and selectively supply power to the internal power
line, based on a control signal transmitted from the management tmit.
20
[0040]
Also, the connection tmit may detect a change in a connection state of the
-externatpower line, and thepowerline communicatiol1Uhit niay fransmil the first
high frequency signal through the power line based on a detection result in the
connection unit.
[0041]
25 Also, the management device may include the com1ection unit in a plural
number, wherein the management side power line cmrununication unit may transmit
the first high frequency signal through each of the power lines conesponding lo the
plurality of connection tmits when a connection of the external power line is detected
in any one of the plurality of connection units, and wherein the management unit
30 may identify the electronic device connected to the external power line connected to
each of the plmality of connection units, based on connection state information
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indicating the electronic device connected to each of the external power lines
connected to the plurality of connection units, connection unit identification
information indicating the connection unit in which a change in the connection state
of the external power line is detected, and the identiflcation information received by
5 the management side power line communication tmit, before transmission of the first
high frequency signal, and store information about the identified electronic device as
'
the connection state information after transmission of the first high frequency signal.
[0042]
Also, the management unit may identify an electronic device whose
<
10 connection state is changed by comparing a list of electronic devices indicated by
connection state information before transmission of the first high frequency signal
with a list of electronic devices based on the identification information received by
the management side power line communication unit, and may identify the
connection unit in which a change in the connection state of the external power line
15 is detected, based on the connection unit identification information.
[0043]
Also, the management device may further include a switch unit configured
to switch between a first connection state of electrically connecting the management
side communication unit and each of the external power lines connected to the
20 plurality of connection units and a second connection state of electrically connecting
- the-management sicle comimmicat!on unit an:a·any one ofT!Thexternatpuwer-tihes
connected to the. plurality of connection units, wherein the switch unit may
selectively switch the first connection state and the second connection state based on
a switch signal transmitted from the management unit
25 [0044]
Also, the management device may further include an operation unit operable
by a user, wherein the management unit may transmit the switch signal, which is
transmitted fi·om the operation unit and is based on an operation signal according to a
user operation for switching from the first connection state to the second connection
30 state, to the switch unit
[0045]
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Also, the management device may further include a notification unit
configured to notify an identification result of the electronic device connected to the
external power line connected to each of the plmality of connection units in the
management unit, to a user with respect to each of the plurality of connection units.
5 [0046]
Also, the management device may fmiher include a communication unit
configured to perform communication with an external device, wherein the
management milt may transmit inforn1ation about the identified electronic device to
the external device through the communication tmit.
10 [0047]
Also, according to the present disclosure, for example, there is provided an
electronic device including a device side power line communication unit configured
to perform cormnunication with an external device by a high frequency signal, which
is superimposed on a power line and has a fi'equency higher than a frequency of
15 power supplied through the power line, through the power line, and a communication
filter connected between the power line and the device side power line
communication unit and configured to block at least a signal of the frequency of the
power among signals transmitted il·orn the power line and pass the high frequency
signal, wherein the device side power line communication unit is driven by obtaining
20 power from a first high frequency signal, which is the high frequency signal
~- transmitted-from the external device to request transmission of stored identification
infmmation, and transmits stored identification information as the high frequency
signalby load modulation according to the first high frequency signal.
25
[0048]
By such a configuration, tor example, a management system capable of
identifying an electronic device connected by a power line can be realized.
[0049]
Also, the device side power line communication unit may be driven by
obtaining power from a second high frequency signal, which is the high il·equency
30 signal transmitted from the external device to request execution of a predetern1ined
process, perform a process according to the second high frequency signal, and
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transmit a response signal based on the process according to the second high
frequency signal by load modulation as the high frequency signal.
[0050]
Also, according to the present disclosure, for example, there is provided a
5 management system including an electronic device and a management device
con,figured to communicate with the electronic device through a power line
corresponding to a connection of an external power line connected to the electronic
device and an internal power line in the management device, wherein the
management device includes a connection unit configured to connect the external
;
10 power line and the internal power line, a management side power line
communication unit configured to perform commtmication with the electronic device
by a high frequency signal, which is superimposed on the power line and has a
frequency higher than a frequency of power supplied through the power line to the
electronic device, tll1'ough the power line, a management side communication filter
15 connected between the management side power line communication unit and the
internal power line and configured to block at least a signal of the frequency of the
power among signals transmitted from the internal power line and pass the high
frequency signal, and a management unit configured to identify the electronic device
connected to the external power line connected to the com1ection unit, based on
20 identification information that is received by the management side power line
cOrmhunicationunit tliroughlile poWer ltfie ana-is useai'O idenl)fy the electrOnic
device, wherein the electronic device includes a device side power line
communication unit configmed to perform communication with the management
device by the high frequency signal through the power line, and a device side
25 communication filter connected between the power line and the device side power
line communication unit and configured to block at least a signal of the frequency of
the power among signals transmitted from the power .line and pass the high
frequency signal, wherein the management side power line communication unit of
the management device transmits a first high frequency signal, which is the high
30 frequency signal for causing the identification information to be transmitted to the
electronic device, through the power line, and receives the identification information
SP304339WOOO
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transmitted by load modulation as the high frequency signal from the electronic
device, and wherein the device side power line communication unit of the electronic
device is driven by obtaining power fi-om the first high frequency signal transmitted
from the management device, and transmits stored identification information as the
5 high fi·equency signal by load modulation according to the first high frequency signal.
[0051]
By such a configuration, for example, a management system capable of
identifying an electronic device connected by a power line is realized.
10 Advantageous Effects ofinvention
[0052]
15
20
According to the present disclosure, new and improved wired
communication can be performed.
Brief Description of Drawings
[0053]
[Fig. 1] Fig. I is an illustration diagram illustrating an example of the configuration
of a management system according to the present embodiment.
[Fig. 2] Fig. 2 is an illustration diagram illustrating an example of the configuration
of a management system according to the present embodiment.
[Fig.-3TFig. 3 is an illustration diagram 111nstraringan example of the corlfigurations
of a management device according to a first embodiment and an electronic device
according to the present embodiment.
[Fig. 4] Fig. 4 is an illustration diagram illustrating an example of a management side·
25 power line cornmtmication tmit included in a management device according to the
present embodiment.
[Fig. 5] Fig. 5 is an illustration diagram illustrating another example of a
management side power line commtmication unit included in a management device
according to the present embodiment.
30 [Fig. 6) Fig. 6 is an illustration diagram illustrating an example of the configuration
of a first filter included in a management device according to the present
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embodiment.
[Fig. 7] Fig. 7 is an illustration diagram illustrating an example of the conilguration
of a second illter included in a management device according to the present
embodiment.
5 [Fig. 8] Fig. 8 is an illustration diagram illustrating an example of a device side
power line commtmication tmit included in an electronic device according to the
present embodiment.
[Fig. 9] Fig. 9 is an illustration diagram illustrating another example of a device side
power line communication unit included in an electronic device according to the
l
10 present embodiment.
[Fig. 1 0] Fig. 10 is an illustration diagram illustrating an example of the
configuration of a management device according to a second embodiment.
[Fig. 11] Fig. 11 is an illustration diagram illustrating an example of the
conilguration of a management device according to a third embodiment.
15 [Fig. 12] Fig. 12 is an illustration diagram illustrating an example of the
conilguration of a management device according to a fourth embodiment.
20
[Fig. 13] Fig. 13 is an illustration diagram illustrating an example of a notification
unit and an operation unit according to the present embodiment.
Description of Embodiments
[0054]-
Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be
described in detail with reference to the appended drawings. Note that, in this
specification and the drawings, elements that have substantially the same function
25 and structure are denoted with the same reference signs, and repeated explanation is
omitted.
[0055]
Also, hereinafter, descriptions will be made in the following order.
1. Communication method according to present embodiment
30 2. Management method according to present embodiment
3. Management system according to present embodiment
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4. Program according to present embodiment
(0056]
(Communication method according to present embodiment)
As described above, for example, if existing PLC is used to perform wired
5 communication, there is a fear that the cost of a device performing communication
may increase, and there is al,so a fear that the size of a device performing
communication may be restricted. In addition, if existing PLC is used to perform
wired communication, when power is not supplied to a device performing
communication (for example, when the device is in a dormant state such as a state in
'
10 which a main power supply is off), communication cannot be performed.
[0057]
Therefore, in a communication system according to the present embodiment,
wireless communication technology such as Near Field Communication (NFC)bascd
communication technology, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology,
15 or the like is applied to wired communication. Herein, examples of the wired
commtmication according to the present embodiment include communication
performed while terminals of respective devices contact each other (what is called
contact communication), and communication performed while terminals of
respective devices are connected by wire.
20 [0058]
-~or example, in a-communication system-which irtclucles a tl1l11smissiolldevice
and a reception device and in which terminals of the respective devices are
electrically connected, the transmission device transmits information through the
tetminal of the transmission device by performing load modulation according to
25 contact between the terminal of the transmission device and the terminal of the
reception device. Also, when the terminal of the transmission device and the
terminal of the reception device are in contact with each other (are electrically
connected to each other), the reception device receives the infmmation transmitted
from the transmission device by load modulation. Herein, "the electrical
30 connection between the terminal of the transmission device and the terminal of the
reception device" according to the present embodiment means, for example, the
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contact between the terminals of the respective devices, or the connection between
the terminals of the respective devices by wire.
[0059]
Herein, the terminal of the transmission device according to the present
5 embodiment may be, for example, a terminal provided at a plug, and the terminal of
the reception device (another device) according to the present embodiment m\ly be, ·
for example, a terminal provided at an outlet. Also, it is needless to say that the
terminal of the transmission device and the terminal of the reception device
according to the present embodiment are not limited to the above. Also, it is
10 preferable that the transmission device according to the present embodiment include
at least two tenninals, and the reception device (another device) according to the
p~·esent embodiment include at least two terminals.
[0060]
Also, the reception device according to the present embodiment may include
15 a high frequency signal output unit configured to output a high frequency signal, and
may transmit a high frequency signal to a reception device. That is, the reception
device according to the present embodiment may have a so-called reader/writer
function, and may function as a transmission device. · As for the reception device
according to the present embodiment, the reception device transmits a high
20 frequency signal, for example, according to an electrical connection between the
-terminal of~the transmission device ana-the terminaJ·otmeteceptlon clevice. -Herein,
the high frequency signal according to the present embodiment may be, for example,
a signal of a frequency used in RFID, or a signal of a frequency used in contactless
communication. The frequency of the high frequency signal may include, for
25 example, 130 to 135kHz, 13.56MHz, 56MHz, 433MHz, 954.2MHz, 954.8MHz,
2441.75MHz, and 2448.875MHz; however, the frequency of the high frequency
signal according to the present embodiment is not limited thereto.
[0061]
The reception device according to the present embodiment transmits a high
30 frequency signal, for example, by detecting an electrical connection between the
terminal of the transmission device and the terminal of the reception device. A
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method of detecting an electrical connection between the terminal of the transmission
device and the terminal of the reception device may be, for example, to provide a
contact sensor at a terminal portion of the reception device; however, the detection
method according to the present embodiment is not limited thereto. Also, the
5 reception device according to the present embodiment may repeatedly transmit a
high frequency,signal; for example, when detecting an electrical connection between
the tenninal of the transmission device and the terminal of the reception device, or
regardless of the detection result of an electrical connection between the terminal of
the transmission device and the terminal of the reception device (what is called
;
10 polling).
[0062]
Also, when the reception device according to the present embodiment
functions as a transmission device, the transmission device according to the present
embodiment functions as a reception device that receives a high frequency signal
15 transmitted by the reception device according to the present embodiment.
[0063]
Since a communication device using wireless communication technology
such as NFC-based communication technology, RFID technology, or the like has a
much smaller circuit size than an existing PLC modem, it can be scaled down to, for
20 example, a size of an Integrated Circuit (I C) chip. Also, since devices capable of
perfotming commurticationusingwirelesscommtlnicatton teclmology such asNFC--based
communication technology, or the like (such as, for example, a portable phone
mounted with an IC card or an IC chip) are becoming popular, a communication
device using wireless commtmication technology such as NFC-based communication
25 technology, RFID technology, or the like is less expensive than an existing PLC
modem.
[0064]
In addition, by applying wireless communication technology such as NFCbased
communication technology, RFID technology, or the like to wired
30 communication, the transmission device according to the present embodiment can be
driven by obtaining power from a high frequency signal received through the
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terminal, and can transmit stored infmmation by performing load modulation. That
is, in the communication system according to the present embodiment, the reception
device transmits a high frequency signal according to an electrical connection
between the terminal of the transmission device and the terminal of the reception
5 device to supply power to the transmission device, and the transmission device
transmits stored information by the supplied power. Acc<_n·dingly, the reception
device according to the present embodiment can perform wired communication, even
without having a separate power supply circuit for performing communication.
Also, for example, even when a signal according to a user operation (signal
10 indicating a user instruction) is not input, the reception device according to the
present embodiment can transmit stored information by performing load modulation.
[0065)
Therefore, as compmed to, for example, the case of using wired
communication of the related art such as an existing PLC, wired communication
15 capable of reducing a cost, alleviating the restriction of the size of a communication
device, and reducing power consumption, or the like is realized using wireless
communication technology such as NFC-based commtmication technology, RFID
technology, or the like.
20
[0066]
Also, a communication method according to the present embodiment may
-be-appliedl'o, for exantple; comm1.micarton between devices cortnected by-two or
more signal lines. Herein, the signal line according to the present embodiment may
be, for example, a signal line dedicated to communication; however, the signal line
according to the present embodiment is not limited thereto. For exan1ple, the signal
25 line according to the present embodiment may be a power line through which a direct
cunent or an alternating cunent having a lower frequency (for example, 50 [Hz] or
60 [Hz]) than the high frequency signal flows.
[0067]
When the communication method according to the present embodiment is
30 applied to the communication using a power line, the reception device according to
the present embodiment transmits a high frequency signal, for example, by
17/73
superimposing the high frequency signal on a direct current or an alternating current
having a lower frequency than the high frequency signal, or without superimposing
the high fi·equency signal on the direct current or the alternating current. When the
commtmication method according to the present embodiment is applied to the
5 communication using a power line, each of the transmission device and the reception
device according to the present embodiment includes, for example, a filter that
passes a high frequency signal and blocks an alternating cmTent. An example of a
configuration of the filter according to the present embodiment will be described
later.
10 [0068]
Also, for example, by performing an authentication process usmg
information transmitted from the transmission device by load modulation, the
reception device according to the present embodiment identifies the transmission
device that has transmitted the information. When the transmission device is
15 normally identified, a direct current or an alternating current may be supplied to the
transmission device.
[0069]
Hereinafter, assummg that the commtmication system according to the
present embodiment is a system performing communication through a power line, a
20 management method realized by applying the communication method according to
tile present embodi!1i@t, arta-a process according to tll:e communication method
according to the present embodiment will be described.
25
[0070]
(Management method according to present embodiment)
[Problems that may occur in the related art]
In a management device capable of controlling the supply of power to an
electronic device connected by a power line, such as an intelligent tap, a smart lap, or
the like, for example, in order to perform more favorable power supply control, it is
necessary to identify which electronic device is connected by a power line. Also,
30 Patent Literature 1 may be talcen as an example of the teclmology for identifying an
electronic device connected by a power line using power line communication.
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[0071]
For example, a management device (hereinafter referred to as a management
device of the related art) using the related art for identifying an electronic device
connected by a power line using power line communication as disclosed in Patent
5 Literature 1 (hereinafter referred to simply as the related art) uses an existing PLC to
acquire an ID from an electronic device connected by a power line. Then, the
management device of the related art associates the ID acquired from the electronic
device through the power line with a connection port connected by the power line
(for example, an inlet; an example of the terminal and a connection unit according to
10 the present embodiment that will be described later). Accordingly, when the related
mi is used, it may be possible to identify which electronic device is connected to
which·of the connection ports included in the management device of the related mi,
to some extent.
15
[0072]
However, since the management device of the related art commtmicates
with an electronic device connected by a power line using an existing PLC, when
power is not supplied to the electronic device (for example, when the device is in a
dormant state such as a state in which a main power supply is oft), the management
device of the related art carmot communicate with the electronic device. Also, the
20 related art has no consideration for identifying the electronic device to which power
25
-is not supplied. -Accordingly, even When thete1san electronic deviceconnectect!Jy
the power line, the management device of the related art cannot recognize the
electronic device if power is not supplied to the electronic device.
[0073]
Therefore, even when the related art is used, an electronic device connected
by a power line carmot always be identified.
[0074]
" Also, because the management device of the related art uses an existing
PLC, the management device of the related art may have, for example, the following
30 problems (a) and (b).
[0075]
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(a) There is a probability that a commtmication failure will occur due to a
communication collision.
The existing PLC 1s a bus-type topology in which respective devices
performing communication through a power line use the same band. Accordingly,
5 if the existing PLC is used, when a plurality of devices are connected in the same
band, there is a possibility that a communication collision will occur. Also, when a
commtmication collision occms, there is a fear that a commtmication failure may
occur, for example, that communication may be impossible, or that a communication
delay may occur. Herein, when a communication failure occms as above, even
10 when power is supplied to an electronic device connected by a power line, there is a
probability that the manag-;ment device of the related art will not be able to identify
the electronic device.
[0076]
(b) Downsizing of devices related to communication is difficult, and there is
15 a possibility that costs will increase.
When communication is performed by the existing PLC as in the related art,
both a transmission side device transmitting a signal and a reception side device
receiving a signal may require a separate power supply for supplying power for use
in communication in order to perform communication. Thus, an electronic device
20 according to the related art (hereinafter referred to as an electronic device of the
related art) shou!dlncludeirpowenupply circuit for sllpplying powecforperfotming
communication by the existing PLC. Accordingly, as the electronic device of the
related rut should include the power supply circuit, downsizing of the electronic
device of the related art becomes more difficult, and the cost of the electronic device
25 of the related art increases further.
[0077]
Also, it is difficult to reduce the size of a communication device according
to an existing PLC (for example, a PLC modem) to, for example, a size of an IC chip.
In addition, since the populm·ization of communication devices according to an
30 existing PLC is not currently advanced, the communication device according to the
existing PLC is more expensive than, for example, an IC-chip-type communication
SP30433DWOOO
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device.
[0078]
Accordingly, when the related art is used to perform conununication by the
existing PLC, it is di1Iicult to reduce the size of devices related to communication.
5 Also, when the related art is used to perform communication by the existing PLC,
since the electronic device of the related art should include an expensive
communication device or a separate power supply circuit, there is a fear that the cost
will increase when performing communication by the existing PLC.
10
15
[0079]
As above, when the related art is used, an electronic device connected by a
power line cannot always be identified, and there is also a fear that the foregoing
problems (a) and (b) may occur.
[0080]
[Measures to identify an electronic device connected by a power line]
Herein, as a measure to identify an electronic device connected by a power
line, for example, a user may input information indicating an electronic device
connected by a power line into a management device included in a management
system. In the above case, even when there is an electronic device that is not
supplied with power, among the electronic devices connected by a power line, there
20 is a possibility that the electronic device can be identified.
·-· [0081]
However, in the above case, for example, when a user has an input miss, an
electronic device connected by a power line cannot always be accurately identified,
and there is also a fear that the convenience of the user may be diminished.
25 [0082]
Also, as another measure to identify an electronic device connected by a
power line, for example, a current waveform, a voltage waveform, or a vower
waveform supplied through a power line may be interpreted and an electronic device
connected by the power line may be estimated based on the interpretation result.
30 [0083]
However, m the above case, since an electronic device connected by a
21/73
power line is identified solely by estimation, the com1ected electronic device caru10t
always be identified with high accuracy. Also, in the above case, for example,
when an electronic device having new waveform characteristics is com1ected,
estimation cam1ot be performed, for example, if the management device is not
5 trained accordingly. Also, when the number of electronic devices cmmected by a
power line increases, since estimation by waveform characteristics becomes .more
'
difficult, there is a fear that estimation accuracy may be lowered. Accordingly, in
the above case, an electronic device com1ected by a power line cam1ot always be
accurately identified.
'
10 [0084]
Also, as another measure to identify an electronic device com1ected by a
power line, for example, a power line side plug (an example of a connection device)
for com1ecting a power line to a management device may include an IC chip storing
identification information that can be used to identify an electronic device, and an
15 outlet ( conesponding to an exan1ple of a connection unit according to the present
embodiment that will be described later) may include a reader for reading the
identification infonnation from the IC chip by NFC-based contactless
communication. In the above case, because the outlet acquires the identiflcation
information from the plug com1ected to the outlet, there is a possibility that an
20 electronic device com1ected by a power line conesponding to the plug can be
idenfifled.
[0085]
However, in the above case, for example, an electronic device connected by
a power line through a so-called extension cord cannot be identified. Also, in the
25 above case, since the reader included in the outlet acquires identification infonnation
from the plug by contactless communication, for exa111ple, multiple identification
information may be acquired from a plurality of adjacent plugs, or identification
information may be acquired from an adjacent plug even when a plug is not
com1ected. Accordingly, in the above case, an electronic device connected by a
30 power line cmmot always be accurately identified.
[0086]
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[Summary of management method according to present embodiment]
Therefore, in a management system according to the present embodiment
(an example of a communication system according to the present embodiment;
hereinafter referred to as a management system 1 000), by applying wireless
5 communication technology such as NFC-based communication technology, RFID
technology, or the like to wired communication technology using a power line as a
communication line, identification of an electronic device connected by a power line
is realized.
10
[0087]
Hereinafter, by describing the summary of the management system 1000,
the summary of a process according to a management method according to the
p;ese11t embodiment is described in more detail. Figs. 1 and 2 are illustration
diagrams illustrating examples of the configuration of the management system 1000
according to the present embodiment.
15 [0088]
Refen-ing to Fig. 1, the management system 1000 includes a management
device 100 (corresponding to a reception device according to the present
embodiment), an electronic device 200 ( conesponding to a transmission device
according to the present embodiment), a server 300 (corresponding to an external
20 device), and an external power supply 400.
[0089]-
Herein, in Fig. 1, a power tap is illustrated as the management device 1 00;
however, the management device I 00 according to the present embodiment is not
limited to a power tap. Also, in Fig. 1, a display device is illustrated as the
25 electronic device 200; however, the display device according to the present
embodiment is not limited to a display device. Also, the management device 100
and the electronic device 200 may be cmmected through a so-called extension cord,
and a plurality of electronic devices 200 may be connected through an extension cord
(what is called an interconnection of many plugs in one outlet). Also, although Fig.
30 I illustrates that the management device 100 and the server 300 perform wireless
communication, the management device 100 and the server 300 may perfmm wired
SP304339WOOO
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communication. Also, although Fig. 1 illustrates an exan1ple in which the
management system 1000 includes the server 300, the management system 1000 may
not include the server 300. In the above case, the management device 100 may also
have a fi.mction of the server 300. In addition, although Fig. 1 illustrates an
5 example in which the management device 100 uses the extemal power supply 400 as
a power supply, the management device 100 may inclt!de, for example, an intcmal
power supply (not illustrated) and use the internal power supply as a power supply.
[0090]
10
[Summary of management device 100]
The management device I 00 includes a connection unit capable of
connecting an extemal power line EPL connected to the electronic device 200
(hereinafter also referred to as connection unit I 02), and supplies power to the
electronic device 200 through the external power line EPL and an intemal power line
included in the management device I 00 (not illustrated in Fig. I; hereinafter referred
15 to as internal power line IPL). Hereinafter, a connection of the internal power line
IPL and the external power line EPL may be collectively referred to as a power line.
[0091]
Also, the management device I 00 identifles the electronic device 200
cmmected by the power line, by communicating with the electronic device 200
20 through the power line by a high frequency signal superimposed on the power line.
Herein, the high frequency signal may be, for example, as!gnalof a -frequency high~err-than
a fi·equency (for example, 50 [Hz] or 60 [Hz]) of power supplied to the
electronic device 200 through the power line, such as a signal of 13.56 [MHz].
Also, it is needless to say that the high frequency signal according to the present
25 embodiment is not limited to a signal of 13.56 [MHz].
[0092]
More specifically, the management device 100 transmits a firsl high
frequency signal, which is a high frequency signal used to transmit identification
infonnation to the electronic device 200, through the power line. Also, the
30 management device 100 receives identification information, which is transmitted as a
high frequency signal by load modulation by the electronic device 200 driven by
SP304339WOOO
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obtaining power from the first high fl·equency signal, through the power line.
Herein, the identification information according to the present embodiment is
information that can be used to identify an electronic device. The identification
infom1ation may be, for example, data indicating a unique identification number of
5 an electronic device, data indicating a type of an electronic device (for example, data
· indicating a maker, a model number, or the like), power waveform data indicating a
power waveform in using an electronic device (in operating an electronic device), or
the like. Also, the identification information according to the present embodiment
is not limited to the above examples, and may be any information that can be used to
'
10 identify an electronic device.
[0093]
Also, the management device 100 transmits tbe first high fl·equency signal
when a connection state change is detected in the connection unit 102. By
transmitting the first high il·equency signal when detecting a connection state change
15 in the connection unit 102, the management device 100 can reduce the power
consmnption by transmission of the first high frequency signal. Also, the
transmission of the first high frequency signal in the management device 100
according to the present embodiment is not limited to the above. For example. the
management device 100 may transmit the first high frequency signal periodically or
20 aperiodically. Even in the above case, for example, by adjusting the period of
-ffilfismission or the firsc high-fl'()quency sigmll-, -the power cofisumptiol115y
transmission of the first high frequency signal can be reduced. Hereinafter, a case
in which the management device 100 transmits the first high frequency signal when
detecting a connection state change in the connection unit 102 will be mainly
25 described as an example.
[0094]
Accordingly, by usmg the identification information received from the
electronic device 200 through the power line, the management device 100 can
identifY the electronic device 200 connected to the external power line EPL
30 connected to the connection unit 102.
[0095]
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Also, the commtmication through the power line between the management
device 100 and the electronic device 200 is not limited to the communication related
to acquisition of the identification information. For example, the management
device 100 may transmit a second high frequency signal, which is a high frequency
5 signal for causing the electronic device 200 connected to the external power line EPL
to perform a predetern1ined process, through the power line. In the above case, the
management device 100 may perform communication related to the predetermined
process with the electronic device 200 by receiving a response signal for the second
high frequency signal that is transmitted as a high frequency signal by load
'
10 modulation by the electronic device 200 driven by obtaining power from lhe second
high frequency signal.
[0096]
Herein, the predetermined process may be, for example, an authentication
process of the electronic device 200, a process of transmitting an electronic value
15 (money or data having a value equivalent to money) stored in the electronic device
200, a process of updating the electronic value in the electronic device 200, a process
of controlling a power supply such as turning on/off a main power supply of the
electronic device 200 or changing it to a power saving mode, or the like.
Accordingly, when the management device 100 and the electronic device 200
20 perform communication through the power line, the management system 1000
ituplemenls,for exan1ple, acharging processusing-tneelectroruc vah:restoredlrnhe
electronic device 200, or a process related to the power control of the electronic
device 200. Also, it is needless to say that the process implemented by the
communication through the power line between the management device 100 and the
25 electronic device 200 in the management system 1000 according to the present
embodiment is not limited to the above examples.
[0097]
Also, the management device 100 may communicate with the server 300
capable of performing various processes. Herein, the communication between the
30 management device 100 and the server 300 may be, for example, transmitting
various infcnmation (data), such as acquired identification information, information
SP304339WOOO
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about power consumption of the electronic device 200 measured by the management
device l 00, or the like, from the management device 100 to the server 300. When
the management device I 00 transmits various information to the server 300 as above,
the server 300 may perform, for example, a process of managing the power of the
5 electronic device 200 connected to the management device 100 for the purpose of
power saving measures or the like, or a process of predicting power demand by
interpretation of a power utilization pattem.
[0098]
Also, the communication between the management device 100 and the
'
10 server 300 is not limited to the above. For example, the management device 100
may receive data for use in various processes that are transmitted from the server 300.
Accordingly, the mm1agement device 100 may perform various processes using data
acquired from the server 300. More specifically, for exmnple, even when the
identification information acquired fl·om the electronic device 200 is data indicating a
15 maker, a model number, or the like, which could not be identi11ed by the
management device 100, the management device 100 may identify the electronic
device 200 using the data acquired from the server 300. Also, the management
device 1 00 may perform, for example, power management of the connected
electronic device 200 in more detail using the data acquired from the server 300.
20 Also, it is needless to say that the process in the management device 100 using the
--data acquired-from the server 300 is not limited to tneahove.
[0099]
Also, the management device 100 may receive, for example, a command for
causing the electronic device 200 to perform a predetermined process, which is
25 transmitted fl·om the server 300 as a result of the communication with the server 300.
When receiving the command for causing the predetermined process, the
management device 100 transmits the second high frequency signal to the eleclronic
device 200 through the power line based on the command. Accordingly, by
performing communication with the server 300, the management device I 00 may
30 cause the electronic device 200 to perform a predetermined process in cooperation
with the server 300. Herein, the process performed by the electronic device 200 in
SP304339WOOO
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cooperation between the server 300 and the management device 100 in the
management system 1000 may be, for example, a charging process according to the
amount of power supplied from the management device 100 to the electronic device
200. More specifically, the management device 100 implements the above charging
5 process, for example, by transmitting the second high frequency signal for
transmitting an electr~mic value stored in the electronic device 200 to the electronic
device 200, or the second high frequency signal for updating the electronic value
according to the amount of power. Also, it is needless to say that the process
performed by the electronic device 200 in cooperation between the server 300 and
<
10 the management device I 00 in the management system 1000 is not limited to the
above charging process.
[0100]
[Summary of electronic device 200]
By the power supplied through the power line, the electronic device 200
15 performs a process or operation according to a function of the device itself. In the
case of the electronic device 200 illustrated in Fig. 1, the process or operation
performed by the electronic device 200 according to the function of the device itself
may be, for example, various processes such as image processing related to display,
operations related to display such as display/non-display, or the like.
20 [0101]
--Also, regarcllcssof the supply/non-supply of power througlnhe powerline,
the electronic device 200 performs communication with the management device 100
through the power line by being driven by the power obtained from the high
frequency signal that is received through the power line after being transmitted by
25 the management device 100 in superimposition with the power line.
[0 1 02]
More specifically, when recelVlng the first high frequency signal, the
electronic device 200 reads stored identification information using the power
obtained from the first high frequency signal. Then, the electronic device 200
30 transmits the identification information by superimposing the same on the power line
by load modulation using the above power.
SP304339WOOO
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[0103]
Also, when recervmg the second high frequency signal, the electronic
device 200 performs a predetermined process required by the second high frequency
signal using the power obtained from the second high frequency signal. Then, the
5 electronic device 200 transmits a response signal according to a predetermined
process by superimposing the same on the power line as a high freguency signal by
load modulation using the above power. Herein, the predetennined process
required by the second high frequency signal and performed by the electronic device
200 may be, for example, a process related to the charging process, such as
10 transmission of the stored electronic value, update of the electronic value, or the like.
[01 04]
[Server 300]
The server 300 communicates with the management device 100 and
receives data such as identification information transmitted from the management
15 device 100. Also, the server 300 transmits data used for processing by the
management device 100, a command for causing the electronic device 200 to
perform a predetennined process, or the like to the management device 1 00. Also,
the server 300 performs, for example, power management of the electronic device
200 based on information about the power consumption or identification information
20 received from the management device 100, a process related to a charging process
-ror the electronic device 200-in cooperation with -rne-management device 100, and __ the like.
[0105].
[External power supply 400]
25 The extemal power supply 400 is an external power supply when viewed
from the management device 100. The extemal power supply 400 may be, for
example, a commercial power supply, a battery, an electrical generator, or the lil&
[0106]
The management system 1000 may have, for example, the configuration
30 illustrated in Fig. 1. In addition, the configuration of the management system 1000
according to the present embodiment is not limited to the configuration illustrated in
SP304339WOOO
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Fig. 1. For example, as illustrated in Fig. 2, a management device 100 may be
connected to each of a plurality of electronic devices 200A, 200B, 200C, ... (which
hereinafter may be collectively referred to as an electronic device 200) by power
lines.
5 [0107]
In the management system 1000, the management device 100 acqmres
identification information fi'om the electronic device 200 by conmmnicating with the
electronic device 200 through the power line as in the related art, and identities the
electronic device 200 connected by the power line, based on the acquired
'
10 identification inf01111alion. Accordingly, in the management system 1000, since the
management device 100 can automatically identify the electronic device 200 even
without an input operation of the user, there is no fear of diminishing the
convenience of the user. Also, in the management system 1000, since the
management device 100 identifies the electronic device 200 using the identification
15 information, the electronic device 200 connected by the power line can be identit1ed
more securely, as compared to the case of performing estimation. Herein, the
electronic device 200 is driven by the power obtained from the high frequency signal
transmitted by the management device 100 in superimposition with the power line,
and performs a response by load modulation. Accordingly, in the management
20 system 1000, even when there is an electronic device 200 to which power is not
supplted among-tne electronlcdevices 2oo- confiected by-rne power lines0ll.emanagement
device 100 can identify the electronic device 200. Therefore, the
management system 1000 can more securely identify the electronic device 200
connected by the power line, as compared to the related art in which an electronic
25 device that is connected to a power line but to which power is not supplied cannot be
recognized.
[0108]
Also, in the management system I 00, since the electronic device 200 is
driven by the power obtained from the high frequency signal transmitted by the
30 management device 100 in superimposition with the power line and performs a
response by load modulation, the electronic device 200 may not include a separate
SP304339WOOO
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power supply circuit related to communication through the power line. Also, the
electronic device 200 may perform communication with the management device I 00
tln·ough the power line using a communication device having the same configuration
as a communication device used in wireless communication technology such as
5 NFC-based communication technology, RFID technology, or the like (a detailed
configuration example of which will be desc~ibed later). Therefore, in the
management system I 000, as compared to the case of using the related art in which
communication is performed by the existing PLC, the size of devices related to
communication can be easily reduced, and the costs thereof can be reduced.
10 [0109]
In addition, smce the communication through the power line in the
management system I 000 is compatible with wireless communication technology
such as NFC-based communication technology, RFID technology, or the like,
communication collision prevention technology (so-called anti-collision) of the
15 wireless communication technology can be used. Therefore, the management
system I 000 can prevent the inability to identify the electronic device 200 connected
by the power line even when power is supplied to the electronic device 200, which
may occur when the related art in which communication is performed by the existing
PLC is used.
20 [0110]
25
--Therefore, by using- themanagemeht method accordingTo the -present-embodiment,
a management system capable of identifying an electronic device
connected by a power line can be realized.
[0111]
(Management system according to present embodiment)
Next, examples of configurations of the management device I 00 and the
electronic device 200 included in the management system 1000 capable of
implementing the process of the management method according to the present
embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, configurations of management devices
30 100 according to first to fourth embodiments, and a configuration of the electronic
device 200 capable of communicating with each of the management devices 100
SP304339WOOO
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according to the first to fourth embodiments by the power line, will be described.
In addition, the con1lguration of the management device 100 described below
corresponds to an example of the configuration of the reception device according to
the present embodiment, and the configuration of the electronic device 200 described
5 below corresponds to an example of the configuration of the transmission device
according to the present embodiment.
[0 112]
[First embodiment]
Fig. 3 is an illustration diagram illustrating an example of the configuration
'
10 of a management device 100 according to the Hrst embodiment and an example of
the configuration of an ekctronic device 200 according to the present embodiment.
In Fig. 3, the management device I 00 and the electronic device 200 are illustrated
together with an external power supply 400.
15
[0113]
[Management device I 00]
Refening to Fig. 3, the management device 100 includes a connection 102,
a management side power line communication tmit 104 (high frequency signal output
unit, reception unit), a management unit I 06, a first filter 108 (communication filter
or management side communication filter), a power supply tmit 110, a power
20 consumption measurement unit 112, and a second filter 114.
[0114]_ ....
Also, the management device 100 may include, for example, a Read Only
Memory (ROM; not illustrated), a Random Access Memory (ROM; not illustrated), a
storage tmit (not illustrated), a display unit (not illustrated), and the like. The
25 management device 100 may connect the respective elements, for example, by a bus
as a data transmission path. Herein, the ROM (not illustrated) stores a program
used by the management unit 106, and control data such as operation parameters or
the like. The RAM (not illustrated) temporarily stores a program or the like
executed by the management unit 106.
30 [0115]
The storage unit (not illustrated) stores various data such as identification
SP304339WOOO
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infonnation acquired ±i·om the electronic device 200, applications, or the like.
Herein, the storage unit (not illustrated) may be, for example, a magnetic recording
medium such as a hard disk or the like, or a nonvolatile memory such as an
Electrically Erasable and Progrmnmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), a flash
5 memory, a Magnetoresistive Random Access Memory (MRAM), a Ferroelectric
Random Access Memory (FeRf..M), a Phase-change Random Access Memory
(PRAM), or the like. Also, the management device 100 may include a storage unit
(not illustrated) that is attachable/detachable to/from the management device 100.
The display unit (not illustrated) is a display unit included in the management device
I
10 100. The display unit displays a variety of information (for exmnple, images and/or
chm·acters) on a display screen. A screen displayed on the display screen of the
display unit(not illustrated) may be, for example, an operation screen for causing the
management device I 00 to perform a desired operation, or the like. Herein, the
display unit (not illustrated) may be, for example, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD),
15 an organic ElectroLuminescence display (organic EL display, which is also referred
to as an Organic Light Emitting Diode display (OLED display)), or the like. Also,
the management device 100 may include, for example, a touchscreen display unit
(not illustrated). In the above case, the display unit (not illustrated) functions as an
operation display unit capable of user operation and display. Also, regardless of the
20 inclusion/non-inclusion of the display tmit (not illustrated), the management device
···-· 100 may cmnmunicalc with an externatterminalthroughanetwotk (or direcrly)~ a:nd
may display the operation screen or a variety of information on a display screen of
the external terminal. For exmnple, when the external terminal is an external
terminal (for example, a portable com1mmication device, a remote controller, or the
25 like) owned by a user of the management device 100, the user may operate his or her
own external terminal to cause the management device 100 to perform a desired
process, and may use the external terminal to check information transmitted from the
management device I 00. Accordingly, in the above case, the convenience of the
user can be improved when it is difficult for the user to directly operate the
30 management device I 00 or to view information displayed on the display unit (not
illustrated), for example, when the management device 100 is installed under a desk,
SP304339WOOO
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or the like.
[0116]
The connection unit 102 includes terminals, and connects an external power
line EPL and an internal power line IPL. Also, the connection tmit 102 detects a
5 connection state change of the external power line EPL (change from non-connection
state to connection state/change from cotmection state to non-connection state).
Then, the connection unit 102 transmits a detection signal indicating the detection
(detection result) to the management unit 106. In addition, when the management
side power line communication unit 104 to be described later has a function of
l
10 transmitting the first high frequency signal according to the transmission of the
detection signal, the connection unit 102 may transmit the detection signal to the
management side power line communication unit 104.
[0117]
Herein, the connection unit 102 is illustrated, for example, as including a
15 switch for detecting a physical connection state of the external power line and
transmitting a detection signal to the management unit 106 when detecting a state of
the switch; however, the configuration of the connection tmit 102 is not limited
thereto. Also, when the management device l 00 is configured to transmit the first
high frequency signal periodically/aperiodically, the connection unit l 02 according
20 to the present embodiment may not have a function related to the detection of a
connection state change of the external power line Err:;:--
[0118]
The management side power line communication unit 104 performs
communication with the electronic device 200 through the power line.
25 [0119]
Fig. 4 is an illustration diagram illustrating an example of the management
side power line communication unit l 04 included in the management device 100
according to the present embodiment. In Fig. 4, the management side power line
communication unit 104 is illustrated together with the management unit 106 and the
30 first filter 108. The management side power line communication unit 104 includes
a high frequency signal generation unit 150 and a demodulation unit 152, and
SP304339WOOO
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functions as a reader/writer (intenogator) in NFC or the like. Also, the
management side power line communication unit 104 may further include, for
example, an encryption circuit (not illustrated), a communication collision prevention
(anti-collision) circuit, or the like.
5 [0120]
The high frequency signal generation unit 150, for example, receives a high
frequency signal generation command from the management unit 106 and generates
a high frequency signal according to the high frequency signal generation command.
Also, the high fi·equency signal generation unit 150, for example, receives a high
'
10 frequency signal transmission stop command indicating the stop of transmission of a
high frequency signal fi·om the management unit 106 and stops generation of the
high frequency signal according to the high frequency signal transmission stop
command. Herein, in fig. 4, an alternating cmrent power supply is illustrated as the
high frequency signal generation unit 150; however, the high frequency signal
15 generation unit 150 according to the present embodiment is not limited thereto. For
example, the high frequency signal generation unit 132 according to the present
embodiment may include a modulation circuit (not illustrated) configured to perform
Amplitude Shift Keying (ASK) modulation, and an amplification circuit (not
illustrated) configured to amplify an output of the modulation circuit. Also, the
20 high frequency signal generated by the high frequency signal generation unit 150
mayoe, for example; tlfe-first highrrequency signal ii1clucling a transmissionrequest
for transmission of the identification information by the electronic device 200, or the
second high frequency signal including processed data or various process commands
for the electronic device 200; however, the high frequency signal according to the
25 present embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the high frequency signal
according to the present embodiment may be a signal (for example, an unmodulated
signal) for performing power supply to the device side power line communication
unit 204 of the electronic device 200, which will be described later. Also, the signal
for perfonning the power supply may function as the first high frequency signal (that
30 is, when the first high frequency signal is an unmodulated signal).
[0121]
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The demodulation unit 152, for example, envelope-detects an amplitude
change of a voltage between the high frequency signal generation unit !50 and the
first filter 108 and binarizes a detection signal to demodulate a response signal
transmitted from the electronic device 200. Then, the demodulation unit 152
5 transmits the demodulated response signal (for example, a response signal indicating
the identification information, or a response signal indicating a, response based on the
process according to the second high frequency signal) to the management device
106. In addition, the demodulation of the response signal in the demodulation unit
152 is not limited to the above. For example, the response signal may be
10 demodulated using a phase change of a voltage between the high frequency signal
generation unit 150 and the first filter 108.
(0122]
In addition, the configuration of the management side power line
communication unit 104 according to the present embodiment is not limited to the
15 configuration illustrated in Fig. 4. Fig. 5 is an illustration diagram illustrating
another example of the management side power line communication unit 104
included in the management device 100 according to the present embodiment. Like
in Fig. 4, in Fig. 5, the management side power line communication unit I 04 is
illustrated together with the management unit 106 and the first filter 108.
20 (0123]
--~he manag-eJnent siclepowerline -colnmunlcarton unit-ro4c-according-tothe
other example includes a high fi·equency signal generation unit !50, a demodulation
unit 152, a first high frequency transmission/reception unit 154, and a second high
frequency transmission/reception unit !56. Also, the management side power line
25 commtmication unit 104 according to the other example may fmiher include, for
example, an encryption circuit (not illustrated), a communication collision prevention
(anti-collision) circuit, or the like.
(0124]
Like the high frequency signal generation unit 150 illustrated in Fig. 4, the
30 high frequency signal generation unit 150 generates a high frequency signal
according to a high frequency signal generation command, and stops generation of a
SP30-1339WOOO
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high frequency signal according to a high frequency signal transmission stop
command.
[0125]
The demodulation unit 152 envelope-detects an amplitude change of a
5 voltage in an antenna terminal of the high frequency signal generation unit 150 and
, binarizes a detection signal to demodulate a response signal transmitted from the
electronic device 200. In addition, the demodulation of the response signal in the
demodulation unit 152 is not limited to the above. For example, the response signal
may be demodulated using a phase change of a voltage in the antenna terminal of the
'
10 high ti·equency signal generation unit 150.
[0126]
The first high frequency transmission/reception tmit 154 includes, for
example, a coil L1 with a predetermined inductance (inductor, the same below) and a
capacitor C I with a predetermined capacitance to constitute a resonance circuit.
15 Herein, a resonance frequency of the first high frequency transmission/reception unit
156 may be, for example, a frequency of a high frequency signal, such as 13.56
[MHz]. By the above configuration, the first high frequency transmission/reception
tmit 154 may transmit the high ti'equency signal generated by the high frequency
signal generation unit 150, and receive the response signal transmitted from the
20 electronic device 200 and transmitted from the second high frequency
25
transtnissiollireception unit 150. Tllat is, -rhe first nigli li·equency .
transmission/reception unit 154 functions as a first communication antenna in the
management side power line communication unit 104.
[0127]
The second high frequency transmission/reception unit 156 includes, for
example, a coil L2 with a predetermined inductance and a capacitor C2 with a
predetermined capacitance to constitute a resonance .circuit. Herein, a reso11ance
frequency of the second high frequency transmission/reception unit 156 may be, for
example, a frequency of a high frequency signal, such as 13.56 [MHz]. By the
30 above configuration, the second high frequency transmission/reception tmit 156 may
receive the high frequency signal transmitted from the first high frequency
SP304339WOOO
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transmission/reception unit 154, and transmit the response signal transmitted from
the electronic device 200. That 1s, the second high ±i·equency
transmission/reception unit 156 fi.mctions as a second communication ante1ma in the
management side power line communication unit 104.
5 [0128]
Like in the configuration illustrated in Fig. 4, by the configuration illust.rated
in Fig. 5, the management side power line communication unit 104 according to the
present embodiment functions as a reader/writer in NFC or the like, and performs
communication with the electronic device 200 through the power line.
10 [0129]
Referring back to Fig. 3, the configuration of the management device 100
according to the first embodiment will be described. The management unit 106
includes an integrated circuit of various processing circuits, a Micro Processing Unit
(MPU), or the like, and fi.mctions as a control tmit controlling the respective units of
15 the management device 100. More specifically, the management unit 106, for
example, controls communication 111 the management side power line
communication tmit 104 by transmitting a high ±i·equency signal generation
command or a high frequency signal transmission stop command to the management
side power line communication unit 104 based on a detection signal received from
20 the connection unit 102 or a response signal fi"om the electronic device 200 received
from the management stele power linecommunication unit 1 04-:--By transmitting thehigh
frequency signal generation command or the high frequency signal transmission
stop command to the management side power line communication unit 104 based on
the detection signal, the management unit 106 can actually co11111mnicate with the
25 electronic device 200 connected by the power line. When the management unit 106
transmits the high frequency signal generation command or the high frequency signal
transmission stop command to the management side power line communicatiou unit
104 as above, the management side power line co11111mnication unit 104 can transmit
the first high frequency signal, for example, based on the detection result in the
30 connection unit 102. Also, by transmitting the high frequency signal generation
command or the high frequency signal transmission stop command to the
5
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management side power line commtmication unit l 04 based on the response signal,
the management unit 106 can control the communication with the electronic device
200 tlu·ough the power line. Also, the management unit 106 may
periodically/aperiodically transmit the high frequency signal generation command to
the management side power line communication tmit 104 to
periodically/aperiodically transmit the first high frequency signal to the management
side power line communication unit 104.
[0130]
Also, the management unit 106 controls an operation of the power supply
•
10 unit 110, for example, by transmitting a control signal for controlling the selective
power supply to the internal power line IPL in the power supply unit 110 to the
power supply tmit 110. Also, the management unit 106 controls an operation of the
power consumption measurement unit 112, for example, by transmitting a control
signal for controlling the stop/start of measurement of the power consmnption of the
15 electronic device 200 in the power consumption measurement unit 112 to the power
constm1ption measurement unit 112. In addition, the management unit I 00
according to the present embodiment may include a separate control unit (not
illustrated) that controls the respective units of the management unit 100.
20
[0 131]
Also, the management unit 106 identifies the electronic device 200
corihected-to the extcmal power-line EP L connected -tothe connection unit 102,--·
based on the identification information that is received by the management side
power line communication unit 104 from the electronic device 200 through the
power line. Also, the management unit 106 stores information indicating the
25 identified electronic device 200 in a storage unit (not illustrated) as infonnation
indicating the electronic device 200 cmmected to the external power line EPL
connected to the connection unit 102. Hereinafter, the information indicating the
electronic device 200 connected to the external power line EPL connected to the
identified connection unit 102 (or the electronic device 200 connected to each of the
30 extemal power lines connected to a plurality of connection units) may be refened to
as connection state information. Herein, the connection state information according
5
39173
to the present embodiment may be the identification information itself, or other types
of data such as list-type data, a database storing information indicated by the
identification information, or the like.
[0 132]
Also, when receiving information about the power consumption measured
by the power consumption measurement unit 112 from the power consumption
'
measurement unit 112, the management unit 106 stores the power consumption
information and the connection state information corresponding to the electronic
device 200 as a measurement target of the power constm1ption measurement unit 112
I
10 in an associated manner. Herein, the management unit 106 associates the power
consumption information with the connection state infmmation, for example, by
converting the connection state information into a relational database (when the
connection state information is a database type). In addition, a method of
associating the power consumption information with the connection state information
15 according to the present embodiment is not limited thereto, and the management tmit
106 may use any method capable of associating the power consumption information
with the connection state information according to the present embodiment.
[0133]
The first filter 108 is connected between the management side power line
20 commnnication unit 104 and the internal power line IPL, and functions to filter a
signal-received from the internal power limnPI-;:- -More specificatly,-thc first filter
108 has a function of blocking at least a signal of a frequency of power supplied to
the electronic device 200 through the power line, among the signals received from
the internal power line IPL, and passing a high frequency signal. By including the
25 first filter 108, the management device 100 does not transmit a signal of a frequency
of power that may be a noise to the management side power line communication unit
104. Therefore, the accuracy of communication between the management side
power line communication unit 104 and the electronic device 200 (specifically, the
device side power line communication unit 204 of the electronic device 200, which
30 will be described later) can be improved.
[0134]
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Fig. 6 is an illustration diagram illustrating an example of the configuration
of the first filter !08 included in the management device 100 according to the present
embodiment. The first filter I 08 includes inductors L3 and L4, capacitors C3 to CS,
and surge absorbers SA 1 to SA3. In addition, it is needless to say that the
5 configuration of the first filter I 08 according to the present embodiment is not
limited to the configuration illustrated in Fig. 6.
[0135]
Referring back to Fig. 3, the configuration of the management device 100
according to the first embodiment will be described. Based on a control signal
'
10 received from the management unit I 06 (or a separate control unit (not illustrated)
when provided), the power supply unit 110 selectively com1ects an internal power
supply (not illustrated) or the external power supply 400 and the internal power line
IPL, and selectively supplies power to the internal power line IPL. Herein, the
power supply tmit 110 may be, for example, a switch that is tmned on/off based on a
15 control signal. Herein, the switch includes, for example, a p-channel MOSFET or
an n-cham1el MOSFET; however, the configuration of the switch is not limited
thereto. In addition, the management device 100 according to the present
embodiment, including the second to fourth embodiments to be described later, may
not include the power supply Lmit II 0.
20 [0136]
The-power consumptionh1east1remenr unit-n2 measures thepower __ consumption of the electronic device 200 c01mected to the external power line EPL
connected to the connection unit I 02. Then, the power consumption measurement
unit 112 transmits the power consumption measurement information to the
25 management unit 106. Also, the power consumption measurement unit 112 may
selectively perform the measurement based on a control signal received from the
management tmit 106 (or a separate control unit (not illustrated) when provided).
Herein, the power consumption measurement unit 112 may be, for example, a power
consumption meter. In addition, the management device I 00 according to the
30 present embodiment, including the second to fourth embodiments to be described
later, may not include the power consumption measurement unit 112.
SP304339WOOO
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[0137]
The second filter 114 is provided on the internal power line IPL between the
connection unit 102 and the power consumption measurement unit 112, and
functions to filter a signal that may be received from the connection unit 102. More_
5 specifically, the second filter 114 has a function of blocking at least a high frequency
signal tran,smitted by the electron line communication unit 104 or a high frequency
signal transmitted by the electronic device 200, and passing a signal of a frequency
of power supplied to the electronic device 200. By including the second filter 114,
the management device 100 can block a high frequency signal by communication
'
10 through the power line, or a noise component that may be received fi'mn the
electronic device 200. That is, the second filter 114 ftmctions as a so--called power
splitter.
[0138]
Fig. 7 is an illustration diagram illustrating an example of the configuration
15 of the second filter 114 included in the management device 100 according to the
present embodiment. The second filter 114 includes inductors L5 and L6, a
capacitor C6, and a surge absorber SA4. In addition, it is needless to say that the
configuration of the second filter 114 according to the present embodiment is not
limited to the configuration illustrated in Fig. 7.
20 [0139]
For example, by Tne confignration il!tlS!mted in Fig. 3;-the!nanagement
device 100 according to the first embodiment can communicate with the electronic
device 200 connected to the external power line EPL com1ected to the connection
unit 102 through the power line, and identify the electronic device 200. Also, by
25 the configuration illustrated in Fig. 3, the management device 100 according to the
first embodiment can transmit a second high frequency signal to the identified
electronic device 200 to cause the electronic device 200 to perform a predetermined
process based on the second high frequency signal.
[0140]
30 [Electronic device 200]
Next, an example of the configuration of the electronic device 200
42173
according to the present embodiment will be described. The electronic device 200
is in one-to-one coiTespondence with the external power line EPL, and the external
power line EPL is cotmected to the connection unit 102 of the management device
100. In addition, although not illustrated in Fig. 3, the external power line EPL may
5 be cmmected through an extension cord to the connection unit 102 of the
management device 100. Also, in the example illustrat~d in Fig. 3, a portion of the
external power line EPL connected to the connection unit 102 of the management
device 100 colTesponds to the terminal of the electronic device 200.
10
[0141]
Also, the electronic device 200 includes a first filter 202 (comuiLmication
filter or device side communication filter), a device side power line communication
unit 204 (transmission unit), and a second filter 206.
[0142]
Also, at the rear side of the second filter 206 (opposite side of the second
15 filter 206 with respect to the management device 100 illustrated in Fig. 3), the
electronic device 200 includes, for example, a battery (not illustrated), various
devices for implementing fi.mctions of the electronic device 200 (for example, a drive
unit and a display unit (not illustrated)), and the like. That is, for example. the
electronic device 200 may charge the battery (not illustrated) with the power
20 supplied from the management device 100 through the power line, and may
!mplemennhe functions oftne-electrol1icdevice 200-using tll.e supplied power. For-··
exan1ple, when the electronic device 200 is a vehicle such as an Electric Vehicle
(EV) or the like, the electronic device 200 charges a built-in battery by receiving
power supply, and rotates a wheel using power of the built-in battery. Also, when
25 the electronic device 200 includes a display unit capable of displaying images (still
images/moving images) and/or characters, the electronic device 200 receives power
supply to display images or characters on a display screen of the display unit.
[0143]
The first filter 202 is cotmected between the power line (specifically, the
30 extemal power line EPLin the electronic device 200; the same below) and the device
side power line communication unit 204, and functions to filter a signal received
SP304339WOOO
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from the power line. More specifically, the first filter 202 has a function of
blocking at least a signal of a frequency of power among the signals received from
the power line, and passing a high frequency signal. By including the first filter 202,
the electronic device 200 does not transmit a signal of a frequency of power that may
5 be a noise to the device side power line communication unit 204. Therefore, the
accuracy of communication between the management side power . line
commmlication unit I 04 of the management device 100 and the device side power
line communication unit 204 can be improved.
[0144]
10 Herein, the first filter 202 may have, for example, the same configuration as
the first filter 108 of the nnnagement device 100 illustrated in Fig. 6. In addition, it
is needless to say that the configuration of the first filter202 according to the present
embodiment is not limited to the configuration illustrated in Fig. 6.
[0145]
15 The device side power line communication unit 204 cmmmmicates with the
20
management device 1 00 (external device) through the power line by a high
frequency signal. More specifically, when receiving a high frequency signal
transmitted fi·om the management device 100, the device side power line
communication unit 204 is driven by power obtained from the high frequency signal,
to perform a process indicated by the received high frequency signal. Then, the
·-crevice side power 11nc communication untr-204 transmits a response signal accordingto
the process by load modulation as a high frequency signal. For example, when
receiving a first high frequency signal, the device side power line communication
unit 204 transmits stored identification information in superimposition with the
25 power line by load modulation according to the first high frequency signal. Also,
for example, when receiving a second high frequency signal, the device side power
line conm1Unication unit 204 performs a process based on the second high frequency
signal, and transmits a response signal based on the process in superimposition with
the power line. That is, the device side power line communication unit 204
30 functions as a transponder in NFC.
[0 146]
SP304339WOOO
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Fig. 8 is an illustration diagram illustrating an example of the device side
power line conmmnication unit 204 included in the electronic device 200 according
to the present embodiment. In Fig. 8, the device side power line communication
unit 204 is illustrated together with the first filter 202. The electronic device 200
5 includes an IC chip 220 con1lgured to demodulate and process a received high
frequency signal and transmit a resp~nse signal by load modulation. Also, the
electronic device 200 according to the present embodiment may not include the
respective tmits of the IC chip 220 illustrated in Fig. 8, in the form of an IC chip.
[0147]
10 The IC chip 220 includes a detection unit 222, a wave detection unit 224, a
regulator 226, a demodulator 228, a data processing tmit 230, and a load modulation
unit 232. In addition, although not illustrated in Fig. 8, the IC chip 220 may further
include a protection circuit (not illustrated) for preventing an overvoltage or an
overcurrent from being applied to the data processing unit 230. Herein, the
15 protection circuit (not illustrated) may be, for example, a clamp circuit including a
diode and the like.
[0148]
Also, the IC chip 220 includes a ROM 234, a RAM 236, and an internal
memory 238. The data processing unit 230, the ROM 234, the RAM 236, and the
20 internal memory 238 may be connected, for example, by a bus 240 as a data
transhlission patn.-
[0149]
The ROM 234 stores a program used by the data processing unit 230, and
control data such as operation parameters or the like. The RAM 236 temporarily
25 stores an execution state, an operation result, a program executed by the data
processing unit 230, and the like.
[0150]
The internal memory 238 is a storage unit included in the IC chip 220. For
example, the internal memory 23 8 includes tamper resistance, and the data
30 processing unit 230 perfotms data read, new data write, and data update on the
internal memory 238. The intemal memory 238 stores, for example, various data
5
SP304339WOOO
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such as ideutification information, electronic values, applications, and the like.
Herein, Fig. 8 illustrates an example in which the internal memory 238 stores
identification information 250 and an electronic value 252.
[0 151]
The detection unit 222 generates, for example, a rectangular detection signal
based on a high frequency signal, and transmits the detection signal to the data
processing unit 230. Also, the data processing unit 230 uses the received detection
signal, for example, as a process clock for data processing. Herein, since the
detection signal is based on a high frequency signal transmitted from the
10 management device 100, the detection signal synchronizes with the frequency of the
high frequency signal. Therefore, by including the detection unit 222, the IC chip
15
20
220 may perform processing with the management device 100 in synchronization
with the management device 100.
[0 152]
The wave detection unit 224 rectifies a voltage according to a received high
frequency signal (which may hereinafter be refened to as received voltage). Herein,
the wave detection tmit 224 may include, for example, a diode D 1 and a capacitor
C7; however, the configuration ofthc wave detection unit 224 is not limited thereto.
[0153]
The regulator 226 smooths the received voltage to a constant voltage, and
-outputsa-drive voltage tothe data processing unir-230. Herein; the regulator 226-
may use a direct cmTent component of the received voltage as a drive voltage.
[0154]
The demodulation unit 228 demodulates a high frequency signal based on
25 the received voltage, and outputs data con·esponding to the high frequency signal (for
example, binary data signals of high level and low level). Herein, the demodulation
unit 228 may output an alternating current component of the received voltage as data.
[0155]
The data processing unit 230 is driven by the drive voltage output from the
30 regulator 226, and processes the data demodulated by the demodulation unit 228.
Herein, the data processing unit 230 may include, for example, an MPU; however,
SP304339WOOO
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the configuration of the data processing unit 230 is not limited thereto.
[0 156]
Also, according to the processmg result, the data processmg unit 230
selectively generates a control signal for controlling load modulation related to a
5 response to the management device 100. Then, the data processing milt 230
selectively outputs the ,control signal to the load modulation unit 232.
[0157]
The load modulation unit 232 includes, for example, a load Z and a switch
SW!, and performs load modulation by selectively connecting (activating) the load Z
•
10 according to the control signal received from the data processing unit 230. Herein,
the load Z includes, for example, a resistor with a predete1mined resistance; however,
the configuration of the load Z is not limited thereto. Also, the switch SWl
includes, for example, a p-channel MOSFET or an n-cham1el MOSFET; however, the
configuration of the switch SWl is not limited thereto.
15 [0158]
By the above configuration, the IC chip 220 can process the received high
frequency signal, and transmit the response signal in superimposition with the power
line by load modulation. In addition, it is needless to say that the configuration of
the IC chip 220 according to the present embodiment is not limited to the
20 configuration illustrated in Fig. 8.
[Or59]
By the configuration illustrated in Fig. 8, the power communication unit 204
can be driven by the power obtained from a received high frequency signal, to
perform a process indicated by the received high frequency signal and transmit a
25 response signal according to the process by load modulation.
[0160]
In addition, the configuration of the device side power line communication
milt 204 according to the present embodiment is not limited to the configuration
illustrated in Fig. 8. Fig. 9 is an illustration diagram illustrating another example of
30 the device side power line communication unit 204 included in the electronic device
200 according to the present embodiment. In Fig. 9, the device side power line
SP304339WOOO
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communication unit 204 is illustrated together with the first filter 202. Also, the
electronic device 200 according to the present embodiment may not necessarily
include the respective units of the IC chip 220 illustrated in Fig. 9, in the form of an
IC chip.
5 [0161]
10
The power communication unit 204 according to the other example in dudes
'
a first high frequency transmission/reception unit 242, a second high frequency
transmission/reception unit 244, and an IC chip 220.
[0162]
The first high frequency transmission/reception unit 242 includes, for
example, a coil L 7 with a predetermined inductance and a capacitor C8 with a
predetermined capacitance to constitute a resonance circuit. Herein, a resonance
fi·equency of the first high frequency transmission/reception unit 242 may be, for
example, a frequency of a high frequency signal, such as 13.56 [MHz]. By the
15 above configuration, the first high frequency transmission/reception tmit 242 may
transmit the high frequency signal received from the first filter 202, and receive the
response signal transmitted from the second high frequency transmission/reception
unit 244. That is, the first high frequency transmission/reception unit 242 ft.mctions
as a first communication antenna in the device side power line conmmnication unit
20 204.
ror6-:3r
The second high frequency transmission/reception unit 244 includes, for
example, a coil LS with a predetermined inductance and a capacitor C9 with a
predetermined capacitance to constitute a resonance circuit. Herein, a resonance
25 frequency of the second high frequency transmission/reception unit 244 may be, for
example, a frequency of a high frequency signal, such as 13.56 [MHz]. By the
above configuration, the second high frequency transmission/reception unit 24:\ may
receive the high frequency signal transmitted from the first high frequency
transmission/reception unit 242, and transmit the response signal. More specifically,
30 the second high frequency transmission/reception unit 244 generates an inductive
voltage by electromagnetic induction according to reception of a high fi·equency
SP304339WOOO
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signal, and outputs a received voltage generated by resonating the inductive voltage
at a predetermined resonance frequency, to the TC chip 220. Also, the second high
frequency transmission/reception unit 244 transmits a response signal by load
modulation performed in the load modulation unit 232 included in the IC chip 220.
5 That is, the second high frequency transmission/reception unit 244 functions as a
secol}d communication antenna in the device side power line communication unit
204.
[0164]
Based on the received voltage received from the second high frequency
'
10 transmission/reception unit 244, the IC chip 220 performs the same processing as the
IC chip 220 illustrated in Fig. 8.
[0 165]
Like the configuration illustrated in Fig. 8, by the configuration illustrated in
Fig. 9, the power communication unit 204 can be driven by the power obtained fi·om
15 a received high fi·equency signal to perform a process indicated by the received high
frequency signal and transmit a response signal according to the process by load
modulation. Also, when the device side power line communication unit 204 has the
configuration illustrated in Fig. 9, since an IC chip related to NFC or RFID can be
dive1ied, mounting becomes easier.
20 [0166]
·--Refening baclcmFig. 3, the-configuration of the electronic deviceL.OO
according to the present embodiment will be described. The second fllter 206
functions to filter a signal that may be received from the management device 100
through the extemal power line EPL. More speciflcally, the second filter 206 has a
25 function of blocking at least a high frequency signal transmitted by the management
device 100 or a high frequency signal transmitted by the electron line communication
unit, and passing a signal of a frequency of power supplied .through the power line.
By including the second filter 206, the electronic device 200 can block a noise
component or a high frequency signal by communication through the power line.
30 That is, like the second filter 114 included in the management device I 00, the second
filter 206 functions as a so-called power splitter.
SP304339WOOO
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[0 167]
Herein, the second fllter 206 may have, for example, the same configuration
as the second filter 114 of the management device 100 illustrated in Fig. 7. In
addition, it is needless to say that the configuration of the second filter 206 according
5 to the present embodiment is not limited to the configuration illustrated in Fig. 7.
[0168]
By the configuration illustrated in Fig. 3, the management device 100
according to the first embodiment and the electronic device 200 according to the
present embodiment can perform communication through the power line, and
10 implement the process according to the above-described management method
according the present embodiment.
[0169]
[Second embodiment]
Fig. 10 is an illustration diagram illustrating an example of the configuration
15 of a management device I 00 according to a second embodiment. In Fig. 10, the
management device 100 is illustrated together with a server 300, an external power
supply 400, and an electronic device 200 according to the present embodiment,
which has the same configuration as illustrated in Fig. 3.
20
[0170]
The management device 100 according to the second embodiment
illustratedll:t Fig. I 0 has substantially the same configurattonasthe managemen.r-device
100 according to the first embodiment illustrated in Fig. 3. However, as
compared to the management device 1 00 according to the first embodiment
illustrated in Fig. 3, the management device 100 according to the second
25 embodiment further includes a communication unit 116.
[0171]
The communication unit 116 is a communication unit included in the
management device 100, and communicates with the server 300 by wire or wirelessly.
Also, communication of the communication unit 116 is controlled by the
30 management unit 106 (or a separate control unit (not illustrated) when provided).
Herein, the communication unit 116 may be, for example, a Local Area Network
SP304339WOOO
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(LAN) terminal and a transmission/reception circuit, an IEEE 802.11 g port and a
transmission/reception circuit, an IEEE 802.15.4 port and a transmission/reception
circuit, or a communication anterma and a Radio Frequency (RF) circuit, or the like;
however, the communication rmit 116 is not limited thereto. For example, the
5 communication unit 116 may have a configuration capable of commtmicating with
an external device such as the server 300 through a network (or directly).
[0172]
The management device I 00 according to the second embodiment has
substantially the same configuration as the management device I 00 according to the
.10 first embodiment illustrated in Fig. 3. Accordingly, like the management device
I 00 according to the first embodiment, by the configuration illustrated in Fig. I 0, the
management device I 00 according to the second embodiment can implement the
process according to the above-described management method according to the
present embodiment.
15 [0173]
Also, by including the communication unit 116, the management device 100
according to the second embodiment can perform, for example, transmission of
various information (data) such as identi.llcation information and power consumption
information to the server 300, or reception of data transmitted from the server 300.
20 Also, by including the communication unit 116, the management device 100
-- accorcling1othe second embodiment enables; for eXample,-fhe electronic device 200-
to perform a predetermined process in cooperation with the server 300, such as a
charging process according to the amount of power supplied to the electronic device
200.
25 [0174]
[Third embodiment]
In the above, the configuration of the management device I 00, for example,
when one electronic device 200 is connected by the power line to the management
device I 00 as illustrated in Fig. 1, has been illustrated as the management device I 00
30 according to the tlrst embodiment and the management device 100 according to the
second embodiment. However, the management device 100 according to the
51/73
present embodiment is not limited to the above configuration. For example, the
management device 1 00 according to the present embodiment may have a
configuration in which a plurality of electronic devices 200 are connected to the
management device 100 by power lines as illustrated in Fig. 2. Therefore, next, an
5 example of the conilguration by which a plurality of electronic devices 200 cm1 be
connected will be described as t~e management device 100 according to the third
embodiment.
[0175]
Fig. 11 is an illustration diagrmn illustrating an example of the conilguration
'
10 of a management device 100 according to the third embodiment. The management
device 100 according to the third embodiment includes connection units 1 02A and
102B, a management side power line cmmmmication unit 104, a management unit
106, ilrst filters 108A and 108B, power supply units llOA and llOB, power
consumption measurement tmits 112A and 112B, and second illters 114A and 114B.
15 [0176]
Like the connection tmit 102 illustrated in Fig. 3, each of the connection
units 1 02A and 1 02B connects the external power line EPL and the internal power
line IPL (IPL 1 and lPL2 in Fig. I I), and detects a connection state change of the
external power line EPL. Then, the connection unit 102A/102B transmits a
20 detection signal indicating the detection (detection result) to the management unit
--106. Also,-each of the connection untts 102A ana- t02B transmns its unique __ connection unit identillcation infmmation to the management unit 1 06 together with
the detection signal. Herein, the connection unit identiilcation information
according to the present disclosure is information indicating the connection unit that
25 has detected a connection state change of the external power line EPL. By the
connection unit identiilcation information received from each of the connection units
1 02A and 1 02B together with the detection signal, the management tmit 106 can
identify in which connection unit a COilllection state change is detected.
[0177]
30 Like the management side power line communication unit 104 illustrated in
Fig. 3, the management side power line communication unit 104 performs
SP304339WOOO
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communication with the electronic device 200 through the power line.
[0178]
Like the management unit 106 illustrated in Fig. 3, the management unit
106 functions as a control unit for controlling the respective units of the management
5 device 100.
[0179]
Also, the management unit 106 identifies the electronic device 200
connected to the external power line EPL connected to each of the connection units
1 02A and 1 02B, based on the connection state information before transmission of a
'
10 first high frequency signal, the connection unit identification information received
from each of the connection units 1 02A and 1 02B together with the detection signal,
and the identification inf(nmation received by the management side power line
communication unit 104.
15
[0 180]
More specifically, for example, the management tmit 106 identifies the
electronic device 200 whose connection state is changed by comparing a list of
electronic devices 200 indicated by the connection state information before
transmission of the first high frequency signal with a list of electronic devices 200
based on the identification information received by the management side power line
20 communication unit 104. Also, based on the identified electronic device 200 and
-the connection milt which is identified-by the- cofihectimi unit identification
information and whose connection state change is detected, the management unit l 06
identifies which electronic device 200 is connected to which connection unit through
the external power line EPL.
25 [0181]
Then, the management unit 106 stores information about the identified
electronic device as connection state information after transmission of the first high _
frequency signal. Herein, the management unit 106 stores the connection state
information after transmission of the first high frequency signal, for example, by
30 updating the information by overwriting the information about the identified
electronic device on the connection state information before transmission of the first
SP30,1339WOOO
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high frequency signal. In addition, the management unit 106 may store the
connection state information after transmission of the first high frequency signal,
separately from the connection state information before transmission of the first high
fi·equency signal.
5 [0182]
Also, f9r example, by transmitting the second high frequency signal
including the identification information to the management side power line
communication unit 104, the management unit 106 allows the identified electronic
device 200 among the connected electronic devices 200 to perform a predetermined
'
10 process.
15
[0183]
Like the first filter 108 illustrated in Fig. 3, each of the first filters 1 08A and
1 08B functions to filter a signal received from the internal power line IPL.
[0 184]
Like the power supply unit 110 illustrated in Fig. 3, based on a control
signal received from the management unit 106, each of the power supply units 11 OA
and 11 OB selectively connects an internal power supply (not illustrated) or the
external power supply 400 and the internal power line. TPL (IPLl and IPL2 in Fig.
11 ), and selectively supplies power to the internal power line IPL.
20 [0185]
-ute-the powerconsumption · measurementunit 112 illnstra:ted in Fig~--:3-, --each
of the power consumption measurement units 112A and 112B measures the
power consumption of the electronic device 200 connected to the extemal power line
EPL connected to each of the connection lmits 1 02A and 102B. Then, the power
25 consumption measurement units 112A and 112B transmit the power consumption
measurement information to the management unit 106.
[0186]
Like the second filter 114 illustrated in Fig. 3, each of the second filters
114A and 114B functions to filter a signal that may be transmitted to the connection
30 units 1 02A and 102B.
[0187]
SP304339WOOO
54173
The management device 100 according to the third embodiment illustrated
m Fig. 11 is different from the management device 100 according to the first
embodiment in that it includes a plurality of ·connection units, and in terms of the
process related to the identification of the electronic device 200 in the management
5 unit l 06. However, the management device 1 00 according to the third embodiment
illustrated in Fig. 11 has substantially the same configuratim} as the managf.'ment
device 100 according to the first embodiment illustrated in Fig. 3. Therefore, by the
configuration illustrated in Fig. 11, the management device 100 according to the third
embodiment can implement the process according to the above-described
10 management method according to the present embodiment.
[0188]
In addition, Fig. 11 illustrates that the management device 100 includes two
15 connection units 102A and 102B. However, the configuration of the management
device 100 according to the third embodiment is not limited to the configuration
illustrated in Fig. 11. For example, the management device 100 according to the
third embodiment may be configured to include three or more connection units.
Like the management device 1 00 illustrated in Fig. 11, even by the above
20 configuration, the management device 100 according to a modified example of the
-tlfirctembodirnehl:can iden1ifywhiche1ectronicdevice 200 is cohnected to wlilch
connection unit through the external power line EPL.
[0 189]
Also, like the management device 100 according to the second embodiment
25 illustrated in Fig. 10, the management device 100 according to the third embodiment
may further include a communication unit 116.
[0190]
In addition, the management device 100 according to the third embodiment
may be configured such that a plurality of management side power line
30 communication milts 104 are provided respectively at a plurality of connection tmits
to transmit high frequency signals through respective external power lines EPL
SP304339WOOO
55/73
cmmccted to the respective connection units.
[0 191]
[Fourth embodiment]
Fig. II illustrates the configuration in which the high frequency signals
5 transmitted by the management side power line communication unit I 04 can be
,transmitted synchronously through the respective external power lines EPL
connected to the plurality of connection units I 02A and 1 02B. By the above
con±lgmation, the management device 100 according to the third embodiment
performs communication with the respective electronic devices 200 through the
'
10 power lines in parallel by one management side power line communication unit 104
fewer in number than the connection units 1 02A and 1 02B. Therefore, the
management device 100 according to the third embodiment illustrated in Fig. 11 can
reduce the cost as compared to the configuration including a plurality of management
side power line commtmication units 104. Also, the management device I 00
15 according to the third embodiment illustrated in Fig. 11 can reduce the time taken to
communicate with a plurality of connected electronic devices 200, as compared to
the case of performing conummication with a plurality of connected electronic
devices 200 sequentially.
20
[0192]
Herein, as above, based on the identified electronic device 200 and the
connection 1:1nit which ts idenflfied-o-y theconrtection uniridentification information-and
whose cmmection state change is detected, the management unit I 06 according
to the third embodiment identifies which electronic device 200 is connected to which
connection unit through the extemal power line EPL. However, in the case of the
25 configuration illustrated in Fig. 11, for example, when the external power lines ELF
30
are almost simultaneously connected to the connection units 1 02A and 1 02B, there is
a possibility that the management unit 106 cannot identify which electronic device
200 is connected to which cmmection unit through the external power line EPL.
[0193]
Thus, the management device 100 according to the fourth embodiment is
configured to overcome the above problematic situation, by selectively switching
SP304339WOOO
56/73
between performing communication with a plurality of connected electronic devices
200 in parallel and performing communication with a plurality of connected
electronic devices 200 sequentially. Hereinafter, a description will be given of the
management device 100 according to the fourth embodiment that can identify "which
5 electronic device 200 is connected to which connection unit through the external
power line EPL," even when the above problel,llatic situation occurs.
[0194]
Fig. 12 is an illustration diagram illustrating an exmnple of the configuration
of a management device I 00 according to the fourth embodiment. The
10 management device 100 according to the fourth embodiment illustrated in Fig. 12
has substantially the same .configuration as the management device 100 according to
the third embodiment illustrated in Fig. 11. However, as compared to the
management device 100 according to the third embodiment illustrated in Fig. 11, the
management device 100 according to the fourth embodiment further includes a first
15 filter 108C, a notification unit 118, an operation unit 120, and a switch unit 122.
[0195]
Based on a control signal received from the management unit 106 (for
example, a control unit indicating a notification command), the notification unit 118
notifies the user of the identification result of the electronic device 200 connected to
20 the external power line EPL connected to each of a plurality of connection units
·to2A:and102B. ----
[0196]
Fig. 13 is an illustration diagram illustrating an example of the notification
unit 118 and the operation tmit 120 according to the present embodiment. Herein,
25 Fig. 13 illustrates an exemplary case in which the notification unit 118 visually
notifies of the identification result of the electronic device 200 connected to the
external power line EPL connected to each of the connection units. As illustrated in
Fig. 13, since the notification unit 118 visually notifies of the identification result of
the electronic device 200 with respect to each connection unit (in Fig. 13, an oral
30 portion of the outlet corresponds to the connection unit), the management device I 00
can notify the user of the occunence of the above problematic situation, even when
SP304339WOOO
57/73
the above problematic situation occurs in the management unit 106.
[0 197]
In addition, the notification unit 118 according to the present embodiment is
not limited to the configuration of visually notifying of the identification result of the
5 electronic device 200 as illustrated in Fig. 13. For example, the notification unit
118 may include a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) and an audio output device
including an amplifier, spealcer, or the like, to aurally notify of the identification
result of the electronic device 200. Also, the notification unit 118 according to the
present embodiment may be configured to perform notification, for example, by a
'
10 combination of visual notification and aural notification.
[0198]
RefelTing back to Fig. 12, the configuration of the management device 100
according to the fourth embodiment will be described. The operation unit 120 is an
operation unit included in the management device I 00, and enables operation by the
15 user. For example, the operation unit 120 transmits, to the management unit 106, an
operation signal colTesponding to user operation for causing the management device
100 to perfonn commtmication with a plurality of electronic devices 200 sequentially
(user operation for switching from a first connection state to a second connection
state, which will be described later).
20 [0199]
--- l-Ierein;tlle operation unit 120-<.tccordinglothe presellCemiloaifnenl may-lle, ··
for example, a button as illustrated in Fig. 13. However, the operation unit 120
according to the present embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the
operation unit 120 may be arrow keys, a rotary selector such as a jog dial, buttons, or
25 a combination thereof. Also, the operation unit 120. according to the present
embodiment may be attachable/detachable to/from the management device 100.
Also, the management device 100 according to the present embodiment may perform
a process based on, for example, an external operation signal received from an
external operation device such as a keyboard, a mouse, a remote controller, or the
30 like, without including the operation unit 120.
[0200]
58/73
The switch unit 122 switches between the first connection state in which the
management side power line communication unit 104 is electrically cmmccted to the
external power lines EPL connected to the plurality of connection units l 02A and
I 02B and the second connection state in which the management side power line
5 commtmication unit l 04 is electrically connected to one of the external power lines
ELP com1ected to the plurality of connection units I 02A and I 02B. Herein, the
management device I 00 performs communication with a plurality of connected
electronic devices 200 in parallel in the first connection state, and performs
commtmication with a plurality of electronic devices 200 sequentially in the se_cond
' 10 cmmection state.
[0201]
More specifically, the switch unit 122 includes switches SW2 and SW3 for
selectively changing a connection point based on a switch signal received from the
management unit I 06, and selectively switches between the first connection state and
15 the second connection state based on the switch signal. Herein, the switch SW2
functions to switch between the first connection state and the second connection state,
and the switch SW3 functions to determine one of the plurality -of electronic devices
200 as a conmmnication target in the second connection state.
20
[0202]
When unable to identify "which electronic device 200 is coilllected to which
corm:ectionuntnh:t'ough Tile external powet line-EPI:;,''-even basedort connectio11-state
information, connection unit identification information, and identification
infmn1ation received from the management side power line communication unit I 04
in the first coilllection state, the management unit I 06 transmits a control signal for
25 notification (for example, a control signal indicating a notification command) to the
notification unit 118.
[0203]
Also, the management unit 106 transmits a switch signal to the switch unit
122 based on, for example, an operation signal that is received from the operation
30 unit 120 and conesponds to a user operation for switching from the flrst coilllection
state to the second connection state. More speciflcally, when receiving the
SP304339WOOO
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operation signal, the management unit I 06 transmits a switch signal controlling the
switch SW2 to switch to the second cmmection state, and transmits a first high
frequency signal to the management side power line communication unit 104. Also,
for example, when receiving the conmmnication result from the management side
5 power line communication unit 104, the management unit 106 switches the switch
SW3 to a state for performing communication with another electronic device 200,
and transmits the first high frequency signal to the management side power line
commmilcation unit 104. Herein, the communication result received from the
management side power line communication unit I 04 may be, for example,
10 identification information acquired by the management side power line
communication unit 104, a processing result indicating that there is no electronic
device 200 as a communication target, or the like.
[0204)
By transmitting the first high fi·equency signal to the management side
15 power line communication unit 104 a number of times corresponding to the number
of connection tmits included in the management unit 100, when the communication
result is received from the management side power line communication unit 104, the
management unit 106 performs the above process based on the connection state
information, the connection unit identification information, and the identification
20 information received from the management side power line communication unit 104.
-Tnen, wnen the connection -state information after transmission of the first ll:ignc--fi
·equency signal is stored, the management unit 106 transmits a switch signal to the
switch unit 122 to switch from the second connection state to the first connection
state.
25 [0205)
As the management unit 106 controls the switch unit 122 and the
management side power line communication unit 104 as above, the management
device 100 according to the fomih embodiment can selectively commtmicate with a
plurality of electronic devices 200 sequentially. Accordingly, even when the above
30 problematic situation occurs, the management device 100 according to the fourth
embodiment can overcome the above problematic situation and identify which
SP304339WOOO
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electronic device 200 is connected to which connection unit through the external
power line EPL.
[0206]
Also, when the above problematic situation occurs, the management device
5 100 according to the fourth embodiment selectively switches from the first
connection state to the second connection state. Therefore, the management device
'
100 according to the fourth embodiment can reduce the time taken to communicate
with the plurality of electronic devices 200, as compared to the case of always
communicating with the plurality of electronic devices 200 sequentially.
'
10 [0207]
Also, the management device 100 according to the fourth embodiment has
substantially the same configuration as the management device 1 00 according to the
third embodiment illustrated in Fig. 3. Therefore, like the management device 100
according to the third embodiment, the management device 100 according to the
15 fourth embodiment can implement the above-described process according to the
present embodiment.
20
[0208]
In addition, the configuration of the management side power line
cotnmunicat!oh unit l 00 accotdingto the f01:rnh- embocltment is not limited-to theconfiguration
illustrated in Fig. 12. For example, when unable to identify "which
electronic device 200 is connected to which connection unit through the external
power line EPL," even based on connection state information, connection unit
25 identification information, and identification information received from the
management side power line communication unit 104 in the first connection state,
the management unit 106 according to the fourth embodiment may control the :, witch
unit 122 and the management side power line communication unit 104 automatically
regardless of an operation signal. Also, when the management unit 106 has the
30 above function, the management device I 00 according to a modified example of the
fourth embodiment may not include the notification unit 118 and the operation unit
120.
[0209]
61/73
SP304339WOOO
Also, like the management device 100 according to the second embodiment
illustrated in Fig. 10, the management device 100 according to the fourth
5 embodiment may fi.uther include a communication unit 116.
[021 0]
As above, by using the communication method according to the present
embodiment, the management system 1000 according to the present embodiment
performs communication between the management device 100 and the electronic
10 device 200 through the power line. The management device 100 acquires
identification information from the electronic device 200 by communicating with the
electronic device 200 tlu·ough the power line as in the related art, and identifies the
electronic device 200 connected by the power line based on the acquired
identification information. Herein, the electronic device 200 is driven by the power
15 obtained from the high fi·equency signal transmitted by the management device 100
in superimposition with the power line, and performs a response by load modulation.
Accordingly, in the management system 1000, even when there is an electronic
device 200 to which power is not supplied among the electronic devices 200
connected by the power lines, the management device 100 can identify the electronic
20 device 200. Therefore, the management system 1000 can more securely identify
····--the electronic device 200 connected byche powerltne, ·as compared T
Documents
Application Documents
| # |
Name |
Date |
| 1 |
Translation-Search Report.pdf |
2012-07-26 |
| 2 |
Power of Authority.pdf |
2012-07-26 |
| 5 |
Form-1.pdf |
2012-07-26 |
| 6 |
Drawings.pdf |
2012-07-26 |
| 7 |
6377-DELNP-2012-Correspondence Others-(08-11-2012).pdf |
2012-11-08 |
| 8 |
6377-delnp-2012-Form-3-(28-02-2014).pdf |
2014-02-28 |
| 9 |
6377-delnp-2012-Correspondence-Others-(28-02-2014).pdf |
2014-02-28 |
| 10 |
6377-DELNP-2012-FER.pdf |
2018-07-04 |
| 11 |
6377-DELNP-2012-PETITION UNDER RULE 137 [03-01-2019(online)].pdf |
2019-01-03 |
| 12 |
6377-DELNP-2012-PETITION UNDER RULE 137 [03-01-2019(online)]-1.pdf |
2019-01-03 |
| 13 |
6377-DELNP-2012-OTHERS [03-01-2019(online)].pdf |
2019-01-03 |
| 14 |
6377-DELNP-2012-FER_SER_REPLY [03-01-2019(online)].pdf |
2019-01-03 |
| 15 |
6377-DELNP-2012-DRAWING [03-01-2019(online)].pdf |
2019-01-03 |
| 16 |
6377-DELNP-2012-CORRESPONDENCE [03-01-2019(online)].pdf |
2019-01-03 |
| 17 |
6377-DELNP-2012-CLAIMS [03-01-2019(online)].pdf |
2019-01-03 |
| 18 |
6377-DELNP-2012-ABSTRACT [03-01-2019(online)].pdf |
2019-01-03 |
| 19 |
6377-DELNP-2012-Power of Attorney-070119.pdf |
2019-01-09 |
| 20 |
6377-DELNP-2012-Power of Attorney-070119-.pdf |
2019-01-09 |
| 21 |
6377-DELNP-2012-OTHERS-070119.pdf |
2019-01-09 |
| 22 |
6377-DELNP-2012-Correspondence-070119.pdf |
2019-01-09 |
| 23 |
6377-DELNP-2012-Correspondence-070119-.pdf |
2019-01-09 |
| 24 |
6377-DELNP-2012-Correspondence to notify the Controller [19-07-2021(online)].pdf |
2021-07-19 |
| 25 |
6377-DELNP-2012-US(14)-HearingNotice-(HearingDate-20-07-2021).pdf |
2021-10-17 |
Search Strategy
| 1 |
googlepatents_31-05-2018.pdf |