JP4789846B2 - Power supply service system - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a power supply service sushi stem that can provide power in the city.

  In October 2006, the revised Ordinance of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, which allowed indoor use of power line communication (PLC) that can use power lines for communication, came into effect, and data communication using indoor distribution lines became possible. As a result, PLC modems have been released by manufacturers. In the currently sold PLC modem, connect the LAN connection terminal of the PLC parent modem with the power supply connected to the outlet to the Internet line, and connect the LAN terminal of a personal computer etc. to the LAN terminal of the PLC child modem connected to another outlet. Thus, data communication can be performed. The PLC is a technique for superimposing a high-frequency signal for data communication on a power line, and is a method of performing bidirectional communication using the power line as a transmission path. The PLC modem is a communication device used when performing PLC. When a PLC modem is incorporated in an information home appliance, it is possible to supply power to an electrical product and perform data communication simply by connecting to an outlet without connecting to a LAN terminal. In other words, it is possible to transmit / receive information about the device via a communication function provided in the power line and the device. Although the use at present is limited to indoors, as an applied technology, for example, by incorporating a PLC modem into the watt-hour meter of each home, automatic meter reading by sending the value of the watt-hour meter by data communication is also possible It is considered to be. In the future, if regulations are relaxed and the PLC can be used outdoors, the PLC modem may be incorporated into information home appliances and may be widely used outdoors in the city. In that case, it is considered that a PLC modem that separates and superimposes both signals is installed in an outdoor utility pole, etc., for a signal for data communication on a trunk network using optical fibers or the like, and for electricity on a power line.

  Currently, a battery is used as a power source in portable devices such as mobile phones and notebook PCs used in towns and electronic devices such as electric vehicles. When charging the battery while away from home, a coin-type charger or a dry-cell charger is generally used. A coin-operated charger is a vending machine type device that is fixedly installed in a hotel or store, etc. When a device or battery is connected to an adapter provided in the coin-operated charger and a coin is inserted, the coin-operated charger is fixed. Electricity is supplied for a certain time. A dry cell battery charger is a portable device carried by an individual. When a battery or battery is set by connecting a device or a battery to an adapter of the dry cell battery charger, electricity is supplied from the dry cell battery.

As another method, a power supply system capable of receiving power from an outlet other than the home and a mobile phone corresponding to the system are disclosed (see Patent Document 1). A power supply side control device to which this technology is applied acquires user information and billing information from a mobile phone with a PLC modem by a PLC function, performs authentication based on the acquired user information, and if authentication is successful, from an outlet other than home It is possible to supply power and transmit user information and billing information to the server of the power company.
As a method of using electric devices in the city without using a battery, it is possible to use a small generator. Small power generators are used in occasional events such as shrines and Buddhist temples, fireworks displays, and other temporary store openings and road construction.

An electronic device having a rechargeable battery, a plurality of charging stations that charge the rechargeable battery, and a management server that can communicate with the electronic device and the charging station via a network, the electronic device monitors the remaining amount of the rechargeable battery A battery monitoring unit, a reservation processing unit that generates a reservation processing signal when the remaining amount falls below a predetermined value, and a communication unit that communicates with the management server. The management server includes an electronic device and a charging station. A communication unit that communicates, a reservation processing unit that is supplied with a reservation processing signal and reserves a charging station, a reservation management database that has information on the usage status, position, etc. of the charging station, A charging service system and a charging service method for improving convenience have been proposed (Patent Document 2).
Also, register each electrical device connected to each outlet at the end of the branch wiring extending from the distribution board installed in the power usage facility in the management server, and request that the management server energize the electrical device through the communication network line. Sending the time zone, receiving the energization start signal sent from the management server through the communication network line based on the desired energization time zone, the distribution board energizes the predetermined branch wiring and permits the operation of the electrical equipment, After the operation of the corresponding electrical equipment is completed, the distribution board can control the power supply to the electrical equipment by shutting off the power supply to the predetermined branch wiring based on the power-off instruction from the management server. It has been proposed (Patent Document 3).
JP 2006-94655 A JP 2003-348757 A JP 2006-25474 A

  The power supply system and the mobile phone described in Patent Literatures 1 and 2 are highly convenient systems that can receive power from an outlet other than the home. When charging a battery such as a mobile phone or a notebook PC that is carried by an individual on the go, the use time of the outlet is relatively short, such as about ten minutes, so that there is little competition among users. By the way, it is convenient that even a device that consumes a large amount of power and does not use a battery, such as an electric device used for opening a store or road construction, can receive power supply from an outlet in the city like a portable device. However, such devices are often used continuously for several hours, and specific users or devices occupy outlets in units of several hours. Therefore, it is difficult to apply the systems described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 as they are. It is necessary to adjust the use of outlets and the amount of power supply between devices and between devices. In addition, the power supply management described in Patent Document 3 is a configuration in which a distribution board communicates with a server to control energization of an electrical device, and is intended for a facility with a considerable scale and a fixed power usage. . When there is temporary or short-term power demand in the city, such as opening a store or road construction, it is convenient if a more flexible power supply can be obtained without relying on a distribution board.

In addition, since there are various types of outlets, equipment users must prepare plug adapters that match the shape of the outlet, and the specifications of the power supply (voltage / current) of the equipment that they want to receive power supply from. And the rated capacity of the voltage / current supplied from the outlet must match or not be used by the user after judging whether there is no danger. The user cannot receive a service that is highly convenient and safe.
Here, the outlet is an insertion connector for wiring that can be supplied with electric power by inserting a plug of an electric device, and is also called a power outlet, an outlet plug, a receptacle, or an outlet.

  The object of the present invention is to enable the management of the outlets installed in the city, the reservation, the control of the power supplied from the outlets and the charging in the case of a charge when the outlets in the city can be provided, It is to provide a power supply service method and system that are highly convenient and safe for users.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, a power supply service system according to the present invention includes a plug connector that is connected to a power line and can be connected to a device that receives power supply, and the plug connector A server that performs data communication through the power line, and the plug-in connector is connected between the server and a device information acquisition unit that acquires device information for specifying the device used by a user. A communication means for exchanging information on power supply to the device, a power control means for controlling power supply to the device, and a power amount measuring means for measuring the power supply amount received by the device, The communication means inquires of the server about reservation information about power supply to the device based on the acquired device information, and receives the control information generated from the reservation information. The power control means controls power supply to the equipment based on the received control information, and the communication means further includes the power to the equipment measured by the power amount measuring means. Sending the supply to the server.

  In addition, the power supply service system according to the present invention includes a plug connector that is connected to a power line and is connectable to a device that receives power supply, and a server that performs data communication between the plug connector and the plug connector. The plug-in connector includes user input means for inputting user information for specifying a user, communication means for exchanging information on power supply to the device with the server, and A power control unit that controls power supply to the device, and a power amount measurement unit that measures a power supply amount received by the device; and the communication unit is connected to the server based on the input user information. Before inquiring about reservation information about power supply to the device and receiving control information generated from the reservation information from the server, the power control means Controls power supply to the device based on the control information, the communication means further transmits the power supply to the equipment in which the electric energy measuring means has measured the server consists.

  In order to use the outlet for a long time in the city, it is convenient to use the outlet, that is, to reserve the power supply service through the outlet. In order to enable such reservations and manage the usage situation, a unique outlet ID is assigned to an outlet installed in the city, and the outlet ID, its installation location, and outlet type (shape, voltage, current, etc.) are servers. In the Web server, the installation location and type of the outlet are disclosed on the Web server so that reservations such as the use date and time of the outlet and the required amount of power can be received. By making the types of outlets public, the user can make a reservation after confirming the outlet shape and voltage / current. As an additional function, the location of the outlet can be automatically managed by providing the outlet with a position information acquisition function such as a GPS receiver using GPS (Global Positioning Systems) as a position measuring device. .

  The user performs user registration in advance and registers in advance the device ID of the device to be connected and the type of outlet or plug required. By registering the type of outlet or plug required for the device to be connected, it is possible to check whether the outlet matches the device at the time of outlet reservation, and provide a highly secure service system. Can do. A unique device ID is assigned to a device with a built-in PLC modem, and the device ID can be exchanged with other network devices via the PLC modem. When a device ID is managed by a device manufacturer or a device ID management company, when the device ID is input, it is possible to automatically register a required power amount, an outlet, and the like from the device specifications. Further, even when the user is not registered, the user can be registered on the spot, the reservation can be accepted, and the power supply service can be received.

  In order to be able to use a PLC modem and a device that does not have a device ID, a means for issuing an ID card to the user and registering with the ID card number (user ID) instead of the device ID is provided. If a means for specifying a user can be realized, it is not necessary to specify a device on which an ID card is mounted. Further, instead of the ID card, other authentication methods such as password authentication may be used. Hereinafter, as an explanation when using either a device or a user to identify a user, it is described as device and device information (device ID) or user and user information (user ID).

  In order to ensure that the reserved device (user) can use the outlet, a function for checking the validity of the reserved device (user) and supplying power in accordance with the reservation contents is required. Therefore, a control function and a communication function are provided in the outlet provided with the outlet ID. When the plug of a device having a PLC modem is plugged into an outlet, the communication function and the PLC modem of the device perform data communication to capture the device ID, and send the device ID and its own outlet ID to the server via the computer network And make it possible to confirm the reservation information. When the reservation is confirmed, control information based on the reservation information is received from the server, and control such as start / end of power supply and adjustment of the electric energy is performed in accordance with the reservation contents.

  When using a user ID, an outlet having a control function is provided with, for example, an ID card slot, and when the ID card is inserted into the ID card slot, the outlet obtains the ID card number (user ID), and the user ID If the reservation is confirmed, control information based on the reservation information is received from the server, and start / end of power supply and adjustment of the power amount are made according to the reservation contents. Etc. are controlled.

  Information on the presence / absence of power supply at each outlet, the amount of power supply, information on the devices that are receiving power supply, etc. are collected and managed by the server based on the outlet ID, and the server side also confirms that power is being supplied in real time. To be able to confirm. When energization of the device is completed, such as when the plug is removed from the outlet, the outlet ID and the power usage amount are transmitted to the server, and the server side performs billing processing. It is convenient if the electricity bill used in the city can be paid in an integrated manner with the electricity bill at home or office. Therefore, at the time of user registration, it is possible to register numbers (customer numbers) assigned to individuals and corporations that have contracts with electric power companies, and if the user wishes, it can be integrated into the home or company's electricity bill. Like that.

  If the plug is connected to the outlet near the reservation end time, the reservation details can be inquired from the outlet to the server, and the end time can be extended if there is more than a certain time before the next reservation. It is. In addition, even when it is a predetermined time before the energization start time based on the reservation, the energization start time can be advanced if there is a vacancy for a certain time or more. In addition, the status of use, such as which outlets are energized / vacant, is disclosed on the website, and information such as whether there is a reservation is displayed on the screen display provided on the outlet, etc. It may be possible to use it on the spot without making a reservation.

  As a related service, not only a user reserves an installed outlet, but also a service that temporarily installs an outlet according to a user's request is possible. For example, an application for road construction and an application for installation of an outlet are simultaneously accepted on the web, and a road work record is entered, an application is performed and an outlet is installed. It is also possible to incorporate a GPS receiver in the outlet so that the position information can be automatically acquired and to confirm that the outlet has been installed. When an application number is issued at the time of application, and the user inputs information for identifying the user such as the application number, the registered user name or device ID on the web, the installation status of the outlet can be confirmed on the web screen And convenient. If the user terminal displays a list screen showing the location, shape, standard, and reservation status of the outlet, it is convenient for confirming the usage status and availability and executing the reservation. In addition, by incorporating a GPS receiver in the outlet, it is also possible to provide a service for sending the GPS information of the outlet to a mobile phone with a GPS function and guiding the installation location.

  In addition, the power supply service method according to the present invention provides a unique ID to the plug-in connector to which the device is connected, and controls the power supply to the plug-in device through the power line. Reservation of power supply to the device via the plug-in connector in the server and the power to the device based on reservation information from the server. It is characterized by enabling control of supply. By assigning a unique ID to the plug-in connector, the plug-in connector can be specified from the server, and the server can also accept and manage reservations in the plug-in connector. The power supply to the device connected by the user to the plug-in connector is performed according to control information based on the reservation information.

  In this power supply service method, the plug-in connector can acquire device information for specifying the device from the connected device. Further, the plug-in connector can input user information for specifying a user from a user input means. When device information specific to a device is given, the plug-in connector acquires the device information, so that a power supply service is provided to the specified device through the plug-in connector, and the user When user information is input from the input means, a power supply service is provided to the device connected by the user via the plug-in connector.

  According to the present invention, since the outlet acquires the device information for specifying the device used by the user or the user information for specifying the user is input, the outlet is connected to the device between the outlet and the server. Information regarding power supply can be exchanged, and at the outlet, the communication means inquires of the server about reservation information about power supply to the device based on the device information or user information, and a control generated from the reservation information. The information is received from the server, the power control unit controls the power supply to the device based on the received control information, and the power amount measuring unit measures the power supply amount received by the device, and the server is used by the communication unit. The amount of power supply is transmitted. In this way, the outlet has a high function of specifying the supply destination, exchanging with the server, and controlling the power supply and supply amount to the device based on the control information from the server. It is possible to provide a power supply service method and system with high convenience and safety in the city.

  Also, by assigning a unique outlet ID to the outlet, it becomes possible to reserve the outlet, and by adding a control function and a communication function to the outlet with the unique ID, the outlet information can be transmitted and received between the outlet and the server. It becomes like this. As a result, the usage status of the outlets installed in the city can be managed in real time on the server side, and people who want to use electricity in the city can easily and reliably make electricity without having to prepare a generator on their own. Will be available.

  In addition, the outlet receives the reservation details received by the server, adjusts the power supply according to the reservation details, and automatically adjusts between users and devices, so that devices not registered in advance are connected. In the event of a reservation, the power will not be applied, the power will not be applied at times other than the reservation time, the reservation time will be changed if the time until the reservation start is short even before the reservation start time, even after the reservation end time If there is no other reservation, adjustment or service change such as automatic extension or power supply exceeding the supply capacity at the time of reservation can be performed. If the outlet has a function to display its own message on the screen and the plug is plugged into a different outlet from the reserved outlet, the service can be instructed by displaying the reserved outlet on the screen without a reservation or without a reservation. When used, additional services such as teaching available outlets can also be provided, which improves convenience.

  By separately registering the billing destination for electricity charges for each device, when using a company-owned notebook PC or the like at a business trip destination, billing the corporation with the electricity bill that was conventionally paid at the business trip destination, etc. There is also an effect that it becomes possible to set a billing destination for electricity charges for each device.

  In addition, because the usage status of outlets installed in the city can be managed in real time on the server side, for example, when used for road construction purposes, know the location where the road construction is being performed from the usage status of the outlet. Such an accompanying service is also possible. It is also possible to acquire accurate position information by attaching a GPS receiver to an outlet. Since the position information obtained from the GPS receiver attached to the outlet is directly sent from the outlet to the server, there is little possibility of being falsified as compared with the GPS information incorporated in the user's device. Therefore, by combining the outlet providing service and the location information service, it is possible to provide a more reliable location information service.

Furthermore, since it is possible to connect a device with a built-in PLC modem to an outlet to obtain information on the device and transmit the information to the server, one or more user-specified items of the connector Additional plug connectors can be added based on a request for installation of a new plug connector. For example, in places where many people gather temporarily, such as event venues, concert venues, and first halls, install outlets only during that period, display the venue's guidance and advertisements, and display the contents displayed on the display. It is possible to provide additional services such as certifying display contents by collecting on the server side, installing a temporary vending machine, and collecting or changing or adding products by collecting the sales of the vending machine on the server side. become.

Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, an embodiment of a power supply service sushi stem according to the invention. A power supply service system according to the present invention includes a plurality of high-function outlets incorporating a control function and a communication function, a server that manages a group of outlets, a computer network that performs information communication between the outlet and the server, and a high-function outlet. It can be implemented by a configuration with software running on the server.

The embodiment of the power supply service system according to the present invention can be implemented on the premise that the PLC can be used outdoors.
FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram of an embodiment of a power supply service system according to the present invention. The utility pole is provided with a trunk line network of high-voltage power lines and optical fiber internet lines, and the electricity stepped down by the transformer flows from the high-voltage power lines to the power draw-in lines. The PLC modem 151 is connected to an optical fiber and a power lead-in line, and a plurality of outlets (plug connector in the present invention) such as the high-function outlet A111 and the high-function outlet B121 are connected to the power lead-in line. A server 101 is connected to the Internet line, performs data communication with outlets such as the high-functional outlet A111 and the high-functional outlet B121, and manages outlets and users.

  The high-functional outlet A111 and the high-functional outlet B121 have almost the same configuration, and both include a software execution unit and a data storage unit including a CPU and a memory. Both outlets differ in that the high function outlet A111 is an outlet corresponding to the device 131 having a built-in PLC modem, whereas the high function outlet B121 is an outlet that can also correspond to the device 141 having no built-in PLC modem. . The device 131 with a built-in PLC modem has a unique device ID given at the time of manufacture, and the user can be specified by the device ID. The device 141 without a built-in PLC modem does not have such a device ID. Therefore, user information such as a user ID is required separately.

  Hereinafter, the configuration of the high-function outlet will be described by dividing it into functional modules. The device control unit 112 has a function of controlling the entire high-function outlet, and activates modules of other control units, manages control information, instructs to display a message on the screen display unit, and controls the power consumption to the server 101. Control of the entire device such as notification. A power control unit (corresponding to power control means in the present invention) 113 controls the current flowing through the outlet according to the control information. For example, according to the control information from the server 101 generated from the user's reservation contents, energization is started when the reservation time, that is, the energization start time is reached, and energization is terminated when the reservation end time, that is, the energization end time is reached. . An electric energy measuring unit (corresponding to electric energy measuring means in the present invention) 114 measures the electric energy used from the start to the end of energization. The communication function unit 115 (corresponding to communication means in the present invention) incorporates a PLC modem and performs data communication with the device 131 and the server 101. The screen display unit 116 generates a message according to an instruction from the device control unit 112 and displays the message on a display such as a liquid crystal screen. The message assumes that information on the status of the high-function outlet 111 and confirmation / change of reservation contents is displayed in characters and figures, but it can be replaced with an LED instead of an LCD screen and is equipped. It doesn't have to be. The outlet ID 117 is a unique ID assigned to the high function outlet 111 (hereinafter referred to as “unique ID”). The outlet 119 is an insertion port (narrowly defined outlet) of a device plug, and energization is controlled by the power control unit 113. The functions from the device control unit 112 to the outlet ID 117 and the outlet 119 are functions common to the high function outlet A111 and the high function outlet B121.

  In the high function outlet A111, a device information acquisition unit (corresponding to a device information acquisition means in the present invention) 118 is a function corresponding to the device 131 having a built-in PLC modem. When the device 131 is connected to the outlet 119, the communication function Data communication is performed with the device 131 via the unit 115 and the PLC modem 133 to acquire the device ID 132. The device ID 132 here is an ID corresponding to a MAC address assigned in the case of a communication device, and is a unique number assigned to the device.

  In the high-functional outlet B121, the ID card reading function 122 and the ID card slot 123 (both of which correspond to the user input means in the present invention) are functions corresponding to the device 141 that does not incorporate a PLC modem. When an ID card is issued to a user who has registered, and the ID card is inserted into the ID card slot 123, the ID card reading function 122 reads the ID (card ID as user information). An ID card is one of means for specifying a user, and it is not always necessary to use an ID card if other means can specify a user, that is, user information. For example, if a high-function outlet has a character input function, authentication may be performed by entering a user name and a login password. A QR code is attached to the high-function outlet, and the QR code is photographed with a mobile phone. The user authentication may be performed by logging in to the server from the mobile phone, and the ID card slot 123 may be implemented by a non-contact type ID reader instead of the slot.

  In this embodiment, the functions of the high-function outlet A111 and the high-function outlet B121 are separated, but the function information outlet 118, the ID card reading function 122, and the ID card slot 123 are all implemented as a high-function outlet. It doesn't matter.

  The server 101 performs data communication with the high function outlet A111 and the high function outlet B121 via the Internet line. The server 101 includes a user management unit (corresponding to user management means in the present invention) 102, an outlet management unit (corresponding to plug connector management means in the present invention) 103, a reservation unit (corresponding to reservation means in the present invention) 104, And a billing unit 105, and includes a user management DB 106, an outlet management DB 107, and a reservation 108DB as databases for storing data. The user management unit 102 of the server 101 creates user management data (see FIG. 4) according to information input by the user at the time of user registration or the user's system usage history and records / updates it in the user management DB 106 or The user management data is read from the user management DB 106 in order to confirm the user when a reservation is made from the user. The outlet management unit 104 creates the outlet management (see FIG. 4) for the outlet that the system provider constructs by itself or according to the customer's request and records / updates it in the outlet management DB 107, or the reservation from the user is entered. The outlet management data is read from the outlet management DB 107 when checking the outlet standards. The reservation unit 104 receives a reservation from a user or receives a reservation inquiry or cancellation, manages reservation data in the reservation 108 DB such as management of a reservation number, and generates control information when a device is connected. The process of confirming the reservation and reading the reservation data is performed. Further, the billing unit 105 generates billing information according to the measured power amount transmitted after the end of energization from the outlet, and sends the billing information to a system that manages the electricity bill for deduction from the user's account. . Information on the electricity charge may be displayed on the screen display unit 116 of the high function outlet.

  Fig. 2 shows the overall flow when using a high-performance outlet. A user accesses a reservation site on the web from a user terminal such as a mobile phone, a PDA, or a personal computer, and makes a reservation for using an outlet. FIG. 3 shows a screen example at the time of outlet reservation. When using for the first time, user registration is performed. The contents to be registered are the items shown below the customer number on the user management data 402 in FIG. 4 and the reservation screen 301 in FIG. 3, and after entering basic information such as the user's name, address, and telephone number, the connection is made. Device ID registration, user ID issuance request, and billing contract.

  As described above for the device ID 132 shown in FIG. 1, the device ID is a device-specific number assigned to the device, such as a MAC address or a manufacturing number. The user ID is an ID issued when the user wishes to issue a user ID. When issued, the user ID arrives at the user in the form of an ID card, and is inserted into the ID card slot 123 shown in FIG. To do. The billing contract depends on the billing system of the service provider, but it is possible to use pay-as-you-go billing according to the amount of power used, flat-rate billing that is the same regardless of the amount of power used, and combinations thereof. The customer number is assigned by the service provider after user registration, but it is the same customer number that the individual or corporation has contracted with the power company for use by the individual at home or for use by the corporation at the company. By using, it becomes possible to charge together the usage fee of the power used from the high-function outlet and the electricity fee of the home or company. One customer number is assigned to one contract, but a plurality of user IDs and device IDs can be registered. When the user registration is completed, the user management data 402 is stored in the user management DB 106.

  The registered user accesses the reservation site on the web from the user terminal and makes a reservation for using the outlet. When the user inputs the customer number, the user management data 402 is read from the user management DB 106, and registered information such as an address name, a device ID list, and a user ID list is displayed. If the device ID or user ID to be used is not registered, the user presses the registration content change button, adds / modifies and registers the device ID and user ID, and selects the device ID or user ID to be connected. . The addition / correction contents are reflected in the user management data 402 stored in the user management DB 106.

  Next, enter the use date and location. As a service providing method, there are a method in which an outlet is installed in advance and a reservation is accepted only for the vacant part, and a method in which an outlet is installed in accordance with the reservation. The former method is suitable for places such as event venues, and the latter is suitable for places that are used once or twice a year, such as festivals. When reserving outlets installed in advance, it is convenient if a list of available outlets is displayed as in the list display screen 302 of FIG. 3, and the outlet to be reserved can be selected therefrom. In addition, there is a method in which the user does not input the time but selects from among the reserved time zones.

  In addition to the two-pole plug type commonly used in Japan, there are various standards such as a type with a grounding pole and a hook type that makes it difficult to pull out, and the voltage is also used at 100V. Since there is a device to be used and a device to be used at 200V, the reservation is presented to the user so that the type of wiring and outlet provided can be understood, and the user can confirm and make a reservation. As shown in the outlet management data 401 in FIG. 4, each outlet manages the outlet ID, installation location, wiring, shape, allowable (rated) voltage / current, and usage in real time, and is stored in the outlet management DB 107. Yes. The outlet management data excluding the usage status is manually input when the high-function outlet is installed, but it is also possible to attach a GPS receiver to the high-function outlet so that the position information is automatically input.

  When a reservation is input from the user, the server confirms that there is no contradiction such as the date and time of the reservation being input, and associates the device ID or user ID with the outlet ID, and sets a unique reservation number. Allocation and outlet reservation data 403 (FIG. 4) is generated and stored in the reservation DB. If possible, it is desirable to collect information about the plug shape and power consumption of the device on the server as device data, and provide a process for confirming that a connection without danger is made.

  An example of device data is shown as device data 404 in FIG. For example, the server checks whether the device plug shape and voltage / current standards match the outlet shape, voltage / current standards, and voltage wiring at the time of reservation reception, and displays a warning if there is a problem. Alternatively, it is possible to avoid dangerous connections by not accepting reservations.

  If device IDs or user IDs and outlet IDs are associated and managed one-on-one, reservation is troublesome when a plurality of devices are used at the same time. It is also inconvenient when it is desired to change the device to be connected at the time of use. Therefore, when a reservation is made, a plurality of outlets are collectively input and a plurality of device IDs can be selected to make a reservation, and a plurality of device IDs and outlet IDs are associated with each other and stored in the reservation DB 108 or registered. All registered device IDs and outlet IDs may be associated with each other and stored in the reservation DB 108 so that the reservation can be confirmed when any of the device IDs connected is connected.

  When the reservation process is completed on the server side, a confirmation screen for reservation acceptance is displayed on the user terminal, or an e-mail address is provided in the item for user registration, and a confirmation message is transmitted by e-mail.

  When using the high-function outlet A, the user goes to the place where the high-performance outlet 111 is installed at the date and time reserved by the user, checks the outlet ID number displayed on the screen display unit 116, and sets the device 131 to the reserved outlet. Insert the plug. When the device information acquisition unit 118 detects the insertion of the device 131, the device information acquisition unit 118 acquires the device ID 132, connects to the server 101, confirms the reservation with the device ID 132 and the outlet ID 117, and the server 101 receives reservation information (generally, reservation data from the reservation DB 108). In this case, when there is confirmation of reservation, information on the content is read out to generate control information, which is sent to the high-performance outlet 111. The high-performance outlet 111 starts device control based on the sent control information, and transmits the measurement result of the power amount measurement unit 114 to the server 101 after the energization of the device 131 is completed. The server 101 generates billing information. To do. If the user wishes to pay the usage fee in a lump sum with the home or company electricity bill, the billing information is sent to the system that manages the electricity bill. The information on the electricity bill may be sent to the high function outlet A111 and displayed on the screen display unit.

  Similarly, when using the high-performance outlet B121, the user goes to the installation location of the high-performance outlet B121 on the date and time reserved by the user, confirms the outlet ID number displayed on the screen display unit, and reserves the ID of the reserved outlet. Insert the ID card into the card slot. The ID card reading function 122 reads the user ID from the card, connects to the server 101, confirms the reservation with the user ID and the outlet ID, and thereafter operates in the same manner as the high function outlet A111.

  The flow when using a high-performance outlet is briefly described in the description of FIG. 2, but the detailed processing flow is shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. When it is detected in step 601 that the plug has been inserted into the outlet, in step 610, the device information acquisition unit 118 acquires the device ID via the PLC modem, and in step 620, sends the outlet ID and the device ID to the server. If the device ID cannot be acquired in step 610, an error message indicating that the device ID cannot be acquired is displayed on the screen display unit. Similarly, in the case of authentication based on the user ID, if it is detected in step 601 that an ID card has been inserted, the process proceeds to step 610. In step 610, the ID card reader 122 reads the user ID, and in step 620, the outlet ID and the user. Send the ID to the server.

  On the server side, in step 670, it is searched whether or not the device ID is registered in the user management DB 106. If not registered, the result is returned to the high function outlet as “result = unregistered”. Step 670 is not essential as a process for confirming the reservation, and can be omitted. If registration is confirmed, the process proceeds to step 680, and it is determined whether or not a reservation is made in the reservation DB 108 with the outlet ID and device ID sent from the high function outlet. When a reservation including the current time can be confirmed between the start time and the end time of energization, it is determined that “result = confirmed” and the process proceeds to step 690, where control information 405 (FIG. 4) is created from the outlet reservation data 403. The usage status attribute of the outlet management data 401 and the outlet reservation data 403 is changed to “in use”, and control information 404 is generated from the outlet reservation data 403 in step 695, and the reservation confirmation result and control information (reservation has been confirmed). In other cases, the control information is dummy information).

  In step 630, the high-performance outlet waits for reservation confirmation from the server, and distributes processing according to the confirmation result. If “result = unregistered”, the process proceeds to step 640, and the screen display unit 116 displays a message indicating that the device ID (or user ID) is not registered. If “result = cannot be confirmed” (when the device is registered but the reservation cannot be confirmed), the process proceeds to step 650 and a message indicating that the reservation cannot be confirmed is displayed. If “result = confirmed”, that is, if the device ID has been registered and the reservation has been confirmed, the process proceeds to step 660 and the power supply is controlled in accordance with the control information received from the server.

  It is convenient for the user that the use can be started at a time slightly earlier than the reserved energization start time. Therefore, if a high-function outlet is not used, a function that can start energization ahead of the reserved energization start time in a certain time range from the start time of the control information 404 is provided. To be provided. When this function is provided, as a result of reservation confirmation from the server, not only the presence / absence of reservation at the current time but also the presence / absence of reservation to start use within a certain time can be obtained. Alternatively, it is possible to provide a function of receiving control information from the server and starting energization when the start time is reached if the reservation is to start use within a certain time.

  Details of step 660 are shown in FIG. When energization is started in step 701, a message of energization start is displayed in step 702, and if a predetermined time before the reserved energization end time (here, 30 minutes is assumed as a certain time), the process proceeds to step 703 and ends. The server 101 is inquired whether the time can be extended. The server 101 searches whether or not there is another reservation in the outlet ID within a certain time from the power-on end time reserved in step 731. If there is no reservation, the server 101 determines in step 732 that it can be extended. If there is a reservation, it is determined in step 733 that the extension cannot be made, and the determination result is notified to the high function outlet. Depending on the determination result, the process is distributed in step 711. If the extension is possible, the process proceeds to step 712. A message is displayed to inquire the user whether or not the extension of use is desired, and the process proceeds to step 713 to wait for the input from the user. .

  Depending on the input from the user, the process is distributed in step 714, and if the extension of use is desired, the server 101 is notified of the extension request. In step 741 of the server 101, the usage status of the corresponding outlet ID is “in use”. The end time of the outlet reservation data 403 is extended by a certain time, and in step 722, the end time of the control information 405 of the high function outlet is changed to the time after extension, and a message indicating that the extension has been accepted is displayed. In the case where the server 101 does not accept reservations within a certain time from the current time, it is possible to omit step 741 and not to notify the server 101 of extension information.

  When the energization end time is reached, the energization is terminated at step 723, a message of energization termination is displayed at step 234, the amount of power used is measured and notified to the server at step 725, the process returns to step 660, and the process is terminated. If extension is impossible in step 711, the end time is waited. When the end time is reached, the process proceeds to step 723, the process proceeds in the same manner, the process returns to step 660, and the process ends.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration when a control device X501 for controlling a plurality of outlets is added. The control device X501 has a function of managing control information of each high-function outlet and creating / changing control information. When a single user uses a plurality of outlets simultaneously with a plurality of devices, it is troublesome to make a reservation by associating the outlet IDs with the device IDs in a one-to-one manner, which is inconvenient at the time of use. The control device X501 manages the outlet ID list and the device ID list as indicated by the control information 502 of the control device X. When the type and number of outlets and a plurality of device IDs to be connected are collectively input on the reservation screen, and the reservation is made by setting the maximum use current and the maximum electricity charge, the control information 502 is generated.

  While using this system, the current value flowing through the outlet indicated in the outlet ID list is measured in real time, and the total value is controlled so as not to exceed the set maximum operating current. When the maximum operating current is about to be exceeded, this is displayed on the screen, or a notification sound is output, so that a warning is given to the user or no current is forced to flow. Similarly, the amount of power used is measured at each outlet as needed, and the charge is calculated from the amount of power used by the control device X501 summing up the measured values. When the calculated charge is about to exceed the set electricity charge, or when the used electric energy is about to exceed the set integrated value of the used electric energy, it is displayed on the screen or the user can make a notification sound. A warning is given to the power supply or the power supply is forcibly terminated. In this way, by providing the control device X501 that controls a plurality of outlets, it is possible to automatically adjust the amount of power used between users and between devices, and a plurality of outlets and devices can be reserved together. As a result, convenience is improved. In this case, each individual outlet can also set respective restrictions (current and power charges).

  As described above, by incorporating a control function and a communication function into an outlet provided with a unique outlet ID, information on the outlet can be sent to the server, and the status of the outlet can be managed in real time on the server side. When a device has a communication function and can automatically collect information on connected devices, it is possible to connect to a display, whether to connect to a vending machine, or whether to connect to construction equipment, etc. From this information, it becomes possible to manage the power usage status for each connected device, and by combining with the location information, it is possible to provide an additional service for providing a place where the construction is being performed. By incorporating a GPS receiver in the outlet, accurate position information can be acquired. When a GPS receiver is incorporated into an outlet, the GPS information is less likely to be tampered with compared to the case where the GPS receiver is attached to a device owned by the user, such as a mobile phone. Location information services can be provided. By collecting information managed by devices as well as connecting devices, sales of vending machines are collected at the server, products sold by vending machines are changed, and vending machines are temporarily set up in popular locations Ancillary services other than power supply such as moving can be provided.

  In the service field where electricity is provided for a fee, for example, temporary stores and road construction at events such as shrines and temples and fireworks displays, and vending machines and displays installed near the event venue only during the event period are used. There is a possibility that it may be applied to services that provide electricity temporarily for a fee in the city, such as advertisements and guidance.

1 is an overall configuration diagram of a system. (Example 1) It is the figure which showed the whole flow at the time of service utilization. (Example 1) It is the figure which showed the example of a screen at the time of reservation. (Example 1) It is the figure which showed the structure of data. (Example 1) It is a block diagram at the time of adding a control apparatus to a system. (Example 1) It is the figure which showed the flow of the process at the time of control of a high performance outlet. (Example 1) It is the figure which showed the flow of the process at the time of the electric power supply to a high performance outlet. (Example 1)

Explanation of symbols

101 Server 102 User Management Unit 103 Outlet Management Unit 104 Reservation Unit 105 Charging Unit 106 User Management DB
107 Outlet management DB
108 Reservation DB
111 High-function outlet A
112 device control unit 113 power control unit 114 power amount measurement unit 115 communication control unit 116 screen display unit 117 outlet ID
118 Device Information Acquisition Unit 119 Outlet 121 High Functional Outlet B
122 ID card reading function 123 ID card slot 131 device 132 device ID
133 PLC modem

Claims (7)

A plug connector that is connected to a power line and to which a device that receives power supply can be connected; and a server that performs data communication with the plug connector through the power line;
The plug-in connector includes device information acquisition means for acquiring device information for identifying the device used by a user, and communication means for exchanging information regarding power supply to the device with the server, Power control means for controlling power supply to the device, and power amount measuring means for measuring the amount of power supplied to the device,
The communication means inquires reservation information about power supply to the device based on the acquired device information and receives control information generated from the reservation information from the server,
The power control means controls power supply to the device based on the received control information,
The communication means further transmits the power supply amount to the device measured by the power amount measuring means to the server ,
A unique ID is assigned to the plug-in connector,
The server includes a plug connector managing means for managing plug connector data for connector items such as the unique ID registered for the plug connector and a plug shape, voltage, current, installation location, and the like. User management means for managing the device information registered for the device; and reservation means for managing the reservation information generated by associating the unique ID of the plug-in connector with the device information. ,
Based on a request for installation of one or more new plug connectors performed by the user specifying the connector items, it was possible to add the plug connectors,
A power supply service system characterized by that. A plug connector that is connected to a power line and to which a device that receives power supply can be connected; and a server that performs data communication with the plug connector through the power line;
The plug-in connector includes user input means for inputting user information for identifying a user, communication means for exchanging information regarding power supply to the equipment with the server, and power for the equipment. Power control means for controlling supply, and power amount measuring means for measuring the amount of power supplied to the device,
The communication means inquires reservation information about power supply to the device based on the input user information and receives control information generated from the reservation information from the server,
The power control means controls power supply to the device based on the received control information,
The communication means further transmits the power supply amount to the device measured by the power amount measuring means to the server,
A unique ID is assigned to the plug-in connector,
The server includes a plug connector managing means for managing plug connector data for connector items such as the unique ID registered for the plug connector and a plug shape, voltage, current, installation location, and the like. includes a user management means for managing the user information registered for the user, and a reservation unit which manages the unique ID and the reservation information generated in association with said user information of the plug connector ,
Based on a request for installation of one or more new plug connectors performed by the user specifying the connector items, it was possible to add the plug connectors,
A power supply service system characterized by that. The power supply service system according to claim 1 or 2,
In response to a predetermined time before the energization end time included in the control information received from the server, whether or not there is a reservation for the plug-in connector until a predetermined time after the energization end time is The server is contacted and the user is presented with the ability to extend the energization end time in response to the reservation not being made,
The energization end time is extended in response to an input to the effect of extension from the user,
A power supply service system characterized by that. The power supply service system according to claim 1 or 2,
As a restriction on the use of power supplied from one or a plurality of the plug connectors, the user can set the maximum value of current, the integrated value of power used, and the electricity charge as individual or total amounts,
When it is expected that the limit will be exceeded, the user will be notified accordingly.
A power supply service system characterized by that. The power supply service system according to claim 4, wherein
When the limit is exceeded , the power supply service system is characterized in that the power supply from the corresponding plug-in connector is stopped . The power supply service system according to claim 1 or 2 ,
As a restriction on the use of power supplied from one or a plurality of the plug connectors, the user can set the maximum value of current, the integrated value of power used, and the electricity charge as individual or total amounts,
The control information is generated based on the setting of the user,
The power control means controls a power supply amount to the plurality of wiring plug connectors and the devices connected thereto based on the control information.
A power supply service system characterized by that. The power supply service system according to claim 1 or 2 ,
In response to being a predetermined time before the energization start time received as the control information from the server, the server is inquired whether there is a reservation for the plug-in connector from a certain time before the energization start time. The user is presented that the energization start time can be advanced in response to the reservation not being made,
The energization start time is advanced in response to an input to the effect from the user in advance.
A power supply service system characterized by that.

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