TWI759923B - Usb outlet - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides an improved USB socket that easily achieves reliability. The USB socket (10) is provided with a connection part (2), a power supply circuit (11), a casing, and a determination part (12). The connection part (2) can be electrically connected with the USB connector (91) of the device (9). The power supply circuit (11) supplies power to the device (9) from the connection part (2). The casing houses the power circuit (11). A determination unit (12) determines the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object. The monitoring object is composed of at least one of the connection part (2), the power circuit (11) and the casing.

Description

USB socket

The present invention generally relates to a USB socket, and more specifically, to a USB socket connectable to a USB connector of a device.

Document 1 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2014-154802 ) describes a USB socket having a USB slot into which a USB plug is inserted and connected. The USB socket includes: a printed wiring board on which the USB slot is mounted; and a casing for accommodating the printed wiring board and having a plug penetration hole through which the USB plug is inserted. The shell is fixed to the construction surface such as the wall surface.

An object of the present invention is to provide a USB socket that can easily achieve improved reliability.

A USB socket according to an aspect of the present invention includes a connection portion, a power supply circuit, a casing, and a determination portion. The connection part can be electrically connected with the USB connector of the device. the power supply circuit, from the connection part for the The device supplies power. The casing accommodates the power circuit. The determination unit determines the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object. The monitoring object is composed of at least one of the connection part, the power circuit and the casing.

10,10A~10E:USB socket

101: Control Department

102: Notification Department

11: Power circuit

12: Judgment Department

13: Setting Department

14: Display part

141: Light-emitting element

142: Optical Components

15: Audio output section

16: Terminal part

17: Sensor

2: Connection part

21: 1st connection part

22: 2nd connection part

3: Chassis

31: front

32: Assign display part

4: Connection port

41: The first connector

42: 2nd connection port

51: Socket device

52: Sensor device

61: Communications Department

62: Communication terminal

8: Socket cover

801: Window hole

81: Installation object

82: Construction holes

83: Installation components

84: Mounting frame

841: Mounting holes

842: Cover fixing hole

843: Mounting screws

844: Fixing screws

85: Makeup cover

86: Fixed cover

861: Through Hole

9: Equipment

91:USB connector

92: battery

L1: Wiring

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of use of the USB socket according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 2A is a front view of the same USB socket; FIG. 2B is an enlarged front view near the connection port of the same USB socket.

3A is a perspective view showing the installation state of the same USB socket to the installation object; FIG. 3B is a perspective view showing the installation state of the same USB socket to the installation object.

Figure 4 is a block diagram conceptually showing the same USB socket.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the USB socket as above.

6A is a front view of a USB socket according to a modification of Embodiment 1; FIG. 6B is a front view of a USB socket according to another modification of Embodiment 1; front view.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram conceptually showing the USB socket of the second embodiment.

(Embodiment 1)

(1) Outline

First, with reference to FIGS. 1 and 4 , an outline of a USB (Universal Serial Bus) outlet 10 of the present embodiment will be described.

The USB socket 10 of this embodiment is a device that can be connected to the USB connector 91 of the device 9 . The USB socket 10 is a device that supplies power to the device 9 (for example, a smartphone, etc.) through the USB connector 91 in a state of being connected to the USB connector 91 . The device 9 charges, for example, a battery 92 (refer to FIG. 4 ) included in the device 9 with the power supplied from the USB socket 10 .

The USB socket 10 of the present embodiment is, for example, a wiring device installed on the installation object 81 such as a wall surface of a building. These USB sockets 10 are always electrically connected to a power source (system power source, etc.) like a general outlet device (Outlet) that outputs an AC voltage such as 100V or 200V, and are basically always in an energized state. Therefore, in the user, only by connecting the device 9 to the USB socket 10 , power can be supplied to the device 9 from the USB socket 10 via the USB connector 91 .

Here, in the case of a general outlet device that outputs an AC voltage such as 100V or 200V, for example, when charging a device 9 such as a smartphone, in order to supply power to the device 9, a power source that converts the AC voltage to a DC voltage must be used Adapter. On the other hand, according to the USB socket 10 of the present embodiment, power can be supplied to the device 9 by directly connecting the USB connector 91 of the device 9 to the USB socket 10 without using a power adapter. Therefore, according to the USB socket 10 , even if the power adapter is not provided, the device 9 such as a smart phone can still be charged, and the periphery of the USB socket 10 can be kept clean because the power adapter is not required.

The USB socket 10 of the present embodiment includes a connection part 2 , a power supply circuit 11 , a determination part 12 , and a casing 3 . The connection part 2 can be electrically connected to the USB connector 91 of the device 9 . The power supply circuit 11 supplies power to the device 9 from the connection unit 2 . The casing 3 houses the power supply circuit 11 . The determination unit 12 determines the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object. The monitoring object is constituted by at least one of the connection part 2 , the power supply circuit 11 and the casing 3 .

With this configuration, the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object constituted by at least one of the connection portion 2 , the power supply circuit 11 and the casing 3 can be determined on the side of the USB receptacle 10 . Therefore, for example, an abnormality such as a poor contact of the connection portion 2 or a drop in the output of the power supply circuit 11 can be detected at an early stage. Therefore, for example, it becomes easy to avoid situations such as using the USB socket 10 in a state where the power supply to the device 9 is not normally performed. As a result, it is possible to provide the USB receptacle 10 that can easily achieve improved reliability.

(2) Detailed configuration

Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 1-4, the detailed structure of the USB socket 10 of this embodiment is demonstrated.

(2.1) Premise

The "USB" in the present invention refers to one of the serial bus specifications, that is, the USB (Universal Serial Bus, universal serial bus) specification. In the present invention, "USB" includes, for example, USB of various generations (transmission speed specifications) such as USB1.0, USB1.1, USB2.0, USB3.0, USB3.1, USB3.2, and USB4. In addition, in the present invention, the shape of the USB terminal (the shape of the connection port 4 and the shape of the USB connector 91 ) includes various shapes. The terminal shapes of USB include, for example, A terminal (Type-A), B terminal (Type-B), and C terminal (Type-C), as well as Mini USB and Micro USB, and combinations thereof. That is, the terminal shape of USB includes, as an example, an A terminal of Mini USB (mini USB Type-A), a B terminal of Micro USB (micro USB Type-B), and the like. In this embodiment, unless otherwise stated, the case where the terminal shape of the USB is A terminal (USB Type-A) will be described as an example. In the present invention, the specification of the terminal shape of the USB may be referred to as the "USB connector specification".

The “USB connector of the device” in the present invention may be a connector provided integrally with the device 9 or a connector provided at the front end of a USB cable that can be connected to the device 9 . That is, the USB connector 91 of the device 9 includes a connector that is separate from the device 9 and connected to the device 9 via a cable, with Connector for device 9, etc. In addition, the "connector" in the present invention may be a "plug" inserted into the jack, or a "jack" into which the plug is inserted. In this embodiment, unless otherwise stated, a case where the USB connector 91 of the device 9 is a USB plug provided at the front end of a USB cable connectable to the device 9 will be described as an example.

Similarly, the “connecting portion” in the present invention may be a structure that can be electrically connected to the USB connector 91 of the device 9, and may be a “jack” into which the plug is inserted, or may be inserted into the jack the "plug". In this embodiment, unless otherwise stated, the case where the connection portion 2 of the USB receptacle 10 is a jack including the connection port 4 will be described as an example. That is, in the present embodiment, since the USB connector 91 of the device 9 is a USB plug, the connecting portion 2 of the USB socket 10 is a jack that can be connected to the USB plug. Therefore, the connection port 4 of the casing 3 of the USB socket 10 is included in the connection portion 2 .

The "device" in the present invention is an electrical device (device, machine, and system) that can be electrically connected to the USB socket 10 and receive power supply from the USB socket 10 . The device 9 includes, for example, an information terminal such as a smart phone, a tablet terminal, or a wearable terminal, a cell phone battery, a mobile phone, a camera, a fan, a flashlight, or a TV receiver. Since the USB socket 10 supplies DC power by applying a DC voltage to the device 9, the device 9 is a device corresponding to a DC input. Among such devices 9 , for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a wearable terminal 9 includes a storage battery 92 , and has a function of charging the storage battery 92 with power supplied from the USB socket 10 . Hereinafter, the device 9 having the function of charging the storage battery 92 may be referred to as a "rechargeable device". In this embodiment, unless otherwise stated, a case where the device 9 connected to the USB socket 10 is a rechargeable device 9 will be described as an example.

In the present embodiment, the USB receptacle 10 is fixed to the attachment object 81 . The "installation object" referred to in the present invention is a component for fixing the USB socket 10, such as the wall, ceiling or floor of a building. Other constructions, or furniture (including decoration) such as tables, shelves, or counters. The USB socket 10 is installed in, for example, residential facilities such as single-family houses or multi-family houses, or non-residential facilities such as offices, shops, schools, factories, hospitals, and nursing care facilities. In the present embodiment, as an example, the USB receptacle 10 is assumed to be a built-in type wiring device, and is attached to an installation object 81 formed of a wall surface of a residential facility. In particular, the USB socket 10 is assumed to be an indoor wiring device used inside a building.

Hereinafter, the direction perpendicular (orthogonal) to the horizontal plane in the state where the USB receptacle 10 is fixed to the installation object 81 , ie, the wall surface of the residential facility, will be described as the “up-down direction” of the USB receptacle 10 . In addition, the lower part when the USB socket 10 is seen from the front may be demonstrated as the "lower part" of the USB socket 10. FIG. There is a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and parallel to the surface (wall surface) of the installation object 81 as the "left-right direction" of the USB socket 10, and the right side when the USB socket 10 is viewed from the front is regarded as the "right side" of the USB socket 10. ”, and the left side will be described as the “left side” of the USB socket 10 . Further, there is a direction perpendicular to both the up-down direction and the left-right direction, that is, a direction perpendicular to the surface (wall surface) of the installation object 81 as the "front-rear direction" of the USB receptacle 10, and the rear side of the installation object 81 ( The back side of the wall surface) is described as the "rear side" of the USB socket 10 . However, these directions are not intended to limit the directions in which the USB socket 10 is used.

In addition, in a state where the USB socket 10 is fixed to the installation object 81 , that is, the wall surface of the residential facility, the front surface 31 of the cabinet 3 in the USB socket 10 is basically directed forward. However, its intention is not limited to make the front surface 31 of the casing 3 face forward. For example, when the USB socket 10 is installed on the ceiling, the front surface 31 of the casing 3 faces downward.

In addition, in the present invention, in the comparison of two values, the case of "above" includes both the case where the two values are equal, and the case where one of the two values exceeds the other. However, without limitation to these circumstances, the "with On", can also be synonymous with "greater" where only one of the 2 values exceeds the other. That is, whether or not the two values are equal can be arbitrarily changed according to the setting of the reference value, etc., so there is no technical difference between "above" or "greater". Similarly, in "less than", it can also be synonymous with "below".

(2.2) Basic composition

Next, with reference to FIGS. 1-3B, the basic structure of the USB socket 10 of this embodiment is demonstrated.

As described above, in the present embodiment, as an example, the USB receptacle 10 is a built-in type wiring device, and is attached to the installation object 81 constituted by the wall surface of the residential facility. That is, the USB receptacle 10 is fixed to the installation object 81 , and is configured as a wiring tool that can be connected to the wiring L1 (refer to FIG. 4 ) on the rear side of the installation object 81 . In particular, the USB socket 10 is a built-in type in which at least a part of the casing 3 is inserted into a construction hole 82 (refer to FIG. 3A ) formed in the installation object 81 , and the casing 3 is fixed to the installation object 81 . wiring equipment.

Further, the USB receptacle 10 includes a terminal portion 16 (refer to FIG. 4 ) for connecting to the wiring L1. For example, by connecting the wiring L1 wound around the wall surface (the mounting object 81 ) to the terminal portion 16, the wiring L1 It is electrically connected to a power source such as the system power supply. The wiring L1 may be directly connected to a power supply (system power supply, etc.), or may be indirectly connected via a switchboard or the like.

In the present embodiment, as an example, the USB socket 10 is electrically connected to a single-phase 100V, 60Hz commercial AC power supply (system power supply) through the wiring L1 by connecting the wiring L1 to the terminal portion 16 . Here, the USB receptacle 10 is connected to an AC power source (system power source) via a switchboard, and is always energized if the circuit breakers (main circuit breaker and branch circuit breaker) of the switchboard are in an on state. Therefore, the USB socket 10 is basically always in a state in which power can be supplied to the device 9 .

In addition, in the present embodiment, as an example, a dual-port (dual port) type USB socket 10 to which two USB connectors 91 can be connected is exemplified. That is, the USB receptacle 10 of the present embodiment is provided with a plurality of (here, two) connection parts 2 (including the connection port 4) for connecting with the USB connector 91, and the plurality of connection parts 2 can be connected to the device. 9 to supply electricity. Therefore, the USB socket 10 can simultaneously supply power to the plurality of devices 9 in a state where the USB connectors 91 of the plurality of devices 9 are connected. In this embodiment, when a plurality of (here, two) connection parts 2 are distinguished, each connection part 2 may be referred to as a first connection part 21 and a second connection part 22, respectively. Similarly, when a plurality of (here, two) connection ports 4 are distinguished, each connection port 4 may be referred to as the first connection port 41 and the second connection port 42, respectively.

As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B , the USB socket 10 includes a power supply circuit 11 and a casing 3 . FIG. 2B is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the first connection port 41 in FIG. 2A .

The power supply circuit 11 includes a circuit board (printed wiring board) and various electronic components mounted on the circuit board. The power supply circuit 11 converts the AC voltage applied to the terminal portion 16 from the AC power supply (system power supply) into a DC voltage, and outputs the DC voltage to the connection portion 2 . Thereby, the power supply circuit 11 supplies power to the device 9 from the connection portion 2 . The control unit 101 (refer to FIG. 4 ) and the like are also mounted on the circuit board of the power supply circuit 11 , the details of which will be described later. The power supply circuit 11 may include only one circuit board, or may include a plurality of circuit boards.

The casing 3 is fixed to the attachment object 81 as described above. The casing 3 houses the power supply circuit 11 . Strictly speaking, the casing 3 accommodates not only the power supply circuit 11 but also the control unit 101 and the like by accommodating the circuit board of the power supply circuit 11 . Further, in the casing 3 , in addition to the power supply circuit 11 and the control unit 101 , internal components such as the connection portion 2 and the terminal portion 16 are also appropriately accommodated. The casing 3 is made of synthetic resin having electrical insulating properties.

In the present embodiment, the casing 3 is in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped, and is formed in a size approximately the same as that of a wiring device of the size of three modules. The casing 3 has a front surface 31 exposed forward when the casing 3 is attached to the attachment object 81 . Here, the front surface 31 of the casing 3 is a rectangle whose size in the up-down direction is larger than that in the left-right direction. At least one connection port 4 is disposed on the front surface 31 of the casing 3 .

This embodiment is a dual-port (dual-port) USB socket 10 , so two connection ports 4 are arranged on the front surface 31 of the casing 3 . These two connection ports 4 are arranged side by side with a certain interval in the up-down direction. As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B , the two connection ports 4 are rectangles whose dimensions in the left and right directions are larger than those in the up and down directions when viewed from the front. That is, each connection port 4 is a horizontal (horizontal) long hole.

In the connection port 4, a metal casing, a contact piece, and the like are arranged. Thereby, the connection port 4, together with the housing, the contacts, etc., constitute the connection portion 2 (socket) for electrically and mechanically connecting the USB connector 91 of the device 9. The USB connector 91 is connected to the connecting portion 2 by inserting the USB connector 91 straight into the connecting portion 2 thus constituted from the front. That is, by inserting the plug-in USB connector 91 into the connection port 4 along the insertion direction, that is, the front-rear direction, the USB connector 91 is electrically connected to the connection portion 2 and mechanically coupled.

In the state where the connection portion 2 is connected to the USB connector 91 , the connection between the connection portion 2 and the USB connector 91 is released by pulling the USB connector 91 straight out of the connection portion 2 . That is, when the USB connector 91 is pulled out from the connection port 4 in the insertion direction (front-rear direction), the electrical connection of the USB connector 91 to the connection portion 2 is released, and the mechanical coupling is released. In short, the user can switch the connection/connection of the device 9 (USB connector 91 ) to the connection portion 2 by plugging and unplugging the USB connector 91 into the connection port 4 formed on the front surface 31 of the casing 3 . Not connected.

Here, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3A , the casing 3 is detachably attached to the mounting frame 84 for fixing the casing 3 to the attachment object 81 . Further, in the mounting frame 84, the socket cover 8 is mounted as shown in FIG. 3A. Here, in the present embodiment, the components of the USB socket 10 do not include the mounting frame 84 and the socket cover 8 . However, the components of the USB socket 10 need not necessarily include the mounting frame 84 and the socket cover 8 , and the components of the USB socket 10 may include at least one of the mounting frame 84 and the socket cover 8 .

In the present embodiment, the USB receptacle 10 is attached to the attachment object 81 (here, the wall surface) using the mounting member 83 such as a built-in switch box, as in the above-mentioned built-in type wiring device. That is, the installation hole 82 is formed in the installation object 81, and the USB socket 10 is attached to the installation member 83, such as a switch box, which is arrange|positioned at the back side (wall back surface) of the installation object 81 through the construction hole 82.

The mounting frame 84 is, for example, a mounting frame of a large rectangular connection type wiring device standardized by Japanese Industrial Standards. Specifically, the attachment frame 84 is formed in a rectangular frame shape when viewed from the front. The casing 3 is mounted on the mounting frame 84 so that the casing 3 is located inside the mounting frame 84 .

The attachment frame 84 is made of synthetic resin as an example. A pair of mounting holes 841 and a pair of cover fixing holes 842 are formed in the mounting frame 84 . The attachment frame 84 is attached to the attachment object 81 by tightening the pair of attachment screws 843 to attachment members 83 such as a switch box through the pair of attachment holes 841 .

The socket cover 8 includes a makeup cover 85 and a fixed cover 86 . That is, in the present embodiment, the socket cover 8 is composed of two members, the makeup cover 85 and the fixed cover 86 . The socket cover 8 (the cosmetic cover 85 and the fixed cover 86 ) is made of synthetic resin as an example.

The fixed cover 86 is fixed to the mounting frame 84 . The makeup cover 85 is attached to the fixed cover 86 so as to cover the front surface of the fixed cover 86 . In this way, the makeup cover 85 is indirectly fixed to the mounting frame 84 to which the cabinet 3 is mounted via the fixing cover 86 . A window hole 801 is formed in the cosmetic cover 85 , and the front surface 31 of the cabinet 3 is exposed through the window hole 801 in a state where the socket cover 8 is attached to the mounting frame 84 .

That is, the socket cover 8 is a frame-shaped member having a window hole 801 , and is combined with the mounting frame 84 so that the front surface 31 of the casing 3 is exposed from the window hole 801 . In other words, in the state where the mounting frame 84 and the socket cover 8 are combined, when viewed from the front, the front surface 31 of the casing 3 is located inside the socket cover 8 (the cosmetic cover 85 ) (inside the window hole 801 ). . As a result, as shown in FIG. 3B , in a state where the socket cover 8 is attached to the mounting object 81 together with the casing 3, the socket cover 8 covers the periphery of the casing 3, and the mounting frame 84 and the construction hole 82 are not exposed. And make it look better.

More specifically, the makeup cover 85 is formed in a rectangular frame shape when viewed from the front. A window hole 801 penetrating the makeup cover 85 in the front-rear direction is formed in the center portion of the makeup cover 85 . The makeup cover 85 is mechanically coupled to the fixed cover 86 in a removable state by a snap-fit structure. That is, the makeup cover 85 and the fixed cover 86 use the elasticity of at least one of the makeup cover 85 and the fixed cover 86 to hook the claws of one of the makeup cover 85 and the fixed cover 86 to the holes of the other. , which is mechanically coupled.

In addition, the fixed cover 86 is formed in a rectangular frame shape when viewed from the front. Further, a pair of through holes 861 are formed in the fixed cover plate 86 . A pair of fixing screws 844 are fastened to a pair of cover fixing holes 842 of the mounting frame 84 through a pair of through holes 861 , so that the fixing cover 86 is mounted to the mounting frame 84 .

(2.3) The specific composition of the USB socket

Next, with reference to FIGS. 2A , 2B and 4 , the specific structure of the USB socket 10 of the present embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIG. 4 , the USB receptacle 10 of the present embodiment further includes a terminal portion 16 , a control portion 101 , a terminal portion 16 , a control portion 101 , a power supply circuit 11 , at least one (here, two) connection portions 2 , and a casing 3 , as shown in FIG. 4 . The notification unit 102 and the sensor 17 . The control unit 101 includes a determination unit 12 and a setting unit 13 . The notification unit 102 includes a display unit 14 and a sound output unit 15 . At least a part of the terminal part 16 , the control part 101 , and the notification part 102 are accommodated in the casing 3 together with the power supply circuit 11 .

The power supply circuit 11 includes an AC/DC conversion circuit that converts an AC voltage into a DC voltage. The power supply circuit 11 is inserted between the terminal portion 16 and the connection portion 2 , converts the AC voltage input from the terminal portion 16 into a DC voltage, and outputs it to the connection portion 2 . Here, as an example, the power supply circuit 11 converts an AC voltage of 100V applied to the terminal portion 16 from an AC power supply (system power supply) into a DC voltage of 5V. Thereby, the AC voltage of 100V input to the terminal portion 16 is converted into a DC voltage of 5V by the power supply circuit 11 , and the DC voltage of 5V is supplied to the connection portion 2 .

In this embodiment, a plurality of (here, two) connection parts 2 are connected to one power supply circuit 11 . That is, the DC voltage output from the power supply circuit 11 is applied to both the first connection portion 21 and the second connection portion 22 . Thereby, the output of the power supply circuit 11 can be outputted to the USB connector 91 of the device 9 from the plural (here, two) connection parts 2 .

In these configurations, the sum of the currents (and electric power) output from the plurality of connection parts 2 to the device 9 becomes the output current of one power supply circuit 11 . Therefore, for example, the rated output (current or electric power) of the plurality of connection parts 2 is defined by the total value of the output current (or output electric power) of the plurality of connection parts 2 . Book The "rated output" referred to in the invention is the rated value of current and/or power, and is at least one of rated current and rated power. That is, the rated value of the total output (current or power) of the plurality of connection parts 2 is determined by the rated output (current or power) of the power supply circuit 11 . As an example, if the rated output of the power supply circuit 11 is set to 4A, the total output current of the plural (here, two) connection portions 2 is 4A, which is the rated value.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2A, a distribution display portion 32 is provided on the front surface 31 of the casing 3, so that the user can easily recognize the rated output as described above. In the present embodiment, as an example, the distribution display portion 32 is realized by a marking formed on the front surface 31 of the casing 3 . The distribution display unit 32 displays output information. The "output information" referred to in the present invention is information about the magnitude of the electric power that can be output by each of the connection parts 2 . For example, the rated output (current or power) of the connection part 2, that is, the rated current and the rated power of the connection part 2 are related to the size of the output power of the connection part 2, so they are included in the "output information". In FIG. 1, illustration of the allocation display part 32 is abbreviate|omitted.

Here, as shown in FIG. 2A , the distribution display portion 32 is arranged around the connection port 4 in the front surface 31 of the casing 3 . In particular, in the present embodiment, the distribution display portion 32 is arranged above and below the connection port 4 in the front surface 31 of the casing 3 . Specifically, the output information displayed by the distribution display unit 32 indicates the rated output (rated current) of each connection unit 2 like "2.5A" or "1.5A". Here, as an example, the distribution display part 32 corresponding to the first connection part 21 (the first connection port 41 ) displays output information such as "2.5A" as the rated output in a text string. The distribution display part 32 corresponding to the second connection part 22 (the second connection port 42 ) indicates output information such as "1.5A" as the rated output in a text string.

Further, the output information displayed by the assignment display unit 32 includes priority information such as "1" or "2", which indicates the priority order of each connection unit 2 . The "priority information" described here, if it is for The information on the order of priority recommended by the plurality of connection parts 2 is sufficient, and is not limited to numbers such as "1" or "2", for example, information indicating a primary or secondary relationship may also be used. Here, as an example, the assignment display portion 32 corresponding to the first connection portion 21 (the first connection port 41 ) indicates a priority order such as “1” as the priority information in a text string. The assignment display part 32 corresponding to the second connection part 22 (the second connection port 42 ) indicates the priority order such as "2" in a text string as priority information. In this example, it is recommended to use the first connection portion 21 in preference to the second connection portion 22 .

By displaying these output information on the assignment display unit 32, it is recommended for the user to use the first connection unit 21 with a higher priority first. Therefore, when using only one of the plurality of (here, two) connection parts 2 , the user basically uses the first connection part 21 . On the other hand, if the rated output of the power supply circuit 11 is set to 4A, in the state where only the first connection part 21 is used, if the first connection part 21 is used within the rated value (2.5A), the output of the two connection parts 2 will be reduced. The total output current is naturally within 4A. In addition, in the state where both the first connection part 21 and the second connection part 22 are used, if the first connection part 21 is used within the rated value (2.5A), and the second connection part 22 is used within the rated value (2.5A) 1.5A), the total output current of the two connection parts 2 will be within 4A.

That is, in this embodiment, a plurality of connection parts 2 are provided. A distribution display part 32 is provided on the front surface 31 of the casing 3 , and the distribution display part 32 displays output information about the magnitude of the power that can be outputted by each of the plurality of connection parts 2 . Furthermore, the output information includes priority information indicating the priority order of the plurality of connection parts 2 . In the case of having a plurality of connection parts 2, by displaying the output information (including priority information) on the allocation display part 32, the user is less likely to be confused about which connection part 2 of the plurality of connection parts 2 should be used .

The terminal portion 16 is accommodated in the casing 3 . Here, on the rear surface of the casing 3, a terminal hole for connecting the wiring L1 is formed. The terminal portion 16 is arranged in the casing 3 at a position corresponding to the terminal hole. The terminal portion 16 includes a terminal plate and the like, and when the tip portion (core wire) of the wiring L1 is inserted into the terminal hole, the tip portion (core wire) of the wiring L1 is mechanically held and electrically connected to the wiring L1. In the present embodiment, as an example, the terminal portion 16 is a so-called quick-connect terminal of a plug-in type, and the wiring L1 can be connected by simply inserting the wiring L1 from the terminal hole.

The control unit 101 includes, for example, a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories as its main configuration. The microcontroller implements the function as the control unit 101 by executing a program stored in one or more memories by one or more processors. The program can be pre-stored in a memory, or stored in a non-transitory storage medium such as a memory card and provided, or provided through an electrical communication line. In other words, the above-mentioned program is a program that causes one or more processors to function as the control unit 101 .

The control unit 101 controls at least the power supply circuit 11 . In addition, in the present embodiment, as described above, the control unit 101 is mounted on the circuit board of the power supply circuit 11 and is housed in the casing 3 together with the power supply circuit 11 . Furthermore, the control unit 101 has functions as the determination unit 12 and the setting unit 13 as shown in FIG. 4 . The determination unit 12 determines the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object. As described above, the monitoring object is constituted by at least one of the connection part 2 , the power supply circuit 11 , and the casing 3 . In the present embodiment, the determination unit 12 basically determines the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object using the output of the sensor 17 . The setting unit 13 performs, for example, various settings regarding the operation of the determination unit 12 . The functions of the determination unit 12 and the setting unit 13 will be described in detail in the column of "(2.4) Deterioration diagnosis function".

The notification unit 102 notifies the determination result of the determination unit 12 . In the present embodiment, the notification unit 102 includes a display unit 14 and a sound output unit 15 . The display part 14 is arranged on the front surface of the casing 3, and is displayed through its display state. The determination result of the determination unit 12 is notified. In the present embodiment, the display unit 14 includes a light-emitting element 141 and an optical member 142 as shown in FIG. 2B . Such a display aspect of the display portion 14 includes, for example, lighting/extinguishing, lighting color, lighting pattern (flickering period, etc.), or a combination thereof. In short, in the present embodiment, the notification unit 102 includes the display unit 14 provided on the front surface 31 of the casing 3 . The notification unit 102 notifies the determination result of the determination unit 12 through the display state of the display unit 14 .

Here, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B , the display portion 14 is arranged around the connection port 4 in the front surface 31 of the casing 3 . In particular, in the present embodiment, the display unit 14 is arranged on the front surface 31 of the casing 3 so as to surround the entire circumference of the connection port 4 . Therefore, the display portion 14 emits light covering the entire circumference of the connection port 4 . In other words, in the front surface 31 of the casing 3 , the connection port 4 is located in the area surrounded by the annular display portion 14 .

Specifically, the light-emitting element 141, for example, receives power supply from the control unit 101 and emits light. The light-emitting element 141 is formed of, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode). The optical member 142 is, for example, a molded product of a transparent resin such as acrylic resin, and is a member that guides light, that is, the output light of the light-emitting element 141 is introduced, and is guided to the surface (front) of the optical member 142 through the interior of the optical member 142 . The optical member 142 is formed in a rectangular frame shape when viewed from the front, and the inner side thereof becomes the connection port 4 . The display portion 14 having such a configuration causes the surface (front surface) of the optical member 142 to emit light by causing the light-emitting element 141 to emit light. That is, the surface (front surface) of the optical member 142 surrounding the connection port 4 becomes the light-emitting surface.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the display unit 14 is configured to be visually recognized from the front even when the USB connector 91 of the device 9 is connected to the connection unit 2 (connection port 4 ). Specifically, the display unit 14 is configured such that at least a part of the display unit 14 protrudes from the periphery of the USB connector 91 when viewed from the front. That is, the display portion 14 is not inserted into the connection port 4 even if it is provided around the connection port 4 . The USB connector 91 is completely shielded. Thereby, even if the USB connector 91 of the device 9 is connected to the USB socket 10, the display state of the display part 14 can be visually confirmed.

The sound output unit 15 is realized by, for example, a speaker, a buzzer, or the like. The sound output unit 15 outputs a beep sound, for example, and notifies the decision result of the decision unit 12 by outputting the sound, that is, the beep sound. The aspect of the beep sound includes, as an example, aspects such as "beep", "beep beep", or "beep-beep-". However, the sound output unit 15 is not limited to the beep sound, and may output a voice or a melody instead of the beep sound or together with the beep sound.

In addition, in this embodiment, as mentioned above, the several connection part 2 is provided. On the other hand, the notification unit 102 is configured to individually notify the determination result to each of the plurality of connection units 2 . Specifically, at least the display portion 14 is provided in each connection port 4 as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B . In other words, a plurality of display units 14 are provided corresponding to the plurality of connection ports 4 . These plural display parts 14 are arranged around each of the first connection port 41 and the second connection port 42 . In FIG. 4, the display part 14 is shown as one, but a plurality of (here, two) display parts 14 are actually provided. The function of the notification unit 102 will be described in detail in the field of "(2.4) Deterioration diagnosis function".

The sensor 17 detects necessary physical phenomena or physical quantities in order to determine the degree of deterioration of the monitored object, and outputs electrical signals corresponding to the detected physical phenomena or physical quantities. The sensor 17 is, for example, a sensor that detects whether or not the USB connector 91 is connected to the connection portion 2 . Examples of such sensors include non-contact sensors such as transmissive or reflective optical sensors that change the output according to the arrival of light between the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element, or a sensor having a mechanical contact A touch sensor, etc., which is pressed by the USB connector 91 to make the contact turn ON. As another example, the sensor 17 may also be a sensor that detects the current output from the power supply circuit 11 . Such a sensor can be realized, for example, by a suitable current sensor such as a current transformer or a shunt resistor.

(2.4) Deterioration diagnosis function

Next, the deterioration diagnosis function in the USB receptacle 10 of the present embodiment will be described. The deterioration diagnosis function is mainly realized by the determination unit 12 and the setting unit 13 included in the control unit 101 .

The determination part 12 determines the deterioration degree of the monitoring object which consists of at least one of the connection part 2, the power supply circuit 11, and the casing 3 as mentioned above. "Deterioration degree" as used in the present invention refers to the degree of degradation of the quality or performance of the monitoring object. In particular, the deterioration of the monitoring object mentioned here does not refer to the sudden deterioration caused by sudden external factors (physical force), etc., but refers to the repeated use of the USB socket 10 and/or the passage of time. resulting deterioration. In short, the "degradation degree" determined by the determination unit 12 refers to the degree of deterioration that gradually develops due to repeated use of the USB socket 10 and/or the passage of time. These "deterioration degrees" are represented by, for example, the presence/absence of deterioration in two stages, or three or more stages such as level 1 to level X (X is an integer of 3 or more).

In the present embodiment, the monitoring object is the connection part 2 as an example. In addition, in the present embodiment, as an example, the determination unit 12 determines the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object (here, the connection part 2 ) in two stages, "with deterioration" and "without deterioration".

More specifically, in the USB receptacle 10 of the present embodiment, the determining unit 12 can determine the "degradation degree" of the monitoring object by at least one of the four methods of the following first to fourth methods.

The first method is a method using the number of times the USB connector 91 is connected. That is, the determination unit 12 determines the degree of deterioration based on at least the number of times the USB connector 91 is connected to the connection unit 2 . The degree of deterioration of the monitoring object (here, the connection part 2) can be determined by the number of times the USB connector 91 is connected to the connection part 2, that is, the USB The number of times the connector 91 is inserted and removed from the connection port 4 is estimated. Therefore, the determination unit 12, for example, counts the number of times the USB connector 91 is connected to the connection unit 2 from the output of the sensor 17 that detects whether or not the USB connector 91 is connected to the connection unit 2, and determines the deterioration of the monitoring object based on the number of connections. degree. Here, the determination unit 12 counts the number of connections "1 time", for example, from the state where the USB connector 91 is not connected to the connection unit 2 until the USB connector 91 is connected to the connection unit 2 . In the present embodiment, as an example, the determination unit 12 determines that the number of times of connection between the USB connector 91 and the connection unit 2 is greater than or equal to a threshold value (for example, 10,000 times), and determines that there is deterioration; No deterioration.

The second method is a method using the number of times of charging of the device 9 in the USB socket 10 . That is, the determination unit 12 determines the degree of deterioration based on at least the number of times the device 9 is charged by supplying power from the connection unit 2 to the device 9 . The degree of deterioration of the monitoring object (here, the connection part 2 ) can be estimated from the number of times the device 9 is charged in the USB socket 10 , that is, the number of times the USB socket 10 is used. Therefore, the determination unit 12 calculates the number of times of charging of the device 9 in the USB socket 10, for example, from the output of the sensor 17 that detects the current output from the power supply circuit 11, and determines the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object based on the number of times of charging.

Whether or not the device 9 is being charged can be detected, for example, by the magnitude of the current or power output from the power circuit 11 . Therefore, the determination unit 12 monitors (measures) the current output from the power supply circuit 11 with, for example, the sensor 17 , and detects the charging state of the device 9 according to the magnitude of the current. In the present embodiment, as an example, the determination unit 12 determines that the device 9 is being charged if the magnitude of the current is greater than or equal to the reference value, and determines that the device 9 is not being charged if the magnitude of the current is less than the reference value (that is, "non-charging"). Here, the determination unit 12, for example, determines that the charging state of the device 9 is under charging, determines that it is not charging, and counts the number of times of charging "one time". In the present embodiment, as an example, the determination unit 12 determines that there is deterioration if the number of times of charging of the device 9 in the USB socket 10 is a threshold value (for example, 10,000 times) or more, and determines that there is no deterioration if the number of times of charging is less than the threshold value. deterioration.

The third method is a method of using the number of interruptions (interruption times) because the charging of the device 9 in the USB receptacle 10 is not completed normally. That is, the determination unit 12 determines the degree of deterioration based on at least the number of times the charging of the device 9 is interrupted without being normally completed when the device 9 is charged by supplying power from the connection unit 2 to the device 9 . The degree of deterioration of the monitoring object (here, the connection part 2 ) can be estimated from the number of interruptions of charging of the device 9 in the USB socket 10 , that is, the number of occurrences of defects in the USB socket 10 . Therefore, the determination unit 12 counts the number of interruptions in which the charging of the device 9 in the USB socket 10 is not completed normally due to the output of the sensor 17 that detects the current output from the power supply circuit 11, for example, and determines the monitoring based on the number of interruptions. The degree of deterioration of the object.

The situation that the charging of the device 9 is not terminated normally and is interrupted, for example, can be detected by an abnormal change in the current or power output from the power supply circuit 11 before the charging of the device 9 is terminated. Therefore, the determination unit 12 monitors (measures) the current output from the power supply circuit 11 with, for example, the sensor 17 , and detects the charging state of the device 9 according to the magnitude of the current. In the present embodiment, as an example, the determination unit 12, before the magnitude of the current changes from the reference value or more to less than the reference value, occurs when the magnitude of the current exceeds a predetermined value and then changes to less than the reference value. It is determined that the charging of the device 9 is not completed normally and is interrupted. In the present embodiment, as an example, the determination unit 12 determines that the number of interruptions of charging of the device 9 in the USB socket 10 is more than a threshold value (for example, 10 times), and determines that there is deterioration; if the number of interruptions is less than the threshold value, it determines that No deterioration.

The fourth method is a method using whether the electrical connection state of the USB connector 91 to the connecting portion 2 is good or not. That is, the determination part 12 determines the degree of deterioration based on at least whether the electrical connection state of the USB connector 91 to the connection part 2 is good or not. Whether the electrical connection state of the USB connector 91 to the connection portion 2 is good or not can be detected by, for example, abnormal changes in the current or power output from the power circuit 11 . Therefore, the determination unit 12 monitors (measures) the current output from the power supply circuit 11, for example, with the sensor 17, and determines the magnitude of the current according to the magnitude of the current. Small, detects the electrical connection state of the USB connector 91 . In the present embodiment, for example, the determination unit 12 determines that the electrical connection state of the USB connector 91 is poor when the magnitude of the current repeatedly changes between a reference value or more and less than the reference value in a short period of time. In the present embodiment, as an example, if the number of times the electrical connection state of the USB connector 91 is determined to be defective is greater than or equal to the threshold, it is determined that there is deterioration, and if it is less than the threshold, it is determined that there is no deterioration.

In short, the USB socket 10 of the present embodiment can determine the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object by at least one of the four methods of the above-mentioned first to fourth methods. Here, the determination unit 12 may determine the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object by using one of the first to fourth methods, or may determine the deterioration of the monitoring object by combining two or more of the first to fourth methods degree.

The setting unit 13 performs various settings regarding the operation of the determination unit 12 . The setting unit 13, for example, sets any one of the connection unit 2, the power supply circuit 11, and the casing 3 as the monitoring object, or determines the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object by any one of the first to fourth methods described above. . In addition, the setting unit 13 is also made to set a threshold value and the like used for the determination of the degree of deterioration. Furthermore, the setting unit 13 may also be used to perform various settings regarding the operation of the notification unit 102 . In the present embodiment, as an example, the setting content of the setting unit 13 is determined by the operation of a person who operates an operation unit such as a tandem switch or a semi-fixed resistor provided in the casing 3 .

Then, the determination result of the determination unit 12 is notified by the notification unit 102 . In the present embodiment, as described above, the notification unit 102 includes the display unit 14 and the sound output unit 15, so that the display state of the display unit 14 or the output state of the sound from the sound output unit 15 can The determination result of the determination unit 12 is notified. For example, when the judgment unit 12 judges the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object (here, the connection unit 2 ) in two stages: “with deterioration” and “without deterioration”, the notification unit 102 judges the degree of deterioration between “with deterioration” and “with no deterioration”. "No Deterioration" different notifications. As an example, when the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object is "deteriorated", the notification unit 102 lights the display unit 14 in red. On the other hand, when the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object is "no deterioration", the notification unit 102 lights the display unit 14 in green. Further, for example, when the determination unit 12 switches from the determination state of "no deterioration" to the determination state of "with deterioration" as the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object, the notification unit 102 performs a notification for notifying the occurrence of deterioration. As an example, when the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object becomes "deteriorated", the notification unit 102 outputs a beep sound such as "beep-beep-" from the sound output unit 15 . The output of the beep sound should be limited to a predetermined time from the point of time when the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object becomes "deteriorated".

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the determination unit 12 determines the degree of deterioration by distinguishing what constitutes the cause of deterioration. That is, the determination part 12 discriminate|determines the part which constitutes the deterioration factor, for example, which of the connection part 2, the power supply circuit 11, and the housing|casing 3, and determines the degree of deterioration. In other words, the monitoring objects are distinguished and the degree of deterioration is determined. Further, the determination unit 12 determines the degree of deterioration by distinguishing whether the cause of the deterioration is the USB socket 10 , the device 9 , or the USB cable connecting the USB socket 10 and the device 9 .

Further, a plurality of connection parts 2 are provided as described above. Therefore, when the monitoring object is the connection part 2 , the determination part 12 determines the degree of deterioration for each of the plurality of connection parts 2 individually. For example, when the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object (here, the connection part 2) is judged in two stages, "with deterioration" and "without deterioration", the judgment part 12, for the first connection part 21 and the second connection part 22. Determine the presence/absence of deterioration respectively. Therefore, in the determination unit 12, either the first connection part 21 and the second connection part 22 are degraded, both are not degraded, only the first connection part 21 is degraded, or only the second connection part 22 is degraded, as degradation. Degree judgment. In this way, the determination unit 12 distinguishes, for example, the current output from the power supply circuit 11 to the first connection part 21 and the current output from the power supply circuit 11 to the second connection part 22 in order to individually determine the degree of deterioration for each of the plurality of connection parts 2 . The current is monitored (measured).

Then, in the present embodiment, the notification unit 102 also individually reports the degree of deterioration (the determination result of the determination unit 12 ) to each of the plurality of connection units 2 . For example, when the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object (here, the connection part 2 ) is judged in two stages: "with deterioration" and "without deterioration", the notification unit 102, for the first connection part 21 and the second connection part 22. Determine the presence/absence of notification deterioration respectively. As an example, when only the first connection part 21 is deteriorated, the notification part 102 lights the display part 14 corresponding to the first connection part 21 in red, and lights the display part 14 corresponding to the second connection part 22 in red green. In this way, the notification unit 102 distinguishes a state in which both the first connection part 21 and the second connection part 22 are degraded, a state in which both are not degraded, a state in which only the first connection part 21 is degraded, and a state in which only the second connection part 22 is degraded. status, be notified.

(3) Operation

Next, referring to FIG. 5 , the operation of the USB socket 10 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 shows an example of the operation of the USB receptacle 10 when the determination unit 12 determines the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object (here, the connection unit 2 ) in two stages: “with deterioration” and “without deterioration” flow chart. Further, in FIG. 5 , a case where the determination unit 12 is caused to determine the degree of deterioration according to the first method, that is, the number of times the USB connector 91 is connected, is exemplified.

After the USB receptacle 10 is activated, the notification unit 102 firstly reports that there is no deterioration ( S1 ). At this time, the notification unit 102 lights the display unit 14 in green, for example. Then, the USB socket 10 detects the connection to the USB connector 91 of the connection part 2 by the sensor 17 (S2). If the USB connector 91 is not connected to the connection portion 2 ( S2 : No), the USB socket 10 continues to report that there is no deterioration ( S1 ).

When the USB connector 91 is connected to the connection unit 2 ( S2 : Yes), the USB socket 10 increases the number of connections N ( S3 ). Then, the USB receptacle 10 determines by the determination unit 12 whether or not the number of connections N exceeds Threshold Th1 (S4). If the number of connections N does not exceed the threshold Th1 ( S4 : No), the USB socket 10 continues to report no deterioration ( S1 ).

On the other hand, when the number of connections N exceeds the threshold Th1 ( S4 : Yes), the USB receptacle 10 determines that there is deterioration by the determination unit 12 , and reports that there is deterioration ( S5 ). At this time, the notification unit 102 lights the display unit 14 in red, for example. Furthermore, at this time, the notification unit 102 outputs a beep sound such as "beep-beep-" from the sound output unit 15, for example.

The flowchart of FIG. 5 is only an example of the operation of the USB socket 10 , and processing may be omitted or added as appropriate, and the order of processing may be appropriately changed.

As described above, in the USB receptacle 10 of the present embodiment, the determination unit 12 determines the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object, so that the degree of deterioration of the USB receptacle 10 can be determined on the side of the USB receptacle 10 . Therefore, for example, an abnormality such as poor contact of the connection portion 2 or a drop in the output of the power supply circuit 11 can be detected early. Therefore, for example, it becomes easy to avoid situations such as using the USB socket 10 in a state where the power supply to the device 9 is not normally performed. As a result, among users, maintenance work such as replacement can be quickly performed for the USB socket 10 whose deterioration progresses to be monitored, and the reliability of the USB socket 10 can be improved. As a result, it is possible to provide the USB receptacle 10 that can easily achieve improved reliability.

Furthermore, the determination of the degree of deterioration is performed not by the device 9 on the charging side, but by the USB socket 10 on the charging side, that is, the side that supplies the power for charging. Power of device 9. In short, in the device 9 on the charged side, the electric power that is not stored in the battery 92, or should be stored in the battery 92, is used in the judgment of the degree of deterioration, and can be used to its advantage. Used for charging for the original purpose. Therefore, according to the USB socket 10 of the present embodiment, the device 9 can be efficiently charged and the like.

(4) Modifications

Embodiment 1 is only one of various embodiments of the present invention. In Embodiment 1, various changes can be made in accordance with the design and the like as long as the object of the present invention can be achieved. The drawings described in the present invention are schematic diagrams, and the respective ratios of the sizes and thicknesses of the constituent elements in the drawings are not necessarily limited to reflect the actual size ratios. In addition, the functions equivalent to those of the USB socket 10 of the first embodiment may be embodied by a method, a (computer) program, or a non-transitory storage medium for storing the program.

Hereinafter, a modification of the first embodiment will be listed. The modifications described below can be used in combination as appropriate. Hereinafter, about the same structure as Embodiment 1, a common code|symbol is attached|subjected and description is abbreviate|omitted suitably.

The basic structure of the USB socket 10 is not limited to the structure described in Embodiment 1. For example, various USB sockets 10A to 10C as shown in FIGS. 6A to 6C can be realized.

In the aspect shown in FIG. 6A , the display portion 14 of the USB socket 10A is different from Embodiment 1 in that it is not shaped to surround the corresponding connection port 4 , but is arranged at one place around the connection port 4 . Specifically, in the example of FIG. 6A , the display unit 14 is a point light source disposed above the corresponding connection port 4 .

In the state shown in FIG. 6B, the USB receptacle 10B is formed so that the casing 3 has the same size as a wiring device of the size of two modules. The USB socket 10B, for example, is attached to the installation object 81 (refer to FIG. 3A ) through the mounting frame 84 (refer to FIG. 3A ) together with the socket device 51 that outputs an AC voltage of 100V.

In the state shown in FIG. 6C , the USB receptacle 10C is a single port (socket) that can be connected to a single USB connector 91 by forming the casing 3 into a size similar to that of a wiring device of the size of two modules. type of USB socket. In the example of FIG. 6C , when viewed from the front, the connection port 4 is a rectangle whose size in the up-down direction is larger than that in the left-right direction. That is, the connection port 4 is arranged vertically (straight). Further, the USB socket 10C is attached to the installation object 81 (refer to FIG. 3A ) through the mounting frame 84 (refer to FIG. 3A ) together with the sensor device 52 such as a human body sensor, for example. The sensor device 52 is not limited to a human body sensor, for example, it can also be a brightness sensor, a vibration sensor, a proximity sensor or a sound sensor, or a combination thereof. The USB socket 10C can also operate according to the output of the sensor device 52 . For example, in the case where the sensor device 52 is a human body sensor, the USB socket 10C will turn off the power to the connecting portion 2 if no one exists around.

In addition, in the USB socket, the number of the connection portion 2 (connection port 4 ) may be one, or three or more.

In addition, the plurality of connection parts 2 may include two or more connection parts 2 of different generations (standards of transmission speed) and/or USB terminal shapes. For example, the USB receptacle 10 may include the connection part 2 of the A terminal (USB Type-A) and the connection part 2 of the C terminal (USB Type-C).

The USB socket 10 of the present invention includes a computer system in the control unit 101 and the like. A computer system is mainly composed of a processor and a memory as hardware. The function of the USB socket 10 of the present invention is realized by causing the processor to execute the program stored in the memory of the computer system. Programs can be pre-stored in the memory of the computer system, provided through electrical communication lines, or provided in non-transitory storage media such as memory cards, CD-ROMs, and hard disks that can be read by the computer system. . The processor of the computer system is composed of one or a plurality of electronic circuits including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a large integrated circuit (LSI). The integrated circuits such as ICs and LSIs described here are called differently depending on the degree of concentration, including It includes integrated circuits called system LSI, VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration, very large integrated circuit), or ULSI (Ultra Large Scale Integration, very large integrated circuit). Furthermore, it is also possible to use an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), which is programmed after the manufacture of the LSI, or the reconfiguration of the bonding relationship within the LSI or the reconstruction of the circuit partition within the LSI. Constitute the logic element used as the processor. A plurality of electronic circuits can be integrated into one chip, or can be distributed over a plurality of chips. A plurality of chips can be integrated into one device, or can be distributed in a plurality of devices. The computer system described herein includes a microcontroller having more than one processor and more than one memory. Therefore, the microcontroller is also constituted by one or a plurality of electronic circuits including a semiconductor integrated circuit or a large-scale integrated circuit.

In addition, integrating at least a part of the functions of the USB socket 10 into one casing 3 is not a necessary configuration of the USB socket 10 , and the components of the USB socket 10 may be distributed in a plurality of casings. For example, a part of the functions of the control part 101 may be provided in a casing different from the connection part 2 (connection port 4 ). In addition, at least a part of the functions of the control unit 101 and the like may be realized by, for example, a server, a cloud (cloud computing), or the like.

In addition, the USB socket 10 is not limited to be used indoors, but can also be used outdoors. In the USB socket 10 for outdoor use, a rain-proof (drip-proof) structure or the like is appropriately adopted.

In addition, in Embodiment 1, although the case where the device 9 connected to the USB socket 10 is the rechargeable device 9 has been described as an example, it is not limited to this example, and a non-rechargeable device 9 may also be connected to the USB socket 10 . (Device 9 other than rechargeable device 9).

In addition, the USB socket 10, for example, may also have a function of judging whether the device 9 connected to the USB socket 10 is a charging type. These determination functions are realized by, for example, the following method: the USB socket 10 communicates with the device 9 through wired communication or wireless communication through the USB connector 91 . With such a determination function, the USB receptacle 10 may determine the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object by the determination unit 12 only when the rechargeable device 9 is connected, for example.

In addition, the USB socket 10 may determine the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object by a method other than the above-mentioned four methods of the first to fourth methods. For example, the temperature, color, smell, or looseness of the monitoring object may be detected by the sensor 17 , and the determination unit 12 may determine the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object based on the detection result. As an example, the determination unit 12 determines that the monitoring object is degraded when abnormal temperature rise or abnormal discoloration is observed in the monitoring object constituted by the casing 3 or the power supply circuit 11 .

In addition, the USB socket 10 is not limited to a built-in type wiring device. That is, the USB receptacle 10 may be an "exposed type" wiring device, and the entirety of the USB socket 10 may be arranged to be exposed from the surface of the installation object 81 such as a wall surface. In this case, the USB socket 10 is attached to the installation object 81 by using an exposed switch box instead of an embedded switch box. In addition, the USB receptacle 10 may be attached to the attachment object 81 using, for example, a mounting member other than a switch box such as a clip.

In addition, mounting the casing 3 to the mounting frame 84 is not an essential configuration of the USB socket 10 , and for example, the casing 3 and the mounting frame 84 may be integrated. Furthermore, mounting the socket cover 8 on the mounting frame 84 is not a necessary configuration of the USB socket 10, and the socket cover 8 may be appropriately omitted.

For example, the USB socket 10 may be provided in a device such as a personal computer.

In addition, in Embodiment 1, although a plurality of connection parts 2 are connected to one power supply circuit 11 , this configuration is not necessary for the USB receptacle 10 , and a separate power supply circuit 11 may be provided for each of the plurality of connection parts 2 . That is, the USB socket 10 may include a plurality of connection parts 2 and a plurality of power supply circuits 11 corresponding to the plurality of connection parts 2 in a one-to-one manner. In this case, electric power is supplied from the individual power supply circuit 11 to each of the plurality of connection parts 2 , so the rated output (current or electric power) is also individually defined for each connection part 2 .

In addition, the distribution display portion 32 is not limited to the marking formed on the front surface 31 of the casing 3, but can also be realized by, for example, printing, a label, a display lamp (light emitting element) or a display. In the case where the distribution display unit 32 is realized by an indicator lamp, a display, or the like, the display content of the distribution display unit 32 can be appropriately changed.

In addition, the allocation display part 32 is not an essential structure of the USB socket 10, and the allocation display part 32 may be appropriately omitted.

In addition, the means for determining the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object is not limited to monitoring (measuring) the current output from the power supply circuit 11 , for example, the determination unit 12 may monitor (measure) the power output from the power supply circuit 11 . Further, the determination unit 12 may determine the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object by means other than monitoring (measuring) the output (current or power) of the power supply circuit 11 . For example, the determination unit 12 may communicate with the device 9 connected to the connection unit 2 by wired communication or wireless communication via the USB connector 91 . In this case, the determination unit 12 may determine the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object by communicating with the device 9 .

In addition, the determination part 12 determines the degree of deterioration for each of the plurality of connection parts 2 individually, and is not an essential configuration of the USB receptacle 10 . That is, the determination unit 12 may determine the degree of deterioration for the plurality of connection parts 2 collectively. Similarly, the notification unit 102 notifies the degree of deterioration of each of the plurality of connection units 2 individually. It is a necessary configuration of the USB socket 10 . That is, the notification unit 102 may notify the degree of deterioration of the plurality of connection units 2 at the same time.

In addition, the notification unit 102 including the display unit 14 and the audio output unit 15 is not an essential configuration of the USB socket 10 , and the notification unit 102 may not have either the display unit 14 or the audio output unit 15 .

In addition, the display part 14 provided with the light-emitting element 141 and the optical member 142 is not an essential structure of the USB socket 10. As shown in FIG. The display unit 14 can also be realized by, for example, an image display device such as a liquid crystal display and an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display.

(Embodiment 2)

The USB socket 10D of this embodiment differs from the USB socket 10 of the first embodiment in that it has a function of communicating with the communication terminal 62 as shown in FIG. 7 . Hereinafter, about the same structure as Embodiment 1, a common code|symbol is attached|subjected and description is abbreviate|omitted suitably.

That is, the USB socket 10D of the present embodiment includes the communication unit 61 . The communication unit 61 is configured to be able to communicate with the communication terminal 62 . In the present invention, "communicable" means that information can be transmitted and received directly or indirectly through a network or a repeater through an appropriate communication method such as wired communication or wireless communication. In the present embodiment, the communication unit 61 and the communication terminal 62 can perform bidirectional communication via, for example, a network. In the present embodiment, as an example, the communication unit 61 adopts a communication system that conforms to specifications such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), or permissionless low-power radio (specified low-power radio). Wireless communication using radio waves as a communication medium.

The communication terminal 62 is a terminal having at least a function of communicating with the communication unit 61 , and is, for example, a portable terminal such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a wearable terminal, or a personal computer. Such a communication terminal 62 has a user interface such as a display function, a sound output function, and the like. In the example of FIG. 7, the communication terminal 62 is a tablet terminal different from the device 9 connected to the USB socket 10D. However, the communication terminal 62 can also be the device 9 connected to the USB socket 10D.

Here, the notification unit 102 has a function of transmitting the determination result of the determination unit 12 to the communication terminal 62 using the communication unit 61 . That is, the determination result of the determination unit 12 is transmitted from the communication unit 61 to the communication terminal 62 . The communication terminal 62 that has received the determination result of the determination unit 12 may directly display the determination result of the determination unit 12, or it may only send a push notification, and display the determination after a specific operation (operation of a specific object) performed by the user The judgment result of the section 12.

In this way, in the present embodiment, the notification unit 102 transmits the determination result of the determination unit 12 to the communication terminal 62 through communication, thereby reporting the determination result of the determination unit 12 . Thereby, for example, even when the USB socket 10D is located in a blind spot of the user, or is located far away from the user, the user can easily confirm the determination result of the determination unit 12 via the communication terminal 62 .

Further, as in the present embodiment, when two-way communication is possible between the communication unit 61 and the communication terminal 62, the notification unit 102 may use the judgment result of the judgment section 12 as a signal for an outgoing call from the communication terminal 62. The response is sent to the communication terminal 62 . That is, when the communication unit 61 receives an outgoing signal from the communication terminal 62, the notification unit 102 transmits the determination result of the determination unit 12 to the communication terminal 62 by communication. Thereby, when the user wants to confirm the deterioration degree of the monitoring object, he can confirm the deterioration degree of the monitoring object through the communication terminal 62 .

Further, in the USB socket 10D of the present embodiment, the communication with the communication terminal 62 is wireless communication or power line communication. That is, the communication unit 61 communicates with the communication terminal 62 by wireless communication using radio waves as a medium or power line communication using a power line as a medium. In this case, it is not necessary to connect a dedicated communication line to the USB socket 10D. That is, in the case of wireless communication, it is not necessary to connect, and in the case of power line communication, there is no need to connect a dedicated communication line to the USB socket 10D. That is, since the wiring L1 connected to the terminal portion 16 is a power line, the communication portion 61 can perform power line communication with the communication terminal 62 by using this wiring L1 as a transmission line. In addition, the communication unit 61 can also communicate with the communication terminal 62 using both wireless communication and power line communication.

In addition, as a modification of the second embodiment, the setting contents of the setting unit 13 may be set by the communication terminal 62 . That is, by making the communication terminal 62 communicate with the communication unit 61 , the setting content of the setting unit 13 can be remotely set by the communication terminal 62 .

The configuration (including modification examples) described in Embodiment 2 can be appropriately combined with the various configurations (including modification examples) described in Embodiment 1.

(Summarize)

The USB sockets (10, 10A to 10D) of the first aspect are provided with a connection part (2), a power circuit (11), a casing (3), and a determination part (12). The connection part (2) can be electrically connected with the USB connector (91) of the device (9). The power supply circuit (11) supplies power to the device (9) from the connection part (2). The casing (3) accommodates the power circuit (11). A determination unit (12) determines the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object. The monitoring object is composed of at least one of a connection part (2), a power circuit (11) and a casing (3).

In this way, the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object constituted by at least one of the connecting portion (2), the power circuit (11) and the casing (3) can be determined on the side of the USB sockets (10, 10A~10D) . Therefore, for example, an abnormality such as poor contact of the connection portion (2) or a drop in the output of the power supply circuit (11) can be detected at an early stage. Therefore, for example, it becomes easy to avoid situations such as using the USB sockets ( 10 , 10A to 10D) in a state where the power supply to the device ( 9 ) is not normally performed. As a result, it is possible to provide USB sockets ( 10 , 10A to 10D) that can easily achieve improved reliability.

The USB sockets ( 10 , 10A to 10D ) of the second aspect are in the first aspect, and further include a notification unit ( 102 ) that notifies the determination result of the determination unit ( 12 ).

According to this aspect, the notification unit (102) notifies the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object, so that the user can easily grasp it.

The USB sockets (10, 10A-10D) of the third aspect are in the second aspect, and the notification part (102) has a display part (14) provided on the front surface of the casing (3). The notification unit (102) notifies the determination result of the determination unit (12) through the display state of the display unit (14).

According to this aspect, the deterioration degree of the monitoring object is notified by the display aspect of the display unit (14), and the user can easily grasp the deterioration degree of the monitoring object.

The USB sockets (10, 10A~10D) of the fourth aspect, in the second aspect or the third aspect, the notification unit (102) sends the determination result of the determination unit (12) to the communication terminal by communication The machine (62) is used to notify the judgment result of the judgment unit (12).

According to this aspect, the communication terminal (62) notifies the deterioration degree of the monitoring object, so that the user can easily grasp the deterioration degree of the monitoring object.

In the USB sockets (10, 10A-10D) of the fifth aspect, in any one of the first aspect to the fourth aspect, the determining part (12) is at least based on the USB connector (91) for the connection part The number of connections in (2) is used to determine the degree of deterioration.

In this way, the degree of deterioration originating from the number of times of connection of the USB connector (91) can be determined.

In the USB sockets (10, 10A to 10D) of the sixth aspect, in any one of the first aspect to the fifth aspect, the determination part (12) is based on at least the connection part (2) for the device ( 9) The number of times the device (9) is charged by supplying power, and the degree of deterioration is determined.

In this way, the degree of deterioration due to the number of charging times can be determined.

In the USB socket (10, 10A-10D) of the seventh aspect, in any one of the first aspect to the sixth aspect, the determining unit (12) determines the degree of deterioration based on at least the number of interruptions of charging. The number of interruptions of charging refers to the number of times the charging of the equipment (9) is not completed normally and is interrupted when the equipment (9) is charged by supplying power to the equipment (9) from the connection part (2).

In this way, the degree of deterioration due to the number of interruptions can be determined.

The USB sockets (10, 10A to 10D) of the eighth aspect are in any one of the first aspect to the seventh aspect, and the determining part (12) is at least based on the USB connector (91) for the connection part Whether the electrical connection state of (2) is good or not, the degree of deterioration is judged.

In this way, the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object can be directly determined by whether the electrical connection state of the USB connector (91) to the connection portion (2) is good or not.

The ninth aspect of the USB socket (10, 10A to 10D) is in any one of the first aspect to the eighth aspect.

In this way, it is possible to distinguish the cause of the deterioration, and to confirm the degree of deterioration.

The configurations of the second aspect to the ninth aspect are not necessary configurations of the USB sockets (10, 10A to 10D), and can be appropriately omitted.

10: USB socket

101: Control Department

102: Notification Department

11: Power circuit

12: Judgment Department

13: Setting section

14: Display part

15: Audio output section

16: Terminal part

17: Sensor

2: Connection part

21: 1st connection part

22: 2nd connection part

9: Equipment

91:USB connector

92: battery

L1: Wiring

Claims (9)

A USB socket, comprising: a connecting part that can be electrically connected to a USB connector of a device; a power supply circuit that supplies power to the device from the connecting part; a casing that accommodates the power supply circuit; , the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object constituted by at least one of the power supply circuit and the casing; the judging part is based at least on the fact that when the device is charged with power supplied from the connecting part, the device is not properly charged The number of times of termination and interruption is used to determine the degree of deterioration. A USB socket, comprising: a connecting part that can be electrically connected to a USB connector of a device; a power supply circuit that supplies power to the device from the connecting part; a casing that accommodates the power supply circuit; , the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object constituted by at least one of the power supply circuit and the casing; the judging part, at least according to whether the electrical connection state of the USB connector to the connecting part is good or not, to determine the degree of deterioration . A USB socket, comprising: a connecting part, which can be electrically connected with a USB connector of a device; a power supply circuit for supplying power to the device from the connection part; a casing for housing the power supply circuit; and a determination part for determining the degree of deterioration of a monitoring object constituted by at least one of the connection part, the power supply circuit and the housing ; The determination unit determines the degree of deterioration by distinguishing what constitutes the cause of deterioration. A USB socket, comprising: a connecting part, which can be electrically connected with a USB connector of a device; a power supply circuit, which supplies power to the device from the connecting part; a casing, which accommodates the power supply circuit; At least one of the power supply circuit and the casing constitutes the degree of deterioration of the monitoring object; and the communication unit sends the determination result of the determination unit to the communication terminal as a response to the signal from the communication terminal. The USB socket according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a notification unit that notifies the determination result of the determination unit. The USB socket of claim 5, wherein the notification part includes a display part disposed on the front surface of the casing; and the determination result of the determination part is notified by the display state of the display part. The USB socket of claim 5, wherein the notification unit transmits the determination result of the determination unit to the communication terminal by means of communication, so as to notify the determination result of the determination unit. The USB socket of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the determining unit, further, determines the degree of deterioration based on at least the number of times the USB connector is connected to the connecting unit. The USB socket of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the determining unit determines the degree of deterioration based on at least the number of times the device is charged with power supplied from the connecting unit to the device.

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