Power supply device

There is provided a power supply apparatus capable of supplying information as a power line communication signal superimposed on a voltage of a commercial frequency, although currents of the commercial frequency are not supplied to power receiving side external equipment, and capable of supplying power to a specific external apparatus together with the power line communication signal, by controlling supply of the currents of the commercial frequency to the external apparatus. This apparatus includes at least a power receiving section that receives the supply of the power from a power line; a power line communicating section that superimposes the power line communication signal on the voltage, which is supplied to the power receiving section, and transmits the power line communication signal to the equipment; and a power supply limiting section which is installed between the power receiving section and the equipment, allows the power line communication signal to pass and limits the supply of the power to the equipment.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a power supply apparatus.

BACKGROUND ART

In recent years, popularization of electric vehicles is greatly expected, for countermeasures against global warming. The electric vehicles are required to be charged even if a user is in a house or out the house. At this time, connection to a power line is made via a charging cable. However, there is a risk of an unauthorized charge in power outlets outside the indoor for making a connection to the electric vehicles. Therefore, mutual authentication is required at both sides of a power feeding side and a power charged vehicle side.

Further, in recent years, a power line communication is promoted, for transmitting data by superimposing a PLC (Power Line Communication) signal (2 to 30 MHz) having high frequency, being an information signal, on a signal having a commercial frequency (50 to 60 Hz) transmitted to a power line. For example, various information communications through charging external equipment, charging terminals, and charging cables, and various services utilizing the authentication, are expected. Meanwhile, a risk of invading into a PLC network from outside of the indoor is increased, and therefore a technique of separating and unifying a passage of signals of a power line is required.

Therefore, a technique of suppressing the passage of the signals in the power line communication is reported as follows.

For example, in the power line communication system described in (Patent document 1), a blocking filter for suppressing signals of the power line communication without interfering with transmission of power of commercial alternating currents, is provided on an indoor distribution line in each group of a power line communication system that constitutes a local area network of a plurality of groups. The blocking filter has a core formed by a magnetic material, and the signals of the electric power line communication are suppressed by passing or winding electric paths of the indoor distribution line, so that a magnetic flux is generated in the same directions in the core by a simultaneously flowing current, with these electric paths set as a travel road and a return road.

CITATION LIST

Patent Literature

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Technical Problem

However, according to the conventional technique (for example, patent document 1), in the power line with a blocking filter installed therein, the power line communication signal is always blocked. Therefore, the commercial frequency signal or the power line communication signal flowing through the power line cannot be selectively passed. Accordingly, on the power feeding side, the equipment via the power line communication (for example, an external apparatus) cannot be authenticated, and power is supplied only if connecting the external apparatus to the power outlets outside the indoor, thus involving a problem that unauthorized charge cannot be prevented.

In view of the above-described problem, the present invention is provided, and an object of the present invention is to provide a power supply apparatus capable of supplying information as a power line communication signal having high frequency, which is superimposed on a voltage of a commercial power (AC 100V or AC200V), although currents of the commercial power cannot be supplied to the external power receiver side equipment. Further object of the present invention is to provide a power supply apparatus capable of supplying power to a specific external apparatus together with the power line communication signal, by controlling the supply of the current having commercial power to the external apparatus.

Solution to Problem

In order to solve the above-described problem and achieve the above-described object, the present invention provides an apparatus at least including: a power receiving section that receives supply of the power from a power line; a power line communicating section that superimposes a power line communication signal on a voltage of the power whose supply is received by the power receiving section, and transmits the power line communication signal to the equipment; and a power supply limiting section that limits supply of the power to the equipment, wherein power line communication is realized while limiting power supply.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

According to the present invention, there is provided a power supply apparatus capable of realizing a power line communication system that superimposes a power line communication signal on a power line to which a voltage of a commercial power (AC 100V or AC 200V, and 50 Hz or 60 Hz) is applied, and transmits only information without supplying power.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

A first power supply apparatus supplies power to an equipment, and includes: a power receiving section that receives supply of power from an indoor power line; a power line communicating section that superimposes a power fine communication signal on a voltage of the power, which is supplied to the power receiving section, and transmits the power line communication signal to the equipment; and a power supply limiting section which is installed between the power receiving section and the equipment, allows the power line communication signal to pass and limits the supply of the power to the equipment. With this structure, there is an effect that a power line communication (PLC) system for transmitting only information without supplying power, can be realized.

Specifically, the power supply limiting section such as a fixed resistance that blocks passage of currents of the power, is provided between the equipment and the power receiving section such as a power plug (or a terminal table) connected to the indoor power line, and the power line communication signal (PLC signal) is superimposed on a voltage of the power by the power line communicating section, the power passing through the power line between the power plug and the equipment. Thus, there is an effect that power outlets, being power supply terminals, output an alternating voltage and the PLC signal, although it does not output power because currents of the commercial power are not supplied, thus making it possible to realize the power line communication. Further, the first power supply apparatus includes the power supply limiting section such as a filter (for example, a high-pass filter) having large output impedance such as not extracting the power of a power feeder, and the power line communicating section that superimposes the power line communication signal having high frequency, on output of the power feeder. Thus, there is an effect that the power feeder capable of supplying only information through the power line without supplying power can be realized. Thus, there is an effect that an information terminal (for example a PLC information stand, hot spot), etc., can be constructed, to which information is provided through the power line communication in the cities without supplying power if so desired.

A second power supply apparatus further includes a signal bypass section in the power supply apparatus of the aforementioned invention, wherein the signal bypass section is connected between the power receiving section and the equipment in parallel to the power supply limiting section, so that currents of the power is limited and the power line communication signal is allowed to pass. With this structure, there is an effect that only power supply can be limited without attenuating the power line communication signal, and the power line communicating section can be freely provided in either side of the power receiving side and the equipment side of the power supply limiting section.

Specifically, for example, there is an effect that the power line communication signal in a high frequency band is passed while limiting power supply so that communication using the power line communication is enabled, by connecting the signal bypass section such as a capacitor having larger impedance relative to commercial frequency (50 Hz and 60 Hz) and lower impedance relative to frequency of 2 MHz or more used for the power line communication, in parallel to the power supply limiting section.

A third power supply apparatus further includes a power supply section in the aforementioned power supply apparatus of the invention, wherein the power supply section is connected between the power receiving section and the equipment in parallel to the power supply limiting section, and the power supply section further includes a power supplying section that selectively passes the power, and further includes a control section that controls passage of the power by the power supplying section. With this structure, there is an effect that the power supply limiting section can be invalid as needed.

Specifically, for example, the power supplying section such as a relay is provided in parallel to the power supply limiting section. Thus, there is an effect that if supply of the power is needed, a switch for controlling the relay is turned-on, to thereby make a power limiting function invalid so that power can be supplied.

A fourth power supply apparatus further includes a connecting section in the aforementioned power supply apparatus of the invention, wherein the connecting section is connected to the equipment and supplies power to the equipment. The fourth power supply apparatus further includes a voltage detecting section that transmits to the control section a control signal that allows the power to pass by the power supplying section if reduction of both end voltages of the connecting section is detected. With this structure, there is an effect that start of a load connection can be easily detected, and notification to a manager is possible by recognizing the load connection.

Specifically, there is an effect that if a load is connected to the connecting section by providing the power supply control section, the both end voltages of the connecting section is remarkably reduced. There is also an effect that the start of the connection of the load and a connection state can be easily detected by monitoring the both end voltages of the connecting section. Further, there is also an effect that by detecting the start of the connection to an electric vehicle, etc., being the load, signals are transmitted to the control section, to thereby operate the power supplying section so that power can be supplied to the electric vehicle.

A fifth power supply apparatus further includes a storage section that stores registered information of the equipment in the aforementioned power supply apparatus of the invention, wherein the power line communicating section performs power line communication with the second power line communicating section of the equipment, and performs authentication processing whether the equipment is registered in the registered information. The fifth power supply apparatus further includes an authenticating section that transmits to the control section a control signal that allows the power to pass by the power supplying section if identification information from the second power line communicating section corresponds to the registered information. With this structure, there is an effect that if power is supplied only to a specific authenticated load, namely, if a charging cable is connected to the output of the power feeder, the power line communication signal is superimposed on the output of the power feeder, and a specific load is authenticated by the power line communication through the charging cable, so that power can be supplied (charged) to the authenticated specific load by the power supplying section. Thus, there is an effect that power can be supplied only in an authenticated period, so that a power steal preventive measure can be executed and a service can be limited to a specified user.

Specifically, for example, if not only the information by the power line communication but also the supply of power from the connecting section (for example, a power supply terminal) is received, the power line communication is carried out between the first power line communicating section provided in the power supply apparatus and the second power line communicating section connected to the connecting section, and authentication processing is performed between the second power line communicating section and the registered information previously stored inside or outside the first power line communicating section, and if identification information from the second power line communicating section corresponds to the registered information, the power supply limiting section is set to be invalid. Thus, there is an effect that power can be supplied only to a previously registered power supply destination.

A sixth power supply apparatus further includes a voltage detecting section in the aforementioned power supply apparatus of the invention, wherein the voltage detecting section transmits the control signal to the control section if the reduction of the both end voltages of the connecting section is detected, and the control section further includes a timer section that allows the power to pass by the power supplying section for a prescribed time, if the control signal is received from the voltage detecting section. With this structure, there is an effect that power can be supplied in a period from start of connection up to establishment of the authentication, so that the power line communicating section can be operated.

Specifically, there is an effect that if the charging cable is connected to the output of the power feeder and the connection of the charging cable is detected by the reduction of an inter-terminal voltage, the power line communication signal is superimposed on the output of the power feeder having large impedance such as not extracting the power of the power feeder. Then, power is supplied from the cable connection for a prescribed time, and the power line communication is carried out in this prescribed time, so that power can be intermittently supplied to an authenticated output destination from the power feeder. Namely, if the load is connected to the power supply terminal, the voltage of the power supply terminal is reduced, and connection of the equipment is detected. If the connection of the equipment is detected, the timer provided inside the power supply apparatus is started, and the power supply limiting section is set to be invalid, so that power can be supplied from the power supply terminal. There is an effect that the power is supplied for a prescribed time set by the timer, and services of supplying power and information is possible for a specified user by supplying the power for the prescribed time. Also, there is an effect that the second power line communicating section connected to the power supply terminal can be started or authenticated, and if the authentication is completed by a registered user, a service of continuously supplying the power can be carried out.

A seventh power supply apparatus in the aforementioned power supply apparatus of the invention further includes the authenticating section that transmits the control signal to the control section, if the authentication processing is executed. With this structure, there is an effect that power supply to the second power line communicating section is stopped during authentication, so that failure of the authentication can be prevented.

Specifically, for example, if the load is connected to the power supply terminal, the voltage of the power supply terminal is reduced, and the connection of the equipment is detected. If the connection of the equipment is detected, the timer provided inside the power supply apparatus is started and operated so as to set the power supply limiting section to be invalid, and power supply can be carried out from the power supply terminal. The power supply is carried out for a prescribed time set by the timer, and during this prescribed time, start and authentication is carried out to the second power line communicating section connected to the power supply terminal. However, a power source is required during authentication for operating the PLC for authentication. Therefore, time is required for the authentication, and elapse of the prescribed time is inevitable. Then, the supply of the power is stopped, which causes generation of the failure of the authentication. Therefore, there is an effect that the failure of the authentication due to cutting of power in the middle of the authentication can be prevented by continuing the power supply during the authentication processing.

An eighth power supply apparatus further includes the authenticating section in the aforementioned power supply apparatus of the invention, wherein the authenticating section transmits the control signal to the control section, if the equipment is authenticated and registered. With this structure, there is an effect that the power supply is stopped in the middle of the authentication and registration processing, so that the failure in the authentication and registration processing can be prevented.

Specifically, for example, since the registration of the second power line communicating section before the authentication and registration processing is not completed, the power supply cannot be received, and a registration operation cannot be performed either, through a communication operation with the power line communicating section in the power supply apparatus. Therefore, there is an effect that the operation of the second power line communicating section on the power receiving side is enabled and the registration operation is also enabled, by operating the power supplying section and forcibly supplying power. Namely, there is an effect that by operating the power supplying section until the authentication and registration processing is ended, cut of the power linked to the second power line communicating section which is connected to the power supply terminal and receives power supply, can be prevented in the middle of the registration processing, and the failure of the authentication and registration processing can be prevented.

According to ninth and tenth power supply apparatuses in the aforementioned power supply apparatus of the invention, if the reduction of the both end voltages of the connecting section is detected, the voltage detecting section further transmits the control signal to the control section, and if the increase of the both end voltages of the connecting section is detected, transmission of the control signal to the control section is canceled, or transmission of the control signal to the control section after elapse of the prescribed time is canceled. With this structure, there is an effect that a power saving operation is enabled.

Specifically, for example, if the load is connected to the power supply terminal, the voltage of the power supply terminal is reduced, and therefore connection of the equipment is detected by the voltage detecting section. Thus, by starting the first power line communicating section connected to the power supply terminal by starting the supply of the power, communication with the second power line communicating section is started. Therefore, there is no necessity for always supplying power, and this is economical. Further, if the increase of the both end voltages of the power supply terminal is detected by the voltage detecting section, cut of a link to the second power line communicating section is recognized. Therefore there is no necessity for always supplying power, and this is economical.

Further, cut of the network between the first power line communicating section and the second power line communicating section may be directly detected, to end the power supply.

According to an eleventh power supply apparatus in the aforementioned power supply apparatus of the invention, the control section further includes a network terminal section that receives a control signal that allows the power to pass by the power supplying section from a network apparatus which is communicably connected to the control section via the network. With this structure, there is an effect that power supply to an outdoor apparatus which is permitted to be charged, can be controlled from indoor equipment via the network.

Specifically, for example, there is an effect that by providing the network terminal section in the power supply apparatus such as a power feeder, power feed-enabled/disabled information can be transmitted from the network apparatus that exists in the network, and the power supplying section in the power supply apparatus is controlled so that power can be supplied. Further, there is an effect that by controlling the power supplying section through the network based on registered information regarding external equipment that exists in the network, and control information including the control signal, power feed can be limited only to a specified user. Further, there is an effect that by transmitting the information to the power line communicating section in the power supply apparatus via the network, and further by transmitting the information to the second power line communicating section connected to an indoor connecting section, connection of an indoor network and an outdoor network is enabled via the power line communication.

According to a twelfth power supply apparatus in the aforementioned power supply apparatus of the invention, the control section further receives the control signal that allows the power to pass by the power supplying section from the third power line communicating section which is connected to the power receiving section and the control section via the power line. With this structure, there is an effect that network wiring for an exclusive line or indoor network for a special control is not necessary by using the power line.

Specifically, for example, by providing the third power line communicating section connected to the power receiving side of the power supplying section and the control section, communication between the first power line communicating section in the power supply apparatus and the indoor-installed third power line communicating section is enabled through the power line, and communication via a new communication line (for example, network such as LAN) is not necessary. Thus, there is an effect that an economical power feeding control system can be constructed.

A thirteenth power supply apparatus in the aforementioned power supply apparatus of the invention further includes a signal bypass section connected to the power supply limiting section between the power receiving section and the equipment, wherein the third power supply apparatus further includes a signal bypass section for passing the power line communication signal, and the power receiving section further receives the control signal that allows the power to pass by the power supplying section, the signal being transmitted from the fourth power line communicating section connected to the indoor power line. With this structure, there is an effect that the network wiring for the exclusive line and the indoor network for a special control is not necessary by using the indoor power line.

Specifically, for example, there is an effect that by installing the signal bypass section for bypassing the power supply limiting section, communication with the fourth power line communicating section is enabled, which is linked to a tip of an indoor power line communication network connected to the power receiving section. Further, there is an effect that power outlets are usually installed in one of the rooms in a house, and therefore there is no necessity for installing a new network even if the power supply apparatus and the fourth power line communicating section are moved in a house, and such apparatuses can be easily moved and set in a house.

According to a fourteenth power supply apparatus in the aforementioned power supply apparatus of the invention, the connecting section is provided in an exterior wall of a building. With this structure, there is an effect that the power can be supplied only to an authenticated load (an apparatus as an example), and use of the power during absence of a user, namely while being away (for example, stealing power), and an accident due to children-caused misuse like connection of the equipment to a power source, can be prevented.

Specifically, for example, a power outlet for supplying power is sometimes provided on the exterior wall of a residential building, etc., for indoor use or business use of electrically-powered equipment, etc., outside the house. Such a power outlet is usually left in a power supplied state. However, a third person can easily use this power at night or during absence, and therefore an owner suffers an economic loss, or the equipment or a power feeding facility is broken by connecting unintended equipment thereto, or protective equipment is operated in some cases. Therefore, there is an effect that by assembling the function of the present invention into the power outlet that can be connected to the outdoor equipment, then authenticating the equipment and supplying power only to the authenticated equipment, the power is not supplied even if unauthorized use (power stealing) occurs or untended equipment is connected in a time zone at night or during absence of an owner if the owner cannot manage. Therefore, the owner does not suffer economic loss and the accident can also be prevented from occurring.

According to a fifteenth power supply apparatus in the aforementioned power supply apparatus of the invention, the connecting section is installed in the information terminal apparatus. With this structure, there is an effect that the power line communication system (PLC information stand or hotspot as an example) that transmits only information without supplying power, can be realized.

Specifically, for example, there is an effect that if information is intended to be provided to a third person, and personal information of an individual who receives the information is included in the provided information, security issues generated in a wireless portion can be avoided. Further, there is an effect that although use of the electric vehicles is promoted from a viewpoint of preventing a global warming, if a power supply service is provided to the electric vehicles, communication with no leak of information among electronic vehicles, or no damage such as wiretapping is enabled by providing an information terminal apparatus equipped with a power feeding apparatus having the function of the present invention. Further, there is an effect that further safe information communication is enabled by installing the information terminal apparatus with the power supply apparatus having an authenticating function assembled therein.

According to a sixteenth power supply apparatus in the aforementioned power supply apparatus of the invention, the equipment is an electric vehicle. With this structure, there is an effect that whether a vehicle is a charge permission vehicle can be authenticated through the charging cable, making it possible to manage and control a charging amount and construct an integrated network of an in-vehicle network and an indoor network, so that data that exists in the in-vehicle network can be transferred to the indoor network.

Specifically, for example, the power line communication is carried out between the second power line communicating section having the authenticating function, which is mounted on the electric vehicle connected to the charging outlet and a connection line, and the power line communicating section having the authenticating function in the power supply apparatus. Then, authentication with respect to the previously stored registered information is carried out, and if identification information from the second power line communicating section corresponds to the registered information, electric charge is started by setting the power supply limiting section to be invalid. Thus, there is an effect that whether the vehicle is the charge permission vehicle is authenticated, and power can be supplied only to the previously registered power supply destination through the charging cable. Further, there is an effect that by assembling the power line communicating section into the power supply apparatus for charging the electric vehicles with battery mounted thereon, authentication is performed through the charging cable, and power for electric charge can be supplied in accordance with an authentication result, and therefore power supply to a third person who steals power can be prevented. Further, there is an effect that if power supply or information supply is performed during mooring of a camping car, etc., by assembling the authenticating section of the present invention into the power supply apparatus, power can be provided only to a vehicle which is permitted to enter into a parking lot, and information can be easily exchanged via the charging cable without installing a new network cable.

Description of Embodiments

Now, embodiments of the power supply apparatus according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments.

Particularly in the embodiments given hereinafter, an example of applying the present invention to power feeding, in which power is fed to electric vehicles, will be described. However, the present invention is not limited to this case, and can be similarly applied in all technical fields using equipment connected to the power line for charging.

An outline of the power supply apparatus will be described hereinafter and then a structure and processing of the power supply apparatus will be described in detail.

The power supply apparatus has the following basic characteristics. Namely, the power supply apparatus includes at least a power receiving section that receives power supply from an indoor power line; an outdoor connecting section that supplies power to outdoor external equipment; and a power supply limiting section that limits currents of a commercial power, installed between the power receiving section and the outdoor connecting section. Wherein, the “indoor power line” may be electric wiring for transmitting power to each part of a building via a distribution panel in the building from outdoor wire. Further, the power supply apparatus may further include a signal bypass section which is connected in parallel to the power supply limiting section between the power receiving section and the outdoor connecting section, and limits currents of a commercial power and allows a power line communication signal to pass. Further, the power supply apparatus may further include a power supplying section which is connected in parallel to the power supply limiting section between the power receiving section and the outdoor connecting section, and selectively allows power to pass. Further, the power supply apparatus may further include a voltage detecting section that transmits to a control section a control signal that allows the power to pass by the power supplying section, if reduction of both end voltages of the outdoor connecting section is detected. Further, the power supply apparatus may control passage of the power by the power supplying section. Further, the power supply apparatus may further include a storage section that stores registered information of external equipment, wherein power line communication is carried out with a second power line communicating section of the external equipment, and authentication processing of whether the external equipment is registered in the registered information is carried out, and if identification information from the second power line communicating section corresponds to the registered information, the control signal that allows the power to pass by the power supplying section may be transmitted to the control section. Wherein, the registered information may be MAC address, etc., of the external equipment. Further, the power supply apparatus may include a voltage detecting section that transmits the control signal to the control section if reduction of both end voltages of the outdoor connecting section is detected, and if the control signal is received from the voltage detecting section, the power may be controlled to pass by the power supplying section for a prescribed time. Further, the power supply apparatus may control the power line communicating section to transmit the control signal to the control section if an authentication processing is carried out. Further, the power supply apparatus may control the power line communicating section to transmit the control signal to the control section if the authentication processing of the external equipment is carried out. Further, if the reduction of the both end voltages of the outdoor connecting section is detected, the power supply apparatus may transmit the control signal to the control section, and if the increase of the both end voltages of the outdoor connecting section is detected, the power supply apparatus may cancel transmission of the control signal to the control section. Further, if the reduction of the both end voltages of the outdoor connecting section is detected, the power supply apparatus may transmit the control signal to the control section, and if the increase of the both end voltages of the outdoor connecting section is detected, the power supply apparatus may cancel the transmission of the control signal to the control section after elapse of a prescribed time. Further, the power supply apparatus may receive the control signal that allows the power to pass by the power supplying section from a network apparatus communicably connected to the control section via a network. Further, the power supply apparatus may receive the control signal that allows the power to pass by the power supplying section, from a third power line communicating section connected to the power receiving section and the control section via a power line. Further, the power supply apparatus may further include a signal bypass section which is connected in parallel to the power supply limiting section between the power receiving section and the outdoor connecting section, and limits currents of a commercial power and allows a power line communication signal to pass. The power supply apparatus may also receive the control signal by the power receiving section, being the control signal that allows the power to pass by the power supply section, also being the control signal transmitted from a fourth power line communicating section connected to the indoor power line. Further, the power supply apparatus may install the outdoor connecting section on an exterior wall of a building, and also may install it on an information terminal apparatus. Further, the power supply apparatus may supply power to the electric vehicles.

As described above, description of the outline of the present invention is ended.

Embodiments (embodiment 1 to embodiment 10) of the power supply apparatus will be described hereinafter, with reference toFIG. 1toFIG. 20. Note that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. In embodiments 1 to 10, the power line communication apparatus is called PLC modem or PLC adapter in some eases.

Note that inFIGS. 1 to 20, designation mark1indicates the power supply apparatus (power feeder), designation mark10indicates the power receiving section, designation mark11indicates the outdoor connecting section, designation mark12indicates the power supply limiting section, designation mark13indicates the bypass section, designation mark14indicates the power supplying section, designation mark15indicates the voltage detecting section, designation mark20indicates the power line communication apparatus (PLC) in the power supply apparatus, designation mark21indicates a communicating section of the power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, designation mark22indicates an authenticating section of the power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, designation mark23indicates a network terminal section of the power lien communication apparatus (PLC)20, designation mark30indicates the control section, designation mark31indicates a timer section of the control section30, designation mark32indicates the network terminal section of the control section30, and designation mark40indicates the storage section (server).

Further, designation mark50indicates a load (battery charger), designation mark60indicates the second power line communication apparatus (PLC) of the external equipment, designation mark61indicates the communicating section of the second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60, and designation mark62indicates the authenticating section of the second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60.

Further, designation mark70indicates the network apparatus communicably connected to the control section30via the network.

Further, designation mark80indicates the indoor power line communication apparatus (PLC) different from the power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, designation mark81indicates the communicating section of the power line communication apparatus (PLC)80, and designation mark82indicates the authenticating section of the power line communication apparatus (PLC)80.

A structure of this power supply apparatus1according to this embodiment will be described, with reference toFIG. 1.FIG. 1is a block diagram showing an example of the power supply apparatus1according to this embodiment, conceptually showing only a portion related to the present invention. The power supply apparatus1is constituted by connecting power receiving section10, connecting section (namely, outdoor connecting section11), power supply limiting section12, and power line communicating section20(namely, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20) including the communicating section21and the network terminal section23, via the power line.

InFIG. 1, power receiving section10receives power supply from the indoor power line (namely, indoor wiring). For example, power receiving section10may be an attachment plug.

Further, inFIG. 1, outdoor connecting section11is connected to the equipment (for example external equipment), and supplies power to the equipment. For example, outdoor connecting section11may be a plug connecting section for wiring (power outlet), etc.

Further, inFIG. 1, power supply limiting section12limits currents of the power (namely, commercial power), installed between power receiving section10and outdoor connecting section11. As shown inFIG. 1, power supply limiting section12is constituted of fixed resistance R101, etc., and may be a filter for cutting the currents of the commercial power.

Further, inFIG. 1, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20is constituted by including communicating section21. Wherein, power line communication apparatus

(PLC)20superimposes a power line communication signal on a voltage of the commercial power, and for example, may be PLC modem or PLC adapter, etc.

Further, in (structure1), explanation is given for an example of providing power supply limiting section12inside the power supply apparatus1. However, power supply limiting section12can be installed at an arbitrary position, provided that it is installed between power receiving section10and external equipment (for example, electric vehicle, etc.) Regarding this point, the same thing can be said for the embodiments given below.

Wherein, network terminal section23is a communication control section that receives/transmits a communication signal including information via the network (circuit). Wherein, communicating section21receives/transmits the power line communication signal via power line, etc.

FIG. 2is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by power supply apparatus1shown inFIG. 1. Note that PLC modem shown inFIG. 2means the aforementioned power line communication apparatus.

First, a user of an electric vehicle connects a plug of the electric vehicle to the outdoor outlet (outdoor connecting section11) that supplies power to the outdoor external equipment (step SA-1).

Then, the filter (power supply limiting section12) is installed between power receiving section10and outdoor connecting section11, and supplies the voltage of the commercial power having commercial frequency. However, power feeding to the electric vehicle is not performed by cutting the currents (namely, limitation) (step SA-2).

Then, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20superimposes the power line communication (PLC) signal on the voltage of the commercial power, and transmits the power line communication (PLC) signal to the electric vehicle side second power line communicating section (namely, power line communication apparatus (PLC)60) (step SA-3).

Thus, the second power line communication apparatus (PLC) can join in the network mounted on the electric vehicle, via power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, without supplying power (SA-4).

Embodiment 2 will be described next, with reference toFIG. 3andFIG. 4.

The structure of this power supply apparatus1according to this embodiment will be described, with reference toFIG. 3.FIG. 3is a block diagram showing an example of power supply apparatus1according to this embodiment. Power supply apparatus1is constituted by connecting power receiving section10, outdoor connecting section11, power supply limiting section12, signal bypass section13, and power line communication apparatus (PLC)20including communicating section21, via the power line.

Note that power receiving section10, outdoor connecting section11, power supply limiting section12, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, communicating section21and network terminal23, are similar to those of the embodiment 1, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

InFIG. 3, signal bypass section13is connected in parallel to power supply limiting section12between power receiving section10and outdoor connecting section11, and limits currents of the commercial power, and allows the power line communication signal to pass. As shown inFIG. 3, signal bypass section13is constituted of a capacitor, etc., and attenuates a low frequency band, and may be a high-pass filter (HPF) for passing power through a high frequency band, and may also be a band-pass filter (BPF) for passing power through a specific frequency band used for the power line communication.

By providing signal bypass section13, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20may be disposed at either side of power receiving section10of power supply limiting section12, and outdoor connecting section11. Thus, second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60mounted on the electric vehicle can join in the network, via power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, without supplying power.

FIG. 4is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by power supply apparatus1shown inFIG. 3. Note that the PLC modem shown inFIG. 4means the aforementioned power line communication apparatus.

Further, step SB-1, SB-3, and step SB-4shown inFIG. 4are same s step SA-1, step SA-3, and step SA-4shown inFIG. 2, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

Next, as shown inFIG. 4, capacitor (signal bypass section13) is connected in parallel to the filter (power supply limiting section12) between power receiving section10and outdoor connecting section11, and limits (namely, cuts) the currents of the commercial power, and bypasses the signals to outdoor connecting section11of the power line communication (PLC) signal which is superimposed on the voltage of the commercial power in step SB-2, to thereby pass the power line communication (PLC) signal (step SB-2).

By providing signal bypass section13, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20may be disposed at either side of the power receiving section10of the power supply limiting section12and outdoor connecting section11. Thus, the second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60mounted on the electric vehicle can join in the network, via the power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, without supplying power.

Embodiment 3 will be described next, with reference toFIG. 5andFIG. 6.

The structure of the power supply apparatus1according to this embodiment will be described, with reference toFIG. 5.FIG. 5is a block diagram showing an example of the power supply apparatus1according to this embodiment, and only a portion related the present invention with aforementioned structure is conceptually described. Power supply apparatus1includes power receiving section10, power supply limiting section12, power supply section14, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20provided with communicating section21, and control section30.

Note that power receiving section10, outdoor connecting section11, power supply limiting section12, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, communicating section21is similar to those of the embodiment 1, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

InFIG. 5, power supplying section14is connected in parallel to power supply limiting section12between power receiving section10and outdoor connecting section11, and selectively allows the power to pass. As shown inFIG. 5, power supplying section14may be a relay, etc., constituted of a coil and switch SW102, etc.

Further, inFIG. 5, control section30controls the passage of the power by power supplying section14. Wherein, control section30may have a control program such as OS (Operating System), being a program defining the processing of controlling the passage of the power by the power supplying section14, and an internal memory for storing required data, and control section30may perform information processing for executing the processing based on these programs. Further, as shown inFIG. 5, control section30may have a switch, and may control the passage of the power by the power supplying section14.

FIG. 6is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by power supply apparatus1shown inFIG. 5. Note that the PLC modem shown inFIG. 6means the aforementioned power line communication apparatus.

Further, step SC-1to step SC-4shown inFIG. 6is the same as step SA-1to step SA-4shown inFIG. 2, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

Further, as shown inFIG. 6, if power feeding is desired to be performed to the electric vehicle, the switch for permitting the power feeding is turned-on. if the switch is turned-on manually, control section30allows the power to pass from power receiving section10to outdoor connecting section11by power supplying section14(step SC-5).

Then, outdoor connecting section11transmits the PLC signal superimposed on the voltage of the commercial power by power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, to the electric vehicle side PLC modem, and also performs power feeding to the electric vehicle by transmitting the currents of the commercial power (step SC-6).

Embodiment 4 will be described next, with reference toFIG. 7andFIG. 8.

FIG. 7is a block diagram showing an example of the power supply apparatus1according to this embodiment. Power supply apparatus1is constituted of power receiving section10, outdoor connecting section11, power supply limiting section12, power supplying section14, voltage detecting section15, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20including voltage detecting section15and communicating section21, and control section30.

Note that power receiving section10, outdoor connecting section11, power supply limiting section12, power supplying section14, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, communicating section21, and control section30are similar to those of aforementioned embodiment 3, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

InFIG. 7, if the reduction of the both end voltages of outdoor connecting section11is detected, voltage detecting section15outputs a signal to power line communication apparatus (PLC)20and control section30m, showing that the load (equipment) is connected to outdoor connecting section11. Wherein, voltage detecting section15may be a voltage detecting section.

FIG. 8is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by power supply apparatus1shown inFIG. 7. Note that the PLC modem shown inFIG. 8means the aforementioned power line communication apparatus.

Further, step SD-1shown inFIG. 8is similar to that of step SA-1shown inFIG. 2, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

Next, inFIG. 8, if voltage detecting section15detects a variation (reduction) of the both end voltages of outdoor connecting section11, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20and control section30are notified of a detected signal by voltage detecting section15(step SD-2).

Although not shown inFIG. 8, external equipment is notified of the connection of the load (equipment) via the network, by power line communication apparatus (PLC)20that receives the control signal.

Then, control section30that receives the control signal, controls the passage of the power by the power supplying section14, and allows the power to pass by turning-on switch SW102of the power supplying section (step SD-3).

Step SD-4shown inFIG. 8is the same as step SC-6shown inFIG. 6, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

Embodiment 5 will be described next, with reference toFIG. 9andFIG. 10.

The structure of power supply apparatus1according to this embodiment will be described, with reference toFIG. 9.FIG. 9is a block diagram showing an example of the power supply apparatus1. Power supply apparatus1is constituted of power receiving section10, outdoor connecting section11, power supply limiting section12, power supplying section14, voltage detecting section15, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20including communicating section21and authenticating section22, control section30, and storage section (server)40.

Note that power receiving section10, outdoor connecting section11, power supply limiting section12, power supplying section14, voltage detecting section15, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, communicating section21, authenticating section22, and control section30are similar to those of aforementioned embodiment 4, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

InFIG. 9, authenticating section22performs power line communication with second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60of the external equipment (for example, electric vehicle) connected to the outdoor connecting section11, and applies authentication processing thereto to see whether identification information from the second power line communicating section corresponds to the registered information of the external equipment stored in power supply apparatus1or storage section (server)40, and, in case identification information from the second power line communicating section corresponds to the registered information, authenticating section22transmits to the control section30the control signal that allows the power to pass by power supplying section14.

Storage section (server)40stores the registered information of the external equipment. Wherein, each kind of database and table stored in storage section (server)40is stored in a storage section such as a fixed disc apparatus. For example, storage section (server)40may also store the registered information for identifying the external equipment including load (battery charger)50connected to outdoor connecting section11, and second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60including communicating section61and authenticating section62.

Further, storage section40may be storage cells arranged in power supply apparatus1or power line communication apparatus (PLC)20.

FIG. 10is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by power supply apparatus1shown inFIG. 9. Note that the PLC modern shown inFIG. 10means the aforementioned power line communication apparatus.

Further, step SE-1shown inFIG. 10is the same as step SA-1shown inFIG. 2, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

Next, as shown inFIG. 10, first power line communication apparatus (PLC)20performs power line communication with second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60of the electric vehicle, and transmits identification information (for example, MAC address) from second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60(step SE-2).

Then, authenticating section22of first power line communication apparatus (PLC)20that receives the identification information, confirms (namely, authenticates) whether or not the identification information is registered in the server (storage section40), and, if the identification information from second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60corresponds to the registered information, authenticating section22permits authentication (step SE-3).

Then, if authentication is permitted by step SE-3, first power line communication apparatus (PLC)20transmits to the control section30the control signal that allows the power to pass by power supplying section (power supply limitation invalidating section)14(step SE-4).

Step SE-5to step SE-6shown inFIG. 10are the same as step SD-3to step SD-4shown inFIG. 8, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

The structure of power supply apparatus1of this embodiment will be described with reference toFIG. 11.FIG. 11is a block diagram showing an example of power supply apparatus1. Power supply apparatus1is constituted of power receiving section10, outdoor connecting section11, power supply control section12, power supplying section14, voltage detecting section15, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20including communicating section21and authenticating section22, and control section30including timer section31.

Note that power receiving section10, outdoor connecting section11, power supply control section12, power supplying section14, voltage detecting section15, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, communicating section21, authenticating section22, and control section30are similar to those of aforementioned embodiment 4 and embodiment 5, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

InFIG. 11, control section30includes timer section31. Wherein, if the control signal is received from voltage detecting section15, timer section31allows the power to pass by power supplying section14for a prescribed time.

FIG. 12is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by power supply apparatus1shown inFIG. 11. Note that the PLC modem shown inFIG. 12means the aforementioned power line communication apparatus.

Further, SF-1shown inFIG. 12is the same as step SA-1shown inFIG. 2, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

Next, as shown inFIG. 12, if the reduction of the both end voltages of outdoor connecting section11is detected, voltage detecting section15transmits to control section30the control signal that allows the power to pass by power supplying section14(step SF-2).

Then, timer section31is operated by control section30that receives the control signal. Timer31allows passing of power by turning on switch SW102of the relay of power supply section14for a prescribed time (step SF-3).

Then, outdoor connecting section11transmits the PLC signal which is superimposed on the voltage of the commercial power by power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, to the electric vehicle side second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60, and also performs power feeding to the electric vehicle by transmitting the currents of the commercial power in a period while switch SW102is turned-on, namely for a prescribed time.

FIG. 13is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by power supply apparatus1shown inFIG. 11. Note that the PLC modem shown inFIG. 13means the aforementioned power line communication apparatus.

Next, as shown inFIG. 13, while switch SW102is turned-on, outdoor connecting section11performs power feeding to load (battery charger)50and second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60by supplying the currents of the commercial power thereto (step SG-4).

Then, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20performs power line communication with second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60, and authenticating section22performs authentication processing to second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60(step SG-5).

Then, while being authenticated (namely, if the authentication processing is executed), authenticating section22of power line communication apparatus (PLC)20continues to transmit to the control section30the control signal that allows the power to pass by power supplying section14(step SG-6).

Then, while being authenticated (namely, if the authentication processing is executed), control section30maintains switch SW102of the relay of the power supplying section14in the ON state (step SG-7).

FIG. 14is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by power supply apparatus1shown inFIG. 11. Note that the PLC modem shown inFIG. 14means the aforementioned power line communication apparatus.

Further, step SH-1shown inFIG. 14is the same as step SG-1shown inFIG. 13, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

Next, as shown inFIG. 14, the commercial power is not supplied to the load, which is not authenticated, even if it is connected to the outdoor connecting section (step SH-2).

An authentication/registration switch (not shown) is pressed for authentication (step SH-3).

If the authentication/registration switch is pressed, power line communication apparatuses (PLC)20,60start authentication processing, so that supply of the commercial power source is started (step SH-4).

While being authenticated (namely, if the authentication processing is executed), authenticating section22of first power line communication apparatus (PLC)20continues to transmit to control section30the control signal that allows the power to pass by power supplying section14(step SH-5).

Then, while being authenticated (namely, if the authentication processing is executed), control section30maintains switch SW102of power supplying section14in the ON state (step SH-6).

Then, the power line communication is carried out between first power line communication apparatus (PLC)20and second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60, and the authentication/registration processing is executed (step SH-7).

The structure of power supply apparatus1according to this embodiment will be described, with reference toFIG. 15.FIG. 15is a block diagram showing an example of power supply apparatus1. Power supply apparatus1is constituted of power receiving section10, outdoor connecting section11, power supply control section12, power supplying section14, voltage detecting section15for outputting a starting signal to power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20including communicating section21and authenticating section22, which is connected to voltage detecting section15and an operation of which is controlled by the starting signal, and control section30including timer section31.

Power line communication apparatus (PLC)20is configured to control operation or stop of a part or an entire part of the power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, by the starting signal outputted from voltage detecting section15.

Note that power receiving section10, outdoor connecting section11, power supply control section12, power supplying section14, voltage detecting section15, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, communicating section21, authenticating section22, control section30, timer section31are similar to those of aforementioned embodiment 6, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

FIG. 16is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by power supply apparatus1shown inFIG. 15. Note that the PLC modem shown inFIG. 16means the aforementioned power line communication apparatus.

First, the load (battery charger) is not connected to outdoor connecting section11, and if the load (battery charger) is not connected to outdoor connecting section11, there is a small drop of the voltage of the outdoor connection terminal in the power supply control section12, and the voltage detecting section detects an unconnected state of the toad (battery charger), and the starting signal is not outputted (step SI-1).

Then, since the starting signal is not outputted, the operation of power line communication apparatus (PLC)20is stopped, thus showing zero or an extremely small, value as power consumption. If the load (battery charger) is connected to outdoor connecting section11(step SI-2), and an output voltage of outdoor connecting section11is decreased, an equipment connection state is detected by voltage detecting section15, and the starting signal is outputted to power line communication apparatus (PLC)20by voltage detecting section15(step SI-3).

Then, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20starts the operation and performs communication with second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60mounted on the electric vehicle (step SI-4).

Then, first and second power line communication apparatuses (PLC)20,60carry out communication (step SI-5).

Then, second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60can join in the indoor network via power line communication apparatus (PLC)20(step SI-6).

Further, if the load is cut from the outdoor connecting section11, power supply section14is operated as follows.

First, if the load is cut and an output voltage of outdoor connecting section11is raised, a cut state of the equipment is detected by voltage detecting section15, and the starting signal is stopped by voltage detecting section15(step SI-7).

Then, if the starting signal is stopped, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20stops the operation, thereby showing zero or an extremely small value of the power consumption (step S1-8).

Further, a power source may be set in the OFF-state after the power source is maintained in the ON state for a prescribed time by the timer section31.

Thus, by providing voltage detecting section15and controlling power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, the power consumption during being unconnected to the electric vehicle (load, equipment) can be reduced, and an operation cost can be reduced.

Further, in processing9, explanation is given on the assumption that power supply apparatus1does not include power supplying section14. However, if power supply apparatus1includes power supplying section14, thereby permitting power supply, the output voltage of outdoor connecting section11is not decreased even if cutting the load (equipment) connected to outdoor connecting section11. Therefore, voltage detecting section15cannot detect the cut of the load (equipment), and power line communication apparatus (PLC)20continues to be operated. In this case, the cut of the network is detected by cutting the power line communication between power line communication apparatus (PLC)20and the second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60(step SI-9).

If the cut of the network is detected, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20stops its operation. At this time, the operation may be stopped after the operation state is maintained by the timer for a prescribed time (step SI-10).

Further, the operation of power line communication apparatus (PLC)20is described above, and the operation of power supplying section14can also be controlled similarly to the operation of the power line communication apparatus (PLC)20.

With this structure, economical power supply apparatus1with standby power reduced, can be constructed.

Embodiment 8 will be described next, with reference toFIG. 17andFIG. 18.

The structure of power supply apparatus1according to this embodiment will be described, with reference toFIG. 17.FIG. 17is a block diagram showing an example of power supply apparatus1. Power supply apparatus1is constituted of power receiving section10, outdoor connecting section11, power supply limiting section12, power supplying section14, voltage detecting section15, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20including communicating section21and authenticating section22, and control section30including timer section31communicably connected to network apparatus70via the network and network terminal section32.

Note that power receiving section10, outdoor connecting section11, power supply limiting section12, power supplying section14, voltage detecting section15, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, communicating section21, authenticating section22, control section30, and timer section31are similar to those of aforementioned embodiment 6, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

InFIG. 17, control section30further includes network terminal section32. Then, network terminal section32receives the registered information and the control signal used for the authentication processing performed by authenticating section22, from network apparatus (PC)70that stores at least registered information of the external equipment and control information including the control signal that allows the power to pass by power supplying section14.

FIG. 18is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by power supply apparatus1shown inFIG. 17. Note that the PLC modem shown inFIG. 18means the aforementioned power line communication apparatus.

Further, step SJ-1to step SJ-2shown inFIG. 18are the same as step SA-1to step SA-2shown inFIG. 2, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

If power feeding is performed to the electric vehicle by a user of network apparatus70which is communicably connected to control section30via the network, the control signal that allows the power to pass by power supplying section14is transmitted to control section30by network apparatus70, and if the control signal is received by network terminal section32, control section30allows the power to pass by turning-on switch SW102of power supplying section14(step SJ-3).

Step SJ-4shown inFIG. 18is the same as step SC-6shown inFIG. 6, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

Embodiment 9 will be described next, with reference toFIG. 19.

The structure of power supply apparatus1of this embodiment will be described, with reference toFIG. 19.FIG. 19is a block diagram showing an example of power supply apparatus1. Power supply apparatus1is constituted of power receiving section10, outdoor connecting section11, power supply limiting section12, power supplying section14, voltage detecting section15, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20including communicating section21and authenticating section22, and control section30including timer section31connected to power line communication apparatus (PLC)80via the power line.

Note that power receiving section10, outdoor connecting section11, power supply limiting section12, power supplying section14, voltage detecting section15, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, communicating section21, authenticating section22, control section30, and timer section31are similar to those of aforementioned embodiment 6, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

Power line communication apparatus (PLC)20performs communication with power line communication apparatus (PLC)80that exists on the indoor power line network, and operates power supplying section14based on authentication data or permission data possessed by power line communication apparatus (PLC)80or obtained via the power line communication apparatus (PLC)80, and outputs to control section30(timer section31) the control signal for supplying power to outdoor connecting section11.

Embodiment 10 will be described next, with reference toFIG. 20.

The structure of power supply apparatus1of this embodiment will be described, with reference toFIG. 20.FIG. 20is a block diagram showing an example of power supply apparatus1. Power supply apparatus1is constituted of power receiving section10, outdoor connecting section11, power supply limiting section12, signal bypass section13, power supplying section14, voltage detecting section15, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20including communicating section21and authenticating section22, and control section30including timer section31. Note that portions overlapped on the aforementioned explanation are omitted in the description of this structure.

Note that signal bypass section13is similar to that of aforementioned embodiment 2. Also, power receiving section10, outdoor connecting section11, power supply limiting section12, power supplying section14, voltage detecting section15, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20, communicating section21, authenticating section.22, control section30, and timer section31are similar to those of aforementioned embodiment 6, and therefore explanation thereof is omitted.

Subsequently, an example of applying the aforementioned power supply apparatus1will be described, with reference toFIG. 21toFIG. 23.

Residential Exterior Installed Power Supply Apparatus

FIG. 21shows an example of the structure of power supply apparatus1.

Power outlets for supplying power are sometimes provided on an exterior wall of a residential building, for using electric equipment outdoors, as a home-use or business-use. Such power outlets are usually left in a power supplied state. However, there is a problem that a third person can easily use this power at night or during absence, and therefore an owner suffers an economic loss or the equipment or a power feeding facility is broken by connecting unintended equipment thereto, or protective equipment is operated in some cases.

As shown inFIG. 21, in power supply apparatus1having power line communication apparatus (PLC)20assembled therein, outdoor connecting section11is installed as an exterior wall outlet, in a communicable state with an attachment plug of the outdoor electric equipment.

Thus, if the outdoor electric equipment is connected to power supply apparatus1provided in a residential exterior, a possessor of the power supply apparatus1can recognize (for example authenticate) the equipment, and power can be supplied only to the specific equipment, and further unauthorized use (for example, power stealing) by a third person can be prevented and an accident can also be prevented from occurring.

Information Terminal Apparatus

FIG. 22shows an example of the structure of power supply apparatus1.

If information is provided to many and unspecified third persons, and personal information of an individual who receives the information is included in the provided information, there is a possibility that security issues is generated in a wireless portion.

Further, if an ordinary power supply terminal is installed, there is a problem such as illegal use of information and illegal use of power like charging.

As shown inFIG. 22, power supply apparatus1having power line communication apparatus (PLC)20assembled therein, is installed as a connecting outlet of the information terminal (information terminal apparatus), and is set in a communicable state with the attachment plug of the charging cable of the electric vehicle.

Thus, if information is exchanged with the electric vehicle, the information can be exchanged with no leak and hardly suffering damage such as wiretapping.

Further, if power supply apparatus1of the present invention is installed, only the information can be provided to an unauthenticated vehicle (user), and the information or power can be easily provided to a registered or permitted vehicle (user).

Vehicle Charging Power Supply Apparatus

FIG. 23shows an example of the structure of power supply apparatus1.

Development of electric vehicles is promoted from a viewpoint of preventing a global warming, and an increase of an opportunity of providing a power supplying service to the electric vehicles is expected. However, there is a problem that vehicles permitted to be charged cannot be recognized through the charging cable, and accordingly power feeding thereto cannot be performed.

As shown inFIG. 23, power supply apparatus1having power line communication apparatus (PLC)20assembled therein, outdoor connecting section11is installed as the exterior wall outlet, in a communicable state with the attachment plug of the outdoor electric equipment. Thus, power line communication apparatus (PLC)20of power supply apparatus1can exchange information with second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60of the electric vehicle using the power line communication via the charging cable.

Thus, if the electric vehicle is charged, power supply apparatus1is capable of authenticating whether the vehicle is permitted to be charged through the charging cable, capable of managing and controlling a charging amount, capable of constructing an integrated network of an in-vehicle network and an indoor network, capable of transferring indoor network data into the vehicle, capable of transferring in-vehicle data to the indoor, and capable of easily supplying power only to an authenticated vehicle by transferring data between power supply apparatus1and second power line communication apparatus (PLC)60which is mounted on the vehicle.

Embodiments are described above. However, in addition to aforementioned embodiments, variously modified embodiments may be executed within a range of a technical concept not departing from the scope of the claims.

For example, a part or an entire part of the processing described in the embodiments on the assumption that it is automatically performed, can be manually performed, or a part or an entire part of the processing described in the embodiments on the assumption that it is manually performed can be automatically performed.

In addition, a processing procedure, a control procedure, a specific name, registered data of each processing or information including parameters such as retrieving conditions, and a structure of a database, can be arbitrarily changed, unless particularly specified otherwise.

Further, each constitutional element of the power supply apparatus1shown in the figure is shown based on a functional concept, and is not necessarily constituted physically as shown in the figure.

For example, a part or an entire part of a processing function of each apparatus of power supply apparatus1, and particularly each processing function performed by power line communication apparatus (PLC)20and control section30, may be realized by CPU (Central Processing Unit) and by a program interpreted and executed by the CPU.

Further, the “network” means a technique of connecting a plurality of computers by optical fibers, Ethernet (registered trademark), Wireless LAN, Home PNA, etc., and a system in which the plurality of computers are connected. The network includes LAN (Local Area Network), WAN, (Wide Area Network), MAN (Metropolitan Area Network), and. Internet work such as Internet and Intranet, etc.

Further, computer programs may be stored in an application program server connected to power supply apparatus1via an arbitrary network, and a part or an entire part of them can be downloaded as needed.

Further, programs of the present invention can also be stored in a computer readable storage medium. Wherein, the “storage media” include arbitrary “portable physical media” such as a flexible disc, an optical magnetic disc, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM, MO, and DVD, or “communication media” for holding programs in a short term like a communication line or a carrier wave in a case of transmitting the programs via a network represented by LAN, WAN, and Internet.

Further, “program” indicates a data processing method described by an arbitrary language or description method, irrespective of a format such as a source code or a binary code. Note that the “program” is not necessarily uniformly constructed, and there is also a distributed-type program as a plurality of modules or libraries, and a program capable of achieving its function in cooperation with another program represented by OS. Regarding a specific structure, a reading procedure, or an install procedure after reading, for reading a recording medium in each apparatus shown in the embodiments, a publicly-known structure or procedure can be used.

Further, each kind of data base stored in storage section (server)40, is a memory apparatus such as RAM, ROM, and a fixed disc apparatus such as a hard disc, and a storage section such as a flexible disc and an optical disc, and the database stores each kind of processing and each kind of program, table, and database used for providing website, and files for webpage, etc.

Further, a specific form of the distribution/integration of the apparatus is not limited to the form shown in the figure, and a part or an entire part thereof can be constructed in a distribution type or an integration type functionally or physically by an optional unit, in accordance with each kind of addition or a functional load.

Note that the power supply apparatus according to the present invention may be formed in such a manner as being accommodated in each vehicle body of the electric vehicles or electric motorcycles.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present invention provides a power supply apparatus capable of supplying power to a specific external apparatus together with a power line communication signal, by controlling supply of currents of a commercial power to external equipment. Therefore, the power supply apparatus of the present invention is useful in various industrial fields such as a power supply field, and particularly, is suitable for a power feeding apparatus that supplies power to electric vehicles.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST