Docking station, control method and commodity sales data processing apparatus

In one embodiment, a docking station on which a data processing terminal is to be mounted has a power source device and a processor. The power source device applies an operating voltage of the data processing terminal and a testing voltage lower than the operating voltage to a power feeding terminal which is in contact with a power source terminal of the data processing terminal. The processor, when having determined that the mounting mechanism is locked, controls the power source device, so that the testing voltage is applied to the power feeding terminal. Further, the processor, when having determined that the mounting mechanism is locked and having determined that the data processing terminal is mounted on the mounting mechanism, controls the power source device, so that the operating voltage is applied to the power feeding terminal.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority from the prior Japanese Patent Application No. 2015-024230, filed on Feb. 10, 2015, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

Embodiments described herein relate generally to a docking station, a commodity sales data processing apparatus including this docking station, and a control method of the docking station.

BACKGROUND

A docking station on which a portable data processing terminal is detachably mounted is known. A docking station of this kind, when a data processing terminal is mounted thereon, is provided with a power feeding function to feed an operating power of the relevant data processing terminal to the relevant data processing terminal, in many cases. The docking station provided with this power feeding function may feed power of such a high voltage as 19 V, for example, to the data processing terminal, in order to rapidly charge a battery incorporated in the data processing terminal.

In the above-described docking station, it is preferable that when the data processing terminal is demounted, application of a voltage for power feeding to a power feeding terminal which is in contact with a power source terminal at the data processing terminal side is stopped. The above-described conventional docking station has detected whether or not the data processing terminal is mounted using a mechanical switch, to control application of a voltage to the power feeding terminal.

However, in the mechanical switch, erroneous detection might be made by an object other than the data processing terminal. For this reason, in the above-described docking station, power might be fed to the power feeding terminal, in the state that the data processing terminal is not mounted.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

According to one embodiment, a portable data processing terminal is to be detachably mounted on a docking station. The docking station has a mounting mechanism, a lock mechanism, a power feeding terminal, a power source device, a first sensor, a second sensor, and a processor.

The mounting mechanism has a first movable member to operate in accordance with mounting of the data processing terminal and demounting of the data processing terminal, and the data processing terminal is to be mounted on the mounting mechanism.

The lock mechanism regulates movement of the first movable member, to lock the mounting mechanism.

The power feeding terminal, when the data processing terminal is mounted on the mounting mechanism, comes in contact with a power source terminal provided in the data processing terminal.

The power source device applies an operating voltage of the data processing terminal and a testing voltage lower than the operating voltage to the power feeding terminal.

The first sensor detects locking of the mounting mechanism by the lock mechanism.

The second sensor detects an electrical state of the power feeding terminal in a state that the testing voltage is applied thereto by the power source device.

The processor, when having determined that the mounting mechanism is locked based on a detection result of the first sensor, controls the power source device, so that the testing voltage is applied to the power feeding terminal.

Further, the processor, when having determined that the mounting mechanism is locked and further having determined that the data processing terminal is mounted on the mounting mechanism based on a detection result by the second sensor, controls the power source device, so that the operating voltage is applied to the power feeding terminal.

Hereinafter, further embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same symbols indicate the same or similar portions.

FIG. 1toFIG. 3are perspective views showing respective external appearances of a commodity sales data processing apparatus (hereinafter, abbreviated as “processing apparatus”)100according to the present embodiment.

The processing apparatus100includes a data processing terminal10and a docking station20.

The data processing terminal10and the docking station20are separate apparatuses to each other. The data processing terminal10is detachably mounted on the docking station20. The processing apparatus100can become in two states shown inFIG. 1andFIG. 2(orFIG. 3). The state of the processing apparatus100shown inFIG. 1is a state that the data processing terminal10is mounted on the docking station20. Specifically, the data processing terminal10is mounted on a mounting mechanism30S of the docking station20, as will be described later.

Hereinafter, the state of the docking station20or the mounting mechanism30S of the docking station20on which the data processing terminal10is mounted is called a mounting state.

The state of the processing apparatus100shown inFIG. 2(orFIG. 3) is a state that the data processing terminal10is demounted from the docking station20. Specifically, the data processing terminal10is demounted from the mounting mechanism30S of the docking station20, as will be described later.

Hereinafter, the state of the docking station20or the mounting mechanism30S of the docking station20from which the data processing terminal10has been demounted is called a separation state. In addition,FIG. 2andFIG. 3are perspective views showing external appearances of the processing apparatus100seen from different viewpoints, respectively.

The data processing terminal10is configured such that a personal computer of a tablet type (hereinafter, referred to as a tablet PC)11is covered with a jacket12.

The jacket12has an opening12a, to expose an operation surface of a touch panel11aof the tablet PC11outside via this opening12a.

A reader/writer13and a connector14aare provided on the jacket12. The connector14aelectrically connects the data processing terminal10to the docking station20.

The reader/writer13reads out data recorded in a data card. The reader/writer13writes data into a data card. The data card includes a settlement card such as a credit card, a debit card, an electronic money card, a prepaid card. Further, the data card includes various cards to record information relating to the settlement processing, such as a membership card or a point card. The reader/writer13may be any device of a magnetic type, a contact type, or a noncontact type, and may include these plural kinds of devices. In addition, the reader/writer13shown inFIG. 1andFIG. 2is a magnetic type device.

The docking station20has a main body21and a table22. The main body21is formed of a box type which can be installed in a stationary manner. The table22is fitted on an upper surface of the main body21.

The main body21houses a lot of electrical constituent elements described later. But, parts of the electrical constituent elements are provided on the table.

The table22includes a placing surface22aand a projecting portion22b.

The placing surface22acontacts the rear surface of the data processing terminal10in the above-described mounting state, to thereby hold the data processing terminal10in the posture shown inFIG. 1.

The projecting portion22bis provided along one side of the table22, in the state to project from the placing surface22a. The projecting portion22bsupports a connector20a, in the state to project toward the side of the placing surface22a. The projecting portion22bhouses a lock mechanism30R and the mounting mechanism30S.

FIG. 4is a perspective view showing the lock mechanism30R and the mounting mechanism30S.

The table22shown inFIG. 4is in the state that a part of the cover of the projecting portion22bis removed, so as to show the housing state of the lock mechanism30R and the mounting mechanism30S in the projecting portion22b.

FIG. 5is a plan view of the lock mechanism30R and the mounting mechanism30S.

The mounting mechanism30S has first movable members31, which act in accordance with mounting of the data processing terminal10and demounting of the data processing terminal10, and the data processing terminal10is mounted thereon. Further, the data processing terminal10includes a connecting plate33, a pressing plate38, a spring34, and a slide button35.

The lock mechanism30R regulates the movement of the first movable members (hooks31,32), to lock the mounting mechanism30S. The lock mechanism30R includes a cylinder lock36and a second movable member37.

The first movable members31,32are respectively the hooks31,32each of which can move between a first position and a second position.

The above-described first position is a position (a position shown inFIG. 5) where each of the hooks31,32engages with the data processing terminal10in the above-described mounting state, and also each of the hooks31,32stands by in the above-described separation state.

The above-described second position is a position separated from the first position to which each of the hooks31,32moves, when the state of the above-described mounting mechanism30S changes from the above-described mounting state to the above-described separation state, and changes from the above-described separation state to the above-described mounting state.

The hooks31,32have elongated flat plate shapes, for example, and have respective protrusions31a,32a, each of which protrudes toward a direction crossing the longitudinal direction thereof (a right direction inFIG. 5) at its tip. In each of the hooks31,32, the above-described tip projects from the projecting portion22btoward the placing surface22aside.

The hooks31,32are arranged in the same direction, and in parallel with each other. Each of the hooks31,32is movable between the above-described first position and the above-described second position, in the direction of the above-described arrangement (in the horizontal direction inFIG. 5).

The protrusions31a,32aof the hooks31,32enter into the inside of the jacket12from openings12b,12b(refer toFIG. 2andFIG. 5) provided in the jacket12, respectively, in the above-described mounting state. The protrusions31a,32aenter into the inside of the jacket12from the openings12b,12c, respectively, and thereby the hooks31,32engage with the data processing terminal10.

The connecting member33has an elongated flat plate shape. Hereinafter, the connecting member33is called a connecting plate33. The connecting plate33connects the hooks31,32, so that the hooks31,32are arranged in the same direction and in parallel with each other.

The connecting plate33is movable in accordance with the above-described movement of the hooks31,32.

The connecting plate33is supported by the projecting portion22bso as not to prevent the hooks31,32from moving in the direction of the arrangement.

The spring34is an elastic member.

The spring34energizes the hooks31,32and the connecting plate33in the direction of the protrusions31a,32a(right direction inFIG. 5), while making them movable in the direction (left direction inFIG. 5) opposite to the direction of the protrusions31a,32a.

That is, the spring34energizes the hooks31,32via the connecting plate33, so that the hooks31,32are positioned at the above-described first positions, while making them movable to the above-described second positions, respectively.

The slide button35is fixed to the connecting plate33via a shaft35a. The slide button35is positioned outside the projecting portion22b, so that it can be operated by an operator. The shaft35amoves along with the connecting plate33in the same direction as the arrangement direction of the hooks31,32. A through hole (not shown) which does not prevent the above-described movement of the shaft35ais formed in the projecting portion22b.

An operator operates the slide button35, and thereby can move the hooks31,32between the above-described first positions and the above-described second positions, respectively, via the connecting plate33.

The cylinder lock36can be unlocked and locked by a specific operation of an operator. Specifically, the cylinder lock36is a lock in which an inner cylinder (not shown) can be rotated only by a specific key. The inner cylinder of the cylinder lock36is rotated by a specific operation by an operator with a specific key, so as to unlock or lock the cylinder lock36. That is, the cylinder lock36can take selectively a first state that is a locked state, and a second state that is an unlocked state, by the rotation of the inner cylinder.

The second movable member37is a flat plate shaped member, for example. Hereinafter, the second movable member37is called a movable plate37.

The movable plate37reciprocates between a regulation position and a non-regulation position in the arrangement direction (horizontal direction inFIG. 5) of the hooks31,32, in accordance with the rotation of the inner cylinder of the cylinder lock36.

The regulation position is a position where the movable plate37regulates the movement of the hooks31,32, as will be described later.

The non-regulation position is a position where the movable plate37does not regulate the movement of the hooks31,32.

That is, the regulation position is a position where the lock mechanism30R regulates the movement of the hooks31,32, and the non-regulation position is a position where the lock mechanism30R does not regulate the movement of the hooks31,32.

The movable plate37is positioned at the regulation position shown inFIG. 5, when the cylinder lock36is in the first state.

The movable plate37moves from the regulation position shown inFIG. 5to the non-regulation position at the left side inFIG. 5, when the cylinder lock36is changed from the first state to the second state.

The pressing plate38has a flat plate shape, and is fixed to the end portion (left side end portion inFIG. 5) of the connecting plate33.

The movable plate37of the cylinder lock36is pressed to the pressing plate38at the regulation position shown inFIG. 5, when the cylinder lock36is in the above-described first state.

Accordingly, when the cylinder lock36is in the above-described first state, the lock mechanism30R unmovably fixes the hooks31,32to the above-described first positions, to regulate the movement of the hooks31,32.

That is, the lock mechanism30R regulates the movement of the hooks31,32, to lock the mounting mechanism30S.

In addition, when the cylinder lock36is in the above-described second state, the hooks31,32can move, but are normally positioned at the first positions by the energization by the spring34, respectively. When the cylinder spring36is in the second state, if the slide button35is slid in the left direction ofFIG. 5by an operator, the connecting plate33moves in the same direction. The hooks31,32move from the first positions to the second positions, respectively, in accordance with the movement of the connecting plate33.

Hereinafter, the state of the lock mechanism30R when the cylinder lock36is in the above-described first state is called a lock state.

On the other hand, the state of the lock mechanism30R when the cylinder lock36is in the above-described second state is called an unlock state.

That is, the lock mechanism30R becomes in the lock state to lock the mounting mechanism30S, and in the unlock state not to lock the mounting mechanism30S, by a specific operation by an operator.

In the lock state, the hooks31,32of the mounting mechanism30S are unmovably fixed at the first positions shown inFIG. 5, respectively, as described above.

In the unlock state, the hooks31,32are movable from the first positions shown inFIG. 5to the second positions in the left direction in the drawing, respectively.

In addition, in the above-described mounting state, the protrusions31a,32aof the hooks31,32are hooked in the openings12b,12cof the jacket12, to engage with the jacket12, respectively.

In the above-described mounting state, when the lock mechanism30R becomes in the lock state, the engagement state of the hooks31,32and the jacket12is fixed. In other words, the hooks31,32become unable to move from the first positions to the second positions, respectively, in the state that they engage with the jacket12.

That is, in the above-described mounting state, when the lock mechanism30R becomes in the lock state, an operator becomes unable to set the above-described mounting state to the above-described separation state.

In addition, in the above-described separation state, the protrusions31a,32aof the hooks31,32are not engaged with the jacket12, respectively.

In the separation state, when the lock mechanism30R becomes in the lock state, the hooks31,32becomes in the state that they cannot be engaged with the jacket12. In other words, in the same manner as described above, the hooks31,32become unable to move from the first positions to the second positions, respectively, in the state not to be engaged with the jacket12.

That is, in the above-described separation state, when the lock mechanism30R becomes in the lock state, an operator also becomes unable to set the above-described separation state to the above-described separation state.

On the other hand, in the unlock state, it is possible that the hooks31,32engage with the jacket12, and they are disengaged from the jacket12.

That is, when the lock mechanism30R becomes in the unlock state, an operator becomes able to set the above-described mounting state to the above-described separation state, and also set the above-described separation state to the above-described mounting state.

FIG. 6is a block diagram showing electrical constituent elements of the processing apparatus100. In addition, inFIG. 6, the same symbols inFIG. 1toFIG. 5are given to the same constituent elements as the constituent elements shown inFIG. 1toFIG. 5.

The data processing terminal10further has a hub14, in addition to the above-described tablet PC11and reader/writer13.

The hub14is connected to each of the tablet PC11and the reader/writer13. The hub14includes the above-described connector14a. In the above-described mounting state, the hub14is connected to the docking station20.

The tablet PC11has a processor11b, in addition to the touch panel11a. The processor11bis a CPU (central processing unit), for example. Further, the tablet PC11includes a ROM (read-only memory)11c, a RAM (random-access memory)11d, an auxiliary storage unit11e, a wireless LAN unit11f, a communication unit11g, a power source unit11h, a battery11i, and a transmission system11j.

The touch panel11aincludes a display device and a touch sensor. A display screen of the display device is an optional screen such as a GUI screen. The display device is a well-known device such as a color LCD, for example. The touch sensor is arranged to superpose on the display screen of the display device. The touch sensor detects a touch position by an operator to the display screen of the display device, and sends its position information to the processor11b. The touch sensor is a well-known device.

The processor11b, the ROM11c, the RAM11dand the auxiliary storage unit11eare connected by the transmission system11j, to compose a computer.

The processor11bfunctions as a central portion of the above-described computer. The processor11bcontrols the respective units, in order to realize various operations as the tablet PC11, based on an operating system, a middleware, and an application program which are stored in the ROM11cand the RAM11d.

The ROM11cfunctions as a main storage unit of the above-described computer. The ROM11cstores the above-described operating system. The ROM11cmay store the above-described middleware and application program. Further, the ROM11cmay store data to which the processor11brefers when performing various processings.

The RAM11dfunctions as a main storage unit of the above-described computer. The RAM11dstores data to which the processor11brefers when performing various processings. Further, the RAM11dis used as a so-called work area to store data which the processor11btemporarily uses when performing various processings.

The auxiliary storage unit11efunctions as an auxiliary storage unit of the above-described computer. The auxiliary storage unit11estores data which the processor11buses when performing various processings, or data which is to be generated by the processing in the processor11b. The auxiliary storage unit11emay store the above-described application program. As the auxiliary storage unit11e, an EEPROM (electric erasable programmable read-only memory) is typically used. As the auxiliary storage unit11e, an HDD (hard disk drive), an SSD (solid state drive), or the like may be used.

The application program stored in the ROM11cor the auxiliary storage unit11eincludes a program for making the processor11bexecute the data processing relating to commodity sales. Accordingly, the processor11bexecutes the relevant application program, and thereby the tablet PC11functions as a computer to perform the data processing relating to commodity sales.

The wireless LAN unit11fperforms data communication via a wireless LAN. As the wireless LAN unit11f, an existing communication device or the like based on the standard of IEEE 802.11 series is used, for example. The wireless LAN unit11fmainly performs wireless data communication with the docking station20.

The communication unit11gcommunicates with the reader/writer13and the docking station20which are connected thereto via the hub14. As the communication unit11g, a USB communication device is used, for example.

The power source unit11hoperates by the power fed from the docking station20via the hub14, in the above-described mounting state. The power source unit11hoperates by the power outputted from the battery11i, in the above-described separation state. The power source unit11hfeeds power to each of the electrical constituent elements included in the tablet PC11. The power source unit11hcharges the battery11i, in the above-described mounting state. The power source unit11hfeeds power to the reader/writer13, in the above-described separation state.

When power is fed from the power source unit11h, the battery11istores this power. When the power source unit11hbecomes a load, the battery11ifeeds the stored power to the power source unit11h.

The transmission system11itransmits data which is transmitted/received among the touch panel11a, the processor11b, the ROM11c, the RAM11d, the auxiliary storage unit11e, the wireless LAN unit11f, the communication unit11g, and the power source unit11h.

As the transmission system11j, a well-known one including various buses such as a system bus, and various interface circuits for connecting these buses and the respective units is used.

The docking station20has a processor20b, in addition to the connector20a. The processor20bis a CPU, for example. Further, the docking station20includes a ROM20c, a RAM20d, a printer20e, a communication unit20f, a wireless LAN unit20g, a wired LAN unit20h, a drawer interface20i, a transmission system20p, and connectors20r,20s.

Further, the docking station20has a power source device and a sensor.

The power source device includes a power source unit20jand a selector20m.

The sensor includes a first sensor20kand a second sensor20n.

The connector20ahas a power feeding terminal Ts.

The power feeding terminal Ts is in contact with a power source terminal Tp provided in the connector14aof the mounted data processing terminal10, in the above-described mounting state.

The processor20b, the ROM20cand the RAM20dare connected by the transmission system20p, to compose a computer.

The processor20bfunctions as a central portion of the above-described computer. The processor20bcontrols the respective units, in order to realize various operations as the docking station20, based on an operating system, a middleware, and an application program which are stored in the ROM20cand the RAM20d.

The ROM20cfunctions as a main storage unit of the above-described computer. The ROM20cstores the above-described operating system. The ROM20cmay store the above-described middleware and application program, for example. Further, the ROM20cmay store data to which the processor20brefers when performing various processings.

The application program to be stored in the ROM20cincludes a control program which is stated with respect to a control processing described later. Assignment of the docking station20is generally performed in the state that the control program is stored in the ROM20c. But, the docking station20may be assigned in the state that the control program is not stored in the ROM20c, and a control program which has been assigned separately may be written into an auxiliary storage unit to be separately provided. The control program may be assigned in the state to be recorded in a removable recording medium. As the removable recording medium, a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, a semiconductor memory, or the like is used. Further, the control program may be assigned by communication via a network. As the auxiliary storage unit, an EEPROM (electric erasable programmable read-only memory), an HDD (hard disk drive), an SSD (solid state drive), or the like is used, for example.

The RAM20dfunctions as a main storage unit of the above-described computer. The RAM20dstores data to which the processor20brefers when performing various processings. Further, the RAM20dis used as a so-called work area to store data which the processor20btemporarily uses when performing various processings.

The printer20eis a well-known device, such as a thermal printer or a dot impact printer, for example. The printer20emainly prints various character strings and images on a receipt sheet, to issue a receipt.

The communication unit20fcommunicates with the data processing terminal10which is connected thereto via the connector20aand an external device which is connected thereto via the connector20r. As the communication unit20f, a USB communication device is used, for example. A port for connecting the data processing terminal10is composed by the communication unit20fand the connector20a. In the above-described mounting state, the data processing terminal10is connected to this port.

The wireless LAN unit20gperforms data communication via a wireless LAN. As the wireless LAN unit20g, an existing communication device or the like based on the standard of IEEE 802.11 series is used, for example. The wireless LAN unit20gmainly performs wireless data communication with the data processing terminal10. The wireless LAN unit20gfunctions as a first communication unit.

The wired LAN unit20hperforms data communication via a wired LAN. As the wired LAN unit20h, an existing communication device or the like based on the standard of IEEE 802.3 series is used, for example. The wired LAN unit20hmainly performs wired data communication with a POS (point-of-sale) server not shown.

The drawer interface20imediates communication between the processor20band a drawer200which are connected via the connectors20s,201.

The power source unit20jof the above-described power source device receives feeding of power from a commercial power source and operates, and feeds power to each of the electrical constituent elements included in the docking station20. The power source unit20jhas two terminals for applying each of an operating voltage and a testing voltage to the power feeding terminal Ts of the connector20a. Each of these two terminals is connected to the selector20m. The operating voltage is a voltage capable of making the function of the data processing terminal10to be fully operated, and is 19 V, for example. The testing voltage is a voltage lower than the operating voltage. The testing voltage is preferably sufficiently smaller than the operating voltage, and is 5 V, for example. That is, the power source unit20jfunctions as first applying means for applying the operating voltage, and second applying means for applying the testing voltage.

The first sensor20kis arranged inside the projecting portion22, as shown inFIG. 5. The first sensor20kdetects locking of the mounting mechanism30S by the lock mechanism30R. For example, the first sensor20kdetects whether the lock mechanism30R is in any of the lock state and the unlock state, based on whether or not a portion to be detected37kof the movable plate37is positioned at its facing position. As the first sensor20k, a reflection type optical sensor is used, for example. Further, the first sensor20kfunctions as first detection means for detecting movement of the hooks31,32, based on whether or not the portion to be detected37kof the movable plate37is positioned at its facing position.

The selector20mof the above-described power source device selectively sets a state of voltage application to the power feeding terminal Ts of the connector20aby the power source unit20jto any of three states, under the control of the processor20b. One of the three states is a state to block the voltage application to the power feeding terminal Ts by the power source unit20j. One of the three states is a state to apply the testing voltage to the power feeding terminal Ts by the power source unit20j. A further one of the three states is a state to apply the operating voltage to the power feeding terminal Ts by the power source unit20j.

The second sensor20ndetects an electrical state at the power feeding terminal Ts of the connector20ain the state that the above-described testing voltage is applied thereto by the power source unit20jof the above-described power source device.

For example, the second sensor20nis a detection circuit to detect presence or absence of a current flowing in the power feeding terminal Ts, as the electrical state of the power feeding terminal Ts.

The transmission system20ptransmits data which is transmitted/received among the processor20b, the ROM20c, the RAM20d, the printer20e, the communication unit20f, the wireless LAN unit20g, the wired LAN unit20h, the drawer interface20i, the power source unit20j, the first sensor20k, the selector20m, and the second sensor20n. As the transmission system20p, a well-known device including various buses such as a system bus, and various interface circuits for connecting these buses and the respective units is used.

The connector20relectrically connects to a connector not shown which is fitted on a connection cable with an external device not shown.

The connector20selectrically connects to the connector201which is fitted on a connection cable with the drawer200.

In addition, the connectors14a,20a,20r,20s,201are schematically shown inFIG. 6, and actually they may have more terminals.

Next, an operation of the processing apparatus100configured as described above will be described.

When being in the above-described separation state, the data processing terminal10operates using the power stored in the battery11i. When being in the above-described mounting state, the data processing terminal10operates using the power fed from the power source unit20jof the power source device. In any of the separation state and the mounting state, the docking station20operates using the power which the power source unit20jreceives feeding of power from a commercial power source and outputs.

The data processing terminal10executes the application program in the tablet PC11, to perform data processing relating to commodity sales. The data processing relating to commodity sales is a processing which is performed in an existing POS terminal, cash register, or the like. The data processing terminal10can perform the above-described data processing, in any of the above-described mounting state and the above-described separation state.

In accordance with that power feeding is started from the power source unit20jof the above-described power source device, the processor20bstarts its operation, and when initial setting and so on are completed, the processor20bstarts a control processing in accordance with the control program stored in the ROM20c.

In addition, the content of the control processing described below is an example, and the control processing can be used appropriately in various processings in which the similar results can be obtained.

FIG. 7is a flow chart of a control processing by the processor20b.

As shown inFIG. 7, the processor20bsets “0” to a variable N, in Act1.

In Act2, the processor20bdetermines whether or not the lock mechanism30R is in the lock state, based on the detection result of the first sensor20k.

In other words, the processor20bdetermines whether or not the mounting mechanism30S is locked by the lock mechanism30R, based on the detection result of the first sensor20k.

When it is determined that the lock mechanism30R is in the lock state, that is the mounting mechanism30S is locked (Yes in Act3), the processing of the processor20bproceeds to Act3.

In Act3, the processor20bcontrols the above-described power source device, so that the testing voltage is applied to the power feeding terminal Ts.

That is, the processor20bcontrols the selector20mof the power source device, to start application of the testing voltage to the power feeding terminal Ts.

In Act4, the processor20bdetermines whether a state of the data processing terminal10and the docking station20is the above-described mounting state or not (is the above-described separation state?), based on the detection result of the second sensor20n.

That is, the processor20bdetermines whether or not the above-described data processing terminal10is mounted on the mounting mechanism30S.

At this time, the testing voltage which the power source unit20jof the above-described power source device outputs is applied to the power feeding terminal Ts of the connector20, via the selector20m(refer to the above-describe Act3).

For example, when since the state of the data processing terminal10and the docking station20is in the above-described separation state, the connector14ais not connected to the connector20a, the power feeding terminal Ts is in the open state, and current does not flow in the power feeding terminal Ts.

Accordingly, even in the state that the testing voltage is applied to the power feeding terminal Ts, the second sensor20ndoes not detect a current flowing in the power feeding terminal Ts, in the above-described separation state.

On the other hand, in the above-described mounting state, the connector14ais connected to the connector20a, and the power source terminal Tp is in contact with the power feeding terminal Ts, as shown inFIG. 6.

Accordingly, the testing voltage is applied to the power feeding terminal Ts, and thereby current flows in the power feeding terminal Ts. By this means, the second sensor20ndetects the above-described current.

That is, even in the state that the testing voltage is applied to the power feeding terminal Ts, the second sensor20ndoes not detect the current, in the above-described separation state, and the second sensor20ndetects the current, in the above-described mounting state.

Accordingly, in Act4, the processor20bdetermines whether or not the data processing terminal10is mounted on the mounting mechanism30S of the docking station20, based on the detection result of the above-described current by the second sensor20n.

That is, when the second sensor20ndetects the above-described current, the processor20bdetermines that the data processing terminal10is mounted on the mounting mechanism30S of the docking station20(mounting state).

When the second sensor20ndoes not detect the above-described current, the processor20bdetermines that the data processing terminal10is not mounted on the mounting mechanism30S of the docking station20(separation state).

When it is determined that the data processing terminal10is mounted on the mounting mechanism30S (Yes in Act4), the processing of the processor20bproceeds to Act5. In other words, the processor20bexecutes the control processing of Act4based on the control program, and thereby the computer which has the processor20bas its central portion functions as the first detection means.

In Act5, the processor20bcontrols the above-described power source device so that an operating voltage is applied to the power feeding terminal Ts of the connector20a.

That is, the processor20bcontrols the selector20mof the power source device, to start application of the operating voltage to the power feeding terminal Ts.

At this time, since the state of the data processing terminal10and the docking station20is in the above-described mounting state, the above-described operating voltage is fed to the data processing terminal10.

In Act6, the processor20bdetermines whether or not the lock mechanism30R is in the unlock state, based on the detection result of the first sensor20k.

In other words, the processor20bdetermines whether or not the mounting mechanism30S is not locked by the lock mechanism30R, based on the detection result of the first sensor20k.

Here, when the lock mechanism30R becomes in the lock state once, the lock state is maintained, unless the cylinder lock36is unlocked by a specific operation by an operator. In addition, in the above-described Act2, it has been determined already that the lock mechanism30R is in the lock state.

Accordingly, the processor20bdetermines that the lock state of the lock mechanism30R is detected (No in Act6), and repeats the processing of Act6.

That is, the processor20bwaits for the lock state of the lock mechanism30R to change to the unlock state, based on the detection result of the first sensor20k.

On the other hand, when the cylinder lock36is unlocked by the specific operation by the operator, the lock mechanism30R changes from the lock state to the unlock state.

When it is determined that the lock mechanism30R is in the unlock state, namely, the mounting mechanism30S is not locked (Yes in Act6), the processing of the processor20bproceeds to Act7.

In Act7, the processor20bcontrols the above-described power source device, so that the operating voltage is not applied to the power feeding terminal Ts of the connector20a.

That is, the processor20bcontrols the selector20mof the power source device, to stop application of the operating voltage to the power feeding terminal Ts.

In addition, when the lock mechanism30R becomes in the unlock state, the hooks31,32become in the state capable of getting out of the openings12b,12c. That is, an operator performs a slide operation of the slide button35, and thereby becomes able to demount the data processing terminal10from the docking station20.

When the data processing terminal10is demounted from the docking station20, and the data processing terminal10and the docking station20become in the above-described separation state, the power feeding terminal Ts of the connector14ais exposed outside.

But at this time, since the application of the above-described operating voltage to the power feeding terminal Ts of the connector20ais stopped, there is no danger even if an operator touches the power feeding terminal Ts.

That is, the processor20bexecutes this control processing based on the control program, and thereby the computer having the processor20bas its central portion functions as changing means for changing the voltage application state of the power feeding terminal Ts.

On the other hand, in the above-described Act4, when it is determined that the data processing terminal10is not mounted on the mounting mechanism30S of the docking station20(separation state) (No in Act4), the processing of the processor20bproceeds to ActB.

At this time, in spite that the state of the data processing terminal10and the docking station20is not in the above-described mounting state, the voltage comes to be applied to the power feeding terminal Ts which is exposed outside. But the voltage applied to the power feeding terminal Ts is the above-described testing voltage, and also is a voltage lower than the above-described operating voltage. For this reason, compared with the case that an operator touches the power feeding terminal Ts in the state that the operating voltage is still applied, a risk in the case that the operator touches the above-described power feeding terminal Ts is smaller. Particularly, in the present embodiment, since the testing voltage is of such a sufficiently low voltage value as 5 V, there is no danger even if an operator touches the power feeding terminal Ts. In addition, it is only necessary that the testing voltage has such a voltage value that a current generated in the power feeding terminal Ts in the above-described mounting state becomes large enough to be surely detected by the second sensor20n.

In ActB, the processor20bcontrols the above-described power source device, so that the testing voltage is not applied to the power feeding terminal Ts of the connector20a.

That is, the processor20bcontrols the selector20mof the power source device, to stop application of the testing voltage to the power feeding terminal Ts.

When the application of the testing voltage to the power feeding terminal Ts is stopped, the processing of the processor20bproceeds to Act9.

In Act9, the processor20bdetermines whether or not the lock mechanism30R is in the unlock state, based on the detection result of the first sensor20k.

In other words, the processor20bdetermines whether or not the mounting mechanism30S is not locked by the lock mechanism30R, based on the detection result of the first sensor20k.

On the other hand, in the above-described Act2, it has been determined already that the lock mechanism30R is in the lock state.

Accordingly, the processor20bdetermines that the lock state of the lock mechanism is detected (No in Act9), and repeats the processing of Act9.

That is, the processor20bwaits for the state of the lock mechanism30R to change to the unlock state, based on the detection result of the first sensor20k.

At this time, the data processing terminal10and the docking station20are in the above-described separation state, as determined in the above-described Act4.

In order to set the above-described separation state to the above-described mounting state, an operator firstly unlocks the cylinder lock36, to set the lock state of the lock mechanism30R to the unlock state.

At this time, the first sensor20kdetects the unlock state of the lock mechanism30R, in accordance to the position of the portion to be detected37kof the movable plate37.

The processor20bdetermines that the lock mechanism30R is in the unlock state, based on the detection result of the first sensor20k.

When unlocking the cylinder lock36as described above, the operator next places the data processing terminal10on the placing surface22aof the table22of the docking station20.

Further, the operator presses the surface where the openings12b,12cof the data processing terminal10are provided to the side of the projecting portion22bof the table22.

Then, the hooks31,32move from the above-described first positions to the above-described second positions, by the action of the tapers formed on the protrusions31a,32a, and then the protrusions31a,32aof the hooks31,32enter into the openings12b,12c, respectively.

The protrusions31a,32aenter into the openings12b,12c, and thereby the hooks31,32engage with the openings12b,12c, respectively.

When the protrusions31a,32aengage with the openings12b,12c, and also by the energization of the spring34, the hooks31,32return to the first positions (positions shown inFIG. 5), respectively.

When the hooks31,32are positioned at the first positions to engage with the openings12b,12c, respectively, the docking station20becomes in the above-described mounting state from the above-described separation state.

In addition, an operator performs a sliding operation of the slide button35, and thereby the above-described mounting state can be returned to the above-described separation state.

As described above, the hooks31,32function as movable members which move when the above-described separation state changes to the above-described mounting state, or the above-described mounting state changes to the above-described separation state.

When it is determined in Act6or Act9that the lock mechanism30R is in the unlock state (Yes in Act6or Act9), the processing of the processor20breturns to Act1. The processor20brepeats the processings of Act1and later in the same manner as described above.

At this time, when the lock mechanism30R returns to the lock state from the unlock state, the processor20brepeats the processings of Act3to Act9.

However, when the unlock state of the lock mechanism30R continues, it is determined in Act2that the lock mechanism30R is in the unlock state (No in Act2), and the processing of the processor20bproceeds to Act10.

In Act10, the processor20bincreases the value of the variable N by one.

In Act11, the processor20bdetermines whether or not the variable N is equal to a predetermined maximum value Nmax.

When it is determined that the variable N is not equal to the maximum value Nmax (No in Act11), the processing of the processor20bproceeds to Act12.

In Act12, the processor20bstands by for a predetermined time.

After the standby, the processing of the processor20breturns to Act2.

That is, when the lock mechanism30R is in the unlock state, the processor20brepeatedly determines at fixed time intervals whether or not the lock mechanism30R has become in the lock state.

Usually, a term in which the lock mechanism30R is maintained in the unlock state is short. Before the variable N becomes equal to Nmax, the cylinder lock36is locked by an operator, and thereby the lock mechanism30R becomes in the lock state.

Accordingly, in the usual state, the processor20bdetermines that the lock mechanism30R is in the lock state, in Act2(Yes in Act12).

However, when the unlock state continues, until the variable N becomes equal to the maximum value Nmax, the processor20bdetermines that the variable N is equal to the maximum value Nmax, in Act11.

When it is determined that the variable N is equal to the maximum value Nmax (Yes in Act11), the processing of the processor20bproceeds to Act13.

In addition, the maximum value Nmax and the standby time in Act12can be optionally determined by an operator or the like of the docking station20, for example.

In Act13, the processor20bdetermines that the lock mechanism30R is abnormal, and finishes the control processing shown inFIG. 7.

The processor20bexecutes the control processing of the above-described Act13, based on the control program, and thereby the computer having the processor20bas its central portion functions as determination means for determining that the lock mechanism30R is abnormal.

In the above-described Act13, the processor20bnotifies the tablet PC11of the data processing terminal10, for example, of the fact that the lock mechanism30R is abnormal.

In the data processing terminal10which has received this notification, the processor11bperforms an error display on the touch panel11a.

But the treatment after it is determined that the lock mechanism30R is abnormal may be optional.

For example, the docking station20may blink a power source lamp or an indicator lamp not shown.

Or, the docking station20may be provided with a display device or a pronunciation device not shown, and may perform an alarm operation using them.

Or, the docking station20may notify a management terminal not shown, of the above-described abnormality, via the wired LAN unit20h.

In addition, since the lock mechanism30R is in the unlock state, the operating voltage is never applied to the power feeding terminal Ts from the power source unit20jof the above-described power source device, via the selector20m.

For this reason, the processor11bof the tablet PC11might not recognize the connection with the docking station20.

Therefore, when the processor20bperforms the notification of the fact that the lock mechanism30R is abnormal to the tablet PC11, it is desirable that the processor20bperforms the above-described notification of abnormality, by wireless communication via the wireless LAN units20g,11f.

When a plurality of the data processing terminals10are present, the processor20bmay perform the above-described notification of abnormality to the data processing terminal10which is previously determined out of these.

As described above, according to the docking station20, whether or not to be in the mounting state is determined, based on change in the electrical states at the power feeding terminal Ts, in the mounting state and the separation state. Accordingly, the docking station20can properly determine the mounting status of the data processing terminal10.

Further, according to the docking station20, it is possible to properly control the power feeding to the data processing terminal10, under the proper determination like this.

Further, according to the docking station20, in order to confirm change in the electrical states at the power feeding terminal Ts, the testing voltage which is lower than the operating voltage for operating the data processing terminal10is used. Accordingly, the docking station20can determine the mounting state of the data processing terminal10, in a high safety state.

Further, according to the docking station20, the testing voltage is applied only when it is determined that the lock mechanism30R is in the lock state. Further, the operating voltage is applied to the power feeding terminal Ts, only when it is determined that the lock mechanism30R is in the lock state, and the data processing terminal10is mounted. Accordingly, the safety when the docking station20is in the separation state can be enhanced.

The embodiment as described above can be embodied in the following modification.

The data processing terminal10may be configured without using the tablet PC11. In addition, the data processing terminal10may be configured by only the tablet PC11.

It is only necessary that the docking station20has at least a function to feed power to the data processing terminal10, and what function the docking station20has as other functions is optional.