阅读说明：本技术 线缆和通知方法 (Cable and notification method ) 是由 池谷武纪 于 2020-02-04 设计创作，主要内容包括：为了提高线缆连接作业的效率,提出根据本发明的线缆,包括：第一连接器部分；第二连接器部分；传输线,该传输线一端连接到第一连接器部分,并且另一端连接到第二连接器部分；控制单元,用于检测第一连接器部分和第二连接器部分的连接状态；操作检测单元,用于检测第一连接器部分和第二连接器部分之中的一个连接器部分的操作；以及通信单元,用于响应操作检测单元的检测结果以与另一个连接器部分的连接状态对应的方式进行通信。本发明通过适当的通信,提高线缆连接作业的效率。(In order to improve the efficiency of the cable connection work, the cable according to the present invention is proposed to include: a first connector portion; a second connector portion; a transmission line having one end connected to the first connector portion and the other end connected to the second connector portion; a control unit for detecting a connection state of the first connector portion and the second connector portion; an operation detection unit for detecting an operation of one connector portion among the first connector portion and the second connector portion; and a communication unit for performing communication in a manner corresponding to the connection state of the other connector portion in response to a detection result of the operation detection unit. The invention improves the efficiency of cable connection operation through proper communication.)

1. A cable, comprising:

a first connector unit;

a second connector unit;

a transmission line having one end connected to the first connector unit and the other end connected to the second connector unit;

a control unit that detects a connection state of the first connector unit and the second connector unit;

an operation detection unit that detects an operation on any one of the first connector unit and the second connector unit; and

a notification unit that performs notification according to a connection state of another connector unit according to a detection result of the operation detection unit.

2. The cable of claim 1, wherein

The control unit includes: a first connection detecting unit that is provided in the first connector unit and detects a connection state of the first connector unit, an

A second connection detection unit that is provided in the second connector unit and detects a connection state of the second connector unit.

3. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the operation detection unit includes a first operation detection unit provided in the first connector unit and a second operation detection unit provided in the second connector unit.

4. The cable of claim 3, wherein

The first operation detection unit detects an operation on the first connector unit, and

the second operation detection unit detects an operation of the second connector unit.

5. The cable according to claim 4, wherein the notification unit performs notification according to a connection state of a connector unit provided with another operation detection unit in response to an event that any one of the first operation detection unit and the second operation detection unit has performed operation detection.

6. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the notification means includes a first notification means provided in the first connector means and a second notification means provided in the second connector means.

7. The cable of claim 6, wherein

The first connector unit is provided with a first operation detection unit,

the second connector unit is provided with a second operation detection unit,

the first notification unit performs notification according to a connection state of the second connector unit in response to an event that the first operation detection unit has performed operation detection, and

the second notification unit performs notification according to a connection state of the first connector unit in response to an event that the second operation detection unit has performed operation detection.

8. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the notification unit performs the notification according to the first mode in a case where both the first connector unit and the second connector unit are connected to the device, and performs the notification according to the second mode in a case where only one of the first connector unit and the second connector unit is connected to the device.

9. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the notification unit performs notification according to a communication speed in information communication performed via the transmission line in a case where both the first connector unit and the second connector unit are connected to a device.

10. The cable according to claim 1, wherein the notification unit performs notification according to a charge amount of a charging target device in a case where any one of the first connector unit and the second connector unit is connected to the charging device and the other connector unit is connected to the charging target device.

11. The cable according to claim 3, further comprising a first light receiving unit provided in the first connector unit, wherein the notification unit performs notification according to whether the first light receiving unit has received light having a specific wavelength in a case where the second connector unit is connected to a device and the first operation detection unit has detected an operation.

12. The cable of claim 11, wherein the particular wavelength is a wavelength corresponding to a type of connector.

13. The cable according to claim 12, further comprising a first sound output unit provided in the first connector unit, wherein the first sound output unit outputs a sound for guiding the first connector unit to a connection portion in a case where the second connector unit is connected to a device and the first operation detection unit has detected an operation.

14. The cable according to claim 12, further comprising a first sound output unit provided in the first connector unit, wherein the first sound output unit outputs a third sound in a case where the first connector unit is closer to the other connection portion than to a target connection portion.

15. The cable according to claim 12, further comprising a first sound output unit provided in the first connector unit, wherein the first sound output unit outputs a second sound with the first connector unit connected to a target connection portion.

16. The cable according to claim 11, wherein the notification unit performs notification in a case where the first connector unit is connected to a device and the first light receiving unit receives light.

17. The cable of claim 1, wherein

The notification unit is a notification light emitting unit, and

the notification is performed using light emission of the notification light emitting unit.

18. The cable of claim 1, wherein

The notification unit has a sound output unit, and

the notification is performed using the sound output generated by the sound output unit.

19. A notification method, in a cable comprising: a first connector unit; a second connector unit; a transmission line having one end connected to the first connector unit and the other end connected to the second connector unit; a control unit that detects a connection state of the first connector unit and the second connector unit; and an operation detection unit that detects an operation on any one of the first connector unit and the second connector unit,

the notification according to the connection state of the other connector unit is performed according to the detection result of the operation detection unit.

Technical Field

The present technology relates to the technical field of cables connected to devices and notification methods. In particular, it relates to a cable provided with a notification unit that gives a notification of a connection state of the cable.

Background

It is important to properly connect cables that connect devices to each other. For example, in the case where an operation of connecting specific devices to each other is performed in a state where a large number of devices are stacked in a rack, the number of cables also increases, and thus it becomes difficult to make a correct connection.

PTL 1 discloses a technique relating to a communication cable capable of identifying connectors of the same communication line.

[ list of references ]

[ patent document ]

[PTL 1]

JP 2014-126433A

Disclosure of Invention

[ problem ] to

However, with the above-described technique, the connector and the other connector paired therewith on the other end side of the same cable can be recognized, but the connection state of the connector on the other end side cannot be grasped (ascertain).

Therefore, an object of the present technology is to improve the efficiency of the connection work by giving a notification of the connection state of the connectors of the same cable.

[ problem solution ]

The cable according to the present technique includes: a first connector unit; a second connector unit; a transmission line having one end connected to the first connector unit and the other end connected to the second connector unit; a control unit that detects a connection state of the first connector unit and the second connector unit; an operation detection unit that detects an operation on any one of the first connector unit and the second connector unit; and a notification unit that performs notification of a connection state according to either one of the first connector unit or the second connector unit.

The connection state of the connector unit is, for example, a difference between the connector unit having been connected to a device (connection target device) as a connection target (connection determination) or not connected (non-connection determination). To give notification of the connection state, the cable according to the present technology processes information (connection information) for specifying the connection state. The information may be, for example, a detection signal or information obtained by a determination process. Information on the connection state of each connector unit transmitted and received between the connector units is also referred to as "connection information".

By providing the notification unit to give a notification of the connection state of the connector unit, the operator can correctly recognize the state of the cable.

For the operation detection unit, for example, a mechanical switch, a proximity sensor, a contact sensor, or the like is used. By providing the operation detection unit, the operation of the cable (or the connector unit) by the operator is detected.

The control unit in the above cable may include: a first connection detecting unit that is provided in the first connector unit and detects a connection state of the first connector unit, and a second connection detecting unit that is provided in the second connector unit and detects a connection state of the second connector unit.

By providing the first connection detecting unit that detects whether or not the first connector unit is connected to the apparatus, the connection state of the first connector unit can be correctly grasped. In addition, it is also possible to notify the connection state of the first connector unit to the second connector unit via the transmission line.

In the above cable, as the operation detection means, a first operation detection means provided in the first connector means and a second operation detection means provided in the second connector means may be provided.

That is, the operation detection unit is provided in each of the first connector unit and the second connector unit.

In the above cable, the first operation detecting unit may detect an operation on the first connector unit, and the second operation detecting unit may detect an operation on the second connector unit.

The operated connector unit may be detected by a corresponding operation detection unit provided in the corresponding connector unit.

In the above cable, the notification unit may perform notification according to a connection state of the connector unit provided with the other operation detection unit in response to an event that any one of the first operation detection unit and the second operation detection unit has performed the operation detection.

That is, in a case where the first operation detection unit performs operation detection in response to an event that the operator performs an operation on the first connector unit, notification of the connection state of the second connector unit is performed.

In the above cable, the notification means may include a first notification means provided in the first connector means and a second notification means provided in the second connector means.

That is, a notification unit is provided in each connector unit.

In the above cable, the first connector unit may be provided with a first operation detection unit, and the second connector unit may be provided with a second operation detection unit, the first notification unit may perform notification according to a connection state of the second connector unit in response to an event that the first operation detection unit has performed operation detection, and the second notification unit may perform notification according to a connection state of the first connector unit in response to an event that the second detection unit has performed operation detection.

That is, for an operator who is in a state of being able to operate the first connector unit, the connection state of the second connector unit on the other end side can be checked from the first notification unit provided in the first connector unit.

In the above-described cable, the notification unit may perform the notification according to the first mode in a case where both the first connector unit and the second connector unit are connected to the device, and perform the notification according to the second mode in a case where only one of the first connector unit and the second connector unit is connected to the device.

That is, the notification mode performed by the notification unit differs depending on whether both ends are connected.

In the above-described cable, the notification unit may perform the notification according to a communication speed in information communication performed via the transmission line in a case where both the first connector unit and the second connector unit are connected to the device.

That is, by connecting the connector units at both ends to the device, information other than the connection state is also notified in a state where information communication via the transmission line is possible.

In the above-described cable, the notification unit may perform the notification according to the charge amount of the charging target apparatus in a case where any one of the first connector unit and the second connector unit is connected to the charging apparatus and the other connector unit is connected to the charging target apparatus.

The charge amount indicates, for example, a proportion of a remaining battery amount of the charging target device. In a state where the charging target apparatus and the charging apparatus are correctly connected to each other, notification according to the amount of charge is performed to the operator.

The above-mentioned cable may include a first light receiving unit provided in the first connector unit, and the notification unit may perform notification according to whether the first light receiving unit has received light having a specific wavelength in a case where the second connector unit is connected to the device and the first operation detecting unit has detected the operation.

For example, in a device to which a cable is connected, when a light emitting unit that emits light having a specific wavelength is provided near a position where the cable should be connected, when an operator brings a first connector unit of the cable close to the device, the notification unit may perform notification in response to an event that light having a specific wavelength having a certain intensity or higher has been received.

In the above cable, the specific wavelength may be a wavelength corresponding to a type of the connector.

By changing the specific wavelength of each type of connector, it is possible to set a light emitting unit that emits light having a specific wavelength corresponding to each connection position of each type of connector.

The above-described cable may include a first sound output unit provided in the first connector unit, and the first sound output unit may output a sound for guiding the first connector unit to the connection portion in a case where the second connector unit is connected to the apparatus and the first operation detecting unit has detected the operation.

By making the specific wavelength of each type of connector different, the position of the connection cable can be specified. In addition, by providing the first voice output unit, voice guidance is performed even when a connection job of a cable is performed in a state where the vicinity is not visible.

The cable may include a first sound output unit provided in the first connector unit, and the first sound output unit may output the third sound in a case where the first connector unit is closer to the other connection portion than to the target connection portion.

That is, the first sound output unit notifies information as to whether the first connector unit is approaching the correct connection position.

The cable described above may include a first sound output unit provided in the first connector unit, and the first sound output unit may output the second sound with the first connector unit connected to the target connection portion.

Therefore, in the case where the first connector unit is connected to the apparatus, the information as to whether the connection is correct or not can be notified to the operator using the success sound.

In the above cable, the notification unit may perform the notification in a case where the first connector unit is connected to the device and the first light receiving unit receives the light.

Therefore, it is possible to prevent the notification from being performed indiscriminately before the first connector unit is connected to the apparatus.

In the above cable, the notification unit may be a notification light-emitting unit, and the notification may be performed using light emission of the notification light-emitting unit.

Therefore, the connection state of the connector is notified using light emission.

In the above-described cable, the notification unit may have a sound output unit, and the notification may be performed using a sound output generated by the sound output unit.

Therefore, the connection state of the connector is notified using sound.

The notification method of the present technology is a method in a cable including: a first connector unit; a second connector unit; a transmission line having one end connected to the first connector unit and the other end connected to the second connector unit; a control unit that detects a connection state of the first connector unit and the second connector unit; and an operation detection unit that detects an operation to any one of the first connector unit and the second connector unit, and performs notification according to a connection state of the other connector unit according to a detection result of the operation detection unit.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a cable and device in accordance with embodiments of the present technique.

Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the cable.

Fig. 3 is a block diagram of a cable.

Fig. 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation detection unit.

Fig. 5 is a diagram for explaining an example of the notification unit.

Fig. 6 is a diagram for explaining another example of the notification unit.

Fig. 7 is a perspective view for explaining the first notification mode.

Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram for explaining the first notification mode.

Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram for explaining the second notification mode.

Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining the third known mode.

Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram for explaining the fourth known mode.

Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram for explaining the fifth notification mode.

Fig. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of the illumination pattern.

Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram for explaining the sixth notification mode.

Fig. 15 is a block diagram of a cable in the fifth or sixth notification mode.

Fig. 16 is a flowchart for implementing the first to sixth notification modes.

Fig. 17 is a perspective view of a cable and device according to a second embodiment.

Fig. 18 is a block diagram of a cable according to the second embodiment.

Fig. 19 is a schematic diagram for explaining a notification mode in the second embodiment.

Fig. 20 is a block diagram of an apparatus according to the second embodiment.

Fig. 21 is a flowchart for implementing the seventh notification mode in the second embodiment.

Fig. 22 is a flowchart for implementing the eighth notification mode in the second embodiment.

Fig. 23 is a diagram schematically showing the overall configuration of the operating room system.

Fig. 24 is a diagram showing a display example of an operation screen on the collective operation panel.

Fig. 25 is a diagram showing an example of an operation state in which the operating room system is applied.

Fig. 26 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the camera head and Camera Control Unit (CCU) shown in fig. 24.

Detailed Description

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in the following order with reference to the accompanying drawings.

<1. configuration of cable and apparatus >

<2. example of Notification mode >

<2-1. first Notification mode >

<2-2 > second Notification mode >

<2-3 > third modes of knowledge

<2-4 > fourth best mode

<2-5 > fifth communication mode

<2-6 > sixth conventional mode

<3. flow charts in the first to sixth modes of Notification >

<4. second embodiment >

<4-1. seventh Notification mode >

<4-2. flow chart in seventh Notification mode >

<4-3. eighth Notification mode >

<4-4. flow chart in eighth Notification mode >

<5. modified example >

<6. summary >

<7. application example >

<8 > the present technology

<1. configuration of cable and apparatus >

Referring to fig. 1 and 2, the configurations of the cable 1 and the apparatus 100 and 101 to which the cable 1 of the present embodiment is connected will be described.

The cable 1 is a cable for forming a wired transmission path of signals or power between devices.

The cable 1 is, for example, an audio cable, a video cable, a communication cable such as a Local Area Network (LAN) cable or a Universal Serial Bus (USB) cable, a charging cable for charging a device, or the like. That is, the cable 1 may be provided with a transmission line for connecting two connector units provided at both ends thereof.

It is assumed that the device 100 and the device 101 are various devices such as an audio device, a video device, a communication device, and an information processing device (such as a personal computer).

As shown in fig. 2 and 3, the cable 1 includes a first connector unit C1, a second connector unit C2, and a cable unit 4. Also, although the first and second connector units C1 and C2 have the same shape in fig. 2, the shapes of the connectors may be different from each other.

Fig. 3 is a block diagram of the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2.

The first connector unit C1 includes a first operation detection unit 5 serving as an operation detection unit, a first notification unit 6, and a first control unit 7.

The second connector unit C2 includes a second operation detection unit 8 serving as an operation detection unit, a second notification unit 9, and a second control unit 10.

The cable unit 4 has one or more transmission lines 11 therein connecting the terminals of the first connector unit C1 and the terminals of the second connector unit C2.

At least one of the transmission lines 11 is used to transmit information from one device to another device and supply a driving voltage to the other device.

The first operation detecting unit 5 and the second operation detecting unit 8 detect an operation of the connector unit (the first connector unit C1 or the second connector unit C2) by an operator who performs a connecting job of the cable 1. As the first operation detection unit 5 and the second operation detection unit 8, for example, an operation switch using a mechanical switch, a contact sensor for detecting a touch of an operator (see fig. 4), a proximity sensor for detecting proximity of a hand or the like of an operator (see fig. 4), or the like can be employed.

Also, the cable 1 shown in fig. 2 shows an example in which the operation switches are provided as the first operation detecting unit 5 and the second operation detecting unit 8.

The first notification unit 6 and the second notification unit 9 are provided for notifying an operator of the connection state of the connector unit. The connection state is a difference between the connection of the connector unit to the device as the connection target (connection target device) (connection determination) or the non-connection (non-connection determination).

As the first notification unit 6 and the second notification unit 9, for example, a notification light-emitting unit that performs notification according to the connection state of the connector unit by emitting light, a sound output unit (see fig. 5) that performs notification according to the connection state of the connector unit by outputting sound, a vibration generation unit (see fig. 6) that vibrates the connector unit, or the like can be employed.

In addition, the cable 1 shown in fig. 2 shows an example in which the notification light-emitting unit is provided as the first notification unit 6 and the second notification unit 9.

The first control unit 7 performs a detection of whether the first connector unit C1 is connected to the device 100. That is, the connection state of the first connector unit C1 is detected. Information used for detection by the first control unit 7 is described as "connection information".

For example, in the first connector unit C1, in the case where there is a predetermined terminal whose terminal state (e.g., high potential (H), low potential (L), and high impedance) changes depending on the presence or absence of connection with the apparatus 100, the first control unit 7 monitors the terminal state of the predetermined terminal, thereby being able to detect whether the first connector unit C1 is connected to the apparatus 100. That is, detection of a signal indicating whether the first connector unit C1 and the device 100 are connected to each other is performed. In this case, information on the terminal state is used as the connection information.

Further, the first control unit 7 may be configured to detect a state in which the terminal portions of the first connector unit C1 are closed (i.e., a state in which the first connector unit C1 is connected to the apparatus 100) and a state in which the terminal portions are open (i.e., a state in which the first connector unit C1 is not connected to the apparatus 100) using an optical sensor.

In addition, the first control unit 7 may be configured to detect the connection state using a mechanical switch, the state of which changes depending on the presence or absence of connection with the apparatus 100.

Alternatively, by receiving a connection detection signal from the apparatus 100, the connection of the first connector unit C1 with the apparatus 100 may be detected.

These forms for detecting the connection state of the connector unit are merely examples. Various types of connection state detection are conceivable depending on the type of cable.

The second control unit 10 detects whether the second connector unit C2 is connected to the device 101. The second control unit 10 can detect whether the second connector unit C2 is connected to the device 101 using the same configuration as the first control unit 7.

The first control unit 7 and the second control unit 10 may always detect the connection state of the corresponding connector unit, or may detect the connection state with the detection of the operation in the operation detection unit as a trigger.

Signals and the like output from each section included in the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2 will be described.

The first operation detecting unit 5 outputs a detection signal to the first control unit 7 in response to an event that an operation has been detected. Similarly, the second operation detection unit 8 also outputs a detection signal to the second control unit 10 in response to an event that an operation has been detected.

Further, the first control unit 7 may notify the second control unit 10 of an event that an operation has been detected. Further, the second control unit 10 may notify the first control unit 7 of an event that an operation has been detected. In this case, the detection signal output by the first operation detecting unit 5 may be directly output to both the first control unit 7 and the second control unit 10. Similarly, the detection signal output by the second operation detection unit 8 may be directly output to both the first control unit 7 and the second control unit 10.

The first notification unit 6 and the second notification unit 9 perform notification in accordance with the connection information input from the first control unit 7 and the second control unit 10 in response to the signals (connection information) indicating the connection state input from the first control unit 7 and the second control unit 10. The first notification unit 6 and the second notification unit 9 may give notifications of connected or disconnected states.

Specifically, the first notification unit 6 gives a notification of whether or not the first connector unit C1 is connected (connected state) based on a signal output from the first control unit 7 in response to an event that the second operation detection unit has detected an operation. In this case, the first control unit 7 may receive a notification that the second operation detecting unit 8 has detected an operation from the second control unit 10 and give a notification of the detected connection state of the first connector unit C1, or may receive a notification from the second operation detecting unit 8 that has detected an operation without through the second control unit 10 and give a notification of the connection state of the first connector unit C1.

Alternatively, the first notification unit 6 gives a notification of the connection state of the second connector unit C2 based on a signal output from the first control unit 7 in response to an event that the first operation detection unit 5 has detected an operation. In this case, the first control unit 7 may receive information (connection information) on the connection state of the second connector unit C2 from the second control unit 10 and output a signal according to the information to the first notification unit 6, or may acquire information on the connection state of the second connector unit C2 without passing through the second control unit 10 and output a signal according to the information to the first notification unit 6. In addition, in this case, the second control unit 10 may transmit the connection information on the second connector unit C2 to the first control unit 7 by recognizing an event that the first operation detection unit 5 has detected an operation, or may transmit the connection information on the second connector unit C2 according to a request from the first control unit 7 without recognizing the operation detection of the first operation detection unit 5.

Similarly, the second notification unit 9 may also give a notification of the connection state of the first connector unit C1 based on a signal output from the second control unit 10 in response to an event that the first operation detection unit 5 has detected an operation, or may give a notification of the connection state of the first connector unit C1 based on a signal output from the second control unit 10 in response to an event that the second operation detection unit 8 has detected an operation. In this case, the second control unit 10 may receive connection information on the first connector unit C1 from the first control unit 7 and output a signal according to the information to the second notification unit 9, or may acquire connection information on the first connector unit C1 without passing through the first control unit 7 and output a signal according to the information to the second notification unit 9.

In addition, the first control unit 7 and the second control unit 10 are preferably configured such that the detection information is synchronized so that they share information (connection information) about the connection state with each other.

For example, in the case where the first control unit 7 and the second control unit 10 are microcomputers, the first control unit 7 and the second control unit 10 are configured to be able to recognize the connection state between the first connector unit C1 and the device 100 and between the second connector unit C2 and the device 101 through mutual communication. In addition, one microcomputer mounted on one connector unit may have functions of both the first control unit 7 and the second control unit 10.

Even when the first control unit 7 and the second control unit 10 are logic circuits or the like, it is desirable that each of them adopts a configuration of transmitting its own connection information to the other side.

The first control unit 7 receives, for example, a notification that the first operation detecting unit 5 or the second operation detecting unit 8 has detected the operation of the operator, and gives a notification instruction according to the connection state of the first connector unit C1 or the second connector unit C2 to the first notification unit 6. The notification instruction is given by outputting a signal corresponding to the connection state of the connector unit serving as the notification target. For example, the first control unit 7 may detect a high potential (H) in a state where the first connector unit C1 and the device 100 are connected to each other, detect a low potential (L) in a state where they are not connected to each other, and output a signal according to each H/L to the first notification unit 6. Thus, the notification mode for the first connector unit C1 in the first notification unit 6 is realized. The second connector unit C2 may have the same configuration.

There are several possible combinations of control units and notification units. For example, the notification mode may be realized by the first control unit 7 outputting a signal corresponding to the connection state of the connector unit serving as the notification target to the first notification unit 6.

Alternatively, the first control unit 7 may output a signal corresponding to the connection state of the connector unit serving as the notification target to the second notification unit 9 via the second control unit 10.

In addition, the first control unit 7 may directly output a signal to the second notification unit 9 without passing through the second control unit 10.

Similar variations can be considered for the case where the second control unit 10 outputs a signal to each notification unit.

Further, a configuration may be adopted in which a notification instruction is given by not outputting a signal. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which the first control unit 7 stops the notification operation of the first notification unit 6 by not outputting a signal to the first notification unit 6 in a case where the connector unit serving as the notification target is not connected, thereby notifying the operator that the connector unit serving as the notification target is not connected.

In a state where the first connector unit C1 is connected to the device 100, or in a state where the second connector unit C2 is connected to the device 101, it is conceivable to supply the operating voltage from the device 100 or the device 101 to the cable 1.

For example, the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2 are provided with a power supply voltage terminal and a ground terminal, respectively, and the cable unit 4 is provided with a power line wiring and a ground wiring (collectively referred to as a power supply voltage in fig. 3) that provide connections between the power supply voltage terminals and between the ground terminals of the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2.

Further, the device 100 or the device 101 supplies an operating power supply voltage between the power supply voltage terminal and the ground terminal. The operating power supply voltage is that of the first operation detecting unit 5, the first notification unit 6, and the first control unit 7 in the first connector unit C1, and is that of the second operation detecting unit 8, the second notification unit 9, and the second control unit 10 in the second connector unit C2.

With this configuration, the operation in the cable 1 described below can be performed in a state where at least one of the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2 is connected to the device 100 or the device 101.

Also, even when the operating power supply voltage is not supplied from the apparatus 100 or the apparatus 101, a battery may be disposed in the cable 1 so that the cable 1 may perform an operation described later. Further, even when a battery is disposed in the cable 1, the battery may be used to perform an operation described later with an operating power supply voltage supplied from the apparatus 100 or the apparatus 101. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a problem that the battery has been exhausted in a state where the operating power supply voltage is not supplied, so that the operation cannot be performed when necessary.

In the case where the cable 1 is provided with a battery, the first control unit 7 and the second control unit 10 can always detect the connection state of the corresponding connector units. In the case where the battery is not provided, the connection state may be detected with the detection of the operation in the operation detecting unit as a trigger. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a problem that the battery has been exhausted and thus cannot perform an operation when needed.

The first control unit 7 and the second control unit 10 may be configured by employing, for example, a microcomputer or the like, or may be configured by using a logic circuit. In addition, they may be configured as a driving circuit for driving the first notification unit 6 and the second notification unit 9 in accordance with the detection signal.

Although an example in which the first control unit 7 functions as a control unit that controls the overall operation of the first connector unit C1 has been described in the block diagram shown in fig. 3, other portions may have a function to function as a control unit, or a separate control unit may be provided. The same applies to the second connector unit C2.

Also, although the example has been described in which the first connector unit C1 is provided with the first operation detecting unit 5 and the first notification unit 6 and the second connector unit C2 is provided with the second operation detecting unit 8 and the second notification unit 9, the cable may be the cable 1 provided with only one of the first operation detecting unit 5 and the second operation detecting unit 8, or the cable 1 provided with only one of the first notification unit 6 and the second notification unit 9.

<2. example of Notification mode >

Examples of notification modes of the first notification unit 6 and the second notification unit 9 will be described. Specifically, various notifications are made depending on whether the first connector unit C1 or the second connector unit C2 is connected to the device 100 or the device 101. In addition, depending on the example, not only information about whether the connector unit is connected but also other information is notified.

Further, the cable 1 will be described assuming that any notification unit performs notification in a state where the first connector unit C1 is connected to the device 100 or in a state where the second connector unit C2 is connected to the device 101. That is, in a state where the first and second connector units C1 and C2 are not connected to any device, the operation voltage is not supplied to the notification unit and the notification operation cannot be performed.

Although an example will be described in which operation switches using mechanical switches are provided as the first operation detection unit 5 and the second operation detection unit 8, a contact sensor or a proximity sensor may also be used.

Also, although an example will be described in which notification light emitting units using light emitting elements are provided as the first notification unit 6 and the second notification unit 9, a sound output unit or a vibration generation unit may also be used.

Further, in each example, even if the same operation is performed while the first connector unit C1 has been exchanged with the second connector unit C2, the effects described in each notification mode can be obtained.

<2-1. first Notification mode >

The first notification mode is a notification mode in a case where the second operation detecting unit 8 detects the operation of the operator in a state where the first connector unit C1 is connected to the apparatus 100 and the second connector unit C2 is not connected to the apparatus 101.

In the first notification mode, as shown in fig. 7, the first notification unit 6 performs a light-emitting operation, thereby giving a notification of the position of the first connector unit C1 mated with the second connector unit C2. Therefore, in a case where both the second connector unit C2 and the first connector unit C1 are located within the visual line of the eye, the operator can recognize the first connector unit C1 at the side opposite to the second connector unit C2. In particular, in a situation where the cable unit 4 connecting the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2 is bundled with a large number of other cables or other situations, it may be difficult to confirm the paired connector units. In this case, the notification according to the first notification mode is effective.

In addition, fig. 8 is a diagram schematically illustrating the state illustrated in fig. 7. In the following description, schematic diagrams will be used as appropriate.

Further, by emitting light from the first notification unit 6 of the first connector unit C1, it is also possible to give a notification that the first connector unit C1 is in a state where it has been connected to the apparatus 100. In other words, in the case where the first connector unit C1 is not connected to the device 100 and is in a free state, that is, neither the first connector unit C1 nor the second connector unit C2 is connected to the device and is in a free state, the operating power is not supplied and the first notification unit 6 cannot perform the light emitting operation. Since the first notification unit 6 does not emit light, the operator can recognize the state where the first connector unit C1 is not connected.

In order to realize the first notification mode, the first notification unit 6 needs to recognize that the second operation detection unit 8 of the second connector unit C2 has been operated. For this reason, the first notification unit 6 of the first connector unit C1 is notified via the transmission line 11 that the second operation detection unit 8 has been operated.

The notification may be performed by the control unit included in the second connector unit C2, or may be considered to have been performed when the first notification unit 6 detects an analog value (voltage value or the like) that changes as the second operation detection unit 8 of the second connector unit C2 is pressed via the transmission line 11.

In the case where the first notification unit 6 directly detects an operation on the second operation detection unit 8, a notification mode may be presented in response to a change in the analog value. In addition, in the case where the first notification unit 6 directly detects an operation to the second operation detection unit 8 to perform notification, the first notification unit 6 needs to have acquired the connection information of the first connector unit C1. In this regard, for example, by continuously receiving a signal output based on the connection information on the first connector unit C1 from the first control unit 7, the first notification unit 6 can implement a notification mode based on the output signal and the operation detection of the second operation detection unit 8. Such a configuration may be realized by a digital circuit, a logic circuit, or the like, and also each part may not need to be controlled using a program or the like.

For example, the notification of the first notification unit 6 may be performed by the first notification unit 6 transmitting the detection signal of the second operation detection unit 8 to the first connector unit C1.

In addition, the detection signal of the second operation detecting unit 8 may be transmitted to the first notification unit 6 via the first control unit 7 of the first connector unit C1.

In addition, the detection signal of the second operation detection unit 8 may be transmitted to the first notification unit 6 via the second control unit 10 and the first control unit 7.

In addition, the detection signal of the second operation detection unit 8 may be transmitted to the first notification unit 6 via the second control unit 10.

Further, the notification operation performed by the first notification unit 6 may be realized by transmitting the detection signal of the second operation detection unit 8 to the first control unit 7 of the first connector unit C1, and transmitting a control signal from the first control unit 7 to the first notification unit 6.

Also, the notification operation may be implemented by transmitting a detection signal of the second operation detection 8 to the second control unit 10, and transmitting a control signal directly from the second control unit 10 to the first notification unit 6 or transmitting a control signal to the first notification unit 6 via the first control unit 7.

These notifications are the same in each of the examples described later.

<2-2 > second Notification mode >

The second notification mode is a notification mode in a case where the second operation detecting unit 8 detects the operation of the operator in a state where the first connector unit C1 is connected to the apparatus 100 and the second connector unit C2 is not connected to the apparatus 101. That is, the connection state of each connector unit is the same as that in the first notification mode.

In the second notification mode, as shown in fig. 9, the second notification unit 9 performs a light emitting operation in response to an operation by the operator, and notifies the connection state of the first connector unit C1.

The second notification mode is, for example, a valid notification mode in a state where the operator can visually recognize the current second connector unit C2 in the vicinity but cannot visually recognize the first connector unit C1 connected to the apparatus 100 located in a next room or the like, or other states.

Specifically, the second notification unit 9 performs notification in response to an event that the second operation detection unit 8 has detected an operation of the operator. In a state where the first connector unit C1 is connected to the device 100, the second notification unit 9 performs a light emitting operation, thereby performing a notification that the first connector unit C1 has been connected to the device.

On the other hand, in a state where the first connector unit C1 is not connected to the apparatus 100, even if the second operation detecting unit 8 has been operated, the second notification unit 9 does not perform the light emitting operation, whereby the operator can be notified of an event that the first connector unit C1 is not connected to the apparatus 100.

In addition, the first notification mode and the second notification mode may be performed simultaneously. Specifically, in a case where the second operation detecting unit 8 of the second connector unit C2 has detected the operation of the operator, both the first notification unit 6 and the second notification unit 9 perform the light emitting operation in a state where the first connector unit C1 has been connected to the apparatus 100.

In addition, in a case where the second operation detection unit 8 has detected the operation of the operator, both the first notification unit 6 and the second notification unit 9 do not perform (or cannot perform) the light emitting operation in a state where the first connector unit C1 is not connected to the apparatus 100. Therefore, a reliable notification can be performed regardless of whether the first connector unit C1 is visible to the operator.

Further, for the case where the vibration generation unit is used as the second notification unit 9, the second notification mode is superior to the first notification mode. That is, more reliable notification can be performed by vibrating the second connector unit C2 that is the operation target of the operator than by vibrating the first connector unit C1 that is not the operation target.

<2-3 > third modes of knowledge

The third notification mode is a notification mode in a case where the first operation detecting unit 5 has detected the operation of the operator in a state where the first connector unit C1 is connected to the apparatus 100 and the second connector unit C2 is not connected to the apparatus 101.

In the third notification mode, as shown in fig. 10, the second notification unit 9 performs a light-emitting operation in response to the operation detection of the first operation detection unit 5, and notifies the position of the second connector unit C2. In addition, an event that the second connector unit C2 is not connected to the device 101 may be notified using a light emission pattern or the like.

The third notification mode is applicable to, for example, a case where a plurality of cables is bundled and two paired connector units cannot be identified. That is, the operator who wants to grasp the state of the connector unit on the other end side operates one of the connector units (the first connector unit C1) existing in the vicinity, thereby confirming the light emitting operation performed by the second notification unit 9 of the connector unit on the other end side (the second connector unit C2) and designating the connector unit on the other end side.

In addition, the notification that the second connector unit C2 is not connected to the device 101 is performed using the light emission pattern, which is useful in the case where it is difficult to visually recognize whether the second connector unit C2 has been connected.

<2-4 > fourth best mode

The fourth notification mode is a notification mode in a case where the first operation detection unit 5 has detected the operation of the operator in a state where the first connector unit C1 is connected to the apparatus 100 and the second connector unit C2 is not connected to the apparatus 101, similarly to the third notification mode.

In the fourth notification mode, as shown in fig. 11, the first notification unit 6 performs a light-emitting operation in response to the operation detection by the first operation detection unit 5, thereby notifying the operator of the position and connection state of the second connector unit C2.

The fourth notification mode is suitable for the operator to grasp the connection state of the second connector unit C2 which is not visible, for example, in the case where the second connector unit C2 is present at a position where it cannot be visually recognized or in other cases.

Although both the third and fourth notification modes are notification modes in which the connection state of the second connector unit C2 is notified to the operator, the second connector unit C2 being located in the other end side of the first connector unit C1 in which the operation has been detected, the fourth notification mode is preferably used in a case where the vibration generation unit is used as the first notification unit 6 or the second notification unit 9. That is, since it is considered that the first connector unit C1 set as the operation target by the operator is located within the reach of the operator, it is appropriate to vibrate the first connector unit C1 to notify the operator.

<2-5 > fifth communication mode

The fifth notification mode is a notification mode in a case where the first operation detecting unit 5 has detected the operation of the operator in a state where the first connector unit C1 is connected to the apparatus 100 and the second connector unit C2 is connected to the apparatus 101.

In the fifth notification mode, as shown in fig. 12, the second notification unit 9 performs a light emitting operation in response to the operation detection by the first operation detection unit 5, thereby notifying the operator of the position and connection state of the second connector unit C2.

The fifth notification mode is applicable to, for example, a case where the cable unit 4 is bundled with other cables so that the second connector unit C2 paired with the first connector unit C1 cannot be confirmed.

In addition, in the fifth notification mode, the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2 are connected to the device 100 and the device 101, respectively. In this case, not only the notification that the second connector unit C2 is connected to the device 101 but also the notification of other information may be included.

For example, in the case where the cable 1 is a communication cable for performing information communication between the apparatus 100 and the apparatus 101, by presenting an illumination pattern corresponding to the communication speed between the apparatus 100 and the apparatus 101 performed via the cable 1 using the second notification unit 9, more information can be transmitted to the operator.

Specifically, this will be described with reference to fig. 13.

In the case where the first operation detecting unit 5 has detected the operation of the operator in the state where the first connector unit C1 is connected to the apparatus 100, when the second connector unit C2 is not connected to the apparatus 101 (i.e., the above-described third notification mode), as shown in fig. 13A, even after the operation is detected, the notification light-emitting unit serving as the second notification unit 9 does not emit light (turn off), thereby notifying the connection state of the second connector unit C2 (i.e., the fact that the second connector unit C2 is not connected).

In addition, in the case where the second connector unit C2 is connected to the device 101 and the speed of communication between the device 100 and the device 101 performed via the cable 1 is less than a predetermined speed, notification to the operator is performed in a light emission mode in which light is flashed with a long light emission period, as shown in fig. 13B.

On the other hand, in a case where the second connector unit is connected to the apparatus 101 and the speed of communication performed via the cable 1 is equal to or higher than a predetermined speed, notification to the operator is performed in a light emission mode in which light is flashed in a short light emission period. As shown in fig. 13C.

Information on the communication speed is transmitted from the device 100 or the device 101 to the first connector unit C1 or the second connector unit C2. Alternatively, at least one of the first and second connector units C1 and C2 may be provided with a measuring unit for measuring a communication speed.

In any case, this can be achieved by providing a communication speed detection unit capable of acquiring communication speed information in one of the connector units.

In addition, as shown in fig. 13B and 13C, which of the two light emission patterns (blinking patterns) is expressed may be determined according to two patterns depending on whether the speed is equal to or higher than a predetermined speed, or 10 types of illumination patterns may be determined according to a communication speed subdivided into 10 stages, or the like. In addition, by determining the illumination interval to be proportional (or inversely proportional) to the communication speed, a substantially stepless notification mode may be used.

In addition, the emission color may be changed according to the communication speed. For example, in the case where the speed is lower than the predetermined speed, the notification may be performed by illuminating the second notification unit 9 in red, and in the case where the speed is higher than the predetermined speed, the notification may be performed by illuminating the second notification unit 9 in green. In addition, the illumination color can be changed without a step according to the communication speed. According to this mode, since a slight change in communication speed can be grasped from the illumination color, it is possible to contribute to finding a problem or the like.

Even in the case of changing the illumination mode or changing the illumination color, the operator can grasp the communication speed between the devices only by operating the first connector unit C1, and therefore can easily find out that there is a problem in that the communication speed is unintentionally lowered, thereby achieving an improvement in convenience.

In addition, in the case where not only the operation is performed on the first connector unit C1 but also the operation is performed on the second connector unit C2, the second operation detecting unit 8 performs detection and the second notification unit 9 performs notification based on the communication speed, so that the communication speed can be grasped by operating the connector unit which is more easily operated among the two connector units provided at both ends of the cable unit 4, and thus it is possible to contribute to improvement of convenience and early discovery of problems.

As yet another example, the illumination pattern may be changed based on the relationship between the performance of the cable 1 and the communication speed.

Specifically, description will be made taking USB2.0 and USB3.0 as USB standards as examples.

USB2.0 is a standard with a theoretical maximum data transfer rate of 480 Mbps. Further, USB3.0 is a standard with a theoretical maximum data transfer rate of 5 Gbps.

In order to exert the transmission performance (communication speed performance) of USB3.0, the cable 1 as a USB cable needs to support the USB3.0 standard, and the USB port of the device 100 to which the cable 1 is connected needs to support the USB3.0 standard. That is, when neither the cable 1 nor the USB port of the device 100 supports the USB3.0 standard, the transfer performance of the USB3.0 cannot be exhibited.

In the case where the cable 1 supports the USB2.0 standard, even when the USB3.0 is supported by the USB port of the device 100 or the device 101, the second notification unit 9 has an illumination pattern with a long illumination interval as shown in fig. 13B. This informs the operator that only low-speed communication based on the USB2.0 standard is possible.

In addition, in the case where the USB port of either the device 100 or the device 101 does not support USB3.0, the second notification unit 9 employs the illumination pattern as shown in fig. 13B even if the cable 1 supports the USB3.0 standard.

On the other hand, in the case where the cable 1 supports the USB3.0 standard and the USB port of the device 100 or the device 101 supports the USB3.0, the second notification unit 9 employs an illumination pattern having a shorter illumination interval as shown in fig. 13C. This notifies the operator that high-speed communication based on the USB3.0 standard is possible.

Information as to whether each USB port of the device 100 or 101 supports the USB3.0 standard may be obtained from the device 100 or 101, or the illumination pattern may be configured to be changed according to the communication speed measured by the measurement unit provided in each connector unit.

In addition, the illumination pattern shown in fig. 13B and 13C may be configured to be presented only in a case where communication is actually performed between the device 100 and the device 101, or the illumination pattern shown in fig. 13B and 13C may be configured to be presented in a case where communication is not actually performed.

As an example of the latter, for example, when the first connector unit C1 of the cable 1 is connected to the USB port of the apparatus 100, the first connector unit C1 may acquire standard information on the USB port from the apparatus 100; when the second connector unit C2 is connected to the USB port of the device 101, the second connector unit C2 may acquire standard information about the USB port from the device 101; and the illumination pattern shown in fig. 13B and the illumination pattern shown in fig. 13C may be presented by the second notification unit 9 for a predetermined number of seconds after both ends of the cable 1 are connected to the USB ports.

Therefore, when both connector units are connected to the apparatus, the operator can receive notification as to whether a communication path capable of high-speed communication has been established, and thus can make a live judgment as to whether an intended connection can be made.

As another example of giving a notification of information other than the connection state of the second connector unit C2 using the illumination pattern of the second notification unit 9, a case where the device 101 is a charging device and the device 100 is a charging target device (such as a mobile phone) will be described.

In this case, it is conceivable to perform notification according to the charge amount (a value obtained by dividing the current charge amount by the maximum charge amount multiplied by 100).

For example, the apparatus 100 notifies the first connector unit C1 of information about the amount of charge. That is, the first connector unit C1 is provided with a charging state detection unit capable of acquiring the charging state of the device 100.

The first notification unit 6 of the first connector unit C1 causes the notification mode to be presented according to the level of the charged amount on the condition that the notification that the second connector unit C2 has detected the operation has been given and the state of charge detection unit has detected the state of charge.

Specifically, in the case where the charge amount of the apparatus 100 is less than a predetermined value (for example, 80%), the light emitting operation is performed according to the illumination pattern having the illumination interval as shown in fig. 13B. In addition, in the case where the amount of charge of the apparatus 100 is equal to or greater than the predetermined value, the light emitting operation is performed according to the illumination pattern having the illumination interval as shown in fig. 13C. Therefore, the operator can grasp the amount of charge of the apparatus 100 without operating the apparatus 100, which is very convenient.

In addition, in this example, the notification mode has two stages (a case of being smaller than a predetermined value or a case of being larger than a predetermined value), but the notification mode may be changed to have a more detailed stage. For example, by changing the notification pattern (illumination interval) in increments of 10%, the operator can grasp the amount of charge more accurately.

In addition, the amount of charge may be notified by changing the illumination color in addition to changing the illumination interval. Of course, the notification light-emitting unit provided in the first connector unit C1 may give a notification of the connection state of the first connector unit C1, and the sound output unit provided in the first connector unit C1 may give a notification of the amount of charge.

When the fifth notification mode is applied to a case where many charging target devices 100 are connected to the device 101 serving as the charging device, the second connector unit C2 on the device 101 side performs operation detection, and the first connector unit C1 performs a light-emitting operation, thereby performing notification according to the connection state and the amount of charge. That is, the operator can grasp to what extent which of the plurality of charging target apparatuses 100 connected is charged, so that when the charging of the apparatus 100 has been completed, the work efficiency when the second connection unit C2 is removed from the apparatus 101 can be improved. In addition, since the device 100 corresponding to the second connector unit C2 to be removed due to completion of charging can be easily identified, it is possible to prevent the connector unit connected to the other device from being accidentally removed.

In addition, in the case where the device 100 is a charging device and the device 101 is a charging target device, the notification operation of the first notification unit 6 connected to the first connector unit C1 of the charging device is performed by operating the second connector unit C2 connected to the charging target device. Therefore, by operating the second connector unit C2 connected to its own mobile phone or the like, the port on the device 100 side to which the mobile phone is connected is specified, and therefore the possibility of the connector unit being accidentally removed can be reduced. Namely, convenience is improved.

<2-6 > sixth conventional mode

The sixth notification mode is a notification mode in a case where the first operation detecting unit 5 has detected the operation of the operator in a state where the first connector unit C1 is connected to the apparatus 100 and the second connector unit C2 is connected to the apparatus 101, similarly to the fifth notification mode.

In the sixth notification mode, as shown in fig. 14, the operator is notified of the connection state of the second connector unit by performing a light emitting operation using the first notification unit 6 in response to the operation detection of the first operation detection unit 5. The sixth notification mode is suitable for the operator to grasp the connection state of the invisible second connector unit C2, for example, in a case where the second connector unit C2 is present at a position that cannot be visually recognized or in other cases.

In addition, as described in the fifth notification mode, by performing not only notification as to whether or not the second connector unit C2 is connected to the apparatus 101 but also notification according to the communication speed and the amount of charge of the apparatus, information can be provided to the operator.

According to the sixth notification mode, since the first notification unit 6 of the first connector unit C1 serving as the operation target performs the notification operation, even in a case where the position or the like of the apparatus 101 on the other side is unknown, information on the amount of charge and the connection state of the apparatus 101 can be grasped. Therefore, the work efficiency can be improved.

Fig. 15 shows a block diagram of the first and second connector units C1 and C2 for implementing the fifth and sixth communication modes.

The first connector unit C1 includes a communication speed detection unit 12 and a charging state detection unit 13 in addition to the first operation detection unit 5, the first notification unit 6, and the first control unit 7.

The second connector unit C2 includes a second operation detection unit 8, a second notification unit 9, and a second control unit 10.

The charging state detection unit 13 may be provided in both the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2.

Also, the communication speed detection unit 12 and the charging state detection unit 13 may be provided in the second connector unit C2. In addition, the communication speed detection unit 12 or the charging state detection unit 13 may not be provided. For example, in the case where the first notification unit 6 and the second notification unit 9 perform notification according to the connection state and the communication speed, the charging state detection unit 13 may not be provided. In addition, in the case where the first notification unit 6 and the second notification unit 9 perform notification according to the charging state of the charging target device, the communication speed detection unit 12 may not be provided.

Communication data between the devices is input to the communication speed detection unit 12. By detecting the communication data, the communication speed of information communication between the devices can be detected. Information on the communication speed can be obtained from each device.

The charging state detection unit 13 may acquire information on the charging state from the charging target device.

In addition, in the state shown in fig. 15, the device 100 to which the first connector unit C1 is connected is a charging target device (mobile phone or the like), and the device 101 to which the second connector unit C2 is connected is a charging device.

<3. flow charts in the first to sixth modes of Notification >

A flowchart for executing the first to sixth notification modes will be described with reference to fig. 16.

First, the connector unit (the first connector unit C1 or the second connector unit C2) determines in step S101 whether a connection between the device and the connector unit has been detected. In this determination process, for example, in the case where an event that the first connector unit C1 or the second connector unit C2 has been connected to the device 100 or the device 101 is detected, the process determines "yes" to continue. That is, in the case where the flowchart shown in fig. 16 is executed independently by the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2, in the case where an event that either connector unit has been connected to the device is detected, any connector unit determines "yes" in the determination processing of step S101.

The connector unit determines in step S102 whether an operation performed by the operator has been detected. This processing is, for example, branch processing depending on whether an operation on itself (connector unit) has been detected. That is, in the case where the operator has performed an operation on the first connector unit C1, the first connector unit C1 determines "yes" in the process of step S102, but the second connector unit C2 determines "no" in the process of step S102.

In the case where the determination processing in step S101 or step S102 determines no, the processing returns to step S101 again.

In addition, in the case where either of the processing of step S101 and step S102 determines "yes", the processing proceeds to the subsequent processing of step S103.

In step S103, the connector unit performs the branching process according to the connection states of the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2 at both ends of the cable 1. In addition, the first connector unit C1 may acquire not only the connection state of the first connector unit C1 but also information (connection information) about the connection state of the second connector unit C2.

In the case where it is determined in step S103 that only one of the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2 is connected (in other words, only one is unconnected), the connector unit performs notification corresponding to the connection state in step S104.

For example, according to the above-described first notification mode, the second connector unit C2 performs the process of step S104 in response to the event that the second operation detecting unit 8 of the second connector unit C2 has detected an operation. At this time, the notification of the first notification unit 6 of the first connector unit C1 is performed. In this process, for example, the second control unit 10 of the second connector unit C2 transmits a control signal (detection signal) based on the operation detection of the second operation detecting unit 8 to the first notification unit 6 of the first connector unit C1 via the transmission line 11 of the cable unit 4, thereby causing the notification operation to be performed.

In addition, according to the above-described second notification mode, the second notification unit 9 performs the process of step S104 in response to the event that the second operation detection unit 8 of the second connector unit C2 has detected an operation. In this case, the process of detecting the notification from the operation is completed inside the second connector unit C2.

According to the above-described third known mode, the first connector unit C1 performs the process of step S104 in response to the event that the first operation detecting unit 5 of the first connector unit C1 has detected an operation. At this time, the notification of the second notification unit 9 of the second connector unit C2 is performed. In this process, for example, the first control unit 7 of the first connector unit C1 transmits a control signal (detection signal) detected based on the operation of the first operation detecting unit 5 to the second notification unit 9 of the second connector unit C2 via the transmission line 11 of the cable unit 4, thereby causing the notification operation to be performed. In other words, the second notification unit 9 detects that the first operation detection unit 5 of the first connector unit C1 has detected an operation and performs a notification operation.

According to the fourth notification mode described above, the first notification unit 6 executes the process of step S104 in response to the event that the first operation detection unit 5 of the first connector unit C1 has detected an operation. In this case, the processing of detecting the notification from the operation is completed inside the first connector unit C1.

In the case where it is determined in step S103 that both the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2 are in the connected state, the connector unit performs notification corresponding to the connected state and the transfer rate in step S105.

For example, according to the above-described fifth notification mode, the first connector unit C1 performs the process of step S105 in response to the event that the first operation detecting unit 5 of the first connector unit C1 has detected an operation.

Specifically, the process is realized by the first control unit 7 of the first connector unit C1 transmitting a control signal based on the operation detection of the first operation detecting unit 5 to the second notification unit 9 of the second connector unit C2 via the transmission line 11 of the cable unit 4.

In addition, according to the above-described sixth notification mode, the first connector unit C1 performs the notification operation of the first notification unit 6 in response to the event that the first operation detection unit 5 of the first connector unit C1 has detected an operation, as the processing of step S105. In this case, the processing of detecting the notification from the operation is completed inside the first connector unit C1.

Also, although an example in which the notification corresponding to the connection state and the transfer rate is performed is described in the process of step S105 of fig. 16, a configuration may be adopted in which the notification is given in accordance with the connection state and the amount of charge as described above.

In addition, a configuration may be adopted in which only the notification corresponding to the connected state is performed without performing the notification corresponding to the transfer rate and the amount of charge in a state in which both connector units are connected. For example, in a case where the second connector unit C2 is not connected to the device 101 in a state where the first connector unit C1 is connected to the device 100, a notification mode that gives a notification of a state where only one connector unit is connected to the device may be presented in the process of step S104; and in the case where the second connector unit C2 is connected to the device 101, a notification mode that gives a notification of a state in which both connector units are connected to the device can be presented in the process of step S105. Therefore, it is possible to notify the operator whether or not the two connector units are in the connected state, so that improvement in work efficiency can be expected.

In addition, in this case, since a configuration in which notification of the transfer rate and the amount of charge is given is not required, the configuration of each connector unit can be simplified, which can contribute to reduction in manufacturing processes and costs.

Further, the connection detection determination process in step S101 may be performed after the process in step S102. Specifically, after the operation on the connector unit is detected, the connection detection determination process may be performed. For example, in the case where the cable 1 is provided with a battery, even if both ends are not connected, the cable 1 can perform a series of processing shown in fig. 16, and therefore a configuration may be employed in which connection information of each connector is acquired and notification according thereto is performed at the opportunity when an operation on the connector unit has been detected. In addition, in that case, in addition to the determination processing in step S103, the branching processing may be performed in a case where both ends are not connected, and in a case where both ends are not connected, the processing may be performed so that a notification mode of giving a notification of the fact is presented.

The same applies to other flowcharts described later.

<4. second embodiment >

A second embodiment different from the first embodiment described so far will be described with reference to the drawings.

The cable 1 of the second embodiment is characterized in that, in a state where one connector unit (the second connector unit C2 in this example) is connected to the device (the device 101 in this example) and the other connector unit (the first connector unit C1 in this example) is not connected to the device, the notification unit performs notification of guiding the other connector unit to a position to be connected in the device in a case where the operation detection unit of the other connector unit has detected an operation.

Fig. 17 shows an example of a usage pattern of the cable 1 according to the second embodiment. In addition, fig. 18 shows an example of a block diagram of the cable 1 according to the second embodiment.

The first connector unit C1 of the cable 1 is provided with a first operation detecting unit 5 employing a mechanical switch and a first notification unit 6 serving as a sound output unit.

In addition, the first connector unit C1 is provided with a first light receiving unit 14 that receives light and a first wireless transmitting unit 15 that performs wireless trigger transmission to the device.

Similarly, the second connector unit C2 is provided with a second operation detecting unit 8 employing a mechanical switch, a second notification unit 9 serving as a sound output unit, a second light receiving unit 16, and a second wireless transmitting unit 17.

The first connector unit C1 is provided with a first antenna 18, and the first wireless transmitting unit 15 transmits information using the first antenna 18 (see fig. 18). Similarly, the second connector unit C2 is provided with a second antenna 19, and the second wireless transmitting unit 17 transmits information using the second antenna 19 (see fig. 18).

In this example, since the notification for guiding the first connector unit C1 to the predetermined position is performed, the guiding mechanism will be described taking the first connector unit C1 as an example, but the same configuration is used in the case where the notification for guiding the second connector unit C2 to the predetermined position is performed.

The first notification unit 6 outputs a sound for guiding the first connector unit C1 to a predetermined position in response to the wavelength of the light received by the first light receiving unit 14. In addition, for this purpose, the first light receiving unit 14 may be configured to be able to receive only light having a specific wavelength.

For example, the first control unit 7 receives a notification that the first light receiving unit 14 has received light having a specific wavelength, and gives a notification instruction to the first notification unit 6.

Also, although an example in which the first control unit 7 functions as a control unit that controls the overall operation of the first connector unit C1 is shown in the block diagram shown in fig. 18, other portions may have a function as a control unit, or a separate control unit may be provided.

The first wireless transmission unit 15 transmits a trigger for instructing the apparatus 100 to emit light in response to an event that the first operation detection unit 5 has detected the operation of the operator (i.e., in response to an event that the operator has pressed a mechanical switch serving as the first operation detection unit 5).

For example, the first control unit 7 receives the detection result of the first operation detecting unit 5, and instructs the first wireless transmitting unit 15 to transmit a trigger.

The apparatus 100 to which the first connector unit C1 is connected will be described with reference to fig. 17 and 19. In addition, fig. 20 shows a block diagram of the apparatus 100.

The device 100 is provided with a first connection portion 102, a second connection portion 103, a third connection portion 104 and a fourth connection portion 105 connected to the connector unit. Further, a light emitting unit configured by a Light Emitting Diode (LED) or the like is disposed above each of the connection portions. Specifically, the first light emitting unit 106 is disposed above the first connection portion 102, the second light emitting unit 107 is disposed above the second connection portion 103, the third light emitting unit 108 is disposed above the third connection portion 104, and the fourth light emitting unit 109 is disposed above the fourth connection portion 105.

The wavelength (first wavelength) of light emitted from the first light emitting unit 106, the wavelength (second wavelength) of light emitted from the second light emitting unit 107, the wavelength (third wavelength) of light emitted from the third light emitting unit 108, and the wavelength (fourth wavelength) of light emitted from the fourth light emitting unit 109 are different from each other. For example, the first wavelength is a wavelength (e.g., 700nm) that becomes red light, the second wavelength is a wavelength (e.g., 470nm) that becomes blue light, the third wavelength is a wavelength (e.g., 530nm) that becomes green light, and the fourth wavelength is a wavelength (e.g., 580nm) that becomes yellow light.

In addition, the apparatus 100 is provided with a wireless receiving unit 110 that receives the trigger from the first wireless transmitting unit 15. Further, the apparatus 100 is provided with an antenna 111 for receiving information by the wireless receiving unit 110 (see fig. 20).

The apparatus 100 performs a light emitting operation of the first light emitting unit 106, the second light emitting unit 107, the third light emitting unit 108, and the fourth light emitting unit 109 in response to receiving a trigger from the first wireless transmission unit 15. Details of the light emitting operation will be described later.

By performing the light emitting operation in response to the reception of the trigger, light can be emitted at an appropriate timing and does not need to be emitted all the time, which can contribute to reduction in power consumption.

In addition, the light emission control of each light emitting unit may be performed by a control unit provided on the device 100 side. For example, the control unit of the apparatus 100 may receive a reception signal from the wireless reception unit 110, and may give a light emission instruction to an appropriate light emission unit according to the reception signal.

In addition, as shown in fig. 20, light emitting units may be provided in addition to the first light emitting unit 106, the second light emitting unit 107, the third light emitting unit 108, and the fourth light emitting unit 109. In that case, connection portions may be provided in addition to the first connection portion 102, the second connection portion 103, the third connection portion 104, and the fourth connection portion 105.

<4-1. seventh Notification mode >

The seventh notification mode is a notification mode in a case where the first operation detecting unit 5 has detected the operation of the operator in a state where the second connector unit C2 is connected to the device 101 while the first connector unit C1 is not connected to any device.

In the seventh notification mode, as shown in fig. 19, the operation of the first notification unit 6 notifies the operator of the correct connection position.

Specifically, in a case where the operator moves the first connector unit C1 from a position substantially opposite (oppsite) to the first connecting section 102 provided in the apparatus 100 to a position substantially opposite to the fourth connecting section 105, the notification sound is output at a specific position.

For example, in the case where the correct connection destination of the cable 1 is the first connecting portion 102 in this example, when the first connector unit C1 has been located at a position substantially opposite to the first connecting portion 102, the notification operation of the first notification unit 6 is performed.

Therefore, in the case where the connecting job of the first connector unit C1 is to be performed in a position and posture where the surface of the apparatus 100 provided with the connecting portion cannot be visually recognized, it is possible to fumble of connecting the first connector unit C1 to the first connecting portion 102 of the apparatus 100 by means of the notification sound, thereby achieving an improvement in job efficiency.

In addition, even in a case where the operator can visually recognize the surface of the apparatus 100 provided with the connection portion, notification based on the correct connection destination and the optimum connection destination is performed, so that it is possible to suppress occurrence of a work error and achieve improvement in work efficiency.

<4-2. flow chart in seventh Notification mode >

A flowchart for implementing the seventh notification mode will be described below with reference to fig. 21.

In addition, the same processes as those of the flowchart described with reference to fig. 16 will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

In addition, in the seventh notification mode of the second embodiment, a case where the notification of the first connector unit C1 is performed will be described as an example. That is, a case where the first connector unit C1 executes the flowchart shown in fig. 21 will be described.

By performing steps S101 and S102, the first connector unit C1 determines whether the first connector unit C1 or the second connector unit C2 is connected to the apparatus and whether an operation of the first connector unit C1 by an operator has been detected.

In the first connector unit C1, in a case where it is detected that the first connector unit C1 or the second connector unit C2 has been connected to the apparatus and the first operation detecting unit 5 of the first connector unit C1 has detected the operation of the operator, the process proceeds to step S103, otherwise the process returns to step S101.

In step S103, the first connector unit C1 executes determination processing according to the connection state of the connector unit. Specifically, it is determined whether both the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2 are connected to the device or only one connector unit is connected to the device.

In the case where both the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2 are connected to the apparatus 100 and the apparatus 101, the first connector unit C1 performs the process of step S105. That is, notification corresponding to the transfer rate is performed.

On the other hand, in the case where only one of the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2 is connected to the apparatus, the first connector unit C1 proceeds to the process of step S110.

In the case where the second connector unit C2 is connected to the device 101 and the first connector unit C1 is not connected to any device, the first connector unit C1 starts the light receiving operation of the first light receiving unit 14 in step S110.

In step S111, the first notification unit 6 of the first connector unit C1 outputs a first sound. The first sound is, for example, a sound output for giving a notification that the first connector unit C1 has been switched to a guidance mode in which a notification for guiding the first connector unit C1 to connect to the apparatus 100 is performed.

Next, the first wireless transmission unit 15 of the first connector unit C1 performs the trigger transmission using the first antenna 18. The transmitted trigger is received by the wireless receiving unit 110 using the antenna 111. Accordingly, the light emitting operations of the first light emitting unit 106, the second light emitting unit 107, the third light emitting unit 108, and the fourth light emitting unit 109 are started in the apparatus 100.

In addition, the reachable distance of the trigger transmitted from the first antenna 18 and the second antenna 19 may be a short distance. Therefore, in the case where the operator erroneously performs an operation in a state where the connector unit is located away from the apparatus 100 or the apparatus 101, the trigger does not reach the apparatus 100 or the apparatus 101, so that an unnecessary light emitting operation is not performed. That is, an increase in power consumption of the apparatus can be suppressed.

Subsequently, in step S113, the first connector unit C1 determines whether the first light receiving unit 14 has received light having a predetermined intensity or higher within a predetermined wavelength range (for example, light having a wavelength of 400nm or more and less than 800 nm).

In the case where the predetermined light is not received, the first connector unit C1 returns to the process of step S101. In addition, in the case where the process of step S102 is executed again after returning to step S101, if the operation of the operator is continuously detected, that is, if the mechanical switch serving as the first operation detecting unit 5 is continuously pressed by the operator, the respective processes of step S110, step S111, and step S112 may be omitted without being executed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the first sound from being repeatedly output and the trigger transmission for light emission from being performed.

In addition, if the predetermined light is not detected in step S113, the process of step S113 may be repeated until the predetermined light is received.

After detecting the predetermined light, the first connector unit C1 determines in step S114 whether the received light is light of a specific wavelength. The light of a specific wavelength is predetermined according to the standard of the cable 1 and the shape of the connector, and in the present example, it is assumed that the correct connection destination of the cable 1 is the first connection portion 102, which will be the process of determining whether the wavelength of the received light is 700nm (or its vicinity) in the process of step S114.

When the wavelength of the received light is the specific wavelength, the first notification unit 6 of the first connector unit C1 outputs the second sound in step S115. The second sound is a sound output when the connector unit is made to face the correct connection portion (the first connection portion 102), and is, for example, a success sound.

On the other hand, in the case where the wavelength of the received light is not a specific wavelength, for example, a wavelength of blue light, in step S116, the first notification unit 6 of the first connector unit C1 outputs a third sound. The third sound is a sound output in a case where the connector unit is made to face the wrong connecting portion (e.g., the second connecting portion 103), and is, for example, a failure sound or a warning sound.

In addition, the difference between the second sound and the third sound may be a difference in tone color, may be a difference in pitch, or may be a time length during sound output. In addition, it may be a difference in output interval between sounds. Alternatively, it may be a voice message that the operator can hear. In any case, it is sufficient that the operator can recognize that the second sound is different sound from the third sound.

After any of the processes of step S115 and step S116 have been performed, the first connector unit C1 performs the process of step S101 again.

Therefore, various sounds are output while the operator continues to press the mechanical switch serving as the first operation detection unit 5, and the connection work by the operator can be assisted.

In addition, the first wireless transmission unit 15 of the first connector unit C1 transmits the trigger using the first antenna 18 in step S112, but at this time, information for specifying the wavelength of light to be emitted, information for specifying the standard of the cable 1, or information for specifying the connector shape of the first connector unit C1 of the cable 1 may be transmitted to the apparatus 100.

Accordingly, the apparatus 100 may specify which standard the cable 1 has, or which shape the connector of the first connector unit C1 has, and may specify a connection portion (e.g., the first connection portion 102) corresponding to the first connector unit C1 of the cable 1.

Thus, since only the light emitting unit (first light emitting unit 106) corresponding to the designated connection portion (first connection portion 102) can emit light, it is possible to contribute to reduction of power consumption of the apparatus 100.

In addition, in that case, it is configured such that, in a case where the first connector unit C1 is moved in turn to face each connecting portion of the apparatus 100, a successful sound (second sound) is output when it is located at a position facing the correct connecting portion (first connecting portion 102), and no sound is output when it is located at a position facing any other connecting portion. Therefore, the operator can grasp the correct position of the connecting portion and can improve the working efficiency.

Further, in this case, since the apparatus 100 emits light only from the light emitting unit corresponding to the specific connection portion, the first light receiving unit 14 does not receive light from the light emitting unit corresponding to the wrong connection portion.

Thus, the first light-receiving unit 14 of the first connector unit C1 need not be configured to receive only a specific wavelength, and the first connector unit C1 may determine whether it has received a certain light in step S113. That is, each process in step S114 and step S116 becomes unnecessary.

In addition, according to this configuration, the apparatus 100 does not need to change the emission color for each connection portion, and can configure all the light emitting units to emit light having the same wavelength. That is, the light emitting components used in the light emitting unit can be unified, and it is possible to contribute to prevention of assembly errors and reduction in component costs.

<4-3. eighth Notification mode >

The eighth notification mode is a notification mode in a case where the first operation detecting unit 5 detects an operation of the operator when the first connector unit C1 is connected from the free state to the apparatus 100 in a state where the second connector unit C2 has been connected to the apparatus 101. Alternatively, it is a notification mode in a case where the first connector unit C1 is connected to the apparatus 100 in a state where the first operation detecting section 5 has detected the operation of the operator. In other words, it is the notification mode performed after the first connector unit C1 is connected to the device 100.

Therefore, for example, in the case where cables having the same connector shape are connected despite the different standards, it is possible to notify the operator whether or not an appropriate connecting work has been performed, and it is possible to improve the work efficiency and reduce work errors.

<4-4. flow chart in eighth Notification mode >

A flowchart for implementing the eighth notification mode will be described with reference to fig. 22.

By performing the processes of steps S101, S102, S103, and S105, in the case where both the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2 are connected to the device 100 and the device 101, the first connector unit C1 causes a notification mode according to the transfer rate to be presented. Of course, a notification mode according to the charge state may be presented, or a notification mode according to the connection state may be presented.

In the case where it is determined in step S103 that only one connector unit has been connected to the apparatus, the first connector unit C1 executes the process of step S110.

In this example, the first operation detecting unit 5 detects the operation of the operator in a state where the first connector unit C1 is free.

In this case, in the process of step S110, the light receiving operation of the first light receiving unit 14 provided in the first connector unit C1 is started.

Next, in step S111, the first connector unit C1 outputs the first sound using the first notification unit 6, and in step S112, the trigger transmission is performed using the first wireless transmission unit 15 and the first antenna 18.

Next, in step S113A, the first connector unit C1 performs branching processing based on whether the first connector unit C1 has detected connection with the apparatus 100 and whether the first light-receiving unit 14 has detected reception of light.

In the case where the first connector unit C1 has not detected connection with the apparatus 100 or the first light-receiving unit 14 has not detected reception of light, the first connector unit C1 returns to the processing of step S101. In addition, in the case where the first operation detecting unit 5 continues to detect the operation of the operator until the processing returns to the processing of step S101, and then the processing of step S110 or step S111 or the processing of step S112 is executed, the processing of step S113A may be continued without executing the processing of step S110, step S111, and step S112.

In addition, in the case where the determination in step S113A is "no", the process of step S113A may be repeated as long as the first operation detecting unit 5 continues to detect the operation of the operator.

In the case where the first connector unit C1 has been connected to the apparatus 100 and the first light receiving unit 14 has detected the reception of light, the first connector unit C1 determines whether the light received by the first light receiving unit 14 has a specific wavelength in step S114, and if it is, performs the process of step S115, and if it is not, performs the process of step S116.

According to the eighth notification mode, in a case where the first connector unit C1 has been connected to the connection section of the apparatus 100, a notification sound (second sound or third sound) is output for giving a notification of whether the connection section is appropriate.

Even in such a notification mode, it is possible to notify the operator whether or not an appropriate connection job has been performed, and it is possible to improve the job efficiency and reduce job errors.

<5. modified example >

In the case of using a proximity sensor as the first operation detecting unit 5 or the second operation detecting unit 8, each connector unit performs a notification operation of the notification unit in the case of detecting the proximity of a finger or the like of the operator. However, in the case where the approaching finger does not move for a long time, the operation detection unit continues the detection operation, thereby continuing the notification operation for each notification unit. In this case, when the operation detection means detects a false detection instead of the finger of the operator, unnecessary notification operations and the like are continued until the false detection is cancelled, and thus there is a risk of an increase in power consumption.

Therefore, after the operation detection by the operation detection unit, the notification operation or the like may be performed only for a certain period of time. Therefore, when a certain time has elapsed after the detection of the operation, the notification operation or the like is terminated, so that an increase in power consumption can be suppressed. In addition, in a case where it is desired to cause the notification operation to be presented again, the operator can perform an operation to cause the operation detection unit to perform a new detection, which does not unnecessarily increase the burden on the operator.

The above-mentioned notification operation is performed by each connector unit, but may be performed in the entire cable 1. For example, in the case where the notification unit is a sound output unit, the cable 1 may be configured such that sound is output not only from the connector unit but also from the cable unit 4. In the case where the notification unit is a vibration generation unit, the vibration generation unit may be provided at various positions in addition to the connector unit to vibrate the entire cable unit 4.

Therefore, the notification can be reliably given to the operator, thereby further improving the work efficiency.

In addition, a configuration may be adopted in which the notification operation is performed only by the cable unit 4 without performing the notification using the connector unit. In that case, by disposing the notification unit in the cable unit 4 at a position close to each connector unit, the same effect as in the case of performing the notification from the connector unit can be obtained.

Further, in a case where one of the connector units is in a free state and the vibration generating unit gives a notification, the vibration generating unit provided in the free connector unit may generate vibration to perform the notification regardless of which operation detecting unit detects the operation. Therefore, the connector unit connected to the apparatus does not become a source of vibration, and therefore the connection portion of the apparatus and the connector unit of the cable 1 can be prevented from being damaged or worn.

In the second embodiment, an example has been described in which the notification of the position to which the connector unit is to be connected is performed by performing the light emitting operation of the light emitting unit corresponding to each connection portion of the device, but in this case, the light emitting unit corresponding to the connection portion to which another connector unit has been connected may be configured not to emit light. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the connector unit from being accidentally guided to the connecting portion to which another connector unit has been connected, and the connector unit that is the target of the work this time cannot be connected. That is, the work efficiency can be improved. In addition, since a predetermined light emitting unit does not emit light, it is possible to contribute to reduction in power consumption and extension of the life of the light emitting unit.

In the above-described second embodiment, the example in which the light emitting unit is provided on the device side and the light receiving unit is provided on the connector unit side has been described, but the light emitting unit may be provided on the connector unit side. For example, the light receiving unit on the device side may receive light emitted from the light emitting unit provided in the connector unit, and may perform guidance according to the wavelength thereof (for example, guidance by outputting a success sound or a warning sound).

When the operation detection unit (the first operation detection unit 5 or the second operation detection unit 8) provided in the connector unit detects an operation, the notification unit (the first notification unit 6 or the second notification unit 9) performs a notification operation to the operator, but various possibilities may be considered for the execution timing and period of the notification operation.

For example, a configuration may be adopted in which the notification operation is stopped immediately when the operation is not detected by performing the notification operation only while the operation is being detected.

Further, a configuration may be adopted in which the notification operation is performed for a certain period of time (for example, 5 seconds) from the operation detection. Therefore, the operator can receive the predetermined notification without continuously pressing the button (when the operation detection unit is a mechanical switch), so that the work efficiency can be improved.

In addition, a configuration may be adopted in which the notification operation is performed while the operation is being detected, and the notification operation may be performed for a certain period of time (for example, 5 seconds) even after the operation is no longer detected. Therefore, not only when the notification can be received in an easy-to-operate posture, but also when the connection job is performed even in a posture that makes it difficult to operate the connector unit, the notification operation continues for a certain period of time from the non-detection state of the operation, and therefore the job efficiency can be improved.

In each of the examples mentioned above, the example in which the first operation detecting unit 5 is provided in the first connector unit C1 of the cable 1 and the second operation detecting unit 8 is provided in the second connector unit C2 has been described, but the operation detecting unit may not be provided in each connector unit of the cable 1.

For example, in the case where the condition is changed from the state in which neither connector unit is connected to the apparatus to the state in which only the first connector unit C1 is connected to the apparatus 100, the first notification unit 6 of the first connector unit C1 performs a light emitting operation to notify the operator that the second connector unit C2 is not connected.

Next, in a case where the second connector unit C2 has been connected to the device 101, the light emitting operation of the first notification unit 6 of the first connector unit C1 is stopped.

Accordingly, the operator can determine whether the cable connection work has been completed by recognizing whether the first notification unit 6 is lighted (turn on), and thus the work efficiency can be improved. In addition, since the operation detection unit is not provided in each connector unit, it is possible to reduce the man-hours for manufacturing the cable 1 and reduce the cost by reducing the number of components.

Further, a configuration may be adopted in which the second notification unit 9 of the second connector unit C2 performs a light emitting operation in a case where the condition changes from a state in which neither connector unit is connected to the apparatus to a state in which only the first connector unit C1 is connected to the apparatus 100. This enables the second connector unit C2 corresponding to the connected first connector unit C1 to be easily identified. Further, in the case where the second connector unit C2 is connected to the device 101, the light emitting operation of the second notification unit 9 of the second connector unit C2 is stopped.

Even with this configuration, when the operator connects the second connector unit C2 that emits light to the apparatus 101, the connection work is completed, and therefore the work efficiency can be improved.

In addition, similarly to the above, it is possible to reduce the man-hour for manufacturing the cable 1 and to reduce the cost by reducing the number of components.

<6. summary >

As described in each of the examples above, the cable 1 according to the present technology includes the first connector unit C1; a second connector unit C2; a transmission line 11 having one end connected to the first connector unit C1 and the other end connected to the second connector unit C2; a control unit (the first control unit 7 or the second control unit 10) that detects a connection state of the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2; an operation detecting unit (first operation detecting unit 5 or second operation detecting unit 8) that detects an operation on any one of the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2; and a notification unit (first notification unit 6 or second notification unit 9) that performs notification according to the connection state of the other connector unit according to the detection result of the operation detection unit.

The connection state of the connector unit is, for example, a difference between the connector unit having been connected to a device (connection target device) as a connection target (connection determination) or not connected (non-connection determination). To give notification of the connection state, the cable according to the present technology processes information (connection information) for specifying the connection state. The information may be, for example, a detection signal or information obtained by a determination process.

By providing a notification unit for giving a notification of the connection state of the connector unit, the operator can correctly recognize the state of the cable.

This prevents the wrong cable from being pulled out and the wrong cable from being connected. In addition, in a situation where the connector unit on the other end side cannot be visually recognized, a notification is provided so that the operator can grasp the connection situation of the connector unit on the other end side which cannot be visually recognized, whereby unnecessary insertion and removal of the connector unit (for example, an action of accidentally disconnecting the adjacent cables) can be prevented from being erroneously performed, and the efficiency of the connection work of the cables 1 can be improved.

In addition, since the notification operation is performed while any one of the connector units has been connected, it is not necessary to perform the notification operation when neither the first connector unit C1 nor the second connector unit C2 is connected to the device.

Therefore, since the notification can be given using the power supply from the apparatus, it is not necessary to install a battery in the cable 1, which contributes to a reduction in the number of components of the cable 1, and contributes to a reduction in size and cost.

As the operation detection means, for example, a mechanical switch, a proximity sensor, a contact sensor, or the like is used. By providing the operation detection unit, the operation of the cable 1 (or the connector unit) by the operator is detected.

Therefore, the notification unit can perform notification according to the intention of the operator. That is, the operator may operate to intentionally perform notification so as to grasp the connection state of the connector unit.

As described in each of the examples above, the control unit (the first control unit 7 or the second control unit 10) of the cable 1 according to the present technology may include the first connection detecting unit (the first control unit 7) that is provided in the first connector unit C1 and detects the connection state of the first connector unit C1, and the second connection detecting unit (the second control unit 10) that is provided in the second connector unit C2 and detects the connection state of the second connector unit C2.

By providing the first control unit 7 that detects whether or not the first connector unit C1 is connected to the apparatus, the connection state of the first connector unit C1 can be correctly grasped. In addition, it is also possible to notify the connection state of the first connector unit C1 to the second connector unit C2 via a transmission line.

This enables the second connector unit C2 side to give notification of the connection state of the first connector unit C1 side. Thus, for example, an operator who can visually recognize the connection state of the first connector unit C1 is notified of the connection state of the second connector unit C2, which enables grasping of the connection states of the connector units provided at both ends of the cable 1 from one of the connector units. That is, it is not necessary to specify two corresponding (both-end) connector units provided at both ends of one cable 1 from among a large number of connector units, and the work efficiency of the connecting work of the cables 1 can be improved.

As described in each of the examples above, in the cable 1 according to the present technology, as the operation detecting unit, the first operation detecting unit 5 provided in the first connector unit C1 and the second operation detecting unit 8 provided in the second connector unit C2 may be provided.

That is, an operation detection unit is provided in each of the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2.

Therefore, when one of the connector units can be operated, the operator can receive information on the connection state to be notified.

As described in each example above, in the cable 1 according to the present technology, the first operation detecting unit 5 can detect the operation of the first connector unit C1, and the second operation detecting unit 8 can detect the operation of the second connector unit C2.

The operated connector unit may be detected by a corresponding operation detection unit provided in the corresponding connector unit.

Thus, the operation of the operator can be detected without passing through the transmission path 11.

As described in the first embodiment, in the cable 1 according to the present technology, in response to an event that any one of the first operation detecting unit 5 and the second operation detecting unit 8 has performed operation detection, the notification unit (the first notification unit 6 or the second notification unit 9) may perform notification according to the connection state of the connector unit provided with the other operation detecting unit.

That is, in the case where the first operation detecting unit 5 has performed the operation detection in response to the event that the operator has performed the operation on the first connector unit C1, the notification of the connection state of the second connector unit C2 is performed.

Thus, the operator can grasp the connection state of the second connector unit C2 of the other end only by operating the first connector unit C1, so there is no need to find the connector unit of the other end to check the connection state, and the connection work efficiency of the cable 1 can be improved. The same applies to the case where the operation for the second connector unit C2 is performed.

As described in each of the examples above, in the cable 1 according to the present technology, as the notification unit, the first notification unit 6 provided in the first connector unit C1 and the second notification unit 9 provided in the second connector unit C2 may be provided.

That is, a notification unit is provided in each connector unit.

This enables to receive notification information from any connector unit, and thus to easily grasp the connection state of the connector unit.

As described in the second, fourth, or sixth notification modes, in the cable 1 according to the present technology, the first connector unit C1 may be provided with the first operation detecting unit 5, the second connector unit C2 may be provided with the second operation detecting unit 8, the first notification unit 6 may perform notification according to the connection state of the second connector unit C2 in response to an event that the first operation detecting unit 5 has performed operation detection, and the second notification unit 9 may perform notification according to the connection state of the first connector unit C1 in response to an event that the second operation detecting unit 8 has performed operation detection.

That is, for an operator who is in a state of being able to operate the first connector unit C1, the connection information of the second connector unit C2 on the other end side can be checked from the first notification unit 6 provided in the first connector unit C1.

Therefore, improvement in convenience can be achieved. In particular, even in the case where the condition of the second connector unit C2 on the other end side cannot be grasped, if one connector unit (i.e., the first connector unit C1) can be operated, the connection state of both ends can be determined from the one connector unit. The same applies to the case where the second connector unit C2 can be operated and the state of the first connector unit C1 cannot be grasped.

As described using the flowchart for the first embodiment, in the cable 1 according to the present technology, the notification unit (the first notification unit 6 or the second notification unit 9) may perform the notification according to the first mode in a case where both the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2 are connected to the apparatus, and perform the notification according to the second mode in a case where only one of the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2 is connected to the apparatus.

That is, the notification mode of the notification unit differs depending on whether both ends are connected.

Therefore, it is possible to grasp from the notification whether or not the cable 1 is in a usable state, for example, a state in which communication can be performed between two apparatuses by connecting the connector units at both ends to the apparatuses.

In addition, a configuration may be adopted in which by performing notification in different notification cycles in the first mode and the second mode, whether or not both are connected can be grasped. For example, when the first notification unit 6 and the second notification unit 9 are notification light emitting units, it is also possible to shorten or lengthen the light emitting period depending on whether both are connected or only one is connected. Alternatively, even when the light emitting periods of the first notification unit 6 and the second notification unit 9 are the same, whether both connector units are connected can be notified by whether the light emitting timings are shifted by half a period.

As described in the fifth and sixth notification modes, in the cable 1 according to the present technology, in the case where both the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2 are connected to the device, the notification unit (the first notification unit 6 or the second notification unit 9) can perform notification according to the communication speed in information communication performed via the transmission line 11.

That is, by connecting both the connector units at both ends to the device, information other than the connection information is notified in a state where information communication via the transmission line 11 is possible.

Specifically, the communication speed of information communication performed via the transmission line 11 is notified as information other than the connection information. Therefore, for example, a state in which information communication is performed at a low speed with respect to the performance of the cable 1 due to the cable 1 being connected erroneously can be grasped from the notification, and reinsertion or the like of the cable 1 can be performed. That is, problems may be more easily discovered. Further, it becomes possible to detect in advance performance degradation that is undesirable to the operator.

As described in the fifth and sixth notification modes, in the cable 1 according to the present technology, in the case where any one of the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2 is connected to the charging apparatus and the other connector unit is connected to the charging object apparatus, the notification unit (the first notification unit 6 or the second notification unit 9) may perform notification according to the charge amount of the charging object apparatus.

The charge amount indicates, for example, a proportion of a remaining battery amount of the charging target device. In a state where the charging target apparatus and the charging apparatus are correctly connected to each other, notification according to the amount of charge of the charging target apparatus is performed to an operator.

Therefore, the remaining battery level of the charging target device can be grasped only by operating the cable 1 (or the connector unit) without starting the charging target device and checking the remaining battery level, and convenience can be improved.

As described in the second embodiment, the cable 1 according to the present technology may include the first light receiving unit 14 provided in the first connector unit C1, and in the case where the second connector unit C2 is connected to the apparatus and the first operation detecting unit 5 has detected an operation, the notification unit (the first notification unit 6 or the second notification unit 9) may perform notification according to whether the first light receiving unit 14 has received light having a specific wavelength.

For example, in the apparatus to which the cable 1 is connected, in the case where light emitting units (the first light emitting unit 106, the second light emitting unit 107, the third light emitting unit 108, the fourth light emitting unit 109, and the like) that emit light having a specific wavelength are provided near the position to which the cable 1 is to be connected, when the operator brings the first connector unit C1 of the cable 1 close to the apparatus, the notification unit performs notification in response to an event that light having a specific wavelength of a certain intensity or higher has been received.

Therefore, the operator can find the position where the cable 1 is to be inserted in response to the notification by the notification unit. That is, by giving notification of whether or not light having a specific wavelength is received, the first connector unit C1 can be guided, and improvement in convenience can be achieved. Further, problems due to incorrect insertion can be prevented.

In addition, the present configuration can be explained as follows. For example, the cable 1 may include a first light receiving unit 14 provided in the first connector unit C1 and a second light receiving unit 16 provided on the second connector unit C2, one of the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2 is connected to a device and the other connector unit is not connected to the device, and in a case where an operation is detected by an operation detecting unit provided on the other connector unit, the notifying unit may perform notification according to whether or not the light receiving unit provided in the other connector unit of the first light receiving unit 14 and the second light receiving unit 16 has received light having a specific wavelength.

As described in the second embodiment, in the cable 1 according to the present technology, the specific wavelength may be a wavelength corresponding to the type of connector.

By changing the specific wavelength of each type of connector, it is possible to set a light emitting unit that emits light having a specific wavelength corresponding to each connection position of each type of connector.

That is, since the guiding to the different connection positions can be performed for each cable type of the cable 1, it becomes easy to reduce the connection work and prevent erroneous connection for the devices to which various cables 1 can be connected.

As described in the second embodiment, the cable 1 according to the present technology may include the first sound output unit (the sound output unit serving as the first notification unit 6) provided in the first connector unit C1, and in the case where the second connector unit C2 is connected to the apparatus and the first operation detection unit 5 has detected an operation, the first sound output unit may output a sound for guiding the first connector unit C1 to the connection portion (the first connection portion 102 or the like).

By making the specific wavelength different for each type of connector, it is possible to specify the position where the cable 1 is to be connected. In addition, by providing the first voice output unit, voice guidance is performed even when the connection job of the cable 1 is performed in a state where the vicinity is not visible.

Therefore, regardless of the arrangement of the apparatus and the cable 1, the efficiency of the connecting work of the cable 1 can be improved. Further, erroneous connection of the cable 1 can be prevented.

As described in the second embodiment, the cable 1 according to the present technology may include a first sound output unit (serving as the sound output unit of the first notification unit 6) provided in the first connector unit C1, and the first sound output unit may be configured to output a third sound (e.g., a warning sound) in a case where the first connector unit C1 is closer to another connection unit (e.g., the second connection unit 103) than to a target connection portion (e.g., the first connection portion 102).

That is, the first sound output unit notifies information as to whether or not the first connector unit C1 is approaching the correct connection position.

Thus, the operator can grasp the correct connection position of the cable 1, and also the efficiency of the connection work can be improved.

As described in the second embodiment, the cable 1 according to the present technology may include the first sound output unit (serving as the sound output unit of the first notification unit 6) provided in the first connector unit C1, and the first sound output unit may output the second sound (e.g., the success sound) with the first connector unit C1 connected to the target connection portion.

Therefore, in the case where the first connector unit C1 is connected to the apparatus, the information on whether the connection is correct is notified to the operator using the success sound.

Namely, erroneous connection of the cable 1 can be prevented.

As described in the eighth notification mode, in the cable 1 according to the present technology, the notification unit (e.g., the first notification unit 6) may perform notification in a case where the first connector unit C1 is connected to the apparatus 100 and the first light-receiving unit 14 receives light.

Even in such a notification mode, the operator is notified whether or not an appropriate connection job has been performed, and therefore erroneous connection can be prevented.

In addition, in a case where the first light receiving unit 14 has not received light, the notification operation is not performed, so that it is possible to prevent excessive notification from being performed.

As described in the first embodiment, in the cable 1 according to the present technology, the notification unit (the first notification unit 6 or the second notification unit 9) is a notification light-emitting unit, and notification may be performed using light emission of the notification light-emitting unit.

Therefore, the connection state of the connector unit is notified using light emission.

Thus, for example, in the case where a connection job is performed in the dark, the operator can be reliably notified, and therefore it is possible to improve the job efficiency and prevent erroneous connection.

As described in each example above, particularly in the second embodiment, in the cable 1 according to the present technology, it may be assumed that the notification unit (the first notification unit 6 or the second notification unit 9) has a sound output unit, and the notification may be performed using a sound output generated by the sound output unit.

Therefore, the connection state of the connector unit is notified using sound.

Thus, for example, in the case where a connection job is executed in a situation where the positional relationship between the apparatus and the connector unit cannot be grasped, appropriate notification can be performed. In particular, by executing a notification corresponding to the positional relationship, for example, a notification such as "it is a little right", an optimum notification can be executed, and the job efficiency can be improved.

A notification method includes, in a cable 1 including: a first connector unit C1; a second connector unit C2; a transmission line 11 having one end connected to the first connector unit C1 and the other end connected to the second connector unit C2; a control unit (the first control unit 7 or the second control unit 10) that detects a connection state of the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2; and an operation detecting unit (the first operation detecting unit 5 or the second operation detecting unit 8) that detects an operation to any one of the first connector unit C1 and the second connector unit C2, and performs notification according to a connection state of the other connector unit according to a detection result of the operation detecting unit.

In addition, the effects described in this specification are merely exemplary and other effects can be obtained.

<7. application example >

The techniques according to the present disclosure may be applied to a variety of products. For example, techniques according to the present disclosure may be applied to operating room systems.

Fig. 22 is a diagram schematically showing the overall configuration of an operating room system 5100 to which the technique according to the present disclosure can be applied. Referring to fig. 22, an operating room system 5100 is configured by connecting a set of devices provided in an operating room in a cooperative manner through an audio visual controller (AV controller) 5107 and an operating room control device 5109.

Various devices may be installed in the operating room. As an example, fig. 22 shows various device groups 5101 for endoscopic surgery, a ceiling camera 5187 provided on the ceiling of an operating room for capturing the hand of an operator, a surgical site camera 5189 provided on the ceiling of the operating room for capturing the entire operating room, a plurality of display devices 5103A to 5103D, a recorder 5105, a patient bed 5183, and an illumination device 5191.

Here, among these devices, the device group 5101 belongs to an endoscopic surgery system 5113 which will be described later, and includes an endoscope, a display device which displays an image captured by the endoscope, and the like. Each device belonging to the endoscopic surgery system 5113 is also referred to as a medical device. On the other hand, the display devices 5103A to 5103D, the recorder 5105, the patient bed 5183, and the lighting device 5191 are devices provided in an operating room separately from the endoscopic surgery system 5113, for example. Each device that does not belong to the endoscopic surgical system 5113 is also referred to as a non-medical device. The audiovisual controller 5107 and/or the operating room control device 5109 control the operation of these medical and non-medical devices in cooperation with each other.

The audiovisual controller 5107 controls overall processing related to image display in the medical device and the non-medical device. Specifically, among the devices included in the operating room system 5100, the device group 5101, the ceiling camera 5187, and the operating site camera 5189 may be devices (hereinafter, also referred to as source devices) having a function of transmitting information to be displayed during an operation (hereinafter, also referred to as display information). In addition, the display devices 5103A to 5103D may be devices for outputting display information (hereinafter, also referred to as output destination devices). Further, the recorder 5105 may be a device belonging to both the source device and the output destination device. The audiovisual controller 5107 has functions of controlling operations of the source apparatus and the output destination apparatus, acquiring display information from the source apparatus, and transmitting the display information to cause the output destination apparatus to display or record it. Also, the display information includes various images captured during the surgery, various information related to the surgery (e.g., physical information of the patient, a past test result, information on a surgical procedure, etc.), and the like.

Specifically, as the display information, image information about the surgical site in the body cavity of the patient captured by the endoscope may be transmitted from the device group 5101 to the viewing controller 5107. Also, as the display information, information about an image near the operator captured by the ceiling camera 5187 may be transmitted from the ceiling camera 5187. Also, as the display information, information on an image showing the state of the entire operating room captured by the operating site camera 5189 may be transmitted from the operating site camera 5189. In the case where the operating room system 5100 has another device having an imaging function, the audiovisual controller 5107 may also acquire information about an image captured by the other device from the other device as display information.

Alternatively, for example, information on these past captured images is recorded in the recorder 5105 by the audiovisual controller 5107. The audiovisual controller 5107 may acquire information on images captured in the past as display information from the recorder 5105. Also, various information about the operation may be recorded in the recorder 5105 in advance.

The audiovisual controller 5107 causes at least one of the display devices 5103A to 5103D as output destination devices to display the acquired display information (i.e., images captured during surgery and various information about the surgery). In the illustrated example, the display device 5103A is a display device that is mounted suspended from the ceiling of an operating room, the display device 5103B is a display device that is mounted on a wall surface of the operating room, the display device 5103C is a display device that is mounted on an office desk of the operating room, and the display device 5103D is a mobile device (e.g., a tablet Personal Computer (PC)) having a display function.

Also, although not shown in fig. 22, the operating room system 5100 may include devices external to the operating room. The devices outside the operating room may be, for example, a server connected to a network built inside a hospital or outside, a PC used by medical staff, a projector installed in a conference room of a hospital, or the like. In the case where such an external device is outside the hospital, the audiovisual controller 5107 may also display information on a display device of another hospital via a video conference system or the like for remote medical treatment.

The operating room control device 5109 controls the overall processing other than the processing related to image display in the non-medical device. For example, the operating room control device 5109 controls driving of the bed 5183, the ceiling camera 5187, the operating site camera 5189, and the lighting device 5191.

The operating room system 5100 is provided with a centralized operation panel 5111, and the user can issue an instruction about image display to the audiovisual controller 5107 via the centralized operation panel 5111 and an instruction about operation of a non-medical device to the operating room control device 5109. The collective operation panel 5111 is configured by providing a touch panel on the display surface of the display device.

Fig. 23 is a diagram showing a display example of an operation screen on the collective operation panel 5111. As an example, fig. 23 shows an operation screen corresponding to a case where the operating room system 5100 has two display devices as output destination devices. Referring to fig. 23, an operation screen 5193 is provided with a source selection area 5195, a preview area 5197, and a control area 5201.

In the source selection area 5195, a source device set in the operating room system 5100 and a thumbnail screen showing display information held by the source device are linked and displayed. The user can select display information to be displayed on the display device from any source device displayed in the source selection area 5195.

In the preview area 5197, a preview of a screen displayed on two display apparatuses (the monitor 1 and the monitor 2) as output destination apparatuses is displayed. In the example shown, four images are displayed on one display device in picture-in-picture. The four images correspond to display information transmitted from the source device selected in the source selection area 5195. Among the four images, one is displayed relatively large as a main image, and the remaining three are displayed relatively small as sub-images. The user can switch the main image and the sub image by appropriately selecting the area where the four images are displayed. In addition, a state display area 5199 is provided below an area where four images are displayed, and states related to the operation (for example, elapsed time of the operation, physical information of the patient, and the like) can be appropriately displayed in the area.

The control area 5201 is provided with a source operation area 5203 which displays Graphical User Interface (GUI) components for operating the source device and an output destination operation area 5205 which displays GUI components for performing operations on the output destination device. In the illustrated example, the source operation area 5203 is provided with GUI components for performing various operations (pan, tilt, and zoom) on a camera in a source apparatus having an imaging function. The user can operate the functioning of the camera in the source device by appropriately selecting these GUI components. Also, although not shown, in a case where the source device selected in the source selection area 5195 is a recorder (i.e., in a case where images recorded in the recorder in the past are displayed in the preview area 5197), the source operation area 5203 may be provided with GUI components for performing operations such as playing, stopping, rewinding, fast-forwarding images, and the like.

In addition, the output destination operation area 5205 is provided with GUI components for performing various display operations (swapping, flipping, color adjustment, contrast adjustment, and switching between 2D display and 3D display) on the display apparatus as the output destination apparatus. The user can manipulate the display on the display device by appropriately selecting these GUI components.

Also, the operation screen displayed on the collective operation panel 5111 is not limited to the illustrated example, and the user may be able to input an operation to each device provided in the operating room system 5100 via the collective operation panel 5111, which may be controlled by the audiovisual controller 5107 and the operating room control device 5109.

Fig. 24 is a diagram showing an example of an operation state to which the above-described operating room system is applied. A ceiling camera 5187 and an operating site camera 5189 are provided on the ceiling of an operating room, and the state of the whole operating room and the vicinity of an operator (doctor) 5181 who performs treatment on an affected part of a patient 5185 on a bed 5183 can be captured. The ceiling camera 5187 and the surgical site camera 5189 may have a magnification adjustment function, a focal length adjustment function, a shooting direction adjustment function, and the like. The lighting device 5191 is provided on the ceiling of the operating room and illuminates at least the vicinity of the operator 5181. The illumination device 5191 may be capable of appropriately adjusting the amount of irradiation light, the wavelength (color) of irradiation light, the irradiation direction of light, and the like.

As shown in fig. 22, the endoscopic surgical system 5113, the patient bed 5183, the ceiling camera 5187, the surgical site camera 5189, the lighting device 5191 are connected to each other in a cooperative manner via the audiovisual controller 5107 and the operating room control apparatus 5109 (not shown in fig. 24). A collective operation panel 5111 is provided in the operating room, and as described above, the user can appropriately operate these devices existing in the operating room via the collective operation panel 5111.

Hereinafter, the configuration of the endoscopic surgery system 5113 will be described in detail. As shown, the endoscopic surgery system 5113 is configured with an endoscope 5115, other surgical tools 5131, a support arm device 5141 for supporting the endoscope 5115, and a cart 5151 equipped with various devices for endoscopic surgery.

In the endoscopic surgery, instead of incising the abdominal wall to open the abdomen, a plurality of tubular laparotomy devices called trocars 5139a to 5139d are pierced into the abdominal wall. Then, the lens barrel 5117 of the endoscope 5115 and other surgical tools 5131 are inserted into the body cavity of the patient 5185 from the trocars 5139a to 5139 d. In the illustrated example, as other surgical tools 5131, a pneumoperitoneum tube 5133, an energy therapy tool 5135, and forceps 5137 are inserted into a body cavity of a patient 5185. In addition, the energy treatment tool 5135 is a treatment tool for cutting and peeling a tissue, sealing a blood vessel, or the like by using a high-frequency current or ultrasonic vibration. However, the illustrated surgical tool 5131 is merely exemplary, and as the surgical tool 5131, various surgical tools generally used in endoscopic surgery, such as forceps and retractors, may be used.

An image of a surgical site within a body cavity of a patient 5185 captured by an endoscope 5115 is displayed on a display device 5155. The operator 5181 performs, for example, treatment such as excision of an affected part using the energy treatment tool 5135 and the forceps 5137 while observing the image of the surgical site displayed on the display device 5155 in real time. Although not shown, the pneumoperitoneum tube 5133, energy treatment tool 5135, and forceps 5137 are supported by the operator 5181 or an assistant during surgery.

(supporting arm device)

The support arm device 5141 includes an arm portion 5145 extending from a base 5143. In the illustrated example, the arm portion 5145 is configured with joint portions 5147a, 5147b, 5147c and links 5149a, 5149b, and is driven by control from an arm control device 5159. The endoscope 5115 is supported by the arm portion 5145, and the position and posture thereof are controlled. Therefore, the stable position of the endoscope 5115 can be fixed.

(endoscope)

The endoscope 5115 is configured with a lens barrel 5117 and a camera head 5119 connected to a base end of the lens barrel 5117, and a region of the lens barrel 5117 having a predetermined length from a tip is inserted into a body cavity of the patient 5185. In the illustrated example, the endoscope 5115 configured as a so-called rigid mirror having a rigid lens barrel 5117 is illustrated, but the endoscope 5115 may be configured as a so-called flexible mirror having a flexible lens barrel 5117.

An opening for mounting an objective lens is provided at the tip of the lens barrel 5117. The light source device 5157 is connected to the endoscope 5115, and light generated by the light source device 5157 is guided to the tip of the lens barrel by a light guide extended into the lens barrel 5117 and irradiated toward an observation target in the body cavity of the patient 5185 via the objective lens. Also, the endoscope 5115 may be a direct-view endoscope or may be a see-through endoscope or a side-view endoscope.

An optical system and an imaging element are provided inside the camera 5119, and reflected light (observation light) from an observation target is condensed on the imaging element by the optical system. The observation light is photoelectrically converted by the imaging element, and an electric signal corresponding to the observation light, that is, an image signal corresponding to an observation image is generated. The image signal is transmitted as RAW (RAW) data to a Camera Control Unit (CCU) 5153. Also, the camera head 5119 has a function of appropriately driving the optical system to adjust its magnification and focal length.

In addition, for example, the camera head 5119 may be provided with a plurality of imaging elements so as to support stereoscopic viewing (3D display) or the like. In this case, a plurality of relay optical systems are provided inside the lens barrel 5117 so as to guide the observation light to each of the plurality of imaging elements.

(various devices mounted on the cart)

The CCU 5153 includes, for example, a Central Processing Unit (CPU) and a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), and generally controls the operations of the endoscope 5115 and the display device 5155. Specifically, the CCU 5153 performs various image processes such as a development process (demosaic process) for displaying an image based on an image signal on the image signal received from the camera head 5119. The CCU 5153 supplies the image signal subjected to the image processing to the display device 5155. Further, the audiovisual controller 5107 shown in fig. 22 is connected to the CCU 5153. The CCU 5153 also supplies the image-processed image signal to the audiovisual controller 5107. In addition, the CCU 5153 transmits a control signal to the camera head 5119 and controls driving thereof. The control signal may include information on imaging conditions such as magnification and focal length. Information on the imaging conditions may be input via the input device 5161, or may be input via the collective operation panel 5111 described above.

The display device 5155 displays an image based on an image signal subjected to image processing by the CCU 5153 under the control of the CCU 5153. In the case where the endoscope 5115 is used for high-resolution photographing such as 4K (horizontal 3840 pixels × vertical 2160 pixels) or 8K (horizontal 7680 pixels × vertical 4320 pixels) and/or for 3D display, a device capable of displaying high resolution and/or a device capable of 3D display may be correspondingly used as the display device 5155, respectively. In the case where the display device is used for high-resolution photographing (such as 4K or 8K), a more immersive feeling can be obtained by using the display device 5155 having 55 inches or more. In addition, a plurality of display devices 5155 having different resolutions and sizes may be provided according to applications.

The light source device 5157 is configured with a light source such as a Light Emitting Diode (LED), and supplies irradiation light for imaging a surgical site or the like to the endoscope 5115.

The arm control device 5159 is configured with, for example, a processor (such as a CPU), and controls driving of the arm portion 5145 of the support arm device 5141 according to a predetermined control method operated by a predetermined program.

The input device 5161 is an input interface to the endoscopic surgical system 5113. A user can input various information or instructions to the endoscopic surgical system 5113 via the input device 5161. For example, the user inputs various information related to the surgery (such as physical information of the patient and information on the surgery method) via the input device 5161. In addition, for example, the user inputs an instruction to drive the arm portion 5145, an instruction to change the imaging condition (the type of irradiation light, magnification, focal length, and the like) of the endoscope 5115, an instruction to drive the energy therapy tool 5135, and the like via the input device 5161.

The type of the input device 5161 is not limited, and the input device 5161 may be various known input devices. As the input device 5161, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, a switch, a foot switch 5171, a joystick, or the like can be used. In the case of using a touch panel as the input device 5161, the touch panel may be provided on the display surface of the display device 5155.

Alternatively, the input device 5161 is a device worn on the user, such as a glasses-type wearable device or a head-mounted display (HMD), and makes various inputs according to gestures and line of sight of the user detected by these devices. In addition, the input device 5161 includes a camera capable of detecting user movement, and performs various inputs according to user gestures and a line of sight detected from an image captured by the camera. In addition, the input device 5161 includes a microphone capable of picking up a user voice, and various inputs are performed by means of voice through the microphone. In this way, the input device 5161 is configured to be able to input various information in a non-contact manner, so that a user (e.g., operator 5181) of particularly a cleaning area can operate a device in a non-cleaning area in a non-contact manner. Further, the user can operate the apparatus without taking his/her hands away from the surgical tool in his/her possession, which improves the convenience of the user.

The treatment tool control device 5163 controls the driving of the energy treatment tool 5135 for cauterizing or incising tissue, sealing blood vessels, and the like. The pneumoperitoneum device 5165 sends gas into the body cavity through the pneumoperitoneum tube 5133 to inflate the body cavity of the patient 5185 to ensure the field of view of the endoscope 5115 and the working space of the operator. The recorder 5167 is a device capable of recording various information about the operation. The printer 5169 is a device capable of printing various information about a procedure in various formats such as text, images, and diagrams.

Hereinafter, specific characteristic configurations of the endoscopic surgical system 5113 will be described in more detail.

(supporting arm device)

The support arm device 5141 includes a base portion 5143 as a base and an arm portion 5145 extending from the base portion 5143. In the illustrated example, the arm portion 5145 is configured with a plurality of joint portions 5147a, 5147b, and 5147c, and a plurality of links 5149a and 5149b connected by the joint portion 5147b, but in fig. 24, the configuration of the arm portion 5145 is shown in a simplified manner for the sake of simplicity. In fact, the shapes, the number, the arrangement of the joint portions 5147a to 5147c and the links 5149a, 5149b and the direction of the rotation axes of the joint portions 5147a to 5147c may be appropriately set so that the arm portion 5145 has a desired degree of freedom. For example, the arm portion 5145 may preferably be configured to have at least 6 degrees of freedom. Accordingly, since the endoscope 5115 can be freely moved within the movable range of the arm portion 5145, the lens barrel 5117 of the endoscope 5115 can be inserted into the body cavity of the patient 5185 in a desired direction.

The actuators are provided at the joint portions 5147a to 5147c, and the joint portions 5147a to 5147c are configured to be rotatable about a predetermined rotation axis by driving the actuators. By controlling the driving of the actuator using the arm control device 5159, the rotation angles of the joint portions 5147a to 5147c are controlled, and the driving of the arm portion 5145 is controlled. Therefore, control of the position and posture of the endoscope 5115 can be achieved. In this case, the arm control device 5159 may control the driving of the arm portion 5145 using various known control methods (such as force control or position control).

For example, the operator 5181 can appropriately input an operation via the input device 5161 (including the foot switch 5171) to appropriately control the driving of the arm portion 5145 using the arm control device 5159 according to the operation input, thereby controlling the position and posture of the endoscope 5115. By this control, the endoscope 5115 at the tip of the arm portion 5145 can be moved from one arbitrary position to another arbitrary position and then fixedly supported at the moved position. Also, the arm portion 5145 may be operated using a so-called master-slave method. In this case, the user can remotely control the arm portion 5145 through the input device 5161 installed at a place remote from the operating room.

In addition, in the case of applying force control, the arm control device 5159 may perform so-called power assist control in which the actuators of the joint portions 5147a to 5147c are driven to receive an external force from the user and the arm portion 5145 is smoothly moved in accordance with the external force. Therefore, when the user moves the arm portion 5145 while directly contacting the arm portion 5145, the arm portion 5145 can be moved with a relatively light force. Thus, the endoscope 5115 can be moved more intuitively by a simpler operation, so that the convenience of the user can be improved.

Here, conventionally in endoscopic surgery, the endoscope 5115 is supported by a doctor called an endoscopist (scope). On the other hand, by using the support arm device 5141, the position of the endoscope 5115 can be fixed more reliably without manual operation, so that an image of the surgical site can be stably obtained, and the surgery can be smoothly performed.

Also, it is not necessarily necessary to provide the arm control device 5159 on the cart 5151. In addition, the arm control device 5159 does not necessarily have to be one device. For example, the arm control device 5159 may be provided at each of the joint portions 5147a to 5147c of the arm portion 5145 of the support arm device 5141, or the drive control of the arm portion 5145 may be realized by cooperation of a plurality of arm control devices 5159 with each other.

(light Source device)

The light source device 5157 supplies irradiation light for photographing a surgical site to the endoscope 5115. The light source device 5157 is configured with, for example, an LED, a laser light source, or a white light source configured by a combination thereof. At this time, in the case where the white light source is constituted by an RGB laser light source combination, the output intensity and the output timing of each color (each wavelength) can be controlled with high accuracy, and thus the white balance of the captured image can be adjusted by the light source device 5157. In addition, in this case, the observation target is time-divisionally irradiated with laser light from the respective RGB laser light sources, and the driving of the imaging element of the camera 5119 is controlled in synchronization with the irradiation timing so that images corresponding to the respective RGB can be time-divisionally captured. According to this method, a color image can be obtained without providing a color filter on the imaging element.

In addition, the driving of the light source device 5157 may be controlled such that the intensity of output light is changed at predetermined time intervals. The driving of the imaging element of the camera head 5119 is controlled in synchronization with the timing of light intensity change to time-divisionally acquire images, and an image with a high dynamic range can be generated by combining the images without so-called black screen and white screen.

In addition, the light source device 5157 may be configured to be capable of supplying light having a predetermined wavelength band corresponding to special light observation. In the special light observation, for example, so-called narrow-band light observation (narrow-band imaging) is performed in which a predetermined tissue such as a blood vessel on a mucosal surface is photographed with high contrast by irradiating light having a narrower band than that of the irradiation light (i.e., white light) during normal observation using wavelength dependence of light absorption in a body tissue. Alternatively, in the special light observation, fluorescence observation may be performed in which an image is obtained using fluorescence generated by irradiation with excitation light. In the fluorescence observation, processing such as irradiating human tissue with excitation light and observing fluorescence from the human tissue (autofluorescence observation), or locally injecting an agent such as indocyanine green (ICG) into the human tissue and irradiating the human tissue with excitation light corresponding to the fluorescence wavelength of the agent to obtain a fluorescence image may be performed. The light source device 5157 can be configured to provide narrow band light and/or excitation light based on such special light observations.

(Camera head and CCU)

Referring to fig. 25, the functions of the camera head 5119 and the CCU 5153 of the endoscope 5115 will be described in more detail. Fig. 25 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configurations of the camera head 5119 and the CCU 5153 shown in fig. 24.

Referring to fig. 25, as its functions, the camera head 5119 has a lens unit 5121, an imaging unit 5123, a driving unit 5125, a communication unit 5127, and a camera head control unit 5129. In addition, as its functions, the CCU 5153 has a communication unit 5173, an image processing unit 5175, and a control unit 5177. The camera head 5119 and the CCU 5153 are communicably connected to each other in a bidirectional manner via a transmission cable 5179.

First, a functional configuration of the camera head 5119 will be described. The lens unit 5121 is an optical system provided at a connection portion with the lens barrel 5117. Observation light taken from the tip of the lens barrel 5117 is guided to the camera head 5119 and is incident on the lens unit 5121. The lens unit 5121 is constituted by a combination of a plurality of lenses including a zoom lens and a focus lens. The optical characteristics of the lens unit 5121 are adjusted to condense the observation light on the light receiving surface of the imaging element of the imaging unit 5123. In addition, the zoom lens and the focus lens are configured such that their positions on the optical axis can be moved in order to adjust the magnification and focus of a captured image.

The imaging unit 5123 is constituted by an imaging element and is disposed at the subsequent stage of the lens unit 5121. Observation light having passed through the lens unit 5121 is condensed on the light receiving surface of the imaging element, and an image signal corresponding to an observation image is generated by photoelectric conversion. The image signal generated by the imaging unit 5123 is supplied to the communication unit 5127.

As an imaging element constituting the imaging unit 5123, for example, a Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) type image sensor having a bayer array and capable of color photographing may be used. Also, as the imaging element, for example, an imaging element capable of taking a high-resolution image of 4K or more may be used. By obtaining an image of the surgical site at high resolution, the operator 5181 can grasp the state of the surgical site in more detail, and the surgery can be performed more smoothly.

In addition, the imaging element constituting the imaging unit 5123 is configured to have a pair of imaging elements for acquiring image signals of the right eye and the left eye corresponding to 3D display. Performing 3D display allows the operator 5181 to grasp the depth of the living tissue in the surgical site more accurately. Also, in the case where the imaging unit 5123 is configured in a multi-plate type, a plurality of sets of lens units 5121 may be provided to correspond to respective imaging elements.

In addition, the imaging unit 5123 does not necessarily have to be provided on the camera head 5119. For example, the imaging unit 5123 may be provided immediately after the objective lens inside the lens barrel 5117.

The driving unit 5125 is configured with an actuator and moves the zoom lens and the focus lens of the lens unit 5121 by a predetermined distance along the optical axis under the control of the camera head control unit 5129. Accordingly, the magnification and focus of the image captured by the imaging unit 5123 can be appropriately adjusted.

The communication unit 5127 is constituted by a communication device for transmitting and receiving various information to and from the CCU 5153. The communication unit 5127 transmits the image signal obtained from the imaging unit 5123 to the CCU 5153 as RAW (RAW) data via the transmission cable 5179. At this time, in order to display the captured image of the surgical site with low time delay, the image signal is preferably transmitted through optical communication. This is because the operator 5181 performs the operation while observing the state of the affected part in the captured image at the time of the operation, and is required to display the video of the operation site in as real time as possible to perform a safer and more reliable surgical operation. In the case of performing optical communication, the communication unit 5127 is provided with a photoelectric conversion module that converts an electric signal into an optical signal. The image signal is converted into an optical signal by the photoelectric conversion module and then transmitted to the CCU 5153 via the transmission cable 5179.

The communication unit 5127 also receives a control signal for controlling driving of the camera head 5119 from the CCU 5153. For example, the control signal includes information on imaging conditions such as information for specifying a frame rate of a captured image, information for specifying an exposure value at the time of imaging, and/or information specifying a magnification and a focus of the captured image. The communication unit 5127 supplies the received control signal to the camera head control unit 5129. Also, the control signal from the CCU 5153 may be transmitted through optical communication. In this case, the communication unit 5127 is provided with a photoelectric conversion module that converts an optical signal into an electrical signal, and a control signal is converted into an electrical signal by the photoelectric conversion module and then supplied to the camera head control unit 5129.

In addition, the control unit 5177 of the CCU 5153 automatically sets the above-described imaging conditions such as the frame rate, exposure value, magnification, and focus based on the acquired image signal. That is, a so-called Auto Exposure (AE) function, an Auto Focus (AF) function, and an Auto White Balance (AWB) function are combined in the endoscope 5115.

The camera control unit 5129 controls driving of the camera 5119 based on a control signal from the CCU 5153 received via the communication unit 5127. For example, the camera head control unit 5129 controls driving of the imaging element of the imaging unit 5123 based on information specifying the frame rate of a captured image and/or information specifying exposure at the time of imaging. In addition, for example, the camera head control unit 5129 appropriately moves the zoom lens and the focus lens of the lens unit 5121 via the drive unit 5125 based on information specifying the magnification and focus of a captured image. The camera head control unit 5129 may also have a function of storing information for identifying the lens barrel 5117 and the camera head 5119.

Also, by disposing the configuration of the lens unit 5121, the imaging unit 5123, and the like in a sealed structure having high airtightness and waterproofness, the camera head 5119 can be made resistant to an autoclave process.

Next, the functional configuration of the CCU 5153 will be described. The communication unit 5173 is constituted by a communication device for transmitting and receiving various information to and from the camera head 5119. The communication unit 5173 receives an image signal transmitted from the camera head 5119 via the transmission cable 5179. At this time, as described above, the image signal can be appropriately transmitted through optical communication. In this case, for optical communication, the communication unit 5173 is provided with a photoelectric conversion module that converts an optical signal into an electrical signal. The communication unit 5173 supplies the image signal converted into an electric signal to the image processing unit 5175.

In addition, the communication unit 5173 transmits a control signal for controlling the driving of the camera head 5119 to the camera head 5119. The control signal may also be sent via optical communication.

The image processing unit 5175 performs various image processes on an image signal as raw data transmitted from the camera head 5119. The image processing includes various known signal processing such as development processing, high image quality processing (band enhancement processing, super-resolution processing, Noise Reduction (NR) processing, and/or camera shake correction processing, and the like), and/or enlargement processing (electronic zoom processing), and the like. Further, the image processing unit 5175 performs detection processing on the image signal to perform AE, AF, and AWB.

The image processing unit 5175 is constituted by a processor such as a CPU and a GPU, and the above-mentioned image processing and detection processing may be performed by a processor operating according to a predetermined program. In addition, in the case where the image processing unit 5175 is configured of a plurality of GPUs, the image processing unit 5175 appropriately divides information related to image signals and performs image processing in parallel using the plurality of GPUs.

The control unit 5177 performs various controls regarding imaging of the surgical site using the endoscope 5115 and displaying the captured image. For example, the control unit 5177 generates a control signal for controlling the driving of the camera head 5119. In this case, in the case where the imaging condition is input by the user, the control unit 5177 generates a control signal based on the input of the user. Alternatively, in the case where the AE function, the AF function, and the AWB function are incorporated in the endoscope 5115, the control unit 5177 appropriately calculates an optimum exposure value, a focal length, and a white balance, and generates a control signal according to the result of the detection processing performed by the image processing unit 5175.

In addition, the control unit 5177 causes the display device 5155 to display an image of the surgical site based on the image signal subjected to the image processing performed by the image processing unit 5175. In this case, the control unit 5177 recognizes various objects in the image of the surgical site using various image recognition techniques. For example, by detecting the shape, color, or the like of the edge of the object included in the image of the surgical site, the control unit 5177 may recognize a surgical tool (such as forceps), a specific biological site, bleeding, fog when the energy treatment tool 5135 is used, or the like. When the control unit 5177 causes the display device 5155 to display an image of the surgical site, it may cause various types of surgical support information to be superimposed and displayed on the image of the surgical site using the result of recognition. By superimposing the operation support information and presenting it to the operator 5181, the operation can be performed more safely and reliably.

The transmission cable 5179 connecting the camera head 5119 and the CCU 5153 is an electric signal cable supporting electric signal communication, an optical fiber supporting optical communication, or a composite cable thereof.

Here, in the illustrated example, wired communication is performed using the transmission cable 5179, but communication between the camera head 5119 and the CCU 5153 may be performed wirelessly. In the case where communication is performed wirelessly between the two, there is no need to lay the transmission line 5179 in the operating room, so that the case where the movement of the medical staff in the operating room is obstructed by the transmission line 5179 can be eliminated.

Examples of operating room systems 5100 to which techniques in accordance with the present disclosure may be applied have been described above. Also, although the description is made here taking as an example the case where the medical system to which the operating room system 5100 is applied is the endoscopic surgery system 5113, the configuration of the operating room system 5100 is not limited to such an example. For example, the operating room system 5100 can be applied to a flexible endoscope system for examination or a microsurgical system other than the endoscopic surgical system 5113.

The technique according to the present disclosure can be suitably applied to the transmission cable 5179 among the configurations described in the above application examples. Specifically, in an operating room in which a camera head unit, a monitor, a recorder, and the like are connected to a CCU, by providing respective functions as the above-described cable 1 in each cable for connecting these devices to each other, it is possible to determine to which device the connector unit of the cable is connected.

In addition, in the case where devices are connected to the CCU with the same type of cable, the connection status of the respective cables to the devices can be determined. Further, even in the same type of cable, the connection of an appropriate cable can be guided according to information on the device such as the transmission rate.

In addition, in the case where a plurality of monitors or the like are connected to the CCU, it is possible to guide the user so that an appropriate cable corresponding to each monitor is used according to information (such as a transfer rate) about the device.

<8 > the present technology

The present technology can also adopt the following configuration.

(1)

A first connector unit;

a second connector unit;

a transmission line having one end connected to the first connector unit and the other end connected to the second connector unit;

a control unit that detects a connection state of the first connector unit and the second connector unit;

an operation detection unit that detects an operation on any one of the first connector unit and the second connector unit; and

a notification unit that performs notification according to a connection state of the other of the first connector unit and the second connector unit according to a detection result of the operation detection unit.

(2)

The cable according to the above (1), wherein

The control unit includes: a first connection detecting unit that is provided in the first connector unit and detects a connection state of the first connector unit, an

A second connection detection unit that is provided in the second connector unit and detects a connection state of the second connector unit.

(3)

The cable according to the above (1), wherein the operation detection means includes a first operation detection means provided in the first connector means and a second operation detection means provided in the second connector means.

(4)

The cable according to the above (3), wherein

The first operation detection unit detects an operation on the first connector unit, and

the second operation detection unit detects an operation of the second connector unit.

(5)

The cable according to the above (4), wherein the notifying unit performs notification according to a connection state of a connector unit provided with another operation detecting unit in response to an event that any one of the first operation detecting unit and the second operation detecting unit has performed operation detection.

(6)

The cable according to any one of the above (1) to (5), wherein the notification means includes a first notification means provided in the first connector means and a second notification means provided in the second connector means.

(7)

The cable according to any one of the above (6), wherein

The first connector unit is provided with a first operation detection unit,

the second connector unit is provided with a second operation detection unit,

the first notification unit performs notification according to a connection state of the second connector unit in response to an event that the first operation detection unit has performed operation detection, and

the second notification unit performs notification according to a connection state of the first connector unit in response to an event that the second operation detection unit has performed operation detection.

(8)

The cable according to any one of the above (1) to (7), wherein the notification unit performs notification according to a first mode in a case where both the first connector unit and the second connector unit are connected to an apparatus, and performs notification according to a second mode in a case where only one of the first connector unit and the second connector unit is connected to an apparatus.

(9)

The cable according to any one of the above (1) to (8), wherein the notification unit performs notification according to a communication speed in information communication performed via the transmission line in a case where both the first connector unit and the second connector unit are connected to a device.

(10)

The cable according to any one of the above (1) to (9), wherein the notification unit performs notification according to a charge amount of a charging target apparatus in a case where any one of the first connector unit and the second connector unit is connected to the charging apparatus and the other connector unit is connected to the charging target apparatus.

(11)

The cable according to any one of the above (3), (4), (5), and (7), further comprising a first light receiving unit provided in the first connector unit, wherein the notification unit performs notification according to whether or not the first light receiving unit has received light having a specific wavelength in a case where the second connector unit is connected to a device and the first operation detecting unit has detected an operation.

(12)

The cable according to the above (11), wherein the specific wavelength is a wavelength corresponding to a type of the connector.

(13)

The cable according to the above (12), further comprising a first sound output unit provided in the first connector unit, wherein the first sound output unit outputs a sound for guiding the first connector unit to a connection portion in a case where the second connector unit is connected to a device and the first operation detecting unit has detected an operation.

(14)

The cable according to the above (12) or (13), further comprising a first sound output unit provided in the first connector unit, wherein the first sound output unit outputs a third sound in a case where the first connector unit is closer to the other connection portion than to a target connection portion.

(15)

The cable according to any one of the above (12) to (14), further comprising a first sound output unit provided in the first connector unit, wherein the first sound output unit outputs a second sound with the first connector unit connected to a target connection portion.

(16)

The cable according to any one of the above (11) to (15), wherein the notification unit performs notification in a case where the first connector unit is connected to a device and the first light-receiving unit receives light.

(17)

The cable according to any one of the above (1) to (16), wherein

The notification unit is a notification light emitting unit, and

the notification is performed using light emission of the notification light emitting unit.

(18)

The cable according to any one of the above (1) to (16), wherein

The notification unit has a sound output unit, and

the notification is performed using the sound output generated by the sound output unit.

(19)

A notification method, in a cable comprising: a first connector unit; a second connector unit; a transmission line having one end connected to the first connector unit and the other end connected to the second connector unit; a control unit that detects a connection state of the first connector unit and the second connector unit; and an operation detection unit that detects an operation on any one of the first connector unit and the second connector unit,

the notification according to the connection state of the other connector unit is performed according to the detection result of the operation detection unit.

[ list of reference numerals ]

1 Cable

C1 first connector unit

C2 second connector unit

5 first operation detecting unit

6 first notification unit

7 first connection detecting unit

8 second operation detection unit

9 second notification unit

10 second connection detection unit

11 transmission line

14 first light receiving unit

100 device

101 device