Power generation device and input device

Abstract

The power generation device comprises: a first power generation element, which generates electricity by vibration; a second power generation element, which is located below the first power generation element and generates electricity by vibration; and a movable member, which attracts the first power generation element downward when moving downward and attracts the second power generation element upward when moving upward, so that the first power generation element vibrates when the movable member moves downward and the second power generation element vibrates when the movable member moves upward.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a power generation device and an input device, and more particularly, to a power generation device that generates power by utilizing vibration and an input device including the same. Background Art

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a power generation device. The power generation device includes a starter and a power generation unit. The starter has an adsorbent. The adsorbent moves from a starting point to an end point. The power generation unit is a cantilever beam. The power generation unit generates electricity by vibration.

[0003] When the adsorbent moves from the starting point to the end point, the adsorbent adsorbs the power generation part. If the adsorbent moves toward the end point while adsorbing the power generation part, the power generation part bends. If the adsorbent moves further toward the end point, the adsorbent detaches from the power generation part halfway. As the adsorbent detaches, the power generation part starts to vibrate.

[0004] Prior Art Literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2018 / 100859 Summary of the invention

[0007] A power generation device involved in one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a first power generation element, which generates electricity by vibration; a second power generation element, which is located below the first power generation element and generates electricity by vibration; and a movable member, which attracts the first power generation element downward when moving downward and attracts the second power generation element upward when moving upward, wherein the first power generation element vibrates when the movable member moves downward and the second power generation element vibrates when the movable member moves upward.

[0008] An input device involved in one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: the above-mentioned power generation device; a control circuit that operates based on the power generated by the power generation device; and a judgment circuit that judges whether the power is generated by the first power generation element or the second power generation element if the power is generated by the power generation device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 It is a cross-sectional view of the power generating device according to the first embodiment, and shows a state where the movable element is in the first position.

[0010] Figure 2 It is a cross-sectional view of the above-mentioned power generating device, showing a state where the movable member is in the second position.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a diagram for explaining the operation of the above-mentioned power generation device.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a diagram for explaining the operation of the above-mentioned power generation device.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a diagram for explaining the operation of the above-mentioned power generation device.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a diagram for explaining the operation of the above-mentioned power generation device.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a block diagram of an input device including the above-mentioned power generation device.

[0016] Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view of the power generating device according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram showing a state in which the movable element is in the first position.

[0017] Fig. 9 This is a diagram for explaining the magnetic circuit in the state where the movable element is in the first position in the above-mentioned power generation device.

[0018] Fig.10 It is a cross-sectional view of the above-mentioned power generating device, and is a diagram showing a state in which the movable element is in the second position.

[0019] Fig.11 This is a diagram for explaining the magnetic circuit in the state where the movable element is in the second position in the above-mentioned power generation device.

[0020] Fig.12 It is a cross-sectional view of the power generating device according to the third embodiment.

[0021] Fig.13 This is a diagram for explaining the magnetic circuit in the state where the movable element is in the first position in the above-mentioned power generation device.

[0022] Fig.14 This is a diagram for explaining the magnetic circuit in the state where the movable element is in the second position in the above-mentioned power generation device.

[0023] Fig.15 It is a cross-sectional view of the power generating device according to the fourth embodiment, and is a diagram showing a state in which the movable element is in the first position.

[0024] Fig.16 It is a cross-sectional view of the above-mentioned power generating device, and is a diagram showing a state in which the movable element is in the second position.

[0025] Fig.17 This is a block diagram of a first example of an input device including the above-mentioned power generation device.

[0026] Fig.18 This is a block diagram of a second example of the input device including the above-mentioned power generation device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Hereinafter, the power generation device and the input device involved in the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the following embodiments are only a part of the various embodiments of the present disclosure. If the following embodiments can achieve the purpose of the present disclosure, various changes can be made according to the design, etc. In addition, the figures described in the following embodiments are schematic figures, and the size and thickness ratios of the various structural elements in the figures may not necessarily reflect the actual size ratios.

[0028] (1) Implementation Method 1

[0029] (1.1) Power generation device

[0030] (1.1.1) Summary

[0031] like Figure 1 As shown, the power generating device 10 involved in this embodiment includes: a first piezoelectric vibration power generating element 1 (hereinafter, it may also be simply referred to as "first element 1"), a second piezoelectric vibration power generating element 2 (hereinafter, it may also be simply referred to as "second element 2"), and a movable part 3.

[0032] The first element 1 generates the first power by vibration, and the second element 2 generates the second power by vibration. In other words, the first element 1 and the second element 2 generate power by vibration. The first element 1 and the second element 2 are cantilever (cantilever beam) shapes having a fixed end and a free end, respectively.

[0033] The movable member 3 includes a magnetic material. Here, the movable member 3 includes a permanent magnet 31. The movable member 3 attracts the first element 1 and the second element 2 by magnetic force.

[0034] The movable element 3 is movable between a first position and a second position.

[0035] Here, the first position of the movable member 3 is the position of the movable member 3 in contact with the first element 1 (see Figure 1 ). In the first position, the movable member 3 is in contact with the first end (free end) of the first element 1. In addition, the second position of the movable member 3 is a position of the movable member 3 in contact with the second element 2 (refer to Figure 2 ). In the second position, the movable member 3 is in contact with the first end (free end) of the second element 2.

[0036] If the movable member 3 is in the first position (see Figure 1 ), the movable member 3 moves to the second position, and the first element 1 is bent by the movable member 3 due to the magnetic force at its first end (free end) (refer to Figure 3 ). Then, if the movable member 3 further moves to the second position and separates from the first element 1, the first element 1 starts to vibrate (see Figure 4). In short, when the movable member 3 moves from the first position to the second position, one of the first element 1 and the second element 2 (here, the first element 1) starts to vibrate. The first element 1 generates electric power by vibrating.

[0037] Furthermore, if the movable member 3 is in the second position (see Figure 2 ), the movable member 3 moves to the first position, and the second element 2 is bent by the movable member 3 due to the magnetic force at its first end (free end) (refer to Figure 5 ). Then, if the movable member 3 further moves to the first position and separates from the second element 2, the second element 2 starts to vibrate (see Figure 6 ). In short, when the movable member 3 moves from the second position to the first position, one of the first element 1 and the second element 2 (here, the second element 2) starts to vibrate. The second element 2 generates electric power by vibrating.

[0038] The power generation device 10 of this embodiment can generate electric power both when the movable element 3 moves from the first position to the second position and when it moves from the second position to the first position. Therefore, the power generation device 10 of this embodiment can improve power generation efficiency.

[0039] (1.1.2) Structure

[0040] Reference Figure 1 to Figure 6 , the power generation device 10 of this embodiment will be described in more detail.

[0041] like Figure 1 As shown, the power generating device 10 includes a support body 4 , a button 5 , a return portion 6 , a stopper 7 , and a housing 9 in addition to the first element 1 , the second element 2 , and the movable element 3 .

[0042] As described above, the movable member 3 can move between the first position and the second position. Here, the movable member 3 can move between the first position and the second position along one direction. Figure 1 The vertical direction of the movable member 3 from the first position to the second position ( Figure 1 The direction in which the movable member 3 moves from the second position to the first position ( Figure 1 In addition, in the present disclosure, terms indicating directions such as “upper”, “lower”, “right”, “left”, “above”, and “below” are used for description, but these merely indicate relative positional relationships and do not limit the present disclosure thereby.

[0043] The first element 1 and the second element 2 are each in a strip shape and extend in a direction perpendicular to the up-down direction. Figure 1 The left-right direction of the first element 1 and the second element 2 are respectively supported by the support body 4 at one end in the extension direction. Hereinafter, the end ( Figure 1 The side where the left end of the image is located is called the “left”, and the opposite side is called the “right”.

[0044] In addition, the following also refers to the direction perpendicular to both the up-down direction and the left-right direction ( Figure 1 The direction perpendicular to the paper surface) is called the "front-back direction". Figure 1 The side of the paper near the front is called the "front", and the side deep into the paper is called the "back".

[0045] In addition, directions such as “up, down, front, back, left, and right” in the present disclosure are used for convenience of description and do not limit directions when the power generator 10 is used.

[0046] like Figure 1 As shown, the housing 9 is a rectangular box having a left wall 91, a right wall 92, an upper wall 93, a lower wall 94, a front wall and a rear wall. The housing 9 includes a non-magnetic material, such as a resin. The housing 9 has an internal space 90. Here, the internal space 90 is a closed space that is closed except for the hole 931 formed in the upper wall 93. However, it is not limited to this, and the internal space 90 of the housing 9 can also be connected to the external space of the housing 9 through a hole formed in an appropriate wall constituting the housing 9.

[0047] The first element 1, the second element 2, the movable member 3, a part (lower part) of the button 5, the reset portion 6 and the stopper 7 are accommodated in the internal space 90 of the housing 9. The support body 4 is embedded in the left wall 91 of the housing 9 and is held by the housing 9.

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown, the first element 1 includes a support portion (first support portion) 11 and a vibrating portion (first vibrating portion) 12 .

[0049] The support portion 11 is a portion of the first element 1 supported by the support body 4. The support portion 11 is a left portion of the first element 1. The support portion 11 includes a soft magnetic body. Here, the support portion 11 is made of SUS (stainless steel) having magnetic properties.

[0050] The vibration part 12 is in the shape of a strip that is long in the left-right direction. The vibration part 12 extends rightward from the right end of the support part 11. The vibration part 12 is supported by the support part 11 so that it can vibrate (shake). The vibration part 12 is a fixed end of the support part 11 at one end (left end) in the long side direction, and the other end (right end) in the long side direction is a free end. That is, the first element 1 has a cantilever structure.

[0051] The vibration unit 12 includes a beam (first beam) 13 , a power generation unit (first power generation unit) 14 , and a weight (first weight) 15 .

[0052] The beam 13 is made of a soft magnetic body. Here, the beam 13 is made of magnetic SUS (stainless steel). The beam 13 is formed integrally with the support portion 11.

[0053] The beam 13 is a rectangular plate-shaped structure that is long in the left-right direction. The thickness axis of the beam 13 is along the vertical direction. The beam 13 has a first surface 131 on one side (upper side) in the thickness direction and a second surface 132 on the other side (lower side).

[0054] The beam 13 has flexibility and can vibrate in the vertical direction with the portion (fixed end) supported by the support portion 11 as a fulcrum.

[0055] The power generation section (first power generation section) 14 generates electric power according to the vibration of the beam 13. The power generation section 14 includes a first piezoelectric converter 141 and a second piezoelectric converter 142. The first piezoelectric converter 141 is provided on the first surface (upper surface) 131 of the beam 13. The second piezoelectric converter 142 is provided on the second surface (lower surface) 132 of the beam 13.

[0056] The first piezoelectric converter 141 includes a first electrode (lower electrode) 1411 stacked on the first surface 131 of the beam 13, a piezoelectric body 1412 stacked on the first electrode 1411, and a second electrode (upper electrode) 1413 stacked on the piezoelectric body 1412. In other words, the first piezoelectric converter 141 includes a stacked structure of the first electrode 1411, the piezoelectric body 1412, and the second electrode 1413 arranged on the first surface 131 of the beam 13.

[0057] The material of the first electrode 1411 and the material of the second electrode 1413 are, for example, Pt. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the material of the first electrode 1411 and the material of the second electrode 1413 may be, for example, Au, Al, or Ir. The material of the first electrode 1411 and the material of the second electrode 1413 may be the same or different.

[0058] Here, the piezoelectric body 1412 is a piezoelectric ceramic. The material of the piezoelectric body 1412 is, for example, PZT (Pb (Zr, Ti) O3). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the material of the piezoelectric body 1412 may be, for example, PZT-PMN (Pb (Mn, Nb) O3) or PZT with impurities added. In addition, the material of the piezoelectric body 1412 may also be AlN, ZnO, KNN (K 0.5 Na 0.5 NbO3), KN (KNbO3), NN (NaNbO3) or KNN with impurities added. Examples of the impurities include Li, Nb, Ta, Sb or Cu.

[0059] The second piezoelectric converter 142 includes a first electrode (upper electrode) 1421 stacked on the second surface 132 of the beam 13, a piezoelectric body 1422 stacked on the first electrode 1421, and a second electrode (lower electrode) 1423 stacked on the piezoelectric body 1422. In other words, the second piezoelectric converter 142 includes a stacked structure of the first electrode 1421, the piezoelectric body 1422, and the second electrode 1423 arranged on the second surface 132 of the beam 13.

[0060] As materials for the first electrode 1421 and the second electrode 1423 , for example, the materials exemplified as the material of the first electrode 1411 and the material of the second electrode 1413 can be used. Also, as a material for the piezoelectric body 1422 , the materials exemplified as the material of the piezoelectric body 1412 can be used.

[0061] In the first element 1, when the vibration portion 12 vibrates, the piezoelectric body 1412 of the first piezoelectric converter 141 receives stress. As a result, in the first element 1, a difference in charge occurs between the first electrode 1411 and the second electrode 1413 in the first piezoelectric converter 141, and an AC voltage is generated in the first piezoelectric converter 141. In addition, in the first element 1, when the vibration portion 12 vibrates, the piezoelectric body 1422 of the second piezoelectric converter 142 receives stress. As a result, in the first element 1, a difference in charge occurs between the first electrode 1421 and the second electrode 1423 in the second piezoelectric converter 142, and an AC voltage is generated in the second piezoelectric converter 142.

[0062] In short, the first element 1 is a vibration-type power generating element that generates power by utilizing the piezoelectric effect of a piezoelectric material.

[0063] The weight 15 is provided on the first surface 131 of the beam 13. The weight 15 is provided to adjust the resonance frequency of the vibration part 12. The material of the weight 15 is not particularly limited, and may be metal or non-metal. The weight 15 may be omitted.

[0064] The AC voltage generated in the first piezoelectric converter 141 and the AC voltage generated in the second piezoelectric converter 142 are sinusoidal AC voltages corresponding to the vibrations of the piezoelectric bodies 1412 and 1422. The resonance frequency of the vibrating unit 12 is determined by the structural parameters and materials of the beam 13, the power generating unit 14, and the weight 15.

[0065] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 2 , the second element 2 includes a support portion (second support portion) 21 and a vibrating portion (second vibrating portion) 22. Here, the second element 2 has a shape symmetrical to the first element 1.

[0066] The support portion 21 is a portion of the second element 2 supported by the support body 4. The support portion 21 is a left portion of the second element 2. The support portion 21 is located on the opposite side of the support portion 11 across the support body 4. The support portion 21 includes a soft magnetic body. Here, the support portion 21 is made of SUS (stainless steel) having magnetism.

[0067] The vibration part 22 is in the shape of a strip that is long in the left-right direction. The vibration part 22 extends to the right from the right end of the support part 21. The vibration part 22 is supported by the support part 21 so that it can vibrate (shake). One end (left end) of the vibration part 22 in the long side direction is a fixed end fixed to the support part 21, and the other end (right end) in the long side direction is a free end. That is, the second element 2 has a cantilever structure.

[0068] The vibrating portion 22 is disposed so as to face the vibrating portion 12 in the up-down direction. Here, the longitudinal axis of the vibrating portion 12 and the longitudinal axis of the vibrating portion 22 are substantially parallel.

[0069] The vibration section 22 includes a beam (second beam) 23 , a power generation section (second power generation section) 24 , and a weight (second weight) 25 .

[0070] The beam 23 is made of a soft magnetic body. Here, the beam 23 is made of magnetic SUS (stainless steel). The beam 23 is formed integrally with the support portion 21.

[0071] The beam 23 is a rectangular plate that is long in the left-right direction. The thickness axis of the beam 23 is along the vertical direction. The beam 23 has a first surface (upper surface) 231 on one side (upper side) in the thickness direction and a second surface (lower surface) 232 on the other side (lower side).

[0072] The beam 23 has flexibility and can vibrate in the vertical direction with the portion (fixed end) supported by the support portion 21 as a fulcrum. That is, in the power generation device 10 of this embodiment, the vibration direction of the first element 1 and the vibration direction of the second element 2 are in the same direction.

[0073] The power generation section (second power generation section) 24 generates electric power according to the vibration of the beam 23. The power generation section 24 includes a third piezoelectric converter 241 and a fourth piezoelectric converter 242. The third piezoelectric converter 241 is provided on the first surface (upper surface) 231 of the beam 23. The fourth piezoelectric converter 242 is provided on the second surface (lower surface) 232 of the beam 23.

[0074] The third piezoelectric converter 241 includes a first electrode (lower electrode) 2411 stacked on the first surface 231 of the beam 23, a piezoelectric body 2412 stacked on the first electrode 2411, and a second electrode (upper electrode) 2413 stacked on the piezoelectric body 2412. In other words, the third piezoelectric converter 241 includes a stacked structure of the first electrode 2411, the piezoelectric body 2412, and the second electrode 2413 arranged on the first surface 231 of the beam 23.

[0075] The fourth piezoelectric converter 242 includes a first electrode (upper electrode) 2421 stacked on the second surface 232 of the beam 23, a piezoelectric body 2422 stacked on the first electrode 2421, and a second electrode (lower electrode) 2423 stacked on the piezoelectric body 2422. In other words, the fourth piezoelectric converter 242 includes a stacked structure of the first electrode 2421, the piezoelectric body 2422, and the second electrode 2423 arranged on the second surface 232 of the beam 23.

[0076] As materials for the first electrodes 2411 and 2421 and the second electrodes 2413 and 2423, for example, the materials exemplified as the material for the first electrode 1411 and the material for the second electrode 1413 can be used. Also, as materials for the piezoelectric bodies 2412 and 2422, the materials exemplified as the material for the piezoelectric body 1412 can be used.

[0077] In the second element 2, when the vibration part 22 vibrates, the piezoelectric body 2412 of the third piezoelectric converter 241 receives stress. As a result, in the second element 2, a difference in charge occurs between the first electrode 2411 and the second electrode 2413 in the third piezoelectric converter 241, and an AC voltage is generated in the third piezoelectric converter 241. In addition, in the second element 2, when the vibration part 22 vibrates, the piezoelectric body 2422 of the fourth piezoelectric converter 242 receives stress. As a result, in the second element 2, a difference in charge occurs between the first electrode 2421 and the second electrode 2423 in the fourth piezoelectric converter 242, and an AC voltage is generated in the fourth piezoelectric converter 242.

[0078] In short, the second element 2 is a vibration-type power generation element that generates power by utilizing the piezoelectric effect of a piezoelectric material, similarly to the first element 1 .

[0079] The weight 25 is provided on the second surface 232 of the beam 23. The weight 25 is provided to adjust the resonance frequency of the vibration part 22. The material of the weight 25 is not particularly limited, and may be metal or non-metal. The weight 25 may be omitted.

[0080] The AC voltage generated in the third piezoelectric converter 241 and the AC voltage generated in the fourth piezoelectric converter 242 are sinusoidal AC voltages corresponding to the vibration of the piezoelectric bodies 2412 and 2422. The resonance frequency of the vibrating unit 22 is determined by the structural parameters and materials of the beam 23, the power generating unit 24, and the weight 25.

[0081] like Figure 1 As shown, the support body 4 is a rectangular parallelepiped that is long in the vertical direction. The support body 4 includes a soft magnetic body, such as soft iron. One end (upper end) of the longitudinal axis of the support body 4 is connected to the support portion 11 of the first element 1. The other end (lower end) of the longitudinal axis of the support body 4 is connected to the support portion 21 of the second element 2. In other words, the support body 4 connects one end (left end) of the first element 1 with one end (left end) of the second element 2. The first element 1, the second element 2, and the support body 4 form a C shape when viewed from the front. Here, the support portion 11 of the first element 1, the support portion 21 of the second element 2, and the support body 4 are formed integrally. However, the support portion 11 of the first element 1, the support body 4, the support portion 21 of the second element 2, and the support body 4 can also be independent of each other. The support portion 11 of the first element 1 and the support body 4, and the support portion 21 of the second element 2 and the support body 4 can also be joined by appropriate joining means such as screw fastening and welding.

[0082] The support body 4 is held by the left wall 91 of the housing 9 . The first element 1 and the second element 2 protrude from the left wall 91 of the housing 9 .

[0083] like Figure 1 As shown, the movable element 3 includes a permanent magnet 31 , a first magnetic body 32 , and a second magnetic body 33 .

[0084] The permanent magnet 31 has magnetic pole surfaces (N pole surface and S pole surface) on both sides in the vertical direction. Here, the upper surface (first surface) of the permanent magnet 31 is the N pole surface, and the lower surface (second surface) is the S pole surface.

[0085] The first magnetic body 32 includes a soft magnetic body. The first magnetic body 32 is provided on the first surface of the permanent magnet 31. The first magnetic body 32 protrudes from the upper side of the first surface of the permanent magnet 31 in the left-right direction (toward the left).

[0086] The second magnetic body 33 includes a soft magnetic body. The second magnetic body 33 is provided on the second surface of the permanent magnet 31. The second magnetic body 33 protrudes from the lower side of the second surface of the permanent magnet 31 in the left-right direction (to the left).

[0087] The movable element 3 has an inverted C-shape (a C-shape open in the opposite direction to the first element 1 , the second element 2 , and the support body 4 ) in front view due to the permanent magnet 31 , the first magnetic body 32 , and the second magnetic body 33 .

[0088] The movable element 3 is disposed in the internal space 90 of the housing 9. The movable element 3 can move between a first position and a second position in the vertical direction. The movable element 3 moves in the internal space 90 along the right wall 92 of the housing 9.

[0089] like Figure 1 As shown, the first position is a position of the movable member 3 where the movable member 3 contacts the vibration portion 12 of the first element 1. At the first position, the movable member 3 attracts the first element 1 (more specifically, the beam 13) by magnetic force and contacts the first element 1. At the first position, the movable member 3 is coupled to the first element 1 by magnetic force. In addition, at the first position, the movable member 3 is separated from the second element 2.

[0090] In addition, the first position of the movable member 3 is, for example, Figure 1 As shown in the figure, the first magnetic body 32 is the position of the movable part 3 where the first magnetic body 32 is in direct contact with the second surface 132 of the beam 13, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, when the vibrating part 12 has a magnetic body on the second surface 132 of the beam 13, the first position of the movable part 3 may also be the position of the movable part 3 where the first magnetic body 32 is in direct contact with the magnetic body. In addition, for example, when the movable part 3 does not have the first magnetic body 32, the first position of the movable part 3 may also be the position of the movable part 3 where the upper surface of the permanent magnet 31 is in direct contact with the second surface 132 of the beam 13.

[0091] like Figure 2 As shown, the second position is a position of the movable member 3 where the movable member 3 contacts the vibration portion 22 of the second element 2. At the second position, the movable member 3 attracts the second element 2 (more specifically, the beam 23) by magnetic force and contacts the second element 2. At the second position, the movable member 3 and the second element 2 are combined by magnetic force. In addition, at the second position, the movable member 3 is separated from the first element 1.

[0092] In addition, the second position of the movable member 3 is, for example, Figure 2 As shown in the figure, the second magnetic body 33 is the position of the movable member 3 where the first surface 231 of the beam 23 is in direct contact with the second magnetic body 33, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, when the vibrating portion 22 has a magnetic body on the first surface 231 of the beam 23, the second position of the movable member 3 may also be the position of the movable member 3 where the second magnetic body 33 is in direct contact with the magnetic body. In addition, for example, when the movable member 3 does not have the second magnetic body 33, the second position of the movable member 3 may also be the position of the movable member 3 where the lower surface of the permanent magnet 31 is in direct contact with the first surface 231 of the beam 23.

[0093] Furthermore, for example, guide ribs for regulating the moving direction of the movable element 3 in the up-down direction may be formed on the inner surfaces of the front wall and the rear wall of the housing 9 .

[0094] like Figure 1 As shown, the button 5 is arranged on the extension line of the movable member 3 in the vertical direction. The button 5 is arranged in the hole 931 that passes through the upper wall 93 of the housing 9 in the vertical direction. The button 5 receives a pressing operation from the operator. The button 5 moves the movable member 3 from the first position to the second position according to the pressing operation.

[0095] like Figure 1 As shown, the button 5 includes an operating body 51 and a flange portion 52 .

[0096] The operating body 51 is a cylindrical shape that is long in the upper and lower parts. The operating body 51 is configured to penetrate the hole 931, and the upper end of the operating body 51 protrudes upward from the upper wall 93 of the housing 9, and the lower end of the operating body 51 is opposite to the upper surface of the movable member 3 in the internal space 90 of the housing 9. When the button 5 is not operated, the lower end of the operating body 51 contacts the upper surface of the movable member 3, but it is not limited to this and can also be separated.

[0097] The button 5 moves downward when the operator presses the upper end of the operating body 51. At this time, the upper surface of the movable member 3 is pressed by the lower end of the operating body 51, and the movable member 3 moves downward. That is, when the button 5 is pressed by the operator, the movable member 3 moves from the first position to the second position.

[0098] The flange 52 is formed in a disk shape protruding radially outward from the operating body 51 at the center of the length direction of the operating body 51. The flange 52 is provided on the outer surface of the operating body 51 so as to be located in the internal space 90. The upper surface of the flange 52 contacts the lower surface of the upper wall 93 of the housing 9, thereby preventing the button 5 from further moving upward.

[0099] The return portion 6 applies a force from the second position to the first position to the movable element 3. Here, the return portion 6 is a coil spring. The coil spring is arranged between the lower wall 94 of the housing 9 and the lower surface of the movable element 3 so that its axis is oriented in the vertical direction.

[0100] When the button 5 is pressed by the operator, the coil spring constituting the reset portion 6 receives the pressing force through the movable member 3 and is compressed (see Figure 2 ). Furthermore, when the operator releases his hand from the button 5 and ends the pressing operation, the movable member 3 and the button 5 are pressed upward by the elastic force thereof, so that the movable member 3 moves to the first position.

[0101] The stopper 7 includes a first stopper 71 and a second stopper 72 .

[0102] The first stopper 71 is in the shape of a rod extending in the front-to-back direction. The first stopper 71 is arranged in the inner space 90 of the housing 9 near the free end of the vibrating portion 12 of the first element 1. The first stopper 71 is arranged on the same side as the movable part 3, i.e., the lower side of the first element 1, as viewed from the first element 1. The first stopper 71 is arranged between the first element 1 and the second element 2. When the beam 13 of the first element 1 bends downward, the first stopper 71 contacts the second surface 132 of the beam 13 to prevent the beam 13 from further bending (see Figure 3 ).

[0103] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the movable member 3 is in the first position, the distance L1 between the first stopper 71 and the first element 1 is smaller than the distance L12 between the movable member 3 and the second element 2. Therefore, when the movable member 3 moves from the first position to the second position, before the movable member 3 contacts the second element 2, the first element 1 that is bent according to the movement of the movable member 3 contacts the first stopper 71 (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 3 ). That is, when the movable member 3 moves from the first position to the second position, the movable member 3 moves away from the first element 1 and then contacts the second element 2.

[0104] In short, the power generation device 10 includes the first stopper 71. When the movable member 3 moves from the first position to the second position, the first stopper 71 causes the first element 1 to separate from the movable member 3 before the movable member 3 contacts the second element 2. Here, the first stopper 71 contacts the first element 1, thereby causing the first element 1 to separate from the movable member 3.

[0105] In addition, if the movable member 3 moves from the first position to the second position, the magnetic force between the movable member 3 and the second element 2 may increase, and the second element 2 may bend upward. The first stopper 71 is preferably arranged at a position where the first element 1 is separated from the movable member 3 before the movable member 3 and the second element 2 come into contact, even if the second element 2 is bent by the magnetic force.

[0106] The second stopper 72 is in the shape of a rod extending in the front-back direction. The second stopper 72 is arranged in the inner space 90 of the housing 9 near the free end of the vibrating portion 22 of the second element 2. The second stopper 72 is arranged on the same side as the movable part 3, that is, on the upper side of the second element 2, as viewed from the second element 2. The second stopper 72 is arranged between the first element 1 and the second element 2. When the beam 23 of the second element 2 bends upward, the second stopper 72 contacts the first surface 231 of the beam 23 to prevent the beam 23 from further bending.

[0107] like Figure 2As shown in FIG. 1 , when the movable member 3 is in the second position, the distance L2 between the second stopper 72 and the second element 2 is smaller than the distance L11 between the movable member 3 and the first element 1. Therefore, when the movable member 3 moves from the second position to the first position, before the movable member 3 contacts the first element 1, the second element 2 that is bent according to the movement of the movable member 3 contacts the second stopper 72 (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 5 ). That is, when the movable member 3 moves from the second position to the first position, the movable member 3 separates from the second element 2 and then contacts the first element 1 .

[0108] In short, the power generation device 10 includes the second stopper 72. When the movable member 3 moves from the second position to the first position, the second stopper 72 causes the second element 2 to separate from the movable member 3 before the movable member 3 contacts the first element 1. Here, the second stopper 72 causes the second element 2 to separate from the movable member 3 by contacting the second element 2.

[0109] In addition, if the movable member 3 moves from the second position to the first position, the magnetic force between the movable member 3 and the first element 1 may increase, and the first element 1 may bend downward. The second stopper 72 is preferably arranged at a position where the second element 2 is separated from the movable member 3 before the movable member 3 contacts the first element 1 even if the first element 1 is bent by the magnetic force.

[0110] (1.1.3) Action

[0111] Next, refer to Figure 1 to Figure 6 , the operation of the power generation device 10 is described.

[0112] When the button 5 is not pressed by the operator, the movable member 3 receives an upward force from the reset portion 6 and is located at the first position (see Figure 1 ). At this time, the free end of the vibrating portion 12 of the first element 1 is attracted to the upper surface of the movable member 3 (the upper surface of the first magnetic body 32) due to the magnetic force (attractive force) between the first element 1 and the movable member 3. In addition, although the second element 2 receives the magnetic force (attractive force) between the second element 2 and the movable member 3, it remains stationary at a position separated from the lower surface of the movable member 3 due to the balance of stress with the beam 23, etc.

[0113] When the button 5 is pressed by the operator, the operating body 51 of the button 5 moves downward. The movable member 3 is pressed by the operating body 51, and the coil spring constituting the reset portion 6 is compressed and moved downward. At this time, the free end of the vibrating portion 12 of the first element 1 attracted to the movable member 3 moves downward together with the movable member 3, and the beam 13 bends.

[0114] When the movable element 3 moves downward to a position where the lower surface 132 of the beam 13 contacts the first stopper 71 (see Figure 3), the free end of the vibration part 12 is prevented from further downward movement by the first stopper 71. If the force of pressing the button 5 (downward force) exceeds the force required to separate the magnetic attraction between the movable part 3 and the first element 1, the movable part 3 separates from the first element 1 and moves further downward. If the vibration part 12 of the first element 1 separates from the movable part 3, it starts to vibrate with an amplitude corresponding to the degree of bending of the beam 13 (refer to Figure 4 ). The vibration unit 12 vibrates, and the power generation unit 14 generates electricity.

[0115] When the button 5 is further pressed, the movable member 3 moves further downward. When the movable member 3 reaches the second position, the free end of the vibrating portion 22 is attracted by the lower surface of the movable member 3 (the lower surface of the second magnetic body 33) due to the magnetic force between the vibrating portion 22 of the second element 2 and the movable member 3 (see Figure 2 ).

[0116] When the operator releases his hand from the button 5 and stops pressing, the movable member 3 moves upward by receiving the elastic force of the coil spring constituting the reset portion 6. At this time, the free end of the vibrating portion 22 of the second element 2 attracted by the movable member 3 moves upward together with the movable member 3, and the beam 23 bends.

[0117] When the movable element 3 moves upward to a position where the upper surface 231 of the beam 23 contacts the second stopper 72 (see Figure 5 ), the free end of the vibration part 22 is prevented from further upward movement by the second stopper 72. The movable part 3 is separated from the second element 2 by the elastic force from the reset part 6 and further moves upward. When the vibration part 22 of the second element 2 is separated from the movable part 3, it starts to vibrate with an amplitude corresponding to the degree of bending of the beam 23 (refer to Figure 6 ). The vibration unit 22 vibrates, and the power generation unit 24 generates electricity.

[0118] After separating from the second element 2, the movable member 3 and the button 5 are further moved upward by the elastic force from the reset portion 6. Then, the movable member 3 and the button 5 stop at a position (a first position of the movable member 3) where the flange portion 52 of the button 5 contacts the lower surface of the upper wall 93 of the housing 9. At this time, the upper surface of the movable member 3 is adsorbed to the first element 1.

[0119] In this way, the first element 1 generates power when the operator presses the button 5 through the power generation device 10. In addition, in the power generation device 10, when the operator stops pressing the button 5 (releases the button 5), the second element 2 generates power. That is, in the power generation device 10 of this embodiment, power can be generated both when the movable member 3 moves from the first position to the second position and when it moves from the second position to the first position. Therefore, in the power generation device 10 of this embodiment, it is possible to improve the power generation efficiency.

[0120] (1.2) Input device

[0121] Next, refer to Figure 7 , the input device 20 provided with the power generation device 10 will be described.

[0122] like Figure 7 As shown, the input device 20 includes a control circuit 204. The control circuit 204 is operated by the power generated by the power generation device 10 and performs a predetermined function. The control circuit 204 includes, for example, a wireless communication circuit. The control circuit 204 performs the following functions, namely, when the button 5 is pressed, the control circuit 204 operates using the power generated by the power generation device 10 and transmits a communication signal indicating that the button 5 is pressed to the outside. Of course, the function of the control circuit 204 is not limited to this. For example, the control circuit 204 may also perform the function of lighting a light source provided in the input device 20, the function of generating a sound from a sound generating device provided in the input device 20, and the function of operating a sensor provided in the input device 20.

[0123] The input device 20 includes a first rectifier circuit 201 , a second rectifier circuit 202 , a voltage conversion circuit 203 , a determination circuit 205 , a power storage element 206 , a first rectifier unit 2071 , and a second rectifier unit 2072 in addition to the power generation device 10 and the control circuit 204 .

[0124] The first rectifying circuit 201 adjusts the direction of the current supplied from the first power generation section 14 of the first element 1 to one direction. The first rectifying circuit 201 is a so-called diode bridge in which four diodes are connected in series in parallel.

[0125] One of the two input terminals of the first rectifier circuit 201 is connected to the second electrode (upper electrode) 1413 of the first piezoelectric converter 141 and the first electrode (upper electrode) 1421 of the second piezoelectric converter 142. The other of the two input terminals of the first rectifier circuit 201 is connected to the first electrode (lower electrode) 1411 of the first piezoelectric converter 141 and the second electrode (lower electrode) 1423 of the second piezoelectric converter 142.

[0126] The first rectifier circuit 201 converts the sinusoidal current generated by the power generation unit 14 into a pulsating current.

[0127] The polarization directions of the piezoelectric body 1412 of the first piezoelectric converter 141 and the piezoelectric body 1422 of the second piezoelectric converter 142 are set so that electrodes connected to the same input terminal of the two input terminals of the first rectifier circuit 201 have the same polarity.

[0128] A storage element (capacitor) 206 is connected between the two output terminals of the first rectifier circuit 201. A diode as a first rectifier 2071 exists between one of the two output terminals of the first rectifier circuit 201 (the output terminal on the high potential side) and the storage element 206. In addition, one of the two output terminals of the first rectifier circuit 201 (the output terminal on the high potential side) is connected to the first input terminal 2051 of the determination circuit 205.

[0129] The second rectifying circuit 202 adjusts the direction of the current supplied from the second power generation section 24 of the second element 2 to one direction. The second rectifying circuit 202 is a so-called diode bridge in which four diodes are connected in series in parallel.

[0130] One of the two input terminals of the second rectifier circuit 202 is connected to the second electrode (upper electrode) 2413 of the third piezoelectric converter 241 and the first electrode (upper electrode) 2421 of the fourth piezoelectric converter 242. The other of the two input terminals of the second rectifier circuit 202 is connected to the first electrode (lower electrode) 2411 of the third piezoelectric converter 241 and the second electrode (lower electrode) 2423 of the fourth piezoelectric converter 242.

[0131] The second rectifier circuit 202 converts the sinusoidal current generated by the power generation unit 24 into a pulsating current.

[0132] The polarization directions of the piezoelectric body 2412 of the third piezoelectric converter 241 and the piezoelectric body 2422 of the fourth piezoelectric converter 242 are set so that electrodes connected to the same input terminal of the two input terminals of the second rectifier circuit 202 have the same polarity.

[0133] The storage element 206 is connected between the two output terminals of the second rectifier circuit 202. A diode as a second rectifier 2072 exists between one of the two output terminals of the second rectifier circuit 202 (the output terminal on the high potential side) and the storage element 206. In addition, one of the two output terminals of the second rectifier circuit 202 (the output terminal on the high potential side) is connected to the second input terminal 2052 of the determination circuit 205.

[0134] As described above, the first rectifier 2071 exists between one output terminal (the output terminal on the high potential side) of the first rectifier circuit 201 and the storage element 206. The second rectifier 2072 exists between one output terminal (the output terminal on the high potential side) of the second rectifier circuit 202 and the storage element 206. The first rectifier 2071 prevents the current from the second rectifier circuit 202 from flowing into the first rectifier circuit 201. The second rectifier 2072 prevents the current from the first rectifier circuit 201 from flowing into the second rectifier circuit 202.

[0135] Both ends of the power storage element 206 are connected to the voltage conversion circuit 203 , and the voltage conversion circuit 203 is connected to the control circuit 204 .

[0136] The voltage conversion circuit 203 generates an operating voltage for the control circuit 204 based on the charge accumulated in the storage element 206. The voltage conversion circuit 203 is, for example, a DC / DC converter. However, it is not limited thereto, and the voltage conversion circuit 203 may also be, for example, a three-terminal regulator. In short, the voltage conversion circuit 203 generates an operating voltage using the power generated by the first element 1 and the power generated by the second element 2, and provides the generated operating voltage to the control circuit 204.

[0137] The control circuit 204 is operated by the operating voltage provided from the voltage conversion circuit 203 to perform the desired function. The control circuit 204 is, for example, a computer system including one or more processors (microprocessors) and one or more memories. In other words, the functions of the control circuit 204 are performed by executing one or more programs (applications) stored in one or more memories by one or more processors. Here, the program is pre-recorded in the memory of the control circuit 204, but it can also be provided through an electrical communication line such as the Internet, or recorded in a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card.

[0138] When the power generating device 10 generates power, the judgment circuit 205 judges whether the power generation source is the first element 1 or the second element 2. The judgment circuit 205 includes, for example, a comparator. The judgment circuit 205 includes, for example, a first input terminal 2051 and a second input terminal 2052. The first input terminal 2051 is connected to the output terminal (high potential type output terminal) of the first rectifier circuit 201. The second input terminal 2052 is connected to the output terminal (high potential type output terminal) of the second rectifier circuit 202. The judgment circuit 205 makes the above judgment by, for example, comparing the voltage of the first input terminal 2051 with the voltage of the second input terminal 2052. If the voltage of the first input terminal 2051 is higher than the voltage of the second input terminal 2052, the judgment circuit 205 judges that the power generation source is the first element 1. If the voltage of the second input terminal 2052 is higher than the voltage of the first input terminal 2051, the judgment circuit 205 judges that the power generation source is the second element 2. The determination circuit 205 notifies the control circuit 204 of the determination result.

[0139] As already described, the first element 1 generates power when the button 5 is pressed. In addition, the second element 2 generates power when the button 5 is released. That is, by knowing whether the power generation source is the first element 1 or the second element 2, the control circuit 204 (or the determination circuit 205) can determine whether the button 5 is pressed or released.

[0140] (2) Implementation Method 2

[0141] Reference Figure 8 to Figure 11 Next, a power generation device 10A according to Embodiment 2 will be described. In the power generation device 10A according to this embodiment, the same components as those of the power generation device 10 according to Embodiment 1 are given the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0142] The power generation device 10A includes a support body 4A in place of the support body 4. The support body 4A includes a common magnetic circuit portion 42 in addition to a main body portion 41 corresponding to the support body 4 in the power generation device 10 of the first embodiment.

[0143] The common magnetic path portion 42 protrudes rightward from the vertical center of the main body portion 41. The common magnetic path portion 42 is substantially parallel to the vibration portions 12 and 22. That is, the first element 1 and the second element 2 are arranged to face each other with the common magnetic path portion 42 formed of a magnetic material interposed therebetween.

[0144] The common magnetic circuit portion 42 is formed integrally with the main body portion 41. The common magnetic circuit portion 42 protrudes from the main body portion 41 by substantially the same length as the vibrating portions 12 and 22. Unlike the vibrating portions 12 and 22, the common magnetic circuit portion 42 has a rigidity that is difficult to bend (vibrate) during normal use.

[0145] In the power generating device 10A of the present embodiment, the first element 1 and the second element 2 are arranged with the common magnetic circuit portion 42 interposed therebetween. The first element 1, the second element 2, and the support body 4A (the main body 41 and the common magnetic circuit portion 42) form an E-shape when viewed from the front. In other words, in the power generating device 10A of the present embodiment, an E-shaped magnetic circuit including the first piezoelectric vibration power generating element 1, the common magnetic circuit portion 42, and the second element 2 is formed when viewed from the direction intersecting the direction in which the first element 1 and the second element 2 are arranged. The E-shaped magnetic circuit includes: a first magnetic circuit including the first element 1 and the common magnetic circuit portion 42, and a second magnetic circuit including the second element 2 and the common magnetic circuit portion 42.

[0146] Furthermore, when the movable member 3 is in the first position, Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first magnetic body 32 of the movable member 3 is in contact with the first element 1, and the second magnetic body 33 of the movable member 3 is in contact with the common magnetic circuit portion 42. That is, when the movable member 3 is in the first position, a closed magnetic circuit (hereinafter also referred to as "the first closed magnetic circuit") is formed by the magnetic circuit including the first magnetic circuit and the movable member 3. Fig. 9 As shown, in the first closed magnetic circuit, the magnetic flux from the permanent magnet 31 passes through counterclockwise. Fig. 9 The arrows in the figure indicate the direction of the magnetic flux. Fig. 9 , the shapes of the movable member 3, the weights 15, 25, etc. are schematically shown.

[0147] In addition, when the movable member 3 is in the second position, Fig.10 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first magnetic body 32 of the movable member 3 contacts the common magnetic circuit portion 42, and the second magnetic body 33 of the movable member 3 contacts the second element 2. That is, when the movable member 3 is in the second position, a closed magnetic circuit (hereinafter referred to as "the second closed magnetic circuit") is formed by the magnetic circuit including the second magnetic circuit and the movable member 3. Fig.11 As shown, in the second closed magnetic circuit, the magnetic flux from the permanent magnet 31 passes through counterclockwise. Fig.11 The arrows in the figure indicate the direction of the magnetic flux. Fig.11 , the shapes of the movable member 3, the weights 15, 25, etc. are schematically shown.

[0148] In the power generating device 10A of the present embodiment, since the support body 4A includes the common magnetic path portion 42, the influence of the magnetic flux of the permanent magnet 31 on the power generation of the first element 1 and the second element 2 can be reduced. Figure 8 to Figure 11 , and will be described while comparing with the power generation device 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0149] In the power generation device 10 of the first embodiment, when the movable element 3 is moved from the first position (see Figure 1 ) moves to the second position (refer to Figure 2 ), then in the middle, the movable member 3 separates from the first element 1, and the vibration part 12 vibrates (refer to Figure 4 ), the power generation unit 14 generates power. At this time, the beam 13 of the vibration unit 12 receives a force toward the movable member 3 by the magnetic force from the permanent magnet 31. Therefore, due to the influence of the magnetic force of the permanent magnet 31, the amplitude of the vibration unit 12 becomes smaller, and the amount of power generated in the power generation unit 14 may become smaller.

[0150] In contrast, in the power generation device 10A of the present embodiment, the support body 4A includes the common magnetic path portion 42. Therefore, when the movable element 3 moves from the first position to the second position, the magnetic field lines from the N-pole surface (upper surface) of the permanent magnet 31 pass through the common magnetic path portion 42, the lower half of the main body 41 of the support body 4A, and the beam 23 of the second element 2, and return to the S-pole surface (lower surface) of the permanent magnet 31 (see Fig.11 That is, when the movable member 3 moves from the first position to the second position, most of the magnetic lines of force from the permanent magnet 31 pass through the closed magnetic circuit (the second closed magnetic circuit). Therefore, when the movable member 3 moves to the second position, the first element 1 is less likely to be affected by the magnetic force of the permanent magnet 31. Therefore, in the power generation device 10A of the present embodiment, the movable member 3 moves from the first position (see Figure 8 ) to the second position (refer to Fig.10 ), when the vibration part 12 vibrates and the power generation part 14 generates electricity, the amplitude of the vibration part 12 is difficult to decrease due to the influence of the magnetic force of the permanent magnet 31. Therefore, in the power generation device 10A, compared with the power generation device 10, it is possible to increase the amount of power generated in the power generation part 14 when the movable part 3 moves from the first position to the second position. In addition, in fact, in the middle of the movement of the movable part 3 from the first position to the second position, among the magnetic lines of force from the permanent magnet 31, the magnetic lines of force passing through the path including the second element 2 gradually become dominant. That is, even when the movable part 3 moves from the first position to the second position, the influence of the magnetic force from the permanent magnet 31 on the first element 1 can be gradually reduced.

[0151] Similarly, in the power generation device 10 of the first embodiment, the movable element 3 is moved from the second position (see Figure 2 ) to the first position (refer to Figure 1 ) moves, the vibration part 22 vibrates and the power generation part 24 generates electricity, due to the influence of the magnetic force of the permanent magnet 31, the amplitude of the vibration part 22 becomes smaller and the power generation in the power generation part 24 may become smaller.

[0152] On the other hand, in the power generation device 10A of the present embodiment, when the movable member 3 is moved from the second position to the first position, the magnetic field lines coming out from the N-pole surface (upper surface) of the permanent magnet 31 pass through the first element 1, the upper half of the main body 41 of the support body 4A, and the common magnetic path portion 42, and return to the S-pole surface (lower surface) of the permanent magnet 31 (see Fig.10 That is, when the movable member 3 moves from the second position to the first position, most of the magnetic lines of force from the permanent magnet 31 pass through the closed magnetic circuit (first closed magnetic circuit). Therefore, when the movable member 3 moves to the first position, the second element 2 is less likely to be affected by the magnetic force of the permanent magnet 31. Therefore, in the power generation device 10A of the present embodiment, the movable member 3 moves from the second position (refer to Fig.10 ) to the first position (refer to Figure 8 ) moves, the vibration part 22 vibrates and the power generation part 24 generates electricity. Due to the influence of the magnetic force of the permanent magnet 31, the amplitude of the vibration part 22 is difficult to decrease. Therefore, in the power generation device 10A, compared with the power generation device 10, it is possible to increase the amount of power generated in the power generation part 24 when the movable part 3 moves from the second position to the first position. In addition, in the middle of the movement of the movable part 3 from the second position to the first position, among the magnetic lines of force from the permanent magnet 31, the magnetic lines of force passing through the path including the first element 1 gradually become dominant. That is, even when the movable part 3 moves from the second position to the first position, the influence of the magnetic force from the permanent magnet 31 on the second element 2 can be gradually reduced.

[0153] In the power generation device 10A of the present embodiment, the support body 4 includes the common magnetic circuit portion 42, so that the pressing operation by the operator can be assisted. Figure 8), the magnetic flux of the permanent magnet 31 passes through the first closed magnetic circuit counterclockwise. If the movable part 3 moves downward from the first position, a gap is generated between the common magnetic circuit portion 42 and the second magnetic body 33 by the second magnetic body 33 moving downward, and the magnetic resistance of the magnetic circuit (referred to as the "first magnetic circuit") passing through the first element 1 and the common magnetic circuit portion 42 increases. On the other hand, the gap between the first magnetic body 32 and the common magnetic circuit portion 42 is reduced by the first magnetic body 32 moving downward, and the gap between the second magnetic body 33 and the second element 2 is reduced by the second magnetic body 33 moving downward. Therefore, the magnetic resistance of the magnetic circuit (referred to as the "second magnetic circuit") passing through the second element 2 and the common magnetic circuit portion 42 is reduced. Furthermore, if the movable part 3 moves further downward, the magnetic resistance of the second magnetic circuit becomes smaller than the magnetic resistance of the first magnetic circuit, and the magnetic flux from the permanent magnet 31 preferentially passes through the second magnetic circuit. This generates an attractive force between the first magnetic body 32 of the movable member 3 and the common magnetic circuit portion 42, and generates an attractive force between the second magnetic body 33 of the movable member 3 and the second element 2, so that the movable member 3 is attracted downward. This assists the pressing operation by the operator.

[0154] (3) Implementation Method 3

[0155] Reference Figure 12 to Figure 14 Next, a power generation device 10B according to Embodiment 3 will be described. In the power generation device 10B according to this embodiment, the same components as those of the power generation device 10A according to Embodiment 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0156] In the power generating device 10B, the movable element 3 includes a first permanent magnet 311 and a second permanent magnet 312 instead of the permanent magnet 31 .

[0157] In the movable element 3 , the first permanent magnet 311 is located on the right side, and the second permanent magnet 312 is located on the left side. That is, the second permanent magnet 312 is closer to the common magnetic path portion 42 than the first permanent magnet 311 is.

[0158] The upper surface of the first permanent magnet 311 is an N-pole surface (first magnetic pole surface), and the lower surface is an S-pole surface (second magnetic pole surface). The second permanent magnet 312 is magnetized to have two poles on one side, so that the upper half of the left side is an N-pole surface (first magnetic pole surface), the lower half of the left side is an S-pole surface (second magnetic pole surface), the upper half of the right side is an S-pole surface (second magnetic pole surface), and the lower half of the right side is an N-pole surface (first magnetic pole surface).

[0159] Below, refer to Figure 12 to Figure 14 , the features of the power generation device 10B of this embodiment will be described while comparing them with the power generation device 10A of the second embodiment. Fig.13 , Fig.14 The arrows in the figure indicate the direction of the magnetic flux. Fig.13 , Fig.14 , the shapes of the movable member 3, the weights 15, 25, etc. are schematically shown.

[0160] In the power generation device 10A of the second embodiment, the permanent magnet 31 is magnetized so that the upper surface is the N pole and the lower surface is the S pole. Fig. 9 As shown, the magnetic lines of force entering the movable part 3 from the common magnetic circuit part 42 pass through the upper surface of the second magnetic body 33 from the front end (right end) of the common magnetic circuit part 42 and enter the second magnetic body 33, and enter the lower surface (S pole surface) of the permanent magnet 31 from the upper surface of the second magnetic body 33. Therefore, at the boundary between the common magnetic circuit part 42 and the second magnetic body 33, the direction of the magnetic lines of force (from right to downward) changes sharply, and the magnetic flux is easily saturated. If the magnetic flux is saturated, the attraction between the movable part 3 and the common magnetic circuit part 42 may be reduced.

[0161] On the other hand, in the power generation device 10B of the present embodiment, when the movable member 3 is in the first position, as shown in FIG. Fig.13 As shown, a part of the magnetic lines of force entering the movable part 3 from the common magnetic circuit part 42 enters the second magnetic body 33 from the front end (right end) of the common magnetic circuit part 42, and the rest enters the second permanent magnet 312 from the left side of the second permanent magnet 312. That is, a bypass path through which the magnetic lines of force pass is formed by the second permanent magnet 312. Therefore, in the power generation device 10B of this embodiment, it is difficult to produce saturation of magnetic flux compared to the power generation device 10A of embodiment 2. As a result, it is possible to achieve an improvement in the adsorption force between the movable part 3 and the common magnetic circuit part 42.

[0162] Similarly, in the power generation device 10B of the present embodiment, when the movable element 3 is in the second position, as shown in FIG. Fig.14 As shown, a part of the magnetic lines of force entering the common magnetic circuit portion 42 from the movable part 3 enters the common magnetic circuit portion 42 from the front end (left end) of the first magnetic body 32, and the rest enters the common magnetic circuit portion 42 through the second permanent magnet 312. That is, a bypass path through which the magnetic lines of force pass is formed by the second permanent magnet 312. Therefore, in the power generation device 10B of this embodiment, it is difficult to produce saturation of magnetic flux compared to the power generation device 10A of embodiment 2. As a result, it is possible to achieve an improvement in the adsorption force between the movable part 3 and the common magnetic circuit portion 42.

[0163] (4) Implementation Method 4

[0164] (4.1) Power generation device

[0165] Reference Fig.15 , Fig.16, a power generation device 10C according to Embodiment 4 will be described. In the power generation device 10C of this embodiment, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those of the power generation device 10A according to Embodiment 1, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0166] like Fig.15 As shown, the power generation device 10C further includes a coil 8. The coil 8 has a first end 81 and a second end 82 at its two ends. The coil 8 is arranged on an E-shaped magnetic circuit. Here, the coil 8 is wound around the common magnetic circuit portion 42 of the support body 4. The coil 8 constitutes a power generation unit (third power generation unit) that generates electric power according to the movement of the movable part 3.

[0167] Hereinafter, power generation by the coil 8 will be briefly described.

[0168] When the movable element 3 is in the first position (see Fig.15 ), the magnetic flux from the permanent magnet 31 passes through the first closed magnetic circuit (first magnetic circuit) counterclockwise (refer to Fig.13 That is, the magnetic flux from the permanent magnet 31 passes through the beam 13 of the first element 1 from the N-pole surface (upper surface) of the permanent magnet 31 to the left, passes through the main body 41 of the support body 4 downward, passes through the common magnetic path portion 42 to the right, and returns to the S-pole surface (lower surface) of the permanent magnet 31. Therefore, the rightward magnetic flux passes inside the coil 8.

[0169] From this state, if the movable member 3 moves downward due to the pressing operation of the button 5 by the operator, a gap is generated between the movable member 3 (the second magnetic body 33) and the common magnetic circuit portion 42. As a result, the magnetic resistance of the magnetic circuit (the first magnetic circuit) increases, and the rightward magnetic flux passing through the common magnetic circuit portion 42 changes (decreases). If the magnetic flux passing through the coil 8 changes, the coil 8 generates a current due to electromagnetic induction.

[0170] On the other hand, when the operator pushes the button 5 and the movable member 3 is in the second position (see Fig.16 ), the magnetic flux from the permanent magnet 31 passes through the second closed magnetic circuit (second magnetic circuit) counterclockwise (refer to Fig.14 ). That is, the magnetic flux from the permanent magnet 31 passes through the common magnetic path portion 42 to the left from the N-pole surface (upper surface) of the permanent magnet 31, passes through the main body 41 of the support body 4 downward, passes through the beam 23 of the second element 2 to the right, and returns to the S-pole surface (lower surface) of the permanent magnet 31. Therefore, the leftward magnetic flux, that is, the magnetic flux in the opposite direction to the case where the movable member 3 is in the first position, passes inside the coil 8.

[0171] In this state, if the operator ends the pressing operation of the button 5, the movable part 3 moves upward, and a gap is generated between the movable part 3 (the first magnetic body 32) and the common magnetic circuit part 42. As a result, the magnetic resistance of the above-mentioned magnetic circuit (the second magnetic circuit) increases, and the leftward magnetic flux through the common magnetic circuit part 42 changes (decreases). If the magnetic flux through the coil 8 changes, the coil 8 generates a current through electromagnetic induction. At this time, the direction of the current generated by the coil 8 is opposite to that when the button 5 is pressed (when the movable part 3 moves from the first position to the second position).

[0172] Thus, in the power generation device 10C of this embodiment, when the movable element 3 moves, the third power generation section (coil 8) generates power in addition to the first power generation section 14 and the second power generation section 24. Therefore, in the power generation device 10C of this embodiment, the power generation efficiency can be further improved.

[0173] (4.2) First Example of Input Device

[0174] Next, refer to Fig.17 , an input device 20C including an example (first example) of the power generation device 10C will be described. In the input device 20C, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those of the input device 20 of the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0175] The input device 20C includes a coil current rectifying circuit 211 , a piezoelectric current rectifying circuit 212 , a voltage converting circuit 203 , a determining circuit 205 , a power storage element 206 , a first rectifying unit 2081 , and a second rectifying unit 2082 in addition to the power generating device 10C and the control circuit 204 .

[0176] The coil current rectifying circuit 211 adjusts the direction of the current supplied from the coil 8 to one direction. The coil current rectifying circuit 211 is a so-called diode bridge in which four diodes are connected in series and in parallel.

[0177] One of the two input terminals of the coil current rectifying circuit 211 is connected to the first end 81 of the coil 8 . The other of the two input terminals of the coil current rectifying circuit 211 is connected to the second end 82 of the coil 8 .

[0178] Furthermore, the first end 81 of the coil 8 is connected to the first input terminal 2051 of the determination circuit 205 via a diode as a first rectifying unit 2081. The second end 82 of the coil 8 is connected to the second input terminal 2052 of the determination circuit 205 via a diode as a second rectifying unit 2082.

[0179] The power storage element 206 is connected between two output terminals of the coil current rectification circuit 211 .

[0180] The piezoelectric current rectifying circuit 212 adjusts the direction of the current supplied from the first power generating section 14 of the first element 1 and the second power generating section 24 of the second element 2 to one direction. The piezoelectric current rectifying circuit 212 is a so-called diode bridge in which four diodes are connected in series and in parallel.

[0181] One of the two input terminals of the piezoelectric current rectifying circuit 212 is connected to the second electrode (upper electrode) 1413 of the first piezoelectric converter 141 and the first electrode (upper electrode) 1421 of the second piezoelectric converter 142, and the second electrode (upper electrode) 2413 of the third piezoelectric converter 241 and the first electrode (upper electrode) 2421 of the fourth piezoelectric converter 242. The other of the two input terminals of the piezoelectric current rectifying circuit 212 is connected to the first electrode (lower electrode) 1411 of the first piezoelectric converter 141 and the second electrode (lower electrode) 1423 of the second piezoelectric converter 142, and the first electrode (lower electrode) 2411 of the third piezoelectric converter 241 and the second electrode (lower electrode) 2423 of the fourth piezoelectric converter 242.

[0182] That is, both the current generated by the first power generation section 14 and the current generated by the second power generation section 24 are input to the piezoelectric current rectification circuit 212 .

[0183] The storage element 206 is connected between two output terminals of the piezoelectric current rectifying circuit 212. Unlike the input device 20, the input device 20C does not have a piezoelectric rectifying unit (diode) connected between the rectifying circuit and the storage element 206.

[0184] Both ends of the power storage element 206 are connected to the voltage conversion circuit 203 , and the voltage conversion circuit 203 is connected to the control circuit 204 .

[0185] The voltage conversion circuit 203 generates an operating voltage for the control circuit 204 based on the charge stored in the power storage element 206. The control circuit 204 operates with the operating voltage supplied from the voltage conversion circuit 203 and executes a desired function (for example, a notification function using wireless communication).

[0186] When the power generating device 10C generates power, the judging circuit 205 judges whether the power generation source is the first element 1 or the second element 2. The judging circuit 205 makes the above judgment by, for example, comparing the voltage of the first input terminal 2051 with the voltage of the second input terminal 2052. That is, when the movable element 3 moves from the first position to the second position and when it moves from the second position to the first position, the direction of the current generated in the coil 8 is opposite to each other, and which of the first end 81 and the second end 82 is the high potential is opposite. Therefore, the judging circuit 205 can judge the direction in which the movable element 3 moves by comparing the voltage of the first input terminal 2051 with the voltage of the second input terminal 2052. If the direction in which the movable element 3 moves is known, it can be known whether the first element 1 vibrates or the second element 2 vibrates. Thus, the judging circuit 205 can judge whether the power generation source is the first element 1 or the second element 2.

[0187] Thus, the input device 20C includes a determination circuit 205 that determines whether the power generation source is the first element 1 or the second element 2 based on the direction of the current generated in the coil 8. In the input device 20C, by detecting the power generation source, it is possible to determine, for example, whether the button 5 is pressed or whether the button 5 is released.

[0188] In the input device 20C, the determination circuit 205 detects the source of power generation based on the direction of the current generated in the coil 8. Therefore, in the input device 20C, unlike the input device 20 of the first embodiment, a diode as a rectifying unit (2071, 2072) is not required. Therefore, the current loss due to the diode can be reduced.

[0189] In addition, the storage element connected to the output terminal of the piezoelectric current rectification circuit 212 and the storage element connected to the output terminal of the coil current rectification circuit 211 may be independent. That is, the path for supplying the power generated by the first power generation unit 14 and the second power generation unit 24 to the control circuit 204 and the path for supplying the power generated by the third power generation unit (coil 8) to the control circuit 204 may be different. The redundancy of the operation of the control circuit 204 can be improved.

[0190] (4.3) Second example of input device

[0191] Next, refer to Fig.18 , another example (second example) of an input device 20D provided with the power generation device 10C will be described. In the input device 20D, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those of the input device 20C of the first example, and description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0192] The input device 20D includes: a power generation device 10C, a coil current rectification circuit 211, a piezoelectric current rectification circuit 212, a first voltage conversion circuit 2031, a second voltage conversion circuit 2032, a first storage element 2061, a second storage element 2062, and a control circuit 209. Although not shown in the figure, the input device 20D also includes a determination circuit 205, a first rectification unit 2081, and a second rectification unit 2082 (see Fig.17 ).

[0193] The coil current rectification circuit 211 and the piezoelectric current rectification circuit 212 are each, for example, a diode bridge.

[0194] The first power storage element 2061 is connected between two output terminals of the coil current rectifying circuit 211 . Both ends of the first power storage element 2061 are connected to the first voltage conversion circuit 2031 , and the first voltage conversion circuit 2031 is connected to the control circuit 209 .

[0195] A second power storage element 2062 (a power storage element different from the first power storage element 2061 ) is connected between two output terminals of the piezoelectric current rectifying circuit 212 . Both ends of the second power storage element 2062 are connected to a second voltage conversion circuit 2032 , and the second voltage conversion circuit 2032 is connected to the control circuit 209 .

[0196] The first voltage conversion circuit 2031 and the second voltage conversion circuit 2032 are each, for example, a DC / DC converter or a three-terminal regulator.

[0197] The control circuit 209 includes a startup circuit 2091 and a processing circuit 2092 .

[0198] The start-up circuit 2091 is connected to the first voltage conversion circuit 2031. When the voltage supplied from the first voltage conversion circuit 2031 exceeds a predetermined threshold voltage, the start-up circuit 2091 operates and sends a start-up signal to the processing circuit 2092.

[0199] The processing circuit 2092 is connected to the second voltage conversion circuit 2032. The processing circuit 2092 operates by the operating voltage supplied from the second voltage conversion circuit 2032 and performs a predetermined function (notification function, etc.). The processing circuit 2092 performs the above functions by the operating voltage supplied from the second voltage conversion circuit 2032 according to the start signal received from the start circuit 2091. That is, even if the operating voltage is supplied from the second voltage conversion circuit 2032, the processing circuit 2092 does not perform the above functions until the start signal is received from the start circuit 2091.

[0200] As described above, the power generating device 10C provided in the input device 20D of the present embodiment includes two piezoelectric vibration power generating elements (the first element 1 and the second element 2). One of the two piezoelectric vibration power generating elements is adsorbed by the movable member 3, thereby limiting its vibration. For example, when the movable member 3 is in the first position, the first element 1 is adsorbed by the upper surface of the first magnetic body 32 of the movable member 3, thereby limiting its vibration. In addition, when the movable member 3 is in the second position, the second element 2 is adsorbed by the upper surface of the second magnetic body 33 of the movable member 3, thereby limiting its vibration. On the other hand, the position of the other piezoelectric vibration power generating element (the second element 2 when the movable member 3 is in the first position, the first element 1 when the movable member 3 is in the second position) is not fixed. Therefore, the other piezoelectric vibration power generating element may vibrate due to an important factor other than the movement of the movable member 3 based on the pressing operation or the releasing operation on the button 5, such as the vibration of the housing 9, and generate electricity. For example, in the input device 20 of the first embodiment, when the movable element 3 does not receive the pressing force from the button 5, the control circuit 204 (see Figure 7 ) performs a specific function (notification function based on wireless communication, etc.). In addition, although Figure 7 Although not shown in the figure, the control circuit 204 is as follows Fig.18 As shown, it includes a processing circuit 2092 for performing specific functions.

[0201] In other words, in the input device 20D of the present embodiment, in order to suppress the above-mentioned malfunction, the control circuit 209 includes the start-up circuit 2091. The processing circuit 2092 does not perform a specific function until it receives a start-up signal from the start-up circuit 2091. Therefore, in the input device 20D of the present embodiment (see Fig.18 ), when the button 5 is not pressed, the possibility of the control circuit 204 executing a specific function (such as a notification function based on wireless communication, etc.) is reduced.

[0202] The input device 20D of this embodiment includes a start-up circuit 2091 (error prevention circuit). The start-up circuit 2091 restricts the processing circuit 2092 from executing a specific function under a specific condition. The specific condition is a state in which the power generation device 10 (10A to 10C) generates power when the movable part 3 does not receive a pressing force from the outside (button 5). If a current is supplied from the coil 8, the start-up circuit 2091 allows the processing circuit 2092 to execute a specific function.

[0203] The start-up circuit 2091 may monitor the output voltage of the second voltage conversion circuit 2032. The start-up circuit 2091 may send a start-up signal to the processing circuit 2092 to operate the processing circuit 2092 only when the output voltage of the second voltage conversion circuit 2032 is equal to or higher than the voltage required for the processing circuit 2092 to operate.

[0204] (5) Modification

[0205] The above-mentioned embodiments are only one of the various embodiments of the present disclosure. If the purpose of the present disclosure can be achieved, the above-mentioned embodiments can be variously modified according to the design, etc. The following lists the modified examples of the above-mentioned embodiments. The modified examples described below can be appropriately combined and applied.

[0206] In a modified example, the input device 20 of Embodiment 1 (see Figure 7 ) may also be provided with a malfunction prevention unit. The malfunction prevention unit is a circuit or structure that limits a prescribed action under specific conditions. In other words, as an example of a malfunction prevention unit, the above-mentioned start circuit 2091 (malfunction prevention circuit) is cited. In addition, the malfunction prevention unit does not need to be included in the control circuit 204, and may be realized by a structure. The specific condition is a state in which the power generation device 10 (10A to 10C) generates electricity when the movable part 3 does not receive a pressing force from the outside (button 5). In one example, the malfunction prevention unit may also be a structure that limits the vibration of the piezoelectric vibration power generation element that is not adsorbed by the movable part 3 among the two piezoelectric vibration power generation elements 1 and 2. In one example, the malfunction prevention unit may also be a structure that limits the vibration of the two piezoelectric vibration power generation elements when the button 5 is not pressed, and allows the vibration of the two piezoelectric vibration power generation elements when the button 5 is pressed.

[0207] In a modified example, the first power generating section 14 may include only one of the first piezoelectric converter 141 and the second piezoelectric converter 142 , or may include a piezoelectric converter other than the first piezoelectric converter 141 and the second piezoelectric converter 142 .

[0208] In a modified example, the second power generating section 24 may include only one of the third piezoelectric converter 241 and the fourth piezoelectric converter 242 , or may include a piezoelectric converter other than the third piezoelectric converter 241 and the fourth piezoelectric converter 242 .

[0209] In a modified example, the coil 8 may be arranged at a position other than the common magnetic circuit portion 42 on the E-shaped magnetic circuit. For example, the coil 8 may include a first coil and a second coil. The first coil is wound around, for example, the upper half of the main body 41, and generates a current according to a change in the magnetic flux passing through the portion. The second coil is wound around, for example, the lower half of the main body 41, and generates a current according to a change in the magnetic flux passing through the portion.

[0210] In a modified example, the magnetic pole surface of the second permanent magnet 312 of the power generation device 10B is not limited to the example of the second embodiment. For example, the second permanent magnet 312 may be magnetized so that the upper half of the left side is the N pole surface (the first magnetic pole surface), the lower half of the left side is the S pole surface (the second magnetic pole surface), the upper surface is the S pole surface (the second magnetic pole surface), and the lower surface is the N pole surface (the first magnetic pole surface). In addition, in a modified example, the movable part 3 may also include a magnetic body instead of the second permanent magnet 312.

[0211] In a modified example, the power generation device 10, 10A to 10C may include another operating portion, such as a slide button, instead of the button 5. In addition, the power generation device 10, 10A to 10C may include a button, which is configured to protrude from the lower wall 94 of the housing 9, instead of the reset portion 6, and moves the movable member 3 from the second position to the first position according to a pressing operation from an operator.

[0212] In a modified example, for example, the housing 9 may include a restriction structure that restricts the movable element 3 from moving further downward from the second position.

[0213] In a modified example, the power generation devices 10 and 10A to 10C may not include the first stopper 71 and the second stopper 72 .

[0214] In a modified example, the input device 20 may include any one of the power generation devices 10A to 10C instead of the power generation device 10 .

[0215] (6) Summary

[0216] Based on the above-described embodiment and modified examples, the following aspects are disclosed.

[0217] A power generation device 10 (10A to 10C) of one embodiment comprises: a first piezoelectric vibration power generation element 1, which generates electricity by vibration; a second piezoelectric vibration power generation element 2, which is located below the first piezoelectric vibration power generation element 1 and generates electricity by vibration; and a movable part 3, which attracts the first piezoelectric vibration power generation element 1 downward when moving downward, and attracts the second piezoelectric vibration power generation element 2 upward when moving upward, so that the first piezoelectric vibration power generation element 1 vibrates when the movable part 3 moves downward, and the second piezoelectric vibration power generation element 2 vibrates when the movable part 3 moves upward.

[0218] In this manner, the power generation device 10 ( 10A to 10C) generates power both when the movable element 3 moves downward and when the movable element 3 moves upward. This can improve power generation efficiency.

[0219] The power generating device 10 ( 10A to 10C) of another embodiment further includes a button 5 that moves the movable element 3 downward when pressed, and a reset portion 6 that applies an upward force to the movable element 3 .

[0220] In this manner, the movable element 3 that has moved downward can be returned to its original position by the return portion 6. Therefore, the power generation efficiency can be further improved.

[0221] In another embodiment of the power generating device 10 (10A to 10C), the movable member 3 moves between a first position and a second position located below the first position. When the movable member 3 is located at the first position, the movable member 3 is in contact with the first piezoelectric vibration power generating element 1 and is separated from the second piezoelectric vibration power generating element 2. When the movable member 3 is located at the second position, the movable member 3 is separated from the first piezoelectric vibration power generating element 1 and is in contact with the second piezoelectric vibration power generating element 2.

[0222] In this way, compared with a power generation device in which the movable member does not contact the first piezoelectric vibration power generation element at the first position, the first piezoelectric vibration power generation element 1 can be bent more when the movable member 3 moves from the first position to the second position. Compared with a power generation device in which the movable member does not contact the second piezoelectric vibration power generation element at the second position, the second piezoelectric vibration power generation element 2 can be bent more when the movable member 3 moves from the second position to the first position. Therefore, the amplitudes of the first piezoelectric vibration power generation element 1 and the second piezoelectric vibration power generation element 2 become larger, and the power generation efficiency can be further improved.

[0223] In another embodiment of the power generating device 10 (10A to 10C), when the movable member 3 moves from the first position to the second position, the movable member 3 separates from the first piezoelectric vibration power generating element 1 and then contacts the second piezoelectric vibration power generating element 2. When the movable member 3 moves from the second position to the first position, the movable member 3 separates from the second piezoelectric vibration power generating element 2 and then contacts the first piezoelectric vibration power generating element 1.

[0224] According to this method, when the movable member 3 moves from the first position to the second position, the movable member 3 is separated from the first piezoelectric vibration power generation element 1 before the movable member 3 contacts the second piezoelectric vibration power generation element 2. Therefore, when the movable member 3 moves from the first position to the second position, the possibility of forming a closed magnetic circuit including the first piezoelectric vibration power generation element 1, the second piezoelectric vibration power generation element 2, and the movable member 3 is reduced. Therefore, when the movable member 3 moves from the first position to the second position, the first piezoelectric vibration power generation element 1 can be reliably separated from the movable member 3, and the reliability of power generation can be improved. In addition, according to this method, when the movable member 3 moves from the second position to the first position, the movable member 3 is separated from the second piezoelectric vibration power generation element 2 before the movable member 3 contacts the first piezoelectric vibration power generation element 1. Therefore, when the movable part 3 moves from the second position to the first position, the possibility of forming a closed magnetic circuit including the first piezoelectric vibration power generation element 1, the second piezoelectric vibration power generation element 2, and the movable part 3 is reduced. Therefore, when the movable part 3 moves from the second position to the first position, the second piezoelectric vibration power generation element 2 can be reliably separated from the movable part 3, and the reliability of power generation can be improved.

[0225] Another embodiment of the power generation device 10 (10A to 10C) further includes: at least one of a first stopper 71 and a second stopper 72 disposed below the first stopper 71. If the movable member 3 moves downward from the first position, the first stopper 71 causes the first power generation element 1 to separate from the movable member 3 before the movable member 3 contacts the second power generation element 2. If the movable member 3 moves upward from the second position, the second stopper 72 causes the second power generation element 2 to separate from the movable member 3 before the movable member 3 contacts the first power generation element 1.

[0226] In this way, when the movable part 3 moves downward from the first position, the first piezoelectric vibration power generation element 1 can be reliably separated from the movable part 3, and the reliability of power generation can be improved. In addition, when the movable part 3 moves upward from the second position, the second piezoelectric vibration power generation element 2 can be reliably separated from the movable part 3, and the reliability of power generation can be improved.

[0227] The power generation device 10A (10B to 10C) of another embodiment further includes a support body 4 (4A) including a magnetic material, and the support body 4 (4A) includes a main body 41 and a common magnetic circuit portion 42 extending from the main body 41. One end of the first power generation element 1, one end of the common magnetic circuit portion 42, and one end of the second power generation element 2 are respectively connected to the main body 41, and the first power generation element 1, the common magnetic circuit portion 42, and the second power generation element 2 are arranged at intervals in the order of the first power generation element 1, the common magnetic circuit portion 42, and the second power generation element 2 from top to bottom. When the movable element 3 is located at the first position, the first closed magnetic circuit is formed by the first power generation element 1, the common magnetic circuit portion 42, the main body 41, and the movable element 3, and when the movable element 3 is located at the second position, the second closed magnetic circuit is formed by the second power generation element 2, the common magnetic circuit portion 42, the main body 41, and the movable element 3.

[0228] In this manner, it is possible to reduce the influence of the magnetic flux of the mover 3 on the power generation of the first piezoelectric vibration power generating element 1 and the second piezoelectric vibration power generating element 2 .

[0229] The power generating device 10C of another embodiment further includes a coil 8 provided on a magnetic circuit constituted by the support body 4 , the first power generating element 1 , and the second power generating element 2 .

[0230] In this manner, it is possible to generate an electric current in the coil 8 by electromagnetic induction.

[0231] In a power generation device 10C of another embodiment, the coil 8 is wound around the common magnetic path portion 42 of the support body 4 .

[0232] In this manner, when the movable element 3 moves from the first position to the second position and when the movable element 3 moves from the second position to the first position, currents in opposite directions can be generated in the coil 8 .

[0233] Another type of input device 20 (20C, 20D) comprises: a control circuit 204 (209) which operates according to the electric power generated by the power generation device 10 (10A to 10C); and a judgment circuit 205 which, if the electric power is generated by the power generation device 10 (10A to 10C), judges whether the electric power is generated by the first power generation element 1 or the second power generation element 2.

[0234] In this manner, when the power generating device 10 ( 10A to 10C) generates electric power, the source of the electric power can be determined.

[0235] The input device 20 (20C, 20D) of another embodiment further comprises: a first rectifier circuit 201 for adjusting the direction of the current supplied from the first power generation element 1 to one direction; and a second rectifier circuit 202 for adjusting the direction of the current supplied from the second power generation element 2 to one direction. The determination circuit 205 comprises: a first input terminal 2051 connected to the first rectifier circuit 201; and a second input terminal 2052 connected to the second rectifier circuit 202.

[0236] In this manner, it is possible to easily determine whether the source of electric power generation is the first piezoelectric vibration power generating element 1 or the second piezoelectric vibration power generating element 2 .

[0237] Another embodiment of the input device 20 (20C, 20D) further includes a malfunction prevention unit that restricts the input device 20 (20C, 20D) from performing a predetermined action under a specific condition. The specific condition is a condition in which the movable part 3 is not subjected to external pressing force and the power generation device 1 generates power.

[0238] This makes it possible to suppress the control circuit 204 ( 209 ) or the input device 20 ( 20C, 20D) from performing a function when the movable element 3 does not receive the pressing force.

[0239] Another type of input device 20C (20D) comprises: a control circuit 204 (209) which operates according to the electric power generated by the power generating device 10C; and a judgment circuit 205 which judges whether the electric power is generated by the first power generating element 1 or the second power generating element 2 if the electric power is generated by the power generating device 10C. The judgment circuit 205 judges whether the electric power is generated by the first power generating element 1 or the second power generating element 2 based on the direction of the current generated by the coil 8.

[0240] In this manner, based on the direction of the current generated by the coil 8 , it can be determined whether the source of electric power generation is the first piezoelectric vibration power generating element 1 or the second piezoelectric vibration power generating element 2 .

[0241] Another input device 20D is as follows: the control circuit 209 includes a malfunction prevention circuit (e.g., a start circuit 2091) connected to the coil 8, and the malfunction prevention circuit restricts the control circuit 209 from performing a predetermined action under a specific condition. The specific condition is a state in which the movable part 3 does not receive a pressing force from the outside and electric power is generated by the power generation device 1. If current is supplied from the coil 8, the malfunction prevention circuit allows the control circuit 209 to perform a predetermined action.

[0242] This can prevent the control circuit 209 from executing a function when the movable element 3 does not receive a pressing force. In addition, when the movable element 3 receives a pressing force, the control circuit 209 can be reliably executed.

[0243] -Explanation of symbols-

[0244] 1 The first piezoelectric vibration power generating element

[0245] 10, 10A~10C Power generation device

[0246] 11, 21 Supporting part

[0247] 12, 22 Vibration part

[0248] 14, 24 Power Generation Department

[0249] 141 First piezoelectric converter

[0250] 1412, 1422 Piezoelectric

[0251] 1411 1st electrode (lower electrode)

[0252] 1413 Second electrode (upper electrode)

[0253] 142 Second piezoelectric converter

[0254] 1421 1st electrode (upper electrode)

[0255] 1423 Second electrode (lower electrode)

[0256] 2. Second piezoelectric vibration power generating element

[0257] 2412, 2422 Piezoelectric

[0258] 2411 1st electrode (lower electrode)

[0259] 2413 Second electrode (upper electrode)

[0260] 2421 1st electrode (upper electrode)

[0261] 2423 Second electrode (lower electrode)

[0262] 3 Moving parts

[0263] 4.4A Support

[0264] 41 Main body

[0265] 42 Common magnetic circuit

[0266] 5 Buttons

[0267] 51 operating body

[0268] 6 Reset section

[0269] 42 Common magnetic circuit

[0270] 71 1st stopper

[0271] 72 2nd stopper

[0272] 8 Coil

[0273] 20, 20C, 20D Input device

[0274] 201 No. 1 Rectifier Circuit

[0275] 202 Second Rectifier Circuit

[0276] 204, 209 control circuit

[0277] 205 judgment circuit

[0278] 2051 1st input terminal

[0279] 2052 Second input terminal.

Claims

1. A power generation device comprising: The first power generating element generates power by vibrating; a second power generation element, located below the first power generation element, and generating power by vibrating; and The movable member attracts the first power generating element downward when moving downward, and attracts the second power generating element upward when moving upward, When the movable member moves downward, the first power generating element vibrates. When the movable member moves upward, the second power generating element vibrates. The movable member moves between a first position and a second position located below the first position. When the movable element is located at the first position, the movable element is in contact with the first power generating element and is separated from the second power generating element. When the movable element is located at the second position, the movable element is separated from the first power generating element and is in contact with the second power generating element. The power generation device further comprises: a support body including a magnetic material, The support body includes: a main body portion and a common magnetic path portion extending from the main body portion. One end of the first power generating element, one end of the common magnetic circuit portion, and one end of the second power generating element are respectively connected to the main body portion. The first power generating element, the common magnetic circuit portion, and the second power generating element are arranged in the order of the first power generating element, the common magnetic circuit portion, and the second power generating element from top to bottom with a gap therebetween. When the movable element is located at the first position, the first closed magnetic circuit is formed by the first power generating element, the common magnetic circuit portion, the main body portion, and the movable element. When the movable element is located at the second position, a second closed magnetic circuit is formed by the second power generating element, the common magnetic circuit portion, the main body portion, and the movable element.

2. The power generation device according to claim 1, wherein: The power generating device further includes a coil provided on a magnetic circuit constituted by the support body, the first power generating element, and the second power generating element.

3. The power generation device according to claim 2, wherein: The coil is wound around the common magnetic path portion of the support body.

4. An input device comprising: The power generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3; a control circuit that operates using the electric power generated by the power generation device; and The determination circuit determines whether the electric power is generated by the first power generation element or the second power generation element when the electric power is generated by the power generation device.

5. The input device according to claim 4, wherein: The input device further comprises: a first rectifying circuit that adjusts the direction of the current supplied from the first power generating element to one direction; and The second rectifier circuit adjusts the direction of the current supplied from the second power generation element to one direction. The determination circuit includes: a first input terminal connected to the first rectifier circuit; and a second input terminal connected to the second rectifier circuit.

6. The input device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein: The input device further includes a malfunction prevention unit. The malfunction prevention unit restricts the input device from performing a predetermined action under a specific condition. The specific condition is a state in which the movable element is not subjected to external pressing force and electric power is being generated by the power generating device.

7. An input device comprising: The power generation device according to claim 2 or 3; a control circuit that operates using the electric power generated by the power generation device; and a judgment circuit that, if the power is generated by the power generating device, judges whether the power is generated by the first power generating element or the second power generating element, The determination circuit determines whether the electric power is generated by the first power generating element or the second power generating element based on the direction of the current generated in the coil.

8. The input device according to claim 7, wherein: The control circuit includes a malfunction prevention circuit connected to the coil, The malfunction prevention circuit restricts the control circuit from executing a specified action under specific conditions. The specific condition is a condition in which the movable member is not subjected to external pressing force and the power generating device is generating electric power. When current is supplied from the coil, the malfunction prevention circuit allows the control circuit to execute the prescribed operation.

Images