Electric field sensor device

Abstract

The electric field sensor device includes: an antenna device having a dipole structure for receiving an electric field, and having a first antenna element connected to or in contact with ground and a conductor present at a fixed resistance value, and a second antenna element grounded or not grounded to the ground; a rectifying circuit that rectifies a signal induced in the antenna device; and a detection unit that detects the level of the output voltage of the rectifier circuit. The detection unit detects a level change of an output voltage caused by spatial coupling or contact of a first antenna element or an ungrounded second antenna element with another conductor different from the conductor, and detects a state or condition of the other conductor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present technology relates to an electric field sensor device using an antenna device with an energy harvesting function. Background Art

[0002] The conversion of the energy of electromagnetic waves present around us into power (energy harvesting) has been considered. In the case of ambient power generation, the current flowing to the circuit through the antenna is rectified into direct current and converted into electrical energy. A diode is used to rectify electromagnetic waves into direct current. An antenna equipped with a rectifying circuit is called a rectenna.

[0003] Patent document 1 describes a human detection device using an antenna using a rectifying antenna. The human detection device is a detection device that detects a person by the fluctuation of electromagnetic waves existing in an indoor environment. The human detection device includes: a collector that electrically acquires electromagnetic waves existing in the indoor environment; and a rectifying and boosting unit that rectifies and boosts the power of electromagnetic waves existing in the indoor environment and electrically acquired by the collector into direct current. The distance between the collector and the human body is obtained according to the change in the output voltage of the rectifying and boosting device, and the distance is a fluctuation factor of the electromagnetic waves existing in the indoor environment. In addition, the collector and the rectifying and boosting device operate by the power of electromagnetic waves existing in the indoor environment.

[0004] The human detection device described in the above-mentioned patent document 1 uses a planar antenna with a planar shape as a current collecting device to detect the human body, but in this case, the antenna size is limited, and since there is only one antenna, there is a problem that even if the boost circuit or ground of the measuring instrument is used as an antenna, only a very low voltage (mW) can be obtained from the antenna sensor.

[0005] The inventors of the present application have proposed an antenna device which, in addition to having a wide range of radio waves with a configuration different from that of an antenna device which uses a receiving antenna of the prior art and converts the energy of radio waves into power, is also capable of obtaining greater receiving power by considering the electric field energy of a quasi-electrostatic field (near field) (see patent documents 2 and 3).

[0006] Reference List

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-146203.

[0009] Patent document 2: WO 2021-261075.

[0010] Patent document 3: WO 2021-261076. Summary of the invention

[0011] Problems to be solved by the present invention

[0012] In the device described in the above-mentioned patent document 1, since a relatively small copper plate is used as a collector, only a small AC signal can be obtained, and a rectifier boost circuit such as a Cockcroft-Walton circuit needs to be used. In addition, the content described in patent document 1 is limited to the use of detecting people in an indoor environment.

[0013] The present technology solves such a problem and increases the antenna size by using a large metal conductor (e.g., automobiles, laptop computers, televisions, refrigerators, automatic cash deposit and payment machines, etc.) as an antenna element, making it possible to obtain high power without using a booster circuit.

[0014] Specifically, in Patent Document 1, although it is limited to indoor environments, various electric fields such as quasi-static fields and electromagnetic waves are always generated in spaces including outdoors, and the present technology can also absorb electric field energy in such spaces.

[0015] The object of the present technology is to provide an electric field sensor device that can be applied not only to indoor environments but also to detection of metal conductors such as human bodies, organisms (animals and plants other than humans), and vehicles, and can sense large voltages.

[0016] Solution to the problem

[0017] The electric field sensor device according to the present technology comprises:

[0018] An antenna device having a dipole structure for receiving an electric field, the antenna device comprising: a first antenna element connected to or in contact with a ground and a conductor present with a specific resistance value; and a second antenna element, grounded or not grounded;

[0019] a rectifier circuit to rectify a signal induced in the antenna device; and

[0020] The detection unit detects the level of the output voltage of the rectifier circuit.

[0021] The detection unit detects a level change of an output voltage caused when the first antenna element or the second antenna element which is not grounded is spatially coupled or in contact with another conductor different from the conductor, and detects a state or condition of the other conductor. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an example of an electric field sensor device in accordance with the present technology.

[0023] Figure 2 A. Figure 2 B and Figure 2 C is a plan view and a cross-sectional view of an example of an antenna device.

[0024] Figure 3 A and Figure 3 B is a plan view and a cross-sectional view of another example of the antenna device.

[0025] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the antenna device.

[0026] Figure 5 A. Figure 5 B and Figure 5 C is a schematic diagram for explaining a specific example of the antenna device.

[0027] Figure 6 is a connection diagram showing an example of the configuration of an electric field sensor device.

[0028] Figure 7 It is a graph for explaining the characteristics of a diode in a rectifier circuit.

[0029] Figure 8 This is a connection diagram for measuring the output voltage of a rectifier circuit.

[0030] Fig. 9 This is a connection diagram of an example of a rectifier circuit using MOSFETs instead of diodes.

[0031] Fig.10 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of an electric field sensor device.

[0032] Fig.11 is a schematic diagram for explaining another example of the electric field sensor device.

[0033] Fig.12 is a connection diagram showing an example of a configuration for measuring a voltage induced in an electric field sensor device.

[0034] Fig.13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a specific configuration for measuring a voltage induced in an electric field sensor device.

[0035] Fig.14 is a graph showing the change in voltage with respect to the value of the ground resistor of the electric field sensor device.

[0036] Fig.15 is a connection diagram of an example of a high-pass filter connected to ground.

[0037] Fig.16 is a graph showing an example of the frequency characteristics of the high-pass filter.

[0038] Fig.17 is a connection diagram of an example of a parallel resonant circuit connected to the ground line.

[0039] Fig.18 is a graph showing an example of the frequency characteristics of a parallel resonant circuit.

[0040] Fig.19 is a connection diagram showing a configuration combining a high-pass filter and a parallel resonant circuit.

[0041] Fig. 20 A. Fig. 20 B and Fig. 20 C is a block diagram showing a plurality of circuit examples.

[0042] Fig.21 is a connection diagram showing a configuration example in which two antenna elements are separated by a resistor.

[0043] Fig. 22 is a connection diagram showing a configuration example in which two antenna elements are separated by a filter.

[0044] Fig.23 A. Fig.23 B. Fig.23 C and Fig.23 D is a connection diagram showing multiple examples of filters.

[0045] Fig.24 A. Fig.24 B. Fig.24 C and Fig.24 D is a schematic diagram showing four configuration examples of the electric field sensor device according to the present technology.

[0046] Fig.25 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment in which the present technology is applied to a human sensor.

[0047] Fig.26 Is used to describe Fig.25 A flow chart of the operation of a human sensor is shown.

[0048] Fig. 27 is a schematic diagram showing another configuration example of an embodiment in which the present technology is applied to a human sensor.

[0049] Fig.28 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment in which the present technology is applied to a vehicle sensor.

[0050] Fig.29 Is used to describe Fig.28 A flow chart of the operation of the vehicle sensors is shown.

[0051] Fig.30is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment in which the present technology is applied to a human sensor using a fluorescent lamp device.

[0052] Fig.31 Is used to describe Fig.30 A flow chart of the operation of a human sensor is shown.

[0053] Fig.32 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment of the present technology applied to a human sensor for warm water cleaning of a toilet seat.

[0054] Fig.33 A and Fig.33 B is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of another embodiment of the present technology applied to a human sensor for warm water cleaning of a toilet seat.

[0055] Fig.34 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of yet another embodiment of the present technology applied to a human sensor for cleaning a toilet seat with warm water.

[0056] Fig.35 Is used to describe Fig.34 A flow chart of the operation of a human sensor is shown.

[0057] Fig.36 : is a schematic diagram of the front surface showing the configuration of an embodiment in which the present technology is applied to a human sensor of an automatic teller machine.

[0058] Fig.37 : is a schematic diagram of a side surface showing the configuration of an embodiment in which the present technology is applied to a human sensor of an automatic teller machine.

[0059] Fig.38 Is used to describe Fig.36 and Fig.37 A flow chart of the operation of a human sensor is shown.

[0060] Fig.39 : is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment in which the present technology is applied to a human sensor for a vehicle door.

[0061] Fig.40 It is shown Fig.39 A cross-sectional view of an example of a partial configuration.

[0062] Fig.41 yes Fig.39 A connection diagram of a portion of the circuit portion of the configuration.

[0063] Fig.42 Is used to describe Fig.39 , Fig.40 and Fig.41 A flow chart of the operation of a human sensor is shown.

[0064] Fig.43is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment in which the present technology is applied to a human sensor in an office.

[0065] Fig.44 A and Fig.44 B is used to describe Fig.43 Schematic diagram of a human sensor shown.

[0066] Fig.45 Is used to describe Fig.43 , Fig.44 A and Fig.44 B is a flow chart of the operation of the human sensor.

[0067] Fig.46 : is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment in which the present technology is applied to an unmanned aerial vehicle.

[0068] Fig.47 It is shown Fig.46 Schematic diagram of a simplified configuration.

[0069] Fig.48 It is shown Fig.47 Schematic diagram of the modification of the configuration.

[0070] Fig.49 Is used to describe Fig.47 and Fig.48 A flow chart of the operation of the sensors of the UAV is shown.

[0071] Fig.50 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment in which the present technology is applied to a transport robot.

[0072] Fig.51 It is shown Fig.50 Schematic diagram of the modification of the configuration.

[0073] Fig.52 Is used to describe Fig.50 and Fig.51 A flow chart of the operation of the sensor is shown.

[0074] Fig.53 : is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment in which the present technology is applied to a human sensor using a potted plant.

[0075] Fig.54 Is used to describe Fig.53 Schematic diagram of a human sensor shown.

[0076] Fig.55 Is used to describe Fig.53 and Fig.54 A flow chart of the operation of a human sensor is shown.

[0077] Fig.56 Is used to describe Fig.53 and Fig.54 The illustrated configuration is a flow chart of operations in the case where the configuration is used as a sensor of a water supply state.

[0078] Fig.57 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment in which the present technology is applied to a sensor for measuring the amount of underground water.

[0079] Fig.58 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment in which the present technology is applied to a hand sensor for motion control of headphones.

[0080] Fig.59 Is used to describe Fig.58 A flow chart of the operation of the hand sensor is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0081] The embodiments described below are preferred specific examples of the present technology, and various technically preferred limitations are given. However, the scope of the present technology is not limited to these embodiments unless there is a description limiting the present technology in the following description. In addition, in the following description, the same names and reference numerals represent the same or similar components, and redundant descriptions will be appropriately omitted.

[0082] Various electric fields such as quasi-electrostatic fields and electromagnetic waves are constantly generated not only indoors but also in spaces including outdoors, and energy harvesting units are known to absorb electric field energy in such spaces. Quasi-electrostatic fields are voltage phenomena that do not have propagation characteristics similar to radiated electromagnetic fields (so-called radio waves) and are distributed near people, vehicles, or materials like static charges. Electrostatic fields are considered to have no time variation, while quasi-electrostatic fields have frequency components and have time variation.

[0083] In the case where a conductor exists in a grounded (earthed) space at a constant potential, the conductor and a human body, an organism (animals and plants other than humans), or a metal part of a product are spatially coupled or in contact with each other, and a voltage change is induced by the degree of coupling or contact. By detecting this change, the presence or absence (distance) of the conductor coupled or in contact with the human body, an organism (animals and plants other than humans), a car, a bicycle, a train, etc., and the type of conductor (whether a person is approaching, whether a car is approaching, etc.) can be detected.

[0084] Figure 1: is a block diagram schematically showing an electric field sensor device according to the present technology. An energy collection unit (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as a collector (harvester)) 4 including an antenna device 1, a rectifier circuit 2, and a storage unit 3 is provided. The collector 4 is a device that extracts electric field energy existing in space from metal and outputs the energy as electricity. The collector 4 includes an antenna device 1 as a collector, a rectifier circuit 2, and a storage unit 3 that smoothes and stores the output of the rectifier circuit 2.

[0085] The output voltage obtained from the power storage unit 3 is provided to the detection unit 5. The detection unit 5 detects the change in the voltage provided from the collector 4 and generates a sensor output. The detection unit 5 includes an A / D converter, a microcomputer, etc. The sensor output output from the detection unit 5 is provided to the communication unit 6 (A). The communication unit (A) 6 sends the sensor output to other communication units (B) 7 through wireless or wired communication. The sensor output received by the communication unit (B) 7 is provided to the control unit 8. The control unit 8 controls the target device according to the sensor output. Note that the detection unit 5 can be connected to the rear stage of the communication unit (B) 7, the voltage output from the power storage unit 3 can be converted into digital data and provided to the communication unit, and the received digital data can be determined by the detection unit.

[0086] In addition, the antenna device 1 will be described. Electric field energy is induced in the metal part (iron, aluminum, copper, metal alloy, etc.) of a product such as an industrial product, a vehicle, a vending machine, a refrigerator, a microwave oven, a metal rack, a guardrail, a post office, a traffic light, etc., which exists nearby. By using this product metal part as an antenna, the electric field energy of radio waves and quasi-static fields (near fields) in space can be collected. That is, when the metal exists in an electrically floating state, AC power (AC current) of various frequencies flows on the metal surface. Therefore, the metal is regarded as an antenna, and the power can be efficiently converted into energy. Note that the product metal part is a metal part other than the industrial product designed as an antenna.

[0087] In the input terminal portion that contacts or connects to the metal part of the product and is used to use the metal part of the product itself as an antenna, the impedance for receiving is preferably high in the connection with the rectifier circuit of the subsequent stage. Specifically, the input terminal portion is connected in series without providing a matching circuit according to the frequency. The rectifier circuit rectifies the output signal of the antenna using a diode with a very small reverse current relative to the forward current. Therefore, in addition to radio waves, the power of the quasi-static field (near field) of radio waves with a frequency of 50 / 60Hz that is not leaked from a very small power source can be effectively received.

[0088] The antenna device 1 of the collector 4 has a dipole structure including two antenna elements. The first antenna element is a conductor electrically connected to the metal part of the product itself or a metal part of a car, refrigerator, TV, notebook computer (hereinafter, referred to as notebook PC), drone (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as drone), automatic teller machine (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as automatic teller machine (ATM)), train, etc.

[0089] The second antenna element is an electrode, a copper foil pattern, a coil, etc. formed on a substrate. In addition, by connecting to the ground with a cable, the coupling with the ground can be enhanced and the voltage generated in the antenna device can be increased. In the following description, the antenna element that contacts or is connected to the metal part of the product as a conductor is referred to as the first antenna element, and the antenna element that is not in contact with or connected to the metal part of the product is referred to as the second antenna element.

[0090] In order to understand the antenna device 1 of the collector 4, reference will be made to Figure 2 A(Floor plan), Figure 2 B (cross-section view), Figure 2 C (cross-section view), Figure 3 A (floor plan) and Figure 3 B (cross-sectional view) illustrates an example of the configuration of the antenna device 1. Figure 2 A. Figure 2 B. Figure 2 C. Figure 3 A and Figure 3 As shown in B, a plate-shaped (patch-shaped) conductive member 11 is provided as a first antenna element that is in contact with or connected to a metal portion of a product.

[0091] The conductive member 11 has a plate shape including a conductor such as gold, silver, aluminum, copper, iron, nickel, alloy, etc. The contact surface of the conductive member 11 with the metal may be coated with a resin. The conductive member 11 has a shape such as a linear shape, a pin shape, a hemispherical shape, or a concave-convex shape according to the shape of the product metal part. The product metal part and the conductive member 11 are contacted or connected to each other by a method such as welding, mechanical coupling (caulking, etc.), bonding with a conductive adhesive, or magnetic bonding to an iron material using a magnet, etc.

[0092] In addition, for example, a conductive resin, a conductive rubber, or the like in which carbon, a metal, or the like is mixed can be used as the conductive member 11. For example, by using a conductive resin, electrodes of various shapes can be easily formed. In addition, by using a conductive rubber, an electrode that can be elastically deformed, an electrode with high adhesiveness, or the like can be constituted. In addition, the material of the conductive member 11 is not limited, and the above materials can be used alone, or an electrode can be constituted by combining the corresponding materials.

[0093] exist Figure 2 B and Figure 2C, for example, a plate-like (patch-like) conductive member 11 and a device board (circuit board) 12 including a copper foil pattern as a second antenna element are arranged to be opposite to each other, and a dielectric plate 13 is inserted between the conductive member 11 and the device board 12. A space between the conductive member 11 and the device board 12 may be formed without providing the dielectric plate 13.

[0094] In order to electrically connect the conductive member 11 and the device board 12, one end of the conductive member 11 and one end of the conductive pin 14 are electrically connected, and the other end of the conductive pin 14 penetrates the device board 12 and is soldered to the signal path electrode on the back side of the device board 12. The antenna device 1 includes the conductive member 11 and a ground electrode 19 formed by a copper foil pattern of the device board 12. The ground electrode 19 is a second antenna element. The antenna device 1 has a structure of a T-type antenna using a flat plate as an antenna element. The connection portion between the signal path electrode of the device board 12 and the conductive pin 14 serves as a feeding point 15 of the antenna.

[0095] The circuit unit 16 is, for example, disposed on the back side of the device board 12. The circuit unit 16 includes Figure 1 The rectifier circuit 2 and the power storage unit 3 are shown. In addition, the detection unit 5 and the communication unit 6 can be configured as the circuit unit 16.

[0096] The antenna device of the above configuration is accommodated in the housing 17. The contact surface of the housing 17 other than the conductive member 11 includes an insulating material such as resin. In addition, the housing side surface other than the contact surface with the energy absorbing metal, the housing opposing surface, etc. also include insulating materials.

[0097] Figure 2 C shows a configuration in which the housing 17 includes a housing 17A containing a nonmetal such as a resin or the like and a housing 17B containing a metal. The ground electrode 19 on the upper surface or the lower surface of the device board 12 and the housing 17B can be electrically connected to each other. That is, the housing 17A including an insulating material on which the conductive member 11 is provided and the housing 17B including a metal material constituting the opposite surface can be connected by a connection unit 22 such as a screw, and the housing 17B and the ground electrode 19 of the device board 12 can be connected by a wire 23.

[0098] In addition, if Figure 3 A and Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1B, the insulating covered cable 24 can be further connected to the ground electrode 19 including the copper foil pattern of the device board 12 by solder or the like to be grounded to the ground. Note that the above-mentioned conductive member 11 is configured in a plate shape and is configured to be in contact with or connected to the product metal part. However, the product metal part itself can be used as the conductive member 11, and the conductive member 11 and the feeding point 15 can be directly connected to each other by using a coated cable or the like insulated from the product metal part.

[0099] There is a lot of electric field energy around us, which can be divided into low-frequency components and high-frequency components. For example, the leakage electric field (50Hz / 60Hz) from the home AC power supply, the noise present near the personal computer, the voltage generated when a person walks, etc. are low-frequency components. These are called quasi-static fields (near fields). On the other hand, radio broadcasts (AM / FM), TV broadcasts, mobile phone radio waves, etc. are high-frequency components. These are called radio waves (far fields).

[0100] like Figure 4 As shown, the conductive member 11 of the antenna device 1 is in contact with the product metal part. The conductive member 11 is attached to the product metal part. Since the product metal part is used as an antenna, the antenna device 1 can absorb energy of both quasi-electrostatic fields (such as noise as leakage current) and radio waves (such as broadcast waves).

[0101] For the antenna device 1, it is preferred that the conductive member 11 is directly connected to the metal part of the product, but in this example, the antenna element is basically in surface contact to increase the capacitance. It is sufficient that it is in contact or connection with the metal part. In the case of contact, in addition to a planar shape, it can also be assembled into a pin structure, a hemispherical shape or a concave-convex shape. In the case of connection, the connection can be directly connected by threading, welding, welding, etc. or via an insulator (or air) such as an insulating-covered cable or conductive rubber. The antenna device 1 including a conductive member 11 in contact with the metal and a ground electrode 19 of the device board 12 or a separate electrode can receive electric field energy and generate electricity. Note that in the case where the conductive component 11 is capacitively coupled to the metal, the size of the first antenna element can be increased even if a space or an insulator is inserted.

[0102] Figure 5 A. Figure 5 B and Figure 5 C shows another example of the second antenna element formed on the substrate. Figure 5 A shows the configuration of the bent antenna 20a, and Figure 5 B shows the configuration of the coil 20b. The coil 20b may be configured as a chip coil. Figure 5 C shows a configuration in which an inductor 20c is provided at the distal end portion. These configurations can reduce the occupied area, increase the antenna length, and increase the induced voltage. In addition, the second antenna unit can be configured as a plate antenna with broadband characteristics and can be used by a combination of the antennas shown or in appropriate combination with the above antennas.

[0103] Figure 6An example of the configuration of the collector 4 is shown. In the case of using a small voltage like the collector, although rectification can be performed by a general rectifier circuit, a certain degree of voltage is required in order to quickly store energy. In addition, in terms of efficiency, since a full-wave rectifier circuit can increase the voltage of an AC signal and absorb it all, it is preferable to use a full-wave rectifier circuit even if the loss of the diode is included in the diode for rectification. However, a half-wave rectifier circuit, a voltage doubler circuit, a Cockcroft-Walton circuit, etc. can be used as the rectifier circuit 2.

[0104] In the rectifier circuit 2, it is important that the leakage current of the diode when reverse biased is very small. In the case of leakage current, a full-wave rectifier circuit is suitable. Figure 6 As shown, diodes 61 and 64 are connected in series, and diodes 63 and 62 are connected in series. The connection point of the anode of diode 61 and the cathode of diode 64 is connected to the conductive member 11, and the connection point of the anode of diode 63 and the cathode of diode 62 is connected to the ground electrode 19 as the second antenna element.

[0105] The cathode of the diode 61 and the cathode connection point of the diode 63 are connected to the output terminal 34a, and the anode of the diode 64 and the anode connection point of the diode 62 are connected to the other output terminal 34b. An anti-static voltage-sensitive resistor 66 (for example, a Zener diode) is connected in parallel between the output terminals 34a and 34b. A storage unit (capacitor) 3 is connected in parallel between the output terminals 34a and 34b. Output terminals 35a and 35b are drawn from both ends of the storage unit 3, and the detection unit 5 is connected between the output terminals 35a and 35b.

[0106] Note that although it is constructed from discrete diodes, it could be constructed from a dedicated IC. Figure 7 Table 1 shows the measurement results of the forward voltage Vf and the reverse current Is of the diode used in the rectifier circuit 2. The diode product number 1N60 was measured using silicon and germanium products, and the other product number ISS108 was evaluated using germanium products manufactured by different manufacturers. Figure 7 , curve 42 is the characteristic of 1N60 (silicon), curve 41 is the characteristic of 1N60 (germanium), and curve 43 is the characteristic of ISS108 (germanium).

[0107] [Table 1]

[0108]

[0109] The current that flows when a voltage is applied in the reverse direction of the diode is the reverse current Is. The measured data in Table 1 is the data when 10V is applied in the reverse direction of the diode. The forward voltage Vf is the voltage at which the forward current (1 mA) starts to flow through the diode.

[0110] In the case of rectifying the output of the above-mentioned antenna unit 1, it was found that the diode 1N60 (silicon) in which the current does not flow in the reverse direction can absorb more power than the diode with a low voltage at which the current starts to flow in the forward direction. The input after rectification is AC, and the reverse current Is when the forward voltage Vf of the diode is applied in the reverse direction is the data of 10V in Table 1. Therefore, when the reverse current Is when the same voltage as Vf is applied in the reverse direction is calculated from the data, 1N60 (silicon) is 0.036μA, 1N60 (germanium) is 0.21μA, and ISS108 (germanium) is 0.5μA. Therefore, the ratio of the reverse current Is at the forward current (1mA) / forward voltage Vf is calculated to be 1 / 27778 of 1N60 (silicon), 1 / 4762 of 1N60 (germanium), and 1 / 2000 of ISS108 (germanium). That is, in the diode used in the rectifying circuit 2, the above ratio needs to be greater than about 4700 times, and preferably, the above ratio is 10000 or more. Therefore, among the three diodes mentioned as examples, 1N60 (silicon) has the most suitable characteristics.

[0111] In addition, considering the characteristics of the diode, the reverse current Is when applied in the reverse direction is preferably small, and when the reverse resistance value is calculated using the data of 10V, 1N60 (silicon) is 100MΩ, 1N60 (germanium) is 1.43MΩ, and ISS108 (germanium) is 0.38MΩ. That is, the resistance value for preventing the current from flowing in the reverse direction is preferably large, and as a diode used in the rectifier circuit 2, the above resistance value needs to be greater than 1.43MΩ, and preferably 10MΩ or more. Therefore, among the three diodes mentioned as examples, 1N60 (silicon) has the most suitable characteristics.

[0112] like Figure 8 As shown, a full-wave rectifier circuit (including diodes 61 to 64 and Zener diodes 66 and 67) is connected to the antenna device 1, and the output voltage of the full-wave rectifier circuit can be measured by a high resistance (2 MΩ or more, desirably 10 MΩ) sensor (for example, a voltmeter 95). In addition, a battery 96 is charged by the output of the full-wave rectifier circuit via the backflow prevention diode 65, and the output of the battery 96 is used as a power source for the voltmeter 95.

[0113] By using a high resistance sensor, the voltage induced in the metal can be measured. Then, by analyzing the acquired data, the operating status of the device's motor, inverter, etc. can be acquired. As a result, the status of the device can be grasped, and an alarm can be issued before a failure, etc.

[0114] As the rectifier circuit 2 connected to the antenna device 1, in addition to using Figure 6 The diode full-wave rectifier circuit configuration shown is as follows Fig. 9As shown, a rectifier circuit using a metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) field effect transistor (FET) as a switching element instead of a diode can be used. That is, the rectifier circuit has four FETs 61a, 62a, 63a and 64a, a backflow prevention diode 65a, and a FET protection Zener diode 67a.

[0115] FETs 61a and 63a are P-channel depletion MOSFETs, and when a negative voltage is applied to the gate, current flows from the drain to the source. FETs 62a and FET 64a are N-channel depletion MOSFETs, and when a positive voltage is applied to the gate, current flows from the drain to the source.

[0116] The drain of FET 61a and the drain of FET 64a are connected to each other, and the drain of FET 62a and the drain of FET 63a are connected to each other. The gates of FET 62a and 63a and the connection point between the drain of FET 61a and the drain of FET 64a are connected to the antenna element 11. The gates of FET 61a and 64a and the connection point between the drain of FET 62a and the drain of FET 63a are connected to the antenna element 20.

[0117] like Fig. 9 As shown, in a phase where the conductive member 11 side is negative and the antenna element 20 side is positive, the FET 62a is turned off, the FET 63a is turned on, the FET 61a is turned off, and the FET 64a is turned on.

[0118] The connection point between the source of FET 61a and the source of FET 63a is connected to one output terminal 34a via a backflow prevention diode 65a. The connection point between the source of FET 62a and the source of FET 64a is connected to the other output terminal 34b. A FET protection Zener diode 67a is connected between the output terminal 34a and the output terminal 34b. The four FETs 61a, 62a, 63a, and 64a can be configured as discrete or as a dedicated IC.

[0119] In the rectifier circuit using FET, the conduction type (N-channel / P-channel) of FET can be switched. Instead of the rectifier circuit using the above-mentioned diode, a rectifier circuit using FET can be used, and the same effect as that of the embodiment and its modified example can be obtained. Specifically, in the case where the frequency to be collected is a low frequency of 50 Hz, since the conversion efficiency of the element is better in FET than in diode, FET can be used according to the device frequency to be collected.

[0120] As described above, the antenna device 1 of the collector 4 has a dipole structure including two antenna elements. That is, the antenna device 1 includes: a first antenna element that contacts or is connected to a product metal part or a product metal part; and a second antenna element that is not in contact with or connected to the product metal part. The first antenna element is a product metal part of a car, a refrigerator, a TV receiver, a notebook PC, a drone, an ATM, a train, etc., or an antenna element that contacts or is connected to a product metal part. The second antenna element is an electrode, a copper foil pattern, a coil, etc. formed on a substrate.

[0121] In the present technology, an electric field sensor device is constituted by a collector 4 including an antenna device 1 . Fig.10 and Fig.11 1 is a diagram schematically showing one example and another example of an electric field sensor device. A grounding resistor Rx is inserted between a first antenna element E1 (hereinafter, referred to as antenna element E1) corresponding to the conductive member 11 of the above-mentioned antenna device 1 and the ground (ground). As described later, the grounding resistor Rx is set to a value of 10 kΩ or more.

[0122] The second antenna element E2 (hereinafter referred to as the antenna element E2) corresponding to the ground electrode 19, the copper foil pattern, the bent antenna on the substrate, etc. of the above-mentioned antenna device 1 is not grounded. The antenna element E2 is capacitively coupled to the ground (grounding). Fig.10 As shown, a schematic diagram of an antenna device having antenna elements E1 and E2 is shown. Figure 1 The configuration of electric field sensor device 101 is shown. The voltage induced by antenna element E1 and antenna element E2 is represented by a voltage source.

[0123] Fig.11 The electric field sensor device 102 shown has a configuration in which the antenna element E2 is connected to ground. The antenna element El may or may not have a noise source. Fig.10 and Fig.11 The electric field sensor devices 101 and 102 shown each have a noise source. The noise source refers to a source that generates noise with a frequency of several Hz to 1 MHz included in the metal part of the product. This noise is generated by a switching power supply, a motor, etc. Even in the absence of such a noise source, various electric fields such as quasi-static fields and electromagnetic waves are continuously generated in the space, and the output voltage of the collector is generated by the electric field energy in this space.

[0124] exist Fig.10 In the electric field sensor device 101 shown, since the antenna element E2 that is not in contact with or connected to the metal part of the device as a conductor is not grounded, the antenna element E2 can be used as a sensor. In addition, the antenna element E1 side can also be used as a sensor. That is, one of the antenna element E1 and the antenna element E2 can be used as a sensor.

[0125] In the electric field sensor device 102, since the antenna element E2 is grounded, the antenna element E2 is not used as a sensor. The antenna element E1 is used as a sensor. Since it is important to increase the potential difference between the antenna element E1 and the antenna element E2 in the arrangement of the antenna elements, it is desirable to arrange the antenna element on the sensor side so as to face the detection target, and to arrange the antenna element not on the sensor side so as not to face the detection target. However, in the case where the antenna element not on the sensor side is connected to the ground or coupled to the grounded member by a coated cable or the like, the antenna element can be arranged close to the detection target according to the dielectric constant of the coated cable.

[0126] Fig.12 and Fig.13 is a schematic diagram showing a measuring device for measuring the relationship between the output of the collector 4 and the ground resistor. Fig.14 is a graph showing the relationship between the output of the collector device and the grounding resistor. Fig.12 and Fig.13 In the measurement device shown, the collector 4 (reference Figure 6 ) is connected between a ground terminal 111 of a device 110 (here, a measuring device driven with 100V AC) and a GND 114 provided at a socket of a power tap 113. A resistance element 116 is connected between input terminals of the collector 4. The collector 4 has the device 110 as one antenna element E1 and the power tap 113 as another antenna element E2.

[0127] One input terminal of the collector 4 is connected to the ground terminal 111 of the device 110, and the other input terminal is connected to the GND 114. Note that the output terminals 115a and 115b of the power tap 113 are respectively connected to the two power terminals 112a and 112b provided in the device 110, and 100V AC is supplied thereto. The resistance element 116 is connected between the input terminals of the collector 4. The resistance element 116 is an element such as a winding resistance provided with a predetermined DC resistance value. The resistance element 116 serves as a grounding resistor connecting the device 110 and the GND 114. For example, in the case where the resistance element 116 is sufficiently large, the device 110 is substantially in a floating state with respect to the GND 114.

[0128] exist Fig.12 and Fig.13 In the measurement device shown, the output voltage (voltage between the output terminals) of the collector 4 is measured by changing the DC resistance value of the resistance element 116 . Fig.14The graph shown shows the output voltage [V] detected by the collector 4 in the case where the DC resistance value [Ω] of the resistance element 116 used as the ground resistor changes. For example, in the case where the DC resistance value is 1 kΩ which is relatively low, the detection voltage is 0.60 V. In addition, in the case where the DC resistance value is 10 kΩ, a voltage of 2.00 V is detected, and in the case where the DC resistance value is 47 kΩ, 4.60 V is detected. As described above, the ground of the device 110 used as the antenna element E1 is close to a floating state relative to the GND 114 which is the ground of the earth, and the higher the DC resistance value, the higher the detection voltage.

[0129] In addition, when the DC resistance value increases, for example, at a time point when the DC resistance value is 100 kΩ, the detection voltage becomes 6.55 V. This is substantially the same as the value (6.77 V) in a state where the resistance element 116 is removed and the ground of the device 110 is completely floating. That is, by inserting the resistance element 116 having a DC resistance of about 100 kΩ, the antenna element E1 is substantially in a floating state relative to the ground, and the collector 4 senses a voltage without any problem. Note that even when the DC resistance is in the range of 100 kΩ or less, for example, if the resistance value is 10 kΩ or more, a voltage of 2.00 V or more can be sensed.

[0130] exist Fig.12 , Fig.13 and Fig.14 , the DC resistance component of the ground resistor is described. On the other hand, the electric field energy absorbed by the collector 4 is mainly the energy of the AC signal. Therefore, for example, when the resistance (impedance) to the AC signal of the target frequency is large enough, the ground of the device 110 can be made close to the floating state at the frequency, and a high voltage can be induced. Specifically, the inductance of a coil or the like can be used.

[0131] For example, in the case of connecting to a 50 Hz (or 60 Hz) AC power source, the 50 Hz (or 60 Hz) AC signal is considered to be the main source of electric field energy. Therefore, for example, in the case where the impedance of 50 Hz (or 60 Hz) is 10 kΩ or greater, as described above, the ground of the device 90 is substantially in a floating state and can effectively absorb energy.

[0132] However, according to the device 110 connected to the collector 4, in order to prevent electric shock to the human body, grounding to the ground can be defined as a measure against leakage according to the safety standard. In this case, all energy induced in the device 110 escapes to the ground and no voltage is induced.

[0133] With reference to the current safety standards in Japan, examples of devices to which the collector 4 is applied include devices that require D-level grounding work (hereinafter referred to as D-grounding). D-grounding is a grounding work performed on low-voltage mechanical tools, metal outer boxes, and metal pipes using 300V or less. For example, D-grounding is performed on devices that need to be grounded in devices used by connecting to a 100V AC power supply. As an example, the grounding of devices such as microwave ovens, refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, air conditioners, dehumidifiers, various measuring devices, factory robots, and server devices complies with this standard. As described above, in the case of using general devices, D-grounding is used as a reference.

[0134] In the following, it is assumed that the device to which the collector 4 is applied is D-grounded.

[0135] In D grounding, a grounding resistor having a DC resistance of 100Ω or less is required. Note that in the case where a device that automatically cuts off the electric path within 0.5 seconds in the event of a ground fault (leakage) is provided in the low-voltage electric path, a grounding resistor having a DC resistance of 500Ω or less can be used. For example, in the case where there is a mechanism for cutting off the power supplied to the device when a dark current is detected, the grounding resistor can be changed from 100Ω to 500Ω in D grounding.

[0136] In order to solve this problem and induce electric field energy in the collector 4, it is desirable to achieve a low resistance value that represents high impedance at the frequency of the AC signal induced in the device 110 and satisfies the safety standard of direct current. In the case of collecting electric field energy of 100 MHz or more, which is a high frequency, to some extent, by using only the inductance of the coil inserted between the ground wire and the collector 4, the frequency of the AC signal to be collected and the frequency of the direct current can be separated, and a high impedance (above 100 kΩ) can be formed at the frequency of the AC signal to be collected.

[0137] However, in the case of connecting to a low AC power source of 50 Hz (or 60 Hz), the AC signal of 50 Hz (or 60 Hz) can be regarded as the main source of electric field energy. In such a case, the inductance of the coil alone has a very large value, and it is difficult to produce a floating state in space by using only the coil. That is, the inductance value is several hundred H, which is unrealistic.

[0138] To achieve the state where the device 110 floats with this AC signal of 50 Hz (or 60 Hz), consider the following Fig.15The high-pass filter structure 121 (Chebyshev high-pass filter) shown. The output terminal of the high-pass filter 121 is open. Since the coil is included in the front stage of the filter, a high impedance (100kΩ or more) can be achieved in an AC signal of 50Hz (or 60Hz) by setting the DC resistance value of the coil of this part to meet the safety standard. Therefore, the inductance of the coil can be reduced even at low frequencies, and miniaturization can be achieved. For example, in the case of configuring this filter at 50Hz, the inductance of the coil is 22mH, the capacitance of the capacitor is 470μF, and the DC resistance of the coil is 22Ω.

[0139] The frequency characteristic of the high-pass filter 121 is as follows: Fig.16 As shown. The capacitance of the capacitor has a frequency component, and even when the capacitance shows a high value at 50 Hz (or 60 Hz), the capacitance decreases at a frequency of 1 kHz or higher. Therefore, in the case where more frequency components are induced as electric field energy in the device 110, when it is desired to collect energy, it cannot be collected only by the high-pass filter structure 121.

[0140] In order to solve such problems, Fig.17 As shown, the frequency component of the electric field energy induced in the device 110 is measured in advance, and a parallel resonant circuit 122 having a high impedance to the ground at the frequency may be configured between the ground line and the ground.

[0141] Since the parallel resonant circuit 122 has a configuration in which a coil and a capacitor are inserted in parallel, the parallel resonant circuit 122 has a high impedance at the frequency of the electric field energy induced in the device 110 and desired to be collected, and has the DC resistance of the coil in direct current. Therefore, the parallel resonant circuit 122 can be configured to meet safety standards. For example, Fig.18 As shown, in the case of configuring the parallel resonant circuit 122 having the characteristic of maximizing impedance at 100 kHz, the DC resistance of the coil is 0.04Ω, the inductance of the coil is 10 mH, and the capacitance of the capacitor is 0.5 μF. The parallel resonant circuit 122 preferably includes an electrolytic capacitor because the higher the Q value, the wider the frequency range in which the impedance is higher.

[0142] By combining the high-pass filter 121 and the parallel resonant circuit 122 (at least one or more), it is possible to absorb electric field energy according to various frequency components induced in the device 110 while satisfying the safety standard for performing D-grounding of the device 110 with the ground line. The high-pass filter 121 and the parallel resonant circuit 122 may be used alone according to the frequency component of the electric field energy generated in the device 110, or may be used in appropriate combination according to the frequency to be collected to satisfy the resistance value in the safety standard. Fig.19 An example in which the parallel resonant circuits 122 a and 122 b are combined with the high-pass filter 121 is shown.

[0143] Although the filter that makes the device 110 in a floating state according to the frequency to be collected has been described so far, the first antenna element of the collector 4 may be connected to the output terminal (open circuit) of the high-pass filter 121 of the filter located in the middle of the ground, and the second antenna element may be configured by an antenna of a bent line such as ground or copper foil on a substrate. For example, in the case of a three-terminal socket with a GND line in a factory, since the GND line can be configured in the part of the socket connected to the device 110, the GND line can be easily configured for each device 110, and the state of each device 110 can be managed.

[0144] Although the filter in which the device 110 is in a floating state according to the frequency to be collected has been described so far, the first antenna element of the collector may be connected to the output terminal (open circuit) of the high-pass filter of the filter located in the middle of the ground, and the second antenna element may be connected by the ground portion (see Fig. 20 A) or antenna configuration such as a meander line of copper foil on a substrate. For example, a GND line Fig.13 In the case of the three-terminal socket shown, since the harvester can be configured at the plug portion of the device 110, energy can be harvested from the entire device 110 by using the GND of the device 110 as an antenna element.

[0145] exist Fig. 20 In the configuration of A, the high-pass filter is connected, but if Fig. 20 B or Fig. 20 C, a transformer may also be connected. Since the collector is completely separated from the device 110 by the transformer, a large amount of current can be prevented from flowing through the collector in the event of leakage, and safety can be improved. In this example, a configuration using a high-pass filter and a transformer has been described, but the configuration may be replaced with the above-mentioned parallel resonant circuit and a leakage filter such as an inductor.

[0146] Devices that do not need to be grounded by connecting to a commercial AC power source, for example, products such as TVs, hard disk recorders, game devices, or audio devices, are devices that float from the ground. In addition, drones and vehicles are used with a ground and a specific resistor. In order to efficiently collect power by using these devices, for example, it is necessary to separate the GND of a power board using an inverter circuit that generates large power from other metal parts of the device. As can be seen from the above experimental results, when the resistance value for separation is 10 kΩ or more, antenna element 1 and antenna element 2 can be separated to collect power.

[0147] That is, Fig.21As shown, when the GND of the power board using the inverter circuit generating large power is set as the first antenna element 11 and the other metal parts of the device are set as the second antenna element 20, by inserting a resistor 401 of 10 kΩ or more between the antenna elements and separating them, power can be collected from the collector. By separating in advance within the device in this way, it is possible to collect larger power than an arrangement in which the collector is placed outside and the collector is connected to the device and used.

[0148] In addition, if Fig. 22 As shown, by connecting the filter 402 instead of separating the resistor, a very low resistance can be achieved in direct current, and the resistance value can be increased according to the frequency of the power to be collected. According to the frequency of the power to be collected, a specific example of the filter 402 includes an inductor 403a ( Fig.23 A), high pass filter 403b ( Fig.23 B), parallel resonant circuit 403c ( Fig.23 C) and transformer 403d( Fig.23 D). By connecting the filter 402, a very low resistance can be achieved in direct current, and the resistance value can be increased according to the frequency of the power to be collected. In particular, in the case of using the transformer 403d, the transformer 403d is completely separated from the device in terms of direct current, and therefore it is safe to use the collector.

[0149] Fig.24 A. Fig.24 B. Fig.24 C and Fig.24 D shows an example of a configuration of an electric field sensor device according to the present technology. That is, there is an electric field sensor device 101 ( Fig.10 , Fig.24 A) Electric field sensor device 102 in which antenna element E1 has a noise source and antenna element E2 is grounded to the ground ( Fig.11 , Fig.24 B) Electric field sensor device 103 in which antenna element E1 has no noise source and antenna element E2 is not grounded to the ground ( Fig.24 C), and an electric field sensor device 104 ( Fig.24 D) Configuration example.

[0150] Hereinafter, each electric field sensor device will be described assuming a person or a conductor such as a car or a bicycle as a detection target.

[0151] In the electric field sensor device 101 ( Fig.10 , Fig.24In A), since the antenna element E2 that is not in contact with or connected to the metal part of the device (which is a conductor) is not grounded to the ground, when a person 201 or a conductor such as a large metal approaches the antenna element E2 side, the metal part of the device on the antenna element E2 side and the conductor or metal such as the person 201 are spatially coupled. As a result, the antenna size increases and more electric field energy in the space can be absorbed. In this case, the voltage induced in the electric field sensor device 101 increases, and by observing the increase in voltage, the antenna element E2 side functions as a sensor.

[0152] Since antenna element E1 has a noise source, the noise source occupies a large proportion of the voltage induced in antenna element E1 and antenna element E2, and when person 201 approaches, the noise induced in antenna element E1 is dispersed in person 201. As the noise level decreases, the voltage induced in electric field sensor device 101 decreases. Therefore, the antenna element E1 side functions as a sensor by observing the decrease in voltage. In electric field sensor device 101, one of antenna element E1 and antenna element E2 can be used as a sensor.

[0153] In the electric field sensor device 102 ( Fig.11 , Fig.24 In B), since the antenna element E2 which is not in contact with or connected to the metal part of the device (which is a conductor) is grounded to the ground, the voltage does not increase (does not change) even if the person 201 approaches the antenna element E2. Therefore, the antenna element E2 does not function as a sensor.

[0154] Since antenna element E1 has a noise source, similar to electric field sensor device 101, when person 201 approaches antenna element E2, the noise generated from the device is spatially coupled with approaching person 201, the noise induced in antenna element E1 is dispersed, and the noise level is reduced, so that the induced voltage is reduced. In electric field sensor device 102, antenna element E1 is used as a sensor.

[0155] In the electric field sensor device 103 ( Fig.24 In C), since the antenna element E2 that is not in contact with or connected to the metal part of the device (which is a conductor) is not grounded to the ground, when a person 201 or a conductor such as a large metal approaches the antenna element E2 side, the person or metal spatially couples with the metal part of the device on the antenna element E2 side, the antenna size increases, and more energy of the electric field in the space can be absorbed. In this case, the voltage induced in the electric field sensor device 103 increases, and the antenna element E2 functions as a sensor.

[0156] Since antenna element E1 has no noise source, when person 201 approaches the antenna element E1 side, the person is spatially coupled with the metal part of the device on the antenna element E1 side, the antenna size increases, and more electric field energy in the space can be absorbed. In this case, the voltage induced in electric field sensor device 103 increases. In electric field sensor device 103, one of antenna element E1 and antenna element E2 can be used as a sensor.

[0157] In the electric field sensor device 104 ( Fig.24 In D), since the antenna element E2 which is not in contact with or connected to the metal part of the device (which is a conductor) is grounded to the ground, the voltage does not increase (does not change) even if the person 201 approaches the antenna element E2. Therefore, the antenna element E2 does not function as a sensor.

[0158] Since antenna element E1 has no noise source, when person 201 approaches the antenna element E1 side, the person spatially couples with the metal part of the device on the antenna element E1 side, the antenna size increases, and more electric field energy in the space can be absorbed. In this case, the voltage induced in electric field sensor device 104 increases. In electric field sensor device 104, antenna element E2 is used as a sensor.

[0159] As described above, as an electric field sensor device, in a case where a noise source exists in the antenna element E1 and a relatively large voltage is induced, a conductor such as metal or person 201 can be detected by lowering the voltage. On the other hand, in a case where there is no noise source in the antenna element E1, a conductor such as metal or person 201 can be detected by increasing the voltage. Specifically, in the case of using the antenna element as an electric field sensor device while collecting noise energy from the metal part of the product, the configuration of the electric field sensor device 101 is preferred, and detection can be performed while increasing the total voltage by using the antenna element E2 side as a sensor. Note that the detection unit 5 (see Figure 1 ) determines whether the voltage is increased or decreased.

[0160] In the following, a number of embodiments using any type of electric field sensor device described above will be described.

[0161] Fig.25 The illustrated embodiment is a human sensor of the electric field sensor device 101. The antenna element E2 has a ground resistor Rx2 between the antenna element E2 and the ground. As described above, the ground resistor Rx2 has a value of 10 kΩ or more, and sufficient output can be obtained from the collector.

[0162] The antenna element E1 is a product metal part, such as a cabinet of a refrigerator 105. The refrigerator 105 is grounded through a grounding resistor Rx1. The refrigerator 105 includes a noise source.

[0163] The antenna element E2 side is set as a sensor. When a person 201 approaches the antenna element E2 side, the antenna element E2 and the person 201 are capacitively coupled, the antenna size increases, and more electric field energy in the space is absorbed. The capacity of the coupling depends on the frequency desired to be received. In addition, as the distance between the antenna element E2 and the person becomes shorter, the coupling also becomes stronger. As a result, the voltage induced in the electric field sensor device 101 increases. In addition, if a metal part of a product different from a refrigerator is used as the antenna element E2 to be coupled with the person 201, the antenna element E2 can have a relatively large size, so that the capacity of the person approaching the antenna element E2 increases, which is beneficial in improving the sensitivity of the sensor.

[0164] Fig.26 It is shown Fig.25 Flowchart of the process flow of the detection unit of the electric field sensor device 101 in the illustrated embodiment.

[0165] Step S1: Preset the voltage in the state without the person 201 as a reference voltage. By storing the set reference voltage in the storage unit, there is no need to repeat the setting of the reference voltage.

[0166] Step S2: In the human detection operation, a change in voltage is determined.

[0167] Step S3: When it is determined that there is no voltage change, it is determined that the person 201 does not exist.

[0168] Step S4: Determine whether the voltage change increases.

[0169] Step S5: When the voltage change increases, it is determined that the person 201 is nearby. In addition, the communication unit sends the determination result to the control side. A threshold value can be set for the voltage change. In addition, the distance from the sensor to the person 201 can be determined by the value of the voltage.

[0170] Fig. 27 The illustrated embodiment is another example of a human sensor using the electric field sensor device 104. That is, the antenna element E1 has no noise source, and the antenna element E2 is grounded to the ground. When a person 201 approaches the antenna element E1, the antenna element E1 and the person 201 are coupled by capacitance. Therefore, the voltage increases as the person 201 approaches. In addition, the distance to the person 201 can be determined based on the voltage value.

[0171] Although not shown, Fig. 27In the configuration of , in the case where there is a noise source in the antenna element E1, the electric field sensor device 102 is configured. In this electric field sensor device 102, when a person approaches the antenna element E1, the noise energy is dispersed to the person, causing the voltage to decrease. Therefore, the approach of the person can be detected by detecting the decrease in voltage. In addition, the distance to the person can be determined based on the voltage value.

[0172] This technology can be applied not only to the detection of people, but also to the detection of metal conductors. For example, Fig.28 An embodiment of the present technology applied to automobile detection is shown. Automobile 202 has a grounding resistor Rx4 of 10 kΩ or more. Antenna element E1 (without a noise source) and antenna element E2 (grounded to the ground) constitute electric field sensor device 104. Antenna element E1 serves as a sensor.

[0173] When the car 202 approaches the antenna element E1, the antenna element E1 and the car 202 are capacitively coupled, the antenna size increases, and more electric field energy in the space is absorbed. As the distance between the antenna element E1 and the car 202 becomes shorter, the coupling becomes stronger. As a result, the voltage induced in the electric field sensor device 104 increases. In addition, because the antenna element E1 (which is the antenna to be coupled) can have a relatively large size (all metal parts of the device) in order to use the metal part of the product (for example, the door of the entrance of the parking lot, the shutter door, etc.) as an antenna, the size is larger than that of other antennas and increases the capacity to approach the car 202, so that the antenna element E1 has the advantage of improving the sensitivity of the sensor.

[0174] Fig.29 1 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing by the detection unit of the electric field sensor device 104 .

[0175] Step S11: The voltage in the state without the car 202 is preset as a reference voltage. By storing the set reference voltage in the storage unit, there is no need to repeat the setting of the reference voltage.

[0176] Step S12: Then, when the vehicle inspection operation is started, a change in voltage is determined.

[0177] Step S13: When it is determined that there is no voltage change, it is determined that there is no car 202.

[0178] Step S14: Determine whether the voltage change increases.

[0179] Step S15: In the case where the voltage change increases, it is determined that the car 202 is nearby. In addition, the communication unit sends the determination result to the control side. According to the determination result, for example, control is performed so that the door of the parking lot is opened. A threshold value of the voltage change can be set. In addition, the distance to the car 202 can be determined by the value of the voltage.

[0180] Note that the electric field sensor device 102 is configured in the presence of a noise source in the antenna element E1. In this configuration, when the car 202 approaches the antenna element E1, the noise energy is dispersed into the car 202, causing the voltage to decrease. Therefore, the approach of the car 202 can be detected by detecting the decrease in voltage. In addition, the distance to the car 202 can be determined based on the value of the voltage.

[0181] Fig.30 An example is schematically shown in which the electric field sensor device 101 is provided to be associated with a lighting device such as a fluorescent lamp device 211 installed in a room such as a conference room, a car, etc. In the case of the fluorescent lamp device 211, an inverter turns on the fluorescent lamp by changing a commercial power supply of 50 Hz or 60 Hz once into a direct current and further into a high-frequency signal of 20 to 50 kHz. In this lighting method, there is no flicker peculiar to a fluorescent lamp compared to lighting at the frequency of the commercial power supply.

[0182] In order to perform switching and frequency conversion, large noise is generated from the commercial power supply. By making the metal part of such a fluorescent lamp device 211 contact with the antenna element E1, the fluorescent lamp device can be configured as an antenna element, and can be used as a sensor while collecting energy to increase the total voltage. As a configuration in this case, the configuration of the electric field sensor device 101 is suitable. The antenna element E2 is not grounded to the ground. The antenna element E2 is used as a sensor for the person 201.

[0183] When person 201 enters the room, the distance between antenna element E2 and person 201 decreases, antenna element E2 and person 201 are capacitively coupled, the antenna size increases, and more electric field energy in the space is absorbed. As the distance between antenna element E2 and the person becomes shorter, the coupling becomes stronger. As a result, the voltage induced in electric field sensor device 101 increases.

[0184] Fig.31 1 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing by the detection unit of the electric field sensor device 101 .

[0185] Step S21: The voltage when the person 201 is not present is set as a reference voltage in advance. By storing the set reference voltage in the storage unit, there is no need to repeat the setting of the reference voltage.

[0186] Step S22: Then, person 201 approaches.

[0187] Step S23: voltage changes.

[0188] Step S24: Determine that the change in voltage increases.

[0189] Step S25: In this case, it is determined that person 201 is in the room.

[0190] Step S26: Furthermore, the determination result is sent to the communication unit or directly to the control circuit of the fluorescent lamp device 211, and the fluorescent lamp device 211 is automatically turned on.

[0191] Step S27: In addition, the determination result is sent to the vacancy management system in the cloud via communication, and the conference room is notified that it is in use.

[0192] Reference Fig.32 An embodiment of the present technology applied to a warm water cleaning toilet seat 212 is described. A ground wire 213 and a power wire 214 are wired between the warm water cleaning toilet seat 212 and the power outlet. By making the metal portion of the warm water cleaning toilet seat 212 contact the antenna element E1, the fluorescent lamp device can be configured as an antenna element and can be used as a sensor to increase the total voltage when collecting energy. The electric field sensor device 102 (including an electrode as an antenna element E2) is inserted in the middle of the ground wire 213 of the warm water cleaning toilet seat 212. Since the warm water cleaning toilet seat 212 has a noise source, when a person approaches the warm water cleaning toilet seat 212, the voltage of the electric field sensor device 102 decreases, and the person's approach can be detected.

[0193] Reference Fig.33 A and Fig.33 B describes another embodiment related to warm water cleaning of toilet seats. Fig.33 A schematically shown, a heater 215 and an aluminum foil (schematically shown as a ring portion) 216 are accommodated in a resin toilet seat of a warm water cleaning toilet seat, and the toilet seat is heated by heating the aluminum foil 216 by the heater 215. The aluminum foil 216 floats relative to the ground.

[0194] Therefore, if Fig.33 As shown in FIG. 1B , the electric field sensor device 103 is configured by using aluminum foil 216 as antenna element E2 and making the metal part of the warm water cleaning toilet seat 212 contact with the antenna element E1. When a person approaches the toilet seat, the antenna element E2 and the person are capacitively coupled, the antenna size increases, and more electric field energy in the space is absorbed. As the distance between the antenna element E2 and the person becomes shorter, the coupling becomes stronger. Therefore, the voltage induced in the electric field sensor device 103 increases.

[0195] Fig.34Schematically shows another embodiment of the present technology applied to a warm water cleaning toilet seat. A coil 217 is inserted between the ground wire 213 of the warm water cleaning toilet seat and the ground to produce a spatial floating state at the frequency required for the warm water cleaning toilet seat, that is, to increase the impedance of the required frequency band. Therefore, a circuit unit 218 such as a power supply for the warm water cleaning toilet seat 212 floats relative to the ground.

[0196] The metal part of the warm water cleaning toilet seat 212 is in contact with the antenna element E1. The aluminum foil 216 of the toilet seat of the warm water cleaning toilet seat 212 is used as the antenna element E2. Therefore, when the electric field sensor device 101 is configured and a person approaches the toilet seat (antenna element E2), the voltage of the electric field sensor device 101 increases. Note that a separation resistor Ry of 10kΩ or more is inserted between the antenna elements E1 and E2, including electrostatic countermeasures, etc., to separate the two antenna elements. By utilizing the configuration in which the part in contact with the human body is separated from the circuit unit 218, electric shock, etc. in the event of leakage can be prevented.

[0197] Note that in the case where all the conductors of the warm water cleaning toilet seat, which is a metal part of the product, are used as one antenna, it is necessary to increase the size of the other antenna coupled to the ground in order to absorb greater energy. On the other hand, by dividing the conductor of the warm water cleaning toilet seat into two parts by separating the resistor Ry, the antenna elements coupled to the ground can be increased, and the energy that can be collected can be increased.

[0198] Reference Fig.35 Flowchart description Fig.34 The configuration operation.

[0199] Step S31: Setting a reference voltage. That is, the voltage of electric field sensor device 101 in a state where the light in the toilet is turned off and no one is present is set as a reference voltage. By storing the set reference voltage in a storage unit, there is no need to repeat the setting of the reference voltage.

[0200] Step S32: Determine whether a person approaches and opens the toilet door based on the voltage change. When a person approaches and opens the door, the voltage of the electric field sensor device 101 increases relative to the reference voltage.

[0201] Step S33: When it is determined that someone approaches and opens the toilet door, the determination result is sent to the lighting device to turn on the light in the toilet.

[0202] Step S34: Determine whether the person has just come in front of the toilet seat. When the person has just come in front of the toilet seat, the voltage of the electric field sensor device 101 further increases. The further increase in the voltage is detected. The determination result is sent to the control unit of the warm water cleaning toilet seat.

[0203] Step S35: When it is determined that a person comes to the toilet seat, the control unit opens the lid of the toilet seat.

[0204] Step S36: Determine whether a person sits on the toilet seat. Due to the further increase in the voltage of the electric field sensor device 101, it is detected that a person sits on the toilet seat. When it is determined that a person sits on the toilet seat, the determination result is sent to the control unit of the warm water cleaning toilet seat.

[0205] Step S37: When it is determined in step S36 that a person is sitting on the toilet seat, the determination result is sent to the control unit of the warm water cleaning toilet seat, which turns on the deodorizing device and generates a masking sound (e.g., water flow sound) for covering up the sound during excretion.

[0206] Step S38: Determine whether the person has left the toilet seat. The separation of the person from the toilet seat is detected based on the drop in voltage of the electric field sensor device 101. When it is determined that the person has left the toilet seat, the determination result is sent to the control unit of the warm water cleaning toilet seat.

[0207] Step S39: When it is determined in step S38 that the person has left the toilet seat, water is flushed into the toilet.

[0208] Step S40: Determine whether a person has left the toilet. According to the further decrease in the voltage of the electric field sensor device 101, it is detected that a person has left the toilet. When it is determined that a person has left the toilet, the determination result is sent to the control unit of the warm water cleaning toilet seat.

[0209] Step S41: When it is determined in step S40 that a person has left the toilet, the lid is lowered to close. The deodorization is turned off and the light of the toilet is turned off at a predetermined time after the lid is closed.

[0210] In the above-mentioned warm water cleaning toilet seat, when a person sits on the toilet seat, the person directly contacts the toilet seat, so that the voltage corresponding to the individual can be measured. The health status can be determined by measuring the voltage every day. In addition, it can also be used like a body fat meter by measuring the voltage. In addition, the voltage change of the walking style (approaching style) unique to the individual when entering the toilet can be pre-registered, the individual can be identified from the voltage change of the walking style, and health management can be performed by sending the health status data to the individual's smart phone, etc.

[0211] Furthermore, by attaching the electric field sensor device to a lighting device such as a fluorescent lamp or a light emitting diode and using a metal portion of the lighting device as an antenna, the lighting of the lighting device can be controlled separately from the electric field sensor device attached to the warm water cleaning toilet seat.

[0212] Next, we will refer to Fig.36 , Fig.37as well as Fig.38 An embodiment in which the present technology is applied to an ATM is described. Fig.36 The front surface of the ATM 221 is schematically shown, and Fig.37 A side surface of the ATM 221 is schematically shown.

[0213] A metal frame 222 having an L-shaped cross section is provided to cover a portion of the front surface and the upper surface of the ATM 221. An ATM body 223 is provided inside the ATM 221. The ATM body 223 includes a touch panel, a power supply circuit, a printer unit, a banknote and coin input and output mechanism, and the like.

[0214] A separation resistor Ry of 10 kΩ or more is connected between the metal frame 222 and the ATM body 223. By separating the metal frame 222 that contacts the human body from the ATM body 223, electric shock or the like can be prevented when there is leakage. In addition, the ATM body 223 is grounded via the coil 224. The ATM body 223 has a noise source, while the metal frame 222 does not have a noise source. In the frequency band of the noise source, the coil 224 floats the ATM body 223 relative to the ground.

[0215] The metal part in the ATM body 223 is in contact with the antenna element E1. The metal frame 222 serves as the antenna element E2. Therefore, when the electric field sensor device 101 is configured and a person approaches the ATM 221 (antenna element E2), the voltage of the electric field sensor device 101 increases. In addition, when the person leaves the ATM 221, the voltage of the electric field sensor device 101 decreases. Note that the present technology can also be applied to a vending machine similar to an ATM.

[0216] Reference Fig.38 Flowchart description Fig.36 and Fig.37 The configuration operation.

[0217] Step S51: Setting reference voltage. That is, the voltage of electric field sensor device 101 installed near ATM 221 in a state where the light is off and no one is present is set as a reference voltage. By storing the set reference voltage in the storage unit, there is no need to repeat the setting of the reference voltage.

[0218] Step S52 : A person approaches the ATM 221 .

[0219] Step S53: Determine whether a person is approaching based on the voltage change. When a person is approaching, the voltage of electric field sensor device 101 increases relative to the reference voltage.

[0220] Steps S54 and S55: When it is determined that a person approaches, a camera provided in the ATM 221 is turned on, capturing of the person is started, the determination result is sent to the lighting device, and the light is turned on.

[0221] Step S56: Start transaction using ATM 221. Operations and processes such as input of personal identification number, fingerprint authentication, insertion of IC card, input of amount, and cash deposit / payment are performed. For personal authentication, the change in voltage of electric field sensor device 101 can be used.

[0222] Step S57: Confirm the waveform of the voltage change when a person approaches the ATM 221. This waveform is different for each person and thus becomes a gait pattern. This gait pattern is a voltage change generated when a person as a conductor walks, and has a unique waveform due to the spinal reflex of the person. By observing this waveform, an individual can be identified.

[0223] Step S58: Analyze the gait pattern, identify the individual approaching the ATM 221 based on the gait pattern, and authenticate. In the case of established authentication, the transaction is allowed to start. In this case, the establishment of authentication is determined in combination with the results of other authentication devices.

[0224] Step S59: After the authentication is passed, the amount is input, cash is deposited / paid, and the passbook is recorded, and the transaction is completed.

[0225] Step S60: The person leaves ATM 221, and the voltage of electric field sensor device 101 drops to the reference voltage.

[0226] Steps S61 and S62: In the case where it is determined that the person has left, the camera provided in the ATM 221 is turned off, the capturing of the person is ended, the determination result is sent to the lighting device, and the light is turned off.

[0227] Fig.39 An application example of a car is shown. Since a car is a conductor, the car is not limited to the detection target, and the car can be used as an antenna element of the electric field sensor device. An embodiment of configuring the electric field sensor device 101 using a metal part of a frame, a body, etc. of a car in which a noise source exists (appropriately referred to as a body) 225 as an antenna element E1 and using a metal part of a door of a car that is not grounded to the ground (appropriately referred to as a door) 226 as an antenna element E2 will be schematically shown.

[0228] In this case, the antenna element E1 is coupled to the ground via spatial capacitance to obtain electric field energy. This can still be fully used, but the induced voltage level will be small. In order to improve this part, the door 226 is connected to the body 225 with a noise source of different potential, and the vehicle is divided into two antenna elements. Only the door 226 can be used as a sensor. Note that because there are multiple doors 226, each door can be set as a separate sensor. By using each door as a sensor, the door that a person approaches can be specified.

[0229] like Fig.40 As shown, the circuit unit 229 of the electric field sensor device 101 is attached to the vehicle door 226 via the contact portion 227 of the conductor, and is electrically connected to the vehicle body 225 having a potential different from that of the vehicle door through the cable 228. The circuit unit 229 includes a rectifier circuit 2, a power storage unit 3, a detection unit 5, and a communication unit 6. In this case, a separation resistor Ry of 10 kΩ or more may be inserted between the vehicle body 225 and the vehicle door 226. The circuit configuration in this case is as follows Fig.41 As shown, two input terminals of a rectifying circuit including diodes 61 to 64 are connected to both ends of the separation resistor Ry.

[0230] In this embodiment, in the electric field sensor device 101, the antenna element E2 is used as a human sensor. That is, when a person approaches the antenna element E2 (the vehicle door 226), the antenna element E2 and the person are capacitively coupled, the antenna size increases, and more electric field energy in the space is absorbed. In addition, as the distance between the antenna element E2 and the person becomes shorter, the coupling also becomes stronger. As a result, the voltage induced in the electric field sensor device 101 increases. In addition, because the antenna element E2 can have a relatively large size in order to use the vehicle door 226 as an antenna, the antenna element E2 has a larger size than an antenna element made of another member, and has a larger capacitance with the approaching conductor, so that it has the advantage of improving the sensitivity of the sensor.

[0231] Fig.42 : is a flowchart showing the flow of processing of the detection unit of electric field sensor device 101. As an example, this is the flow until a person approaches a vehicle door and gets in the vehicle and then gets out of the vehicle.

[0232] Step S71: The voltage in the state where there is no person near the vehicle door 226 is preset as a reference voltage. By storing the set reference voltage in the storage unit, there is no need to repeat the setting of the reference voltage.

[0233] Step S72 : A person approaches the vehicle door 226 .

[0234] Step S73: Detect a change in the voltage of electric field sensor device 101. When an increase in voltage is detected, it is determined that a person has approached.

[0235] Step S74: When the approach of a person is detected, the detection result is sent to the control unit of the car and the lights in the car are turned on.

[0236] Step S75: Furthermore, the door key is released, and the person opens the door.

[0237] Step S76: Confirm the waveform of the voltage change when a person approaches the vehicle door 226. This waveform is different for each person and thus becomes a gait pattern. The gait pattern is analyzed, the individual approach is recognized from the gait pattern, and authentication is performed. In the case of authentication, the door key can be released in step S75.

[0238] Step S78 : A voltage change occurs in the electric field sensor device 101 .

[0239] Step S79: People get on the bus.

[0240] Step S80: The person closes the vehicle door 226 .

[0241] Step S81: A voltage change occurs in electric field sensor device 101. As the distance between the person and door 226 increases, the voltage decreases.

[0242] Step S82: When a voltage drop is detected, it is determined that a person has boarded the vehicle. The determination result is sent to the control unit of the vehicle, and the lights in the vehicle are turned off.

[0243] Step S83: The person opens the door 226 and gets out of the vehicle.

[0244] Step S84: A voltage change occurs in electric field sensor device 101. As the distance between the person and door 226 becomes narrower, the voltage increases.

[0245] Step S85: When a voltage increase is detected, the detection result is sent to the control unit of the car, and the lights in the car are turned on.

[0246] Step S86: Close the car door.

[0247] Step S87: A voltage change occurs in electric field sensor device 101. As the distance between the person and door 226 increases, the voltage decreases.

[0248] Step S88: When a voltage drop is detected, the detection result is sent to the control unit of the car, and the lights in the car are turned off.

[0249] Step S89: The person leaves the vehicle door 226 .

[0250] Step S90: A voltage change occurs in electric field sensor device 101. As the interval between the person and door 226 further increases, the voltage further decreases to become the reference voltage.

[0251] Step S91: When it is detected that the reference voltage has been reached, the detection result is sent to the control unit of the car, and the door key of the car is locked.

[0252] Next, we will refer to Fig.43 , Fig.44 and Fig.45 An implementation of the present technology applied to sensors in an office is described. Fig.43 The periphery of a desk 231 in an office is schematically shown. The desk 231 is made of metal, and a conductive desk mat 232 is placed on the desk 231. Since the desk mat 232 is placed, a desk using a non-metal material such as wood can also be used as the desk 231. In addition, a notebook PC 233 is placed on the desk 231. Note that the present technology can be applied not only to desks but also to metal frames.

[0253] like Fig.44 As shown in A, Fig.24 The metal plate, electrode, bent antenna, etc. of the electric field sensor device 104 shown constitute the antenna element E2. The antenna element E2 is grounded to the ground of the office via a cable 235. The desk 231 is grounded via a grounding resistor Rx11, and the notebook PC 233 is grounded via a grounding resistor Rx12. In addition, a resistor Rx13 exists between the person 234 and the ground.

[0254] like Fig.44 As shown in FIG. 1A , table mat 232 is used as antenna element E1 of electric field sensor device 104. In the case where table 231 is made of metal, table 231 also serves as antenna element E1. In the case where there is no noise source on table 231, table 231 and table mat 232 serve as sensors of electric field sensor device 104.

[0255] Even if the notebook PC 233 is simply placed on the table 231, the notebook PC 233 does not become a noise source. However, when the notebook PC 233 is powered on and when the notebook PC 233 is being charged, noise is generated from the notebook PC 233. In this case, as shown in FIG. Fig.44 As shown in B, there is a noise source in the antenna element E1, and the configuration Fig.24 An electric field sensor device 102 is shown.

[0256] exist Fig.44 In the case of electric field sensor device 104 shown in FIG. 1A , when person 234 approaches or contacts table 231, table 231 and person 234 are coupled, the size of antenna element E1 is significantly increased, and the voltage of electric field sensor device 104 is increased. Similarly, in the case where notebook PC 233 is simply placed on table 231, that is, without supplying power to notebook PC 233, the approach of a person is detected by detecting an increase in voltage.

[0257] On the other hand, in the case where power is supplied to the notebook PC 233, the notebook PC 233 serves as a noise source, and the electric field sensor device 102 is configured as follows: Fig.44B. In the case of electric field sensor device 102, when person 234 approaches or contacts table 231, noise is transmitted to person 234, causing the voltage of electric field sensor device 102 to decrease.

[0258] exist Fig.45 In the flowchart of FIG. 2 , a reference voltage is set in advance in step S93. As a reference voltage, the voltage of electric field sensor device 104 in a state where the light in the office is turned off (there is no noise source such as notebook PC 233 and person 234 is not near table 231) is set to the reference voltage. By storing the set reference voltage in the storage unit, there is no need to repeat the setting of the reference voltage.

[0259] Step S94 : A person approaches the table 231 or power is supplied to the notebook PC 233 .

[0260] Step S95: Detect the change in voltage (increase or decrease).

[0261] Step S96: The detection result is sent to the control device of the electric light, and the electric light is turned on by the control device. In addition, the detection result is sent to the control device of the air conditioner, and the air conditioner is turned on by the control device. Note that in the case where a person leaves the desk 231 or the power supply to the notebook PC 233 is stopped, the electric light in the office is turned off and the air conditioner is turned off by detecting the change in voltage.

[0262] Next, we will refer to Fig.46 , Fig.47 , Fig.48 and Fig.49 An embodiment in which the present technology is applied to a drone is described. Fig.46 An example of a drone is shown. A body portion 242 is attached to an upper portion of a metal body portion 241 , and an imaging device 244 is attached to a metal frame 243 in a lower portion of the body portion 241 .

[0263] The main body 242 houses a control unit, a battery unit as a power source, and the like in a metal housing. The circuit unit of the electric field sensor device 101 is provided in the main body 242. A plurality of support shafts extending substantially horizontally from the main body 242 are provided, and a motor 245 as a driving source of the rotor blades 246 is mounted to the distal end surface of each support shaft. The rotor blades 246 are attached to the rotor shaft of the motor 245. A motor control circuit for controlling each motor is provided in the main body 242. The drone is remotely controlled by a controller on the ground.

[0264] The drone is divided into an upper configuration and a lower configuration by inserting a separation resistor Ry of 10 kΩ or more between an upper configuration including a main body portion 242, a motor 245, and a rotor blade 246 and a lower configuration including a metal frame 243. The upper configuration is an antenna element E1 having a noise source, and the lower configuration is an antenna element E2 (not grounded to the ground). The rectifying circuit 2 of the electric field sensor device 101 and a circuit unit such as a detection unit 5 are housed in the main body portion 242. The antenna element E2 serves as a sensor.

[0265] The outline of the electric field sensor device 101 is Fig.47 In Fig.47 In the embodiment, the side surface 247 of the metal frame 243 extends upward (or downward) to increase the antenna size, so that the sensitivity of the side surface of the sensor is improved. The electric field sensor device 101 can detect high voltage lines approaching the front surface in the traveling direction of the drone.

[0266] In addition, if Fig.48 As shown, metal frame 243 may be divided into metal frame 243a (having side surface 247a) and 243b (having side surface 247b), and electric field sensor devices 101a and 101b may be provided. One electric field sensor device 101a detects the high voltage line in front of the traveling direction indicated by the arrow, and the other electric field sensor device 101b detects the high voltage line in the direction opposite to the traveling direction. As described above, by providing electric field sensor devices 101a and 102b, not only the presence or absence of the high voltage line can be detected, but also the direction in which the high voltage line exists can be detected.

[0267] The drone has an imaging device 244 and can perform remote control to avoid obstacles when imaging obstacles during flight. However, in the case of poor conditions such as brightness, the high-voltage line may not be recognized as an obstacle. Since there is a leakage electric field around the high-voltage line, the electric field sensor device 101 (101a, 101b) can detect the vicinity of the high-voltage line by detecting the leakage electric field, and can avoid contact with the high-voltage line based on this information.

[0268] Fig.49 It is used to illustrate Fig.47 A flow chart showing the operation of an embodiment of the present technology as applied to an unmanned aerial vehicle.

[0269] Step S101: Setting a reference voltage. The voltage of the electric field sensor device 101 in a state where the drone is operating and there is no leakage electric field of the high voltage line is set to a reference voltage. By storing the set reference voltage in a storage unit, there is no need to repeat the setting of the reference voltage.

[0270] Step S102: The drone approaches the high-voltage wire.

[0271] Step S103: Determine the change in voltage of the electric field sensor device 101. When the drone approaches the high voltage line, a leakage electric field is detected and the voltage rises.

[0272] Step S104: Approaching the high voltage line is detected by the increase in voltage, and the communication unit transmits the approaching high voltage line to the remote controller.

[0273] Step S105: The remote controller displays that the drone is approaching a high-voltage line. In this case, an alarm may be generated. The remote controller may be operated by observing the display, and the drone may be prevented from contacting the high-voltage line.

[0274] Next, refer to Fig.50 , Fig.51 and Fig.52 , an embodiment in which the present technology is applied to a transport robot (eg, a transport robot that tows an existing carriage on a set route) will be described. Fig.50 As schematically shown, the transport robot includes a metal frame 251 having wheels 252 and a metal body portion 253 located above the frame 251 and accommodating a motor for driving the wheels 252 , a power circuit, a control unit, a communication unit, and the like.

[0275] The electric field sensor device 101 includes a frame 251 as an antenna element E1 and a main body 253 as an antenna element E2. The antenna element E1 includes a noise source such as a motor. In addition, a separation resistor Ry is inserted between the frame 251 and the main body 253. For example, the front end face and the rear end face of the frame 251 in the traveling direction indicated by the arrow are lifted to the upper part, and the sensitivity of the sensor is improved. The electric field sensor device 101 detects obstacles (people, metal objects, etc.) in front of the traveling direction of the transport robot. In addition, as Fig.51 As shown, electric field sensor devices 101a and 101b may be provided to detect the direction in which an obstacle exists.

[0276] Fig.52 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of an embodiment in which the present technology is applied to a transport robot.

[0277] Step S111: Setting the reference voltage. In a state where the transport robot is in a traveling state and an obstacle is not approaching, the voltage of the electric field sensor device 101 is set as the reference voltage. By storing the set reference voltage in the storage unit, the setting of the reference voltage does not need to be repeated.

[0278] Step S112: The transport robot approaches an obstacle, such as a person.

[0279] Step S113: Determine the change in the voltage of the electric field sensor device 101. In the case where a person approaches the transport robot, the voltage increases.

[0280] Step S114: Detecting that a person is approaching due to an increase in voltage, and stopping the transport robot. Stop the transport robot, and reset the voltage to the reference voltage.

[0281] Step S115: Restart the transport operation of the transport robot. In this way, the transport robot can be prevented from coming into contact with people.

[0282] Next, we will refer to Fig.53 An embodiment using a potted plant 264 such as a foliage plant as the antenna element E2 is described. For example, the potted plant 264 is placed at the reception of a company. A power adapter 262 is used to charge a notebook PC 261, and the power adapter 262 is connected to a socket 263 of a commercial power source. The notebook PC 261 is set as the antenna element E1 having a noise source.

[0283] The potted plant 264 has sap as an electrolyte and can be used as a conductor (antenna element). The root of the potted plant 264 is connected to the soil (ground) via an equivalent resistor 265 corresponding to the amount of water in the soil. Fig.54 As shown, the electric field sensor device 101 is configured. The circuit unit 266 of the electric field sensor device 101 is connected to the notebook PC 261 and the potted plant 264. The circuit unit 266 includes a rectifier circuit 2, a storage unit 3, a detection unit 5, and a communication unit 6. The notebook PC 261 as the antenna element E1 or the potted plant 264 as the antenna element E2 is used as a sensor. When water is supplied, the equivalent resistor 265 decreases, and the connection with the ground increases, and the voltage of the electric field sensor device 101 increases.

[0284] Fig.55 It is used to illustrate Fig.53 and Fig.54 Flowchart of operations in the illustrated embodiment where a potted plant 264 is used as a human sensor.

[0285] Step S111 : A person approaches the potted plant 264 .

[0286] Step S112: Detecting a change in the voltage of the electric field sensor device 101. In the absence of a person, the voltage value of the electric field sensor device 101 is different depending on the equivalent resistor 265 of the potted plant 264. When the potted plant 264 has a large amount of moisture, the value of the equivalent resistor 265 is relatively small, and the voltage in the absence of a person is relatively large. On the other hand, when the amount of moisture is small, the value of the equivalent resistor 265 is relatively large, and the voltage in the absence of a person is relatively small. In either case, when a person approaches, the voltage of the electric field sensor device 101 increases.

[0287] Step S113: In the case where it is determined that the voltage change detected in step S112 is an increase, it is recognized that a person is approaching (receiving).

[0288] Step S114: Send the recognition result to the receiving system and notify the person that he / she is coming. For example, a ring tone is sounded.

[0289] Step S115: Send the recognition result to the receiving system, and start shooting through the image capture device installed near the receiving system.

[0290] Note that the notebook PC 261 (antenna element E1) side can be used as a sensor. In this case, when a person approaches the notebook PC 261, noise from the noise source is transmitted to the person, and the voltage of the electric field sensor device 101 changes in a decreasing direction. By detecting this voltage change, it is recognized that a person has come to the reception.

[0291] also, Fig.53 The embodiment of the present invention can be applied to a management system for the water replenishment time (rehydration season) of potted plants 264. The processing flow in this case is Fig.56 The flow chart is shown in FIG.

[0292] Step S121: Setting the reference voltage. When the moisture supplied to the potted plant 264 is appropriate, the voltage of the electric field sensor device 101 is set to the reference voltage. By storing the set reference voltage in the storage unit, there is no need to repeat the setting of the reference voltage.

[0293] Step S122: Dry the potted plant 264 to a state where the potted plant 264 has insufficient moisture.

[0294] Step S123: As equivalent resistor 265 becomes larger, coupling with the ground is weakened, and the voltage of electric field sensor device 101 decreases.

[0295] Step S124: When the voltage is lower than a predetermined value, the person in charge of water supply is notified that there is no water.

[0296] Step S125: Water is supplied in response to the notification. Note that water supply is not limited to a manual method, and an automatic method using a water supply device is also possible.

[0297] Step S126: Equivalent resistor 265 is reduced by water supply, and the voltage of electric field sensor device 101 is increased. Then, when potted plant 264 dries over time, the process returns to step S122.

[0298] Fig.57The electric field sensor device 101 in which a tree 271 planted on the ground is used as the antenna element E2 is shown. A cable 272 is connected to the tree 271, and the antenna element E1 and the tree 271 (antenna element E2) constitute an antenna device. A signal generator 273 is set as a noise source for the antenna element E1. A circuit unit 274 of the electric field sensor device 101 is connected to the signal generator 273 and the tree 271. The circuit unit 274 includes a rectifier circuit 2, a power storage unit 3, a detection unit 5, and a communication unit 6.

[0299] The grounding resistance of tree 271 changes according to the amount of moisture in the soil, and the degree of coupling between the ground and tree 271 (antenna element E2) changes. In the case where the amount of moisture is large, the grounding resistance becomes small, the coupling of antenna element E2 to the ground becomes strong, and the voltage of electric field sensor device 101 becomes large. On the other hand, in the case where the amount of moisture is small, the grounding resistance becomes large, the coupling of antenna element E2 to the ground becomes weak, and the voltage of electric field sensor device 101 becomes small. In this way, the amount of moisture in the ground can be detected from the voltage of electric field sensor device 101. For example, power is supplied to electric field sensor device 101 and signal generator 273 from a solar cell (not shown).

[0300] The data of the amount of water detected is sent to the water content monitoring system through the communication device. The water content monitoring system receives the data of the water content of a plurality of tree planting places and predicts the risk of disasters such as mudslides. In addition, the growth, disease, etc. of the tree can also be detected by the changes in the electrolyte of the tree. In addition, as shown in reference Fig.53 As described, in the case of insufficient water, irrigation, fertilizer, etc. can also be provided appropriately.

[0301] Furthermore, when a rectangular wave of 2 V is applied to the antenna element E1 at a frequency of, for example, 1 kHz from the signal generator 273 as a noise source connected to the antenna element E1, a signal corresponding to the frequency and voltage applied to the antenna element E1 is induced from the antenna element E2 connected to the plant as an image. In the antenna element E2, since power corresponding to the signal input to the antenna element is induced in this way, by appropriately selecting the frequency and power, a pest control effect that does not attract harmful insects to the plant can be expected.

[0302] Furthermore, the electrical stimulation induced in the plant becomes moderately stressful to the plant, and an effect of increasing the sugar content can also be expected for vegetables such as tomatoes and fruits such as grapes. The GND of the signal generator 273 may be connected to the same soil as the plant.

[0303] The present technology can be applied to motion sensors of parts such as human hands. Fig.58This is an exploded perspective view for explaining that an embodiment of the present technology is applied to a sensor that is provided in a mobile electronic device (eg, a wireless headset) and detects hand movement. Since the synthetic resin housing of the wireless headset is not a conductor, the wireless headset is insulated from a person.

[0304] In the housing, a main board 281, a lithium ion secondary battery 282, and a speaker driver 283 are housed. The electrodes in the main board 281 are used as the antenna element E1. For example, a communication circuit of Bluetooth (registered trademark), an amplifier for driving the speaker driver 283, a charge / discharge control circuit of the lithium ion secondary battery 282, etc. are mounted on the main board 281.

[0305] Since noise associated with signal processing is generated in the main board 281, the antenna element E1 has a noise source. In addition, an electrode 284 is attached to the housing, and the electrode 284 is used as the antenna element E2. The antenna element E2 is not grounded to the ground. Therefore, the antenna element E1 and the antenna element E2 constitute the electric field sensor device 101. The antenna element E2 is used as a sensor for the hand 285. The circuit unit 286 of the electric field sensor device 101 is connected to the electrode in the main board 281 and the electrode 284. The circuit unit 286 includes a rectifier circuit 2, a storage unit 3, a detection unit 5, and a communication unit 6.

[0306] like Fig.58 As shown, electric field sensor device 101 can detect that hand 285 of a person wearing the headset approaches electrode 284. Therefore, since the voltage of electric field sensor device 101 changes when hand 285 approaches, the operation of the headset can be controlled based on the voltage change. In addition, by providing a plurality of electric field sensor devices, the direction in which hand 285 approaches can be detected, and more types of control can be performed.

[0307] In addition, Fig.59 The flow chart shows Fig.58 The processing flow of the implementation method of .

[0308] Step S131: Setting reference voltage. When the earphone is worn on the ear and hand 285 is not present near the earphone, the voltage of electric field sensor device 101 is set to the reference voltage. By storing the set reference voltage in the storage unit, there is no need to repeat the setting of the reference voltage.

[0309] Step S132: The hand 285 approaches the earphone (electrode 284).

[0310] Step S133: Electrode 284 is spatially coupled to hand 285, the electric field energy to be absorbed increases, and the voltage of electric field sensor device 101 increases.

[0311] Step S134: As the voltage of electric field sensor device 101 rises from the reference voltage, it is detected that hand 285 has approached. The detection result is sent to the control unit of the headset.

[0312] Step S135: The control unit controls the reproduction operation of the headphone based on the detection of the hand 285. For example, since the movement of the hand can be detected by providing a plurality of electrodes 284, control such as the start of reproduction of a song, stop of reproduction, and fast forwarding is performed.

[0313] In the above embodiment, by using the metal part of the product as an antenna, more energy of the quasi-electrostatic field and radio waves generated in the space can be absorbed. In addition, the power and noise leaked from the power line and the inverter can be converted into energy. If the absorbed energy is rectified and stored in an energy storage device such as a secondary battery, the energy can be used as a power source for the electric field sensor device, and thus the energy can be effectively utilized. Therefore, it may be related to Goal 7 "Affordable and Clean Energy" of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) adopted at the 2015 United Nations Summit.

[0314] Although the embodiments of the present technology have been specifically described above, the present technology is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made based on the technical concept of the present technology. In addition, one or more of any selections can be appropriately combined. In addition, without departing from the main purpose of the present technology, the configurations, methods, steps, shapes, materials, numerical values, etc. of the above embodiments can be combined with each other. For example, power generation using the present technology and natural energy (e.g., solar power generation or thermoelectric conversion elements) can be used in combination to store energy.

[0315] Note that the present technology may also have the following configurations. (1)

[0317] An electric field sensor device, comprising:

[0318] An antenna device having a dipole structure for receiving an electric field, the antenna device comprising: a first antenna element connected to or in contact with a ground and a conductor present with a specific resistance value; and a second antenna element grounded to the ground or not grounded to the ground;

[0319] a rectifier circuit to rectify a signal induced in the antenna device; and

[0320] A detection unit detects the level of the output voltage of the rectifier circuit, wherein:

[0321] The detection unit detects a level change of an output voltage caused when the first antenna element or the second antenna element not grounded to the ground is spatially coupled or in contact with another conductor different from the conductor, and detects a state or condition of the other conductor. (2)

[0323] The electric field sensor device according to (1), wherein the noise source exists in the first antenna element. (3)

[0325] The electric field sensor device according to (1) or (2), wherein a resistor having a resistance value of 10 kΩ or more is present between the conductor and the ground. (4)

[0327] The electric field sensor device according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein the conductor is divided into at least a first conductor and a second conductor with a resistance of 10 kΩ or more, and the first antenna element and the second antenna element are constituted by the divided first conductor and the second conductor. (5)

[0329] The electric field sensor device according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein the rectification circuit is a half-wave or full-wave rectification circuit. (6)

[0331] The electric field sensor device according to (5), wherein the rectifying diode used in the rectifying circuit is made of silicon having a small leakage current at the time of back electromotive force. (7)

[0333] The electric field sensor device according to (1), wherein the other conductor is any one of a personal computer, a car, a high voltage line, a human body, and a living body (animals and plants other than humans). (8)

[0335] The electric field sensor device according to (1), further comprising: a power storage unit that is charged with the power output from the rectifier circuit. (9)

[0337] The electric field sensor device according to (1), further comprising: a communication device for transmitting information obtained from the detection unit to another device. (10)

[0339] The electric field sensor device according to (1), wherein, in the first antenna element according to (1), the first antenna element is grounded via a cable. (11)

[0341] The electric field sensor device according to (1), wherein the first antenna element includes a metal conductor such as a refrigerator, a vending machine, an ATM, a transport robot, a metal table, or a metal rack. (12)

[0343] The electric field sensor device according to (1), wherein:

[0344] The first antenna element is a conductor having a noise source, and the second antenna element is a potted device not grounded to the ground, and

[0345] The approach of a human body to a potted plant is detected by a level change of an output voltage caused by spatial coupling or contact between the potted plant and the human body. (13)

[0347] The electric field sensor device according to (1), wherein:

[0348] The first antenna element is a conductor having a noise source, and the second antenna element is a tree in the soil, and

[0349] The change in the amount of moisture is detected by a change in the level of the output voltage caused by a change in the amount of moisture contained in the tree. (14)

[0351] The electric field sensor device according to (1), wherein:

[0352] The first antenna element is a conductor having a signal generator, and the second antenna element is a plant planted in soil, and

[0353] A signal from the signal generator is induced in the plant. (15)

[0355] The electric field sensor device according to (1), wherein:

[0356] The first antenna element is a conductor having a noise source, and the second antenna element is an electrode provided in the electronic device,

[0357] The proximity of a part of the human body to the electrode is detected by the change in the output voltage level, and

[0358] The operation of the electronic device is controlled based on the detection.

[0359] Reference Mark List

[0360] 1 Antenna device

[0361] 2 Rectification circuit

[0362] 3 Storage unit

[0363] 4 Collector

[0364] 5. Detection Unit

[0365] 6.7 Communication unit

[0366] 8 Control unit

[0367] 11 Conductive components

[0368] 15 Feeding point

[0369] 19 Grounding Electrode

[0370] 20A, 20B, 20C Antenna elements

[0371] 101, 102, 103, 104 Electric field sensor device

[0372] 105 Refrigerator

[0373] 201 people

[0374] 202 Automobile

[0375] 211 Fluorescent lamp fixture

[0376] 212 Clean the toilet seat with warm water

[0377] 221 ATM

[0378] 225 Body

[0379] 226 Car Door

[0380] 231 Table

[0381] 233 Notebook PC

[0382] 242 The main part of the drone

[0383] 243 Metal frame of drone

[0384] 251 Transport Robot Frame

[0385] 253 Main part of the transport robot

[0386] 264 Potted Plants

[0387] 271 Trees.

Claims

1. An electric field sensor device, comprising: An antenna device having a dipole structure for receiving an electric field, the antenna device comprising: a first antenna element connected to or in contact with ground and a conductor having a specific resistance value; and a second antenna element, grounded to ground or not grounded to ground; a rectifier circuit for rectifying a signal induced in the antenna device; and A detection unit detects the level of the output voltage of the rectifier circuit, wherein: The detection unit detects a level change of the output voltage caused when the first antenna element or the second antenna element not grounded to the ground is spatially coupled or in contact with another conductor different from the conductor, and detects a state or condition of the other conductor.

2. The electric field sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: A source of noise is present in the first antenna element.

3. The electric field sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: A resistor having a resistance value of 10 kΩ or more is present between the conductor and the ground.

4. The electric field sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: The conductor is divided into at least a first conductor and a second conductor with a resistance of 10 kΩ or more, and the first antenna element and the second antenna element are constituted by the divided first conductor and the second conductor.

5. The electric field sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: The rectifier circuit is a half-wave or full-wave rectifier circuit.

6. The electric field sensor device according to claim 5, wherein: The rectifying diode used in the rectifying circuit is made of silicon having a small leakage current under back electromotive force.

7. The electric field sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: The other conductor is any one of a personal computer, a car, a high-voltage line, a human body, and a living body (animals and plants other than humans).

8. The electric field sensor device according to claim 1, further comprising: The power storage unit is charged with the electric power output from the rectifying circuit.

9. The electric field sensor device according to claim 1, further comprising: A communication device is used to send the information obtained from the detection unit to another device.

10. The electric field sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: In the first antenna element according to claim 1, the first antenna element is connected to the ground via a cable.

11. The electric field sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: The first antenna element includes a conductor such as a refrigerator, a vending machine, an ATM, a transport robot, a metal table or a metal rack.

12. The electric field sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: The first antenna element is a conductor having a noise source, and the second antenna element is a plant that is not grounded to the ground, and The approach of a human body to the plant is detected by a level change of the output voltage caused by spatial coupling or contact between the plant and the human.

13. The electric field sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: The first antenna element is a conductor having a noise source, and the second antenna element is a plant planted in soil, and The change in the amount of moisture is detected by a change in the level of the output voltage caused by a change in the amount of moisture contained in the plant.

14. The electric field sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: The first antenna element is a conductor having a signal generator, and the second antenna element is a plant planted in soil, and A signal from the signal generator is sensed in the plant.

15. The electric field sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: The first antenna element is a conductor having a noise source, and the second antenna element is an electrode provided in the electronic device, The proximity or contact between a part of the human body and the electrode is detected by the level change of the output voltage, and Operation of the electronic device is controlled based on the detection.

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