Power reception device

Abstract

It is desirable to provide a technique for stably supplying power to a target device in a power receiving device that receives power from an electric wire in a non-contact manner. A power receiving device (1), which receives power in a non-contact manner from an electric wire (2) through which an alternating current flows and supplies power to a target device (P), is provided with a coupler unit (10) provided in a fixed state with respect to the position of the electric wire, and the coupler unit (10) is provided with a magnetic core (11) disposed so as to surround the electric wire, and a coil (12) wound around the magnetic core. A magnetic body core (11) is provided with a first core part (13) and a second core part (14) which are separated from each other by a core separation surface (3), a facing surface (14a), which is a surface disposed along the core separation surface (3) and facing the first core part (13), of the second core part (14) is formed in a planar shape, and a non-magnetic body (4) made of a non-magnetic material is disposed along the facing surface (14a) so as to cover the facing surface (14a). The magnetic core is sandwiched between the first magnetic core part (13) and the second magnetic core part (14).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a power receiving device. Background Art

[0002] For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-141115 (Patent Document 1) discloses a technique related to a power receiving device. In the following description of the background art, the reference numerals in parentheses are the reference numerals of Patent Document 1.

[0003] The power receiving device (power supply device 30) of patent document 1 includes a connector unit (contactless power supply transformer 2) arranged on a power supply line (1). The connector unit includes a magnetic core (core 4) and a coil (pickup coil 3) wound on the magnetic core. The magnetic core is arranged so as to surround the power supply line (1). Then, the magnetic flux generated by the current flowing in the power supply line (1) passes through the magnetic core, thereby supplying power to the coil in a contactless manner. Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-141115 Summary of the invention Problem that the invention aims to solve

[0005] In the above-mentioned power receiving device, in order to extract more power from the power supply line, it is preferable to concentrate more magnetic flux on the magnetic core to increase the induced electromotive force. On the other hand, when the magnetic flux density increases, the magnetic core is easily magnetically saturated, and it may be difficult to extract power stably. When the magnetic core is magnetically saturated, an overcurrent flows through the coil, and the power receiving device itself may be damaged. Therefore, it is considered to avoid magnetic saturation by enlarging the magnetic core or using a magnetic core with good magnetic properties, but this will lead to the problem of enlarging the size of the power receiving device or increasing the cost.

[0006] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a technology for stably supplying electric power to a target device in a power receiving device that receives electric power from an electric wire in a contactless manner. Technical means of solving problems

[0007] The power receiving device of the present disclosure is a power receiving device that receives power from a wire through which an alternating current flows in a non-contact manner and supplies power to a target device. A connector unit is provided in a fixed position relative to the electric wire. The connector unit includes a magnetic core disposed so as to surround the electric wire and a coil wound around the magnetic core. The magnetic core includes a first core portion and a second core portion which are divided from each other by a core dividing surface. The second core portion has a surface that is arranged along the core division surface and faces the first core portion, that is, an opposing surface that is formed in a flat shape. A non-magnetic body made of a non-magnetic material is arranged along the facing surface so as to cover the facing surface, and is sandwiched between the first core portion and the second core portion.

[0008] According to this configuration, the magnetic core is divided into a first core portion and a second core portion, and the non-magnetic body is arranged so as to cover the opposite surface of the second core portion and is sandwiched between the first core portion and the second core portion, so that the first core portion and the second core portion are not continuously connected. As a result, the magnetic resistance in the magnetic core can be increased, and the magnetic core can be made difficult to be magnetically saturated. Therefore, it is possible to avoid the inductance of the coil from being sharply reduced due to the magnetic saturation of the magnetic core, and the situation where an overcurrent flows in the coil can be avoided, and the current taken out from the coil can be easily stabilized. Furthermore, according to this configuration, the magnitude of the magnetic resistance (magnetic permeability) of the magnetic core can be adjusted by adjusting the thickness of the non-magnetic body in advance, so that it is easy to reduce variations in the characteristics of the power receiving device. Furthermore, according to this configuration, the opposing surface of the second magnetic core is formed into a plane, and the non-magnetic body made of non-magnetic material is arranged along the opposing surface in a manner covering the opposing surface, so it is easy to simplify the shape of the second magnetic core and to make the shape of the non-magnetic body flat. Therefore, it is easy to simplify the shape and structure of the non-magnetic body, and the installation operation of the non-magnetic body is also easy to simplify. As described above, according to this configuration, electric power can be stably supplied to the target device.

[0009] Further features and advantages of the power receiving device will become apparent from the following description of exemplary and non-limiting embodiments explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the conveying equipment. Figure 2 It is the front view of the moving object. Figure 3 It is a front view schematically showing the coupling unit. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 IV-IV cross-section diagram in . Figure 5 It is a cross-sectional view of the power receiving device. Figure 6 This is a circuit diagram of a power conversion unit. Figure 7 It is an enlarged view of the main parts of the conveying equipment according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] Hereinafter, an example in which the power receiving device is applied to transportation equipment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the conveying device 110 includes: a travel track R arranged along the travel path 100, a moving body 50 guided by the travel track R to move, an electric wire 2 for supplying driving power to the moving body 50 in a non-contact manner, a device P, and a control unit 9 for controlling the entire conveying device 110. The moving body 50 moves along the travel path 100 by being guided by the travel track R. The electric wire 2 is provided along the travel path 100. In this example, the moving body 50 moves along the travel path 100 to convey an article. The device P includes various devices (peripheral devices, etc.) provided in the conveying device 110.

[0013] like Figure 2 As shown, the travel rails R are arranged along the ceiling. Specifically, a pair of travel rails R are suspended from the ceiling. Therefore, the moving body 50 is configured to move along the travel path 100 formed along the ceiling while being guided by the pair of travel rails R. Thus, in this example, the moving body 50 is a hanging transport vehicle. In addition, as an article transported by the moving body 50, a FOUP (Front Opening Unified Pod) or a FOSB (Front Opening Shipping Box) for storing semiconductor substrates can be exemplified, but it is not limited to this.

[0014] The moving body 50 includes: a traveling portion 59 that travels on the traveling track R, a main body 58 that is located below the traveling track R and is suspended and supported on the traveling portion 59, and a power receiving portion 53 that receives power from the electric wire 2 in a non-contact manner. The main body 58 includes a storage portion (not shown) that stores articles to be transported, and an article support portion (not shown) that holds the articles and raises and lowers the articles relative to the storage portion. When the moving body 50 travels along the traveling track R, the articles are stored and held in the storage portion. In addition, when the moving body 50 moves articles to the transfer target portion in a stopped state, the articles are raised and lowered relative to the storage portion, and the transfer target portion that is lower than the storage portion is transferred. In addition, as the transfer target portion, a port of a processing device that performs a predetermined process on a semiconductor substrate (a loading portion for transferring articles to the processing device), a storage rack for storing articles, etc. can be exemplified.

[0015] The traveling section 59 includes a traveling wheel 55 (here, a plurality of traveling wheels 55) that rolls on the upper surface of the traveling track R. In addition, the traveling section 59 includes a traveling motor 54 that rotationally drives at least one of the plurality of traveling wheels 55. The driving of the traveling motor 54 enables the moving body 50 to obtain a propulsion force to travel on the traveling track R. In addition, the traveling section 59 includes a pair of guide wheels 56 that freely rotate around an axis in the up-down direction. The pair of guide wheels 56 roll on the side surfaces on the inner side of the corresponding traveling track R, respectively.

[0016] The power supplied to various actuators (including the travel motor 54) provided on the moving body 50 is supplied from the electric wire 2 via the power receiving unit 53. Figure 1 As shown, the wire 2 is connected to an AC power source 5 provided on the conveying device 110. Figure 2 As shown, the electric wires 2 are supported on the travel rails R. In the example shown in the figure, the electric wires 2 have a pair of power supply wires 2a. Here, the pair of power supply wires 2a is formed by folding back one electric wire 2 ( Figure 1 ). Hereinafter, the folded portion of the electric wire 2 is referred to as the folded portion 15. In this example, the power supply line 2a is respectively arranged on a pair of travel rails R. Specifically, the pair of power supply lines 2a are respectively supported by support members 57 fixed on the travel rails R, and are arranged in a manner of clamping the power receiving part 53 of the moving body 50. When a high-frequency current flows through the power supply line 2a, the power receiving part 53 generates a magnetic field around the power supply line 2a. The power receiving part 53 has a pickup coil 53a and a magnetic core, and the pickup coil 53a is induced by electromagnetic induction from the magnetic field. The induced AC power is converted into DC by a rectifier circuit such as a full-wave rectifier circuit and a power receiving circuit (not shown) having a smoothing capacitor, and is supplied to an actuator or a drive circuit.

[0017] In addition, in this specification, a so-called overhead transport vehicle is exemplified as the mobile body 50, but of course the mobile body 50 includes an article transport vehicle that travels on the ground (including an article transport vehicle that travels along the storage sections of each layer of a storage rack having multiple layers of storage sections arranged in the vertical direction), and may also be a traveling trolley of a stacker crane, etc. The mobile body 50 may be any type as long as it is a mobile body that is operated by supplying power from the electric wire 2. Of course, the mobile body 50 is not limited to an article transport vehicle.

[0018] Hereinafter, the direction along the electric wire 2 (power supply line 2a) is referred to as the electric wire direction X, the specific direction perpendicular to the electric wire direction X is referred to as the width direction Y, and the direction perpendicular to both the electric wire direction X and the width direction Y is referred to as the vertical direction Z. In addition, one side of the vertical direction Z is referred to as the vertical direction first side Z1, and the opposite side thereof is referred to as the vertical direction second side Z2.

[0019] As described above, the moving body 50 is supplied with power by the power supply line 2a arranged along the travel path 100. On the other hand, the equipment P set in the conveying equipment 110 is, in principle, supplied with power by electric wires wired from a distribution board or the like, which are different from the above-mentioned electric wires 2. However, the more types and numbers of devices included in the equipment P, the more electric wires are wired from the distribution board or the like, so there is a tendency for the wiring process of the operator to be complicated. Therefore, by also performing contactless power supply using the power supply line 2a to the equipment P, the wiring process of the operator can be simplified. In this case, a power receiving device 1 is required that receives power from the power supply line 2a and supplies power to the target equipment P. The power receiving device 1 is described in detail below.

[0020] like Figure 1 As shown, the power receiving device 1 receives power from the electric wire 2 through which the AC current flows in a non-contact manner, and supplies power to the target device P. The power receiving device 1 includes a connector unit 10 provided in a fixed position relative to the electric wire 2. The connector unit 10 is arranged so as to surround one electric wire 2 (power supply wire 2a). Figure 3 ). A conductor wire bundle formed by bundling a plurality of conductor wires can constitute a conductor wire 2. In this example, Figure 1 As shown, the connector unit 10 is mounted on the folded portion 15 of the electric wire 2. Since the folded portion 15 is arranged at a position that does not interfere with the travel trajectory of the moving body 50 ( Figure 1 ), so the installation of the power receiving device 1 will not hinder the movement of the moving body 50. Figure 1 In the example, the folding portion 15 and the connector unit 10 are shown larger for easy understanding. In addition, the components supporting the connector unit 10 arranged in a manner to surround the power supply line 2a are appropriately selected according to the location where the device P is arranged or the method of supporting the power supply line 2a in the folding portion 15. The connector unit 10 can also be fixed to the ceiling or the lower surface and side surface of the travel track R via such a supporting component. In addition, the connector unit 10 can also be arranged at the connection location between the AC power supply 5 and the power supply line 2a. In this way, the place where the connector unit 10 is arranged is not limited to the folding portion 15. In addition, as the device P to which power is supplied by the power receiving device 1, a communication device (wireless access point) or a control device that controls the travel of the mobile body 50 can be exemplified, but it is not limited to this. As the device P, the above-mentioned processing device, semiconductor manufacturing device, etc. can also be exemplified.

[0021] like Figure 3 As shown, the connector unit 10 includes a magnetic core 11 disposed so as to surround the electric wire 2 and a coil 12 wound around the magnetic core 11. A high-frequency current flows through the electric wire 2 (power supply line 2a), thereby generating a magnetic field around the power supply line 2a. When the magnetic flux is concentrated on the magnetic core, an induced electromotive force is generated in the coil 12 (pickup coil). As a result, an induced current (AC) flows through the coil 12. In this example, ferrite is used as the magnetic material in the magnetic core 11, but it is not limited to this, and materials other than ferrite can also be used as the magnetic material.

[0022] like Figure 3 As shown, the magnetic core 11 includes a first core portion 13 and a second core portion 14 which are divided from each other by a core dividing surface 3. The core dividing surface 3 is an imaginary plane (boundary surface) which divides the magnetic core 11 into the first core portion 13 and the second core portion 14. In the present embodiment, the first core portion 13 and the second core portion 14 are configured so as not to be in direct contact with each other. Specifically, a non-magnetic body 4 described later is arranged between the first core portion 13 and the second core portion 14, so that the first core portion 13 and the second core portion 14 are not in contact with each other. In other words, the first core portion 13 and the second core portion 14 are connected via the non-magnetic body 4. In addition, the core dividing surface 3 does not necessarily need to be a plane as a whole, and may also be a partially bent or curved surface.

[0023] like Figures 3 to 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , the second core portion 14 is a rod-shaped member. Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the magnetic core 11 is arranged in a posture along the vertical direction Z, the second core portion 14 is a rod-shaped member that is long in the width direction Y. In addition, the second core portion 14 is arranged on the upper side relative to the first core portion 13. Figures 3 to 5 As shown, the surface of the second core portion 14, which is arranged along the core division surface 3 and faces the first core portion 13, that is, the opposite surface 14a, is formed in a planar shape. In the present embodiment, the opposite surface 14a is a plane along the wire direction X and the width direction Y, and is formed as a whole in a rectangular shape that is long in the width direction Y. In the example shown in the figure, the second core portion 14 is in a rectangular parallelepiped shape. And, the surface facing the first core portion 13 side (the side of the vertical direction Z) is the opposite surface 14a as a whole. In addition, the area of ​​the opposite surface 14a that faces the first core portion 13 (specifically, a pair of top end surfaces 13a described later) is formed in a planar shape, and the other areas of the opposite surface 14a (non-opposite areas) may not be formed in a planar shape. In the example shown in the figure, in order to make it easy to understand, the core division surface 3 is set as the opposite surface 14a, but it is not limited to this. For example, an imaginary plane set between the opposite surface 14a and the top end surface 13a described later may also be set as the core division surface 3.

[0024] like Figure 3 and Figure 5As shown, when viewed from the wire direction X along the wire direction X, the first core portion 13 is formed into a U-shape surrounding the wire 2, and has a pair of top end faces 13a arranged along the core dividing surface 3. The pair of top end faces 13a are separated in the width direction Y and are arranged in the same plane. In addition, the pair of top end faces 13a are connected to the opposite surface 14a of the second core portion 14 via the non-magnetic body 4. In this embodiment, the first core portion 13 includes: a pair of arm portions 22 whose end faces are the top end faces 13a, and a connecting portion 23 connecting the side opposite to the top end face 13a side of the pair of arm portions 22. The pair of arm portions 22 are separated in the width direction Y. The top end face 13a is the face of the arm portion 22 facing the second core portion 14 (specifically, the opposite face 14a). In this example, the pair of arm portions 22 are respectively in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped that is long in the vertical direction Z, and thus are rectangular when viewed from the wire direction X. In the example shown in the figure, the outer edge of the end of the arm portion 22 on one side (the side opposite to the top end surface 13a) in the vertical direction Z is curved, but it is not necessarily curved. Thus, in this embodiment, "U-shape" includes an angular U-shape or a semicircular shape.

[0025] The connecting portion 23 is a member that connects the ends of the pair of arm portions 22 on one side in the vertical direction Z (the side opposite to the top surface 13a) to each other. The connecting portion 23 is a rod-shaped member that is long in the width direction Y. In the example shown in the figure, the connecting portion 23 is a rectangular parallelepiped shape, but is not limited to this. Here, the connecting portion 23 is formed integrally with the pair of arm portions 22. Since the pair of arm portions 22 and the connecting portion 23 are formed in this way, the first magnetic core portion 13 is formed into a U-shape as a whole. Figure 3 As shown, the power supply line 2a is arranged with a gap between the pair of arm portions 22. In addition, the coil 12 is wound around the connection portion 23. In this example, the coil 12 is wound around the entire connection portion 23, but it may be wound around a part of the connection portion 23.

[0026] like Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the relative surface 14a is arranged in parallel with the pair of top end surfaces 13a. As described above, the relative surface 14a is a plane along the wire direction X and the width direction Y. In addition, the pair of top end surfaces 13a are also planes along the wire direction X and the width direction Y, respectively. Therefore, the relative surface 14a and the pair of top end surfaces 13a are arranged in parallel in a state of being opposite in the vertical direction Z. In addition, the pair of top end surfaces 13a are arranged to be opposite to the surfaces of the two end portions of the relative surface 14a in the width direction Y. In other words, when viewed from the vertical direction Z, the pair of top end surfaces 13a overlap with the surfaces of the two end portions of the relative surface 14a in the width direction Y, and do not overlap with the central area of ​​the relative surface 14a in the width direction Y. In addition, the relative surface 14a does not have to be arranged in parallel with the pair of top end surfaces 13a.

[0027] like Figures 3 to 5 As shown, the non-magnetic body 4 made of non-magnetic material is arranged along the opposing surface 14a in a manner covering the opposing surface 14a, and is clamped by the first magnetic core portion 13 and the second magnetic core portion 14. In the present embodiment, the non-magnetic body 4 is arranged between the opposing surface 14a and a pair of top end surfaces 13a arranged parallel to each other. Here, the non-magnetic body 4 is arranged in a manner covering the entire opposing surface 14a of the second magnetic core portion 14. In addition, the non-magnetic body 4 abuts against the opposing surface 14a of the second magnetic core portion 14 as a whole. The non-magnetic body 4 is formed to have the same size and shape as the opposing surface 14a. On the other hand, the non-magnetic body 4 abuts against the pair of top end surfaces 13a at both ends in the width direction Y. That is, when viewed from the vertical direction Z, the non-magnetic body 4 overlaps with the opposing surface 14a as a whole, and overlaps with the pair of top end surfaces 13a at both ends in the width direction Y ( Figure 4 ). In this embodiment, if Figures 3 to 5 As shown, the non-magnetic body 4 is formed into a plate or a sheet. Here, "plate" and "sheet" are both flat shapes. For example, according to the degree of bending rigidity, a relatively high bending rigidity can be set as a "plate", and a relatively low bending rigidity can be set as a "sheet". In addition, it is also possible to set a flexible one as a "plate" and an inflexible one as a "sheet" according to whether there is flexibility, or it is also possible to set a relatively large thickness as a "plate" and a relatively small thickness as a "sheet" according to the thickness. In addition, "1 piece" is not limited to being formed by a single layer, and multiple layers can also be integrated by bonding or welding. In this example, the non-magnetic body 4 is a film of resin material, which is formed into a sheet. In addition, the non-magnetic body 4 can also be formed as a plate-shaped member, in which case, it is formed into a plate. The non-magnetic body 4 composed of such non-magnetic material has the function of making it difficult for magnetic flux to pass through the magnetic core 11. That is, by configuring the non-magnetic body 4, the magnetic resistance of the entire magnetic core 11 can be increased. In addition, the non-magnetic body 4 may be formed larger or smaller than the facing surface 14a. In the example shown in the figure, the non-magnetic body 4 is bonded to the facing surface 14a.

[0028] exist Figure 3 In the example of FIG. 1 , when the connector unit 10 is arranged on the power supply line 2a, the power supply line 2a is arranged to be surrounded by the first magnetic core portion 13, the non-magnetic body 4, and the coil 12. In addition, the power supply line 2a is arranged not to contact any of them. Of course, the power supply line 2a is also arranged not to contact the second magnetic core portion 14.

[0029] like Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the detection portion 81 of the temperature sensor 91 is arranged in contact with at least one of the pair of arm portions 22. In this example, the detection portion 81 is arranged only on one of the pair of arm portions 22. In addition, the detection portion 81 is arranged to abut against the surface of the arm portion 22.

[0030] like Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the power receiving device 1 includes an insertion hole 7 through which the power supply line 2 is inserted, and includes a housing 8 that accommodates the first magnetic core portion 13 and the second magnetic core portion 14. The housing 8 accommodates the connector unit 10. Specifically, in addition to the first magnetic core portion 13 and the second magnetic core portion 14, the coil 12, the non-magnetic body 4 and the detection portion 81 are accommodated. The first magnetic core portion 13 and the second magnetic core portion 14 are supported by the housing 8.

[0031] In the present embodiment, the housing 8 comprises a first housing portion 86, a second housing portion 85, and a fitting mechanism 87 which are mutually detachably constructed. The first housing portion 86 and the second housing portion 85 are box-shaped. In the present example, the first housing portion 86 is arranged on the first side Z1 in the vertical direction relative to the second housing portion 85. The first housing portion 86 accommodates the first magnetic core portion 13, and the second housing portion 85 accommodates the second magnetic core portion 14. In the illustrated example, the first housing portion 86 and the second housing portion 85 are fixed to each other without being separated by covering the second housing portion 85 on the opening portion of the first housing portion 86 and fitting it by the fitting mechanism 87. Thus, a pair of top end surfaces 13a of the first magnetic core portion 13 abut against the non-magnetic body 4 in a state bonded to the opposite surface 14a. In addition, when the fitting of the fitting mechanism 87 is released, the first housing portion 86 and the second housing portion 85 can be separated from each other. Here, the first core portion 13 is pre-stored in the first housing portion 86, and the second core portion 14 is also pre-stored in the second housing portion 85. In addition, the first housing portion 86 and the second housing portion 85 may be connected to each other by a hinge, and the second housing portion 85 may be opened and closed relative to the opening portion of the first housing portion 86. In addition, the posture of the housing 8 can be appropriately changed according to the posture of the power supply line 2a to be arranged.

[0032] In this example, if Figure 5 As shown, the second housing portion 85 accommodates the second magnetic core portion 14 and the non-magnetic body 4 as a whole. In the example shown in the figure, the second housing portion 85 includes an upper bottom portion 85a and a second side wall portion 85b extending from the outer edge of the upper bottom portion 85a to the first side Z1 in the vertical direction. The top end of the second side wall portion 85b is arranged closer to the first side Z1 in the vertical direction than the second magnetic core portion 14 and the non-magnetic body 4. The first housing portion 86 accommodates the first magnetic core portion 13, the coil 12 and the detection unit 81. The first housing portion 86 includes a lower bottom portion 86a and a first side wall portion 86b extending from the outer edge of the lower bottom portion 86a to the second side Z2 in the vertical direction. The top end of the first side wall portion 86b is arranged closer to the first side Z1 in the vertical direction than a pair of top end surfaces 13a of the first magnetic core portion 13. In addition, in this example, the insertion hole 7 is formed to penetrate the first side wall portion 86b along the wire direction X (here, further to the second side Z2 in the vertical direction). When viewed from the electric wire direction X, the insertion hole 7 is formed between the pair of arm portions 22 .

[0033] The insertion hole 7 is bent more than the central portion on the first side Z1 in the vertical direction, corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the power supply line 2a. In the example shown in the figure, a guide portion 88 is formed on the second housing portion 85. The guide portion 88 is configured to protrude further to the first side Z1 in the vertical direction than the second side wall portion 85b. In addition, the guide portion 88 is bent in a manner corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the power supply line 2a. In a state where the power supply line 2a is inserted into the insertion hole 7 and the first housing portion 86 and the second housing portion 85 are engaged, the power supply line 2a is surrounded by the first side wall portion 86b and the guide portion 88.

[0034] In this embodiment, if Figure 5 As shown, the housing 8 has a pressing portion 84 that presses one of the first magnetic core portion 13 and the second magnetic core portion 14 in one direction to the other side. In this example, the pressing portion 84 presses the second magnetic core portion 14 to the first side Z1 in the vertical direction (the first magnetic core portion 13 side). In this example, the pressing portion 84 is provided on the second housing portion 85. In the example shown in the figure, the pressing portion 84 is provided on the upper bottom portion 85a. The pressing portion 84 is a pair of plate-like members extending from a portion of the outer edge of the upper bottom portion 85a (here, two places opposite to the width direction Y) to the inner side of the width direction Y, and each plate-like member is arranged in a posture inclined toward the first side Z1 in the vertical direction as it moves toward the inner side of the width direction Y. Furthermore, the top ends of the pair of plate-like members facing each other press the second magnetic core portion 14 from the second side Z2 in the vertical direction. In this example, the pressing portion 84 is a plate-shaped resin member formed integrally with the second case portion 85 , but may be an elastic member (spring or the like) separate from the second case portion 85 .

[0035] exist Figure 5 In the example of , the coil 12 is wound on the connecting portion 23 via the bobbin 94. Here, the bobbin 94 is supported by the first housing portion 86. In the state where the first housing portion 86 and the second housing portion 85 are fitted, the second magnetic core portion 14 is forced toward the first magnetic core portion 13 by a certain pressing force generated by the pressing portion 84. Thus, it is possible to avoid the top end surface 13a from leaving the opposite surface 14a (or the non-magnetic body 4). Therefore, it is easy to achieve a reasonable distance between the second magnetic core portion 14 and the first magnetic core portion 13 that clamp the non-magnetic body 4.

[0036] like Figure 1 and Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , in this embodiment, the power receiving device 1 further includes a power conversion unit 18 that converts the AC power output from the coupler unit 10 into DC power. Figure 6 As shown, the power conversion unit 18 includes an overvoltage protection circuit 74 that cuts off the circuit when the voltage across the coil 12 exceeds a predetermined threshold value, and an overcurrent protection circuit 76 that cuts off the circuit when the current flowing through the coil 12 exceeds a predetermined threshold value. Figure 6 The overvoltage protection circuit 74 and the overcurrent protection circuit 76 in the power conversion unit 18 are schematically shown. Here, the power conversion unit 18 is further provided with a DC / DC converter. In addition, the overvoltage protection circuit 74 is provided with an overvoltage detection unit 74a. When the voltage across the coil 12 exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the overvoltage detection unit 74a is short-circuited. Then, the power receiving device 1 (connector unit 10) and the capacitor are in a resonant state, an overcurrent flows through the power conversion unit 18, and the fuse is blown. In addition, when the current flowing through the coil 12 exceeds a predetermined threshold value, that is, when an overcurrent flows, the fuse is blown. Thus, the circuit of the power conversion unit 18 is cut off. In addition, in this example, when the detection unit 81 of the temperature sensor 91 provided on the arm 22 detects a value exceeding a predetermined threshold value, the output to the device P of the DC / DC converter is stopped, and the current of the coil 12 considered to be the cause of overheating is suppressed. In this example, the control unit 9 may also perform such protection control for the power receiving device 1.

[0037] Next, other embodiments of the power receiving device will be described.

[0038] (1) In the above embodiment, a configuration in which a single AC power source 5 is provided on the transmission device 110 and the power receiving device 1 is supplied with power from the electric wire 2 connected to the AC power source 5 is described as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a plurality of AC power sources 5 connected to the electric wire 2 may be provided on the transmission device 110. In this case, the power receiving device 1 may be configured to be connected to the plurality of AC power sources 5 via the electric wire 2 so that even when one AC power source 5 is accidentally stopped, power can be supplied to the device P using the other AC power sources 5. Such an example is Figure 7 As shown. In the example shown in the figure, the conveying equipment 110 has at least two AC power sources 5. And, different power supply lines 2a are connected to each AC power source 5. In the folding portion 15, the two power supply lines 2a are respectively formed in a ring shape extending in the up-down direction to surround the moving trajectory of the moving body 50. Thus, the folding portion 15 does not interfere with the moving body 50 in motion. In addition, a connector unit 10 is respectively installed on the ring portion of each power supply line 2a. A mutually shared power conversion unit 18 and equipment P are connected to each connector unit 10. Therefore, even if one of the two AC power sources 5 stops, the power receiving device 1 can receive power using the other AC power source 5, so that power supply to the equipment P can continue.

[0039] (2) In the above embodiment, the first magnetic core portion 13 is formed into a U-shaped structure surrounding the wire 2 when viewed from the wire direction X along the wire direction X, but it is not limited to this. The first magnetic core portion 13 may also be a shape other than the U-shape. For example, the first magnetic core portion 13 may also be formed into an E-shape. In this case, it is preferred to form three top end surfaces 13a on the three arm portions 22, each of which is connected to the opposite surface 14a via the non-magnetic body 4. Thus, two wires 2 can be arranged between each arm portion 22.

[0040] (3) In the above embodiment, the non-magnetic body 4 is formed into a single plate or a single sheet as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The non-magnetic body 4 may also be formed into a plurality of plates or sheets. In addition, in the above embodiment, the non-magnetic body 4 is configured to cover the entire opposing surface 14a of the second magnetic core portion 14 as an example, but the non-magnetic body 4 may be configured to cover only a portion of the opposing surface 14a. For example, the following configuration may be used: Figures 3 to 5 In the embodiment, a pair of non-magnetic bodies 4 are arranged in the regions of the opposing surface 14a that are respectively opposite to the pair of top end surfaces 13a, and a non-magnetic body 4 is not arranged in the region of the opposing surface 14a that is not opposite to the pair of top end surfaces 13a. In addition, the non-magnetic body 4 is formed into a plate or sheet with a plurality of holes penetrating in the thickness direction, whereby the non-magnetic body 4 can also be formed into a structure that only covers a portion of the opposing surface 14a. In this case, a gap is formed between the opposing surface 14a and the top end surface 13a in the region where the hole is formed.

[0041] (4) In the above embodiment, the configuration in which the coil 12 is wound around the connecting portion 23 is described as an example, but the invention is not limited to this. The coil 12 may be wound around the arm portion 22, for example. In addition, in the above embodiment, the configuration in which the detection portion 81 of the temperature sensor 91 is arranged in contact with the arm portion 22 and the output to the device P of the DC / DC converter is stopped when a value exceeding a predetermined threshold value is detected by the detection portion 81 is described as an example, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, an overheat protection circuit may be provided in the power conversion unit 18, and the overheat protection circuit is used to prevent current from flowing through the coil 12 when the detection portion 81 detects abnormal overheating of the arm portion 22. In addition, the temperature sensor 91 may send the surface temperature of the arm portion 22 detected by the detection portion 81 to the control portion 9 as detection information.

[0042] (5) In the above embodiment, the case 8 is provided with the pressing portion 84 for pressing one of the first core portion 13 and the second core portion 14 toward the other side, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The pressing portion 84 may be configured to press the first core portion 13 and the second core portion 14 respectively so that the first core portion 13 and the second core portion 14 are close to each other.

[0043] (6) Unless there is any contradiction, the configuration disclosed in each of the above embodiments may be used in combination with the configuration disclosed in other embodiments. Regarding other configurations, the embodiments disclosed in this specification are exemplary in all aspects and may be appropriately modified without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0044] [Summary of the above-mentioned embodiments] Hereinafter, the above-described power receiving device will be summarized.

[0045] The power receiving device of the present disclosure is a power receiving device that receives power from an electric wire through which an alternating current flows in a non-contact manner and supplies power to a target device. A connector unit is provided in a fixed position relative to the electric wire. The connector unit includes a magnetic core disposed so as to surround the electric wire and a coil wound around the magnetic core. The magnetic core includes a first core portion and a second core portion which are divided from each other by a core dividing surface. The second core portion has a surface that is arranged along the core division surface and faces the first core portion, that is, an opposing surface that is formed in a flat shape. A non-magnetic body made of a non-magnetic material is arranged along the facing surface so as to cover the facing surface, and is sandwiched between the first core portion and the second core portion.

[0046] According to this configuration, the magnetic core is divided into a first core portion and a second core portion, and the non-magnetic body is arranged so as to cover the opposite surface of the second core portion and is sandwiched between the first core portion and the second core portion, so that the first core portion and the second core portion are not continuously connected. As a result, the magnetic resistance in the magnetic core can be increased, and the magnetic core can be made difficult to be magnetically saturated. Therefore, it is possible to avoid the inductance of the coil being sharply reduced due to the magnetic saturation of the magnetic core, and the situation where an overcurrent flows in the coil can be avoided, and the current taken out from the coil can be easily stabilized. Furthermore, according to this configuration, the magnitude of the magnetic resistance (magnetic permeability) of the magnetic core can be adjusted by adjusting the thickness of the non-magnetic body in advance, so that it is easy to reduce variations in the characteristics of the power receiving device. Furthermore, according to this configuration, the opposing surface of the second magnetic core is formed into a plane, and the non-magnetic body made of non-magnetic material is arranged along the opposing surface in a manner covering the opposing surface, so it is easy to simplify the shape of the second magnetic core and to make the shape of the non-magnetic body flat. Therefore, it is easy to simplify the shape and structure of the non-magnetic body, and the installation operation of the non-magnetic body is also easy to simplify. As described above, according to this configuration, electric power can be stably supplied to the target device.

[0047] Here, it is preferred that the direction along the electric wire is taken as the electric wire direction. When viewed from the electric wire direction along the electric wire direction, the first core portion is formed in a U-shape surrounding the electric wire and includes a pair of top end surfaces arranged along the core dividing surface. The opposing surface is arranged parallel to the pair of distal end surfaces.

[0048] According to this configuration, the shape of the first magnetic core portion can be simplified. In addition, since the planar opposing faces and a pair of top faces are arranged in parallel, it is also easy to simplify the shapes of the pair of top faces of the first magnetic core portion, the opposing faces of the second magnetic core portion, and the non-magnetic body arranged therebetween.

[0049] In addition, the non-magnetic body is preferably formed in a plate shape or a sheet shape.

[0050] According to this configuration, the number of components of the power receiving device can be easily suppressed compared to a case where the non-magnetic body is divided into a plurality of pieces.

[0051] Furthermore, it is preferable that the first core portion includes: a pair of arm portions whose respective end faces are the top end faces; and a connection portion connecting the pair of arm portions on the side opposite to the top end face side. The coil is wound around the connecting portion, The detection portion of the temperature sensor is arranged so as to be in contact with at least one of the pair of arm portions.

[0052] According to this configuration, the coil is wound around the connection portion, and the detection portion of the temperature sensor is arranged to contact the arm portion. In this way, since the coil and the detection portion of the temperature sensor can be installed separately using the shape of the first magnetic core portion, it is easy to install the coil and the temperature sensor, and it is easy to achieve miniaturization of the power receiving device.

[0053] In addition, it is preferable that the device further comprises an insertion hole through which the electric wire is inserted, and a housing for accommodating the first magnetic core portion and the second magnetic core portion. The case includes a pressing portion that presses one of the first core portion and the second core portion toward the other side.

[0054] According to this configuration, the first core portion and the second core portion can be appropriately protected by accommodating them in the housing. In addition, since the housing includes the pressing portion, it is easy to achieve a reasonable distance between the second core portion and the first core portion that sandwich the non-magnetic body.

[0055] The power receiving device of the present disclosure only needs to be able to achieve at least one of the above-mentioned effects. Explanation of symbols

[0056] 1: Power receiving device 2: Wires 3: Core dividing surface 4: Non-magnetic body 7: Through hole 8: Shell 10: Connector unit 11: Magnetic core 12: Coil 13: 1st core part 13a: Top surface 14: Second core part 14a: Opposite side 22: Arm 23: Connection 81: Inspection Department 84: Pressing part 91: Temperature sensor P: Machine X: Wire direction.

Claims

1. A power receiving device that receives power from a wire through which an alternating current flows in a non-contact manner and supplies the power to a target device. The power receiving device is characterized in that A connector unit is provided in a fixed position relative to the electric wire. The connector unit includes a magnetic core disposed so as to surround the electric wire and a coil wound around the magnetic core. The magnetic core includes a first core portion and a second core portion which are divided from each other by a core dividing surface. The second core portion has a surface that is arranged along the core division surface and faces the first core portion, that is, an opposing surface that is formed in a flat shape. A non-magnetic body made of a non-magnetic material is arranged along the facing surface so as to cover the facing surface, and is sandwiched between the first core portion and the second core portion.

2. The power receiving device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The direction along the wire is taken as the wire direction, When viewed from the electric wire direction along the electric wire direction, the first core portion is formed in a U-shape surrounding the electric wire and includes a pair of top end surfaces arranged along the core dividing surface. The opposing surface is arranged parallel to the pair of distal end surfaces.

3. The power receiving device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The non-magnetic body is formed in a plate shape or a sheet shape.

4. The power receiving device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first core portion includes a pair of arm portions whose end faces are the top face and a connection portion connecting the pair of arm portions on the side opposite to the top face side. The coil is wound around the connecting portion, The detection portion of the temperature sensor is arranged so as to be in contact with at least one of the pair of arm portions.

5. The power receiving device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: A housing having an insertion hole for inserting the electric wire and housing the first magnetic core portion and the second magnetic core portion, The case includes a pressing portion that presses one of the first core portion and the second core portion toward the other side.

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