Wireless power supply system

Abstract

There is provided a wireless power supply system including a first transmitter, a second transmitter, and at least one receiver, where: the first transmitter and the second transmitter can wirelessly supply power to the receiver via power supply waves; the center frequency of power supply waves of the first transmitter is different from that of power supply waves of the second transmitter; and the power supply electric waves of the first transmitter and the second transmitter are radio waves which can be regarded as basically continuous continuous waves.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a wireless power supply system. Background Technology

[0002] A technology for wireless power transmission is known.

[0003] Patent document 1 discloses a technology for providing an electronic device and a power supply method for achieving efficient power supply to a terminal.

[0004] Citation List

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: JP2019-154195A Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] In wireless power supply systems, there is a problem that the receiver cannot reliably receive power from multiple transmitters under certain circumstances.

[0009] Therefore, this disclosure is intended to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a technique that enables a receiver to stably receive power supplied from multiple transmitters.

[0010] Solution to the problem

[0011] A wireless power supply system includes a first transmitter, a second transmitter, and at least one receiver, wherein the first transmitter and the second transmitter are configured to wirelessly supply power to the receiver via power supply waves, the center frequency of the power supply waves of the first transmitter being different from the center frequency of the power supply waves of the second transmitter, and the power supply waves of the first transmitter and the second transmitter being radio waves considered as substantially continuous waves.

[0012] Advantages of the invention

[0013] According to this disclosure, a technique can be provided that enables a receiver to stably receive power supplied from multiple transmitters in a wireless power supply system. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 The overall configuration of WPT system 1 according to this embodiment is shown.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of a first transmitter 100, a second transmitter 110, and a receiver 200.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the control device C10. Detailed Implementation

[0017] In the following description, embodiments of the present disclosure will be illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings. In all the drawings illustrating the embodiments, the same reference numerals are assigned to common components, and repeated descriptions are omitted. Note that the following embodiments are not intended to unduly limit the scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the claims. Furthermore, not all components shown in the embodiments are essential components of the present disclosure. Additionally, each figure is schematic and not necessarily shown with strict precision.

[0018] <1 System Overall Configuration Diagram>

[0019] Figure 1 The overall configuration of WPT system 1 according to this embodiment is shown.

[0020] Figure 1 The WPT system 1 shown includes, for example, a first transmitter 100, a second transmitter 110, a receiver 200, a first information processing device 300, and a second information processing device 400. Figure 1 The WPT system 1 shown is used, for example, in buildings, factories, etc. The connection between the first transmitter 100, the second transmitter 110 and the first information processing device 300, and the connection between the first information processing device 300 and the second information processing device 400 can be wired or wireless.

[0021] exist Figure 1 The diagram illustrates an example of a WPT system 1 comprising three transmitters (first transmitter 100, second transmitter 110, and third transmitter 120). However, the number of transmitters included in a WPT system 1 is not limited to three. A WPT system 1 may include two or fewer transmitters, or four or more transmitters.

[0022] exist Figure 1 The diagram illustrates an example of a WPT system 1 comprising seven receivers 200. However, the number of receivers 200 included in a WPT system 1 is not limited to seven. A WPT system 1 may include six or fewer receivers 200, or eight or more receivers.

[0023] The first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 are configured to wirelessly power a plurality of receivers 200 via power supply waves.

[0024] The first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 are configured to conduct wireless information communication with a plurality of receivers 200 via communication radio waves.

[0025] The power supply waves of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 can be radio waves that are considered to be essentially continuous continuous waves.

[0026] Each power supply signal transmitted from the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 is preferably a radio frequency signal with a predetermined power, and is preferably considered as a substantially continuous continuous wave radio frequency signal by setting an interrupt period for the radio frequency signal that is shorter than any period other than the interrupt period.

[0027] Specifically, the power supply signal (power supply wave) transmitted from the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 can be, for example, a continuous wave (CW) with a predetermined power. Considering the distance between the receiver 200 and each of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110, the frequency band of the power supply signal is, for example, a 920 MHz band. When the frequency band is higher than the indicated band, the predetermined power required for the receiver 200 to operate may not be supplied unless the distance between the receiver 200 and each of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 is shortened. Therefore, an appropriate frequency band can be determined by considering the practical range (e.g., considering the distance between the receiver 200 and each of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 to be a few meters).

[0028] In this disclosure, the radio waves transmitted by the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 are at frequencies near the 920MHz band and are different from each other.

[0029] In this context, the laws of the country where the WPT system 1 is installed may impose restrictions on the intermittent transmission of power supply signals with a predetermined power. For example, when the power supply signals from the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 correspond to the provisions of a radio station as defined in the Japanese Radio Law (regardless of whether a license is granted), it may be necessary to provide a predetermined interruption period for the power supply signals based on the Radio Law. In this case, the power supply signals cannot be considered as continuous waves when considered on a certain time axis. However, providing an interruption period is important, and the interruption period may be short. Therefore, the power supply signals transmitted from the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 can be regarded as substantially continuous waves. As mentioned above, the ratio of the duration of the power supply signal to the duration of the interruption period allows the power supply signals transmitted from the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 to be regarded as substantially continuous waves, and as an example, the duration of the interruption period is approximately 1 / 50 to 1 / 100 of the duration of the power supply signal.

[0030] The power supply waves of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 are preferably unmodulated, do not contain modulated signals, and do not carry information.

[0031] Specifically, there exist radio transmission types that represent the characteristics of radio waves commonly used in a communication system. A radio transmission type is represented by a three-character string, obtained by combining letters or numbers representing the modulation type of the main carrier, the attributes of the signal modulating the main carrier, and the type of information being transmitted.

[0032] The modulation type of the main carrier includes any of the following: unmodulated carrier: N, amplitude modulation (double sideband): A, amplitude modulation (full carrier single sideband): H, amplitude modulation (reduced carrier single sideband): R, amplitude modulation (suppressed carrier single sideband): J, amplitude modulation (independent sideband): B, amplitude modulation (independent sideband): C, angle modulation (frequency modulation): F, angle modulation (phase modulation): G, and transmission in which the main carrier is simultaneously or in a pre-established order of amplitude modulation and angle modulation: D.

[0033] The signal that modulates the main carrier has any of the following properties: no modulation signal: 0; a single channel transmitting digital signals without a subcarrier: 1; a single channel transmitting digital signals using a subcarrier: 2; a single channel transmitting analog signals: 3; two or more channels transmitting digital signals: 7; two or more channels transmitting analog signals: 8; and a composite system having one or more channels transmitting digital signals and one or more channels transmitting analog signals: 9.

[0034] The types of information transmitted include any of the following: no information: N; telegraph (for auditory reception): A; telegraph (for automatic reception): B; fax: C; data transmission, telemetry, remote control: D; telephone (including voice broadcasting): E; television (video): F; and combinations of the above: W.

[0035] In this disclosure, the radio transmission type of the power supply waves of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 is N0N, that is, unmodulated carrier: N, single channel for transmitting digital signals, no subcarrier: 0, no information: N. In this case, the power supply waves indicate that the main carrier is not modulated (unmodulated carrier), there is no digital signal (single channel for transmitting digital signals, no subcarrier), and no information is transmitted (no information).

[0036] Therefore, since the power supply waves are unmodulated, interference to other surrounding communication systems is reduced, thus achieving stable energy transmission. Furthermore, because the power supply waves are unmodulated, the transmitted energy is concentrated on the carrier wave. Therefore, energy can be efficiently transferred between the transmitter and receiver. Since no information is transmitted, the system is simple, simplifying the design and implementation of the transmitter and receiver.

[0037] In this specification, the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 are first (electric) transmitters 100 and 110 in the sense of wirelessly transmitting electricity, and similarly, the receiver 200 is a (electric) receiver 200 in the sense of wirelessly receiving electricity. As described later, the receiver 200 can be configured to, for example, transmit information about the state of the receiver 200 or information about the measurement results of the sensor as a data signal (communication wave) to the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110, and the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 can receive the data signal. In this case, the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 are receivers that receive data signals, and the receiver 200 is used as a transmitter that transmits data signals.

[0038] exist Figure 1 The diagram illustrates an example of a WPT system 1 including two first information processing devices 300. However, the number of first information processing devices 300 included in the WPT system 1 is not limited to two. The WPT system 1 may include one or more first information processing devices 300.

[0039] The relationships between the first transmitter 100 and receiver 200, the first information processing device 300, the second information processing device 400, etc., will be described below. Since the second transmitter 110 is similar to the first transmitter 100, its detailed description will be omitted.

[0040] The first transmitter 100 is configured to transmit, for example, a power supply signal or a data signal to the receiver 200. The first transmitter 100 is configured to transmit the power supply signal to the receiver 200 using, for example, radio waves in the 920 MHz band. The first transmitter 100 is configured to transmit the data signal to the receiver 200 using, for example, radio waves in the 2.4 GHz band. The first transmitter 100 can be configured to transmit the data signal using radio waves in the 920 MHz band.

[0041] For example, the first transmitter 100 may be configured to power one receiver 200, or it may be configured to power multiple receivers 200. For example, the first transmitter 100 may be configured to send a data signal to one receiver 200, or it may be configured to send a data signal to multiple receivers 200. For example, the first transmitter 100 may be configured to send the same data signal as another first transmitter 100, or it may be configured to send a different data signal than another first transmitter 100. For example, the first transmitter 100 may be configured to send a predetermined command signal as a data signal to the receiver 200, or it may be configured to send a preset signal as a data signal to the receiver 200.

[0042] The first transmitter 100 is configured to receive, for example, data signals transmitted from receiver 200. For example, the first transmitter 100 may be configured to receive data signals transmitted from one receiver 200, or it may be configured to receive data signals transmitted from multiple receivers 200. The first transmitter 100 is configured to transmit data signals transmitted from receiver 200 to a first information processing device 300. The first transmitter 100 is also configured to send information about the status of the first transmitter 100 to the first information processing device 300.

[0043] Receiver 200 is configured to receive, for example, a power supply signal or a data signal transmitted from first transmitter 100. For example, if receiver 200 includes a power storage unit, receiver 200 is configured to convert the power supply signal transmitted from first transmitter 100 into electrical power and store the converted power in the power storage unit. If receiver 200 includes, for example, a predetermined sensor, receiver 200 is configured to convert the power supply signal transmitted from first transmitter 100 into electrical power and drive the sensor with the converted power.

[0044] The receiver 200 is configured to transmit, for example, information about the state of the receiver 200 or information about the measurement results of the sensor as a data signal to the first transmitter 100.

[0045] The first information processing device 300 is an information processing device configured to monitor the operation of the first transmitter 100 and receiver 200 housed in the WPT system 1. For example, the first information processing device 300 is configured to determine whether the first transmitter 100 or receiver 200 is in a preset state based on information transmitted from the first transmitter 100 regarding the status of the first transmitter 100 and receiver 200. If it is determined that the first transmitter 100 or receiver 200 is in a preset state, the first information processing device 300 is configured to send predetermined information to the second information processing device 400.

[0046] Furthermore, the first information processing device 300 is configured to accumulate information about the first transmitter 100 and receiver 200 housed in the WPT system 1. For example, the first information processing device 300 is configured to store information about the status of the first transmitter 100 and receiver 200 transmitted from the first transmitter 100 in a storage unit provided in the first information processing device 300.

[0047] Furthermore, the first information processing device 300 is configured to control the operation of the first transmitter 100 housed in the WPT system 1. For example, the first information processing device 300 is configured to send predetermined instructions or information to the first transmitter 100.

[0048] In addition, the first information processing device 300 is configured to control the operation of the second information processing device 400.

[0049] The second information processing device 400 is, for example, an information processing device operated by the administrator of the WPT system 1. When the second information processing device 400 receives a notification from the first information processing device 300 that the first transmitter 100, receiver 200, or both contained in the WPT system 1 are in a predetermined state, the second information processing device 400 presents information to the user indicating that the first transmitter 100, or receiver 200, or both are in a predetermined state.

[0050] Furthermore, the second information processing device 400 is configured to analyze information stored in the first information processing device 300 regarding the status of the first transmitter 100 and receiver 200, and present predetermined information to the user. The predetermined information includes, for example, the following:

[0051] • Information regarding the configuration of the first transmitter 100

[0052] • Information regarding the configuration of receiver 200

[0053] Information about electricity consumption

[0054] Information about electricity

[0055] <Transmitter and Receiver Configuration>

[0056] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A block diagram illustrating an example configuration of the first transmitter 100 and receiver 200. (See diagram for reference.) Figure 2 As shown, the first transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 are spaced apart from each other, for example, by a predetermined distance. For instance, the first transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 are installed a few meters apart. Specifically, for example, the first transmitter 100 is fixedly installed at a high place indoors, such as on a ceiling or a predetermined height on a wall. The receiver 200 is installed on a predetermined device indoors or placed near a device requiring power. Furthermore, the receiver 200 can be carried by a user. The first transmitter 100 is configured to transmit a power supply signal to the receiver 200, for example, via radio waves in the 920MHz frequency band. The receiver 200 is configured to convert the power supply signal transmitted from the first transmitter 100 into electricity and use the converted electricity for charging or to supply the converted electricity to the predetermined device.

[0057] The first transmitter 100 includes, for example, an oscillator 101, a transmitting antenna 102, a microcomputer (controller) 103, a data transceiver 104, a data transceiver antenna 105, a capacitor, a PLL 107, a power amplifier 108, and a power supply 109. The oscillator 101, microcomputer 103, data transceiver 104, data transceiver antenna 105, capacitor, PLL 107, power amplifier 108, and power supply 109, or at least a combination thereof, can be mounted on, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0058] Oscillator 101 is configured to oscillate the signal in a predetermined frequency band, such as 920 MHz. If necessary, the oscillation signal can be amplified to remove unwanted frequency components.

[0059] The transmitting antenna 102 is configured to efficiently transmit radio waves in, for example, the 920 MHz frequency band. The transmitting antenna 102 is configured to radiate a signal oscillated by the oscillator 101 as a power supply signal.

[0060] Microcomputer 103 is configured to control the operation of the first transmitter 100. Microcomputer 103 is implemented using semiconductor devices, for example, equipped with an ARM processor. Microcomputer 103 is configured to control the transmission of radio waves, for example, by transmitting antenna 102. Microcomputer 103 is configured to control the current and voltage of the power supplied to power amplifier 108 to control the transmission intensity of the radio waves transmitted by transmitting antenna 102.

[0061] The data transceiver 104 is configured to perform processing such as digital-to-analog conversion and modulation of analog data. Furthermore, the data transceiver 104 is configured to perform processing such as demodulating the data signal received by the data transceiver antenna 105 and digitizing the demodulated data. For example, the data transceiver 104 is configured to extract a predetermined signal from the data signal received by the data transceiver antenna 105, convert the signal into digital data, and transmit the digital data to the microcomputer 103.

[0062] The data transceiver antenna 105 is configured to efficiently transmit and receive radio waves in the 2.4 GHz band, for example. The data transceiver antenna 105 is configured to radiate data signals supplied from the data transceiver 104. Furthermore, the data transceiver antenna 105 is configured to receive data signals transmitted from the receiver 200.

[0063] The capacitor is positioned between PLL 107, power supply 109, and GND (ground, 0V) and serves as a bypass capacitor for generating high-quality signals.

[0064] Note that the capacitor can be connected to PLL 107, configured to generate a high-quality signal, and configured to act as a low-pass filter to remove unwanted high-frequency components. The low-pass filter includes a resistor and a capacitor, and has the function of allowing high-frequency components to flow through the capacitor while allowing low-frequency components to pass through. By providing a low-pass filter between oscillator 101 and PLL 107, unwanted high-frequency components can be removed, improving the quality of the output signal.

[0065] PLL 107 is an electronic circuit called a phase-locked loop used to control frequency and phase. A capacitor is connected to the PLL, and the frequency of the radio waves emitted by the transmitting antenna 102 varies according to the capacitance of the capacitor. In this disclosure, the capacitor is positioned between the oscillator 101 and the PLL 107.

[0066] The power amplifier 108 is an electronic circuit configured to amplify the signal output from the PLL 107 based on power from the microcomputer 103, and output the amplified signal to the transmitting antenna 102.

[0067] Power supply 109 is configured to supply power to oscillator 101 and microcomputer 103.

[0068] Receiver 200 includes, for example, a receiving antenna 201, a rectifier 202, a power management unit 203, a power storage unit 204, a microcomputer 205, a data transceiver 206, and a data transceiver antenna 207. The receiving antenna 201, rectifier 202, power management unit 203, power storage unit 204, microcomputer 205, data transceiver 206, data transceiver antenna 207, or at least a combination thereof, can be mounted on, for example, a PCB or FPC (flexible printed circuit board).

[0069] The receiving antenna 201 is configured to efficiently receive radio waves in, for example, the 920 MHz frequency band. The receiving antenna 201 is also configured to receive power signals radiated from the transmitting antenna 102.

[0070] The rectifier 202 is configured to rectify the radio waves received as a power supply signal and convert them into DC voltage.

[0071] The power management unit 203 is configured to manage DC voltage. For example, the power management unit 203 is configured to control the charging voltage based on the DC voltage. The power management unit 203 is configured to control the charging voltage to charge the energy storage unit 204. Furthermore, for example, when a predetermined capacity or more of electricity is stored in the energy storage unit 204, the power management unit 203 supplies DC voltage to connected components.

[0072] In addition, the power management unit 203 is configured to release the power stored in the energy storage unit 204 under the control of the microcomputer 205.

[0073] The energy storage unit 204 is configured to store electricity according to instructions from the power management unit 203. The energy storage unit 204 is implemented using, for example, a battery or a capacitor. Furthermore, the energy storage unit 204 is configured to release the stored electricity according to instructions from the power management unit 203.

[0074] Microcomputer 205 is configured to control the operation of receiver 200. Microcomputer 205 is driven by DC voltage supplied from power management unit 203 or by electricity stored in energy storage unit 204. Microcomputer 205 is configured to control power management unit 203 to discharge the electricity stored in energy storage unit 204.

[0075] Receiver 200 can be connected to various sensors, such as thermal sensors, temperature sensors, light sensors, humidity sensors, vibration sensors, etc. The sensors connected to receiver 200 are driven by, for example, DC voltage supplied from power management unit 203 or electrical power released from energy storage unit 204. Microcomputer 205 is configured to continuously or intermittently monitor the voltage value of a predetermined portion of receiver 200, the status of sensors connected to receiver 200, and information detected by the sensors. Microcomputer 205 is configured to transmit the voltage value of the predetermined portion of receiver 200, the status of sensors connected to receiver 200, and information detected by the sensors, as digital data to data transceiver 206. Note that the sensors may be built into receiver 200.

[0076] The data transceiver 206 is configured to perform processes such as converting digital data provided from the microcomputer 205 into analog data and modulating analog data. Furthermore, the data transceiver 206 is configured to perform processes such as demodulating data signals received by the data transceiver antenna 207 and digitizing the demodulated data. The data transceiver 206 is driven by, for example, DC voltage supplied from the power management unit 203 or power released from the energy storage unit 204.

[0077] The data transceiver antenna 207 is configured to efficiently transmit and receive radio waves, for example, in the 2.4 GHz band. The data transceiver antenna 207 is configured to radiate data signals supplied from the data transceiver 206. Furthermore, the data transceiver antenna 207 is configured to receive data signals transmitted from the first transmitter 100. For example, the data transceiver antenna 207 is driven by a DC voltage supplied from the power management unit 203 or by power released from the energy storage unit 204.

[0078] <Configuration of Control Device C10>

[0079] The control device C10 is an information processing device that includes a storage unit C101 and a control unit C104.

[0080] In this disclosure, the control device C10 is disclosed as an information processing device different from the first information processing device 300 and the second information processing device 400, but the first information processing device 300 or the second information processing device 400 may have the functions of the control device C10. That is, the control device C10 may be the first information processing device 300 or the second information processing device 400.

[0081] Furthermore, the functionality of the control device C10 can be included in at least one of the plurality of first transmitters 100, and can be implemented as part of the functionality of the first transmitter 100. That is, the processes that the control device C10 can perform can be performed by the first transmitter 100. In other words, the first transmitter 100 can include part of the hardware and software configuration of the control device C10.

[0082] For example, any one of the multiple first transmitters 100 can serve as a parent device (host) for another first transmitter, performing the functions of the control device C10 and executing various processes. That is, the first transmitter 100 associated with the parent device includes part of the hardware and software configuration used as the control device C10.

[0083] Note that all first transmitters 100 can be configured, including both hardware and software configurations, to function as control devices C10. In this case, the selected predetermined first transmitter 100 can act as a parent device and perform the functions of control device C10. The parent device can be selected via user input.

[0084] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the control device C10.

[0085] <Configuration of storage unit C101 of control device C10>

[0086] The storage unit C101 of the control device C10 includes the application program C1011.

[0087] Application program C1011 is a program used to enable the control unit C104 of control device C10 to function as various functional units.

[0088] Application C1011 includes applications such as web browser applications.

[0089] <Configuration of control unit C104 of control device C10>

[0090] The control unit C104 of the control device C10 implements each functional unit by executing the application program C1011 stored in the storage unit C101.

[0091] The control device C10 is configured to control a plurality of transmitters via a wired connection.

[0092] Specifically, the control device C10 can be connected to a plurality of first transmitters 100 in a wired manner based on any wired connection standard, such as Ethernet, Universal Serial Bus (USB), or serial connection. The control unit C104 of the control device C10 is configured to control the transmission of the power supply signal and the transmission and reception of data signals of the first transmitter 100 by sending a control signal to the first transmitter 100 via the wired connection.

[0093] The control device C10 is configured to control a plurality of transmitters via a wireless connection.

[0094] Specifically, the control device C10 can be wirelessly connected to a plurality of first transmitters 100 based on any wireless connection standard, such as WiFi, Bluetooth (registered trademark), Near Field Communication (NFC), Zigbee (registered trademark), Z-Wave, or LTE. The control unit C104 of the control device C10 is configured to control the transmission of the power supply signal and the transmission and reception of data signals of the first transmitter 100 by sending a control signal to the first transmitter 100 via the wireless connection.

[0095] <Operation of the WPT System 1>

[0096] The features of the WPT system 1 according to the present disclosure will be described below.

[0097] The center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the first transmitter 100 is different from the center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the second transmitter 110.

[0098] Specifically, the center frequency refers to the frequency at the center of the frequency band within the frequency range of the power supply radio waves transmitted by the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110. Note that in the present disclosure, the power supply radio waves transmitted by the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 should be radio waves of the same channel (substantially the same frequency) as defined in the Radio Law. A predetermined reference frequency is assigned to each predetermined channel, and radio waves within the range of ±20 ppm (parts per million) with respect to the reference frequency (center frequency) are generally radio waves of the same channel. For example, when the reference frequency of a predetermined channel is f, multiple radio waves within the range of f × (1 ± 20 / 1000000) [Hz] are radio waves of the same channel.

[0099] Note that the definition of the same channel based on the Japanese Radio Law is described as an example in this disclosure, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. Specifically, the scope of the same channel may be determined according to the laws, regulations, or industry practices of the implementing country.

[0100] For example, in the Americas, any center frequency can be selected within the range of 902 MHz to 928 MHz, while in European countries, it can be arbitrarily selected within the range of 865.0 MHz to 865.6 MHz. For example, the center frequency of the first transmitter could be 902 MHz, and the center frequency of the second transmitter could be 928 MHz.

[0101] In addition, this can also be applied to 24GHz (millimeter wave) and other frequencies.

[0102] In this disclosure, the power supply waves transmitted by the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 are unmodulated, do not contain modulated signals, and do not carry information (radio transmission type N0N). In this case, the center frequency is the frequency of the power supply waves.

[0103] The power supply waves transmitted by the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 in this disclosure belong to radio transmission type N0N. Radio waves with radio transmission type N0N are called unmodulated continuous waves (CW), which theoretically should have a single frequency, but in actual transmitters, it is difficult to maintain a completely constant frequency. For example, changes in the external air temperature in the environment where the transmitter is installed can affect the characteristics of the transmitter components (especially the oscillator), and also affect the frequency of the power supply waves transmitted by the transmitter. In addition, slight individual differences exist in the electronic components such as oscillators, capacitors, and resistors included in the transmitter during the manufacturing process, which may affect the transmission frequency. Noise and instability of the power supply that powers the transmitter can also affect the transmitter frequency.

[0104] As an example, this disclosure will describe the case where the center frequency is the average of the minimum and maximum values ​​of the power supply waves transmitted within a predetermined time period in a predetermined installation environment where the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 are installed.

[0105] When the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter 110 is f2 [Hz], the center frequency f1 [Hz] of the power supply wave of the first transmitter 100 is f2 × (1 + 100 / 1000000) [Hz] or less and f2 × (1 - 100 / 1000000) [Hz] or more. When the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter 110 is f2 [Hz], the center frequency f1 [Hz] of the power supply wave of the first transmitter 100 is f2 × (1 + 1 / 1000000) [Hz] or more and f2 × (1 - 1 / 1000000) [Hz] or less.

[0106] When the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter 110 is f2 [Hz], the center frequency f1 [Hz] of the power supply wave of the first transmitter 100 is preferably in the range of f2×(1+1 / 1000000) [Hz] or higher and f2×(1+100 / 1000000) [Hz] or lower, and the center frequency f1 of the first transmitter 100 and the center frequency f2 of the second transmitter 110 are preferably different from each other.

[0107] When the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter 110 is f2 [Hz], the center frequency f1 [Hz] of the power supply wave of the first transmitter 100 is in the range of f2×(1-1 / 1000000) [Hz] or less and f2×(1-100 / 1000000) [Hz] or more, and the center frequency f1 of the first transmitter 100 and the center frequency f2 of the second transmitter 110 are preferably different from each other.

[0108] Specifically, the power supply waves transmitted by the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 are preferably different within a range (±20 ppm, parts per million) defined in the radio law based on the reference frequency fc defined for each predetermined channel in the radio law.

[0109] When the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter 110 is f2 [Hz], the center frequency f1 [Hz] of the power supply wave of the first transmitter 100 is preferably in the range of f2×(1+20 / 1000000) [Hz] or less and f2×(1-20 / 1000000) [Hz] or more.

[0110] When the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter 110 is f2 [Hz], the center frequency f1 [Hz] of the power supply wave of the first transmitter 100 is f2×(1+1000 / 1000000) [Hz] or less and f2×(1-1000 / 1000000) [Hz] or more.

[0111] When the center frequency of the power supply wave of the first transmitter 100 is 920MHz, the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter 110 is preferably about 920MHz ± 9.2kHz. Specifically, the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter 110 is preferably about 920MHz × (10 / 1000000) [Hz] = 9.2kHz different from the center frequency of the power supply wave of the first transmitter 100.

[0112] As two waves with different frequencies overlap, the amplitude (received power) fluctuates at 9.2 kHz. This fluctuation means that both increases and decreases in power occur over time. In other words, the shorter the fluctuation period between power increases and decreases, the more robust the behavior is in time. With the center frequencies f1 of the power supply wave from the first transmitter 100 and f2 of the power supply wave from the second transmitter 110 differing by approximately 9.2 kHz, the time fluctuation of the power supply is approximately 1 / 9.2 kHz = 100 μs. In particular, this time fluctuation is preferred in applications such as wireless power supply for sensors used in factory automation (FA) equipment, beacons, etc., as it does not affect the operation of the powered equipment.

[0113] When the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter 110 is f2 [Hz], the center frequency f1 [Hz] of the power supply wave of the first transmitter 100 is preferably f2×(1+0.001 / 1000000) [Hz] or higher or f2×(1-0.001 / 1000000) [Hz] or lower.

[0114] Specifically, when the center frequency of the power supply wave of the first transmitter 100 is 920MHz, the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter 110 is preferably about 920MHz ± 9.2Hz. More specifically, the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter 110 is preferably approximately 920MHz × (0.001 / 1000000) [Hz] = 9.2Hz different from the center frequency of the power supply wave of the first transmitter 100.

[0115] With two waves of different frequencies overlapping, the amplitude (received power) fluctuates at 9.2 Hz. This fluctuation means that both increases and decreases in power occur over time. It can be said that the shorter the fluctuation period between power increases and decreases, the more robust the behavior is in time. When the center frequencies f1 of the power supply wave from the first transmitter 100 and f2 of the power supply wave from the second transmitter 110 differ by approximately 9.2 Hz, the time fluctuation of the power supply is approximately 1 / 9.2 Hz = 10 milliseconds. In particular, in environmental sensors used for detecting, measuring, and monitoring environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, lighting conditions, acoustic conditions, radiation levels, vibration, wind speed and direction, other types of environmental factors, etc.) of the installation environment, this time fluctuation of the power supply does not affect the operation of the power supply equipment due to the large amount of electricity stored, and is therefore preferred.

[0116] The center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the first transmitter 100 and the center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the second transmitter 110 may differ based on the following conditions.

[0117] The capacitors connected to the output terminals of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 have different capacitance values. Here, the capacitor is included in a low-pass filter connected to the PLL 107 to reduce the influence of power supply noise on the radio signal to be transmitted. The capacitor is included in at least the first transmitter 100 or the second transmitter 110.

[0118] • Due to the difference in external air temperature between the installation environments of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110, the component characteristics of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 differ. Furthermore, due to the differences in the components of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110, the temperature characteristics of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 may change.

[0119] The power supply voltage or current supplied to the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 are different. Specifically, the microcomputer 103 is configured to control the voltage and current of the power supplied to the PLL 107. Specifically, in the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110, the microcomputer 103 controls the voltage and current of the power supplied to the PLL 107 so that the center frequency of the power supply wave of the first transmitter 100 is different from the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter 110.

[0120] The first transmitter 100 or the second transmitter 110 can be configured such that the center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the first transmitter 100 is different from the center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the second transmitter 11, so that they do not receive communication information from each other.

[0121] Specifically, it is conceivable that the center frequencies of the power supply waves transmitted by the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 are pre-set to be different from each other. Furthermore, by randomly controlling the center frequencies of the power supply waves transmitted by the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 in each predetermined period according to a predetermined time variation pattern, the center frequencies of the power supply waves transmitted by the first transmitter 100 and the second receiver 110 can be made different from each other, so that communication information does not need to be received from each other.

[0122] Therefore, the complexity of wireless power supply systems is reduced, interference between transmitters is decreased, and the efficiency of power transmission is improved. Furthermore, since communication is unnecessary, security risks are reduced.

[0123] <Operation of Control Device C10>

[0124] The control unit C104 of the control device C10 will be used to control the first transmitter 100.

[0125] A wireless power supply system (WPT system 1) includes a control device C10 configured to control a first transmitter 100 and a second transmitter 110, and the control device C10 is configured to control the center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the first transmitter 100 to be different from the center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the second transmitter 110.

[0126] Based on at least one or more of the following control methods—temperature control, power supply voltage control, and power supply current control—the center frequencies of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 are controlled such that the center frequencies of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 are different from each other. The temperature control method is configured to control the temperature of the first transmitter 110 and the second transmitter 110, the power supply voltage control method is configured to control the power supply voltage of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 100, and the power supply current control method is configured to control the power supply current of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110.

[0127] The control device C10 is configured to control the temperature of the components or the outside air temperature by sending control signals to the microcomputer of the first transmitter 100 or the second transmitter. Therefore, the center frequencies of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 are controlled to be different from each other.

[0128] For example, by controlling the microcomputer 103 included in the first transmitter 100 or the second transmitter 110, the components included in the transmitter can generate heat to control the temperature. Alternatively, the temperature of the transmitter can be controlled by individually controlling a heater or the like (not shown) included in the transmitter. The temperature of the first transmitter 100 or the second transmitter 110 can be controlled by controlling an air conditioner or the like in the installation environment where the first transmitter 100 or the second transmitter 110 is installed.

[0129] Control device C10 is configured to control the power supply voltage or current supplied to PLL 107 by sending control signals to the microcomputer of the first transmitter 100 or the second transmitter. Therefore, the center frequencies of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 are controlled to be different from each other. Specifically, microcomputer 103 is configured to control the voltage and current of the power supplied to PLL 107. Specifically, in the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110, microcomputer 103 controls the voltage and current of the power supply supplied to PLL 107 so that the center frequency of the power supply wave of the first transmitter 100 is different from the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter 110.

[0130] The first transmitter 100 or the second transmitter 110 can control the center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the first transmitter 100 to be different from the center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the second transmitter 110, so that they do not receive communication information from each other.

[0131] Specifically, it is conceivable that the center frequencies of the power supply waves transmitted by the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 are pre-set to be different from each other. Furthermore, by randomly controlling the center frequencies of the power supply waves transmitted by the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 in each predetermined period according to a predetermined time variation pattern, the center frequencies of the power supply waves transmitted by the first transmitter 100 and the second receiver 110 can be made different from each other, so that communication information does not need to be received from each other.

[0132] Therefore, interference between transmitters is reduced, and each transmitter can transmit power efficiently, improving the power transmission performance of the wireless power supply system.

[0133] The first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 may include a communication device for communicating with each other, and the first transmitter 100 or the second transmitter 110 may control the center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the first transmitter 100 to be different from the center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the second transmitter 110 based on communication information received via the communication device.

[0134] Specifically, the first transmitter 100 can acquire information about the frequency of the power supply waves transmitted by the second transmitter 110 via wireless or wired communication, and control the frequency of the power supply waves transmitted by the first transmitter 100 to be different from the frequency of the power supply waves transmitted by the second transmitter 110. Alternatively, the first transmitter 100 can control the frequency of the power supply waves transmitted by the first transmitter 100 to be different from the frequency of the power supply waves transmitted by the second transmitter 110 based on information about the frequency of the power supply waves transmitted by the second transmitter 110 acquired via the control device C10.

[0135] When the receiver 200 is located within the moving body, the control device C10 can be configured to perform power supply control according to the present disclosure when the receiver 200 enters the power supply space. Specifically, when the receiver 200 newly enters the space, the control device C10 can be configured to perform power supply control according to the present disclosure for a predetermined time period, and can be configured not to perform power supply control according to the present disclosure after the predetermined time period. Therefore, stable power supply can be achieved even if the location of the receiver 200 is not determined in the power supply space. Furthermore, the control device C10 can be configured not to perform control according to the present disclosure, as long as a power supply wave can be transmitted after the predetermined time period to stably supply power to the location of the receiver 200.

[0136] The difference between the frequencies of the radio waves emitted by the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 can vary depending on the distance between them. For example, the frequencies of the radio waves emitted by the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 can be controlled to be different from each other based on their positions in the power supply space, thereby providing stable power to the entire power supply space.

[0137] For example, as the distance between the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 increases, the frequencies of the power supply radio waves of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 can differ more significantly. For example, as the distance between the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 increases, the frequencies of the power supply radio waves of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 can be slightly different.

[0138] Alternatively, the difference in frequencies between the radio waves emitted by the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 can vary depending on the output between the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110. For example, the frequencies of the radio waves emitted by the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 can be controlled to be different from each other based on the output values ​​of the power supply radio waves of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110, the difference between the output values, the ratio of the output values, etc., so that a stable power supply can be supplied to the entire power supply space.

[0139] For example, as the difference between the output values ​​of the power supply waves of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 increases, the frequencies of the power supply waves of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 can differ more significantly. For example, as the difference between the output values ​​of the power supply waves of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 decreases, the frequencies of the power supply waves of the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 can be slightly different.

[0140] In this disclosure, by way of example, the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 are described as transmitting devices housed in separate housings. The first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110 may be configured as antenna elements of an array antenna comprising a plurality of antenna elements. Specifically, the first antenna element and the second antenna element included in the plurality of antenna elements housed in a housing may be regarded as the first transmitter 100 and the second transmitter 110.

[0141] In this configuration, when a receiver receives power from an array antenna via radio waves, it can reliably receive power regardless of its location in space. Specifically, it prevents situations where the receiver cannot receive sufficient power (dead spots). Therefore, an array antenna can supply power more evenly to the entire power supply area.

[0142] <Additional Notes>

[0143] The following provides supplementary explanations for the matters described in the above embodiments.

[0144] (Note 1)

[0145] A wireless power supply system includes a first transmitter, a second transmitter, and at least one receiver, wherein the first transmitter (100) and the second transmitter (110) are configured to wirelessly supply power to the receiver (200) via power supply waves, the center frequency of the power supply waves of the first transmitter being different from the center frequency of the power supply waves of the second transmitter, and the power supply waves of the first transmitter and the second transmitter being radio waves considered to be substantially continuous waves.

[0146] When a receiver receives power from multiple transmitters via radio waves, it can reliably receive power from these transmitters regardless of its location in space. Specifically, this prevents situations where the receiver cannot receive sufficient power (dead spots). Therefore, the transmitters can supply power more evenly throughout the entire power supply area.

[0147] (Note 2)

[0148] According to the wireless power supply system described in Note 1, the frequency of the power supply radio wave of the first transmitter (100) and the frequency of the power supply radio wave of the second transmitter (110) belong to the same channel of radio waves.

[0149] Therefore, in the first and second transmitters that transmit power supply waves belonging to the same radio wave frequency band, sufficient power can be supplied to the receiver while preventing the emergence of spatial locations (dead spots) in the power supply space where stable power supply cannot be achieved. Thus, multiple transmitters can supply power to the receiver through power supply waves in the same channel frequency band, and the transmitters can supply power more evenly throughout the entire power supply space.

[0150] (Note 3)

[0151] According to the wireless power supply system described in Note 1, the first transmitter (100) and the second transmitter (110) are configured to communicate wirelessly with the receiver (200) via communication waves, and the power supply waves of the first transmitter and the second transmitter are unmodulated radio waves that do not contain modulated signals and do not carry information.

[0152] This improves the efficiency of power transmission. It avoids including information that is not needed for communication in the power supply waves.

[0153] (Note 4)

[0154] According to the wireless power supply system described in Note 1, when the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter is f2 [Hz], the center frequency f1 [Hz] of the power supply wave of the first transmitter is less than or equal to f2 × (1 + 1000 / 1000000) [Hz] and greater than or equal to f2 × (1 - 1000 / 1000000) [Hz].

[0155] When a receiver receives power from multiple transmitters via radio waves, it can reliably receive power from these transmitters regardless of its location in space. Specifically, this prevents dead spots from occurring.

[0156] (Note 5)

[0157] According to the wireless power supply system described in Note 4, when the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter is f2 [Hz], the center frequency f1 [Hz] of the power supply wave of the first transmitter is greater than or equal to f2 × (1 + 0.001 / 1000000) [Hz] or less than f2 × (1 - 0.001 / 1000000) [Hz].

[0158] When a receiver receives power from multiple transmitters via radio waves, it can reliably receive power from these transmitters regardless of its location in space.

[0159] (Note 6)

[0160] According to the wireless power supply system described in Note 1, the capacitance values ​​of the capacitors connected to the output terminals of the first transmitter and the second transmitter are different from each other, and the center frequency of the power supply wave of the first transmitter is different from the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter.

[0161] Therefore, the center frequencies of the first and second transmitters can be different from each other. A wireless power supply system can be implemented that can stably power a single receiver from multiple transmitters, regardless of the receiver's location in space.

[0162] (Note 7)

[0163] According to the wireless power supply system described in Note 1, the center frequencies of the first transmitter and the second transmitter are controlled based on at least one or more of the following control methods: temperature control, power supply voltage control, and power supply current control, such that the center frequencies of the first transmitter and the second transmitter are different from each other.

[0164] A wireless power supply system can be implemented that can stably supply power to a single receiver from multiple transmitters, regardless of where the receiver is installed in space.

[0165] (Note 8)

[0166] The wireless power supply system according to Note 1 further includes a control device configured to control the first transmitter and the second transmitter, wherein the control device is configured to control the center frequency of the power supply wave of the first transmitter to be different from the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter.

[0167] A wireless power supply system can be implemented that can stably supply power to a single receiver from multiple transmitters, regardless of where the receiver is installed in space.

[0168] (Note 9)

[0169] According to the wireless power supply system described in Note 1, the first transmitter and the second transmitter each include a communication method for communicating with each other, and the first transmitter or the second transmitter is configured to control the center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the first transmitter to be different from the center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the second transmitter based on the communication information received by the communication method.

[0170] A wireless power supply system can be implemented that can stably supply power to a single receiver from multiple transmitters, regardless of the receiver's location in space. This reduces interference between transmitters, allows for efficient power transmission between transmitters, and improves the system's power delivery performance.

[0171] (Note 10)

[0172] According to the wireless power supply system described in Note 1, the first transmitter or the second transmitter is configured to control the center frequency of the power supply wave of the first transmitter to be different from the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter when not receiving communication information from each other.

[0173] A wireless power supply system can be implemented that can stably power a single receiver from multiple transmitters, regardless of the receiver's location in space. This reduces system complexity, minimizes interference between transmitters, and improves power transmission efficiency. Furthermore, since communication is unnecessary, security risks are reduced.

[0174] Reference tag list

[0175] 1 WPT system

[0176] 300 First Information Processing Equipment

[0177] 3001 memory unit

[0178] 3004 Control Unit

[0179] 3006 Input Device

[0180] 3008 output device

[0181] 400 Second Information Processing Equipment

[0182] 4001 memory unit

[0183] 4004 Control Unit

[0184] 4006 Input Device

[0185] 4008 output device

[0186] C10 control equipment

[0187] C101 storage unit

[0188] C104 control unit

[0189] C106 Input Device

[0190] C108 output device

[0191] 100 transmitters

[0192] 110 transmitter

[0193] 200 receiver

Claims

1. A wireless power supply system, comprising a first transmitter, a second transmitter, and at least one receiver. in, The first transmitter and the second transmitter are configured to wirelessly power the receiver via power supply waves. The center frequency of the power supply wave of the first transmitter is different from the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter, and The power supply waves of the first transmitter and the second transmitter are radio waves that are considered to be substantially continuous continuous waves.

2. The wireless power supply system according to claim 1, in, The frequency of the power supply wave of the first transmitter is a radio wave belonging to the same channel as the frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter.

3. The wireless power supply system according to claim 1, in, The first transmitter and the second transmitter are configured to communicate wirelessly with the receiver via communication radio waves, and The power supply waves of the first transmitter and the second transmitter are unmodulated radio waves that do not contain modulation signals and do not carry information.

4. The wireless power supply system according to claim 1, in, When the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter is f2 [Hz], the center frequency f1 [Hz] of the power supply wave of the first transmitter is less than or equal to f2 × (1 + 1000 / 1000000) [Hz] and greater than or equal to f2 × (1 - 1000 / 1000000) [Hz].

5. The wireless power supply system according to claim 4, in, When the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter is f2 [Hz], the center frequency f1 [Hz] of the power supply wave of the first transmitter is f2 × (1 + 0.001 / 1000000) [Hz] or higher or f2 × (1 - 0.001 / 1000000) [Hz] or lower.

6. The wireless power supply system according to claim 1, in, The capacitors connected to the output terminals of the first transmitter and the second transmitter have different capacitance values, and the center frequency of the power supply wave of the first transmitter is different from the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter.

7. The wireless power supply system according to claim 1, in, The center frequencies of the first transmitter and the second transmitter are controlled based on at least one or more of the following control methods, such that the center frequencies of the first transmitter and the second transmitter are different from each other: The temperature control method is configured to control the temperature of the first transmitter and the second transmitter; The power supply voltage control method is configured to control the power supply voltage of the first transmitter and the second transmitter; and The power supply current control method is configured to control the power supply current of the first transmitter and the second transmitter.

8. The wireless power supply system according to claim 1, further comprising: The control device is configured to control the first transmitter and the second transmitter, wherein, The control device is configured to control the center frequency of the power supply wave of the first transmitter to be different from the center frequency of the power supply wave of the second transmitter.

9. The wireless power supply system according to claim 1, in, The first transmitter and the second transmitter each include a communication component for communicating with each other, and The first transmitter or the second transmitter is configured to control the center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the first transmitter to be different from the center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the second transmitter, based on communication information received by the communication component.

10. The wireless power supply system according to claim 1, wherein, The first transmitter or the second transmitter is configured to control the center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the first transmitter to be different from the center frequency of the power supply radio wave of the second transmitter, without receiving communication information from each other.

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