Receiver

Abstract

To reduce a user's effort when accessing a receiver, the receiver being supplied with power wirelessly and comprising a sensor for sensing a state of a predetermined device attached thereto.SOLUTION: The receiver comprises an antenna, a circuit, an interface, and a sensor. The antenna includes a first conductor and a second conductor that is connected to the first conductor to form an annular shape with the first conductor. The circuit is attached to a first portion of a substrate on which the first conductor is formed. The interface is connected to the circuit and attached to a surface of the antenna on the outer side of the annular shape. The sensor is connected to the circuit and attached to the surface of the antenna on the outer side of the annular shape.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a receiver. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, wireless power supply, which supplies power wirelessly, has been realized.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses an antenna device that has high antenna efficiency and is flexible. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-025502 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The antenna device described in Patent Document 1 is intended to be used in a state where it is placed close to, for example, a human body, metal, etc. However, the antenna device described in Patent Document 1 is not intended to be attached to a specific device and used in a sensor device that senses the state of the device.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to reduce the effort required for a user to access a receiver that is powered by wireless power transmission and has a sensor that senses the state of a specific device to which it is attached. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The receiver includes an antenna, a circuit, an interface, and a sensor. The antenna includes a first conductor and a second conductor that is connected to the first conductor to form an annular shape with the first conductor. The circuit is attached to a first portion of the substrate where the first conductor is formed. The interface is connected to the circuit and is attached to a surface of the antenna facing outward from the annular shape. The sensor is connected to the circuit and is attached to a surface of the antenna facing outward from the annular shape. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to reduce the effort required for a user to access a receiver that is powered by wireless power transmission and has a sensor that senses the state of a specific device to which it is attached. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a WPT system 1 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 2] 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a transmitter 100 and a receiver 200 shown in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a receiver 200. [Figure 4] 2 shows an example of a schematic diagram of a receiver 200 when a shielding material 252 is attached. [Figure 5] 2 shows another example of a schematic diagram of a receiver 200 when a shielding material 252 is attached. [Figure 6] 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic diagram of a receiver 200 housed in a housing 250. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic diagram of a receiver 200 in which one surface of a housing 250 is made of metal. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line AA in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a receiver 200. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a receiver 200. [Figure 11]FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing another example configuration of the receiver 200. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing another example configuration of the receiver 200. [Figure 13] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a manufacturing system 600 for the receiver 200. [Figure 14] 2A to 2C are schematic diagrams illustrating an example of a manufacturing process for the receiver 200. [Figure 15] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a receiver 200a as viewed from a predetermined direction. [Figure 16] 16 is a schematic diagram of the receiver 200a shown in FIG. 15 as seen from behind. [Figure 17] 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a rear surface portion 209a on the side not in contact with the receiving antenna 201a. [Figure 18] 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a back surface portion 209a on the side that comes into contact with a receiving antenna 201a. [Figure 19] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a receiver 200a as viewed from a predetermined direction. [Figure 20] 20 is a schematic diagram of the receiver 200a shown in FIG. 19 as seen from behind. [Figure 21] 2A to 2C are schematic diagrams illustrating an example of a manufacturing process for the receiver 200a. [Figure 22] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the basic hardware configuration of a computer 90. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In all drawings describing the embodiments, common components are designated by the same reference numerals, and repeated description will be omitted. Note that the following embodiments do not unduly limit the content of the present disclosure described in the claims. Furthermore, not all components shown in the embodiments are necessarily essential components of the present disclosure. Furthermore, each drawing is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily a precise illustration.

[0011] <Summary> The wireless power supply system has a transmitter that transmits a power supply signal and multiple receivers that receive the power supply signal transmitted from the transmitter and generate power. The receivers have sensors that are powered by the generated power. The receivers are attached to a specific device and measure the state of the device using the sensors. The receivers have an interface that is accessible by a user. The user accesses the receiver that can be attached to the device via the interface.

[0012] <1 Overall system configuration> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a WPT system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0013] The WPT system 1 shown in Fig. 1 includes, for example, a transmitter 100, a receiver 200, a first information processing device 300, and a second information processing device 400. The WPT system 1 shown in Fig. 1 is used, for example, in a building or a factory. Note that the connection between the transmitter 100 and the first information processing device 300, and the connection between the first information processing device 300 and the second information processing device 400 may be wired or wireless.

[0014] 1 shows an example in which the WPT system 1 includes three transmitters 100, but the number of transmitters 100 included in the WPT system 1 is not limited to three. The number of transmitters 100 included in the WPT system 1 may be two or less, or may be four or more.

[0015] 1 shows an example in which the WPT system 1 includes seven receivers 200, but the number of receivers 200 included in the WPT system 1 is not limited to seven. The number of receivers 200 included in the WPT system 1 may be six or less, or eight or more.

[0016] In this specification, the transmitter 100 is a (power) transmitter 100 in the sense of wirelessly transmitting power, and similarly, the receiver 200 is a (power) receiver 200 in the sense of wirelessly receiving power. As will be described later, the receiver 200 may transmit, for example, information about the state of the receiver 200 or information about a measurement result by a sensor to the transmitter 100 as a data signal, and the transmitter 100 may receive such a data signal. In this case, the transmitter 100 is a receiver that receives the data signal, and the receiver 200 functions as a transmitter that transmits the data signal.

[0017] 1 shows an example in which the WPT system 1 includes two first information processing devices 300, but the number of first information processing devices 300 included in the WPT system 1 is not limited to two. The number of first information processing devices 300 included in the WPT system 1 may be one, or three or more.

[0018] The transmitter 100 transmits, for example, a power supply signal or a data signal to the receiver 200. The transmitter 100 transmits, for example, a power supply signal to the receiver 200 by radio waves in the 920 MHz band. The transmitter 100 transmits, for example, a data signal to the receiver 200 by radio waves in the 2.4 GHz band. The transmitter 100 may transmit a data signal by radio waves in the 920 MHz band.

[0019] The power transmission signal transmitted from the transmitter 100 may be, for example, a continuous wave (CW) having a predetermined power. The frequency band of the power transmission signal is, for example, a 920 MHz band, taking into consideration the distance between the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200. If the frequency band is higher than the exemplified frequency band, it may be impossible to supply the predetermined power required for the receiver 200 to operate unless the distance between the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 is shortened. Therefore, an appropriate frequency band can be determined by taking into consideration a practical range (for example, the distance between the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 is several meters).

[0020] In this case, the laws of the country in which the WPT system 1 is installed may impose restrictions on the intermittent transmission of a power transmission signal having a predetermined power. For example, if the power transmission signal from the transmitter 100 falls under the radio station regulations stipulated in the Radio Act of Japan (regardless of whether a license is granted), the Radio Act may require a certain pause period for the power transmission signal. In this case, the power transmission signal cannot be considered a continuous wave from a certain time perspective. However, it is essential to provide a pause period, and a short pause period is sufficient. Therefore, the power transmission signal transmitted from the transmitter 100 can be considered to be a substantially continuous continuous wave. As described above, the ratio between the duration of the power transmission signal and the pause period may be such that the power transmission signal transmitted from the transmitter 100 can be considered to be a substantially continuous continuous wave. For example, the pause period may be approximately 1 / 50 to 1 / 100 of the duration of the power transmission signal.

[0021] The transmitter 100 may, for example, supply power to one receiver 200, or may supply power to multiple receivers 200. The transmitter 100 may, for example, transmit a data signal to one receiver 200, or may transmit a data signal to multiple receivers 200. The transmitter 100 may, for example, transmit the same data signal as another transmitter 100, or may transmit a data signal different from that of the other transmitters 100. The transmitter 100 may, for example, transmit a predetermined command signal as a data signal to the receiver 200, or may transmit a preset signal as a data signal to the receiver 200.

[0022] The transmitter 100 receives, for example, a data signal transmitted from the receiver 200. The transmitter 100 may receive, for example, a data signal transmitted from one receiver 200, or may receive data signals transmitted from a plurality of receivers 200. The transmitter 100 transmits the data signal transmitted from the receiver 200 to the first information processing device 300. The transmitter 100 transmits information related to the state of the transmitter 100 to the first information processing device 300.

[0023] The receiver 200 receives, for example, a power supply signal or a data signal transmitted from the transmitter 100. If the receiver 200 has, for example, a power storage unit, it converts the power supply signal transmitted from the transmitter 100 into electric power and stores the converted electric power in the power storage unit. If the receiver 200 has, for example, a predetermined sensor, it converts the power supply signal transmitted from the transmitter 100 into electric power and drives the sensor with the converted electric power.

[0024] The receiver 200 transmits, for example, information relating to the state of the receiver 200 or information relating to the measurement results of the sensor to the transmitter 100 as a data signal.

[0025] The first information processing device 300 is an information processing device that monitors the operations of the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 housed in the WPT system 1. For example, the first information processing device 300 determines whether the transmitter 100 or the receiver 200 is in a preset state based on information about the state of the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 transmitted from the transmitter 100. If it is determined that the transmitter 100 or the receiver 200 is in a preset state, the first information processing device 300 transmits predetermined information to the second information processing device 400.

[0026] Furthermore, the first information processing device 300 accumulates information about the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 accommodated in the WPT system 1. For example, the first information processing device 300 stores information about the states of the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200, which is transmitted from the transmitter 100, in a storage unit provided in the first information processing device 300.

[0027] Furthermore, the first information processing device 300 controls the operation of the transmitter 100 housed in the WPT system 1. For example, the first information processing device 300 transmits a predetermined instruction or information to the transmitter 100.

[0028] The first information processing device 300 also controls the operation of the second information processing device 400 .

[0029] The second information processing device 400 is, for example, an information processing device operated by an 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 transmitter 100, the receiver 200, or both of them housed in the WPT system 1 are in a predetermined state, the second information processing device 400 presents to the user that the transmitter 100, the receiver 200, or both of them are in the predetermined state.

[0030] Furthermore, the second information processing device 400 analyzes information about the states of the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 stored in the first information processing device 300, and presents predetermined information to the user. The predetermined information is, for example, the following: Information regarding the placement of the transmitter 100 Information about the placement of the receiver 200 Power consumption information Information about power consumption

[0031] <2. Transmitter and receiver configuration> FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 are, for example, spaced apart by a predetermined distance. For example, the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 are installed at a distance of about several meters apart. Specifically, for example, the transmitter 100 is fixedly installed at a high location indoors, such as a predetermined high position on a ceiling or a wall. The receiver 200 is installed in a predetermined device indoors or placed near a device requiring power supply. The receiver 200 may also be carried by a user. The transmitter 100 transmits a power supply signal to the receiver 200 using radio waves of a predetermined frequency, for example, a 920 MHz band. The receiver 200 converts the power supply signal transmitted from the transmitter 100 into power and uses the converted power to charge or supply the converted power to a predetermined device.

[0032] The transmitter 100 includes, for example, an oscillator 101, a transmitting antenna 102, a microcomputer (controller) 103, a data transceiver 104, and a data transmitting / receiving antenna 105. The oscillator 101, the microcomputer 103, the data transceiver 104, the data transmitting / receiving antenna 105, or a combination of at least any of these may be mounted on, for example, a PCB (printed circuit board).

[0033] The oscillator 101 oscillates a signal in a predetermined frequency band, for example, the 920 MHz band. The oscillated signal may be amplified and unnecessary frequency components may be removed, if necessary.

[0034] The transmitting antenna 102 is configured to be able to efficiently transmit radio waves in the 920 MHz band, for example. The transmitting antenna 102 radiates a signal oscillated by an oscillator 101 as a power feeding signal.

[0035] The microcomputer 103 controls the operation of the transmitter 100. The microcomputer 103 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor device equipped with an ARM processor. The microcomputer 103 controls, for example, the transmission of radio waves by the transmission antenna 102.

[0036] The data transceiver 104 performs processes such as converting digital data to analog and modulating analog data. The data transceiver 104 also performs processes such as demodulating a data signal received by the data transceiver antenna 105 and digitizing the demodulated data. For example, the data transceiver 104 extracts a predetermined signal from the data signal received by the data transceiver antenna 105, converts it into digital data, and transmits it to the microcomputer 103.

[0037] The data transmitting / receiving antenna 105 is configured to be able to efficiently transmit and receive radio waves in the 2.4 GHz band, for example. The data transmitting / receiving antenna 105 radiates data signals supplied from the data transceiver 104. The data transmitting / receiving antenna 105 also receives data signals transmitted from the receiver 200.

[0038] The 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 transmitting / receiving antenna 207. The receiving antenna 201, the rectifier 202, the power management unit 203, the power storage unit 204, the microcomputer 205, the data transceiver 206, and the data transmitting / receiving antenna 207, or a combination of at least any of these, may be mounted on, for example, a PCB or an FPC (flexible printed circuit board).

[0039] The receiving antenna 201 is configured to be able to efficiently receive radio waves in the 920 MHz band, for example. The receiving antenna 201 receives the power supply signal radiated from the transmitting antenna 102.

[0040] The rectifier 202 rectifies the radio waves received as the power supply signal and converts them into a DC voltage.

[0041] The power management unit 203 manages the DC voltage. For example, the power management unit 203 controls a charging voltage based on the DC voltage. The power management unit 203 charges the power storage unit 204 by controlling the charging voltage. Furthermore, for example, when the power storage unit 204 stores power equal to or greater than a predetermined capacity, the power management unit 203 supplies the DC voltage to a connected member.

[0042] Furthermore, the power management unit 203 releases the power stored in the power storage unit 204 in response to control from the microcomputer 205 .

[0043] The power storage unit 204 stores power in response to an instruction from the power management unit 203. The power storage unit 204 is realized by, for example, a battery or a capacitor. Furthermore, the power storage unit 204 releases the stored power in response to an instruction from the power management unit 203.

[0044] The microcomputer 205 controls the operation of the receiver 200. The microcomputer 205 is driven by a DC voltage supplied from the power management unit 203 or by power stored in the power storage unit 204. The microcomputer 205 controls the power management unit 203 to cause the power storage unit 204 to release the power stored therein.

[0045] For example, various sensors 208 can be connected to the receiver 200. For example, a heat sensor, a temperature sensor, a light sensor, a humidity sensor, a vibration sensor, a magnetic sensor, etc. may be connected to the receiver 200. Furthermore, a force sensor, a proximity sensor, a gas sensor, an acceleration sensor, a human presence sensor, an infrared sensor, an illuminance sensor, a flow rate sensor, a current sensor, a pressure sensor, etc. may also be connected to the receiver 200. The sensors connected to the receiver 200 are driven, for example, by a DC voltage supplied from the power management unit 203 or by power discharged from the power storage unit 204. The microcomputer 205 continuously or intermittently monitors the voltage value at a predetermined location of the receiver 200, the status of the sensor 208 connected to the receiver 200, information detected by the sensor 208, etc. The microcomputer 205 transmits the voltage value at a predetermined location of the receiver 200, the status of the sensor 208 connected to the receiver 200, information detected by the sensor 208, etc. as digital data to the data transceiver 206. The sensor 208 may be built into the receiver 200.

[0046] The data transceiver 206 performs processes such as converting digital data supplied from the microcomputer 205 into analog data and modulating the analog data. The data transceiver 206 also performs processes such as demodulating a data signal received by a data transceiver antenna 207 and digitizing the demodulated data. The data transceiver 206 is driven by, for example, a DC voltage supplied from the power management unit 203 or power discharged from the power storage unit 204.

[0047] The data transmitting / receiving antenna 207 is configured to be able to efficiently transmit and receive radio waves in the 2.4 GHz band, for example. The data transmitting / receiving antenna 207 radiates a data signal supplied from the data transceiver 206. The data transmitting / receiving antenna 207 also receives a data signal transmitted from the transmitter 100. For example, the data transmitting / receiving antenna 207 is driven by a DC voltage supplied from the power management unit 203 or by power discharged from the power storage unit 204.

[0048] 3.1 Receiver configuration: horizontal type FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example configuration of receiver 200. Receiver 200 shown in FIG. 3 has, for example, a cylindrical shape with a substantially rectangular cross section. Receiver 200 has an upper surface, a lower surface, and a side surface. The upper surface represents the portion located on the upper surface in FIG. 3. The lower surface represents the portion located on the lower surface in FIG. 3. The side surface represents the portion located on the side in FIG. 3. The upper surface and the lower surface are arranged to face each other. In receiver 200 shown in FIG. 3, the upper surface and the lower surface are arranged substantially parallel to each other. The upper surface and the lower surface do not have to be arranged substantially parallel to each other. Furthermore, the upper surface, the lower surface, and the side surface may be entirely or partially flat, curved, or a combination thereof.

[0049] The receiver 200 includes, for example, a receiving antenna 201, a circuit section 210, a button 261, and a sensor 208.

[0050] The receiving antenna 201 has a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction, and has a predetermined height. For example, the receiving antenna 201 has a lateral width of 10 mm, a longitudinal width of 30 mm, and a height of 8 mm. The longitudinal width of 30 mm is, for example, approximately one-tenth the wavelength of a 920 MHz band signal that is expected to be received. Note that the size of the receiving antenna 201 is not limited to this and may be increased or decreased within a predetermined range. The receiving antenna 201 may be treated as a loop antenna or an inverted-F antenna.

[0051] The receiving antenna 201 includes a first conductor 2011 and a second conductor 2012. The first conductor 2011 is formed on the upper surface of the receiver 200 shown in Fig. 3. The first conductor 2011 is realized, for example, by a conductive layer formed on a PCB. The conductive layer formed on the PCB is realized, for example, by copper foil.

[0052] The second conductor 2012 is realized by, for example, a conductive plate that forms the bottom surface and both side surfaces of the receiver 200 shown in FIG. 3. The conductive plate is made of, for example, a metal plate such as copper or aluminum. The second conductor 2012 is formed, for example, by bending a single conductive plate. More specifically, for example, a single copper plate is bent into a substantially U-shape (substantially U-shape or substantially C-shape) in cross section. The bending may involve, for example, plastic processing of the copper plate using a mold. The first conductor 2011 and the second conductor 2012 are connected, for example, by soldering the second conductor 2012 to a PCB.

[0053] The circuit unit 210 is formed on the upper surface of the receiver 200 shown in Fig. 3. The circuit unit 210 is mounted on, for example, a PCB. The circuit unit 210 includes a rectifier 202, a power management unit 203, a power storage unit 204, a microcomputer 205, a data transceiver 206, and a data transmission / reception antenna 207. The first conductor 2011 has a slit (gap) formed in the vicinity of an area where the rectifier 202 is installed. In the receiver 200 shown in Fig. 3, the slit is formed on the upper surface. The circuit unit 210 may be mounted on the upper surface, facing toward the lower surface.

[0054] The characteristic impedance of the first conductor 2011 and the second conductor 2012 is designed to match the characteristic impedance of the rectifier 202. Specifically, for example, the characteristic impedance of the first conductor 2011 and the second conductor 2012 is matched with the characteristic impedance of the rectifier 202 using complex conjugates. For example, the characteristic impedance of the first conductor 2011 and the second conductor 2012 is designed to be R+jX. Furthermore, the characteristic impedance of the rectifier 202 is designed to be R-jX.

[0055] Button 261 is an example of an interface that allows a user to access receiver 200. Button 261 is attached to the top surface, facing in the spatial direction. Button 261 is connected to circuit unit 210, which is attached to the top surface. Button 261 is installed so that the pressing direction is approximately perpendicular to the PCB.

[0056] The user can access the receiver 200 by pressing the button 261. For example, when switching the mode of the receiver 200, the user presses the button 261. More specifically, for example, when switching the receiver 200 to a matching mode with the transmitter 100, the user presses the button 261. Furthermore, for example, when turning off the power of the receiver 200, the user presses the button 261.

[0057] The sensor 208 is, for example, a sensor module having a predetermined size. The sensor 208 is, for example, a magnetic sensor. The sensor 208 is connected to the circuit unit 210 by connecting to wiring formed on a PCB. The sensor 208 is disposed at a position that penetrates the lower surface of the upper surface, behind the lower surface. The distance between the sensor 208 and the lower surface is based on, for example, the position at which the sensor 208 measures the state of the device when the receiver 200 is attached to the device. Note that the sensor 208 does not necessarily have to be disposed so as to penetrate the lower surface. For example, wiring may be laid on the surfaces of the first conductor 2011 and the second conductor 2012, and the sensor 208 may be disposed at a position behind the lower surface of the upper surface. In this case, for example, the circuit unit 210 and the sensor 208 may be mounted on a rigid-flexible board. By providing a ferrite bead or an inductor at the connection between the rigid part of the rigid-flex board and the flexible part, it is possible to suppress the influence of the flexible part on receiving antenna 201.

[0058] Receiver 200 may be provided with a shielding material 252 for reflecting radio waves. Shielding material 252 is made of, for example, a conductive material, such as metal. Shielding material 252 is formed to cover circuit section 210, avoiding the slit to which rectifier 202 is connected.

[0059] FIG. 4 shows an example of a schematic diagram of receiver 200 when shielding material 252 is attached. Shielding material 252 is attached, for example, in the spatial direction on the top surface. Shielding material 252 has a hole formed therein for exposing button 261 in the spatial direction. Shielding material 252 may be formed slightly smaller so as not to cover button 261. While FIG. 4 shows a case in which shielding material 252 covers the entire circuit unit 210, shielding material 252 may also cover a portion of circuit unit 210. Shielding material 252 may also cover multiple locations of circuit unit 210 instead of covering one location.

[0060] 5 shows another example of a schematic diagram of receiver 200 when shielding material 252 is attached. Shielding material 252 is attached, for example, to the lower surface of the upper surface. While FIG. 5 shows a case in which shielding material 252 covers the entire back side of the upper surface, shielding material 252 may also cover a portion of the back side of the upper surface. Shielding material 252 may also cover multiple locations on the back side of the upper surface, rather than covering just one location.

[0061] <3.2 Receiver installation> Receiver 200 is installed in, for example, a predetermined indoor device. More specifically, receiver 200 is attached to, for example, a metal housing of a drive unit used indoors. Note that the attachment location of receiver 200 is not limited to the drive unit. For example, receiver 200 may be attached to a predetermined frame. Also, the attachment location of receiver 200 is not limited to a metal housing. For example, receiver 200 may be attached to a non-metallic housing.

[0062] When receiver 200 is attached to the metal housing of the drive unit, for example, it is housed in housing 250 for attachment to the metal housing. Housing 250 is made of thermoplastic resin such as polycarbonate resin. Housing 250 has a hole formed therein for exposing button 261 to the outside.

[0063] 6 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic diagram of receiver 200 housed in housing 250. Receiver 200 is attached, for example, so that one surface of housing 250 is in contact with the metal housing of the drive unit.

[0064] The housing 250 that houses the receiver 200 is not limited to one that is made entirely of resin. At least one surface of the housing 250 may be made of a conductive material, for example, metal.

[0065] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic diagram of the receiver 200 when one surface of the housing 250 is made of metal. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic cross-sectional view of the AA cross section of FIG. 7. In the examples illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the bottom surface of the receiving antenna 201 and the metal part 251 are in physical contact. Note that FIGS. 7 and 8 do not illustrate the sensor 208. When the sensor 208 is illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, for example, a hole is drilled in the metal part 251, and the sensor 208 is connected through the hole. Furthermore, the physical contact of the metal part 251 is not limited to the bottom surface. The metal part 251 may be located, for example, on a side surface of the housing 250 and be in physical contact with the side surface of the receiving antenna 201. Furthermore, the metal part 251 may be located, for example, on an upper surface of the housing 250 and be in physical contact with the upper surface of the receiving antenna 201.

[0066] The metal part 251 does not have to be in physical contact with the receiving antenna 201. For example, if the metal part 251 is a bottom surface part of the housing 250, the metal part 251 may be in functional or electrical contact with the bottom surface part of the receiving antenna 201. Furthermore, for example, if the metal part 251 is a side surface part of the housing 250, the metal part 251 may be in functional or electrical contact with the side surface part of the receiving antenna 201. Furthermore, for example, if the metal part 251 is an upper surface part of the housing 250, the metal part 251 may be in functional or electrical contact with the upper surface part of the receiving antenna 201.

[0067] The metal part 251 may be shared with one surface of the receiving antenna 201. For example, in FIGS. 7 and 8, the metal part 251 may be integrated with the bottom surface of the receiving antenna 201. Similarly, in FIGS. 7 and 8, when the metal part 251 is a side surface of the housing 250, the metal part 251 may be integrated with the side surface of the receiving antenna 201. Furthermore, in FIGS. 7 and 8, when the metal part 251 is an upper surface of the housing 250, the metal part 251 may be integrated with the upper surface of the receiving antenna 201.

[0068] <3.3 Other configurations of horizontal receivers> The structure of receiver 200 is not limited to that shown in Fig. 3. For example, in Fig. 3, button 261 is installed so that the pressing direction is approximately perpendicular to the PCB. Button 261 may also be installed so that the pressing direction is approximately horizontal to the PCB, for example.

[0069] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of receiver 200. In Fig. 9, button 261 is attached in the spatial direction of the top surface so that the pressing direction is approximately horizontal to the PCB. In Fig. 9, button 261 is attached so that the top portion is oriented in the opposite direction to the direction in which sensor 208 is attached. The direction in which the top portion of button 261 is attached is not limited to this. The top portion of button 261 may be oriented in any direction as long as it can be pressed by a user when installed in a device.

[0070] 3 shows a case where the circuit unit 210 is attached in the spatial direction of the upper surface portion. The lower surface portion may be realized by a PCB, and the first conductor 2011 may be formed on the lower surface portion. In this case, the circuit unit 210 is attached in the spatial direction of the lower surface portion. Since an electric field is generated between the upper surface portion and the lower surface portion when the receiver 200 receives a power supply signal, it is desirable that no electronic components exist in this region. Therefore, the circuit unit 210 is not mounted on the lower surface portion facing the upper surface portion.

[0071] The button 261 is attached to the lower surface portion so as to face in the spatial direction. The button 261 is connected to the circuit portion 210 attached to the lower surface portion. The button 261 is installed so that the pressing direction is approximately perpendicular to the PCB.

[0072] The sensor 208 is connected to wiring formed on the PCB, and is thereby connected to the circuit section 210. The sensor 208 is disposed at a position spaced a predetermined distance from the lower surface section.

[0073] Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the receiver 200. In Fig. 10, the sensor 208 and the button 261 are attached in the spatial direction on the lower surface.

[0074] Also, in FIG. 10, the button 261 may be installed so that the pressing direction is approximately horizontal to the PCB.

[0075] Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of receiver 200. In Fig. 11, button 261 is attached in the spatial direction of the bottom surface so that the pressing direction is approximately horizontal to the PCB. In Fig. 11, button 261 is attached so that the top portion thereof faces in the opposite direction to the direction in which sensor 208 is attached. The direction in which the top portion of button 261 is attached is not limited to this. The top portion of button 261 may face in any direction as long as it can be pressed by a user when installed in a device.

[0076] 3, for example, a button 261 is depicted as an interface that the user can access with respect to the receiver 200. The interface is not limited to the button 261 as a physical interface for the user. The interface may be an LED that provides a visual information interface for the user.

[0077] Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of receiver 200. In Fig. 12, LED 262 is attached to the upper surface in the spatial direction so as to irradiate light in the spatial direction. Note that the position on the upper surface where LED 262 is attached is not limited to the position shown in Fig. 12. Furthermore, the direction of light irradiation of LED 262 is not limited to the spatial direction of the upper surface.

[0078] The LED 262 indicates, for example, the state of the receiver 200 with light. For example, the LED 262 emits light in a manner that allows the user to identify the mode of the receiver 200. More specifically, for example, the LED 262 emits light that indicates that the receiver 200 is in a matching mode with the transmitter 100. Furthermore, for example, the LED 262 emits light that indicates that the receiver 200 is in an ON state or an OFF state. Note that FIG. 12 shows a case in which the receiver 200 includes the button 261 and the LED 262. The receiver 200 may not include the button 261 but may include the LED 262.

[0079] The LED 262 may be mounted as shown in Figures 10 and 11. In this case, the LED 262 may be mounted on the lower surface portion, and the generated light may be guided to the upper surface portion or the side surface portion by an optical waveguide. The LED 262 may also be mounted on the upper surface portion or the side surface portion, and power may be supplied to the LED 262 by a connection line connected to the circuit unit 210 mounted on the lower surface portion.

[0080] 3.4 Receiver manufacturing Fig. 13 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a manufacturing system 600 for receiver 200. In this embodiment, receiver 200 is manufactured using manufacturing system 600 for receiver 200. Manufacturing system 600 for receiver 200 shown in Fig. 13 includes, for example, first assembling means 601, second assembling means 602, and cutting means 603. First assembling means 601, second assembling means 602, and cutting means 603 are realized, for example, by one or more computers. First assembling means 601, second assembling means 602, and cutting means 603 receive instructions from an operator and perform the operations associated with each means.

[0081] The first assembly means 601 is, for example, a means for attaching electronic components to a single printed circuit board (PCB). The area where the first assembly means 601 attaches the electronic components may be one side or both sides of the board. The PCB is, for example, a single large board that has been confirmed to function normally electrically and to have no external defects. A pattern on the PCB, onto which multiple electronic components of the receiver 200 can be attached, is formed in accordance with a predetermined rule. The predetermined rule represents, for example, a state in which the patterns are aligned vertically and horizontally so that when the PCB is cut by the cutting means 603, each cut structure can operate as a receiver 200.

[0082] The first assembly means 601 attaches, to the PCB, for example, electronic components for receiving the power supply signal (such as the rectifier 202, the power management system 203 (PMS), and the power storage unit 204), electronic components for transmitting the data signal (such as logic, the microcontroller unit 205 (MCU), the data transceiver 206, and the data transceiver antenna 207), and the button 261, according to a pattern formed on the PCB. The first assembly means 601 attaches the electronic components to the PCB, for example, by soldering the electronic components to the PCB.

[0083] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a manufacturing process for receiver 200. As shown in FIG. 14(a), first assembly means 601 attaches multiple electronic components to each area defined by one large PCB. First assembly means 601 may attach electronic components to the front or back surface of the PCB shown in FIG. 14(a). First assembly means 601 may, for example, attach one type of electronic component to all receivers 200, and sequentially shift the electronic components to be attached. Furthermore, first assembly means 601 may, for example, attach multiple electronic components to each receiver 200.

[0084] The second assembly means 602 is a means for attaching a second conductor 2012 to a PCB on which electronic components are attached. The second conductor 2012 is formed by bending a conductive plate made of a metal such as copper or aluminum. The second assembly means 602 solders the second conductor 2012 to the PCB so that the second conductor 2012 straddles the electronic components attached to the PCB. A conductive layer is formed on the PCB, and by attaching the second conductor 2012 to the PCB, the conductive layer of the PCB and the second conductor 2012 are connected.

[0085] 14(b), second assembly means 602 mounts multiple electronic components mounted on one large PCB, straddling each second conductor 2012. For example, when mounting of all of the multiple electronic components on the PCB is completed, second assembly means 602 starts mounting second conductors 2012. Furthermore, when first assembly means 601 mounts electronic components for one receiver 200 at a time, second assembly means 602 may sequentially mount second conductors 2012 in the areas where mounting of electronic components for one receiver 200 has been completed.

[0086] The cutting means 603 is a means for cutting the PCB on which the electronic components and the second conductors 2012 are attached. The cutting means 603 cuts the PCB based on, for example, the rules for forming the pattern on the PCB.

[0087] 14(c), the cutting means 603 cuts the PCB into squares, for example, with electronic components and second conductors 2012 attached to each square of the PCB.

[0088] By manufacturing receiver 200 as shown in FIG. 14, it becomes possible to efficiently manufacture a plurality of receivers 200.

[0089] 4.1 Receiver configuration: vertical type 15 and 16 are schematic diagrams showing other configuration examples of receiver 200a. Fig. 15 shows a schematic diagram of receiver 200a when viewed from a predetermined direction. Fig. 16 shows a schematic diagram of receiver 200a shown in Fig. 15 when viewed from the back.

[0090] Receiver 200a shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 has, for example, a cylindrical shape with a substantially rectangular cross section closed by a substrate. Receiver 200a has an upper surface, a lower surface, and side surfaces. The upper surface refers to the portion located on the upper surface in FIGS. 15 and 16. The lower surface refers to the portion located on the lower surface in FIGS. 15 and 16. The side surface refers to the portion located on the side in FIGS. 15 and 16. The upper surface and the lower surface are arranged to face each other. A slit (gap) is formed in one of the side surfaces. In receiver 200a shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the upper surface and the lower surface are arranged substantially parallel to each other. The upper surface and the lower surface do not have to be arranged substantially parallel to each other. Furthermore, the upper surface, the lower surface, and the side surface may be entirely or partially flat, curved, or a combination thereof.

[0091] The receiver 200a includes, for example, a receiving antenna 201a, a back surface 209a, a circuit section 210a, a button 261a, and a sensor 208.

[0092] The receiving antenna 201a has a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction, and has a predetermined height. For example, the receiving antenna 201a has a lateral width of 10 mm, a longitudinal width of 30 mm, and a height of 8 mm. The longitudinal width of 30 mm is, for example, approximately one-tenth the wavelength of a 920 MHz band signal that is expected to be received. Note that the size of the receiving antenna 201a is not limited to this and may be increased or decreased within a predetermined range. The receiving antenna 201a may be treated as a loop antenna or an inverted-F antenna.

[0093] The receiving antenna 201a is realized, for example, by a conductor having a ring shape. The receiving antenna 201a is realized, for example, by a conductive plate made of a metal such as copper or aluminum. The receiving antenna 201a is formed, for example, by bending a single conductive plate. More specifically, for example, a single copper plate is bent into a substantially rectangular shape in cross section. In the bending process, for example, a metal mold may be used to plastically process the copper plate or the like.

[0094] The circuit unit 210a is formed on the rear surface portion 209a shown in FIGS. 15 and 16. The circuit unit 210a includes a rectifier 202a, a power management unit 203, a power storage unit 204, a microcomputer 205, a data transceiver 206, and a data transmission / reception antenna 207. Although FIGS. 15 and 16 show a case in which the sensor 208 is mounted as a module, the sensor 208 may be formed as a circuit on the rear surface portion 209a. In other words, the sensor 208 may be surface-mounted on the rear surface portion 209a. The rectifier 202a is connected to a gap on a side surface of the receiver 200a. The circuit unit 210a may be formed on both surfaces or one surface of the rear surface portion 209a.

[0095] The rear surface portion 209a is realized by, for example, a substrate such as a PCB. The rear surface portion 209a is arranged, for example, so as to cover the cylindrical portion of the receiving antenna 201a. The rear surface portion 209a may, for example, cover the entire cylindrical portion of the receiving antenna 201a, or may cover only a portion of the cylindrical portion.

[0096] 17 and 18 are schematic diagrams showing an example configuration of the rear surface portion 209a. FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing an example configuration of the rear surface portion 209a on the side that is not in contact with the receiving antenna 201a. FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing an example configuration of the rear surface portion 209a on the side that is in contact with the receiving antenna 201a. The hatched areas in FIGS. 17 and 18 represent insulators. That is, the hatching represents areas where no conductive material is present. In the rear surface portion 209a, conductive materials are used in limited areas. For example, in the rear surface portion 209a, conductive materials are used only for circuits, metal wires for connecting the circuits, antenna elements, part of the ground, vias, etc. In the rear surface portion 209a, the insulators represented by the hatched areas may be hollowed out to leave nothing there.

[0097] 15 and 16, the rear surface portion 209a has a portion where the sensor 208 is attached that protrudes from the receiving antenna 201a. However, the protruding portion is not limited to the portion where the sensor 208 is attached. The rear surface portion 209a may protrude toward the top surface portion, the side surface portion, the bottom surface portion, or at least any combination thereof. In other words, the rear surface portion 209a may be larger than the cross section of the receiving antenna 201a. The circuit portion 210a may be mounted in an area of ​​the rear surface portion 209a that protrudes from the receiving antenna 201a.

[0098] The characteristic impedance of the receiving antenna 201a and the characteristic impedance of the rectifier 202a are designed to match. Specifically, for example, the characteristic impedance of the receiving antenna 201a and the characteristic impedance of the rectifier 202a are matched using complex conjugates. For example, the characteristic impedance of the receiving antenna 201a is designed to be R+jX. Also, the characteristic impedance of the rectifier 202a is designed to be R-jX.

[0099] The button 261a is an example of an interface that the user can access with respect to the receiver 200a. The button 261a is attached to the rear surface portion 209a so as to face in the spatial direction. The button 261a is connected to a circuit portion 210a attached to the rear surface portion 209a. The button 261a is installed so that the pressing direction is approximately horizontal to the rear surface portion 209a. Note that the button 261a may also be installed so that the pressing direction is approximately vertical to the rear surface portion 209a.

[0100] The user can access the receiver 200a by pressing the button 261a. For example, when switching the mode of the receiver 200a, the user presses the button 261a. More specifically, for example, when switching the receiver 200a to a matching mode with the transmitter 100, the user presses the button 261a. Also, for example, when turning off the power of the receiver 200a, the user presses the button 261a.

[0101] The sensor 208 is, for example, a sensor module having a predetermined size. The sensor 208 is, for example, a magnetic sensor. The sensor 208 is connected to the circuit 210a by connecting to wiring formed on the substrate. Receiver 200a can be expected to have almost the same reception efficiency as receiver 200.

[0102] A shielding material for reflecting radio waves may be attached to receiver 200a. The shielding material is made of, for example, a conductive material, such as metal. The shielding material is attached, for example, so as to cover a part of rear surface portion 209a. Specifically, the shielding material is attached, for example, so as to cover rectifier 202a. The shielding material may be attached to the receiving antenna 201a side of rear surface portion 209a, or may be attached to the space side.

[0103] <4.2 Receiver installation> The receiver 200a is installed in, for example, a predetermined indoor device. More specifically, the receiver 200a is attached to, for example, a metal housing of a drive unit used indoors. Note that the attachment location of the receiver 200a is not limited to the drive unit. For example, the receiver 200a may be attached to a predetermined frame. Furthermore, the attachment location of the receiver 200a is not limited to a metal housing. For example, the receiver 200a may be attached to a non-metallic housing.

[0104] When the receiver 200a is attached to the metal housing of the drive unit, the receiver 200a is housed in a housing for attaching the receiver to the metal housing. The housing is made of, for example, a thermoplastic resin such as polycarbonate resin. The housing for storing the receiver 200a is not limited to one made entirely of resin. At least one surface of the housing may be made of a conductive material, for example, metal.

[0105] Any surface of the housing may be made of conductive material. The conductive material may be in physical, functional, or electrical contact with the receiving antenna 201a of the receiver 200a housed in the housing. The conductive material of the housing may be integrated with at least a portion of the receiving antenna 201a.

[0106] <4.3 Other configurations of vertical receivers> 15 and 16, a button 261a is depicted as an interface that allows a user to access the receiver 200a. The interface is not limited to the button 261a as a physical interface for the user. The interface may be an LED that provides a visual information interface for the user.

[0107] 19 and 20 are schematic diagrams showing configuration examples of receiver 200. Fig. 19 is a schematic diagram of receiver 200a when viewed from a predetermined direction. Fig. 20 is a schematic diagram of receiver 200a shown in Fig. 19 when viewed from the back.

[0108] 19 and 20, the LED 262a is attached in the spatial direction of the rear surface portion 209a. The LED 262a is attached so as to irradiate light in the spatial direction of the upper surface portion of the receiver 200a. The position on the rear surface portion 209a where the LED 262a is attached is not limited to the position shown in FIGS. 19 and 20. For example, the LED 262a may be attached in the direction of the receiving antenna 201a of the rear surface portion 209a. The direction of light irradiation of the LED 262a is not limited to the spatial direction of the upper surface portion. For example, the LED 262a may be attached so as to irradiate light in the spatial direction of the side surface portion of the receiver 200a.

[0109] The LED 262a indicates, for example, the state of the receiver 200a with light. For example, the LED 262a emits light in a manner that allows the user to identify the mode of the receiver 200a. More specifically, for example, the LED 262a emits light that indicates that the receiver 200a is in a matching mode with the transmitter 100. Furthermore, for example, the LED 262a emits light that indicates that the receiver 200a is in an ON state or an OFF state. Note that FIGS. 19 and 20 show a case in which the receiver 200a includes a button 261a and an LED 262a. The receiver 200a may not include the button 261a but may include the LED 262a.

[0110] 4.4 Receiver manufacturing In this embodiment, the receiver 200a is manufactured using a manufacturing system 600a for the receiver 200a. The manufacturing system for the receiver 200a includes, for example, a first assembling unit 601a, a second assembling unit 602a, and a cutting unit 603a.

[0111] The first assembly means 601a is, for example, a means for attaching electronic components to a single printed circuit board (PCB). The area where the first assembly means 601a attaches the electronic components may be one side or both sides of the board. The PCB is, for example, a single large board that has been confirmed to function normally electrically and to have no external defects. A pattern on the PCB, onto which multiple electronic components of the receiver 200 can be attached, is formed in accordance with a predetermined rule. The predetermined rule, for example, represents a state in which the patterns are aligned vertically and horizontally so that when the PCB is cut by the cutting means 603a, each cut structure can operate as a receiver 200a.

[0112] The first assembly means 601a attaches, for example, electronic components for receiving power supply signals (such as the power management system 203 (PMS), the power storage unit 204, etc.), electronic components for transmitting data signals (such as logic, the microcontroller unit 205 (MCU), the data transceiver 206, the data transceiver antenna 207, etc.), and the button 261a to the PCB according to a pattern formed on the PCB. The first assembly means 601a attaches the electronic components to the PCB by, for example, soldering the electronic components to the PCB.

[0113] FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a manufacturing process for receiver 200a. As shown in FIG. 21(a), first assembly means 601a attaches multiple electronic components to each area defined by one large PCB. First assembly means 601a may attach electronic components to the front or back surface of the PCB shown in FIG. 21(a). First assembly means 601a may, for example, attach one type of electronic component to all receivers 200a, and sequentially shift the attached electronic components. Alternatively, first assembly means 601a may, for example, attach multiple electronic components to each receiver 200a.

[0114] The second assembly means 602a is a means for attaching the receiving antenna 201a to a PCB on which electronic components are attached. The receiving antenna 201a is formed by bending a conductive plate made of a metal such as copper or aluminum. The second assembly means 602a solders the receiving antenna 201a to the PCB so that the annularly bent receiving antenna 201a surrounds the electronic components attached to the PCB.

[0115] 21(b), the second assembly means 602a mounts multiple electronic components mounted on a single large PCB so that each receiving antenna 201a surrounds the electronic components. For example, the second assembly means 602a starts mounting the receiving antenna 201a when mounting of all electronic components on the PCB is completed. Also, when the first assembly means 601a mounts electronic components for one receiver 200a at a time, the second assembly means 602a may sequentially mount the receiving antennas 201a in the area where mounting of the electronic components for one receiver 200a has been completed.

[0116] The cutting means 603a is a means for cutting the PCB on which the electronic components and the receiving antenna 201a are attached. The cutting means 603a cuts the PCB based on, for example, a forming rule for the pattern on the PCB.

[0117] 21(c), the cutting means 603a cuts the PCB into squares, for example, to which a circuit section 210a, a button 261a, and a receiving antenna 201a are attached.

[0118] By manufacturing the receiver 200a as shown in FIG. 21, it becomes possible to efficiently manufacture a plurality of receivers 200a.

[0119] As described above, in the above embodiment, receiver 200 has receiving antenna 201 including first conductor 2011 and second conductor 2012 that is connected to first conductor 2011 to form a ring-shaped configuration with first conductor 2011. Receiver 200 has a circuit (circuit unit 210) attached to a first portion of a substrate on which first conductor 2011 is formed. Receiver 200 has an interface that is connected to circuit unit 210 and attached to a surface of receiving antenna 201 facing outward from the ring-shaped configuration. Receiver 200 has sensor 208 that is connected to circuit unit 210 and attached to a surface of receiving antenna 201 facing outward from the ring-shaped configuration. This allows a user to access receiver 200 while measuring the state of an attached device using sensor 208 installed in receiver 200.

[0120] Therefore, the receiver 200 according to this embodiment can reduce the effort required for a user to access the receiver 200, which is powered by wireless power supply and has a sensor that senses the state of a predetermined device to which it is attached.

[0121] In the above embodiment, the interface is the button 261. This allows the user to give predetermined instructions to the receiver 200 while measuring the state of the attached device with the sensor 208 mounted on the receiver 200.

[0122] In the above embodiment, the button 261 is attached so that the pressing direction is substantially the same as the outward direction of the annular shape. The button 261 is also attached so that the pressing direction is substantially perpendicular to the outward direction of the annular shape. This allows the receiver 200 to have the button 261 installed in various ways.

[0123] In the above embodiment, the interface is the LED 262. This allows the user to measure the state of the attached device with the sensor 208 mounted on the receiver 200, while recognizing the state of the receiver 200 by light.

[0124] In the above embodiment, the interface is attached to the outer surface of the annular shape at the first portion, and the sensor 208 is attached to the outer surface of the annular shape at the first portion. Alternatively, the interface is attached to the outer surface of the annular shape at the first portion, and the sensor 208 is attached to the outer surface of the annular shape at the second portion of the second conductor 2012. This allows the receiver 200 to have the interface and the sensor 208 attached in various ways.

[0125] In the above embodiment, the sensor 208 is a magnetic sensor. This allows the receiver 200 to be attached to the metal housing of the drive unit and measure magnetic fluctuations in the drive unit. The user can then access the receiver 200, which measures the magnetic fluctuations in the drive unit.

[0126] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, receiver 200a is made of a conductor having a predetermined width and has receiving antenna 201a having an annular shape. Receiver 200a has rear surface 209a arranged to close the cylindrical portion of ring-shaped receiving antenna 201a. Receiver 200a has a circuit (circuit section 210a) attached to rear surface 209a. Receiver 200a has an interface connected to circuit section 210a and attached to rear surface 209a. Receiver 200a has sensor 208 connected to circuit section 210a and attached to rear surface 209a. This allows a user to access receiver 200a while measuring the state of an attached device using sensor 208 installed in receiver 200a.

[0127] In the above embodiment, the interface is the button 261a, which allows the user to give predetermined instructions to the receiver 200a while measuring the state of the attached device with the sensor 208 mounted on the receiver 200a.

[0128] In the above embodiment, the button 261a is attached so that the pressing direction is approximately perpendicular to the back surface 209a. The button 261a is also attached so that the pressing direction is approximately horizontal to the back surface 209a. This allows the receiver 200a to have the button 261a installed in various ways.

[0129] In the above embodiment, the interface is the LED 262a, which allows the user to recognize the state of the receiver 200a by light while measuring the state of the attached device with the sensor 208 mounted on the receiver 200a.

[0130] In the above embodiment, the sensor 208 is a magnetic sensor. As a result, the receiver 200a is attached to the metal housing of the drive unit and can measure magnetic fluctuations in the drive unit. The user can then access the receiver 200a, which measures the magnetic fluctuations in the drive unit.

[0131] <5 Basic computer hardware configuration> 22 is a block diagram showing the basic hardware configuration of a computer 90. The computer 90 includes at least a processor 91, a main memory device 92, an auxiliary memory device 93, and a communication IF (interface) 99. These are electrically connected to each other by a bus.

[0132] The processor 91 is hardware for executing an instruction set written in a program, and is composed of an arithmetic unit, registers, peripheral circuits, and the like.

[0133] The main storage device 92 is used to temporarily store programs, data to be processed by the programs, etc. For example, it is a volatile memory such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory).

[0134] The auxiliary storage device 93 is a storage device for saving data and programs, such as a flash memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a semiconductor memory.

[0135] The communication IF 99 is an interface for inputting and outputting signals for communicating with other computers via a network using wired or wireless communication standards. A network is composed of the Internet, a LAN, various mobile communication systems constructed by wireless base stations, etc. For example, networks include 3G, 4G, and 5G mobile communication systems, LTE (Long Term Evolution), and wireless networks (e.g., Wi-Fi (registered trademark)) that can connect to the Internet via a predetermined access point. In the case of a wireless connection, communication protocols include, for example, Z-Wave (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), and Bluetooth (registered trademark). In the case of a wired connection, networks also include those that are directly connected using a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable, etc.

[0136] It should be noted that the computer 90 can be virtually realized by distributing all or part of each hardware configuration across multiple computers 90 and interconnecting them via a network. In this way, the computer 90 is a concept that includes not only a computer 90 housed in a single housing or case, but also a virtualized computer system.

[0137] <Basic functional configuration of computer 90> A description will be given of the functional configuration of a computer realized by the basic hardware configuration of a computer 90 shown in Fig. 22. The computer includes at least the functional units of a control unit, a storage unit, and a communication unit.

[0138] The functional units of the computer 90 can also be realized by distributing all or part of the functional units among multiple computers 90 interconnected via a network. The computer 90 is a concept that includes not only a single computer 90 but also a virtualized computer system.

[0139] The control unit is realized by the processor 91 reading various programs stored in the auxiliary storage device 93, expanding them in the main storage device 92, and executing processing in accordance with the programs. The control unit can realize functional units that perform various types of information processing depending on the type of program. In this way, the computer is realized as an information processing device that processes information.

[0140] The storage unit is realized by a main storage device 92 and an auxiliary storage device 93. The storage unit stores data, various programs, and various databases. Furthermore, the processor 91 can allocate a storage area corresponding to the storage unit in the main storage device 92 or the auxiliary storage device 93 in accordance with the programs. Furthermore, the control unit can cause the processor 91 to execute processes for adding, updating, and deleting data stored in the storage unit in accordance with the various programs.

[0141] A database refers to a relational database, which manages data sets called tables, which are structured by rows and columns, by relating them to each other. In a database, a table is called a table, a column in a table is called a column, and a row in a table is called a record. In a relational database, relationships between tables can be set and associated. Typically, each table has a column set as a key for uniquely identifying a record, but setting a key to a column is not essential. The control unit can cause the processor 91 to add, delete, or update records in a specific table stored in the storage unit according to various programs.

[0142] The communication unit is realized by the communication IF 99. The communication unit realizes the function of communicating with other computers 90 via a network. The communication unit can receive information transmitted from other computers 90 and input the information to the control unit. The control unit can cause the processor 91 to execute information processing on the received information in accordance with various programs. In addition, the communication unit can transmit information output from the control unit to other computers 90.

[0143] Although several embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, these embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and modifications are intended to be included in the scope of the inventions and their equivalents as defined in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the inventions.

[0144] In the above description, a "processor" refers to one or more processors. The at least one processor is typically a microprocessor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), but may also be another type of processor such as a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The at least one processor may be a single-core or multi-core processor.

[0145] Furthermore, the at least one processor may be a processor in the broad sense, such as a hardware circuit (for example, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) that performs part or all of the processing.

[0146] In the above explanation, information that produces an output for an input is sometimes described using expressions such as "xxx table," but this information can be data of any structure, or a learning model such as a neural network that produces an output for an input. Therefore, an "xxx table" can also be called "xxx information."

[0147] Furthermore, in the above description, the configuration of each table is an example, and one table may be divided into two or more tables, or all or part of two or more tables may be one table.

[0148] Furthermore, in the above explanation, the processing may be described using the "program" as the subject, but since the program is executed by a processor to perform the specified processing using a memory unit and / or an interface unit as appropriate, the subject of the processing may also be the processor (or a device such as a controller that has that processor, or a microcomputer).

[0149] The program may be installed in a device such as a computer, or may be stored in, for example, a program distribution server or a computer-readable (e.g., non-transitory) recording medium. Also, in the following description, two or more programs may be realized as one program, or one program may be realized as two or more programs.

[0150] Furthermore, in the above description, identification numbers are used as identification information for various objects, but other types of identification information (for example, identifiers including alphabetic characters or symbols) may also be used.

[0151] In addition, in the above explanation, when describing elements of the same type without distinguishing between them, reference symbols (or common symbols among the reference symbols) may be used, and when describing elements of the same type with distinction between them, the identification numbers (or reference symbols) of the elements may be used.

[0152] In the following description, the control lines and information lines are those that are considered necessary for the description, and do not necessarily represent all the control lines and information lines in the product. All components may be interconnected.

[0153] The functions performed by the components described herein may be implemented in circuitry or processing circuitry, including general-purpose processors, application-specific processors, integrated circuits, ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), a CPU (a Central Processing Unit), conventional circuits, and / or combinations thereof, programmed to perform the described functions. A processor includes transistors and other circuits and is considered to be circuitry or processing circuitry. A processor may also be a programmed processor that executes programs stored in memory. In this specification, a circuitry, unit, or means is hardware that is programmed to realize or performs the described functions, which may be any hardware disclosed herein or any hardware known to be programmed to realize or perform the described functions. If the hardware is a processor considered to be a type of circuitry, the circuitry, means, or unit is a combination of the hardware and software used to configure the hardware and / or processor.

[0154] <Additional Notes> The matters described in the above embodiments will be supplemented below. (Appendix 1) A receiver comprising: an antenna having a first conductor and a second conductor that forms a ring-shaped shape with the first conductor by connecting to the first conductor; a circuit attached to a first portion of a substrate on which the first conductor is formed; an interface connected to the circuit and attached to a surface of the antenna facing outward from the ring-shaped surface; and a sensor connected to the circuit and attached to the surface of the antenna facing outward from the ring-shaped surface. (Appendix 2) Receiver according to (Supplementary Note 1), wherein the interface is a button. (Appendix 3) The receiver according to claim 2, wherein the button is attached so that the pressing direction is substantially the same as the outward direction of the annular shape. (Appendix 4) The receiver according to claim 2, wherein the button is attached so that the pressing direction is substantially perpendicular to the outward direction of the annular shape. (Appendix 5) A receiver according to any one of (Supplementary Note 1) to (Supplementary Note 4), wherein the interface is an LED. (Appendix 6) A receiver described in any of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 5), wherein the interface is attached to an outward surface of the annular shape in the first portion, and the sensor is attached to an outward surface of the annular shape in the first portion. (Appendix 7) A receiver as described in any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 5), wherein the interface is attached to an outward surface of the annular shape at the first portion, and the sensor is attached to an outward surface of the annular shape at the second portion of the second conductor. (Appendix 8) The receiver according to any one of (Supplementary Note 1) to (Supplementary Note 7), wherein the sensor is a magnetic sensor. (Appendix 9) A receiver comprising: an annular antenna made of a conductor having a predetermined width; a substrate arranged to cover the cylindrical portion of the annular antenna; a circuit attached to the substrate; an interface connected to the circuit and attached to the substrate; and a sensor connected to the circuit and attached to the substrate. (Appendix 10) 10. The receiver according to claim 9, wherein the interface is a button. (Appendix 11) The receiver according to claim 10, wherein the button is attached so that the pressing direction is substantially perpendicular to the substrate. (Appendix 12) The receiver according to claim 10, wherein the button is attached so that the pressing direction is substantially horizontal to the board. (Appendix 13) A receiver according to any one of (Supplementary Note 9) to (Supplementary Note 12), wherein the interface is an LED. (Appendix 14) The receiver according to any one of (Supplementary Note 9) to (Supplementary Note 13), wherein the sensor is a magnetic sensor. [Explanation of symbols]

[0155] 1...WPT system 100...Transmitter 101...Oscillator 102...Transmitting antenna 103...microcomputer 104...Data transmitter / receiver 105...Data transmission / reception antenna 200...Receiver 201...receiving antenna 202…Rectifier 203…Power management department 204... Power storage unit 205...microcomputer 206...Data transmitter / receiver 207...Data transmission / reception antenna 300...First information processing device 400...Second information processing device

Claims

1. an antenna including a first conductor and a second conductor that is connected to the first conductor to form a ring shape with the first conductor; a circuit attached to a first portion of the substrate on which the first conductor is formed; an interface connected to the circuit and attached to an outwardly facing surface of the annular shape of the antenna; a sensor connected to the circuit and attached to an outer surface of the annular shape of the antenna; A receiver comprising:

2. 2. The receiver of claim 1, wherein the interface is a button.

3. 3. The receiver according to claim 2, wherein the button is attached so that the pressing direction is substantially the same as the outward direction of the annular shape.

4. 3. The receiver according to claim 2, wherein the button is attached so that the pressing direction is substantially perpendicular to the outward direction of the annular shape.

5. 2. The receiver of claim 1, wherein the interface is an LED.

6. the interface is attached to an outwardly facing surface of the annular shape at the first portion; 2. The receiver of claim 1, wherein the sensor is attached to an outwardly facing surface of the annular shape at the first portion.

7. the interface is attached to an outwardly facing surface of the annular shape at the first portion; 2. The receiver of claim 1, wherein the sensor is attached to an outwardly facing surface of the annular shape at the second portion of the second conductor.

8. 2. The receiver according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is a magnetic sensor.

9. an annular antenna made of a conductor having a predetermined width; a substrate disposed so as to cover a cylindrical portion of the annular antenna; a circuit mounted on the substrate; an interface connected to the circuit and attached to the substrate; a sensor connected to the circuit and attached to the substrate; A receiver comprising:

10. 10. The receiver of claim 9, wherein the interface is a button.

11. The receiver according to claim 10, wherein the button is attached so that the pressing direction is substantially perpendicular to the substrate.

12. The receiver according to claim 10, wherein the button is attached so that the pressing direction is substantially horizontal to the board.

13. 10. The receiver of claim 9, wherein the interface is an LED.

14. 10. The receiver of claim 9, wherein the sensor is a magnetic sensor.

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