Receiver

Abstract

To provide a power receiver which is used in a wireless power supply system, is adapted to various radio wave environments, and can be miniaturized.SOLUTION: The receiver includes an antenna, a feeder, a rectifier circuit, and a switching unit. The antenna is made of a conductor having a predetermined width and has an annular shape. The feeder is attached to a plurality of positions in the antenna. The rectifier circuit rectifies a power feeding signal received by the antenna and supplied from any of the plurality of feeders. The switching unit connects one of the plurality of feeders to the rectifier circuit and switches the feeder to be connected to the rectifier circuit.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] In Patent Document 1, one or more available frequencies are detected, and a frequency that allows wireless power supply without causing interference with wireless communication is detected.

[0004] Specifically, in Patent Document 1, wireless power feeding is performed in the following procedure: The power transmitter detects one or more available frequencies. The power transmitter transmits microwaves at the detected available frequencies. The power receiver measures the amount of power fed at this time. The power receiver selects the optimal frequency for microwave transmission from multiple measured values ​​of the amount of wireless power fed. The power transmitter transmits microwaves at the optimal frequency, and the power receiver feeds power to the secondary battery. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-239640 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In Patent Document 1, the antenna for transmitting and receiving microwaves may be, for example, a wideband antenna such as a horn antenna or a spiral antenna, or a tunable antenna that integrates an antenna with variable impedance. As such, the antenna described in Patent Document 1 is too large to build a wireless power supply environment by attaching a power receiver to each of various devices.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to realize a power receiver for use in a wireless power feeding system, which is adaptable to various radio wave environments and can be made compact. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The receiver includes an antenna, a feeder, a rectifier circuit, and a switching unit. The antenna is made of a conductor having a predetermined width and has a ring shape. The feeders are attached to multiple positions on the antenna. The rectifier circuit rectifies a power supply signal received by the antenna and supplied from one of the multiple feeders. The switching unit connects one of the multiple feeders to the rectifier circuit and switches the feeder to be connected to the rectifier circuit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to realize a power receiver for use in a wireless power feeding system that is adaptable to various radio wave environments and can be made compact. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [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] 2 shows a schematic diagram of a receiver 200 as viewed from a predetermined direction. [Figure 4] 4A and 4B are schematic diagrams illustrating the receiver 200 shown in FIG. 3 as viewed from different directions. [Figure 5] 2 shows an example of a schematic diagram of a receiver 200 when a shielding material 252 is attached. [Figure 6] 2 shows another example of a schematic diagram of a receiver 200 when a shielding material 252 is attached. [Figure 7] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a receiver 200a as viewed from a predetermined direction. [Figure 8] 8 is a schematic diagram of the receiver 200a shown in FIG. 7 as seen from behind. [Figure 9] 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 10] 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 11] 1 shows the results of a simulation of the reception pattern of the receiving antenna 201 when the feeder 211 is attached to the bottom surface of the receiver 200 at approximately the center. [Figure 12] 10 shows the results of a simulation of the reception pattern of the receiving antenna 201 when the feeder 211 is attached to the bottom surface of the receiver 200 at a position closer to the side surface. [Figure 13] 1 shows the results of a simulation of the reception pattern of the receiving antenna 201 when the feeder 211 is attached to the side of the receiver 200 at approximately the center. [Figure 14] 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic diagram of a receiver 200 housed in a housing 250. FIG. [Figure 15] 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 16] 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line AA in FIG. 15. FIG. [Figure 17] 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the structure of receiving antennas 201, 201a of receivers 200, 200a having a mechanism for switching receiving frequencies. FIG. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the structure of the receiving antenna 201 of the receiver 200 having a mechanism for switching the receiving frequency. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the structure of the receiving antenna 201 of the receiver 200 having a mechanism for switching the receiving frequency. [Figure 20] 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the structure of a receiving antenna 201 of a receiver 200 having a mechanism for switching the receiving frequency in three stages. FIG. [Figure 21] 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the structure of a receiving antenna 201 of a receiver 200 having a mechanism for switching the receiving frequency in three stages. FIG. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating switching of the antenna length. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the simulation results of the resonance frequency of the receiving antenna 201 when the antenna length is switched. [Figure 24] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the basic hardware configuration of a computer 90. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] 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.

[0012] <Summary> The wireless power supply system includes 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 receiver receives, for example, radio waves in the 920 MHz band as the power supply signal. The receiver has a mechanism that can switch the reception mode of the power supply signal. Specifically, for example, the receiver has multiple feeders attached to an antenna. The receiver varies the reception pattern by switching the feeders connected to a rectifier. Also, for example, the receiver has an antenna with multiple switchable paths formed therein. The receiver varies the antenna length by switching the paths in the antenna.

[0013] <1 Overall system configuration> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a WPT system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0014] 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.

[0015] 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.

[0016] 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.

[0017] 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.

[0018] 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.

[0019] 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 (or a frequency band near 920 MHz). 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.

[0020] The power feed signal transmitted from the transmitter 100 may be, for example, a continuous wave (CW) signal having a predetermined power. The frequency band of the power feed signal is, for example, the 920 MHz band, taking into consideration the distance between the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200. If the frequency band is higher than the illustrated frequency band, it may be impossible to feed a predetermined power that allows 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).

[0021] 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 feed signal having a predetermined power. For example, if the power feed signal from the transmitter 100 falls under the radio station provisions of the Radio Act of Japan (regardless of whether a license is granted), the Radio Act may require a certain pause period for the power feed signal. In this case, the power feed 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 feed 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 feed signal and the pause period may be such that the power feed 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 feed signal.

[0022] 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.

[0023] 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 multiple receivers 200. The transmitter 100 may perform a predetermined operation based on, for example, the data signal received from the receiver 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] The receiver 200 transmits, for example, information about the state of the receiver 200 or information about the measurement results of the sensor to the transmitter 100 as a data signal. Specifically, for example, the receiver 200 transmits, as a data signal, information for notifying the transmitter 100 of the reception mode set for the receiver 200. More specifically, the receiver 200 transmits, as a data signal, information for notifying the transmitter 100 of the reception pattern set for the receiver 200. Furthermore, the receiver 200 transmits, as a data signal, information for notifying the transmitter 100 of the reception frequency set for the receiver 200. The receiver 200 may transmit the data signal to the first information processing device 300.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] The first information processing device 300 also controls the operation of the second information processing device 400 .

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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 the amount of electricity

[0032] <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, the 920 MHz band (or a frequency band near 920 MHz). 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.

[0033] 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).

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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).

[0040] 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 a power feed signal radiated from the transmitting antenna 102. The receiving antenna 201 also has a mechanism that can switch the reception mode of the power feed signal. Specifically, for example, a plurality of feeders are connected to the receiving antenna 201. The receiving antenna 201 varies the reception pattern by switching the feeder that supplies the power feed signal to the rectifier. Also, for example, the receiving antenna 201 is configured with a plurality of switchable paths. By switching the paths, the receiving antenna 201 varies the antenna length and the reception frequency.

[0041] The rectifier 202 rectifies the radio wave received as the power supply signal and converts it into a DC voltage. The rectifier 202 may be attached to each feeder connected to the receiving antenna 201.

[0042] 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.

[0043] Furthermore, the power management unit 203 releases the power stored in the power storage unit 204 in response to control from the microcomputer 205 .

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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. can be connected to the receiver 200. In addition, a force sensor, a proximity sensor, a gas sensor, an acceleration sensor, a human sensor, an infrared sensor, an illuminance sensor, a flow rate sensor, a current sensor, a pressure sensor, etc. can also be connected to the receiver 200. The sensors connected to the receiver 200 are driven by, for example, a DC voltage supplied from the power management unit 203 or power discharged from the power storage unit 204.

[0047] Microcomputer 205 continuously or intermittently monitors the voltage value at a predetermined location of receiver 200, the status of sensor 208 connected to receiver 200, information detected by sensor 208, etc. Microcomputer 205 transmits the voltage value at a predetermined location of receiver 200, the status of sensor 208 connected to receiver 200, information detected by sensor 208, etc. as digital data to data transceiver 206. Note that sensor 208 may be built into receiver 200.

[0048] For example, in response to an instruction from a user or a voltage value at a predetermined location of receiver 200, microcomputer 205 drives a first switching circuit to connect one of the feeders attached to receiving antenna 201 to rectifier 202. The first switching circuit is, for example, an example of a switching unit that switches between feeders, and is attached to each feeder to switch between connection and disconnection between the feeder and rectifier 202. The first switching circuit may switch between a path that connects the feeder and rectifier 202 and a path that connects the slit without connecting the feeder and rectifier 202.

[0049] Furthermore, the microcomputer 205 drives the second switching circuit to make one of the paths formed in the receiving antenna 201 conductive, for example, in response to an instruction from a user or a voltage value at a predetermined location in the receiver 200. The second switching circuit is, for example, an example of a switching unit that makes the loop paths conductive, and is attached to each loop path formed in the receiving antenna 201, and switches between connection (conduction) and disconnection of the loop path.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 3.1 Receiver structure with a mechanism for switching reception patterns: horizontal type 3 and 4 are schematic diagrams showing an example of the structure of receiver 200. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of receiver 200 when viewed from a predetermined direction. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of receiver 200 shown in FIG. 3 when viewed from a different direction. Receiver 200 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 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 refers to the portion located on the upper surface in FIGS. 3 and 4. The lower surface refers to the portion located on the lower surface in FIGS. 3 and 4. The side surface refers to the portion located on the side in FIGS. 3 and 4. The upper surface and the lower surface are arranged to face each other. In receiver 200 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, 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. Additionally, the upper surface, lower surface, and side surface may be wholly or partially flat, curved, or a combination thereof.

[0053] The receiver 200 includes, for example, a receiving antenna 201, a circuit section 210, and a sensor 208.

[0054] 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.

[0055] The receiving antenna 201 includes a first conductor 2011 and a second conductor 2012. In other words, the receiving antenna 201 is realized by, for example, a conductor having an annular shape. The first conductor 2011 is formed on the upper surface of the receiver 200 shown in FIG. 3. The first conductor 2011 is realized by, for example, a conductive layer formed on a PCB. The conductive layer formed on the PCB is realized by, for example, copper foil.

[0056] 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.

[0057] A plurality of feeders 211 are connected to the second conductor 2012. The feeders 211 are connected to the receiving antenna 201, for example, in a plurality of directions relative to the central axis of the annular shape of the receiving antenna 201. The feeders 211 may be connected to different surfaces of the receiving antenna 201, for example. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the feeders 211 are connected to a position approximately in the center of the top surface of the receiver 200, a position closer to a side surface of the top surface, and a position approximately in the center of the side surface. The number and positions of the connected feeders 211 are not limited to these. The number of connected feeders 211 may be two, or four or more. The position to which the feeder 211 is connected may be the other side surface or the bottom surface.

[0058] The circuit unit 210 is formed on the upper surface of the receiver 200 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. The circuit unit 210 is mounted on, for example, a PCB. The circuit unit 210 includes a first switching circuit, 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 feeder 211 and the rectifier 202 are connected by wiring via the first switching circuit. The first switching circuit switches the connection, so that one of the multiple feeders 211 is connected to the rectifier 202. In FIG. 3, the circuit unit 210 is mounted on the upper surface, facing in the spatial direction. The circuit unit 210 may also be mounted on the upper surface, facing in the lower surface direction. When the circuit unit 210 is mounted on the upper surface, facing in the lower surface direction, the feeder 211 is connected, for example, in the spatial direction of the upper surface.

[0059] For example, in response to an instruction from a user, the microcomputer 205 switches the first switching circuit so as to connect one of the feeders 211 connected to the receiving antenna 201 to the rectifier 202. Specifically, for example, upon receiving a data signal including an instruction to switch to the feeder 211, the microcomputer 205 switches the first switching circuit so as to connect the instructed feeder 211 to the rectifier 202. At this time, the microcomputer 205 switches the first switching circuit so as to conduct, for example, a slit to which a feeder other than the instructed feeder 211 is connected.

[0060] Furthermore, the microcomputer 205 switches the first switching circuit so as to connect one of the feeders 211 connected to the receiving antenna 201 to the rectifier 202 based on, for example, a predetermined requirement. Specifically, for example, the microcomputer 205 monitors, for example, a voltage value at a predetermined location of the receiver 200 while switching the first switching circuit. The microcomputer 205 switches the first switching circuit so as to connect the feeder 211 whose voltage value satisfies the predetermined requirement to the rectifier 202. At this time, the microcomputer 205 switches, for example, the first switching circuit so as to conduct slits to which feeders other than the feeder 211 that satisfies the requirement are connected. The predetermined requirement may be, for example, exceeding a preset voltage value or becoming a voltage value higher than other feeders.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] The structure of receiver 200 is not limited to the structure shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. For example, FIGS. 3 and 4 show a case in which circuit unit 210 is attached to the upper surface in the spatial direction. The lower surface may be realized by a PCB, and first conductor 2011 may be formed on the lower surface. In this case, circuit unit 210 is mounted on the PCB on the lower surface. Circuit unit 210 may be mounted in the spatial direction of the lower surface, or may be mounted on the upper surface of the lower surface. Second conductor 2012 is realized, for example, by a conductive plate constituting the upper surface and both side surfaces. In this case, feeder 211 may be attached, for example, to a position approximately in the center of the lower surface of receiver 200, a position on the lower surface near the side surface, or a position approximately in the center of the side surface. Alternatively, the side surface may be realized by a PCB, and first conductor 2011 may be formed on the side surface. In this case, circuit unit 210 is mounted on the PCB on the side surface. Circuit unit 210 may be mounted in the spatial direction of the side surface, or may be mounted inward of the cylindrical shape of the side surface. Second conductor 2012 is realized, for example, by a conductive plate that forms an upper surface, a lower surface, and the other side surface. In this case, feeder 211 may be attached, for example, to a position approximately in the center of the side surface of receiver 200, a position on the side surface near the upper surface, or a position approximately in the center of the lower surface.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 5 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. While FIG. 5 shows a case where shielding material 252 covers the entire circuit unit 210, shielding material 252 may also cover a portion of circuit unit 210. Furthermore, shielding material 252 may cover multiple locations of circuit unit 210 instead of covering one location.

[0066] 6 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. 6 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.

[0067] 3.2 Structure of a receiver with a mechanism for switching reception patterns: vertical type 7 and 8 are schematic diagrams showing an example of the structure of receiver 200a. Fig. 7 shows a schematic diagram of receiver 200a as viewed from a predetermined direction. Fig. 8 shows a schematic diagram of receiver 200a shown in Fig. 7 as viewed from the back.

[0068] Receiver 200a shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 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. 7 and 8. The lower surface refers to the portion located on the lower surface in FIGS. 7 and 8. The side surface refers to the portion located on the side surface in FIGS. 7 and 8. 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. 7 and 8, 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.

[0069] The receiver 200a includes, for example, a receiving antenna 201a, a rear surface portion 209a, a circuit portion 210a, and a sensor 208.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] A plurality of feeders 211a are connected to the receiving antenna 201a. The feeders 211a are attached, for example, at approximately the center of the bottom surface of the receiver 200a, at a position closer to the side surface of the bottom surface, or at approximately the center of the side surface. The number and positions of the connected feeders 211a are not limited to these. The number of connected feeders 211a may be two, or may be four or more. The position to which the feeders 211a are connected may be the other side surface or the top surface.

[0073] The circuit unit 210a is formed on the rear surface portion 209a shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. The circuit unit 210a includes a first switching circuit, 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. The feeder 211a and the rectifier 202a are connected by wiring via the first switching circuit. The first switching circuit switches the connection, so that one of the multiple feeders 211a is connected to the rectifier 202a. The circuit unit 210a may be formed on both surfaces of the rear surface portion 209a, or on one surface thereof.

[0074] 7 and 8 show the case where the sensor 208 is mounted as a module, the sensor 208 may be formed as a circuit on the rear surface portion 209a, that is, the sensor 208 may be surface-mounted on the rear surface portion 209a.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 9 and 10 are schematic diagrams showing an example configuration of the rear surface portion 209a. FIG. 9 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. 10 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. 9 and 10 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.

[0077] 9 and 10, 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.

[0078] For example, in response to an instruction from a user, the microcomputer 205 switches the first switching circuit so as to connect one of the feeders 211a connected to the receiving antenna 201a to the rectifier 202a. Specifically, for example, upon receiving a data signal including an instruction to switch to the feeder 211a, the microcomputer 205 switches the first switching circuit so as to connect the instructed feeder 211a to the rectifier 202a. At this time, the microcomputer 205 switches the first switching circuit so as to conduct, for example, the slits to which feeders other than the instructed feeder 211a are connected.

[0079] Furthermore, the microcomputer 205 switches the first switching circuit so as to connect one of the feeders 211a connected to the receiving antenna 201a to the rectifier 202a based on, for example, a predetermined requirement. Specifically, the microcomputer 205 monitors, for example, a voltage value at a predetermined location of the receiver 200a while switching the first switching circuit. The microcomputer 205 switches the first switching circuit so as to connect the feeder 211a whose voltage value satisfies the predetermined requirement to the rectifier 202a. At this time, the microcomputer 205 switches the first switching circuit so as to conduct slits to which feeders other than the feeder 211a that satisfies the requirement are connected. The predetermined requirement may be, for example, exceeding a preset voltage value or becoming a voltage value higher than other feeders.

[0080] 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.

[0081] The sensor 208 is, for example, a sensor module having a predetermined size. The sensor 208 is, for example, a magnetic sensor, and is connected to wiring formed on the substrate. Receiver 200a can be expected to have almost the same reception efficiency as receiver 200.

[0082] 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.

[0083] <3.3 Examples of changes in reception patterns> 11 to 13 are diagrams showing the simulation results of the reception pattern of the receiving antenna 201 when the feeder 211 is attached to a predetermined position. Fig. 11 shows the simulation results of the reception pattern of the receiving antenna 201 when the feeder 211 is attached to a position approximately in the center of the underside of the receiver 200. In the example shown in Fig. 11, a roughly gourd-shaped reception pattern is generated in the approximately vertical direction.

[0084] Fig. 12 shows the simulation results of the reception pattern of the receiving antenna 201 when the feeder 211 is attached to a position near the side of the underside of the receiver 200. In the example shown in Fig. 12, the reception pattern is gourd-shaped and tilted clockwise compared to the example shown in Fig. 11.

[0085] Fig. 13 shows the simulation results of the reception pattern of the receiving antenna 201 when the feeder 211 is attached at approximately the center of the side of the receiver 200. In the example shown in Fig. 13, an elliptical reception pattern is generated that is tilted in a predetermined direction.

[0086] <3.4 Receiver installation> The receivers 200, 200a are installed in, for example, a predetermined indoor device. Here, an example will be described in which the receiver 200 is installed in a device. More specifically, for example, the receiver 200 is attached to a metal housing of a drive unit used indoors. Note that the attachment location of the receiver 200 is not limited to the drive unit. For example, the receiver 200 may be attached to a predetermined frame. Also, the attachment location of the receiver 200 is not limited to a metal housing. For example, the receiver 200 may be attached to a non-metallic housing.

[0087] When the receiver 200 is attached to the metal housing of the drive unit, the receiver 200 is housed in a housing 250 for attachment to the metal housing. The housing 250 is made of a thermoplastic resin such as polycarbonate resin.

[0088] 14 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] FIG. 15 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. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic cross-sectional view of the AA cross section of FIG. 15. In the examples illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16, the bottom surface of the receiving antenna 201 and the metal part 251 are in physical contact. Note that FIGS. 15 and 16 do not illustrate the sensor 208. When the sensor 208 is illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16, 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] The metal part 251 may be shared with one surface of the receiving antenna 201. For example, in FIGS. 15 and 16, the metal part 251 may be integrated with the bottom surface of the receiving antenna 201. Similarly, in FIGS. 15 and 16, 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. 15 and 16, 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.

[0093] 4.1 Structure of a receiver with a mechanism for switching receiving frequencies 17 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the structure of receiving antennas 201, 201a of receivers 200, 200a having a mechanism for switching the receiving frequency. Here, the receiving antenna 201 will be described as an example.

[0094] The receiving antenna 201 shown in FIG. 17 includes a first conductor 2011 and a second conductor 2012. The first conductor 2011 is formed on the underside of the receiving antenna 201 shown in FIG. 17. 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. The first conductor 2011 has a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction. For example, the first conductor 2011 has a lateral width of 20 mm and a longitudinal width of 30 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. The lateral width of 20 mm is, for example, approximately twice the lateral width of the receiver 200 shown in FIG. 3. The size of the first conductor 2011 is not limited to this and may be increased or decreased within a predetermined range.

[0095] The second conductor 2012 is realized by, for example, a conductive plate that forms the upper surface and both side surfaces of the receiving antenna 201 shown in Fig. 17. The conductive plate is made of, for example, a metal plate such as copper or aluminum. The second conductor 2012 is formed on the upper surface of the receiving antenna 201 in a generally L-shape with some of the corners cut off.

[0096] The second conductor 2012 has a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction and a predetermined height. For example, the narrow region of the second conductor 2012 has a lateral width of 10 mm, and the wide region has a lateral width of 20 mm. The longitudinal width between the 10 mm lateral width region and the 20 mm lateral width region is, for example, 30 mm. This length is, for example, approximately one-tenth the wavelength of a signal in the 920 MHz band that is expected to be received. The longitudinal width of the 20 mm lateral width region is, for example, approximately one-tenth the wavelength of a signal in a predetermined frequency band lower than the 920 MHz band, about 20 to 25 mm. The height of the second conductor 2012 is 8 mm. The size of the second conductor 2012 is not limited to this and may be increased or decreased within a predetermined range.

[0097] 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 two types of approximate U-shapes (two types of approximate U-shapes or approximate C-shapes) in cross section. The bending may involve plastic processing of a copper plate or the like using a die, for example. The second conductor 2012 has a first side surface portion 20121, a second side surface portion 20122, and a third side surface portion 20123, formed, for example, by bending a conductive plate.

[0098] A first pad portion 20111, a second pad portion 20112, and a third pad portion 20113 are formed on the PCB on which the first conductor 2011 is formed. The first pad portion 20111 is connected to the first conductor 2011 via a second switching circuit 212. The second pad portion 20112 is connected to the first conductor 2011 via a second switching circuit 213. The third pad portion 20113 is connected to the first conductor 2011.

[0099] The first conductor 2011 and the second conductor 2012 are connected by, for example, soldering the second conductor 2012 to a PCB. Specifically, the first conductor 2011 and the second conductor 2012 are connected by, for example, soldering the first side surface portion 20121 to the first pad portion 20111, soldering the second side surface portion 20122 to the second pad portion 20112, and soldering the third side surface portion 20123 to the third pad portion 20113. As a result, two types of loop paths are formed in the receiving antenna 201.

[0100] For example, a circuit unit 210 is mounted on a PCB on which the first conductor 2011 is formed. The circuit unit 210 may be mounted in the direction toward the second conductor 2012 or in the spatial direction. The circuit unit 210 includes a second switching circuit 212, a second switching circuit 213, 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 microcomputer 205 connects the second switching circuit 212 or the second switching circuit 213 in response to, for example, an instruction from a user. This forms a first looped path including the first side surface portion 20121 and the third side surface portion 20123, or a second looped path including the second side surface portion 20122 and the third side surface portion 20123. Specifically, for example, when a data signal including an instruction to switch from the 920 MHz band to a frequency band lower than the 920 MHz band is received, the microcomputer 205 opens the switching circuit 212 and connects the switching circuit 213, thereby switching the antenna length from the first loop path to the second loop path.

[0101] Furthermore, microcomputer 205 connects second switching circuit 212 or second switching circuit 213 based on, for example, a predetermined requirement. Specifically, for example, microcomputer 205 monitors a voltage value at a predetermined location in receiver 200 while switching between second switching circuit 212 or second switching circuit 213. Microcomputer 205 connects second switching circuit 212 or second switching circuit 213 so that the voltage value forms a loop path that satisfies the predetermined requirement. The predetermined requirement may be, for example, exceeding a preset voltage value or becoming a value higher than the other voltage value.

[0102] A shielding material for reflecting radio waves may be attached to receiver 200. The shielding material is made of, for example, a conductive material, such as metal. For example, the shielding material is formed so as to cover circuit unit 210, avoiding the slit where feeder 211 is attached. The shielding material is attached in the direction of second conductor 2012 or in the spatial direction, depending on the mounting direction of circuit unit 210. The shielding material is attached so as to cover at least a portion of circuit unit 210. The shielding material may cover multiple locations on circuit unit 210 instead of covering one location.

[0103] The structure of the receiving antenna 201 is not limited to the structure shown in Fig. 17. For example, the structure of the second conductor 2012 when switching the receiving frequency in two stages is not limited to the approximately L-shape shown in Fig. 17. Fig. 18 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the structure of the receiving antenna 201 included in the receiver 200 having a mechanism for switching the receiving frequency. The second conductor 2012 shown in Fig. 18 has a shape in which a conductor is cut out in a square shape on the upper surface of the receiving antenna 201.

[0104] The second conductor 2012 has a lengthwise direction and a widthwise direction, and has a predetermined height. For example, the width of the wide area of ​​the second conductor 2012 in the widthwise direction is 20 mm, and the total width of the widthwise direction of the hollowed-out area of ​​the conductor is 10 mm.

[0105] The second conductor 2012 has a first side surface portion 20121, a second side surface portion 20122, and a third side surface portion 20123. The first side surface portion 20121 represents the side surface portion formed at a position farthest from the feeder 211. The second side surface portion 20122 represents the side surface portion formed at the end of the area where the conductor is hollowed out. The third side surface portion 20123 represents the side surface portion formed at a position closest to the feeder 211.

[0106] The longitudinal width between the 10 mm region and the 20 mm region in the transverse direction, i.e., the distance from the first side surface portion 20121 to the third side surface portion 20123, is, for example, 30 mm. This length is, for example, approximately one-tenth the wavelength of a signal in the 920 MHz band that is expected to be received. The distance from the second side surface portion 20122 to the third side surface portion 20123 is, for example, approximately 20 to 25 mm, approximately one-tenth the wavelength of a signal in a predetermined frequency band lower than the 920 MHz band. The second conductor 2012 has a height of 8 mm. Note that the size of the second conductor 2012 is not limited to this and may be increased or decreased within a predetermined range.

[0107] The first conductor 2011 and the second conductor 2012 are connected, for example, by soldering the second conductor 2012 to a PCB. Specifically, for example, the first side surface portion 20121 is soldered to the first pad portion 20111, the second side surface portion 20122 is soldered to the second pad portion 20112, and the third side surface portion 20123 is soldered to the third pad portion 20113, thereby connecting the first conductor 2011 and the second conductor 2012.

[0108] A circuit unit 210 including, for example, a microcomputer 205 is mounted on a PCB on which the first conductor 2011 is formed. The microcomputer 205 connects the second switching circuit 212 or the second switching circuit 213 in response to, for example, an instruction from a user. This forms a first loop path including the first side surface portion 20121 and the third side surface portion 20123, or a second loop path including the second side surface portion 20122 and the third side surface portion 20123. Specifically, for example, upon receiving a data signal including an instruction to switch from the 920 MHz band to a frequency band lower than the 920 MHz band, the microcomputer 205 opens the second switching circuit 212 and connects the second switching circuit 213, thereby switching the antenna length from the first loop path to the second loop path.

[0109] Furthermore, microcomputer 205 connects second switching circuit 212 or second switching circuit 213 based on, for example, a predetermined requirement. Specifically, for example, microcomputer 205 monitors a voltage value at a predetermined location in receiver 200 while switching between second switching circuit 212 or second switching circuit 213. Microcomputer 205 connects second switching circuit 212 or second switching circuit 213 so that the voltage value forms a loop path that satisfies the predetermined requirement. The predetermined requirement may be, for example, exceeding a preset voltage value or becoming a value higher than the other voltage value.

[0110] 19 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the structure of the receiving antenna 201 of the receiver 200 having a mechanism for switching the receiving frequency. The second conductor 2012 shown in FIG. 19 has a convex shape on the upper surface of the receiving antenna 201.

[0111] The second conductor 2012 has a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction and a predetermined height. For example, the second conductor 2012 has a lateral width of 20 mm in the wide region and a lateral width of 10 mm in the convex region. The longitudinal width between the 10 mm lateral width region and the 20 mm lateral width region is, for example, 30 mm. This length is, for example, approximately one-tenth the wavelength of a signal in the 920 MHz band that is expected to be received. The longitudinal width of the 20 mm lateral width region is, for example, approximately one-tenth the wavelength of a signal in a predetermined frequency band lower than the 920 MHz band, for example, approximately 20 to 25 mm. The second conductor 2012 has a height of 8 mm. Note that the size of the second conductor 2012 is not limited to this and may be increased or decreased within a predetermined range. A plurality of pad portions are formed on the PCB on which the first conductor 2011 is formed. The pad portion is connected to the first conductor 2011 via the second switching circuit.

[0112] The structure of the receiving antenna 201 is not limited to the structure shown in Figs. 17 to 19 that allows the receiving frequency to be switched in two stages. The receiving antenna 201 may have a structure that allows the receiving frequency to be switched in three stages, for example. Figs. 20 and 21 are schematic diagrams showing examples of the structure of the receiving antenna 201 included in a receiver 200 that has a mechanism for switching the receiving frequency in three stages. The second conductor 2012 shown in Fig. 20 has a convex shape on the upper surface of the receiving antenna 201. The second conductor 2012 shown in Fig. 21 has a concave shape on the upper surface of the receiving antenna 201.

[0113] 20 and 21, the second conductor 2012 has a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction and a predetermined height. For example, the width of the second conductor 2012 in the lateral direction changes stepwise, such as 10 mm, 20 mm, and 30 mm. The maximum width in the longitudinal direction is, for example, 30 mm. This length is, for example, approximately one-tenth of the wavelength of a signal in the 920 MHz band that is expected to be received. The width in the longitudinal direction decreases stepwise from 30 mm, and each step is approximately one-tenth of the wavelength of a signal in a predetermined frequency band lower than the 920 MHz band. The second conductor 2012 has a height of 8 mm. Note that the size of the second conductor 2012 is not limited to this and may increase or decrease within a predetermined range.

[0114] In the receiving antenna 201 shown in FIGS. 20 and 21 , a circuit unit 210 including, for example, a microcomputer 205 and a plurality of second switching circuits is mounted on a PCB on which a first conductor 2011 is formed. A plurality of pads are formed on the PCB on which the first conductor 2011 is formed. The pads are connected to the first conductor 2011 via the second switching circuits. The microcomputer 205 opens and closes the plurality of second switching circuits in response to, for example, a user instruction. As a result, a first loop path, a second loop path, or a third loop path is formed in the receiving antenna 201. Specifically, for example, upon receiving a data signal including an instruction to switch from the 920 MHz band to a frequency band lower than the 920 MHz band, the microcomputer 205 operates the second switching circuit to switch from the loop path with the longest antenna length to another loop path.

[0115] Furthermore, the microcomputer 205 opens and closes the plurality of second switching circuits based on, for example, predetermined requirements. Specifically, for example, the microcomputer 205 monitors the voltage value at a predetermined location of the receiver 200 while opening and closing the plurality of second switching circuits. The microcomputer 205 opens and closes the plurality of second switching circuits so that the voltage value forms a loop path that satisfies the predetermined requirements.

[0116] <4.2 Example of change in resonant frequency> FIG. 22 is a diagram schematically illustrating switching of antenna length. In FIG. 22, for example, second switching circuits 212, 213, and 214 are attached to receiving antenna 201. For example, by closing only second switching circuit 212, receiving antenna 201 has the longest antenna length, as shown in FIG. 22(a). Furthermore, by closing only second switching circuit 213, receiving antenna 201 has the second longest antenna length, as shown in FIG. 22(b). Furthermore, by closing only second switching circuit 214, receiving antenna 201 has the shortest antenna length, as shown in FIG. 22(c).

[0117] Fig. 23 is a diagram showing the simulation results of the resonance frequency of the receiving antenna 201 when the antenna length is changed. In Fig. 23, it can be seen that the resonance frequency decreases as the antenna length is shortened.

[0118] As described above, in the above embodiment, the receiver 200 includes the receiving antenna 201, the plurality of feeders 211, the rectifier circuit 202, and a switching unit (first switching circuit). The receiving antenna 201 is made of a conductor having a predetermined width and has a ring shape. The feeders 211 are connected to the receiving antenna 201 at a plurality of positions. The rectifier circuit 202 rectifies a power supply signal received by the receiving antenna 201 and supplied from one of the plurality of feeders 211. The first switching circuit connects one of the plurality of feeders 211 to the rectifier circuit 202, and switches the feeder to be connected to the rectifier circuit 202.

[0119] After the receiver 200 is attached to a specific device, the direction from which the power feed signal arrives may change due to a change in the surrounding environment, such as a change in the layout of the space. The receiver 200 according to the embodiment of the present application can switch the reception pattern by switching the feeder 211 used in the receiving antenna 201. Therefore, even if the arrival direction of the power feed signal changes, for example, the reception pattern of the receiving antenna 201 can be switched to match the arrival direction of the power feed signal.

[0120] Therefore, according to the above embodiment, it is possible to realize a power receiver that is used in a wireless power feeding system, that can be adapted to various radio wave environments, and that can be made compact.

[0121] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the feeders 211 are connected to the receiving antenna 201 in a plurality of directions with respect to the central axis of the receiving antenna 201. This makes it possible to change the receiving pattern in a plurality of directions.

[0122] In the above embodiment, the rectifier circuit 202 is attached to a substrate on which conductors are formed. That is, a horizontal receiver 200 structure can be realized. In the above embodiment, the rectifier circuit 202a is attached to a substrate disposed so as to cover the cylindrical portion of the annular receiving antenna 201a. That is, a vertical receiver 200a structure can be realized.

[0123] In the above embodiment, the first switching circuit switches the feeder to be connected in response to an instruction from the user, which allows the user to switch the reception pattern of the receiver 200 as needed.

[0124] In the above embodiment, the first switching circuit switches the feeder to be connected based on a predetermined rule, which enables the receiver 200 to automatically set a reception pattern suitable for the current environment.

[0125] In the above embodiment, the receiver 200 includes a receiving antenna 201, a switching unit (second switching circuits 212, 213), and a rectifier circuit 202. The receiving antenna 201 is made of a conductor having a predetermined width and has multiple annular paths with different circumferential lengths. The second switching circuits 212, 213 make one of the multiple annular paths conductive. The rectifier circuit 202 rectifies the power supply signal received by the conductive annular path.

[0126] After receiver 200 is attached to a specific device, the available frequency bands may change due to changes in the surrounding environment, such as when another communication device is used nearby. Receiver 200 according to the present embodiment can switch the reception frequency by switching the loop path in receiving antenna 201. Therefore, even if the available frequency bands change, for example, it is possible to switch the reception frequency of receiving antenna 201 in accordance with the change in the surrounding environment.

[0127] In the above embodiment, the second switching circuits 212 and 213 switch the loop path to be turned on in response to an instruction from the user, thereby enabling the user to switch the reception frequency of the receiver 200 as needed. In the above embodiment, the second switching circuits 212 and 213 switch the loop path to be turned on based on a predetermined rule, which enables the receiver 200 to automatically set a reception frequency suitable for the current environment.

[0128] <5 Variations> In the above embodiment, the receiver 200, 200a may have an interface accessible to a user. A user accesses the receiver 200, 200a, which can be attached to a device, via the interface. The interface may include, for example, a button, an LED, or a combination thereof, connected to the circuit unit 210. The user may switch the reception pattern or the reception frequency by accessing the interface attached to the receiver 200, 200a.

[0129] In the above embodiment, the receiving antennas 201 and 201a have an annular shape, but the shape of the receiving antennas 201 and 201a is not limited to the above.

[0130] <6 Basic computer hardware configuration> 24 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.

[0131] 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.

[0132] 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).

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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. The network is composed of the Internet, a LAN, various mobile communication systems constructed by wireless base stations, etc. For example, the network includes 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, the network also includes a direct connection using a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable, etc.

[0135] 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.

[0136] <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. 24. The computer includes at least the functional units of a control unit, a storage unit, and a communication unit.

[0137] 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] 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.

[0140] 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.

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] 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.

[0144] 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.

[0145] 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."

[0146] 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.

[0147] 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).

[0148] 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.

[0149] 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.

[0150] 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.

[0151] 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.

[0152] 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.

[0153] <Additional Notes> The matters described in the above embodiments will be supplemented below. (Appendix 1) A receiver comprising: an annular antenna made of a conductor having a predetermined width; feeders connected to a plurality of positions on the antenna; a rectifier circuit that rectifies a power supply signal received by the antenna and supplied from one of the plurality of feeders; and a switching unit that connects one of the plurality of feeders to the rectifier circuit and switches the feeder to be connected to the rectifier circuit. (Appendix 2) The receiver according to claim 1, wherein the feeders are connected to the antenna in a plurality of directions relative to the central axis of the antenna. (Appendix 3) The receiver according to (Supplementary Note 1) or (Supplementary Note 2), wherein the rectifier circuit is attached to a substrate on which a conductor is formed. (Appendix 4) The receiver according to (Supplementary Note 1) or (Supplementary Note 2), wherein the rectifier circuit is attached to a substrate arranged so as to cover the cylindrical portion of the annular antenna. (Appendix 5) The receiver according to any one of (Supplementary Note 1) to (Supplementary Note 4), wherein the switching unit switches the feeder to be connected in response to an instruction from a user. (Appendix 6) The receiver according to any one of (Supplementary Note 1) to (Supplementary Note 4), wherein the switching unit switches the feeder to be connected based on a predetermined rule. (Appendix 7) A receiver comprising: an antenna made of a conductor having a predetermined width and having a plurality of annular paths with different circumferential lengths; a switching unit that makes one of the plurality of annular paths conductive; and a rectifier circuit that rectifies a power supply signal received by the conductive annular path. (Appendix 8) The receiver according to claim 7, wherein the switching unit switches the loop path to be conducted in response to an instruction from a user. (Appendix 9) The receiver according to claim 7, wherein the switching unit switches the loop path to be conducted based on a predetermined rule. [Explanation of symbols]

[0154] 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 300...First information processing device 400...Second information processing device

Claims

1. an annular antenna made of a conductor having a predetermined width; a feeder connected to a plurality of locations on the antenna; a rectifier circuit that rectifies a power supply signal received by the antenna and supplied from any one of the plurality of feeders; a switching unit that connects any one of the plurality of feeders to the rectifier circuit and switches the feeder to be connected to the rectifier circuit; A receiver comprising:

2. 2. The receiver according to claim 1, wherein the feeder is connected to the antenna in a plurality of directions relative to a central axis of the antenna.

3. 2. The receiver according to claim 1, wherein the rectifier circuit is mounted on a substrate on which the conductors are formed.

4. 2. The receiver according to claim 1, wherein the rectifier circuit is attached to a substrate disposed so as to cover a cylindrical portion of the annular antenna.

5. The receiver according to claim 1 , wherein the switching unit switches the feeder to be connected in response to an instruction from a user.

6. The receiver according to claim 1 , wherein the switching unit switches the feeder to be connected based on a predetermined rule.

7. an antenna made of a conductor having a predetermined width and having a plurality of annular paths with different circumferential lengths; a switching unit that makes any one of the plurality of loop paths conductive; a rectifier circuit for rectifying a power supply signal received through the conductive loop path; A receiver comprising:

8. The receiver according to claim 7 , wherein the switching unit switches the loop path to be conducted in response to an instruction from a user.

9. 8. The receiver according to claim 7, wherein the switching unit switches the loop path to be conducted based on a predetermined rule.

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