Electromagnetic wave control device and electromagnetic wave control member

Abstract

The present invention provides an electromagnetic wave control device and an electromagnetic wave control component that can flexibly control the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves with a simple configuration. [Solution] The electromagnetic wave control device 100 comprises a plurality of electromagnetic wave control members 10 and a support portion 20 that supports the electromagnetic wave control members 10. The electromagnetic wave control members 10 have the function of controlling the direction of propagation of electromagnetic waves incident on the electromagnetic wave control members 10. The support portion 20 supports the electromagnetic wave control members 10 so that at least one of the azimuth angle and elevation angle of the electromagnetic wave control members 10 can be changed.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electromagnetic wave control device and an electromagnetic wave control member used in the electromagnetic wave control device.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, the spread of communication using high-frequency radio waves, such as the fifth-generation mobile communication system (5G), has been promoted. Since high-frequency radio waves have high directivity, the propagation of radio waves is easily obstructed by obstacles such as buildings and metal structures. Therefore, a dead zone, which is an area where radio waves do not reach, is likely to occur.

[0003] Therefore, it has been proposed to eliminate the dead zone by installing a reflector and reflecting radio waves toward the dead zone (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] As described in Patent Document 1, when installing a reflector with a fixed reflection direction, in order to reflect radio waves toward a desired area, it is necessary to install the reflector at a specific angle, so there are significant restrictions on the installation location of the reflector. Further, when the dead zone changes due to changes in the arrangement of surrounding structures, etc., in order to change the direction in which radio waves are reflected, it is necessary to change the installation position and installation angle of the reflector, which imposes a large burden.

[0006] On the other hand, Patent Document 2 describes a Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface (RIS) reflector that can reflect radio waves in a desired direction by electrically controlling the reflection phase of multiple elements arranged on the surface of the reflector. Using an RIS reflector, the direction in which radio waves are reflected can be easily changed. However, the structure of an RIS reflector is complex and consumes a lot of power, which inevitably leads to high manufacturing and operating costs.

[0007] Furthermore, these problems are not limited to eliminating dead zones, but are common to any situation where it is desired to control the propagation of electromagnetic waves in a given region. Therefore, there is a need for a structure that can control the propagation of electromagnetic waves with a simpler configuration. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] This document describes various embodiments of electromagnetic wave control devices and electromagnetic wave control members for solving the above-mentioned problems. [Aspect 1] An electromagnetic wave control device comprising a plurality of electromagnetic wave control members and a support portion for supporting the electromagnetic wave control members, wherein the electromagnetic wave control members have a function of controlling the direction of propagation of electromagnetic waves incident on the electromagnetic wave control members, and the support portion supports the electromagnetic wave control members so that at least one of the azimuth angle and elevation angle of the electromagnetic wave control members can be changed. According to the above configuration, the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves can be flexibly controlled with a simple setup.

[0009] [Aspect 2] The electromagnetic wave control device according to [Aspect 1], wherein the support portion supports the electromagnetic wave control members so that the spacing between adjacent electromagnetic wave control members can be changed. According to the above configuration, it is possible to suppress the leakage of electromagnetic waves to the rear of the electromagnetic wave control member and to adjust the control range of the electromagnetic waves, thereby enabling more flexible control of the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves.

[0010] [Aspect 3] The electromagnetic wave control device according to [Aspect 2], wherein the support portion comprises a support body extending in one direction, and the plurality of electromagnetic wave control members are supported so as to be movable along the support body, thereby making it possible to change the spacing between the electromagnetic wave control members. According to the above configuration, a configuration that allows for changing the spacing of the electromagnetic wave control members can be accurately realized.

[0011] [Aspect 4] The electromagnetic wave control device according to [Aspect 2] or [Aspect 3], wherein the plurality of electromagnetic wave control members can be assembled by reducing the spacing between the electromagnetic wave control members. According to the above configuration, it is possible to stop the control of electromagnetic wave propagation by the electromagnetic wave control device.

[0012] [Aspect 5] An electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of [Aspect 1] to [Aspect 4], wherein the electromagnetic wave control member supported by the support portion is replaceable by attaching or detaching the electromagnetic wave control member.

[0013] With the above configuration, it is possible to replace the electromagnetic wave control member with another electromagnetic wave control member that has different electromagnetic wave control characteristics, thereby increasing the degree of freedom in controlling the propagation of electromagnetic waves.

[0014] [Aspect 6] The plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include a target member which is an electromagnetic wave control member having a metasurface structure and reflecting the electromagnetic wave at an angle different from the incident angle, according to any one of [Aspect 1] to [Aspect 5]. With the above configuration, the propagation region of the reflected wave can be controlled with a higher degree of freedom.

[0015] [Aspect 7] The electromagnetic wave control device according to [Aspect 6], wherein the metasurface structure comprises a reflection control region in which a plurality of unit cells that reflect electromagnetic waves at different phases are arranged, the unit cells are square in shape, and the length in the first direction, which is the width direction of the target member, as viewed from a position facing the surface of the target member that receives the electromagnetic waves, is greater than or equal to the length of one side of the unit cell, and the length in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction of the target member is greater than or equal to twice the length of one side of the unit cell. According to the above configuration, suitable electromagnetic wave control characteristics of the target component can be obtained.

[0016] [Aspect 8] The electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of [Aspect 1] to [Aspect 7], wherein the plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include a target member which is an electromagnetic wave control member that selectively reflects electromagnetic waves of a specific frequency and transmits electromagnetic waves of other frequencies.

[0017] The above configuration allows for more diverse control over the propagation of electromagnetic waves. For example, it is possible to improve the communication environment by localizing the propagation region of electromagnetic waves of a specific frequency without affecting the propagation of electromagnetic waves of other frequencies.

[0018] [Aspect 9] The electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of [Aspect 1] to [Aspect 8], wherein the plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include a target member which is an electromagnetic wave control member that selectively absorbs electromagnetic waves of a specific frequency and reflects electromagnetic waves of other frequencies.

[0019] The above configuration allows for more diverse control over the propagation of electromagnetic waves. For example, it is possible to improve the communication environment by suppressing the leakage of electromagnetic waves behind the electromagnetic wave control member while localizing the propagation region of electromagnetic waves of a specific frequency.

[0020] [Aspect 10] The electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of [Aspect 1] to [Aspect 9], wherein the plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include a target member which is an electromagnetic wave control member that changes the direction of propagation of electromagnetic waves that have passed through the electromagnetic wave control member to a direction different from the direction of propagation of the incident wave. According to the above configuration, the propagation state of electromagnetic waves can be controlled in a more diverse manner. For example, it is also possible to concentrate electromagnetic waves in a specific region.

[0021] [Aspect 11] The electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of [Aspect 1] to [Aspect 10], wherein the plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include a target member that is an electromagnetic wave control member that transmits a specific polarization wave. According to the above configuration, the propagation state of electromagnetic waves can be controlled in a more diverse manner. For example, a propagation region consisting of a polarization wave corresponding to a communication device can be obtained.

[0022] [Aspect 12] As viewed from a position facing the surface of the target member that receives the electromagnetic wave, the length in the first direction, which is the width direction of the target member, is not less than the maximum wavelength of the electromagnetic wave to be controlled, and the length in the second direction, which is orthogonal to the first direction in the target member, is not less than the length in the first direction. The electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of [Aspect 8] to [Aspect 11]. According to the above configuration, the control characteristics of the electromagnetic waves of the target member can be suitably obtained.

[0023] [Aspect 13] The electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of [Aspect 1] to [Aspect 12], wherein the plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include an electromagnetic wave control member having a curved surface. According to the above configuration, the propagation state of electromagnetic waves can be controlled in a more diverse manner by diffusing electromagnetic waves or the like.

[0024] [Aspect 14] The electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of [Aspect 1] to [Aspect 13], wherein the plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include a target member that is an electromagnetic wave control member having a first characteristic portion and a second characteristic portion in one surface that receives the electromagnetic wave, and the traveling mode of the electromagnetic wave incident on the first characteristic portion and the traveling mode of the electromagnetic wave incident on the second characteristic portion are different from each other. According to the above configuration, the propagation state of electromagnetic waves can be controlled in a more diverse manner.

[0025] [Aspect 15] The electromagnetic wave control device according to [Aspect 14], wherein the first characteristic portion and the second characteristic portion are arranged along the direction in which the target member extends. With the above configuration, the propagation of electromagnetic waves can be controlled with a higher degree of freedom in the vertical and horizontal regions.

[0026] [Aspect 16] The electromagnetic wave control device according to [Aspect 14], wherein the first characteristic portion is located in the center of the width direction of the target member, and the second characteristic portion is located at the end of the width direction of the target member. With the above configuration, by differentiating the control characteristics at the ends, it is possible to control the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves in a more diverse way, such as suppressing electromagnetic wave refraction.

[0027] [Aspect 17] The electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of [Aspect 1] to [Aspect 16], wherein the plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include a plate-shaped electromagnetic wave control member having a surface that reflects electromagnetic waves and a back surface that absorbs electromagnetic waves. According to the above configuration, it is possible to flexibly control the propagation region of reflected waves while suppressing the leakage of electromagnetic waves to the rear of the electromagnetic wave control member.

[0028] [Aspect 18] The electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of [Aspect 1] to [Aspect 17], wherein the plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include an electromagnetic wave control member having a design layer. The above configuration makes it possible to improve the aesthetic design of the electromagnetic wave control member.

[0029] [Aspect 19] The electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of [Aspect 1] to [Aspect 18], wherein the plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include a transparent electromagnetic wave control member. According to the above configuration, the electromagnetic wave control component is less likely to block light. Furthermore, the obstruction of the field of vision of people near the electromagnetic wave control device is also less likely to occur.

[0030] [Aspect 20] An electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of [Aspect 1] to [Aspect 19], wherein the angle among the azimuth angle and elevation angle of the electromagnetic wave control member that is configured to be changeable is configured to be individually set for each electromagnetic wave control member. With the above configuration, the propagation of electromagnetic waves can be controlled with a higher degree of freedom by setting the angles of multiple electromagnetic wave control members to be different.

[0031] [Aspect 21] An electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of [Aspect 1] to [Aspect 20], comprising a display that numerically indicates the angle of the electromagnetic wave control member for an angle among the azimuth angle and elevation angle of the electromagnetic wave control member that is configured to be changeable.

[0032] According to the above configuration, the angle can be changed based on a numerical value, making it easy to set the angle of the electromagnetic wave control member, and also easy to reproduce the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves when the electromagnetic wave control member is set to a predetermined angle.

[0033] [Aspect 22] An electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of [Aspect 1] to [Aspect 21], comprising a structure for fixing the angle of the electromagnetic wave control member after it has been changed, with respect to the angle of the electromagnetic wave control member that is configured to be changeable among the azimuth angle and elevation angle of the electromagnetic wave control member. According to the above configuration, the desired electromagnetic wave propagation conditions can be stably maintained over a long period of time.

[0034] [Aspect 23] An electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of [Aspect 1] to [Aspect 22], comprising a control unit that controls the change of an angle among the azimuth angle and elevation angle of the electromagnetic wave control member that is configured to be changeable by an electrical signal. With the above configuration, the burden on the user to change the angle and spacing of the electromagnetic wave control members is reduced compared to when these changes are made manually.

[0035] [Aspect 24] An electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of [Aspect 1] to [Aspect 23], wherein the plurality of electromagnetic wave control members are arranged horizontally, and the support portion supports the ends of the electromagnetic wave control members so that the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control members can be changed. The above configuration minimizes the complexity of the electromagnetic wave control device and allows for adjustment of the azimuth angle, thus providing high versatility.

[0036] [Aspect 25] An electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of [Aspect 1] to [Aspect 23], wherein the plurality of electromagnetic wave control members are arranged in a vertical direction, and the support portion supports the ends of the electromagnetic wave control members so that the elevation angle of the electromagnetic wave control members can be changed. The above configuration helps to keep the electromagnetic wave control device from having a complex structure.

[0037] [Aspect 26] An electromagnetic wave control member attached to an electromagnetic wave control device, having a function to control the direction of propagation of electromagnetic waves incident on the electromagnetic wave control member, and attached to the electromagnetic wave control device so that at least one of the azimuth angle and elevation angle of the electromagnetic wave control member can be changed.

[0038] According to the electromagnetic wave control device using the above-described electromagnetic wave control member, the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves can be flexibly controlled with a simple configuration. [Effects of the Invention]

[0039] According to this disclosure, the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves can be flexibly controlled with a simple configuration. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0040] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an electromagnetic wave control device according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of an electromagnetic wave control device according to one embodiment, with the angle of the electromagnetic wave control member changed. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of an electromagnetic wave control device according to one embodiment, in which the spacing of the electromagnetic wave control members has been changed. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows the front view structure of an electromagnetic wave control member and support part according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows the top structure and operation of the basic form of the electromagnetic wave control member. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows the top structure and operation of the basic form of the electromagnetic wave control member. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows the top structure and operation of the basic form of the electromagnetic wave control member. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the top structure and operation of the electromagnetic wave control member of the first example of another embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows the side structure and operation of the first example of another embodiment of the electromagnetic wave control member. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows the top structure and operation of a second example of another form of electromagnetic wave control member. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows the top structure and operation of a third example of an electromagnetic wave control member in another form. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows a perspective view of the structure and operation of a fourth example of another embodiment of the electromagnetic wave control member. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows the top structure and operation of a fifth example of another form of electromagnetic wave control member. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows the top structure and operation of a sixth example of another embodiment of the electromagnetic wave control member. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows the top structure and operation of a sixth example of another embodiment of the electromagnetic wave control member. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows the front view of a seventh example of an electromagnetic wave control member in another form. [Figure 17] Figure 17 shows the front view of a seventh example of an electromagnetic wave control member in another form. [Figure 18] Figure 18 shows the top structure and operation of an eighth example of another embodiment of the electromagnetic wave control member. [Figure 19] Figure 19 shows the top structure and operation of a ninth example of another embodiment of the electromagnetic wave control member. [Figure 20] Figure 20 shows the front structure of the 10th example of another embodiment of the electromagnetic wave control member. [Figure 21] Figure 21 shows the top structure and operation of an eleventh example of another embodiment of an electromagnetic wave control member. [Figure 22] Figure 22 shows the configuration of a twelfth example of another form of electromagnetic wave control device. [Figure 23] Figure 23 shows the configuration of a twelfth example of another form of electromagnetic wave control device. [Figure 24] Figure 24 shows the configuration of a thirteenth example of another form of electromagnetic wave control device. [Figure 25] Figure 25 shows the configuration of the 14th example of another form of electromagnetic wave control device. [Figure 26] Figure 26 shows the front view of the electromagnetic wave control member and support structure of the 15th example of another embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0041] An embodiment of an electromagnetic wave control device and an electromagnetic wave control member will be described with reference to the drawings. [Basic form] Referring to Figures 1 to 7, the basic configuration of an electromagnetic wave control device that controls the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves will be explained.

[0042] As shown in Figure 1, the electromagnetic wave control device 100 comprises a plurality of electromagnetic wave control members 10 and a support portion 20 that supports these electromagnetic wave control members 10. The electromagnetic wave control member 10 is a plate-shaped member that has the function of controlling the propagation of electromagnetic waves. Specifically, the electromagnetic wave control member 10 has at least one of the following: a direction control function, which controls the direction of propagation of electromagnetic waves, and a propagation suppression function, which attenuates electromagnetic waves to suppress their propagation. These functions may be exerted for a portion of the electromagnetic waves incident on the electromagnetic wave control member 10. For example, the electromagnetic wave control member 10 may have a direction control function and a propagation suppression function for electromagnetic waves of a specific frequency or a specific polarization.

[0043] Examples of direction control functions include specular reflection, anomaly reflection, refraction, and scattering. Specular reflection is the function of reflecting electromagnetic waves at a reflection angle equal to the angle of incidence, while anomaly reflection is the function of reflecting electromagnetic waves at a reflection angle different from the angle of incidence. An example of propagation suppression function is absorption.

[0044] The multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 may each have the same control characteristics with respect to the direction control function and the propagation suppression function, or they may include electromagnetic wave control members 10 that have different control characteristics from each other.

[0045] The support portion 20 supports the electromagnetic wave control member 10 so that at least one of the azimuth angle and elevation angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 can be changed. The azimuth angle is the angle formed by the reference plane of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 with respect to the reference direction. The reference plane is a plane along the surface of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 at its center, and if the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is flat, the surface of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 corresponds to the reference plane. The reference direction is the direction corresponding to the horizontal direction along the reference plane when the reference planes of multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 are aligned along a single plane. For example, the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 can be changed by rotating the electromagnetic wave control member 10 about the vertical axis.

[0046] The elevation angle is the angle formed by the reference plane of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 with respect to the horizontal plane. For example, the elevation angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 can be changed by rotating the electromagnetic wave control member 10 around the horizontal axis.

[0047] If the azimuth angle and elevation angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 are changeable, the azimuth angle and elevation angle may be changeable independently, or the combined angle of the azimuth angle and elevation angle may be changeable.

[0048] The angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 may be changed manually or electrically. The angles of multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 may be changed collectively or each may be changed individually.

[0049] This embodiment primarily describes a configuration in which the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 can be changed. Figure 1 shows the state in which the azimuth angle of each electromagnetic wave control member 10 is 0°, and Figure 2 shows the state in which the azimuth angle of each electromagnetic wave control member 10 has been changed from 0°. The up and down direction in the drawings is the vertical direction.

[0050] The structure of the support section 20 is not particularly limited, as long as it has a mechanism that can change the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10. In the example shown in Figures 1 and 2, the support section 20 comprises a support body 21 extending in the horizontal direction and a connecting member 22 connected to the lower part of the support body 21 and the upper end of the electromagnetic wave control member 10. One connecting member 22 is attached to each electromagnetic wave control member 10. As a result, the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is suspended and supported by the support section 20. The azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is changed by rotating the connecting member 22 about an axis in the vertical direction.

[0051] Multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 are arranged along at least one direction. In the example shown in Figures 1 and 2, the multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 are arranged in a single row along the horizontal direction. In this case, the rotation axes of each electromagnetic wave control member 10 are aligned parallel to each other.

[0052] It is preferable that the spacing between adjacent electromagnetic wave control members 10 is changeable. In other words, it is preferable that the support portion 20 supports the electromagnetic wave control members 10 in such a way that the spacing between adjacent electromagnetic wave control members 10 can be changed. The spacing between the electromagnetic wave control members 10 may be changed manually or electrically. In a plurality of electromagnetic wave control members 10, the spacing between the electromagnetic wave control members 10 may be changed collectively or individually for each adjacent electromagnetic wave control member 10.

[0053] When the support portion 20 is composed of a support body 21 and connecting members 22, the distance between adjacent connecting members 22 defines the distance between the electromagnetic wave control members 10. Since the connecting members 22 are configured to slide along the support body 21, the electromagnetic wave control members 10 can move along the support body 21. This makes it possible to suitably realize a support portion 20 in which the distance between the electromagnetic wave control members 10 can be changed.

[0054] Specifically, the support portion 20 may be a runner attached to a rail at its lower part, and the connecting member 22 may be a runner attached to the rail so as to move along the rail. This allows the spacing of the electromagnetic wave control members 10 to be changed with a simple configuration. Furthermore, if the spacing of the electromagnetic wave control members 10 can be changed, the mechanism for achieving this is not limited to the above configuration.

[0055] Figure 3 shows a state in which the spacing between the electromagnetic wave control members 10 is narrower compared to Figure 2. In the example shown in Figure 3, the spacing between the electromagnetic wave control members 10 is narrowed so that multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 are clustered towards the ends of the row of electromagnetic wave control members 10. However, this is not the only option; multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 may be clustered towards the center of the row of electromagnetic wave control members 10, and the arrangement of the multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 is arbitrary.

[0056] Furthermore, by reducing the spacing between the electromagnetic wave control members 10, it may be possible to stack and combine multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10. This makes it possible to minimize the range over which the electromagnetic wave control members 10 act on electromagnetic waves, for example, when it is temporarily unnecessary to control the propagation of electromagnetic waves.

[0057] It is preferable that the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is detachable. This allows the electromagnetic wave control member 10 supported by the support portion 20 to be replaced with an electromagnetic wave control member 10 having different control characteristics. Therefore, the electromagnetic wave control device 100 can control the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves with a greater degree of freedom.

[0058] Furthermore, if the support portion 20 is composed of a support body 21 and a connecting member 22, the electromagnetic wave control member 10 may be detachable from the support body 21 together with the connecting member 22. In short, it is sufficient that the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is detachable in the electromagnetic wave control device 100.

[0059] The electromagnetic wave control device 100 may be fixed in a predetermined position within the region to be controlled for electromagnetic wave propagation, or it may be movable. In the example shown in Figures 1 to 3, the electromagnetic wave control device 100 is configured to be movable.

[0060] Specifically, the electromagnetic wave control device 100 includes a frame section 30 extending from the mounting surface of the electromagnetic wave control device 100 and supporting the support section 20, and casters 40 attached to the frame section 30 at positions facing the mounting surface. The presence of casters 40 allows users to easily move the electromagnetic wave control device 100 by applying force to the frame section 30. Therefore, installation and removal of the electromagnetic wave control device 100 are easy. Furthermore, it is easy to fine-tune the position of the electromagnetic wave control device 100 according to the electromagnetic wave propagation conditions, and to move the electromagnetic wave control device 100 significantly in response to changes in the arrangement of structures in the controlled area.

[0061] The electromagnetic wave control device 100 only needs to include at least a plurality of electromagnetic wave control members 10 and support parts 20. For example, if the electromagnetic wave control device 100 is to be fixed in a predetermined position, the support parts 20 may be fixed to the ceiling or wall, thereby fixing the electromagnetic wave control device 100.

[0062] Referring to Figures 4 to 7, the control methods for electromagnetic wave propagation by changing the angle and spacing of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 will be explained. Figure 4 shows the front view of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 and support part 20 when the azimuth angle is 0°. The shape of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is not particularly limited, but if the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is rectangular in shape, it is easier to design the electromagnetic wave propagation control function in the electromagnetic wave control member 10 and the electromagnetic wave control range in the electromagnetic wave control device 100. The electromagnetic wave control range is the range in which multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 are arranged.

[0063] The lengths L1 in the first direction and L2 in the second direction of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 are set to lengths that can control the propagation of the electromagnetic wave to be controlled, according to the wavelength of the electromagnetic wave to be controlled and the optical phenomenon that is to be expressed as an electromagnetic wave propagation control function.

[0064] The first direction is the width direction of the electromagnetic wave control member 10, and the second direction is the length direction of the electromagnetic wave control member 10, which is perpendicular to the first direction. The length L1 in the first direction and the length L2 in the second direction may be the same, in which case the first direction and the second direction are interchangeable.

[0065] When multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 are arranged along one direction such that their rotation axes are parallel, it is preferable that the first direction when the azimuth angle is 0° is the direction in which the electromagnetic wave control members 10 are arranged, and the second direction is the direction along the rotation axis. With this configuration, the area required to change the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control members 10 is kept from becoming too large, and the design of the electromagnetic wave control range is also simplified.

[0066] The frequency of the electromagnetic wave to be controlled is not particularly limited, but since eliminating the dead zone of radio waves used for communication is an important issue, the usefulness of the electromagnetic wave control device 100 is enhanced when radio waves are the target of control. Radio waves are electromagnetic waves with a frequency of 3000 GHz or less.

[0067] For example, if the electromagnetic wave to be controlled is a radio wave in the 28 GHz frequency band, the length L1 in the first direction is preferably 1 cm or more, and the length L2 in the second direction is preferably 2 cm or more. Furthermore, the electromagnetic wave control member 10 may have a size that can correspond to the spread of the main lobe of the beam radiated by the antenna. For example, if the spread of the main lobe is 10 cm or more, the length of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 in the direction corresponding to the spread of the main lobe is set to 10 cm or more so as to be greater than the spread of the main lobe. Thus, the lengths L1 and L2 of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 may be set according to the characteristics of the electromagnetic wave to be controlled, the installation environment of the electromagnetic wave control device 100, the purpose of controlling the electromagnetic wave, etc. There is no particular upper limit to the lengths L1 and L2 of the electromagnetic wave control member 10; for example, the length L2 in the second direction can be set to a length exceeding 1 m. Furthermore, the multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 may include electromagnetic wave control members 10 with different shapes from each other.

[0068] The number of electromagnetic wave control members 10 is not particularly limited and can be determined based on the size of the electromagnetic wave control members 10 and the desired electromagnetic wave control range. Furthermore, the number of electromagnetic wave control members 10 supported by the support portion 20 can be changed by attaching or detaching the electromagnetic wave control members 10.

[0069] When the azimuth angle is 0°, it is preferable that the electromagnetic wave control members 10 be arranged without gaps in order to prevent leakage of electromagnetic waves not controlled by the electromagnetic wave control members 10 from between adjacent electromagnetic wave control members 10. In the drawing, however, gaps are provided between adjacent electromagnetic wave control members 10 to facilitate identification of the electromagnetic wave control members 10.

[0070] Parts of adjacent electromagnetic wave control members 10 may overlap. By overlapping parts of the electromagnetic wave control members 10, the size of the electromagnetic wave control range can also be adjusted. On the other hand, if it is desired to intentionally propagate electromagnetic waves between adjacent electromagnetic wave control members 10 depending on the desired electromagnetic wave propagation conditions, a gap may be left between adjacent electromagnetic wave control members 10.

[0071] The changes in electromagnetic wave propagation when the angle or spacing of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is changed, starting from an azimuth angle of 0°, will be explained using a configuration in which the electromagnetic wave control member 10 has a specular reflection function as an example.

[0072] The electromagnetic wave control member 10A having specular reflection functionality is, for example, a metal plate or a support plate to which a sheet with a metallic surface is attached. The surface of the electromagnetic wave control member 10A that receives electromagnetic waves has specular reflection functionality. The length L1 in the first direction and the length L2 in the second direction of the electromagnetic wave control member 10A having specular reflection functionality should each be greater than or equal to the maximum wavelength of the electromagnetic wave to be controlled.

[0073] Figure 5 shows a view of multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10A when the azimuth angle is 0°, as seen from a direction along the rotation axis of the multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10A. Assume that the incident electromagnetic wave IW is incident on the surface of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 from an orientation perpendicular to it. In this case, since the electromagnetic wave control member 10A has a specular reflection function, the reflected wave RW will travel in the opposite direction to the incident wave IW.

[0074] As shown in Figure 6, when the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10A is changed, the angle of the incident wave IW relative to the surface of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 changes. As a result, the reflected wave RW, which returns with a reflection angle matching the incident angle, travels in a different direction than in the case of Figure 5. Therefore, by adjusting the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10A, the direction in which the reflected wave RW propagates can be controlled to a desired direction.

[0075] On the other hand, if only the azimuth angle is changed without changing the spacing between the electromagnetic wave control members 10A, a gap is formed between adjacent electromagnetic wave control members 10A in the direction in which they are aligned, and a portion of the incident wave IW leaks out through this gap into the space behind the electromagnetic wave control members 10A.

[0076] As shown in Figure 7, by narrowing the spacing between the electromagnetic wave control members 10A, the formation of gaps can be suppressed, thereby preventing leakage in electromagnetic wave control. Furthermore, when the azimuth angle is set to a desired size, the spacing between electromagnetic wave control members 10A when the azimuth angle is 0° may be set so that no gaps are formed between adjacent electromagnetic wave control members 10A in the direction in which the electromagnetic wave control members 10A are aligned. In this case, when the azimuth angle is 0°, parts of adjacent electromagnetic wave control members 10A will overlap.

[0077] As described above, the electromagnetic wave control device 100 of this embodiment allows for flexible control of electromagnetic wave propagation conditions because the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 can be changed. Furthermore, the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves can be controlled even more flexibly because the spacing of the electromagnetic wave control members 10 can be changed.

[0078] Furthermore, since multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 are arranged within the electromagnetic wave control range, the area required to change the azimuth angle can be reduced compared to the case where propagation conditions are controlled by installing one large reflector within this control range and changing the azimuth angle of the reflector. Therefore, the area required for the arrangement of the electromagnetic wave control device 100 can be reduced. Furthermore, compared to the case where one large reflector is installed, light can pass more easily through the gaps between the electromagnetic wave control members 10, thus preventing the electromagnetic wave control device 100 from excessively blocking light.

[0079] [Other forms] The following describes various forms that can be modified or added to the basic form described above. The basic form described above and the following forms can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other technically.

[0080] <Example 1> The first example is a configuration in which an electromagnetic wave control member 10B having an abnormal reflection function is used as the electromagnetic wave control member 10. The surface of the electromagnetic wave control member 10B that receives electromagnetic waves has an abnormal reflection function.

[0081] The electromagnetic wave control member 10B having an abnormal reflection function has a metasurface structure. For example, the electromagnetic wave control member 10B is a reflector having a metasurface structure, or a support plate to which a reflective sheet having a metasurface structure is attached. When the electromagnetic wave control member 10B is constructed by attaching a sheet to a support plate, it is preferable to use a material that has little impact on the electromagnetic wave control performance, such as a resin-based adhesive.

[0082] Metasurface structures consist of a collection of structures smaller than the wavelength, and by controlling properties such as the phase of electromagnetic waves, they realize electromagnetic wave behavior not found in nature. The metasurface structure that achieves anomalous reflection is stacked on a layer with reflective properties and has a reflection control region consisting of multiple unit cells. The multiple unit cells are arranged in the reflection control direction, and the reflection control region is divided into squares in this direction. The reflection control direction is the direction along the plane containing the incident wave and reflected wave of the controlled object, among the directions along the reflective surface. Each unit cell is equipped with a structure of a different shape so that each unit cell exhibits a different reflection phase. As a result, the wavefront of the reflected wave generated from the reflection control region is tilted from the angle of specular reflection, thus achieving anomalous reflection. The reflection phase of each unit cell is set according to the incident angle and reflection angle of the controlled object.

[0083] The metasurface structure of the electromagnetic wave control member 10B has at least one reflection control region. For a suitable realization of the abnormal reflection function, it is preferable that the metasurface structure has a structure in which the reflection control regions are arranged in a repeating pattern.

[0084] Of the lengths L1 in the first direction and L2 in the second direction of the electromagnetic wave control member 10B, the length in the direction corresponding to the reflection control direction only needs to be greater than or equal to the length of the reflection control region. That is, the length in the direction corresponding to the reflection control direction is at least twice the length of one side of the unit cell. The length in the direction not corresponding to the reflection control direction only needs to be greater than or equal to the length of one side of the unit cell. Both the first and second directions may be reflection control directions. The length L of the reflection control region is expressed by the following equation (1), where λ is the maximum wavelength of the electromagnetic wave to be controlled, θi is the incident angle of the incident wave to be controlled, and θr is the reflection angle of the desired reflected wave.

[0085]

number

[0086] As shown in Figure 8, when the first direction is the reflection control direction, the reflected wave RW propagates at a reflection angle different from the incident angle of the incident wave IW. Therefore, by designing the metasurface structure to a desired reflection angle, the propagation region of the reflected wave can be set to a desired range, such as by widening the reflection range. Furthermore, by changing the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10B, fine adjustment of the direction in which the reflected wave propagates is possible. For example, after the electromagnetic wave control device 100 is installed, it is possible to adjust the propagation region of the reflected wave according to the actual conditions of the installation site.

[0087] As shown in Figure 9, even when the second direction is the reflection control direction, the reflected wave RW propagates at a reflection angle different from the incident angle of the incident wave IW. In this case, the vertical position of the reflected wave propagation region can be controlled by setting an abnormal reflection direction based on the metasurface structure, and the orientation of the reflected wave propagation region can be controlled by changing the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10B. Therefore, the reflected wave propagation region can be controlled with a high degree of freedom.

[0088] <Example 2> The second example is a configuration in which an electromagnetic wave control member 10C having a frequency-selective reflection function is used as the electromagnetic wave control member 10. The surface of the electromagnetic wave control member 10C that receives electromagnetic waves has a frequency-selective reflection function. The electromagnetic wave control member 10C selectively reflects electromagnetic waves of a predetermined frequency and transmits electromagnetic waves of other frequencies.

[0089] The electromagnetic wave control member 10C, which has a frequency-selective reflection function, has a periodic structure smaller than the wavelength. For example, the electromagnetic wave control member 10C is a substrate having a periodic structure, or a support plate to which a sheet having a periodic structure is attached. The length L1 in the first direction and the length L2 in the second direction of the electromagnetic wave control member 10C should each be greater than or equal to the longest wavelength of the electromagnetic wave to be controlled.

[0090] Furthermore, the electromagnetic wave control member 10C may have a structure in which a periodic structure that exhibits frequency selectivity and a metasurface structure that realizes abnormal reflection are superimposed. With such a configuration, the electromagnetic wave control member 10C selectively abnormally reflects electromagnetic waves of a predetermined frequency. Furthermore, the electromagnetic wave control member 10C may have a different structure from the above, provided that it has a frequency-selective reflection function.

[0091] As shown in Figure 10, by using the electromagnetic wave control member 10C, electromagnetic waves EW1 of a predetermined frequency are reflected, while electromagnetic waves EW2 of other frequencies are transmitted through the electromagnetic wave control member 10C. The reflection direction of electromagnetic waves EW1 can be controlled, as described above, by changing the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10C, and further by combining this with abnormal reflection due to the metasurface structure.

[0092] The electromagnetic wave control member 10C has a frequency-selective reflection function, which allows it to reflect radio waves of frequencies corresponding to 5G and transmit radio waves of frequencies corresponding to 4G, for example. With this configuration, the propagation area of ​​5G radio waves can be localized without affecting the propagation conditions of 4G radio waves. Therefore, it is possible to locally prepare the 5G communication environment without affecting the 4G communication environment.

[0093] <Example 3> The third example is a configuration in which an electromagnetic wave control member 10D is used as the electromagnetic wave control member 10, which has the function of changing the direction of propagation of transmitted waves. In other words, the electromagnetic wave control member 10D functions as a lens. The electromagnetic wave control member 10D may have a metasurface structure, and the direction of propagation of transmitted waves may be controlled based on the control of the refraction angle and focal position of electromagnetic waves by the metasurface structure. The length L1 in the first direction and the length L2 in the second direction of the electromagnetic wave control member 10D should each be greater than or equal to the longest wavelength of the electromagnetic wave to be controlled.

[0094] Furthermore, the electromagnetic wave control member 10D may have a different structure from the above, as long as it has the function of changing the direction of propagation of the transmitted wave from the direction of propagation of the incident wave. In addition, multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10D may include electromagnetic wave control members 10D whose transmitted wave directions are different from each other.

[0095] As shown in Figure 11, by using the electromagnetic wave control member 10D, the transmitted wave TW that passes through the electromagnetic wave control member 10D propagates in a different direction from the incident wave IW. This makes it possible to define the electromagnetic wave propagation region behind the electromagnetic wave control member 10D as a desired range. For example, it is possible to concentrate the transmitted wave in a specific region, and it is also possible to concentrate radio waves from outdoors in a specific area indoors to improve the communication environment. Furthermore, by changing the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10D, fine adjustment of the electromagnetic wave propagation region is possible.

[0096] <Example 4> The fourth example is a configuration in which an electromagnetic wave control member 10E having a polarization selection function is used as the electromagnetic wave control member 10. The electromagnetic wave control member 10E transmits specific polarizations and reflects or absorbs other polarizations. When reflecting polarizations other than the specific ones, the electromagnetic wave control member 10E has a direction control function, and when absorbing polarizations other than the specific ones, the electromagnetic wave control member 10E has a direction suppression function.

[0097] For example, the electromagnetic wave control member 10E is a substrate having a polarization element, or a support plate to which a sheet having a polarization element is attached. The length L1 in the first direction and the length L2 in the second direction of the electromagnetic wave control member 10E can each be greater than or equal to the maximum wavelength of the electromagnetic wave to be controlled. Furthermore, the electromagnetic wave control member 10E may have a metasurface structure that changes the propagation direction of the transmitted wave for a specific polarization. Furthermore, the electromagnetic wave control member 10E may have a different structure from the above, provided that it has a polarization selection function.

[0098] As shown in Figure 12, the incident wave IW, which is vibrating in multiple directions, passes through the electromagnetic wave control member 10E to become a transmitted wave TW with a specific polarization. This makes it possible to improve communication quality by making the transmitted wave polarized to match, for example, a communication device such as an antenna.

[0099] <Example 5> The fifth example is a configuration in which an electromagnetic wave control member 10F having an electromagnetic wave absorption function is used as the electromagnetic wave control member 10. In particular, it is preferable that the electromagnetic wave control member 10F has a frequency-selective absorption function that absorbs electromagnetic waves of a specific frequency and reflects electromagnetic waves of other frequencies specularly or abnormally. In this case, the electromagnetic wave control member 10F has a direction control function and a propagation suppression function.

[0100] For example, the electromagnetic wave control member 10F is a substrate made of an absorber, or a support plate to which a sheet having an absorber is attached. The length L1 in the first direction and the length L2 in the second direction of the electromagnetic wave control member 10F should each be greater than or equal to the longest wavelength of the electromagnetic wave to be controlled.

[0101] Furthermore, the electromagnetic wave control member 10F may have a metasurface structure, and the frequency absorbed and the reflection angle may be controlled by the metasurface structure. In addition, the electromagnetic wave control member 10F may be configured to absorb electromagnetic waves of multiple frequencies based on the metasurface structure. Furthermore, the electromagnetic wave control member 10F may have a different structure from the above, provided that it has an electromagnetic wave absorption function.

[0102] As shown in Figure 13, by using an electromagnetic wave control member 10F with frequency-selective absorption function, electromagnetic waves EW1 of a predetermined frequency are absorbed by the electromagnetic wave control member 10F, while electromagnetic waves EW2 of other frequencies are reflected by the electromagnetic wave control member 10F. The direction of reflection of electromagnetic waves EW2 can be controlled by changing the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10F.

[0103] The electromagnetic wave control member 10F has a frequency-selective absorption function, which allows it to absorb radio waves of frequencies not used for communication and reflect radio waves of frequencies used for communication such as 5G. With this configuration, it is possible to suppress radio wave leakage to the outside while localizing the propagation area of ​​radio waves of frequencies used for communication, thereby improving the communication environment.

[0104] <Example 6> The sixth example is a configuration in which a curved electromagnetic wave control member 10G is used as the electromagnetic wave control member 10. The electromagnetic wave control member 10G is curved such that its cross-section along the first direction is arc-shaped. The surface of the electromagnetic wave control member 10G that receives electromagnetic waves has an electromagnetic wave reflection function by specular reflection or abnormal reflection.

[0105] The electromagnetic wave control member 10G can be positioned convex toward the incident electromagnetic wave space, as shown in Figure 14, or concave toward the incident electromagnetic wave space, as shown in Figure 15, by changing the azimuth angle. In either case, the reflected wave RW is reflected in various directions depending on the incident position of the incident wave IW, thus expanding the propagation region of the reflected wave. Furthermore, the propagation region of the reflected wave can be flexibly adjusted by adjusting the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10G. For example, it is possible to further expand the propagation region of the reflected wave or to collect the reflected wave.

[0106] Furthermore, if the range of azimuth angle modification is limited, the electromagnetic wave control member 10G may be configured in at least one of two ways: convex toward the incident space of the electromagnetic wave, or concave toward the incident space of the electromagnetic wave. One of these configurations is one with an azimuth angle of 0°, and the other configuration is one with an azimuth angle of 180°. Furthermore, as the electromagnetic wave control member 10, an electromagnetic wave control member 10 curved in a second direction, or an electromagnetic wave control member 10 curved in both a first and a second direction may be used.

[0107] <Example 7> The seventh example is a configuration in which an electromagnetic wave control member 10H is used as the electromagnetic wave control member 10, which has partially different control characteristics within the plane for controlling the propagation of electromagnetic waves.

[0108] As shown in Figures 16 and 17, the electromagnetic wave control member 10H has a first characteristic portion 11 having a first control characteristic and a second characteristic portion 12 having a second control characteristic within one plane that receives electromagnetic waves. The propagation patterns of the incident electromagnetic wave differ between the first characteristic portion 11 and the second characteristic portion 12. For example, the first characteristic portion 11 and the second characteristic portion 12 propagate an incident wave from the same direction in different directions.

[0109] Specifically, the first characteristic section 11 may specularly reflect electromagnetic waves, while the second characteristic section 12 may abnormally reflect electromagnetic waves. Alternatively, the first characteristic section 11 and the second characteristic section 12 may abnormally reflect electromagnetic waves at different reflection angles. Furthermore, one of the first characteristic section 11 or the second characteristic section 12 may absorb electromagnetic waves.

[0110] An electromagnetic wave control member 10H having a first characteristic section 11 and a second characteristic section 12 can be easily realized by attaching sheets having different control characteristics to a single support plate. Furthermore, the electromagnetic wave control member 10H may have three or more sections with different control characteristics.

[0111] In the example shown in Figure 16, in the electromagnetic wave control member 10H, one of the regions divided along the second direction is the first characteristic section 11, and the other is the second characteristic section 12. For example, if the reflection angles of electromagnetic waves are different between the first characteristic section 11 located at the top of the electromagnetic wave control member 10H and the second characteristic section 12 located at the bottom of the electromagnetic wave control member 10H, the propagation region of the reflected wave can be controlled with a higher degree of freedom. Note that there may be three or more characteristic sections with different control characteristics arranged along the second direction.

[0112] In the example shown in Figure 17, the electromagnetic wave control member 10H has a first characteristic section 11 in the center in the first direction and a second characteristic section 12 at the end in the first direction. For example, a metasurface structure may be placed in the second characteristic section 12 to control the propagation of electromagnetic waves so that diffraction of electromagnetic waves is suppressed at the end of the electromagnetic wave control member 10H. This suppresses leakage of electromagnetic waves to the rear of the electromagnetic wave control member 10H. The control characteristics may differ at the two ends in the first direction. In this case, the electromagnetic wave control member 10H has a second characteristic section at one of the two ends and a third characteristic section at the other end.

[0113] <Example 8> The eighth example is a configuration in which an electromagnetic wave control member 10I is used as the electromagnetic wave control member 10, which has different control characteristics on its front and back sides for controlling the propagation of electromagnetic waves.

[0114] As shown in Figure 18, the electromagnetic wave control member 10I has a front characteristic portion 13 and a back characteristic portion 14 located on the opposite side of the front characteristic portion 13 in the thickness direction of the electromagnetic wave control member 10. The front characteristic portion 13 includes the surface of the electromagnetic wave control member 10I, and the back characteristic portion 14 includes the back surface of the electromagnetic wave control member 10I. The characteristic portion 13 faces the incident side space of the electromagnetic wave when the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10I is 0°.

[0115] An electromagnetic wave control member 10I having a front characteristic portion 13 and a back characteristic portion 14 can be easily realized by bonding together substrates having different control characteristics, or by attaching sheets having different control characteristics to the front and back surfaces of a support plate.

[0116] For example, the front characteristic section 13 has an electromagnetic wave reflection function through specular reflection or abnormal reflection, and the back characteristic section 14 has an electromagnetic wave absorption function. Figure 18 shows an electromagnetic wave control member 10I having a front characteristic section 13 with an abnormal reflection function and a back characteristic section 14 with an absorption function, with the azimuth angle changed from 0°.

[0117] If the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10I is different from 0°, the reflected wave RW may be incident on the back surface of the electromagnetic wave control member 10I depending on the incident position of the incident wave IW. Because the back characteristic section 14 has an absorption function, the reflected wave RW incident on the back surface of the electromagnetic wave control member 10I is absorbed by the electromagnetic wave control member 10I. Therefore, the leakage of electromagnetic waves to the rear of the electromagnetic wave control member 10I by further reflection of the reflected wave RW on the back surface of the electromagnetic wave control member 10I is suppressed. Therefore, the propagation region of electromagnetic waves controlled by abnormal reflection and the change in the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10I can be precisely localized in front of the electromagnetic wave control member 10I.

[0118] <Example 9> The ninth example is a configuration in which a transparent electromagnetic wave control member 10J is used as the electromagnetic wave control member 10. That is, as shown in Figure 19, the electromagnetic wave control member 10J transmits light VL in the visible region. The electromagnetic wave control member 10J may have the various functions described above as an electromagnetic wave propagation control function.

[0119] By using transparent materials as the conductor and dielectric that make up the electromagnetic wave control member 10J, it is possible to realize a transparent electromagnetic wave control member 10J that also has an electromagnetic wave propagation control function. As a result, even when the electromagnetic wave control device 100 is placed near a window, the blocking of incoming light into the room by the electromagnetic wave control member 10J is suppressed. Therefore, a decrease in indoor brightness is suppressed. In addition, the placement of the electromagnetic wave control device 100 also suppresses obstruction of the view of people near the electromagnetic wave control device 100 and spoilage of the scenery.

[0120] <Example 10> The eighth example is a configuration in which an electromagnetic wave control member 10K having a design layer is used as the electromagnetic wave control member 10. The design layer has a pattern such as wood grain. The electromagnetic wave control member 10K may have the various functions described above as an electromagnetic wave propagation control function.

[0121] As shown in Figure 20, the electromagnetic wave control member 10K has a design layer 15 on its surface. As a result, the pattern of the design layer 15 is visible to people near the electromagnetic wave control device 100, thus enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the electromagnetic wave control member 10K. Therefore, the electromagnetic wave control device 100 can be made to blend in with the surrounding landscape more easily. Furthermore, the design of the electromagnetic wave control member 10K can be changed by replacing it with an electromagnetic wave control member 10K having a design layer 15 with a different pattern.

[0122] Furthermore, if the structure that provides the electromagnetic wave propagation control function is transparent, the design layer 15 does not need to be placed on the outermost surface of the electromagnetic wave control member 10K. Also, the electromagnetic wave control member 10K may have the design layer 15 on both its front and back surfaces.

[0123] <Case 11> The 11th example is a configuration in which the azimuth angles of multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 are set individually. The azimuth angles of the multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 may be set to be different for each of them, or some of them may be set to be different from the others.

[0124] As shown in Figure 21, for example, the azimuth angle of each electromagnetic wave control member 10 is set so that the azimuth angle gradually changes from one side of the arrangement of multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 to the other. As a result, the reflection angle of the reflected wave RW for an incident wave IW from the same direction gradually changes along the direction in which the electromagnetic wave control members 10 are arranged. Therefore, the reflected wave RW can be concentrated in a specific region.

[0125] Furthermore, the azimuth angles of multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 may be set to broaden the propagation area of ​​the reflected wave RW. Since the azimuth angles of multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 can be set individually for each electromagnetic wave control member 10, the degree of freedom in adjusting the propagation area of ​​electromagnetic waves is increased.

[0126] Furthermore, if the angles of the electromagnetic wave control members 10 can be set individually, the angle changes may be made collectively or independently for each. Also, the configuration of the 11th example can be similarly applied to configurations in which the elevation and depression angles can be changed instead of the azimuth angle, or in addition to the azimuth angle.

[0127] <Case 12> The twelfth example is a configuration that includes a display unit that numerically shows the azimuth angles of multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10. The display unit may also serve as an operation unit for changing the azimuth angles of the electromagnetic wave control members 10.

[0128] In the example shown in Figure 22, the electromagnetic wave control device 100 includes a dial unit 50 that functions as both a display unit and an operating unit. The dial unit 50 includes an angle indicator 52 that shows the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10, and a rotary pointer 51 that indicates the angle.

[0129] The position of the dial portion 50 is not particularly limited, but for example, the dial portion 50 may be provided on the support portion 20, and the rotation mechanism for changing the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 and the rotation mechanism for the pointer 51 may be connected inside the support portion 20 so that their rotations are linked.

[0130] Figure 22 shows the case where the azimuth angle is 0°. As shown in Figure 23, the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is changed to the desired angle by rotating the pointer 51 to match the angle displayed in the angle indicator 52.

[0131] With this configuration, the azimuth angle can be changed based on a numerical value, making it easy to set the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10, and also making it easy to reproduce the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves when the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is set to a predetermined azimuth angle.

[0132] Furthermore, if the azimuth angles of multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 are indicated numerically, the form of the display unit and the operation unit may differ from that of the dial unit 50. Also, if the azimuth angles of multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 are configured to be changed to the same angle collectively, then one display unit and operation unit may be provided for each of the multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10. Alternatively, if the azimuth angles of multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 are configured to be changeable independently, then a display unit and operation unit may be provided for each of the electromagnetic wave control members 10. In addition, the range in which the azimuth angle can be changed does not have to be the entire range from 0° to 360°. The configuration in Example 12 can also be similarly applied to configurations where the elevation angle can be changed instead of the azimuth angle, or in addition to the azimuth angle.

[0133] <Case 13> The 13th example is a configuration that includes a structure for fixing the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10.

[0134] As shown in Figure 24, the electromagnetic wave control device 100 includes an angle fixing unit 60 for fixing the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10. The structure of the angle fixing unit 60 is not limited as long as it has a configuration that can maintain the changed angle when the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is changed. For example, the angle fixing unit 60 may be a locking mechanism incorporated into the support unit 20 that suppresses rotation by engaging with a rotation mechanism for changing the azimuth angle.

[0135] By fixing the angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10, changes in the azimuth angle are suppressed even if the electromagnetic wave control device 100 is subjected to shock or vibration. Therefore, the desired electromagnetic wave propagation conditions can be stably maintained over a long period of time. Furthermore, the configuration of Example 13 can also be similarly applied to configurations in which the elevation and depression angles can be changed instead of the azimuth angle, or in addition to the azimuth angle.

[0136] <Case 14> The 14th example is a configuration in which the angle and spacing of at least one of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 are controlled by an electrical signal.

[0137] As shown in Figure 25, the electromagnetic wave control device 100 includes a control unit 70 that controls changes to at least one of the angle and spacing of the electromagnetic wave control member 10. The support section 20 includes a drive mechanism such as a motor for changing the controlled object, which is at least one of the angle and spacing of the electromagnetic wave control member 10, and the control unit 70 is electrically connected to the drive mechanism.

[0138] For example, based on the user operating the control unit of the electromagnetic wave control device 100 or a signal being sent from an external device, a control signal, which is an electrical signal from the control unit 70, is input to the drive mechanism, and the controlled object is changed.

[0139] The functions of the control unit 70 may be realized by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. The control unit 70 may include a control circuit and memory for generating control signals. The control unit 70 may include an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), which is dedicated hardware that performs at least some of the various processes. The control unit 70 may be configured as a circuit including one or more dedicated hardware circuits such as an ASIC, one or more processors that operate according to software, or a combination thereof.

[0140] According to the above configuration, the burden on the user to change the angle and spacing of the electromagnetic wave control members 10 is reduced compared to when these changes are made manually, thus improving convenience. Furthermore, even when the angle and spacing of the electromagnetic wave control members 10 are controlled by electrical signals, power is mainly required when the angle and spacing are changed. Therefore, the power consumption of the electromagnetic wave control device 100 is smaller compared to RIS reflectors, which require power to be constantly used to maintain the desired reflection angle. In addition, the electrical configuration is simpler compared to RIS reflectors, which transmit signals to each of the minute elements.

[0141] <Example 15> The 15th example is a configuration in which the elevation and depression angles of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 can be changed. As shown in Figure 26, the multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 are arranged in a single line along the vertical direction. The vertical direction is the up and down direction in the drawing. The support part 20 extends in the vertical direction and supports the multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10. The support part 20 supports the electromagnetic wave control members 10 so that the elevation and depression angles can be changed by rotating the electromagnetic wave control members 10 around the horizontal axis. In addition, the spacing between the electromagnetic wave control members 10 can be changed by moving the electromagnetic wave control members 10 along the support body 21. This configuration also allows for flexible control of the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves.

[0142] Figure 26 shows a configuration in which both ends of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 are supported by separate support parts 20. However, as with the basic configuration, only one end of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 may be supported by the support part 20. Alternatively, even in a configuration in which the azimuth angle can be changed, as in the basic configuration, both ends of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 may be supported, or the lower end may be supported instead of the upper end.

[0143] Furthermore, the configuration is not limited to one support portion 20 supporting multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10. Each electromagnetic wave control member 10 may be supported by a separate support portion 20, or each of the multiple support portions 20 may support a group consisting of multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10. Also, the support position of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 by the support portion 20 is not limited to the end of the electromagnetic wave control member 10, but may be on the back surface or elsewhere. Moreover, the multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 are not limited to being arranged in a single line, but may be arranged in two dimensions. The number and support positions of the support portions 20 should be determined according to the size and arrangement of the electromagnetic wave control members 10, and the adjustable angles and spacing.

[0144] As described above, the electromagnetic wave control device 100 can provide the following effects. (1) At least one of the azimuth angle and elevation angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 can be changed. This allows for flexible control of the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves with a simple configuration.

[0145] (2) Since the spacing between adjacent electromagnetic wave control members 10 can be changed, it is possible to suppress leakage of electromagnetic waves to the rear and adjust the control range of electromagnetic waves, thereby enabling more flexible control of the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves.

[0146] (3) The support portion 20 includes a support body 21 extending in one direction, and supports a plurality of electromagnetic wave control members 10 so that they can move along the support body 21. This makes it possible to accurately realize a configuration in which the spacing between the electromagnetic wave control members 10 can be changed.

[0147] (4) If it is possible to group multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 together by reducing the spacing between them, the control of the electromagnetic wave propagation by the electromagnetic wave control device 100 can be stopped.

[0148] (5) The electromagnetic wave control member 10 supported by the support portion 20 is replaceable, which increases the degree of freedom in controlling the propagation of electromagnetic waves. (6) If the electromagnetic wave control member 10 has a metasurface structure and is configured to reflect electromagnetic waves at an angle different from the incident angle, the propagation region of the reflected waves can be controlled with a higher degree of freedom.

[0149] (7) If the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is configured to selectively reflect electromagnetic waves of a specific frequency and transmit electromagnetic waves of other frequencies, the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves can be controlled in a more diverse manner. For example, the propagation region of electromagnetic waves of a specific frequency can be localized without affecting the propagation of electromagnetic waves of other frequencies, thereby improving the communication environment.

[0150] (8) If the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is configured to selectively absorb electromagnetic waves of a specific frequency and reflect electromagnetic waves of other frequencies, the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves can be controlled in a more diverse manner. For example, it is possible to improve the communication environment by suppressing leakage of electromagnetic waves to the rear while localizing the propagation area of ​​electromagnetic waves of a specific frequency.

[0151] (9) If the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is configured to change the direction of propagation of electromagnetic waves that have passed through the electromagnetic wave control member 10 to a direction different from the direction of propagation of the incident wave, then the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves can be controlled in a more diverse manner. For example, it is possible to concentrate electromagnetic waves in a specific region.

[0152] (10) If the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is configured to transmit specific polarizations, the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves can be controlled in a more diverse manner. For example, a polarization propagation range corresponding to communication equipment can be obtained. (11) If the electromagnetic wave control member 10 has a curved surface, the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves can be controlled in a more diverse manner by diffusing the electromagnetic waves, etc.

[0153] (12) The electromagnetic wave control member 10 has a first characteristic section 11 and a second characteristic section 12 within one plane that receives electromagnetic waves, and the propagation mode of the electromagnetic wave incident on the first characteristic section 11 and the propagation mode of the electromagnetic wave incident on the second characteristic section 12 are different from each other. With this configuration, the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves can be controlled in a more diverse manner.

[0154] (13) If the first characteristic section 11 and the second characteristic section 12 are arranged in the direction in which the electromagnetic wave control member 10 extends, the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves can be controlled with a higher degree of freedom in the vertical and horizontal regions.

[0155] (14) If the first characteristic section 11 is located in the center of the width direction of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 and the second characteristic section 12 is located at the end of the width direction of the electromagnetic wave control member 10, then by making the characteristics different at the end, the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves can be controlled in a more diverse way, such as suppressing the bending of electromagnetic waves.

[0156] (15) If the electromagnetic wave control member 10 has a surface that reflects electromagnetic waves and a back surface that absorbs electromagnetic waves, the propagation region of reflected waves can be flexibly controlled while suppressing leakage of electromagnetic waves to the rear.

[0157] (16) If the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is equipped with a design layer 15, the design of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 can be improved. (17) If the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is transparent, the blocking of light by the electromagnetic wave control member 10 will be suppressed. In addition, the obstruction of the field of view of people near the electromagnetic wave control device 100 will be suppressed.

[0158] (18) If the angle of each electromagnetic wave control member 10 can be set individually, the propagation of electromagnetic waves can be controlled with a greater degree of freedom by setting the angles of multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 to be different.

[0159] (19) If the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is provided with a display that shows the angle numerically, the angle can be changed based on the numerical value, making it easy to set the angle of the electromagnetic wave control member 10, and also easy to reproduce the propagation conditions of electromagnetic waves when the electromagnetic wave control member 10 is set to a predetermined angle.

[0160] (20) If the modified electromagnetic wave control member 10 is provided with a structure to fix the angle, the desired electromagnetic wave propagation conditions can be stably maintained over a long period of time. (21) If the configuration allows for the control of changing at least one of the angle and spacing of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 by an electrical signal, the burden on the user to make these changes is reduced compared to when the angle and spacing of the electromagnetic wave control member 10 are changed manually.

[0161] (22) Multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 are arranged horizontally, and the support portion 20 supports the ends of the electromagnetic wave control members 10 so that the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control members 10 can be changed. With this configuration, the electromagnetic wave control device 100 can be kept from having a complex structure, and high versatility can be obtained because the azimuth angle can be changed.

[0162] (23) Multiple electromagnetic wave control members 10 are arranged vertically, and the support portion 20 supports the ends of the electromagnetic wave control members 10 so that the elevation angle of the electromagnetic wave control members 10 can be changed. With this configuration, the electromagnetic wave control device 100 can be kept from having a complex structure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0163] 10... Electromagnetic wave control component 11…First characteristic section 12...Second characteristic section 13…Table Characteristics Section 14… Hidden Characteristics Section 15…Design layer 20...Support part 21...Support 22…Connecting member 30... Frame part 40... Caster 50... Dial part 60…Angle fixing part 70... Control Unit

Claims

1. Multiple electromagnetic wave control members, It comprises a support portion that supports the electromagnetic wave control member, The electromagnetic wave control member has the function of controlling the direction of propagation of electromagnetic waves incident on the electromagnetic wave control member. The support portion supports the electromagnetic wave control member so that at least one of the azimuth angle and elevation angle of the electromagnetic wave control member can be changed. Electromagnetic wave control device.

2. The support portion supports the electromagnetic wave control members in such a way that the spacing between adjacent electromagnetic wave control members can be changed. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

3. The support portion comprises a support body extending in one direction, and by supporting the plurality of electromagnetic wave control members so as to be movable along the support body, the spacing between the electromagnetic wave control members can be changed. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 2.

4. The configuration allows for the aggregation of multiple electromagnetic wave control members by reducing the spacing between them. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 2.

5. The electromagnetic wave control member supported by the support portion is configured to be replaceable by attaching and detaching the electromagnetic wave control member. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

6. The plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include a target member which is an electromagnetic wave control member having a metasurface structure and reflecting the electromagnetic wave at an angle different from the incident angle. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

7. The metasurface structure comprises a reflection control region in which a plurality of unit cells that reflect electromagnetic waves at different phases are arranged, and the unit cells have a square shape. As viewed from a position on the target member opposite to the surface receiving the electromagnetic wave, the length in the first direction, which is the width direction of the target member, is greater than or equal to the length of one side of the unit cell, and the length in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction of the target member is greater than or equal to twice the length of one side of the unit cell. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 6.

8. The plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include a target member which is an electromagnetic wave control member that selectively reflects electromagnetic waves of a specific frequency and transmits electromagnetic waves of other frequencies. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

9. The plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include a target member which is an electromagnetic wave control member that selectively absorbs electromagnetic waves of a specific frequency and reflects electromagnetic waves of other frequencies. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

10. The plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include a target member which is an electromagnetic wave control member that changes the direction of propagation of electromagnetic waves that have passed through the electromagnetic wave control member to a direction different from the direction of propagation of the incident wave. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

11. The plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include a target member which is an electromagnetic wave control member that transmits a specific polarization. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

12. As viewed from a position on the target member opposite to the surface receiving the electromagnetic wave, the length in the first direction, which is the width direction of the target member, is greater than or equal to the maximum wavelength of the electromagnetic wave to be controlled, and the length in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction of the target member is greater than or equal to the length in the first direction. The electromagnetic wave control device according to any one of claims 8 to 11.

13. The plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include an electromagnetic wave control member having a curved surface. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

14. The plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include a target member which is an electromagnetic wave control member having a first characteristic portion and a second characteristic portion within one plane that receives the electromagnetic wave, The propagation mode of the electromagnetic wave incident on the first characteristic section and the propagation mode of the electromagnetic wave incident on the second characteristic section are different from each other. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

15. The first characteristic portion and the second characteristic portion are aligned along the direction in which the target member extends. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 14.

16. The first characteristic portion is located in the center of the width direction of the target member, The second characteristic portion is located at the end of the target member in the width direction. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 14.

17. The plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include a plate-shaped electromagnetic wave control member having a surface that reflects electromagnetic waves and a back surface that absorbs electromagnetic waves. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

18. The plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include an electromagnetic wave control member having a design layer. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

19. The plurality of electromagnetic wave control members include a transparent electromagnetic wave control member. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

20. The azimuth angle and elevation angle of the electromagnetic wave control member are configured to be changeable, and each electromagnetic wave control member is configured to be individually settable. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

21. The electromagnetic wave control member is provided with a display that numerically indicates the angle of the electromagnetic wave control member, for the angle of the azimuth angle and elevation angle, which are configured to be changeable. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

22. The electromagnetic wave control member is provided with a structure that fixes the angle of the electromagnetic wave control member after it has been changed, for the angle of the electromagnetic wave control member that is configured to be changeable among the azimuth angle and elevation angle. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

23. The electromagnetic wave control member includes a control unit that controls the change in the azimuth angle and elevation angle of the electromagnetic wave control member, which are configured to be changeable, using an electrical signal. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

24. The plurality of electromagnetic wave control members are arranged along the horizontal direction, The support portion supports the end of the electromagnetic wave control member so that the azimuth angle of the electromagnetic wave control member can be changed. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

25. The plurality of electromagnetic wave control members are arranged along the vertical direction, The support portion supports the end of the electromagnetic wave control member so that the elevation angle of the electromagnetic wave control member can be changed. The electromagnetic wave control device according to claim 1.

26. An electromagnetic wave control member attached to an electromagnetic wave control device, The electromagnetic wave control member has a function to control the direction of propagation of electromagnetic waves incident on it. The electromagnetic wave control member is mounted on the electromagnetic wave control device so that at least one of its azimuth angle and elevation angle can be changed. Electromagnetic wave control component.

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