Contactless Data Transmitter / Receiver

Abstract

To provide a contact-less data reception / transmission body which is less likely to cause damage to an antenna even when an external force is applied to the antenna.SOLUTION: An RFID tag 10 includes a substrate, a second antenna, and an exterior body 3. The exterior body 3 includes a body part 31 having a principal surface 31a, and a lid part 32 having a facing surface 32a. A receiving space 50 for receiving the second antenna which tilts in a direction approaching to and separating from the body part 31 and the lid part 32 is formed between the principal surface 31a and the facing surface 32a. The receiving space 50 has a shape where a separating distance between an inner surface 35a of the body part 31 and an inner surface 45a of the lid part 32 becomes larger in a direction toward side end edges 31b and 32b.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a contactless data transmitter / receiver. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags have been used for the purpose of distribution management, etc. An RFID tag includes, for example, an RFID chip and an antenna (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6399313 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The RFID tag mentioned above may have external forces applied to its antenna due to deformation of the object on which it is attached, etc. Therefore, there is a demand for contactless data transmitters and receivers whose antennas are less likely to be damaged even when external forces are applied to them.

[0005] An object of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide a contactless data transmitter / receiver in which an antenna is less likely to be damaged even when an external force is applied to the antenna. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One aspect of the present invention provides a contactless data transmitter / receiver comprising: a substrate having an RFID chip and a first antenna connected to the RFID chip; a second antenna separate from the substrate; a substrate holding portion for holding the substrate; and an exterior body having an antenna holding groove for holding the second antenna, wherein the second antenna is held in the antenna holding groove and comprises an electromagnetic field coupling portion that is electromagnetically coupled to the first antenna; and an extension portion that extends from an end of the electromagnetic field coupling portion and extends outward from a side edge of the exterior body; the exterior body comprises a main body portion having a main surface on which the substrate holding portion and the antenna holding groove are formed; and a lid portion having an opposing surface opposing the main surface and covering the main surface, wherein a receiving space is formed between the main surface and the opposing surface to receive the second antenna, the second antenna tilting in directions toward and away from the main body portion and the lid portion, and the receiving space is shaped so that the distance between the inner surface of the main body portion and the inner surface of the lid portion increases toward the side edge.

[0007] The receiving space is preferably formed so that the second antenna can tilt up to a maximum movable angle of 4 degrees to 12 degrees.

[0008] The inner surface of the receiving space is preferably curved so that the angle of inclination increases toward the side edge.

[0009] It is preferable that the receiving space has a cross section perpendicular to the first direction, passing through the side edges of one and the other of the exterior bodies, that forms a closed figure.

[0010] In the non-contact data transmitter / receiver, the main body and the lid may be formed with a notch to accommodate the second antenna, which tilts in a direction toward and away from the main body and the lid. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a non-contact data transmitter / receiver in which the antenna is less likely to be damaged even when an external force is applied to the antenna. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1A and 1B are a plan view and a front view, respectively, of an RFID tag according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view of an RFID tag according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the RFID tag with the cover of the exterior body open. [Figure 4] 1 is an exploded perspective view of an RFID tag according to a first embodiment. [Figure 5] 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of an RFID tag according to a first embodiment. [Figure 6] 1A is a plan view schematically showing an RFID tag according to a first embodiment, FIG. 1B is a front view schematically showing an RFID tag according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 1C is a side view schematically showing an RFID tag according to a first embodiment. [Figure 7] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating a first and second inclined posture of a second antenna in the RFID tag according to the first embodiment, respectively. [Figure 8] 1A is a plan view schematically showing an RFID tag according to a second embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a front view schematically showing an RFID tag according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a first and second inclined posture of a second antenna in an RFID tag according to a second embodiment, respectively. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] [Non-contact data transmitter / receiver] (first embodiment) FIG. 1(A) is a plan view of a non-contact data transmitter / receiver 10 according to the first embodiment. A non-contact data transmitter / receiver is sometimes called an "RFID tag." FIG. 1(B) is a front view of the RFID tag 10. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the RFID tag 10. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the RFID tag 10 with the cover 32 of the exterior body 3 open. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the RFID tag 10. FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of the RFID tag 10. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II of FIG. 2.

[0014] As shown in FIGS. 1(A), 1(B), and 2, the RFID tag 10 includes a substrate 1, a second antenna 2, and an exterior body 3. The longitudinal direction (left-right direction in FIG. 1(A)) of the main surface 31a of the exterior body 3 (see FIG. 3) is referred to as the X direction. One of the X directions (rightward in FIG. 1(A)) is referred to as the +X direction. The other of the X directions (leftward in FIG. 1(A)) is referred to as the -X direction. The short-side direction of the main surface 31a of the exterior body 3 (see FIG. 3) is referred to as the Y direction. The Y direction is perpendicular to the X direction in a plane along the main surface 31a. One of the Y directions (upward in FIG. 1(A)) is referred to as the +Y direction. The other of the Y directions (downward in FIG. 1(A)) is referred to as the -Y direction. The direction perpendicular to the main surface 31a of the exterior body 3 is referred to as the Z direction. The Z direction is perpendicular to the X and Y directions.

[0015] "Outward in the X direction" is the direction in which one side edge 31b and the other side edge 31b of the main body 31 move away from each other (for example, the direction from the center in the X direction toward the side edges 31b, 31b). "Inward in the X direction" is the direction in which one side edge 31b and the other side edge 31b of the main body 31 move closer to each other (for example, the direction from the side edges 31b, 31b toward the center in the X direction). A view from the Z direction is called a plan view. A view from the X direction is called a side view. The Z axis is the central axis along the Z direction. A plane along the X and Y directions is called an XY plane. A plane along the Y and Z directions is called a YZ plane. A plane along the X and Z directions is called an XZ plane. The X direction is a first direction connecting one side edge 31b, 32b and the other side edge 31b, 32b of the exterior body 3. The Z direction is a second direction perpendicular to the main surface 31a.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 3, the substrate 1 includes an RFID chip 11, a first antenna 12, and a base material 13.

[0017] The substrate 13 is formed in a plate shape. The shape of the substrate 13 in a plan view is not particularly limited, but it is preferable that at least a part of the outer peripheral edge 13a is curved. Examples of the curved shape include an elliptical arc shape, a circular arc shape, and a high-order curve shape (e.g., a quadratic curve shape). Examples of the high-order curve shape include a parabolic shape and a hyperbolic shape. The outer shape of the substrate 13 in a plan view may be, for example, an elliptical shape, a circular shape, an oval shape (a racetrack shape), or the like. It is preferable that the outer shape of the substrate 13 in a plan view is non-circular. In this embodiment, the substrate 13 has an elliptical shape. The substrate 13 is oriented with its major axis oriented in the X direction. The substrate 13 may be made of a glass epoxy resin substrate, a ceramic substrate, a plastic film, or the like.

[0018] Information can be written to and read from the RFID chip 11 in a non-contact manner via the first antenna 12 and the second antenna 2. The RFID chip 11 is mounted on a substrate 13.

[0019] The first antenna 12 is, for example, a conductive layer formed on one surface of the substrate 13. The conductive layer is, for example, composed of a conductive foil, a plating layer, a conductive ink layer, or the like. The conductive foil is, for example, a metal foil composed of copper, silver, gold, platinum, aluminum, or the like. The conductive foil is formed into a predetermined shape by etching or the like. The plating layer is, for example, composed of a metal such as copper, silver, gold, platinum, aluminum, or the like. The conductive ink layer is formed by printing or the like using a conductive ink. The conductive ink contains conductive particles formed of a metal, carbon material, or the like.

[0020] The first antenna 12 is formed in a loop shape. The first antenna 12 has, for example, a curved shape that follows the outer peripheral edge 13a of the base material 13. In this embodiment, the first antenna 12 is formed in an elliptical loop shape. The first antenna 12 is electrically connected to the RFID chip 11.

[0021] The second antenna 2 is an antenna for a booster. The second antenna 2 is, for example, a linear body. The second antenna 2 is formed of a metal such as steel, stainless steel, copper, or a copper alloy. The second antenna 2 can be formed of, for example, a brass-plated steel wire. The second antenna 2 is separate from the substrate 1. Although the second antenna 2 in this embodiment is a linear body, the shape of the second antenna is not particularly limited. The second antenna may be, for example, a plate-like body.

[0022] The second antenna 2 includes an electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 and a pair of extension portions 22 . Electromagnetic field coupling unit 21 has a curved shape. A "curved shape" is a shape that curves smoothly without any sharp bends. Examples of curved shapes include an elliptical arc shape, a circular arc shape, and a high-order curve shape (e.g., a quadratic curve shape). Examples of "high-order curve shapes" include a parabolic shape and a hyperbolic shape. In this embodiment, electromagnetic field coupling unit 21 has a semi-elliptical shape. More specifically, electromagnetic field coupling unit 21 has a semi-elliptical shape that extends from one vertex (the vertex on the major axis) of the ellipse to the other vertex (the vertex on the major axis).

[0023] In a plan view, electromagnetic field coupling unit 21 has a shape that surrounds at least a part of substrate 1. In this embodiment, electromagnetic field coupling unit 21 surrounds the range from one vertex (vertex on the major axis) of elliptical substrate 1 to the other vertex (vertex on the major axis) (half the circumference on the +Y direction side).

[0024] In a plan view, electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 has a curved shape (for example, an elliptical arc shape) that follows outer peripheral edge 12a of first antenna 12. The distance between electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 and outer peripheral edge 12a is approximately constant. In a plan view, electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 is located outside outer peripheral edge 13a of substrate 1 and close to outer peripheral edge 13a. In a plan view, electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 has a shape that follows outer peripheral edge 13a. The distance between electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 and outer peripheral edge 13a is approximately constant.

[0025] The electromagnetic field coupling unit 21 is electromagnetically coupled to the first antenna 12 in a non-contact manner. The electromagnetic field coupling is, for example, one of electric field coupling and magnetic field coupling. The shape of a cross section of the electromagnetic field coupling unit 21 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is, for example, circular (see FIG. 5).

[0026] The pair of extensions 22 extend from one and the other end 21a of the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21, respectively. First extending portion 22A (see FIG. 1A), which is one of the pair of extending portions 22, extends in the −X direction while meandering from end portion 21a of electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 in the −X direction. Second extending portion 22B (see FIG. 1A), which is the other of the pair of extending portions 22, extends in the +X direction while meandering from end portion 21a of electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 in the +X direction.

[0027] The extending portion 22 has a meandering shape in plan view. 4, the extending portion 22 includes a plurality of straight portions 23 and a plurality of folded portions 24. The straight portions 23 are linearly shaped along the Y direction. The straight portions 23 are arranged in parallel with each other at intervals in the X direction. The straight portions 23 have the same length. The folded portions 24 connect the ends of adjacent straight portions 23. Specifically, the folded portions 24 alternately connect one end and the other end of adjacent straight portions 23. The folded portions 24 have a curved shape (for example, an arc shape).

[0028] Of the multiple straight line portions 23, the straight line portion 23 that is closest to the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 is referred to as the "first straight line portion 23A." Of the multiple straight line portions 23, the straight line portion 23 that is second closest to the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 is referred to as the "second straight line portion 23B." Of the multiple straight line portions 23, the straight line portion 23 that is third closest to the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 is referred to as the "third straight line portion 23C." Of the multiple straight line portions 23, the straight line portion 23 that is n-th (n is an integer greater than or equal to 1) closest to the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 is referred to as the "n-th straight line portion 23."

[0029] The folded portion 24 connecting the first straight portion 23A and the second straight portion 23B is referred to as the "first folded portion 24A." The folded portion 24 connecting the second straight portion 23B and the third straight portion 23C is referred to as the "second folded portion 24B." The folded portion 24 connecting the m-th straight portion 23 (m is an integer of 1 or more) and the (m+1)-th straight portion 23 is referred to as the "m-th folded portion 24."

[0030] The first straight portion 23A extends in the −Y direction from the end 21a of the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21. The first folded portion 24A curves and extends from the −Y direction end of the first straight portion 23A and reaches the −Y direction end of the second straight portion 23B. The first folded portion 24A connects one end (−Y direction end) of the first straight portion 23A and the second straight portion 23B to each other. The second folded portion 24B connects the other end (+Y direction end) of the second straight portion 23B and the third straight portion 23C to each other. The pth folded portion 24 (p is an odd number) connects one end (−Y direction end) of the pth straight portion 23 and the p+1th straight portion 23 to each other. The q-th folded portion 24 (q is an even number) connects the other end portions (end portions in the +Y direction) of the q-th straight portion 23 and the q+1-th straight portion 23 together.

[0031] Of the extension portion 22, for example, the first straight portion 23A, the first folded portion 24A, the second straight portion 23B, and a portion of the second folded portion 24B are located within the outer casing 3, while the remaining portions of the extension portion 22 extend outside the outer casing 3 from the side edges 31b, 32b of the outer casing 3 (see Figures 3 and 4). It is sufficient that a portion of the extension portion 22 is disposed inside the exterior body 3 .

[0032] 2, the exterior body 3 includes a plate-shaped main body 31, a plate-shaped lid 32, and a connecting portion 41. The exterior body 3 is generally plate-shaped. The main body 31, the lid 32, and the connecting portion 41 are formed of, for example, a resin. Examples of resins include polyamide resins such as nylon 6 and nylon 66; polyester resins such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET); polyethylene; polyolefin resins; polyethylene fluoride-based resins such as polyvinyl fluoride; vinyl polymers such as polyvinyl chloride; and acrylic resins such as polymethyl methacrylate.

[0033] The main body 31, the lid 32, and the connecting portion 41 are integrally formed. Therefore, the lid 32 is integrally formed with the main body 31 via the connecting portion 41. The exterior body 3 can be produced by compression molding, injection molding, or the like.

[0034] 4, the main body 31 has a rectangular shape in a plan view. A substrate holding recess 37 (substrate holding portion), an antenna holding groove 34, and a pair of accommodating recesses 35 are formed on a main surface 31a, which is one surface of the main body 31. The substrate holding recess 37 is formed by the substrate holding protrusions 33. The substrate holding recess 37 is a recess surrounded by the substrate holding protrusions 33.

[0035] The substrate holding protrusion 33 is an annular rib-shaped protrusion. The substrate holding protrusion 33 has a curved shape (for example, an elliptical shape) that follows the outer peripheral edge 13a of the substrate 1. The substrate holding protrusion 33 protrudes from the main surface 31a in the +Z direction. The shape of a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the substrate holding protrusion 33 is, for example, rectangular. In a plan view, the substrate holding protrusion 33 has a curved shape (for example, an elliptical shape) that follows the outer peripheral edge 12a of the first antenna 12.

[0036] The substrate holding recess 37 holds the substrate 1. The substrate holding recess 37 has a shape (for example, an elliptical shape) that follows the outer peripheral edge 13a of the substrate 1. The inner dimension (inner diameter) of the substrate holding recess 37 is approximately the same as the outer dimension (outer diameter) of the substrate 1, or is slightly larger than the outer dimension (outer diameter) of the substrate 1. The substrate holding recess 37 has a similar shape to the substrate 1 in a plan view.

[0037] If the substrate 1 and the substrate holding recess 37 are non-circular (for example, elliptical), they can prevent the substrate 1 from tilting around the Z axis and maintain the correct posture of the substrate 1. As a result, the electromagnetic coupling between the first antenna 12 and the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 can be maintained.

[0038] The antenna holding groove 34 accommodates the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 of the second antenna 2 (see FIGS. 3 and 5). The antenna holding groove 34 is formed on the outer side of the substrate holding protrusion 33 and in close proximity to the substrate holding protrusion 33. In a plan view, the antenna holding groove 34 has a shape that follows the substrate holding protrusion 33. In a plan view, the antenna holding groove 34 has a curved shape (for example, an elliptical arc shape) that follows the outer peripheral edge 12a of the first antenna 12. In a plan view, the antenna holding groove 34 has a curved shape (for example, an elliptical arc shape) that follows the outer peripheral edge 13a of the substrate 1. The antenna holding groove 34 has a semi-elliptical shape in a plan view. More specifically, the antenna holding groove 34 has a semi-elliptical shape that extends from one vertex (the vertex on the long axis) of the ellipse to the other vertex (the vertex on the long axis).

[0039] In a plan view, the antenna holding groove 34 has a shape that surrounds at least a part of the substrate 1. In this embodiment, the antenna holding groove 34 surrounds the range from one vertex (vertex on the major axis) of the elliptical substrate 1 to the other vertex (vertex on the major axis) (a range of half the circumference on the +Y direction side).

[0040] 5, the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the antenna holding groove 34 is, for example, rectangular. The width (inner dimension) W1 of the antenna holding groove 34 is larger than the outer diameter (outer dimension) D1 of the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21. The difference between the width W1 and the outer diameter D1 can be, for example, 0.01 mm to 1 mm (preferably 0.05 mm to 0.2 mm). Because the width W1 of the antenna holding groove 34 is larger than the outer diameter D1 of the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21, the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 is accommodated in the antenna holding groove 34 in a state in which it can be displaced in a radial direction (for example, the Y direction). The "radial direction" is a direction perpendicular to the length direction of the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21. The electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 can also be displaced in the length direction relative to the antenna holding groove 34.

[0041] The depth of the antenna holding groove 34 is determined so that the height (inner dimension) H1 from the bottom surface 34a of the antenna holding groove 34 to the lid portion 32 (top surface 38a) is greater than the outer diameter D1 of the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21. The difference between the height H1 and the outer diameter D1 can be, for example, 0.01 mm to 1 mm (preferably 0.05 mm to 0.2 mm). Since height H1 of antenna holding groove is greater than outer diameter D1 of electromagnetic field coupling portion 21, electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 is accommodated in antenna holding groove in a state where it can be displaced in the wire diameter direction (for example, Z direction).

[0042] As shown in Fig. 4, the pair of accommodating recesses 35 are formed on one side and the other side of the main surface 31a, respectively. The accommodating recess 35 is formed in communication with the antenna holding groove 34 (i.e., continuous with the antenna holding groove 34). The accommodating recess 35 is formed in an area that includes at least a portion of the side edge 31b of the main body 31 in a plan view. The side edge 31b is an edge at which the extending portion 22 protrudes out from the exterior body 3 in a plan view. In other words, the extending portion 22 extends out from the exterior body 3 from the side edge 31b.

[0043] Fig. 6(A) is a plan view schematically showing the RFID tag 10. Fig. 6(B) is a front view schematically showing the RFID tag 10. Fig. 6(C) is a side view schematically showing the RFID tag 10.

[0044] As shown in Figures 4 and 6(B), the accommodation recess 35 is a recess whose depth from the main surface 31a increases toward the side edge 31b. That is, the accommodation recess 35 is a recess whose depth gradually increases outward in the X direction. This shape of the accommodation recess 35 makes it easier for the second antenna 2 to assume an inclined posture (see Figures 7(A) and 7(B)). The distance between the inner surface 35a of the accommodation recess 35 and the opposing surface 32a of the lid portion 32 increases toward the side edge 31b.

[0045] 6(B), the inner surface 35a (bottom surface) of the accommodation recess 35 may have a curved shape (curved convex shape) that is increasingly inclined relative to the main surface 31a as it extends outward in the X direction. The cross-sectional shape of the accommodation recess 35 along the XZ plane is, for example, an elliptical arc shape or a circular arc shape. Note that the cross-sectional shape of the inner surface 35a (bottom surface) along the XZ plane is not limited to a curved convex shape, and may also be a linear shape.

[0046] 6(A), the shape of the accommodation recess 35 in plan view may be, for example, an expanding shape in which the width (dimension in the Y direction) gradually increases outward in the X direction. Note that the shape of the accommodation recess 35 in plan view is not limited to an expanding shape, and the width (dimension in the Y direction) may be constant. 6(C), the shape of the accommodating recess 35 in a side view may be, for example, a curved shape (curved concave shape). The shape of the accommodating recess 35 in a side view may be, for example, a semi-elliptical shape, an elliptical arc shape, an arc shape, etc. Note that the shape of the accommodating recess in a side view is not limited to a curved concave shape and may also be a rectangular shape.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 4, two locking recesses 39 are formed on the edge 31c of the main body 31 in the +Y direction at different positions in the X direction.

[0048] 2, the lid portion 32 has a rectangular shape in a plan view. The lid portion 32 has the same shape as the main body portion 31 in a plan view. When the lid portion 32 is in a closed state, it faces the main surface 31a of the main body portion 31. When the lid portion 32 is in a closed state, it overlaps with the main surface 31a of the main body portion 31 in a plan view.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 5, the opposing surface 32a of the lid portion 32 is a surface that faces the main surface 31a of the main body portion 31 in the closed state. The opposing surface 32a is formed with a positioning groove 38 and a pair of accommodation recesses 45 (see FIG. 4). The positioning groove 38 is, for example, an annular groove. The cross section of the positioning groove 38 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction thereof is, for example, rectangular.

[0050] The positioning groove 38 has a curved shape (for example, an elliptical shape) that corresponds to the board holding protrusion 33 and the antenna holding groove 34. In a plan view, the positioning groove 38 has a width that collectively encompasses the board holding protrusion 33 and the antenna holding groove 34. A portion of the top surface 38a of the positioning groove 38 faces the bottom surface 34a of the antenna holding groove 34.

[0051] As shown in Fig. 4, the accommodation recesses 45 are formed on one and the other side portions of the opposing surface 32a, respectively. The accommodation recesses 45 are formed in communication with (i.e., continuous with) the positioning groove 38 (see Fig. 5). The accommodation recesses 45 are formed in an area that includes at least a portion of the side edge 32b of the lid portion 32 in a plan view. The side edge 32b is the edge at which the extension portion 22 protrudes outward from the exterior body 3 in a plan view. That is, the extension portion 22 extends outward from the exterior body 3 from the side edge 32b.

[0052] As shown in Figures 4 and 6(B), the accommodating recess 45 is a recess whose depth from the opposing surface 32a increases toward the side edge 32b. That is, the accommodating recess 45 is a recess whose depth gradually increases outward in the X direction. This shape of the accommodating recess 45 makes it easier for the second antenna 2 to assume an inclined posture (see Figures 7(A) and 7(B)). The distance between the inner surface 45a of the accommodating recess 45 and the main surface 31a of the main body 31 increases toward the side edge 32b.

[0053] 6(B), the inner surface 45a (bottom surface) of the accommodation recess 45 may have a curved shape (convex curved shape) that is inclined more gradually relative to the opposing surface 32a as it extends outward in the X direction. The cross-sectional shape of the accommodation recess 45 along the XZ plane may be, for example, an elliptical arc shape or a circular arc shape. The cross-sectional shape of the inner surface 45a (bottom surface) along the XZ plane is not limited to a curved convex shape, but may be a straight shape.

[0054] 6(A), the shape of the accommodation recess 45 in plan view may be, for example, an expanding shape in which the width (dimension in the Y direction) gradually increases outward in the X direction. Note that the shape of the accommodation recess 45 in plan view is not limited to an expanding shape, and the width (dimension in the Y direction) may be constant. 6(C), the shape of the accommodating recess 45 in a side view may be, for example, a curved shape (curved concave shape). The shape of the accommodating recess 45 in a side view may be, for example, a semi-elliptical shape, an elliptical arc shape, an arc shape, etc. Note that the shape of the accommodating recess 45 in a side view is not limited to a curved concave shape and may also be a rectangular shape.

[0055] The accommodation recess 35 of the main body 31 and the accommodation recess 45 of the lid 32 face each other. The accommodation recesses 35 and 45 form a receiving space 50. The receiving space 50 is a space in which the distance between the inner surfaces 35a and 45a gradually increases toward the side edges 31b and 32b. The receiving space 50 can accommodate the second antenna 2 tilting toward and away from the main body 31 and the lid 32 (see FIGS. 7(A) and 7(B)).

[0056] A cross section (YZ cross section) of the receiving space 50 perpendicular to the X direction (first direction) forms a closed figure. In this embodiment, the YZ cross section of the receiving space 50 forms a closed figure formed by two curved concave shapes facing each other. The YZ cross section shape of the receiving space 50 may be, for example, an oval shape, an ellipse shape, or the like. The YZ cross section shape of the receiving space 50 may also be a rectangle.

[0057] Since the YZ cross section of the receptive space 50 forms a closed figure, tilting of the second antenna 2 in the XY plane can be restricted. This makes it possible to stabilize the attitude of the second antenna 2 with respect to the substrate 1. This makes it possible to optimize the distance between the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 and the first antenna 12.

[0058] Because the accommodation recesses 35, 45 are spaced apart in the Y direction by a sufficient distance, a slit-shaped side end opening 36 (see FIG. 2) extending in the Y direction is formed in the side end edges 31b, 32b. The side end opening 36 is an opening to the accommodation space 50 formed in the side end edges 31b, 32b. The dimension of the side end opening 36 in the thickness direction (Z direction) is preferably greater than the wire diameter of the extension portion 22. The second antenna 2 (more specifically, the extension portion 22) extends out of the exterior body 3 through the side end opening 36.

[0059] 6(B), the inner surface of the antenna holding groove 34 preferably has a curved convex shape (for example, an elliptical arc shape) that smoothly continues with the accommodation recess 35. The inner surface of the positioning groove 38 preferably has a curved convex shape (for example, an elliptical arc shape) that smoothly continues with the accommodation recess 45.

[0060] Since the storage recess 35 has a shape that increases in depth toward the side edge 31b, the main surface 31a of the main body 31 has a region (inner surface 35a) where the separation distance from the opposing surface 32a increases toward the side edge 31b. Since the storage recess 45 has a shape that increases in depth toward the side edge 32b, the opposing surface 32a of the lid 32 has a region (inner surface 45a) where the separation distance from the main surface 31a increases toward the side edge 32b.

[0061] In this embodiment, both the main surface and the opposing surface have regions where the distance between them increases toward the side edges, but the configuration of these regions is not limited to this. The regions may be present on at least one of the main surface and the opposing surface. For example, a region where the distance between them increases toward the side edges may be formed on only one of the main surface and the opposing surface. In more detail, the exterior body may be configured such that a storage recess is formed on the main surface of the main body portion, but no storage recess is formed on the opposing surface of the lid portion. The exterior body may be configured such that a storage recess is not formed on the main surface of the main body portion, but a storage recess is formed on the opposing surface of the lid portion.

[0062] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, two locking projections 40 are formed on the edge 32c of the cover 32 in the +Y direction at different positions in the X direction. The locking protrusion 40 has a locking claw portion (not shown) formed at its tip. The locking protrusion 40 is inserted into the locking recess 39 (see FIG. 3) of the main body 31. The locking claw portion of the locking protrusion 40 is locked to the main body 31. As a result, the lid 32 is joined to the main body 31.

[0063] The connecting portion 41 is formed in a sheet or plate shape. The connecting portion 41 connects the edge 31d of the main body portion 31 in the -Y direction and the edge 32d of the lid portion 32 in the -Y direction. The connecting portion 41 has bending elasticity in the thickness direction. The lid portion 32 covers the main surface 31a in an openable and closable manner by the elastic bending of the connecting portion 41 (see Figures 2 and 3). The connecting portion 41 applies a large elastic repulsive force to the main body portion 31 and the lid portion 32 in a direction that opens the main surface 31a by virtue of its bending elasticity. The connecting portion 41 is formed, for example, thinner than the main body portion 31 and the lid portion 32.

[0064] When the cover 32 is in the open state (see FIG. 3), the main surface 31a of the main body 31 is exposed. When the lid portion 32 is in the closed state (see FIG. 2), the lid portion 32 overlaps the main surface 31a of the main body portion 31 and covers the main surface 31a when viewed from the Z direction. In the state shown in FIG. 2, the connecting portion 41 is bent. The locking protrusion 40 of the lid portion 32 locks into the locking recess 39 of the main body portion 31, thereby maintaining the exterior body 3 in the closed state with the lid portion 32.

[0065] The exterior body 3 is not fixed to the second antenna 2. In other words, the exterior body 3 is not fixed to the second antenna 2.

[0066] 1(A) and 1(B), a reference line L1 is defined for the second antenna 2. The reference line L1 is a line that passes through the midpoints of the straight line portions 23 in the length direction. As shown in FIG. 1(B), the second antenna 2 is displaceable with respect to the exterior body 3. The second antenna 2 can take a basic position P1, a first inclined position P2, and a second inclined position P3. The second antenna 2 can also take an intermediate position between the basic position P1 and the first inclined position P2. The second antenna 2 can also take an intermediate position between the basic position P1 and the second inclined position P3.

[0067] The basic posture P1 is a posture in which the reference line L1 is along the X direction. The first tilted attitude P2 is an attitude in which the second antenna 2 rotates counterclockwise in the XZ plane with respect to the basic attitude P1 and is tilted so that the reference line L1 slopes downward to the left in Fig. 1(B). The first tilted attitude P2 is an attitude in which the second antenna 2 is displaced most counterclockwise.

[0068] 7(A), a portion of the second antenna 2 in the first inclined attitude P2 is received in the receiving space 50. In the first inclined attitude P2, a portion of the second antenna 2 abuts against a portion of the exterior body 3, and counterclockwise rotation is restricted. The change in attitude from the basic attitude P1 to the first inclined attitude P2 is the tilting of the second antenna 2 in directions toward and away from the main body 31 and the lid 32.

[0069] The first inclined posture P2 is, for example, a posture in which a portion of the extension portion 22 abuts against the inner surfaces of the accommodation recesses 35, 45, restricting counterclockwise rotation. The first inclined posture P2 may also be a posture in which the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 abuts against the inner surfaces of the antenna holding groove 34 and the positioning groove 38, restricting counterclockwise rotation.

[0070] The second tilted posture P3 is a posture in which the second antenna 2 rotates clockwise with respect to the basic posture P1 and is tilted so that the reference line L1 slopes downward to the right in Fig. 1(B). The second tilted posture P3 is a posture in which the second antenna 2 is displaced most clockwise.

[0071] 7(B), a portion of the second antenna 2 in the second inclined posture P3 is received in the receiving space 50. In the second inclined posture P3, a portion of the second antenna 2 abuts against a portion of the exterior body 3, and clockwise rotation is restricted. The posture change from the basic posture P1 to the second inclined posture P3 is the tilting of the second antenna 2 in directions toward and away from the main body 31 and the lid 32.

[0072] The second inclined posture P3 is, for example, a posture in which a part of the extension portion 22 abuts against the inner surfaces of the accommodation recesses 35, 45, restricting clockwise rotation. The second inclined posture P3 may also be a posture in which the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 abuts against the inner surfaces of the antenna holding groove 34 and the positioning groove 38, restricting clockwise rotation.

[0073] The movement of the second antenna 2 transitioning from the basic posture P1 to the first inclined posture P2 can be considered to be a rotational movement around a rotation axis A1 (see FIG. 1(B)) along the Y direction. The movement of the second antenna 2 transitioning from the basic posture P1 to the second inclined posture P3 can also be considered to be a rotational movement around the rotation axis A1. For example, in a plan view, the rotation axis A1 passes through the center of the substrate 1. For example, in a plan view, the rotation axis A1 passes through the center of the exterior body 3 in the X direction.

[0074] The inclination angle of the reference line L1 in the first inclined attitude P2 relative to the reference line L1 in the basic attitude P1, and the inclination angle of the reference line L1 in the second inclined attitude P3 relative to the reference line L1 in the basic attitude P1 are referred to as "θ." θ may be, for example, 2 to 6 degrees. Therefore, the maximum movable angle when the second antenna 2 rotates around the rotation axis A1 is preferably twice the inclination angle θ, i.e., 4 to 12 degrees.

[0075] If the maximum movable angle (2θ) is 4 degrees or more, when an external force acts on the second antenna 2, the second antenna 2 can be displaced in response to the external force. This can prevent stress concentration at the base end portion of the extension portion 22. Therefore, for example, damage to the base end portion of the extension portion 22 is less likely to occur. If the maximum movable angle (2θ) is 12 degrees or less, the posture of the second antenna 2 with respect to the substrate 1 can be stabilized, and the distance between the electromagnetic field coupling part 21 and the first antenna 12 becomes appropriate. Therefore, the electromagnetic field coupling between the electromagnetic field coupling part 21 and the first antenna 12 becomes good.

[0076] The RFID tag 10 can be attached to an article to which it is to be attached. The RFID tag 10 may be attached to the surface of the article or may be embedded in the article. For example, if the article is deformed, an external force may act on the second antenna 2. For example, an external force may act on the extension portion 22 in a direction that rotates it about the rotation axis A1. A tensile force may act on the extension portion 22 in a direction that moves it away from the exterior body 3 along the X direction. An external force may act on the extension portion 22 in a direction that moves it closer to the exterior body 3 along the X direction.

[0077] [Advantages of the RFID tag of the first embodiment] In the RFID tag 10, a receiving space 50 (see FIG. 6(B)) for receiving the tilting second antenna 2 is formed between the main surface 31a and the opposing surface 32a of the exterior body 3, so that when an external force acts on the extension portion 22, the second antenna 2 can tilt in response to the external force. This can prevent stress concentration at the base end portion of the extension portion 22. Therefore, damage to the second antenna 2 (for example, the base end portion of the extension portion 22) is unlikely to occur. In contrast, when the second antenna 2 is fixed to the exterior body 3, when an external force acts on the second antenna 2, stress is concentrated at the base end portion of the extension portion 22, which may make the second antenna 2 more susceptible to damage at this point.

[0078] The inner surfaces 35a, 45a of the receiving space 50 are curved surfaces that are inclined at an increasing angle toward the side edges 31b, 32b, thereby suppressing stress concentration at the points where the second antenna 2 abuts, making the second antenna 2 less likely to break.

[0079] Since the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 of the second antenna 2 has a shape that follows the outer periphery 12 a of the first antenna 12 , the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 can be electromagnetically coupled to the first antenna 12 sufficiently. Since the antenna holding groove 34 is formed along the outer peripheral edge 12a of the first antenna 12, the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 of the second antenna 2 can be disposed along the first antenna 12. Therefore, the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 can be sufficiently electromagnetically coupled to the first antenna 12.

[0080] Since the electromagnetic field coupling portion 21 of the second antenna 2 has a curved shape (for example, a semi-elliptical shape), stress concentration is less likely to occur compared to a rectangular shape even when an external force acts on the second antenna 2. This makes it possible to make the second antenna 2 less likely to be damaged.

[0081] [Non-contact data transmitter / receiver] (Second embodiment) Fig. 8(A) is a plan view schematically showing an RFID tag 110 according to the second embodiment. Fig. 8(B) is a front view schematically showing the RFID tag 110. Components common to the RFID tag 10 of the first embodiment shown in Figs. 6(A) and 6(B) are given the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0082] 8(A) and 8(B), the RFID tag 110 differs from the RFID tag 10 of the first embodiment shown in Figures 6(A) and 6(B) in that a pair of body notches 61 are formed in the body part 31 and a pair of lid notches 62 are formed in the lid part 32. The body notches 61 and the lid notches 62 are examples of "notches."

[0083] The pair of main body cutouts 61 are formed on one and the other side portions of the main body portion 31. In a plan view, the main body cutouts 61 are formed in an area that includes a part of the side edge 31b of the main body portion 31. The main body cutouts 61 are formed in a part of the side edge 31b in a concave shape that faces inward in the X direction. For example, the main body cutout 61 has a trapezoidal shape in plan view that narrows inward in the X direction. The shape of the main body cutout in plan view is not particularly limited, and may be semicircular, V-shaped, U-shaped, or the like.

[0084] As shown in FIGS. 9(A) and 9(B), the main body notch 61 can accommodate the second antenna 2 that tilts toward and away from the main body part 31 and the lid part 32.

[0085] 8(A) and 8(B), a pair of lid notches 62 are formed on one side and the other side of the lid notch 62, respectively. The lid notch 62 is formed in an area that includes a part of the side edge 32b of the lid portion 32 in a plan view. The lid notch 62 is formed in a recessed shape that faces inward in the X direction in a part of the side edge 32b. For example, in a plan view, the lid notch 62 has a trapezoidal shape that narrows inward in the X direction. Note that the shape of the lid notch in a plan view is not particularly limited, and may be semicircular, V-shaped, U-shaped, or the like. The main body notch 61 and the lid notch 62 have the same shape. The main body notch 61 and the lid notch 62 are formed at positions that overlap in a plan view.

[0086] As shown in FIGS. 9(A) and 9(B), the cover notch 62 can accommodate the second antenna 2 that tilts toward and away from the main body 31 and the cover 32.

[0087] [Effects of the RFID tag of the second embodiment] In the RFID tag 110, a receiving space 50 (see FIG. 8(B)) is formed between the main surface 31a and the opposing surface 32a of the exterior body 3, so when an external force acts on the extension portion 22, the second antenna 2 can tilt in response to the external force. This makes it possible to suppress stress concentration at the base end portion of the extension portion 22. Therefore, damage to the second antenna 2 is unlikely to occur.

[0088] In the RFID tag 110, a main body notch 61 is formed in the main body 31, and a lid notch 62 is formed in the lid 32. The main body notch 61 and the lid notch 62 can accommodate the tilting second antenna 2. This allows the second antenna 2 to tilt to a greater extent. This makes it possible to suppress stress concentration in the extension portion 22. This makes it even more unlikely that the second antenna 2 will be damaged.

[0089] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the configurations and combinations thereof in the embodiments are merely examples, and additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications of the configurations are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, in the RFID tag 10 of the embodiment, the main body 31 and the lid 32 of the exterior body 3 are connected, but the main body and the lid may be separate bodies. In the RFID tag 10, the exterior body 3 includes a main body 31 and a lid 32, but the configuration of the exterior body is not particularly limited. For example, the exterior body does not have to include a lid. In the RFID tag 10, the extension 22 has a meander shape, but the shape of the extension is not particularly limited. The extension may be, for example, linear, rectangular plate-like, rectangular frame-like, or the like. [Explanation of symbols]

[0090] 1...substrate, 2...second antenna, 3...exterior body, 10,110...RFID tag (contactless data transmitter / receiver), 11...RFID chip, 12...first antenna, 12a...outer periphery, 21...electromagnetic field coupling portion, 21a...end, 22...extension portion, 31...main body portion, 31a...main surface, 31b...side edge, 32...lid portion, 32a...opposing surface, 32b...side edge, 34...antenna holding groove, 35,45...accommodating recess, 35a,45a...inner surface, 37...substrate holding recess (substrate holding portion), 50...receiving space, 61...main body notch (notch), 62...lid notch (notch).

Claims

1. a substrate provided with an RFID chip and a first antenna connected to the RFID chip; a second antenna separate from the substrate; an exterior body having a substrate holding portion for holding the substrate and an antenna holding groove for holding the second antenna formed therein; Equipped with The second antenna is an electromagnetic field coupling portion held in the antenna holding groove and electromagnetically coupled to the first antenna; an extension portion extending from an end of the electromagnetic field coupling portion and extending outward from a side edge of the exterior body, The exterior body is a main body having a main surface on which the substrate holding portion and the antenna holding groove are formed; a lid portion having an opposing surface facing the main surface and covering the main surface, a receiving space for receiving the second antenna, which tilts in a direction toward and away from the main body and the lid, is formed between the main surface and the opposing surface; The receiving space has a shape in which the distance between the inner surface of the main body and the inner surface of the lid increases toward the side edge. Contactless data transmitter and receiver.

2. 2. The non-contact data transmitter / receiver according to claim 1, wherein the receiving space is formed so that the maximum tilt angle of the second antenna is 4 degrees to 12 degrees.

3. 3. The contactless data transmitter / receiver according to claim 1, wherein the inner surface of the receiving space is curved so that the angle of inclination increases toward the side edge.

4. 4. The non-contact data transmitter / receiver according to claim 1, wherein the receiving space has a cross section passing through the side edges of the one and other of the exterior bodies and perpendicular to the first direction, the cross section forming a closed figure.

5. A non-contact data transmitter / receiver as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the main body and the lid have notches formed therein to accommodate the second antenna, which tilts toward and away from the main body and the lid.

Images