Transmitters and Systems

Abstract

To perform wireless power supply without interfering with other communications and efficiently suppressing processing load. The transmitter includes a control unit and a transmission antenna. The control unit generates a power supply signal having a frequency in a guard band of a frequency channel used in another wireless communication in space or in a guard band of a frequency channel used in a pre-stored predetermined wireless communication. The transmission antenna transmits the generated power supply signal.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a transmitter and a system. [Background technology]

[0002] In Patent Document 1, one or more available frequencies are detected, and a frequency that allows wireless power supply without causing interference with wireless communication is detected.

[0003] Specifically, in Patent Document 1, wireless power feeding is performed in the following procedure: The power transmitter detects one or more available frequencies. The power transmitter transmits microwaves at the detected available frequencies. The power receiver measures the amount of power fed at this time. The power receiver selects the optimal frequency for microwave transmission from multiple measured values ​​of the amount of wireless power fed. The power transmitter transmits microwaves at the optimal frequency, and the power receiver feeds power to the secondary battery. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-239640 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In Prior Art Document 1, it is detected whether an already allocated frequency is in use or not, and wireless communication is performed using an unused frequency. However, in Prior Art Document 1, the power receiver selects the optimal frequency for microwave transmission from multiple measurements of the amount of wireless power supply, which incurs a processing load.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to implement wireless power supply without interfering with other communications and while efficiently reducing the processing load. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, the present invention includes a control unit and a transmitting antenna. The control unit generates a power supply signal having a frequency in a guard band of a frequency channel used in other wireless communication in space or in a guard band of a frequency channel used in a predetermined wireless communication that is stored in advance. The transmitting antenna transmits the generated power supply signal. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, wireless power supply can be implemented without interfering with other communications and while efficiently reducing the processing load. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a WPT system 1 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 2] 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a transmitter 100 and a receiver 200 shown in FIG. [Figure 3] 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the first information processing device 300. FIG. [Figure 4] 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a frequency table stored in the first information processing device 300. FIG. [Figure 5] 4 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the reference frequency of a power feed signal and the frequency of the power feed signal. FIG. [Figure 6] 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the detector 500. FIG. [Figure 7] 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the transmitter 100. FIG. [Figure 8] 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the receiver 200. FIG. [Figure 9] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a transmitter 100 and a receiver 200. FIG. [Figure 10] 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the first information processing device 300. FIG. [Figure 11] 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the transmitter 100. FIG. [Figure 12] 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the receiver 200. FIG. [Figure 13] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a transmitter 100 and a receiver 200. FIG. [Figure 14] 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the first information processing device 300. FIG. [Figure 15] 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the transmitter 100. FIG. [Figure 16] 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the receiver 200. FIG. [Figure 17] 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the structure of a receiving antenna 201 included in a receiver 200 having a mechanism for switching receiving frequencies. FIG. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the structure of the receiving antenna 201 of the receiver 200 having a mechanism for switching the receiving frequency. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the structure of the receiving antenna 201 of the receiver 200 having a mechanism for switching the receiving frequency. [Figure 20] 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the structure of a receiving antenna 201 of a receiver 200 having a mechanism for switching the receiving frequency in three stages. FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the structure of the receiving antenna 201 of the receiver 200 having a mechanism for switching the receiving frequency in three stages. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating switching of the antenna length. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the simulation results of the resonance frequency of the receiving antenna 201 when the antenna length is switched. [Figure 24] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the basic hardware configuration of a computer 90. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

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

[0011] In the following description, a "processor" refers to one or more processors. The at least one processor is typically a microprocessor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), but may also be another type of processor such as a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The at least one processor may be single-core or multi-core.

[0012] Furthermore, the at least one processor may be a processor in the broad sense, such as a hardware circuit (for example, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) that performs part or all of the processing.

[0013] In the following explanation, information that produces an output for an input may be described using expressions such as "xxx table," but this information may be data of any structure, or may be a learning model such as a neural network that produces an output for an input. Therefore, an "xxx table" may be referred to as "xxx information."

[0014] Furthermore, in the following description, the configuration of each table is an example, and one table may be divided into two or more tables, or all or part of two or more tables may be one table.

[0015] In addition, in the following explanation, processing may be described using the "program" as the subject, but since a program is executed by a processor to perform specified processing while appropriately using a memory unit and / or an interface unit, etc., the subject of the processing may also be the processor (or a device such as a controller that has that processor).

[0016] The program may be installed in a device such as a computer, or may be stored in, for example, a program distribution server or a computer-readable (e.g., non-transitory) recording medium. Also, in the following description, two or more programs may be realized as one program, or one program may be realized as two or more programs.

[0017] Furthermore, in the following description, identification numbers are used as identification information for various objects, but other types of identification information (for example, identifiers including alphabetic characters or symbols) may also be used.

[0018] In addition, in the following description, when describing elements of the same type without distinguishing between them, reference symbols (or common symbols among the reference symbols) may be used, and when describing elements of the same type with distinction between them, the identification numbers (or reference symbols) of the elements may be used.

[0019] In the following description, the control lines and information lines are those that are considered necessary for the description, and do not necessarily represent all the control lines and information lines in the product. All components may be interconnected.

[0020] Each information processing device is configured by a computer having an arithmetic unit and a storage unit. The basic hardware configuration of the computer and the basic functional configuration of the computer realized by the hardware configuration will be described later.

[0021] <Summary> The wireless power feeding system has a transmitter that transmits a power feeding signal and multiple receivers that receive the power feeding signal transmitted from the transmitter and generate power. The transmitter transmits the power feeding signal at a frequency in a guard band of a frequency channel used in other wireless communications. The receiver supports the frequency used by the transmitter and receives the power feeding signal transmitted from the transmitter. The transmitter switches the frequency of the power feeding signal to another frequency in the guard band at a predetermined timing. The receiver knows the frequency to which the power feeding signal is switched and switches the resonant frequency in response to the switching of the power feeding signal frequency.

[0022] <1 Overall system configuration> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a WPT system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0023] 1 includes, for example, a transmitter 100, a receiver 200, a first information processing device 300, a second information processing device 400, and a detector 500. The WPT system 1 shown in Fig. 1 is used, for example, in a building or a factory. Note that the connection between the transmitter 100 and the first information processing device 300, the connection between the first information processing device 300 and the second information processing device 400, and the connection between the first information processing device 300 and the detector 500 may be wired or wireless.

[0024] 1 shows an example in which the WPT system 1 includes three transmitters 100, but the number of transmitters 100 included in the WPT system 1 is not limited to three. The number of transmitters 100 included in the WPT system 1 may be two or less, or may be four or more.

[0025] 1 shows an example in which the WPT system 1 includes seven receivers 200, but the number of receivers 200 included in the WPT system 1 is not limited to seven. The number of receivers 200 included in the WPT system 1 may be six or less, or eight or more.

[0026] In this specification, the transmitter 100 is a (power) transmitter 100 in the sense of wirelessly transmitting power, and similarly, the receiver 200 is a (power) receiver 200 in the sense of wirelessly receiving power. As will be described later, the receiver 200 may transmit, for example, information about the state of the receiver 200 or information about a measurement result by a sensor to the transmitter 100 as a data signal, and the transmitter 100 may receive such a data signal. In this case, the transmitter 100 is a receiver that receives the data signal, and the receiver 200 functions as a transmitter that transmits the data signal.

[0027] 1 shows an example in which the WPT system 1 includes two first information processing devices 300, but the number of first information processing devices 300 included in the WPT system 1 is not limited to two. The number of first information processing devices 300 included in the WPT system 1 may be one, or three or more.

[0028] 1 shows an example in which the WPT system 1 includes one detector 500, but the number of detectors 500 included in the WPT system 1 is not limited to one. The WPT system 1 may include two or more detectors 500. Furthermore, the detectors 500 do not have to be independently located. For example, the detector 500 may be installed together with the first information processing device 300, or the first information processing device 300 may include a function thereof. The detector 500 being installed together with the first information processing device 300 means, for example, that the detector 500 is installed in physical contact with the first information processing device 300, that the detector 500 is installed nearby, that the detector 500 is installed adjacent to the first information processing device 300, or the like.

[0029] The transmitter 100 transmits, for example, a power supply signal or a data signal to the receiver 200. The transmitter 100 transmits the power supply signal to the receiver 200 using radio waves having a frequency in the guard band of a frequency channel used for other wireless communications, for example, between 800 MHz and 1 GHz. For example, if the frequency allocation to a mobile phone communication carrier is 810 MHz to 820 MHz, the transmitter 100 transmits a power supply signal of 810 MHz or 820 MHz. Note that if the frequency allocations to multiple communication carriers are not adjacent, the frequency of the power supply signal transmitted by the transmitter 100 is not limited to the lower limit or upper limit of the frequency band allocated to the communication carrier. For example, assume that there are a first communication carrier and a second communication carrier, and the frequency band allocated to the first communication carrier is 810 MHz to 820 MHz, and the frequency band allocated to the second communication carrier is 820 MHz to 830 MHz. In this case, the transmitter 100 transmits the power supply signal at a frequency of, for example, 810 MHz or less, 820 MHz, or 830 MHz or more.

[0030] Furthermore, there may be cases where the frequency bands of the first and second communication carriers are not adjacent to each other. That is, there may be a so-called guard band between the first and second communication carriers, such as when the frequency band allocated to the first communication carrier is 810 MHz to 820 MHz and the frequency band allocated to the second communication carrier is 830 MHz to 840 MHz. In this case, the transmitter 100 transmits the power supply signal at a frequency of, for example, 810 MHz or less, 820 MHz to 830 MHz, or 840 MHz or more.

[0031] The frequency of the power supply signal transmitted from the transmitter 100 is narrowband. The transmitter 100 transmits radio waves on the same channel (approximately the same frequency) as defined by the Radio Law. For example, a frequency in the guard band as described above is assigned to the transmitter 100 as a reference frequency. The transmitter 100 transmits a power supply signal at a frequency within a range of ±20 ppm (Parts Per Million) relative to the reference frequency (center frequency). For example, the transmitter 100 transmits a power supply signal having a frequency within a range of f × (1 ± 20 / 1,000,000) [Hz], where f is the reference frequency of a predetermined channel. Note that the frequency range is not limited to ±20 ppm. Depending on the country (e.g., Europe) in which the WPT system 1 is installed, the frequency range may be within a range of ±10 ppm.

[0032] For example, the transmitter 100 may transmit the power supply signal while switching the transmission frequency. For example, the transmitter 100 may switch among a plurality of preset reference frequencies at a preset cycle in a preset order. Alternatively, the transmitter 100 may switch to a reference frequency specified by a predetermined device at a preset cycle. Alternatively, the transmitter 100 may switch the reference frequency when the reference frequency is specified by the predetermined device.

[0033] The frequency of the power feed signal can be set by an instruction from any device. For example, the frequency of the power feed signal may be determined and set by the transmitter 100. Alternatively, the frequency of the power feed signal may be determined and set by the receiver 200. Alternatively, the frequency of the power feed signal may be determined and set by the detector 500. Alternatively, the frequency of the power feed signal may be set by the first information processing device 300.

[0034] The transmitter 100 transmits the data signal to the receiver 200 using, for example, radio waves in the 2.4 GHz band. The transmitter 100 may also transmit the data signal using radio waves in the 920 MHz band.

[0035] The power feed signal transmitted from the transmitter 100 may be, for example, a continuous wave (CW) signal having a predetermined power. Examples of applicable frequency bands include the 920 MHz band, the 860 MHz band, and a band between 800 MHz and 1 GHz. Frequencies around the 2.4 GHz band, the 5.7 GHz band, and the 24 GHz band may also be applicable. In this case, restrictions on the intermittent transmission of a power feed signal having a predetermined power may be imposed by laws and regulations in the country in which the WPT system 1 is installed. For example, if the power feed signal from the transmitter 100 complies with the radio station regulations stipulated in the Radio Act of Japan (regardless of whether a license is granted), the Radio Act may require that a certain pause period be provided for the power feed signal. In this case, the power feed signal cannot be considered a continuous wave from a certain time perspective. However, since it is essential to provide a pause period, and a short pause period is sufficient, the power feed signal transmitted from the transmitter 100 can be considered a substantially continuous wave. As described above, the ratio between the duration of the power feed signal and the time of the pause period may be such that the power feed signal transmitted from transmitter 100 can be regarded as a substantially continuous wave, and as an example, the time of the pause period is approximately 1 / 50 to 1 / 100 of the duration of the power feed signal.

[0036] The transmitter 100 may, for example, supply power to one receiver 200, or may supply power to multiple receivers 200. The transmitter 100 may, for example, transmit a data signal to one receiver 200, or may transmit a data signal to multiple receivers 200. The transmitter 100 may, for example, transmit the same data signal as another transmitter 100, or may transmit a data signal different from that of the other transmitters 100. The transmitter 100 may, for example, transmit a predetermined command signal as a data signal to the receiver 200, or may transmit a preset signal as a data signal to the receiver 200.

[0037] The transmitter 100 receives, for example, a data signal transmitted from the receiver 200. The transmitter 100 may receive, for example, a data signal transmitted from one receiver 200, or may receive data signals transmitted from a plurality of receivers 200. The transmitter 100 transmits the data signal transmitted from the receiver 200 to the first information processing device 300. The transmitter 100 transmits information related to the state of the transmitter 100 or information related to the state of the receiver 200 to the first information processing device 300.

[0038] The receiver 200 receives, for example, a power supply signal or a data signal transmitted from the transmitter 100. If the receiver 200 has, for example, a power storage unit, it converts the power supply signal transmitted from the transmitter 100 into electric power and stores the converted electric power in the power storage unit. If the receiver 200 has, for example, a predetermined sensor, it converts the power supply signal transmitted from the transmitter 100 into electric power and drives the sensor with the converted electric power.

[0039] The receiver 200 transmits, for example, information relating to the state of the receiver 200 or information relating to the measurement results of the sensor to the transmitter 100 as a data signal.

[0040] The detector 500 performs, for example, carrier sensing and executes processing according to the execution result. Carrier sensing is, for example, a function of detecting wireless communication by other wireless stations before the transmitter 100 starts transmitting a power supply signal. In the present embodiment, the detector 500 detects radio waves from, for example, a mobile phone carrier, NB-IoT (Narrow Band Internet of Things), LoRa (Long Range), or the like, by carrier sensing. When the detector 500 detects the radio waves to be detected, the detector 500 transmits the detection result to, for example, the first information processing device 300. The detection result includes, for example, an identifier capable of identifying the detected wireless communication. The detection result may include, for example, the frequency band of the detected wireless communication. Furthermore, the detector 500 transmits, for example, information regarding the state of the detector 500 to the first information processing device 300. When the detector 500 detects the radio waves to be detected, the detector 500 may transmit the detection result to, for example, the transmitter 100 or the receiver 200.

[0041] The first information processing device 300 is an information processing device that monitors the operations of the transmitter 100, the receiver 200, and the detector 500 housed in the WPT system 1. For example, the first information processing device 300 determines whether the transmitter 100, the receiver 200, or the detector 500 is in a preset state based on information about the states of the transmitter 100, the receiver 200, and the detector 500 transmitted from the transmitter 100. If it is determined that the state is in a preset state, the first information processing device 300 transmits predetermined information to the second information processing device 400.

[0042] Furthermore, the first information processing device 300 accumulates information about the transmitter 100, the receiver 200, and the detector 500 accommodated in the WPT system 1. For example, the first information processing device 300 stores information about the states of the transmitter 100, the receiver 200, and the detector 500, which is transmitted from the transmitter 100, in a storage unit provided in the first information processing device 300.

[0043] Furthermore, the first information processing device 300 controls the operation of the transmitter 100 housed in the WPT system 1. For example, the first information processing device 300 transmits a predetermined instruction or information to the transmitter 100. The first information processing device 300 receives a detection result of wireless communication transmitted from the detector 500. For example, the first information processing device 300 transmits a predetermined instruction or information to the transmitter 100 based on the received detection result.

[0044] The first information processing device 300 also controls the operation of the second information processing device 400 .

[0045] The second information processing device 400 is, for example, an information processing device operated by an administrator of the WPT system 1. When the second information processing device 400 receives a notification from the first information processing device 300 that the transmitter 100, the receiver 200, or both of them housed in the WPT system 1 are in a predetermined state, the second information processing device 400 presents to the user that the transmitter 100, the receiver 200, or both of them are in the predetermined state.

[0046] Furthermore, the second information processing device 400 analyzes information about the states of the transmitter 100, the receiver 200, and the detector 500 stored in the first information processing device 300, and presents predetermined information to the user. The predetermined information is, for example, the following: Information regarding the placement of the transmitter 100 Information about the placement of the receiver 200 Information about the placement of detector 500 Power consumption information Information about the amount of electricity

[0047] Furthermore, the second information processing device 400 may analyze information about the detection results of wireless communication stored in the first information processing device 300, and present the analysis results to the user.

[0048] <2 Transmitter and receiver configuration> FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 are, for example, spaced apart by a predetermined distance. For example, the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 are installed at a distance of about several meters. Specifically, for example, the transmitter 100 is fixedly installed at a high location indoors, such as a predetermined high position on a ceiling or a wall. The receiver 200 is installed in a predetermined device indoors or placed near a device requiring power supply. The receiver 200 may also be carried by a user. The transmitter 100 transmits a power supply signal to the receiver 200 using radio waves at a predetermined frequency, for example, a frequency in a guard band of a frequency channel used in other wireless communications. The receiver 200 converts the power supply signal transmitted from the transmitter 100 into power and uses the converted power to charge or supply the converted power to a predetermined device.

[0049] The transmitter 100 includes, for example, an oscillator 101, a transmitting antenna 102, a microcomputer (controller) 103, a data transceiver 104, and a data transmitting / receiving antenna 105. The oscillator 101, the microcomputer 103, the data transceiver 104, the data transmitting / receiving antenna 105, or a combination of at least any of these may be mounted on, for example, a PCB (printed circuit board).

[0050] The oscillator 101 oscillates a signal in a frequency band according to the control of the microcomputer 103. The oscillated signal may be amplified as needed to remove unnecessary frequency components. In other words, the microcomputer 103 generates the power supply signal using the oscillator 101.

[0051] The transmitting antenna 102 is formed to be able to efficiently transmit radio waves in the frequency band oscillated by the oscillator 101. The transmitting antenna 102 radiates the signal oscillated by the oscillator 101 as a power feeding signal.

[0052] The microcomputer 103 controls the operation of the transmitter 100. The microcomputer 103 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor device equipped with an ARM processor. The microcomputer 103 controls, for example, the transmission of radio waves by the transmitting antenna 102. Specifically, the microcomputer 103 controls, for example, the oscillator 101 to oscillate a signal of a predetermined frequency. The microcomputer 103 also controls, for example, the oscillator 101 to switch the frequency at a predetermined cycle. The frequency is determined by, for example, the microcomputer 103, the receiver 200, the detector 500, or the first information processing device 300.

[0053] The data transceiver 104 performs processes such as converting digital data to analog and modulating analog data. The data transceiver 104 also performs processes such as demodulating a data signal received by the data transceiver antenna 105 and digitizing the demodulated data. For example, the data transceiver 104 extracts a predetermined signal from the data signal received by the data transceiver antenna 105, converts it into digital data, and transmits it to the microcomputer 103.

[0054] The data transmitting and receiving antenna 105 is configured to be able to efficiently transmit and receive radio waves in the 2.4 GHz band, for example. The data transmitting and receiving antenna 105 radiates a data signal supplied from the data transceiver 104. The data transmitting and receiving antenna 105 also receives a data signal transmitted from the receiver 200. The data transmitting and receiving antenna 105 may also receive a data signal transmitted from the detector 500.

[0055] The receiver 200 includes, for example, a receiving antenna 201, a rectifier circuit 202, a power management unit 203, a power storage unit 204, a microcomputer 205, a data transceiver 206, and a data transmitting / receiving antenna 207. The receiving antenna 201, the rectifier circuit 202, the power management unit 203, the power storage unit 204, the microcomputer 205, the data transceiver 206, the data transmitting / receiving antenna 207, or a combination of at least any of these may be mounted on, for example, a PCB or an FPC (flexible printed circuit).

[0056] The receiving antenna 201 is formed to be able to efficiently receive radio waves transmitted from the transmitter 100, for example. The receiving antenna 201 receives a power feed signal radiated from the transmitting antenna 102. The receiving antenna 201 also has a mechanism that can switch the reception mode of the power feed signal. Specifically, for example, the receiving antenna 201 is formed with a plurality of switchable paths. The receiving antenna 201 changes the antenna length and the reception frequency by switching the paths in response to instructions from the microcomputer 205, for example. The paths can be switched by, for example, controlling the on / off of a switching circuit provided in the receiving antenna 201.

[0057] The rectifier circuit 202 rectifies the radio waves received as the power supply signal and converts them into a DC voltage.

[0058] The power management unit 203 manages the DC voltage. For example, the power management unit 203 controls a charging voltage based on the DC voltage. The power management unit 203 charges the power storage unit 204 by controlling the charging voltage. Furthermore, for example, when the power storage unit 204 stores power equal to or greater than a predetermined capacity, the power management unit 203 supplies the DC voltage to a connected member.

[0059] Furthermore, the power management unit 203 releases the power stored in the power storage unit 204 in response to control from the microcomputer 205 .

[0060] The power storage unit 204 stores power in response to an instruction from the power management unit 203. The power storage unit 204 is realized by, for example, a battery or a capacitor. Furthermore, the power storage unit 204 releases the stored power in response to an instruction from the power management unit 203.

[0061] The microcomputer 205 controls the operation of the receiver 200. The microcomputer 205 is an example of a processing circuit. The microcomputer 205 is driven by a DC voltage supplied from the power management unit 203 or by power stored in the power storage unit 204. The microcomputer 205 controls the power management unit 203 to cause the power storage unit 204 to release the power stored therein.

[0062] For example, various sensors 208 can be connected to the receiver 200. For example, a heat sensor, a temperature sensor, a light sensor, a humidity sensor, a vibration sensor, a magnetic sensor, etc. can be connected to the receiver 200. In addition, a force sensor, a proximity sensor, a gas sensor, an acceleration sensor, a human sensor, an infrared sensor, an illuminance sensor, a flow rate sensor, a current sensor, a pressure sensor, etc. can also be connected to the receiver 200. The sensors connected to the receiver 200 are driven by, for example, a DC voltage supplied from the power management unit 203 or power discharged from the power storage unit 204.

[0063] Microcomputer 205 continuously or intermittently monitors the voltage value at a predetermined location of receiver 200, the status of sensor 208 connected to receiver 200, information detected by sensor 208, etc. Microcomputer 205 transmits the voltage value at a predetermined location of receiver 200, the status of sensor 208 connected to receiver 200, information detected by sensor 208, etc. as digital data to data transceiver 206. Note that sensor 208 may be built into receiver 200.

[0064] Furthermore, the microcomputer 205 drives a switching circuit at a predetermined timing, for example, to make conductive one of the paths formed in the receiving antenna 201. The switching circuit is, for example, an example of a switching unit that makes the loop paths conductive, and is attached to each loop path formed in the receiving antenna 201, and switches between connection (conduction) and disconnection of the loop path.

[0065] The data transceiver 206 performs processes such as converting digital data supplied from the microcomputer 205 into analog data and modulating the analog data. The data transceiver 206 also performs processes such as demodulating a data signal received by a data transceiver antenna 207 and digitizing the demodulated data. The data transceiver 206 is driven by, for example, a DC voltage supplied from the power management unit 203 or power discharged from the power storage unit 204.

[0066] The data transmitting and receiving antenna 207 is configured to be able to efficiently transmit and receive radio waves in the 2.4 GHz band, for example. The data transmitting and receiving antenna 207 radiates a data signal supplied from the data transceiver 206. The data transmitting and receiving antenna 207 also receives a data signal transmitted from the transmitter 100. The data transmitting and receiving antenna 207 may also receive a data signal transmitted from the detector 500. For example, the data transmitting and receiving antenna 207 is driven by a DC voltage supplied from the power management unit 203 or power discharged from the power storage unit 204.

[0067] <3. Transmission of power supply signal from transmitter> In this embodiment, an operation when a power supply signal is transmitted from the transmitter 100 to the receiver 200 will be described.

[0068] (Example 1) In this example, a case will be described in which the detector 500 performs carrier sensing, the detection result is transmitted to the first information processing device 300, and the frequency is determined by the first information processing device 300.

[0069] FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the first information processing device 300. In FIG.

[0070] In step S31, the detector 500 performs carrier sensing, for example, before the transmitter 100 starts transmitting a power supply signal. The detector 500 is set to detect radio waves from a mobile phone carrier, NB-IoT, LoRa, or the like, for example, by carrier sensing. When the detector 500 detects the radio waves to be detected, it transmits the detection result to the first information processing device 300, for example.

[0071] In step S32, the first information processing device 300 determines the frequency of the power supply signal based on the received detection result. Specifically, for example, the detector 500 transmits information identifying the detected wireless communication to the first information processing device 300. For example, the frequency band to be used for the wireless communication is set in advance. For example, the first information processing device 300 stores a table that associates the detected wireless communication with a usable reference frequency.

[0072] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a frequency table stored in the first information processing device 300. The table illustrated in FIG. 4 has a column for storing available frequencies, for example, using a carrier ID as a key. The available frequencies store reference frequencies that are set as available for the detected carrier. In the example of FIG. 4, a plurality of reference frequencies are stored in one record, but one record may store only one reference frequency. The reference frequency stored in the available frequencies is, for example, a frequency in a guard band of a frequency channel used by the carrier. Furthermore, the reference frequency stored in the available frequencies is not limited to a frequency in the guard band, and may be a frequency away from the guard band.

[0073] Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the reference frequency of a power feed signal and the frequency of the power feed signal. The example shown in Fig. 5 shows the usage status of the frequency band from 806 MHz to 960 MHz in Japan. In such an environment, for example, as indicated by the arrows, frequencies of 810 MHz to 815 MHz, 860 MHz, 890 MHz to 895 MHz, 900 MHz, and 945 MHz, the center frequency of the RFID band (described later), are available for transmitting a power feed signal.

[0074] The first information processing device 300 refers to a frequency table and determines the reference frequency of the power supply signal. The first information processing device 300, for example, extracts a frequency associated with the detected wireless communication from the frequency table. If there is one extracted frequency, the first information processing device 300 sets that frequency as the reference frequency of the power supply signal. If there are multiple available frequencies, the first information processing device 300 determines one of the available frequencies as the reference frequency. After determining the frequency, the first information processing device 300 transmits a frequency profile for notifying the determined frequency to the transmitter 100. The frequency profile may be transmitted all at once or in multiple parts. That is, the frequency profile may be transmitted as continuous bytes or as separated bytes. The frequency profile may be expressed in floating-point notation or fixed-point notation.

[0075] In step S33, the transmitter 100 sets the frequency of the power supply signal based on the received information. Specifically, for example, the microcomputer 103 controls the oscillator 101 to generate a signal of the received frequency. The microcomputer 103 transmits a frequency profile for notifying the receiver 200 of the set frequency. The frequency profile may be transmitted all at once or in multiple parts. That is, the frequency profile may be transmitted in consecutive bytes or in separated bytes. The frequency profile may also be expressed in floating-point notation or fixed-point notation.

[0076] The microcomputer 103 may transmit the frequency profile to the receiver 200 using a power feed signal, or may transmit the frequency profile to the receiver 200 using a data signal. When transmitting the frequency profile to the receiver 200 using a power feed signal, the transmitter 100, for example, includes a modulator and transmits the power feed signal amplitude-modulated at a determined frequency to the receiver 200. At this time, for example, the microcomputer 103 causes the oscillator 101 to generate a signal at a default frequency shared in advance between the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200. The default frequency may be set, for example, at the time of manufacture or before installation. For example, the microcomputer 103 causes the modulator to modulate the amplitude of the generated signal based on the determined frequency. Furthermore, when transmitting the frequency profile to the receiver 200 using a power feed signal, the transmitter 100 transmits the power feed signal frequency-modulated at the determined frequency to the receiver 200. At this time, for example, the microcomputer 103 causes the modulator to modulate the frequency of the generated signal based on the determined frequency. When transmitting the frequency profile by a data signal, the transmitter 100 transmits, for example, a data signal including the frequency profile to the receiver 200 .

[0077] The microcomputer 103 may transmit the frequency profile to the receiver 200 only by the method using the power feeding signal, or may transmit the frequency profile to the receiver 200 only by the data signal. Furthermore, the microcomputer 103 may transmit the frequency profile to the receiver 200 both by the method using the power feeding signal and by the data signal. The receiver 200 can confirm whether the frequency has been correctly notified by checking whether the frequency profiles received via both methods match.

[0078] The frequency profile may be encrypted. The encryption key may be known between the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200, which are associated as communication targets, or may be communicated after the start of transmission of the power supply signal. When the encryption key is communicated after the start of transmission of the power supply signal, for example, the encryption key is communicated from the first information processing device 300 to the transmitter 100, and then from the transmitter 100 to the receiver 200.

[0079] In step S34, the receiver 200 sets a resonant frequency based on the received frequency profile. Specifically, for example, the microcomputer 205 controls the on / off of a switching circuit provided in the receiving antenna 201 so as to achieve an antenna length suitable for receiving a power supply signal of the notified frequency based on the frequency profile. Note that in this embodiment, the resonant frequency is an index that also represents reception performance or power receiving performance, and is not limited to a resonant frequency in the strict sense. Also, in this embodiment, setting the resonant frequency is not limited to setting it to the reception frequency, but also includes intentionally shifting it from the reception frequency in consideration of environmental influences.

[0080] In step S35, the transmitter 100 transmits a power supply signal having the set frequency. Specifically, for example, the oscillator 101 oscillates a signal having the frequency set by the microcomputer 103. The transmitting antenna 102 radiates the signal oscillated by the oscillator 101 as the power supply signal.

[0081] The first information processing device 300 switches the frequency of the power supply signal, for example, at a predetermined cycle. Specifically, for example, the first information processing device 300 hops the frequency of the power supply signal, for example, from a first frequency to a second frequency to a third frequency, at a constant cycle. The cycle can be determined arbitrarily, for example. This makes it possible to prevent power theft. The first information processing device 300 can also change the set cycle. For example, even if a predetermined cycle is set in advance (for example, at the time of manufacture or before installation), the cycle may be changed later (for example, after installation or during maintenance operation). The first information processing device 300 may also switch the frequency of the power supply signal in response to a predetermined external instruction, rather than at a predetermined cycle.

[0082] In step S36, the first information processing device 300 determines the frequency of the next period. Specifically, for example, after transmitting the frequency profile for the current period in step S32, the first information processing device 300 starts counting. For example, when the count value reaches a predetermined value, the first information processing device 300 determines the frequency of the power supply signal for the next period. The first information processing device 300 determines the frequency of the next period based on, for example, a frequency table. Specifically, for example, the first information processing device 300 extracts frequencies, excluding the current frequency of the power supply signal, from among frequencies available in an environment where wireless communication is present and detected by the detector 500. The first information processing device 300 selects one frequency from the extracted frequencies and sets the selected frequency as the frequency for the next period. Note that the order of frequencies selected from the available frequencies may be set in advance. The first information processing device 300 sets the frequency set next to the current frequency as the frequency for the next period according to the set order. After determining the frequency, the first information processing device 300 transmits a frequency profile for notifying the transmitter 100 of the determined frequency.

[0083] In step S37, the transmitter 100 sets the frequency of the power feeding signal based on the received information. Specifically, for example, the microcomputer 103 controls the oscillator 101 to generate a signal of the received frequency. The microcomputer 103 transmits a frequency profile for notifying the receiver 200 of the set frequency. The microcomputer 103 may transmit the frequency profile to the receiver 200 using the power feeding signal, or may transmit the frequency profile to the receiver 200 using a data signal.

[0084] In step S38, the receiver 200 sets a resonant frequency based on the received frequency profile. Specifically, for example, the microcomputer 205 controls the on / off of a switching circuit provided in the receiving antenna 201 based on the frequency profile so as to realize an antenna length suitable for receiving a power supply signal of the notified frequency.

[0085] In step S39, the transmitter 100 transmits a power supply signal of the set frequency. Specifically, for example, the oscillator 101 oscillates a signal of the frequency set by the microcomputer 103. The transmitting antenna 102 radiates the signal oscillated by the oscillator 101 as the power supply signal. Thereafter, the processes of steps S32 to S39 are repeated.

[0086] Although the frequency table shown in FIG. 4 does not include a column for storing information about countries, the frequency table may include a column for storing information about countries. The frequency bands used by communication carriers vary, for example, from country to country. Therefore, the frequency table may store frequencies available for each communication carrier in each country. Furthermore, although the frequency table shown in FIG. 4 does not include a column for storing information about regions, the frequency table may include a column for storing information about regions. The frequency bands used by communication carriers vary, for example, from region to region. Therefore, the frequency table may store frequencies available for each communication carrier in each region.

[0087] In addition, the frequency table shown in FIG. 4 has been described as associating wireless communication with frequencies that can be used when the wireless communication is detected. However, the association in the frequency table is not limited to wireless communication and available frequencies. The frequency table may associate wireless communication with frequency bands used in the wireless communication. In this case, the first information processing device 300, for example, extracts a frequency associated with the detected wireless communication from the frequency table. The first information processing device 300 sets one of the frequencies, excluding the extracted frequency, from the preset available frequencies as the reference frequency of the power supply signal.

[0088] In the above embodiment, the first information processing device 300 determines the reference frequency from available frequencies. The first information processing device 300 may use a frequency different from the available frequencies as the reference frequency. For example, when one frequency region of a set frequency is adjacent to a frequency band of another wireless communication and the other frequency region is not adjacent to the frequency band of the other wireless communication, the first information processing device 300 may, for example, secure a detuned frequency in the other frequency region. The detuned frequency is, for example, the frequency difference between the center frequency of the set frequency and the center frequency of the measurement band of adjacent channel leakage power.

[0089] In the above embodiment, the first information processing device 300 transmits the frequency of the power supply signal for the next cycle to the receiver 200 via the transmitter 100 each time the frequency is determined. However, the timing at which the frequency is transmitted to the receiver 200 does not have to be each time the frequency is determined. For example, the first information processing device 300 may transmit information related to frequency switching to the receiver 200 all at once. Specifically, for example, in step S32, the first information processing device 300 transmits the frequency switching order and the frequency switching period to the transmitter 100 and to the receiver 200 via the transmitter 100. For example, the receiver 200 starts counting after setting the resonant frequency based on the frequency switching order. For example, when the count value reaches a predetermined value defined by the switching period, the receiver 200 determines the frequency of the next cycle in accordance with the frequency switching order. The receiver 200 sets the resonant frequency based on the determined frequency. Note that the receiver 200 may start counting for frequency switching when it receives the power supply signal. The receiver 200 may switch the resonant frequency in response to an external instruction that is directly input to the receiver 200, for example.

[0090] (Example 2) In this example, a case will be described in which the detector 500 performs carrier sensing and determines the frequency.

[0091] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the detector 500. In FIG.

[0092] In step S61, the detector 500 determines the frequency of the power feed signal based on the detection result. Specifically, for example, the detector 500 stores a table that associates detected wireless communications with available reference frequencies. The detector 500 references the frequency table to determine the reference frequency of the power feed signal. For example, the detector 500 extracts a frequency associated with the detected wireless communication from the frequency table. If there is only one extracted frequency, the detector 500 sets the extracted frequency as the reference frequency of the power feed signal. Furthermore, if there are multiple available frequencies, the detector 500 determines one of the available frequencies as the reference frequency. After determining the frequency, the detector 500 transmits a frequency profile to the transmitter 100 to notify the determined frequency. Upon receiving the frequency profile, the transmitter 100 executes the process of step S33. The detector 500 may also transmit the frequency profile to the receiver 200. Furthermore, the detector 500 may transmit the frequency profile only to the receiver 200 without transmitting it to the transmitter 100.

[0093] In step S62, the detector 500 determines the frequency of the next period. Specifically, for example, when the detector 500 transmits the frequency profile for the current period in step S61, the detector 500 starts counting. For example, when the count value reaches a predetermined value, the detector 500 determines the frequency of the power feed signal in the next period. The detector 500 determines the frequency of the next period based on, for example, a frequency table. Specifically, for example, the detector 500 extracts frequencies, excluding the current frequency of the power feed signal, from frequencies available in an environment where wireless communication detected by the detector 500 exists. The detector 500 selects one frequency from the extracted frequencies and sets the selected frequency as the frequency of the next period. Note that the order of frequencies selected from the available frequencies may be set in advance. The detector 500 sets the frequency set next to the current frequency as the frequency of the next period according to the set order. After determining the frequency, the detector 500 transmits a frequency profile for notifying the determined frequency to the transmitter 100. Upon receiving the frequency profile, the transmitter 100 executes the process of step S37.

[0094] The detector 500 switches the frequency of the power feed signal, for example, at a predetermined cycle. The cycle can be determined arbitrarily, for example. The detector 500 can also change the set cycle. For example, even if the predetermined cycle is set in advance (for example, at the time of manufacture or before installation), the detector 500 may accept a change in the cycle later (for example, after installation or during maintenance operation). Furthermore, the detector 500 may switch the frequency of the power feed signal in response to, for example, a predetermined external instruction, without being limited to a predetermined cycle.

[0095] In the above embodiment, the detector 500 determines the reference frequency from available frequencies. The detector 500 may use a frequency different from the available frequencies as the reference frequency. For example, when one frequency range of a set frequency is adjacent to the frequency band of another wireless communication and the other frequency range is not adjacent to the frequency band of the other wireless communication, the detector 500 may, for example, secure a detuned frequency in the other frequency range. The detuned frequency is, for example, the frequency difference between the center frequency of the set frequency and the center frequency of the measurement band of adjacent channel leakage power.

[0096] In the above embodiment, a case has been described in which the frequency table associates wireless communication with a frequency that can be used when the wireless communication is detected. The frequency table may associate wireless communication with a frequency band used in the wireless communication. In this case, the detector 500, for example, extracts a frequency associated with the detected wireless communication from the frequency table. The detector 500 sets one of the frequencies, excluding the extracted frequency, from the preset available frequencies as the reference frequency of the power supply signal.

[0097] In the above embodiment, a case has been described in which the frequency of the power supply signal for the next cycle is transmitted from the detector 500 to the receiver 200 via the transmitter 100 every time the frequency is determined. However, the timing at which the frequency is transmitted to the receiver 200 does not have to be every time the frequency is determined. For example, the detector 500 may transmit information related to frequency switching to the receiver 200 all at once. Specifically, for example, in step S61, the detector 500 transmits the frequency switching order and the frequency switching cycle to the transmitter 100 and to the receiver 200 via the transmitter 100.

[0098] (Example 3) In this example, a case will be described in which the detector 500 performs carrier sensing, the detection result is transmitted to the transmitter 100, and the frequency is determined by the transmitter 100.

[0099] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the transmitter 100. In FIG.

[0100] In step S71, the transmitter 100 determines the frequency of the power feeding signal based on the detection result received from the detector 500. Specifically, for example, the transmitter 100 stores a table that associates available reference frequencies with detected wireless communications. The transmitter 100 references the frequency table to determine the reference frequency of the power feeding signal. For example, the transmitter 100 extracts a frequency associated with the detected wireless communication from the frequency table. If there is one extracted frequency, the transmitter 100 sets that frequency as the reference frequency of the power feeding signal. Furthermore, if there are multiple available frequencies, the transmitter 100 selects one of the available frequencies as the reference frequency. After determining the frequency, the transmitter 100 proceeds to step S33.

[0101] In step S72, the transmitter 100 determines the frequency for the next period. Specifically, for example, when the transmitter 100 starts transmitting the power supply signal in step S35, the transmitter 100 starts counting. For example, when the count value reaches a predetermined value, the transmitter 100 determines the frequency of the power supply signal for the next period. The transmitter 100 determines the frequency for the next period based on, for example, a frequency table. Specifically, for example, the transmitter 100 extracts frequencies, excluding the current frequency of the power supply signal, from among frequencies available in an environment where wireless communication is present and detected by the detector 500. The transmitter 100 selects one frequency from the extracted frequencies and sets the selected frequency as the frequency for the next period. Note that the order of frequencies selected from the available frequencies may be set in advance. The transmitter 100 sets the frequency set next to the current frequency as the frequency for the next period according to the set order. After determining the frequency, the transmitter 100 proceeds to step S37.

[0102] The transmitter 100 switches the frequency of the power feed signal, for example, at a predetermined cycle. The cycle can be determined arbitrarily, for example. The transmitter 100 can also change the set cycle. For example, even if the predetermined cycle is set in advance (for example, at the time of manufacture or before installation), the transmitter 100 may accept a change in the cycle later (for example, after installation or during maintenance operation). Furthermore, the transmitter 100 may switch the frequency of the power feed signal in response to a predetermined external instruction, for example, rather than at a predetermined cycle.

[0103] In the above embodiment, the transmitter 100 determines the reference frequency from available frequencies. The transmitter 100 may use a frequency different from the available frequencies as the reference frequency. For example, when one frequency range of a set frequency is adjacent to a frequency band of another wireless communication and the other frequency range is not adjacent to the frequency band of the other wireless communication, the transmitter 100 may, for example, secure a detuned frequency in the other frequency range. The detuned frequency is, for example, the frequency difference between the center frequency of the set frequency and the center frequency of the measurement band of adjacent channel leakage power.

[0104] In the above embodiment, a case has been described in which the frequency table associates wireless communication with a frequency that can be used when the wireless communication is detected. The frequency table may associate wireless communication with a frequency band used in the wireless communication. In this case, the transmitter 100, for example, extracts a frequency associated with the detected wireless communication from the frequency table. The transmitter 100 selects one of the frequencies, excluding the extracted frequency, from the preset available frequencies as the reference frequency of the power supply signal.

[0105] In the above embodiment, a case has been described in which the frequency of the power supply signal for the next cycle is transmitted from the transmitter 100 to the receiver 200 every time the frequency is determined. However, the timing at which the frequency is transmitted to the receiver 200 does not have to be every time the frequency is determined. For example, the transmitter 100 may transmit information related to frequency switching to the receiver 200 all at once. Specifically, for example, in step S33, the transmitter 100 transmits the frequency switching order and the frequency switching cycle to the receiver 200.

[0106] (Example 4) In this example, a case will be described in which the detector 500 performs carrier sensing, the detection result is transmitted to the receiver 200, and the receiver 200 determines the frequency.

[0107] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the receiver 200. In FIG.

[0108] In step S81, the receiver 200 determines the frequency of the power feed signal based on the detection result received from the detector 500. Specifically, for example, the receiver 200 stores a table that associates detected wireless communications with available reference frequencies. The receiver 200 references the frequency table to determine the reference frequency of the power feed signal. For example, the receiver 200 extracts a frequency associated with the detected wireless communication from the frequency table. If there is only one extracted frequency, the receiver 200 sets that frequency as the reference frequency of the power feed signal. If there are multiple available frequencies, the receiver 200 determines one of the available frequencies as the reference frequency. After determining the frequency, the receiver 200 transmits a frequency profile to the transmitter 100 to notify the transmitter 100 of the determined frequency. After determining the frequency, the receiver 200 proceeds to step S34. After receiving the frequency profile, the transmitter 100 executes the process of step S33.

[0109] In step S82, the receiver 200 determines the frequency of the next period. Specifically, for example, when the receiver 200 receives a power feeding signal transmitted from the transmitter 100, the receiver 200 starts counting. For example, when the count value reaches a predetermined value, the receiver 200 determines the frequency of the power feeding signal in the next period. The receiver 200 determines the frequency of the next period based on, for example, a frequency table. Specifically, for example, the receiver 200 extracts frequencies, excluding the current frequency of the power feeding signal, from among frequencies available in an environment where wireless communication is present and detected by the detector 500. The receiver 200 selects one frequency from the extracted frequencies and sets the selected frequency as the frequency of the next period. Note that the order of frequencies selected from the available frequencies may be set in advance. The receiver 200 sets the frequency set next to the current frequency as the frequency of the next period in accordance with the set order. After determining the frequency, the receiver 200 transmits a frequency profile to the transmitter 100 to notify the determined frequency. After determining the frequency, the receiver 200 transitions the process to step S38. Upon receiving the frequency profile, the transmitter 100 executes the process of step S37.

[0110] The receiver 200 switches the frequency of the power feed signal, for example, at a predetermined cycle. The cycle can be determined arbitrarily, for example. The receiver 200 can also change the set cycle. For example, even if the predetermined cycle is set in advance (for example, at the time of manufacture or before installation), the receiver 200 may accept a change in the cycle later (for example, after installation or during maintenance operation). Furthermore, the receiver 200 may switch the frequency of the power feed signal in response to a predetermined external instruction, for example, rather than at a predetermined cycle.

[0111] In the above embodiment, the receiver 200 has been described as determining the reference frequency from available frequencies. The receiver 200 may use a frequency different from the available frequencies as the reference frequency. For example, when one frequency range of a set frequency is adjacent to the frequency band of another wireless communication and the other frequency range is not adjacent to the frequency band of the other wireless communication, the receiver 200 may, for example, secure a detuned frequency in the other frequency range. The detuned frequency may be, for example, the frequency difference between the center frequency of the set frequency and the center frequency of the measurement band of adjacent channel leakage power.

[0112] In the above embodiment, a case has been described in which the frequency table associates wireless communication with a frequency that can be used when the wireless communication is detected. The frequency table may associate wireless communication with a frequency band used in the wireless communication. In this case, the receiver 200, for example, extracts a frequency associated with the detected wireless communication from the frequency table. The receiver 200 then selects one of the frequencies, excluding the extracted frequency, from the preset available frequencies as the reference frequency of the power supply signal.

[0113] In the above embodiment, the receiver 200 transmits the frequency of the power supply signal for the next cycle to the transmitter 100 each time the frequency is determined. However, the timing at which the frequency is transmitted to the transmitter 100 does not have to be each time the frequency is determined. For example, the receiver 200 may transmit information related to frequency switching to the transmitter 100 all at once. Specifically, for example, in step S81, the receiver 200 transmits the frequency switching order and the frequency switching period to the transmitter 100. The transmitter 100 sets a power transmission frequency based on the frequency switching order and transmits the power supply signal at the set frequency. After transmitting the power supply signal, the transmitter 100 starts counting. For example, when the count value reaches a predetermined value defined by the switching period, the transmitter 100 determines the frequency of the next cycle in accordance with the frequency switching order. The transmitter 100 sets the power transmission frequency based on the determined frequency.

[0114] <4 Other embodiment 1> In the above embodiment, the case where the detector 500 performs carrier sensing has been described. However, carrier sensing is not limited to being performed by the detector 500. For example, the transmitter 100 may perform carrier sensing. In this case, for example, the WPT system 1 may not have the detector 500.

[0115] 9 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a transmitter 100 and a receiver 200. As shown in FIG. 9, the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 are, for example, spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. The transmitter 100 transmits a power supply signal to the receiver 200 by radio waves at a predetermined frequency, for example, a frequency in a guard band of a frequency channel used in other wireless communications. The receiver 200 converts the power supply signal transmitted from the transmitter 100 into power, and uses the converted power to charge or supply the converted power to a predetermined device.

[0116] The transmitter 100 includes, for example, an oscillator 101, a transmitting antenna 102, a microcomputer 103, a data transceiver 104, a data transmitting / receiving antenna 105, and a detector 106. The oscillator 101, the microcomputer 103, the data transceiver 104, the data transmitting / receiving antenna 105, and the detector 106, or a combination of at least any of these, may be mounted on, for example, a PCB.

[0117] The detector 106, for example, performs carrier sensing and executes processing according to the execution result. In this embodiment, the detector 106, for example, detects radio waves from a mobile phone carrier, NB-IoT, LoRa, etc., by carrier sensing. When the detector 106 detects the radio waves to be detected, it outputs the detection result to the microcomputer 103, for example.

[0118] In this embodiment, an operation when a power supply signal is transmitted from the transmitter 100 to the receiver 200 will be described.

[0119] (Example 1) In this example, a case will be described in which the detector 106 performs carrier sensing, the detection result is transmitted to the first information processing device 300, and the frequency is determined by the first information processing device 300.

[0120] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the first information processing device 300. In FIG.

[0121] In step S101, the detector 106 performs carrier sensing, for example, before the transmitter 100 starts transmitting a power supply signal. The detector 106 is set to detect radio waves from a mobile phone carrier, NB-IoT, LoRa, or the like, for example, by carrier sensing. When the detector 106 detects the radio waves to be detected, it outputs the detection result to the microcomputer 103, for example. The microcomputer 103 transmits the detection result to the first information processing device 300 wirelessly or via a wired connection. The processing from step S32 onwards is the same as the processing shown in FIG. 3.

[0122] (Example 2) In this example, a case will be described in which the detector 106 performs carrier sensing and the transmitter 100 determines the frequency.

[0123] 11 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the transmitter 100. In FIG. 11, in step S101, the detector 106 performs carrier sense, for example, before the transmitter 100 starts transmitting a power supply signal. When the detector 106 detects the radio wave to be detected, it outputs the detection result to the microcomputer 103, for example. The processing from step S71 onwards is the same as the processing shown in FIG.

[0124] (Example 3) In this example, a case will be described in which the detector 106 performs carrier sensing, the detection result is transmitted to the receiver 200, and the receiver 200 determines the frequency.

[0125] FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the receiver 200. In FIG. 12, in step S101, the detector 106 performs carrier sense, for example, before the transmitter 100 starts transmitting a power supply signal. When the detector 106 detects a radio wave to be detected, it outputs the detection result to the microcomputer 103, for example. The microcomputer 103 transmits the detection result to the receiver 200. The microcomputer 103 may transmit the detection result to the receiver 200 using a power supply signal, or may transmit the detection result to the receiver 200 by a data signal. The processing from step S81 onwards is the same as the processing shown in FIG. 7.

[0126] <5. Other Embodiment 2> In the embodiment, a case where the detector 500 performs carrier sensing has been described, and in another embodiment 1, a case where the detector 106 of the transmitter 100 performs carrier sensing has been described. However, the implementation of carrier sensing is not limited to this. For example, the receiver 200 may perform carrier sensing. In this case, for example, the WPT system 1 may not have the detector 500.

[0127] Fig. 13 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a transmitter 100 and a receiver 200. As shown in Fig. 13, the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 are, for example, spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. The transmitter 100 transmits a power supply signal to the receiver 200 by radio waves at a predetermined frequency, for example, a frequency in a guard band of a frequency channel used in other wireless communication. The receiver 200 converts the power supply signal transmitted from the transmitter 100 into power, and uses the converted power to charge or supply the converted power to a predetermined device.

[0128] The receiver 200 includes, for example, a receiving antenna 201, a rectifier circuit 202, a power management unit 203, a power storage unit 204, a microcomputer 205, a data transceiver 206, a data transmitting / receiving antenna 207, and a detector 209. The receiving antenna 201, the rectifier circuit 202, the power management unit 203, the power storage unit 204, the microcomputer 205, the data transceiver 206, the data transmitting / receiving antenna 207, and the detector 209, or a combination of at least any of these, may be mounted on, for example, a PCB or an FPC.

[0129] The detector 209, for example, performs carrier sensing and executes processing according to the execution result. In this embodiment, the detector 209, for example, detects radio waves from a mobile phone carrier, NB-IoT, LoRa, etc., by carrier sensing. When the detector 209 detects the radio waves to be detected, it outputs the detection result to the microcomputer 205, for example.

[0130] In this embodiment, an operation when a power supply signal is transmitted from the transmitter 100 to the receiver 200 will be described.

[0131] (Example 1) In this example, a case will be described in which the detector 209 performs carrier sensing, the detection result is transmitted to the first information processing device 300, and the frequency is determined by the first information processing device 300.

[0132] FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the first information processing device 300. In FIG.

[0133] In step S141, the detector 209 performs carrier sensing, for example, before the transmitter 100 starts transmitting a power supply signal. The detector 209 is configured to detect radio waves from a mobile phone carrier, NB-IoT, LoRa, or the like, by carrier sensing, for example. When the detector 209 detects the radio waves to be detected, it outputs the detection result to the microcomputer 205, for example. The microcomputer 205 transmits the detection result to the first information processing device 300 by a data signal, for example. The microcomputer 205 may transmit the detection result to the first information processing device 300 via the transmitter 100, for example. The processing from step S32 onwards is the same as the processing shown in FIG. 3.

[0134] (Example 2) In this example, a case will be described in which the detector 209 performs carrier sensing and the transmitter 100 determines the frequency.

[0135] FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the transmitter 100. In FIG. 15, in step S141, the detector 209 performs carrier sense, for example, before the transmitter 100 starts transmitting a power supply signal. When the detector 209 detects the radio waves to be detected, it outputs the detection result to the microcomputer 205, for example. The microcomputer 205 transmits the detection result to the transmitter 100. The microcomputer 205 transmits the detection result to the transmitter 100 by a data signal, for example. The processing from step S71 onwards is the same as the processing shown in FIG. 7.

[0136] (Example 3) In this example, a case will be described in which the detector 209 performs carrier sensing, the detection result is transmitted to the receiver 200, and the receiver 200 determines the frequency.

[0137] 16 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the WPT system 1 when the frequency is determined by the receiver 200. In FIG. 16, in step S141, the detector 209 performs carrier sense, for example, before the transmitter 100 starts transmitting a power supply signal. When the detector 209 detects the radio wave to be detected, it outputs the detection result to the microcomputer 205, for example. The processing from step S81 onwards is the same as the processing shown in FIG.

[0138] 6.1 Receiving antenna structure Fig. 17 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the structure of a receiving antenna 201 included in a receiver 200 having a mechanism for switching receiving frequencies. The receiving antenna 201 shown in Fig. 17 has, for example, a cylindrical shape with a substantially rectangular cross section. Note that the receiving antenna 201 may be entirely or partially flat, curved, or a combination thereof.

[0139] The receiving antenna 201 shown in FIG. 17 includes a first conductor 2011 and a second conductor 2012. The first conductor 2011 is formed on the bottom surface of the receiving antenna 201 shown in FIG. 17. The first conductor 2011 is realized, for example, by a conductive layer formed on a PCB. The conductive layer formed on the PCB is realized, for example, by copper foil. The first conductor 2011 has a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction. For example, the first conductor 2011 has a width of 20 mm in the lateral direction and a width of 30 mm in the longitudinal direction. The 30 mm width in the longitudinal direction is, for example, approximately equal to one-tenth of the wavelength of a 920 MHz band signal that is expected to be received. The size of the first conductor 2011 is not limited to this and may be increased or decreased within a predetermined range. The receiving antenna 201 may be treated as a loop antenna or an inverted-F antenna.

[0140] The second conductor 2012 is realized by, for example, a conductive plate that forms the upper surface and both side surfaces of the receiving antenna 201 shown in Fig. 17. The conductive plate is made of, for example, a metal plate such as copper or aluminum. The second conductor 2012 is formed on the upper surface of the receiving antenna 201 in a generally L-shape with some of the corners cut off.

[0141] The second conductor 2012 has a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction and a predetermined height. For example, the narrow region of the second conductor 2012 has a lateral width of 10 mm, and the wide region has a lateral width of 20 mm. The longitudinal width between the 10 mm lateral width region and the 20 mm lateral width region is, for example, 30 mm. This length is, for example, approximately one-tenth the wavelength of a signal in the 920 MHz band that is expected to be received. The longitudinal width of the 20 mm lateral width region is, for example, approximately one-tenth the wavelength of a signal in a predetermined frequency band lower than the 920 MHz band, about 20 to 25 mm. The height of the second conductor 2012 is 8 mm. The size of the second conductor 2012 is not limited to this and may be increased or decreased within a predetermined range.

[0142] The second conductor 2012 is formed, for example, by bending a single conductive plate. More specifically, for example, a single copper plate is bent into two types of approximate U-shapes (two types of approximate U-shapes or approximate C-shapes) in cross section. The bending may involve plastic processing of a copper plate or the like using a die, for example. The second conductor 2012 has a first side surface portion 20121, a second side surface portion 20122, and a third side surface portion 20123, formed, for example, by bending a conductive plate.

[0143] A first pad portion 20111, a second pad portion 20112, and a third pad portion 20113 are formed on the PCB on which the first conductor 2011 is formed. The first pad portion 20111 is connected to the first conductor 2011 via a switching circuit 212. The second pad portion 20112 is connected to the first conductor 2011 via a switching circuit 213. The third pad portion 20113 is connected to the first conductor 2011.

[0144] The first conductor 2011 and the second conductor 2012 are connected by, for example, soldering the second conductor 2012 to a PCB. Specifically, the first conductor 2011 and the second conductor 2012 are connected by, for example, soldering the first side surface portion 20121 to the first pad portion 20111, soldering the second side surface portion 20122 to the second pad portion 20112, and soldering the third side surface portion 20123 to the third pad portion 20113. As a result, two types of loop paths are formed in the receiving antenna 201.

[0145] For example, a circuit unit 210 is mounted on a PCB on which the first conductor 2011 is formed. The circuit unit 210 may be mounted in the direction toward the second conductor 2012 or in the spatial direction. The circuit unit 210 includes a switching circuit 212, a switching circuit 213, a rectifier circuit 202, a power management unit 203, a power storage unit 204, a microcomputer 205, a data transceiver 206, and a data transmission / reception antenna 207. The microcomputer 205 connects the switching circuit 212 or the switching circuit 213 in response to, for example, an instruction from a user. This forms a first looped path including the first side surface portion 20121 and the third side surface portion 20123, or a second looped path including the second side surface portion 20122 and the third side surface portion 20123. Specifically, for example, when receiving an instruction to switch from the 920 MHz band to a frequency band lower than the 920 MHz band, the microcomputer 205 opens the switching circuit 212 and connects the switching circuit 213, thereby switching the antenna length from the first loop path to the second loop path.

[0146] Furthermore, microcomputer 205 connects switching circuit 212 or switching circuit 213 based on, for example, a predetermined requirement. Specifically, for example, microcomputer 205 monitors a voltage value at a predetermined location in receiver 200 while switching between switching circuit 212 or switching circuit 213. Microcomputer 205 connects switching circuit 212 or switching circuit 213 so that the voltage value forms a loop path that satisfies the predetermined requirement. The predetermined requirement may be, for example, exceeding a preset voltage value or becoming a value higher than the other voltage value.

[0147] A shielding material for reflecting radio waves may be attached to receiver 200. The shielding material is made of, for example, a conductive material, such as metal. For example, the shielding material is formed so as to cover circuit unit 210, avoiding the slit where feeder 211 is attached. The shielding material is attached in the direction of second conductor 2012 or in the spatial direction, depending on the mounting direction of circuit unit 210. The shielding material is attached so as to cover at least a portion of circuit unit 210. The shielding material may cover multiple locations on circuit unit 210 instead of covering one location.

[0148] The structure of the receiving antenna 201 is not limited to the structure shown in Fig. 17. For example, the structure of the second conductor 2012 when switching the receiving frequency in two stages is not limited to the approximately L-shape shown in Fig. 17. Fig. 18 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the structure of the receiving antenna 201 included in the receiver 200 having a mechanism for switching the receiving frequency. The second conductor 2012 shown in Fig. 18 has a shape in which a conductor is cut out in a square shape on the upper surface of the receiving antenna 201.

[0149] The second conductor 2012 has a lengthwise direction and a widthwise direction, and has a predetermined height. For example, the width of the wide area of ​​the second conductor 2012 in the widthwise direction is 20 mm, and the total width of the widthwise direction of the hollowed-out area of ​​the conductor is 10 mm.

[0150] The second conductor 2012 has a first side surface portion 20121, a second side surface portion 20122, and a third side surface portion 20123. The first side surface portion 20121 represents the side surface portion formed at a position farthest from the feeder 211. The second side surface portion 20122 represents the side surface portion formed at the end of the area where the conductor is hollowed out. The third side surface portion 20123 represents the side surface portion formed at a position closest to the feeder 211.

[0151] The longitudinal width between the 10 mm region and the 20 mm region in the transverse direction, i.e., the distance from the first side surface portion 20121 to the third side surface portion 20123, is, for example, 30 mm. This length is, for example, approximately one-tenth the wavelength of a signal in the 920 MHz band that is expected to be received. The distance from the second side surface portion 20122 to the third side surface portion 20123 is, for example, approximately 20 to 25 mm, approximately one-tenth the wavelength of a signal in a predetermined frequency band lower than the 920 MHz band. The second conductor 2012 has a height of 8 mm. Note that the size of the second conductor 2012 is not limited to this and may be increased or decreased within a predetermined range.

[0152] The first conductor 2011 and the second conductor 2012 are connected, for example, by soldering the second conductor 2012 to a PCB. Specifically, for example, the first side surface portion 20121 is soldered to the first pad portion 20111, the second side surface portion 20122 is soldered to the second pad portion 20112, and the third side surface portion 20123 is soldered to the third pad portion 20113, thereby connecting the first conductor 2011 and the second conductor 2012.

[0153] A circuit unit 210 including, for example, a microcomputer 205 is mounted on a PCB on which the first conductor 2011 is formed. The microcomputer 205 connects the switching circuit 212 or the switching circuit 213 in response to, for example, an instruction from a user. This forms a first loop path including the first side surface portion 20121 and the third side surface portion 20123, or a second loop path including the second side surface portion 20122 and the third side surface portion 20123. Specifically, for example, upon receiving an instruction to switch from the 920 MHz band to a frequency band lower than the 920 MHz band, the microcomputer 205 opens the switching circuit 212 and connects the switching circuit 213, thereby switching the antenna length from the first loop path to the second loop path.

[0154] Furthermore, microcomputer 205 connects switching circuit 212 or switching circuit 213 based on, for example, a predetermined requirement. Specifically, for example, microcomputer 205 monitors a voltage value at a predetermined location in receiver 200 while switching between switching circuit 212 or switching circuit 213. Microcomputer 205 connects switching circuit 212 or switching circuit 213 so that the voltage value forms a loop path that satisfies the predetermined requirement. The predetermined requirement may be, for example, exceeding a preset voltage value or becoming a value higher than the other voltage value.

[0155] 19 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the structure of the receiving antenna 201 of the receiver 200 having a mechanism for switching the receiving frequency. The second conductor 2012 shown in FIG. 19 has a convex shape on the upper surface of the receiving antenna 201.

[0156] The second conductor 2012 has a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction and a predetermined height. For example, the second conductor 2012 has a lateral width of 20 mm in the wide region and a lateral width of 10 mm in the convex region. The longitudinal width between the 10 mm lateral width region and the 20 mm lateral width region is, for example, 30 mm. This length is, for example, approximately one-tenth the wavelength of a signal in the 920 MHz band that is expected to be received. The longitudinal width of the 20 mm lateral width region is, for example, approximately one-tenth the wavelength of a signal in a predetermined frequency band lower than the 920 MHz band, for example, approximately 20 to 25 mm. The second conductor 2012 has a height of 8 mm. Note that the size of the second conductor 2012 is not limited to this and may be increased or decreased within a predetermined range. A plurality of pads are formed on the PCB on which the first conductor 2011 is formed. The pads are connected to the first conductor 2011 via a switching circuit.

[0157] The structure of the receiving antenna 201 is not limited to the structure shown in Figs. 17 to 19 that allows the receiving frequency to be switched in two stages. The receiving antenna 201 may have a structure that allows the receiving frequency to be switched in three stages, for example. Figs. 20 and 21 are schematic diagrams showing examples of the structure of the receiving antenna 201 included in a receiver 200 that has a mechanism for switching the receiving frequency in three stages. The second conductor 2012 shown in Fig. 20 has a convex shape on the upper surface of the receiving antenna 201. The second conductor 2012 shown in Fig. 21 has a concave shape on the upper surface of the receiving antenna 201.

[0158] 20 and 21, the second conductor 2012 has a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction and a predetermined height. For example, the width of the second conductor 2012 in the lateral direction changes stepwise, such as 10 mm, 20 mm, and 30 mm. The maximum width in the longitudinal direction is, for example, 30 mm. This length is, for example, approximately one-tenth of the wavelength of a signal in the 920 MHz band that is expected to be received. The width in the longitudinal direction decreases stepwise from 30 mm, and each step is approximately one-tenth of the wavelength of a signal in a predetermined frequency band lower than the 920 MHz band. The second conductor 2012 has a height of 8 mm. Note that the size of the second conductor 2012 is not limited to this and may increase or decrease within a predetermined range.

[0159] In the receiving antenna 201 shown in FIGS. 20 and 21 , a microcomputer 205 and a circuit unit 210 including multiple switching circuits are mounted on a PCB on which a first conductor 2011 is formed. Multiple pad units are formed on the PCB on which the first conductor 2011 is formed. The pad units are connected to the first conductor 2011 via the switching circuits. The microcomputer 205 opens and closes the multiple switching circuits in response to, for example, a user instruction. As a result, a first loop path, a second loop path, or a third loop path is formed in the receiving antenna 201. Specifically, for example, upon receiving a data signal including an instruction to switch from the 920 MHz band to a frequency band lower than the 920 MHz band, the microcomputer 205 operates the switching circuit to switch from the loop path with the longest antenna length to another loop path.

[0160] Furthermore, the microcomputer 205 opens and closes a plurality of switching circuits based on, for example, predetermined requirements. Specifically, the microcomputer 205 monitors, for example, a voltage value at a predetermined location in the receiver 200 while opening and closing a plurality of switching circuits. The microcomputer 205 opens and closes the plurality of switching circuits so that the voltage value forms a loop path that satisfies the predetermined requirements.

[0161] <6.2 Example of change in resonant frequency> FIG. 22 is a diagram schematically illustrating switching of antenna length. In FIG. 22, for example, switching circuits 212, 213, and 214 are attached to receiving antenna 201. For example, by closing only switching circuit 212, receiving antenna 201 has the longest antenna length, as shown in FIG. 22(a). Furthermore, by closing only switching circuit 213, receiving antenna 201 has the second longest antenna length, as shown in FIG. 22(b). Furthermore, by closing only switching circuit 214, receiving antenna 201 has the shortest antenna length, as shown in FIG. 22(c).

[0162] Fig. 23 is a diagram showing the simulation results of the resonance frequency of the receiving antenna 201 when the antenna length is changed. In Fig. 23, it can be seen that the resonance frequency decreases as the antenna length is shortened.

[0163] As described above, in the above embodiment, the microcomputer (controller) 103 uses the oscillator 101 to generate a power supply signal having a frequency in a guard band of a frequency channel used in other wireless communication in space, or in a guard band of a frequency channel used in a predetermined wireless communication that has been stored in advance. The transmitting antenna 102 transmits the generated power supply signal. The frequency bands used in data communication such as mobile phones are generally broadband (several MHz, etc.). On the other hand, the frequency bands used in WPT can also be narrowband (e.g., 20 kHz). Specifically, in data communication such as mobile phones, a frequency "wall" called a "guard band" or "side band" is provided for each frequency channel, and WPT can be achieved simply by borrowing this frequency. This allows frequencies to be used without overlapping with the victim's frequency (i.e., while minimizing interference with the victim).

[0164] Therefore, the transmitter 100 according to the above embodiment can perform wireless power feeding without causing interference with other communications and while efficiently reducing the processing load.

[0165] In addition, in the above embodiment, the frequency of the power supply signal is determined based on the detection result of wireless communication by carrier sense. This makes it possible to determine a power transmission frequency suitable for the environment in which the WPT system 1 operates. In other words, it is possible to determine the frequency to be used based on information on which frequency can be "borrowed."

[0166] In the above embodiment, the wireless communication used in the space where the WPT system 1 is operated is registered in advance, and based on the registered information, the wireless communication used in the space where the WPT system 1 is operated is identified and an appropriate power transmission frequency for the space is determined. This makes it possible to determine a power transmission frequency suitable for the environment where the WPT system 1 is operated.

[0167] In the above embodiment, the power transmission frequency is switched at a predetermined cycle, which makes it possible to prevent power theft.

[0168] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the power transmission frequency is switched in response to a request from the receiver 200. This makes it possible to switch the power transmission frequency as needed in response to the state of the receiver 200.

[0169] <7 Variations> In the above embodiment, the detector 500, the detector 106, and the detector 209 perform carrier sensing, but carrier sensing is not essential. For example, a table storing wireless communication methods used in a country, region, or area (building, etc.) may be stored in advance. The transmitter 100, the receiver 200, or the first information processing device 300, for example, refers to the table to determine the wireless communication methods used in the space, and determines a frequency corresponding to the frequency of the determined wireless communication method.

[0170] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the frequency of the power supply signal is hopped at a predetermined cycle, for example, but the frequency of the power supply signal does not have to be hopped.

[0171] In the above embodiment, an example was described in which a frequency in a guard band of wireless communication is used as a frequency at which interference is unlikely to occur. However, frequencies at which interference is unlikely to occur are not limited to frequencies in the guard band of wireless communication. For example, when RFID is used, the frequency of radio waves transmitted in wireless communication using RFID is a frequency that is several hundred Hz higher or several hundred Hz lower than a reference frequency, and radio waves at the reference frequency are rarely transmitted. Therefore, the transmitter 100, the receiver 200, the first information processing device 300, or the detector 500 may set the reference frequency of the power supply signal to the reference frequency used in wireless communication using RFID, which is a frequency at which interference is unlikely to occur.

[0172] In the above embodiment, a case has been described in which the frequency determined by the receiver 200, the first information processing device 300, or the detector 500 is set as the frequency of the power supply signal by the transmitter 100. However, the determined frequency may not be set by the transmitter 100. For example, the transmitter 100 supports a set of transmission frequencies that are determined for each year of manufacture or model number. Therefore, even if the frequency is determined by the receiver 200, the first information processing device 300, or the detector 500, the determined frequency may not be set by the transmitter 100. In this case, the transmitter 100 determines whether the determined frequency is supported. If the determined frequency is supported, the transmitter 100 sets the determined frequency. On the other hand, if the determined frequency is not supported, the transmitter 100 proposes to change the determined frequency. The proposal to change the frequency is displayed, for example, on a predetermined interface provided in the transmitter 100, the first information processing device 300, or the second information processing device 400.

[0173] In the above embodiment, a WPT system has been described in which a power supply signal is transmitted from the transmitter 100 via radio waves, the power supply signal is received by the receiver 200, and power is generated based on the received power supply signal. However, the receiver 200 according to this embodiment is not limited to being used in a WPT system. The receiver 200 according to this embodiment may also be a device related to an RFID tag. That is, for example, a wireless signal may be transmitted from the transmitter 100, and the receiver 200 may receive the wireless signal transmitted from the transmitter 100.

[0174] Furthermore, the system according to the above embodiment can be compliant with 3GPP (3rd generation partnership project) (registered trademark), WPT Alliance, AirPlug (registered trademark) Alliance, Airfuel Alliance, WPC (Wireless Power consortium), A4WP (Alliance for Wireless Power), PMA (Power Matters Alliance), ARIB (Association of Radio Industries and Businesses), ETSI (European Telecommunications Standards Institute), CISPR (International Special Committee on Radio Interference), ANSI (American National Standards Institute), ISO (International Organization for Standardization), IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission), etc.

[0175] In the above embodiment, the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 may have an interface accessible by a user. The user accesses the transmitter 100 and the receiver 200 via the interface. The interface includes, for example, a button, an LED, or a combination thereof connected to the microcomputer 103 and the microcomputer 205. If there is a possibility of causing interference in the actual operation space, the transmitter 100 can accept a change in settings. The transmitter 100 can accept input via, for example, a button. The transmitter 100 can also externally display what settings have been made, for example, by the way an LED lights up. If there is a possibility of causing interference in the actual operation space, the receiver 200 can accept a change in settings. The receiver 200 can accept input via, for example, a button. The receiver 200 can also externally display what settings have been made, for example, by the way an LED lights up.

[0176] In the above embodiment, the receiving antenna 201 has been described as having an annular shape. However, the shape of the receiving antenna 201 is not limited to the above. For example, the receiving antenna 201 can be configured in various ways, such as a dipole antenna, a monopole antenna, a slot antenna, a chip antenna, a patch antenna, or the like. Each antenna has a mechanism that can switch the receiving mode of the power supply signal. The receiving antenna 201 varies the antenna length and the receiving frequency by, for example, controlling the mechanism with the microcomputer 205.

[0177] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the transmitter 100 has a function of transmitting a power supply signal and a function of transmitting and receiving a data signal. However, the transmitter 100 may have either one of these functions. Even if the function of transmitting a power supply signal and the function of transmitting and receiving a data signal are not integrated, they may be implemented by separate devices in the WPT system 1 as long as both functions are included. Furthermore, the receiver 200 basically integrates the function of receiving a power supply signal and the function of transmitting and receiving a data signal, but each function may also be implemented by separate devices.

[0178] In the above embodiment, the power feed signal is AM modulated or FM modulated. Modulation using the power feed signal is not limited to these. For example, the transmitter 100 may transmit digital information using the power feed signal by switching the frequency. Specifically, for example, the first to fourth frequencies are assigned to 1 bit to 4 bits, respectively. The transmitter 100 transmits digital information by expressing 1 / 0 by turning on / off the power feed signal of the first to fourth frequencies. This enables the transmitter 100 to transmit, for example, a frequency profile to the receiver 200. In addition, modulation methods may include PM (Phase Modulation), ASK (Amplitude Shift Keying), FSK (Frequency Shift Keying), PSK (Phase Shift Keying), and QAM (Quadrature Amplitude Modulation).

[0179] In this specification, "connection" refers to a relationship in which information, power, signals, or electric or magnetic fields influence each other, regardless of whether there is physical contact, and includes not only direct connections but also indirect connections via other elements or materials.

[0180] For example, when circuit element A and circuit element C are connected, even if circuit element B is inserted between them, A and C are considered to be connected if electrical signal transmission, current flow, or influence via electric or magnetic fields is maintained between A and C. In this specification, "connection" includes the following forms: (1) Communicable Connection If the first connection point and the anode of the diode are electrically connected, and electrical continuity is maintained under certain conditions even if a resistor, capacitor, inductor, switch, or other element is inserted between them, they are considered to be connected. (2) Network Connection If the first connection point and the diode anode belong to the same circuit network and have an electrical influence on each other, even if an element is inserted between them, this is considered a connection. For example, this applies to circuit nodes where potential is affected or circuit paths where impedance matching is taken into consideration. (3) Electrical Pathway A connection is defined as when an electrical path is formed between the first connection point and the anode of a diode, regardless of whether there is an intervening element between them. For example, this applies to a connection via a switching element in a power supply circuit or the formation of a path within a bridge circuit.

[0181] Furthermore, the definition of interconnection may vary depending on the type and operating principle of the semiconductor circuit. For example, the concept of interconnection applies to bulk CMOS, SOI CMOS, compound semiconductor circuits, and wide bandgap semiconductor circuits as follows: (1) Connections in CMOS circuits In bulk CMOS, electrical connections are defined as metal wiring or diffusion regions formed directly on the silicon substrate, whereas in SOI CMOS, the silicon layer and the substrate are separated by a buried oxide layer, so coupling through parasitic capacitance can also be included as a form of connection. (2) Connections in wide bandgap semiconductor circuits In wide bandgap semiconductor circuits using SiC or GaN, in order to accommodate high voltage and high frequency operation, it is necessary to consider connections via vertical current paths and electron movement through barrier layers. (3) Connection in high frequency circuits High-frequency circuits may include not only physical conductor connections, but also coupling via parasitic inductance and parasitic capacitance, signal transmission via electromagnetic induction, and the effects of resonant circuits. For example, millimeter-wave circuits may also include connections via waveguides and antennas.

[0182] In this specification, the definition of "connection" is applied depending on the circuit configuration and operating conditions, and is not limited to simple physical conduction. In a broad sense, connection can also include coupling via an electric field or magnetic field, optical coupling, electromagnetic coupling, etc. On the other hand, when defined as connection in a narrow sense, only a direct conduction relationship or specific physical contact can be included. It should be interpreted appropriately depending on the embodiment of the present invention.

[0183] <8 Basic computer hardware configuration> 24 is a block diagram showing the basic hardware configuration of a computer 90. The computer 90 includes at least a processor 901, a main memory device 902, an auxiliary memory device 903, and a communication IF 991 (interface), which are electrically connected to one another by a communication bus 921.

[0184] The processor 901 is hardware for executing an instruction set written in a program, and is composed of an arithmetic unit, registers, peripheral circuits, and the like.

[0185] The main memory device 902 is used to temporarily store programs, data to be processed by the programs, etc. For example, it is a volatile memory such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory).

[0186] The auxiliary storage device 903 is a storage device for saving data and programs, such as a flash memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a semiconductor memory.

[0187] The communication IF 991 is an interface for inputting and outputting signals for communicating with other computers via a network using wired or wireless communication standards. The network is composed of the Internet, a LAN, various mobile communication systems constructed by wireless base stations, etc. For example, the network includes 3G, 4G, and 5G mobile communication systems, LTE (Long Term Evolution), and wireless networks (e.g., Wi-Fi (registered trademark)) that can connect to the Internet via a predetermined access point. In the case of a wireless connection, communication protocols include, for example, Z-Wave (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), and Bluetooth (registered trademark). In the case of a wired connection, the network also includes a direct connection using a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable, etc.

[0188] It should be noted that the computer 90 can be virtually realized by distributing all or part of each hardware configuration across multiple computers 90 and interconnecting them via a network. In this way, the computer 90 is a concept that includes not only a computer 90 housed in a single housing or case, but also a virtualized computer system.

[0189] <9 Basic Functional Configuration of Computer 90> The following describes the functional configuration of a computer realized by the basic hardware configuration (FIG. 24) of the computer 90. The computer includes at least the functional units of a control unit, a storage unit, and a communication unit.

[0190] The functional units of the computer 90 can also be realized by distributing all or part of the functional units among multiple computers 90 interconnected via a network. The computer 90 is a concept that includes not only a single computer 90 but also a virtualized computer system.

[0191] The control unit is realized by the processor 901 reading out various programs stored in the auxiliary storage device 903, expanding them in the main storage device 902, and executing processing in accordance with the programs. The control unit can realize functional units that perform various types of information processing depending on the type of program. In this way, the computer is realized as an information processing device that performs information processing.

[0192] The storage unit is realized by a main storage device 902 and an auxiliary storage device 903. The storage unit stores data, various programs, and various databases. Furthermore, the processor 901 can allocate a storage area corresponding to the storage unit in the main storage device 902 or the auxiliary storage device 903 in accordance with the programs. Furthermore, the control unit can cause the processor 901 to execute processes for adding, updating, and deleting data stored in the storage unit in accordance with the various programs.

[0193] A database refers to a relational database, which manages data sets called masters and tables in a tabular format structurally defined by rows and columns, by relating them to each other. In a database, a table is called a table, a master, a column in a table is called a column, and a row in a table is called a record. In a relational database, relationships between tables and masters can be set and associated. Typically, each table and each master has a column set as a primary key to uniquely identify a record, but setting a primary key to a column is not essential. The control unit can cause the processor 901 to add, delete, or update records in specific tables and masters stored in the storage unit according to various programs. Furthermore, by storing data, various programs, and various databases in the storage unit, it can be considered that the information processing device and information processing system according to the present disclosure have been manufactured.

[0194] Note that the databases and masters in this disclosure may include any data structure in which information is structurally defined (such as a list, dictionary, associative array, or object). The data structure also includes data that can be considered as a data structure by combining data with functions, classes, methods, etc. written in any programming language.

[0195] The communication unit is realized by the communication IF 991. The communication unit realizes a function of communicating with other computers 90 via a network. The communication unit can receive information transmitted from other computers 90 and input the information to the control unit. The control unit can cause the processor 901 to execute information processing on the received information in accordance with various programs. In addition, the communication unit can transmit information output from the control unit to other computers 90.

[0196] Furthermore, the above-described configurations, functions, processing units, processing means, etc. may be partially or entirely implemented in hardware, for example, by designing them as integrated circuits. The present invention can also be realized by software program code that implements the functions of the embodiments. In this case, a storage medium on which the program code is recorded is provided to a computer, and a processor included in the computer reads the program code stored in the storage medium. In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium implements the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the program code itself and the storage medium on which it is stored constitute the present invention. Examples of storage media for providing such program code include flexible disks, CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, hard disks, SSDs, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, CD-Rs, magnetic tape, non-volatile memory cards, and ROMs.

[0197] Furthermore, the program code that realizes the functions described in this embodiment can be implemented in a wide range of program or script languages, such as assembler, C / C++, perl, Shell, PHP, and Java (registered trademark).

[0198] Furthermore, the program code of the software that realizes the functions of the embodiments may be distributed via a network and stored in a storage means such as a computer's hard disk or memory, or in a storage medium such as a CD-RW or CD-R, and the processor of the computer may read and execute the program code stored in the storage means or storage medium.

[0199] The functions performed by the components described herein may be implemented in circuitry or processing circuitry, including general-purpose processors, application-specific processors, integrated circuits, ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), a CPU (a Central Processing Unit), conventional circuits, and / or combinations thereof, programmed to perform the described functions. A processor includes transistors and other circuits and is considered to be circuitry or processing circuitry. A processor may also be a programmed processor that executes programs stored in memory. In this specification, a circuitry, unit, or means is hardware that is programmed to realize or performs the described functions, which may be any hardware disclosed herein or any hardware known to be programmed to realize or perform the described functions. If the hardware is a processor considered to be a type of circuitry, the circuitry, means, or unit is a combination of the hardware and software used to configure the hardware and / or processor.

[0200] Although several embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, these embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and modifications are intended to be included in the scope of the inventions and their equivalents as defined in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the inventions.

[0201] (Addendum) The matters described in the above embodiments will be supplemented below.

[0202] (Appendix 1) A transmitter comprising: a control unit that generates a power supply signal having a frequency in a guard band of a frequency channel used in other wireless communication in space, or in a guard band of a frequency channel used in a predetermined wireless communication that is stored in advance; and a transmitting antenna that transmits the generated power supply signal. (Appendix 2) The transmitter is communicatively connected to an information processing device, and the information processing device is arranged in space, receives detection results of wireless communication from a detector that detects other wireless communication in the space, determines a frequency based on the frequency channel of the wireless communication detected by the detector, and transmits information about the determined frequency to the transmitter, and the control unit generates a power supply signal of the frequency determined by the information processing device (transmitter described in Appendix 1). (Appendix 3) The transmitter is capable of receiving information from a detector arranged in space, the detector detects other wireless communications in the space, determines a frequency based on a frequency channel used in the detected wireless communications, and transmits information about the determined frequency to the transmitter, and the control unit generates a power supply signal of the frequency determined by the detector (transmitter described in Appendix 1). (Appendix 4) The transmitter is capable of receiving information from a detector arranged in space, the detector detects other wireless communications in the space and transmits the detection results of the wireless communications to the transmitter, and the control unit determines the frequency based on the frequency channel of the wireless communications detected by the detector (transmitter described in Appendix 1). (Appendix 5) The transmitter is capable of transmitting a power supply signal to the receiver, the receiver is arranged in space, receives detection results of wireless communication from a detector that detects other wireless communication in the space, determines a frequency based on the frequency channel of the wireless communication detected by the detector, transmits information about the determined frequency to the transmitter, and the control unit generates a power supply signal of the frequency determined by the receiver (transmitter described in Appendix 1). (Appendix 6) A transmitter as described in Appendix 1, comprising a detector for detecting other wireless communications in space and a means for transmitting the detection results of wireless communications to an information processing device, wherein the information processing device determines a frequency based on the frequency channel of the wireless communications detected by the transmitter and transmits information regarding the determined frequency to the transmitter, and the control unit generates a power supply signal of the frequency determined by the information processing device. (Appendix 7) A transmitter according to claim 1, further comprising a detector for detecting other wireless communications in space, wherein the control unit determines the frequency based on the frequency channel used in the detected wireless communications. (Appendix 8) A transmitter as described in Appendix 1, comprising a detector for detecting other wireless communications in space and a means for transmitting the detection results of wireless communications to a receiver capable of receiving a power supply signal, wherein the receiver determines the frequency based on the frequency channel of the wireless communications detected by the transmitter and transmits information about the determined frequency to the transmitter, and the control unit generates a power supply signal of the frequency determined by the receiver. (Appendix 9) The transmitter is capable of transmitting a power supply signal to the receiver, the receiver detects other wireless communications in space and transmits the detection results of the wireless communications to an information processing device that is communicatively connected to the transmitter, the information processing device determines a frequency based on the frequency channel of the wireless communications detected by the receiver and transmits information about the determined frequency to the transmitter, and the control unit generates a power supply signal of the frequency determined by the information processing device (a transmitter described in Appendix 1). (Appendix 10) The transmitter is capable of transmitting a power supply signal to the receiver, the receiver detects other wireless communications in space and transmits the detection results of the wireless communications to the transmitter, and the control unit determines the frequency based on the frequency channel of the wireless communications detected by the receiver (Supplementary Note 1). (Appendix 11) The transmitter is capable of transmitting a power supply signal to the receiver, the receiver detects other wireless communications in space, determines a frequency based on a frequency channel used in the detected wireless communications, transmits information about the determined frequency to the transmitter, and the control unit generates a power supply signal of the frequency determined by the receiver (transmitter described in Appendix 1). (Appendix 12) The transmitter according to any one of (Supplementary Note 1) to (Supplementary Note 11), wherein the transmitter is capable of transmitting a power supply signal to the receiver and shares the frequency of the power supply signal with the receiver. (Appendix 13) A transmitter according to claim 12, which shares a frequency with a receiver through data communication using a data signal different from the power supply signal. (Appendix 14) A transmitter according to claim 12, further comprising a modulator for modulating the power supply signal with information about the frequency, and wherein the transmitting antenna transmits the power supply signal modulated with the information. (Appendix 15) A transmitter according to claim 13, further comprising a modulator for modulating the power supply signal with information about the frequency, and wherein the transmitting antenna transmits the power supply signal modulated with the information. (Appendix 16) The transmitter according to claim 1, wherein the frequency of the power supply signal is determined based on the space in which the transmitter is installed. (Appendix 17) The transmitter according to any one of (Supplementary Note 1) to (Supplementary Note 16), wherein the control unit switches the frequency of the power supply signal to a different frequency and generates the power supply signal at the switched frequency. (Appendix 18) A transmitter as described in (Appendix 17), wherein the control unit shares with a receiver capable of receiving a power supply signal the switching order of multiple frequencies determined based on frequency channels used in other wireless communications in space and the switching period of the frequencies. (Appendix 19) The transmitter according to claim 18, wherein the control unit shares the switching order and the switching period with the receiver before starting transmission of the power supply signal. (Appendix 20) The transmitter according to claim 18, wherein the transmitter is communicably connected to the information processing device, and the switching order and the switching period are transmitted from the information processing device to the transmitter. (Appendix 21) The transmitter according to claim 17, wherein the control unit switches the frequency in response to a request from a receiver capable of receiving the power supply signal. (Appendix 22) A transmitter comprising: a control unit that generates a power supply signal having the same frequency as the center frequency of the frequency band used by an RFID installed in space; and a transmitting antenna that transmits the generated power supply signal. (Appendix 23) A system comprising: a transmitter that transmits a power supply signal at a frequency in a guard band of a frequency channel used in other wireless communication in space, or in a guard band of a frequency channel used in a predetermined wireless communication that has been stored in advance; and one or more receivers that receive the power supply signal and generate power from the received power supply signal. (Appendix 24) A system according to claim 23, comprising a plurality of transmitters, each of which is allowed to transmit a power supply signal at a different frequency. [Explanation of symbols]

[0203] 1...WPT system 100...Transmitter 101...Oscillator 102...Transmitting antenna 103...microcomputer 104...Data transmitter / receiver 105...Data transmission / reception antenna 200...Receiver 201...receiving antenna 202…Rectifier 203…Power management department 204... Power storage unit 205...microcomputer 206...Data transmitter / receiver 207...Data transmission / reception antenna 300...First information processing device 400...Second information processing device

Claims

1. a control unit that generates a power supply signal having a frequency in a guard band of a frequency channel used in a predetermined wireless communication that is stored in advance; a transmitting antenna for transmitting the generated power supply signal; A transmitter comprising:

2. A transmitter as described in claim 1, wherein the control unit generates a power supply signal of a frequency within a range of ±20 ppm of a reference frequency of the guard band band of a frequency channel used in a predetermined wireless communication that is pre-stored.

3. a detector for detecting other wireless communications in space; The transmitter according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit determines the frequency based on the frequency channel used in the detected wireless communication from among guard band frequencies of frequency channels used in a plurality of predetermined wireless communication channels that are stored in advance.

4. 3. The transmitter according to claim 1, wherein the transmitter is capable of transmitting the power supply signal to a receiver, and the frequency of the power supply signal is shared with the receiver.

5. 5. The transmitter according to claim 4, wherein the frequency is shared with the receiver through data communication using a data signal different from the power supply signal.

6. a modulator that modulates the power supply signal with information about the frequency; 5. The transmitter according to claim 4, wherein the transmitting antenna transmits the power supply signal modulated with the information.

7. a modulator that modulates the power supply signal with information about the frequency; 6. The transmitter according to claim 5, wherein the transmitting antenna transmits the power supply signal modulated with the information.

8. 3. The transmitter according to claim 1, wherein the frequency of the power supply signal is determined based on a space in which the transmitter is installed.

9. The transmitter according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit switches the frequency of the power supply signal to a different frequency and generates the power supply signal at the switched frequency.

10. 10. The transmitter according to claim 9, wherein the control unit shares with a receiver capable of receiving the power supply signal a switching order of a plurality of frequencies determined based on frequency channels used in other wireless communications and a switching cycle of the frequencies that are stored in advance.

11. The transmitter according to claim 10 , wherein the control unit shares the switching order and the switching period with the receiver before starting transmission of the power supply signal.

12. the transmitter is communicably connected to an information processing device; The transmitter according to claim 10 , wherein the switching order and the switching period are transmitted from the information processing device to the transmitter.

13. The transmitter according to claim 9 , wherein the control unit switches the frequency in response to a request from a receiver capable of receiving the power supply signal.

14. a transmitter that transmits a power supply signal having a frequency in a guard band of a frequency channel used in a predetermined wireless communication that is stored in advance; one or more receivers that receive the power supply signal and generate power according to the received power supply signal; A system comprising:

15. A system as described in claim 14, wherein the transmitter transmits a power supply signal at a frequency within a range of ±20 ppm of a reference frequency of a guard band band of a frequency channel used in a predetermined wireless communication that is pre-stored.

16. a plurality of the transmitters; 16. The system according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the plurality of transmitters are allowed to transmit power supply signals at different frequencies.

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