Power generation equipment and power generation system

Abstract

To provide a power generator with a large amount of power generation, etc.SOLUTION: A power generator 1 has a power generation member 10 having a frame 21 including a free end F1 and a power generation member 32 provided in the frame 21 and deformed by excitation to the frame 21, and a spring member 22 in a long shape having a meandering section m meandering in a plane, and one end of the spring member 22 is provided at the free end F1.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a power generation device and a power generation system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, the development of technologies for converting ambient vibrations into electric power has been actively carried out. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a power generation device that obtains electric power by applying an external force directly to a power generation element to deform the power generation element (power generation module).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, in a power generation device that converts vibration into electric power, it is generally known that the larger the deformation amount of the power generation element, the larger the electric power obtained.

[0005] In the power generation device disclosed in Patent Document 1, an external force generated when a movable plate located above the power generation element is stepped on by a person is applied to the power generation element, causing the power generation element to deform, and thus the power generation element generates electric power. The magnitude of this external force corresponds to the amount by which the movable plate deflects when stepped on by a person.

[0006] Since the movable plate is required to have durability against being stepped on by a person, it needs to have a certain degree of hardness. Due to this hardness, it is difficult to increase the amount by which the movable plate deflects, that is, it is not easy to increase the external force.

[0007] Therefore, it is difficult to increase the deformation amount of the power generation element due to this external force, and consequently, such a power generation device has a problem of a small power generation amount.

[0008] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned problems and to provide a power generation device with a large power output. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] To achieve the above objective, a power generation device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a frame including a free end, a power generation member having a power generation element provided on the frame that deforms upon vibration of the frame, and a long spring member having a meandering portion that meanders on a plane, wherein one end of the spring member is provided on the free end.

[0010] Furthermore, a power generation system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a plurality of the power generation devices described above, wherein the plane on which the meandering portion of the spring member of each of the plurality of power generation devices meanders is flush with the plane, and the direction in which the plurality of meandering portions extend is the same. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to realize power generation devices and the like that have a large power output. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a plan view of a conventional power generation device. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a side view of a conventional power generation device. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a side view illustrating the first example in which an external force is applied to a conventional power generation device. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a side view showing how a conventional power generation device vibrates in the first example. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a plan view illustrating a second example in which an external force is applied to a conventional power generation device. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a side view illustrating the external forces in the second example. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is a side view showing the state of vibration of the power generation device according to the conventional example in the second example. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a plan view of the power generation device according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a side view of the power generation device according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a side view for explaining a third example in which an external force is applied to the power generation device according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a plan view for explaining a fourth example in which an external force is applied to the power generation device according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a side view for explaining the external force in the fourth example. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a plan view of the power generation device according to Modification Example 1 of the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a side view of the power generation device according to Modification Example 1 of the embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a side view showing the state of vibration of the power generation device according to Modification Example 1 of the embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a side view of the power generation device according to Modification Example 2 of the embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a plan view for explaining the manufacturing method of the power generation device according to Modification Example 2 of the embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a side view showing the state of vibration of the power generation device according to Modification Example 2 of the embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a plan view of the power generation device according to Modification Example 3 of the embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a plan view of the power generation system according to Modification Example 4 of the embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a side view of the power generation system according to Modification Example 4 of the embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining the electromotive force when the second plate member according to Modification Example 4 of the embodiment is stepped on by a person. [Figure 23]Figure 23 illustrates the electromotive force generated when a spring member according to a modified example 4 of the embodiment is flicked with a finger. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is a plan view of a power generation device according to a modified example 5 of the embodiment. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is a side view of a power generation device according to a modified example 5 of the embodiment. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a plan view of a power generation device according to a modified example 6 of the embodiment. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is a plan view of a power generation device according to a modified example 7 of the embodiment. [Figure 28] Figure 28 is a plan view of a power generation device according to a modified example 8 of the embodiment. [Figure 29] Figure 29 is a side view of a power generation device according to a modified example 9 of the embodiment. [Figure 30] Figure 30 is a plan view of a power generation device according to a modified example 10 of the embodiment. [Figure 31] Figure 31 is a plan view showing another example of a spring member according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] (Knowledge that formed the basis of this invention) First, we will explain the knowledge that formed the basis of this invention. First, as an example in which the amount of deformation of the power generation element 32x is limited, we will explain the configuration of a conventional power generation device 1x using Figures 1 and 2.

[0014] Figure 1 is a plan view of a conventional power generation device 1x. Figure 2 is a side view of a conventional power generation device 1x.

[0015] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the conventional power generation device 1x comprises a power generation member 10x and an end plate 22x.

[0016] The power generation member 10x is a member having a frame 21x and a power generation unit 30x including a power generation element 32x.

[0017] The frame 21x has a free end F1x and a fixed end F2x. The free end F1x is the end that vibrates freely. The frame 21x also has a curved section Bx. The shape of the frame 21x is U-shaped, and more specifically, the shape of the frame 21x is U-shaped when viewed from the side.

[0018] Furthermore, the frame 21x is formed by bending a single flat plate-shaped member into a U-shape. Also, the thickness of the frame 21x is approximately uniform throughout.

[0019] The frame 21x is fixed and supported in a cantilevered state, with one end being a fixed end F2x and the other end being a free end F1x, with the curved section Bx in between. In the power generation device 1x, the fixed end F2x of the frame 21x is fixed to the support base 2 for installation.

[0020] When the free end F1x vibrates freely, the free end F1x moves either away from the fixed end F2x or towards the fixed end F2x, causing the frame 21x itself to vibrate (deform).

[0021] At this time, the free end F1x moves away from the fixed end F2x (open state), and the free end F1x moves closer to the fixed end F2x (closed state) repeatedly. In other words, the gap between the free end F1x and the fixed end F2x becomes larger (open state), and the gap becomes smaller (closed state) repeatedly.

[0022] The frame 21x is provided with the power generation element 32x and power generation magnet 33x included in the power generation unit 30x, and the frame 21x is a member that supports these components. The material that constitutes the frame 21x is not particularly limited, but it is preferable that it be made of an elastic material, for example.

[0023] As shown in Figure 2, the U-shaped frame 21x has a first inner surface 211x and a second inner surface 212x that face each other, and a first outer surface 213x and a second outer surface 214x.

[0024] Furthermore, the free end F1x has a flat plate shape.

[0025] Next, the power generation unit 30x will be described. The power generation unit 30x includes a coil 31x, a power generation element 32x, and a power generation magnet 33x.

[0026] The power generation element 32x is a member provided on the frame 21x that deforms due to vibration of the frame 21x. In this embodiment, the power generation element 32x is a magnetostrictive element. Here, the power generation element 32x is provided and joined to the first outer surface 213x between the curved portion Bx and the free end F1x.

[0027] The shape of the power generation element 32x is not particularly limited, but it is a flat plate shape. In conventional examples, the plane of the power generation element 32x joined to the frame 21x, and the plane parallel to this plane when the power generation device 1x is not vibrating, is the xy plane. The x, y, and z axes represent the three axes of a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system, with the z axis being the direction perpendicular to the xy plane.

[0028] The power generation element 32x is made of a magnetostrictive material. One example of such a material is an iron-gallium alloy.

[0029] The power generation element 32x is an element that deforms when the frame 21x is excited. In this embodiment, since the power generation element 32x is joined to the frame 21x, when the frame 21x vibrates, the power generation element 32x deforms.

[0030] The coil 31x is wound around the first inner surface 211x and the first outer surface 213x of the frame 21x and the power generation element 32x. The coil 31x generates a voltage in proportion to the time change of the magnetic field lines passing through the power generation element 32x, according to the law of electromagnetic induction.

[0031] The material of coil 31x is copper, for example, but is not particularly limited.

[0032] The power-generating magnet 33x is provided on the second inner surface 212x of the frame 21x. The power-generating magnet 33x is, for example, a permanent magnet. Magnetic field lines from the power-generating magnet 33x pass through the power-generating element 32x.

[0033] Next, we will explain the end plate 22x.

[0034] The end plate 22x is a component provided at the free end F1x of the frame 21x. The end plate 22x is also a component attached to the first outer surface 213x. The end plate 22x has a flat shape, and as shown in Figures 1 and 2, both of the two main surfaces of the end plate 22x are parallel to the xy plane.

[0035] Furthermore, an external force P1 is applied to the end plate 22x. This external force P1 causes the frame 21x to deform and vibrate.

[0036] The end plate 22x is a rigid member. Therefore, even if an external force P1 is applied to the end plate 22x, the amount of deformation of the end plate 22x itself is very small, and more specifically, the end plate 22x itself does not deform at all.

[0037] By providing an end plate 22x that is attached to the free end F1x of the frame 21x, the frame 21x can vibrate even when the external force P1 is small, due to the principle of leverage.

[0038] For example, when an external force P1 is applied, the frame 21x vibrates. In this case, if the frame 21x vibrates by repeatedly switching between an open state and a closed state, tensile stress and compressive stress are alternately generated in the power generation element 32x joined to the frame 21x, causing the power generation element 32x to deform by stretching or contracting.

[0039] Thus, when the frame 21x vibrates, the magnetic field lines of the power generation element 32x increase or decrease due to the inverse magnetostrictive effect, and the magnetic flux density passing through the coil 31x also increases or decreases. This change in magnetic flux density over time generates an induced voltage (or induced current) in the coil 31x. In this way, the power generation unit 30x can generate electricity through the vibration of the frame 21x.

[0040] Here, the first and second examples, which are examples in which an external force P1 is applied to a conventional power generation device 1x, will be explained using Figures 3 to 7 in addition to Figures 1 and 2.

[0041] Figure 3 is a side view illustrating the first example in which an external force P1 is applied to a conventional power generation device 1x. Figure 4 is a side view showing how the conventional power generation device 1x vibrates in the first example. Figure 5 is a plan view illustrating the second example in which an external force P1 is applied to a conventional power generation device 1x.

[0042] Figure 6 is a side view illustrating the external force P1 in the second example. Figure 6 is a side view of the end plate 22x viewed from the positive x-axis direction, and for simplicity, components other than the end plate 22x are omitted from the illustration. Figure 7 is a side view showing how the conventional power generation device 1x vibrates in the second example.

[0043] First, let's explain the external force P1.

[0044] In the first example, as shown in Figure 1, an external force P1 is applied to the end plate 22x near the center of its width in the y-axis direction. More specifically, in the first example, the external force P1 is applied to the end plate 22x along the z-axis, that is, parallel to the z-axis, in the negative z-axis direction.

[0045] On the other hand, in the second example, as shown in Figure 5, the external force P1 is applied to the negative y-axis side of the width of the end plate 22x in the y-axis direction, rather than near the center of the width in the y-axis direction. More specifically, in the second example, as shown in Figure 6(a), the external force P1 may be applied to the end plate 22x along the z-axis, that is, parallel to the z-axis and in the negative z-axis direction. Also, in the second example, as shown in Figure 6(b), the external force P1 may be applied to the end plate 22x in the negative z-axis direction and in the negative y-axis direction.

[0046] Next, we will explain how the power generator 1x vibrates.

[0047] In the first example, as described above, an external force P1 is applied to the end plate 22x, so the frame 21x to which the end plate 22x is attached deforms and vibrates in the direction of the double-headed arrows shown in Figure 4, that is, along the z-axis.

[0048] In Figure 4, the power generator 1x before the frame 21x begins to vibrate is shown by a solid line, and the power generator 1x while the frame 21x is vibrating is shown by a dashed line. At this time, the frame 21x does not twist or vibrate.

[0049] On the other hand, in the second example, as described above, an external force P1 is applied to the end plate 22x, so the frame 21x to which the end plate 22x is attached deforms by twisting in the direction of the white arrows shown in Figures 6 and 7. The direction of these white arrows is counterclockwise rotation with the x-axis as the center of the axis of rotation, as shown in Figure 6.

[0050] As a result of the twisting that occurs in the frame 21x, the amount of deformation of the frame 21x along the z-axis direction is smaller in the second example compared to the first example. In particular, as shown in Figure 6(b), when an external force P1 is applied, the twisting increases, and the amount of deformation of the frame 21x along the z-axis direction becomes even smaller.

[0051] Thus, in the conventional power generation device 1x, when an external force P1 as shown in the second example is applied, it is not easy to increase the deformation of the frame 21x. Therefore, it is difficult to increase the deformation of the power generation element 32x, and it is expected that such a power generation device 1x will have a small power output.

[0052] Furthermore, in the conventional power generation device 1x, when an external force P1 as shown in the second example is applied, the vibration of the frame 21x includes a torsional component. This torsional component reduces the amount of power generated by the power generation device 1x.

[0053] In the conventional example, the external force P1 is amplified by the lever principle, causing the power generation element 32x to deform. Therefore, it is expected that the amount of deformation of the power generation element 32x in the conventional example will be greater than the amount of deformation of the power generation element due to the external force generated from the deflection of the movable plate, as in Patent Document 1. However, the amount of deformation of the power generation element 32x in the conventional example is still not sufficient.

[0054] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0055] The embodiments described below are all comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement and connection configurations of components, steps, and the order of steps shown in the following embodiments are examples only and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0056] Furthermore, in this specification and the drawings, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis represent the three axes of a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system. In the embodiments, the plane on which the meandering section meanders is defined as the xy-plane, and the direction perpendicular to the xy-plane is defined as the z-axis. Also, in the following embodiments, the terms "up" and "down" do not refer to the upward direction (vertically upward) and the downward direction (vertically downward) in absolute spatial perception.

[0057] "Above" refers to the positive z-axis side, and "below" refers to the negative z-axis side. Furthermore, the terms "above" and "below" apply not only when two components are spaced apart and another component exists between them, but also when two components are placed in close proximity and touching each other.

[0058] In this specification, "plan view" refers to the view of the power generation device from the positive z-axis direction, and the resulting diagram is called a plan view. "Side view" refers to the view of the power generation device from the negative y-axis direction or the positive x-axis direction, and the resulting diagram is called a side view.

[0059] Furthermore, in this specification, elements that are essential for the operation of the power generation device or effective in improving its characteristics, but are unnecessary for explaining the present invention, have been omitted. Also, each drawing is merely a conceptual diagram, and scale, shape, etc., have not been taken into consideration.

[0060] Therefore, for example, the scales in each figure do not necessarily match. Also, in each figure, substantially identical components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted or simplified.

[0061] Furthermore, in this specification, terms indicating relationships between elements, such as "equal," terms indicating the shape of elements, such as "U-shape," and numerical ranges do not represent only strict meanings, but also include substantially equivalent ranges, such as differences of a few percent.

[0062] (Embodiment 1) [composition] An example of the configuration of the power generation device 1 according to this embodiment will be explained with reference to Figures 8 and 9.

[0063] Figure 8 is a plan view of the power generation device 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 9 is a side view of the power generation device 1 according to this embodiment.

[0064] For example, the power generation device 1 according to this embodiment is installed above the support base 2.

[0065] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the power generation device 1 comprises a power generation member 10, a spring member 22, and a bolt 40.

[0066] The power generation member 10 is a member having a frame 21 and a power generation unit 30 including a power generation element 32.

[0067] The frame 21 has a free end F1 and a fixed end F2. The free end F1 is the end that vibrates freely. The frame 21 also has a bent section B. The shape of the frame 21 is U-shaped, or more specifically, the shape of the frame 21 is U-shaped when viewed from the side. The frame 21 is formed by bending a single flat plate-shaped member to form a U-shape.

[0068] Furthermore, the thickness of the frame 21 is approximately uniform throughout the frame 21, and in this embodiment it is 1.6 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0069] Although not shown in the diagram, the frame 21 may also be V-shaped, in which case the frame 21 should be V-shaped when viewed from the side. The frame 21 is formed by bending a single flat plate-shaped member to form a V-shape.

[0070] The frame 21 is a long, slender member. In this embodiment, the frame 21 has an elongated shape in the x-axis direction. The frame 21 is fixed and supported in a cantilevered state, where one end is a fixed end F2 and the other end is a free end F1, with the curved portion B in between. In the power generation device 1, the fixed end F2 of the frame 21 is fixed to the support base 2.

[0071] When the free end F1 vibrates freely, the free end F1 moves either away from the fixed end F2 or towards the fixed end F2, causing the frame 21 itself to vibrate (deform).

[0072] At this time, the free end F1 moves away from the fixed end F2 (open state), and the free end F1 moves closer to the fixed end F2 (closed state) repeatedly. In other words, the gap between the free end F1 and the fixed end F2 becomes larger (open state), and the gap becomes smaller (closed state) repeatedly.

[0073] The frame 21 is provided with the power generation element 32 and power generation magnet 33 included in the power generation unit 30, and the frame 21 is a member that supports these components.

[0074] The materials constituting the frame 21 are not particularly limited, but it is preferable that they be made of an elastic material, for example. Alternatively, the materials constituting the frame 21 may be made of a material containing iron, for example. The frame 21 may be made of spring steel (bainite steel), cold-rolled steel strip (SPCC: Steel Plate Cold Commercial), etc.

[0075] As shown in Figure 9, the U-shaped frame 21 has a first inner surface 211 and a second inner surface 212, and a first outer surface 213 and a second outer surface 214 that face each other.

[0076] Furthermore, the free end F1 has a flat plate shape. In the flat plate shape of the free end F1, both the principal surface on the positive z-axis side and the principal surface on the negative z-axis side are parallel to the xy-plane.

[0077] Next, the power generation unit 30 will be described. The power generation unit 30 includes a coil 31, a power generation element 32, and a power generation magnet 33.

[0078] The power generation element 32 is a member provided on the frame 21 that deforms due to vibration of the frame 21. In this embodiment, the power generation element 32 is a magnetostrictive element. Here, the power generation element 32 is provided joined to the first outer surface 213 between the curved portion B and the free end F1.

[0079] The shape of the power generation element 32 is not particularly limited, but it is a flat plate shape, and the size of the power generation element 32 is, for example, about 90 mm (x-axis direction) × 24 mm (y-axis direction) × 3 mm (z-axis direction), but is not limited to this. In this embodiment, the plane of the power generation element 32 joined to the frame 21, which is parallel to the plane when the power generation device 1 is not vibrating, is the xy plane.

[0080] The power generation element 32 is made of a magnetostrictive material. The magnetostrictive material is, for example, an iron-gallium alloy, but is not limited to this; for example, it may be an iron-aluminum alloy or other materials.

[0081] The power generation element 32 is an element that deforms when the frame 21 is vibrated. In this embodiment, since the power generation element 32 is joined to the frame 21, the power generation element 32 deforms when the frame 21 vibrates.

[0082] The coil 31 is wound around the first inner surface 211 and the first outer surface 213 of the frame 21 and the power generation element 32. The coil 31 generates a voltage in proportion to the time change of the magnetic field lines passing through the power generation element 32, according to the law of electromagnetic induction.

[0083] The material of the coil 31 is copper, for example, but is not particularly limited. Furthermore, the voltage can be adjusted by changing the number of turns of the coil 31. For example, the number of turns of the coil 31 in this embodiment is 3000.

[0084] The power-generating magnet 33 is provided on the second inner surface 212 of the frame 21. The power-generating magnet 33 is, for example, a permanent magnet, but is not limited to this and may be an electromagnet. Magnetic field lines from the power-generating magnet 33 pass through the power-generating element 32.

[0085] Next, we will explain the spring member 22.

[0086] The spring member 22 has a meandering section m. The spring member 22 is an elongated member, and in this embodiment, the direction in which the meandering section m extends is the x-axis direction. As shown in Figure 8, the meandering section m has multiple curved regions A. The meandering section m meanders on a plane, and more specifically, it meanders on the xy-plane.

[0087] Furthermore, the distance between two adjacent curved regions A is, for example, between a few millimeters and a dozen centimeters. Multiple curved regions A are arranged at equal intervals (i.e., the same pitch) in the x-axis direction, and this pitch is, for example, between a few centimeters and a dozen centimeters.

[0088] More specifically, the spring member 22 in this embodiment is a so-called S-shaped spring. An S-shaped spring is also called an S-spring or S-spring.

[0089] One end of the elongated spring member 22 is attached to the free end F1 of the frame 21. Here, the negative x-axis end of the spring member 22 and the free end F1 of the frame 21 are fixed and attached by a bolt 40.

[0090] Furthermore, the meandering portion m of the spring member 22 meanders on a plane as described above, and this plane is parallel to the main surface of the flat plate shape at the free end F1 (in this case, the main surface on the positive z-axis side), and more specifically, it is parallel to the xy plane.

[0091] Furthermore, an external force P1 is applied to the spring member 22. This external force P1 causes the frame 21 to deform and vibrate.

[0092] The spring member 22 is made of, for example, spring steel. The spring member 22 is manufactured by curving a linear spring steel so that it takes the shape of an S-spring. For example, the diameter of the spring member 22 is, for example, several millimeters, and in this embodiment it is 3.4 mm, but is not limited to this. Also, the length of the spring member 22 in the x-axis direction is, for example, several tens of centimeters, and in this embodiment it is 45 cm.

[0093] By providing a spring member 22 attached to the free end F1 of the frame 21, the frame 21 can vibrate even when the external force P1 is small, due to the lever principle.

[0094] Next, let's explain bolt 40.

[0095] As described above, the bolt 40 is a component that fixes the free end F1 of the frame 21 to the spring member 22.

[0096] A through hole is provided in the free end F1 of the frame 21, extending in the z-axis direction. The bolt 40 is inserted through this through hole. In addition, one end of the spring member 22 is hooked onto the bolt 40, thereby fixing the free end F1 of the frame 21 and the spring member 22 together.

[0097] One end of the spring member 22 may be attached to the free end F1 by other means. For example, the one end and the free end F1 may be fixed together by a plurality of bolts 40, or the one end and the free end F1 may be bonded together with an adhesive.

[0098] For example, when an external force P1 is applied, the frame 21 vibrates. In this case, if the frame 21 vibrates by repeatedly switching between an open state and a closed state, tensile stress and compressive stress are alternately generated in the power generation element 32 joined to the frame 21, causing the power generation element 32 to expand or contract and deform.

[0099] In this way, when the frame 21 vibrates, the magnetic field lines of the power generation element 32 increase or decrease due to the inverse magnetostrictive effect, and the magnetic flux density passing through the coil 31 also increases or decreases. This change in magnetic flux density over time generates an induced voltage (or induced current) in the coil 31. In this way, the power generation unit 30 can generate electricity through the vibration of the frame 21.

[0100] Here, the third and fourth examples, which are examples in which an external force P1 is applied to the power generation device 1 according to this embodiment, will be explained using Figures 10 to 12 in addition to Figures 8 and 9.

[0101] Figure 10 is a side view illustrating a third example in which an external force P1 is applied to the power generation device 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 11 is a plan view illustrating a fourth example in which an external force P1 is applied to the power generation device 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 12 is a side view illustrating the external force P1 in the fourth example.

[0102] First, the external force P1 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0103] In the third example, as shown in Figure 8, an external force P1 is applied to the spring member 22 near the center of its width in the y-axis direction. More specifically, in the third example, the external force P1 is applied to the spring member 22 along the z-axis, that is, parallel to the z-axis. In other words, the external force P1 in the third example corresponds to the external force P1 in the first example.

[0104] On the other hand, in the fourth example, as shown in Figure 11, the external force P1 is applied to the negative side of the y-axis rather than near the center of the width of the spring member 22 in the y-axis direction. More specifically, in the fourth example, the external force P1 is applied to the spring member 22 along the z-axis, that is, parallel to the z-axis. In other words, the external force P1 in the fourth example corresponds to the external force P1 in the second example shown in Figure 6(a).

[0105] Next, we will explain how the power generator 1 vibrates.

[0106] In the third example, as described above, an external force P1 is applied to the spring member 22, so the frame 21 to which the spring member 22 is attached deforms and vibrates in the direction of the double-headed arrow shown in Figure 10, that is, along the z-axis. At this time, the frame 21 does not twist and vibrate, and the amount of deformation of the frame 21 in the z-axis direction becomes sufficiently large.

[0107] On the other hand, in the fourth example, the external force P1 is applied to the spring member 22 as described above. At this time, the elongated spring member 22 with the meandering portion m itself deforms by twisting in the direction of the white arrow shown in Figure 12. Therefore, unlike the conventional power generation device 1x described above, the twisting of the frame 21 is suppressed. In other words, the direction of the external force P1 in the fourth example is mitigated by the deformation of the spring member 22. Thus, even when the external force P1 according to the fourth example is applied, the amount of deformation of the frame 21 along the z-axis direction is suppressed to be small, meaning that the amount of deformation of the frame 21 in the z-axis direction becomes sufficiently large.

[0108] Thus, the power generation device 1 according to this embodiment can increase the amount of deformation of the frame 21 even when the external force P1 according to the third and fourth examples is applied. Therefore, the amount of deformation of the power generation element 32 can be increased, and a power generation device 1 with a large power output is realized.

[0109] Furthermore, in the power generation device 1 according to this embodiment, even when an external force P1 as shown in the fourth example is applied, the vibration of the frame 21 is less likely to include a torsional component. Therefore, unlike the conventional power generation device 1x, the reduction in the amount of power generated by the power generation device 1 due to the torsional component is less likely to occur, meaning that a power generation device 1 with a large power output is realized.

[0110] Furthermore, when an external force P1 is applied to the spring member 22, elastic energy is stored in the spring member 22. This stored elastic energy causes the frame 21 to vibrate, and the power generation device 1 generates electricity. Therefore, compared to the power generation device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the power generation device 1 equipped with a spring member 22 that can store elastic energy generates a larger amount of electricity.

[0111] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the external force P1 is amplified by the lever principle, causing the power generation element 32 to deform. Moreover, as described above, twisting of the frame 21 is suppressed, so the amount of deformation of the frame 21 in the z-axis direction can be increased, and that is, the amount of deformation of the power generation element 32 can be increased. For this reason, it is expected that the amount of deformation of the power generation element 32 in this embodiment will be much larger than the amount of deformation of the power generation element due to the external force generated from the deflection of the movable plate, as in Patent Document 1, and a power generation device 1 with a large power output will be realized.

[0112] [Effects, etc.] The embodiment can be summarized as follows. The power generation device 1 according to this embodiment comprises a power generation member 10 and a spring member 22. The power generation member 10 has a frame 21 including a free end F1, and a power generation element 32 provided on the frame 21 that deforms when the frame 21 is vibrated. The spring member 22 is an elongated member having a meandering portion m that meanders on a plane. One end of the spring member 22 is provided on the free end F1.

[0113] As shown in the third example and Figure 8, when an external force P1 is applied to the spring member 22 near the center of its width in the y-axis direction, the frame 21 to which the spring member 22 is attached deforms and vibrates in the direction of the double-headed arrows shown in Figure 10, that is, along the z-axis direction. At this time, the frame 21 does not twist and vibrate, and the amount of deformation of the frame 21 in the z-axis direction becomes sufficiently large.

[0114] Similarly, as shown in the fourth example and Figure 11, even when an external force P1 is applied to the negative side of the y-axis rather than near the center of the width of the spring member 22 in the y-axis direction, the elongated spring member 22 with the meandering portion m itself deforms by twisting in the direction of the white arrow shown in Figure 12. Therefore, unlike the conventional power generation device 1x described above, twisting of the frame 21 is suppressed. In other words, the direction of the external force P1 in the fourth example is mitigated by the deformation of the spring member 22. Thus, even when the external force P1 according to the fourth example is applied, the amount of deformation of the frame 21 along the z-axis direction is suppressed to be small, meaning that the amount of deformation of the frame 21 in the z-axis direction becomes sufficiently large.

[0115] Thus, the power generation device 1 according to this embodiment can increase the amount of deformation of the frame 21 even when the external force P1 according to the third and fourth examples is applied. Therefore, the amount of deformation of the power generation element 32 can be increased, and a power generation device 1 with a large power output is realized.

[0116] Furthermore, in the power generation device 1 according to this embodiment, even when an external force P1 as shown in the fourth example is applied, the vibration of the frame 21 is less likely to include a torsional component. Therefore, unlike the conventional power generation device 1x, the reduction in the amount of power generated by the power generation device 1 due to the torsional component is less likely to occur, meaning that a power generation device 1 with a large power output is realized.

[0117] Furthermore, when an external force P1 is applied to the spring member 22, elastic energy is stored in the spring member 22. This stored elastic energy causes the frame 21 to vibrate, and the power generation device 1 generates electricity. Therefore, compared to the power generation device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the power generation device 1 equipped with a spring member 22 that can store elastic energy generates a larger amount of electricity.

[0118] In this embodiment, the spring member 22 is an S-shaped spring.

[0119] As a result, when an external force P1 is applied, the spring member 22, which is an S-shaped spring, becomes more prone to twisting, thus further suppressing the twisting of the frame 21. In other words, because the spring member 22 is an S-shaped spring, the direction of the external force P1 in the fourth example is more easily mitigated by the deformation of the spring member 22. Therefore, the amount of deformation of the frame 21 in the z-axis direction can be increased, and the amount of deformation of the power generation element 32 can be increased. Consequently, a power generation device 1 with a larger power output can be realized.

[0120] Furthermore, because the spring member 22 is an S-shaped spring, even when an external force P1 as shown in the fourth example is applied, the vibration of the frame 21 is less likely to include a torsional component. Therefore, unlike the conventional power generation device 1x, the reduction in the amount of power generated by the power generation device 1 due to the torsional component is less likely to occur, meaning that a power generation device 1 with a higher power output is realized.

[0121] Furthermore, because the spring member 22 is an S-shaped spring, when an external force P1 is applied to the spring member 22, a large amount of elastic energy is stored in the spring member 22. This stored elastic energy causes the frame 21 to vibrate, and the power generation device 1 generates electricity. Therefore, compared to the power generation device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the power generation device 1, which is equipped with a spring member 22 that is an S-shaped spring capable of storing a larger amount of elastic energy, generates a larger amount of electricity.

[0122] In this embodiment, the frame 21 has a U-shape. A power generation element 32 is provided between the curved portion B of the U-shape and the free end F1.

[0123] As a result, the frame 21 becomes more susceptible to vibration due to the external force P1 applied to the spring member 22, and the power generation element 32 also becomes more susceptible to vibration. Therefore, a power generation device 1 with a larger power output is realized.

[0124] (Modification 1 of the embodiment) Next, a modification 1 of the embodiment will be described. The main difference in this modification 1 from the embodiment is that a magnetic material 50 is provided. In the following, the differences from the embodiment will be explained in detail, and the explanation of the common points will be omitted or simplified.

[0125] [composition] An example of the configuration of the power generation device 101 according to the first modified embodiment will be explained with reference to Figures 13 and 14.

[0126] Figure 13 is a plan view of the power generation device 101 according to Modification 1 of this embodiment. Figure 14 is a side view of the power generation device 101 according to Modification 1 of this embodiment. More specifically, Figure 14 is also a diagram to explain the external force P1 (attractive force) generated between the magnetic material 50 and the external magnet 60.

[0127] The power generation device 101 has the same configuration as the power generation device 1 according to this embodiment, except that it includes a magnetic material 50. In other words, the power generation device 101 includes a power generation member 10, a spring member 22, a bolt 40, and a magnetic material 50.

[0128] The magnetic material 50 is a component provided on the spring member 22. More specifically, the magnetic material 50 is a component provided on the other end of the spring member 22, which is different from one end of the spring member 22 provided on the free end F1, that is, on the end of the spring member 22 on the positive x-axis side. The magnetic material 50 is, for example, a flat plate made of iron, but is not limited to this.

[0129] In this embodiment, the power generation device 101 is equipped with one magnetic body 50, but it is not limited to this and may be equipped with multiple magnetic bodies 50. Furthermore, the position where the magnetic body 50 is provided is not limited to the end on the positive x-axis side of the spring member 22, but may be near the center of the spring member 22.

[0130] The magnetic material 50 is fixed to the other end of the spring member 22. The magnetic material 50 and the other end of the spring member 22 may be fixed together, for example, by a bolt 40, or they may be bonded together, for example, by an adhesive. It is sufficient that the magnetic material 50 does not detach from the spring member 22 when the frame 21 is vibrating.

[0131] The external magnet 60 is a magnet that generates an attractive force between itself and the magnetic material 50. The external magnet 60 is, for example, a permanent magnet, but is not limited to that and may be an electromagnet.

[0132] Here, we will explain the behavior of the power generation device 101 according to this modified example when generating electricity.

[0133] First, when the external magnet 60 is brought close to the magnetic material 50, an external force P1 (attractive force) is generated between the external magnet 60 and the magnetic material 50, and the magnetic material 50 is attracted to the external magnet 60. Furthermore, when the external magnet 60 is pulled up, for example, to the positive z-axis side, the power generation device 101 enters the state shown in Figure 14, that is, the frame 21 in this modified example enters a state in which the gap between the free end F1 and the fixed end F2 becomes larger (open state).

[0134] The external magnet 60 may be pulled up in a direction parallel to the z-axis (i.e., pulled straight up) or in a direction not parallel to the z-axis. Pulling up in a direction not parallel to the z-axis means, for example, that the external magnet 60 is pulled up to a position on the positive or negative x-axis side, or the positive or negative y-axis side, relative to the frame 21 in a plan view.

[0135] As shown in Figure 14, when the frame 21 is deformed, the external magnet 60 is further pulled towards the positive z-axis, causing the magnetic material 50 to detach from the external magnet 60. This causes the frame 21 to vibrate. Figure 15 is a side view showing the vibration of the power generation device 101 according to Modification 1 of this embodiment.

[0136] The frame 21 deforms and vibrates in the direction of the white double-headed arrow shown in Figure 15, that is, along the z-axis. In Figure 15, the power generation device 101 before the frame 21 vibrates is shown by a solid line, and the power generation device 101 while the frame 21 is vibrating is shown by a dashed line. When the frame 21 vibrates by repeatedly switching between an open state and a closed state, the power generation element 32 deforms by expanding or contracting.

[0137] In this case, when the external magnet 60 is pulled up in a direction parallel to the z-axis direction (i.e., pulled straight up), the frame 21 does not twist and vibrate, and the amount of deformation of the frame 21 in the z-axis direction becomes sufficiently large.

[0138] Furthermore, even when the external magnet 60 is pulled in a direction not parallel to the z-axis direction, the elongated spring member 22 with the meandering portion m itself deforms by twisting. In other words, the direction of the external force P1 applied in this case is mitigated by the deformation of the spring member 22. As a result, twisting of the frame 21 is suppressed. That is, the amount of deformation of the frame 21 along the z-axis direction is suppressed, and in other words, the amount of deformation of the frame 21 in the z-axis direction becomes sufficiently large.

[0139] In this way, regardless of the direction in which the external magnet 60 is pulled up, the amount of deformation of the frame 21 in the z-axis direction can be increased, that is, the amount of deformation of the power generation element 32 can be increased. Therefore, even in this modified example, a power generation device 101 with a large power output can be realized.

[0140] [Effects, etc.] The first modified embodiment can be summarized as follows. The power generation device 101 according to the first modified embodiment includes a magnetic material 50 provided on the spring member 22.

[0141] This generates an attractive force (external force P1) between the external magnet 60 and the magnetic material 50. The direction of this external force P1 is mitigated by the deformation of the spring member 22. Therefore, regardless of the direction in which the external magnet 60 is pulled up, the amount of deformation of the frame 21 in the z-axis direction, and thus the amount of deformation of the power generation element 32, can be increased. Thus, even in this modified example, a power generation device 101 with a large power output is realized.

[0142] (Modified example 2 of the embodiment) Next, a modified example of the embodiment 2 will be described. The main difference in the modified example of the embodiment 2 from the modified example of the embodiment 1 is that the spring member 222 is bent vertically. In the following, the differences from the modified example of the embodiment 1 will be explained in detail, and the explanation of the common points will be omitted or simplified.

[0143] An example of the configuration of the power generation device 201 according to the first modified embodiment will be explained with reference to Figures 16 and 17.

[0144] Figure 16 is a side view of the power generation device 201 according to Modification 2 of this embodiment. More specifically, Figure 16 is also a diagram to explain the external force P1 (attractive force) generated between the magnetic material 50 and the external magnet 60. Figure 17 is a plan view to explain the manufacturing method of the power generation device 201 according to Modification 2 of this embodiment.

[0145] The power generation device 201 has the same configuration as the power generation device 101 according to Modification 1 of this embodiment, except that it is equipped with a spring member 222 instead of a spring member 22. In other words, the power generation device 201 comprises a power generation member 10, a spring member 222, a bolt 40, and a magnetic material 50.

[0146] The spring member 222 will now be described.

[0147] The spring member 222 has the same configuration as the spring member 22, except that it is bent vertically in two places. More specifically, the spring member 22 according to Modification 1 becomes the spring member 222 according to Modification 2 when it is bent. The spring member 22 of the power generation device 101 becomes the spring member 222 when it is bent vertically along the two dashed lines shown in Figure 17, and the power generation device 201 is obtained.

[0148] Figure 18 is a side view showing the vibration of the power generation device 201 according to Modification 2 of this embodiment. In Figure 18, the power generation device 201 before the frame 21 vibrates is shown by a solid line, and the power generation device 201 with the frame 21 vibrating is shown by a dashed line.

[0149] As described in Modification 1 of this embodiment, when the external magnet 60 is brought close to the vicinity of the magnetic body 50 and pulled up to the positive z-axis side, an external force P1 (attractive force) is generated and extinguished between the magnetic body 50 and the external magnet 60. As a result, when the frame 21 vibrates by repeatedly switching between an open state and a closed state, the power generation element 32 expands or contracts and deforms.

[0150] In this modified example, regardless of the direction in which the external magnet 60 is pulled up, the amount of deformation of the frame 21 in the z-axis direction can be increased, that is, the amount of deformation of the power generation element 32 can be increased. Therefore, a power generation device 201 with a large power output can be realized.

[0151] (Modification 3 of the embodiment) Next, a third modification of the embodiment will be described. In this third modification, a power generation device 500 comprising a power generation member including a first power generation member and a second power generation member will be described. In the following, the differences from the embodiment will be explained in detail, and the explanation of the common points will be omitted or simplified.

[0152] [composition] A configuration example of the power generation device 500 according to the third modified embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 19.

[0153] Figure 19 is a plan view of a power generation device 500 according to a third modification of this embodiment. As shown in Figure 19, the power generation device 500 comprises a power generation member including a first power generation member 10a and a second power generation member 10b, a spring member 22, and two bolts 40a and 40b. For example, the power generation device 500 is mounted on a support base (not shown).

[0154] First, the first power generation member 10a and the second power generation member 10b will be described.

[0155] The first power generation member 10a and the second power generation member 10b are members having the same configuration as the power generation member 10 according to the embodiment.

[0156] In other words, the power generation unit 30a and frame 21a of the first power generation member 10a have the same configuration as the power generation unit 30 and frame 21 of the power generation member 10 according to the embodiment. Similarly, the power generation unit 30b and frame 21b of the second power generation member 10b have the same configuration as the power generation unit 30 and frame 21 of the power generation member 10 according to the embodiment. In other words, the power generation device 500 according to this modified example can be said to be equipped with two power generation members 10.

[0157] The first power generation member 10a and the second power generation member 10b are arranged facing each other. It can also be said that the first power generation member 10a and the second power generation member 10b are arranged as a pair.

[0158] Frames 21a and 21b are elongated members, similar to frame 21. Here, frames 21a and 21b are arranged to be elongated in the x-axis direction and to have a linear shape in the x-axis direction.

[0159] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 19, the distance between the curved section Ba and the curved section Bb is greater than the distance between the free end F1a and the free end F1b. The distance between the free end F1a and the free end F1b is not particularly limited, but for example, it is between a few millimeters and several tens of centimeters.

[0160] Next, we will explain the spring member 22.

[0161] The spring member 22 according to this modified example has the same configuration as the spring member 22 according to the embodiment shown in Figure 8, except for the positions where one end and the other end of the spring member 22 are provided.

[0162] As shown in Figure 19, one end of the spring member 22 (more specifically, the end on the negative x-axis side) is provided on the free end F1a included in the frame 21a of the first power generation member 10a. The other end of the spring member 22 (more specifically, the end on the positive x-axis side) is provided on the free end F1b included in the frame 21b of the second power generation member 10b.

[0163] The spring member 22, frame 21a, and frame 21b are elongated members. In this modified example, the spring member 22, frame 21a, and frame 21b are arranged to form a straight line in the x-axis direction.

[0164] The two bolts 40a and 40b are components having the same structure as bolt 40.

[0165] The power generation device 500 according to this modified example can be used as a contact sensor. For example, the case in which the object to be detected 600 comes into contact with the spring member 22 will be described below.

[0166] The object to be detected 600 is an object detected by the power generation device 500, which is used as a contact sensor, and is, for example, a ball or a rock.

[0167] When the object to be detected 600 comes into contact with the spring member 22, an external force P1 is applied to the spring member 22.

[0168] When an external force P1 is applied in a direction parallel to the z-axis direction, the frame 21 does not twist and vibrate, and the amount of deformation of the frame 21 in the z-axis direction becomes sufficiently large.

[0169] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 19, when the external force P1 is generated in a direction not parallel to the z-axis direction, the elongated spring member 22 having the meandering portion m itself deforms by twisting. Therefore, twisting of the frames 21a and 21b of the first power generation member 10a and the second power generation member 10b is suppressed. In other words, the direction of the external force P1 is mitigated by the deformation of the spring member 22. That is, the amount of deformation of frames 21a and 21b along the z-axis direction is suppressed, and that is, the amount of deformation of frames 21a and 21b in the z-axis direction becomes sufficiently large.

[0170] In this way, the amount of deformation of frames 21a and 21b in the z-axis direction can be increased regardless of the direction in which the detected object 600 contacts the spring member 22, that is, regardless of the direction in which the external force P1 is generated. In other words, the amount of deformation of each power generation element of the first power generation member 10a and the second power generation member 10b can be increased. Therefore, even in this modified example, a power generation device 500 with a large power generation output can be realized.

[0171] Therefore, since power is generated when the object to be detected 600 comes into contact with the spring member 22, the power generator 500 can be used as a contact sensor. Furthermore, because the power generator 500 has a large power output, it can generate power even when the external force P1 due to contact is sufficiently small. For this reason, the power generator 500 can be used as a highly sensitive contact sensor.

[0172] [Effects, etc.] In this modified example, the power generation member includes a first power generation member 10a and a second power generation member 10b. One end of the spring member 22 is provided on the free end F1a included in the frame 21a of the first power generation member 10a. The other end of the spring member 22 is provided on the free end F1b included in the frame 21b of the second power generation member 10b.

[0173] This realizes a power generation device 500 that generates electricity using two power generation elements (i.e., a first power generation element 10a and a second power generation element 10b). Furthermore, such a power generation device 500 can also be used as a contact sensor.

[0174] (Modification of the embodiment 4) Next, a fourth modification of the embodiment will be described. In this fourth modification, a power generation system is described in which two power generation devices are provided, each containing a power generation member including a first power generation member and a second power generation member. In the following, the differences from the third modification of the embodiment will be explained in detail, and the explanation of the common points will be omitted or simplified.

[0175] [composition] An example of the configuration of the power generation system 1000 according to the fourth modified embodiment will be explained with reference to Figures 20 and 21.

[0176] Figure 20 is a plan view of the power generation system 1000 according to Modification 4 of this embodiment. Figure 21 is a side view of the power generation system 1000 according to Modification 4 of this embodiment.

[0177] As shown in Figures 20 and 21, the power generation system 1000 comprises a power generation device 500a, a power generation device 500b, a second plate member 700, and a spacer 800. For example, the power generation system 1000 is installed above the support base 2.

[0178] The power generation system 1000 is a system that generates electricity when an external force P1 is applied. The power generation system 1000 can be used, for example, as a system that generates electricity by utilizing the downward movement of the second plate member 700 when it is stepped on or runs by a person. In other words, the power generation system 1000 can be used as floor power generation. The power generation system 1000 can be used, for example, embedded in a floor where people walk.

[0179] The power generation devices 500a and 500b are devices having the same configuration as the power generation device 500 according to the modified example 3 of the embodiment. In other words, the power generation system 1000 can be said to consist of two of the above-mentioned power generation devices 500.

[0180] The power generation devices 500a and 500b are arranged adjacent to each other. The power generation system 1000 may also include three or more power generation devices 500.

[0181] Here, we will explain the meandering section m in power generation devices 500a and 500b.

[0182] The plane on which the meandering portion m of the spring member 22 of power generation device 500a meanders and the plane on which the meandering portion m of the spring member 22 of power generation device 500b meanders are flush. Here, these two planes are parallel to the xy plane. The height of each of these two planes from the support base 2 is the same.

[0183] Furthermore, the direction in which the meandering section m in power generation device 500a extends in a meandering manner is the same as the direction in which the meandering section m in power generation device 500b extends in a meandering manner, and is the x-axis direction.

[0184] Next, the second plate member 700 will be described.

[0185] The second plate member 700 is a member that rests on the spring member 22 in the power generation device 500a and the power generation device 500b, respectively. In this modified example, the second plate member 700 is a member that is stepped on by a person and receives the resulting external force P1, and more specifically, it is a floor member with appropriate flexibility.

[0186] The second plate member 700 is fixed above the two spring members 22. The second plate member 700 and each of the two spring members 22 may be fixed together by bolts 40, or they may be bonded together, for example, with adhesive. The second plate member 700 should not detach from the two spring members 22 when the two spring members 22 are vibrating.

[0187] The shape of the second plate member 700 is, for example, a flat plate shape, and as shown in Figures 20 and 21, both of the two main surfaces of the second plate member 700 are parallel to the xy plane. The second plate member 700 is preferably flexible because it will be stepped on by a person. This allows the second plate member 700 to transmit the external force P1 caused by being stepped on to the spring member 22 without loss.

[0188] Next, I will explain the Spacer 800.

[0189] The spacer 800 is an example of a limiting member that restricts the deformation of the spring members 22 provided in each of the power generation devices 500a and 500b. More specifically, the spacer 800 is a member provided between the support base 2 and the second plate member 700.

[0190] Furthermore, in this modified example, as shown in Figure 21, the spacer 800 is installed between the fixed end F2a of frame 21a and the fixed end F2b of frame 21b. The spacer 800 is preferably made of a flexible material, such as rubber or urethane resin.

[0191] In this modified example, the two spring members 22, the two frames 21a, and the two frames 21b are deformed by the external force P1. If the external force P1 is too large, the deformation of the two spring members 22, the two frames 21a, and the two frames 21b will become excessive. As a result, the two spring members 22, the two frames 21a, and the two frames 21b may be destroyed.

[0192] The provision of spacers 800 prevents excessive deformation of the two spring members 22, the two frames 21a, and the two frames 21b, even if the external force P1 is too large. As a result, the failure of the two spring members 22, the two frames 21a, and the two frames 21b is suppressed.

[0193] When the second plate member 700 is stepped on, for example, by a person, an external force P1 is applied to the second plate member 700 and the two spring members 22.

[0194] As shown in Figure 21, when the external force P1 is applied in a direction parallel to the z-axis direction, the frame 21 does not twist and vibrate, and the amount of deformation of the frame 21 in the z-axis direction becomes sufficiently large.

[0195] Furthermore, if the external force P1 is generated in a direction not parallel to the z-axis direction, the elongated spring member 22 having a meandering section m will deform by twisting. As a result, twisting of the two frames 21a and two frames 21b in the power generation device 500a and power generation device 500b is suppressed.

[0196] In other words, the deformation of the two frames 21a and the two frames 21b along the z-axis is suppressed, and the deformation of the two frames 21a and the two frames 21b in the z-axis direction becomes sufficiently large.

[0197] In this way, the amount of deformation of the two frames 21a and the two frames 21b in the z-axis direction can be increased regardless of the direction in which the second plate member 700 is stepped on by a person, that is, regardless of the direction in which the external force P1 is generated. In other words, the amount of deformation of each power generation element of the two first power generation members 10a and the two second power generation members 10b can be increased. Therefore, in this modified example, a power generation system 1000 with a large amount of power generation is realized.

[0198] In this modified example, the second plate member 700 was a member that is stepped on by a person, but it is not limited to this. For example, the second plate member 700 may be a member that is subjected to an external force P1 by the tires of a car, in which case the power generation system 1000 is used by being embedded in, for example, a road on which cars pass.

[0199] Furthermore, the amount of power generated from the power generation system 1000 according to the modified embodiment 4 will be explained with reference to Figures 22 and 23.

[0200] Figure 22 illustrates the electromotive force generated when the second plate member 700, according to Modification 4 of this embodiment, is stepped on by a person. Figure 23 illustrates the electromotive force generated when the spring member 22, according to Modification 4 of this embodiment, is flicked with a finger.

[0201] Figure 22 shows the electromotive force obtained from the power generation system 1000 and its change over time, with the timing of when the second plate member 700 was stepped on by a person indicated by a black arrow. Here, the person stepped on the central part of the second plate member 700 with a period of approximately 1 second, deforming the two spring members 22. As a result of being stepped on in this manner, the second plate member 700 was deformed by approximately 10 mm to 15 mm.

[0202] As shown in Figure 22, it was confirmed that a voltage of approximately 3V was generated each time a person stepped on the second plate member 700. For example, assuming the Joule loss of a resistor as a load, it is estimated that a large power of 15mW to 20mW is generated each time a person steps on the second plate member 700.

[0203] Figure 23 shows the electromotive force generated by flicking the spring member 22 with a finger just once, and its change over time. In other words, in Figure 23, the power generation system 1000 is in free vibration. It was confirmed that a sufficiently large voltage of 20V to 30V was generated immediately after being flicked with a finger.

[0204] [Effects, etc.] In this modified example, the power generation system 1000 comprises a plurality of the above-described power generation devices 500. More specifically, the power generation system 1000 comprises power generation device 500a and power generation device 500b. The plane on which the meandering portion m of the spring member 22 of each of the two power generation devices 500 (i.e., power generation device 500a and power generation device 500b) meanders is flush with the plane. The meandering portions m of the plurality (in this case, two) extend in the same direction.

[0205] This enables the realization of a power generation system 1000 that generates electricity using two power generation devices 500. Furthermore, if the power generation system 1000 includes a second plate member 700, the second plate member 700 can be easily placed on the two spring members 22.

[0206] Furthermore, the power generation system 1000 according to this modified example includes a second plate member 700 that is mounted on a plurality (in this case, two) of spring members 22.

[0207] As a result, the second plate member 700 can be used as a floor member, and the power generation system 1000 can be used as a floor power generation system.

[0208] Furthermore, the power generation system 1000 according to this modified example includes a limiting member (spacer 800) that limits the deformation of the spring member 22 provided in each of the multiple power generation devices (more specifically, power generation device 500a and power generation device 500b).

[0209] As a result, when the power generation system 1000 is used as floor power generation, even if the external force P1 is too large, the deformation of the two spring members 22, the two frames 21a, and the two frames 21b is suppressed from becoming too large. In other words, the failure of the two spring members 22, the two frames 21a, and the two frames 21b is suppressed.

[0210] (Modification of the embodiment 5) Next, a fifth modification of the embodiment will be described. The main difference in this fifth modification of the embodiment is that the frame 21 and the spring member 22a are integrated into a single unit. In the following, the differences from the embodiment will be explained in detail, and the explanation of the common points will be omitted or simplified.

[0211] [composition] A configuration example of the power generation device 301 according to the fifth modified embodiment will be explained with reference to Figures 24 and 25.

[0212] Figure 24 is a plan view of the power generation device 301 according to Modification 5 of this embodiment. Figure 25 is a side view of the power generation device 301 according to Modification 5 of this embodiment.

[0213] The power generation device 301 has the same configuration as the power generation device 1 according to this embodiment, except that the frame 21 and the spring member 22a are a single unit and that it does not have bolts 40. In other words, the power generation device 301 comprises a power generation member 10 and a spring member 22a.

[0214] Now, let's describe the spring member 22a.

[0215] The spring member 22a has a meandering section m. The spring member 22a is a long-shaped member, and in this embodiment, the direction in which the meandering section m extends is the x-axis direction. As shown in Figure 24, the meandering section m has a plurality of bending regions A1. The plurality of bending regions A1 are regions in the meandering section m that bend at 90°.

[0216] Furthermore, the width of the meandering section m in the y-axis direction is denoted as width d1, and the width of the meandering section m in the x-axis direction is denoted as width d2. In this modified example, widths d1 and d2 are the same size.

[0217] One end of the elongated spring member 22a is provided at the free end F1 of the frame 21. Here, since the frame 21 and the spring member 22a are a single unit, there is no joint between the negative x-axis end of the spring member 22a and the free end F1 of the frame 21. For this reason, in this modified example, the power generation device 301 does not have bolts 40.

[0218] The frame 21 and the spring member 22a are integrated into a single unit, and the spring member 22a is made of the same material as the frame 21. Thus, the spring member 22a and the frame 21 are integrally formed. Therefore, the spring member 22a and the frame 21 can be easily manufactured.

[0219] Furthermore, the meandering portion m of the spring member 22a meanders on a plane as described above, and this plane is parallel to the main surface of the flat plate shape at the free end F1 (in this case, the main surface on the positive z-axis side), and more specifically, it is parallel to the xy plane.

[0220] Furthermore, the spring member 22a is subjected to an external force P1 as described in the third and fourth examples of the embodiment. This external force P1 causes the frame 21 to deform and vibrate.

[0221] By providing a spring member 22a attached to the free end F1 of the frame 21, the frame 21 can vibrate even when the external force P1 is small, due to the lever principle.

[0222] Such a power generation device 301 has a large power output, similar to the power generation device 101 according to the embodiment. In other words, even when the external force P1 according to the third and fourth examples shown in the embodiment is applied to the power generation device 301, the amount of deformation of the frame 21 can be increased. Therefore, the amount of deformation of the power generation element 32 can be increased, and a power generation device 301 with a large power output is realized.

[0223] [Effects, etc.] In this modified example, the frame 21 and the spring member 22a are a single integrated unit.

[0224] This makes it possible to easily manufacture the spring member 22a and the frame 21.

[0225] (Modification 6 of the embodiment) Next, a modification 6 of the embodiment will be described. In modification 6 of the embodiment, the main difference from modification 5 of the embodiment is the thickness of the meandering section m. In the following, the differences from modification 5 of the embodiment will be explained in detail, and the explanation of the common points will be omitted or simplified.

[0226] A configuration example of the power generation device 401 according to the sixth modified embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 26.

[0227] Figure 26 is a plan view of a power generation device 401 according to a modified example 6 of this embodiment.

[0228] The power generation device 401 has the same configuration as the power generation device 301 according to the modified embodiment 5, except that it is equipped with a spring member 22b instead of a spring member 22a. In other words, the power generation device 401 is equipped with a power generation member 10 and a spring member 22b.

[0229] The spring member 22b has the same configuration as the spring member 22a, except for the relationship between width d1 and width d2. In the spring member 22a according to modified example 5, the width d1 of the meandering portion m in the y-axis direction and the width d2 of the meandering portion m in the x-axis direction were the same size.

[0230] However, in this modified example, the width d1 of the meandering section m in the y-axis direction and the width d2 of the meandering section m in the x-axis direction are different values; more specifically, width d1 is smaller than width d2.

[0231] In other words, in the spring member 22b according to this modified example, the thickness of a part of the meandering portion m is different from the thickness of the other part of the meandering portion m.

[0232] Such a spring member 22b is more easily deformed than the spring member 22a according to the modified example 5 of the embodiment when an external force P1 is applied, for example, in the fourth example of the embodiment. In other words, the spring member 22b is more easily able to mitigate the direction of the external force P1. Therefore, even when the external force P1 according to the fourth example is applied, the amount of deformation of the frame 21 along the z-axis direction is suppressed, and that is, the amount of deformation of the frame 21 in the z-axis direction becomes sufficiently large. As a result, a power generation device 401 with a large power output is realized.

[0233] (Modification 7 of the embodiment) Next, we will describe Modification 7 of the Embodiment. Modification 7 of the Embodiment differs from Modification 5 of the Embodiment mainly in that a magnetic material 50 is provided. In the following, we will focus on explaining the differences from Modification 5 of the Embodiment, and will omit or simplify the explanation of the common points.

[0234] A configuration example of the power generation device 501 according to modified embodiment 7 will be explained with reference to Figure 27.

[0235] Figure 27 is a plan view of a power generation device 501 according to a modified example 7 of this embodiment.

[0236] The power generation device 501 has the same configuration as the power generation device 301 according to the modified embodiment 5, except that it includes a magnetic material 50. In other words, the power generation device 501 includes a power generation member 10, a spring member 22a, and a magnetic material 50.

[0237] The magnetic material 50 is a component provided on the spring member 22a, as in the modified example 1 of the embodiment. More specifically, the magnetic material 50 is a component provided on the other end of the spring member 22a, which is different from one end of the spring member 22a provided on the free end F1, that is, on the end of the spring member 22a on the positive x-axis side. The magnetic material 50 is preferably a plate-shaped component made of a magnetic material.

[0238] Such a power generation device 501 exhibits the same behavior as the power generation device 101 according to the modified embodiment 1. In other words, a power generation device 501 with a large power output is realized.

[0239] (Modification 8 of the embodiment) Next, a modified example 8 of the embodiment will be described. The main difference in modified example 8 of the embodiment from modified example 5 of the embodiment is that multiple weights 70 are provided. In the following, the differences from modified example 5 of the embodiment will be explained in detail, and the explanation of the common points will be omitted or simplified.

[0240] [composition] A configuration example of the power generation device 601 according to modified embodiment 8 will be explained with reference to Figure 28.

[0241] Figure 28 is a plan view of a power generation device 601 according to modification 8 of this embodiment.

[0242] The power generation device 601 has the same configuration as the power generation device 301 according to the modified embodiment 5, except that it includes a plurality of weights 70. In other words, the power generation device 601 includes a power generation member 10, a spring member 22a, and a plurality of weights 70.

[0243] The weights 70 are components provided on the spring member 22a. Multiple weights 70 are provided on the positive z-axis side of the spring member 22a, but are not limited to this. One weight 70 is provided on the other end of the spring member 22a, which is different from the one end provided at the free end F1, that is, on the positive x-axis side of the spring member 22a. The other two weights 70 are provided on the meandering portion m of the spring member 22a.

[0244] In this modified example, the power generation device 601 is equipped with three weights 70, but is not limited to this, and may be equipped with one, two, or four or more weights 70.

[0245] The weights 70 and the spring member 22a may be fixed together, for example, by bolts, or bonded together, for example, by adhesive. The important thing is that the multiple weights 70 do not detach from the spring member 22a when the frame 21 is vibrating.

[0246] [Effects, etc.] In this modified example, the power generation device 601 includes one or more weights 70 provided on the spring member 22a.

[0247] As a result, the spring member 22a and the frame 21 vibrate in vibration modes corresponding to each of the one or more weights 70. In other words, compared to the case where there are no weights 70, the number of vibration modes available when the power generator 601 generates electricity increases. Therefore, the amount of electricity generated by the power generator 601 can be increased.

[0248] (Modification 9 of the embodiment) Next, a modified example 9 of the embodiment will be described. The main difference between this modified example 9 and modified example 5 of the embodiment is that multiple spring members are provided. In the following, the differences from modified example 5 of the embodiment will be explained in detail, and the explanation of the common points will be omitted or simplified.

[0249] [composition] A configuration example of the power generation device 701 according to modified embodiment 9 will be explained with reference to Figure 29.

[0250] Figure 29 is a side view of a power generation device 701 according to a modified example 9 of this embodiment.

[0251] The power generation device 701 has the same configuration as the power generation device 301 according to the modified embodiment 5, except that it includes a plurality of spring members and a bolt 40. In other words, the power generation device 701 includes a power generation member 10, a plurality of spring members (here, two spring members 22a and spring member 22c), and a bolt 40.

[0252] The spring member 22a has a meandering section m. In the spring member 22a, the direction in which the meandering section m extends is the x-axis direction.

[0253] The spring member 22c has the same configuration as the spring member 22, except that one part is bent vertically. In the spring member 22c, the direction in which the meandering portion m extends is the z-axis direction.

[0254] In this modified example, the direction in which the meandering portion m extends in a meandering manner in each of the spring members 22a and 22c is not limited to the above.

[0255] Furthermore, the meandering portion m of the spring member 22a meanders on a plane, and this plane is parallel to the main surface of the flat plate shape at the free end F1 (in this case, the main surface on the positive z-axis side), and more specifically, it is parallel to the xy plane.

[0256] The meandering portion m of the spring member 22c meanders on a plane, and this plane is parallel to the yz plane.

[0257] Furthermore, an external force P1 according to the third and fourth examples shown in the embodiment is applied to at least one of the two spring members 22a and spring member 22c. This external force P1 causes the frame 21 to deform and vibrate.

[0258] By providing two spring members 22a and 22c attached to the free end F1 of the frame 21, the frame 21 can vibrate even when the external force P1 is small, due to the principle of leverage.

[0259] Such a power generation device 701, like the power generation device 101 according to the embodiment, generates a large amount of power. In other words, even when the external force P1 according to the third and fourth examples shown in the embodiment is applied to the power generation device 701, the amount of deformation of the frame 21 can be increased. Therefore, the amount of deformation of the power generation element 32 can be increased, and a power generation device 701 with a large amount of power generation is realized.

[0260] [Effects, etc.] In this modified example, the power generation device 701 includes a plurality of spring members (here, spring member 22a and spring member 22c).

[0261] As a result, the area over which the external force P1 is applied increases, giving the power generator 701 more opportunities to be subjected to the external force P1. Therefore, the power generator 701 becomes more efficient at generating electricity.

[0262] (Modification Example 10 of the Embodiment) Next, Modification Example 10 of the embodiment will be described. In Modification Example 10 of the embodiment, it is mainly different from Modification Example 6 of the embodiment in that a fixed-end spring member is provided. Below, the description will focus on the differences from Modification Example 6 of the embodiment, and the description of the common points will be omitted or simplified.

[0263] [Configuration] A configuration example of the power generation device 801 according to Modification Example 10 of the embodiment will be described using FIG. 30.

[0264] FIG. 30 is a plan view of the power generation device 801 according to Modification Example 10 of the present embodiment.

[0265] The power generation device 801 has the same configuration as the power generation device 401 according to Modification Example 6 of the embodiment, except that it includes a fixed-end spring member 22d. That is, the power generation device 801 includes a power generation member 10, a spring member 22b, and a fixed-end spring member 22d.

[0266] The fixed-end spring member 22d has the same configuration as the spring member 22b, except that one end of the fixed-end spring member 22d is provided at the fixed end F2. In this modification example, the other end of the fixed-end spring member 22d may be fixed to the support base. The other end of the fixed-end spring member 22d is the region R shown by the dashed rectangle in FIG. 30.

[0267] In such a power generation device 801, even when an external force is applied, the direction of the external force is relaxed by the deformation of the spring member 22b and the fixed-end spring member 22d. Therefore, for example, even when the external force P1 according to the fourth example of the embodiment is applied, the amount of deformation along the z-axis direction of the frame 21 is suppressed from becoming small, that is, the amount of deformation of the frame 21 in the z-axis direction becomes sufficiently large.

[0268] Thus, the power generation device 801 according to this embodiment can increase the amount of deformation of the frame 21 even when the external force P1 according to the third and fourth examples is applied. Therefore, the amount of deformation of the power generation element 32 can be increased, and a power generation device 801 with a large power output is realized.

[0269] In this modified example, the fixed end spring member 22d has the same configuration as the spring member 22b, except that one end of the fixed end spring member 22d is provided at the fixed end F2, but it is not limited to this. For example, the fixed end spring member 22d may have the same configuration as the spring member 22 or the spring member 22a, except that one end of the fixed end spring member 22d is provided at the fixed end F2.

[0270] (Other embodiments) Although the power generation device and the like according to the present invention have been described above based on embodiments and modifications, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments and modifications. As long as they do not depart from the spirit of the present invention, various modifications that a person skilled in the art can conceive of are applied to the embodiments, and other forms constructed by combining some of the components in the embodiments and modifications are also included in the scope of the present invention.

[0271] In the embodiments and modified examples, the meandering portion m of the spring member 22 had multiple curved regions A, but is not limited thereto. Another example of the spring member 22 will be explained with reference to Figure 31.

[0272] Figure 31 is a plan view showing another example of the spring member 22 according to this embodiment.

[0273] Figure 31 shows that the meandering portion m of the spring member 22 has a bent region A2. The bent region A2 is the region in the meandering portion m that is bent at 60°.

[0274] As shown in Figure 31, the spring member 22 does not have to have a curved region A, and does not have to be an S-shaped spring.

[0275] The shapes of frames 21, 21a, and 21b are not limited to a U-shape; for example, they may be straight. In this case, it is preferable that one end of the straight-shaped frames 21, 21a, and 21b is fixed to a predetermined support base 2, and a spring member 22 is attached to the other end.

[0276] Furthermore, in the embodiments and modified examples, the power generation element 32 was, for example, a magnetostrictive element, but is not limited to this. For example, a piezoelectric element may be used as the power generation element 32. In this case, it is preferable to provide electrodes connected to the piezoelectric element. Also, the frame 21, frame 21a, and frame 21b may be made of, for example, phosphor bronze, a superelastic material, or the like.

[0277] Furthermore, in the modified embodiment 7, the power generation device 501 is equipped with a magnetic material 50, but it is not limited to this, and the power generation device 501 may be equipped with a weight 70 instead of the magnetic material 50.

[0278] Furthermore, in the modified embodiment 7, the power generation device 501 is equipped with a magnetic material 50, but is not limited to this, and the power generation device 501 may be equipped with a first plate member instead of the magnetic material 50.

[0279] The first plate member is a member that rests on the spring member 22a. Here, the first plate member is a member that receives external forces. As an example, the shape of the first plate member is a flat plate, and both of the two main surfaces of the first plate member are parallel to the xy plane.

[0280] By providing such a first plate member, the direct application of external force to the spring member 22a is suppressed, making it less likely for the spring member 22a to break.

[0281] The first plate member is fixed above the spring member 22a. The first plate member and the spring member 22a may be fixed together by bolts, or they may be bonded together by adhesive, for example. It is sufficient that the first plate member does not detach from the spring member 22a when the spring member 22a is vibrating.

[0282] Thus, for example, the power generation device 501 may include a first plate member instead of the magnetic body 50. That is, the power generation device 501 in this case includes a power generation member 10, a spring member 22a, and a first plate member.

[0283] Thereby, when an external force is applied to the first plate member, it is suppressed that the external force is directly applied to the spring member 22a. Therefore, it becomes difficult for the spring member 22a to be destroyed. That is, a highly durable power generation device 501 is realized.

[0284] Also, various changes, replacements, additions, omissions, etc. can be made within the scope of the claims or the equivalent scope thereof in the above-described embodiments.

Industrial Applicability

[0285] The present invention can be used, for example, for floor power generation.

Explanation of Signs

[0286] 1, 1x, 101, 201, 500, 500a, 500b, 301, 401, 501, 601, 701, 801 Power generation device 2 Support base 10, 10x Power generation member 10a First power generation member 10b Second power generation member 21, 21a, 2lx, 21x Frame 22, 22a, 22b, 22c, 222 Spring member 22d Fixed end spring member 22x End plate 30, 30a, 30b, 30x Power generation part 31, 31x Coil 32, 32x Power generation element 33, 33x Power generation magnet 40, 40, 40a, 40b Bolt 50 Magnetic body 60 External magnet 70 Weight 211, 211x First inner surface 212, 212x Second inner surface 213, 213x 1st outer surface 214, 214x 2nd outer surface 600 Detected Objects 700 Second plate member 800 Spacer 1000 power generation systems A Curved region B, Ba, Bb, Bx curved section A1, A2 bending area F1, F1a, F1b, F1x free end F2, F2a, F2b, F2x Fixed end P1 external force m meandering section

Claims

1. A frame including a free end, and a power generation member having a power generation element provided on the frame that deforms due to vibration of the frame, A long spring member having a meandering section that meanders on a plane, One end of the spring member is provided at the free end, The frame and the spring member are a single, integrated unit. A power generator.

2. The spring member is an S-shaped spring. The power generation apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The spring member is provided with a magnetic material, a first plate member, or one or more weights. The power generation device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. A power generation member comprising a frame including a free end, and a power generation element provided on the frame that deforms upon vibration of the frame, A long spring member having a meandering section that meanders on a plane, One end of the spring member is provided at the free end, The shape of the frame is U-shaped, The power generation element is provided between the U-shaped bend and the free end. A power generator.

5. The system comprises multiple spring members. A power generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. A power generation member having a frame including a free end, and a power generation element provided on the frame that deforms when the frame is vibrated, A long spring member having a meandering section that meanders on a plane, One end of the spring member is provided at the free end, The power generation member includes a first power generation member and a second power generation member, The one end of the spring member is provided at the free end of the frame of the first power generation member, The other end of the spring member is provided at the free end of the frame of the second power generation member, which is included in the frame. A power generator.

7. A plurality of power generation devices according to claim 6 are provided, The plane on which the meandering portion of the spring member of each of the plurality of power generation devices meanders is flush with the plane. The direction in which the aforementioned multiple meandering sections extend is the same. Power generation system.

8. The system includes a second plate member that is placed on the plurality of spring members. The power generation system according to claim 7.

9. Each of the plurality of power generation devices is equipped with a limiting member that limits the deformation of the spring member. The power generation system according to claim 8.

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