Power generation module, power generation device, and environment sensor

Abstract

A power generation module (10) is provided in a target machine (70) which has a first section (71) and a second section (72). The power generation module (10) includes: a power generation element (100) which has a magnetic body (110) and a coil (120) wound around the magnetic body; and a magnet (200) which has a first magnetization surface (210a) having a first polarity and a second magnetization surface (220a) having a second polarity which is opposite to the first polarity. One of the power generation element (100) and the magnet (200) is installed in the first section (71), and the other is installed in the second section (72). In the midst of the second section (72) moving, the following states exist: a first state in which the power generation element (100) and the first magnetization surface (210a) face each other; and a second state in which a first magnetic attraction surface (110a) and the second magnetization surface (220a) face each other. The power generation element (100) and the magnet (200) are displaced relative to each other as a result of the first section and the second section being displaced relative to each other by operation of the target machine.

Description

Power generation modules, power generation devices, and environmental sensors

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a power generation module, a power generation device, and an environmental sensor.

[0002] A device is known that includes a power generating element unit that includes a composite magnetic wire (also called a "Wiegand wire") as a magnetic material that generates a large Barkhausen effect and a coil wound around the composite magnetic wire, and a magnet that moves relatively to the power generating element unit.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 proposes a pulse generator using a magnetic material that generates the large Barkhausen effect, and Patent Document 2 proposes a power generator using a magnetic material that generates the large Barkhausen effect.

[0004] Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. 55-074134 International Publication No. 2023 / 079838

[0005] In a power generating device using the technology described in the above document, some of the magnetic lines of force generated from the magnet are induced into the composite magnetic wire, but the induction efficiency of the magnetic lines of force generated from the magnet into the magnetic core is low, resulting in a problem of low power generation efficiency.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a power generation module with high power generation efficiency, a power generation device including the power generation module, and an environmental sensor.

[0007] The power generation module of the present disclosure is a module to be provided on a target machine having a first part and a second part movable relative to the first part, and includes a power generation element part having a magnetic core and a coil wound around the magnetic core, and a magnet part having a first magnetized surface of a first polarity and a second magnetized surface of a second polarity opposite to the first polarity, one of the power generation element part and the magnet part is installed on the first part, and the other is installed on the second part, and during the movement of the second part, there are a first state in which the power generation element part and the first magnetized surface face each other, and a second state in which the power generation element part and the second magnetized surface face each other, and the power generation element part and the magnet part are displaced relative to each other as the first part and the second part are displaced relative to each other due to the operation of the target machine.

[0008] The power generation device of the present disclosure is characterized by having the above-mentioned power generation module, a rectifier that rectifies positive and negative power generation pulses generated in the coil of the power generation module, and a storage unit that stores the power of the power generation pulses output from the rectifier.

[0009] The environmental sensor disclosed herein is a sensor that receives power stored in the storage unit of the above-mentioned power generation device, and is characterized by having a sensor unit that senses the state of the target machine or the environment around the target machine, a wireless transmitter that transmits information sensed by the sensor unit, and a switching unit that switches between an on state in which the power stored in the storage unit is supplied to the wireless transmitter and an off state in which the power is not supplied to the wireless transmitter.

[0010] The power generation module or power generation device of the present disclosure can achieve high power generation efficiency. The environmental sensor of the present disclosure can wirelessly transmit information sensed by the sensor unit using the power stored in the power storage unit of the power generation device.

[0011] 5A and 5B are a side view and a plan view, respectively, that schematically show the structure of a machine tool as a target machine to which the power generation module according to the first embodiment can be fitted.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a diagram (part 1) that schematically shows the configuration of the power generation module according to the first embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 2 is a diagram (part 2) that schematically shows the configuration of the power generation module according to the first embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 3 is a diagram (part 3) that schematically shows the configuration of the power generation module according to the first embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 4 is a perspective view that schematically shows the configuration of the power generation module according to the first embodiment (when the first magnetic flux collecting surface of the power generation element unit faces the first magnetized surface of the first magnet, i.e., the case of FIG. 3).

[0028] FIG. 5 is a diagram that schematically shows the flow of magnetic field lines in FIG. 5.

[0029] FIG. 6 is a diagram that schematically shows the flow of magnetic field lines in FIG. 6.

[0030] FIG. 6A is a perspective view and a side view that schematically show the configuration of the power generation element unit.

[0031] FIG. 6B is a perspective view and a side view that schematically show the configuration of another power generation element unit. 1 is a diagram showing typical magnetic field lines when the first magnetic field collecting surface of the power generating element unit faces the first magnetized surface of the first magnet. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing typical magnetic field lines when the first magnetic field collecting surface of the power generating element unit faces the second magnetized surface of the second magnet. FIG. 3 is a graph showing the relationship between the position of the magnet [mm] and the magnetic flux density [mT] in the magnetic body. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a power generating device and an environmental sensor having a power generating module according to embodiment 1. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an induced voltage waveform (dashed line) when an iron core is used as the magnetic body, and an induced voltage waveform (solid line) when a composite magnetic wire that generates a large Barkhausen effect is used as the magnetic body. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an induced voltage waveform when a composite magnetic wire and a magnetic field collecting body (iron core) are used as the magnetic body. FIG. 7 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a power generating module according to embodiment 2 (when the first magnetic field collecting surface of the power generating element unit faces the first magnetized surface of the first magnet). FIG. 8 is a diagram (part 1) schematically showing the configuration of a power generating module according to embodiment 3. FIG. 9 is a diagram (part 2) schematically showing the configuration of a power generating module according to embodiment 3. FIG. 10 is a diagram (part 3) schematically illustrating the configuration of a power generation module according to embodiment 3.FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a power generation module according to a third embodiment (when the first magnetic field collecting surface of the power generation element unit faces the first magnetic field surface of the first magnet, and the second magnetic field collecting surface faces the third magnetic field surface of the third magnet). FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a power generation module according to a third embodiment (when the first magnetic field collecting surface of the power generation element unit faces the second magnetic field surface of the second magnet, and the second magnetic field collecting surface faces the fourth magnetic field surface of the fourth magnet). FIG. 3 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a power generation module according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a power generation module according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of a power generation module according to a fourth embodiment (when the magnetization direction of the magnet is in the longitudinal direction of the magnet). FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of a power generation module according to a fourth embodiment (when the magnetization direction of the magnet is in the thickness direction of the magnet). FIG. 7 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a power generation module according to a first modified example of the fourth embodiment.

[0012] A power generation module according to an embodiment, a power generation device having the power generation module, and an environmental sensor that receives power from the power generation device will be described below with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments are merely examples, and the embodiments can be appropriately combined and modified. In the drawings, components having the same or similar functions are designated by the same reference numerals.

[0013] 1(A) and 1(B) are a side view and a plan view that schematically show the structure of a machine tool 70 as a target machine on which a power generation module 10 according to embodiment 1 is provided. The machine tool 70 has a first portion 71 and a second portion 72 that is provided so as to be movable relative to the first portion 71. In Figures 1(A) and 1(B), the first portion 71 is a fixed portion of the machine tool 70, and the second portion 72 is a transfer portion that is movable relative to the first portion 71. However, the first portion 71 may be the fixed portion, and the second portion 72 may be a movable transfer portion.

[0014] Rails 73 and 74 serving as guide members are provided on the upper surface of the first portion 71, and the second portion 72 is configured to be movable (i.e., slidable) along the rails 73 and 74. The second portion 72 moves in the ±X directions (i.e., the D1 direction) by a ball screw 75 that rotates due to the rotational driving force of a motor 76.

[0015] The power generation module 10 has a power generation element section 100 and a magnet section 200. One of the power generation element section 100 and the magnet section 200 is installed in a first section 71, and the other is installed in a second section 72. In the first embodiment, a case will be described in which the power generation element section 100 is installed in the first section 71, and the magnet section 200 is installed in the second section 72. Note that the structure of the machine tool 70 is not limited to that shown in FIGS. 1(A) and 1(B).

[0016] Furthermore, as long as the target machine has a first part 71 and a second part 72 that can move relatively in a straight line, the target machine is not limited to a machine tool, but may also be, for example, a conveying device or an automatic stage in which the table moves linearly relative to the machine body.

[0017] Furthermore, the relative movement of the first part 71 and the second part 72 is not limited to electric drive using a motor, but may also be a device in which a table moves linearly relative to the machine body using, for example, hydraulic or pneumatic pressure.

[0018] 2 to 4 are diagrams (parts 1 to 3) that schematically show the configuration of the power generation module 10 according to embodiment 1. In Fig. 2 to Fig. 4, the magnet section 200 has a first magnet 210 having a first magnetized surface 210a with a first polarity and a second magnet 220 having a second magnetized surface 220a with a second polarity that is opposite to the first polarity. The power generation element section 100 has a magnetic body 110 having a first magnetic field collecting surface 110a and a second magnetic field collecting surface 110b, and a coil 120 wound around the magnetic body 110. As the second part 72 equipped with the magnet part 200 moves (i.e., displaces) in the D1 direction (±X direction), during the movement of the second part, there are a first state (state in Figure 3) in which the first magnetization surface 110a and the first magnetized surface 210a face each other, and a second state (state in Figure 4) in which the first magnetization surface 110a and the second magnetized surface 220a face each other.

[0019] Fig. 5 is a perspective view that schematically shows the configuration of the power generation module 10 according to embodiment 1 (when the first magnetic flux collecting surface 110a of the power generation element section 100 faces the first magnetized surface 210a of the first magnet 210, i.e., the case of Fig. 3). Fig. 6 is a perspective view that schematically shows the configuration of the power generation module 10 (when the first magnetic flux collecting surface 110a of the power generation element section 100 faces the second magnetized surface 220a of the second magnet 220, i.e., the case of Fig. 4). The power generation module 10 has the power generation element section 100 and a magnet section 200. For example, as shown in Figs. 1(A) and 1(B), the power generation element section 100 and the magnet section 200 are provided so that their relative positions can be changed.

[0020] The power generating element section 100 includes a magnetic body 110 having a first magnetic flux collecting surface 110 a and a second magnetic flux collecting surface 110 b , and a coil 120 wound around the magnetic body 110 .

[0021] The flow of the magnetic field lines in Fig. 5 will be explained using Fig. 7. In Fig. 7, the magnetic field lines emerging from magnetized surface 210a (north pole) of magnet 210 enter first magnetic field collecting surface 110a, pass through magnetic body 110, and emerge into the air from second magnetic field collecting surface 110b. In other words, the magnetic field lines passing through first magnetic field collecting surface 110a and second magnetic field collecting surface 110b both point in the +Y direction.

[0022] Next, the flow of the magnetic field lines in Fig. 6 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. In Fig. 8, conversely, the first magnetic field collecting surface 110a faces the magnetized surface 210a (south pole) of the magnet 220, and therefore the magnetic field lines pass from the second magnetic field collecting surface 110b through the magnetic body 110 and toward the magnetized surface 210a (south pole) via the first magnetic field collecting surface 110a. In other words, the magnetic field lines passing through the first magnetic field collecting surface 110a and the second magnetic field collecting surface 110b are both oriented in the -Y direction.

[0023] In this way, because the magnetized surface of the magnet and the magnetized surface of the magnetic body face each other and the longitudinal direction of the magnetized surface and the magnetic body (the direction of the magnetic field lines that contribute to power generation in the coil) are perpendicular to each other, the magnetic field lines emerging from the magnetized surface of the magnet enter the magnetized surface in a straight line, travel almost straight through the magnetic body, and emerge from the magnetized surface on the opposite side, which means that there is very little loss in the magnetic field lines emerging from the magnet, resulting in the most efficient electromagnetic induction power generation.

[0024] The magnet unit 200 has a first magnet 210 having a first magnetized surface 210a of a first polarity and a second magnet 220 having a second magnetized surface 220a of a second polarity opposite to the first polarity. In Figures 5 and 6, the first polarity is the north pole and the second polarity is the south pole. However, the first polarity may be the south pole and the second polarity may be the north pole.

[0025] One of the power generation element unit 100 and the magnet unit 200 is installed so as to be able to move (i.e., displace) in the D1 direction (±X direction). Movement in the D1 direction is, for example, linear movement parallel to the first magnetized surface 210a of the first magnet 210 and the second magnetized surface 220a of the second magnet 220. In Figures 5 and 6, the magnet unit 200 moves in the D1 direction, but instead of this movement, the power generation element unit 100 may move in the D1 direction. The machine tool 70 is, for example, a five-axis machining center.

[0026] The power generation module 10 is configured so that, during the movement of the magnet section 200, there are two states: a first state (i.e., the state shown in FIG. 5 ) in which the first magnetization surface 110a of the magnetic body 110 and the first magnetized surface 210a of the first magnet 210 face each other; and a second state (e.g., the state shown in FIG. 6 ) in which the first magnetization surface 110a of the magnetic body 110 and the second magnetized surface 220a of the second magnet 220 face each other. The first magnetization surface 110a of the magnetic body 110 is a planar magnetic pole surface, and the first magnetization surface 210a of the first magnet 210 is also a planar magnetic pole surface. In the first state (i.e., the state shown in FIG. 5 ), the first magnetization surface 110a and the first magnetized surface 210a are parallel and close to each other with a small gap between them, i.e., the surfaces face each other, so that the magnetic flux of the first magnet 210 can be efficiently guided to the magnetic body 110. Furthermore, first magnetic collecting surface 110a of magnetic body 110 is a planar magnetic pole surface, and second magnetized surface 220a of second magnet 220 is a planar magnetic pole surface, and in the second state (i.e., the state of FIG. 6 ), first magnetic collecting surface 110a and second magnetized surface 220a are parallel and close to each other with a small gap between them, i.e., the surfaces face each other, so that the magnetic flux of second magnet 220 can be efficiently guided to magnetic body 110. Note that magnet section 200 is moved by the driving force of machine tool 70, for example.

[0027] Fig. 9(A) is a perspective view schematically showing a certain configuration of the power generation element unit 100, and Fig. 9(B) is a side view thereof. The magnetic body 110 has a composite magnetic wire that is a magnetic core 111 that generates a large Barkhausen effect in response to changes in magnetic flux. The magnetic body 110 preferably has a magnetic collector (soft magnetic material) 112 that surrounds the outer periphery of the magnetic core 111. The magnetic collectors 112 are respectively disposed at both ends of the magnetic core 111, and the coil 120 is wound around the magnetic core 111. The soft magnetic material used for the magnetic collector 112 is preferably a steel material such as SS400 (a rolled steel material for general structures specified in JIS G3101) or S45C (a carbon steel material for mechanical structures specified in JIS G4051), a magnetic stainless steel material such as SUS430 or SUS440 (a hot-rolled stainless steel plate specified in JIS G4304), or a high-permeability material such as permalloy or permendur, but any material with a magnetic permeability equal to or greater than that of air (a material with a relative magnetic permeability greater than 1) will do.

[0028] Fig. 10(A) is a perspective view that schematically illustrates a configuration of the power generation element unit 100 that is different from the configurations in Figs. 9(A) and (B), and Fig. 10(B) is a side view thereof. In the examples of Figs. 10(A) and (B), the magnetic body 110 has a bobbin shape. In this case, the magnetic body 110 is also called a magnetic bobbin. The coil 120 is wound around a narrowed portion of the magnetic bobbin.

[0029] The magnetic material 110 of the power generating element section 100 can be made only of a soft magnetic material such as iron as shown in FIGS. 10(A) and (B). However, by providing a magnetic material core 111 that generates a large Barkhausen effect as shown in FIGS. 9(A) and (B), power generation efficiency can be improved.

[0030] As shown in Figure 5, when the length (i.e., width) of the first magnetized surface 210a of the first magnet 210 and the second magnetized surface 220a of the second magnet 220 in the direction D1 of movement of the magnet part 200 (i.e., the ±X direction) is a first length L1, and the length (i.e., width) of the first magnetized surface 110a and the second magnetized surface 110b of the magnetic body 110 in the direction D1 of movement of the magnet part 200 is a second length L2, it is desirable that the second length L2 be shorter than the first length L1.

[0031] Furthermore, when first magnet 210 and second magnet 220 are arranged with a gap I1 therebetween in direction D1 of movement of magnet unit 200, gap I1 is preferably equal to or greater than first length L1. Gauge I1 is the distance between first magnetized surface 210a and second magnetized surface 220a.

[0032] Fig. 11 is a diagram showing typical magnetic field lines M when the first magnetic field collecting surface 110a of the magnetic body 110 of the power generating element unit 100 faces the first magnetized surface 210a of the first magnet 210 (i.e., the state of Fig. 5). Fig. 12 is a diagram showing typical magnetic field lines M when the first magnetic field collecting surface 110a of the magnetic body 110 of the power generating element unit 100 faces the second magnetized surface 220a of the second magnet 220 (i.e., the state of Fig. 6). In Figs. 11 and 12, 251 and 252 indicate the magnetization directions.

[0033] 5 and 11 , the first magnetized surface 210a of the first magnet 210 is flat, and the first magnetic collecting surface 110a of the magnetic body 110 is also flat, with the flat surfaces facing each other. For this reason, magnetic field lines M are emitted from the entire first magnetized surface 210a of the first magnet 210 that faces the first magnetic collecting surface 110a of the power generation element section 100, and most of the magnetic field lines M are collected in the magnetic core 111 from the first magnetic collecting surface 110a of the magnetic body 110 via the magnetic collecting body (soft magnetic material) 112.

[0034] 6 and 12 , the second magnetized surface 220a of the second magnet 220 is flat, and the first magnetic flux collecting surface 110a of the magnetic body 110 is also flat, with the flat surfaces facing each other. Therefore, magnetic field lines M are formed toward the entire second magnetized surface 220a of the second magnet 220 that faces the first magnetic flux collecting surface 110a of the power generation element section 100.

[0035] As described above, the first magnetized surface 210a of the first magnet 210 and the first magnetization surface 110a of the magnetic body 110 are flat surfaces, and in the first state (FIGS. 5 and 11), these flat surfaces face each other. Also, the second magnetized surface 220a of the second magnet 220 and the first magnetization surface 110a of the magnetic body 110 are flat surfaces, and in the second state (FIGS. 6 and 12), these flat surfaces face each other. Therefore, magnetic field lines M are emitted from or toward the entire first magnetized surface 210a of the first magnet 210 of the magnet section 200 that faces the power generation element section 100, and as a result, power generation with high power generation efficiency is possible.

[0036] Furthermore, the magnetic body 110 can collect magnetic lines of force from the first magnetic field collecting surface 110a via the magnetic field collecting body (soft magnetic body) 112 to the magnetic core 111, which generates a large Barkhausen effect, thereby enabling power generation with high power generation efficiency.

[0037] If the gap I1 between the first magnet 210 and the second magnet 220 is narrow and the magnetic body 110 of the power generation element unit 100 straddles the first magnet 210 and the second magnet 220, a state occurs in which the upward magnetic field lines of the first magnet 210 and the downward magnetic field lines of the second magnet 220 cancel each other out, slowing down the change in magnetic flux within the magnetic body core 111. If the gap I1 between the first magnet 210 and the second magnet 220 is set to be equal to or greater than the width of the first magnetic flux collecting surface 110a, the first magnetic flux collecting surface will no longer straddle the first magnet 210 and the second magnet 220, and the change in magnetic flux within the magnetic body core 111 can be made even greater.

[0038] FIG. 13 is a graph showing the relationship between the position [mm] in the direction of movement (X direction) of the first magnet 210 (or the second magnet 220) and the magnetic flux density [mT] at a position spaced a gap G from the first magnetized surface 210a of the first magnet 210 (or the second magnetized surface 220a of the second magnet 220). FIG. 13 shows an example in which the length (i.e., width) of the magnet unit 200 in the direction of movement D1 (i.e., the ±X direction) is the first length L1 = 10 mm. FIG. 13 also shows the magnetic flux density [mT] when the gap G, which is the distance from the first magnetic collecting surface 110a of the magnetic body 110 of the power generation element unit 100, is 0.5 mm, 1 mm, and 2 mm. As can be seen from FIG. 13 , the narrower the gap G, the stronger the magnetic force acting on the magnetic core 111, resulting in a greater power generation effect. As shown in FIG. 13 , among the conditions where gap G is 0.5 mm, 1 mm, and 2 mm, the magnetic flux density is greatest when gap G is 0.5 mm. However, because a magnetic attraction force acts between first magnetized surface 210 a of first magnet 210 and first magnetization surface 110 a of magnetic body 110 (and between second magnetized surface 220 a of second magnet 220 and first magnetization surface 110 a of magnetic body 110), the minimum gap G that can actually be assembled is 1 mm or greater.

[0039] FIG. 13 shows that the magnetic flux density [mT] at a position spaced apart in the thickness direction (Y direction) from the first magnet 210 (or the second magnet 220) by the gap G has two peaks on the positive side of the magnetic flux density. When the gap G is 1 mm, the distance between the two peaks of the waveform along the horizontal axis is approximately 6 mm, so the width of the magnetic flux collecting surface (first magnetic flux collecting surface 110a in FIG. 5) of the most efficient magnetic body 110 is 6 mm. To obtain even more magnetic force when the gap G is 1 mm, for example, a magnetic body 110 with a magnetic flux collecting surface (first magnetic flux collecting surface 110a in FIG. 5) with a width of approximately 8 mm can be installed, thereby guiding even more magnetic field lines M to the magnetic core 111. Approximately 90% of the magnetic flux of the magnet unit 200 can be induced to the magnetic core 111.

[0040] Furthermore, to construct the power generation module 10, at least two magnets, a first magnet 210 and a second magnet 220, are required. A narrower gap I1 between the first magnet 210 and the second magnet 220 is desirable from the perspective of improving power generation efficiency. This gap is filled with air or a non-magnetic material. Furthermore, if the length L2, which is the width in the direction D1 (±X direction) of the magnetic body 110's movement, is wide, the installation gap I1 must be correspondingly wider. Therefore, exceeding the most efficient width (6 mm) is disadvantageous in terms of magnet spacing. Therefore, from the perspective of balancing the magnetic force and the gap I1 between the first magnet 210 and the second magnet 220, the width (length L2) of the first magnetic collection surface 110a of the magnetic body 110 is desirably within the range of 60 to 80% of the width (length L1) of each of the first magnet 210 and the second magnet 220.

[0041] FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a power generation device 50 including a power generation module 10 according to the first embodiment, and an environmental sensor 58. The power generation module 10 includes a power generation element section 100 and a magnet section 200. Displacement of the magnet section 200 relative to the power generation element section 100 (linear movement in the ±X directions in the first embodiment) generates an induced voltage in the coil 120. The voltage generated in the coil 120 (i.e., a power generation pulse) exhibits a positive and negative pulse shape, and is full-wave rectified by a rectifier 51 including a rectifier circuit. The rectifier 51 is provided for each power generation element section 100 constituting the power generation module 10. Therefore, when the power generation module 10 includes multiple power generation element sections 100, multiple rectifiers 51 are provided corresponding to the multiple power generation element sections 100, respectively. The rectifier 51 may include a half-wave rectifier circuit instead of a full-wave rectifier circuit.

[0042] The voltage rectified by the one or more rectifiers 51 (i.e., the power of the power generation pulses output from the one or more rectifiers 51) is stored in the power storage unit 52. The power storage unit 52 is a rechargeable secondary battery, a capacitor, or the like.

[0043] Environmental sensor 58 receives the power stored in power storage unit 52 of power generation device 50. Environmental sensor 58 includes a sensor unit 55 that senses the state of machine tool 70 or the environment (i.e., the state) around machine tool 70, a wireless transmitter unit 56 that transmits information sensed by sensor unit 55 to control device 57, and a switching unit 53 that switches between an ON state in which power stored in power storage unit 52 of power generation device 50 is supplied to wireless transmitter unit 56 and an OFF state in which power is not supplied to wireless transmitter unit 56. Environmental sensor 58 also includes a voltage monitoring unit 54 that monitors the internal voltage of power storage unit 52 and switches switching unit 53 to the ON state when the internal voltage exceeds the minimum drive voltage required for operation of wireless transmitter 56. Note that while FIG. 14 illustrates power generation device 50 and environmental sensor 58 as separate devices, power generation device 50 may be part of environmental sensor 58 (e.g., a system including environmental sensor 58). Control device 57 can control the operation of machine tool 70 (such as emergency stop, issuing an alarm, and recording the sensing information) based on the sensing information received from environmental sensor 58. Sensor unit 55 can also be supplied with power stored in power storage unit 52.

[0044] When the environmental sensor 58 is provided in the machine tool 70, the objects of sensing by the environmental sensor 58 are temperature, humidity, acceleration, current amount, magnetic field, CO ２ When the environmental sensor 58 is installed in another machine, the objects of sensing by the environmental sensor 58 include temperature, humidity, wind speed, wind direction, amount of precipitation, magnetic field, CO ２ Concentration, pH of water and soil, water level, soil moisture content, slope, acceleration (impact), solar radiation (on cloudy days), etc.

[0045] If the power generated by the power generation module 10 is directly sent to the sensor unit 55 and wireless transmitter 56 via the power storage unit 52, natural discharge occurs when power is not being generated, causing the internal voltage of the power storage unit 52 to drop rapidly. By providing the voltage monitoring unit 54 and the switching unit 53, the switch is kept in an off state until the voltage required for the operation of the sensor unit 55 and wireless transmitter 56 is accumulated. This type of control allows for efficient charging without losing charge.

[0046] 15 shows the waveform of the induced voltage when only an iron core is used as the magnetic body 110 of the power generating element unit 100 (dashed line), and the waveform of the induced voltage when only a composite magnetic wire that generates the Large Barkhausen effect is used as the magnetic body (solid line). The waveform of the induced voltage (dashed line) generated in a coil wound around a magnetic body consisting only of an iron core without the Large Barkhausen effect has a wide pulse width and a large amount of generated charge, but a low peak voltage of about 5 V. On the other hand, the waveform of the induced voltage (solid line) generated in a coil wound around a magnetic body consisting only of a composite magnetic wire that generates the Large Barkhausen effect has a narrow pulse width of 80 μs or less and a small amount of generated charge, but a high peak voltage of 15 V to 20 V.

[0047] FIG. 16 shows the waveform of an induced voltage when the magnetic body 110 includes a composite magnetic wire as a magnetic core and a soft magnetic body as a magnetic collector (iron core). FIG. 16 also shows the waveform of the voltage generated in the coil 120 by the voltage due to electromagnetic induction (dashed line in FIG. 15 ) and the voltage due to the large Barkhausen effect (solid line in FIG. 15 ) in the power generation module according to the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, a high voltage of approximately 20 V to 25 V can be obtained by superimposing a voltage waveform due to the large Barkhausen effect, which has a significant peak voltage, on a voltage waveform with a large amount of charge due to electromagnetic induction. Efficient charging of a capacitor requires both a large potential difference and a large amount of charge. The power generation module according to the first embodiment, which can generate an induced voltage with the waveform shown in FIG. 16 , is particularly suitable for charging a capacitor.

[0048] As described above, in the power generation module 10 according to embodiment 1, the power generation element unit 100 and the magnet unit 200 are installed to enable movement of the second portion 72, and the power generation element unit 100 and the magnet unit 200 are installed so that, during this movement, there exist a first state in which the first magnetization surface 110a and the first magnetized surface 210a face each other and a second state in which the first magnetization surface 110a and the second magnetized surface 220a face each other. Therefore, since there exist the first state in which the first magnetization surface 110a and the first magnetized surface 210a face each other face to face and the second state in which the first magnetization surface 110a and the second magnetized surface 220a face each other face to face, the magnetic flux of the first magnet 210 and the magnetic flux of the second magnet 220 can be efficiently introduced into the magnetic body 110, which has the effect of improving power generation efficiency.

[0049] Furthermore, when a composite magnetic wire that generates a large Barkhausen effect is used as the magnetic core 111, the amount of charge is small, but it is suitable for charging a capacitor.

[0050] Furthermore, when a composite magnetic wire that generates the large Barkhausen effect is used as the magnetic core 111 and a soft magnetic material that surrounds the magnetic core 111 is provided as the magnetic collector 112, the magnetic lines of force can be collected from the first magnetic collector surface 110a via the magnetic collector 112 to the magnetic core 111 that generates the large Barkhausen effect, thereby achieving the effects of enabling power generation with high power generation efficiency and being suitable for charging a capacitor.

[0051] Furthermore, when the magnetic core is made of a soft magnetic material such as an iron core, the magnetic collector and the magnetic core can be integrated using the same material. In addition, in the case of a bobbin-shaped magnetic body 110 as shown in Figure 10, the winding process of the coil 120 can be automated, making it possible to reduce costs in terms of both materials and labor.

[0052] Second Embodiment In the first embodiment, the magnet unit 200 has been described as having a first magnet 210 and a second magnet 220. However, the number of magnets included in the magnet unit may be three or more. In the second embodiment, a case where the magnet unit has four magnets will be described.

[0053] 17 is a perspective view that schematically shows the configuration of a power generation module 20 according to embodiment 2 (when the first magnetic collecting surface 110a of the magnetic body 110 of the power generation element section 100 faces the first magnetized surface 210a of the first magnet 210). The power generation module 20 has the power generation element section 100 and a magnet section 200a. The power generation element section 100 and the magnet section 200a are provided so that their relative positions can be changed.

[0054] The structure of the power generation element unit 100 is the same as that of embodiment 1. The magnet unit 200a has a first set (pair) of a first magnet 210 having a first magnetized surface 210a with a first polarity and a second magnet 220 having a second magnetized surface 220a with a second polarity, as well as a second set (pair) of a magnet 211 having a magnetized surface 211a with a first polarity (having the same structure as the first magnet 210 and being placed in the same position) and a magnet 221 having a magnetized surface 221a with a second polarity (having the same structure as the second magnet 220 and being placed in the same position). The first set (pair) and the second set (pair) have the same structure, are aligned in a straight line, and are spaced apart by the same interval I1 as described in embodiment 1. Although an example in which four magnets are arranged linearly in the X direction has been described in FIG. 17, it is also possible to arrange them in a curved line and move the power generating element section 100 parallel to the curved line.

[0055] The power generating element unit 100 and the magnet unit 200a are supported by the second part 72 so as to enable movement (i.e., displacement) of the second part 72. In Fig. 17 , the magnet unit 200a is supported by the second part 72, but the power generating element unit 100 may also be supported by the second part 72. The second part 72 is the same as that in the first embodiment.

[0056] The power generation module 10 is configured so that, during the movement of the magnet section 200a, the following states alternate: a first state in which the first magnetic collecting surface 110a of the magnetic body 110 and the first magnetized surface 210a of the first magnet 210 face each other; a second state in which the first magnetic collecting surface 110a of the magnetic body 110 and the second magnetized surface 220a of the second magnet 220 face each other; a first state in which the first magnetic collecting surface 110a and the magnetized surface 211a of the magnet 211 face each other; and a second state in which the first magnetic collecting surface 110a and the magnetized surface 221a of the magnet 221 face each other.

[0057] As described above, according to the power generation module 20 of embodiment 2, as in the case of embodiment 1, magnetic flux can be efficiently introduced into the magnetic body 110, thereby achieving the effect of improving power generation efficiency.

[0058] Furthermore, when a composite magnetic wire that generates a large Barkhausen effect is used as the magnetic core 111, the amount of charge is small, but it is suitable for charging a capacitor.

[0059] Furthermore, when a composite magnetic wire that generates a large Barkhausen effect is used as the magnetic core 111 and a soft magnetic material that surrounds the magnetic core 111 is provided as the magnetic collector 112, the effect of being able to generate electricity with high power generation efficiency and the effect of being suitable for charging a capacitor can be obtained.

[0060] Except for the above, the second embodiment is the same as the first embodiment.

[0061] Third Embodiment In the first and second embodiments, the case where the magnets of the magnet section 200 are arranged on one side of the power generation element section 100 has been described. In the third embodiment, the case where the magnets of the magnet section are arranged on both sides of the power generation element section 100 will be described.

[0062] 18 to 20 are diagrams (parts 1 to 3) that schematically show the configuration of a power generation module according to embodiment 3. In Fig. 18 to 20, magnet section 200 has first magnet 210 having first magnetized surface 210a of a first polarity and second magnet 220 having second magnetized surface 220a of a second polarity that is opposite to the first polarity. Magnet section 200 also has third magnet 230 having third magnetized surface 230a of a second polarity and fourth magnet 240 having fourth magnetized surface 240a of a first polarity. As the second part 72 equipped with the magnet part 200 moves (i.e., displaces) in the D1 direction (±X direction), during the movement of the second part, there are a first state (state in Figure 19) in which the first magnetization surface 110a and the first magnetized surface 210a face each other, and a second state (state in Figure 20) in which the first magnetization surface 110a and the second magnetized surface 220a face each other.

[0063] Fig. 21 is a perspective view that schematically shows the configuration of power generation module 30 according to embodiment 3 (when first magnetization surface 110a of power generation element unit 100 faces first magnetized surface 210a of first magnet 210, and second magnetization surface 110b faces third magnetized surface 230a of third magnet 230). Fig. 22 is a perspective view that schematically shows the configuration of power generation module 30 (when first magnetization surface 110a of power generation element unit 100 faces second magnetized surface 220a of second magnet 220, and second magnetization surface 110b faces fourth magnetized surface 240a of fourth magnet 240).

[0064] Power generation module 30 according to embodiment 3 differs from power generation module 10 according to embodiment 1 in that magnet section 200b further includes third magnet 230 having third magnetized surface 230a of the second polarity and fourth magnet 240 having fourth magnetized surface 240a of the first polarity, that in the first state (FIG. 21), first magnetization surface 110a and first magnetized surface 210a face each other and second magnetization surface 110b and third magnetization surface 230a face each other, and that in the second state (FIG. 22), first magnetization surface 110a and second magnetization surface 220a face each other and second magnetization surface 110b and fourth magnetization surface 240a face each other.

[0065] In embodiment 3, the normal to first magnetized surface 210a and the normal to second magnetized surface 220a extend in the same first direction (+Y direction), and the normal to third magnetized surface 230a and the normal to fourth magnetized surface 240a extend in a second direction (-Y direction) that is opposite to the first direction. Furthermore, in power generation module 30, magnet section 200b desirably further includes first magnetic yoke 250 that connects first magnet 210 and third magnet 230, and second magnetic yoke 260 that connects second magnet 220 and fourth magnet 240.

[0066] Furthermore, when the length of each of the first magnetized surface 210a, the second magnetized surface 220a, the third magnetized surface 230a, and the fourth magnetized surface 240a in the direction of movement D1 (±X direction) is a first length L1, and the length of each of the first magnetized surface 110a and the second magnetized surface 110b in the direction of movement D1 is a second length L2, it is desirable that the second length L2 be shorter than the first length L1.

[0067] The length of each of the first magnetized surface 210a, the second magnetized surface 220a, the third magnetized surface 230a, and the fourth magnetized surface 240a in the direction of movement D1 is a first length L1, and when the first magnet 210 and the second magnet 220 are arranged with an interval I1 in the direction of movement D1, and when the third magnet 230 and the fourth magnet 240 are arranged with an interval I1 in the direction of movement D1, it is desirable that the interval I1 be equal to or greater than the first length L1.

[0068] 23 is a perspective view schematically illustrating the configuration of a power generation module 30 according to embodiment 3 (an example in which six pairs of magnets connected by yokes 250, 260, etc. are arranged side by side). As such, the number of pairs of magnets included in the power generation module 30 may be any number equal to or greater than two. The number of power generation element sections 100 may also be multiple.

[0069] As described above, according to the power generation module 30 of embodiment 3, as in embodiments 1 and 2, magnetic flux can be efficiently introduced into the magnetic body 110, thereby improving power generation efficiency.

[0070] Furthermore, when a composite magnetic wire that generates the large Barkhausen effect is used as the magnetic core 111, the amount of charge is small but it is suitable for charging a capacitor. Furthermore, when the magnetic core 111 is provided with the magnetic collector 112, it is possible to generate power with high power generation efficiency and it is suitable for charging a capacitor.

[0071] Other than the above, the third embodiment is the same as the first or second embodiment.

[0072] 24 is a perspective view schematically illustrating the configuration of a power generation module 40 according to embodiment 4. The power generation module 40 includes a power generation element unit 100a and a magnet unit 400. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the power generation element unit 100a and the magnet unit 400 are provided so that their relative positions in the ±X directions (direction D1) can be changed.

[0073] This embodiment (Fig. 22) can be configured in two ways depending on the magnetization direction of the magnet, as shown in Fig. 25 and Fig. 26. Fig. 25 shows a case where the magnetization direction (i.e., magnetization direction) of magnet 410 is in the longitudinal direction of magnet 410, and Fig. 26 shows a case where the magnetization direction (i.e., magnetization direction) of magnet 410 is in the thickness direction of magnet 410.

[0074] Figure 25 shows a configuration example in which the magnetized surface of magnet 410 and magnetization surfaces 110a, 110b of the magnetic material do not face each other. Utilizing the property that magnetic field lines are incident perpendicularly to the surface of a magnetic material, magnetization surfaces 110a, 110b are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of magnetic core 111 (the direction in which the magnetic field lines flow), and the magnetic field lines incident on magnetization surface 110a are guided almost straight into magnetic core 111. The magnetization direction of magnet 410 is the longitudinal direction (left-right direction in Figure 25), and the left side of magnet 410 becomes magnetized surface 410a with a north pole. The magnetic field lines emerging from magnetized surface 410a go around the periphery of magnet 410 and enter the south pole of magnetized surface 410b. At this time, the power generating element unit 100a is located above the magnet 410, and the magnetic field lines circling the magnet 410 are collected by the magnetization surface 110a and travel through the magnetic core 111, from the magnetization surface 111b to the magnetized surface 410b of the magnet 410. In this case, only a portion of the magnetic field lines emanating from the magnetized surface 410a are collected by the magnetization body 112 and guided to the magnetic core 111, resulting in a lower efficiency of electromagnetic induction compared to the power generating modules according to embodiments 1 to 3. However, if the power consumption of the environment sensor 58 can be made very small so that it can obtain enough power to operate even with the inefficient electromagnetic induction component, it can be used, and this has the advantage of providing a high degree of freedom in the placement of the power generating element unit 110 relative to the magnet 410.

[0075] 26 shows an example of a configuration in which magnetization surfaces 110a, 110b of the magnetic body are positioned on the side surfaces of the magnet collector, so that the magnetized surface of magnet 410 faces magnetization surfaces 110a, 110b of the magnetic body. The magnetization direction of magnet 410 is the thickness direction (the vertical direction in FIG. 26), with magnetization surface 410a of the north pole on the upper left surface of magnet 410 and magnetization surface 410b of the south pole on the upper right surface of magnet 410. The magnetic field lines emitted from magnetization surface 410a are collected by magnetization surface 110a on the side of magnet collector 110, pass through magnetic core 111, and take a path from magnetization surface 110b to magnetization surface 410b of magnet 410.

[0076] In this case, there are two problems. Problem (1): Because the longitudinal directions of the magnetic field collecting surface 110a and the magnetic core 111 (the direction of the magnetic field lines that contribute to power generation in the coil) are parallel, the magnetic field lines that enter from the magnetic field collecting surface 110a must be guided into the magnetic core 111 so as to bend at approximately 90 degrees. As a result, some of the magnetic field lines do not bend completely within the magnetic field collecting body and instead travel straight and leak into the air (dashed line Q in Figure 26), which reduces the efficiency of electromagnetic induction. Problem (2): When multiple composite magnetic wires are bundled together in the magnetic core 111 as shown in Figures 9(A) and (B) , the magnetic field lines of the composite magnetic wires closer to the magnet 410 tend to enter easily, while the magnetic field lines of the composite magnetic wires farther from the magnet 410 tend not to enter easily, which causes variations in the internal magnetic flux among the multiple composite magnetic wires and reduces the efficiency of electromagnetic induction.

[0077] Furthermore, as in embodiments 1 to 3 (FIGS. 7 and 8), when magnetized surfaces 210a, 220a of the magnet and magnetic field collecting surface 110a of the magnetic body face each other and the longitudinal direction of magnetic field collecting surface 110a and the magnetic body (the direction of the magnetic field lines that contribute to power generation in the coil) are perpendicular to each other, the magnetic field lines emerging from the magnetized surface of the magnet enter the magnetic field collecting surface in a straight line, travel almost straight through the magnetic body, and emerge from the magnetic field collecting surface on the opposite side. For this reason, embodiments 1 to 3 are desirable forms in which loss of the magnetic field lines emerging from the magnet is extremely small, and the most efficient electromagnetic induction power generation can be obtained.

[0078] The magnet unit 400 has a first magnet having a first magnetized surface (top surface in FIG. 24 ) with a first polarity, and a second magnet having a second magnetized surface (top surface in FIG. 24 ) with a second polarity that is opposite to the first polarity. FIG. 24 shows an example in which the first magnetized surface (top surface in FIG. 24 ) and the second magnetized surface (top surface in FIG. 24 ) are a single rod-shaped magnet 410. The first polarity is a north pole, and the second polarity is a south pole. However, the first polarity may be a south pole, and the second polarity may be a north pole.

[0079] One of the power generating element unit 100a and the magnet unit 400 is installed so as to be movable (i.e., displaceable) in the direction D1. The movement in the direction D1 is performed, for example, by moving the second part 72 of the machine tool 70 that supports the magnets 410, 420, 430, and 440. However, the power generating element unit 100a may also move in the direction D1.

[0080] Fig. 27 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a power generation module 40 according to Modification 1 of Embodiment 4. The power generation module in Fig. 27 differs from that in Fig. 24 in that it has a plurality of (six in the figure) power generation element units 100a fixed to a first portion 71 of a machine tool 70 and in that six magnets are arranged in a second portion 72 of the machine tool 70. When the second portion 72 moves in the D1 direction, power can be generated by the plurality of power generation element units 100a.

[0081] As described above, according to the power generation module 40 of embodiment 4, as in embodiments 1 to 3, magnetic flux can be efficiently introduced into the magnetic body 110, thereby achieving the effect of improving power generation efficiency.

[0082] Furthermore, when a composite magnetic wire that generates the large Barkhausen effect is used as the magnetic core 111, the amount of charge is small but it is suitable for charging a capacitor. Furthermore, when the magnetic body 110 includes the magnetic collector 112 and the magnetic core 111, it is possible to generate power with high power generation efficiency and it is suitable for charging a capacitor.

[0083] Furthermore, when a plurality of power generating element sections 100a are provided as in FIG. 27, the power generating efficiency is higher than that in FIG.

[0084] Fig. 28 is a perspective view schematically illustrating the configuration of a power generation module 40b according to Modification 2 of Embodiment 4. The power generation module 40b in Fig. 28 uses a composite magnetic wire that generates a large Barkhausen effect as the magnetic core 111, but differs from the power generation module 40a in Fig. 27 in which the power generation element section 100a has the magnetic collector 110 in that the power generation element section 100b does not have the magnetic collector 110. Apart from this, the power generation module 40b in Fig. 28 is the same as the power generation module 40a in Fig. 27.

[0085] The power generation module 40b in FIG. 28 includes a magnet unit 400 having multiple magnets, a second member 72 supporting the magnet unit, and multiple power generation element units 100b. The power generation element unit 100b in FIG. 28 uses a composite magnetic wire that generates the large Barkhausen effect as the magnetic core 111, but does not include a magnetic collector. Similar to those in FIGS. 24 and 27 , the power generation element unit 100b in FIG. 28 can generate power using the multiple power generation element units 100b by moving the second member 72 supporting the magnet unit 400 having multiple magnets in the direction D1. Because the power generation element unit 100b in FIG. 28 does not include a magnetic collector, its power generation efficiency is even lower than those in FIGS. 24 to 27 . However, by significantly reducing the power consumption of the environmental sensor 58 ( FIG. 14 ), it is possible to obtain enough power to operate the environmental sensor 58 ( FIG. 14 ) even when power is generated by an inefficient electromagnetic induction component. Furthermore, the number of components is reduced, allowing the power generation module 40b to be constructed inexpensively.

[0086] Except for the above, the fourth embodiment is the same as any of the first to third embodiments.

[0087] 10, 20, 30, 40, 40a, 40b Power generation module, 50 Power generation device, 51 Rectifier, 52 Power storage unit, 53 Switching unit, 54 Voltage monitoring unit, 55 Sensor unit, Wireless transmission unit, 57 Control device, 58 Environmental sensor, 100, 100a, 100b Power generation element unit, 110 Magnetic body, 110a First magnetic collecting surface, 110b Second magnetic collecting surface, 120 Coil, 200, 200a, 200b, 400 Magnet unit, 210, 431 First magnet, 210a First magnetized surface, 220, 432 Second magnet, 220a Second magnetized surface, 230, 441 Third magnet, 230a Third magnetized surface, 240, 442 fourth magnet, 240a fourth magnetized surface, 410, 420, 430, 440 magnet, D1 direction of movement (direction of displacement), L1 first length, L2 second length, I1 interval.

Claims

1. A power generation module provided in a target machine having a first part and a second part movably provided with respect to the first part, the power generation module comprising: a power generation element part having a magnetic core and a coil wound around the magnetic core; and a magnet part having a first magnetization surface of a first polarity and a second magnetization surface of a second polarity opposite to the first polarity, wherein one of the power generation element part and the magnet part is installed in the first part and the other is installed in the second part, and there are a first state in which the power generation element part faces the first magnetization surface and a second state in which the power generation element part faces the second magnetization surface during the movement of the second part, and the power generation element part and the magnet part are displaced relative to each other by the relative displacement of the first part and the second part due to the operation of the target machine. A power generation module characterized by that.

2. Each length of the first magnetization surface and the second magnetization surface in the moving direction is a first length, the first magnetization surface and the second magnetization surface are arranged at intervals in the moving direction, and the interval is equal to or greater than the first length. The power generation module according to claim 1, characterized in that.

3. The first magnetization surface and the second magnetization surface face the same direction, and the movement of the second part is a linear movement. The power generation module according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that.

4. The magnet part further has a third magnetization surface of the second polarity and a fourth magnetization surface of the first polarity, and in the first state, the magnetic body in the power generation element is sandwiched between the first magnetization surface and the third magnetization surface and faces each other, and in the second state, the magnetic body in the power generation element is sandwiched between the second magnetization surface and the fourth magnetization surface and faces each other. The power generation module according to claim 1, characterized in that.

5. The magnet part further has a first magnetic body yoke connecting a magnet having the first magnetization surface and a magnet having the third magnetization surface, and a second magnetic body yoke connecting a magnet having the second magnetization surface and a magnet having the fourth magnetization surface. The power generation module according to claim 4, characterized in that.

6. The lengths of the first magnetization surface, the second magnetization surface, the third magnetization surface, and the fourth magnetization surface in the moving direction are a first length. The first magnetization surface and the second magnetization surface are arranged at intervals in the moving direction. The third magnetization surface and the fourth magnetization surface are arranged at the intervals in the moving direction. The interval is equal to or greater than the first length. The power generation module according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that.

7. The movement of the second portion is a linear movement. The power generation module according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that.

8. The magnetic body has a magnetic core that generates a large Barkhausen effect in response to a change in magnetic flux. The power generation module according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that.

9. The magnetic body has a magnetic core that generates a large Barkhausen effect in response to a change in magnetic flux and a magnetic flux concentrator that is a soft magnetic body surrounding the outer periphery of the magnetic core. The power generation module according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that.

10. The power generation element unit has a magnetic body having a first magnetic flux concentrator surface and a second magnetic flux concentrator surface, and a coil wound around the magnetic body. There exist a first state in which the first magnetic flux concentrator surface faces the first magnetization surface and a second state in which the first magnetic flux concentrator surface faces the second magnetization surface during the movement of the second portion. The power generation module according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that.

11. The lengths of the first magnetization surface and the second magnetization surface in the moving direction are a first length. The lengths of the first magnetic flux concentrator surface and the second magnetic flux concentrator surface in the moving direction are a second length. The second length is shorter than the first length. The power generation module according to claim 10, characterized in that.

12. The lengths of the first magnetization surface, the second magnetization surface, the third magnetization surface, and the fourth magnetization surface in the moving direction are a first length. The lengths of the first magnetic flux concentrator surface and the second magnetic flux concentrator surface in the moving direction are a second length. The second length is shorter than the first length. The power generation module according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that.

13. A power generation device, comprising: the power generation module according to any one of claims 1 to 12; a rectifier that rectifies positive and negative power generation pulses generated in the coil of the power generation module; and a power storage unit that stores the power of the power generation pulses output from the rectifier.

14. An environmental sensor that receives the power stored in the power storage unit of the power generation device according to claim 13, comprising: a sensor unit that senses the state of the target machine or the environment around the target machine; a wireless transmission unit that transmits the information sensed by the sensor unit; and a switching unit that switches between an on state in which the power stored in the power storage unit is supplied to the wireless transmission unit and an off state in which the power is not supplied to the wireless transmission unit.

15. The environmental sensor according to claim 14, further comprising a voltage monitoring unit that monitors the internal voltage of the power storage unit and sets the switching unit to the on state when the internal voltage becomes equal to or higher than the minimum driving voltage required for the operation of the wireless transmission unit.

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