JP2010224611A - Radio communication system and image forming apparatus provided with the same - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To stabilize communication between a reader/writer and a tag by providing a magnetic member on the reader/writer or the like to manage the magnetic field between the reader/writer and the tag, thereby eliminating the effect of a ferromagnetic body or conductor near the reader/writer and the tag. <P>SOLUTION: The radio communication system includes: a communication device having a first antenna formed by wiring on one surface of a substrate, and an RFID tag facing the communication device (reader/writer) and including a second antenna for performing communication with the communication device. The communication device includes a first magnetic member formed of, for example, a sheet-like ferromagnetic body, which is provided on the surface not facing the tag of the first antenna. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a radio communication system including an RFID tag and a communication device that communicates with the tag. The present invention also relates to an image forming apparatus such as a multifunction machine, a copier, a printer, and a facsimile machine equipped with the wireless communication system.

  In recent years, RFID tags that store various types of information and communication devices such as reader / writers that perform wireless communication with the tags have become widespread. For example, an employee ID card or the like equipped with an IC tag is read by a reader / writer, and personal authentication such as security management is performed. Also, for example, in railways and the like, a boarding card equipped with an IC tag is read and written by a ticket gate as a reader / writer, and an entry record is grasped and a fare is calculated. For example, in the field of image forming apparatuses, as described in Patent Document 1, a reader / writer that attaches a tag for storing various information such as product information to a replacement part such as a toner container and communicates with the tag. May be provided in the image forming apparatus. Then, the reader / writer extracts information from the tag, and the operation of the image forming apparatus is controlled, for example, by adjusting image forming conditions.

Specifically, Patent Document 1 discloses an RFID system in which wireless communication is performed between a loop antenna and an RFID tag, and the reader / writer side loop antenna and a modulation / demodulation circuit are arranged on the same printed circuit board, and a loop antenna. An RFID system is described in which a gap with a wiring pattern on a printed circuit board that surrounds the wiring pattern is at least 1/2 or more of the short side of the antenna pattern. With this configuration, a factor that deteriorates the communication performance with the RFID tag due to the external noise superimposed on the transmission line between the loop antenna and the modulation / demodulation circuit is eliminated, and it is attempted to secure the communication performance by eliminating the external noise superimposition. As an example of mounting an RFID system, an image forming apparatus including a toner bottle mounted with an RFID tag and a reader / writer substrate is cited. (See Patent Document 1: Claims 1-2, Claims 8-9, paragraph [0016], etc.).
JP2007-149032

  Generally, a tag and a reader / writer have a coiled communication antenna, for example. For example, in the case of the electromagnetic induction method, the reader / writer and the tag are relatively close to each other (for example, several mm to several cm), and a current is passed through the reader / writer antenna to generate a magnetic field. Then, current flows through the antenna on the tag side by electromagnetic induction (magnetic flux coupling), and information and energy are transmitted from the reader / writer to the tag. Then, the passive tag transmits information to the reader / writer using the energy received from the reader / writer. The communicable distance and range between the tag and the reader / writer depend on the size of the antenna and the performance of the reader / writer and the tag.

  Here, when mounted on an image forming apparatus, a wireless communication system including a tag and a communication device such as a reader / writer may be housed in a device. In the device, there are, for example, an iron (ferromagnetic) frame for fixing the reader / writer and a frame of the device, and a conductor such as a metal fitting for attaching the substrate of the reader / writer. If a ferromagnetic material is present near the reader / writer or the tag, the magnetic field is disturbed depending on the position and shape, and stable communication may not be performed. In addition, when a conductor exists near the reader / writer or the tag, current such as eddy current flows due to the magnetic field, energy is consumed, and the communication distance between the reader / writer and the tag may be shortened. Therefore, communication may become unstable depending on the position of the tag and the reader / writer and the position of the conductor or the ferromagnetic material, and further, communication may be disabled.

  In addition, the structural design of the image forming device has changed, so the position of ferromagnetic materials and conductors, such as iron frames and metal fittings, and the positional relationship between the tag and reader / writer have changed. However, communication between the tag and the reader / writer may become unstable after the structural design change. That is, the tag and the reader / writer are affected by the structural design change. Therefore, in order to perform stable communication, generally, the antenna provided in the tag and the reader / writer is increased with respect to the communication distance so that the communication distance has a margin. However, when the antenna is large, there is a problem that the size of the wireless communication system is increased.

  The invention of Patent Document 1 attempts to eliminate the factor that deteriorates the communication performance with the RFID tag due to superimposed external noise, and is stable due to the presence of a ferromagnet or conductor close to the reader / writer and the tag. This does not address the problem that the communication cannot be obtained or the problem that the wireless communication system becomes large.

  In view of the above problems, the present invention provides a magnetic member formed in a reader / writer or the like to manage a magnetic field formed between the reader / writer and the tag, and a ferromagnetic material or conductor existing near the reader / writer and the tag. The object is to stabilize the communication between the reader / writer and the tag.

  In order to achieve the above object, a wireless communication system according to claim 1 is configured to communicate with a communication device having a first antenna formed by wiring on one surface of a substrate and facing the communication device. The RFID tag includes the second antenna, and the communication device is provided with a first magnetic member formed of a ferromagnetic material on a surface side of the first antenna that does not face the tag. .

  According to this configuration, since the communication device is provided with the first magnetic member, the shape of the magnetic field generated from the communication device or the tag is shaped so as to pass through the first magnetic member. Therefore, even if a ferromagnetic material such as an iron frame is present in the vicinity of the communication device closer to the first magnetic member than the first antenna, the magnetic field shape is not affected. Further, even if a conductor such as a substrate fixing bracket or a circuit pattern is present on the first magnetic member side of the first antenna, the magnetic field energy is not consumed. Therefore, stable communication as designed can be performed between the communication device and the tag. Further, it is not necessary to provide a sufficient size for the antenna, and the antenna can be made smaller than before. Accordingly, the tag and the communication device can be reduced in size, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. Further, when the wireless communication system is arranged in an image forming apparatus or the like, the stability of the communication does not change even if the structural design change in the machine such as the arrangement of the frame and the metal fittings is performed. There is no need to change the design.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the invention, the tag is provided with a second magnetic member formed of a ferromagnetic material on a surface side of the second antenna that does not face the communication device. It was.

  According to this configuration, since the tag is provided with the second magnetic member, the magnetic field generated from the communication device or the tag is shaped so as to pass through the second magnetic member. Therefore, as in the first aspect, the shape of the magnetic field is not distorted, and the energy of the magnetic field is not consumed even if a conductor is present. Therefore, stable communication as designed can be performed between the communication device and the tag. Further, it is not necessary to provide a sufficient size for the antenna, and the antenna can be made smaller than before. Therefore, the tag and the communication device can be reduced in size, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the first or second aspect of the present invention, when the surface of the substrate on which the first antenna is wired is viewed from the vertical, the first antenna is located outside the first magnetic member. It was decided to be placed within the periphery.

  According to this configuration, since the first antenna is arranged so as to be within the outer peripheral edge of the first magnetic member when the surface of the substrate on which the first antenna is wired is viewed from the vertical, the magnetic field is transmitted between the communication device and the tag. It can be shaped so as not to spread as much as possible from the area between.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the first to third aspects of the invention, when the surface of the tag facing the first antenna is viewed from the vertical, the second antenna is an outer peripheral edge of the second magnetic member. It was decided that it was arranged so that it might fit inside.

  According to this configuration, the second antenna is arranged so that the second antenna fits within the outer periphery of the second magnetic member when the surface of the substrate on which the first antenna is wired is viewed from the vertical direction. It can be shaped so as not to spread as much as possible from the area between.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the first to fourth aspects of the present invention, the first magnetic member is formed on the first antenna while passing through the substrate on a plane side of the substrate where the first antenna is provided. While projecting so as to surround the outer peripheral edge, it also projects inside the first antenna.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the first to fifth aspects of the invention, the second magnetic member is formed in a concave shape, and the tag is disposed in the concave portion.

  According to the configurations of the fifth and sixth aspects, the shape of the magnetic field can be further shaped so that the magnetic field between the first antenna of the communication device and the second antenna of the tag does not spread, so that communication can be stabilized. Improves. In addition, the antenna can be further reduced in size.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the first or second aspect of the present invention, when the surface of the substrate on which the first antenna is wired is viewed from the vertical, the first magnetic member is at least the first magnetic member. It is larger than the inner periphery of the antenna, the long side of the first magnetic member is longer than the long side of the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna, and the inner periphery of the first antenna is within the outer peripheral edge of the first magnetic member. And the first magnetic member protrudes from both short sides of the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the first or second aspect of the present invention, when the surface of the substrate on which the first antenna is wired is viewed from the vertical, the first magnetic member is at least the first magnetic member. The short side of the first magnetic member is longer than the short side of the outer periphery of the first antenna, and the inner periphery of the first antenna is within the outer periphery of the first magnetic member. The first magnetic member is arranged at a position where the first magnetic member protrudes from both long sides of the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna.

  According to the configurations of the seventh and eighth aspects, even if the first magnetic member is not necessarily disposed so as to surround the first antenna when the surface of the substrate on which the first antenna is wired is viewed from the vertical, the communication is not necessary. The effect of shaping the shape of the magnetic field so as to improve the stability is obtained (see FIG. 7). Further, the first magnetic member can be made smaller and the manufacturing cost can be reduced as compared with the case where the first magnetic member is formed so as to surround the first antenna when the surface of the substrate on which the first antenna is wired is viewed from the vertical. be able to.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, an image forming apparatus includes the wireless communication system according to any one of the first to eighth aspects. According to this configuration, there is provided an image forming apparatus in which communication between the tag and the communication device is reliably performed in the apparatus. In addition, since the tag and the communication device are downsized and the manufacturing cost is reduced, the image forming apparatus can be downsized and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. In addition, since structural design such as arrangement of frames and metal fittings can be performed without considering securing of communication stability of the wireless communication system, the degree of freedom in designing the image forming apparatus is increased.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the seventh aspect of the present invention, the tag is mounted on the image forming apparatus, and stores a developer containing a ferromagnetic carrier and toner, and stores the developer for replenishment. The communication device is provided in a surface of the body, and the communication device is provided in the image forming apparatus at a position where the first antenna faces the tag when the developer container is mounted. The second magnetic member is provided between the agent and the agent.

  Conventionally, when a developer container contains a ferromagnetic carrier, a magnetic field emitted from a tag or a communication device is attracted to the carrier, and the stability of communication changes depending on the state and remaining amount of the developer. Although the presence of the magnetic carrier sometimes hinders communication between the tag and the communication device, according to this configuration, the shape of the magnetic field is shaped so as to pass through the second magnetic member. Therefore, communication between the tag and the communication device is stable regardless of the presence or absence of the ferromagnetic carrier.

  According to the present invention, communication in a wireless communication system can be stabilized even when a ferromagnetic material such as an iron frame or a conductor such as a mounting bracket is present in the vicinity of a wireless communication system including a tag and a communication device. . Moreover, the stability of communication is not affected even if there is a structural design change that changes the arrangement of the frame, mounting brackets, and the like.

1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of a printer according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of an image forming unit according to the first embodiment. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a printer according to a first embodiment. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a wireless communication system including a reader / writer and a tag according to a first embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the positional relationship of the reader / writer and magnetic member which concern on 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the positional relationship of the tag which concerns on 1st Embodiment, and a magnetic member. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the state of the magnetic field which generate | occur | produces with the reader / writer and tag which concern on 1st Embodiment. (A) is the figure which looked at the board | substrate of the reader / writer based on 2nd Embodiment from upper direction (same direction as A direction of FIG. 5). (B) is the figure which looked at the board | substrate of the reader / writer concerning 2nd Embodiment from the front direction (same direction as B direction of FIG. 5). (A) is the figure seen from the direction (same direction as C direction of FIG. 6) perpendicular | vertical with respect to the plane of the tag which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. (B) is the figure which looked at the tag concerning a 2nd embodiment from the plane direction (the same direction as D direction of Drawing 6). FIG.9 (c) is sectional drawing of the EF direction in FIG.9 (b). It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the positional relationship of the reader / writer 8 which concerns on 3rd Embodiment, and the 1st magnetic member 86, (a) is a perspective view of the board | substrate 8a, (b) is A of FIG. 10 (a). It is the figure seen from the 'direction. (C) is the figure seen from the B 'direction of Fig.10 (a). It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the positional relationship of the reader / writer 8 which concerns on 4th Embodiment, and the 1st magnetic member 86, (a) is a perspective view of the board | substrate 8a, (b) is A of FIG. 11 (a). It is the figure seen from the ″ direction. (C) is the figure seen from the B "direction of Fig.11 (a).

  Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. An electrophotographic tandem color printer 1 (corresponding to an image forming apparatus) and a wireless communication system 100 including a tag 9 and a reader / writer 8 (corresponding to a communication apparatus) built in the printer 1 will be described as an example. . However, each element such as the configuration and arrangement described in the present embodiment is merely an illustrative example without limiting the scope of the invention.

(Schematic configuration of image forming apparatus)
First, the outline of the printer 1 in which the wireless communication system 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention is built will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a printer 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the image forming unit 3 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the printer 1 is provided with a paper feed unit 2a, a conveyance path 2b, an image forming unit 3, an intermediate transfer unit 4, a fixing unit 5, a container 6, a reader / writer 8, and the like in the main body.

  The paper feed unit 2a is loaded and accommodated with various types (plain paper, recycled paper, OHP sheet, label paper, etc.) and various sizes (A row, B row paper, etc.) for the intermediate transfer unit 4 and the like. To do. Then, at the time of printing or the like, a paper feed roller 21 rotated by a drive mechanism (not shown) such as a motor sends out the uppermost sheet to the transport path 2b.

  The transport path 2 b is a path that transports the paper supplied from the paper feed unit 2 a to the discharge tray 22 in the printer 1. The conveyance path 2b is provided with a conveyance roller pair 23 (23a, 23b), a guide, a registration roller pair 25 that temporarily waits for a conveyed sheet and sends the sheet in accordance with the transfer timing of the toner image to the sheet.

  The image forming unit 3 is a part that forms a toner image based on image data of an image to be formed. Specifically, four image forming units 3k to 3m (in order from the left side of FIG. 1, image forming unit 3k (black), image forming unit 3y (yellow), image forming unit 3c (cyan), image forming unit 3m ( Magenta)) and one exposure device 31 and the like.

  Here, the image forming units 3k to 3m will be described in detail with reference to FIG. Each of the image forming units 3k to 3m has basically the same configuration except that the color of the toner image to be formed is different. Therefore, in FIG. 2 and the following description, the symbols k, y, c, and m used as the color identification symbols are omitted unless specifically described.

  First, each photosensitive drum 32 carries a toner image, and is driven to rotate counterclockwise at a predetermined process speed by a driving device (not shown). Each charging device 33 charges the photosensitive drum 32 at a constant potential. An exposure device 31 below each image forming unit 3 (see FIG. 1) converts an image signal obtained by color-separating image data input to the printer 1 into an optical signal at a laser output unit (not shown). The laser beam (illustrated by a broken line) that is the converted optical signal is output, and the photosensitive drum 32 after scanning is scanned and exposed to form an electrostatic latent image.

  Each developing device 34 is filled with a developer (so-called two-component developer) composed of toner and a ferromagnetic carrier (the image forming unit 3k is black, the image forming unit 3y is yellow, the image forming unit 3c is cyan, and the image forming unit). Unit 3m contains magenta developer). Each developing device 34 includes a developing roller 35, a magnetic roller 36, and a conveying member 37. Magnets (not shown) are respectively provided inside the developing roller 35 and the magnetic roller 36, and a magnetic brush is formed by a carrier between the developing roller 35 and the magnetic roller 36.

  The magnetic roller 36 supplies toner to the developing roller 35, and a thin layer of toner is formed on the surface of the developing roller 35. A predetermined voltage is applied to the developing roller 35 during printing or the like, and charged toner is supplied to the photosensitive drum 32. Each conveying member 37 is provided below each magnetic roller 36, agitates the developer for charging, and circulates the developer in the developing device 34. The cleaning device 38 includes, for example, a cylindrical cleaning member 39 having elasticity, and the cleaning member 39 rubs each photosensitive drum 32 to remove and collect transfer residual toner on the drum surface.

  Returning to FIG. The intermediate transfer unit 4 receives the primary transfer of the toner image from the photosensitive drum 32 and performs secondary transfer onto the paper. The intermediate transfer unit 4 is attached to one of the photosensitive drums 32, and is provided with each primary transfer roller 41 (a total of four rollers 41k to 41m), an intermediate transfer belt 42, a driving roller 43, a driven roller 44, and two. It comprises a next transfer roller 45, a belt cleaning device 46, and the like. Each primary transfer roller 41 abuts on the intermediate transfer belt 42 so as to sandwich each photoreceptor drum 32 and the endless intermediate transfer belt 42. The toner image formed in each image forming unit 3 is applied with a transfer voltage to each primary transfer roller 41, timed, sequentially superimposed without deviation, and is primarily transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 42. .

  The intermediate transfer belt 42 is stretched around a driving roller 43 and a driven roller 44, and rotates in the clockwise direction in FIG. 1 by the rotational driving of the driving roller 43 connected to a driving mechanism (not shown) such as a motor. The secondary transfer roller 45 faces the drive roller 43 and presses against the intermediate transfer belt 42 in the direction of the drive roller 43 to form a secondary transfer nip. When the toner image of each color superimposed on the intermediate transfer belt 42 and the paper enter the secondary transfer nip, a predetermined voltage is applied to the secondary transfer roller 45, and the toner image is secondarily transferred to the paper. Is done. The residual toner on the intermediate transfer belt 42 after the secondary transfer is removed and collected by the belt cleaning device 46.

  The fixing unit 5 is arranged on the downstream side in the paper conveyance direction, and fixes the toner image secondarily transferred to the paper by heating and pressing. The fixing unit 5 is mainly composed of a fixing roller 51 with a built-in heat source and a pressure roller 52 pressed against the fixing roller 51, and forms a nip. Then, the paper on which the toner image is transferred passes through the nip and is heated and pressurized, and as a result, the toner image is fixed on the paper. The fixed sheet is discharged to the discharge tray 22 and the image forming process is completed.

  Further, in the printer 1 of the present embodiment, a container 6 (corresponding to a developer container) that stores a developer is attached above the intermediate transfer unit 4. In the printer 1 of the present embodiment, four color toner images are formed. Therefore, four containers 6 corresponding to the respective colors (a container 6k for storing black developer and a container for storing yellow developer from the left in FIG. 1). 6y, a container 6c for containing cyan developer, and a container 6m for containing magenta developer). Each container 6 is connected to a developing device 34 of a corresponding color and replenishes each developing device 34 with a developer. Further, as will be described in detail later, a tag 9 is attached below each container 6, and a substrate-like reader / writer 8 is provided at a position facing the tag 9.

(Hardware configuration of printer 1)
Next, the hardware configuration of the printer 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the printer 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the printer 1 according to this embodiment includes a control unit 7 on an internal control board. The control unit 7 controls each unit of the printer 1 such as the paper feeding unit 2a, the conveyance path 2b, the image forming unit 3, the intermediate transfer unit 4, and the fixing unit 5. For example, the CPU 71, the storage unit 72, and the image processing unit 73 are controlled. Etc. The CPU 71 is a central processing unit, and controls and calculates each unit of the printer 1 based on a control program and data stored in the storage unit 72 and developed. The storage unit 72 is configured by a combination of nonvolatile and volatile storage devices such as ROM, RAM, and flash ROM. For example, the storage unit 72 stores a control program, data, and the like for the printer 1.

  The control unit 7 includes various connectors and sockets, and is provided with an I / F unit 74 (interface unit) for communicating with the outside of the printer 1. The printer 1 can connect the user terminal 200 (for example, a personal computer) via the I / F unit 74 via a network, a cable, or the like. Note that a plurality of user terminals 200 can be communicably connected to the printer 1, but only one is shown in FIG. 3 for convenience.

  The user transmits image data and files from each user terminal 200 to the printer 1, and the printer 1 can perform printing based on the received image data and the like. For example, the received image data is subjected to image processing such as data format conversion and density adjustment by the image processing unit 73 (note that the functions of the image processing unit 73 are various and can perform known image processing in detail. The image data after image processing is output to the exposure device 31 for printing.

  Further, a reader / writer 8 is connected to the control unit 7. The reader / writer 8 has a first antenna A1 formed by wiring on one surface of the substrate 8a, and communicates with an RFID tag 9 attached to each container 6. The tag 9 opposes the reader / writer 8 and includes a second antenna A2 for communicating with the reader / writer 8. In FIG. 1, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, and FIG. 5, the tag 9k is assigned to the container 6k, the tag 9y is assigned to the container 6y, the tag 9c is assigned to the container 6c, and the tag 9m is assigned to the container 6m. However, the tags 9k to 9m are the same except that the information to be stored is different, and the symbols k, y, c, and m are omitted unless specifically described.

  Then, the control unit 7 instructs the reader / writer 8 to read information on the tag 9 and write information to the tag 9, and the reader / writer 8 receives the instruction to read and write information from the tag 9. I do.

  Here, information stored in the tag 9 is exemplified. For example, the tag 9 can store information on the color of toner stored in each container 6. By reading this information, the control unit 7 can recognize the mounting error of the container 6. Further, for example, the tag 9 can store information related to the compatible model of the container 6. By reading this information, the control unit 7 can determine whether the container 6 attached to the printer 1 is appropriate. For example, the tag 9 can store information related to the manufacture and recycling of the container 6. By reading this information, the control unit 7 can determine whether or not the container 6 is a genuine product. Further, for example, the tag 9 stores parameters such as the characteristics of the toner stored in the container 6 and an appropriate voltage to be applied to the developing roller 35 of the developing device 34 for forming a high quality image. be able to. By reading this information, the control unit 7 can perform printing with better quality.

  Further, in order to detect the remaining amount of developer in the container 6, the tag 9 stores (writes) the total number of sheets printed using the toner of the corresponding color after being attached to the printer 1. be able to. By constantly rewriting and appropriately reading out information relating to the number of printed sheets stored in the tag 9, the control unit 7 can determine the remaining amount of developer in the container 6 and the development from the relationship between the number of printed sheets and the amount of toner consumed. The out-of-agent can be detected by calculation or the like.

(Configuration of reader / writer 8 and tag 9)
Next, an example of the wireless communication system 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described based on FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a wireless communication system 100 including the reader / writer 8 and the tag 9 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  As described above, the printer 1 includes the wireless communication system 100. The reader / writer 8 according to this embodiment includes the CPU 81, the memory 82, the modulation unit 83, the filter 84, the demodulation unit 85, the first antenna A1, and the like on the substrate 8a. The members constituting the reader / writer 8 are mounted. The CPU 81 is an arithmetic unit that controls communication with the control unit 7 and the operation of the reader / writer 8. The memory 82 stores programs and data necessary for the CPU 81 to perform control. The CPU 81 receives an instruction from the control unit 7 and communicates with the tag 9. For example, the reader / writer 8 reads the information of the tag 9 and transmits the read information to the control unit 7. For example, the reader / writer 8 writes the data received from the control unit 7 to the tag 9.

  The modulation unit 83 places an instruction or information (signal wave) to be transmitted to the tag 9 on the carrier wave. The filter 84 removes frequency components unnecessary for communication from the modulated waveform. The modulation unit 83 performs modulation according to the communication method between the reader / writer 8 and the tag 9 such as amplitude modulation, frequency modulation, and phase modulation (the same applies to the demodulation unit 85). And the output of the modulation | alteration part 83 is input into 1st antenna A1 (total 4 of 1st antenna A1k-A1m) facing the tag 9 used as communication object, and is received by the tag 9 used as communication object, an instruction | indication or Information is communicated. The demodulator 85 is a part that demodulates the reflected wave from the tag 9 on which information stored in the tag 9 is placed. In addition, although the modulation | alteration part 83, the filter 84, and the demodulation part 85 have shown the aspect which selects the 1st antenna A1 which communicates, and communicates with each tag 9, the modulation | alteration part 83, the filter 84, and the demodulation part 85 are shown. May be provided for each first antenna A1.

  On the other hand, the tag 9 includes a second antenna A2 (A2k to A2m), an IC 91, and a memory 92. In this embodiment, an example using a passive type will be described, but the tag 9 may be an active type having a power source. The IC 91 includes a control arithmetic circuit, a modulation / demodulation circuit for communicating with the reader / writer 8, a rectifier circuit as a driving power source for the IC 91 and the like that obtains power from a carrier wave emitted from the reader / writer 8, and the like. As described above, the memory 92 stores various information such as toner characteristics and the number of printed sheets. The memory 92 may be built in the IC 91.

  The first antenna A1 of the reader / writer 8 is formed in a coil shape (loop shape) by wiring on the substrate 8a, and the second antenna A2 of the tag 9 is also formed in a coil shape (loop shape). included. For example, the first antenna A1 of the reader / writer 8 and the second antenna A2 of the tag 9 are approximately the same size. Further, a magnetic field is generated by voltage application to the first antenna A1 by the modulation unit 83 and voltage application to the second antenna A2 by the IC 91. The magnetic field generated in one antenna generates a voltage (current) in the other antenna by electromagnetic induction (electromagnetic induction method), and communication is performed. Note that the reader / writer 8 and the tag 9 may be of a radio wave type.

(Arrangement of magnetic members)
Next, based on FIG.5 and FIG.6, arrangement | positioning of each magnetic member in the reader / writer 8 and the tag 9 which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention is demonstrated. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the positional relationship between the reader / writer 8 and the first magnetic member 86 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the positional relationship between the tag 9 and the second magnetic member 93 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  First, as shown in FIG. 5A, the reader / writer 8 of the present embodiment is configured as a substrate (substrate 8a), and a first antenna A1 (loop coil) provided by wiring on one surface of the substrate 8a. Is arranged. In the printer 1 of the present embodiment, since four containers 6 are mounted, there are four tags 9 (tags 9k to 9m), and the first antenna A1 is connected to each other because it communicates with each tag 9. Are arranged in parallel with an interval that does not interfere with each other (first antennas A1k to A1m). As described above, the reader / writer 8 is provided with the CPU 81, the memory 82, the modulator 83, the filter 84, the demodulator 85, and the like. Although not shown in FIG. 5, each first antenna A1 is wired. It is provided in a place that is not.

  Here, the reason why the magnetic member is arranged on the reader / writer 8 and the tag 9 will be described. The reader / writer 8 and the tag 9 of this embodiment have a first antenna A1 and a second antenna A2 that are formed in a coil shape. Wireless communication is performed using the electromagnetic fields generated from the first antenna A1 and the second antenna A2, but if a conductor exists near the first antenna A1 or the second antenna A2, the conductor forms a loop. If so, current flows due to the influence of the magnetic field formed by the reader / writer 8 and the tag 9. In addition, an eddy current is generated when the magnetic field lines penetrate the conductor. For example, in the printer 1, a fixing bracket (not shown) for fixing the substrate-like reader / writer 8, a printed circuit board arranged in the vicinity of the reader / writer 8 and the tag 9, and the like are provided. Exists as a conductor disposed in the vicinity of. And if an electric current flows, energy will be consumed. Then, the communicable distance between the reader / writer 8 and each tag 9 may be shortened.

  In addition, if a ferromagnetic material exists near the first antenna A1 or the second antenna A2, the shape (distribution) of the magnetic field formed by the first antenna A1 or the second antenna A2 is affected, and the direction of the magnetic field lines is disturbed. , The magnetic field is disturbed. Then, communication between the reader / writer 8 and the tag 9 may become unstable. For example, in the printer 1, an iron frame for fixing the substrate-like reader / writer 8, an iron basic frame as a frame of the printer 1, and the like are arranged in the vicinity of the reader / writer 8 and the tag 9. It exists as a ferromagnet.

  Furthermore, the combination of the first antenna A1 and the second antenna A2 (tag 9) of the present embodiment is arranged in parallel, and there may be a conductor or a ferromagnetic material in the vicinity of a certain combination. In such a case, the communicable distance may be shortened or communication may become unstable only in a combination in which a conductor or the like is present in the vicinity. In order to avoid such adverse effects, generally, the first antenna A1 and the second antenna A2 are made larger than the size necessary for the actual communication distance (giving a margin). As another avoidance method, it is conceivable to design the structure of the printer 1 so that the conductor and the ferromagnetic material are as far away from the reader / writer 8 and the tag 9 as possible.

  However, if the size of the first antenna A1 or the second antenna A2 is increased, the reader / writer 8 (substrate 8a) and the tag 9 are increased in size, which hinders the downsizing of the printer 1 and increases the manufacturing cost. Further, if it is attempted to cope with the structural design of the printer 1, the degree of freedom in designing the printer 1 is narrowed. Therefore, in the printer 1 of the present embodiment, magnetic members are arranged in the reader / writer 8 and the tag 9 so that the first antenna A1 and the second antenna 2 are less affected by the nearby conductors and ferromagnetic materials. Shape and manage the shape (distribution) of the magnetic field of the antenna A2.

  Therefore, the magnetic members disposed in the reader / writer 8 and the tag 9 will be described with reference to FIGS. First, the magnetic member disposed in the reader / writer 8 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5B is an enlarged view of the substrate 8a of the reader / writer 8 viewed from the A direction (upward direction) in FIG. FIG. 5C is an enlarged view of the substrate 8a of the reader / writer 8 viewed from the B direction (front direction) in FIG. In FIG. 5C, the first magnetic member 86 is not visible, but for the sake of convenience, the first magnetic member is shaded.

  FIG. 5B shows a mode in which the first antenna A1 wired from above (actually not so thick), the substrate 8a of the reader / writer 8, and the first magnetic member 86 are arranged. In other words, the first magnetic member 86 is disposed in the direction opposite to the communication direction in which the tag 9 is disposed with respect to the plane of the first antenna A1. That is, in the wireless communication system 100 of the present embodiment, the reader / writer 8 is provided with the first magnetic member 86 formed of a plate-like ferromagnetic material on the surface side that does not face the tag 9 of the first antenna A1.

  Further, the first antenna A1 is arranged on one surface of the substrate 8a of the reader / writer 8, and the first magnetic member 86 is arranged on the other surface of the plane. As shown in FIG. 5, the first magnetic member 86 is plate-shaped, for example, a magnetic sheet made of ferrite and rubber, and the first magnetic member 86 only needs to exhibit ferromagnetism. And the 1st magnetic member 86 only needs to be affixed on the board | substrate 8a.

  Here, when the long side 86L and the short side 86S of the first magnetic member 86 are shorter than the first antenna A1, or when the plane on which the first antenna A1 is arranged is viewed from the vertical, the outside of the first magnetic member 86 is When the first antenna A1 is not arranged so as to fit within the periphery (when it is displaced), the shape of the magnetic field may be distorted, for example, only a part of the magnetic field may swell. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 5C, the first antenna A <b> 1 is disposed within the outer peripheral edge of the first magnetic member 86. That is, in the wireless communication system 100 of the present embodiment, when the surface of the substrate 8a on which the first antenna A1 is wired is viewed from the vertical, the long side 86L and the short side 86S of the first magnetic member 86 are respectively the first antenna. The first antenna A1 is disposed so as to be within the outer peripheral edge of the first magnetic member 86, which is longer than the long side A1L and the short side A1S of the outer peripheral edge of A1.

  Next, the magnetic member arranged on the tag 9 will be described based on FIG. FIG. 6A is a perspective view of an example of the container 6 as viewed from below. FIG. 6B is an enlarged view of the tag 9 as viewed from the C direction (left direction) in FIG. FIG.6 (c) is the enlarged view which looked at the tag 9 from the D direction (downward direction) of Fig.6 (a).

  As shown in FIG. 6, for example, the tag 9 is provided below (bottom surface) of the container 6. In this case, the reader / writer 8 is fixed in the printer 1 with the plane on which the first antenna A1 is provided facing upward. The position where the tag 9 is provided is not limited to the bottom surface of the container 6 but may be a side surface or an upper surface. In this case, the installation angle of the reader / writer 8 is also changed.

  A developer replenishing port 9a, which is a developer outlet, is provided on the bottom surface of the container 6. A gear 9b provided on the left side of FIG. 6A is a gear 9b connected to an agitating member provided in the container 6 and provided with an agitating blade or the like on the shaft portion for agitating the developer. A motor (not shown) or the like is connected to the gear 9b, and the developer in the container 6 is agitated.

  FIG. 6B shows a mode in which the second magnetic member 93 is arranged on the upper side and the tag 9 is arranged on the lower side, and the second magnetic member 93 is arranged on the upper surface of the tag 9 including the second antenna A2. In other words, the second magnetic member 93 is disposed on the surface of the tag 9 opposite to the surface facing the first antenna A1. Although not shown in FIG. 6B, the container 6 is located above the second magnetic member 93. That is, the tag 9 of the wireless communication system 100 of the present embodiment is provided with the second magnetic member 93 formed of a plate-like ferromagnetic material on the surface side that does not face the reader / writer 8 of the second antenna A2.

  As shown in FIGS. 6B and 6C, the second magnetic member 93 is also plate-shaped, for example, a magnetic sheet made of ferrite and rubber, and the second magnetic member 93 exhibits ferromagnetism. Anything is acceptable. The second magnetic member 93 is attached to the container 6, and the tag 9 is attached to the second magnetic member 93. That is, the tag 9 is attached to the printer 1 and is attached to the surface of a container 6 (developer container) that stores and replenishes a developer containing ferromagnetic carrier and toner, and a reader / writer 8 (communication device). ) Is provided in the printer 1 at a position where the first antenna A1 faces the tag 9 when the container 6 is mounted, and a second magnetic member 93 is provided between the tag 9 and the developer.

  Here, when the long side 93L and the short side 93S of the second magnetic member 93 are shorter than the tag 9 (second antenna A2), or when the plane of the tag 9 is viewed from the vertical, it is within the outer peripheral edge of the second magnetic member 93. If the tag 9 (second antenna A2) is not arranged so as to fit in, the shape of the magnetic field may be distorted, for example, only a part of the magnetic field may expand. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 6C, the tag 9 is arranged so as to fit within the outer peripheral edge of the second magnetic member 93. That is, in the wireless communication system 100 of the present embodiment, when the surface of the tag 9 facing the second antenna A2 (tag 9) is viewed from the vertical, the long side 93L and the short side 93S of the second magnetic member 93 are respectively The second antenna A2 (tag 9) is longer than the long side 9L and the short side 9S, and the second antenna A2 (tag 9) is disposed so as to be within the outer peripheral edge of the second magnetic member 93.

  An example of the shape (distribution) of the magnetic field due to the presence of the first magnetic member 86 and the second magnetic member 93 arranged as described above will be described. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a state of a magnetic field generated by the reader / writer 8 and the tag 9 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the second antenna A2 of the tag 9 schematically shown as the second magnetic member 93 is shown on the left side in FIG. Further, on the right side in FIG. 7, the first antenna A1 schematically shown in the reader / writer 8 and the first antenna A1 are provided so as to face the second antenna A2 of the tag 9. A first magnetic member 86 is shown.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the magnetic field formed by the second antenna A <b> 2 and the first antenna A <b> 1 is attracted to the second magnetic member 93 and the first magnetic member 86. And the magnetic field which leaks on the opposite side to 2nd antenna A2 (tag 9) with respect to the 2nd magnetic member 93 becomes very few. Similarly, the magnetic field leaking to the opposite side of the first antenna A1 with respect to the first magnetic member 86 is extremely reduced.

  Therefore, even if a conductor or a ferromagnetic material is present on the opposite side of the second magnetic member 93 from the second antenna A2 (tag 9), the energy of the magnetic field is not consumed and the shape of the magnetic field is not disturbed. For example, the developer of the container 6 includes a magnetic carrier, but the communication between the tag 9 and the reader / writer 8 is stable regardless of the remaining amount of developer in the container 6 and the stirring state. In this way, the shape of the magnetic field is managed.

  Further, even if a conductor or a ferromagnetic material is present on the opposite side of the first antenna A1 with respect to the first magnetic member 86, the magnetic field energy is not consumed and the magnetic field shape is not disturbed. For example, even if the fixing bracket of the reader / writer 8 or the iron substrate fixing frame is present on the back side of the substrate 8a of the reader / writer 8 (the back side of the wiring surface of the first antenna A1), the tag 9 and the reader / writer 8 Communication is stable.

  Thus, according to the invention of the present embodiment, the first magnetic member 86 is provided in the communication device (reader / writer 8). Therefore, the magnetic field generated from the communication device and the tag 9 is generated in the first magnetic member 86. The shape is shaped to pass through. Therefore, even if a ferromagnetic material such as an iron frame is present in the vicinity of the communication device closer to the first magnetic member 86 than the first antenna A1, the magnetic field shape is not affected. Further, even if a conductor such as a substrate fixing metal fitting or a circuit pattern exists closer to the first magnetic member 86 than the first antenna A1, the energy of the magnetic field is not consumed. Therefore, stable communication as designed can be performed between the communication device and the tag 9. In addition, it is not necessary to provide a sufficient size for the antenna, the tag 9 and the communication device can be miniaturized, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. Further, when the wireless communication system 100 is arranged in a machine such as an image forming apparatus (for example, the printer 1), the stability of communication is not changed even if the structural design change in the machine such as the arrangement of frames and metal fittings is performed. There is no need to change the specifications or design of the communication device or tag 9.

  In addition, since the tag 9 is provided with the second magnetic member 93, the shape of the magnetic field generated from the communication device or the tag 9 is shaped so as to pass through the second magnetic member 93. Therefore, the shape of the magnetic field is not distorted, and the magnetic field energy is not consumed even if a conductor is present. Therefore, stable communication as designed can be performed between the communication device and the tag 9. Further, it is not necessary to provide a sufficient size for the antenna, and the antenna can be made smaller than before. Therefore, the tag 9 and the communication device can be reduced in size, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  Further, according to this configuration, the long side 86L and the short side 86S of the first magnetic member 86 are longer than the long side A1L and the short side A1S of the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna A1, and the outer peripheral edge of the first magnetic member 86 is. The first antenna A1 is arranged so as to be accommodated therein. Similarly, the long side 93L and the short side 93S of the second magnetic member 93 are longer than the long side 9L and the short side 9S of the second antenna A2, and the tag 9 is placed within the outer peripheral edge of the second antenna A2. Arranged. Therefore, the magnetic field can be shaped so as not to spread as much as possible from the region between the communication device and the tag 9.

  Further, an image forming apparatus (for example, the printer 1) is provided in which the communication between the tag 9 and the communication apparatus (reader / writer 8) is reliably performed in the apparatus. Further, since the wireless communication system 100 is downsized and the manufacturing cost is reduced, the image forming apparatus can be downsized and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. In addition, since the structural design such as the arrangement of the frames and the metal fittings can be performed without considering the securing of the communication stability of the wireless communication system 100, the degree of freedom in designing the image forming apparatus is increased. Conventionally, when the developer container (container 6) accommodates a ferromagnetic carrier, a magnetic field emitted from the tag 9 or the communication device is attracted to the carrier, and the communication is stabilized depending on the state and remaining amount of the developer. In some cases, the presence of the ferromagnetic carrier interferes with the communication between the tag 9 and the communication device, such as a change in the characteristics. According to this configuration, the magnetic field passes through the second magnetic member 93. The shape is shaped. Therefore, communication between the tag 9 and the communication device is stable regardless of the presence or absence of the ferromagnetic carrier.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, based on FIG.8 and FIG.9, 2nd Embodiment is described. FIG. 8A is a view of the substrate 8a of the reader / writer 8 according to the second embodiment of the present invention as viewed from above (the same direction as the A direction in FIG. 5). FIG. 8B is a view of the substrate 8a of the reader / writer 8 according to the second embodiment of the present invention as seen from the front direction (the same direction as the B direction in FIG. 5). FIG. 9A is a diagram viewed from a direction perpendicular to the plane of the tag 9 according to the second embodiment of the present invention (the same direction as the C direction in FIG. 6). FIG.9 (b) is the figure which looked at the tag 9 which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention from the plane direction (same direction as D direction of FIG. 6). FIG.9 (c) is sectional drawing of the EF direction in FIG.9 (b).

  In the second embodiment, the shapes of the first magnetic member 86 and the second magnetic member 93 are different from those of the first embodiment, but the other parts are the same. Illustration is omitted.

  First, the first magnetic member 86 in the second embodiment will be described. The long side 86L and the short side 86S of the first magnetic member 86 provided in the reader / writer 8 of this embodiment are the long sides of the first antenna A1 when the surface of the substrate 8a on which the first antenna A1 is wired is viewed from the vertical. Similar to the first embodiment, the first magnetic member 86 is longer than A1L and the short side A1S, and is arranged so as to surround the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna A1. However, the first magnetic member 86 of the present embodiment protrudes to the plane side on which the first antenna A1 of the substrate 8a is provided while penetrating the substrate 8a.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the protruding portion of the first magnetic member 86 protrudes so as to surround the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna A1 (the protruding portion 861). The first magnetic member 86 also protrudes to the inner peripheral portion (inner side) of the first antenna A1 (protruding portion 862). That is, in the wireless communication system 100 of the present embodiment, the first magnetic member 86 protrudes through the substrate 8a on the plane side of the substrate 8a where the first antenna A1 is provided, and surrounds the outer periphery of the first antenna A1. And also protrudes to the inside of the first antenna A1. In this way, the shape of the magnetic field between the first antenna A1 of the reader / writer 8 and the second antenna A2 of the tag 9 is caused by projecting the first magnetic member 86 to the plane side where the first antenna A1 of the substrate 8a is provided. Are shaped and managed.

  Next, the second magnetic member 93 of the tag 9 in the second embodiment will be described. The long side 93L and the short side 93S of the second magnetic member 93 provided for the tag 9 of the present embodiment are the long side 9L and the short side of the tag 9 when the plane of the tag 9 including the second antenna A2 is viewed from the vertical. The second magnetic member 93 is the same as in the first embodiment in that it is longer than 9S and the second magnetic member 93 is disposed so as to surround the outer peripheral edge of the tag 9. However, the second magnetic member 93 of this embodiment has a concave portion 94.

  Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 9A to 9C, the second magnetic member 93 is formed in a concave shape, and the tag 9 is disposed in the concave portion 94. In other words, the tag 9 is mounted in the second magnetic member 93 such that the outer peripheral portion of the tag 9 is surrounded by the inner wall portion of the second magnetic member 93. That is, in the wireless communication system 100 of the present embodiment, the second magnetic member 93 is formed in a concave shape, and the tag 9 is disposed in the concave portion 94. Thus, by providing the tag 9 in the concave portion 94 of the second magnetic member 93, the shape of the magnetic field between the first antenna A1 of the reader / writer 8 and the second antenna A2 of the tag 9 can be shaped and managed. .

  Thus, according to the second embodiment, the first antenna A1 of the communication device (reader / writer 8) and the second antenna A2 of the tag 9 (second antenna A2) are further layered than in the first embodiment. The shape of the magnetic field can be shaped so that the magnetic field between them does not spread, and the stability of communication is improved. In addition, the antenna can be further reduced in size.

(Third embodiment)
Next, an example of the positional relationship between the reader / writer 8 and the first magnetic member 86 according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 10A and 10B are explanatory views showing an example of the positional relationship between the reader / writer 8 and the first magnetic member 86 according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10A is a perspective view of the substrate 8a, and FIG. It is the figure seen from the A 'direction of Fig.10 (a). (C) is the figure seen from the B 'direction of Fig.10 (a). In FIG. 10C, the first magnetic member 86 is not visible, but for the sake of convenience, the first magnetic member is shaded.

  The third embodiment is different from the first and second embodiments in the shape of the first magnetic member 86, but the other parts are the same, and the description and illustration of the common parts are omitted. .

  First, as shown in FIG. 10A, in this embodiment, the reader / writer 8 is also configured as a substrate (substrate 8a), and a first antenna A1 (loop coil) provided by wiring on one surface of the substrate 8a. Are provided in parallel.

  Next, magnetic members disposed in the reader / writer 8 and the tag 9 will be described with reference to FIGS. First, FIG. 10B shows an aspect in which the first antenna A1 wired from above, the substrate 8a of the reader / writer 8 and the first magnetic member 86 are arranged. This point is the same as in the first embodiment. In the wireless communication system 100 of the present embodiment, the reader / writer 8 is provided with a first magnetic member 86 formed of a plate-like ferromagnetic material on the surface side that does not face the tag 9 of the first antenna A1.

  Here, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10C, the surface of the substrate 8a on which the first antenna A1 is wired is viewed from the vertical direction (that is, as shown in FIG. 10C). The first magnetic member 86 is larger than at least the inner circumference of the first antenna A1, and the long side 86L of the first magnetic member 86 is longer than the long side A1L of the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna A1. The antenna A1 is disposed so that the inner periphery thereof is within the outer periphery of the first magnetic member 86, and is disposed at a position where the first magnetic member protrudes from both short sides of the outer periphery of the first antenna A1. In other words, when the surface of the substrate 8a on which the first antenna A1 is wired is viewed from the vertical, the first magnetic member 86 is at least larger than the inner circumference of the first antenna A1 and the long side 86L of the first magnetic member 86 is. Is longer than the long side A1L of the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna A1, and the first antenna A1 is arranged so that the inner periphery is within the outer peripheral edge of the first magnetic member 86, and the length of the first magnetic member 86 is long. The long side A1L of the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna A1 is disposed between the sides 86L.

  As described above, in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10C, the long side A1L of the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna is arranged between the long sides 86L of the first magnetic member 86. The first magnetic member 86 protrudes on both sides of the short side A1S of the first antenna A1. In this embodiment, the long side 86L of the first magnetic member 86 is the same as that of the first embodiment in that it is longer than the long side A1L of the first antenna A1, but the short side of the first magnetic member 86 is the same. 86S should just be longer than short side A1S2 of the inner periphery of 1st antenna A1, and may be shorter than short side A1S1 of the outer periphery of 1st antenna A1.

(Fourth embodiment)
Next, an example of the positional relationship between the reader / writer 8 and the first magnetic member 86 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 11A and 11B are explanatory views showing an example of the positional relationship between the reader / writer 8 and the first magnetic member 86 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11A is a perspective view of the substrate 8a, and FIG. It is the figure seen from the A "direction of Fig.11 (a). (C) is the figure seen from the B "direction of Fig.11 (a). In FIG. 11 (c), the first magnetic member 86 is not visible, but for the sake of convenience, the first magnetic member is shaded.

  The fourth embodiment is different from the first and second embodiments in the shape of the first magnetic member 86, but the other parts are the same, and the description and illustration of the common parts are omitted. .

  First, as shown in FIG. 11A, in this embodiment, the reader / writer 8 is also configured as a substrate (substrate 8a), and a first antenna A1 (loop coil) provided by wiring on one surface of the substrate 8a. Are provided in parallel.

  Next, magnetic members disposed in the reader / writer 8 and the tag 9 will be described with reference to FIGS. First, FIG. 11B shows an aspect in which the first antenna A1 wired from above, the substrate 8a of the reader / writer 8 and the first magnetic member 86 are arranged. This is the same as in the first embodiment. In the wireless communication system 100 of the present embodiment, the reader / writer 8 is provided with a first magnetic member 86 formed of a plate-like ferromagnetic material on the surface side that does not face the tag 9 of the first antenna A1.

  Here, in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11C, the surface of the substrate 8a on which the first antenna A1 is wired is viewed from the vertical direction (that is, as shown in FIG. 11C). The first magnetic member 86 is at least larger than the inner circumference of the first antenna A1, and the short side 86S of the first magnetic member 86 is longer than the short side A1S of the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna A1. The antenna A1 is disposed so that the inner periphery thereof is within the outer periphery of the first magnetic member 86, and is disposed at a position where the first magnetic member 86 protrudes from both long sides A1L of the outer periphery of the first antenna A1. The In other words, when the surface of the substrate 8a on which the first antenna A1 is wired is viewed from the vertical, the first magnetic member 86 is at least larger than the inner circumference of the first antenna A1, and the short side 86S of the first magnetic member 86 is. Is longer than the short side A1S of the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna, and the first antenna A1 is arranged so that the inner periphery is within the outer peripheral edge of the first magnetic member 86, and the short side of the first magnetic member 86 is The short side A1S of the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna is arranged between the 86S.

  Thus, in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11C, the short side 86S of the first magnetic member 86 is viewed from the vertical side when the surface of the substrate 8a on which the first antenna A1 is wired is viewed. The short side A1S of the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna is arranged between them, and the first magnetic member 86 protrudes on both sides of the long side A1L of the first antenna A1. In this embodiment, the short side 86S of the first magnetic member 86 is the same as that of the first embodiment in that it is longer than the short side A1S of the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna A1, but the first magnetic member 86 The long side 86L only needs to be longer than the long side A1L2 of the inner peripheral edge of the first antenna A1, and may be shorter than the long side A1L1 of the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna A1.

  Thus, according to the configuration of the third and fourth embodiments, the surface of the substrate 8a on which the first antenna A1 is wired is viewed from the vertical, and the first antenna is not necessarily the same as in the first embodiment. The first magnetic member 86 need not be arranged so as to surround A, and the effect of shaping the shape of the magnetic field so as to improve the stability of communication can be obtained (see FIG. 7). Further, the first magnetic member can be made smaller and the manufacturing cost can be reduced as compared with the case where the first magnetic member is formed so as to surround the first antenna when the surface of the substrate on which the first antenna is wired is viewed from the vertical. be able to.

  Next, another embodiment will be described. In the above-described embodiment, the case where the tag 9 is provided in the container 6 has been described. However, the life management and the optimum image forming conditions are applicable to other replaceable devices (units) such as the photosensitive drum 32 and the developing device 34. Alternatively, the tag 9 may be attached to determine whether or not the model is compatible. Therefore, the present invention can also be applied to the tag 9 provided in the replacement unit of the photosensitive drum 32 and the developing device 34 and the reader / writer 8 provided in the image forming apparatus facing the tag 9.

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described above, but the scope of the present invention is not limited to this, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

  The present invention can be used for a wireless communication system including a communication device such as a tag and a reader / writer, and an image forming apparatus such as a printer, a multifunction peripheral, and a copier equipped with the wireless communication system.

1 Printer (image forming device)
6 (6k, 6y, 6c, 6m) Container (developer container)
8 Reader / writer (communication device) 8a Substrate 86 First magnetic member 9 (9k, 9y, 9c, 9m) Tag 93 Second magnetic member 100 Wireless communication system A1 (A1k, A1y, A1c, A1m) First antenna (reader / writer) Part of 8)
A2 (A2k, A2y, A2c, A2m) Second antenna (part of tag 9)

Claims (10)

A communication device having a first antenna formed by wiring on one surface of the substrate;
An RFID tag including a second antenna for facing the communication device and communicating with the communication device;
The wireless communication system, wherein the communication device is provided with a first magnetic member formed of a ferromagnetic material on a surface side of the first antenna that does not face the tag.   The wireless communication system according to claim 1, wherein the tag is provided with a second magnetic member formed of a ferromagnetic material on a surface side of the second antenna that does not face the communication device. When the surface of the substrate on which the first antenna is wired is viewed from the vertical,
The wireless communication system according to claim 1, wherein the first antenna is disposed so as to be within an outer peripheral edge of the first magnetic member. When the surface of the tag facing the first antenna is viewed from the vertical,
4. The wireless communication system according to claim 1, wherein the second antenna is disposed so as to be within an outer peripheral edge of the second magnetic member. 5.   The first magnetic member protrudes so as to surround the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna while penetrating the substrate on the plane side of the substrate on which the first antenna is provided, and also protrudes to the inside of the first antenna. The wireless communication system according to claim 1, wherein the wireless communication system is a wireless communication system.   6. The wireless communication system according to claim 1, wherein the second magnetic member is formed in a concave shape, and the tag is disposed in a concave portion. When the surface of the substrate on which the first antenna is wired is viewed from the vertical,
The first magnetic member is at least larger than the inner circumference of the first antenna, and the long side of the first magnetic member is longer than the long side of the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna,
The first antenna is disposed so that an inner periphery thereof is accommodated within an outer periphery of the first magnetic member, and is disposed at a position where the first magnetic member protrudes from both short sides of the outer periphery of the first antenna. The wireless communication system according to claim 1, wherein the wireless communication system is a wireless communication system. When the surface of the substrate on which the first antenna is wired is viewed from the vertical,
The first magnetic member is at least larger than the inner periphery of the first antenna, and the short side of the first magnetic member is longer than the short side of the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna,
The first antenna is arranged so that an inner periphery thereof is within an outer peripheral edge of the first magnetic member, and is arranged at a position where the first magnetic member protrudes from both long sides of the outer peripheral edge of the first antenna. The wireless communication system according to claim 1, wherein the wireless communication system is a wireless communication system.   An image forming apparatus including the wireless communication system according to claim 1. The tag is attached to the image forming apparatus, accommodates a developer containing a ferromagnetic carrier and toner, and is attached to the surface of the developer container for replenishment,
The communication device is provided in the image forming apparatus at a position where the first antenna faces the tag when the developer container is mounted.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the second magnetic member is provided between the tag and the developer.

Images