JP5248274B2 - Metal-compatible sensor and management system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a metal-compatible sensor and a management system. Specifically, when a sensor or an IC (Integrated Circuit) tag is placed near the metal surface, the conductive current generated on the metal surface which is a conductor is not generated, or the direction of the magnetic field is made parallel to the metal surface. In this way, the magnetic field is confined and enhanced by multiple images (Multi-Image) on the metal surface, and this magnetic field is used to increase the coupling between the sensor and the IC tag using the magnetic current caused by the metal surface current. The present invention relates to a metal-compatible sensor and a management system.

  In the field of RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification), when a sensor or IC (Integrated Circuit) tag is placed near a metal surface, a nearby conductor due to an electric field or magnetic field generated from a current flowing in the coil of the sensor or IC tag The induced current induced on the metal surface acts in a direction that cancels the magnetic field generated from the coil, so that the characteristics of the sensor and the IC tag are significantly impaired. As a more difficult condition, there are metal surfaces on the top and bottom and left and right of the sensor and IC tag, and when used sandwiched between metals, a magnetic field is generally blocked.

  Many conventional sensor coils have a coil wound around a substrate. In such a conventional sensor coil, the thickness in the direction of the magnetic field is thin, and by increasing the cross-sectional area of the so-called coil, there are many that increase the number of flux linkages, and this shape escapes the influence of the metal surface. Therefore, a magnetic material was used under the antenna coil.

On the other hand, using the image of the metal surface to increase the sensitivity and using the multiple image effect (Multi Image Effect) to enhance the sensitivity using the method of doubling the sensitivity and the metal surfaces existing on the top, bottom, left and right of the sensor and IC tag The method of doing this has also been invented by the applicant (see, for example, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2).
Utility Model Registration No. 3121577 JP 2008-131344 A

  In the conventional sensor coil, since most of the magnetic field is perpendicular to the metal surface, an induced current of a reverse phase is generated and the magnetic field is canceled out. For this reason, the influence of the reverse-phase induced current generated on the metal surface cannot be completely removed by the magnetic material.

  On the other hand, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 use a method of doubling sensitivity by using an image (image) of a metal surface, or using metal surfaces existing on the top, bottom, left and right of a sensor or IC tag, and a multiple image effect. By using (Multi Image Effect) and enhancing the sensitivity, the influence of the reverse-phase induced current generated on the metal surface is reduced.

  The present invention specializes in application to sensors, whereas Patent Document 2 mainly describes IC tags. And by using the effect of two birds with one stone such as leakage of magnetic field from metal surface gap, leakage on metal surface, side magnetic field while suppressing generation of conductive current, more specific application of strong magnetic field by metal surface Metal handling that clarifies sensor usage, reduces interference and adverse effects from metal surfaces and objects on the sensor upper side and sensor side, and enables communication between IC tags and sensors It is an object to provide a sensor and a management system.

  This invention can solve the above-mentioned problems by having the following configuration.

(1) A metal-compatible sensor that electromagnetically couples to a wireless tag that holds information on an article and transmits and receives the information , a magnetic core made of a magnetic material having a predetermined length , and the magnetic core insulated from the magnetic core a coil wound along, comprising a conductive body and surrounding the core, wherein the coil is wound, the conductor may have a discontinuity in the longitudinal direction of the magnetic core, the A metal-compatible sensor that is electromagnetically coupled to the wireless tag by a magnetic field generated at a discontinuous portion .
(2) A metal-compatible sensor that electromagnetically couples to a wireless tag that retains information on an article and transmits and receives the information, and a magnetic core made of a magnetic material having a predetermined length, and being insulated from the magnetic core. A coil wound along the core, and a conductor sandwiching the magnetic core around which the coil is wound, and one conductor of the upper and lower conductors extends in a longitudinal direction of the magnetic core. A metal-compatible sensor having a discontinuous portion along the electromagnetic tag and electromagnetically coupled to the wireless tag by a magnetic field generated at the discontinuous portion.
(3) The metal correspondence sensor according to (1) or (2), wherein the conductor includes a plurality of the discontinuous portions.
(4) The metal correspondence sensor according to (2), wherein the discontinuous portion is a hole or a groove.
(5) The metal correspondence sensor according to (4), wherein the hole portion or the groove portion includes a plastic plate having a recess into which the wireless tag is fitted.
(6) The metal correspondence sensor according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the conductor is in contact with the magnetic core around which the coil is wound. .
(7) In the metal-compatible sensor according to any one of (1) to (6), when the conductor contacts the magnetic core on which the coil is wound, A metal-compatible sensor, wherein a gap is provided between the magnetic core and the magnetic core.
(8) The metal-compatible sensor according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the magnetic core has a plate-like or strip-like shape having a square or rectangular cross section. Sensor.
(9) In the metal-compatible sensor according to (8), the coil is wound around the magnetic core so that a longitudinal direction of the magnetic core having a plate shape or a strip shape is an axial direction of the coil. A metal-compatible sensor, wherein the sensor is a first coil.
(10) In the metal-corresponding sensor according to (8) or (9), the magnetic core is arranged such that a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the magnetic core having the plate-like or strip-like shape is an axial direction of the coil. A metal-compatible sensor, further comprising a wound second coil.
(11) In the metal-compatible sensor according to any one of (8) to (10), a coil is placed on the magnetic core along a plane in the flat portion of the magnetic core having the plate shape or the band shape. A metal-compatible sensor, further comprising a third coil to be wound.
(12) The metal correspondence sensor according to any one of (1) to (11), further including a roller conveyor having a plurality of rollers for conveying the article, wherein the metal correspondence sensor is disposed between the plurality of rollers. A metal-compatible sensor that is installed in a predetermined gap and transmits and receives the information to and from a wireless tag attached to an article conveyed on the roller.
(13) In the metal correspondence sensor according to any one of (1) to (11), the plurality of metal correspondence sensors, a magnetic core made of a magnetic material, and the magnetic core insulated from the magnetic core. An auxiliary sensor having a coil wound along, a capacitor connected to the coil, and a conductor in contact with the magnetic core around which the coil is wound. A metal-compatible sensor, which is disposed in a gap between a plurality of metal-compatible sensors.
(14) The metal-compatible sensor according to any one of (1) to (13), a wireless tag that holds information regarding the article, and reading from the wireless tag via the metal-compatible sensor or the wireless A management system comprising: a reader / writer that writes to a tag; and a computer that records and displays or controls information about the article read or written by the reader / writer.
(15) The management system according to (14), further comprising a magnetic sheet for inducing a magnetic field to the wireless tag.
(16) The management system according to (14) or (15), wherein the article includes a notebook personal computer, a key, a firearm, a board, a DVD, a CD, or an electric device.
(17) The management system according to any one of (14) to (16), wherein the wireless tag includes a paper or plastic tag or a metal-compatible tag.

ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the sensitivity of a sensor can be raised and the induced current (conducting current) of a negative phase can be suppressed. Specifically, in a space along a flat or curved metal surface, while making contact with the metal surface, use multiple images of the metal surface to increase sensitivity, and the induced current generated on the metal surface is in reverse phase. Can be suppressed. For this reason, the magnetic field does not form a closed circuit, an electric field or magnetic field is generated on the metal surface, and an electric field or magnetic field is generated by breaking the metal surface, thereby creating an environment where communication with a large number of IC tags is easy. it can. Then, such a metal-compatible sensor (a metal-compatible sensor according to the present invention described later (this is referred to as M ² ISS (Metal-Metal Intimate Smart Sensor) in this specification)) can be provided.

  That is, by preventing the generation of a conductive current generated on the metal surface, or by making the direction of the magnetic field parallel to the metal surface, the magnetic field is confined and enhanced in the space by multiple images (Multi-Image) by the metal surface, By utilizing this magnetic field, the magnetic current caused by the metal surface current can also be utilized to increase the coupling between the sensor and the IC tag.

  In the following, there are many methods for carrying out the present invention, but they will be classified and described in detail with reference to examples.

  In describing the principle of the present invention, a comparison with the prior art will be made, then the principle of the present invention will be described in detail, and various classifications and application examples will be described with reference to the drawings.

[Description of Conventional Example for Comparison with This Example]
FIG. 1A shows the structure of a conventional metal-compatible sensor.

The sensor shown in FIG. 1A has a structure in which a magnetic sheet 6a is sandwiched between a metal surface Ba and a flat tag formed by a spiral coil 2a, and a magnetic field is released to a magnetic path formed by the magnetic sheet 6a. Yes. Since the the magnetic sheet 6a using no magnetic permeability mu _r is high magnetic gap of the coil 2a and the metal surface Ba narrow, large magnetic resistance of the magnetic path, the induced current due to the vertical component of the magnetic field generator Accordingly, the magnetic field to be canceled increases, and the adverse effect of the metal surface Ba cannot be eliminated.

  Next, FIG.1 (b) shows the example of the existing invention by the applicant.

  The coil 2 wound around the magnetic body 6 is perpendicular to the metal surface B, and the magnetic field generated by the axial direction of the coil 2 and the current I flowing through the coil 2 is horizontal to the metal surface B.

  The magnetic field generated by the coil 2 does not appear because the metal surface B is below the magnetic body 6 and is generated only above (the curve indicated by the broken line in FIG. 1). In the z-axis shown in FIG. 1, the positive side of the z-axis is upward and the negative side of the z-axis is downward.

  If there is a metal surface A with a broken line above this, naturally there is an electric field coupling Cu due to a potential difference between the coil 2 and the metal surface A, and it is affected by the metal surface A. Also, the magnetic field is shaped to be suppressed to the metal surface A from above, and is affected by impedance changes and characteristics.

  An electric field coupling Cg due to a potential difference also exists between the upper portion of the coil 2 and the metal surface B. Accordingly, the sensitivity of the sensor antenna having such a shape is increased due to the image (image) effect by the metal surface B, but it is easily affected by other metal surfaces, and the influence by the metal surface A (shown by a broken line) is particularly affected by this metal surface. When the surface A is added, the characteristics of the sensor antenna are significantly deteriorated. Since the metal medium D placed on the metal surface A is shielded by the metal surface A, the influence of the metal medium D hardly appears. This is because the electric field and magnetic field have already been affected by the metal surface A.

[Description of Sensor for Metals According to the Present Invention]
FIG. 1C is a diagram for explaining the principle of the metal-compatible sensor of the present invention.

A coil 2 is wound around a magnetic body 6 that is a magnetic core (also referred to as a sensor antenna), a voltage V is applied thereto, a current I flows, and a magnetic field H due to the current I is generated. A capacitance (standard capacitance or stray capacitance) Cg ₁ due to a potential difference or an electric field is generated between the wire piece of the coil 2 (portion parallel to the z-axis of the coil 2) and the metal surface B which is a conductor.

  On the other hand, the metal surface A above the coil 2 is added from the beginning, and the coil 2 sandwiched between the metal surfaces A and B has a multiple image (image) generated by two upper and lower metal surfaces. The intensity of the magnetic field before and after the left and right is increased. Here, the left and right are in the y-axis direction, and the front and rear are in the x-axis direction. Further, since there are upper and lower metal surfaces A and B, and these have a shielding effect, even if there is another metal medium D (described in detail in FIG. 6 and the like) as shown in FIG. , Hardly affected by the characteristics. The metal surfaces A and B may be a metal plate or a metal foil, or may be a metal surface where one surface of the object is a metal surface. For this reason, hereinafter, the metal surfaces A and B may also be referred to as metal plates A and B.

  As described above, the metal-compatible sensor of the present invention includes the magnetic body 6, the coil 2 wound around the magnetic body 6 as shown in FIG. 1C, and the upper and lower sides of the magnetic body 6 parallel to the axial direction of the coil 2. It is comprised from the metal plates A and B which exist so that it may become.

Incidentally, Cg ₂ illustrated is a line piece of the coil 2 generates a (portion parallel to the x axis), the capacitance due to a potential difference and an electric field between the metal surface B (target遊容amount or stray capacitance). Further, Cu ₁ is a capacitance (standard capacitance or stray capacitance) generated by a potential difference or an electric field between the metal surface A and a wire piece (part parallel to the z-axis) of the coil 2. Cu ₂ is a capacitance (standard capacitance or stray capacitance) generated by a potential difference or electric field between the metal surface A and a wire piece (portion parallel to the x axis) of the coil 2.

-Comparison of conventional metal sensor and metal sensor of the present invention-
As shown in FIG. 1B, there is a great difference from the case where the metal plate A appears where the metal plate A originally does not exist.

  If the metal plate A does not exist even in the case of FIG. 1B, the metal medium D is affected by both the influence of the electric field (due to the potential) and the influence of the magnetic field (due to the current).

  Accordingly, it can be understood that the sensor having the metal plates A and B from the beginning as shown in FIG. 1C is not only affected by the influence of external metals, but also the sensitivity is not increased by the multiple image. Conventionally, inductance and stray capacitance are greatly affected by changes in magnetic field and electric field (such as stray capacitance), and in order to obtain the same inductance, the number of turns of the coil has to be increased several times. In the conventional metal-compatible sensor as shown in FIG. 1B, the number of turns of the coil must be increased by ten.

  FIG. 1 (d) shows the reason why a multiple image is generated by the sensor antenna shown in FIG. 1 (c) viewed from the axial direction of the coil 2 (that is, the y-axis direction), thereby increasing the sensitivity. . In FIG. 1 (d), the multiple images generated vertically are drawn with broken lines.

  Actually, since the magnetic field is sandwiched and confined in the narrow space between the metal plate A and the metal plate B on the left and right of the magnetic body 6, it can be understood that the sensitivity increases.

[Tags used in the management system of the present invention]
FIG. 2 shows types of metal-compatible IC tags (hereinafter simply referred to as tags) used on metal bodies and metal surfaces. The reason why the metal-compatible tag is used is that, when the metal-compatible sensor of the present invention is used, the article (object (target)) to which the tag is attached assumes a metal medium (metal body). In addition, the metal corresponding | compatible sensor of this invention provided with the magnetic body 6 by which the coil 2 was wound is sandwiched between the two metal plates A and B shown in FIG. 1 (c) is referred to as M ² ISS (Metal-Metal Ultimate Smart Sensor). ). FIG. 2A shows a normal tag in which a magnetic material is placed under a flat tag Ta. Note that M in FIG. 2A is a metal surface of an article to which a tag is attached (which is a metal medium as described above). The coil of the tag is wound in a spiral shape, and the axis of the coil of the tag is perpendicular to the metal surface M. FIG. 2B shows a one-image tag Tb using the metal surface B. FIG. FIG. 2C shows a multi-image tag Tc with metal surfaces MA and MB.

[Detailed Configuration of M ² ISS of the Present Invention and Generated Magnetic Field]
-When winding the coil so that the axis of the coil is in the longitudinal direction of the magnetic material-
In FIG. 3, a coil 2 is wound in a rectangular shape on a rectangular elongated magnetic body 6 in the direction of the short side of the rectangle (so as to be substantially parallel to the xz plane and substantially perpendicular to the y-axis), A sensor having a structure in which the axial direction of the coil 2 (direction of the magnetic path of the magnetic field) is along the longitudinal direction (y-axis direction) of the magnetic body 6 is shown. As shown to Fig.3 (a), the metal plates A and B are applied to the longitudinal direction along the rectangular long side of the magnetic body 6 up and down.

  FIG. 3A shows a coil 2 in which upper and lower metal plates (metal plates such as aluminum, iron, copper, and stainless steel) (metal foil or metal vapor deposition) A and B are insulated on a rectangular magnetic body 6. The case where it winds toward the right and left (2L, 2R illustration) from the center part is shown. Here, the magnetic body 6 and the metal plates A and B are not in close contact with each other, and a predetermined gap is provided. Cg is a stray capacitance generated between the coil 2 and the metal plate B, and Cu is a stray capacitance generated between the coil 2 and the metal plate A.

  Although the coil 2 may be wound directly on the magnetic body 6, the magnetic field generated by the current I flowing through the coil 2 is more affected by the closeness and distance between the coil 2 and the magnetic body 6. For this reason, if it winds so that the circumference | surroundings of the magnetic body 6 may be once enclosed with a plastic film and then the coil 2 is wound on a plastic film, this can also be used as an insulator. Further, an insulating wire such as an enameled wire or a bare belt-like copper tape may be wound as the coil 2.

  When a strip-like copper tape is used as the coil 2, it must be covered with an insulating tape or a plastic film after the end of winding and insulated from the metal plates A and B applied to the top and bottom.

  The metal plates A and B can be economically configured and can be finished flexibly by using a commercially available glued aluminum tape or copper tape.

  When the sensor itself is desired to be firmly configured, an aluminum plate, a copper plate, a stainless steel plate, an iron plate, or the like can be used as the metal plates A and B and can be bonded with an adhesive, glue, double-sided tape, or the like.

  A magnetic field perpendicular to this is generated by the current I flowing through the coil 2 wound around the magnetic body 6, and the internal magnetic field Hi and the external magnetic field Ho are approximately in the axial direction of the coil by synthesizing the magnetic field by the multi-winding coil. Occurs. The external magnetic field Ho includes a magnetic field Hou generated at the upper part of the magnetic body 6 (and the lower part of the metal plate A) and a magnetic field Hod generated at the lower part of the magnetic body 6 (and the upper part of the metal plate B). , B, a magnetic field Hos is generated in the lateral gap of the magnetic body 6, that is, on the left and right sides of the sensor. This will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 3B is a view when viewed from the right side of FIG. 3A (the positive side of the y-axis).

  Due to the current I flowing through the coil 2, the magnetic field generated in the coil 2 becomes a magnetic field Hi from the front of the drawing toward the paper in the magnetic body 6. However, outside the magnetic body 6 surrounded by the coil 2, the magnetic field is directed toward the front from the paper surface. Magnetic fields Hou and Hod are generated above and below the sensor, but a magnetic field Hos is also generated laterally.

  FIG. 3 (c) shows the case where the metal plates A and B are attached to the outside of the coil 2 exactly. The sensor coil 2 is wound symmetrically from the central portion, and the magnetic field appears as Hos mainly on the side. .

  FIG. 3D shows a case where the sensor of FIG. 3C is viewed from the right side. The upper and lower metal plates A and B are shown in a state where the upper and lower external magnetic fields Hou and Hod of the magnetic body 6 are pressed and spread left and right. Since electromotive force (potential difference) due to the voltage current of the coil 2 is generated in the metal plates A and B, a voltage is generated between the upper and lower metal plates A and B. This is because the upper and lower metal plates A and B are insulated, and this potential difference is caused by the electric field generated in the upper and lower gaps, which may be considered equivalent to a case where capacitors are inserted at both ends.

  Depending on the width and length of the metal plate, a part of the magnetic field leaks to the outside of the metal plate (FIG. 3D shows the leaked magnetic field as Hou and Hod).

  When the metal plates A and B are sufficiently wide and long, the magnetic field Hos is confined between the metal plates A and B. Here, the length in the x-axis direction of the metal plates A and B is defined as the width, and the length in the y-axis direction is defined as the length.

  A magnetic field Hoa perpendicular to the front or back of the drawing, a magnetic field Hos spreading laterally, and a magnetic field Hou or Hod appearing on a metal surface can be used according to each purpose of use.

  Although the metal plates A and B have finite dimensions, a certain amount of image effect due to the metal plates A and B occurs. More importantly, in the metal-compatible sensor of the present invention, the upper and lower metal plates A and B are present in advance, thereby affecting the metal media appearing above and below (for example, metal articles having tags attached thereto). It is hard to receive.

Depending on the size of the magnetic body 6 permeability mu _r, the thickness _{z 1} about 0.3～25Mm, width _{x 1} about 10 to 150 mm, the length _{y 1} is often used in order 10cm~150cm . In the case of a magnetic material obtained by twisting ferrite powder with general rubber, the relative permeability is about 10 to 20, the thickness z ₁ is about 3 to 10 mm, the width x ₁ is about 2 cm to 15 cm, and the length y ₁ is The thing of about 25 cm-120 cm is used. In the case of a thin magnetic material plate having a high magnetic permeability of about 125 to 200 and having a relative permeability of baked green sheets, a thin magnetic material having a thickness z1 of about 0.1 to ₁ mm can be used. Although the number of turns of the coil 2 varies depending on the size, the main point is that the inductance of the power feeding unit is about 1 to 6 μH with 4 to 6 turns. Series and parallel combinations are made to fall within this range. Since the coil 2 is sandwiched between the metal plates A and B, the inductance is lowered. When the magnetic material is thin, it is necessary to increase the number of turns several times as compared with the case where the metal plates A and B are not provided. For example, when the thickness is 0.3 mm, it may be 30 turns.

FIG. 3E shows a case where the metal affinity sensor of FIG. This is a general example that is normally used. Here, the metal affinity sensor refers to a metal-compatible sensor according to the present invention, and is sometimes referred to as a metal affinity sensor M ² ISS (Metal-Metal Intimate Smart Sensor). T is an IC tag (hereinafter referred to as tag T). In FIG. 3 (e), information on the article recorded in the IC of the tag T is read by the magnetic field Hou above the metal plate A, the side magnetic field Hos, and the magnetic field Hoa toward the coil axis of the magnetic body 6. Is shown.

  Unlike FIG. 3C, since the metal surface M is under the metal plate B, the magnetic field Hod below the metal plate B disappears, and the magnetic field is driven to the upper side or the side of the metal plate B. The side magnetic field Hos along the metal surface M is easily excited.

  FIG. 3F is an explanatory diagram of the sensor as viewed from the right end of FIG.

  The image of the sensor placed on the metal surface M (image; indicated by a broken line in the figure) appears below the metal surface M, so that the sensor appears to be doubled, and the sensitivity is doubled. It shows that the sensitivity increases by 6 dB.

  Further, an incomplete image is generated even by the upper metal plate A, and multiple images are obtained by the upper and lower metal plates A and B and the metal surface M, and the magnetic field in front and back and side of the paper is enhanced. Although the size of the metal plate A is the same as that of the magnetic body 6, it can be made slightly smaller or larger depending on the purpose, and the magnetic field can be concentrated on the side surface.

  For example, the distribution of the magnetic field can be controlled by changing the width of the metal plate A in the x direction, the length in the y direction, or making a cut as described later.

  FIG. 3G is an explanatory diagram when the sensor width x and the sensor length y are substantially the same (x = y), that is, when the sensor width x is substantially square when viewed from above. FIG. 3G shows a sensor having a shape (x≈y) located in the middle of the embodiment (x <y) when the length of the coil 2 described in FIG. When the surface on which the metal medium D shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 9, 10, 11, 12 and the like to be described later is viewed from above is a typical small sensor of a sensor close to a square. It is given as an example for explanation. FIG. 3H is an explanatory diagram of the sensor as viewed from the right end of FIG.

  The embodiment shown in FIG. 13 to be described later is based on the operation principle of FIGS. 3 (g) and 3 (h).

-When winding the coil so that the axis of the coil is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the magnetic material-
FIG. 4 shows a case where the coil 2 is vertically wound around the magnetic body 6 (winded so as to be substantially parallel to the yz plane). That is, the coil 2 is wound so that the axial direction (magnetic field direction) is the x direction. Compared with the case of FIG. 3, it can be seen that the coils 2 are orthogonal. In the case of FIG. 4 as well, the magnetic field H is in the direction of exciting the magnetic current in the direction parallel to the metal plates A and B and the metal surface M, as in the case of FIG.

  If the winding direction of the coil 2 in FIG. 3 is the x-axis direction, the winding direction of the coil 2 in FIG. 4 is the y direction, and the direction of the magnetic field is also a perpendicular direction. The length of the coil 2 is shifted along the long side of the magnetic body 6 (along the side in the y direction) and shifted to the short side (to advance in the x direction). In the case of FIG. 4, it is usually 4 to 10 turns (20 to 40 turns when the magnetic plate 6 is thin), but in the case of FIG. In FIG. 4, the winding method of the coil 2 is 1 to 3 windings, these are arranged in parallel, or the winding method is appropriately determined depending on the length. On the other hand, the inductance of the coil is about 0.5 μH to 10 μH, and the range of 1 to 6 μH is appropriate in consideration of the communication band and adjustment. When the length of the magnetic body 6 is about 20 to 30 cm, it is about 3 turns, and when the length is about 1 m, it is fed in parallel with 1 or 2 turns so that the inductance does not become too large. The same applies to the case of FIG.

  FIG. 4A shows a case where the coil 2 is wound around the vertically long magnetic body 6 in the y direction, and the metal plates A and B are placed slightly above and below this. Here, Cu is a stray capacitance between the coil 2 and the metal surface A, and Cg is a stray capacitance between the coil 2 and the metal surface B.

  The reason why the metal plates A and B are separated is to make it easy to see how the coil 2 is wound around the magnetic body 6. In some cases, the metal plate is separated to some extent to provide a space between the coil and the magnetic body, but it is better not to be too large. As will be described later, the height of the space is preferably about 1 mm to 15 mm. The space can be supported by setting up a column made of an insulating material such as a plastic plate, a foamed polyester roll plate, or plastic. As described above, the thickness of the magnetic body 6 (the length of the magnetic body 6 in the z-axis direction) is about 0.2 to 25 mm. The thicker the magnetic body 6 is, the larger the cross-sectional area when the coil 2 is wound is, so that the magnetic field easily passes and the magnetic flux increases. However, it is not practical to be too thick because the height increases. High magnetic permeability of the magnetic body 6 means that a magnetic field easily passes and magnetic resistance is low. Therefore, even if the cross section of the coil 2, that is, the cross section of the magnetic body 6 is reduced, a magnetic path can be secured. Can be thinned. In the case of constituting a small thin sensor, a thin magnetic body such as a baked green sheet having a high magnetic permeability is used, and one having a thickness of about 0.1 mm to 1 mm can be used. When using a magnetic material or the like obtained by sticking ferrite powder with rubber or the like, the thickness is about 2 mm to 25 mm and about 5 to 15 mm is easy to use.

  When the length of the magnetic body 6 is around 30 cm, an inductance of 2 to 3 μH can be obtained with about 2 to 3 turns, and this number of turns is sufficient.

  On the other hand, when the length is about 1 m, the inductance becomes large. Therefore, even if one or two coils with a pitch of 5 to 10 mm are separated by 10 to 20 mm and arranged in two parallels and three parallels. good.

  The conventional metal plate and the metal surface having only the lower surface are significantly affected by the upper metal medium D and the metal plate A in the same manner as described in FIG. It is almost impossible to detect the tag T or the metal medium D.

  Here, Iu in FIG. 4A is a current flowing through the coil 2. Since the sign capacity due to the electric field is generated between the coil 2 and the upper metal surface A, the sign capacity is referred to as Cu. The standard capacity between the lower metal surface is Cg. Since these values can be specified from the beginning, they are less susceptible to fluctuations.

  FIG. 4B is a diagram when the left side is viewed from the sensor from the right end of FIG. FIG. 4C is an explanatory view when the metal plates A and B are applied to the sensor (the magnetic body 6 around which the coil 2 is wound).

Further, as described above, since the inductance and capacity are significantly affected by the upper metal plate A or the like, the number of turns of the coil needs to be increased to several times that of the sensor without the metal plate A or the like. The number of turns to be increased varies depending on the thickness z ₂ of the magnetic body 6, and the inductance increases as the length y ₂ increases, so an appropriate number of turns must be determined. Since the number of turns in FIG. 3 is originally large, the number of turns also increases considerably due to the influence of the metal plates A and B. Since the number of turns in FIG. 4 is originally smaller than that in FIG. However, the magnetic field is confined in the gap between the metal plates A and B. The narrower the gap is, the more the magnetic field is confined in the meantime. Therefore, the inductance is reduced, so that the number of turns of the coil 2 is considerably increased. It must be supplemented and added so that the inductance reaches the same level.

  The magnetic field is generated by the current I flowing through the coil 2, and is divided into a magnetic field Hoa in a direction perpendicular to the coil 2, that is, in the x-axis direction, a Hou that rotates upward, and a Hod that rotates downward. Further, at the right end and the left end as viewed in the plane of FIG. 4A, a horizontal magnetic field Hos is also generated by a current Iu flowing mainly in a vertical coil (a portion perpendicular to the coil 2 (parallel to the z axis)).

  FIG. 4D shows an explanatory diagram when the left side is viewed from the right end of the sensor of FIG. Other than the description of the current Iu flowing up and down (z direction), the external magnetic field Hou and Hod and the description of the magnetic field Hoa in the axial direction (x direction) of the coil 2 can be well understood.

  In the case of FIG. 4E, one example in which this sensor is most frequently used is given. That is, the case where the side on which the metal plate B is attached is in contact with the metal surface M or in contact with the floor, shelf, or wall is shown.

  In such a case, an image (image) is generated by the metal surface M as in the case of FIG. In the case of FIGS. 4C and 4D as well, since the size of the metal plate is finite, a certain degree of image effect is obtained, but the magnetic field is concentrated and the sensitivity is increased. It is done. Here, the tag T couple | bonded with the magnetic fields Hou, Hoa, and Hos is shown like FIG.3 (e).

  However, as described above, the sizes of the metal plates A and B can be changed to small, medium and large according to the purpose. In addition to the purpose of increasing the sensitivity by the multiple image, further, not only the influence of the lower metal surface M but also the metal plate A makes it possible to reduce the sensitivity and characteristics of the sensor due to the influence of the upper metal medium D and the metal surface. There is also an aim to suppress and improve changes in

FIG. 4 (f) shows an explanatory diagram when the left side is viewed from the right end of FIG. 4 (d). Originally, as shown in FIG. 4 (e), the metal affinity sensor M ² ISS placed on the metal surface M generates an image (image) by the metal surface M, and an image of the same size also below. Appears.

  FIG. 4F also shows an image (image (shown by a broken line)) of the sensor metal surface M. It will be seen that the magnetic field generated by the lower image is a magnetic field that is added in the same direction as the magnetic field generated by the upper sensor, and is doubled by the image. Since the area is doubled, the magnetic flux is doubled, the induced voltage is doubled and the power is quadrupled, so that an improvement of 6 dB is obtained. And since the upper part of the sensor has the metal plate A, even if another metal body approaches the upper part of the sensor or is placed on the sensor, it is hardly affected, and the tag T attached to the object is not affected. Communication (communication) can be performed. There are two types of tags T to be attached. That is, a metal affinity tag that is directly attached to a metal object may be used, or a general tag that is attached to a metal cavity or attached via a plastic or magnetic material may be used. A metal affinity tag is a metal-compatible tag that uses a metal surface current or magnetic current to increase sensitivity without being obstructed by the metal, and increases sensitivity using an image of the metal surface. The tag which has affinity to the metal surface to be made. This includes a metal-compatible tag in which a magnetic material is applied to a general flat tag.

3 and 4 deal with an embodiment of a strip-shaped sensor having a relatively narrow and small width, there is a magnetic field Hou that passes over the metal band, but when the width of the metal band increases, the metal band Since the magnetic field passing over the surface is reduced, it is necessary to devise a technique for obtaining the stability of the magnetic field due to the presence of the metal band and maintaining the communication with the tag. The standard sensor antenna width of the metal surface (x ₂₎ is sufficiently magnetic field over this is passed is about 6-7 cm.

[Magnetic field capture system using metal surface sensor]
FIG. 5 roughly shows a magnetic field capturing system by the metal surface sensor M ² ISS, and shows types of coupling between the tag T and the magnetic field by the sensor coil.

  FIG. 5 (a) is an example of the sensor shown in the embodiment of FIG. 3, and FIG. 5 (b) is an example of the sensor shown in the embodiment of FIG. 4. In both embodiments, the magnetic field Hou on the metal and A magnetic field composed of magnetic fields Hos and Hoa on the side surface of the sensor is generated. In the case of FIG. 5A, the metal plates A and B are not shown.

  FIG. 5C shows the magnetic field Hsu generated directly from the cut or gap S of the metal surface A when the metal surface A has a cut or gap S (discontinuous portion, groove).

  FIG. 5D shows the magnetic field Hsu generated directly from the cut or gap S in the metal surface of FIG. 5C, and FIG. 5E shows the metal surface A using the cut or gap S in the metal surface. The magnetic field Hsmu generated in the space MS above the coil 2 and the magnetic body 6 is shown below.

  FIG. 5 (f) shows a square or circular window or hole WS (discontinuous portion) opened in the metal surface A, and shows a magnetic field Hhu that leaks outside.

  FIG. 5G shows an external magnetic field Hhu generated from a window or hole WS opened in the metal surface A, and FIG. 5H shows a magnetic field Hhmu generated in the internal space MS below the metal surface A. ing. The magnetic fields Hsmu and Hhmu generated in the space MS by the current I flowing through the coil 2 wound on the metal surface and the magnetic surface are quite strong because they are confined inside. The fact that the tag is in this means that the coil of the tag is more easily excited by this magnetic field, and therefore it is easy to send and receive signals to and from the tag. Moreover, even if the metal medium (target) covers the top, the metal surface A originally exists, so the presence of the medium (target) disturbs many of the magnetic field and electric field, and the characteristics are shifted. There is no.

[When there is a space between the metal surface and the magnetic body on which the coil is wound]
~ When there is a hole in the metal surface ~
FIG. 6 shows a space MS with a strong magnetic field between a part MA of a metal surface (hereinafter simply referred to as a metal surface MA, the same applies to MB) and a magnetic sensor antenna (a magnetic body 6 around which a coil 2 is wound). An example when there is (Magnetic Field Space) will be described. Magnetic field generated by the current I originally flowing through the coil 2 is the magnetic field generated from the strong and the magnetic member surface closer to the current I becomes a mu _r multiplied by the magnetic flux density becomes a strong magnetic flux, to excite the metal surface. Since this metal surface magnetic current that excites the metal surface current flows along the metal surface MA, it does not have an adverse effect like an eddy current, but is a surface current due to a magnetic field. Conversely, the metal surface magnetic current is also excited by the metal surface current.

  Therefore, a magnetic field is condensed between the metal surface MA and the magnetic sensor antenna wound with the coil, and a strong magnetic field space MS is generated. When a notch is made in a part of the metal surface MA to form a window, the metal attached to the metal medium D above the window portion WS (the hole WS described with reference to FIG. 5) has a magnetic field Hhu. Bind to tag T. This state is shown in a perspective view in FIG.

  Further, FIG. 6B is a diagram when the metal medium D and the tag T attached thereto are lowered downward to match the window hole WS of the metal surface and the tag T is lowered into the magnetic field space MS through the hole WS. ). FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view taken along a plane perpendicular to the coil 2 and passing through the hole WS when the tag T of the metal medium D is aligned with the hole WS in the perspective view of FIG. Since the metal surface MA and the metal surface of the metal medium D are connected so as to be substantially in contact with each other, the metal surface of the notch (hole WS) is blocked by the metal surface of the substantial metal medium D. For this reason, it is the same as having almost no notch, and therefore the surface current is not discontinuous in this portion, and therefore the magnetic current associated therewith is not affected. Since the metal-compatible tag T is inserted into the space MS where an ideal strong magnetic field exists, there is no obstacle and the coil current i flowing through the tag T and the coil current I on the sensor side are easy. It becomes possible to communicate with high sensitivity.

  6C shows a tag T and a sensor coil (for explaining the coupling between the tag and the current I flowing in the sensor coil 2 when the sensor antenna of FIG. 6A is viewed from the right side to the left side. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the relationship among the magnetic body 6, the upper metal surface MA, the lower metal surface MB, and the metal medium D. That is, FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional view taken along a plane passing through the hole WS and along the coil 2 when the tag T of the metal medium D is aligned with the hole WS in FIG. An electric field is induced in the coil 2a (not shown) of the tag T by the magnetic field H generated by the current I, and the current i flows. This current also flows through the IC of the tag T, and the current carrying the IC information excites the tag coil 2a and the sensor coil 2 again.

  FIG. 6D and FIG. 6E show a case where an operation for covering the hole WS formed in the metal surface MA with a plastic plate or the like for protecting it from dust, dirt, moisture and the like is shown. When it is desired to directly connect the metal surface MA and the metal medium D, the hole may be blocked with plastic P, rubber or the like that blocks only the hole WS. Since the metal surface is notched, it may be considered that the discontinuity of the metal surface for preventing the flow of the metal conductive flow is performed elsewhere.

~ When there is a groove on the metal surface ~
FIG. 7 shows a case where the notch of the metal surface MA continues in a direction perpendicular to the coil 2 and the metal surface is cut in the form of a so-called groove. Therefore, the leakage magnetic field that appears here appears along the groove. Due to the discontinuous portion of the metal surface, there is an effect of two birds with one stone that prevents a continuous conductive current from flowing and a leakage magnetic field.

  In the case of FIG. 7, unlike the case of FIG. 6, there is a leakage magnetic field everywhere along the groove, so that the tag T of the metal medium D can be sensed anywhere along the groove.

  In the case of FIG. 6, since the position of the hole WS is fixed as described above, the metal medium D and the tag T must be placed in accordance with the fixed position. It is optimal for use for predetermined purposes. In this case, the position of the metal medium D and the position of the tag T can be determined by forming a frame or the like on the outer side of the hole.

  In the case of FIG. 7, since the grooves are continuous, the conditions are almost the same at any position along the grooves, so that the degree of freedom for placing the metal medium D and the tag T becomes wider.

  FIG. 7B is an explanatory diagram when the sensor of the perspective view of FIG. 7A is viewed from the front side, that is, when the tag T of the metal medium D is aligned with the groove in FIG. It is sectional drawing in the surface which passes along a groove | channel perpendicular | vertical to 2. FIG. Since the groove is cut in the direction of the magnetic field, the magnetic field H appears widely on the left and right in this direction. Therefore, the magnetic field and the tag T can be coupled relatively well on the upper surface of the metal surface MA. Therefore, the tag T can be sensed even on the metal surface MA. In the case of FIG. 7 (b), the tag T is inserted in the groove portion mg (see FIG. 7 (e)) where the metal surface MA is cut. Since this is performed in the space MS between the metal surface MA and the sensor, it is a coupling in a strong magnetic field, and a very sensitive coupling can be obtained.

  FIG. 7 (c) is a perspective view of FIG. 7 (a) when viewed from the right side, that is, a cross-sectional view taken along the groove and along the coil 2, and the metal medium D directly on the metal surface MA. And a case where the tag T is placed on the groove. Since the metal surface MA is originally large and the groove portion is small, even if the metal medium D is placed, a part of the leakage magnetic field is changed, so that the impedance and the like are not significantly changed.

  In the case of FIG. 6 described above, the hole WS is generally only partially opened, and when the metal medium D is placed thereon, the hole WS is blocked, and the metal surface MA is laid on one side. If the impedance is a certain value, the influence of the hole WS is small, and further, the metal medium D is placed on the surface of the metal surface MA. The characteristics such as do not change.

  The metal surface MA is placed on the sensor in consideration of the fact that the metal medium D is originally supposed to be placed on the metal surface D while minimizing the influence of the metal surface and that the communication with the tag T is not hindered by the metal surface. Since it was made, it can be said that it provides an ideal relationship and environment.

  FIG. 7D and FIG. 7E show a case where the groove hole is covered with a plastic plate PS or a rubber sheet to prevent dust, dirt, moisture, etc. from entering the groove hole. In this case as well, only the groove portion may be covered instead of covering the entire surface as shown in FIGS. 6 (d) and 6 (e). For example, when the groove pg on the plastic surface is continuous as in FIGS. 7D and 7E, the metal medium D and the tag T are well settled, and sensing can be performed along the groove pg. Since the range is determined, for example, it is suitable for the case where cans are arranged or the position of a tag such as a PC or a substrate is determined. Further, the groove mg on the metal surface also has the purpose of suppressing the generation of the reverse phase magnetic field due to the generation of the conductive current by the continuous metal surface, and when the metal medium D is directly placed on the metal surface and the conduction part is formed thereby Since a reverse phase current may be generated, it is also necessary to insulate the metal surface from the medium with a plastic sheet.

Incidentally, FIG. 7 (d), the as shown in FIG. 7 (e), the case of the placing of the metal corresponding sensor ^M 2 ISS on the metal surface M, a metal corresponding sensor ^M 2 ISS in the bottom metal plate MB When placed in the plastic case P, the bottom plate of the plastic case P comes between the metal plate MB and the shelf metal M.

[Other Embodiments of Metal Sensor (M ² ISS)]
FIG. 8 shows another embodiment of the present invention. If the size of the metal surface A is large, an image effect is also generated, and the magnetic field is suppressed to the side surface, and the magnetic field on the side surface becomes strong. When the size of the metal surface A is small, the magnetic field tends to leak to the upper surface. The size of the metal surface can be controlled depending on the purpose.

  3 and 4, there are two metal plates, and the surface along the coil 2 is discontinuous at two places. Therefore, there is no closing of the current through which the induced current that is a reverse phase current flows.

  In FIG. 8, when the metal plate is wound along the coil 2, at least one discontinuity is created so that no short-circuit current or reverse-phase current flows.

  FIG. 8A shows a case where the left side portion is opened by surrounding (enclosing) the magnetic body 6 around which the coil 2 is wound with the metal plate MB, and FIG. 8B shows the left side metal. FIG. 8C shows a case where a part of the plate MB is opened, and FIG. 8C shows a case where a part of the upper metal plate MB is opened, all of which are voltages of the metal plate MB induced by the electromotive force of the coil 2. Since V is not short-circuited even when V is generated, no reverse-phase current is generated. Therefore, an electric field E is generated at the open end, and a magnetic field is also likely to leak mainly at this portion. Utilizing such properties, the metal plate MB along the coil 2 is divided as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, which will be described later, and an electric field is generated here or a magnetic field is generated outside. By doing so, the size of the metal plate MB is determined in accordance with the size of the metal medium D placed on the upper part of the sensor, the tag T is attached to the side surface or the lower side of the metal medium D, and from the cut of the metal plate MB. Communication can be performed by coupling with a generated magnetic field. Furthermore, since the metal plate MB is installed in advance in the sensor of this embodiment, the electric field E and the magnetic field H are not greatly disturbed, and therefore the characteristics are hardly affected.

  FIG. 8B shows a case where the metal plate cut along the winding direction of the coil in FIG.

  FIG. 8C shows a case where a cut (gap) in the metal plate along the coil winding direction is provided in the upper part of the sensor. When the metal plates MB are continuous, the inductive conductive current flowing in the opposite phase flows through the metal ring as described above, and thus the magnetic field is canceled. Therefore, at least a part of the metal plate MB along the coil must be open-insulated.

  Since the lower part has the metal surface M and is short-circuited here, it must be provided with an open part on the side surface or the upper surface, and must be open-insulated so as not to form a continuous metal ring. The upper and lower metal surfaces are connected by the side MBS.

~ When the upper groove is one ~
FIG. 9 is an example of the sensor described in FIG. 8C, FIG. 9A is a perspective view, and FIG. 9B is a view of the sensor as viewed from the right end in FIG. 9A. It is sectional drawing.

  In fact, this sensor is often used in a state where it is placed on a metal surface, but it can be operated without being on a metal surface. The magnetic field passing over the metal surface MBA should not be too long in the axial direction (y direction) of the coil 2x. When the length in the y direction is about 6 cm, the magnetic field passes above the metal surface without any problem.

  An electric field E and a magnetic field H are generated by a current flowing in the coil 2x from a cross section without a metal surface of the magnetic body 6 and an insulating portion where the metal plate is cut. Using the upper magnetic field and the side magnetic field, communication with the metal affinity tag PT by the general tag T can be performed. A metal affinity tag PT is attached to the metal medium to be detected on the metal surface, and the divided upper portion can read and manage the ID of the metal affinity tag PT (UT) of the metal medium. The details are as described in FIGS. Since the metal plate MB is curved as shown in FIG. 8, the metal plate MB has a plurality of metal surfaces MBA and metal surfaces MBS.

~ When there are multiple upper grooves ~
FIG. 10A shows a case where the upper metal plate shown in FIG. 9 is divided into three in the winding direction of the coil 2x. The upper part of the metal plate MB bent into a U-shape is referred to as a metal plate MBA. The side surface portion is MBS (similar to the MBS on the side surface in FIG. 9 and the metal plate in the upper portion being MBA). That is, the metal plate MB that is a conductor surrounding the magnetic plate 6 around which the coil 2 is wound has gaps (or groove portions) g ₁ , g ₂ , and g ₃ that are discontinuous portions, and is thus divided. The strip-shaped portions of the metal plate MB formed are A ₁ and A ₂ . The electric field E and the magnetic field H leak from the gaps or gaps (or grooves) g ₁ , g ₂ , and g ₃ between the metal plates A ₁ and A ₂ independent of the metal plate MBA, and the metal medium D ₁ is utilized by using the magnetic field H. , D ₂ , D ₃ , ID can be read by magnetic field coupling with metal affinity tags (pro-metal tags or universal tags) PT ₁ , PT ₂ , PT ₃ . Even if a large number of metal media D are arranged along these metal plates (also referred to as metal strips) A ₁ and A ₂ , the characteristics are not impaired because there are originally metal plates. The metal affinity tags PT ₁ , PT ₂ , PT _{3 and the} metal media D ₁ , D ₂ , D ₃ may be placed on the metal surface by the methods shown in FIGS.

FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view of the sensor when the left is viewed from the right end of FIG. Although the magnetic field mainly leaks from the groove portion of the metal body, the magnetic field is also generated on the metal bands A ₁ and A ₂ and the metal plate MBA, and communication with the tag T (PT, UT) is possible.

FIG. 11A shows a case where the metal plate is further divided into multiple parts. FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of the sensor when the left is viewed from the right end of FIG. Numerous metal medium _{D 1, D 2, ···,} D n, arranged _{D n + 1,} the metal affinity tag attached to the metal medium (pro Metal _{Tag) PT 1, PT 2, ···} , PT n , PT _{n + 1} ID and information are read. Although the metal plate is divided into seven in the figure, the number of divisions may be determined according to the purpose. In this case, separate metal plate and MBA (metal _{strip) A 1, A 2, ···} , so that there is _{A n.}

In the figure, since the A _n hide a metal plate A _1, are omitted metal medium D and the metal affinity tag PT which rests thereon. When the size of the metal medium D is actually known, the size and number of the metal plates may be determined according to this. In the illustrations described in FIG. 5, FIG. 6, FIG. 7 and the like, it is assumed that the metal medium D and the tag T come to a predetermined position. Is possible. In FIG. 11, the side plate MBS of FIG. 10 is not provided.

-When the upper and lower metal plates are separated-
FIG. 12 shows a case where the upper and lower metal plates are separated and the upper metal plate is further divided. There is a metal plate B at the bottom of the sensor antenna, and metal plates A ₁ , A ₂ , A ₃ , A ₄ , A ₅ at the top.

  Although there is no big difference between FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, the side magnetic field appears more frequently in the case of FIG. The case of FIG. 11 is effective when the front and rear sides are surrounded by metal.

  The case shown in FIG. 12 is the same as the case of FIG. 3 or FIG. 4 in principle, but the number of metal media D placed on the top is large, and the metal media D are dispersed on the upper surface. Since the size is adjusted to the size of each metal medium D, it is difficult to be influenced by the metal medium D on the upper surface, and the magnetic field can be easily concentrated and dispersed to communicate with the metal affinity tag PT of the metal medium D. .

FIG. 12B shows a case where the left side is viewed from the right end of the sensor in FIG. 12A, and the cross section, the side magnetic field (Hos), and the upper surface magnetic field (Hou) are used for sensing the metal affinity tag PT. I understand. There are cases where six metal media D to be detected are placed along the metal plate as shown in FIG. 11, or three metal media D as shown in FIG. 12, one metal plate (A _{5 in the} figure). In some cases, it can be placed on top. As can be seen from the above description, when all the grooves g ₁ , g ₂ , g ₃ , and g ₄ are blocked by the metal medium D, a failure due to a conductive current occurs, so that the metal medium D is placed randomly. For this purpose, it is better to have a plastic sheet or a magnetic sheet on top of the metal plates A ₁ , A ₂ , A ₃ , A ₄ , A ₅ . If there is a gap on the side, there is no worry about this.

  As shown in FIG. 12 (b), the metal plate is divided. Generally, a conductive current or eddy current flows through the metal surface, so that the magnetic field does not come out in a form that is blocked by the metal surface. The metal surface is divided along each coil so that a conductive current does not flow, and a magnetic field leaks from a gap (crack) between the metal surfaces. Therefore, the magnetic field appears from the gap and the side surface of the magnetic body. If there is a space between the coil and the metal surface, the magnetic field can escape from here as well.

  If the sensor is operated in this way, a leakage magnetic field can be obtained from the hole WS formed in the metal surface MA, so that the tag T and the sensor coil can communicate with each other as in FIG. Become.

FIG. 13 shows a sensor in which orthogonal insulated coils 2x and 2y are wound around the magnetic body 6 and a metal plate MB is applied below. Unlike the case where the coil 2 is wound only in the x direction in FIG. 12, in FIG. 13A, the coil 2 y is also wound in the y direction. For this reason, the metal plate A is divided in the x and y directions so that no induced current flows through the metal plate that circulates along each winding direction. Approximately the same size in the metal medium D _n (i.e. approximately the same as the area of the metal plate bottom area is divided metal medium) is attached a metal affinity tag PT _n further metal plate which is placed on a sensor, A magnetic field that can be coupled with either the magnetic field Hy generated from the coil 2x in the x direction or the magnetic field Hx generated from the coil 2y in the y direction can be generated. In the present embodiment, another feature is that it is possible to provide an almost omnidirectional metal / metal affinity sensor having a metal affinity. Although the metal affinity tag PT is attached sideways in the figure, it may be attached below the metal medium as described with reference to FIGS.

  The metal medium D shown in FIG. 13 (a) is a figure placed slightly above the sensor, but in order to avoid complexity, the metal medium D to be detected is drawn away upward. is there. In actual use, the metal medium D is placed on the metal plate A so as to be in close contact with the metal medium D. In addition, the number of metal media D of the object to be detected is drawn only on the left side and the upper side, but only a part is drawn in order to avoid the complexity of the drawing. Only a part of the metal affinity tag PT is drawn for the same reason.

FIG. 13B shows the positional relationship between the sensor coils 2x and 2y perpendicular to the upper part of the sensor and the metal plate piece A placed thereon, and the case where the sensor coils 2x and 2y come under the metal plate piece A. FIG. 13C shows the case where the sensor coils 2x and 2y come between the metal plate pieces A (that is, gaps (or grooves, cracks)), and can be implemented in any case. It is shown that. Actually, when the metal / metal affinity sensor M ² ISS is configured, the combination of FIG. 13B and FIG. 13C is often obtained depending on the coil pitch, the size of the metal plate piece A, and the like. As shown in FIGS. 5, 6, and 7, the metal plate piece A shown in FIG. 13 is provided with a hole, a gap, or a plastic depression so as to be coupled with a strong magnetic field above, inside, and below the hole. Good. Further, as shown in FIG. 13 (d), a third loop coil 2z in the x and y planes is wound on the magnetic body 6 to generate a magnetic field Hz in the z direction, and a magnetic field perpendicular to the grooves and gaps. Can also be generated. Since the metal surface is divided, the generation of eddy current and circular current due to the metal surface can be suppressed, so that the magnetic field due to the current of the antenna coil 2 is generated outside through the crack of the metal surface, and the metal surface is cracked. The generated electric field is also generated outside, and the influence of the metal surface can be suppressed. By combining FIG. 13 (a) and FIG. 13 (d), an omnidirectional sensor that can handle all of Hx, Hy, and Hz can be produced.

[When arranging multiple metal / metal affinity sensors]
FIG. 14 shows a case where the metal / metal affinity sensor is not configured integrally but is divided.

  FIG. 14 (a) shows a case of a substantially equilateral square sensor. As the coil, only the x direction, only the y direction, or a combination of sensors wound in the x and y directions as in the previous example (FIG. 13). Show. Although only the coil 2x in the x direction is shown in the drawing, only the x direction, the y direction, or the coils in the x and y directions may be used. This is sensor # 1.

  FIG. 14B shows a case where four sets of FIG. 14A are combined. That is, the case where the sensors # 1 to # 4 are combined is shown. When the surface where the sensor must be used grows in the x and y directions, or when it is necessary to concentrate power on each sensor, or when you want to specify the location where the media or tag is placed, Such a division or distribution method is used. The omnidirectional sensors obtained by combining FIG. 13A and FIG. 13D shown in FIG. 13 can be arranged as shown in FIG.

  FIG. 15 shows a case where the sensor is expanded in only one direction (when a plurality of sensors are arranged in only one direction). For example, as shown in the figure, when it is desired to expand the sensing area only in the y direction, the length in the x direction has a fixed strip length (for example, about 20 to 100 cm), and the width in the y direction (for example, 2 to 10 cm). This is a purpose to be used when it is desired to obtain a certain range of sensing region by arranging the strip sensors side by side (in the y direction).

  The metal / metal affinity sensor of FIG. 15 (a) is a case where the (corresponding) sensors shown in FIG. 4 are arranged side by side (y direction), and FIG. 15 (b) shows the (corresponding) metal / corresponding sensor shown in FIG. The case where metal affinity sensors are arranged side by side (y direction) is shown.

  The case where such a sensor is properly used will be described. In FIG. 15A, the following cases can be considered. For example, when the direction of the metal plate of a PC (personal computer), a substrate, or a metal tool is in the y direction, and the gaps are gradually increased between the media in the x direction. It is. In such a case, there is a thickness where the tag PT or UT can be attached to the lower part of the gap, the PC, the board, the metal tool, etc. and there is a gap below, and there is a gap in the PC or board, etc. Since a horizontal magnetic field Hhy passes through this gap in the y direction when the tag can be attached to the side of the metal, it can be attached to the tag with a coil of metal affinity tag PT (UT) that captures this magnetic field Hhy. The case where it is suitable for communicating with the signal of the selected IC is shown. One or a plurality of sensors may be used.

  When sensors are arranged side by side, sensing is possible even if the position where the metal affinity tag PT is affixed or the target such as a PC, a board, or a metal tool is slightly shifted, so that sensing is possible even when there are many of these. ing.

  Since there is a metal surface M below the sensors # 1 to # 3, there is no adverse effect due to the metal surface M, and rather good results are obtained as described with reference to FIGS. When the metal surface M is large and the metal medium D placed thereon is large, it is better to separate the metal surface M and the end of the metal medium D with a plastic plate or the like so as not to generate a short-circuit current. Since the metal plate B is originally attached, even when there is no metal surface M, that is, regardless of the presence or absence of the metal surface M, sensing can be performed smoothly.

  FIG. 15B shows a case in which a target having a long metal surface in the x direction or the y direction is formed, and when the target is arranged in the y direction or the x direction, the tag attached to the target by the magnetic field Hhx in the x direction. This is suitable for exciting the coil and communicating with the tag. Since the magnetic field Hhx in the x direction is continuous, communication with the tag is easy at relatively any position.

  In FIG. 15A, the horizontal magnetic field Hhy is somewhat strong and weak, and in particular, a vertical magnetic field Hz is generated between adjacent sensors and edges (ends), and an opposing magnetic field -Hhy is generated. For this reason, a zero point is generated at the joint, and this point must be taken care of. By making the operation of the auxiliary sensor described later and the sensors close to each other almost close to each other, such a reverse phase magnetic field -Hhy can be suppressed, and a continuous magnetic field Hhy can be generated. Further, in the vicinity of a place where the vertical magnetic field Hz of the joint is generated, communication can be performed by attaching a tag that can be coupled to Hz.

[Auxiliary sensor]
FIG. 16A shows a case where an auxiliary sensor Sub for the purpose of suppressing a reverse phase magnetic field or a vertical magnetic field generated at a joint or expanding or continuing a magnetic field when sensors are arranged and operated as shown in FIG. Indicates. When the sensor # 1 is operated by the auxiliary sensor Sub, the auxiliary sensor Sub1 is also operated, and the sensor # 1 and the auxiliary sensor Sub1 operate as one sensor. However, when the sensor # 2 is operated next time, the sub sensors Sub1 and Sub2 are operated, so that the tag on the auxiliary sensor Sub1 can be captured by either sensor. In many cases, the auxiliary sensor Sub is excited by a resonance coil without a power supply and is a lead current having a phase of approximately 90 °. Therefore, the left and right sensors are not adversely affected, and a large magnetic field is generated outside by a large excitation current. Communication with the tag becomes easy. As shown in FIG. 15, the coil is wound in the x direction in FIG. 15 (a) and in the y direction as shown in FIG. 15 (b). In some cases, a coil 2x is wound in the x direction and a coil orthogonal to the coil 2y is wound in the y direction, as shown in FIG.

  A capacitor C is attached to a coil (hereinafter also referred to as an auxiliary coil) 2x of the auxiliary sensor Sub so as to be in a substantially resonant state. Here, when the use frequency is fo = 13.56 MHz, a capacitor is attached so that the resonance frequency fo is about 13.7 to 14.2 MHz, and when the use frequency fo = 13.56 MHz or more, it is capacitive, and approximately +90 A phase current is excited in the auxiliary sensor Sub and may be operated so as to be added to the magnetic field of the main sensors (# 1 to # 3).

  For the auxiliary sensor Sub for the y-direction coil 2y shown in FIG. 16B, similarly, a capacitor is attached to the y-direction coil 2y to create a resonance state under the same conditions, thereby filling the connection between the sensors. A magnetic field can be created. Thereby, the magnetic field of Hx and Hy can be excited seamlessly, and Hz generated when the magnetic field rises vertically can also be excited. As described with reference to FIG. 13D, Hz can be excited by winding the third coil 2z.

~ When placing a sheet ~
FIG. 17 shows another embodiment. FIG. 17 shows the case where there are auxiliary sensors Sub1 and Sub2, but in order to make the magnetic field on the upper surface more uniform than the auxiliary sensors Sub1 and Sub2, 0.5 to The case where a thin magnetic sheet of about 2 mm is laid is shown. By stretching such a magnetic sheet Mag Sheet, the horizontal magnetic field Hh exists everywhere in or near the magnetic sheet Mag Sheet, and particularly in the vicinity of the magnetic sheet Mag Sheet, the influence of the metal plate A is reduced, and the tag and Communication is also facilitated.

  Even when the auxiliary sensors Sub1 and Sub2 are not provided, the effect of the magnetic sheet Mag Sheet is useful for creating a uniform horizontal magnetic field Hh.

  17A shows a case where the magnetic sheet Mag Sheet is applied to a metal / metal affinity sensor in which a coil 2x is wound in the x direction of the magnetic body 6. FIG. 17B shows a case where the coil 2y is placed in the y direction of the magnetic body 6. FIG. It is explanatory drawing at the time of applying the magnetic sheet Mag Sheet to the wound metal and metal affinity sensor. In either case, a plastic sheet Plastic Sheet may be placed instead of the magnetic sheet Mag Sheet.

  The display (perspective view) of the auxiliary sensor coil 2y and the resonance capacitor C in FIG. 17B is omitted because the drawing becomes complicated.

[Application of metal / metal affinity sensor]
~ When the shape of the contents and the orientation of the tag are fixed ~
Up to FIG. 17, there were many explanations of the metal / metal affinity sensor for mounting on the metal surface, but another implementation that can be used with a general tag using the basic metal / metal affinity sensor of FIG. 3 and FIG. 4. An example follows.

FIG. 18A shows a case where a metal / metal affinity sensor M ² ISS (hereinafter also simply referred to as a sensor M ² ISS) is used between a metal table, metal paths M ₁ and M _{2, and the} like.

Place the sensor ^M 2 ISS the openings sandwiched by the metal surface or metal blocks MA and MB from both sides, the tag (in the figure _{Ta 1, Ta 2, Ta 3} ) Target Ta _n affixed to passing over this T _{In this case, n} (T ₁ , T ₂ , T _{3 in the} figure) is sensed using the magnetic field Hy (Hos). Metal surface of the metal path _M 1, _{M 2} is flat on both sides of the sensor ^M 2 ISS, is flat so that it can not be projections by the sensor ^M 2 ISS. The axial direction of the coil of the sensor M ² ISS is parallel to the y-axis.

In this embodiment, the sensor of FIG. 3 is sandwiched between the left and right metal surfaces MA and MB, not up and down, and the sensor is housed in this gap. Metal path M _1, a target Ta _n books and case or the like which is arranged vertically as illustrated in the placing by a box Box on the M ₂ is housed, the target Ta tag T ₁ attached to _n, T ₂ , T ₃ ,..., Information stored in the IC of T _n is sensed when passing over the sensor M ² ISS.

The figure shows a case where the magnetic field Hy or Hos passes through the coil of the tag T on the upper side of the sensor M ² ISS and reads the ID number stored in the IC.

  18 (b) and 18 (c) show another embodiment of the present invention. 3 and 4, the top surface magnetic field is mainly used, but in the case of FIG. 18, the side surface magnetic field Hos (or Hy (also referred to as horizontal magnetic field Hh)) is mainly used.

Although there are some differences in usage, FIGS. 18B and 18C show examples in which the sensor M ² ISS is overlapped in the length direction and thickness direction (sensors # 1 and # 2).

  In FIG. 18B, when the length of the sensor is increased and the distribution of the magnetic field is increased, the magnetic flux density is decreased and the sensitivity is deteriorated. In order to increase the magnetic field, the length of the sensor is shortened, and sensor # 1 is used. , # 2 to connect several sensors to expand the sensing range or strengthen the sensing range. In the figure, the metal surfaces A and B at the sensors # 1 and # 2 are omitted.

  In FIG. 18C, the sensor is used by overlapping the metal plates, thereby widening the width of the magnetic field distribution (length in the x direction) and increasing the magnetic flux density when the magnetic field is in-phase, making it easy to communicate with the tag. A sensor for purposes such as In FIG. 18C, the sensors # 1 and # 2 are basically separated by the metal plate MM, so that the sensors # 1 and # 2 can be attached without the sensors # 1 and # 2 interfering with each other. It is shown that there is a merit such that the signal can be read separately. Furthermore, as a special usage, if the coil currents adjacent to the sensors # 1 and # 2 are fed oppositely to make the magnetic fields of opposite phases, N and S magnetic poles can be obtained at the ends, so that a magnetic field in the x direction can also be obtained. There is also a method.

FIG. 19 shows a case where the sensor as in the embodiment of FIG. 4 is sandwiched between the metal surfaces MA and MB as in the case of FIG. In FIG. 19, the axial direction of the coil of the sensor M ² ISS is parallel to the z-axis.

In the case of FIG. 19, the sensor shown in FIG. 4 is used, and the sensor is sandwiched between metal surfaces or metal bodies MA and MB existing on the left and right. That is, the sensor M ² ISS is accommodated in the gap between the metal bodies MA and MB. Tags T ₁ , T ₂ , T ₃ ,..., T _n attached to the product are accommodated in the box Box passing over the metal paths M ₁ and M ₂ , and the tag T _bc is also attached to the box Box. when is box Box came on the sensor ^M 2 ISS, sensors ^M 2 exciting the tag T so magnetic field is coupled to the tag T shown on ISS, tags _T 1 of the in the box _Box, T 2, _{T 3 ,} ......, T n, is to read the _{T bc} that is contents. The direction of the tag T is horizontal so that magnetic fields can be easily coupled, and is not horizontal as shown in FIG.

  FIGS. 19B to 19E show examples in which sensors can be arranged vertically or horizontally as shown in FIGS. 18B and 18C. The configuration shown in FIGS. 19B to 19E can be used as a metal / metal affinity sensor described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 19B shows a case where the sensors of FIG. 4 are arranged vertically (longitudinal direction) and the power feeding unit is in the same direction. FIG. 19C is a case where one sensor is rotated 180 degrees and the power feeding unit is performed at the same point. This is the case. When power is supplied separately, there is no need to pay particular attention to the winding method and polarity of the coil, but the characteristics change somewhat because the left and right coils are coupled. 19D and 19E differ in whether they are arranged on the side surface (sensors # 1, # 2) or on the metal surface (sensors # 1- # 4). Those arranged on the metal surface (FIG. 19E) have almost no bonds.

When the shape of the container and the direction of the tag (direction of attachment) are fixed, the sensor M ² ISS as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 may be used.

~ When the shape of the contents and the orientation of the tag are not fixed ~
On the other hand, when the shape of the container and the direction of the tag are not fixed, it is necessary to sense the tag in any direction, and this can be solved by using a sensor as described below.

  In FIG. 20, a part of the metal plates A and B of the sensor where the windings of the orthogonal coils 2x and 2y are wound are removed so that not only the magnetic field in the y and z directions but also the magnetic field in the x direction is generated. Shows the case.

  FIG. 20A shows a sensor before the metal plates A and B are applied, and coils 2x and 2y orthogonal to the magnetic body 6 are wound. A magnetic field Hy is mainly excited by the coil 2x, and the coil 2y Although the magnetic field Hz is mainly excited, the magnetic field Hx is also excited as described above. As a result, a magnetic field in any direction of x, y, and z can be obtained, and sensing can be performed with this sensor regardless of the direction of the tag.

FIG. 20B shows a case where the left and right sides A and B of FIG. 20A are partly left and the metal bodies MA and MB are applied, and the sensor is completely a metal surface or metal bodies MA and MB. It is not sandwiched. In addition, a portion of the sensor that is not sandwiched between the metal bodies MA and MB is a portion from which the metal plates A and B are partially removed as described above. As shown in the drawing, the metal paths M ₁ and M ₂ have inclined portions (dents) toward the portion where the sensor M ² ISS is sandwiched. A part of the sensor M ² ISS is in a state of protruding from the depressions on the metal surfaces of the metal paths M ₁ and M ₂ . By plugging the bowl-shaped portion (inclined portion) of a plastic made insulator P, 18, it is the same as flat flush with the case of FIG. 19, as the metal surfaces M ₁ and M ₂ are continuously It does not obstruct the passage of boxes and luggage.

  FIG. 20 (c) shows a case where two sensors are stacked as shown in FIG. 18 (c), but the adjacent coil currents are reversed (that is, the winding direction of the coil 2 is reversed), and the magnetic field is Further, an example is shown in which the magnetic body 6 has a U-shape so that the magnetic body 6 does not continue to the lower part and the intermediate metal plate MM does not continue downward. In this way, the magnetic bodies are adjacent to each other to obtain a U-shaped magnetic path, and the magnetic field is reversed and returned at the U-shaped portion. Therefore, a strong magnetic field in the x direction is formed on the upper part of the sensor (side of the metal plate). It shows that Hx can be made. In this way, magnetic fields in the x, y, and z directions can be freely created in the method shown in FIGS. 20B and 20C, the method shown in FIG.

[Application of sensor M ² ISS when conveying articles by roller]
Here, a case where the metal / metal affinity sensor M ² ISS of the present invention is applied to a roller conveyor for conveying articles will be described. FIG. 21 shows a case where a tag T is attached to a load (article) passing over the roller Roller, and the tag T is read by a metal / metal affinity sensor M ² ISS sandwiched between the rollers Roller. 3 (particularly FIGS. 3 (c) and 3 (d)) sandwiched between metal plates MA and MB (metal plates A and B in FIG. 2) in the gap between the roller Roller and the roller Roller. A perspective view in the case where such a sensor M ² ISS is mounted sideways is shown.

It may be considered that the metal paths M ₁ and M ₂ , the metal parts, and the metal bodies MA and MB in FIGS. 18, 19 and 20 are replaced with metal rollers. Therefore, the sensor M ² ISS is hardly affected by the roller Roller. As the sensor M ² ISS, the sensor shown in FIG. 3 is used, and this is output as a horizontal magnetic field Hh using the side magnetic field Hos in FIG. 3, and the horizontal magnetic field Hh and the tag T can be coupled. Thus, the sensor M ² ISS is set between the rollers Roller. Tags T ₁ , T ₂ , T ₃ ,..., T _n−1 , T _n are generally tags attached to a box or a book, a file, a case of a recording medium, clothing, etc. Can be read while being transported (conveyed) by the roller Roller or while being temporarily stopped on the sensor M ² ISS. FIG. 21B shows the roller Roller, the magnetic field of the sensor M ² ISS, and the tag T when viewed from the front of the sensor. Details of the same sensor M ² ISS and the like are described in FIG. 3 and FIG. In FIG. 21C, the tag T that moves to the left and right (that is, the medium to which the tag T is attached) is read by the two sensors # 1 and # 2, and the tag T moves to the right due to the time difference between the data read by each sensor. It can also be used to determine whether it has moved or moved to the left. It also prevents reading over.

  FIG. 22 shows a sensor that widens the sensor and folds the sensor into a U shape along the lower periphery of the roller to create a magnetic field between the two gaps of the roller. The sensor shown in FIG. 22 makes it easier to read the tag to obtain two in-phase horizontal magnetic fields, and can read the tag twice when the upper load is moving. The information recorded in is not missed.

FIG. 22A shows a perspective view of a U-shaped sensor. A U-shaped sensor M ² ISS is arranged along the lower half of the roller Roller. It can be seen that an in-phase horizontal magnetic field Hh (Hos) is obtained across one roller Roller. FIG. 22B is a view corresponding to a cross section of the sensor viewed from the front (front) of FIG.

  In addition, as shown in FIGS. 21 (c) and 22 (c), by arranging two or more sensors at a slight interval as shown in # 1 and # 2, the time lag of sensing of the tag T can be reduced. By reading, it is possible to determine whether the object to be sensed has moved from left to right or from right to left.

FIG. 23 shows an example of the sensor M ² ISS corresponding to FIG. 21 in which the sensor shown in FIG. 4 is used and the metal surface or metal body shown in FIG. 19 is replaced with a roller Roller.

  The sensor used in FIG. 23 has the same function as the sensor used in FIG. As described in FIGS. 18B and 18C, the sensors can be used by arranging the sensors in the length direction or by stacking the sensors on a metal surface. Note that the tag is horizontally arranged on the conveyance surface of the article, and the tag arranged in this way is denoted by the symbol Th. Further, in combination with the coil winding methods of FIGS. 21 and 23, orthogonal magnetic fields can be similarly produced as shown in FIG.

The sensor shown in FIG. 24 corresponds to FIG. 22 as a modification of FIG. 4 or FIG. 19, and is an embodiment in which the sensor M ² ISS of FIG. 23 is bent into a U-shape. 24 applies to FIG. 24, and the description of the method of applying the orthogonal magnetic field is omitted to avoid duplication. In addition, the code | symbol Tv is attached | subjected to the tag arrange | positioned perpendicularly to the conveyance surface of articles | goods.

  Although not expressed in FIGS. 21, 22, 23, and 24, the omnidirectional sensor shown in FIGS. 16B, 20A, 20B, and 20C, or the present application. As shown in the examples, the omnidirectional sensor disclosed in Japanese Patent Application No. 2008-109113 by humans is divided into upper metal surfaces even in the case of both metal surfaces in the case of the present application, or generation of reverse phase currents by the metal surfaces. It shows that it can be used as an omnidirectional sensor by supporting both metal surfaces while blocking.

[Management system using metal / metal affinity sensor M ² ISS]
In FIG. 25, when actually using the metal / metal affinity sensor M ² ISS sandwiched between the metal surface and the metal body from above and below, left and right, and front and rear, signals received by the sensor antenna are read / written by the reader / writer R. 25 (a), FIG. 25 (b), and FIG. 25 as typical examples of how to receive the data at / W and record, display, and control the output (for example, RS-232C or LAN output) by the computer PC. (C), as shown in FIG.

The case of FIG. 25A is a case where the sensors are arranged in a plane and corresponds to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 6 to 24, and FIG. 25B is a divided type corresponding to FIGS. 25C corresponds to the embodiment of the sensor Sensor of FIG. 25, and FIG. 25C shows a tag and a side magnetic field as shown in FIGS. A case corresponding to the embodiment in the case of performing the communication is shown. Each sensor Sensor is an application of the metal / metal affinity sensor M ² ISS described so far. Note that the detailed configuration of the sensor Sensor is omitted in the drawing because it has been described so far and the drawing becomes complicated.

  Each of the sensor sensors in FIGS. 25 (a), 25 (b), and 25 (c) includes a matching circuit using a capacitor and an inductance on a substrate PCB for maintaining the sensor sensor and the coaxial cable CC. Mat) is attached. A matching circuit (Mat) may be connected to each sensor, or a matching circuit (Mat) may be used collectively. The matching circuit (Mat) is generally adjusted so that the impedance of the 50Ω coaxial cable CC can be matched by connecting a capacitor and an inductance in parallel or in series to the substrate PCB. The coaxial cable is often a 1.5D cable, and the reader / writer R / W output is often a SMA or BNC plug. It is desirable that the outer conductor side of the coaxial cable CC be grounded to one metal plate of the sensor Sensor or the metal surface M of the ground because induction and noise can be avoided.

  The output of the reader / writer R / W is an RS-232C or LAN output, which is connected to a computer PC, and can read and write the tag ID attached to the article and the written information. A dedicated controller Cont can be connected to a LAN or the like to instruct and display by a PC, and further, the machine Mach can be controlled by the controller Cont according to a program.

FIG. 25B shows an example in which the sensor M ² ISS shown in FIGS. 14 to 17 is arranged to construct a sensor Sensor as a whole. In general, since the output of each sensor is connected to the reader / writer R / W by a coaxial cable CC via a matching circuit (Mat), it can be read by each channel by branch switching of the reader / writer R / W. Thus, each channel can be displayed and recorded on the computer PC. Also, tags that have been read once can be displayed in one display regardless of which channel is read.

  FIG. 25C shows an example of a sensor when sandwiched between metal surfaces and metal bodies from the left and right and front and rear as shown in FIGS. Also in this case, the data is displayed and recorded on the computer PC connected to the reader / writer R / W by the coaxial cable CC via the matching circuit Mat.

  FIG. 25 (d) shows a sensor on a shelf or drawer SShh when notebook personal computers, boards, CDs, DVDs, electronic devices, electric devices, etc. are arranged like a table on which the PC of FIG. 26 is placed. And the configuration of the reader / writer R / W and personal computer PC.

[About management of notebook personal computers]
In FIG. 26, when a notebook personal computer (hereinafter referred to as a notebook personal computer) PC is stored in a metal box or a metal shelf SShh, when the notebook personal computer PC is a metal body and the floor SSh is metal, a general sensor does not operate at all. However, it is shown as an example that can be sensed without problems when the metal / metal affinity sensor M ² ISS of the present invention is used. In the embodiments so far, the article to which the tag is attached is the metal medium D, but in FIG. 26, the metal medium D is a notebook personal computer PC.

Recently, personal information has been taken out, damage has occurred and important confidential information has been taken out without permission, and management of a notebook personal computer PC that can be taken out is essential. The present embodiment responds to such a demand, and the sensor Sensor is a metal / metal affinity sensor M ² ISS used in FIGS. 25B, 25C, and 25D. An application example using is shown.

On the other hand, with respect to the tag attached to the managed notebook personal computer PC, the metal of the notebook personal computer PC can be obtained by using the metal affinity tag disclosed in Patent Document 2 by the present applicant or the universal tag using multiple images. A tag that is not affected by the surface can be used, and can be read without being affected by the metal surface A on the upper surface used in the metal / metal affinity sensor M ² ISS of the present invention. Yes. The metal affinity tag (prometal tag) PT currently on the market has a thickness of 1 to 2.5 mm and a length of 10 to 20 mm and can be used sufficiently. However, a universal tag (multiple image) which is a metal-compatible tag by the present inventor. High-sensitivity tag due to effect) UT has a thickness of 1mm or less and has metal attached on both sides, so it is thin and unaffected by metal, is flexible, can be applied anywhere, and can be read in the gap between metal surfaces Ideal. Although the tag T is shown in the left circle in FIG. 26, the details are already disclosed in Patent Document 2, and the description thereof is omitted. When using the metal affinity tag PT or UT, when the position where the tag is applied is not on the lower side but on the side surface, etc., the magnetic sheet (width 1 to 4 cm, high) having a high relative magnetic permeability (μ _r = 100 to 200) (2 to 5 cm) (one or two), a magnetic path of a magnetic field is created, and a tag is stuck on or on the magnetic path, thereby greatly increasing the communication distance. This method is also described in Japanese Patent Application No. 2008-221586, but can also be applied by a method of attaching a tag to the current metal medium D.

As described with reference to FIG. 25 (d), information on the tag T attached to the notebook personal computer PC is maintained in the coaxial cable CC via the matching circuit Mat via the metal / metal affinity sensor M ² ISS, and the reader It is read by the writer R / W and recorded and displayed on the management computer PC. The width of the metal surface A is 55 mm, which is slightly narrower than the width of 65 mm of the magnetic body 6, and the coupling with the tag by the upper magnetic field is often performed by appropriately selecting the width of the metal surface. The length is about a half of 42 cm so as to fit within the 90 cm width, and two more 21 cm long sensors are accommodated in the tandem as shown in FIG. 19 (a), FIG. 19 (b), etc. Taking the way. In the figure, the sensor length is 21 cm. However, if the sensor length is about 42 cm and it is not halved, there is a case where the sensor is not coupled to each other and adjustment is not easy. In consideration of performance and ease of use, the sensor length can be determined according to the shelf length or the drawer length.

  It is also desirable to ground the coaxial cable CC so that the outer conductor side of the coaxial cable CC and the lower metal plate M have the same potential, because no extra induction occurs in the antenna.

  In FIG. 25 (d) and FIG. 26, the plastic plate is provided with a recess in a channel shape so that the case where the tag PT or UT or the like is attached downward is good, but when the tag PT or UT is attached to the side surface. Such a dent is not necessary, and may be constituted by a plane.

[Application to key management box for managing keys]
FIG. 27 shows an embodiment in which the metal / metal affinity sensor M ² ISS is applied as a sensor for a key management box as another embodiment of the present invention.

  Since the key management box is generally made of a metal box, it is desirable to operate in a metal surface.

Since the metal surface is a wall and the metal / metal affinity sensors M ² ISS # 1 to # 6 are directly attached thereto, it is easy to use without being influenced by the surroundings and without being influenced by the key. Further, when a metal key or the like is hooked on the opposite side (front side in the drawing) of the sensors # 1 to # 6, it must be the metal / metal affinity sensor M ² ISS of the present invention.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 27, when a small tag T is attached to the key KEY on a plastic name tag PN, it is a small tag and beside the metal surface, but is slightly floating. A magnetic field can be passed, and even an inexpensive general tag can be used. Even in such a small tag, a strong magnetic field can be created near the metal surface by the metal / metal affinity sensor M ² ISS. Both edges of the metal plate of the sensor are connected to the tag T perpendicular to the metal surface. Since the strong magnetic field Hz described above is generated, this magnetic field can be received by bringing the tag close to the edge of the sensor. By attaching an inexpensive paper tag or plastic tag to the name tag PN, the tag T, that is, the key KEY Management can be performed. Further, stronger magnetic field coupling can be obtained by making the sensor itself oblique to the wall surface and approaching the tag. It is best to use a pro-metal tag PT, which is the above-described metal-compatible tag, or a universal tag UT using the multiple image as a metal key. In addition, a conventional on-metal tag of a passive method for escaping a magnetic field if the direction is determined can be used. Such a thing can be realized by using the metal / metal affinity sensor M ² ISS of the present invention.

  The sensors # 1 to # 6 are connected to the reader / writer R / W via the substrates PCB1 to PCB6 and the coaxial cable CC, and can read information on the tag T attached to the key KEY. It is also possible to identify and display the location of the key by providing the same number of sensors as the key, supplying power to each, and switching the reader channel as shown in FIGS. 25 (b), 25 (c), etc. it can. Information read by the reader / writer R / W is managed by a computer Comp that performs information processing, and the information is displayed on the display Disp. As shown in the figure, these are built in the key management box. Each sensor may be connected to an independent channel, but it is also possible to perform reading by connecting sensors in parallel or in series in one channel. Reader / writer R / W output and computer Comp output can be connected to the outside of the key management box with a cable and the socket ExtS is taken out to read internal information or directly output the reader / writer R / W. Can be read by an external personal computer PC (hereinafter simply referred to as PC) or the like. An external PC is connected to the Internet, enabling central management of the center.

[About firearm management]
FIG. 28 shows an application example as a sensor when managing a firearm (handgun). In FIG. 28 (a), due to the coupling with the metal affinity tag PT and the universal tag UT attached in parallel to the bottom of the gun stand by the magnetic field Hx in the x direction generated by the coil 2y wound in the y direction shown in FIG. The case where the firearm GA is managed is shown.

  FIG. 28B shows an example of FIG. 11A in which a part of the upper metal surface A of the sensor shown in FIG. The case where a part of such a sensor is used is shown. Since there is a cut SL on the metal surface, a magnetic field is likely to appear from the cut SL. Further, the y-direction and z-direction magnetic fields generated by the x-direction coil shown in FIG. 3 can communicate with the tag T attached to the space in the base of the firearm, and the metal piece A is connected to the base. Even if a firearm is placed by being attached below, no change in impedance occurs.

  Since the direction of the magnetic field is perpendicular to FIG. 28 (a), the tag is attached in a direction perpendicular to FIG. 28 (a) and is attached to the metal frame of the base. In the case of such a magnetic field direction, even if an inexpensive conventional paper tag or plastic tag T or the like is attached to the plastic part of the handgun GB, the magnetic field passes through the cavity of the base but the tag ID is taken. Can do.

  In FIG. 28 (c), the upper metal plate of the sensor coil of FIG. 28 (a) is divided and cut as shown in FIGS. 9, 10, and 12, and the metal is only under the base of the handgun GC. The case where the plate is in contact and the metal plate is applied to the portion from the beginning even if the handgun as the metal medium D is put on, so that the impedance, magnetic field or electric field of the sensor is not affected is shown. . As explained earlier, the metal plate A to be placed on the top is sized according to the object (target, in this case, a handgun) to be placed on it. In addition, it is possible to supply a magnetic field that can be easily coupled to the tag T, and to design so as not to be affected by the target that is the metal medium D placed on the sensor. Although not shown in the figure, the management data of each handgun is read by a reader / writer, managed by a computer, and can be managed by a center through a local LAN or a dedicated line. In addition, it is possible to manage a large number of important metal bodies composed of the above-described CD, DVD and other metal media.

[Related technologies included in the present invention]
The present invention is characterized in that a current corresponding to the opposite phase is not generated by cutting a metal conductive current in a metal corresponding sensor inside and outside the metal surface on the target side and inside and outside the groove. In addition, the related technique which includes this invention below is mentioned as the characteristic of this invention.

(1) In the winding direction of the coil wound along the magnetic body, a metal surface or a metal foil outside the winding is further arranged so that a discontinuous portion of the metal surface is generated in part, and the discontinuous portion A magnetic field capturing system according to a lateral direction and a plane direction of a multiple image sensor, wherein metal ends are insulated so that a conductive current does not flow around.
(2) In the winding direction of the coil wound along the magnetic body, a metal surface or a metal foil is further arranged on the outer side of the winding so that a discontinuous portion of the metal surface is formed in a plurality of portions, and the end of the metal portion The magnetic field capturing system according to the side and the surface direction of the metal surface sensor, wherein the parts are insulated so that the conductive current does not flow around.
(3) A metal surface characterized in that the magnetic body has a rectangular shape and a rectangular cross section, further forms a belt-like shape, a coil is wound in the direction of the cross section of the magnetic body, and metal surfaces or metal foils are attached to the upper and lower surfaces. Magnetic field acquisition system by the side and surface direction of the sensor.
(4) The magnetic body has a rectangular shape and a rectangular cross section, and further has a belt-like shape. A coil is wound in the length direction of the magnetic body, and a metal surface or a metal foil is attached to the upper and lower surfaces. Magnetic field capture system by side and face direction of multiple image sensors.
(5) Some windows on the metal surface on which the target such as a medium is placed are opened or cut off, so that the magnetic field on the metal surface is generated or the tag is at the same height as this metal surface. Alternatively, it is characterized in that it can enter below and be coupled with a magnetic field below the metal surface.
(6) The plastic base is recessed so as to receive the thickness to which the tag is attached.
(7) When the sensor is placed on the metal base side by the metal surface, a metal thin plate or metal foil is stretched over the entire surface of the metal base, and one or more metal thin plates or metal foils are provided on the side on which the metal medium on the opposite side is placed. A magnetic field capturing system according to a side and a surface direction of a metal surface sensor, wherein a leakage magnetic field is generated when the piece is cut, and an IC tag attached to a metal medium can be read.
(8) The groove on the metal surface according to (5) is characterized in that the groove on which the metal surface or the metal foil is cut is continuous.
(9) In the above (3) or (4), by arranging the sensors of substantially the same length vertically or horizontally, or arranging them upward or downward, a magnetic field is created between the sensors and the upper part of the sensor. It is characterized in that a medium can be loaded.
(10) A magnetic field can be easily emitted from the magnetic body to the tag side by changing the size of the upper metal surface placed on the magnetic body sensor in accordance with the size of the magnetic body.
(11) In the above (3) or (4), an auxiliary sensor including a metal plate and a resonator in which a coil is wound around a magnetic body in a gap between the sensors and a capacitor is connected is provided.
(12) The sensor according to (3) or (4) is provided in the gap between the joints of the metal plate, generates a magnetic field perpendicular to the metal surface, and communicates with a tag attached to a medium passing over the sensor. And
(13) Using the sensor described in the above (1) or (2), it is installed in a gap between rollers of a roller conveyor that conveys an object so that a tag attached to a load passing over the rollers can be read. It is characterized by doing.
(14) A tag attached to an object is read by a reader using the sensors described in (1) to (13), and recorded and displayed on a personal computer (PC) or controlled. And
(15) In the above (10), a controller that communicates with a computer is provided, and devices are controlled in accordance with instructions from the computer or the controller.
(16) The sensors (3) and (4) are bent in a U shape.
(17) The coils orthogonal to x, y, z are wound so that there is a break in the metal plate in the direction of x, y, respectively, so that no reverse-phase induced current is generated.

[Conclusion]
As described above, even in a sensor that is mounted on or beside a metal surface and is placed in a state where it is blocked when viewed from a magnetic body or a magnetic field sandwiched between metal surfaces, the magnetic field generated by the sensor is By exciting the current and magnetic field (magnetic current) along the metal surface and using the image effect due to the metal surface, the magnetic flux density is higher than when there is no metal surface. It is possible to provide epoch-making sensors that increase communication sensitivity and increase the sensitivity of the sensor. It can be solved using the basics of magnetism. In addition, the metal surface is divided so as to remove the conductive current in the reverse phase so that the continuous conductive current does not flow, so that the magnetic field in the reverse phase is not generated.

(A) The figure which shows the structure of the conventional metal corresponding | compatible sensor, (b) The figure which shows the example of the existing metal corresponding | compatible sensor by the applicant etc., (c) The figure explaining the principle of the metal corresponding | compatible sensor of a present Example, ( d) The figure which shows the metal corresponding | compatible sensor shown to (c) seen from the axial direction of the coil. (A) The figure which shows the conventional tag affixed on the metal surface of articles | goods, (b) The figure which shows the one-image type tag using a metal surface, (c) The figure which shows the multiple image-type tag by a metal surface (A) The figure which shows the case where the coil insulated on the square-shaped magnetic body is wound toward the right and left from the center part, and the upper and lower metal plates are arrange | positioned a little apart, (b) The sensor of (a) is on the right side (C) is a diagram showing a case where a coil insulated on a rectangular magnetic body is wound from the center to the left and right, and a metal plate is adhered to the outside of the coil. (D) The figure when the sensor of (c) is seen from the right side, the figure which shows the case where the sensor of (e) and (c) is placed on the metal surface, and the case where the sensor of (f) and (e) is seen from the right end (G) The figure which shows a sensor when sensor width x and sensor length y are substantially the same, (h) The figure at the time of seeing the sensor of (g) from the right end (A) The figure which shows the case where a coil is wound in the y direction around a vertically long magnetic body and the metal plates are placed slightly apart above and below, (b) The figure when the sensor of (a) is seen from the right end, c) A view when a metal plate is applied to a magnetic body around which a coil is wound, (d) a view when the sensor of (c) is viewed from the right end, and (e) a sensor of (c) on the metal surface. The figure which shows the case where it mounts on, The figure when the sensor of (f) (e) is seen from the right end (A) The figure which shows the case where there is no metal plate up and down with the sensor of FIG. 3, (b) The figure which shows the sensor of FIG.4 (c), (c) The magnetic field which generate | occur | produces directly from the cut | interruption or clearance gap of a metal surface is shown. Figures (d) and (c) are diagrams showing magnetic fields generated directly from the cuts or gaps in the metal surface. (E) (c) Coils and magnetism below the metal surface using the cuts or gaps in the metal surface. The figure which shows the magnetic field which generate | occur | produces in the space above a body, (f) The figure which shows the magnetic field which diverges outside from the square hole opened in the metal surface, (g) From the hole opened in the metal surface of (f) The figure which shows the external magnetic field which generate | occur | produces, The figure which shows the magnetic field which generate | occur | produces in the internal space under the metal surface of (h) (f) FIG. 5A is a perspective view showing a state in which the magnetic field of FIG. 5G is coupled to a metal tag attached to a metal medium, FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view taken along a plane perpendicular to the coil of FIG. ) Cross-sectional view of the surface along the coil passing through the hole in (a), (d), (e) A diagram showing a case where the work drilled in the metal surface is covered with a plastic plate or the like. (A) The figure which shows the case where there exists a groove | channel of a metal surface in the direction orthogonal to a coil, (b) Sectional drawing in the surface which passes along a groove | channel perpendicular | vertical to the coil of (a), (c) It passes along the groove | channel of (a) Sectional drawing in the surface along a coil, (d), (e) The figure which shows the case where the groove | channel provided in the metal surface is covered and protected with a plastic plate or a rubber sheet (A) The figure which shows the case where the magnetic body with which the coil was wound is wrapped with the metal plate, and the left side part is open | released, (b) The magnetic body with which the coil was wound is wrapped with the metal plate, The figure which shows the case where the part is open | released, (c) The figure which shows the case where the magnetic body with which the coil was wound is wrapped with a metal plate, and the upper part of a metal plate is open | released (A) The perspective view which shows the sensor of FIG.8 (c), The figure which looked at the sensor of (b) (a) from the right end (A) The figure which shows the case where the groove | channel of the upper metal plate shown in FIG. 9 is three, (b) Sectional drawing of the sensor which looked at the left from the right end of (a) (A) The figure which shows the case where the metal plate of the upper part of a sensor is divided into multiple parts, (b) The figure which shows the case where the sensor of (a) is seen from the right end (A) The figure which shows the sensor by which the upper metal plate is divided into multiple parts, (b) The figure which shows the case where the sensor of (a) is seen from the right end (A) The figure which shows the sensor by which the insulated coil orthogonally crossed was wound around the magnetic body, and the upper metal plate was divided | segmented, (b) The coil orthogonally crossed by the sensor of (a), and the metal put on it The figure which shows the case where a coil comes under a metal piece in the figure which shows the positional relationship of a plate piece, (c) The figure which shows the case where a coil comes in the clearance gap between a metal plate piece and a metal plate piece, (d) 3rd loop The figure which shows the case where a coil is wound on a magnetic body (A) The figure which shows the case of a substantially equilateral square sensor, (b) The figure which shows the case where four sets of sensors of (a) are combined. (A) The figure which shows the case where the metal / metal affinity sensor shown in FIG.4 (c) is arranged horizontally, (b) The case where the metal / metal affinity sensor shown in FIG.3 (c) is arranged horizontally is shown. Figure (A) The figure which shows the case where an auxiliary sensor is used between sensors, (b) The figure which shows the auxiliary sensor used when using the sensor which wound the coil orthogonal to the x direction and y direction of a magnetic body side by side. (A) The figure which shows the case where a magnetic sheet is mounted on the metal / metal affinity sensor which wound the coil in the x direction of the magnetic body, (b) The metal / metal affinity sensor which wound the coil in the y direction of the magnetic body The figure which shows the case where the magnetic sheet is loaded (A) The figure which shows the case where a metal and a metal affinity sensor are used between a metal table, a metal path, etc., (b) The figure which shows the other Example of (a), (c) Other implementation of (a) Illustration showing an example (A) The figure which shows the case where the sensor shown in FIG. 4 is used as # 1 and # 2 like the case of FIG. 18 (a), (b), (c), (d), (e) How to arrange sensors Figure showing an example of such (A) The figure which shows the sensor before winding the coil orthogonal to the x direction and y direction of a magnetic body, and applying a metal plate, (b) When leaving a part of the left and right surfaces of (a), and using a metal body as a contact sensor (C) The figure which shows the example comprised so that a magnetic body might become U shape (A) The figure which shows the case where the information of a tag is read with the metal and metal affinity sensor pinched | interposed between rollers, (b) The figure which shows the case where the sensor of (a) is seen from the front, (c) Two pieces The figure which shows the case where the above sensors are arranged at a little interval (A) Perspective view when using a U-shaped sensor, (b) A view corresponding to a cross section of the sensor viewed from the front of (a), and (c) A case where two or more sensors are arranged at a slight interval. Illustration The perspective view which shows the case where the sensor shown in FIG.4 (c) is used between rollers. The figure which shows the case where the sensor shown in FIG.4 (c) is U-shaped and used between rollers (A) The figure which shows the example which constructed | assembled the management system by arranging a sensor planarly, (b) The figure which showed the example which constructed | assembled the management system using the split type sensor, (c) The sensor shown in FIG. The figure which shows the management system used sideways, (d) The figure which shows the structure of the sensor on a shelf and a drawer, a reader / writer, and a personal computer The figure which shows the case where the notebook type personal computer is stored using the sensor of an Example The figure which shows the case where the sensor of an Example is applied to a key management box (A)-(c) The figure which shows the case where the sensor of an Example is applied to management of a firearm

Explanation of symbols

2, 2x, 2y, 2z Coil 6 Magnetic body (magnetic core)
A, B Metal plate (conductor)
M metal surface

Claims (17)

A metal-compatible sensor that electromagnetically couples to a wireless tag that holds information on an article and transmits and receives the information,
A magnetic core having a predetermined length made of a magnetic material;
A coil that is insulated from the magnetic core and wound along the magnetic core;
A conductor surrounding a magnetic core around which the coil is wound;
With
The conductors have a discontinuity in the longitudinal direction of the magnetic core, metal corresponding sensors, characterized in that said radio tag electromagnetic coupling by magnetic field generated at the discontinuity portion. A metal-compatible sensor that electromagnetically couples to a wireless tag that holds information on an article and transmits and receives the information,
  A magnetic core having a predetermined length made of a magnetic material;
  A coil that is insulated from the magnetic core and wound along the magnetic core;
  A conductor sandwiching a magnetic core around which the coil is wound;
With
  One of the upper and lower conductors has a discontinuous portion along the longitudinal direction of the magnetic core, and is a metal that is electromagnetically coupled to the wireless tag by a magnetic field generated at the discontinuous portion Compatible sensor. The metal-compatible sensor according to claim 1 or 2 ,
The metal-compatible sensor, wherein the conductor has a plurality of the discontinuous portions. The metal-compatible sensor according to claim 2 ,
The discontinuous part is a hole part or a groove part, The metal correspondence sensor characterized by things. The metal-compatible sensor according to claim 4 ,
Metal corresponding sensors, characterized in that it comprises a plastic plate having a recess for the wireless tag fitting in the hole or groove. In the metal corresponding sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The conductor is a metal corresponding sensor, wherein those Sessu Rukoto the magnetic core in which the coil is wound. In the metal corresponding sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The conductor is a metal corresponding sensor when that person Sessu the magnetic core in which the coil is wound, the said discontinuous portion, characterized that you have a gap portion is provided between the magnetic core . In the metal corresponding sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The metal-corresponding sensor, wherein the magnetic core has a rectangular or rectangular plate shape or strip shape. The metal-compatible sensor according to claim 8 , wherein
The metal-corresponding sensor, wherein the coil is a first coil wound around the magnetic core such that a longitudinal direction of the magnetic core having a plate shape or a band shape is an axial direction of the coil. The metal-compatible sensor according to claim 8 or 9 ,
And wherein further Yusuke Rukoto the second coil in the longitudinal direction perpendicular to the direction of the magnetic core before Symbol plate or strip shape is wound around the magnetic core such that the axial direction of the coil Metal-compatible sensor. In the metal corresponding sensor according to any one of claims 8 to 10,
Metal corresponding sensor, wherein further having a Rukoto a third coil wound on the previous SL plate or strip-like coil in the plane of said magnetic core shape along a plane core. In the metal corresponding sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 11,
A roller conveyor having a plurality of rollers for conveying the article;
The metal correspondence sensor, wherein the metal correspondence sensor is installed in a predetermined gap between the plurality of rollers, and transmits and receives the information with a wireless tag attached to an article conveyed on the rollers. In the metal corresponding sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 11,
A plurality of said metal-compatible sensors;
A magnetic core made of a magnetic material; a coil that is insulated from the magnetic core and wound along the magnetic core; a capacitor connected to the coil; and a conductive material that contacts the magnetic core around which the coil is wound. An auxiliary sensor having a body;
With
The auxiliary sensor is disposed in a gap between the plurality of metal sensors. A metal corresponding sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 13,
A wireless tag that holds information about the article;
A reader / writer that reads from or writes to the wireless tag via the metal-compatible sensor;
A computer for recording and displaying or controlling information on the article read or written by the reader / writer;
A management system comprising: The management system according to claim 14 ,
A management system comprising a magnetic sheet for inducing a magnetic field in the wireless tag. The management system according to claim 14 or 15 ,
The management system characterized in that the article includes a notebook personal computer, a key, a firearm, a substrate, a DVD, a CD, or an electrical device. In the management system according to any one of claims 14 to 16,
The wireless tag includes a paper or plastic tag or a metal-compatible tag.

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