WO2022114034A1 - Wireless power feed mask device - Google Patents

Abstract

Provided is a wireless power feed mask device combining wireless communication technology with a mask. This wireless power feed mask device is provided with a mask-shaped main body portion having a size covering the oral cavity of the head from the outside, and is characterized in that the mask-shaped main body portion is provided with a transmission antenna which has a metasurface and which supplies electric power toward the oral cavity.

Description

Wireless power transfer mask device

The present invention relates to a wireless power supply mask device that combines a mask with wireless communication technology.

In recent years, wearable products (wearable devices or wearable computers) have been developed that can be used while wearing a computer or electronic device. In particular, wearable products are expected to develop various applied technologies by combining wireless communication technologies for transmitting and / or receiving electric power wirelessly.

Previously, wearable products were mainly in the form of wristwatches, eyeglasses, etc. In recent years, the scope of application has been further expanded due to its application to the medical technology field. However, little is known about its application to masks attached near the oral cavity of the head.

For example, in International Publication No. 2020/136717 (Patent Document 1), "the location information of the disaster victim is transmitted without operating any equipment after the rescuer wears the disaster prevention clothing. Providing disaster prevention clothing (see abstract) ”is disclosed.
For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-20460 (Patent Document 2) states that "a terminal having two layers of an antenna element and a ground is made wearable by giving sufficient flexibility as a whole (see abstract). The composition is disclosed.

International Publication No. 2020/136717 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2020-20460

The most important feature of the present invention is to provide a wireless power transfer mask device in which a mask is combined with wireless communication technology.

In order to solve the above problems, for example, the configuration described in the claims is adopted.
The present application includes a plurality of means for solving the above-mentioned problems, and one example thereof is a wireless power supply mask device, which includes a mask-shaped main body having a size of covering the oral cavity of the head from the outside. The mask-like body is characterized by comprising a transmitting antenna having a metasurface that supplies power toward the oral cavity.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a wireless power supply mask device in which a mask is combined with wireless communication technology.

FIG. 1 is an example of a perspective view showing a wireless power transfer mask device attached to the head. FIG. 2 is an example of a partially transparent view of FIG. FIG. 3 is an example of a partially transparent view of FIG. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the relative relationship between the transmitting antenna and the receiving antenna. FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view illustrating a main part of the receiving antenna. FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a wireless power transfer mask device attached to the head. FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view illustrating a main part of the transmitting antenna of FIG. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a combination of a meta surface and an LC resonator. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the function of the transmitting antenna of FIG. 6 in a three-dimensional space. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the function of the transmitting antenna of FIG. 6 in a graph. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the control logic of the wireless power transfer mask device. FIG. 12 is an example of the control flow of the wireless power supply mask device. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the control logic of the wireless power transfer mask device. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of changing the meta surface. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of changing the meta surface. FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the radiation pattern of the metasurface.

Hereinafter, an example of a wireless power transfer mask device using a mask attached to the outside of the oral cavity of the human head will be described. In particular, the wireless power transfer mask device is configured to enable power supply to an electronic device attached to the oral cavity of the human head.

In the medical technology field, there are those that treat, diagnose, etc. the head of the human body. For example, in oral surgery, dentistry or other treatments (eg, artificial respiration, endoscopy, sickness treatment, gnashing treatment, salivary secretion treatment / diagnosis, etc.), a predetermined area of the human head in the oral cavity or on the face. Congenital or acquired diseases, etc. are dealt with in. At that time, various types of electronic devices are used to assist diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, and the like.

For example, important sensory organs (hearing, taste, sight, smell, touch, lacrimal glands, salivary glands, sweating glands, etc.) are gathered in the head, but some patients have some of the sensory organs. Some have congenital or acquired illness. In such cases, electronic devices may be used to reinforce the patient's sensory organs.

For example, an electrical stimulator may be attached as an electronic device to the oral cavity of the head or a predetermined part on the face to reinforce the sensory organs of the patient. Similarly, it is conceivable to attach an artificial sensory organ as an electronic device to a predetermined part of the head in the oral cavity or on the face to function as a substitute for the patient's sensory organ.

In addition, a sensor may be attached as an electronic device to the oral cavity of the head or a predetermined part on the face to assist diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, etc. For example, a biocompatibility sensor may be attached to a predetermined portion in the oral cavity or on the face. Specifically, a temperature sensor may be placed in the oral cavity to detect the patient's body temperature or oral temperature. In addition, a glucose sensor may be placed in the oral cavity to detect the glucose concentration from the saliva component in the oral cavity. In addition, a pressure sensor may be placed in the oral cavity to detect the patient's quotient force.

Thus, in oral surgery, dentistry or other treatments, for a variety of purposes, during treatment, pre-treatment or post-treatment, a given site in the patient's oral cavity or face (eg, for example). , Teeth, lips, tongue, or any skin, muscle, bone or tissue) may be fitted with electronic devices (electrical stimulators, sensors, etc.).

When installing an electronic device in the patient's oral cavity, other artificial objects placed in the oral cavity may be used. For example, oral surgery, dental treatment or other treatments may utilize a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece has a suitable configuration for placement in the oral cavity. This configuration varies, and includes, for example, a top-bottom integrated mouthpiece, a top-bottom separated mouthpiece, and the like. By incorporating an electronic device in this mouthpiece, it is easy to attach the electronic device to the patient's oral cavity.

Similarly, there are multiple teeth in the oral cavity, but artificial objects may be attached to these teeth. For example, dentures (artificial teeth) may be placed to replace lost teeth. In addition, an artificial object may be further placed on the existing tooth. By incorporating an electronic device in these artificial objects, it is possible to facilitate the attachment of the electronic device into the patient's oral cavity.

In order to drive electronic devices (electrical stimulators, sensors, etc.), it is necessary to supply a predetermined amount of electric power. However, when a battery is provided in a mouthpiece or the like to supply electric power to an electronic device, there are problems such as replacement of the battery and enlargement of the mouthpiece. On the other hand, when power is supplied to an electronic device by wire, the burden of wiring, disconnection, maintenance, and the like become problems. In particular, since the space in the oral cavity is limited, it is not easy to route the wiring.

Therefore, it is being considered to incorporate an electronic device in an artificial object (mouthpiece, denture, etc.) and combine wireless communication technology (reception antenna, etc.) to supply the power. In this case, in order to prevent waste of transmitted power, it is desirable that the transmitting antenna (transmission device) that functions as a pair with the receiving antenna (power receiving device) is arranged near the oral cavity. Therefore, it is considered to associate a transmitting antenna with a mask attached around the oral cavity.

In the past, wearable products were often in the form of wristwatches, eyeglasses, and the like. However, assuming application to the medical technology field, there have been few examples of constructing wearable products using a mask attached to the oral cavity of the human head.
For example, in Patent Document 1, the antenna is attached to the outside of the mask (see FIG. 29, paragraph 0120).
For example, in Patent Document 2, a wristband attached to a patient's arm is made wearable for application in the medical technology field (see paragraph 0026). Even in that case, wearable masks are not expected.

This embodiment provides a wireless power supply mask device that combines a mask with wireless communication technology. This wireless power transfer mask device is configured to enable power supply to an electronic device mounted in the oral cavity. Further, the wireless power transfer mask device can also be provided with means for optimizing the transmitted power according to the power receiving status of the electronic device.

Hereinafter, the first embodiment of the wireless power transfer mask device 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5.
1 and 2 illustrate a mask mounted so as to cover the oral cavity of the head and a transmitting antenna mounted in the mask.
3 to 5 illustrate the relative relationship between the transmitting antenna and the receiving antenna mounted in the oral cavity.

The wireless power feeding mask device 1 according to the present embodiment is specially devised so that the power transmitted from the transmitting antenna to the receiving antenna can be efficiently supplied.
In particular, the shape of the transmitting antenna conforms to the unique shape of the mask, and has technical characteristics.
In addition, the shape of the receiving antenna has a technical feature that it can receive electric power with high efficiency even in a limited space unique to the oral cavity.

Referring to FIG. 1, a perspective view of a wireless power transfer mask device 1 attached to the head of a human body is illustrated. As illustrated in the figure, the wireless power supply mask device 1 has a mask (mask / respirator) 100 in order to cover a part of the face of the human body (particularly the oral cavity of the human body). The mask 100 has a mask-shaped main body 110 having a size that covers the oral cavity of the head from the outside.

In this embodiment, the purpose of use of the mask 100 is not particularly limited.
For example, the mask 100 can be used for a variety of purposes, especially for hygiene or treatment (eg, oral surgery, dentistry or other treatment). Further, the mask 100 can also be used for cold protection measures, pollinosis countermeasures, cold countermeasures, virus countermeasures, dust protection measures and the like.

In this embodiment, the shape and size of the mask 100 shall cover at least a part of the oral cavity of the human head, preferably the entire oral cavity.
For example, the mask 100 has various sizes, and has different sizes for adults and children. This embodiment can deal with both of them. Further, the size of the mask 100 can not only cover the oral cavity but also have a size that covers the entire face.

In this embodiment, the material of the mask 100 is not particularly limited.
For example, the mask 100 can be formed using various materials, for example, a cloth mask formed of a cloth such as gauze, a non-woven fabric mask formed of a non-woven fabric, or another material. There is a mask. In addition, for example, there is a mask formed by using silicon rubber or the like.
However, in this embodiment, the mask 100 has three-dimensional characteristics unlike a general sanitary mask.

In a general hygiene mask, the main body is formed flat and has a flexible characteristic. In this case, a general hygiene mask is configured such that the back surface of the mask fits or abuts around the oral cavity of the head when locked from both ears when worn. A general hygiene mask comes into contact with the area around the oral cavity (particularly the nose of the head, upper lip, lower lip, chin, both cheeks, etc.) when worn. As described above, the general hygiene mask is configured to have a good fit between the face and the mask for the purpose of preventing infection, and to be easily folded and stored when not in use.

On the other hand, unlike a general sanitary mask, the mask-shaped main body 110 according to the present embodiment is not formed in a plane but in a three-dimensional manner. The main body 110 includes a contact portion 120 that fits a part of the mask 100 on the face of the human body, and a raised portion (convex portion) 130 that separates a part of the mask 100 from the face of the human body without fitting. Has.
The abutting portion 120 is located on the outer peripheral side of the main body portion 110, and abuts on a part of the face of the human body (for example, any part of the nose, both cheeks, and the chin) when the mask is worn. At this time, both come into contact with each other along a surface or line of a predetermined size. Although not illustrated in FIG. 1, the contact portion 120 can have a structure (string, hook, etc.) for locking to both ears of the human face.

The raised portion 130 is located on the central side of the main body portion 110 so as to prevent a part of the face (for example, the oral cavity, upper lip and lower lip) from directly contacting the back surface of the mask when the mask is worn. Separate from from at a predetermined height. For example, the raised portion 130 stands upright in the direction perpendicular to the face (H direction in FIG. 1) or in the direction facing the face, so that a part of the central side of the main body portion 110 and a part of the face of the human body can be formed. It forms a space between them.

There is a transition portion 132 connecting both of the contact portion 120 that comes into contact with the face and the raised portion 130 that separates from the face. The raised portion 130 preferably retains a predetermined shape or height during use of the mask 100 and / or non-use of the mask. Therefore, it is preferable that the transition portion 132 has a predetermined rigidity.

For example, the transition portion 132 can have a rigidity different from that of other portions by being made of a material different from the material used for the contact portion 120. Alternatively, the transition portion 132 may be made of the same material as the material used for the contact portion 120, and may include a reinforcing member or the like in a predetermined region. Alternatively, the main body 110 may be formed of a material having relatively high rigidity as a whole. In this way, the raised portion 130 is supported by the transition portion 132 and is held at a predetermined height away from the face.

With reference to FIG. 2, a perspective view showing the mask 100 of the wireless power transfer mask device 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 in a translucent manner is exemplified.
As can be understood from FIGS. 1 and 2, the transmitting antenna 200 and the control device 250 are built in the raised portion 130 of the main body portion 110. Therefore, the transmitting antenna 200 and the control device 250 are prevented from directly contacting a part of the face of the human body (for example, the oral cavity, the upper lip and the lower lip).

The transmitting antenna 200 functions as a power transmitter that transmits electromagnetic waves to the outside. In particular, it functions as an antenna so as to have directivity and gain suitable for enabling power feeding to electronic devices placed in the oral cavity. In the first embodiment, a loop antenna is used as the transmitting antenna 200. The control device 250 can include any circuit that supplies current to the loop antenna.

By incorporating the transmitting antenna 200 in the raised portion 130 of the main body portion 110, the transmitting antenna 200 can also function as a reinforcing member that imparts rigidity to the raised portion 130 in addition to the original function of the antenna. The same applies to the control device 250. However, the control device 250 can also be attached to the outside of the main body 110.

As can be understood from FIGS. 1 and 2, the raised portion 130 has a substantially flat portion in order to facilitate the arrangement of the transmitting antenna 200 in the raised portion 130. The substantially flat portion may have a size that covers a part or all of the oral cavity to secure the mounting surface of the transmitting antenna 200. The raised portion 130 has a predetermined thickness in the thickness direction of the mask. Therefore, the transmitting antenna 200 is attached so as to face the face of the human body within the thickness of the raised portion 130. As a result, the orientation of the transmitting antenna 200 is always maintained toward the inside of the oral cavity. Therefore, the transmitting antenna 200 is protected from the external environment. The same applies to the control device 250.

Referring to FIG. 3, the mask 100 of the wireless power transfer mask device 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 is shown semi-transparently, and the correspondence between the transmitting antenna 200 mounted outside the oral cavity and the receiving antenna 300 mounted inside the oral cavity is exemplified. Has been done.
As can be understood from the figure, the receiving antenna 300 is arranged close to the transmitting antenna 200, facilitating the reception of the electromagnetic wave transmitted from the transmitting antenna 200.
As can be seen from the figure, the receiving antenna 300 arranged in the oral cavity is preferably housed in an arbitrary artificial object 400.

With reference to FIG. 4, the relative relationship between the transmitting antenna 200 and the receiving antenna 300 illustrated in FIG. 3 is expanded and illustrated.
For example, a mouthpiece 400 having an arbitrary size and shape is placed in the oral cavity. By incorporating the receiving antenna 300 in the main body of the mouthpiece 400, the mouthpiece 400 can be attached to the oral cavity and at the same time the receiving antenna 300 can be attached to the oral cavity. By not directly exposing the receiving antenna 300 to the external environment, the biocompatibility condition can be relaxed.

Furthermore, any electronic device (electrical stimulator, sensor, etc.) is built in the main body of the mouthpiece 400. Therefore, it is easy to supply the electric power received by the receiving antenna 300 to the electronic devices arranged close to each other. In the main body of the mouthpiece 400, the receiving antenna 300 and the electronic device can be physically connected by a wire or the like.

For example, the electronic device may be an electrical stimulator capable of reinforcing the sensory organs (auditory, taste, visual, olfactory, tactile, lacrimal gland, salivary gland, sweat gland) of the human head.
For example, the electronic device may be an artificial sensory organ that can function in place of the patient's sensory organs.
For example, the electronic device may be a sensor placed on the head of the human body. Specifically, the electronic device includes a temperature sensor that detects the patient's body temperature or oral temperature, a glucose sensor that detects the concentration of glucose from saliva components in the oral cavity, a pressure sensor that detects the occlusal force in the oral cavity, and the oral cavity. It may be a salivary gland secretion and treatment or any other type of biocompatibility sensor.

With reference to FIG. 5, the receiving antenna 300 illustrated in FIG. 4 is enlarged and illustrated.
As can be understood from FIGS. 4 and 5, both the transmitting antenna 200 and the receiving antenna 300 are configured as a loop antenna having an element (conductor) in a ring shape. However, the length (rotational speed) of the coil is changed according to each installation location.

For example, since the transmitting antenna 200 is incorporated in the main body portion 110 having a relatively thin thickness, it is preferable that the element has an annular shape (one coil shape) to form the thinnest structure (FIG. 1). It has a thickness along the H direction).
On the other hand, since the receiving antenna 300 is incorporated in the mouthpiece 400 having a relatively thick thickness (thickness along the H direction in FIG. 1), there is a margin for rotating a plurality of elements in a spiral shape.

In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving antenna 300 constitutes the main body 310 so as to proceed in a coil shape around two times. As a result, both ends 320 and 330 of this element are spaced apart at predetermined intervals. The ends 320 and 330 are incorporated in an arbitrary power feeding circuit in order to supply power to the electronic device.
The size (diameter) of the coil of these two antennas can be changed according to the installation location and the like.
For example, since the receiving antenna 300 is housed in the main body of the mouthpiece 400 in the oral cavity, the diameter of the coil of the receiving antenna 300 is relatively small. To give a specific example, in the illustrated embodiment, the diameter of the receiving antenna 300 is about 5 mm.

On the other hand, since the transmitting antenna 200 is arranged in the larger main body 110, the diameter of the coil of the transmitting antenna 200 is relatively large without being restricted by the size of the mouthpiece 400 in the oral cavity. From the figure, it can be understood that the diameter of the transmitting antenna 200 is several times larger than the diameter of the receiving antenna 300.
In both the transmitting antenna 200 and the receiving antenna 300, the elements are configured in a coil shape, but the rotation speed and the size (diameter) thereof are not limited to those shown in the drawings.

A control device 250 for controlling the transmitting antenna 200 is built in the main body of the mask. The control device 250 may be, for example, a small single board computer equipped with a processor. The control device may be, for example, Raspberry Pi (Raspberry Pi (registered trademark)) or the like. Any circuit for operating the transmitting antenna 200 can be associated with the control device 250.

The wireless power transfer mask device 1 according to the first embodiment uses a circular loop antenna as an antenna. Generally, it is said that the most efficient loop antenna is a circle. However, in this embodiment, the type of loop antenna is not limited to a circle. It is possible to use an approximate octagonal or hexagonal loop antenna depending on the wavelength at the time of use.

Further, in the wireless power transfer mask device 1 according to the first embodiment, the antenna used is not limited to the loop antenna. For example, the wireless feeding mask device 1 may use a single patch antenna (planar antenna) or a plurality of patch antennas (including a patch array antenna) as the antenna.

Further, in the wireless power transfer mask device 1 according to the first embodiment, the antenna used does not have to be a single unit. For example, the wireless power transfer mask device 1 can also use a metasurface in combination with the antenna.
A metasurface is a kind of metamaterial (artificial medium), and is a waveguide element having an arbitrary dielectric constant and magnetic permeability in which a structure small with respect to a wavelength is periodically arranged. The metasurface has a feature that the reflection and transmission phase of the electromagnetic wave incident on the surface can be controlled. Therefore, the metasurface can be used to control the incident light. In this embodiment, an antenna design using a metasurface is performed by applying the same concept to microwaves. The planar antenna itself, which is a combination of a meta-material and an antenna, is sometimes called a metasurface 10.

Hereinafter, the second embodiment of the wireless power transfer mask device 1 using the metamaterial will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 14.
6 to 9 illustrate a combination of a metasurface and an LC resonator that forms a metasurface antenna (transmitting antenna).
10 and 11 illustrate the simulation results of the function of the transmitting antenna, which was performed using a mathematical model on a computer.
12 to 14 illustrate a control flow with respect to the control of the transmitting antenna.
In the following description, the same reference numbers shall be used for the same or the same devices, parts, components, etc. as those of the first embodiment illustrated with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5, in order to avoid duplication of description. , The detailed explanation is omitted.

Referring to FIG. 6, in the configuration exemplified in FIG. 1, a metasurface antenna (transmitting antenna) 220 is mounted in a raised portion 130 of a mask-shaped main body portion 110 having a size of covering the oral cavity of the head from the outside. The situation is illustrated. The transmitting antenna 220 has a combination of a metasurface 500 and an LC resonator 600. The transmitting antenna 220 can be used in place of the transmitting antenna 200 of the loop antenna illustrated in FIG.

The metasurface 500 is a kind of metamaterial (artificial medium), and is a waveguide element having an arbitrary dielectric constant by periodically arranging a structure small with respect to a wavelength. In general, a metasurface has a feature that can control the reflection and transmission phase of electromagnetic waves incident on the surface. Therefore, the metasurface 500 can be used to control the incident light. In this embodiment, an antenna design using the metasurface 10 is performed by applying the same concept to microwaves. The planar antenna itself, which is a combination of a meta-material and an antenna, is sometimes called a metasurface 500.

With reference to FIG. 7, the combination of the metasurface 500 and the LC resonator 600 exemplified in FIG. 6 is shown in a perspective view.
Referring to FIG. 8, the combination of the metasurface 500 and the LC resonator 600 exemplified in FIG. 7 is shown in a plan view.

From these figures, it can be understood that the combination of the metasurface 500 and the LC resonator 600 is arranged on the same plane and has an extremely thin thickness as a whole. This is suitable for mounting in a thin mask 100. Therefore, the combination of the metasurface 500 and the LC resonator 600 can be arranged in the thickness of the raised portion 130 of the mask-shaped main body portion 110.

As can be seen from FIG. 7, the metasurface 500 can be composed of a plurality of patches 510 and 520. In the illustrated embodiment, the metasurface 500 is composed of two patches 510 and 520, but it is possible to configure the metasurface 500 from a larger number of patches.

Each patch 510 and 520 can be made of any material. For example, each patch 510 and 520 can be configured using precious metals such as gold, silver and copper. Further, each patch 510 and 520 can be arranged on an arbitrary substrate (silicon substrate or the like).

Each patch 510 and 520 can be manufactured from any process. For example, a plurality of patches 510 and 520 are configured to be arranged in a predetermined pattern on the surface of the substrate. For example, after controlling the surface of the substrate to a uniform film thickness, a metasurface 500 composed of a plurality of patches 510 and 520 may be formed by drawing, creating, and coating a nanopattern on the film. .. At this time, any processing such as a spin coating method can be used. The finally obtained metasurface 500 can be mounted in the raised portion 130 of the main body portion 110.

"One chip RF solution" 700 can be combined with the meta surface 500. The "One chip RF solution" 700 is a control device that controls the metasurface 500 and the LC resonator 600. The control device 700 has an appropriate circuit for controlling the feeding to each patch 510 and 520. For example, the control device 700 can include a high frequency switch or an RF switch. A high frequency switch is a switch that switches the path of a high frequency signal.

Referring to FIG. 8, the meta-surface 500 has one gap 530 interposed between two patches 510 and 520 juxtaposed on the upper and lower sides. Preferably, the two patches 510 and 520 have the same length of each facing side and are separated from each other by the same distance.

By associating a high frequency switch between two adjacent patches 510 and 520, the energization state of these two patches 510 and 520 can be controlled at the same time. Therefore, the wireless power supply mask device 1 can freely change the current pattern on the surface of the metasurface 500 by selectively controlling the high frequency switch.

The current pattern flowing on each patch 510 and 520 can be controlled by the ON / OFF combination of the corresponding high frequency switch. For example, by using an electronic high-frequency switch, it is possible to switch on and off the path through which the high-frequency signal passes according to the state of the control signal.

The high frequency switch is centrally managed by the control device 700. As a result, the plurality of patches 510 and 520 can be fed by a part of these patches, by patches, or by a small group of patches. The number of patches and the number of switches are not limited to the illustrated embodiments.
In this way, the control device 700 controls the meta surface 500 so that the features of the meta surface 500 can be utilized.

An LC resonator 600 is arranged around the meta surface 500 so as to surround the outside thereof. The LC resonator 600 is configured by arranging two resonators configured in a substantially ring shape in a nested manner. An LC component (LC component) 610 is arranged in each resonator.

Each of the two ring-shaped LC resonators 600 (ring-shaped portion) has an elongated element extending in an annular shape. Preferably, the two ring-shaped resonators are similar to each other and are arranged in a nested manner, and are separated from each other by a predetermined distance.

The LC resonator 600 can behave like an antenna with respect to a magnetic field penetrating the center of the LC resonator 600. The electromagnetic wave radiated to the outside from this antenna passes through the metasurface 500 nested inside the LC resonator 600. Therefore, a metasurface antenna (transmitting antenna) 220 is formed by combining the metasurface 500 and the LC resonator 600.

For example, when the LC resonator 600 behaves as an antenna and generates an electromagnetic wave (beam), beamforming (beam adjustment) can be performed by controlling a plurality of patches 510 and 520 with a high frequency switch. Become. For example, beamforming can be used to switch the transmission direction and transmission power. The switching can be performed in multiple stages.

In the illustrated embodiment, the double ring structure of the LC resonator 600 extends along the contour of a similar polygon. In particular, the double ring structures all extend along the periphery of the pentagon. This pentagon can be a regular pentagon having the same length on one side. Further, this pentagon can be an inverted pentagon or an inverted regular pentagon so that the upper side extends in parallel and the apex comes directly below. In particular, by having an inverted pentagonal or inverted pentagonal shape, the two ring-shaped LC resonators 600 can be placed on the outside of the upper and lower lips surrounding the oral cavity so as not to interfere with them.

The double ring structure of the LC resonator 600 has a structure that bends at five corners and advances, so that it can have properties similar to those of a circular loop ring. In other words, the double ring structure of the pentagonal LC resonator 600 does not significantly reduce its properties as compared to the circular case.

The double ring structure of the LC resonator 600 can have a predetermined strength by having a structure that bends at five corners and advances. For example, even when the upper lip and the lower lip make various movements, the double ring structure arranged around the upper lip and the lower lip can maintain a predetermined shape by the five corners.

In particular, the inverted pentagon or the inverted regular pentagon has a shape that spreads in contrast to the vertical and horizontal directions, and is therefore suitable for surrounding the oral cavity. Therefore, it is suitable for maintaining the shape of the double ring structure against the movements of the corners of the mouth, the upper lip, the lower lip, and the like. As described above, the shape of the transmitting antenna conforms to the unique shape unique to the mask, and has technical characteristics.

The double ring structure of the LC resonator 600 is not limited to the above-mentioned inverted pentagon or inverted regular pentagon. For example, the double ring structure may be formed to bend and proceed in a polygonal shape suitable for placement around the oral cavity. For example, the double ring structure of the LC resonator 600 may be formed in a hexagonal or regular hexagonal shape. Furthermore, the double ring structure may be formed into a polygon having arbitrary angles, an inverted polygon, or a regular polygon.

With reference to FIG. 9, regarding the function of the metasurface antenna (transmitting antenna) 220, the simulation result performed by using a mathematical model on a computer for the radiation of electromagnetic waves in a three-dimensional space is exemplified.
Reference numeral 220 in the figure corresponds to the position of the transmitting antenna 220 arranged outside the oral cavity of the human body. Reference numeral 300 in the figure corresponds to the position of the receiving antenna arranged in the oral cavity of the human body. This position corresponds to the center of the three-dimensional space. The positions of these two antennas are positioned in the three-dimensional space according to the actual separation distance.

In FIG. 10, the electromagnetic wave emitted from the transmitting antenna 220 is shown in a relatively bright color (white) according to its intensity at the place where its existence is presumed. Similarly, in places where the presence of electromagnetic waves is not estimated, they are shown in a relatively dark color (black) according to their intensity. Therefore, in the three-dimensional space, the existence of electromagnetic waves is illustrated in gray scale according to their intensities.

For example, at the location of the transmitting antenna 220, electromagnetic waves are illustrated in the brightest color. As indicated by reference numeral 220a, since the transmitting antenna 220 is arranged inside the mask 100, the traveling of the electromagnetic wave toward the outside of the mask (that is, the outside of the oral cavity) is restricted. Further, as indicated by reference numeral 220b, the progress of the electromagnetic wave toward the inside of the mask (that is, the inside of the oral cavity) is not restricted because there is nothing to hinder the progress. Therefore, the electromagnetic wave emitted from the transmitting antenna 220 to the outside is transmitted to the location of the receiving antenna 300 while maintaining a relatively bright color. As a result, it can be understood that the receiving antenna 300 can receive the electromagnetic wave transmitted from the transmitting antenna 220 in a relatively good state.

Since the transmitting antenna 220 is housed in the main body 110, it is suitable for concentrating the transmission direction of electromagnetic waves in the oral cavity. Therefore, in this embodiment, the transmitting antenna 220 can have a suitable directivity in relation to the receiving antenna 300.
It is possible to equip the mask 100 with means for further increasing the directivity of the transmitting antenna 220. For example, a reflector may be arranged on the back side of the transmitting antenna 220 in the main body 110. In this case, when a part of the beam emitted from the transmitting antenna 220 is directed to the outside, the direction may be adjusted or reflected so that the beam is directed toward the oral cavity.

With reference to FIG. 10, the simulation results performed using a mathematical model on a computer with respect to the functions (gain, etc.) of the metasurface antenna (transmitting antenna) 220 are exemplified.
As described above, in this embodiment, when the LC resonator 600 behaves as an antenna and generates an electromagnetic wave (beam), a plurality of patches 510 and 520 are controlled by a high frequency switch arranged in the gap 530. Beamforming (adjustment of beam direction, width, etc.) is performed by.
That is, the metasurface 500 of the transmitting antenna 220 changes the directivity of the electromagnetic wave for supplying power to the electronic device arranged in the oral cavity.

FIG. 10 illustrates that the gain is distinguished in four stages as a result of beam adjustment for a predetermined frequency. Three of these are shown on the graph. For example, at a frequency of 0.92 GHz, the transmission power is gradually increased as in -66 dB, -37 dB, -62 dB, etc., as illustrated by reference numerals S1, 1, S1, 2, S2, 1 and the like in FIG. I'm changing.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the transmitting antenna 220 can have an appropriate gain in practice in relation to the receiving antenna 300.
In particular, in this embodiment, the transmission power of the transmission antenna can be changed stepwise. Therefore, it is possible to supply the optimum power according to the change in the state of the receiving antenna 300 side.
The frequency and the like are examples, and the values thereof can be changed according to the embodiment.

The wireless power feeding mask device 1 according to the present embodiment is specially devised so that the power transmitted from the transmitting antenna 220 to the receiving antenna 300 can be efficiently supplied.
With reference to FIG. 11, a schematic diagram of power transmission control of the wireless power transfer mask device 1 is illustrated.
The power transmitter corresponds to the transmitting antenna 220 (LC resonator 600 combined with the metasurface 500) illustrated in FIG.
The power receiver corresponds to the receiving antenna 300 arranged in the oral cavity as illustrated in FIG.
As illustrated in FIG. 3, the sensor corresponds to an electronic device built in the mouthpiece 400 arranged inside the oral cavity.

Referring to FIG. 11, reference numeral A1 illustrates an electromagnetic wave transmitted from the power transmitter side to the power receiver side. As illustrated in FIG. 4, this electromagnetic wave is configured to be received by a receiving antenna 300 built in the mouthpiece 400 arranged inside the oral cavity.
Reference numeral A2 illustrates the power supply between the receiving antenna 300 and the sensor inside the mouthpiece 400. For example, inside the mouthpiece 400, the receiving antenna 300 and the sensor are connected by wire, and as a result, the receiving antenna 300 is configured to be able to supply power to the sensor by the received power.

The sensor can sense the condition in the oral cavity. Further, the sensor can transmit a signal related to the measured value to the power receiver as a feedback signal (see reference numeral B1). This feedback signal can be transmitted from the receiving antenna 300 side to the power transmitter (wireless power feeding mask device 1) side (see reference numeral B2).

The power transmitter (wireless power supply mask device 1) can subsequently adjust the electromagnetic wave transmitted to the power receiver (beamforming) based on the received feedback signal. By changing the interval at which the sensing result (measured value) is transmitted, it may function as a feedback signal. Alternatively, it may function as a feedback signal by adding further data to the sensing result.

Hereinafter, a flow for transmitting a feedback signal will be illustrated with reference to FIG. This flow is composed of a plurality of steps, each step being built into the mouthpiece (artificial object) 400 and performed by a control device associated with a sensor and a receiving antenna 300. In this example, the feedback signal functions as a feedback signal by changing the interval at which the sensing result (measured value) of the sensor is transmitted.
In step S1, the control device acquires data (feedback signal) from the sensor (electronic device) built in the mouthpiece 400 (see reference numeral B1).

In step S2, the control device determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the data of the sensor. For example, the control device compares and determines the value acquired from the sensor with a predetermined threshold value. The predetermined threshold value is a set value stored in advance in the control device.
For example, the set value is a constant. Therefore, regardless of changes in the environment, the comparison calculation is always performed with a threshold value of a constant value as a reference, so that the calculation can be simplified.

Alternatively, the set value is a variable. In this case, since the comparison calculation is performed based on the threshold value of a different value according to the change in the environment (for example, the change in the body temperature or the oral temperature of the patient), the optimum judgment can be made according to the change in the environment. can.
The variable may be a variable derived according to a predetermined condition from an arbitrary table, database, or the like stored in the storage device associated with the control device.

When the control device finds that there is an abnormality as a result of the determination in step S2 (for example, the value acquired by the sensor exceeds or falls below a predetermined threshold value), the control device proceeds to step S3 and the sensor data. Give feedback.

On the other hand, when the control device does not find any abnormality as a result of the determination in step S2 (for example, the value acquired by the sensor is below or above a predetermined threshold value, etc.). Following the determination, the process proceeds to step S4 to determine whether or not the transmission power is the minimum.
In the above determination, for example, the control device compares and determines the value of the transmission power with a predetermined threshold value. The predetermined threshold value is a set value stored in advance in the control device. The set value is a constant or a variable.

When the control device finds that the transmission power value is the minimum as a result of the determination in step S4 (for example, the transmission power value falls below a predetermined threshold value), the control device proceeds to step S3 and proceeds to step S3 of the sensor. Feed back the data.

On the other hand, if the value of the transmission power is not found to be the minimum as a result of the determination in step S4 (for example, the value of the transmission power exceeds a predetermined threshold value), the control device proceeds to step S5. Set to minimize the transmission power. As a result, the process proceeds to step S3, and the sensor data is fed back, but the transmission interval thereof is distinguished from other cases.

In this way, a sensor is attached to the power receiver side to sense the state in the oral cavity.
If there is no abnormality, the sensing information is fed back to the power transmitter for a certain long period of time (for example, once an hour) (low power consumption operation).
When there is an abnormality, the sensing information is fed back to the power transmitter in a certain short period (for example, once a minute).

In this way, by feeding back the information regarding the presence or absence of the abnormality to the power transmitter side, it is possible to feed back the state of power consumption in a pseudo manner. On the power transmitter side, the transmission power of the power transmitter can be dynamically changed based on the transmitted feedback signal.
For example, the control device reduces the transmission power in the case of low power consumption operation. If not, the controller increases the transmit power in two or multiple steps. As a result, optimum beamforming can be performed according to the operating status of the sensor.

In this way, the feedback signals may be distinguished by changing the interval between the transmitted signals. Alternatively, the feedback signals may be distinguished by flagging or weighting each signal transmitted. In the latter case, it is not necessary to change the interval of each signal transmitted.

For example, referring to FIG. 12 again, in the modified example, when an abnormality is found as a result of the determination in step S2 (for example, the value acquired by the sensor exceeds or falls below a predetermined threshold value, etc.). , Step S3 to feed back the sensor data. At that time, the data may be flagged or weighted (for example, "1: null" is added).
If, as a result of the determination in step S4, the value of the transmission power is found to be the minimum (for example, the value of the transmission power falls below a predetermined threshold value), the process proceeds to step S3, and the sensor data is input. provide feedback. The data may then be flagged or weighted (eg, "0: 1" added).
If, as a result of the determination in step S4, the value of the transmission power is not found to be the minimum (for example, the value of the transmission power exceeds a predetermined threshold value), the process proceeds to step S5 to minimize the transmission power. Set to. At that time, the data may be flagged or weighted (eg, "0: 0" added).

Therefore, through step S3, three different types of flagged feedback signals are sent from the power receiver side to the power transmitter side.
The control device on the power transmitter side can control the transmission antenna 220 according to the content of the flag. For example, the control device keeps the transmission power high in the case of the "1: null" and "0: 1" flags, while the transmission power is in the case of the "0: 0" flag. It can be changed from large to small. As a result, the transmission power can be reduced as needed.

In this way, the control device of the power transmitter (wireless power supply mask device 1) can adjust the magnitude of the transmitted power as beamforming. The adjustment is not limited to two stages, large and small, and can be performed in multiple stages.
In addition, the control device can also adjust the direction of power transmission as beamforming.

Referring to FIG. 13, a modification of the beamforming illustrated in FIG. 11 is shown.
In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11, the electromagnetic wave transmitted from one power receiver is received by one power receiver.
In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13, a plurality of power receivers are provided. In this case, the electromagnetic wave transmitted from one power receiver can be received by a plurality of power receivers.

For example, sensors may be placed at a plurality of locations in the oral cavity (upper and lower sides of the oral cavity, etc.). Further, for example, a sensor may be arranged in each of a plurality of teeth (two teeth or a plurality of teeth) in the oral cavity. Each sensor can individually sense the state of the oral cavity and feed back the sensing information.

For example, suppose sensors are located at two different locations in the oral cavity.
Here, it is assumed that one of the two sensors feeds back the data for setting to minimize the transmission power, but the other sensor does not feed back the data for setting to minimize the transmission power.
In this case, the power receiver minimizes the transmit power for one of the two sensors, but minimizes the transmit power for the other sensor, based on the two feedback data received. It is possible to send electromagnetic waves so as not to.
At this time, the position of the power receiver associated with each sensor is fed back to the power transmitter, and beamforming can be performed so that each sensor can receive the optimum power.

For example, it is assumed that the upper sensor in the oral cavity has low power consumption operation, but the lower sensor in the oral cavity does not. In that case, the power transmitter reduces the transmission power for the upper sensor in the oral cavity and increases the transmission power for the lower sensor in the oral cavity.
For example, the power transmitter may change the transmission direction so as to move the transmitted electromagnetic wave downward.
In particular, in this embodiment, since the metasurface 500 is associated with the transmitting antenna 220, it is possible to realize various radiation patterns.

In this case as well, each feedback signal may be distinguished by changing the interval between the transmitted signals. Alternatively, each feedback signal may be distinguished by flagging or weighting each signal transmitted. In the latter case, each feedback signal may be further flagged or weighted as to which of the plurality of sensors it belongs to.

Hereinafter, the third embodiment of the wireless power transfer mask device 1 using the meta surface will be described with reference to FIGS. 14 and 15.
In the following description, the same reference numbers shall be used for the same or the same devices, parts, components, etc. as those of the first embodiment illustrated with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6, in order to avoid duplication of description. , The detailed explanation is omitted.
Further, the same reference numbers shall be used for the same or the same devices, parts, components, etc. as those of the second embodiment illustrated with reference to FIGS. 6 to 13, and the details thereof shall be avoided in order to avoid duplication of description. I will omit the explanation.

The wireless power supply mask device 1 according to this embodiment has added a reconfigurable metasurface (hereinafter, simply referred to as a metasurface) 10 that can freely manipulate the radiation pattern. Therefore, various beamforming is possible regarding the size of the transmitted power, the direction of the transmitted power, and the like. Therefore, by using the feedback data transmitted from the sensor side in combination, it is possible to gradually switch and apply an appropriate power transmission status according to various usage conditions on the sensor side.

With reference to FIG. 14 (A), the reference numeral Tx schematically indicates a transmitting device. The transmission device Tx is configured to transmit electromagnetic waves (E1 to E3) for power supply to the outside by using any suitable antenna (not shown). The electromagnetic waves (E1 to E3) are configured to be sent wirelessly in the three-dimensional space and received by the receiving antenna 300 illustrated in FIG.

Since the wireless power supply mask device 1 according to the present embodiment transmits the electromagnetic waves (E1 to E3) to the outside, various types of antennas can be used in the transmission device Tx. For example, the wireless feeding mask device 1 may use a single patch antenna (planar antenna), a plurality of patch antennas (including a patch array antenna), or the like as the antenna. The transmitter Tx has any suitable means for controlling the amplitude and phase of the electromagnetic waves (including microwaves) radiated from the antenna.
For example, the transmission device Tx includes a microwave oscillator 4 and an amplifier 6 inside, and enables generation of electromagnetic waves (E1 to E3), and also enables control of its radiation pattern (beam direction) by the control device 3. ing.

In this embodiment, the wireless power supply mask device 1 adds a reconfigurable metasurface (hereinafter, simply referred to as a metasurface) 10 that can freely manipulate the radiation pattern to the transmission device Tx of the antenna. The metasurface 10 has a larger number of patches and switches than those illustrated in FIG.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 6, the metasurface 500 and the LC resonator 600 are configured on the same plane. On the other hand, in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 14, the transmitting antenna and the metasurface 10 are configured in a multi-layered manner. Therefore, the thickness is increased as a whole, and when accommodating in the thin main body 110, a part of the transmitting antenna and the metasurface may be projected outward from the main body 110.

In this embodiment, the control device 3 can control not only the electromagnetic wave radiation performed in the normal transmission device Tx but also the electromagnetic wave radiation via the added metasurface 10. In this embodiment, the control device 3 of the transmission device Tx controls the meta surface 10, but a control device for controlling the meta surface 10 may be provided separately from the control device 3 of the transmission device Tx. It is possible.
Hereinafter, the description of the control of the electromagnetic wave radiation pattern by the control device 3 relates to the control of the electromagnetic wave radiation pattern via the metasurface 10.

As can be understood from (A) and (B) of FIG. 14, the metasurface 10 is composed of a plurality of waveguide patches or radiation patches (hereinafter, simply referred to as patches) 12a, 12b, 12c ... In each patch 12a, 12b, 12c, a small structure with respect to the wavelength is periodically arranged, and is configured to realize a desired dielectric constant and magnetic permeability.
Each patch is configured so that an electromagnetic wave incident from one surface side can pass through the inside and be radiated from the opposite surface side.

Each patch 12a, 12b, 12c has a predetermined shape and is regularly arranged. For example, each patch 12a, 12b, 12c has a quadrangular shape (for example, a square) in the XY plane shown in FIG. 14B, and in the Z-axis direction shown in FIG. 14A. It is configured to have an ultra-thin thickness. The patches 12a, 12b, and 12c are regularly arranged on the same plane. As described above, the plurality of patches 12a, 12b, and 12c are preferably configured to be compact, ultrathin, and ultralight.

Referring to (B) of FIG. 14, a patch array of m × n arrangement (m horizontal, n vertical) arranged periodically in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction on the same plane is exemplified. .. For example, adjacent patches are arranged so that the lengths of one side of each quadrangle are aligned in the vertical direction (for example, the positions at both ends of each side) and the spacing (gap) of each quadrangle is kept uniform in the horizontal direction. Has been done.

Referring to (B) of FIG. 14, in the wireless power transfer mask device 1 according to the present embodiment, high frequency switches 20a and 20b are arranged in adjacent gaps of a plurality of patches 12a, 12b and 12c, respectively. Therefore, the wireless power supply mask device 1 is configured to freely change the current pattern on the surface of the metasurface 10 by selectively controlling these high frequency switches 20a and 20b.

Referring to (B) of FIG. 14, switches 20a and 20b are provided between adjacent patches 12a, 12b and 12c in the vertical direction and / or the horizontal direction. Therefore, by switching the energized state of one switch, the power supply state of a part of the two patches arranged so as to sandwich the switch is controlled. The switches 20a and 20b are centrally managed by the control device 3 and individually controlled. As a result, the plurality of patches 12a, 12b, and 12c are not all supplied uniformly, but can be supplied by a part of these patches, by patches, or by a small group of patches.

For example, in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 14B, the patches 12a, 12b, and 12c, each of which is formed into a square of the same size, are the same in the vertical and horizontal directions with their relative positions aligned. Aligned at intervals. Adjacent patches 12a, 12b, and 12c are arranged on the outer peripheral side so as to sandwich the switches 20a and 20b. In this way, when there are m horizontal and n vertical patches 12a, 12b, 12c ..., there are a total of "m * (n-1) + n * (m-1)", that is, "2m *". "Nm-n" switches 20a, 20b ... Can be used.

The current pattern flowing on each patch 12a, 12b, 12c can be controlled by the ON / OFF combination of the corresponding switches 20a, 20b. For example, by using the electronic high frequency switches 20a and 20b, it is possible to switch on and off the path through which the high frequency signal passes according to the state of the control signal. As described above, when there are X switches as a whole, the combination of switches exists as "2 to the Xth power". As a result, the versatility can be further enhanced as compared with general phase control type beamforming.

Therefore, in this embodiment, as described above, by arranging a plurality of patches 12a, 12b, 12c and switches 20a, 20b, a wireless power supply mask device 1 that performs beamforming in various forms is configured. Is possible. Referring to (A) of FIG. 14, it is schematically illustrated that beamforming is performed in a plurality of different modes as illustrated by reference numerals E1, E2, and E3 by individually controlling the switches 20a and 20b. Has been done. Although the reference numerals E1, E2, and E3 are overlapped in FIG. 14A, any one of the reference numerals E1, E2, and E3 is selectively used.

For example, as indicated by reference numeral E1, the wireless power transfer mask device 1 may adjust the direction and spread of the transmitted wave or beam so as to spread along the plane of the metasurface 10.
For example, as indicated by reference numeral E2, the wireless power transfer mask device 1 may adjust the direction and spread of the beam so as to spread in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the metasurface 10.
For example, as indicated by reference numeral E3, the wireless power transfer mask device 1 may adjust the direction and spread of the beam so as to spread at an oblique angle (about an acute angle) with respect to the plane of the metasurface 10.
Further, the wireless power transfer mask device 1 can perform beamforming so as to finely adjust the angle, direction, spread, etc. of the emitted beam with respect to the plane of the metasurface 10.

For example, when the directivity of the beam is indicated by the reference numeral E1, it is suitable for transmitting an electromagnetic wave toward a position on the front side in the oral cavity or the like.
For example, when the directivity of the beam is indicated by the reference numeral E2, it is suitable for transmitting an electromagnetic wave toward a position on the inner side of the oral cavity.
For example, when the directivity of the beam is indicated by the reference numeral E3, it is suitable for transmitting an electromagnetic wave toward an obliquely upper position in the oral cavity.
Switching between the directivity E1, E2, and E3 can be performed while the position of the transmitting antenna is not changed, so that the usability is improved. Therefore, the directivity of the antenna can be variously controlled while keeping the position of the mask 100 having the built-in transmitting antenna.

As described above, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 14, each of the plurality of patches 12 constituting the meta surface 10 has a square shape and has a regular tessellation shape. However, this embodiment is not limited to this embodiment.
For example, the shape of the patch 12 may be another shape having a regular tessellation, that is, an equilateral triangle or a regular hexagon.
However, the shape of the patch 12 is not limited to the regular tessellation type.
For example, the shape of the patch 12 may be any quadrangle including a rectangle, a rhombus, a trapezoid, or a parallelogram.
For example, the shape of the patch 12 may be any polygon including a triangle, a pentagon, or a hexagon.

In addition, the shape of the patch 12 can be made into a more complicated shape.
For example, the shape of the patch 12 may be circular or elliptical.
For example, the shape of the patch 12 may be semi-circular or semi-elliptical.
For example, the shape of the patch 12 may be substantially L-shaped or substantially V-shaped.
For example, the shape of the patch 12 may be substantially C-shaped or substantially U-shaped.
For example, the shape of the patch 12 may be a substantially cross shape or a substantially X-shaped shape.
For example, the shape of the patch 12 may be a substantially T-shape or a substantially Y-shape.

Depending on the shape of each patch 12, the size of the gap between adjacent patches can be varied.
For example, when one side of adjacent patches extends straight to each other, the size of the gap may be constant along the length of the side.
For example, when one side of adjacent patches extends in a curved line with each other, the size of the gap may change along the length of the side.
However, in order to obtain a good energized state on the surface of the metasurface 10, it is preferable that the size of the gap between adjacent patches is small.

As described above, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 14, the plurality of patches 12 constituting the metasurface 10 each have the same size, shape, and / or material. However, this embodiment is not limited to this embodiment.
For example, the plurality of patches 12 do not necessarily have the same size, shape and / or material.
For example, of the plurality of patches 12 constituting the metasurface 10, the patch 12 arranged in the center has a relative size, shape, and / or material as compared with the other patches 12 arranged outside the patch 12. May be changed.

With reference to FIGS. 15A and 15B, one specific example of the wireless power transfer mask device 1 exemplified in FIGS. 14A and 14B is illustrated.
Referring to FIG. 15A, the patch antenna 30 and the hexagon-type (honeycomb-type) metasurface 14 are arranged so as to be overlapped in a multi-layered manner. The metasurface 14 also contains a plurality of patches 16c, 16d, 16e.

Referring to FIG. 15 (A), the central patch 16c has a hexagonal shape (hexagon, honeycomb). The length of each side of this hexagon is the same, and the angles formed by the two adjacent sides are the same. In this example, the central patch 16c and the outer peripheral side patches 16d and 16e arranged on the outer side thereof can have different shapes and sizes, respectively.

The patch 16c in the center and the patches 16d and 16e on the outer peripheral side arranged outside the patch 16c are arranged with the length, position and angle of the adjacent sides aligned, respectively. Preferably, these plurality of patches 16c, 16d, 16e are separated from each other by a uniform size (gap). A switch 26c, 26d is arranged in the center of the adjacent patches 16c, 16d, 16e, respectively.

Referring to FIG. 15 (B), the radiation pattern (directivity) of the electromagnetic wave emitted from the antenna 30 to the outside when the energized states of the switches 26c and 26d are switched with respect to the meta surface 14 exemplified in FIG. 15 (A). An example of sex) is shown.
Reference numeral 11a illustrates a state when all the switches 26c and 26d are supplied with power. In this case, the electromagnetic wave is radiated to the outside evenly to the left and right with 0 ° as the center.
Reference numeral 11b exemplifies a state when a part of the switches 26c and 26d is fed. In this case, the electromagnetic wave is biased from 0 ° to the left side and is radiated to the outside unevenly with respect to the left and right sides.
As described above, in the case of the meta-surface 14 illustrated in FIG. 15, the radiation pattern of the electromagnetic wave emitted from the antenna 30 to the outside can be changed in the same manner as in the meta-surface 10 illustrated in FIG.

Specifically, referring to FIG. 16, it can be understood that the main lobe (the lobe in the strongest radiation direction) is changed by changing the radiation pattern from 11a to 11b. Similarly, in this case, it can be seen that the sidelobes (lobes excluding the main lobe) have changed. As a result, the directivity of the antenna is changing. The same applies to changes in the anteroposterior ratio and beam width.

There are various methods of beamforming, but in this embodiment, the radiation pattern can be shaken at least by about ± 30 °.
At that time, it is possible to select a plurality of types such as the direction, spread (range), shape, size, and branching method of the electromagnetic wave.
Therefore, in this embodiment, it is possible to finely adjust the beam.
Further, in this embodiment, the size of the antenna can be reduced and the weight can be reduced, so that it can be applied to a relatively compact installation area. Therefore, it can be applied to the main body 110.

In the embodiment described with reference to FIG. 15, the metasurface 14 composed of the plurality of patches 16c, 16d, 16e and the plurality of switches 26c, 26d are used in combination with respect to the antenna 30, and the antenna 30 is variously used. It enables beamforming to realize various radiation patterns.
For example, in this embodiment, when beamforming is controlled by using X switches, there are as many combinations of switches as “2 to the Xth power”. However, if necessary, the size, number, number of switches, etc. of the patch shall be narrowed down in consideration of the occupied space.
In this embodiment, the control device 3 controls the radiation pattern of the electromagnetic wave radiated through the meta surface 14, thereby considerably increasing the versatility of the control.
The same applies to the examples illustrated in FIG.

As described above, Example 1 exemplified in FIGS. 1 to 6, Example 2 exemplified in FIGS. 6 to 13, and Example 3 exemplified in FIGS. 14 to 16 may be used alone. Alternatively, they may be used in combination with each other. In the latter case, it is possible to appropriately combine some of the components of each embodiment.
For example, in the third embodiment, the transmitting antenna has a patch antenna and a metasurface in combination. On the other hand, by combining the first and third embodiments, the transmitting antenna can have a loop antenna and a metasurface in combination.
Therefore, in this embodiment, it is possible to configure the wireless power transfer mask device 1 that performs beamforming in various forms.

The control device on the power transmission side and / or the power reception side may be, for example, a single board computer equipped with a processor. The control device may be, for example, Raspberry Pi (Raspberry Pi) or the like. It can also be realized by edge computing with Python (registered trademark) on Raspberry Pi. Especially on the power transmission side, since the size of the control device is not limited to the oral cavity, it is possible to select from a wider variety of sizes in terms of size. Further, on the power transmission side, the control device can be attached to the outside of the main body 110 so that the size is not limited to the inside of the main body 110.

The power transmission side and / or the power reception side control device can be associated with the main memory device. Various programs and applications (modules) are stored in this main storage device, and each functional element of the entire system is realized by executing these programs and applications by a processor. In addition, each of these modules may be implemented by Harware by integrating them. Further, each module may be an independent program or application, but may be implemented in the form of a part of a subprogram or a function in one integrated program or application.

As described above, the wireless power transfer mask device according to the first to third embodiments has been described with reference to the drawings.
It should be understood that this embodiment is not limited to the illustrated embodiment.
For example, in the above description, the wireless power transfer mask device includes a mask-like main body portion having a size of covering the oral cavity of the head from the outside. This head is not limited to the head of the human body. For example, it may be the head of any animal such as a dog, a cat, a horse, a cow, a pig, or a sheep.
Further, in the above description, the wireless power supply mask device includes a mask-shaped main body portion having a size of covering the oral cavity of the head from the outside. This mask-shaped main body is not limited to the mask. For example, it may be an auxiliary tool that wraps around the mouth of the head of any animal such as a dog, cat, horse, cow, pig, or sheep.

Further, the mask-shaped main body portion having a size of covering the oral cavity of the head from the outside can be applied to any mask worn on the face. For example, it can be applied to a gas mask worn on the face to protect the human body from poisonous gas, dust, microorganisms, toxins and the like.
In addition, the mask-shaped main body having a size that covers the oral cavity of the part from the outside can be applied to a medical mask worn on the face for any medical purpose such as assisting breathing.

Further, in the above description, it is exemplified that the wireless power transfer mask device uses an LC resonator (Example 2) or a patch antenna (Example 3) having a double ring structure as a transmitting antenna to be combined with the metasurface. However, this embodiment is not limited to the embodiment. The wireless feeding mask device can use a linear antenna as part or more of the transmitting antenna combined with the metasurface. As the linear antenna, for example, an arbitrary linear antenna such as a dipole antenna, a monopole antenna, or an inverted F-type antenna can be used.

Also, it should be understood that the wireless power transfer mask device according to this embodiment can add any device, circuit, etc. in order to improve the current flow through the antenna. Further, it should be understood that the wireless power supply mask device according to this embodiment can add an arbitrary member (reflector, radome, etc.) in order to improve the flow of electromagnetic waves in the main body 110.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, but includes various modifications. For example, the above-described embodiment has been described in detail in order to explain the present invention in an easy-to-understand manner, and is not necessarily limited to the one including all the described configurations. Further, it is possible to replace a part of the configuration of one embodiment with the configuration of another embodiment, and it is also possible to add the configuration of another embodiment to the configuration of one embodiment. Further, it is possible to add / delete / replace a part of the configuration of each embodiment with another configuration.

In addition, the control lines and information lines indicate those that are considered necessary for explanation, and do not necessarily indicate all the control lines and information lines in the product. In practice, it can be considered that almost all configurations are interconnected.
It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiment discloses at least the configuration described in the claims.

1 ... Wireless power supply mask device, 100 ... Mask, 110 ... Mask-like body, 200 ... Transmit antenna, 220 ... Transmit antenna, 300 ... Receive antenna, 400 ... Artificial object (mouthpiece), 500 ... Metasurface (metamaterial) , 600 ... LC resonator, 700 ... control device

Claims (10)

1. It is a wireless power transfer mask device
   It has a mask-like body that covers the oral cavity of the head from the outside.
   The mask-like body comprises a transmitting antenna having a metasurface that supplies power toward the oral cavity.
   Wireless power transfer mask device.
2. The transmitting antenna has a resonator having a double ring structure.
   The wireless power transfer mask device according to claim 1.
3. The double ring structure has two large and small ring-shaped portions arranged in a nested manner.
   The transmitting antenna arranges the metasurface in the two ring-shaped portions.
   The wireless power transfer mask device according to claim 2.
4. The two large and small ring-shaped portions are polygons similar to each other.
   The wireless power transfer mask device according to claim 3.
5. The metasurface is composed of at least two conductive patches and arranges a high frequency switch connecting the two adjacent conductive patches.
   The wireless power transfer mask device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.
6. The transmitting antenna is composed of a loop antenna.
   The wireless power transfer mask device according to claim 1.
7. The transmitting antenna is composed of a patch antenna.
   The wireless power transfer mask device according to claim 1.
8. The wireless power transfer mask device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the transmitting antenna changes the directivity of an electromagnetic wave for supplying power to an electronic device arranged in the oral cavity.
9. It has a control device that controls the metasurface, and has
   The electronic device is
   If there is no abnormality, the information is fed back to the control device for a certain long period of time.
   If there is an abnormality, it is configured to feed back information to the control device in a short period of time.
   The control device changes the magnitude of the transmission power of the transmission antenna based on the feedback information.
   The wireless power transfer mask device according to claim 8.
10. The electronic device is a sensor that senses the state of the oral cavity, or an electrical stimulator that reinforces a sensory organ.
    The wireless power transfer mask device according to claim 8 or 9.

Images