Ic tag

The present invention relates to an IC tag (including the form of an IC card).

Conventionally, an active type IC tag with a built-in battery is known. This type of IC tag is formed by incorporating a processing unit including a CPU, a data communication unit that performs data communication with the outside, and a built-in battery in a small space. It was very difficult in terms of space to provide switches that can be operated with human fingers on such a small IC tag. Therefore, it is difficult to switch the power on / off of the IC tag later, and it is necessary to electrically connect the battery and the processing unit in advance from the manufacturing stage of the factory. Therefore, there is a problem that the internal battery is wasted during the period from the manufacturing stage of the factory to the start of actual use, and the period of actual use is shortened.

On the other hand, there was a similar problem even in a somewhat large form such as an IC card. That is, the IC card is formed into a card shape by sealing the circuit portion and the battery in a resin mold. Therefore, it is necessary to connect the circuit portion and the battery in advance before sealing the resin mold. Therefore, there is a problem that the battery starts to be consumed immediately after the manufacturing stage of the factory, and the actual usable period is shortened. In order to solve such a problem of the IC card, Patent Document 1 presents the following conventional proposal.

(Conventional plan 1) First, an electrode portion serving as a power switch is provided in advance between the circuit portion of the IC card and the battery, and this electrode portion is exposed on the outer surface of the IC card. On the other hand, a conductive film is provided in advance on the decorative sheet side to be attached to the outer surface of this IC card. At the stage of manufacturing the IC card, the decorative sheet is not completely attached so that the electrode portion and the conductive film are not brought into contact with each other. In this state, the electrode portion does not conduct electricity, and the circuit portion and the battery are electrically cut off. Therefore, battery consumption can be suppressed as much as possible. On the other hand, just before the IC card is shipped, the conductive film is firmly fixed to the electrode portion so that the electrode portion becomes conductive. As a result, power supply from the battery to the circuit part is started, and the IC card becomes usable. By connecting the batteries immediately before shipment in this way, it is possible to extend the usable period of the IC card as much as possible.

(Conventional plan 2) First, an electrode portion that serves as a power switch is provided in advance between the circuit portion of the IC card and the battery. A low melting point metal is fixed to this electrode portion via an insulating film having a low melting point. In this state, the electrode portion does not conduct electricity, and the circuit portion and the battery are electrically cut off. Therefore, in this state, battery consumption is suppressed as much as possible. On the other hand, by heating the IC card immediately before the shipment of the IC card, the insulating film is destroyed and the melted low melting point metal is fixed to the electrode portion. As a result, the electrode portion becomes conductive, and power supply from the battery to the circuit portion is started. By connecting the batteries immediately before shipment in this way, it is possible to extend the usable period of the IC card as much as possible.

(Conventional plan 3) First, an electrode portion that serves as a power switch is provided in advance between the circuit portion of the IC card and the battery. A soft metal is provided near the electrode portion in a non-contact state. In this state, the circuit part, the battery, and the soft metal are enclosed in the card. In this state, the electrode portion does not conduct electricity, and the circuit portion and the battery are electrically cut off. Therefore, in this state, battery consumption is suppressed as much as possible. On the other hand, immediately before the shipment of the IC card, the soft metal is crushed by pressing the IC card from the outside, and the electrode portion is made conductive by the crushed soft metal. As a result, power supply from the battery to the circuit portion is started. By connecting the batteries immediately before shipment in this way, it is possible to extend the usable period of the IC card as much as possible.

(Conventional plan 4) First, an electrode portion that serves as a power switch is provided in advance between the circuit portion of the IC card and the battery. A metal plate having protrusions is placed on the electrode portion with an insulating film (spacer) sandwiched between them. In this state, the electrode portion does not conduct electricity, and the circuit portion and the battery are electrically cut off. Therefore, in this state, battery consumption is suppressed as much as possible. On the other hand, just before the IC card is shipped, by pressurizing the IC card from the outside, the protrusions of the metal plate break through the insulating film and come into contact with the electrode portion. As a result, the electrode portion becomes conductive, and power supply from the battery to the circuit portion is started. By connecting the batteries immediately before shipment in this way, it is possible to extend the usable period of the IC card as much as possible. On the other hand, Patent Document 2 shows the following conventional proposal.

(Conventional plan 5) First, an electrode portion that serves as a power switch is provided in advance between the circuit portion of the IC card and the battery. An insulating elastic body (spacer) is sandwiched between the electrode portions, and a conductive thermal adhesive film is laminated. In this state, the electrode portion does not conduct electricity, and the circuit portion and the battery are electrically cut off. Therefore, in this state, battery consumption is suppressed as much as possible. Further, during the IC card test, the conductive thermal adhesive film can be temporarily brought into contact with the electrode portion by pressurizing the IC card from the outside. In this state, power is temporarily supplied from the battery to the circuit part, and the IC card can be tested. On the other hand, just before the IC card is shipped, the conductive thermal adhesive film is fixed to the electrode portion by heating the IC card while applying pressure from the outside. As a result, the electrode portion becomes conductive, and the power supply from the battery to the circuit portion is constantly started. By connecting the batteries immediately before shipment in this way, it is possible to extend the usable period of the IC card as much as possible.

<patcit num="1"><text>Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 5-258131 (Claims 1 to 8)</text></patcit><patcit num="2"><text>Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 5-233903</text></patcit>

<p>(Problem of the conventional plan 1) By the way, in the above-mentioned conventional plan 1, the electrode part must be exposed to the outer surface, and the electrode part must be stored with due consideration for short circuit due to the conductive metal and corrosion of the electrode part. It doesn't become. Therefore, there is a problem that it is not suitable for IC cards and IC tags that are expected to be used in various environments.</p><p>(Problem of the conventional plan 2) Further, in the above-mentioned conventional plan 2, the IC card and the IC tag must be exposed to heat in order to melt the low melting point metal inside. Due to such heat, the thermal deterioration of the battery progresses, and there is a problem that the life of the battery is significantly shortened. Another problem is that general-purpose plastic, which is sensitive to heat, cannot be used for the housing.</p><p>(Problem of conventional plan 3) Furthermore, in the above-mentioned conventional plan 3, in order to crush the soft metal inside, it is necessary to pressurize enough to deform the housing, and there is a considerable probability of pressure failure with a thin IC tag. There was a problem that it happened in.</p><p>(Problem of the conventional plan 4) Similarly, in the above-mentioned conventional plan 4, in order to break through the insulating film by the protrusion of the metal plate inside, it is necessary to pressurize enough to deform the housing, and the pressure is applied to the thin IC tag. There was a problem that destruction would occur with a high probability.</p><p>(Problem of the conventional plan 5) Further, in the above-mentioned conventional plan 5, in order to bond the conductive heat-bonding sheet inside to the electrode portion, heating at 220 degrees for about 8 seconds is required. Due to such heat, the thermal deterioration of the battery progresses, and there is a problem that the life of the battery is significantly shortened. Another problem is that general-purpose plastic, which is sensitive to heat, cannot be used for the housing.</p><p>(Common problems of conventional plans 1 to 5) By the way, in common with the above-mentioned conventional plans 1 to 5, the conduction of the electrode portion is made by irreversible means. Therefore, if the electrode portion is constantly conducting, the power cannot be turned off even during an unused period. Therefore, there is a problem that efficient power saving operation cannot be performed and the actual usage period is shortened. In particular, in operations such as turning on the power only during use and turning off the power during the unused period, sufficient consideration must be given to the operability of turning the power on and off during actual use, that is, by the user. However, when the power is turned on and off using a mechanical switch such as pressurizing a decorative sheet, it is necessary to match the size of a human finger. However, with a small IC tag, it is structurally difficult to secure a space for arranging such a mechanical switch. Furthermore, with thin IC cards and small IC tags, structural deterioration is likely to occur with the pressurization operation of the mechanical switch, which is a major cause of reliability deterioration.</p><p>(Problem of power supply control using data communication) The IC tag has a built-in data communication unit that performs data communication. Therefore, it is also possible to give a power on / off control command to the data communication unit by data communication from the outside. However, in this measure, the data communication unit in the IC tag must always be in the standby state, and power must be supplied to the data communication unit even when the power is turned off. Normally, the data communication unit operates with a high-speed clock for data communication and requires a large amount of power for data communication with the outside. Therefore, a considerable proportion of the power consumption of the IC tag is consumed by the data communication unit. Therefore, there is a problem that a sufficient power saving effect cannot be expected if the data communication unit is constantly supplied with power in order to put it in the standby state.</p><p>(Problem of the Present Invention) Therefore, in view of the above-mentioned problems, it is an object of the present invention to provide an IC tag with a function capable of easily operating an operation mode from the outside, in addition to the function of data communication. Another object of the present invention is to provide a technique for instructing an IC tag to perform various operations by a simple operation from the outside. Another object of the present invention is to provide an IC tag that enables an operation of switching the power saving mode from the outside. Another object of the present invention is to provide a specific embodiment of a sensor for switching an operation mode from the outside.</p>

<p>&lt;&lt; Claim 1 &gt;&gt; The IC tag of claim 1 includes the following data communication unit, processing unit, sensor, and operation switching unit. The data communication unit has a function of performing data communication with an external device. The processing unit controls this data communication unit. The sensor detects a predetermined external world state by sensing a predetermined physical quantity that can be operated from the outside (for example, an operator) with respect to the external world of the IC tag. The operation switching unit switches the operation mode of the IC tag according to the detection of the external state by the sensor.</p><p>&lt;&lt; Claim 2 &gt;&gt; The invention according to claim 2 includes a recording unit that stores an operation mode in which the operation switching unit switches according to detection of an external state by a sensor in the IC tag according to claim 1.</p><p>&lt;&lt; Claim 3 &gt;&gt; The invention according to claim 3 includes a recording unit that stores the correspondence between the number of times the external world state is detected and the operation mode of the IC tag in the IC tag according to claim 1. On the other hand, the operation switching unit determines the operation mode of the IC tag by counting the number of times the external state is detected and collating the correspondence of the recording units according to the number of times of detection.</p><p>&lt;&lt; Claim 4 &gt;&gt; In the IC tag according to claim 3, the operation switching unit stops or interrupts the switching of the operation mode when the number of detections exceeds a predetermined upper limit.</p><p>&lt;&lt; Claim 5 &gt;&gt; The invention according to claim 5 includes a timer for measuring the time interval from the detection time of the external world state to the next detection time in the IC tag according to claim 1. It also has a recording unit that stores conversion rules that convert this time interval into the operation mode of the IC tag. The operation switching unit determines the operation mode of the IC tag by collating the time interval measured by the timer with this conversion rule.</p><p>&lt;&lt; Claim 6 &gt;&gt; The invention according to claim 6 includes a timer that detects a predetermined time range in the IC tag according to claim 1. It also has a recording unit that stores a conversion rule that converts the number of times the external state is detected in the time range into the operation mode of the IC tag. The operation switching unit measures the number of times the external state is detected in the time range detected by the timer. Further, the operation switching unit determines the operation mode of the IC tag by collating the number of detections with the conversion rule.</p><p>&lt;&lt; Claim 7 &gt;&gt; In the invention according to claim 7, in the IC tag according to any one of claims 1 to 6, the operation mode in which the operation switching unit is switched is "Stop the operation of the data communication unit. It is at least one of "process to start operation", "process to start operation of data communication unit", "process to stop operation of processing unit", and "process to start operation of processing unit".</p><p>&lt;&lt; Claim 8 &gt;&gt; The invention according to claim 8 includes a clock unit that supplies an operating clock to the processing unit in the IC tag according to any one of claims 1 to 6. On the other hand, the operation mode switched by the operation switching unit is at least one of "a process of stopping the supply of the operation clock", "a process of intermittently executing the supply of the operation clock", and "a process of supplying the operation clock". ..</p><p>&lt;&lt; Claim 9 &gt;&gt; The invention according to claim 9 has a "high-speed clock used for data communication" and a "low-speed clock slower than the high-speed clock" in the IC tag according to any one of claims 1 to 6. It is equipped with a clock unit that has a function of switching to a "clock". On the other hand, the operation mode to be switched by the operation switching unit is at least one of "a process of switching the output of the clock unit to a low-speed clock" and "a process of switching the output of the clock unit to a high-speed clock".</p><p>&lt;&lt; Claim 10 &gt;&gt; The invention according to claim 10 includes an electric power supply unit that supplies electric power to the IC tag according to any one of claims 1 to 6. On the other hand, the operation modes that the operation switching unit switches are "process to stop all power supply of power supply unit", "process to partially stop power supply of power supply unit", and "execute power supply of power supply unit". It is at least one of "processing to make".</p><p>&lt;&lt; Claim 11 &gt;&gt; In the invention according to claim 11, in the IC tag according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the sensor is any one of the following sensor groups. (1) Magnetic sensor that detects magnetism (2) Electric field sensor that detects electric field (3) Optical sensor that detects light (4) Capacitance sensor that detects capacitance and dielectric constant (5) piezoelectric sensor (6) ) Pressure sensor (7) Contact sensor (8) Electromagnetic wave sensor (9) Voltage sensor (10) Reed switch that switches by magnetic field (11) Solar cell (12) Sound sensor (13) Temperature sensor (14) Pressure sensor (14) 15) Gas sensor (16) Acceleration sensor (17) Distortion sensor</p>

<p>(Claim 1) The IC tag of claim 1 has an operation switching function by a sensor in addition to the data communication by the data communication unit. That is, this IC tag senses the surrounding physical quantity using a built-in sensor, and switches the operation mode of the IC tag according to the detection of a predetermined external state. Here, the physical quantity detected by the sensor is a physical quantity that can be operated from the outside. Therefore, the detection result of the sensor changes by the physical quantity operation from the outside, and the operation mode of the IC tag can be operated from the outside accordingly.</p><p> As long as it is limited to the standby operation of such an external operation, it is sufficient to energize only the sensor-related parts and put them in the standby state. In general, the data communication unit operates with a high-speed clock for data communication and requires a large amount of power for data communication with the outside, so that it is difficult to save power. However, the sensor requires only the standby power required for sensing the surrounding physical quantity, and even the standby power can be unnecessary for a solar cell or the like that converts the physical quantity into energy. Therefore, in a configuration in which the IC tag is operated from the outside by providing a sensor, it is possible to significantly reduce power consumption, which was not possible in the past.</p><p> Further, it is not necessary to provide an operating member on the outer surface of the IC tag as in the conventional example, and a smaller IC tag can be created. Further, since it is not necessary to apply a strong force required for the operating member to the outer surface of the IC tag, structural deterioration of the IC tag is unlikely to occur.</p><p> Further, since the operation mode is switched by operating the detection result of the sensor from the outside, reversible and flexible switching of the operation mode can be easily realized. Therefore, if the power is turned on immediately before shipment as described in the conventional example, the problem that the power cannot be turned off can be avoided.</p><p>(Claim 2) In the IC tag of claim 2, the operation mode in which the operation switching unit switches according to the detection result of the sensor is recorded in the recording unit. Therefore, by changing the contents of the recording unit, it is possible to flexibly and variously change the operation mode to be switched by an external operation even if the IC tag has the same structure. For example, it is possible to rewrite the determination rule of this operation mode via the data communication unit.</p><p>(Claim 3) The operation mode of the IC tag of claim 3 is switched according to the number of times the external world state is detected. Therefore, by repeatedly giving a predetermined external state to the IC tag, it is possible to sequentially change the operation mode of the IC tag. For example, by switching the operation mode in a cyclic manner at a predetermined cycle according to the number of detections, it is possible to select a desired operation mode from various operation modes. Also, for example, if an appropriate operation sequence is set in the order of the first detection, the second, the third, and so on, the progress timing of this operation sequence is instructed by repeatedly giving the external world state from the outside. It will also be possible. As in these examples, it is possible to instruct the IC tag to a more complicated operation mode, even though it is a simple external operation of giving the IC tag an external state.</p><p>(Claim 4) The IC tag of claim 4 stops or interrupts the switching of the operation mode when the number of detections exceeds a predetermined upper limit. By such an operation, the external world state is given to the IC tag beyond the upper limit number of times, so that the operation mode switching (external operation) using the sensor of the IC tag can be terminated. After that, even if the IC tag happens to encounter an external state in actual use, the operation mode is not switched, and there is no risk of malfunction in actual use.</p><p>(Claim 5) The IC tag of claim 5 measures the time interval from the detection time of the external world state to the next detection time, and converts the time interval into the operation mode of the IC tag according to the conversion rule of the recording unit. .. In this case as well, it is possible to instruct the IC tag to perform a more complicated operation mode, even though it is a simple external operation of giving the IC tag an external state. Further, as compared with the case where the operation mode is sequentially switched for each detection number, in the above operation, the switching of the operation mode in the middle can be omitted. That is, it is possible to directly select a desired operation mode and directly switch to that operation mode depending on the time interval that gives the external world state. In addition, there are innumerable time interval options, and some of them may be assigned to the operation mode. Therefore, even if the operating IC tag happens to encounter an external state, the probability that it happens to correspond to the operation mode switching is extremely low. Therefore, the risk of malfunction in actual use can be reduced.</p><p>(Claim 6) The IC tag of claim 6 determines the operation mode according to the number of detections of the external world state in a predetermined time range. In this case as well, it is possible to instruct the IC tag to perform a more complicated operation mode, even though it is a simple external operation of giving the IC tag an external state. Further, as compared with the case where the operation mode is sequentially switched for each detection number, in the above operation, the switching of the operation mode in the middle can be omitted. That is, it is possible to directly select a desired operation mode and directly switch to that operation mode according to the number of times of the external world state given to the time range. As a measure to avoid malfunctions, it is advisable to set conversion rules so that operation switching is not performed for the number of encounters with external conditions (for example, once or twice) that can be assumed in the time range during actual use. preferable.</p><p>(Claim 7) In the IC tag of claim 7, the operation mode to be switched by the operation switching unit is at least one of the following processing groups.</p><p>(A) "Processing to stop the operation of the data communication unit" ... By this processing, it is possible to suppress a relatively large power consumption by the data communication unit and significantly extend the usable time of the IC tag.</p><p>(B) "Process to start the operation of the data communication unit" ... By this process, the operation start timing of the data communication unit can be instructed from the outside of the IC tag.</p><p>(C) "Processing to stop the operation of the processing unit" ... By this processing, the power consumption in the processing unit can be suppressed and the usable time of the IC tag can be extended.</p><p>(D) "Process to start the operation of the processing unit" ... By this processing, the operation start timing of the processing unit can be instructed from the outside of the IC tag.</p><p>(Claim 8) In the IC tag of claim 8, the operation mode to be switched by the operation switching unit is at least one of the following processing groups.</p><p>(A) "Processing to stop the supply of the operating clock" ... By this processing, the operation in the IC tag performed by the operating clock is stopped to reduce power consumption, and the usable time of the IC tag is greatly extended. Can be done.</p><p>(B) "Processing to intermittently supply the operating clock" ... By this processing, the operation in the IC tag performed by the operating clock is intermittently performed to reduce power consumption, and the usable time of the IC tag. Can be extended.</p><p>(C) "Process to supply the operation clock" ... By this process, the operation start timing in the IC tag performed by the operation clock can be instructed from the outside of the IC tag.</p><p>(Claim 9) In the IC tag of claim 9, the operation mode to be switched by the operation switching unit is at least one of the following processing groups.</p><p>(A) "Processing to switch the output of the clock section to a low-speed clock" ... By this processing, the operating speed of the IC tag can be slowed down by the low-speed clock to reduce power consumption and extend the usable time of the IC tag. ..</p><p>(B) "Processing to switch the output of the clock section to a high-speed clock" ... By this processing, the timing to increase the operating speed of the IC tag can be instructed from the outside of the IC tag.</p><p>(Claim 10) In the IC tag of claim 10, the operation mode to be switched by the operation switching unit is at least one of the following processing groups.</p><p>(A) "Process to stop all power supply of the power supply unit" ... By this process, the power consumption of the IC tag can be suppressed and the usable time of the IC tag can be extended.</p><p>(B) "Processing to partially stop the power supply of the power supply unit" ... By this processing, the power consumption of the IC tag can be suppressed and the usable time of the IC tag can be extended.</p><p>(C) "Process to execute the power supply of the power supply unit" ... By this process, the power supply timing inside the IC tag can be instructed from the outside of the IC tag.</p><p>(Claim 11) In the IC tag of claim 11, the sensor is one of the following sensor groups.</p><p>(1) Magnetic sensor that detects magnetism By equipping the IC tag with a magnetic sensor, for example, a magnet can be brought closer to the IC tag, or a current can be passed through a lead wire placed near the IC tag to generate a magnetic field. Simple magnetic operation is possible. Therefore, the operation mode of the IC tag can be easily switched from the outside.</p><p>(2) Electric field sensor that detects the electric field ... By equipping the IC tag with an electric field sensor, the operation mode of the IC tag can be externalized by a simple electric field operation such as placing the IC tag between the electrodes to which a potential difference is applied. Can be easily switched from.</p><p>(3) Optical sensor that detects light ... By equipping the IC tag with an optical sensor that detects light from the outside world, for example, the IC tag can be irradiated with light, or the IC tag can be taken in and out of a dark place (shield bag, etc.). The operation mode of the IC tag can be easily switched from the outside by a simple optical operation such as covering the IC tag with a shielding sheet.</p><p>(4) Capacitance sensor that detects capacitance and dielectric constant ... By equipping the IC tag with a capacitance sensor, for example, the dielectric constant around the IC tag can be changed, or a moving object near the IC tag can be changed. The operation mode of the IC tag can be easily switched from the outside by a simple capacitance operation such as changing the distance to the IC tag or touching the IC tag with a finger or the like.</p><p>(5) Piezoelectric sensor: By equipping the IC tag with a piezoelectric sensor, the operation mode of the IC tag can be easily changed from the outside by a simple operation such as giving a minute mechanical distortion to the IC tag (piezoelectric sensor). It can be switched.</p><p>(6) Pressure sensor: By equipping the IC tag with a pressure sensor, the operation mode of the IC tag can be changed from the outside by a simple operation such as applying a slight pressure (to the extent that structural deterioration does not occur) to the IC tag. It can be easily switched.</p><p>(7) Contact sensor: By equipping the IC tag with a contact sensor, the operation mode of the IC tag can be externalized by a simple contact operation (to the extent that structural deterioration does not occur), for example, by lightly touching the IC tag with a finger or the like. Can be easily switched from.</p><p>(8) Electromagnetic wave sensor: By equipping the IC tag with an electromagnetic wave sensor, the operation mode of the IC tag can be easily switched from the outside by a simple electromagnetic wave operation such as generating a spark near the IC tag. ..</p><p>(9) Voltage sensor: Since the IC tag is equipped with a voltage sensor, the operation mode of the IC tag can be easily switched from the outside by a simple voltage operation such as applying a voltage to the IC tag.</p><p>(10) Reed switch that switches by magnetic field ... By equipping the IC tag with a reed switch, for example, a magnet is brought close to the IC tag, or a current is passed through a lead wire placed near the IC tag to generate a magnetic field. The operation mode of the IC tag can be easily switched from the outside by a simple magnetic operation such as.</p><p>(11) Solar cell: By equipping the IC tag with a solar cell that generates electricity from the light of the outside world, for example, the IC tag can be irradiated with light, or the IC tag can be taken in and out of a dark place (shield bag, etc.). The operation mode of the IC tag can be easily switched from the outside by a simple optical operation such as covering the IC tag with a shielding sheet.</p><p>(12) Sound sensor: By equipping the IC tag with a sound sensor, the operation mode of the IC tag can be easily switched from the outside by a simple sound operation such as generating a sound near the IC tag. it can.</p><p>(13) Temperature sensor: By providing the IC tag with a temperature sensor, for example, the IC tag may be cooled or slightly heated (to the extent that structural deterioration does not occur), or a temperature difference may be given to both ends of the IC tag. The operation mode of the IC tag can be easily switched from the outside by the simple temperature operation of.</p><p>(14) Barometric pressure sensor: By equipping the IC tag with a barometric pressure sensor, for example, the barometric pressure can be changed by pushing the bag against the IC tag in an airtight bag, or the IC tag can be evacuated before actual use. The operation mode of the IC tag can be easily switched from the outside by a simple atmospheric pressure operation such as taking it out of the pack.</p><p>(15) Gas sensor: By equipping the IC tag with a gas sensor that detects the surrounding gas, for example, a simple gas environment such as changing the gas around the IC tag or opening the storage bag of the IC tag. The operation mode of the IC tag can be easily switched from the outside by the operation of.</p><p>(16) Accelerometer: Since the IC tag is equipped with an acceleration sensor, the operation mode of the IC tag can be easily switched from the outside by a simple acceleration operation such as shaking the IC tag.</p><p>(17) Strain sensor: By equipping the IC tag with a strain sensor, the IC tag can be operated by a simple strain operation such as giving a slight mechanical strain (to the extent that structural deterioration does not occur) to the IC tag. The mode can be easily switched from the outside.</p>

&lt;&lt; First Embodiment &gt;&gt; [Structure Description]

The first embodiment is an embodiment in which the operation mode of the IC tag is switched from the outside by moving the magnet closer to or further away from the IC tag. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the IC tag 11. This IC tag 11 incorporates the following units.

(1) Data communication unit 13: Performs data communication using radio waves or infrared rays. (2) Recording unit 14: In addition to the programs and data required for normal tag operation, the programs and data required for switching the operation mode from the outside are also stored. For example, the following operation modes are preferable. "Processing to stop the operation of the data communication unit 13", "Processing to start the operation of the data communication unit 13", "Processing to stop the operation of the CPU 16", "Processing to start the operation of the CPU 16", "Clock circuit 16a" "Processing to stop the clock supply from the clock circuit 16a", "Processing to intermittently execute the clock supply from the clock circuit 16a", "Processing to start the clock supply from the clock circuit 16a", "Process to start the clock supply from the clock circuit 16a", "Low-speed clock output from the clock circuit 16a" "Processing to switch to", "Processing to switch the output of the clock circuit 16a to a high-speed clock", "Processing to stop all the power supply of the power supply unit 17", "Processing to partially stop the power supply of the power supply unit 17", "Processing to execute power supply of power supply unit 17" (3) Magnetic sensor 15 ... A sensor that detects the magnetism around the IC tag 11. For example, a ferromagnetic magnetoresistive element (a sensor that uses the magnetoresistive effect of a ferromagnetic material and whose resistance value changes depending on the magnetic field strength). (4) CPU16 ... Controls the data communication unit 13 and the recording unit 14. It also has a function of switching the operation mode of the IC tag 11 according to the detection result of the magnetic sensor 15. (5) Clock circuit 16a: A circuit that generates the operating clock of the data communication unit 13, CPU16, etc. It also has a clock frequency switching function. (6) Power supply unit 17: Equipped with batteries, etc., and supplies power to the IC tag 11.

[Correspondence with invention]

Hereinafter, the correspondence between the invention and the present embodiment will be described. It should be noted that the correspondence here is an example of one interpretation for reference, and does not limit the present invention to others. The data communication unit described in the claims corresponds to the data communication unit 13. The recording unit described in the claims corresponds to the recording unit 14. The processing unit described in the claims corresponds to the "function for controlling the IC tag 11" of the CPU 16. The sensor according to the claim corresponds to the magnetic sensor 15. The operation switching unit according to the claim corresponds to the "function of switching the operation mode of the IC tag 11 according to the detection result of the magnetic sensor 15" of the CPU 16. The timer described in the claims corresponds to the time measurement function by the CPU 16 and the clock circuit 16a. The clock unit according to the claim corresponds to the clock circuit 16a. The power supply unit according to the claim corresponds to the power supply unit 17.

[External operation method for IC tag 11]

Next, an operation method for switching the operation mode of the IC tag 11 from the outside will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating this operation method. In the present embodiment, by bringing the magnet 18 close to the IC tag 11, a strong magnetic field that cannot be obtained by using a normal tag is applied to the IC tag 11. The magnetic sensor 15 in the IC tag 11 detects this strong magnetic field as a "predetermined external state" and transmits it to the CPU 16. Subsequently, by moving the magnet 18 away from the IC tag 11, the strong magnetic field applied to the IC tag 11 is weakened. The magnetic sensor 15 detects this decrease in the magnetic field as a "change in the external state" and transmits it to the CPU 16. In this way, by operating the magnet 18 to move closer to or further from the IC tag 11, the detection result of the magnetic sensor 15 can be manipulated, and the IC tag 11 can be instructed to switch the operation mode.

[Selection of operation mode]

Next, the operation mode switching sequence by the IC tag 11 will be described. FIG. 3A is a diagram showing an example of an operation mode switching operation. In the case of this example, the process 1 and the process 2 corresponding to the two operation modes are recorded in advance as a program in the recording unit 14. In this state, when the magnetic sensor 15 detects an external state, the CPU 16 shifts the operation from process 1 to process 2. On the contrary, when the magnetic sensor 15 detects the disappearance of the external state, the CPU 16 shifts the operation from the process 2 to the process 1. In such an operation mode switching operation, process 1 and process 2 can be switched alternately by manipulating the external state given to the IC tag 11.

FIG. 3B is a diagram showing another example of the operation mode switching operation. In the case of this example, the process executed by the IC tag 11 is pre-recorded as a program in the recording unit 14. When the magnetic sensor 15 detects an external state after the end of this process, the CPU 16 executes this process again. In this way, the IC tag 11 in the stopped state can be awakened by the external world state as a trigger, and a predetermined process can be repeatedly executed at the timing of giving the external world state.

FIG. 3C is a diagram showing another example of the operation mode switching operation. In the case of this example, processes 1 to 3 corresponding to various operation modes are recorded in advance as a program in the recording unit 14. Process 1 is a process performed immediately after the manufacture of the IC tag 11. If the magnetic sensor 15 detects an external state after the end of this process 1 or during execution (first detection), the CPU 16 shifts to process 2. If the magnetic sensor 15 detects an external state after the end of this process 2 or during execution (second detection), the CPU 16 shifts to the process 3. After that, even if the magnetic sensor 15 detects the external world state (after the third detection), the CPU 16 does not switch the operation mode and continues the process 3. For example, process 1 is an initialization process at the time of manufacturing the IC tag 11. Process 2 is a test process performed by IC tag 11 after initialization. Process 3 is the process executed by the IC tag 11 under the end user. In this way, it is possible to sequentially switch between three or more operation modes, even though it is a simple instruction as to whether or not there is an external world state.

FIGS. 4 (A) and 4 (B) are diagrams showing another example of the operation mode switching operation. First, when the magnetic sensor 15 detects an external state, the CPU 16 measures a time range of 3 seconds from that point using the clock circuit 16a. The CPU 16 counts the number of times the external state is detected Nspan in this time range. FIG. 4 (A) shows a case where the number of detections Nspan is 1 and a case where the number of detections is 2. The recording unit 14 records in advance a conversion rule for converting the number of detections Nspan into the corresponding operation mode, and a program (processes 1, 2, 3, ...) For each operation mode. CPU16 interprets the measured number of detections Nspan according to this conversion rule and selects the operation mode to be executed. FIG. 4B shows a state transition diagram corresponding to an example of this conversion rule. In this conversion rule, when the external state is detected from the initial state, the state transitions to "detection once". From this moment, the measurement of the time range (here, 3 seconds) starts. In this state, when the time range elapses and a timeout occurs, the CPU 16 executes process 1 corresponding to the number of detections Nspan1. When this process 1 ends, it returns to the initial state, and the CPU 16 waits for the next operation mode switching instruction.

If the number of detections Nspan is 1, there is a possibility that the external world state is erroneously detected, so it is preferable to set process 1 to an invalid process such as "NOP". In this case, since the operation mode is switched only in a certain case where the external state is detected twice or more within a limited time range, the probability of malfunction can be significantly reduced. On the other hand, when the magnetic sensor 15 detects the external state again within this time range, the state transitions to "detection twice". In this state, when the time range elapses and a timeout occurs, the CPU 16 executes the process 2 corresponding to the number of detections Nspan 2 times. When process 2 ends, it returns to the initial state, and CPU16 waits for the next operation mode switching instruction. By repeating such an operation, it is possible to selectively instruct the IC tag 11 to a plurality of operation modes, even though it is a simple instruction as to whether or not there is an external world state.

5 (A) and 5 (B) are diagrams showing another example of the operation mode switching operation. First, the CPU 16 uses the clock circuit 16a to measure the time interval from the detection time of the external world state to the next detection time. FIG. 5 (A) shows the case where the time interval is 3 seconds, 1 second, and 2 seconds. The recording unit 14 records in advance a conversion rule for converting this time interval into a corresponding operation mode and a program (processes 1, 2, 3, ...) For each operation mode. CPU16 interprets the measured time interval according to this conversion rule and selects the operation mode to execute. FIG. 5B shows a state transition diagram corresponding to an example of this conversion rule. In this conversion rule, if the first time interval is 1 second, CPU 16 executes process 1 immediately. If the first time interval is 2 seconds, CPU 16 immediately executes process 2. On the other hand, when the first time interval is 3 seconds, the CPU 16 makes a state transition to "interval 3 seconds" and waits for the measurement result of the next time interval. If the second time interval is 1 second, CPU 16 executes process 3. If the second time interval is 2 seconds, CPU 16 executes process 4. On the other hand, when the second time interval is 3 seconds, the CPU 16 makes a state transition to "interval (3,3)" and waits for the measurement result of the next time interval. By repeating such an operation, it is possible to selectively instruct the IC tag 11 to a plurality of operation modes, even though it is a simple instruction as to whether or not there is an external world state. Next, a mode of sensor connection in the IC tag will be described.

&lt;&lt; Second Embodiment &gt;&gt; FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a sensor connection of the IC tag 20. The sensor unit 23 includes a magnetic sensor, a comparator that converts the output of the magnetic sensor into an interrupt signal, and the like. The interrupt signal output from the sensor unit 23 is input to the interrupt terminal of the CPU 21. When an interrupt signal is input from the interrupt terminal, the CPU 21 exits hibernation such as HALT and executes an interrupt processing program recorded in the recording unit 24. In this interrupt process, the operation mode is executed in synchronization with the detection of the external world state, and the operation mode switching process is executed.

In this way, by using the interrupt function of the CPU 21, it is not necessary for the CPU 21 to periodically monitor the sensor output, and the processing load of the CPU 21 can be reduced. Further, even if the CPU 21 is in a hibernation state, the interrupt function makes it possible to start the operation in response to the detection of the external state by the sensor. Therefore, the IC tag 20 can be awakened and a desired operation can be started from a state in which the CPU 21 and the data communication unit 25 are suspended, or a state in which the clock supply is partially stopped or completely stopped.

&lt;&lt; Third Embodiment &gt;&gt; FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a sensor connection of the IC tag 31. In FIG. 7, the regulator (or DC-DC converter) 34 stabilizes the voltage Vcc of the battery 32 and outputs it as the regulated voltage Vdd. This regulated voltage Vdd is supplied with power to the CPU 35, the data communication unit 36, and the recording unit 37. On the other hand, the sensor unit 33 is operated by the voltage Vcc of the battery 32. The sensor unit 33 includes a magnetic sensor and a circuit that inverts (toggle operation) the output signal each time the magnetic sensor detects an external state. The output signal of the sensor unit 33 is input to the chip enable terminal of the regulator 34.

With the above-described configuration, the regulator 34 can be switched on and off according to the detection / non-detection of the external state by the sensor unit 33. As a result, by giving a predetermined external state to the IC tag 31, the regulator 34 is turned off, the power supply to the CPU 35, the data communication unit 36, and the recording unit 37 is stopped, and the IC tag 31 is placed in the power saving mode. It becomes possible to shift to hibernation. In addition, by giving the IC tag 31 an external state again from this state, the regulator 34 is turned on, the power supply to the CPU 35, the data communication unit 36, and the recording unit 37 is restarted, and the IC tag 31 operates normally. It becomes possible to shift to the state.

&lt;&lt; Fourth Embodiment &gt;&gt; FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a sensor connection of the IC tag 41. In FIG. 8, the CPU 43 supplies the power supply voltage Vdd to the sensor unit 46 from the I / O terminal. A data communication unit 44 and a recording unit 45 are connected to the CPU 43. For example, in the case shown in FIG. 3C, when the number of times the external world state is detected exceeds the upper limit number of times, the detection of the external world state becomes unnecessary. Therefore, when the number of detections exceeds the upper limit, the CPU 43 sets the output voltage of the I / O terminal to a low level or high impedance state and cuts off the power supply to the sensor unit 46. By such an operation, it is possible to supply electric power to the sensor unit 46 only for a necessary period and to stop the electric power supply to the sensor unit 46 for other periods. As a result, the IC tag 41 can be further reduced in power consumption. In particular, this configuration is effective when a phototransistor with high power consumption is used as a sensor.

&lt;&lt; Fifth Embodiment &gt;&gt; FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating sensor connection of the IC tag 51.

In FIG. 9, a data communication unit 54 and a recording unit 55 are connected to the CPU 56. The output signal of the sensor unit 53 is input to the chip enable terminal of the data communication unit 54. In such a configuration, the sensor unit 53 detects the external state (such as bringing a magnet closer) given to the IC tag 51, and the data communication unit 54, which consumes a relatively large amount of power, can be directly switched on and off.

&lt;&lt; Sixth Embodiment &gt;&gt; FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a sensor connection of the IC tag 61. In FIG. 10, a data communication unit 63 and a recording unit 64 are connected to the CPU 62. The number of times the external state is detected by the sensor 65 is counted by the counter 66. The number of detections counted by the counter 66 is input to the CPU 62. A signal for resetting the number of detections can be output from the CPU 62 to the counter 66. In such a configuration, the external state given to the IC tag 61 (such as bringing a magnet closer) is counted by the counter 66, and the operation mode can be switched by the CPU 62 according to the number of detections.

&lt;&lt; Supplementary matters of the embodiment &gt;&gt; In the above-described embodiment, the case where the recording unit is provided in the IC tag has been described. However, the memory for the program may be in another tag or a server connected to the IC tag via a network. In this case, the program may be downloaded as needed via the data communication unit.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the magnetic sensor is used has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Generally, any sensor that senses a physical quantity that can be operated externally may be used. For example, electric field sensors, optical sensors that detect light, capacitance sensors, piezoelectric sensors, pressure sensors, contact sensors, electromagnetic wave sensors, voltage sensors, lead switches, solar cells as light receiving elements, temperature sensors, barometric pressure sensors, gas sensors, etc. Sound sensors such as acceleration sensors, strain sensors, and ultrasonic sensors are preferable.

As the power source for the IC tag, a primary battery such as a coin-type battery or a button-type battery, a power source for generating power such as a secondary battery, a solar cell, a piezoelectric element, or a thermoelectric element, a capacitor, or the like is preferable.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the operation is switched according to the binary detection of whether or not it is in a predetermined external world state. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, by setting a plurality of external world states, it is possible to select one from a plurality of types of operation modes.

Further, the external state may be detected based on conditions such as a change direction and a change width of the physical quantity instead of the physical quantity value itself. For example, in the case of a magnetic sensor, it is possible to detect information such as whether the magnet is approaching or moving away, and the moving width of the magnet as an external state based on the change direction and the change width of the magnetism.

Furthermore, by mounting a plurality of types of sensors, it is possible to logically combine external states. The operation mode to be switched may be determined according to these logics (logical sum, logical product, negation, etc.).

In the above-described embodiment, the tag-shaped IC tag has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the present invention may be applied to an IC card.

As described above, the present invention is a technique that can be used for IC tags and the like.

<figref num="1">It is a figure which shows the structure of IC tag 11.</figref><figref num="2">It is a figure explaining the operation which gives to IC tag 11 from the outside.</figref><figref num="3">It is a state transition diagram which shows the conversion rule of an operation mode.</figref><figref num="4">It is explanatory drawing which shows the conversion rule of the operation mode.</figref><figref num="5">It is explanatory drawing which shows the conversion rule of the operation mode.</figref><figref num="6">It is a figure explaining the sensor connection of IC tag 20.</figref><figref num="7">It is a figure explaining the sensor connection of IC tag 31.</figref><figref num="8">It is a figure explaining the sensor connection of IC tag 41.</figref><figref num="9">It is a figure explaining the sensor connection of IC tag 51.</figref><figref num="10">It is a figure explaining the sensor connection of IC tag 61.</figref>

Code description

11 IC tag 13 Data communication unit 14 Recording unit 15 Magnetic sensor 16 CPU16a Clock circuit 17 Power supply unit 18 Magnet 21 CPU23 Sensor unit 31 IC tag 32 Battery 33 Sensor unit 34 Regulator 35 CPU36 Data communication unit 37 Recording unit 41 IC tag 43 CPU44 Data communication unit 45 Recording unit 46 Sensor unit 51 IC tag 53 Sensor unit 54 Data communication unit 55 Recording unit 56 CPU62 CPU66 Counter