JP2006005753A - Method, system, server and program for deriving communication topology - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To derive communication topology (connection form) of a communication network system composed of a plurality of devices when the plurality of devices are distributed and arranged. <P>SOLUTION: In communication topology deriving processing, a host device 10 transmits a control rule A to all input-output control devices (nodes 1 to 7). Then, the host device 10 acquires the device ID of an input-output control device in which the needed number of hops is K times at the time of transmitting data. Respective input-output control devices that have received a message for an ID request respectively transmit a response message including a self-device ID according to the control rule A. When the host device 10 acquires the device ID, the host device 10 generates a topology tree obtained by adding an input-output control device with the acquired device ID attached. The host device 10 acquires the device ID of each number of hops to execute processing for generating the topology tree until an end condition is established. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to communication for deriving a communication topology indicating a connection state in a wireless communication network for a plurality of input / output control devices (sequencers) having distributed wireless communication functions for performing data communication via the wireless communication network. The present invention relates to a topology derivation method, a communication topology derivation system, a communication topology derivation server, and a communication topology derivation program.

  Conventionally, in order to monitor the operation status and security management of a mechanical system built in a factory or building, the mechanical system state is corrected based on input signals from various sensors for grasping the mechanical system state. Therefore, an input / output control device (sequencer) that outputs a control signal to an actuator is widely used.

  Conventionally, a sequence applied to a management system for automating the operation of a large-scale mechanical system installed in a specific space such as a factory or building by centrally managing the sequencer group with computers. Control technology is widely known.

  In the factory and building management systems as described above, sequencers that perform pre-programmed operations for each application are generally fixed and installed in a specific space, and each sequencer is configured using a wired communication network. Is managed centrally.

  On the other hand, a sequencer having a wireless communication function has been proposed due to the recent development of wireless technology. For this reason, the degree of freedom of the installation location of the sequencer has increased, and the sequence control technology is expected to be applied as a sensor network technology for monitoring a relatively large space such as farmland soil quality management and forest growth management. Has been.

  A technique related to a sequencer having a wireless communication function includes a technique in which a plurality of communication devices (sequencers) having a wireless communication function establish a temporary network (ad hoc network) and communicate with each other (for example, Patent Document 1). reference).

  Patent Document 1 discloses a method for autonomously constructing an ad hoc network. An arbitrary communication device (destination) that does not receive a communication signal directly from a communication device (source node) constituting the ad hoc network is disclosed. In order to transmit / receive data to / from a node, a method for realizing a function of performing communication via another communication device (relay node), that is, a multi-hop communication function is disclosed.

  In an ad hoc network, as a reactive routing protocol, DSR (Dynamic Source Routing) disclosed in a typical non-patent document 1 or AODV (Ad-Hoc On-) disclosed in a non-patent document 2 is used. Demand Distance Vector Routing) is known.

  In order for a sequencer group capable of wireless communication to construct an ad hoc network, it is necessary that a routing processing function for performing routing processing in accordance with DSR or AODV is previously installed in the sequencer.

  In sequence control technology that can add, delete, and change the control operation of the sequencer without mounting a specific processing circuit relating to the control operation of the sequencer in advance, an event, an event, a condition, and an action In some cases, the sequential processing is repeatedly executed according to the control rule described in (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

Japanese translation of PCT publication No. 2003-516031 (paragraphs 0008-0012) JP 2004-78517 A (paragraphs 0010-0017) “The Dynamic Source Routing Protocol for Mobile Ad Hoc Networks”, [online], IETF MANET Working Group, INTERNET-DRAFT, p. 3-7, [Search June 17, 2004], Internet <URL: http://www.ietf.org/internet-drafts/draft-ietf-manet-dsr-09.txt> “Ad hoc On-Demand Distance Vector Routing”, [online], IETF Network Working Group, Request for Comments, p. 2-3, [Search June 17, 2004], Internet <URL: http://www.moment.cs.ucsb.edu/pub/rfc3561.txt>

  In order to monitor a large-scale space, a large number of sequencers are required, and power must be relied on finite resources such as batteries, so a relatively large-scale space can be created using a sequencer with a wireless communication function. In order to form a sensor network to be monitored, each sequencer needs to use hardware that is sufficiently small and realizes low power consumption.

  For this reason, a sequencer having only inferior processing capability, specifically, a sequencer having a scale having a memory capacity of about several kilobytes for a microprocessor of 16 bits or less, for example, must be used.

  Patent Document 2 discloses a sequence data processing apparatus that efficiently processes a control rule using a sequencer having a weak processing capability. However, since there is no wireless communication function or ad hoc routing function, it cannot be applied to a sensor network system that monitors a relatively large space.

  In addition, Patent Document 1, Non-Patent Document 1, and Non-Patent Document 2 describe ad hoc routing methods, respectively, but these methods have an ad hoc routing processing function implemented in advance in each communication node. It is assumed to work according to the function. However, since it can only have a small amount of memory, it is difficult to incorporate an ad hoc routing processing function in advance into a sequencer with weak processing capability.

  Specifically, in AODV, each communication node needs to hold a routing table. However, it may be difficult to secure a memory for storing the routing table in a sequencer having a weak processing capability.

  Further, DSR requires complicated processing such as maintenance of route information in routing, and it is not realistic to implement this processing function in a powerless sequencer.

  Therefore, the sequence control technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, Non-Patent Document 1, and Non-Patent Document 2 cannot be applied to a sensor network system that monitors a relatively large space.

  As described above, the conventional technique has a problem that it is impossible to analyze the connection state of each sequencer constituting the sensor network system that monitors a relatively large space.

  Even if a plurality of devices (sequencers) are arranged in a relatively large space without solving the above-mentioned problems and considering the connection relationship in the communication network in advance, the present invention It is an object of the present invention to be able to derive a communication topology (connection form) of a communication network system composed of a plurality of devices afterwards.

  A communication topology derivation method according to the present invention is a communication topology derivation method for deriving a communication topology indicating a connection state of a wireless communication network of a plurality of devices having a wireless communication function for performing data communication via a wireless communication network. The device includes a host device (for example, host device 10) and a plurality of input / output control devices (for example, input / output control devices 110 to 140), each capable of wireless communication capable of data communication with at least one other device. Response processing that is installed in a range (for example, a radio wave reachable range) (see, for example, FIGS. 1 and 7) and causes the host device to execute response processing for causing each of the plurality of input / output control devices to respond to individual connection states. Sending procedure data (eg control data 202) towards the wireless communication network The response processing procedure data is sent via the wireless communication network or one or more input / output control devices including the input / output control device installed in the wireless communication range of the host device. Execution request data (for example, REQUEST_UCID message) for sending to each of the plurality of input / output control devices (for example, steps S202, S207, S214) and requesting the input / output control device to execute response processing according to the response processing procedure data Is transmitted to the wireless communication network (for example, steps S203, S208, and S215), and the response processing is executed according to the response processing procedure data in each of the plurality of input / output control devices in response to the reception of the execution request data. The multiple incoming and outgoing sent to the communication network 1 or 2 including each response information (for example, REPLY_UCID message) indicating the connection state of each control device, including an input / output control device installed via the wireless communication network or within the wireless communication range of the host device It is received via the above input / output control devices (for example, steps S204, S209, S216), and a communication topology is derived based on the received response information (for example, steps S205, S210, S217).

  With the above configuration, even when a plurality of devices are distributed and arranged without considering the connection relationship in the communication network in advance, the communication topology of the communication network system configured by a plurality of devices Can be derived later. In addition, each input / output control device can be temporarily provided with a sequence control function for transmitting response information necessary for derivation of the communication topology, so that a plurality of input / output control devices having weak processing capability can be provided. Response information can be collected, and a communication topology between devices constituting the communication network system can be derived.

  After the host device receives the response information from the input / output control device, the host device transmits deletion instruction data for instructing deletion of the response processing procedure data sent to the input / output control device to the wireless communication network ( For example, steps S211 and S218) may be performed.

  By configuring as described above, it is possible to prevent redundant response information from being sent from the same input / output control device, and to improve processing efficiency.

  Each time the host device receives the response information from the input / output control device, the communication topology is derived by additionally registering the connection state of the input / output control device indicated by the received response information (for example, step S205, (S210, S217).

  The response processing procedure data is constituted by, for example, a set of declaratively described control rules (for example, each control rule shown in FIG. 6).

  The control rule described declaratively is described by, for example, two or more data including at least action data among event data, condition data, and action data. When an event indicated by the event data occurs, the condition data The action indicated by the action data when the condition indicated by the action data is evaluated and the action indicated by the action data is executed, or when the event indicated by the event data occurs or the evaluation result of the condition indicated by the condition data It is a rule indicating that

  Response processing procedure data sending means for sending response processing procedure data to the input / output control device (for example, a part for executing steps S202, S207, and S214 in the host device 10. For example, topology discovery rule sending unit) 31) may be configured to be a server computer.

  The host device is configured to be a server computer having deletion instruction data transmission means for transmitting deletion instruction data (for example, a portion for executing steps S211 and S218 in the host device 10, for example, topology discovery rule deletion unit 32). Also good.

  The input / output control device controls signal input means (for example, signal input device 90) for inputting a sensing signal from an information sensing device (for example, sensor) that senses predetermined information and a predetermined external device (for example, actuator). A sequencer for input / output signal control including signal output means (for example, signal output device 91) for outputting a control signal for identifying an input / output control device in a wireless communication network system including a plurality of devices Device ID storage means for storing ID (for example, device ID storage section), wireless communication means for transmitting / receiving data via the wireless communication network (for example, wireless communication apparatus 80), and control rules constituting response processing procedure data Control rule storage means for storing (for example, control rule storage unit 71) and processing according to the control rule A control rule processing means for (for example, the control rule processing unit 61), a control rule management means for managing the control rule in accordance with an instruction from the host device (e.g., the command management unit 64), may have.

  A communication topology deriving system according to the present invention includes a plurality of devices having a wireless communication function for performing data communication via a wireless communication network, and a communication topology for deriving a communication topology indicating a connection state of the wireless communication networks of the plurality of devices. In the derivation system, the plurality of devices include a host device and a plurality of input / output control devices, each installed in a wireless communicable range capable of data communication with at least one other device. By transmitting response processing procedure data for executing response processing for causing each of the plurality of input / output control devices to respond to individual connection states, via the wireless communication network, or Input / output control data installed within the wireless communication range of the host device Response processing procedure data sending means for sending response processing procedure data to each of a plurality of input / output control devices via one or more input / output control devices including a chair (for example, topology discovery rule sending unit 31) And execution request data transmission means for transmitting the execution request data for requesting the input / output control device to execute the response processing according to the response processing procedure data (for example, a topology discovery message transmission / reception unit) 33) and the plurality of input / output control devices transmitted to the wireless communication network by the response processing being executed according to the response processing procedure data in each of the plurality of input / output control devices in response to the reception of the execution request data. Each response information indicating individual connection status is sent via a wireless communication network or host data. Response information receiving means (for example, topology discovery message transmission / reception unit 33) for receiving via one or more input / output control devices including input / output control devices installed within the wireless communication range of the chair; Communication topology deriving means (for example, topology discovery received message analysis unit 34) for deriving a communication topology based on the received response information.

  With the above configuration, even when a plurality of devices are distributed and arranged without considering the connection relationship in the communication network in advance, the communication topology of the communication network system configured by a plurality of devices Can be derived later. In addition, each input / output control device can be temporarily provided with a sequence control function for transmitting response information necessary for derivation of the communication topology, so that a plurality of input / output control devices having weak processing capability can be provided. Response information can be collected, and a communication topology between devices constituting the communication network system can be derived.

  The communication topology deriving server according to the present invention is a communication topology deriving server (for example, host device 10) for deriving a communication topology indicating a connection state of a plurality of devices having a wireless communication function for performing data communication via a wireless communication network. And the plurality of devices include a communication topology derivation server and a plurality of input / output control devices, each installed in a wireless communicable range capable of data communication with at least one other device. By transmitting response processing procedure data for causing each output control device to respond to each individual connection state to the wireless communication network, it is possible to transmit the data via the wireless communication network or the host device. Including I / O control devices installed within the wireless communication range Response processing procedure data sending means for sending response processing procedure data to each of a plurality of input / output control devices via one or more input / output control devices, and execution of response processing according to the response processing procedure data According to response processing procedure data in each of the plurality of input / output control devices in response to reception of the execution request data. By executing the response process, each response information indicating the connection state of each of the plurality of input / output control devices transmitted to the wireless communication network is transmitted via the wireless communication network or the wireless communication of the host device. One or more I / O control devices including I / O control devices installed within the communicable range Characterized in that it comprises a response information receiving means for receiving via a communication topology derivation means for deriving a communication topology based on the received response information, the a.

  With the above configuration, even when a plurality of devices are distributed and arranged without considering the connection relationship in the communication network in advance, the communication topology of the communication network system configured by a plurality of devices Can be derived later. In addition, each input / output control device can be temporarily provided with a sequence control function for transmitting response information necessary for derivation of the communication topology, so that a plurality of input / output control devices having weak processing capability can be provided. Response information can be collected, and a communication topology between devices constituting the communication network system can be derived.

  A communication topology derivation program according to the present invention is a communication topology derivation program for deriving a communication topology indicating a connection state of a plurality of devices having a wireless communication function for performing data communication via a wireless communication network. The plurality of devices includes a host device and a plurality of input / output control devices, and each of the plurality of devices is installed in a wireless communicable range capable of data communication with at least one other device. By transmitting response processing procedure data for causing each device to respond to each individual connection state to the wireless communication network, the wireless communication of the host device or the wireless communication of the host device is performed. Includes I / O control devices installed within the possible range Alternatively, the step of sending response processing procedure data to each of the plurality of input / output control devices via two or more input / output control devices and requesting the input / output control device to execute response processing according to the response processing procedure data Transmitting the execution request data to the wireless communication network, and performing response processing according to the response processing procedure data in each of the plurality of input / output control devices in response to reception of the execution request data. Each response information indicating the connection status of each of the plurality of input / output control devices transmitted to the network is input / output installed via the wireless communication network or within the wireless communication range of the host device. Receiving via one or more input / output control devices including the control device; It is for and a step of deriving the communication topology based on the response information.

  With the configuration as described above, even if a plurality of devices are distributed and arranged without considering the connection relationship in the communication network in advance, the communication network configured by the plurality of devices is arranged in the host device. The communication topology of the system can be derived afterwards. In addition, it is possible to execute processing for temporarily causing each input / output control device to have a sequence control function for causing the host device to transmit response information necessary for derivation of the communication topology. For this reason, the host device can collect response information from a plurality of input / output control devices that have weak processing capability, and can derive a communication topology between the devices constituting the communication network system.

  According to the present invention, each input / output control device is temporarily provided with a sequence control function for transmitting response information necessary for derivation of a communication topology, and the host device acquires response information from each input / output control device. Even if a plurality of devices (sequencers) are arranged in a distributed manner without considering the connection relation in the communication network in advance, the communication topology of the communication network system configured by a plurality of devices (Connection form) can be derived afterwards.

  In addition, according to the present invention, since each input / output control device is temporarily provided with a sequence control function for transmitting response information necessary for derivation of a communication topology, it has only a small computer resource. Even when a communication network system is configured by a large number of input / output control devices and a server having a computer resource of the same scale as a personal computer that is generally used, each of the communication network systems A communication topology between devices can be derived.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of a communication network system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  The communication network system shown in FIG. 1 includes a host node (host device) 10 and a plurality of nodes (input / output control devices) 1 to 7 and n (n is an arbitrary natural number). The nodes 1 to 7 and n have the same configuration. Any number of input / output control devices may be provided.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the host node 10 and the plurality of nodes 1 to 7 and n each have a wireless communication function and are within a radio wave reachable range capable of wireless communication with one or more other nodes. Installed.

  That is, each of the host node 10 and the plurality of nodes 1 to 7 and n is installed at an arbitrary position where at least one other node is within the radio wave reachable range, and is one or more installed within the radio wave reachable range. It is possible to perform wireless communication with other nodes.

  In the following embodiment, in the communication network system as shown in FIG. 1 in which the nodes 10, 1 to 7, n are arranged almost randomly, the host node 10 assigns the nodes 1 to 7, n. An ID to be identified can be acquired, and it can be determined whether or not each of the nodes 1 to 7 and n is within the radio wave reachable range, and the connection state (communication topology) of the communication network can be derived. It has been realized.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the host device (host node) 10. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the input / output control device (nodes 1 to 7, n) 20. The communication network system of this example is a system in which a host device 10 and a plurality of input / output control devices 11 are arranged as shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the host device 10 includes a storage device 20, an arithmetic device 30, and a wireless communication device 40.

  The storage device 20 is configured by a storage medium such as a RAM, for example, and includes a topology discovery rule storage unit 21, a discovery topology storage unit 22, and a device ID storage unit 23.

  The topology discovery rule storage unit 21 is a storage medium that stores control rules for communication topology discovery (derivation of communication network connection state). The “control rule” will be described in detail later.

  The discovery topology storage unit 22 is a storage medium for storing the communication topology generated by the topology discovery received message analysis unit 34 described later.

  The device ID storage unit 23 stores a “device ID” for identifying the host device 10. “Device ID” means an ID for uniquely identifying each device on a communication network composed of each input / output control device and host device.

  The arithmetic device 30 is configured by a control processing device such as a CPU, for example, and includes a topology discovery rule sending unit 31, a topology discovery rule deletion unit 32, a topology discovery message transmission / reception unit 33, and a topology discovery received message analysis. Part 34.

  The topology discovery rule sending unit 31 generates a command for sending the control rule stored in the topology discovery rule storage unit 21 to each input / output control device constituting the communication network, and the generated command The process etc. which transmit are performed.

  The topology discovery rule deletion unit 32 executes processing for generating a command for deleting a control rule stored in each input / output device constituting the communication network, processing for transmitting the generated command, and the like.

  The topology discovery message transmission / reception unit 33 executes processing for generating a request message for topology discovery and processing for transmitting the generated request message. Also, processing for receiving a response message to the transmitted request message is performed.

  The topology discovery received message analysis unit 34 analyzes the response message received by the topology discovery message transmission / reception unit 33, and executes processing for generating a communication topology based on the analysis result. The topology discovery received message analysis unit 34 also performs processing for storing the generated communication topology in the discovery topology storage unit 22.

  For example, the wireless communication device 40 has a function of transmitting and receiving communication data via the communication network of this example. Specifically, for example, the wireless communication device 40 transmits a command according to a command transmission instruction from the topology discovery rule sending unit 31 or the topology discovery rule deleting unit 32, or from the topology discovery message sending / receiving unit 33. In accordance with the message transmission instruction, a process for transmitting a message and a process for receiving a message received by the topology discovery message transmission / reception unit 33 are performed.

  Note that the host device 20 of the present example can be generally realized by a computer device configured to include a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, various I / O devices, and the like. The various functions of the host device 20 include, for example, a predetermined control program (communication topology derivation program) mounted on the host device 20 and predetermined arithmetic processing according to the control program in the CPU constituting the host device 20. It is realized by executing control of each part.

  Here, the control rule will be described. The “control rule” is a rule (ECA rule) indicating that when a certain event occurs, a certain internal state is evaluated and a certain action is executed. In this example, the “control rule” includes a rule indicating that an action is executed when a certain event occurs, and a rule indicating that an internal state is evaluated and an action is executed. .

Specifically, the control rule is set to the following contents (1) to (4), for example. In the following (1) to (4), a control rule indicating that a certain action is executed when a certain event occurs is shown.
(1) A specific operation is executed according to the signal input state (Event_INPUT).
(2) A specific operation is executed according to the internal state (Event_STATE).
(3) A specific operation is executed when a preset time has elapsed (Event_TIMER).
(4) A specific operation is executed when a specific message is received (Event_MSG).

The “specific operation” in the control rule is set to the following contents (1) to (4), for example. The “specific operation” shown in the following (1) to (4) is used in, for example, any control rule shown in the above (1) to (4).
(1) Signal output operation (Action_OUTPUT)
(2) Update internal state value (Action_STATE)
(3) Timer time setting (Action_TIMER)
(4) Sending a specific message (Action_MSG)

  As shown in FIG. 3, the input / output control device 11 includes an arithmetic device 60, a storage device 70, a wireless communication device 80, a signal input device 90, and a signal output device 91.

  The arithmetic device 60 is configured by a control processing device such as a CPU, for example, and includes a control rule processing unit 61, a timer management unit 62, an internal state management unit 63, and a command management unit 64.

  The control rule processing unit 61 refers to a control rule stored in a control rule storage unit 71 described later, and executes a specific operation according to the control rule. That is, the control rule processing unit 61 executes a specific operation set in the control rule when an event set in the control rule occurs.

  For example, when the event occurs, for example, when the signal input state (Event_INPUT) becomes a predetermined state, when the internal state (Event_STATE) becomes a predetermined state, or when a preset time has elapsed (Event_TIMER) ), When a specific message is received (Event_MSG).

  The “specific operation” may be, for example, an operation such as a signal output operation (Action_OUTPUT), an internal state value update (Action_STATE), a timer time setting (Action_TIMER), or a specific message transmission (Action_MSG). .

  In this example, the control rule processing unit 61 sequentially repeats a specific operation based on the control rule. In general, the sequential processing based on the control rule can be a simple processing with a low load compared to the non-sequential procedural processing. For this reason, even a device (sequencer) having a memory capacity of several kilobytes in a 16-bit or less microprocessor can be equipped with various functions shown in the present embodiment.

  The timer management unit 62 starts the timer in response to the timer setting (Action_TIMER) being performed by the control rule processing unit 61, and generates a timer firing event (Event_TIMER) when the set time has elapsed. Process.

  The internal state management unit 63 changes the value of the internal state in response to the action (Action_STATE) for updating the internal state being performed by the control rule processing unit 61. When the internal state changes, the internal state change event Processing for generating (Event_STATE) is performed.

  The command management unit 64 adds a control rule to the control rule storage unit 71 according to a command received by the wireless communication device 80, deletes a control rule stored in the control rule storage unit 71, or A process for temporarily stopping the sequential execution of the control rule, a process for restarting the temporarily stopped sequential execution, and the like are performed.

  The storage device 70 is configured by a storage medium such as a RAM, for example, and includes a control rule storage unit 71 and a device ID storage unit 72.

  The control rule storage unit 71 is a storage medium that stores zero or more control rules sent from the host device 10. In this example, the control rule storage unit 71 may be in a state in which the control rule is not stored except when a control rule such as when a communication topology derivation process is executed is used. The control rules stored in the control rule storage unit 71 are read into the arithmetic device 60 and used to determine the operation of the input / output control device 11.

  The device ID storage unit 72 stores a device ID for uniquely identifying itself (the input / output control device 11). The stored device ID is used when communicating with another input / output control device or the host device 10, that is, when transmitting a message.

  The wireless communication device 80 has a function of transmitting / receiving communication data via, for example, a wireless communication network. That is, the wireless communication device 80 has a function of transmitting / receiving messages and commands to / from other input / output control devices and the host device 10.

  Here, the “message” is a communication signal to which a message-specific ID (message ID) for identifying a message is assigned.

  The “command” is a signal for externally controlling the operation of the input / output control device 11. Specifically, as a command, a command for adding a control rule to an input / output control device (ADD_ECA), a command for deleting a control rule (CLR_ECA), a command for enabling a control rule (ABLE_ECA), and a control rule being invalidated A command (ENABLE_ECA) or the like is used.

  The wireless communication device 80 has a function of transmitting the received message and command to another input / output control device or the host device 10 as necessary. This function is generally called “multi-hop communication function”. The multihop communication function is also provided in the wireless communication device 40.

  When the host device 10 or the input / output control device 11 transmits a message or command, the device ID of the transmission partner (the input / output control device that ultimately wants to receive the message or command) is specified and transmitted. . At this time, a message or command can be transmitted by designating the device ID of the input / output control device that relays the signal until reaching the transmission partner.

  For example, if the device IDs of the nodes 1 to 7 shown in FIG. 1 are ID 1 to ID 7, when the host device 10 transmits a message to the node 5, the ID 5 is designated as the transmission partner, By specifying ID No. 1 as the transit device and further specifying ID No. 3 as the next transit device, the message can be transmitted to the node 5 through the node 1 and the node 3 in order.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the host device 10 and the node 1, the node 1 and the node 3, and the node 3 and the node 5 are within the radio wave reachable range.

  The wireless communication device 80 also has a function of executing communication that does not specify a destination, so-called broadcast. This function is also provided in the wireless communication device 40.

  For example, when the host device 10 multihops in the order of ID No. 1, ID No. 3, and broadcast, all devices within the radio wave reach with the ID No. 3 device (Node 3) (only Node No. 5 in FIG. 1). Can send messages and commands.

  The wireless communication device 80 generates a message reception event (Event_MSG) when the destination device ID of the received message matches the device ID stored in the device ID storage unit 72 (when the message is addressed to itself). To do.

  In addition, when the command received as described above is addressed to itself, the wireless communication device 80 transmits the received command to the command management unit 64 and transmits the content of the received command to the command management unit 64. I do.

  The message and the command include the sender's device ID in addition to the device ID of the transmission partner and the relaying device ID. Therefore, the device that received the message or command can recognize the message or command transmission device.

  The signal input device 90 receives an input signal from an information acquisition device such as a sensor and generates an input event (Event_INPUT).

  The signal output device 91 outputs an output signal for controlling an external device such as an actuator based on the processing result of the control rule processing unit 61.

  In general, the input / output control device 11 of this example can be realized by a computer device including a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, various I / O devices, and the like. The various functions of the input / output control device 11 include, for example, a predetermined control program installed in the input / output control device 11 and predetermined arithmetic processing according to the control program in the CPU constituting the input / output control device 11. It is realized by executing control of each part.

Next, the operation of the communication network system of this example will be described.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a communication topology derivation process executed by the host device (host node) 10 constituting the communication network system of this example.

  In the following description, it is assumed that the communication network system is configured by the host node 10 and the nodes 1 to 7 among the devices illustrated in FIG.

  It is assumed that the control rule A is sent to all input / output control devices (nodes 1 to 7) in the preprocessing of the communication topology derivation process.

  That is, the control rule A is stored in the control rule storage unit (see the control rule storage unit 71) of the nodes 1-7. The control rule A is a control rule for executing a predetermined process when a predetermined event occurs. For example, a control rule such as a control rule 201 (see FIG. 6) described later is used.

  Next, the host device 10 sets “1” in the hop count counter K (step S101). The hop count counter K is stored in, for example, the storage device 20 and is a counter in which the hop count necessary for transmitting data to the focused input / output control device is set. For example, if the count value of the hop count counter K is “2”, this indicates that attention is paid to an input / output control device that can transmit data with the number of hops of two times.

  Next, the host device 10 acquires the device ID of the input / output control device whose number of hops necessary for transmitting data is K (steps S102 to S104).

  In this case, if the hop count counter K is “1”, a control rule B for topology discovery (derivation) processing, for example, a control rule 202 (see FIG. 6) described later, is used as an input / output device using the broadcast function. (Step S102), then, using a broadcast function, an ID request message is transmitted (Step S103), and a response message to the message is waited for (Step S104). By acquiring the message (step S105), the device IDs of all input / output control devices (only node 1 in this example) capable of data communication with one hop are acquired.

  If the hop count counter K is 2 or more, an ID request message is sent to each input / output control device capable of data communication with “K−1” hops or less using the multi-hop communication function. By sending the ID request message from the last via device to the final transmission partner using the broadcast function, a response message to the message is acquired, and data communication is performed with K hops. Get device IDs of all possible input / output control devices.

  Each input / output control device that has received the message for requesting an ID assigns its own device ID according to control rule A and control rule B stored in the control rule storage unit (see control rule storage unit 71). Send a response message containing.

  When the device ID is acquired in step S105, the host device 10 generates a topology tree to which the input / output control device to which the acquired device ID is assigned is added, and stores it in the discovered topology storage unit 22 (step S106). The “topology tree” is a concept including a mesh structure.

  The topology tree is data representing a communication topology representing a connection state of each device constituting the communication network system in a tree structure.

  Next, if the predetermined termination condition is not satisfied (N in step S107), the host device 10 adds 1 to the count value of the hop count counter K (step S108), and returns to the process in step S102. . Thereafter, steps S102 to S108 are repeatedly executed, whereby each input / output control device is added to the topology tree.

  The termination condition is determined in advance, for example, when the number of hops exceeds the limit of commands that can be transmitted in multiple hops, or when all input / output control devices have been discovered.

  On the other hand, if the end condition is satisfied (Y in step S107), the host device 10 ends the communication topology derivation process. When the communication topology derivation process is completed, the topology tree stored in the discovered topology storage unit 22 becomes the communication topology derivation result.

  FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a topology tree generated by the communication topology derivation process. FIG. 5 shows an example of a topology tree generated by the communication topology deriving process when the communication network system is configured by the host node 10 and the nodes 1 to 7 among the devices shown in FIG. It is shown.

  In the topology tree shown in FIG. 5, the device ID of the node 1 is acquired in step S105 when the hop count counter K is “1”, and the node 2 and the node ID in step S105 when the hop count counter K is “2”. In step S105 when the device ID of the node 3 is acquired and the hop count counter K is “3”, the device IDs of the nodes 4 and 5 are acquired, and in step S105 when the hop count counter K is “4”. The node 6 and the device ID of the node 6 are acquired, and the discovered node is generated by being added to the tree structure in step S106 in each stage.

  In step S105 when the hop count counter K is “3”, the device ID of the node 4 is acquired via the node 2, and the device ID of the node 5 is acquired via the node 3. Similarly, in step S105 when the hop count counter K is “4”, the node 6 and the device ID of the node 6 are acquired via the node 4, and the device ID is not acquired via the node 5. Therefore, a topology tree as shown in FIG. 5 is obtained.

  As described above, in the above-described embodiment, in the communication network system in which devices (sequencers) are appropriately arranged, control rules for derivation (discovery) of communication topology from a server (host device 10) are assigned to each device. Since the configuration is such that the installation status of each device is recognized by sending and receiving messages and sending and receiving messages, it is necessary to consider in advance the connection relationships in the communication network of multiple devices (sequencers) arranged in a distributed manner Therefore, after each device is arranged, a communication topology in the communication network system can be derived afterwards.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, by sending a control rule to each device and executing processing according to the control rule, the device ID of each device and the device ID can be directly or via other devices. Since the response message including the transmission path (routed device and routed order) is acquired, a large number of input / output control devices with few computer resources and computer resources equivalent to those of commonly used personal computers are used. Even when the communication network system is configured by the servers having the same, it is possible to derive the communication topology (connection form) between the devices constituting the communication network system.

  In other words, because it is configured to send control rules to each device and execute processing according to the control rules, it has basic communication functions such as message communication, but the communication topology is derived by the limit of memory capacity. It is possible to temporarily provide a communication topology deriving function to a device (for example, a sequencer) that cannot always have a function for performing the function. In other words, even if a communication network system is configured by devices that cannot store control rules in advance due to memory capacity limitations, it is possible to derive a communication topology between each device constituting the communication network system. .

  Since the communication topology can be derived (discovered), the transmission message can be surely delivered to the target input / output control device by general source routing (starting path control) thereafter. In other words, since the communication topology has been derived, it is possible to describe all the device IDs of the route input / output control devices in the header of the message to be transmitted, and to prevent the transmission message from looping on the communication network. Therefore, the transmitted message can be surely delivered.

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration is such that the control rule is sent in to derive the communication topology. However, the control rule for each device is added or changed during or after the communication topology derivation process. It may be. By configuring in this way, it becomes possible to collect data of sensors mounted on each device by the server and to operate the actuator remotely from the server. Therefore, it becomes possible to easily install a device without the expertise of construction of a communication network and installation work, and the load on the system administrator from system construction to actual operation can be reduced.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, after transmitting an ID request message in step S103, it waits for a predetermined period until a response message to the message is transmitted in step S104. This predetermined period is, for example, longer than the longest time that a response message that can be specified by an inserted control rule or the like (for example, a timer measurement time set by receiving a message for ID request) may be transmitted. A long period.

  Although not specifically mentioned in the above-described embodiment, the input / output control device 11 includes, for example, an embedded device such as a sequencer, a mobile phone, a PHS (Personal Handy Phone System), and a PDA (Personal Data Assistance / Personal digital assistants (personal portable information communication devices), etc., are small information terminal devices having a wireless communication function, such as an input signal from an information acquisition device such as a sensor and an output for controlling an external device such as an actuator. An input / output control device having a function of processing a signal is applied.

Next, a first specific example of the present invention will be described.
In the present embodiment, a specific control rule is exemplified, and a communication topology derivation process executed according to the control rule will be described.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the control rules 201 and 202 used in this embodiment. The control rule 201 evaluates a “predetermined flag” as an internal state, and indicates that a “time timer proportional to the device ID” is set as an action in response to the flag being turned on. It is.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the control rule 202 includes a control rule indicating that a process of “turning a predetermined flag on” is performed as an action when “reception of a REQUEST_UCID message” occurs as an event, A control rule indicating that a process of “transmit REPLY_UCID message” is performed as an action when “timer firing (the time measured by the timer has elapsed)” occurs.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of a communication network system in the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the communication network system in the present embodiment includes a host device 100 that executes communication topology derivation processing, and four input / output control devices 110 to 140.

  7, the radio wave reachable range 101 of the host device 100, the radio wave reachable range 111 of the input / output control device 110, the radiowave reachable range 121 of the input / output device 120, the radiowave reachable range 131 of the input / output control device 130, and the input / output device 140 radio wave coverage 141 is shown.

  The host device 100 is configured in the same manner as the host device 10 described above. Each of the input / output control devices 110 to 140 is configured in the same manner as the input / output control device 11 described above.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a communication topology derivation process executed by the host device 100 according to this embodiment. In this example, the host device 100 executes the following communication topology derivation process using the control rule 202 shown in FIG. 6 to derive a mesh topology communication topology.

  It is assumed that the control rule (WAIT_UCID rule) 201 is stored in all the input / output control devices 110 to 140 in the preprocessing of the communication topology derivation process.

  The storage of the control rule (WAIT_UCID rule) 201 can be performed by connecting with a device not included in the communication network system of this example shown in FIG.

  Further, if all the input / output control devices 110 to 140 are installed within the radio wave reachable range 101 of the host device 100, it is possible to send a control rule (WAIT_UCID rule) 201 using wireless communication. .

  Next, the host device 100 generates an ADD_ECA command to additionally send a control rule (REPLY MESSAGE rule) 202 to an unknown input / output control device capable of data communication with one hop number, and broadcasts it. Transmit (step S202).

  The input / output control device that has received the control rule 202 adds and stores the control rule 202 in its own control rule storage unit (see, for example, the control rule storage unit 71). In this example, the control rule 202 is received and stored by the host device 100 and the two input / output control devices 110 and 120 installed in the radio wave reachable range.

  Thereafter, the host device 100 transmits a REQUEST_UCID message by broadcasting to an unknown input / output control device capable of data communication with one hop count in order to request a device ID (step S203).

  In this example, the REQUEST_UCID message is received by the host device 100 and the two input / output control devices 110 and 120 installed in the radio wave reachable range.

  The input / output control devices 110 and 120 that have received the REQUEST_UCID message each set a predetermined flag according to the control rule 202 and set a timer according to the control rule 201.

  When the timer is fired, the input / output control devices 110 and 120 indicate their own device ID and data communication path in order to respond with their own device ID and the connection state on the communication network according to the control rule 202. REPLY_UCID message including (information indicating the routed device: here no routed device exists) is transmitted to the host device 100.

  The host device 100 receives a REPLY_UCID message that is a reply from the input / output control devices 110 and 120 that have received the REQUEST_UCID message (step S204).

  Then, the host device 100 stores the transmission source device ID and the like included in the received REPLY_UCID message in the device ID storage unit 23, and adds the input / output control devices 110 and 120 to the topology tree (step S205).

  Through the above processing, the host device 100 discovers the input / output control devices 110 and 120 capable of performing data communication in one hop, and derives (generates) a communication topology in which the input / output control devices 110 and 120 are added. Is done.

  Next, the host device 100 shifts to a process for finding an input / output control device that can perform data communication in two hops.

  The host device 100 selects an input / output control device that has not yet been selected from among the input / output control devices that can perform data communication in one hop (step S206). In this example, an input / output control device is selected by selecting a device ID. In this example, when there are a plurality of unselected device IDs, the minimum device ID is selected. Then, pay attention to the input / output control device having the selected device ID.

  The host device 100 additionally sends and receives a control rule (REPLY MESSAGE rule) 202 to an unknown input / output control device capable of data communication with two hops via the currently focused input / output control device. Therefore, an ADD_ECA command is generated and transmitted (step S207).

  In step S207, the host device 100 sets the ID of the input / output control device focused on the first hop, and transmits an ADD_ECA command by multi-hop designation in which broadcasting is set on the second hop.

  The input / output control device that has received the control rule 202 adds and stores the control rule 202 in its own control rule storage unit (see, for example, the control rule storage unit 71). In this example, if the input / output control device currently focused on is the input / output control device 110, the input / output control device 110 and the two input / output control devices 130 and 140 that are installed in the radio wave reachable range control rules. 202 is received and stored. In addition, if the input / output control device that is currently focused on is the input / output control device 120, since there is no input / output control device installed in the radio wave reachable range with the input / output control device 120, any input / output control device is available. The control rule 202 is not received by the device.

  Thereafter, as in step S203, the host device 100 sends a REQUEST_UCID message to the unknown input / output control device capable of data communication with two hops in the same manner as in step S207. Transmission is performed by multi-hop designation (step S208).

  In this example, if the input / output control device currently focused on is the input / output control device 110, the REQUEST_UCID message is transmitted by the input / output control device 110 and the two input / output control devices 130 and 140 installed in the radio wave reachable range. Is received and stored. On the other hand, if the input / output control device currently focused on is the input / output control device 120, there is no input / output control device installed in the radio wave reachable range with the input / output control device 120. The device does not receive a REQUEST_UCID message.

  If the input / output control device currently focused on is the input / output control device 110, the input / output control devices 130 and 140 that have received the REQUEST_UCID message turn on a predetermined flag according to the control rule 202, respectively. Set the timer according to

  When the timer fires, the input / output control devices 130 and 140 indicate information indicating their own device ID and data communication path in order to respond with their own device ID and the connection state on the communication network in accordance with the control rule 202. REPLY_UCID message including (information indicating the routed device: here the routed device is the input / output control device 110) is transmitted to the host device 100.

  The REPLY_UCID message is transmitted by multi-hop designation in which the ID of the input / output control device focused on the first hop is set and the host device ID is set on the second hop.

  The host device 100 receives a REPLY_UCID message that is a reply from the input / output control device that has received the REQUEST_UCID message (step S209).

  Then, the host device 100 stores the device ID of the transmission source included in the received REPLY_UCID message in the device ID storage unit 23, and adds the input / output control device having the stored device ID to the topology tree (step S1). S210).

  In step S210, when the device ID of the input / output control device to be added to the topology tree is a device ID that has already been received (when already registered as a child of the input / output control device). The host device 100 registers in the topology tree as an input / output control device that can communicate with the input / output control device of interest. On the other hand, if the device ID of the input / output control device to be added to the topology tree is the device ID received for the first time, the host device 100 enters the topology tree as a child of the input / output control device of interest. Register additional.

  Next, the host device 100 avoids duplicate reception of the REPLY_UCID message, and the parent device of the currently focused input / output control device (when the focused input / output control device transmits data to the host device 100, 1 The control rules 201 and 202 are deleted from the input / output control device to be set at the hop, which is the upper layer input / output control device) and the input / output control device discovered before the parent device is discovered (step S211). ).

  If there is an input / output control device that has not yet received attention among the input / output control devices that can perform data communication in one hop (Y in step S212), the host device 100 returns to step S206.

  By sequentially paying attention to all input / output control devices that can perform data communication in one hop, and repeatedly performing the processing in steps S206 to S212, the host device 100 can perform data communication in two hops. Possible input / output control devices 130 and 140 are discovered, and a communication topology to which the input / output control devices 130 and 140 are added is derived (generated).

  If all the input / output control devices that can perform data communication in one hop have been noticed (N in step S212), the host device 100 confirms the termination condition. Here, a new input / output control device (an input / output control device capable of performing data communication in two hops) has been discovered through the processing of steps S206 to S212, and all the input / output control devices have been discovered. Since there is a possibility that there is an input / output control device capable of performing data communication with the number of hops of 3 hops or more, the host device 100 satisfies the termination condition. If it is determined that the input / output control device is capable of performing data communication in three hops, the process proceeds to processing for finding an input / output control device.

  The host device 100 selects an input / output control device that has not yet been selected among input / output control devices that can perform data communication in two hops (step S213). In this example, an input / output control device is selected by selecting a device ID. In this example, when there are a plurality of unselected device IDs, the minimum device ID is selected. Then, pay attention to the input / output control device having the selected device ID.

  The host device 100 additionally sends a control rule (REPLY MESSAGE rule) 202 to an unknown input / output control device capable of data communication with the number of hops of 3 via the last input / output control device of interest. In order to enter, an ADD_ECA command is generated and transmitted (step S214).

  In step S214, the host device 100 sets the ID of the parent device of the input / output control device of interest to the first hop, sets the ID of the input / output control device of interest to the second hop, and sets 3 hops. An ADD_ECA command is transmitted by multi-hop designation in which broadcasting is set for the eyes.

  The input / output control device that has received the control rule 202 adds and stores the control rule 202 in its own control rule storage unit (see, for example, the control rule storage unit 71). In this example, if the currently focused input / output control device is the input / output control device 130, an input / output control device other than the parent device installed in the radio wave reachable range with the input / output control device 130 (specifically, The control rule 202 is received and stored by the input / output control device 140) that has already been discovered as a device in the same layer.

  After that, the host device 100 sends a REQUEST_UCID message to the unknown input / output control device capable of data communication with three hops in the same manner as in step S <b> 214 in order to request a device ID. Transmission is performed by multi-hop designation (step S215).

  In this example, if the input / output control device currently focused on is the input / output control device 130, the input / output control device 140 that is a device other than the parent device installed in the radio wave reachable range with the input / output control device 130. The REQUEST_UCID message is received and stored.

  If the input / output control device currently focused on is the input / output control device 130, the input / output control device 140 that has received the REQUEST_UCID message turns on a predetermined flag in accordance with the control rule 202, and sets a timer in accordance with the control rule 201. Set.

  When the timer is fired, the input / output control device 140 responds with its own device ID and the connection state on the communication network according to the control rule 202, so that the information indicating the own device ID and the data communication path (via Information indicating the device: Here, the transit device transmits a REPLY_UCID message including the input / output control device 130 and the input / output control device 110) to the host device 100.

  The host device 100 receives a REPLY_UCID message that is a reply from the input / output control device that has received the REQUEST_UCID message (step S216).

  Then, the host device 100 stores the device ID of the transmission source included in the received REPLY_UCID message in the device ID storage unit 23, and adds the input / output control device having the stored device ID to the topology tree (step S1). S217).

  In step S217, if the device ID of the input / output control device to be added to the topology tree is a device ID that has already been received (if already registered as a child of the input / output control device). The host device 100 registers in the topology tree as an input / output control device that can communicate with the input / output control device of interest. That is, when the host device 100 receives the REPLY_UCID message from the input / output control device 140, the input / output control device 140 has been registered in the topology tree. Registration (description) to the effect that communication is possible.

  Next, the host device 100 avoids duplicate reception of the REPLY_UCID message, and the parent device of the currently focused input / output control device (when the focused input / output control device transmits data to the host device 100, 1 The control rules 201 and 202 are deleted from the input / output control device set at the hop, which is the upper layer input / output control device), and the input / output control device discovered before the parent device is discovered (step S218). ).

  If there is an input / output control device that has not yet received attention among the input / output control devices capable of performing data communication in one hop (Y in step S219), the host device 100 returns to step S213.

  By sequentially paying attention to all the input / output control devices that can perform data communication in two hops and repeating the processes in steps S213 to S219, the host device 100 can perform data communication in three hops. It is understood that a possible input / output control device is searched, and the already discovered input / output control devices 130 and 140 can perform data communication in three hops. Derived (generated).

  If all the input / output control devices capable of performing data communication in two hops have been watched (N in step S219), the host device 100 confirms the termination condition. Here, a new input / output control device (an input / output control device capable of performing data communication in 3 hops and not capable of performing data communication in 2 hops or less) is discovered by the processing in steps S213 to S219 described above. Since all the input / output control devices have been discovered (there is no input / output control device that performs data communication with the minimum number of hops of 3 hops or more), the host device 100 has an end condition. The communication topology deriving process is terminated.

  In the present embodiment, the method for finding the topology of the mesh structure has been described. However, the same control rule can be used for finding the tree structure. In this case, the timing of invalidation and deletion of the control rule may be different from that in the mesh structure. Specifically, when the input / output control device of interest is changed (Y in step S212, Y in step S219), the host device 100 applies to all the input / output control devices discovered so far. A command for invalidating the control rule 201 and a command for deleting the control rule 202 may be generated and transmitted.

  FIG. 9 shows the storage state in the discovered topology storage unit 22 of the communication topology that is sequentially updated (steps S205, S210, S217) when the topology derivation process is performed in this embodiment in the communication network system shown in FIG. It is explanatory drawing which showed typically.

  A state 301 is a state of the communication topology at the start of the topology derivation process. That is, at the start of the topology derivation process, only the host device 100 that is the starting point is registered.

  In state 302, after transmitting the REQUEST_UCID message in step S203, in response to receiving the REPLY_UCID message from the input / output control device 110 in step S204, after additionally registering the discovered input / output device 110 in step S205. Is the state of the communication topology.

  Similarly, the state 303 is the state of the communication topology after additionally registering the discovered input / output device 120 in step S205.

  The state 304 pays attention to the input / output control device 110 in step S206, and additionally adds the discovered input / output control device 130 in step S210 in response to receiving the REPLY_UCID message from the input / output control device 130 in step S209. This is the state of the communication topology after

  Similarly, the state 305 is the state of the communication topology after additionally registering the discovered input / output device 140 in step S210.

  A state 306 is a state of the communication topology when attention is paid to the input / output control device 120 in step S206. Note that since no device other than the host device 100 exists in the radio wave reachable range 121 of the input / output control device 120, no new input / output control device is found, and additional registration of the input / output control device to the communication topology is performed. Absent.

  The state 307 focuses on the input / output control device 130 in step S213, and can communicate with the input / output control device 130 in step S217 in response to receiving the REPLY_UCID message from the input / output control device 140 in step S216. This is a communication topology state after the input / output control device 140 is registered as the input / output control device.

  The state 308 is a state of the communication topology when attention is paid to the input / output control device 140 in step S213. In step S217 after receiving the REPLY_UCID message from the input / output control device 130 in step S216, the input / output control device 130 is already registered as an input / output control device capable of communicating with the input / output control device 140. Therefore, the state of the communication topology is not changed.

  The state of the communication topology shown in the state 308 is a state when the topology derivation process is completed, that is, a derivation result.

  Therefore, for example, a screen showing the derivation result of the communication topology as shown in the state 308 is displayed on the image display device included in the host device 100, for example. By viewing this display screen, the system administrator can easily recognize the communication topology, which is the connection state of each device constituting the communication network system.

Next, a second specific example of the present invention will be described.
In the present embodiment, a case will be described in which the communication topology derivation process is executed in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above, using specific control rules different from those in the first embodiment described above.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the control rules 401, 402, and 403 used in this embodiment. The control rule 401 evaluates the “predetermined flag” as the internal state, and performs “send REPLY_UCID_M message after waiting for a time proportional to the device ID” as an action in response to the flag being turned on. It is a rule which shows.

  The control rule 402 is a rule indicating that, when “reception of a REQUEST_UCID_M message” occurs as an event, a process of “turning a predetermined flag on” is performed as an action.

  Furthermore, the control rule 403 is a rule indicating that when a “REPLY_UCID_M message reception” occurs as an event, a “REPLY_UCID_M message transmission” process is performed as an action.

  In this example, each of the input / output control devices 110 to 140 transmits a plurality of messages to notify the host device 100 of its own device ID. For example, if the device ID of the input / output control device 110 is 57H (010110111), the device ID is divided into four ID messages “01”, “01”, “01”, and “11”. By transmitting, the host device 100 is notified of its own device ID.

  The host device 100 recognizes the device ID of the input / output control device by reconstructing the plurality of received messages. Therefore, for example, the host device 100 finds more input / output devices or more than the first embodiment in which the device ID is recognized from the multihop header using the transmission source ID. It is possible to discover an input / output control device installed in a remote place where it is necessary to perform data communication with the number of hops.

  Here, the communication topology deriving process executed by the host device 100 in this embodiment will be described. In this example, the host device 100 uses the control rules shown in FIG. 10 to execute a communication topology derivation process in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above, thereby deriving a mesh topology communication topology. Hereinafter, a different part from the communication topology derivation processing in the first embodiment will be described.

  In this example, the control rule (SEND_MESSAGES rule) 401 is sent to each of the input / output control devices 110 to 140 in the preprocessing, and the number of hops for which the control rule (REPLY_MESSAGES rule) 402 is targeted in steps S202, S207, and S214 The first and second input / output control devices 110 to 140 are different from those of the first embodiment in that they are sent.

  Further, in this example, when the input / output control device is noticed (steps S206 and S213), the control rule (RELAY_MESSAGES rule) 403 is sent to the noticed input / output control device. Different.

  The control rule 403 is used to relay the REPLY_UCID_M message. At the time when the control rule 401 is sent to each input / output control device in advance in the preprocessing, each input / output control device does not grasp the device IDs of other peripheral input / output control devices.

  Therefore, each input / output control device transmits a REPLY_UCID_M message according to the control rules 401 and 402 by a SEND_MESSAGES action that is not multi-hop.

  When the REPLY_UCID_M message is received by the focused input / output control device, the REPLY_UCID_M message is transmitted according to the control rule 403 and transferred to the host device 100.

  The control rule 403 is invalidated when the next input / output control device is noticed to avoid duplicate reception of the REPLY_UCID_M message, and is valid again when the child device of the relationship that becomes the parent device is first noticed. It becomes.

  That is, the host device 100 generates and transmits an invalidation command for invalidating the control rule 403 and an validation command for validating the control rule 403 at a desired time.

  In the present embodiment, the method for finding the topology of the mesh structure has been described. However, the same control rule can be used for finding the tree structure. In this case, the timing for invalidating the control rule may be different from that in the mesh structure. Specifically, when the input / output control device of interest is changed (Y in step S212, Y in step S219), the host device 100 applies to all the input / output control devices discovered so far. A command for invalidating the control rule 401 may be generated and transmitted.

  The communication topology derivation process is executed as described above, and a mesh topology communication topology is derived.

  The present invention is useful, for example, for application to a sequence control system such as a sensor network system that monitors a relatively large space in order to perform farmland soil quality management and forest growth management.

It is explanatory drawing which shows the outline of the communication network system to which this invention is applied. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the host device in one embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the input-output control device in one embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the communication topology derivation | leading-out process performed by the host device in one embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the communication topology produced | generated by the communication topology derivation process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the control rule used in 1st Example. It is explanatory drawing which shows the communication network system in 1st Example. It is a flowchart which shows the communication topology derivation process in 1st Example. It is explanatory drawing which shows typically the communication topology produced | generated sequentially by the communication topology derivation process in 1st Example. It is explanatory drawing which shows the control rule used in 2nd Example.

Explanation of symbols

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, n nodes (input / output control devices)
10, 100 Host node 11, 110, 120, 130, 140 Input / output control device 20 Storage device 21 Topology discovery rule storage unit 22 Discovery topology storage unit 23 Device ID storage unit 30 Arithmetic unit 31 Topology discovery rule sending unit 32 Topology discovery Rule deletion unit 33 Topology discovery message transmission / reception unit 40 Wireless communication device 60 Computing device 61 Control rule processing unit 62 Timer management unit 63 Internal state management unit 64 Command management unit 70 Storage device 71 Control rule storage unit 72 Device ID storage unit 80 Wireless communication device

Claims (11)

A communication topology derivation method for deriving a communication topology indicating a connection state of the wireless communication network of a plurality of devices having a wireless communication function for performing data communication via a wireless communication network,
The plurality of devices include a host device and a plurality of input / output control devices, each installed in a wireless communicable range capable of data communication with at least one other device,
The host device is
By transmitting response processing procedure data for executing response processing for causing each of the plurality of input / output control devices to respond to individual connection states toward the wireless communication network, via the wireless communication network, Alternatively, the response processing procedure data is transferred to the plurality of input / output control devices via one or more of the input / output control devices including the input / output control device installed within the wireless communication range of the host device. Send to each,
Transmitting execution request data for requesting the input / output control device to execute response processing according to the response processing procedure data, to the wireless communication network;
The plurality of input / output controls transmitted toward the wireless communication network by the response processing being executed according to the response processing procedure data in each of the plurality of input / output control devices in response to reception of the execution request data. The response information indicating the connection status of each device is sent to the one or more input devices including the input / output control device installed via the wireless communication network or within the wireless communication range of the host device. Received via the output control device,
A communication topology derivation method, wherein the communication topology is derived based on received response information. After receiving the response information from the input / output control device, the host device transmits deletion instruction data for instructing deletion of the response processing procedure data sent to the input / output control device to the wireless communication network. Item 2. A communication topology derivation method according to Item 1. Each time the host device receives response information from the input / output control device, the host device derives a communication topology by additionally registering the connection status of the input / output control device indicated by the received response information. Item 3. A communication topology derivation method according to Item 2. The communication topology derivation method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the response processing procedure data includes a set of control rules described declaratively. Control rules written declaratively
It is described by two or more data including at least action data among event data, condition data, and action data.
When an event indicated by the event data occurs, a rule indicating that the condition indicated by the condition data is evaluated and an action indicated by the action data is executed, or when an event indicated by the event data occurs, or The communication topology derivation method according to claim 4, wherein the rule indicates that an action indicated by the action data is executed according to an evaluation result of a condition indicated by the condition data. The communication topology derivation method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the host device is a server computer having response processing procedure data sending means for sending response processing procedure data to the input / output control device. . The communication topology derivation method according to claim 2, wherein the host device is a server computer having deletion instruction data transmission means for transmitting deletion instruction data. The input / output control device is
An input / output signal control sequencer comprising: signal input means for inputting a sensing signal from an information sensing device for sensing predetermined information; and signal output means for outputting a control signal for controlling a predetermined external device. ,
Device ID storage means for storing a device ID for identifying the input / output control device in a wireless communication network system including a plurality of devices;
Wireless communication means for transmitting and receiving data via a wireless communication network;
Control rule storage means for storing control rules constituting response processing procedure data;
Control rule processing means for executing processing according to the control rule;
The communication topology derivation method according to claim 1, further comprising: a control rule management unit that manages a control rule according to an instruction from a host device. A communication topology derivation system comprising a plurality of devices having a wireless communication function for performing data communication via a wireless communication network, and deriving a communication topology indicating a connection state of the plurality of devices in the wireless communication network,
The plurality of devices include a host device and a plurality of input / output control devices, each installed in a wireless communicable range capable of data communication with at least one other device,
The host device is
By transmitting response processing procedure data for executing response processing for causing each of the plurality of input / output control devices to respond to individual connection states toward the wireless communication network, via the wireless communication network, Alternatively, the response processing procedure data is transferred to the plurality of input / output control devices via one or more of the input / output control devices including the input / output control device installed within the wireless communication range of the host device. Response processing procedure data sending means to send to each,
Execution request data transmitting means for transmitting execution request data for requesting the input / output control device to execute response processing according to the response processing procedure data, to the wireless communication network;
The plurality of input / output controls transmitted toward the wireless communication network by the response processing being executed according to the response processing procedure data in each of the plurality of input / output control devices in response to reception of the execution request data. The response information indicating the connection status of each device is sent to the one or more input devices including the input / output control device installed via the wireless communication network or within the wireless communication range of the host device. Response information receiving means for receiving via the output control device;
Communication topology deriving means for deriving the communication topology based on the received response information. A communication topology derivation server for deriving a communication topology indicating a connection state of the wireless communication network of a plurality of devices having a wireless communication function for performing data communication via a wireless communication network,
The plurality of devices include a communication topology derivation server and a plurality of input / output control devices, each installed in a wireless communicable range capable of data communication with at least one other device,
By transmitting response processing procedure data for executing response processing for causing each of the plurality of input / output control devices to respond to individual connection states toward the wireless communication network, via the wireless communication network, Alternatively, the response processing procedure data is transferred to the plurality of input / output control devices via one or more of the input / output control devices including the input / output control device installed within the wireless communication range of the host device. Response processing procedure data sending means to send to each,
Execution request data transmitting means for transmitting execution request data for requesting the input / output control device to execute response processing according to the response processing procedure data, to the wireless communication network;
The plurality of input / output controls transmitted toward the wireless communication network by the response processing being executed according to the response processing procedure data in each of the plurality of input / output control devices in response to reception of the execution request data. The response information indicating the connection status of each device is sent to the one or more input devices including the input / output control device installed via the wireless communication network or within the wireless communication range of the host device. Response information receiving means for receiving via the output control device;
Communication topology deriving means for deriving the communication topology based on the received response information. A communication topology derivation program for deriving a communication topology indicating a connection state of the wireless communication network of a plurality of devices having a wireless communication function for performing data communication via a wireless communication network,
The plurality of devices include a host device and a plurality of input / output control devices, each installed in a wireless communicable range capable of data communication with at least one other device,
To the host device;
By transmitting response processing procedure data for executing response processing for causing each of the plurality of input / output control devices to respond to individual connection states toward the wireless communication network, via the wireless communication network, Alternatively, the response processing procedure data is transferred to the plurality of input / output control devices via one or more of the input / output control devices including the input / output control device installed within the wireless communication range of the host device. Step to send to each,
Transmitting execution request data for requesting the input / output control device to execute response processing according to the response processing procedure data, to the wireless communication network;
The plurality of input / output controls transmitted toward the wireless communication network by the response processing being executed according to the response processing procedure data in each of the plurality of input / output control devices in response to reception of the execution request data. The response information indicating the connection status of each device is sent to the one or more input devices including the input / output control device installed via the wireless communication network or within the wireless communication range of the host device. Receiving via an output control device;
A communication topology deriving program for executing the step of deriving the communication topology based on the received response information.

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