JP2009180587A - Sensor unit and control device using the same - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a sensor unit capable of determining that a fault occurs at an early stage, and its control device. <P>SOLUTION: In a temperature humidity sensor 5 as this sensor unit, a plurality of temperature detecting elements and a plurality of humidity detecting elements for performing detection operations of temperature and humidity as the identical detection factors are arranged on a circuit board 58; for example, along with arranging a first temperature detection section 55A and a second temperature detection section 55B in proximity to each other, a first humidity detection section 56A and a second humidity detection section 56B are arranged in proximity to each other. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a sensor unit that detects temperature, humidity, and the like in a food storage, a server room, a cultivation house, and the like, and a control device using the sensor unit.

  Conventionally, in food storages such as showcases, freezers, refrigerators, prefabricated storages, etc., the temperature of multiple locations in the storage is detected by temperature sensors, and the compressors and blowers are controlled on and off by switching elements. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1). In particular, in stores such as supermarkets and convenience stores, a plurality of showcases are connected by communication lines, and temperature management, lighting management, and the like are performed by a management controller that is collectively provided in a management room or the like.

  In addition to this, in greenhouses that cultivate vegetables and flowers by strict environmental management, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, illuminance sensors, authentication devices, etc. are provided at multiple locations in the target room. The monitoring controller monitors the cultivation environment and manages entry / exit.

  Generally, a monitoring system is composed of a monitoring controller and a sensor unit such as a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an illuminance sensor, and an authentication device, which are connected by a wiring composed of a communication line, a power supply line, and a ground line. ing.

20 and 21 show a conventional sensor unit 100. The sensor unit 100 is a sensor that detects temperature and humidity, and one temperature sensor IC 102 as a temperature detection element and one humidity sensor IC 103 as a humidity detection element are attached to one surface of the substrate 101. The substrate 101 to which these elements are attached is further accommodated in the resin case 105. A lead wire 106 composed of a communication line, a power supply line, and a ground line is drawn out from the substrate 101.
JP 2000-161756 A

  In the conventional sensor unit 100, when used in an environment with high humidity, the temperature sensor IC 102 and the humidity sensor IC 103 are likely to fail. However, there is a problem that even if a failure occurs, it is difficult to determine whether or not a failure has actually occurred if the detected value is about 3 ° C. or about 8% of the correct detected value. It was.

  For this reason, there is a problem that it is not possible to cope with the failure of the sensor unit 100 at an early stage and it is impossible to realize appropriate monitoring.

  The present invention has been made in order to solve the conventional technical problems, and provides a sensor unit and a control device thereof that can determine that a failure has occurred at an early stage.

  The sensor unit of the present invention is characterized in that a plurality of detection elements that perform a detection operation for the same detection factor are provided on a substrate.

  The sensor unit according to a second aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the detection elements are close to each other.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided the sensor unit according to the first aspect, wherein each of the detection elements is provided on the front and back of the substrate.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the sensor unit according to the first aspect of the invention, wherein the detection elements are provided at positions spaced apart from each other on the substrate.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a control device that receives the output of each detection element of the sensor unit according to any one of the first to fourth aspects and controls the device based on the output of each detection element. Features.

  A control device according to a sixth aspect of the invention is characterized in that an output of each detection element of the sensor unit according to the second aspect is input, and abnormality determination of the sensor unit is performed based on a difference in output of each detection element. .

  According to the sensor unit of the present invention, a plurality of detection elements that perform the detection operation for the same detection factor are provided on the substrate. For example, as in the invention of claim 2, the detection elements are close to each other. By providing each of the detection elements, it is possible to detect a narrow range with substantially the same atmosphere or the same conditions.

  Therefore, it is possible to detect an abnormality of any of the detection elements by determining the abnormality of the sensor unit based on the difference between the outputs of the detection elements. Accordingly, it is possible to detect an abnormality of the detection element at an early stage, and it is possible to prompt repair or replacement work of the sensor unit.

  In addition, since the detection operation is performed with respect to the same detection factor by a plurality of detection elements, it is possible to improve the reliability of the detection result by the sensor unit by calculating the average of the detection results.

  In the first aspect of the present invention, as in the third aspect of the present invention, each detection element is provided on the front and back of the substrate, so that one sensor unit has a different detection factor, that is, the substrate. It becomes possible to detect the situation of the area on the front side and the area on the back side of the substrate.

  In the first aspect of the invention, as in the case of the fourth aspect of the invention, each detection element is provided at a position spaced apart from each other on the substrate, so that the distribution of the detection situation on the substrate can be measured. It becomes possible.

  According to the control device of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the output of each detection element of the sensor unit according to any one of the first to fourth aspects is input, and the device is controlled based on the output of each detection element. Accordingly, it is possible to perform more appropriate device control based on a more accurate detection result.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to Examples 1 to 3 based on the drawings. In the following, a management system 1 that employs a temperature / humidity sensor 5 as a sensor unit of the present invention will be described as an example.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a monitoring system 1 to which the present invention is applied. The monitoring system 1 in the present embodiment monitors, for example, the temperature and humidity at a plurality of locations in a vegetable or flower cultivation facility, and also enters and exits the facility, and when an abnormality occurs, the administrator generates the abnormality. It is a system to report. The usage mode of the monitoring system 1 is not limited to this, and it may be used as a notification of occurrence of an abnormality such as a fire or illegal intrusion by monitoring temperature or entrance / exit in a store or a house.

  The monitoring system 1 includes a sensor server 2 as a monitoring controller (monitoring device body), an input / output unit 3 and an input unit 4 as monitoring terminals, and a plurality of temperature / humidity sensors 5 as monitoring terminals, And an authentication key socket 6.

  The configuration of the sensor server 2 is shown in FIG. The sensor server 2 is provided with a controller (board) 20 inside. The controller 20 includes a CPU (microcomputer) 21, a memory 22 as a storage unit, a communication unit 23, a power supply unit 25, and the like. The sensor server 2 is provided with a display 24 composed of LEDs and the like.

  The sensor server 2 is connected to the network Hub 11 via the LAN cable 10. The sensor server 2 also includes an input / output unit 12 as a first input / output unit to which the input / output unit 3 is connected, and a second input / output unit to which an authentication key socket 6 to be described later is connected. An input / output unit 13 is provided.

  FIG. 3 shows the configuration of the input / output unit 3. The input / output unit 3 is provided with a controller (substrate) 30 therein. The controller 30 includes a CPU (microcomputer) 34, a memory 35 as a storage unit, a communication unit 36, a power supply unit 37, and the like. In addition, the input / output unit 3 is provided with a display 38 composed of LEDs and the like.

  The input / output unit 3 includes an input unit 31 connected to the input / output unit 12 of the sensor server 2 and a monitoring terminal that needs to be supplied with power from the input / output unit 3 side. And an output unit 32 to which the sensor 5 is connected. Further, the input / output unit 3 has an input / output unit 33 of 1 to 8 ch. The ON / OFF state of each door sensor (not shown) is determined by 1 to 4 ch, and the power of the external device is turned on / off by 5 to 8 ch. Turn OFF control. In this embodiment, the door sensor is provided in a window or a door of a cultivation facility where the monitoring system 1 is disposed, and the opening / closing state is monitored based on the output of the door sensor when monitoring is performed.

  The input unit 4 has the same configuration as that of the input / output unit 3, but is different from the input / output unit 3 in that the input / output units 33 of 1 to 8ch are all set for input. The outputs of reed switches 75 of a plurality of authentication key sockets 6 to be described later are input to the 1ch to 8ch of the input / output unit 33 through the signal cables 95A to 95H, respectively.

  Here, the wiring 7A for connecting the sensor server 2 (monitoring controller) and the input / output unit 3 (monitoring terminal), the wiring 7B for connecting the input / output unit 3 and the input unit 4, the input unit 4 and each A wiring 8 for connecting the temperature / humidity sensor 5 (such as a monitoring terminal) and a wiring 9 for connecting the sensor server 2 and the authentication key socket 6 are configured as shown in the schematic configuration diagram of FIG.

  That is, the wiring is constituted by a DC5V power line 15 for power supply, a communication line 16 for communication of each part, and a ground line 17 grounded to the ground, so that power supply and signal transmission / reception are possible. Has been.

  A plurality of branch connectors 40 for branching and connecting the temperature / humidity sensors 5 are connected in series to the wiring 8, and the temperature / humidity sensor 5 is connected to each branch connector 40. Specifically, as shown in the schematic configuration diagram of FIG. 5, the branch connector 40 is detachable from the sensor server 2 side (upstream side) wiring (wiring 8 in the case of the branch connector 40 closest to the sensor server 2). The first main communication line mounting port 41 to be connected, the second main communication line mounting port 42 to which the non-sensor server 2 side (downstream side) wiring is detachably connected, and the sub communication line mounting A mouth 43 is formed.

  In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, nine temperature / humidity sensors 5 (5A to 5I) are detachably connected to the wiring 8 via branch connectors 40 (40A to 40I). Therefore, the wiring 8 is detachably connected to the first main communication line mounting port 41 of the branch connector 40A connected to the wiring 8 closest to the sensor server 2 (actually the input unit 4). A wiring 8A (a main communication line going to the temperature / humidity sensor 5B etc. located farther from the sensor server 2) is detachably connected to the main communication line attachment port 42 of No. 2. The temperature / humidity sensor 5A is detachably connected to the auxiliary communication line attachment port 43 via a wiring 44A.

  Similarly, the first main communication line attachment port 41 of the second branch connector 40B from the sensor server 2 side is connected to the second main communication line attachment port 42 of the branch connector 40A located on the upstream side. The wiring 8A is detachably connected, and the wiring 8B (the main communication line going to the temperature / humidity sensor 5C etc. located further away from the sensor server 2) is detachably attached to the second main communication line attachment port 42. Connected. The temperature / humidity sensor 5B is detachably connected to the auxiliary communication line mounting port 43 via the wiring 44B. Hereinafter, similarly, each temperature / humidity sensor 5 (5C-5I) is connected via each branch connector 40.

  Here, FIG. 6 shows a schematic block diagram of the branch connector 40. The branch connector 40 includes a coupler IC 45 as a branch connector side control device. The coupler IC 45 includes a CPU 48, a memory 49 as a storage unit, a semiconductor switching element 46, a communication unit 50, a power supply unit 57, and the like. I have. The semiconductor switching element 46 switches whether the first main communication line attachment port 41 is electrically connected to or disconnected from the sub communication line attachment port 43. The switching element 46 is a CPU 48 of the coupler IC 45. Is controlled by switching. The branch connector 40 is provided with an LED display 47. The memory 49 stores an ID code of the branch connector 40 itself, identification data indicating that the branch connector is used, and the like.

  In the branch connector 40, the first main communication line mounting port 41 and the second main communication line mounting port 42 are connected by the wiring 60, and the second main communication line mounting port is connected. In parallel with the port 42, the sub communication line mounting port 43 to which the coupler IC 45 is connected is connected to the first main communication line mounting port 41 by the wiring 61.

  Next, the configuration of the temperature / humidity sensor 5 as the sensor unit of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 is a schematic external view of the temperature / humidity sensor 5, FIG. 8 is a schematic configuration diagram of the temperature / humidity sensor 5 with the case 59 removed, and FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram of the temperature / humidity sensor 5. The temperature / humidity sensor 5 includes a CPU 51 as a sensor control unit, a memory 52 as a storage unit, a communication unit 53, a power supply unit 54, temperature sensor units 55A and 55B as temperature detection elements, and a humidity detection element. It consists of humidity sensor units 56A, 56B and the like.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, two temperature sensor portions 55A and 55B as temperature detecting elements are provided on one surface of the substrate 58, and these are arranged in substantially the same atmosphere. As close as possible. Similarly, two humidity sensors 56A and 56B are provided on one surface of the substrate 58 as humidity detection elements, and these are also provided close to each other so as to be disposed in substantially the same atmosphere. In the present embodiment, two detection elements are provided for each detection factor. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and there may be a plurality of detection elements, and there may be three or more.

  And the board | substrate 58 with which these temperature sensor parts 55A and 55B and humidity sensor parts 56A and 56B were attached is accommodated in the case 59 in the state by which the wiring 44 was pulled out.

  With this configuration, the CPU 51 takes in the temperature data detected by the temperature sensor units 55A and 55B and the humidity data detected by the humidity sensor units 56A and 56B, and temporarily writes them in the memory 52. When the communication unit 53 polls the sensor server 2 via the signal lines 16 of the wires 44, 8, and 7, the temperature data and the humidity data written in the memory 52 are transmitted via the signal line 16 by the communication unit 53. To the sensor server 2.

  The memory 52 stores an ID code of the temperature / humidity sensor 5 itself, identification data indicating the temperature / humidity sensor, and the like.

  Next, the authentication key socket 6 will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 is a front view of the authentication key socket 6, FIG. 11 is a schematic side view of the authentication key socket 6, and FIG. 12 is a schematic configuration diagram of the authentication system S. The authentication system S of the present invention includes an authentication key socket 6, an authentication key 66, a sensor server (controller) 2 to which the authentication key socket 6 is connected, and an input unit 4, which are not always inserted. By attaching the authentication key 66 to the authentication key socket 6, “start” and “cancel” of the alert monitoring control are executed.

  The main body of the authentication key socket 6 is constituted by a housing 65 having a front panel 65A provided on the front surface, and an authentication key 66 is detachably attached (inserted in this embodiment) to the front panel 65A. An insertion port 65B is formed. Further, the front panel 65A is provided with an LED display 67 as a light emitting element for displaying an insertion state of the authentication key 66 and an authentication state, and a speaker 68 for sound output. In this embodiment, the authentication key socket 6 is provided in the outer wall of the main entrance of the cultivation facility.

  In the housing 65, there is formed a key accommodating portion 69 for accommodating the authentication key 66 inserted from the insertion port 65B. The key accommodating portion 69 is provided on the lower surface and the front portion is always attached to the upper side. A lower spring member 70 that is biased and an upper spring member 71 that is provided on the upper surface and whose front portion is constantly biased downward are provided. As a result, the inserted authentication key 66 is detachably held by the urging force of both spring members 70 and 71, and both spring members 70 and 71 have terminals connected to both poles of the memory portion 87 of the authentication key 66. Constitute.

  The key housing 69 is provided with a communication terminal 73A connected to the communication line 73 on the upper spring member 71 side and a ground terminal 74A connected to the ground line 74 on the lower spring member 70 side. As a result, while the high potential and low potential pulse signals constituting the data are at a high potential, power is supplied to the authentication key 66 as it is, and the power supply unit 90 (to be described later) is also charged so that the data can be acquired. Become. In the figure, reference numeral 72 denotes a wiring to the LED display 67.

  In addition, a reed switch 75 that constitutes an authentication key detecting means is provided in front of the key accommodating portion 69 together with a magnet 66M provided on the authentication key 66 described later. The output of the reed switch 75 is connected to one of the channels of the input / output unit 33 of the input unit 4 via the signal cable 95 (95A to 95H). Accordingly, when the authentication key 66 is inserted into the authentication key socket 6 (6A to 6H), the reed switch 75 reacts and immediately notifies the input unit 4 of this.

  An audio board 77 serving as an audio generator is provided above the key accommodating portion 69 in the housing 65 and behind the speaker 68. In this sound board 77, an I / O switch IC 79 as a control means, a sound ROM 80 as a storage means, a capacitor 81 as a power storage means, an input / output unit 82, a communication unit 84, and the like are provided on a substrate 78. It is constituted by. The voice ROM 80 stores an ID code of the voice board 77 itself, identification data indicating that the voice board is used, and the like. The input / output unit 82 is always connected to the speaker display 68 via the communication line 83 and the LED display wiring 72 via the wiring 93. The input / output unit 82 is connected to the terminals 73A and 74A of the key storage unit 69 via the communication line 73 and the ground line 74. In addition, the communication unit 84 is connected to the wiring 9 having one end connected to the sensor server 2 as described above.

  On the other hand, the authentication key 66 is provided with a memory portion 87 as a non-volatile storage medium at the distal end portion of the main body 66A accommodated in the key accommodating portion 69 from the insertion port 65B, and on the other side of the main body 66A. The handle portion 66B is provided. The main body 66 </ b> A has an opening (not shown) that allows electrical connection to the lower surface electrode of the memory unit 87. A magnet 66M is provided on the handle 66B side of the main body 66A at a position corresponding to the reed switch 75 when inserted into the insertion port 65B.

  The memory unit 87 is composed of a metal conductor so that the upper surface and the other surface form a pair of electrodes. Inside the memory unit 87, as shown in the block diagram of FIG. A memory 89, a power supply unit 90 as a power storage unit, a communication unit 91, and the like are provided. The memory 89 stores, as specific information, data relating to the holder of the authentication key 66, specifically, personal information (eg, name, ID code, multi-digit number or symbol) indicating the administrator. ing. Then, the upper and lower spring members 70 and 71 of the key storage unit 69 come into contact with both poles of the memory unit 87 so that the contents of the memory unit 87 can be read.

  The operation will be described with the above configuration. First, the operation at the time of connection of each monitoring terminal (for example, the input / output unit 3, the temperature / humidity sensor 5, the authentication key socket 6, the door sensor not shown) will be described. When the input / output unit 3 is connected to the sensor server 2 via the wiring 7A (signal line 16), the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 polls the input / output unit 3. In response to this polling, the ID code stored in the memory 35 of the input / output unit 3 is returned. The CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 identifies the connection status of the input / output unit 3 from the returned ID code and stores it in the memory 22, and thereafter transmits data to the input / output unit 3 using this ID code. Will do.

  Further, when the input unit 4 is connected to the tip of the input / output unit 3 via the wiring 7B, the sensor server 2 similarly polls the input unit 4. On the other hand, since the input unit 4 returns its own ID, the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 stores the ID code in the memory 22 and thereafter uses this ID code to store data for the input unit 4. Send and receive.

  Similarly, when each door sensor is connected to the input / output unit 33 of the input / output unit 3, the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 polls the door sensor via the input / output unit 3. In response to this polling, its own ID code stored in the memory of the door sensor is returned, and the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 identifies the connection status of the door sensor based on the returned ID code and holds it in the memory 22. Thereafter, data is transmitted to the door sensor using this ID code.

  Next, a data transmission / reception operation with the branch connector 40 and the temperature / humidity sensor 5 to the wiring 8 (communication line 16) connected to the output unit 32 of the input unit 4 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. First, an operation for identifying the connection status of the branch connector 40 connected in step S1 is performed. The CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 polls the coupler IC 45 of the branch connector 40 connected to the wiring 8. In response to this polling, the CPU 48 of the coupler IC 45 returns its own ID code stored in the memory 49. The CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 identifies the connection status of the branch connector 40 based on the returned ID code, holds it in the memory 22, and thereafter transmits data to the branch connector 40 using this ID code. become.

  Next, the identification operation of the connection status of the temperature / humidity sensor 5 connected to the branch connector 40 on which the identification operation has been performed in step S2 is performed. The CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 polls the temperature / humidity sensor 5 connected to the wiring 8 and the wiring 44 (communication line 16). In response to this polling, the CPU 51 of the temperature / humidity sensor 5 returns its own ID code stored in the memory 52. The CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 identifies the connection status of the temperature / humidity sensor 5 based on the returned ID code and stores it in the memory 22, and thereafter transmits data to the temperature / humidity sensor 5 using this ID code. Will do.

  In addition, when the temperature / humidity sensor 5 is newly connected via the branch connector 40, the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 detects the connection status, acquires the ID code, and then via the network Hub11. In addition to a predetermined external device (for example, a PC or a mobile phone), the fact that the temperature / humidity sensor 5 is connected is transmitted (e-mail or the like). As a result, a new temperature / humidity sensor is displayed on the display of the external device, and a user or administrator at a remote location can check the additionally connected monitoring terminal via the external device.

  Next, the data acquisition operation (step S3) by the actual sensor server 2 will be described. The CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 polls the door sensor and the temperature / humidity sensor 5 (temperature / humidity sensors 5A to 5I in this embodiment) at a predetermined cycle. In this embodiment, the input / output unit 3 and the input unit 4 have the highest polling priority, and then the door sensor directly connected to the input / output unit 3 has the highest priority and polls at a relatively short cycle. The temperature / humidity sensor 5 has a low data acquisition priority and is polled at a relatively long cycle.

  This polling is performed based on the aforementioned ID code. Here, the data acquisition operation of the temperature / humidity sensor 5 will be described. As described above, the CPU 48 of the temperature / humidity sensor 5 captures the temperature detected by the temperature sensor units 55 </ b> A and 55 </ b> B and writes it in the memory 49. At each detection, the memory 49 is updated with new temperature data as needed. Similarly, the CPU 48 of the temperature / humidity sensor 5 takes in the humidity detected by the humidity sensor units 56 </ b> A and 56 </ b> B as described above and writes it in the memory 49. At each detection, the memory 49 is updated with new temperature data as needed.

  First, the sensor server 2 has a coupler IC 45 of the branch connector 40 to which the temperature / humidity sensor 5 is attached (in the case of the temperature / humidity sensor 5A, the branch connector 40A of the temperature / humidity sensor 5) for each period according to the priority of each temperature / humidity sensor 5. The coupler IC 45) is instructed to electrically connect the sub communication line attachment port 43 to the first main communication line attachment port 41 together with the ID code of the coupler IC 45. Thus, the temperature / humidity sensor 5 (temperature / humidity sensor 5A in this case) is connected to the wiring 8 (main communication line) via the wiring 44 (sub-communication line; in this case, the wiring 44A). At the same time, the sensor server 2 transmits to the coupler IC 45 of the branch connector 40 an instruction to light the LED display 47 provided on the branch connector 40.

  Next, the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 polls the CPU 51 of the temperature / humidity sensor 5 together with the ID code of the temperature / humidity sensor 5, and the CPU 51 of the temperature / humidity sensor 5 responds to the temperature data ( Temperature sensor units 55A and 55B) and humidity data (humidity sensor units 56A and 56B) are returned to the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2. Further, the coupler IC 45 lights the LED display 47 of the branch connector 40.

  The sensor server 2 sequentially collects data such as temperature and humidity, door and window opening / closing from the temperature / humidity sensor 5 and the door sensor connected in a predetermined cycle according to the priority, and performs predetermined processing via the network Hub 11. Transmission (e-mail or the like) is performed to an output terminal (for example, a PC or a mobile phone). Thereby, a user or an administrator can grasp information about temperature, humidity, and opening / closing of doors and windows.

  Here, by transmitting and receiving data between the sensor server 2 and each monitoring terminal as described above, the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 detects all the monitoring terminals (input / output units 3,. It is determined whether the data of the temperature / humidity sensor 5, the door sensor, the authentication key socket 6, etc. is normal, that is, whether the received data is not abnormal or cannot be communicated. Here, the situation relates to the fact that the temperature / humidity sensor 5 or the like as the monitoring terminal has been removed, or the power supply of the entire main communication line due to a short circuit between the power line and the ground line of the temperature sensor 5 or the like. For example, transmission / reception failure caused by a short circuit between the communication line and the ground line may be mentioned. If the CPU 21 determines that it is normal, the process returns to step S3.

  On the other hand, when the sensor server 2 determines a situation such as abnormality of received data of a specific monitoring terminal or communication with the specific monitoring terminal, the process proceeds to step S5. In step S5, the sensor server 2 identifies the monitoring terminal where the failure has occurred. For example, when the temperature / humidity sensor 5B fails, the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 electrically disconnects the temperature / humidity sensor 5B that has become abnormal to the CPU 48 of the branch connector 40B to which the temperature / humidity sensor 5B is connected. Send instructions. In addition to the above instruction, the sensor server 2 transmits to the branch connector 40B an instruction to turn off the LED display 47 provided in the branch connector 40B.

  Based on this, the coupler IC 45 of the branch connector 40 </ b> B electrically disconnects the first main communication line attachment port 41 from the sub communication line attachment port 43 by the switching element 46. Further, the coupler IC 45 turns off the LED display 47 provided in the branch connector 40B.

  Thereafter, the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 proceeds to step S6, determines whether or not an alarm has already been issued, and if it is determined that an alarm has not been issued yet, the process proceeds to step S7, where the content of the abnormality, in this case, A transmission (e-mail or the like) is sent to a predetermined external device (such as a PC or a mobile phone) via the network Hub 11 to indicate that a failure such as a short circuit has occurred in the temperature / humidity sensor 5B. In addition, the alarm is not limited to this, and an audio output (such as “temperature / humidity sensor 5B has failed”) is output by outputting a message to that effect on the audio board 77 provided in the authentication key socket 6. Output) may be performed.

  After alarming, the process returns to step S3 again. Note that once the alarm is executed, the alarm may not be executed again unless it is reset. However, the alarm is not limited to this, and may be executed again after a predetermined time has elapsed. Further, depending on the content of the abnormality, there may be provided a case of executing only once or a case of executing again after a predetermined time has elapsed.

  Thus, when a plurality of temperature / humidity sensors 5... As monitoring terminals are connected to the same wiring 8 (communication line 16) as in this embodiment, some monitoring terminals (for example, temperature and humidity) Even if an abnormality such as a short circuit occurs in the sensor 5B), in the branch connector 40 (in this case, the branch connector 40B), the first main communication line attachment port 41 and the auxiliary communication line attachment to which the temperature / humidity sensor 5B is attached. The first main communication line mounting port 41 is electrically disconnected from the port 43, and the first main communication line mounting port 41 is connected to the second main communication line mounting port 42 on the subsequent stage (non-sensor server 2 side). It is possible to avoid the inconvenience that data cannot be transmitted and received over the entire line.

  Therefore, a monitoring terminal other than the occurrence of an abnormality such as a short circuit (in this case, in particular, the temperature / humidity sensors 5C to 5I connected to the non-sensor server 2 side of the temperature / humidity sensor 5B), and the sensor server 2 It is possible to send and receive data without any trouble.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the sensor server 2 is in a situation such as abnormality of received data of the monitoring terminal or communication with the monitoring terminal (not only when it becomes impossible to communicate electrically, but also as a temperature and humidity as a monitoring terminal physically) If the sensor 5 is removed), the content of the abnormality is transmitted (e-mail or the like) to a predetermined external device via the network Hub 11 as described above. As a result, the connection status to the wiring 8 (communication line 16) of the monitoring terminal such as the temperature / humidity sensor 5 and the abnormality occurrence status can be notified to the outside, and the user and the administrator can easily recognize the status. It becomes possible to do. Early response to abnormalities can be realized. In addition, since it can be confirmed even by a user or the like in a remote place, convenience can be improved.

  In this embodiment, in addition to this, the LED display 47 of the branch connector 40 to which the monitoring terminal (temperature / humidity sensor 5) in which an abnormality has occurred is attached notifies the outside that an abnormality has occurred. Therefore, even if it is difficult to identify the monitoring terminal in which an abnormality has occurred because a plurality of branch connectors 40 are provided, the LED illumination control unit 32 display 47 of the branch connector 40 is used. Since the occurrence of an abnormality can be recognized from the outside (in this case, it is turned off), the monitoring terminal can be easily specified at the installation site. Thereby, it is possible to improve maintenance workability such as replacement repair.

  In addition, since voice output is performed by the voice board 77 provided in the authentication key socket 6, the user or the like can recognize the situation more easily.

  In this embodiment, the temperature / humidity sensor 5 is provided with two temperature sensor units (55A, 55B) and two humidity sensor units (56A, 56B) as described above. Therefore, by calculating the average value based on the temperature data detected by the temperature sensor units 55A and 55B and the humidity data detected by the humidity sensor units 56A and 56B, more reliable data can be obtained. It can be acquired. Therefore, the temperature and humidity can be displayed with high reliability by displaying the average value on the display of the external device via the sensor server 2.

  Further, when there is a difference between them, it is possible to determine that a detection abnormality has occurred in any one of the detection units 55A or 55B (or 56A or 56B). Hereinafter, the abnormality detection / alarm operation of the sensor 5 itself will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  As described above, the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 polls the temperature / humidity sensor 5, so that the CPU 51 of the temperature / humidity sensor 5 has the temperature sensor units 55A and 55B and the humidity sensor unit 56A written in the memory 52. The data detected at 56B is returned (step S11).

  In step S12, the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 calculates these differences based on the returned temperature data of the temperature sensor units 55A and 55B. When the obtained temperature difference is larger than, for example, 1.5 ° C. (alarm temperature difference), it is assumed that an abnormality has occurred in any of the temperature sensor portions 55A and 55B, that is, a failure has occurred. The process proceeds to step S13. Similarly, the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 calculates these differences based on the returned humidity data of the humidity sensor units 56A and 56B. If the obtained humidity difference is larger than 4% (alarm humidity difference), for example, it is assumed that an abnormality has occurred in any one of the humidity sensor units 56A and 56B, that is, a failure has occurred. Proceed to S13.

  Then, the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 determines whether or not an alarm has already been executed in step S13. If the alarm has been issued, the process returns to step S11 again. On the other hand, if the alarm has not yet been executed, the process proceeds to step S14 to execute the alarm operation. Specifically, the content of the abnormality, in this case, an alarm temperature difference or an alarm humidity difference in the temperature / humidity sensor 5 is notified to a predetermined external device (for example, a PC or a mobile phone) via the network Hub 11. Send (e-mail etc.).

  After executing the alarm, the process proceeds to step S15. In step S15, these differences are calculated again based on the temperature data of the temperature sensor units 55A and 55B returned to the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2. Further, if any one of the failures progresses and the obtained temperature difference is larger than, for example, 3.0 ° C. (abnormal temperature difference), the temperature sensor unit 55A, 55B is informed of the temperature at the time of the alarm. Therefore, the process proceeds to step S16 on the assumption that an abnormal situation with higher urgency has occurred, that is, the detected temperature data is extremely low in reliability and needs to be replaced immediately.

  Similarly, the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 calculates these differences based on the returned humidity data of the humidity sensor units 56A and 56B. When the obtained humidity difference is larger than, for example, 8% (abnormal humidity difference), an abnormal situation that is more urgent than that at the time of alarm has occurred in any of the humidity sensor units 56A and 56B. The detected temperature data is extremely low in reliability, and the process proceeds to step S16 on the assumption that the replacement work is required immediately.

  Then, in step S16, the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 determines whether or not an abnormality notification has already been executed. If an abnormality notification has been made, the process returns to step S11 again. On the other hand, if the abnormality notification has not yet been executed, the process proceeds to step S17 to execute the abnormality notification operation. Specifically, the content of the abnormality, in this case, an abnormal temperature difference or an abnormal humidity difference has occurred in the temperature / humidity sensor 5 is transmitted to a predetermined external device (for example, a PC or a mobile phone) via the network Hub 11. Send (e-mail etc.).

  As described above, in this embodiment, two detection units for detecting the same detection factor, in this case, temperature and humidity, are provided in one temperature / humidity sensor 5, and therefore, based on the difference between the detection results. It is possible to detect an abnormality in any of the detection units. In particular, by providing them close to each other, it is possible to detect a narrow range with substantially the same atmosphere or the same conditions. Based on these detection results, it is possible to more reliably detect abnormalities in the detection unit. It becomes possible to detect.

  Further, in this embodiment, abnormality determination is performed step by step based on the difference between the detection results (in this embodiment, steps S12 and S15), and an alarm operation and an abnormality notification operation are executed in each case. As a result, the current degree of abnormality of the temperature / humidity sensor 5 can be recognized by the user or the manager at an early stage, and the temperature / humidity sensor 5 can be repaired or replaced at an appropriate time.

  Next, the operation of data transmission / reception with the authentication key socket 6 connected to the sensor server 2 via the wiring 9 will be described. The sensor server 2 first performs the identification operation of the connected terminals (in this case, the branch connectors 40J to 40R) as described in the flowchart of FIG. The CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 polls the coupler IC 45 of the branch connectors 40J to 40R connected to the wiring 9 (9 and 9A to 9G), receives the returned ID code, and stores it in the memory 22. Since the ID code indicates that the terminal is a branch connector, data and commands are transmitted / received to / from the branch connectors 40J to 40R using the ID code.

  Next, an identification operation of the terminal (in this case, the authentication key socket 6) connected to the branch connector 40 identified in the above step is performed. Therefore, the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 instructs the coupler IC 45 of the branch connector 40 to electrically connect the sub communication line attachment port 43 to the first main communication line attachment port 41. As a result, the authentication key socket 6 is connected to the wiring 9 via the wiring (sub-communication line; in this case, the wiring 9A). The terminal connected to the end of the sub-communication line, that is, the authentication key socket 6 is polled, and the ID code is acquired and recorded in its own memory 22. The CPU 21 identifies that it is an authentication key socket by checking the ID code against an internal table. Thereafter, data and commands are transmitted / received to / from the authentication key socket using the ID code.

  By repeating the above processing, the PCU 21 of the sensor server 2 collects ID codes of all branch connectors 40 and authentication key sockets 6 connected to the wiring 9 and records them in the memory 22. In the embodiment, the polling priority of the authentication key socket 6 is set to the lowest. Therefore, the sensor server 2 normally uses the authentication key socket 6 and the branch connector 40 of the wiring 9 to which the authentication key socket 6 is connected. Does not perform polling.

  In this state, when the authentication key 66 that is not always mounted is inserted into the insertion port 65B of the authentication key socket 6, the reed switch provided in the key accommodating portion 69 by the magnet 66M provided in the authentication key 66. 75 contacts close. The contact signal of the reed switch 75 is input to the input / output unit 32 of the input unit 4 via the signal cable 95.

  When the sensor server 2 polls the input unit 4 having a high priority, the CPU 21 of the input unit 4 accordingly indicates that the contact signal of the reed switch 75 is currently input, that is, the authentication key 66 is attached. Send (report) the data.

  Based on the notification, the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 activates the built-in software and polls the authentication key 66 via the wiring 9, the branch connector 40, the sub communication line 9A, and the like. The CPU 88 of the memory unit 87 of the authentication key 66 attached to this polling returns its own ID code stored in the memory 89. The CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 identifies whether the authentication key 66 is any registered user or administrator based on the returned ID code, and if it matches the registered ID code Performs “start” and “cancel” operations of the vigilance monitoring control.

  As a result, it is immediately detected that the authentication key 66 that is not always subject to polling and is not always attached to the authentication key socket 6 is attached by the reed switch 75 as the detecting means, and the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 However, it is possible to transmit / receive data to / from the authentication key 66 via the wiring 9 at an early stage.

  Conventionally, when a plurality of monitoring terminals such as a plurality of temperature / humidity sensors 5 and door sensors are connected to the sensor server 2 and data is collected, the authentication key 66 that is not always mounted is polled. May turn only every long time or polling may not be performed. However, as in this embodiment, the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2 can quickly authenticate the authentication key 66 attached to the authentication key socket 6 based on the detection of the attachment of the authentication key 66 by the reed switch 75. The time required for authenticating the authentication key 66 (actually, the time required until the sensor server 2 first detects the attachment of the authentication key 66) can be shortened, and the convenience can be improved.

  In particular, in this embodiment, in the transmission / reception with the CPU 21 of the sensor server 2, the input unit 4 or the input / output having a higher priority than the other monitoring terminals (temperature / humidity sensor 5 and the like in this embodiment) connected to others. Based on the notification from the unit 3, the sensor server 2 sends a data transmission request to the authentication key 66 attached to the authentication key socket 6. Accordingly, polling is not always performed or polled at a long cycle due to the notification by the input unit 4 or the input / output unit 3 to which the reed switch 75 that detects the attachment of the authentication key 66 is connected. The sensor server 2 can exchange data with the authentication key 66 at an early stage with respect to the authentication key 66.

  Accordingly, it is possible to authenticate the authentication key 66 at the sensor server 2 at an early stage without extending the wiring of the reed switch 75 for detecting the attachment of the authentication key 66 to the authentication key socket 6 to the sensor server 2.

  However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and a communication line to the authentication key 66 of the authentication key socket 6 is directly connected to the sensor server 2 without using a monitoring terminal such as a voice board 77 having a high priority. Thus, the sensor server 2 may be able to transmit and receive by detecting the attachment of the authentication key 66 by a reed switch as a detecting means.

  Further, when the reed switch 75 does not detect the attachment of the authentication key 66 to the authentication key socket 6 as in this embodiment, another key (for example, an authentication key not provided with the magnet 66M) is inserted. However, since the sensor server 2 does not poll the authentication key 66, it is possible to improve safety.

  Further, when the authentication key 66 remains attached to the authentication key socket 6, the contact point of the reed switch 75 is kept closed, so that the sensor server 2 has not yet removed the authentication key 66. Can be easily determined, and malfunction due to noise or the like can be suppressed.

  In the present embodiment, the reed switch 75 is used as means for detecting the attachment of the authentication key 66 to the authentication key socket 6. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Or an infrared switch (a device that generates a mounting signal by blocking infrared light when the authentication key 66 is mounted).

  Further, the authentication key 66 in the present embodiment has a so-called key shape composed of a main body 66A accommodated in the key accommodating portion 69 from the insertion port 65B and a handle portion 66B, but is not limited thereto. However, it may be in the form of a card as long as it has a memory unit 87 as in this embodiment.

  Next, a temperature / humidity sensor (sensor unit) 94 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 16 is a schematic front view of the temperature / humidity sensor 94, FIG. 17 is a schematic rear view of the temperature / humidity sensor 94, and FIG. 18 is a schematic explanatory view showing a state in which the temperature / humidity sensor 94 is attached.

  Similar to the first embodiment, the temperature / humidity sensor 94 according to the embodiment includes a CPU as a sensor control unit, a memory as a storage unit, a communication unit, a power supply unit, and a temperature sensor unit 95A as a temperature detection element. , 95B, and humidity sensor units 96A, 96B as humidity detection elements.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, a temperature sensor section 95A as a first temperature detection element is provided on one surface 97A corresponding to the surface of the substrate 97, and a humidity sensor as a first humidity detection element. A portion 96A is disposed, and a temperature sensor portion 95B as a second temperature detection element and a humidity sensor portion 96B as a second humidity detection element are disposed on the other surface 97B corresponding to the back surface. ing.

  On the other hand, FIG. 18 shows a partial schematic cross-sectional view of a showcase 110 provided with the temperature / humidity sensor 94 of this embodiment. The showcase 110 is constituted by, for example, a heat insulating box 111 that opens to the front surface, and a partition plate 112 is formed inside the back wall of the heat insulating box 111 with a predetermined interval. Thus, a cool air duct 115 is formed between the back wall of the heat insulating box 111 and the partition plate 112, and a display chamber 116 opened to the front is formed in front. In the cool air duct 115, a cooler 113 and a blower 114 that constitute the cooling device R are disposed.

  And it is the partition plate 112 which divides the cold air duct 115 and the display chamber 116, Comprising: The through-hole 117 for arrange | positioning the temperature / humidity sensor 94 of a present Example is formed in the blowing side of cold air. . In the through-hole 117, one surface 97A of the substrate of the sensor 94 is disposed so as to face the display chamber 116 side, and the other surface 97B is disposed so as to face the cold air blowing side of the cold air duct 115. .

  With such a configuration, the first temperature sensor portion 95A and the first humidity sensor portion 96A of the sensor 94 are disposed on the display chamber 116 side, and the second temperature sensor portion 95B of the sensor 94 is disposed on the cold air outlet side of the cold air duct 115. A second humidity sensor unit 96B is provided.

  Accordingly, the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor unit 95A of the temperature / humidity sensor 94 becomes the temperature in the display chamber 116, and the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor unit 95B is the cold air in the cold air duct 115. It becomes the temperature of the blowout side. Further, the humidity detected by the first humidity sensor unit 96A is the humidity in the display chamber 116, and the humidity detected by the second humidity sensor unit 96B is the humidity on the cold air outlet side of the cold air duct 115.

  Therefore, the control device 118 provided in the showcase 110 uses the temperature and humidity in the display chamber 116 detected by the temperature and humidity sensor 94, and further the temperature and humidity on the cold air outlet side of the cold air duct 115, so that the cold air duct 115. It becomes possible to control the blower 114 disposed in the.

  That is, according to the temperature / humidity sensor 94 in the present embodiment, it is possible to detect different environments, in this case, the temperature and humidity on the cold air outlet side of the display chamber 116 and the cold air duct 115, for example, When the difference in humidity is small, the control device 118 decreases or stops the rotation speed of the blower 114, and when the difference in temperature and humidity is large, the control apparatus 118 increases the rotation speed of the blower 114. Or it becomes possible to drive.

  As a result, it is possible to detect the situation where the detection factor is different in one sensor unit, in this case, the situation in the display chamber 116 and the cold air duct 115 where the temperature and humidity are different.

  Note that the use of the sensor unit is not limited to this, and convenience can be improved by providing the sensor unit in regions having different detection factors, in this case, regions having different temperatures and humidity.

  Next, a temperature / humidity sensor (sensor unit) 120 as Example 3 will be described with reference to a schematic configuration diagram of the temperature / humidity sensor 120 of FIG. Similar to the first embodiment, the temperature / humidity sensor 120 according to the embodiment includes a CPU as a sensor control unit, a memory as a storage unit, a communication unit, a power supply unit, and a temperature sensor unit 121A as a temperature detection element. , 121B, and humidity sensor parts 122A, 122B as humidity detecting elements.

  In this embodiment, the temperature sensor parts 121A and 121B and the humidity sensor parts 122A and 122B are disposed on one surface of the substrate 123. At this time, the first temperature sensor unit 121A and the first humidity sensor unit 122A are disposed on one side of the substrate 123, and the second temperature sensor unit 121B and the second humidity sensor unit 122B are Arranged on the other side of the substrate 123.

  With such a configuration, the first temperature sensor unit 121A and the second temperature sensor unit 121B are arranged at a predetermined distance, in this case, a distance of a substantially width dimension of the substrate 123. Based on the detection of 121A and 121B, it becomes possible to grasp the temperature distribution in the installation range of the sensor 120 in the environment where the temperature and humidity sensor 120 is disposed.

  Similarly, since the first humidity sensor unit 122A and the second humidity sensor unit 122B are arranged with a predetermined distance, in this case, a distance of a substantially width dimension of the substrate 123, the humidity sensor unit 122A. , 122B, the humidity distribution in the installation range of the sensor 120 in the environment where the temperature / humidity sensor 120 is disposed can be grasped.

  Accordingly, the temperature sensor unit 121A and the humidity sensor unit 122A provided on one side of the portion where the temperature difference and the humidity difference are likely to be generated, and the temperature sensor unit 121B and the humidity sensor unit 122B provided on the other side are different from each other. The temperature / humidity sensor 120 is attached so that the position becomes. This makes it possible to detect the temperature distribution and humidity distribution in the environment, and based on this, it is possible to control the blower, the cooling device, and the heating device in the non-air-conditioned space. Thereby, it becomes possible to adjust the temperature and humidity of the non-air-conditioned space with high accuracy.

  In each of the above embodiments, two detection elements are provided for each detection factor. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and there may be a plurality of detection elements, even if there are three or more. good. In each of the above embodiments, temperature and humidity are listed as detection factors, and the temperature detection element and the humidity detection element are arranged on the substrate. However, the detection factor is not limited to this, In addition, a pressure detection element, an illuminance detection element, a rain sensor, or the like may be provided on the substrate as pressure, illuminance, rain, or the like.

It is the schematic which shows the structure of the monitoring system of this invention. It is a schematic block diagram of a sensor server (monitoring controller). It is a schematic block diagram of an input / output unit (monitoring terminal). It is a schematic block diagram of wiring. It is a schematic block diagram of a branch connector. It is a schematic block diagram of a branch connector. It is a schematic external view of a temperature / humidity sensor. Example 1 It is a schematic block diagram of a temperature / humidity sensor. Example 1 It is a schematic block diagram of a temperature / humidity sensor. Example 1 It is a front view of an authentication key socket. It is a schematic configuration side view of an authentication key socket. It is a schematic block diagram of an authentication system. It is a schematic block diagram of the memory part of an authentication key. It is a flowchart of the data transmission / reception operation | movement with a sensor server, a branch connector, and a temperature / humidity sensor. It is a flowchart of abnormality detection and alarm operation | movement of a sensor itself. It is a schematic front view of a temperature / humidity sensor. (Example 2) It is a schematic rear view of a temperature / humidity sensor. (Example 2) It is a schematic explanatory drawing which shows the state to which the temperature / humidity sensor was attached. (Example 2) It is a schematic block diagram of a temperature / humidity sensor. (Example 3) It is a schematic external view of a conventional temperature and humidity sensor. It is a schematic block diagram of the conventional temperature / humidity sensor.

Explanation of symbols

S Authentication system 1 Monitoring system 2 Sensor server (monitoring controller)
3 Input / output unit (monitoring terminal)
5, 94, 120 Temperature / humidity sensor 6 Authentication key socket 7, 8, 9, 44 (44A to 44I), 60, 61, 93 Wiring 10 LAN cable 11 Network Hub
12 First Input / Output Unit 13 Second Input / Output Unit 15 Power Line 16 Communication Line 17 Ground Line 20, 30 Controller 21, 34, 48, 51, 88 CPU
22, 35, 49, 52, 89 Memory (storage unit)
23, 36, 50, 53, 84, 91 Communication unit 24, 38 Display unit 25, 37, 54, 57, 90 Power supply unit 26 I / O unit 31 Input unit 32 Output unit 33 Input / output unit 40 Branch connector 41 First Main communication line mounting port 42 Second main communication line mounting port 43 Sub communication line mounting port 45 Coupler IC (branch connector side control device)
46 Semiconductor switching element 47 LED indicator 55A, 55B, 95A, 95B, 121A, 121B Temperature sensor (temperature detection element)
56A, 56B, 96A, 96B, 122A, 122B Humidity sensor (humidity detection element)
58, 97, 123 Substrate 65B Insertion slot 66 Authentication key 66M Magnet 67 LED display 68 Speaker 69 Key housing 72 LED display wiring 73, 83, 85 Communication line 73A Communication line terminal 74 Ground line 74A Ground line terminal 75 Reed switch (authentication key detection means)
77 Audio board 78 Substrate 79 I / O switch IC
80 voice ROM
81 Capacitor 87 Memory part 97A One side (front surface) of substrate
97B Other side (back side) of substrate
110 Showcase 112 Partition plate 113 Cooler 114 Blower 115 Cold air duct 116 Display chamber 118 Control device

Claims (6)

  A sensor unit comprising a plurality of detection elements on a substrate for performing a detection operation for the same detection factor.   The sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein the detection elements are close to each other.   The sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein each of the detection elements is provided on the front and back of the substrate.   The sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein each of the detection elements is provided at a position spaced apart from each other on the substrate.   The control apparatus characterized by receiving the output of each detection element of the sensor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and controlling the device based on the output of each detection element.   The control device according to claim 2, wherein an output of each detection element of the sensor unit according to claim 2 is input, and abnormality determination of the sensor unit is performed based on a difference between outputs of the detection elements.

Images