JP2009210041A - Gas cut-off device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To properly control the usage restricting function of equipment depending on whether a network connecting condition is established. <P>SOLUTION: A gas cut-off device comprises a flow amount information acquiring means 110 for finding a gas flow amount in a gas passage and registering a flow amount value when determined as the flow amount of the equipment, an abnormal usage determining means 103 for measuring a continuous usage time since the flow amount value is registered and comparing it with a set value for a usage time setting means 112 to determine whether a usage time is proper, a communication means 113 for transmitting/receiving various information to/from the outside, and a usage time change-over means 108 for changing the set value for the usage time setting means depending on whether an outside communicating condition is normal. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a network and a gas shut-off device, and more particularly, to a gas shut-off device that enhances safety and improves usability by using an appliance use restriction control function based on an output signal of network connection detection.

  Conventionally, as this type of gas shut-off device, for example, there has been one disclosed in Patent Document 1.

  The gas shut-off device disclosed in Patent Document 1 will be briefly described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 shows the configuration of a communication-type prepaid system and equipment (gas meter, gas equipment).

  The communication type prepaid system includes a financial institution 1, a center 2, a network 3, mobile terminals 4, 5 and the like. The mobile terminals 4 and 5 are communication terminals that can be connected to the network 5 such as a mobile phone and a PHS. The computer of the center 2, the computer of the financial institution 1, and the mobile terminals 4 and 5 are connected to each other via a network 3.

  The portable terminal 4 includes the short-range wireless communication terminal 4-1 and communicates with the gas meter 6 including the short-range wireless communication terminal 6-1. Similarly, the portable terminal 5 includes the short-range wireless communication terminal 5-1, and communicates with the gas device 7 including the short-range wireless communication terminal 7-1. The center 2 manages the gas meter 6, the gas equipment 7, and the like.

  The gas meter 6 is a device that shuts off gas and the like by opening and closing a control valve. The gas meter 6 includes a short-range wireless communication terminal 6-1, a control device 6-2, and the like.

  The short-range wireless communication terminal 6-1 performs wireless communication with the short-range wireless communication terminal 4-1 according to a standard such as Bluetooth. The short-range wireless communication terminal 6-1 is attached to the gas meter 6 through an adapter or the like built in the gas meter 6 or attached to the gas meter 6. The control device 6-2 performs various controls such as opening and closing of the control valve.

  The gas meter 6 receives an instruction from the mobile terminal 4-1 by the short-range wireless communication terminal 6-1, and the control device 6-2 performs control valve opening / closing control and the like.

  The gas equipment 7 is, for example, a gas dryer or a gas heating / cooling device. The gas device 7 receives an instruction from the portable terminal 5-1 at the short-range wireless communication terminal 7-1, and the control device 7-2 receives a remote operation such as operation on / off and device setting. Similar to the gas meter 6, the short-range wireless communication terminal 7-1 is built in the gas device 7, or the short-range wireless communication terminal 7-1 is attached to the gas device 7 via an adapter or the like.

  Next, the operation of the configuration of the conventional example will be described. First, the gas meter 6 is in a blocked state. A user of the gas meter 6 pays a gas fee to the financial institution 1 via the network 3 using the portable terminal 4 having a function capable of being connected to the network 3. The payment of the gas fee described here is assumed to be prepaid, and the gas meter shuts off again when a gas having a constant flow rate corresponding to the payment is used.

The financial institution 1 notifies the center 2 that manages the gas meter 6 that the gas fee for the gas meter 6 has been paid. The notification method from the financial institution 1 to the center 2 is the network 3
Do through.

  Next, a program for controlling the gas meter 6 is sent from the center 2 to the portable terminal 4 and downloaded. This is a program for communicating with the short-range wireless communication terminals 6-1 and 7-1 included in the gas meter 6, the gas equipment 7, and the like.

  When the program is started from the portable terminal 4, the short-range wireless communication terminal 4-1 of the portable terminal 4 sends the opening command to the short-range wireless communication terminal 6-1 of the gas meter 6 and information on the flow rate at which the gas can flow. Are sent using near field communication. In response to the opening command sent to the short-range wireless communication terminal 6-1, the control device 6-2 of the gas meter 6 opens the control valve.

  The control device 6-2 of the gas meter 6 checks the gas flow rate at regular intervals. When the gas flow rate exceeds the specified flow rate, the control device 6-2 of the gas meter 6 shuts off the control valve. Further, the short-range wireless communication terminal 6-1 notifies the short-range wireless communication terminal 4-1 of the mobile terminal 4 of the cutoff information and displays it on the mobile terminal 4-1.

  When the flow rate at which the gas can flow decreases, that is, the time until plugging decreases, the control device 6-2 of the gas meter 6 transmits the short-range wireless communication of the portable terminal 4 from the short-range wireless communication terminal 6-1. Notification is made to the terminal 4-1.

  The portable terminal 4 displays information related to the operation time of the gas meter 6. When an additional gas charge is paid from the user, a program for extending the operation is downloaded from the center 2 to the portable terminal 4, and a command is sent from the portable terminal 4 to the gas meter 6 via the short-range wireless communication 4-1. The operating time of the gas meter 6 is extended. If payment is not made, the gas meter is shut off. Prepaid / online payment of the usage fee of the device is performed using the portable terminal, and the device is directly controlled from the portable terminal.

  Moreover, there existed a thing as shown in patent document 2 as a gas interruption | blocking apparatus relevant to an alarm device.

  FIG. 7 shows a conventional gas shut-off device described in Patent Document 2. As shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the connection / non-connection detection means 18a2 for detecting connection and non-connection of the gas leak alarm 20 and the connection / non-connection detection means 18a2 from the initial connection state where the connection has never been detected. The disconnection detecting means 18a2 for detecting that the connection between the gas leak alarm 20 and the gas meter is disconnected in response to the detection of the disconnection after the connected state has been detected even once. In response to the detection of the disconnection, the transmission means 18a2 for transmitting data for notifying the fact to the outside is provided.

  With the above configuration, when the gas leak alarm device 20 is not originally connected since the gas meter was installed, paying attention to the fact that the connected initial state does not shift to the connected state, and when the connected initial state is changed to the connected state. Thereafter, disconnection is detected according to detection of unconnected. Thereby, only when the connection between the gas leak alarm 20 and the gas meter is disconnected, the data for notifying the fact is transmitted, and the data is transmitted every time the disconnection with the gas leak alarm 20 is detected. Can be prevented. Further, the management side can determine that the gas leak alarm 20 has been disconnected without confirming whether or not it is connected to the gas leak alarm 20 by receiving a notification of disconnection detection.

In addition, when the gas use time continues for a predetermined set time or longer, the use time cut-off means 18a2 that cuts off the gas supply and when the gas leak alarm 20 is connected and set are not set. And changing means 18a2 for changing the time.

As a result, the first connection flag controlled to change the set time for use time cutoff between ON and OFF of the first connection flag, that is, when the gas leak alarm 20 is connected and not connected is used. Thus, it is possible to obtain a gas meter that can transmit data when disconnection is detected even more easily.
JP 2002-74238 A JP 2004-45075 A

  However, in the configuration of Patent Document 1 described above, when the user makes a prepaid online payment, the gas meter 1 supplies gas, and when the additional charge from the user is not paid, the control valve of the gas meter 6 is closed from the center. Even if the center 2 and the gas meter 6 are connected via the device, it is not disclosed how the usage time of the appliance is monitored.

Further, in the configuration of Patent Document 2, the presence or absence of an external sensor such as a gas leak alarm is detected to change the flow rate continuation predetermined time (as shown in FIG. 5, for example, 0.5 m ³ / h is a long time). 400 minutes, short time 50 minutes), even if the expiration date of the external sensor such as a gas leak alarm has passed and the deterioration of the sensor has progressed, and it has no accurate abnormality detection capability, If an external sensor such as a gas leak alarm is apparently operated, the flow rate continuation predetermined time remains set for a long time, and there is a problem that it may become unsafe.

  The present invention solves the above-described conventional problems, and monitors whether the gas shut-off device reaches the expiration date of an external sensor such as a gas leak alarm, and automatically continues the flow rate when the expiration date is reached. By connecting a gas shut-off device or network and gas meter that has a function to return the time setting to a short time setting, the device usage time is monitored, and the user continues to use the device. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gas shut-off device that is easy to use and highly safe by limiting the use time when the network is not connected.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned conventional problems, the gas shutoff device of the present invention obtains the gas flow rate in the gas passage, and registers the flow rate information acquisition means for registering when the flow rate value is determined as the instrument flow rate, and the flow rate value is registered. Abnormal use determination means that measures the continuous use time after that and compares it with the setting value of the use time setting means, communication means that transmits / receives various information to / from the outside, and transmission / reception to / from the outside Use time switching means for changing the set value of the use time setting means depending on whether the state is normal or not.

  According to the above invention, in the specific configuration of the flow rate information acquisition unit, the flow rate detection unit detects that the appliance has been used, and the flow rate value converted by the predetermined calculation unit is registered in the flow rate registration unit as the appliance flow rate. Then, the use time is measured in the abnormal use determination means, and the use time is compared with the set value of the use time setting means. Safety is ensured by stopping supply.

Further, it is determined whether or not the transmission / reception of information with the outside is normally executed by the communication means, and when it is determined that the transmission / reception state is secured, the set value of the usage time setting means is extended by the usage time switching means. By changing the direction, the user can use the device for a long time, and the usability is improved, and when it is determined that the transmission / reception state cannot be secured, the direction to shorten the setting value of the usage time setting means By changing to, the safety of the user is ensured.

  The gas shut-off device of the present invention is basically based on ensuring the safety by limiting the usage time of the appliance based on the usage time when the appliance flow rate value is determined and a predetermined set value, and further by the communication means. When the transmission / reception of information is normally executed, and when it is determined that the transmission / reception state is secured, the setting value of the usage time setting means is changed to be extended by the usage time switching means. Therefore, when it is determined that the user can use the appliance for a long time and the usability is improved and the transmission / reception state is not secured, by changing the setting value of the usage time setting means, The safety of the user is ensured.

  For example, it is determined whether or not the communication state is normally secured with the monitoring center managed by the gas company, and when it is determined that the communication state is secured, the set value of the use time setting means by the use time switching means By changing the direction to extend the user's time, it is possible to extend the user's device usage time and improve usability, and it is possible to ensure safety by a monitoring function via a network.

  In other words, the gas shutoff device and the monitoring center managed by the gas company are connected using a communication line such as a network, and the gas customer is using the appliance at the monitoring center managed by the gas company or for a long time. It is possible to ensure the safety of equipment use by monitoring information such as when it has been used and the usage time has been shut off for 24 hours, and it is possible to ensure the safety of equipment use. It is possible to take actions such as stopping the use of the gas. On the other hand, the gas user can use the gas appliance for a long time without anxiety, improving the usability and improving the safety.

  1st invention calculates | requires the flow rate information acquisition means which calculates | requires the gas flow rate in a gas passage, and registers this flow rate value when it determines with an instrument flow rate, the continuous use time after a flow rate value is registered, and uses time The abnormal use determination means for determining the suitability of the usage time compared with the setting value of the setting means, the communication means for transmitting / receiving various information to / from the outside, and the usage time setting means depending on whether the transmission / reception state with the outside is normal or not It is characterized by comprising usage time switching means for changing the set value.

  Then, in the specific configuration of the flow rate information acquisition unit, when the flow rate detection unit detects that the instrument has been used and the flow rate value converted by the predetermined calculation unit is registered in the flow rate registration unit as an instrument flow rate, The usage time is measured in the usage determining means, and the usage time is compared with the set value of the usage time setting means. When the usage time exceeds the set value, it is determined that the usage is abnormal and the gas supply is stopped by the shut-off means. To ensure safety.

  Further, it is determined whether or not the transmission / reception of information with the outside is normally executed by the communication means, and when it is determined that the transmission / reception state is secured, the set value of the usage time setting means is extended by the usage time switching means. By changing the direction, the user can use the device for a long time, and the usability is improved, and when it is determined that the transmission / reception state cannot be secured, the direction to shorten the setting value of the usage time setting means By changing to, the safety of the user is ensured.

  Further, according to a second invention, in the first invention, the communication means executes communication of various information with the monitoring center, and the usage time switching means normally communicates with the monitoring center. When it is determined that it has been executed, the setting value of the usage time setting means is changed to an extension direction, and when it is determined that communication with the monitoring center is abnormal, the setting value of the usage time setting means is changed to a direction of shortening. It is a feature.

  Then, it is determined whether or not the communication state is normally secured with the monitoring center managed by the gas company, and when it is determined that the communication state is secured, the set value of the use time setting means is set by the use time switching means. By changing the direction to extend the user's time, it is possible to extend the user's device usage time and improve usability, and it is possible to ensure safety by a monitoring function via a network.

  In other words, the gas shutoff device and the monitoring center managed by the gas company are connected using a communication line such as a network, and the gas customer is using the appliance at the monitoring center managed by the gas company or for a long time. It is possible to ensure the safety of equipment use by monitoring information such as when it has been used and the usage time has been shut off for 24 hours, and it is possible to ensure the safety of equipment use. It is possible to take actions such as stopping the use of the gas. On the other hand, the gas user can use the gas appliance for a long time without anxiety, improving the usability and improving the safety.

  According to a third invention, in the first invention, the communication means receives connection presence / absence information from an external sensor, and the use time switching means receives connection “presence” information of the external sensor. When received, the setting value of the usage time setting means is changed to an extension direction, and when the external sensor connection “no” information is received, the setting value of the usage time setting means is changed to a reduction direction. Is.

  And it is received by the communication means as information from the external sensor whether or not the external sensor such as various alarm devices is installed and functioning normally, and as a signal that the external sensor is installed and functioning normally When the external sensor connection “Yes” information is received, the setting value of the usage time setting means is changed to the direction to extend, and the user can extend the usage time of the equipment, improving the usability, and the external sensor When a signal indicating that the sensor is not installed or not functioning properly is received, the connection value of the external sensor is received. Safety is ensured by limiting.

  In addition, in a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the first and third aspects of the invention, when the connection information “existing” information of the external sensor is received, the effective period starts to be counted. An output period determination unit is provided, and the usage time switching unit is characterized in that when the period expiration signal is output from the period determination unit, the setting value of the usage time setting unit is changed in a direction to be shortened.

  Then, it is monitored whether the gas shut-off device reaches the expiration date of the external sensor, and when the expiration date is reached, the setting value of the usage time setting means, which is an allowable value of the continuous usage time of the instrument, is automatically shortened By limiting the use conditions of the instrument without relying on an external sensor in an unstable state that has expired, the safety can be secured temporarily. Provisional measures for ensuring safety until the sensor is replaced are possible with simple processing.

  In a fifth aspect based on the first aspect, the communication means receives an exchange request signal from the external sensor, and the usage time switching means receives the exchange request signal from the external sensor. In this case, the setting value of the use time setting means is changed in a direction to shorten, and an expiration notification signal is output.

An external sensor is provided with a function for timing its own expiration date, and when the expiration date is approaching or has passed, an expiration notification signal is output, and the gas cutoff device monitors whether or not this expiration notification signal has been received. When the presence of reception is judged, it is judged that the abnormality detection function of the external sensor has exceeded the guaranteed range, and the allowable value of continuous use time is set to a short time so that the use condition of the gas appliance is limited. Since the external sensor itself has a function to determine the expiration date, it can be easily accommodated even if the expiration date differs between external sensors of different types and specifications, and the expiration date has passed. However, if it is not replaced, it is possible to ensure temporary safety by limiting the use conditions of the instrument, and easy provisional measures to ensure safety until the external sensor is replaced It is possible in the process.

  In addition, in a sixth aspect based on the first to fifth aspects, when the use time switching means changes the set value of the use time setting means, the change is made a plurality of times within a predetermined maximum extendable time range. It is characterized by enabling processing.

  Then, when it is determined by the communication means that the transmission / reception state is normally secured, the appliance use time can be extended, and the time limit is set in multiple times within the range of the longest possible extension time. Therefore, the time limit can be extended step by step while confirming the remote monitoring function, and usability can be improved while ensuring safety.

  Further, a seventh invention is the above-mentioned first to fifth inventions, comprising learning means for measuring a usage time for a fixed period and multiplying a predetermined coefficient to update a set value of the usage time setting means, and a usage time switching means. Is characterized in that the set value of the use time setting means can be extended within the range of the maximum extendable time set in accordance with the set value updated by the learning means.

  And according to the time limit set based on the learning result of the appliance usage pattern for each consumer, the longest possible extension time of appliance usage time that can be set when the transmission / reception state is normally secured by the communication means Since it is set, it is possible to set an optimal appliance usage time limit value according to the appliance usage situation of the consumer, and it is possible to provide a gas shut-off device considering the balance between safety and usability. .

  Further, by processing with a program, a part or all of the shutoff device of the present invention can be easily realized using a microcomputer or the like.

  Furthermore, program distribution and installation can be simplified by recording on a recording medium or distributing the program using a communication line.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a connection form between a gas cutoff device and a network in Embodiment 1 of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a control block diagram of the gas cutoff device. In FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the same reference numerals are given to the means for performing the same function as in FIG.

  In FIG. 1, the gas shut-off device 8 is connected to a wireless slave unit 9, and communication from the wireless slave unit 9 is performed with the wireless master unit 10, and the wireless master unit 10 is connected to the gas operator via the network 3. Connected to the monitoring center 2. There are various methods of radio such as specific low power or short-range radio. This figure shows a case where a wireless slave unit and a master unit are used, but a signal transmission device may be connected to a gas company's monitoring center via a network (such as a telephone line) from a gas cutoff device (not shown). )

  FIG. 2 is an example of a control block diagram of the gas cutoff device 8 according to the first embodiment.

When the installed gas appliance is used and gas consumption occurs, the gas shut-off device 8 monitors the use state, measures the amount used, and stores it as various data. The data stored in the gas shut-off device 8 responds based on a periodic data request command from the gas company.

  In FIG. 2, 101 is a flow rate detecting means for measuring the gas flow rate. There are various methods as the flow rate detecting means 101, and an ultrasonic signal is transmitted from one to the other with a pair of ultrasonic sensors installed in the flow path shown in this embodiment, and the gas flow rate used is determined from the propagation time. For detecting the flow rate, or for determining the flow rate from the impedance that changes depending on the flow with a hot-wire sensor installed in the flow path, and for detecting the amount of gas with a metering membrane, Some devices detect the flow rate as an electrical pulse signal.

  For example, the flow rate detection means 101 using an ultrasonic sensor will be briefly described. A first transmitter / receiver that transmits or receives ultrasonic waves and a second transmitter / receiver that receives or transmits ultrasonic waves are arranged facing each other in the flow direction, and are determined in advance. In each cycle, an ultrasonic signal is transmitted from upstream to downstream and from downstream to upstream, and the propagation time is measured. Then, the flow rate calculation unit 102 obtains the flow rate value in consideration of the size of the flow path and the flow state of the fluid from the ultrasonic propagation time difference between the first transmitter / receiver and the second transmitter / receiver.

  Reference numeral 110 denotes a flow rate registration unit, and when the obtained flow rate value is equal to or higher than a predetermined flow rate, it is registered as a usage time monitoring target as an instrument flow rate. Reference numeral 111 denotes a usage time measuring unit, which starts the measurement of usage time when it is registered in the flow rate registration unit 110 as an instrument flow rate. 112 is a usage time setting unit, and a usage time limit time is set in advance according to the flow rate range of the flow rate registered in the flow rate registration unit 110. In addition, the usage time ranges from the lower limit to the upper limit of the usage time range according to the usage time for each gas consumer, and is set within that range.

  Reference numeral 103 denotes an abnormality determination unit that monitors the abnormality of the appliance used. The use time measurement value of the use time measuring means 111 and the set value of the use time setting means 112 are compared, and it is determined whether or not the use time exceeds the set value and is not being used abnormally. In addition, the monitoring judgment value of the maximum use flow rate is stored from the registered flow rate of the flow rate registration means 110. For example, when the hose supplying gas to the stove or the like is disconnected for some reason, an abnormally large flow rate occurs. A total flow cutoff value or the like for monitoring such a state is set, and by comparing and determining the set flow rate and the registered flow rate value of the flow rate registration unit 110 by the abnormality determination unit 103, the registered flow rate value is the maximum used. Determine whether the flow rate value is exceeded. When the abnormality determination means 103 determines that there is an abnormality, a cutoff signal is sent to the cutoff means 105 to stop the gas supply. In addition, the shut-off state and the shut-off content are displayed on the liquid crystal display element and the like, and the monitoring center 2 that monitors the gas safety is notified through the communication means 113 and the like.

  108 is a use time switching means, and the set value of the use time setting means 112 is within a predetermined maximum extendable time range when the remote monitoring function is operating normally by communication between the gas shut-off device 8 and the monitoring center 2. Change with. Specifically, network connection communication is performed with the monitoring center 2 of the gas company through the wireless slave unit 9 and the network 3 through the communication unit 113. When the communication means 113 receives a response communication from the monitoring center 2 of the gas company via the network 3, the use time switching means 108 sets the upper limit value of the set value of the use time setting means 112 to the upper limit value further above. Set division extension.

  When the gas cutoff device 8 and the monitoring center 2 are communicatively connected, the abnormality determination unit 103 compares the use time set value with the extended cutoff value set in the range of the further upper limit value and the lower limit value.

  Next, the operation of the gas shut-off device configured as described above will be described.

The gas shut-off device 8 communicates with a wireless master device 10 as a repeater via a wireless slave device 9 by a wireless signal, for example. The wireless master device 10 is further connected to the network 3 and connected to the monitoring center 2 of the gas company via wired communication or a wireless communication network. Then, using this communication network, the gas shut-off device 8 can normally establish communication connection with the monitoring center 2 from the use time switching means 108 via the communication means 113 at a predetermined timing or at a predetermined cycle. Center communication to confirm whether or not there is.

  In this center communication, first, the wireless slave unit 9 of the gas cutoff device 8 communicates with the center 2 through the network 3 via the wireless master unit 10 as a repeater. When the monitoring center 2 receives it, it returns a response message. When the usage time switching unit 108 receives the response message via the communication unit 113, the usage time switching unit 108 outputs a signal indicating that the maximum extension time can be set further than the upper limit value of the setting value of the usage time setting unit 112. In addition, when communication connection with the network 3 cannot be made and a response message from the monitoring center 2 cannot be received, an upper limit value extension setting disable signal is output to the use time setting means 112, and the time limit is when there is no network connection. The upper limit value is set to a low value.

  Here, when a response message is returned from the monitoring center 2 by a center communication executed at a predetermined timing or at a predetermined cycle, a normal communication state is ensured between the gas cutoff device 8 and the monitoring center 2. The monitoring center 2 determines that the remote monitoring function of the gas shut-off device 8 is operating normally, thereby enabling extension of the instrument usage time.

  And the limit value of the appliance usage time that can be extended when the remote monitoring function is normal can be set within the range of the predetermined maximum extension time, and the setting method is also the maximum extension when the response message is sent back for the first time. The possible time may be set, or may be set in a plurality of times within a range of the maximum extendable time each time a response message is returned at a predetermined timing or at a predetermined cycle. According to the former setting method, it is possible to easily perform the extension changing process of the limit value of the appliance usage time, and to improve the usability. According to the latter setting method, the time limit can be extended step by step while confirming the remote monitoring function, and the usability can be improved while ensuring safety.

  The gas shut-off device 8 detects the flow rate by the flow rate detecting means 101 when a gas appliance, for example, a gas stove or a water heater, etc. possessed at a customer's house is used. For example, when an ultrasonic sensor is used, the propagation time of the ultrasonic signal is measured as a detected value, and this signal is sent to the flow rate calculation means 102 and calculated as a flow rate. Is done.

  When the flow rate is registered, the usage time measuring means 111 starts measuring the usage time of the appliance. On the other hand, the usage time setting means 112 has a lower limit value and an upper limit value of the time limit for usage time for each flow rate category to which the flow rate registered belongs. Normally, the maximum upper limit value is set as the setting value of the usage time setting unit 112. However, when setting the optimal appliance usage time limit value according to the appliance usage status of the consumer, Learning means for measuring the usage time for a certain period and multiplying a predetermined coefficient to update the setting value is provided, and the setting value updated by the learning means is monitored as a limit value of the appliance usage time.

  In the configuration in which the instrument usage time can be extended when the remote monitoring function of the present invention is operating normally, the usage time switching unit 108 is set according to the set value updated by the learning unit. By setting the set value of the use time setting means 112 within the range of the maximum extendable time, it is possible to provide a gas shut-off device in consideration of the balance between safety and usability.

  Then, the abnormality determination unit 103 compares the use time measurement unit 111 and the set value at that time of the use time setting unit 112 and monitors whether the use time exceeds the setting.

On the other hand, it is also monitored in parallel whether the flow rate value obtained before registration in the flow rate registration means 110 increases more rapidly than the flow rate after registration and does not exceed the abnormal flow rate due to the cause of hose disconnection or the like. When the usage time measuring unit 111 determines that the time limit of the usage time setting unit 112 has been exceeded, the abnormality determination unit 103 immediately outputs a cutoff signal to the cutoff unit 105, and stops the gas supply to ensure safety. is doing.

  When a gas table is used for cooking or a gas fan heater or the like is used, it may be used for a relatively long time. Depending on the gas customer, this usage is used, but if the gas shutoff device 8 and the monitoring center 2 are connected by communication, the information on the long-term use of the instrument is immediately sent to the monitoring center 2 from the gas shutoff device 8. Notification can be made via the network 3, and detailed information can also be obtained from the monitoring center 2 via the network 3 via a communication message.

  As described above, since the appliance usage state of the gas consumer can be monitored from a remote location such as the monitoring center 2, it becomes possible to extend the time limit of the usage time, and the gas consumer can further extend the gas fan heater as heating. Even though you want to use it for a long time, you will not be cut off at the preset usage time, or you will not have to stop the instrument once due to a report from the gas company. Safety can be ensured by function.

  It should be noted that the numerical limitation used in the present embodiment is an example, and the usage pattern is not limited to this embodiment.

(Embodiment 2)
FIG. 3 is an example of a control block diagram of the gas cutoff device 8 according to the second embodiment.

  In FIG. 3, the flow rate detection unit 101 has a gas flow rate that passes through the gas passage (for example, an ultrasonic sensor is attached facing the upstream side and the downstream side in the gas passage, and from the upstream side to the downstream side and from the downstream side to the upstream side. The gas flow rate may be detected from the difference in the propagation time of the ultrasonic wave transmitted to the side, or a gas flow path is created in the gas passage, and the gas flow rate is detected from vibration generated when the gas flows through the path. The flow rate signal A is output in response to the same effect.

  When the flow rate calculation unit 102 receives the flow rate signal A from the flow rate detection unit 101, the flow rate calculation unit 102 calculates the flow rate B based on a predetermined calculation process.

When the abnormal flow rate determination unit 103 receives the flow rate B of the flow rate calculation unit 102, the abnormal flow rate determination unit 103 distinguishes between the long-time setting and the short-time setting under a predetermined condition, and uses the allowable value of the continuous use time of the appliance set for each flow rate category. Flow rate predetermined time G, which is an allowable value of the continuous use time of the gas appliance of the judgment value changing unit 108 based on B (for example, the flow rate of 0.5 m ³ / h of FH that is an indoor appliance is outside as shown in FIG. 5) it attached long set of 400 minutes in a CO expiration sensor is a sensor 106, but it is enabled by expired a short set of 50 minutes, also, flow rate class is water heater 2.0 m 3 / ^h of a outdoors instrument In this case, since it is open to the atmosphere, the long time setting and the short time setting are the same 100 minutes regardless of the expiration date of the CO sensor as the external sensor 106), and the flow rate B is allowed for the continuous use time of the gas appliance. Value If the flow continues for a predetermined time G, the valve closing signal C is output.

  When the valve drive unit 104 receives the valve close signal C from the abnormal flow rate determination unit 103 or the valve close signal C from the sensor signal input unit 109, the valve drive unit 104 outputs the valve drive signal D.

  When the valve 105 receives the valve drive signal D of the valve drive unit 104, the valve 105 closes the gas passage.

The connection determination unit 107 may be an external sensor 106 (for example, an individual type or a composite type such as a gas leak alarm device, a CO alarm device, a fire alarm device, etc.), and is installed in a user's home that monitors the gas shut-off device. A connection state signal E of a management system such as a home information board may be monitored, the presence / absence of the external sensor 106 is determined, and the sensor presence / absence signal F is output.

  The determination value change unit 108 outputs a determination start signal I to the period determination unit 200 when the sensor presence / absence signal F of the connection determination unit 107 becomes a sensor presence, and the allowable value of the continuous use time of the gas appliance. A certain flow duration predetermined time G is set for a long time, and the presence / absence of the sensor F signal is absent (for example, the external sensor 106 is removed for replacement before the expiration date, the battery is rapidly consumed, or the commercial power supply is used. Or the external sensor 106 does not operate due to a power failure, and the temporary sensor such as a power failure does not cause the sensor usage permission period to deviate from the sensor expiration date. If it becomes possible to prevent the sensor use permission period from being restarted), or when the period expiration signal J is received from the period determination unit 200, the continuous use of the gas appliance The permissible value in the form of the flow rate continues for a predetermined time period G in a short time setting.

  When the period determination unit 200 receives the determination start signal I from the determination value change unit 108, the sensor use permission period (for example, five years), which is the expiration date of the external sensor 106 that starts measuring time and is held in advance. When the period elapses, a period expiration signal J is output.

  When the sensor signal input unit 109 receives an abnormality detection signal H from the external sensor 106 (for example, a signal for notifying that the external sensor 106 has detected an abnormal state such as gas leakage or CO generation), the valve closing signal C is received. Is output.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the sensor use in which the period determination unit 200 is the expiration date of the external sensor 106 starts from the time when the sensor presence / absence signal F of the connection determination unit 107 becomes the sensor presence. A flow rate that is a permissible value for the continuous use time of the gas appliance by measuring the time until a permission period (for example, five years) elapses, and giving a period expiration signal J when the sensor use permission period is reached. What set the continuation predetermined time G to the long time can be returned to a short time setting.

  That is, in this embodiment, the flow rate detection unit 101 that detects the gas flow rate in the gas passage, the flow rate calculation unit 102 that calculates the flow rate B based on the detection signal A of the flow rate detection unit 101, A determination value changing unit 108 that sets an allowable value for continuous use time and changes the allowable value between a long time setting and a short time setting under a predetermined condition, and a flow rate B calculated by the flow rate calculation unit 102 when a gas flow rate is detected. Is taken out from the judgment value changing unit 108, and when the time during which the gas flow rate A is detected continues longer than the taken out continuous use time allowable value, the valve closing signal C is output. An abnormal flow rate determination unit 103, a valve drive unit 104 that outputs a valve drive signal D when the valve close signal C of the abnormal flow rate determination unit 103 is input, and a valve 105 that closes the gas passage by the drive signal of the valve drive unit 104 An external sensor 106 that detects an abnormality in the indoor environment, a connection determination unit 107 that monitors a connection state E of the external sensor 106 and outputs a sensor presence / absence signal F, and a sensor presence signal from the connection determination unit 107 I starts counting the effective period of the external sensor 106, and when a predetermined expiration period has elapsed, the period determining unit 200 that outputs a period expiration signal J and the abnormality detection signal H from the external sensor 106 are input to close the valve. And a sensor signal input unit 109 that outputs a signal C. The determination value changing unit 108 sets a permissible value of continuous use time for a long time when a sensor presence signal is output from the connection determination unit 107, and the connection determination unit 107. When the sensor no signal is output, the allowable continuous use time is set to a short time, and when the period expiration signal J is output from the period determining unit 200, the continuous use time allowable value is set to a short time. Is obtained is characterized in that setting and the.

Then, it is monitored whether the gas shut-off device reaches the expiration date of the external sensor 106, and when the expiration date is reached, the allowable continuous use time of the instrument is automatically set for a long time. By limiting the use conditions of the instrument without relying on the external sensor 106 in an unstable state that has expired, the safety of the external sensor 106 can be ensured. Provisional measures for ensuring safety until the replacement is made possible with simple processing.

(Embodiment 3)
A gas cutoff device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  In FIG. 3, the same number is attached | subjected to the means which performs the same function as Embodiment 2. In FIG. A difference from the second embodiment is that a voltage determination unit 201 is provided instead of the connection determination unit 107. Hereinafter, the difference will be mainly described.

  The voltage determination unit 201 monitors the voltage of the connection state signal E of the external sensor 106, decreases to a predetermined voltage value or less (for example, 2.0 V or less), and then again exceeds a predetermined voltage value (for example, for example, When the voltage returns to 2.8 V or higher, it is recognized that the new external sensor 106 has been replaced (the output voltage of the external sensor 106 driven by the battery has a voltage drop due to battery consumption, and the external sensor 106 must be replaced. For example, a determination method using the fact that the voltage determination with hysteresis cannot be passed) is output.

  When the determination value change unit 108 receives the exchanged signal K from the voltage determination unit 201, the determination value change unit 108 outputs a determination start signal I to the period determination unit 200 to set the flow rate continuation predetermined time G that is an allowable value of the continuous use time of the gas appliance. If the period expiration signal J is received from the period determination unit 200, the flow rate continuation predetermined time G that is an allowable value of the continuous use time of the gas appliance is set to a short period.

  When the period determination unit 200 receives the determination start signal I from the determination value change unit 108, the period determination unit 200 starts timing, and a sensor use permission period (for example, five years) that is an expiration date of the external sensor 106 that is held in advance. When the period elapses, a period expiration signal J is output.

  When the sensor signal input unit 109 receives an abnormality detection signal H from the external sensor 106 (for example, a signal for notifying that the external sensor 16 has detected an abnormal state such as gas leakage or CO generation), the valve closing signal C is received. Is output.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the period determination unit 200 passes the sensor use permission period, which is the expiration date of the external sensor 106, starting from the time when the replaced signal K of the voltage determination unit 201 is received. Until the sensor use permission period is reached, by outputting the period expiration signal J, the judgment value changing unit 108 once sets the flow rate continuation predetermined time G, which is an allowable value of the continuous use time of the gas appliance, for a long time. Things can be returned to the setting for a short time.

That is, in the third embodiment, the flow rate detection unit 101 that detects the gas flow rate in the gas passage, the flow rate calculation unit 102 that calculates the flow rate B based on the detection signal A of the flow rate detection unit 101, A determination value changing unit 108 that sets a permissible value for continuous use time and changes the permissible value to a long time setting and a short time setting under a predetermined condition, and calculated by the flow rate calculation unit 102 when a gas flow rate is detected. When the allowable value of the continuous use time corresponding to the flow rate B is taken out from the judgment value changing unit 108 and the time during which the gas flow rate is detected continues longer than the extracted continuous use time allowable value, the valve closing signal C is generated. The abnormal flow rate determination unit 103 to output, the valve drive unit 104 to output the valve drive signal D when the valve close signal C of the abnormal flow rate determination unit 103 is input, and the drive signal D of the valve drive unit 104 to pass gas. The valve 105 for closing the valve, the external sensor 106 for detecting an abnormality in the indoor environment, and the connection state of the external sensor 106 are monitored at a voltage level. A voltage determination unit 201 that outputs an exchanged signal K indicating that the external sensor 106 has been replaced when the voltage level drops from a predetermined level or more to a predetermined level or less and then returns to the predetermined level or more, and the voltage determination unit When the valid period of the external sensor 106 is restarted with the exchanged signal K from 201 and a predetermined validity period elapses, the period determination unit 200 that outputs the period expiration signal J and the abnormality detection signal H from the external sensor 106 are And a sensor signal input unit 109 that outputs a valve closing signal C when input, and the determination value changing unit 108 outputs the exchanged signal K from the voltage determination unit 201 The permissible value of the feeder continuous use time and long-time setting is obtained by short-time sets the allowable value of the continuous use time when the expiration signal J from the period determining section 200 is output.

  The voltage determination unit 201 can reliably determine whether or not the external sensor 106 has been replaced, and is an effective means in terms of safe use of gas appliances associated with the expiration date management of the external sensor 106. Further, when the replacement signal K is output from the voltage determination unit 201, the allowable value of continuous use time is set to a long time, and when the period expiration signal J is output from the period determination unit 200, the allowable value of continuous use time is shortened. Since the time is set, if it is not replaced even after the expiration date, it is possible to secure a temporary safety by restricting the use condition of the instrument, and the safety until the external sensor 106 is replaced. Provisional measures for ensuring are possible with simple processing.

(Embodiment 4)
A gas cutoff device according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  In FIG. 3, the same number is attached | subjected to the means which performs the same function as Embodiment 2. In FIG. The difference from the second embodiment is that a period setting unit 202 that can arbitrarily set and change the expiration date of the external sensor 106 is provided. Hereinafter, the difference will be mainly described.

  The period setting unit 202 may be set from the outside (for example, it may be set directly by a setting device or remotely using a public or dedicated communication network). If a code meaning 3 years is inserted, the same effect is obtained), and a period change signal L is output.

  The period determination unit 200 starts timing when it receives the determination start signal I from the determination value change unit 108, and is based on the period set by the period change signal L of the period setting unit 202. When the sensor use permission period (for example, the previously set three years) elapses, the period expiration signal J is output.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the expiration date (for example, technology) of each external sensor 106 (for example, an alarm device, a CO alarm device, a fire alarm device, etc.) by the period change signal L of the period setting unit 202. Even if the innovation is advanced and the performance of the external sensor 106 is improved and the expiration date becomes longer, it can be dealt with without replacing the gas shut-off device, or the replacement timing of the gas shut-off device and the external sensor 106 is different, and the external sensor When the gas shut-off device is replaced by continuously using 106, the remaining expiration date of the external sensor 106 can be set for the replaced gas shut-off device).

  That is, the fourth embodiment includes a period setting unit 202 that outputs a period change signal L for changing the expiration date of the external sensor 106, and the period determination unit 200 starts measuring the effective period under a predetermined condition. When the expiration date set by the period setting unit 202 elapses, the period expiration signal J is output.

  Then, the expiration date of each external sensor 106 having a different type or specification can be appropriately set by the period change signal L of the period setting unit 202, and a finer response is possible.

(Embodiment 5)
A gas cutoff device according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  In FIG. 3, the same number is attached | subjected to the means which performs the same function as Embodiment 2. In FIG. The difference from the second embodiment is that a notice deadline that is shorter than the expiration date of the external sensor 106 is set and a notice notification signal is output when the notice deadline is reached. Hereinafter, the difference will be mainly described.

  When the period determination unit 202 receives the determination start signal I from the determination value change unit 108, the period determination unit 202 starts measuring time and sets a notice period (for example, an external sensor) set to a date and time before outputting the period expiration signal J. When the expiry date of 106 is 5 years, the notice notification signal M is output when the three years before the 4th and 9th months), and the sensor use that is the expiry date of the external sensor 106 held in advance. When a permission period (for example, 5 years) elapses, an expiration notification signal N and a period expiration signal J are output.

  The external communication unit 23 informs the outside as a notice when it receives the notice information signal M from the period determining unit 200, informs the outside that it has expired when it receives the expiration notice signal N, informs the outside of the expiration, and then shuts off from the outside. When the instruction is received, the valve closing signal C is output.

  In addition to the contents described in the first, second, and third embodiments, the valve driving unit 104 outputs a valve driving signal D when it receives a valve closing signal C from the external communication unit 203.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the center (for example, public or dedicated) that monitors the gas shutoff device at the time of receiving a notice from the external communication unit 203 based on the notice information signal M of the period determination unit 200. The center system that regularly or constantly monitors the presence or absence of an abnormality of the gas shutoff device through the communication network) requests the construction contractor to replace the external sensor 106, and the external communication unit 203 based on the expiration notification signal N of the period determination unit 200 When the expiration date is received, the construction contractor is notified of the incomplete construction. Forced to protect the safety of gas users when it is judged that the contractor's response is difficult (for example, the gas passage may be closed unconditionally, or the gas passage will be opened after obtaining the agreement of the gas user) It is possible to have a means for closing the gas passage in order to easily change the operation mode such as closing.

  That is, in the fifth embodiment, a notice deadline that is shorter than the validity period of the external sensor 106 is set, and when the notice deadline is reached, the notice notice signal M is output, and when the validity period expires, the expiration notice signal N is outputted. Period determining unit 200, and external communication unit 203 that outputs the valve closing signal C based on a shutoff instruction from the outside while distinguishing and notifying the outside based on the notice notification signal M and the expiration notification signal N from the period determining unit 200. And when the replacement work of the external sensor 106 is not completed before the expiration notification signal N is output after the notification notification signal M is output, the disconnection instruction is performed via the external communication unit 203. It is a thing.

  When the notice from the external communication unit 203 based on the notice signal M of the period determining unit 200 is received, the center monitoring the gas shut-off device is requested to replace the external sensor 106 by the construction contractor. When an expiration is received from the external communication unit 203 based on the expiration notification signal N of the determination unit 200, the construction contractor is notified of the incomplete construction. When it is determined that it is difficult for the contractor to deal with, it is possible to secure a replacement work period for the external sensor 106 using the notice signal M by forcibly closing the gas passage to protect the safety of the gas user. In addition, it is possible to ensure safety when work is not completed.

(Embodiment 6)
A gas cutoff device according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  In FIG. 3, the same number is attached to the means for performing the same function as in the second embodiment. The difference from Embodiment 2 is that a grace period that is longer than the expiration date of the external sensor is set, and the grace period signal that is output when the expiration date has passed continues even if the grace period elapses. In this case, a second period determination unit that outputs a valve closing signal when it is output is provided. Hereinafter, the difference will be mainly described.

  When the period determination unit 200 receives the determination start signal I from the determination value change unit 108, the period determination unit 200 stops the output of the signal O during the grace period and starts measuring time, and is the expiration date of the external sensor 106 held in advance. When a sensor use permission period (for example, 5 years) elapses, a period expiration signal J and a grace period signal O are output.

  When the second period determination unit 204 receives the signal O during the grace period of the period determination unit 200, the second period determination unit 204 starts timing and holds a grace period that is held in advance (for example, three months as a period required to replace the external sensor 106). ), The valve closing signal C is output if the signal O continues during the grace period.

  In addition to the contents described in the first, second, and third embodiments, the valve driving unit 104 outputs the valve driving signal D when receiving the valve closing signal C from the second period determining unit 204.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, it is confirmed that the external sensor 106 is not replaced even after the flow rate continuation predetermined time G, which is an allowable value of the continuous use time of the gas appliance, is switched to the short time setting. The two-period determination unit 204 can detect the time until the grace period and can close the gas passage.

  That is, in the sixth embodiment, a grace period that is longer than the expiration date of the external sensor 106 is set, and a period determination unit 200 that outputs a period expiration signal J and outputs a grace period signal O when the expiration date has passed. And the valve closing signal C is output when the signal O continues to be output during the grace period even if the preset grace period elapses after the grace period signal O from the period determination unit 200 is started. A second period determination unit 204, and the continuous use time allowable value is changed to a short-time setting by the expiration notification signal J of the period determination unit 200, and then the external sensor 106 is replaced until the grace period elapses. When completed, the output of the signal O is stopped during the grace period.

  The second period determination unit 204 counts until the grace period that the external sensor 106 has not been replaced even after the flow rate continuation predetermined time, which is an allowable value of the continuous use time of the gas appliance, is switched to a short time setting. By closing the gas passage when it is not replaced, it becomes possible to secure the replacement work period of the external sensor 106 using the signal O during the grace period and to ensure safety when work is not completed. can do.

(Embodiment 7)
FIG. 4 shows a functional block diagram of the gas cutoff device 8 according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention.

  In FIG. 4, the flow rate calculation unit 101 attaches an ultrasonic sensor facing the upstream side and the downstream side in the gas passage (for example, from the upstream side to the downstream side, and from the downstream side to the upstream side). The gas flow rate may be detected from the difference in the propagation time of the ultrasonic wave transmitted to the side, or a gas flow path is created in the gas passage, and the gas flow rate is detected from vibration generated when the gas flows through the path. The flow rate signal A is output in response to the same effect.

  When the flow rate calculation unit 102 receives the flow rate signal A from the flow rate detection unit 101, the flow rate calculation unit 102 calculates the flow rate B based on a predetermined calculation process.

When the abnormal flow rate determination unit 103 receives the flow rate B of the flow rate calculation unit 102, the abnormal flow rate determination unit 103 distinguishes between the long-time setting and the short-time setting under a predetermined condition, and uses the allowable value of the continuous use time of the appliance set for each flow rate category. Flow rate predetermined time G, which is an allowable value of the continuous use time of the gas appliance of the judgment value changing unit 108 based on B (for example, the flow rate of 0.5 m ³ / h of FH that is an indoor appliance is outside as shown in FIG. 5) It is set for a long time of 400 minutes within the expiration date of the CO sensor as the attachment sensor 106, but is set to a short time of 50 minutes when the expiration date expires, and the flow rate classification is 2.0 m ³ / h for a water heater that is an outdoor device. In this case, since it is open to the atmosphere, the long time setting and the short time setting are the same 100 minutes regardless of the expiration date of the CO sensor as the external sensor 106), and the flow rate B is allowed for the continuous use time of the gas appliance. Value If the flow continues for a predetermined time G, the valve closing signal C is output.

  When the valve drive unit 104 receives the valve close signal C of the abnormal flow rate determination unit 103 or the valve close signal C of the sensor signal input unit 109, the valve drive unit 104 outputs the valve drive signal D.

  When the valve 105 receives the valve drive signal D of the valve drive unit 104, the valve 105 closes the gas passage.

  The connection determination unit 107 may be an external sensor 106 (for example, an individual type or a composite type such as a gas leak alarm device, a CO alarm device, a fire alarm device, etc.), and is installed in a user's home that monitors the gas shut-off device. A connection state signal E) may be monitored, the presence / absence of the external sensor 16 may be determined, and a sensor presence / absence signal F may be output.

  When the sensor presence / absence signal F of the connection determination unit 107 becomes the sensor presence, the determination value changing unit 108 sets the flow rate continuation predetermined time G, which is an allowable value of the continuous use time of the gas appliance, for a long time, Yes / No signal F No sensor (For example, the external sensor 106 is removed for replacement before the expiry date, battery exhaustion or commercial power supply is suddenly removed, or the external sensor 106 operates due to a power failure. When there is no such thing as temporary power outage, the sensor usage permission period and sensor expiration date will not be shifted, so the sensor usage / non-signal F is not sensorless and the timing of the sensor usage permission period is restarted. Or when the exchange request signal Q is received from the second signal input unit 205, the flow rate continuation predetermined time G which is an allowable value of the continuous use time of the gas appliance. To a short period of time set.

  When the sensor signal input unit 109 receives an abnormality detection signal H from the external sensor 106 (for example, a signal for notifying that the external sensor 106 has detected an abnormal state such as gas leakage or CO generation), the valve closing signal C is received. Is output.

  The second signal input unit 205 may be an expired signal P (for example, output when the expiration date has passed) from the external sensor 106, or output after waiting for a margin to replace the external sensor 106 in advance. If it is acceptable, an exchange request signal Q is output.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, upon receipt of the exchange request signal Q of the second signal input unit 205, the determination value changing unit 108 once temporarily performs the flow rate continuation predetermined time which is an allowable value of the continuous use time of the gas appliance. What set G for a long time can be returned to a short time setting.

(Embodiment 8)
A gas cutoff device according to Embodiment 8 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

In FIG. 4, the same numbers are assigned to means for performing the same functions as those of the other embodiment 7. The difference from the seventh embodiment is that an expiration notification signal is output when the exchange request signal Q of the second signal input unit 205 is received, and is notified by an external communication means. Hereinafter, the difference will be mainly described.

When the sensor presence / absence signal F of the connection determination unit 107 becomes sensor presence, the determination value changing unit 108 is a flow rate continuation predetermined time G that is an allowable value of the continuous use time of the gas appliance (for example, as shown in FIG. 5). Thus, the flow rate of 0.5 m ³ / h of the FH that is the indoor appliance is set for a long time of 400 minutes within the expiration date of the CO sensor that is the external sensor 106, but is set to a short time setting of 50 minutes when the expiration date expires. When the flow rate classification is 2.0 m ³ / h for a hot water heater that is an outdoor device, the long time setting and the short time setting are the same 100 minutes regardless of the expiration date of the CO sensor that is the external sensor 106 because it is open to the atmosphere. Is set for a long time, and the presence / absence of the sensor F signal is absent (for example, the external sensor 106 is removed for replacement before the expiration date, the battery is suddenly consumed or the commercial power supply is disconnected, Due to a power outage If the external sensor 106 stops operating, temporary sensors such as power outages will not cause a gap between the sensor use permission period and the sensor expiration date. When it is possible to prevent the timing of the use permission period from being restarted), or when the exchange request signal Q is received from the second signal input unit 205, the flow rate continuation which is an allowable value of the continuous use time of the gas appliance is predetermined. When the time G is set to a short time and the exchange request signal Q is received, the expiration notification signal N (or the expiration notification signal N in the case of the expiration signal P that is output after waiting for a margin to replace the external sensor 106 in advance) Instead of the notice signal M, the period determination unit 200 described in the second embodiment counts, for example, three months for the notice period, and receives the period expiration signal J. Scan the allowable value of the continuous use time of the appliance flow rate continues for a predetermined time G to change in a short time setting from long set, and outputs the to be) so as to output the expiration notification signal N.

  When the external communication unit 203 receives the expiration notification signal N from the determination value changing unit 108 (or the advance notification signal M that has been waiting for a margin in advance to replace the external sensor 106), the external communication unit 203 sets the expiration (or advance notification) to the outside. When the notification is made and the expiration is notified to the outside, the valve closing signal C is output when an instruction to shut off is received from the outside.

  In addition to the contents described in the first embodiment, the valve driving unit 104 outputs a valve driving signal D when receiving the valve closing signal C from the external communication unit 203.

  As described above, when an expiration from the external communication unit 203 based on the expiration notification signal N of the determination value changing unit 108 is received, the construction contractor is requested to replace the external sensor, and it is determined that it is difficult for the construction contractor to cope with it. In order to protect the safety of gas users, the operation mode may be changed (for example, the gas passage may be closed unconditionally, or the gas passage is closed after obtaining the consent of the gas user). It is possible to have a means for closing the gas passage.

  As described above, in the second to sixth embodiments, by determining whether or not the gas shut-off device is within the expiration date of the external sensor 106, the flow continuation predetermined time that is an allowable value for the continuous use time of the gas appliance is automatically set. It is possible to switch between long-time setting and short-time setting, and when the expiration date of the external sensor 106 expires, it is possible to improve the safety of the gas user and guarantee a more advanced security function. By doing so, the reliability of the system can be improved.

  As described above, the gas shutoff device according to the present invention is appropriately monitored by a network connection, or an alarm device is connected and functioning normally, thereby appropriately ensuring the function of restricting the use of the gas flow rate device. It can be applied to any instrument monitoring device.

The figure which shows the connection form of the interruption | blocking apparatus and network in Embodiment 1 of this invention Control block diagram of gas shutoff device in embodiment 1 of the present invention Control block diagram of gas shut-off device in embodiment 2 to 6 of the present invention Control block diagram of gas shutoff device in Embodiments 7 and 8 of the present invention The figure which shows the setting value of the continuous use time according to flow volume division in embodiment of this invention Control block diagram of a conventional gas shut-off device Control block diagram of another conventional gas shut-off device

Explanation of symbols

101 Flow rate detection means (flow rate information acquisition means)
102 Flow rate calculation means (flow rate information acquisition means)
103 Abnormality determination means (abnormal use determination means)
105 Blocking Means 106 External Sensor 107 Connection Determination Unit 108 Determination Value Change Unit (Usage Time Switching Unit)
109 Sensor signal input unit 110 Flow rate registration means (flow rate information acquisition means)
111 Usage time measuring means (abnormal use determining means)
112 Usage time setting means (abnormal use determination means)
113 communication means 200 period determination unit 201 voltage determination unit 202 period setting unit 203 external communication unit 204 second period determination unit

Claims (7)

The flow rate information acquisition means for obtaining the gas flow rate in the gas passage and registering when the flow rate value is determined to be the instrument flow rate, the continuous use time after the flow rate value is registered, and the set value of the use time setting means, Abnormal usage determination means that determines the suitability of the usage time by comparison, communication means that transmits / receives various information to / from the outside, and usage that changes the setting value of the usage time setting means depending on whether the communication state with the outside is normal A gas shut-off device comprising time switching means. The communication means executes communication of various information with the monitoring center,
The usage time switching means changes the setting value of the usage time setting means to be extended when it is determined that the communication with the monitoring center has been normally executed, and the usage time when it is determined that the communication with the monitoring center is abnormal. The gas cutoff device according to claim 1, wherein the setting value of the setting means is changed in a direction to shorten. The communication means receives connection presence / absence information from an external sensor,
The usage time switching means changes the setting value of the usage time setting means to extend when the connection information “existing” information of the external sensor is received, and the usage time setting when the connection “no” information of the external sensor is received. The gas shut-off device according to claim 1, wherein the setting value of the means is changed in a direction of shortening. The communication means receives connection presence / absence information from an external sensor,
A period determination unit is provided that starts measuring the effective period when receiving the connection “existing” information of the external sensor and outputs a period expiration signal when a predetermined expiration period has elapsed,
The gas shut-off device according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the usage time switching means changes the setting value of the usage time setting means to be shortened when a period expiration signal is output from the period determination unit. The communication means receives an exchange request signal from an external sensor,
The gas shut-off device according to claim 1, wherein the usage time switching means changes the setting value of the usage time setting means in a direction of shortening when receiving an exchange request signal from an external sensor and outputs an expiration notification signal. The gas according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein when the set value of the use time setting means is changed, the use time switching means enables a change process a plurality of times within a predetermined longest extendable time range. Shut-off device. Learning means for measuring the usage time for a certain period and multiplying by a predetermined coefficient to update the setting value of the usage time setting means,
6. The use time switching means according to claim 1, wherein the use time setting means can extend the set value of the use time setting means within a range of the maximum extendable time set in accordance with the set value updated by the learning means. The gas shut-off device according to item.

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