JP4765984B2 - Gas appliance monitoring device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gas appliance monitoring device that monitors the usage status of a plurality of gas appliances connected to a gas pipe after passing through a gas meter, and in particular, executes a predetermined processing mode based on alarm information from an alarm device. The present invention relates to a gas appliance monitoring device.

  Conventionally, this type of monitoring device comprises a detector for detecting an abnormal state, a wireless transmitter connected to the detector, a wireless receiver, and a terminal connected to the wireless receiver, In the wireless communication system in which an alarm signal is sent from the wireless transmitter to the wireless receiver when the detector senses an abnormality and gas is cut off at the terminal, the wireless receiver intermittently detects the carrier. Wireless communication system in which the terminal performs gas shut-off when the integrated value based on the number of times that the carrier is detected and the non-target communication that is not addressed to itself is determined to be present is exceeded. Is disclosed (see Patent Document 1).

In addition, in an alarm system that includes an alarm device that detects the occurrence of a fire or gas and outputs an alarm, and cooperates with a gas meter having a gas cutoff function, a security control device that performs first communication with the gas meter, and the alarm device And a security communication device that performs second communication with the security control device, wherein the alarm detects a preliminary state leading to the occurrence of the fire or gas, and the security communication device and the A start signal is transmitted to the gas meter via a security control device, and then the alarm device detects the occurrence of a fire or gas leak, and sends a gas cutoff signal to the gas meter via the security communication device and the security control device. The security control device transmits a gas cutoff completion signal from the gas meter or the warning. In response to the gas shut-off signal from the vessel, an alarm system which is adapted to report a gas cutoff state is disclosed in a remote center (see Patent Document 2).
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 08-129688 JP 2001-33033 A

  However, although the above-mentioned patent document discloses a basic alarm system that sends an alarm signal of an alarm device wirelessly, receives the wireless signal, and shuts off the gas by the shut-off function of the gas meter, In both documents, the relationship between the alarm device and the wireless transmitter (security communication device) is that the alarm signal is received from the alarm device and wireless communication is performed as a gas cutoff signal. The alarm device and the wireless transmitter transmit and receive the alarm signal. For example, when this alarm system is configured using an existing alarm device, it is forced to perform extremely difficult work to extract the alarm signal. It was necessary to replace the machine as a set, and this was a big negative for the spread of this alarm system.

  Similarly, the gas meter side is also provided with a separate wireless receiver (automatic meter reader) for receiving the gas cutoff signal transmitted from the wireless transmitter, and this wireless receiver and the gas meter are connected to connect the gas cutoff signal. The structure was complicated.

  Furthermore, no consideration has been given to security in the case where the sensor is used without being replaced after the verification period set for each alarm device has expired.

The present invention solves the above-mentioned problems, and can be attached to an existing alarm device without any connection form, and can perform a predetermined process so that an alarm signal from the alarm device can be received simply by installing a gas meter. It is also possible to provide a gas appliance monitoring device that secures safety by changing the shut-off level after the verification period of the alarm device has expired.

  In order to solve the above-described conventional problems, the gas appliance monitoring apparatus of the present invention monitors the usage status of a plurality of gas appliances connected to a pipe after passing through a gas meter, and other than a plurality of destinations and telephone lines. A gas appliance monitoring device equipped with a wireless module capable of direct transmission / reception using a communication line, the gas meter having a flow rate measuring means for measuring a gas flow rate, a gas shut-off valve for shutting off the gas flow path in the event of an abnormality, A control circuit that performs predetermined processing based on the measurement result of the flow rate measurement unit and outputs the flow rate information, a validation setting unit that sets a validation expiration period of various alarm devices, and a validation set by the validation setting unit Expiration timing means for timing the expiration period, expiration detection means for determining that the period counted by the expiration timing means has reached the expiration period, and mail for transmitting / receiving information to / from a plurality of destinations. A wireless module; communication switching means for switching a communication frequency band in accordance with a partner; and a battery power supply for driving. The meter wireless module is configured integrally with the control circuit and stored in the gas meter. An alarm that has at least a communication frequency band with a base station and a communication frequency band with an alarm installed indoors, and that detects an operating state at the time of abnormality detection and transmits the alarm to the gas meter as alarm information The alarm information transmitter includes an alarm detector detecting means for detecting the operation of the alarm without receiving a signal from the alarm, and an alarm operation signal from the alarm detector detecting means to the gas meter. An alarm radio module that transmits in a predetermined communication frequency band and a drive battery are housed in a case and are detachable and can be installed in any place, and the control circuit is configured to perform the verification. When receiving the excess signal assay expiration from another unit, in which so as to correct a direction to shorten the continuously usable time set for each instrument by or flow rate range.

  According to the above invention, the wireless module capable of communicating with the base station using wireless communication means other than the telephone line, and the wireless module capable of receiving alarm device information from the alarm device, the measurement function in the gas meter, and Because it is integrated into a control circuit board with a shut-off function, it is possible to communicate with the base station without using a telephone line simply by installing a gas meter, and the base station is not affected by the congestion status of the line. Can be smoothly communicated, and various information acquired by the gas meter can be quickly and accurately transmitted to the base station, and various processes based on instructions from the base station can be performed accurately.

  Furthermore, since alarm device detection means capable of detecting operation information from the alarm device without receiving a signal from the alarm device is provided, it can be attached without requiring a connection form with the alarm device. On the other hand, it is possible to obtain the operation information of the alarm device simply by attaching it in the vicinity thereof, and to provide a highly versatile alarm device detection device.

  In addition, by using the alarm radio module built in the alarm detector and communicating with the meter radio module built in the gas meter, there is no need to provide a separate communication device, and the configuration can be simplified. It can be planned.

  In addition, if the expiration date for the verification set for each alarm is monitored and exceeded, the alarm is set to be abnormal by correcting the gas cutoff time set in advance to make it easier to shut off. Even in cases where it cannot be detected, the period of occurrence of abnormality associated with gas outflow is shortened to ensure safety.

  In this way, the system can be easily applied to existing alarm devices, and the inspection period of the alarm devices is monitored to enhance the safety function in the home and promote the spread of alarm systems linked to the alarm devices. It is something that can be done.

  The gas appliance monitoring apparatus of the present invention enables communication with a base station and an alarm device by using only a gas meter without using a telephone line, and does not affect the congestion status of the line, and various commands and gas meters from the base station. Can be transmitted smoothly, and alarm information generated in the home can be reliably acquired in real time.

  In addition, since alarm device detection means that can detect operation information from the alarm device without receiving a signal from the alarm device is provided, it can be installed without requiring a connection form with the alarm device. On the other hand, it is possible to obtain the operation information of the alarm device simply by attaching it in the vicinity thereof, and to provide a highly versatile alarm device detection device.

  Furthermore, by using the alarm radio module built in this alarm detector and communicating with the meter radio module built in the gas meter, there is no need to provide a separate communication device, and the configuration can be simplified. It can be planned.

  In addition, if the expiration date for the verification set for each alarm is monitored and exceeded, the alarm is set to be abnormal by correcting the gas cutoff time set in advance to make it easier to shut off. Even in cases where it cannot be detected, the period of occurrence of abnormality associated with gas outflow is shortened to ensure safety.

  In this way, the system can be easily applied to existing alarm devices, and the inspection period of the alarm devices is monitored to enhance the safety function in the home and promote the spread of alarm systems linked to the alarm devices. It is something that can be done.

  The first invention is a wireless module capable of monitoring the use status of a plurality of gas appliances connected to piping after passing through a gas meter and directly transmitting / receiving with a plurality of destinations using a communication line other than a telephone line. The gas meter has a flow rate measuring means for measuring the gas flow rate, a gas shut-off valve for shutting off the gas flow path in the event of an abnormality, and a predetermined process based on the measurement result of the flow rate measuring means. Control circuit for outputting as flow rate information, a calibration setting means for setting the verification expiration period of various alarm devices, a calibration timing means for timing the verification expiration period set by the calibration setting means, and Verification determination means for determining that the period measured by the measurement timing means has reached the expiration period of the test, a meter wireless module for transmitting / receiving information to / from a plurality of destinations, and a communication frequency according to the destinations A communication switching means for switching between and a battery power source for driving, and the meter wireless module is configured integrally with the control circuit and housed in the gas meter, and at least in a communication frequency band with a base station and indoors. It has a communication frequency band with the installed alarm device, the alarm device is provided with an alarm device information transmitter that detects an operating state at the time of abnormality detection and transmits it to the gas meter as alarm device information, and transmits the alarm device information. The alarm device detects the operation of the alarm device without receiving a signal from the alarm device, and the alarm wireless module for transmitting the alarm device operation signal from the alarm device detection device to the gas meter in a predetermined communication frequency band And the driving battery are housed in a case so that the battery can be attached and detached freely and can be installed at any location, and the control circuit receives an excess signal of the expiration date of the verification from the verification determination means. , It is characterized in that it has to be corrected to be shortened continuously usable time set for each instrument by or flow rate range.

A wireless module capable of communicating with the base station using a wireless communication means other than a telephone line and a wireless module capable of receiving alarm device information from an alarm device have a measurement function and a cutoff function in the gas meter. Because it is integrated into the control circuit board, it is possible to communicate with the base station without using a telephone line simply by installing a gas meter, and communication with the base station is not affected by the congestion of the line. It can be performed smoothly, and various instrument information acquired by the gas meter can be quickly and accurately transmitted to the base station, and various processes based on instructions from the base station can be performed accurately.

  Furthermore, since alarm device detection means capable of detecting operation information from the alarm device without receiving a signal from the alarm device is provided, it can be attached without requiring a connection form with the alarm device. On the other hand, it is possible to obtain the operation information of the alarm device simply by attaching it in the vicinity thereof, and to provide a highly versatile alarm device detection device.

  In addition, by using the alarm radio module built in the alarm detector and communicating with the meter radio module built in the gas meter, there is no need to provide a separate communication device, and the configuration can be simplified. It can be planned.

  In addition, if the expiration date for the verification set for each alarm is monitored and exceeded, the alarm is set to be abnormal by correcting the gas cutoff time set in advance to make it easier to shut off. Even in cases where it cannot be detected, the period of occurrence of abnormality associated with gas outflow is shortened to ensure safety.

  In this way, the system can be easily applied to existing alarm devices, and the inspection period of the alarm devices is monitored to enhance the safety function in the home and promote the spread of alarm systems linked to the alarm devices. It is something that can be done.

  In the second invention, the meter radio module communicates using a communication frequency band different from the radio module for communication with the base station and the radio module for communication with the alarm, and the radio module for communication with the alarm is An area communication radio module having a specific low power radio communication frequency band is used, and a radio module for communication with a base station is a wide area communication radio module having a wide communication frequency band.

  Then, a wide area communication wireless module capable of communicating directly with a base station by carrier direct and an area communication wireless module capable of communicating within a predetermined range using a specific low power wireless communication frequency band are configured integrally with a control circuit board, Information is transmitted on the communication line other than the base station and the telephone line, and information is transmitted on the alarm device and the specific low-power wireless communication frequency band. It can be acquired reliably, can ensure security by the meter's original blocking function based on this acquired information, and can accurately transmit information to the reporting destination according to the acquired information, and has a flow measurement function and a blocking function By using a gas meter as an information relay device, it is possible to rationalize the security function in the home and to spread the security system. It can be promoted.

  In the third aspect of the invention, the area communication wireless module enables communication with a specific terminal device in addition to communication with the alarm device, and also when the alarm device operation information or the over-test signal is transmitted, It is characterized in that it is transmitted.

  Then, by enabling communication with a specific terminal device such as a television or a mobile phone by using an area communication wireless module built in the gas meter, it is possible to transmit alarm device operation information generated in the home or an over-test signal. It is possible to display the abnormal status detected by various alarms on the screen of a TV or mobile phone, and to indicate that the verification period of the alarm has expired. Can be urged.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the alarm detector detecting means is an alarm sound detecting means for detecting an alarm sound emitted when the alarm is activated, and an alarm radio module by converting a signal from the alarm sound detecting means into an alarm operating signal. And an alarm device operation signal converting means for outputting to the alarm device.

  As alarm operation information, an alarm signal from the alarm is detected without detecting an alarm signal from the alarm detection circuit, and a warning sound such as a buzzer that operates when the alarm detects an abnormality is detected. Because it is converted into an alarm activation signal to notify that it has been output and output to the alarm radio module, the alarm detection means can be configured regardless of the alarm signal from the alarm. Therefore, it is possible to install without changing anything, and it is possible to detect the operation of the alarm only by setting it in a place where the warning sound can be detected.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the alarm device wireless module sets an alarm device operation signal determination means for determining whether or not the operation start signal from the alarm device detection means is normal, and a unique identification code for identifying the alarm device Or, it is provided with an identification code changing means to be changed and an alarm information transmitting means for transmitting the alarm information provided with the identification code together with the alarm activation signal when the determination result of the alarm activation signal determination means is normal to the gas meter. It is characterized by.

  And, by assigning a unique identification code to each alarm device installed in the home and transmitting an alarm device operation signal together with this identification code, it is possible to surely notify which alarm device has been activated, and alarm Because it has an identification code changing means that can arbitrarily change or set the identification code for each device, even if the type of alarm device is changed, it is possible to respond by simply changing the identification code, Further, it can be reused, and an extremely effective alarm information transmission means can be provided.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of a communication mode between a gas meter, a base station, and a customer's house in Embodiment 1 of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a communication mode with various alarm devices in the gas appliance monitoring device, and FIG. FIG. 4 is a control block diagram of the alarm device information transmitter in the gas appliance monitoring device, FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the configuration of the control circuit of the gas appliance monitoring device, FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the appearance and components of the gas meter, FIG. 7 is an internal configuration diagram of the gas meter, and FIG. 8 is a configuration block diagram of a control circuit board of the gas meter.

  In FIG. 1, a plurality of gas appliances connected to piping after passing through the gas meter 2 and a communication function possessed by the gas meter 2 will be described first.

  A gas meter 2 is installed at the entrance of the gas supply pipe 1 of each household, and the gas is branched from the gas pipe 3 after passing through the gas meter 2 to a place where various gas appliances used at home are installed. Supplied. For example, a gas water heater 4 is installed outdoors, and hot water generated by the gas water heater 4 is installed in a kitchen hot water tap 5, a bath 6 in which a bathtub and a shower device are installed, a living room and the like through a water pipe. The floor heating 7 is supplied to form various usage forms.

  In addition, when indoors, gas is supplied to a gas table 8 installed in a kitchen, a gas fan heater 9 installed in a living room, a bedroom, or the like, and is used as needed.

  When the installed gas appliance is used and gas consumption occurs, the amount of use is measured by the gas meter 2, and the data is accumulated and stored every predetermined period. The data stored in the gas meter 2 is subjected to predetermined information processing based on a periodic data request command from the gas company 15, and then the gas fee, gas usage, discount service provided by the gas company 15, etc. Is transmitted to the consumer 13 and the gas business operator 15 as the information.

  As the transmission means, as shown in FIG. 6, a wireless module 11 integrated with a control circuit board 10 constituting a control device built in the gas meter 2 is used, and this wireless module 11 is connected by a connector 10d. A gas meter that is detachably mounted on the control circuit board 10 and that does not have the wireless module 11 and does not have a communication function and a gas meter that has the communication function that has the wireless module 11 can be arbitrarily selected. Therefore, it can be used regardless of the presence or absence of the communication function.

  In addition, since the wireless module 11 is detachable, even if it has a communication function, it is not necessary to acquire the standard as a communication device in the gas meter body if the wireless module that has acquired the communication standard is installed. In the case of changing the gas meter, etc., it can be changed relatively freely without being restricted.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 8, the wireless module 11 is different from the telephone line for communicating with the base station 14, for example, a wide area communication wireless module 11a having a plurality of communication channels having 200 MHz or other communication frequency bands. In order to communicate with a specific terminal device 12 such as a television 12a, a personal computer or a mobile phone 12b in the customer's house 13, or a plurality of alarm devices installed in the home and detecting various abnormal situations occurring in the home as security information. In addition, for example, a control circuit configured by an area communication wireless module 11b having a specific low-power wireless communication frequency band such as 429 MHz and performing calculation of gas usage or detection of abnormalities such as earthquakes and gas leaks based on flow rate signals and sensor signals 10a, and various information transmitted from the gas company 15 through the base station 14, In addition, when receiving various information transmitted from a plurality of alarm devices, depending on the received data, for example, the operation of a gas shut-off valve due to the occurrence of an abnormality such as a gas fee, gas usage or earthquake, gas leakage, etc. In the case of contents to be notified to consumers, such as various processes according to security information, data is transmitted to a specific terminal device 12 such as a television 12a or a mobile phone 12b in the customer's house 13 using the area communication wireless module 11b. When security information is transmitted from a plurality of alarm devices, the information is received and input to the control circuit 10a.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 9, the gas meter 2 is installed in a specific terminal device 12 by incorporating a radio module 11 c having the same communication frequency band as the area communication radio module 11 b built in the gas meter 2. Can be received, and this data can be displayed on the screen of the television 12a or the mobile phone 12b, so that information can be transmitted directly from the gas meter 2 to the consumer. In addition, it is necessary to adopt an information transmission method in which data is transmitted from the gas meter 2 to the gas company 15 and information processed by the gas company 15 such as postcards such as a charge notice is sent to the customer by mail or the like. Therefore, the number of man-hours required for notification work can be reduced, and postage costs such as postcards for notifications can be eliminated. It is intended to contribute to a reduction in gas rates by realizing Rika.

  When various information is transmitted from the gas meter 2 to the specific terminal device 12, a notification completion signal is sent from the area communication wireless module 11b to the wide area communication wireless module 11a, and the wide area communication wireless module 11a sends the notification completion signal to the base station. 14 to notify the gas company 15 that the information transmission to the consumer has been completed. In this case, it is preferable that a response signal from a specific terminal device 12 is received and a notification completion signal is transmitted, information can be more reliably transmitted to a consumer, and a rational information transmission system can be provided. Can be built.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 2, various alarm devices are also incorporated with or integrated with a wireless module 11 d having the same communication frequency band as the area communication wireless module 11 b built in the gas meter 2. The security information from the alarm device can be transmitted to the area communication wireless module 11b built in the gas meter 2, and the control circuit 1 of the gas meter 2
It is possible to execute a predetermined process according to the security information at 0a, and to use it as an information repeater while ensuring security using the shutoff function of the gas meter 2.

  Next, the flow rate measurement processing means for measuring the gas flow rate built in the control circuit 10a, which is the basic function of the gas meter 2, performing predetermined processing and outputting it as flow rate information will be briefly described. As shown in FIG. 7, a gas inlet 2a and a gas outlet 2b are provided, and a shutoff valve 2c for shutting off gas in the event of an abnormality and a pair of ultrasonic sensors 17 for measuring the gas flow rate are provided in the gas flow path therebetween. A pressure sensor 2d for detecting the gas pressure is disposed on the downstream side.

  A control circuit board 10 equipped with a control circuit 10a for calculating a gas flow rate based on a signal from the ultrasonic sensor 17 is disposed so as to face the liquid crystal display 10e on the display unit 2e of the gas meter 2, and further, the control circuit 10a. A battery 2f for driving is stored. Further, a return button 2g is arranged as means for manually performing a return operation after the shutoff valve 2c is activated.

  Then, the flow rate measurement unit 17 and the control circuit 10a that measure the gas flow rate, for example, as shown in FIG. 11, arrange a pair of ultrasonic sensors in the gas flow path, and change the propagation time according to the flow rate flowing through the flow path. Some measure the flow rate by measuring.

  Hereinafter, the configuration will be described. A measurement control unit having a switching means that constitutes a control circuit 10a, in which a first transmitter / receiver 17A for transmitting or receiving ultrasonic waves and a second transmitter / receiver 17B for receiving or transmitting ultrasonic waves are arranged in the flow direction. Switching between transmission and reception is possible by 18 and the flow state of fluid such as gas is detected. The flow rate is measured by processing the signals of the first transmitter / receiver 17A and the second transmitter / receiver 17B. Specifically, the first transmitter / receiver 17A is first driven by the measurement control unit 18 and the second transmitter / receiver 17B is then driven. The ultrasonic wave is transmitted toward the upstream, that is, from the upstream to the downstream. Then, the signal received by the second transmitter / receiver 17B is amplified by the amplifying means provided in the measurement control unit 18, the amplified signal is compared with the reference signal, and after the signal equal to or higher than the reference signal is detected, the measurement control unit The above-described transmission / reception is repeated a predetermined number of times by the repeating means provided at 18, and each time value is measured by a time measuring means such as a timer counter provided at the measurement control unit 18.

  Next, transmission / reception of the first transmitter / receiver 17A and the second transmitter / receiver 17B is switched by the measurement control unit 18 having switching means, and the ultrasonic waves are transmitted from the second transmitter / receiver 17B to the first transmitter / receiver 17A, that is, from downstream to upstream. A signal is transmitted, this transmission is repeated as described above, and each time value is measured. Then, the flow rate value is obtained by the signal processing unit 19 in consideration of the size of the flow path 16 and the flow state of the fluid from the ultrasonic propagation time difference between the first transceiver 17A and the second transceiver 17B. The obtained flow rate data is accumulated in the information storage means 10b and stored as accumulated data for each predetermined period.

  Further, the flow path 16 in which the flow rate measuring unit 17 is disposed is provided with a shutoff valve 2c that shuts off the gas flow in the event of an abnormality or the like. When the flow rate value is detected beyond a certain usage time, it is determined that there is an abnormality, and the shutoff valve 2c is operated to shut off the gas flow path 16.

  Further, when an earthquake or shock signal is input from the seismic sensing device 20 or an abnormal gas pressure signal is input from the pressure sensor 2d, the shutoff valve 2c is operated via the control circuit 10a to shut off the gas flow path 16, and Report to the center.

Next, an example of information transmission using the wireless module 11 built in the gas meter 2 will be described. First, a meter reading instruction from the gas operator 15 is transmitted in the wide communication frequency band (for example, 200 MHz) via the base station 14. In this case, the wide-area communication wireless module 11a built in the gas meter 2 receives and the meter reading instruction information is sent to the control circuit 10a mounted on the same substrate. In the control circuit 10a, the flow rate data measured by the flow rate measuring means is accumulated every predetermined period, and the accumulated data or information converted into charge data is stored in the information storage means 10b. When the meter reading instruction information is input, the control circuit 10a sends the flow rate accumulated data in the information storage means 10b or the information converted into the charge data to the area communication wireless module 11b and the wide area communication wireless module 11a via the communication switching means 10c. The wide area communication wireless module 11a transmits to the base station 14 in a wide area communication frequency band (for example, 200 MHz), and meter reading information is transmitted from the base station 14 to the gas company 15 using a dedicated line.

  Further, the area communication wireless module 11b transmits to the wireless module 11c integrally attached to the specific terminal device 12 such as the television 12a in a specific low-power wireless communication frequency band (for example, 429 MHz) and displays, for example, FIG. Charge information and usage as shown in (a) are displayed. Then, when transmission to the specific terminal device 12 is completed, as described above, a notification completion signal is transmitted to the gas company 15 to notify that information transmission to the consumer is completed.

  Further, when the shut-off valve 2c is operated due to an earthquake or impact, the cause is investigated, and when a return instruction from the gas operator 15 is transmitted via the base station 14 in a wide communication frequency band (for example, 200 MHz), The wide area communication wireless module 11a built in the gas meter 2 receives the information, and the return instruction information is sent to the control circuit 10a mounted on the same substrate. When the return instruction information is input, the control circuit 10a sends information related to the return work stored in the information storage means 10b to the area communication wireless module 11b via the communication switching means 10c, and the area communication wireless module 11b A procedure for a return operation as shown in FIG. 10B, for example, is transmitted to the wireless module 11c integrally attached to the display terminal device 12 such as the television 12a in the power wireless communication frequency band (for example, 429 MHz). Is displayed. Then, when the transmission to the display terminal device 12 is completed, as described above, a notification completion signal is transmitted to the gas company 15 to notify the completion of information transmission to the consumer.

  As described above, the control circuit 10a has the communication switching means 10c to select the radio module having a different communication frequency band corresponding to the other party to communicate according to the information to be transmitted. 15, it is necessary to transmit the information stored in the information storage means 10b to the gas operator 15 and the specific terminal device 12 based on the information received by the wide area communication wireless module 11a. When the wide area communication wireless module 11a having the communication frequency band and the area communication wireless module 11b having the specific low power wireless communication frequency band of 429 MHz, for example, are selected and the return instruction from the gas company 15 is given, the display terminal device 12 It is only necessary to transmit the storage information of the information storage means 10b. In this case, for example, a specific low power wireless communication of 429 MHz It may be selected area communication wireless module 11b having a waveband.

  Note that the wide area communication radio module 11a and the area communication radio module 11b may be provided separately, or may be configured as a common radio module, and the communication frequency band may be switched between the wide area communication frequency band and the specific low power radio communication frequency band. However, in the former case, the communication switching means 10c needs to select the wide area communication wireless module 11a and the area communication wireless module 11b, and there is a merit that simultaneous communication is possible, but there are demerits such as a large installation space and high cost. is doing. In the latter case, the communication switching means 10c needs to switch the communication frequency band according to the communication partner, and has the demerit that the simultaneous communication cannot be performed and the alternate communication is possible while having the advantages of small installation space and low cost. ing.

Next, in the gas meter having the communication function as described above, when a plurality of alarm devices installed in the home, for example, the fire alarm 23, the CO detector 24, the intrusion detector 31, etc., are activated. explain. Normally, various alarm devices installed in the home are provided independently, and when an abnormality is detected, a warning sound is emitted by a buzzer or the like, and information from various alarm devices is collectively managed by the home security device 25. The mainstream security system was to notify the security company connected via telephone line when an abnormality occurred. For this reason, in order to cope with an abnormal situation where it is necessary to shut off the gas, it is necessary to separately provide a device that takes out an alarm signal from various alarm devices, transmits it to the gas meter side, and operates the shut-off valve. It has been extremely difficult to change to such a device in existing alarm devices.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, this conventional problem is solved, and an alarm device operation detecting means having a simple configuration and high reliability is provided, and special processing is also applied to an existing alarm device. In addition, alarm information can be acquired simply by attaching it in place, making it easy to use.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the alarm radio module 11d having the same communication frequency band as the area communication radio module 11b built in the gas meter 2 and the alarm are issued when an alarm is detected and activated. Alarm device operation detection means 22 for detecting a warning sound with a microphone or the like, converting it into an alarm device operation signal and outputting it to the alarm device wireless module 11d, and a driving battery power source 21 are provided, and the device wireless module 11d and the alarm device operation detection are provided. The means 22 is formed integrally on the alarm wireless module substrate 29 and is housed in the case 30 to form the alarm information transmitter 26.

  This alarm device information transmitter 26 is attached in the vicinity of a plurality of alarm devices, for example, the fire alarm 23, the CO detector 24, and the intrusion detector 31. At this time, it is necessary to set the alarm device at a position where it can detect a warning sound during operation. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, it is possible to detect the operation sound of the alarm device only by attaching it near the fire alarm 23, the CO detector 24, and the intrusion detector 31, and connected to the detection circuit of the alarm device. Thus, it is possible to detect the start of operation of the alarm device without receiving an alarm signal. That is, it is possible to detect the start of operation of the alarm device simply by placing the alarm device information transmitter 26 in a place where the alarm sound of the alarm device can be detected. Therefore, since it can be set in any place and can be detachably stored, it can be used for existing alarm devices and for alarm devices that do not require transmission of alarm device information. Can be removed and can be easily set when the type of alarm is changed.

  In addition, regardless of the type of alarm device, when an abnormality is detected, a warning sound is always emitted and a notification is made. Therefore, all alarm devices are used by using the alarm device information transmitter 26 in the present embodiment. The operation start state in can be detected.

  Further, in detail with reference to the control block diagram of FIG. 4, when the fire alarm 23 or the CO detector 24 detects an abnormality and emits a warning sound, a warning sound detecting means 22a configured by a microphone or the like. When detected, the alarm signal is converted into a predetermined alarm signal by the alarm signal conversion means 22b, and is input to the alarm signal determination means 11e of the alarm radio module 11d to obtain a normal alarm signal. It is determined whether or not there is. When this determination result is normal, a signal is sent to the alarm device operation signal transmission means 11f, and a unique identification code of the alarm device set by the identification code changing means 27, for example, the fire alarm 23 or the CO detector 24 is given. The alarm information is transmitted to the area communication wireless module 11b of the gas meter 2. With this series of operations, it is possible to detect the start of operation of the alarm device without receiving an alarm signal from the detection circuit of the alarm device, and to transmit the signal to the gas meter 2.

  In the present embodiment, the fire alarm 23 and the CO detector 24 have been described as examples, but it goes without saying that the same detection is possible in other alarm devices.

  Next, the processing content of the gas meter 2 corresponding to various alarm device information transmitted from the plurality of alarm device information transmitters 26 will be specifically described.

  As shown in FIG. 5, when alarm information with an identification code is transmitted from the wireless module 11d built in the alarm information transmitter 26 to the area communication wireless module 11b built in the gas meter 2, it is provided in the control circuit 10a. The type of the alarm device information is determined by the identification determination code 10f, and the alarm information belonging to the first group 10k with the shut-off function of the gas shut-off valve 2c, for example, as the response of the alarm device information by the group selection means 10g, or other than that The alarm information belonging to the second group 10m is selected.

  Then, the processing mode corresponding to the alarm device information selected by the group selection unit 10g is selected from the alarm processing mode setting unit 10j that has previously set the processing corresponding to the various alarm device information, and the processing is performed by the processing mode execution unit 10h. Execute. For example, if it is determined by the identification code determination means 10f that the alarm information is detected by the fire alarm 23, the group selection means 10g determines that the gas shut-off valve 2c needs to be shut off and enters the first group 10k. The processing mode execution means 10h executes the shut-off operation of the gas shut-off valve 2c and the notification process to the gas company 15 which are registered as the alarm device information to which it belongs and determined by the alarm processing mode setting means 10j.

  If the identification code discriminating means 10f discriminates the alarm information detected by the intrusion detector 31, the group selection means 10g registers the alarm information belonging to the second group 10m that does not require the gas meter 2 shut-off function. Then, the notification process to the security company 26 determined by the alarm processing mode setting means 10j is executed by the processing mode execution means 10h.

  Further, as the grouping corresponding to the alarm device information in the group selection means 10g, in the present embodiment, the two classifications of those that require the gas meter 2 blocking function and those that do not need have been described. For example, even among those requiring a shut-off function, those that require immediate gas shut-off, such as an alarm activation signal from the fire alarm 23, or a C0 detector According to the use state of the gas appliance at the time of alarm operation like the alarm operation signal from 24 gas alarm devices etc., it can also classify | categorize into what does not cut off gas and what does not. That is, when an alarm device activation signal is transmitted from the gas alarm device 24, based on the flow rate information from the flow rate measuring means, in the case of “with flow rate”, the gas cutoff valve 2c is operated to stop the gas supply, In the case of “no flow”, by disabling the gas shutoff valve 2c, appropriate processing according to the operation signal from the alarm can be performed, and an unnecessary gas shutoff operation is avoided and the alarm system is easy to use. Can be provided.

  In the notification process executed by the processing mode execution means 10h, if the notification destination must be changed according to the alarm device information, the communication channel of the other party required by the communication channel selection means 10i, that is, the communication frequency A band is selected and communication is made to, for example, the gas company 15 or the security company 26 using the wide area communication wireless module 11a.

  Further, when alarm device information is transmitted from various alarm devices, or when a predetermined processing mode is executed, the alarm device information is also transmitted to a specific terminal device 12, and on the screen of the television 12a or the mobile phone 12b. By displaying the status on the screen, it is possible to call attention to the consumer.

Further, the control circuit 10a is provided with a fullness setting means 32 for presetting a test period determined for each alarm device so as to set a time from when the alarm device is installed until the test period expires. ing. Then, a time measuring means 33 for measuring the elapsed time since the time setting is performed by the time setting means 32 is provided to monitor the remaining time of the alarm test period. At this time, it is possible to determine that the alarm device is being used continuously without being replaced by periodically transmitting a signal from the alarm device information transmitter 26 in distinction from the alarm device operation signal. When the alarm device is replaced with a new one, the alarm information transmitter 26
If the reset signal is transmitted from, the time measured by the time measuring means 33 can be cleared and the remaining time of the test period can be newly monitored.

  Then, there is provided a validation judgment means 34 for judging whether or not the test period of the alarm device has expired from the information of the validation setting means 32 and the calibration timing means 33, and the validation period has expired by this validation judgment means 34. When the determination is made, there is provided a verification period excess signal transmission means 35 for transmitting a verification period excess signal corresponding to the corresponding alarm device.

  When a validation period excess signal is sent from the validation period excess signal sending means 35, continuous usage time monitoring is set in the control circuit 10a in advance, which is set for each appliance or flow rate range and allowed for continuous use. It is sent to the means 36, corrected in a direction to shorten the preset continuous use time, and is in a state where it is easy to shut off by regulating the continuous use time.

  That is, when the inspection period of the alarm device expires and it becomes difficult to accurately detect the abnormal state, the abnormality generation period accompanying the gas outflow is shortened to ensure safety.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, a wireless module capable of communicating with a base station using wireless communication means other than a telephone line, and a wireless module capable of receiving alarm device information from an alarm device. Because it is integrated into the control circuit board with the measurement function and shut-off function in the gas meter, it is possible to communicate with the base station without using a telephone line simply by installing the gas meter. It is possible to communicate with the base station smoothly without being affected by the base station, to quickly and accurately convey various information acquired by the gas meter to the base station, and to accurately perform various processes based on instructions from the base station. Can be implemented.

  Furthermore, since alarm device detection means capable of detecting operation information from the alarm device without receiving a signal from the alarm device is provided, it can be attached without requiring a connection form with the alarm device. On the other hand, it is possible to obtain the operation information of the alarm device simply by attaching it in the vicinity thereof, and to provide a highly versatile alarm device detection device.

  In addition, by using the alarm radio module built in the alarm detector and communicating with the meter radio module built in the gas meter, there is no need to provide a separate communication device, and the configuration can be simplified. It can be planned.

  In addition, if the expiration date for the verification set for each alarm is monitored and exceeded, the alarm is set to be abnormal by correcting the gas cutoff time set in advance to make it easier to shut off. Even in cases where it cannot be detected, the period of occurrence of abnormality associated with gas outflow is shortened to ensure safety.

  In this way, the system can be easily applied to existing alarm devices, and the inspection period of the alarm devices is monitored to enhance the safety function in the home and promote the spread of alarm systems linked to the alarm devices. It is something that can be done.

  Also, as alarm operation information, without receiving an alarm signal from the alarm detection circuit, a warning sound such as a buzzer that operates when the alarm detects an abnormality is detected, and the alarm operates from this alarm sound. Because it is converted into an alarm activation signal to notify that it has been output and output to the alarm radio module, the alarm detection means can be configured regardless of the alarm signal from the alarm. Therefore, it is possible to install without changing anything, and it is possible to detect the operation of the alarm only by setting it in a place where the warning sound can be detected.

In addition, by assigning a unique identification code to each alarm device installed in the home and transmitting an alarm operation signal together with this identification code, it is possible to reliably notify which alarm device has been activated, and alarm Because it has an identification code changing means that can arbitrarily change or set the identification code for each device, even if the type of alarm device is changed, it is possible to respond by simply changing the identification code, Further, it can be reused, and an extremely effective alarm information transmission means can be provided.

  According to the gas appliance monitoring apparatus of the present invention, a gas module having a gas flow rate measuring function and a shut-off function has a built-in wireless module that receives an alarm activation signal from an alarm, so that gas can be detected according to alarm information. The safety function is ensured by operating the shut-off function, and it can also function as an information repeater, and can be applied to various meters other than gas.

The block diagram which shows the communication form of the gas appliance monitoring apparatus in Embodiment 1 of this invention The figure which shows the communication form with various alarm devices in the gas appliance monitoring apparatus Configuration diagram of alarm information transmitter in the gas appliance monitoring device Control block diagram of alarm information transmitter in the gas appliance monitoring device Configuration block diagram of control circuit in the same gas appliance monitoring device The figure which shows the external appearance and component of the gas appliance monitoring device Internal configuration diagram of the gas appliance monitoring device Configuration block diagram of the control circuit board of the gas appliance monitoring device The figure which shows the communication form of the same gas appliance monitoring apparatus and a specific terminal device (A) The figure which shows the charge information display form in the same specific terminal device (b) The figure which shows the return information display form in the same specific terminal device Control block diagram of the gas appliance monitoring device

Explanation of symbols

2 Gas meter 2c Gas shutoff valve 10 Control circuit board 10a Control circuit 10b Information storage means 10c Communication switching means 10f Identification code discrimination means 10g Group selection means 10h Processing mode execution means 10i Communication channel selection means 10j Alarm processing mode setting means 11 Wireless module 11a Wide area communication wireless module 11b Area communication wireless module 11d Alarm wireless module 11e Alarm activation signal determination means 11f Alarm activation signal transmission means 12 Specific terminal device 12a Television 12b Mobile phone 14 Base station 15 Gas company 17 Flow rate measurement means (flow rate) Measurement processing means)
22 Alarm operation detection means 22a Warning sound detection means 22b Alarm operation signal conversion means 23 Fire alarm (alarm)
24 CO detector (alarm)
26 Alarm device information transmitter 27 Identification code changing means 32 Validity setting means 33 Validity measuring means 34 Validity determining means 35 Validating period excess signal sending means 36 Continuous use time monitoring means

Claims (5)

Gas appliance monitoring equipped with a wireless module that can monitor the usage status of multiple gas appliances connected to piping after passing through a gas meter, and can directly transmit and receive data using multiple communication lines other than telephone lines. A device,
The gas meter includes a flow rate measuring unit that measures a gas flow rate, a gas shut-off valve that shuts off the gas flow path in the event of an abnormality, a control circuit that performs predetermined processing based on the measurement result of the flow rate measuring unit and outputs the flow rate information A test setting unit for setting a test expiration period for various alarm devices, a test timing unit for measuring a test expiration period set by the test setting unit, and a period measured by the test timing unit. A validation judgment means for judging that the expiration period has been reached, a meter wireless module for transmitting / receiving information to / from a plurality of destinations, a communication switching means for switching a communication frequency band according to the destinations, and a battery power source for driving And
The meter radio module is configured integrally with the control circuit and accommodated in the gas meter, and has at least a communication frequency band with a base station and a communication frequency band with an alarm installed indoors,
The alarm device includes an alarm information transmitter for detecting an operating state at the time of abnormality detection and transmitting the alarm status to the gas meter as alarm device information,
The alarm device information transmitter detects an alarm operation without receiving a signal from the alarm device, and transmits an alarm operation signal from the alarm detector to the gas meter in a predetermined communication frequency band. The alarm radio module to be used and the drive battery are housed in a case and are detachable and can be installed in any place.
The gas appliance monitoring apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control circuit corrects the continuous usable time set for each appliance or each flow rate region in a direction of shortening when receiving an excess signal of the expiration date of the verification from the verification determining means. The meter radio module communicates using a communication frequency band different from the radio module for communication with the base station and the radio module for communication with the alarm device,
The wireless module for communication with an alarm device is an area communication wireless module having a specific low power wireless communication frequency band, and the wireless module for communication with a base station is a wide area communication wireless module having a wide communication frequency band. Gas appliance monitoring device. The area communication wireless module enables communication with a specific terminal device in addition to communication with an alarm device, and transmits to a specific terminal device when an alarm device information or an over-test signal is transmitted. 3. The gas appliance monitoring device according to 1 or 2. The alarm detection means includes an alarm sound detection means for detecting an alarm sound generated when the alarm is activated, and an alarm operation for converting a signal from the alarm sound detection means into an alarm operation signal and outputting it to the alarm radio module The gas appliance monitoring device according to claim 1, further comprising a signal conversion unit. The alarm radio module is an identification code change for setting or changing a specific identification code for identifying an alarm device operation signal determination means for determining whether the operation start signal from the alarm detector detection means is normal or not. And alarm device information transmitting means for transmitting alarm device information to which the identification code is added together with the alarm device activation signal when the determination result of the alarm device activation signal determination device is normal to the gas meter. The gas appliance monitoring device according to claim 1.