JP7166850B2 - Powered water hose and medium unit - Google Patents

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a water supply hose having a power source mounted on a connector provided at the end of the hose or in the vicinity thereof, and a medium unit having the power supply mounted thereon and connected to the water supply hose.

A fire hose is routed from a pump vehicle to a fire source in a fire extinguishing activity. Especially in a building fire or at a fire site at night, the fire hose is drawn to a place where lighting cannot reach. Firefighters carry flashlights and other lighting equipment, but during the firefighting activities in the building and after the subsidence, the area was filled with smoke and visibility was poor. There are fire hoses with phosphorescent materials or reflective materials on the sides so that firefighters can easily find a route to escape.

Further, Patent Document 1 discloses a power-generating lighting device configured to supply electric power to a lighting lamp by incorporating a water wheel rotated by a water flow of a fire hose in a joint portion and connecting a generator to the water wheel to generate power. disclosed in The power-generating lighting device attached to the connection portion of the fire hose has an outlet to which a searchlight can be connected in addition to the illumination lamp mounted on the joint portion.

Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 05-058159

By the way, when the generator is driven by the water flow in the hose as in Patent Literature 1, the water flows in the hose and generates electricity while the water is being discharged, but when the water discharge is stopped, the power generation stops. Therefore, after the fire extinguishing activity is finished, the lights and the like cannot be used when the firefighters evacuate. In addition, the more points where the pump car is connected to the pipe spear (water discharge nozzle), the more the water wheel for power generation is installed and the more the flow resistance increases. That is, the force of the discharged water decreases.

Depending on the scale of the fire, multiple firefighting teams may work together to extinguish the fire. In that case, it is necessary to be able to mutually discriminate the fire brigade that is in charge of the place where the fire broke out and the fire brigade to which the fire hose being routed belongs.

Furthermore, not only fire hoses, but also water hoses that are used for water supply and drainage for a certain period of time, though not permanently, require confirmation of the connection status and monitoring of the water supply status in order to continue to use them safely. Become.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a multi-functional water hose and medium unit by mounting a power supply and utilizing the power obtained therefrom.

A water supply hose according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a hose, a connector, a power generation unit, a secondary battery, a power supply circuit, an electronic unit, and a main switch. A fitting is secured to the end of the hose. The power generation unit generates power while attached to the connector or hose. The secondary battery charges the power generated by the power generation unit. The power supply circuit supplies power charged in the secondary battery or power generated by the power generation unit at set current and voltage. The electronic unit operates on power supplied via the power supply circuit. The main switch switches the power supply circuit to a state that supplies power to the electronic unit.

At this time, the power generation unit includes an induction coil, a rotor, a permanent magnet, and a rib, and includes a hydraulic power generation unit that generates power when water flows in a hose and the rotor is rotated in one direction. The induction coil is configured by arranging a plurality of coil parts wound around a radial line perpendicular to the central axis of the connector along the outer periphery of the connector along the circumferential direction. The rotor is rotatably installed along the inner peripheral surface of the connector. A plurality of permanent magnets are arranged along the circumferential direction of the rotor and each generate a magnetic field in a radial direction perpendicular to the central axis of the connector. A plurality of ribs are arranged along the inner peripheral surface of the rotor and are angled in the circumferential direction from a position parallel to the central axis.

Alternatively, the power generation unit includes a vibration power generation unit that has an induction coil, a mover, a permanent magnet, and an elastic member, and generates power by displacing the mover due to vibrations generated in the connector. An induction coil is secured to the fitting. The mover is movable in a direction transverse to the winding centerline of the induction coil. The permanent magnet is mounted on the mover so that the lines of magnetic force are aligned with the winding center line of the induction coil. The elastic member connects the armature to the connector so as to oscillate in the direction in which the magnetic field for the induction coil changes.

Alternatively, the power generation unit includes a piezoelectric element that generates electricity under the impact load that occurs when a mating connector that fits against the connector is coupled to the connector. Alternatively, the power generation unit includes a piezoelectric material that is arranged on the outer periphery of the connector and generates power by an external impact load that accompanies displacement.

Alternatively, the power generation unit includes a feed coil. The feed coil is fixed to the outer peripheral surface of the connector, and is supplied with power by electromagnetic induction while the connector is placed in an alternating magnetic field generated by an external device.

Alternatively, the power generation unit includes a plurality of spherical photovoltaic elements that receive external light and generate power. For example, these photovoltaic elements may be included in the strands of a hose jacket.

Alternatively, the power generation unit includes an elastic power generation element that is attached to the hose and generates power as the hose expands and contracts or vibrates.

Alternatively, the power generation unit includes a thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric element has a first surface facing the hose and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and generates electricity due to the temperature difference between the first surface and the second surface.

The electronic unit includes a light source including at least one of an LED and an organic EL, and a light emission control section that controls the pattern of light emission from the light source. A plurality of light sources are arranged side by side in the circumferential direction on the outer surface of the connector. Alternatively, a plurality of light sources are arranged side by side in the axial direction on the outer surface of the connector. Further, the electronic unit includes a connection detection switch that outputs a connection signal when a matching mating connector is connected to the connector, and the light emission control unit changes the light emission pattern of the light source upon detection of the connection signal. is also preferred. At this time, the light emission pattern includes at least one of a blinking time interval for repeating lighting and extinguishing, a lighting position when a plurality of light sources are provided, and a light emission color of each light source.

In addition, the electronic unit includes a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the connector, a water temperature sensor that measures the temperature of water flowing through the hose, a flow rate sensor that measures the flow rate of water flowing through the hose, and a pressure sensor that measures the pressure inside the hose. at least one of the sensors, a control unit that outputs state information including values measured by at least one of the sensors, and a display that is fixed to the outside of the connector and displays the state information. may

Alternatively, the electronic unit includes a connection detection switch that outputs a connection signal when a matching mating connector is connected to the connector, a memory that stores individual identification information of the connector, and an individual identification signal in the connection signal. and a communication unit that wirelessly transmits the connection information. At this time, the control unit may be configured to output the connection information when receiving a control signal from the outside via the communication unit.

In addition, the electronic unit includes a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the connector, a water temperature sensor that measures the temperature of water flowing through the hose, a flow rate sensor that measures the flow rate of water flowing through the hose, and a pressure sensor that measures the pressure inside the hose. at least one of the sensors, a memory for storing individual identification information of the connection tool, a control unit that outputs state information in which the value measured by at least one of these sensors is associated with the individual identification information, and state information wirelessly. an originating communication unit. The control section may be configured to output the state information when receiving a control signal from the outside via the communication unit.

Furthermore, the electronic unit operates when a start signal is received from the outside via the communication unit, and when a standby signal is received from the outside via the communication unit, the power consumption is reduced except when the communication unit receives it. It is also preferable to be in a standby state.

In addition, the electronic unit includes a positioning unit that calculates and outputs position coordinates based on GPS signals or signals obtained from surrounding Wi-Fi bases, and the control unit stores position information in which individual identification information is associated with the position coordinates. output, and the wireless communication unit wirelessly transmits the location information.

In addition, an intermediate unit of another embodiment of the present invention is an intermediate unit connected to a connector at the end of a water hose, comprising a housing, a power generation unit, a secondary battery, a power supply circuit, an electronic unit, and a main switch. Prepare. The housing has an intermediary connection adapted to a water hose fitting. The power generation unit generates power while being incorporated in the housing. The secondary battery is charged with power generated by the power generation unit. The power supply circuit supplies power charged in the secondary battery or power generated by the power generation unit at set current and voltage. The electronic unit is mounted on the housing and operates on power supplied through the power supply circuit. The main switch switches the power supply circuit to a state that supplies power to the electronic unit.

At this time, the power generation unit includes a hydraulic power generation unit having an induction coil, a rotor, a permanent magnet and fins, and generating power when water flows in the housing and the rotor is rotated in one direction. The induction coil is constructed by arranging a plurality of coil portions wound around a radial line perpendicular to the center axis of the metal fitting around the center axis. The rotor is installed rotatably about a central axis. A plurality of permanent magnets are arranged along the circumferential direction of the rotor and each generate a magnetic field in a radial direction crossing the coil portion. The fins have an angle with respect to the central axis, and are formed in plurality in the circumferential direction along the outer peripheral surface of the rotor.

Also, the power generation unit includes a vibration power generation unit that has an induction coil, a mover, a permanent magnet, and an elastic member, and generates power by displacing the mover due to vibrations generated in the housing. An induction coil is secured to the housing. The mover is movable in a direction transverse to the winding centerline of the induction coil. The permanent magnet is mounted on the mover so that the lines of magnetic force are aligned with the winding center line of the induction coil. The elastic member connects the armature to the housing so as to oscillate in the direction in which the magnetic field for the induction coil changes.

Also, the power generation unit includes a piezoelectric element that generates power with a collision load generated when the connector of the water hose is connected to the intermediate connector. Alternatively, the power generation unit includes a piezoelectric material that is arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate connector and generates power by an external impact load accompanied by deformation.

Furthermore, it is also preferred that the power generation unit includes a feed coil. The feed coil is fixed to the outer surface of the housing and is powered by electromagnetic induction while the housing is placed in an alternating magnetic field generated by an external device.

Also, the electronic unit includes a light source including at least one of an LED and an organic EL, and a light emission control section that controls a pattern of light emission from the light source. A plurality of light sources are arranged side by side in the circumferential direction on the outer surface of the housing in the vicinity of the intermediate connector. Alternatively, a plurality of light sources are arranged side by side on the outer surface of the housing in the direction in which water flows through the housing from the vicinity of the intermediate connector. Further, it is preferable that the electronic unit includes a connection detection switch that outputs a connection signal when the connector of the water supply hose is connected to the intermediate connector, and changes the pattern of light emission of the light source when the light emission control unit detects the connection signal. . At this time, the light emission pattern includes at least one of a blinking time interval for repeating lighting and extinguishing, a lighting position when a plurality of light sources are provided, and a light emission color of each light source.

The electronic unit includes a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the housing, a water temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of water flowing through the housing, a flow rate sensor for measuring the flow rate of water flowing through the housing, and a pressure sensor for measuring the pressure inside the housing. , a control unit that outputs state information including values measured by at least one of these sensors, and a display unit that is fixed to the outside of the housing and displays the state information. good too.

Alternatively, the electronic unit includes a connection detection switch that outputs a connection signal when the connector of the water supply hose is connected to the intermediate connector, a memory that stores individual identification information of the intermediate connector, and individual identification information in the connection signal. It may include a control unit that outputs associated connection information, and a communication unit that wirelessly transmits the connection information. At this time, the control section may be configured to output the connection information when receiving a control signal from the outside via the communication unit.

The electronic unit includes a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the housing, a water temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of water flowing through the housing, a flow rate sensor for measuring the flow rate of water flowing through the housing, and a pressure sensor for measuring the pressure inside the housing. at least one of, a memory for storing the individual identification information of the intermediate connector, a control unit that outputs state information in which the value measured by at least one of these sensors is associated with the individual identification information, and the state information wirelessly and an outgoing communication unit. The control section may be configured to output the state information when receiving a control signal from the outside via the communication unit.

Furthermore, the electronic unit operates when a start signal is received from the outside via the communication unit, and when a standby signal is received from the outside via the communication unit, the power consumption is reduced except when the communication unit receives it. It is also preferable to be in a standby state.

In addition, the electronic unit includes a positioning unit that calculates and outputs position coordinates based on GPS signals or signals obtained from surrounding Wi-Fi bases, and the control unit stores position information in which individual identification information is associated with the position coordinates. output, and the wireless communication unit wirelessly transmits the location information.

According to one embodiment of the water supply hose of the present invention, the water hose includes a power generation unit that generates power while attached to the connector, and a secondary battery that charges the generated power. The electronic unit operates by being supplied with power charged in a secondary battery or power generated by a power generation unit at a set current and voltage.

Therefore, since the electric power generated by the power generating unit attached to the connector is supplied to the electronic unit also arranged near the connector, there is no need to install or incorporate a cable for power supply into the hose. , easier to handle. Moreover, by additionally installing various functions according to the application as an electronic unit, the function of the water supply hose can be multifunctionalized.

Further, according to another embodiment of the media unit according to the present invention, the power generation unit that generates power while being incorporated in the housing is provided, and the secondary battery is charged with the generated power. The electronic unit operates by being supplied with power charged in a secondary battery or power generated by a power generation unit at a set current and voltage.

Therefore, since the electric power generated by the power generating unit incorporated in the housing is supplied to the electronic unit also mounted in the housing, there is no need to route a cable for power supply, which facilitates handling. Moreover, by additionally mounting various functions according to the application as the electronic unit, the intermediate unit connected to the water supply hose can be made multi-functional. In particular, when a multi-functional medium unit is connected between water hoses, conventional water hoses can be used, so that the installation cost can be relatively easily reduced.

The perspective view which made the cross section a part of edge part of the water supply hose of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of electrical components incorporated in the connector of FIG. 1; The side view which made the cross section a part of female connector of the water supply hose of FIG. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the female connector taken along line F4-F4 in FIG. 3; FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the female connector taken along line F5-F5 in FIG. 3; FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the female connector taken along line F6-F6 in FIG. 3; The side view which made the cross section a part of male type|mold connector of the water supply hose of FIG. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the male connector taken along line F8-F8 in FIG. 7; FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the male connector taken along line F9-F9 in FIG. 7; FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a state in which the connector of the water supply hose shown in FIG. 1 is connected to another connector of the water supply hose; The perspective view which made the cross section the female connector of the water supply hose of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 12 is a block diagram of electrical components incorporated in the connector of FIG. 11; FIG. 12 is a front view of the vibration power generation unit in FIG. 11; FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the male connector of the water hose of FIG. 11; The top view which made the cross section a part of water-supply hose of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 16 is a block diagram of electrical components incorporated in the connector of FIG. 15; The top view which made the cross section a part of mediation unit of the 4th Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 18 is a block diagram of electrical components incorporated in the intermediate unit of FIG. 17; FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the intermediate unit taken along line F19-F19 in FIG. 17; FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the intermediate unit taken along line F20-F20 in FIG. 17; The side view which made the cross section a part of mediation unit of the 5th Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 22 is a block diagram of electrical components incorporated in the intermediate unit of FIG. 21; The side view which made the cross section a part of mediation unit of the 6th Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 24 is a block diagram of electrical components incorporated in the intermediate unit of FIG. 23; The side view which made the cross section a part of mediation unit of the 7th Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of the intermediate unit taken along line F26-F26 in FIG. 25; The schematic perspective view of the water supply hose of the 8th Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 28 is a block diagram of electrical components provided in the water supply hose of FIG. 27; 28 is a schematic plan view of the water hose of FIG. 27; FIG. FIG. 30 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a photovoltaic element included in the water hose of FIG. 29; The schematic plan view of the water supply hose of the 9th Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 32 is a block diagram of electrical components included in the water supply hose of FIG. 31; FIG. 32 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an elastic power generation element provided in the water hose of FIG. 31; Sectional drawing of the water supply hose along F34-F34 line in FIG. The schematic plan view of the water supply hose of the tenth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 36 is a block diagram of electrical components provided in the water supply hose of FIG. 35; FIG. 36 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a thermoelectric element included in the water supply hose of FIG. 35; FIG. 11 is a bird's-eye view showing a water supply system using a water supply hose and an intermediate unit according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 39 is a block diagram of the water supply system of FIG. 38; FIG. 39 is a diagram showing a display example of a water system recognized by the water system of FIG. 38; FIG. 39 is a diagram showing a display example of the data of the water hose and mediation unit obtained by the water supply system of FIG. 38;

A water supply hose 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10 as an example when applied to a fire hose. The water supply hose 1 shown in FIG. 1 has an insertion-type female connector 11A and a male connector 11B, which are connectors 11, at the ends of the hose 10, and includes electrical components including a power generation unit 12 and the like. Each of the female connector 11A and the male connector 11B is equipped with them. The water hose 1 can be provided with various additional functions that operate electrically by using the power generated by the power generation unit 12 .

In FIG. 1, part of the female connector 11A and the male connector 11B are shown in cross section so that the internal structure can be understood. FIG. 2 shows the configuration of electrical components. In FIG. 2 , a line segment H divides the components arranged in the flow path of the water hose 1 and the components arranged outside the water hose 1 . 3 to 6 show female fitting 11A and FIGS. 7 to 9 show male fitting 11B. 3 and 7 are side views with the upper half sectioned from the central axis, and FIGS. A cross-sectional view perpendicular to the central axis is shown. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a male connector 11B of another water hose 1 having the same function as the female connector 11A of the water hose 1 is inserted and connected.

The water supply hose 1 shown in FIG. and a main switch 16 . The hose 10 has an outer jacket 101 made of cloth twilled with warp and weft, for example, and a resin liner 102 which is formed in close contact with the jacket 101 and serves as a waterproof inner liner. Hose 10 is an insulating member.

The connector 11 is a plug-in connector and includes a female connector 11A and a male connector 11B that can be connected to each other. The female connector 11A and the male connector 11B each have a mounting portion 111 that is inserted into the end of the hose 10 by a certain length. With the mounting part 111 inserted into the end of the hose 10, the outer periphery of the end of the hose 10 is covered with a cloth protective sleeve 103 slightly longer than the mounting part 111, and the crimping is further mounted on the outer periphery. The fitting 11 (female fitting 11A and male fitting 11B) is fixed to the end of the hose 10 by tightening with the ring 112 .

Further, the female connector 11A includes a gasket 113 that seals the inserted male connector 11B, a latch 114 that engages to prevent the tip of the inserted male connector 11B from coming off, and a female connector. It has a rubber elastic tire 115 that protects the mold connector 11A. As shown in FIG. 4, the latches 114 are arranged at three equally spaced positions and are biased by leaf springs 114A so as to protrude toward the center. The latch 114 is engaged with the stepped portion 11B1 at the tip of the male connector 11B in a state where the tip surface of the male connector 11B abuts against the contact surface 11A1 perpendicular to the central axis X of the female connector 11A. do. The tire 115 is mounted on the outer circumference of the range where the latch 114 is arranged.

The male connector 11B has a release ring 116 for releasing the latch 114 of the female connector 11A fitted in the stepped portion 11B1 provided on the outer circumference of the tip. The release ring 116 is free to slide circumferentially and axially. As shown in FIG. 10, when the tip of the male connector 11B is inserted into the female connector 11A and the latch 114 is engaged with the latch 114, the release ring 116 is slid toward the female connector 11A. A release ring 116 is inserted between the latch 114 and the tip to push the latch 114 out of the stepped portion 11B1. Since the latch 114 is released, the male connector 11B can be pulled out from the female connector 11A.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 3, and 7, the power generation unit 12 is attached to each of the female connector 11A and the male connector 11B, which are the connectors 11, and has a configuration capable of generating power. is doing. The power generation unit 12 in the first embodiment is a hydraulic power generation unit 12A capable of generating power when water flows through the hose 10 .

The hydroelectric unit 12A includes an induction coil 121, a rotor 122, a permanent magnet 123 and ribs 124, as shown in FIG. A line segment H separates what is arranged in the flow path of the water hose 1 and what is arranged outside the water hose. The induction coil 121 is composed of a plurality of coil portions 121A that are arranged along the outer circumference of the connection tool 11 along the circumferential direction. The coil portion 121A is wound around a radial line perpendicular to the central axis X. As shown in FIG. The induction coil 121 of the female fitting 11A is shown in FIGS. The induction coil 121 of the male fitting 11B is shown in FIGS.

The rotor 122 is rotatably arranged along the inner peripheral surface of the connector 11 . The rotor 122 of the female connector 11A has a cylindrical portion 122A along the inner peripheral surface of the mounting portion 111 of the connector 11, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 7, the rotor 122 of the male connector 11B has a cylindrical portion 122A along the inner peripheral surface of the mounting portion 111, similarly to the case of the female connector 11A. . The rotor 122 is made of non-magnetic material such as aluminum alloy or synthetic resin.

In both cases of the female connector 11A and the male connector 11B, measures are taken to prevent the rotor 122 from being swept along the central axis X by the force of water. In the case of the water hose 1 having the plug-in fitting 11, water is used so that it flows in from the female fitting 11A side and flows out from the male fitting side.

Therefore, in this embodiment, in the case of the rotor 122 of the female connector 11A, the abutment surface 11A1 against which the tip surface of the male connector 11B abuts when the male connector 11B is connected to the female connector 11A is formed. It has a flange portion 122B that extends along the . Therefore, no processing is required in this embodiment for mounting the rotor 122 on the female connector 11A. A counterbore portion may be provided so that the flange portion 122B is deeper than the contact surface 11A1.

Further, in the case of the rotor 122 of the male connector 11B, it has a structure in which a set screw radially screwed from the outer peripheral surface of the connector 11 is inserted into a groove provided on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 122A. In order to reduce the load applied to the set screw, the cylindrical portion 122A of the rotor 122 of the male connector 11B may be extended to a position where it abuts against the flange portion 122B of the rotor 122 of the female connector 11A. In both cases, it is desirable that the processing be performed within a range that has little influence on the shape and strength of the male connector 11B.

It should be noted that both the rotor 122 attached to the female connector 11A and the rotor 122 attached to the male connector 11B are provided with interfering interference fit on the upstream side and downstream side of the cylindrical portion 122A. The rotor 122 may be prevented from flowing by a structure in which a retaining ring made of is press-fitted. In order to reduce the rotational resistance of the rotor 122, a bearing is arranged between the mounting portion 111 and the rotor 122 unless the flow passage cross-sectional areas of the female connector 11A and the male connector 11B are extremely small. It is also preferable to

A plurality of permanent magnets 123 are arranged along the circumferential direction of the rotor 122 and generate respective magnetic fields in the radial direction with respect to the center axis X. As shown in FIG. Permanent magnet 123 is arranged so that the generated magnetic field passes through coil portion 121 A of induction coil 121 . The permanent magnets 123 of the female connector 11A are arranged on the rotor 122 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, and the permanent magnets 123 of the male connector 11B are arranged on the rotor 122 as shown in FIGS. It is

A plurality of ribs 124 are arranged along the inner peripheral surface of the rotor 122 and each has an angle in the circumferential direction from a position parallel to the central axis X. As shown in FIG. In this embodiment, the ribs 124 protrude from the inner peripheral surface of the rotor 122 as shown in FIGS. drawing a spiral. The ribs 124 may be partially formed in the longitudinal direction of the cylindrical portion 122A of the rotor 122 as shown in FIGS. 3 and 7, or may be provided over the entire length of the cylindrical portion 122A.

When the water flows through the hose 10, the water hits the ribs 124, and the rotor 122 is rotated by the reaction force. In this embodiment, water flows in from the female connector 11A side and flows out through the hose 10 to the male connector 11B. Since the ribs 124 are formed in a spiral shape twisted clockwise (right) when viewed from the upstream side, the rotor 122 rotates counterclockwise (left) when viewed from the upstream side due to the force received from the water. rotated.

The shape of the ribs 124 is not limited to the thick ones shown in FIGS. Instead of a twisted shape, the center of the rib 124 may have a flat shape inclined at a certain angle with respect to the central axis X. FIG.

In the power generation unit 12 configured as described above, when the rotor 122 rotates due to water flowing through the hose 10, the permanent magnet 123 mounted on the rotor 122 continuously changes the magnetic field for the induction coil 121, AC power can be generated. Since the induction coil 121 is arranged on the outer periphery of the connector 11, and only the permanent magnet 123 mounted on the rotor 122 is in the water, there is little concern about electric leakage.

The secondary battery 13, the power supply circuit 14, the electronic unit 15 and the main switch 16 are arranged outside the water supply hose 1 as shown in FIG. In addition, it is arranged together with the induction coil 121 of the power generation unit 12 on the outer circumference of the crimping ring 112 that clamps the end of the hose 10 to the outer circumference of the mounting portion 111 of the connector 11 .

Electric power generated by the power generation unit 12 is supplied to the secondary battery 13 and the electronic unit 15 via the power supply circuit 14, as shown in FIG. The secondary battery 13 is charged with the power generated by the power generation unit 12 and discharged to supply power to the electronic unit 15 . At this time, the power supply circuit 14 converts the power charged in the secondary battery 13 or the power generated by the power generation unit 12 into the current and voltage set in the electronic unit 15 and supplies the electronic unit 15 with the current and voltage.

The electronic unit 15 is mounted in the vicinity of the connector 11 and operates with power supplied through the power supply circuit 14 . The main switch 16 is connected to the power supply circuit 14 and switches the power supply circuit 14 to a state in which power is supplied to at least the electronic unit 15 by being operated from the outside.

The main switch 16 switches the power supply circuit 14 to a state in which power is supplied to the electronic unit 15 by a first operation, and switches the power supply circuit 14 to a state in which power is not supplied to the electronic unit 15 by a second operation. The first operation and the second operation may be operations on an alternate switch that mechanically switches the circuit between a connected state and a non-connected state, or a touch sensor that outputs a signal to the power supply circuit 14. may be The main switch 16 may be operated to start charging the secondary battery 13 with the power generated by the power generation unit 12 .

In the first embodiment, the electronic unit 15 includes an LED (light emitting diode) 151 as a light source, a light emission controller 152 and a connection detection switch 153 . The light source may be an organic EL or a backlight for a display panel other than the LED 151 . As shown in FIGS. 3, 5, 7 and 8, a plurality of LEDs 151 are arranged in the circumferential direction on the outer peripheral surface of the cover 120 covering the induction coil 121, the secondary battery 13, and the power supply circuit . The luminescent color of the LED 151 may be a single color such as red, blue, or green, or may be full-color luminescence in which a plurality or all of these are mounted in one unit.

Note that the LED 151 is illuminated in the range of the crimp ring 112 of the connector 11 in the direction along the central axis X of the hose 10, or the range where the protective sleeve 103 is provided beyond the range of the crimp ring 112, or the protective sleeve 103 or longer may be arranged side by side.

The light emission control unit 152 controls the pattern of light emission of the LED 151, which is the light source. The light emission pattern includes at least one of switching between lighting and extinguishing at predetermined time intervals, the rhythm of blinking time intervals, the lighting locations of multiple light sources, and the emission colors of individual light sources. means that these are changed based on predetermined conditions.

Conditions that can be determined by the above-described configuration as predetermined conditions are when the power generation unit 12 is generating power (that is, when water is flowing in the hose 10) and when the power generation unit 12 is not generating power (hose 10), if the charge level of the secondary battery 13 is fully charged, or if the charge level of the secondary battery 13 is lower than the set value, a certain amount of time has passed since the start of use. There are cases where it has passed. Furthermore, if a sensor that acquires information about the surrounding environment and the water hose 1 is installed, it is possible to set a wide variety of conditions.

Since this embodiment has the connection detection switch 153, changing the light emission pattern of the LED 151 based on the connection signal output from the connection detection switch 153 will be described below.

The connection detection switch 153 is arranged at a position where it detects that the latch 114 has been displaced, that is, on the outer periphery of the latch 114 as shown in FIG. In this embodiment, three latches 114 are arranged, and connection detection switches 153 corresponding to each are installed. When the male connector 11B of the other water hose 1 is inserted into the female connector 11A and the latch 114 is displaced radially outward away from the central axis X, the latch 114 pushes the connection detection switch 153 . As a result, the connection detection switch 153 outputs a connection signal, and when the light emission control section 152 detects this connection signal, it changes the pattern for causing the LED 151 to emit light.

In other words, the electronic unit 15 includes an LED 151, a light emission control section 152, and a connection detection switch 153. When a matching mating connector is connected to the connector 11, the connection detection switch 153 outputs a detection signal, The light emission control part 152 changes the light emission pattern of LED151. A worker (a firefighter in this embodiment in which the water hose is a fire hose) connecting the water hose 1 can easily recognize that the male connector 11B is securely connected to the female connector 11A.

In the first embodiment, the female connector 11A is provided with the connection detection switch 153. Therefore, as an example of changing the light emission pattern of the LED 151 of the female connector 11A, for example, the female connector 11A has a male connector. 11B, the LED 151 is caused to emit "red" light, and when the connection is completed, the light emission pattern is changed so as to change the light emission color to "green". Alternatively, before connecting the male connector 11B to the female connector 11A, the LED 151 blinks and emits light, and when the connection is completed, the light emission pattern is changed to a constantly lit state.

In order to distinguish between the female connector 11A and the male connector 11B, the LEDs 151 of the female connector 11A and the LEDs 151 of the male connector 11B are caused to emit light of different colors. Then, the luminescent color of the female connector 11A is changed to the same color as that of the male connector 11B. Alternatively, they are caused to emit light at different blinking time intervals, and when they are connected to each other, they are caused to emit light at the same blinking time interval.

An electronic unit 15 is also attached to the male connector 11B. Therefore, if the connection detection switch 153 is included in the electronic unit 15 of the male connector 11B, it becomes possible to display a wider variety of displays for confirming the connection. For example, the connection detection switch 153 of the male connector 11B is provided on the outer periphery of the tip located between the gasket 113 and the latch 114 when the male connector 11B is inserted into the female connector 11A. The connection detection switch 153 at this time may be a proximity sensor.

By providing the connection detection switch 153 also in the male connector 11B, it is possible to change the light emission pattern including the light emission color and lighting method of the LED 151 to determine whether the female connector 11A and the male connector 11B are correctly connected. can be done. Therefore, in addition to the method of changing the light emission pattern as described above, for example, before connection, the LED 151 of the female connector 11A emits "red" light, and the LED 151 of the male connector 11B emits "blue" light. When the connection signal is detected from all the connection detection switches 153 and the connection is completed, the LED 151 of the female connector 11A and the LED 151 of the male connector 11B emit green or white light. By changing it, it can be determined more accurately that it is connected.

The female connector 11A of this embodiment has a connection detection switch 153 at a position corresponding to the latch 114 . Therefore, the light emission control unit 152 may control the light emission pattern of the LEDs 151 corresponding to the range where the latches 114 are arranged so as to correspond to the connection signal of the connection detection switch 153 corresponding to each latch 114 . . In other words, the male connector 11B is not sufficiently inserted into the female connector 11A, and one of the latches 114 is not engaged with the stepped portion 11B1. If so, the LED 151 within the range where the latch 114 corresponding to the connection detection switch 153 is arranged emits light in a different light emission pattern (including at least one of the light emission color and the blinking time interval) from the other portions. As a result, the operator can easily know that the male connector 11B is inserted into the female connector 11A but is not properly connected, that is, a so-called "one-sided state". can be redone.

A communication circuit for short-range wireless communication is installed in the electronic unit 15, and communication (pairing) is performed between the female connector 11A and the male connector 11B that are connected to each other, and connection is confirmed. However, the emission pattern of each LED 151, such as the emission color, blinking time interval, and emission position, may be changed. If communication is possible, the connection detection switch 153 may be provided on either the female connector 11A or the male connector 11B. In addition, since communication is performed, it is easy to synchronize when changing the blinking time interval of the light emission pattern.

Furthermore, the power generation unit 12 includes a feed coil 125, as shown in FIG. In the case of the present embodiment, since the induction coil 121 is arranged on the outer circumference of the connecting device 11 (the female connecting device 11A and the male connecting device 11B), the feeding coil 125 is connected to the coil portion 121A of the induction coil 121. Any one or more can be diverted. When the feeding coil 125 is provided exclusively, it is arranged at a position close to the outer peripheral surface of the connecting tool 11 . By arranging the connector 11 in the AC magnetic field generated by the external device so that the AC magnetic field crosses the winding surface of the feeding coil 125 , electric power is generated in the feeding coil 125 by the action of electromagnetic induction. In other words, power can be efficiently supplied from the external device.

In the case of this embodiment, a plurality of coil portions 121A of the induction coil 121 are arranged in the circumferential direction with respect to the center axis X of the female connector 11A and the male connector 11B. Therefore, when an external device that generates an AC magnetic field is in the form of a flat board and can receive an AC magnetic field by being placed on it, the center axes of the female connector 11A and the male connector 11B are aligned with the AC magnetic field. When placed on an external device so as to traverse the .

If an external device dedicated to power supply to be attached to the outer periphery of the female connector 11A and the male connector 11B can be prepared and charged efficiently, a secondary battery with a capacity capable of supplying sufficient power during use should be provided. By mounting, it is not necessary to provide the hydraulic power generation unit 12A.

Second to eleventh embodiments will be described below. In each embodiment, configurations having the same functions as the configuration of each part of the water hose 1 of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as the configuration of the water hose 1 of the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions are given in corresponding descriptions. and figures shall be considered. Similarly, with respect to the configurations newly described in the second and subsequent embodiments, the configurations having the same functions in other subsequent embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are the same as those in the previously described implementations. The description in the form shall be taken into consideration.

A water supply hose 1 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 14. FIG. The water supply hose 1 of the second embodiment is a fire hose having a plug-in connector 11 at the end of the hose 10. FIG. 11 shows a female connector 11A, and FIG. A connector 11B is shown. 11 and 14 both show cross sections taken along a plane passing through the center axis X. FIG.

The water supply hose 1 of this embodiment employs a vibration power generation unit 12B as the power generation unit 12 . The vibration power generating unit 12B is arranged along the circumferential direction on the outer circumference of the crimp ring 112 of the female connector 11A shown in FIG. 11 and the outer circumference of the crimp ring 112 of the male connector 11B shown in FIG. ing. Although only one vibration power generation unit 12B is shown in FIG. 11, a plurality of vibration power generation units 12B are arranged in the circumferential direction as in FIG.

Vibration power generating unit 12B, as shown in FIGS. 11 to 14, includes induction coil 121 fixed to connector 11 (female connector 11A, male connector 11B) and winding center line of induction coil 121. A mover 126 that can move in a transverse direction, a permanent magnet 123 mounted on the mover 126 so that the magnetic lines of force are aligned with the winding center line of the induction coil 121, and a magnetic field for the induction coil 121 that vibrates in a changing direction. and an elastic member 127 that connects the mover 126 to the connector 11 so as to do so.

The induction coil 121, the mover 126, the permanent magnet 123, and the elastic member 127 are housed in the cover 120 and unitized as shown in FIGS. The induction coil 121 is wound in an oval shape elongated in the direction along the central axis X of the hose 10 as shown in FIG. Induction coil 121 is fixed to connector 11 via cover 120 .

The mover 126 is provided so as to surround the outer circumference of the induction coil 121, and has permanent magnets 123 mounted on the inner and outer diameter sides in the radial direction with respect to the center axis X. As shown in FIG. A total of four permanent magnets 123 are arranged, two on each side, and cross the winding center line of the induction coil 121 within the range in which the mover 126 moves. The elastic member 127 holds the mover 126 in a neutral position as shown in FIG. 13 in a state where no external force is applied, and causes the mover 126 to vibrate when an external force is applied in the vertical direction in FIG.

In the vibration power generation unit 12B configured as described above, when the mover 126 oscillates due to vibration applied to the connector 11, the permanent magnet 123 is moved across the winding center line of the induction coil 121 to generate power. do. The generated electric power is supplied to the electronic unit 15 while charging the secondary battery 13 through the power supply circuit 14 as shown in FIG.

The LED 151, the light emission control unit 152, and the connection detection switch 153, which are the light source of the electronic unit 15, are not shown in FIGS. 11 and 14, but are arranged in the same manner as in FIGS. and each function is as described in detail in the first embodiment.

Furthermore, in the water supply hose 1 of the second embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 11 to 14, the vibration power generating unit 12B includes a vibrating member 128 that generates vibration when water flows through the hose 10. FIG. 11 and 14, the vibration generating member 128 is composed of a stem 128A projecting from the inner surface of the connector 11 and fins 128B extending from the stem 128A to the downstream side of the water flow. In FIG. 12, the components installed inside the hose 10 and the components installed outside the hose are shown separated by a line segment H. As shown in FIG.

The fins 128B have slightly bent ends on the downstream side so that the fins 128B are easily swung about the stem 128A when water flows through the hose 10 . The fins 128B may be gently curved or wavy as a whole as long as they have a shape that resonates and oscillates with the flow of water. It is also preferable that the stem 128A is, for example, a coil spring having torsional elasticity so that the fins 128B can easily swing.

The water supply hose 1 configured as described above can generate electricity in the vibration power generation unit 12B due to vibration during transportation without an external power supply. can be activated. Further, when the vibration generating unit 12B includes the vibration generating member 128, and even when the water hose 1 is used for a long time, the water flowing through the hose 10 continues to give sufficient vibration to the vibration generating unit 12B, can generate electricity.

Vibration power generation unit 12B may be provided on the outer periphery like female connector 11A shown in FIG. Alternatively, a plurality of them may be arranged in the longitudinal direction. In addition, the direction in which the vibration power generation unit 12B is installed is such that the mover 126 is not only displaced by vibrations in the circumferential direction about the central axis X of the connector 11, but also generated by vibrations during transportation. As much as possible, the installation direction of the induction coil 121 and the moving direction of the mover 126 may be directed in a direction other than the circumferential direction. By using a combination of vibration power generation units 12B in which the movers 126 move in different directions, the chances of generating power increase.

Further, as shown in FIG. 12 , the vibration power generation unit 12B, which is the power generation unit 12 of the water hose 1 of the second embodiment, includes a feed coil 125. As shown in FIG. In the case of the present embodiment, similarly to the hydraulic power generation unit 12A that is the power generation unit 12 of the water hose 1 of the first embodiment, the induction coil 121 is connected to the connection fitting 11 (female connection fitting 11A, male connection fitting 11B). Since it is arranged on the outer peripheral surface, the induction coil 121 can be used as the feeding coil 125 .

A water hose 1 according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 to 16. FIG. The water supply hose 1 shown in FIG. 15 employs a so-called “non-male/female” joint in which the connector 11 does not distinguish between a male type and a female type. The connector 11 is made in the same shape with n-fold rotational symmetry about the central axis X (hereinafter referred to as "uniform connector 11C").

FIG. 15 shows a state in which the isomorphic connector 11C of the water hose 1 is separated from the isomorphic connector 11C of the other water hose 1 that matches the isomorphic connector 11C. 15, the cross section of the hose 10 has a single-layer structure, but like the hose 10 in the first and second embodiments, it has a two-layer structure with a cloth jacket 101 and a resin liner 102 inside. may be

The end portion of the hose 10 is externally inserted into the mounting portion 111 of the connector 11 and fixed by tightening with a dedicated fixing metal fitting attached to the outer periphery thereof. If the hose 10 has a small diameter, it may be fixed with a crimping ring 112 as in the first and second embodiments. In FIG. 15, the fixing bracket is integrally formed with the cover 120 that houses electrical components and the like. It is assumed that the ring is narrowed down by a ring that is divided into two or three.

The power generation unit 12 of the third embodiment employs a pressure power generation unit 12C including a piezoelectric element 129. As shown in FIG. The pressure generating unit 12C generates electric power by applying a collision load to the piezoelectric element 129 when the homomorphic connector 11C on the mating side that fits the homomorphic connector 11C is connected to the homomorphic connector 11C. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 15, the piezoelectric element 129 is arranged at a position where the top of the hook 117 of the mating homomorphic connector 11C hits the valley 117V between the hooks 117 of the homomorphic connector 11C. .

The piezoelectric element 129 may be provided in only one valley portion, or may be provided in a plurality of locations or in all the valley portions 117V, as long as a sufficient amount of electric power can be secured for the power consumption of the electronic unit 15. may By providing the piezoelectric element 129 at a plurality of locations, even if there is some deviation when connecting the same-shaped connector 11C, power can be generated by any one of the piezoelectric elements 129 . Since power is generated by the collision load, the generated power is output from the piezoelectric element 129 at a high voltage in a short period of time. The power supply circuit 14 converts this power into power of current and voltage suitable for the electronic unit 15 and supplies it. Moreover, the surplus power is charged in the secondary battery 13 .

In the case of this embodiment, since the piezoelectric elements 129 are arranged in the valleys 117V of the respective homomorphic connectors 11C to which they are connected, the output obtained from the piezoelectric elements 129 mounted on the respective homomorphic connectors 11C is used as the power source. The light emission control unit 152 detects through the circuit 14, that is, detects that power is supplied, and causes the LED 151 of the light source to emit light, so that the worker can confirm that the homomorphic connectors 11C are correctly connected to each other. . That is, the piezoelectric element 129 has the same function as the connection detection switch 153 . The secondary battery 13 and the main switch 16 do not have to be provided if the electronic unit 15 only needs to have at least the function of lighting the LED 151 for a certain period of time after the connections 11 are connected correctly. .

A mediation unit 2 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 20. FIG. The mediating unit 2 is a mediating unit that is attached between water hoses when they are connected to each other. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. It is a water collector 2A summarized in . The intermediate unit 2 includes a housing 21, a power generation unit 12, a secondary battery 13, a power supply circuit 14, an electronic unit 15, and a main switch 16, as shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 17, the housing 21 has a first intermediate connector 22A attached to an upstream inlet 211 and a second intermediate connector 22B attached to a downstream outlet 212. there is Since the intermediate unit 2 is a water collector 2A, the aperture of the second intermediate connector 22B is made larger than the aperture of the first intermediate connector 22A.

The first intermediary connector 22A and the second intermediary connector 22B shown in FIGS. 17 and 19 are homomorphic connectors that are so-called “non-male-female” connector. attached to the end of the water supply hose 1 is connected. When connecting the water supply hose 1 provided with the female connector 11A on the upstream side and the male connector 11B on the downstream side as in the first and second embodiments, the first intermediate connector 22A is a female The second intermediary connector 22B is a connector having the same shape as the male connector 11B.

The power generation unit 12 is a hydraulic power generation unit 12A that generates power while being incorporated in a housing 21. As shown in FIG. It is At this time, the induction coil 121 has a plurality of coil portions 121A wound around a radial line perpendicular to the central axis Xd of the second intermediate connector 22B of the outflow port 212, arranged around the central axis Xd. consists of In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, the induction coil 121 is arranged in a streamlined case 213 that is round on the upstream side and narrows on the downstream side in order to reduce water flow resistance. . Case 213 is held in the center of housing 21 by a stem 214 extending from housing 21 .

A shaft 122C of a rotatably assembled rotor 122 is passed through the center of the induction coil 121, and a permanent magnet 123 having N and S poles alternately arranged in the circumferential direction is attached to the shaft 122C. The rotor 122 is exposed at the downstream end of the case 213 and has an outer shape that gently connects to the outer diameter of the case 213 . The rotor 122 is formed in a conical shape that points downstream from the case 213, and fins 124A are integrally formed on the outer peripheral surface.

The fin 124A is twisted clockwise (rightward) toward the downstream side when viewed from the upstream side, and has approximately the same outer diameter as the case 213 . The fin 124A is arranged in the vicinity where the center axis Xu of the intermediate connector 22A of the inlet 211 shown in FIG. 17 and the center axis Xd of the intermediate connector 22B of the outlet 212 exactly intersect. As a result, the water flowing from the inlet 211 hits the fins 124A and the rotor 122 can be efficiently rotated.

The secondary battery 13, the power supply circuit 14, the electronic unit 15, and the main switch 16 are installed outside the housing 21, as shown in FIGS. As shown in FIGS. 17 and 19, the secondary battery 13, the power supply circuit 14, and the main switch 16 are housed in a cover 120 arranged substantially in the center of the housing 21. As shown in FIG. The main switch 16 is exposed on the outer surface of the cover 120 and is provided so as to be operable from the outside.

The electronic unit 15 includes a connection detection switch 153, a memory 154, a control section 155, and a communication unit 156, as shown in FIG. The connection detection switch 153 is installed in each of the intermediate connector 22A of the two inlets 211 and the intermediate connector 22B of the single outlet 212, as shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, the intermediary connecting devices 22A and 22B are so-called "non-male-female" connecting devices to which the uniform connecting device 11C is connected. 227 and hook 227 in valley 227A. Although the piezoelectric element 129 of the power generation unit 12 is used as the connection detection switch 153 in the third embodiment, a thin contact switch may be used in the present embodiment.

The memory 154 is connected to the control unit 155 and stores individual identification information of the intermediary connectors 22A and 22B, which are connectors. This individual identification information may be a serial number determined between the time the intermediation unit 2 is manufactured and delivered, or an identification code or the like that can be set by the user. In the case of this embodiment, the connection detection switches 153 are provided so as to individually correspond to the intermediate connectors 22A of the two inlets 211 and the intermediate connector 22B of the single outlet 212, and the memory 154 stores the Individual identification information individually corresponding to the connection detection switch 153 is stored.

The control unit 155 reads the individual identification information corresponding to the connection signal output by the connection detection switch 153 from the memory 154, associates them, and outputs them as connection information. The communication unit 156 is connected to the control section 155 and wirelessly transmits the connection information output from the control section 155 . The radio waves emitted from the communication unit 156 reach a distance of several tens of centimeters when communicating with the water hose 1 having the same shape connector 11C connected to the intermediate connectors 22A and 22B at the end. , and when used in combination with the water supply hose 1, it has an output that reaches a distance of several tens of meters to several hundreds of meters.

Radio waves containing connection information may be unilaterally output from the communication unit 156 at regular time intervals. In other words, the connection information may be transmitted when the control signal requesting the connection information is received.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the electronic unit 15 comprises a communication unit 156 . A standby state in which power consumption is reduced when the activation signal is received from the outside via the communication unit 156, and when the standby signal is received from the outside via the communication unit 156, the communication unit 156 does not receive the signal. The electronic unit 15 may be configured such that

The electronic unit 15 of the fourth embodiment further has LEDs 151, which are light sources, on the peripheries of the inflow port 211 and the outflow port 212, respectively. 152 is provided in the electronic unit 15 . The power supply circuit 14 , the light emission control section 152 , the memory 154 , the control section 155 and the communication unit 156 are mounted on a substrate installed inside the cover 120 .

In the intermediate unit 2 configured as described above, when the isomorphic connector 11C of the water supply hose 1 is connected to the intermediate connector 22A, 22B respectively, the connection detection switch 153 detects the connection and outputs a connection signal. Output. When the control unit 155 detects the connection signal, it reads out the individual identification information corresponding to the connection signal from the memory 154, associates them, and outputs them as connection information. The connection information is wirelessly transmitted from the communication unit 156 to the outside. By receiving the transmitted connection information with an external dedicated terminal or a receiving device, it is possible to know from a remote location which mediation unit 2 the water supply hose 1 is connected to. In addition, by mounting an electronic unit 15 having the same function on the isomorphic connector 11C of the water hose 1, it is possible to know in detail which side of which water hose 1 is connected to which part of the intermediate unit 2. can be done.

When it is confirmed that a water supply path combining a plurality of water supply hoses 1 and intermediation units 2 is connected over the entire length, water is allowed to flow, and power generation unit 12 generates power. The electric power generated by the power generation unit 12 is supplied to the electronic unit 15 , charges the secondary battery 13 , and is used when the intermediate unit 2 is next connected to the water supply hose 1 .

Further, in this embodiment, since the LED 151 of the light source and the light emission control unit 152 for controlling lighting thereof are provided, the LED 151 may be turned on, or may be repeatedly turned on and off at predetermined time intervals, or the light emission pattern may be changed, for example, by changing the light emission color of the LED 151 from that before connection. When a worker rushes to the site after obtaining information on the location where it was determined that the connection state of the water supply hose 1 and the intermediate unit 2 was not connected (poor connection) when the final confirmation was made at a remote location. It is easy to determine the joint location where the connection is defective by the light emitting state of the LED 151 .

In the fourth embodiment, the medium unit 2 is the water collector 2A, but one water supply hose 1 is connected to the upstream side and two (or more) water supply hoses 1 are connected to the downstream side. It may also be a connected water divider. If the intermediary unit 2 is a water divider, it incorporates a valve that regulates the flow to the water hose 1 connected to the outlet 212 . The valve is opened and closed manually or remotely. When operated manually, an operating lever corresponding to each valve is attached. For remote control, a driving device such as a solenoid valve or a motor is attached. Since the communication unit 156 is provided, the electromagnetic valves and motors may be controlled via this communication unit 156 .

Further, in the present embodiment, the hydraulic power unit 12A has a structure in which the rotor 122 having the fins 124A attached to the outer periphery is arranged in the water channel of the housing 21. If the outflow port 212 is formed sufficiently long downstream from the point where Xu intersects, a structure similar to that of the hydraulic power generation unit 12A of the first and second embodiments can also be adopted. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, one hydraulic power generation unit 12A is installed in the housing 21 between the inflow port 211 and the outflow port 212; good.

A mediation unit 2 according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 21 and 22. FIG. The intermediary unit 2 is a relay unit 2B that is installed between two water hoses when they are connected to each other. An electronic unit 15 is equipped with various sensors for driving the sensors, and a power generating unit 12 for supplying electric power to drive them is mounted.

Specifically, the intermediate unit 2 has a housing 21 and intermediate connectors 22C, which are isomorphic connectors, at both ends of the housing 21, as shown in FIG. The mounting portion 221 of the intermediate connector 22C is directly inserted into the end portion of the housing 21 and fixed to the housing 21 . The intermediary connector 22C shown in FIG. 21 is a so-called "negative" homomorphic connector. Therefore, the water hose connected to this intermediary unit 2 has isomorphic fittings that fit the intermediary fittings 22C at both ends. Since the intermediate connector 22C is a homogenous connector, either intermediate connector 22C can be connected to the water hose.

In addition, when connecting the water supply hose 1 of the first and second embodiments in which the female connector 11A is attached to the upstream connector and the male connector 11B is attached to the downstream connector, they are arranged on the upstream side. The first intermediary connector 22A to be connected is a female connector, and the second intermediary connector 22B arranged downstream is a male connector.

In addition, when the types of connectors of the water hose connected to the upstream side and the water hose connected to the downstream side are different, the intermediary unit 2 is used as an adapter prepared for connecting between them. may be In that case, the intermediate unit 2 includes a first intermediate fitting 22A that fits the fitting attached to the downstream end of the upstream water supply hose and a fitting attached to the upstream end of the downstream water supply hose. It suffices if they each have a matching second intermediate connector 22B.

The housing 21 incorporates a power generation unit 12, a secondary battery 13, a power supply circuit 14, an electronic unit 15, and a main switch 16, as shown in FIGS. The power generation unit 12 employs the same type of hydro power unit 12A as in the fourth embodiment. When adopting the hydraulic power generation unit 12A in the first embodiment, the rotor 122 is arranged between the mounting portions 221 of the intermediate connector inserted from both ends of the housing 21, and the induction coil is placed outside the housing 21, which is the outer periphery. 121 should be placed. A secondary battery 13, a power supply circuit 14, and a main switch 16 are arranged in the same manner as in the fourth embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 22, the electronic unit 15 includes sensors such as a temperature sensor 157A for measuring the temperature of the housing 21, a water temperature sensor 157B for measuring the temperature of water flowing through the housing 21, and a flow rate of water flowing through the housing 21. At least one of a flow rate sensor 157C that measures the pressure inside the housing 21 and a pressure sensor 157D that measures the pressure inside the housing 21 is provided.

The temperature sensor 157A is a thermocouple attached to the outer surface of the housing 21, for example. The water temperature sensor 157B is a thermocouple attached to the inner surface of the housing 21, for example. The flow rate sensor 157C may obtain the flow rate from the rotation speed of the rotor 122 using the induction coil 121 of the hydraulic power unit 12A, or may be an ultrasonic flowmeter arranged outside the housing 21. good. Pressure sensor 157</b>D is attached to housing 21 so that the detection portion is exposed to the inner surface of housing 21 . The pressure sensor 157D may be either mechanical or electronic, but an electronic piezoresistive pressure sensor is preferable because it is compact and has good sensitivity.

The electronic unit 15 includes a control unit 155 that outputs state information including values measured by at least one of the temperature sensor 157A, the water temperature sensor 157B, the flow rate sensor 157C, and the pressure sensor 157D, and the state output from the control unit 155. It has a display section 158 for displaying information. The display portion 158 is fixed to the outside of the housing 21, or to the outside of the cover 120 as shown in FIG. 21 in this embodiment.

The electronic unit 15 also includes an LED 151 as part of a display section 158 as shown in FIG. A plurality of LEDs 151 are arranged side by side in the circumferential direction of the housing 21 near the intermediate connector 22</b>C or between the intermediate connector 22</b>C and the cover 120 . The light emission pattern of the LED 151 such as lighting and extinguishing is controlled via the light emission control unit 152 .

The intermediary unit 2 of the fifth embodiment configured as described above is mounted between the connectors of the water supply hoses that are conventionally directly connected. Since the intermediary unit 2 is provided with the hydraulic power generation unit 12A, it can generate electricity by water flowing through the water supply hose. The generated power is supplied to the electronic unit 15 via the power supply circuit 14 . The state of water flowing through the water supply hose is measured by a sensor mounted on the electronic unit 15 and displayed on the display section 158 .

Also, the LED 151 provided as a part of the display unit 158 changes the light emission pattern such as lighting, blinking, or changing the light emission color under predetermined conditions for the output of each sensor. For example, when water flows through the water hose and power is generated, the LED 151 is turned on. When the pressure measured by 157D is out of the set range, the operator can be notified of the occurrence of an abnormality by blinking or changing the emission color. The operator can know in detail the cause of the abnormality by looking at the display section 158 of the intermediary unit 2 in which the LED 151 indicates the abnormality.

The intermediary unit 2 of this embodiment may have the LED 151 and the connection detection switch 153 in the electronic unit 15 as shown in FIG. 2 of the first embodiment. By arranging the medium unit 2 between conventional water hoses, it is possible to confirm that the water hoses are securely connected by emitting light from the LED 151 .

Further, as shown in FIG. 22 , it is also preferable that the intermediary unit 2 includes a power supply coil 125 in the power generation unit 12 . The feeding coil 125 is installed outside the housing 21 and receives power from an AC magnetic field generated by an external device arranged to face the feeding coil 125 . The power supplied through the feed coil 125 charges the secondary battery. If the capacity of the secondary battery is sufficient for the time during which the intermediary unit 2 is used, the hydraulic power generation unit 12A may not be installed.

A mediation unit 2 according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 23 and 24. FIG. The intermediary unit 2 of this embodiment is a relay unit 2B similar to that of the fifth embodiment, and the configuration of the power generation unit 12 and the electronic unit 15 is partially different from that of the intermediary unit 2 of the fifth embodiment. there is The intermediate unit 2 of this embodiment employs the vibration power generation unit 12B shown in the second embodiment as the power generation unit 12. As shown in FIG. Further, the electronic unit 15 of this embodiment includes at least one of the temperature sensor 157A, the water temperature sensor 157B, the flow rate sensor 157C, and the pressure sensor 157D, for example, all of them, as in the fifth embodiment. Further, while the electronic unit 15 of the fifth embodiment includes the display section 158, the electronic unit 15 of the sixth embodiment includes the memory 154 and the memory 154 included in the electronic unit 15 of the fourth embodiment. A communication unit 156 is further provided. Therefore, the control section 155 of the electronic unit 15 of the sixth embodiment also has the functions of the control sections 155 of the electronic units 15 of the fourth and fifth embodiments.

Further, the intermediate unit 2 of the sixth embodiment includes a photovoltaic power generation unit 12D as the power generation unit 12. FIG. The photovoltaic unit 12D receives external light such as sunlight to generate power. When used outdoors during the day, even if the water hose is not running, it can generate electricity from the sun, so you don't have to worry about the power supply when using the water hose for several days. may

In the intermediary unit 2 of the sixth embodiment configured as described above, when a water hose is connected and water is flowed through the medium unit 2, the vibration power generation unit 12B generates power, and the secondary battery 13 is charged with the power. can be done. The temperature of the housing 21 measured by the temperature sensor 157A of the electronic unit 15, the temperature of the water measured by the water temperature sensor 157B, the flow rate measured by the flow rate sensor 157C, and the pressure measured by the pressure sensor 157D are stored in the memory 154. is output from the control unit 155 at regular time intervals as status information associated with the individual identification information stored in the . The state information output from the control unit 155 is wirelessly transmitted by the communication unit 156 .

Therefore, by receiving the status information transmitted from the communication unit 156 at a terminal capable of receiving the status information, the operator can keep the state of the intermediary unit 2 in a preset state or even if the operator is away from the intermediary unit 2. can be easily verified. Since the status information includes the individual identification information of the intermediation unit 2, by attaching the intermediation unit 2 to the connection part of the water supply hose in a situation where a large number of water supply hoses are connected and used, the status of each connection part can be determined. can be managed in an integrated manner.

For example, by attaching this intermediary unit 2 to the connecting part of a fire hose used at a fire site, not only can one firefighter check the connection of the fire hose and the water supply status, but also the status information can be obtained. Other firefighters can view the same information wherever they are within the reach of the radio waves of the communication unit 156 if they carry a terminal that can receive the information. Knowing the condition of fire hoses that firefighters are handling themselves, from the pump side to the water discharge destination, is useful for firefighting activities.

A mediation unit 2 according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 25 and 26. FIG. The intermediate unit 2 of this embodiment is a pipe spear 2C that is attached to the downstream end of a plurality of connected water hoses and serves as a water discharge nozzle, and is compatible with the male connector 11B provided at the downstream end of the water hose. It has a female intermediate connector 22A.

As shown in FIG. 25, the intermediation unit 2 has a secondary battery 13, a power supply circuit 14, an electronic unit 15 and a main switch 16 arranged near an intermediary connector 22A and covered with a cover 120. . The electronic unit 15 includes an LED 151 , a light emission controller 152 and a connection detection switch 153 . The LED 151 is arranged at a position recessed from the outer peripheral surface of the tire 115 mounted on the outer circumference of the range where the latch 114 is arranged. A plurality of LEDs 151 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the tire 115 as shown in FIG.

Further, the intermediary unit 2 of this embodiment employs, as the power generation unit 12, a pressure generation unit 12C containing a piezoelectric material, in this embodiment, a piezoelectric rubber 129A. As shown in FIGS. 25 and 26, the piezoelectric rubber 129A is embedded in the inner peripheral side of the tire 115 at a position deeper than the LED 151, and a plurality of piezoelectric rubbers 129A are arranged at regular intervals in the circumferential direction. The piezoelectric rubber 129A generates power by an external impact load accompanied by deformation. Therefore, the intermediary unit 2 can generate electricity because the embedded piezoelectric rubber 129A is also deformed each time the tire 115 collides with the periphery and is flattened during use or transportation.

Since the deformation due to the impact load is temporary and has no continuity, the secondary battery 13 is charged and set by the power supply circuit 14 in order to stably supply the power generated by the piezoelectric rubber 129A. It is converted into current and voltage and supplied to the electronic unit 15 . When the medium unit 2 is connected to the water hose, the connection detection switch 153 is pushed by the latch 114 and outputs a connection signal. When the light emission control unit 152 detects the connection signal, the light emission pattern of the LED 151 is changed such as lighting the LED 151, blinking the LED 151 a plurality of times, or changing the emission color. Thereby, the operator can easily confirm that the intermediary unit 2 is correctly connected to the water supply hose.

In addition, since the tire 115 containing the piezoelectric rubber 129A of the pressure generating unit 12C employed as the power generating unit 12 in the intermediary unit 2 of this embodiment can be attached to the female connector 11A, the first and second embodiments are possible. It is also possible to use the piezoelectric rubber 129A as the power generation unit 12 by attaching it as the tire 115 of the water supply hose 1. When the piezoelectric rubber 129A is incorporated in the tire 115 of the water supply hose 1 and used as the power generation unit 12, the tire 115 collides with the surroundings more frequently than in the case of the medium unit 2, which is the tube spear 2C, so the generated power also increases. . Similarly, when the water collector 2A, the water divider, and the connector of the relay unit 2B are female type connectors, the tire 115 may contain the piezoelectric rubber 129A to generate power.

Further, in the intermediate unit 2 of this embodiment, the pressure power generation unit 12C is adopted as the power generation unit 12, but the hydraulic power generation unit 12A of the first embodiment and the vibration power generation unit 12B of the second embodiment are adopted. good too. Further, the electronic unit 15 of the mediation unit 2 of this embodiment may include the memory 154 and the communication unit 156 so that connection information can be transmitted.

A water hose 1 according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 27 to 30. FIG. FIG. 27 is a schematic perspective view of the hose 10 included in the water supply hose 1 of this embodiment. Here, illustration of the connector 11 is omitted.

The hose 10 includes the jacket 101 and the liner 102 as described above, and is flattened as shown in the figure when no water pressure is applied to the inside. The hose 10 has a pair of ear portions 10a bent in a flattened state as described above, and a pair of abdomens 10b between the ear portions 10a.

As shown in FIG. 28, the power generation unit 12 in this embodiment includes a photovoltaic element 130 that receives external light such as sunlight to generate power. The power generated by the photovoltaic element 130 is supplied to the power supply circuit 14 . Elements other than the power generation unit 12 shown in FIG. 28 can be provided, for example, in the connector 11 , but at least a portion of them may be attached to the hose 10 .

29 is a schematic plan view of the abdomen 10b of the hose 10. FIG. A plurality of photovoltaic elements 130 are arranged on the outer surface of the hose 10 . The photovoltaic element 130 may be arranged on only one of the pair of abdomens 10b, or may be arranged on both of them. Further, the photovoltaic element 130 may be arranged only in a partial region of the abdomen 10b, or may be arranged over the entire length of the hose 10. FIG. The photovoltaic element 130 can also be placed on the ear 10a.

The photovoltaic element 130 may be included in the thread material of the jacket 101 . FIG. 30 shows one configuration example of such a thread member 131. As shown in FIG. The thread member 131 includes a pair of conductive wires 132a and 132b and a plurality of photovoltaic elements 130. As shown in FIG. The photovoltaic element 130 is, for example, a spherical power generation cell, and various known configurations can be applied. As an example, the photovoltaic element 130 includes a spherical p-type silicon single crystal 133, an n-type diffusion layer 134, a transparent antireflection film 135, a positive electrode 136a, and a negative electrode 136b. The n-type diffusion layer 134 is formed by diffusing an n-type impurity into most of the spherical surface of the p-type silicon single crystal 133 . The antireflection film 135 covers the p-type silicon single crystal 133 and the n-type diffusion layer 134 . The positive electrode 136a is in contact with the p-type silicon single crystal 133 and connected to the conductive line 132a through the conductive bonding material 137a. The negative electrode 136b is in contact with the n-type diffusion layer 134 and connected to the conductive wire 132b via the conductive bonding material 137b.

A pn junction is formed between the p-type silicon single crystal 133 and the n-type diffusion layer 134 in the thread material 131 having such a structure. When the pn junction is irradiated with external light, electric power is generated by the photovoltaic power generating function of the photovoltaic element 130 . This electric power is output to the conductive lines 132a and 132b via the positive electrode 136a and the negative electrode 136b, and is further output to the power supply circuit 14 connected to the conductive lines 132a and 132b. The spherical photovoltaic element 130 can receive a wide range of light and efficiently generate power. A technique related to such a spherical photovoltaic element is disclosed, for example, in International Publication No. 2013/076794. Various known techniques such as the technique disclosed in the publication can be applied to this embodiment.

The jacket 101 is woven with warp yarns extending in the longitudinal direction of the hose 10 and weft yarns extending in the circumferential direction. The thread material 131 can be used as the warp of the jacket 101, for example.

A water supply hose 1 according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 31 to 34. FIG. FIG. 31 is a schematic plan view of the water supply hose 1 of this embodiment, mainly showing the hose 10 and omitting the connector 11 .

As shown in FIGS. 31 and 32 , the power generation unit 12 in this embodiment includes elastic power generation elements 140 provided on the outer surface of the hose 10 . The elastic power generation element 140 has flexibility and stretchability, and generates power when it expands and contracts due to an external force or when it is subjected to vibration. Electric power obtained by this power generation is sent to the power supply circuit 14 through, for example, a conductive wire 141 extending along the outer surface of the hose 10 . The elastic power generation element 140 is formed, for example, in an annular shape, and the hose 10 is passed through the elastic power generation element 140 . Elements other than the power generation unit 12 shown in FIG. 32 can be provided on the connector 11, for example, but at least a portion of them may be attached to the hose 10. FIG.

FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view showing one configuration example of the elastic power generation element 140. As shown in FIG. The elastic power generation element 140 includes a positive electrode 142, an intermediate layer 143, and a negative electrode 144 in order from the jacket 101 side. The intermediate layer 143 is made of, for example, a silicone rubber composition containing silicone rubber, and has different peak intensity ratios in the infrared absorption spectrum in the thickness direction. As the positive electrode 142 and the negative electrode 144, for example, a conductive cloth containing a metal layer can be used. The elastic power generation element 140 having such a configuration generates electric power when the intermediate layer 143 is distorted due to an external force. Incidentally, a technique related to such a power generation element is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2016-139779. Various known techniques such as the technique disclosed in the publication can be applied to this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 34, the elastic power generation element 140 is in close contact with the outer periphery of the hose 10 when the hose 10 is flat. For example, in this state, almost no stress is applied to the elastic power generation element 140 . During water supply, the hose 10 swells into a circular shape as indicated by the dashed line due to water pressure. At this time, the elastic power generation element 140 is stretched to generate power. Furthermore, the elastic power generation element 140 can also generate power due to vibration during water supply and deformation during contraction.

Note that when the elastic power generating element 140 is provided on the outer surface of the hose 10, the elastic power generating element 140 may be damaged due to rubbing against the ground or the like. To prevent this damage, an elastic power generation element 140 may be placed between the protective sleeve 103 and the hose 10 described above. Alternatively, the elastic power generating element 140 may be covered with a protective member separate from the protective sleeve 103 .

A water hose 1 according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 35 to 37. FIG. FIG. 35 is a schematic plan view of the water supply hose 1 of this embodiment, mainly showing the hose 10 and omitting the connector 11 .

As shown in FIGS. 35 and 36 , the power generation unit 12 in this embodiment includes thermoelectric elements 160 provided on the outer surface of the hose 10 . The thermoelectric element 160 has a first surface 160a and a second surface 160b on the opposite side of the first surface 160a, and generates electricity by the temperature difference between the first surface 160a and the second surface 160b. In the example of FIG. 35, the first surface 160a is in contact with the outer surface of the abdomen 10b of the hose 10. In the example of FIG. The thermoelectric element 160 can be attached to the hose 10 by, for example, an elastic band 161 as shown, but may be attached by other methods such as being attached to the outer surface of the hose 10 via an adhesive. The power obtained by the thermoelectric element 160 is transmitted to the power supply circuit 14 through, for example, conductive lines 162 extending along the outer surface of the hose 10 . Elements other than the power generation unit 12 shown in FIG. 36 can be provided on the connector 11, for example, but at least a portion thereof may be attached to the hose 10. FIG.

FIG. 37 shows one configuration example of the thermoelectric element 160 . The thermoelectric element 160 generates power using, for example, the Seebeck effect (or Peltier effect), and includes a plurality of n-type semiconductors 163, a plurality of p-type semiconductors 164, a plurality of positive electrodes 165, and a plurality of negative electrodes. 166. A positive electrode 165 is arranged along the second surface 160b and a negative electrode 166 is arranged along the first surface 160a. A positive electrode 165 and a negative electrode 166 are connected to both ends of the n-type semiconductor 163, respectively. Similarly, a positive electrode 165 and a negative electrode 166 are connected to both ends of the p-type semiconductor 164, respectively.

During the water supply, the first surface 160a is cooled by the water flowing inside the hose 10, so the temperature of the first surface 160a becomes low. On the other hand, the second surface 160b is warmed by the outside air temperature. In particular, when the hose 10 is used in fire extinguishing activities, the second surface 160b is sufficiently warmed by the heat of the fire or the like and becomes high temperature. Electrons move to the low temperature side in the n-type semiconductor 163 , whereas electrons move to the high temperature side in the p-type semiconductor 164 . Therefore, electrons move as indicated by the arrows in the drawing, and as a result, electric power can be obtained.

Regarding the water supply system S of the eleventh embodiment of the present invention, as an example of a case where a plurality of water supply hoses 1 and intermediate units 2 are used in combination, a plurality of water supply hoses 1 (fire hoses) and intermediate units 2 ( An example of connection from the pump cars PA, PB to the pipe spear 2C using the water divider 2D will be described with reference to FIGS. 38 to 41. FIG.

FIG. 38 schematically shows the arrangement of pump cars PA, PB, water supply hose 1, and medium unit 2 at a fire site. FIG. 39 shows a block diagram of this water supply system S. As shown in FIG. In this embodiment, the electrical components mounted on the connection fitting 11 of the water supply hose 1 and the intermediate fittings 22A and 22B of the intermediate unit 2 used in the water supply system S have the same configuration, so FIG. one is shown. 40 and 41 show a display example when viewing information integratedly managed by the water supply system S on the terminals 3 and 4. FIG. FIG. 40 diagrammatically shows the connection status of the water supply hose 1 and the intermediate unit 2, and FIG. 41 shows a list of measurement data in the water supply hose 1 and the intermediate unit 2.

As shown in FIG. 38, the water supply system S of this embodiment grasps the connection status and water supply status of a plurality of water supply hoses 1 and intermediary units 2 used at a fire site and manages them in an integrated manner. The connecting device 11 (female connecting device 11A and male connecting device 11B or isomorphic connecting device 11C) of the water supply hose 1 and the intermediary connecting devices 22A and 22B (or isomorphic connecting device 22C) of the intermediate unit 2 are shown in FIG. has a power generation unit 12 as shown in the block diagram of FIG. Therefore, power can be supplied to the electronic unit 15 without arranging a power transmission cable along the water supply hose 1 . By installing various functions such as the sensors 157A to 157D and the communication unit 156 in the electronic unit 15, it is possible to add functions to the water supply hose 1 according to the application.

Further, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 39, the electronic unit 15 has a positioning unit 159 . Therefore, since the positions of the connector 11 of the water hose 1 and the intermediate connectors 22A and 22B of the intermediate unit 2 can be individually recognized, the water hose 1 and the intermediate unit can be connected even if the connection order and arrangement are different depending on the site situation. The connection status of the unit 2 can be easily confirmed.

The details of this embodiment will be described below. First, the electrical components mounted on the water supply hose 1 and the intermediate unit 2 will be described with reference to FIG. The configurations disclosed in the above embodiments can be appropriately applied to the water supply hose 1 and the intermediary unit 2 . Here, as an example, the connector 11 (female connector 11A, male connector 11B) of the water supply hose 1 and the intermediate connector 22A, 22B of the intermediate unit 2 are the power generation unit 12 shown in the first embodiment. (hydroelectric unit 12A). The secondary battery 13, power supply circuit 14 and main switch 16 are arranged in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

For example, the electronic unit 15 of the present embodiment includes an LED 151 serving as a light source, a light emission control section 152, a connection detection switch 153, a memory 154, and a control section among the components of the electronic units 15 of the first to tenth embodiments. 155, a communication unit 156, a temperature sensor 157A, a water temperature sensor 157B, a flow rate sensor 157C, and a pressure sensor 157D. In FIG. 39, the electronic unit 15 does not include the display section 158, but it may have a display section 158 that can be used for demonstration of operation confirmation or individual setting.

The electronic unit 15 of this embodiment further comprises a positioning unit 159 . The positioning unit 159 calculates and outputs its own position coordinates based on GPS (Global Positioning System) signals or signals obtained from surrounding Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) bases. The control unit 155 outputs position information in which the individual identification information stored in the memory is associated with the position coordinates output from the positioning unit. Location information, as well as connection information and status information, originate from communication unit 156 . The connection information, status information, and location information may be transmitted individually when acquired, or may be collectively transmitted at regular time intervals. Also, if the communication unit 156 is capable of two-way communication, it may transmit requested information or all of the connection information, status information, and location information upon receiving a control signal from an external device.

Each transmitted information is provided to the terminals 3 and 4 via the relay station 5 installed at the fire site. The relay station 5 may be mounted on a command vehicle that takes command at the fire site, or may utilize a public wireless communication network in the vicinity of the fire site. In FIG. 39, the terminal 3 is illustrated as being wired-connected to the relay station 5, but it may be wirelessly connected like the terminal 4. FIG.

In the water supply system S of the present embodiment, information transmitted from all of the connector 11 of the water hose 1 and the intermediate connectors 22A and 22B of the intermediate unit 2 can be obtained and viewed at the terminals 3 and 4. FIG. Information transmitted from each communication unit 156 may be stored in the database 6 or server 7 connected to the relay station. The database 6 and the server 7 are installed in the fire station to which the fire brigade who is engaged in fire extinguishing activities at the fire site belongs. In addition, this information can be viewed from a remote location away from the fire site, for example, from a terminal at a fire station, which can be used for logistical support.

Next, functions and operations of the water supply system S will be described. FIG. 38 schematically shows a state in which two pump cars PA and PB are dispatched to a fire site, receive water from different fire hydrants W1 and W2, and spray water from four directions. The first pump car PA receives water from the first fire hydrant W1 and feeds it to one pipe spear 2C. The first water supply route, which is based on the first pump truck PA, is labeled with the initial letter "A". The second pump car PB is supplied with water from the second fire hydrant W2 and sends water to the three pipe lances 2C. A second water route based on the second pump car PB is labeled with the initial letter "B".

Since the first water supply route only supplies water to one pipe spear 2C, a plurality of water supply hoses 1 are connected in series. In FIG. 38, the first water supply path connects three water supply hoses 1 in series. In order to identify each water supply hose 1, A1, A2, and A3 are used, respectively. Furthermore, individual identification information for the upstream connection tool 11 of each water supply hose 1 is A1in, A2in, and A3in, and individual identification information for the downstream connection tool 11. are A1out, A2out, and A3out. Also, let AN1 be the individual identification information of the intermediary connector 22A of the spear 2C.

Similarly, since the second water supply route feeds water to three pipe spears 2C, two water dividers 2D are provided in the middle of connecting a plurality of water supply hoses 1 to divide the flow path into two, thereby forming three routes. divided into In FIG. 38, the second water supply route is configured using ten water supply hoses 1 and two water distributors 2D. In order to identify each water hose 1, B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, B7, B8, B9, and B10 are used, respectively. B2in, B3in, B4in, B5in, B6in, B7in, B8in, B9in, and B10in, and the individual identification information of the connecting device 11 on the downstream side are B1out, B2out, B3out, B4out, B5out, B6out, B7out, B8out, B9out, and B10out. . BY1 and BY2 are respectively used to identify the two water dividers 2D, and BY1in and BY2in are the individual identification information of the first intermediate connector 22A on the inlet 211 side of each water divider 2D. Let BY1-1, BY1-2, BY2-1, and BY2-2 be the individual identification information of the two second intermediate connectors 22B on the outflow port 212 side, respectively. Also, the individual identification information of the intermediary connector 22A of the three pipe spears 2C is assumed to be BN1, BN2, and BN3.

When the water supply hose 1 and the intermediate unit 2 are quickly connected at the fire site, the connection information is sent from the water supply hose 1 and the intermediate unit 2 . Therefore, it is possible to confirm whether the water supply hose 1 and the intermediate unit 2 are all connected at the terminal 3 arranged on the side of the second pump truck PB and the terminal 4 carried by the firefighter who operates the pipe spear 2C. It should be noted that the terminals 3 and 4 may be located anywhere in the fire site as long as they can communicate with the relay station 5 .

In FIG. 38, there is no connection between the pipe spear 2C of the second water supply path and the water supply hose 1 of B8 and between the water supply hose 1 of B8 and the water supply hose 1 of B10. This situation can be easily determined from the graphical display of the connection situation as shown in FIG. The display shown in FIG. 40 associates the connector 11 and the intermediate connectors 22A and 22B located at substantially the same position coordinates based on the position coordinates acquired by the positioning units 159 of the connector 11 and the intermediate connectors 22A and 22B. made by pairing with the mating connector to be connected by Therefore, when the water supply hose 1 is routed on site, it can be connected without worrying about the order or arrangement. As to whether or not the respective connection partners are correctly connected, whether or not there is connection is determined based on the mutual connection information of the paired connection tool 11 and the intermediate connection tools 22A and 22B.

In FIG. 40, nothing is displayed in the place where the connection is correctly made, and when both of the connection partners have not transmitted the connection information, it is regarded as disconnected, and a symbol such as "X" is displayed. If one of the connection partners has not transmitted the connection information, for example, a "triangle" symbol is displayed. If one of them does not transmit the connection information, it is conceivable that a connection failure has occurred. Which one is causing the poor connection can be confirmed from the list display in FIG. The symbols to be displayed are not limited to those described above.

In the case of this embodiment, in FIG. 41, the portion where the individual identification information is B5in causes a connection failure, and it can be seen that it is the connection fitting 11 on the upstream side of the water supply hose 1 of B5. As for the location of this B5in connector 11, it is possible to easily grasp the position of the second water supply path to which the water supply hose 1 of B5 is connected from the display showing the connection status in FIG. Also, if there are unconnected connectors 11 and intermediary connectors 22A and 22B, as in the first embodiment, the light emission pattern of the LEDs 151 of the electronic unit 15 is different from that of the others. The location can be easily found in the field.

When all connections are confirmed and water supply is started, power is generated by the power generation units 12 of each part, and data measured by the temperature sensor 157A, the water temperature sensor 157B, the flow rate sensor 157C, and the pressure sensor 157D is sent from the communication unit 156 as status information. be sent. Each measured value can be easily confirmed from the list shown in FIG. When an abnormality is detected in which the temperature or water temperature obtained by the temperature sensor 157A and the water temperature sensor 157B exceeds the threshold value, a warning is output on the display in FIG. 41 or a mark or symbol is displayed on the display in FIG. Notify by tapping. Also, by changing the light emission pattern of the LED 151 of the electronic unit 15 of each part, it is possible to notify the location where the abnormality is detected on site. If the temperature or water temperature exceeds the threshold, it is expected that the water supply hose 1 and mediating unit 2 are exposed to a heat source such as flame. Therefore, when outputting the warning, information may be output that prompts the user to move the water hose 1 or the intermediary unit 2 indicating an abnormality away from the heat source.

Furthermore, when an abnormality is detected in which the flow rate or pressure measured by the flow rate sensor 157C and the pressure sensor 157D is out of the predetermined set range, similarly, a warning is output to the display in FIG. 41 or the display in FIG. Notification is made by displaying a mark or symbol. Then, by changing the light emission pattern of the LED 151 of the electronic unit 15 of each part, the place where the abnormality is detected is reported on site. If the flow rate or pressure is out of the set range, the water hose 1 may be broken in the middle, the water hose 1 may be pinched and flattened, or the water hose 1 may have a hole of an unacceptable size. expected to be open. Therefore, when outputting the warning, information may be output that prompts the user to check the water hose 1 or the intermediary unit 2 that indicates an abnormality.

As described above, in the water supply system S of the eleventh embodiment, when a plurality of water supply hoses 1 and intermediary units 2 are connected to form a water supply path such as at a fire site, the connection state and connection of the water supply hoses 1 and intermediary units 2 It is easy to integrally manage the subsequent water supply state.

In addition, in the water supply system S of the eleventh embodiment, the positional information obtained by the positioning unit 159 is used to determine the connection partner of the water supply hose 1 and the intermediary unit 2 . Instead of providing the positioning unit 159, the electronic unit 15 is provided with a proximity sensor, and when the proximity sensor detects the mating connector, the communication unit 156 communicates with the mating communication unit 156 to establish pairing. can be

Further, the intermediate unit 2 (water collector 2A, relay unit 2B) of the fourth to sixth embodiments and the intermediate unit 2 (divider 2D) of the eighth embodiment are provided with the power generation unit 12 and the electronic unit 15. A water supply system having a function similar to that of the water supply system S of the eleventh embodiment may be constructed by connecting between a conventional water supply hose and an intermediary unit (pipe spear) that is not connected.

In addition, in the eleventh embodiment, a situation in which a fire hose deployed at a fire site is connected as the water supply system S is described as an example, but a situation in which the water supply hose 1 is connected and used for drainage in a flooded area. The water supply system S can also be applied.

The present invention has been described above based on the first to eleventh embodiments. These embodiments are merely examples for ease of understanding in carrying out the present invention. Therefore, in carrying out the present invention, it is also possible to replace each configuration with one having an equivalent function without departing from the scope of the present invention, and these are also included in the present invention. Moreover, the present invention also includes implementing some of the configurations described in each embodiment in combination with each other or by replacing them. For example, in the water hose 1 of the first embodiment, the female connector 11A and the male connector 11B may be replaced with the isomorphic connector 11C of the water hose 1 of the third embodiment. Further, the intermediate connector 22A, 22B of the intermediate unit 2 of the fourth and fifth embodiments may be replaced with the female connector 11A and the male connector 11B of the first embodiment. Further, the configurations of the electronic units 15 of the first to eleventh embodiments can be applied to the electronic units 15 of any of the embodiments.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1... Water supply hose, 2... Intermediation unit, 2A... Water collector (intermediation unit), 2B... Relay unit (intermediation unit), 2C... Pipe spear (intermediation unit), 2D... Water divider (intermediation unit), 10... Hose, 11... Connector, 11A... Female connector (connector), 11B... Male connector (connector), 11C... Homomorphic connector (connector), 12... Power generation unit, 12A... Hydraulic power unit ( power generation unit), 12B... vibration power generation unit (power generation unit), 12C... pressure power generation unit (power generation unit), 13... secondary battery, 14... power supply circuit, 15... electronic unit, 16... main switch, 21... housing, 22A ... (first) intermediate connector, 22B... (second) intermediate connector, 22C... intermediate connector, 121... induction coil, 121A... coil section, 122... rotor, 123... permanent magnet, 124... rib , 124A...fin, 125...feeding coil, 126...mover, 127...elastic member, 128...vibrating member, 129...piezoelectric element, 129A...piezoelectric rubber (piezoelectric material), 130...photovoltaic element, 140...elastic power generation Elements 151 LED 152 Light emission control unit 153 Connection detection switch 154 Memory 155 Control unit 156 Communication unit 157A Temperature sensor 157B Water temperature sensor 157C Flow sensor 157D Pressure Sensor 158 Display unit 159 Positioning unit 160 Thermoelectric element S Water supply system X, Xd, Xu Central axis.

Claims (3)

a hose;
a connector having a mounting portion that is inserted into the end of the hose;
a ring for tightening the hose into which the mounting part is inserted;
a power generation unit that generates power while attached to the connector or the hose;
with
The power generation unit is
an induction coil configured by installing a plurality of coil parts wound around a radial line perpendicular to the central axis of the connector along the outer circumference of the ring along the circumferential direction; and an inner circumference of the mounting part . a rotor including a cylindrical portion that is rotatably installed along the surface and has a structure on the outer peripheral surface side for stopping the flow of the connector so that it is not washed away by the force of water in the direction along the central axis; A plurality of permanent magnets arranged along the circumferential direction on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion and each generating a magnetic field in the radial direction, and a plurality of permanent magnets arranged along the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion and with respect to the central axis and ribs slanted in the circumferential direction from a parallel position, and no member is arranged inside the cylindrical portion for blocking the flow of the rotor with respect to the connector, and the hose a hydroelectric unit that generates electricity when water flows through and the rotor is rotated in one direction;
The rib is spirally formed around the central axis,
the height of the rib in the radial direction is smaller than the length of the rib along the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion;
A water supply hose , wherein the hose is positioned between the permanent magnet and the induction coil in the radial direction . 2. The water hose according to claim 1, further comprising a secondary battery charged with power generated by said power generating unit. a light source;
a light emission control unit that controls a pattern for causing the light source to emit light;
a connection detection switch that outputs a connection signal when a matching mating connector is connected to the connector;
further comprising
3. The water supply hose according to claim 1, wherein the light emission control section changes a pattern of light emission of the light source when the connection signal is detected.

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