JPH07181216A - 'console for sensor system, sensor system and amplifier separation type sensor - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To obtain a console for a sensor system which facilitate the adjustment of sensitivity, the checking of operation near a sensor head, operation by one hand or the specification of a plurality of sensors by arranging means for the selection, switching, operation and displaying of sensors and a cable. CONSTITUTION:A console 3 is provided with a module selection switching device 31, a SET/RUN mode switch 32, display LECs of stability and motion, a teaching display 2-color LED 35, a teaching switch 36 and a buzzer 37. The console is connected to a sensor unit with a cord 3a and a connector 3b. This enables the adjustment of sensitivity and the checking of operation in the console 3 viewing work near a sensor head, accurately by one person. Even when a plurality of sensor heads are set separately, adjustment is possible at hand without movement. In addition, as keys of the console and the like are large. operation is possible simply with one hand thereby improving operability.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention turns ON / OFF the presence / absence of an object.
The present invention relates to a sensor system that remotely adjusts the sensitivity of a sensor that detects when it is OFF and confirms the operation, a console for a sensor system, and a separate amplifier type sensor.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an ON / OFF sensor such as a photoelectric switch or a proximity switch is used to detect the presence or absence of an object. This type of sensor has a sensor head 120 and an amplifier unit 12 as shown in FIG.
1 is connected by a cable 122 and is of a so-called amplifier separation type [(a) of FIG. 17: photoelectric switch, (b) of FIG. 17: proximity switch]. The teaching switch 123 for adjusting the sensitivity and confirming the operation of this type of sensor, the mode switching device 124, and a display device (not shown) were provided on the amplifier 121 side.
Usually, a plurality of sensor heads are arranged corresponding to a plurality of detection sites, and sensor amplifiers are collectively attached at a position several m to tens of m apart from each sensor head. Further, the sensor amplifier is often installed on a control panel together with a control device such as a higher-order programmable controller. Therefore, the detection sensitivity of each sensor is first set to the detection state of the target object on the sensor head side, then the sensitivity adjustment volume etc. provided on the sensor amplifier side so that the object can be detected stably. Was being adjusted.

[0003]

In the conventional sensor described above, when the sensitivity is adjusted or the operation is checked, the sensor head and the amplifier are separated from each other, the sensitivity adjusting means and the operation indicator are on the amplifier side, and the work is Because it's on the head side, and
The distance between the sensor head and the sensor amplifier is several meters to a dozen meters, so two people, one who installs and moves the object to be detected on the sensor head side and one who operates the sensitivity adjustment on the sensor amplifier side, are required for the adjustment work. Met. Alternatively, the above operation needs to be performed by one person while moving from place to place. In addition, since a plurality of sensors are often attached together, it is difficult for the operator to understand the correspondence between the target sensor head and the sensor amplifier during the adjustment work. Further, since the adjustment is performed for each of the plurality of sensors, when the number of workers is one, it is necessary to go back and forth between the sensor head side and the sensor amplifier side many times. Even when adjusting to the same sensitivity, it was necessary to repeat the same operation for each sensor. Further, due to the use of a plurality of sensors and the space limitation of the control panel, there is an increasing demand for miniaturization of the sensor amplifier. However, when the sensor amplifier is made small, there is a problem that the workability of sensitivity adjustment is deteriorated.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and sensitivity adjustment and operation confirmation can be easily performed near the sensor head, and a plurality of different types of sensors can be used.
To provide a sensor system that can be handled with the same operation and that can be easily operated with one hand, has good operability, and that can easily specify the sensor to be adjusted from multiple sensors, a console for the sensor system, and an amplifier separate type sensor. Has an aim.

[0005]

A sensor system console according to claim 1 of the present application is for remotely adjusting the sensitivity of a plurality of sensors and confirming the operation thereof. Sensor selecting means for selecting one of the sensors, switching means for switching between sensitivity adjustment and operation confirmation, operation means for starting adjustment during sensitivity adjustment, first display means for displaying the adjustment state, and operation confirmation It is provided with a second display means for displaying an operation display and a stable display, and a cable for connecting to the sensor side.

The sensor system according to claim 2 is
A sensor unit including a plurality of sensors, and a console for remotely performing sensitivity adjustment and operation confirmation of these sensors, wherein the console includes a sensor selecting unit that selects one of the plurality of sensors, and a sensitivity adjusting unit. Switching means for switching between operation confirmation and operation confirmation, operation means for starting adjustment during sensitivity adjustment, first display means for displaying the adjustment state, and second display means for performing operation display and stable display during operation confirmation,
The sensor unit has a cable for connecting to the sensor side, and the sensor unit outputs only the signals of the sensors selected by the console from the output signals from the multiple sensors and the adjustment command signal only to the sensor selected by the console. Is provided with an adjustment command signal output means and a connection detection means for detecting whether or not the console is connected.

In this sensor system, the console is brought to the head portion of the sensor, the sensor selecting means selects the sensor for sensitivity adjustment or operation adjustment, the switching means sets the sensitivity adjustment, and the adjustment start operation means. By turning on, the adjustment command signal is output only to the selected sensor, the sensitivity adjustment is performed in that sensor, and the signal from that sensor passes through the selector to display the adjustment status on the first display means of the console. To be done. When the switching unit switches to the operation confirmation, the operation signal from the sensor is given to the second display unit of the console via the selector, and the operation display and the stable display are performed.

A sensor system console according to a third aspect of the invention is for remotely adjusting sensitivity of a plurality of sensors and confirming operation, and sensor selecting means for selecting one of the plurality of sensors. Switching means for switching between sensitivity adjustment and operation confirmation, operation means for starting adjustment during sensitivity adjustment, first display means for displaying the adjustment state, and second display means for performing operation display and stable display during operation confirmation. ,
Connected to the sensor side is a selector that outputs only the signals of the sensors selected by the sensor selection means from the plurality of sensors, and the adjustment command signal output means that outputs the adjustment command signal only to the selected sensors. And a connection detecting means for detecting whether or not the cable is connected to the sensor side.

Since this sensor system console is also provided with a selector, an adjustment command signal output means, and a cable connection detection means, the circuit on the sensor side can be made simple and compact. The sensor system console according to claim 4 is for remotely performing sensor sensitivity adjustment and operation confirmation, and a switching unit for switching between sensitivity adjustment and operation confirmation and an operation for starting adjustment at the time of sensitivity adjustment. Means, a first display means for displaying the adjustment state, a second display means for performing an operation display and a stable display at the time of confirming the operation, and a cable for connecting to the sensor side.

The sensor system according to claim 5 is
A sensor unit and a console for remotely performing sensitivity adjustment and operation confirmation of the sensor, wherein the console has a switching unit for switching between sensitivity adjustment and operation confirmation,
An operation means for starting the adjustment at the time of sensitivity adjustment, a first display means for displaying the adjustment state, a second display means for performing an operation display and a stable display at the time of confirming the operation, and a cable for connecting to the sensor side. The sensor unit includes connection detection means for detecting whether or not the console is connected.

In this sensor system, the sensor and the console are in a one-to-one correspondence, and the console can be placed on the sensor head and the sensitivity adjustment and the operation confirmation can be performed immediately on the head side.

The sensor system according to claim 6 is
A sensor head including a detection element, and a sensitivity adjustment circuit that is connected to the detection element and outputs a detection signal according to the presence or absence of an object and that can automatically adjust the detection sensitivity of the detection element by a signal from the outside A sensor module including a sensor amplifier and a plurality of the sensor modules, a sensor unit including a sensor selection unit, and a sensor unit connected via the sensor unit to instruct the operation of the sensitivity adjustment circuit. First instruction,
A sensor system comprising a console unit for outputting a second instruction, wherein the sensor selecting means includes a means for operating a sensor selecting function according to the first instruction from the console unit and an arbitrary sensor head. Select the sensor module by getting the signal input of
According to a second instruction from the console unit, there is provided means for outputting a signal for operating the automatic sensitivity adjustment function of the sensor module specified by the first instruction.

In this sensor system, the adjustment operation of each sensor module can be instructed via the console unit. Further, the sensor adjustment means automatically determines the amplifier to be adjusted in accordance with the signal from the sensor head. First instruction,
Automatic sensitivity adjustment can be performed only with the second instruction. The amplifier-separated type sensor according to claim 7 is connected to the sensor head including a detection element and the detection element, outputs a detection signal according to the presence or absence of an object, and outputs the detection element by a signal from the outside. A sensor amplifier equipped with a sensitivity adjustment circuit that can automatically adjust the detection sensitivity of the sensor, and an amplifier separation type sensor that outputs the detection state of an object in the sensor head when receiving a first instruction from the outside. And a means for performing a predetermined sensitivity adjustment operation according to a second instruction from the outside.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the amplifier-separated sensor outputs a sensor head including a detection element, a detection signal depending on the presence or absence of an object connected to the detection element, and a detection sensitivity of the detection element. An amplifier separation type sensor comprising a sensor amplifier having a sensitivity adjusting circuit capable of automatically adjusting, and when a first instruction is received from the outside, a detection state of an object in a sensor head is checked to determine a predetermined state. Only in this case, there is provided a sensor selecting means for making the sensitivity adjusting circuit operable, and a means for starting the operation of the sensitivity adjusting circuit in response to a second instruction from the outside.

Further, a sensor system according to a ninth aspect is connected to the sensor head including a detection element, the detection element, outputs a detection signal according to the presence or absence of an object, and outputs the detection signal according to an external signal. Equipped with a sensitivity adjustment circuit that can automatically adjust the detection sensitivity of the detection element, and according to the first instruction from the outside, you can see the object detection state in the sensor head and operate the sensitivity adjustment function only in a predetermined state And a second external sensor
, The amplifier separate type sensor including a sensor amplifier that performs a predetermined sensitivity adjustment operation, and the plurality of separate type sensors are connected, and each sensor amplifier is given a first instruction as a signal from the outside. And a console unit which is connected to one of the sensor amplifiers and gives a second instruction as an external signal to start the operation of the sensitivity adjusting function of the sensor amplifier.

In the amplifier-separated type sensor according to the present invention and the sensor system according to the ninth aspect, the amplifier-separated type sensor is individually provided with the sensor selecting means. Therefore, it is only necessary to connect a plurality of the amplifier-separated types to the console. The system can be built.

[0017]

The present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the following examples. FIG. 1 is an overall external perspective view of a sensor system according to an embodiment of the present invention. This example sensor system, four sensor module 1 _-0, 1 _-1, 1 _-2, 1
_-3, these sensor module 1 _-0, ..., and the sensor unit 2 to be mounted detachably 1 _-3 is connected to the sensor unit 2, the sensor module 1 _-0, ..., 1 _-3 teaching Etc., and a console 3 for remote control.

Each sensor module 1_-0, ... 1_-3Has
Each sensor head 4_-0, ... 4 _-3Is connected
It These are, in particular, optical cables that use electrical signal cables.
Switch, photoelectric switch using optical fiber, proximity switch
Such as a switch. FIG. 2 is an external plan view of the console 3.
It This console 3 has a module 1_-0, ... 1_-3
Which module selection switch 31 to select,
Switch between setting (SET) and normal operation (RUN) modes
Mode switch 32, stability display LED 33, operation display L
ED34, teaching display 2-color LED 35, teach
Equipped with a switching switch 36 and a buzzer 37, and a cord
3a and connector 3b enable detachable sensor unit
Connected to 2.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the circuit configuration of the sensor system of the embodiment. In FIG. 3, the module unit 1
The sensor module 1 _-0, ..., 1 _-3 consists, in the sensor unit 2, a selector 21, console connection detection circuit 22 and the teaching selecting circuit 23,. The sensor modules 1 ₋₀ , ..., 1 ₋₃ respectively output a display signal and a buzzer signal and add them to the selector 21. It is connected so that the output signal of the console connection detection circuit 22 can be applied to any of the sensor modules 1 _-0 , ..., 1 _-3 . Teaching signal T ₀ ,
, T ₃ are individually connected so as to be added to the respective sensor modules 1 _-0 , ..., 1 _-3 .

The console 3 includes a module selection switch 31, a mode changeover switch 32, and a display element 33 (34,
35), a teaching switch 36, a buzzer 37, an LED / buzzer driver 38, a gate circuit 39, and an encoder 40 that outputs 2-bit signals S ₀ and S ₁ according to the module selected by the module selection switch 31. Is equipped with. Sensor unit 2 and console 3
Are connected by the cable 3a, the LED / buzzer driver 38 is connected so as to receive the output signal of the selector 21, and the signal of the mode changeover switch 32 is connected so as to be applied to the console connection detection circuit 22 and the sensor. module 1 _-0, ..., are connected so as also added to 1 _-3. The output of the gate circuit 39 is connected to the console connection detection circuit 22 and the teaching selection circuit 23. The output signals S ₀ and S ₁ of the encoder 40 are applied to the selector 21 and the teaching selection circuit 23.

The selector 21 of the sensor unit 2 is shown in FIG.
As shown in, the 2-bit module signal S _0, together undergo S _1, each sensor module 1 _-0, ..., from 1 _-3, display and buzzer signals IN _0, ..., undergoing IN _3. Then, according to the module selection signals S ₀ and S ₁ , any one of the input signals IN ₀ , ..., IN ₃ is selected, and OU is selected.
Output as T signal. These module selection switches, module selection signals S ₀ and S _1, and OU of selector
The relationship of the T signal is shown in FIG. For example, when “1” is selected by the module selection switch 31, the encoder 40 causes S ₀ = “1” and S ₁ = in response to this selection.
The selector 21 outputs the module selection signal of "0".
Receiving this module selection signal, the module 1 _-1
To output the signal IN ₁ .

As shown in FIG. 6, the console connection detection circuit 22 has a resistor R ₁ for pulling up a signal from the mode changeover switch 32, a resistor R ₂ for pulling up a signal from the gate circuit 39, and a pull-up. The gate circuit 22a is configured to receive a signal from the selected mode changeover switch 32 and a signal from the gate circuit 39 as inputs.

Now, when the mode changeover switch 32 is turned on to the SET side (point M: "L" [low]: logic "0") and the teaching switch 36 is turned on (point T: "L"). ), The output point A of the gate circuit 39 becomes "1"("H"). However, in this case, when the console 3 is connected, the point M is "0", and therefore the inputs of the gate circuit 22a are "0" and "1".
As shown in the table of FIG. 8, the output Y = “0”. As long as the mode changeover switch 32 is set to SET while the console 3 is connected, the point M is "0", so the teaching switch 36
Is OFF and the point T is "1", the output Y of the gate circuit 22a is "0".

On the contrary, the mode selector switch 32 is set to R
When turned ON, the point M becomes "1", but the output A of the gate circuit 39 becomes "0" regardless of whether the teaching switch 36 is ON or OFF. Therefore, also in this case, the output Y of the gate circuit 22a becomes "0". That is, when the console 3 is connected to the sensor unit 2, the output Y of the gate circuit 22a is "0" in any state. On the other hand, if it is not connected to the console 3, M point by the pull-up resistor R _1, R _2, becomes "1" to the point A both output Y of the gate circuit 22a becomes "1". Therefore, when Y is "0", the console is connected and when Y is "1", the console is not connected, and this Y signal is output as a console connection detection signal. This console connection detection signal each sensor module 1 _-0, ..., 1 _-3 for being applied in a conventional manner to the sensor module, the teaching switch is provided with a display element lamp, comprising a teaching function However, when the console is connected, the teaching from the console has priority. This is to confirm the connection for that purpose.

The teaching selection circuit 23 is a gate circuit.
It is activated only when the output A of 39 is "1". Gate times
The path 39 is, as shown in FIG.
Is set in the SET, and the teaching switch 36
When is turned on, the input of the gate circuit 39 is "0",
It becomes "0" and its output A becomes "1". Teatin
Under this condition, the selection circuit 23 from the encoder 40
Module signal S of₀, S ₁In response to the
Teaching signal T₀, ..., T₃Is output. For example,
When "2" is selected with the module selection switch 31
Is the encoder 40 and S₀= 0, S₁Converted to = 1
Then, the teaching selection circuit 23 selects this module.
Signal S₀, S₁Received module 1_-2Only to the signal
T₂To send. When the A signal is 0, the signal S₀, S
₁Signal T, regardless of the value of₀, ..., T_SIs “0”
It Signals A and S described above₁, S₂Signal T corresponding to₀,
… T₃The truth table of is shown in FIG.

Next, the overall operation of the system of the above embodiment will be described. First, when the sensitivity is adjusted, the module selection switch 32 is put into the sensor module to be taught. For example, when selecting the sensor module _1-1 , the module selection switch 31 is turned on. As a result, the encoder 40 sends the module selection signals S ₀ and S ₀ to the selector 21 and the teaching selection circuit 23.
Enter ₁ . Next, the mode changeover switch 32 is put into SET. If the console 3 is connected to the sensor unit 2, the console connection detection circuit 22
But it outputs a signal indicating the connection of the console each sensor module 1 _-0, to ... 1 _-3. Further, when the teaching switch 36 is subsequently operated once, the output of the gate circuit 39 becomes "1", and the teaching selection circuit 23 is energized. The teaching selection circuit 23 responds to the module selection signals S ₀ and S ₁ , for example, S ₀ = “1”, S ₁ =
In the case of "0", the signal T ₁ is given to the sensor module 1 _-1 . Receiving this signal, the sensor module 1 _-1 counts one operation of the teaching switch 36 in its own counter. Next, when the teaching switch 36 is operated twice, the number of times the teaching switch 36 is operated is counted by the counter of the sensor module _1-1 by the same processing operation. Even when another sensor module is selected, the number of operations is similarly counted by the counter of each sensor module. Then, the processing corresponding to the numerical value of the counter at that time is executed by the selected sensor module, for example, the sensor module _1-1 . Teaching types include, for example, teaching without work, teaching with / without work, and positioning teaching. For example, in the case of teaching with / without work, the level with and without work is detected, and the intermediate value is stored as the threshold level. During teaching, from the sensor module 1 _-1, display and buzzer signal is output via the selector 31, is inputted to the LED driver 38, LED buzzer driver 38 is operated, the corresponding 2
The color display element 35 lights up and the buzzer 37 also sounds. Further, the mode changeover switch 32 is switched to RUN, and the operation is confirmed by the display elements 33 and 34.

Next, another embodiment sensor system shown in FIG. 10 will be described. The sensor system according to this embodiment includes a sensor unit 101 and a console 102. Here, the sensor unit 101 is a photoelectric switch, but may be another sensor such as a proximity switch. The console 102 includes a cable 102a and a connector 1
02b detachably connects to the sensor unit 101.

The console 102 includes a mode change switch 32, a stability display LED 33, an operation display LED 34, a teaching display two-color LED 35, and a teaching switch 3.
6 and a buzzer 37. Unlike the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the module selection switch is not provided in this embodiment because the sensor unit 101 does not have a unit configuration and only one sensor is adjusted by the console 102. .

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the circuit configuration of the sensor system of the embodiment shown in FIG. Sensor part 1
01 is a sensor circuit 111 including a light emitting element, a light receiving element, etc.
And MPU 115. The MPU 115 has a processing circuit 112, an output port 113, and an input port 114. The console unit 102 includes the mode selector switch 3
2, a display element 33 (34, 35), a teaching switch 36, a buzzer 37, an LED buzzer driver. All of these are also provided in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, and the functions and operations are the same, so detailed description will be omitted.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the structure of a sensor system showing another embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment sensor system also includes a sensor module 1, a sensor unit 2, and a console 3 connected to the sensor unit 2 by a cable 3a. The sensor module 1 is provided with four sensor modules 1 _-0 , 1 _-1 , 1 _-2 , 1 _-3 each including a sensor head a and a sensor amplifier b.

The sensor unit 2 comprises a selector 21 and a sensor selecting means 25. The sensor selecting means 25 includes a teaching selecting circuit 23 and a module switching control circuit 24.
Is included. The provision of the sensor selection means 25 is the most characteristic of the sensor system of this embodiment. In addition, the mode selector switch 3 of the console 3
2 is "RUN" and "SET1" (sensor selection),
"SET2" (teaching) can be switched.

Next, the operation of the sensor system of this embodiment in the case of teaching with / without a work will be described. First, the mode selector switch 32 of the console 3 is switched to "SET1" (sensor selection). This "SET
The 1 ″ signal is applied to the module switching control circuit 24 and each of the sensor modules 1 ₋₀ , ..., 1 ₋₃ via the cable 3a. As a result, the module switching control circuit 24 of the sensor unit 2 has a plurality of sensors. It waits for a signal input from the amplifier b.

It is assumed that the operator has brought a metal into close contact with the sensor head a- ₀ of the sensor module _1-0 . The close contact of the metal is to obtain a signal for designating the sensor amplifier. Although the sensitivity is not adjusted yet, if the metal is in close contact, the sensor is surely turned on. The ON signal is applied to the module switching control circuit 24. Module switching control circuit receiving the ON signal from the sensor amplifier b _-0 sensor module 1 _-0 24, sensor amplifier b _-0 sensor modules 1 _-0
Is selected as the survey target. This selection signal is input to the selector 21 and the teaching selection circuit 23.

Next, the mode selector switch 32 of the console 3 is switched to "SET2" (teaching). In response to this, the sensor unit 2 enters a state where the sensor amplifier b- ₀ waits for an adjustment instruction input from the console 3. The operator sets the object to be inspected here to the state 1 (the position where the output is turned off). And console 3
The teaching switch 36 is turned on to give a teaching instruction. Teaching selection circuit 2 of sensor unit 2
In response to the teaching instruction, the controller 3 controls the output of the module switching control circuit 24 so as to perform the teaching on the sensor amplifier b- ₀ of the sensor module _1-0 .
The sensor amplifier b- ₀ stores the detection sensitivity of state 1.

Next, the object to be detected is changed to the state 2 (output is O
Set it to the position you want N). The teaching switch 36 of the console 3 is turned on to give a teaching instruction. This instruction is applied from the teaching selection circuit 23 to the sensor amplifier b- ₀ of the sensor module _1-0 . The sensor amplifier b- ₀ automatically sets the optimum sensitivity of the sensor based on the detection sensitivity of state 2 and the detection sensitivity of state 1 (sensitivity is adjusted near the center of states 1 and 2). Then, the mode selector switch 32 is switched to the "RUN", and ends the teaching of the sensor module 1 _-0. To adjust the sensitivity of the next sensor module, set the mode selector switch 32 to "SET.
After switching to 1 ", the metal is brought into close contact with the sensor head of the sensor module, and thereafter, the same processing and operation as described above are repeated.

In the sensor system shown in FIG. 3, the module selection from the console 3 can only be the selection of the sensor amplifier. In teaching, since the presence / absence of a detection object is performed on the sensor head side, it is necessary to know which sensor head is being taught. Therefore, in this embodiment (the sensor system of FIG. 12), as described above, the signal is sent from the taught sensor head, and the sensor amplifier can be specified. Therefore, even with a plurality of sensor modules, the work is easy. Become.

In the sensor module of the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, an amplifier-separated photoelectric switch having a light emitting / receiving element in the sensor head, and a fiber connecting the light emitting / receiving element provided in the amplifier to the sensor head. A fiber photoelectric switch, an amplifier-separated proximity switch having a detection coil in a sensor head, and the like can be used. In the above-described embodiment, the sensor unit 2 is configured so that a plurality of sensor modules can be connected. Here, up to 4
Although the individual modules can be connected, the console 3 can be shared if it is desired to increase the maximum number of connected sensor units.

In the above embodiment, the first instruction from the console 3 is the ON signal of the sensor due to the close contact with the detection metal. May be an ON signal or the like. Further, it does not matter if the sensor modules of the same type are not connected to the sensor unit 2. Further, the transmission between the console 3 and the sensor unit 2 may use radio waves such as radio waves and light projection / reception, instead of the cable 3a.

Further, regarding the point that the teaching state of the sensor is output to the console 3 by means such as display, FIG.
Although not shown in the embodiment of the above, it is needless to say that the display, buzzer and the like can be used as in the case shown in FIG. FIG. 13 shows an example of the circuit configuration of the sensor module used in the sensor system of FIG. The sensor amplifier section b includes a sensor circuit (detection circuit) 111 and a processing circuit 11.
2, consisting of output port 113 and input port 114,
The output port 113 outputs an ON signal to the module switching control circuit 24 at "SET1". See also "SET
In 2 ", the teaching state is output to the console. In addition, the object detection output is output in the normal detection mode (" RUN ").

When the mode switch 32 is set to "SET1", the input port 114 enables the sensor circuit 111 in response to this, and when the object is brought into close contact with the sensor head a, the processing circuit 112 outputs an ON signal. When the teaching selection circuit 23 is input in the mode of "SET2" in which the output is output so that the sensor circuit 111 and the processing circuit 112 perform a predetermined teaching operation.

FIG. 14 shows another circuit configuration example of the sensor module used in the sensor system of FIG. As shown in FIG. 15, the input port 114 of this sensor module includes a sensor selection unit 115, a teaching selection unit 116, and an input port 117. Then, the detection signal from the processing circuit 112 is input to the output port 113, and at the same time, the sensor selection means 11 of the input port 114.
Added to 5.

In this sensor module, the output port 113 outputs the teaching state to the console 3 in the mode "SET2". Also, the object detection output is output in the normal detection mode “RUN”. At the input port 114, "SET1" of the mode switch 32
When the object is brought into close contact with the sensor head a by switching the sensor circuit 111 to the sensor circuit 111, the processing circuit 112 turns off.
Wait until N signal can be output. Also, the sensor is ON
When a signal is input from the processing circuit 112, the sensor selection means 115 operates and waits for a teaching instruction from the console 3. Mode switch 32 of console 3
Is set to “SET2” and a teaching instruction is input from the teaching switch 36, the sensor 1
11. The processing circuit 112 is caused to perform a predetermined teaching operation.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing a sensor system using the sensor module shown in FIG. The sensor system of the embodiment shown in FIG. 12 is provided with the sensor selecting means 25 in the sensor unit 2, but in this embodiment, the sensor unit 2 is omitted and the sensor modules _1-0 , 1 are provided.
The input port 114 in _-1 , ... Is individually provided with a sensor selecting means. The connection between the sensor modules uses, for example, the connector 118.

[0044]

According to each of the inventions described in claims, the console can be brought near the sensor head and the sensitivity can be adjusted and the operation can be checked while observing the work. Therefore, the sensitivity can be easily adjusted and checked. Exactly one person can do it. According to the first, second, and third aspects of the invention, even if the plurality of sensor heads are installed apart from each other, the sensor heads do not move and the adjustment can be performed at hand.

Further, in the inventions of claims 1, 3, and 4, since the sensitivity of the sensor is adjusted by the console which is separate from the sensor of the sensor system, the keys and the like can be made large and can be easily operated with one hand. It can be operated and the operability is improved compared to the conventional one. Further, according to the inventions of claims 4 and 5, even if the amplifier portion of the sensor is recessed and is installed in a place where a person cannot easily enter, it can be checked in an operating state at hand. Also,
If necessary, the teaching switch of the sensor can be eliminated, and the effects of reducing the number of parts and improving aesthetics can be expected.

In the sixth, seventh, eighth, and ninth aspects of the invention, the sensor adjustment means automatically determines the amplifier to be adjusted by the signal from the sensor head, so that the adjustment operation is performed. There is no need to search for a sensor head corresponding to the amplifier. Since the automatic sensitivity adjustment is performed, the operator does not need to operate the volume or the like, and the sensitivity can be adjusted to the optimum. It is not necessary to provide an adjusting operation unit (volume, SW, etc.) on the sensor amplifier, and the sensor amplifier can be downsized, and so on.

In the inventions of claims 8 and 9,
Since each sensor module has a sensor selecting means, a sensor system can be easily constructed only by connecting to the console.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a sensor system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a plan view of a console used in the sensor system according to the embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the sensor system of the example.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating input / output signals of a selector of a sensor unit that constitutes the sensor system of the embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a selection operation of the same selector.

FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram for explaining the configuration and operation of a console connection detection circuit of the sensor unit of the sensor system according to the embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram for explaining the operation of the teaching selection circuit of the sensor system sensor unit of the embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a truth table for explaining the operation of the console connection detection circuit shown in FIG.

9 is a truth table for explaining the operation of the teaching selection circuit shown in FIG.

FIG. 10 is an external perspective view of a sensor system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the sensor system of the example.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of a sensor system according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of a sensor module of the sensor system of the example.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of a sensor module of a sensor system according to another embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an input port of the sensor module.

16 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a sensor system according to still another embodiment of the present invention, which uses the sensor module of FIG.

FIG. 17 is an external perspective view showing a conventional sensor.

[Explanation of symbols]

 3 Console 31 Sensor Module Selection Switch 32 Mode Change Switch 33 Stability Display LED 34 Operation Display LED 35 Teaching Display 2 Color LED 36 Teaching Switch 37 Buzzer

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. A sensor system console for remotely performing sensitivity adjustments and operation confirmation of a plurality of sensors, comprising sensor selection means for selecting one of the plurality of sensors and switching for switching between sensitivity adjustment and operation confirmation. Means, an operation means for starting the adjustment at the time of sensitivity adjustment, a first display means for displaying the adjustment state, a second display means for performing an operation display and a stable display at the time of confirming the operation, and for connecting to the sensor side. A console for a sensor system, which is provided with a cable. 2. A sensor system comprising a sensor section including a plurality of sensors, and a console for remotely adjusting the sensitivity of these sensors and confirming the operation thereof, wherein the console is a sensor for selecting one of the plurality of sensors. Selection means, switching means for switching between sensitivity adjustment and operation confirmation, operation means for starting adjustment during sensitivity adjustment, first display means for displaying the adjustment state, and operation display and stable display for operation confirmation The display unit and a cable for connecting to the sensor side, the sensor unit, a selector that outputs only the signal of the sensor selected by the console output signals from the plurality of sensors,
A sensor system comprising: an adjustment command signal output means for outputting an adjustment command signal only to the sensor selected by the console; and a connection detection means for detecting whether or not the console is connected. 3. A sensor system console for remotely performing sensitivity adjustments and operation confirmation of a plurality of sensors, comprising sensor selection means for selecting one of the plurality of sensors and switching for switching between sensitivity adjustment and operation confirmation. Means, operation means for starting adjustment during sensitivity adjustment, first display means for displaying adjustment state, second display means for performing operation display and stable display during operation confirmation, and output signals from a plurality of sensors A selector for outputting only the signal of the sensor selected by the sensor selection means, an adjustment command signal output means for outputting an adjustment command signal only to the selected sensor, a cable for connecting to the sensor side, and a cable A console for a sensor system, comprising: a connection detection unit that detects whether or not is connected to the sensor side. 4. A sensor system console for remotely performing sensor sensitivity adjustment and operation confirmation, including switching means for switching between sensitivity adjustment and operation confirmation, operation means for starting adjustment during sensitivity adjustment, and an adjustment state. A console for a sensor system, comprising: a first display means for displaying, a second display means for performing an operation display and a stable display when confirming the operation, and a cable for connecting to the sensor side. 5. A sensor system comprising a sensor section and a console for remotely performing sensitivity adjustment and operation confirmation of the sensor, wherein the console comprises switching means for switching between sensitivity adjustment and operation confirmation, and adjustment during sensitivity adjustment. An operation unit for starting the operation, a first display unit for displaying an adjustment state, a second display unit for performing an operation display and a stable display at the time of confirming the operation, and a cable for connecting to the sensor side. Is a sensor system comprising a connection detecting means for detecting whether or not the console is connected. 6. A sensor head including a detection element and a detection signal connected to the detection element according to the presence or absence of an object, and the detection sensitivity of the detection element can be automatically adjusted by a signal from the outside. A sensor module including a sensor amplifier including a sensitivity adjustment circuit, a plurality of sensor modules connected to each other, a sensor unit including a sensor selection unit, and a sensor unit connected to the sensor amplifier via the sensor unit to adjust the sensitivity. First instruction, second instruction for instructing circuit operation
A console unit for outputting the instruction of, and the sensor selection means includes means for operating a sensor selection function in response to a first instruction from the console unit,
The sensor module is selected by obtaining a signal input from an arbitrary sensor head, and the second instruction from the console unit operates the automatic sensitivity adjustment function of the sensor module specified by the first instruction. A sensor system comprising means for outputting a signal. 7. A sensor head including a detection element, which is connected to the detection element and outputs a detection signal according to the presence or absence of an object, and the detection sensitivity of the detection element is automatically adjusted by a signal from the outside. A sensor amplifier having a sensitivity adjustment circuit that can be used, and a means for outputting a detection state of an object in a sensor head when receiving a first instruction from the outside, and a sensor amplifier from the outside. An amplifier-separated sensor, characterized by comprising: means for performing a predetermined sensitivity adjustment operation according to the instruction of 2. 8. A sensor head including a detection element, and a sensitivity adjustment circuit which is connected to the detection element, outputs a detection signal according to the presence or absence of an object, and can automatically adjust the detection sensitivity of the detection element. And a sensor amplifier, wherein the sensitivity adjusting circuit operates only when a predetermined state is detected by observing the detection state of the object in the sensor head when a first instruction is received from the outside. An amplifier-separated sensor, comprising: a sensor selecting unit for enabling the operation; and a unit for starting the operation of the sensitivity adjusting circuit according to a second instruction from the outside. 9. A sensor head including a detection element, which is connected to the detection element and outputs a detection signal according to the presence or absence of an object, and the detection sensitivity of the detection element is automatically adjusted by a signal from the outside. A sensitivity adjusting circuit capable of operating the sensitivity adjusting function only when the object detecting state of the sensor head is seen by a first instruction from the outside, and the state is a predetermined state. In accordance with a second instruction from the above, an amplifier separation type sensor including a sensor amplifier performing a predetermined sensitivity adjustment operation, and the plurality of separation type sensors are connected, and each sensor amplifier has a first signal as an external signal. Is connected to one of the sensor amplifiers, and a second instruction as an external signal is given to start the operation of the sensitivity adjustment function of the sensor amplifier. Sensor system consisting of