WO2018216311A1 - Signaling lamp monitor - Google Patents

Abstract

This signaling lamp monitor is configured to readily allow the addition of a communication function to signaling lamps such as stack lights at low costs. This signaling lamp monitor comprises a detection unit for detecting light emitted from a signaling lamp, a control unit that generates a detection signal on the basis of at least said detection, and a transmission unit for transmitting the detection signal via wireless communication. The transmission unit is equipped with an antenna disposed vertically upward from the detection unit.

Description

Signal light monitor

This disclosure relates to a signal light monitor.

Conventionally, a laminated signal lamp for informing an operator of an operating state of a production apparatus or the like is known. The laminated signal lamp has a plurality of light emitting units. The laminated signal lamp receives a signal indicating an operating state from the production apparatus, and causes the light emitting unit to emit light according to the signal. The operator can know the operating state of the production apparatus based on the light emission state (lighted, blinking, off) and the light emission color.

Information transmission by the above-mentioned laminated signal lamp is performed by visible light. Therefore, in order to know the operating state of the production apparatus, the worker needs to be in a place where the laminated signal lamp can be seen (typically, around the laminated signal lamp or the production apparatus). On the other hand, a system has been developed in which a communication circuit is incorporated in a laminated signal lamp and a predetermined signal is transmitted to a management device (see Patent Document 1). In this case, since the operation state of the production apparatus can be grasped by the management apparatus, it is not necessary for the worker to be around the laminated signal lamp.

JP 2014-164598 A

In the above communication type management system, it is necessary to attach a laminated signal lamp with a built-in communication circuit to the production apparatus. Therefore, when an old-style (that is, no communication function) laminated signal lamp is already attached to the production apparatus, it takes time to replace it with a new laminated signal lamp. There is also a need to purchase new stacked signal lights. On the other hand, instead of replacing the entire laminated signal lamp, it may be possible to incorporate a communication circuit into the old laminated signal lamp. In this case, the cost can be relatively suppressed, but complicated work such as installation of new wiring (signal wiring, power wiring, etc.) for the communication circuit is required. In any case, it is necessary to stop the production line and perform replacement work (or assembly work), which may cause problems such as a decrease in production volume.

This disclosure has been proposed in view of the above circumstances. An object of the present disclosure is to provide a signal lamp monitor that can easily add a communication function to a laminated signal lamp or the like in a short time and at a low cost.

The signal light monitor provided by one aspect of the present disclosure is used attached to a signal light that informs information by light. In addition, the signal lamp monitor includes a detection unit that detects light, a control unit that generates a detection signal based on at least the detection, and a transmission unit that transmits the detection signal by wireless communication. The transmission unit includes an antenna disposed vertically above the detection unit.

According to the signal lamp monitor configured as described above, a detection signal is generated based on the light emitted from the signal lamp, and this detection signal is transmitted by wireless communication. Therefore, a communication function can be added to a conventional signal lamp without separately providing wiring for inputting a signal from the production apparatus or the signal lamp.

It is the schematic which shows the state which attached the signal lamp monitor which concerns on 1st Embodiment to the laminated signal lamp. It is a front view of the main body of a signal light monitor. It is a top view of the main body of a signal light monitor. It is explanatory drawing of the relay block and sensor block of a signal light monitor. It is the front view (a) and back view (b) of the sensor block shown in FIG. It is a figure explaining the circuit structure of a signal lamp monitor. It is a block diagram explaining the management system provided with the signal lamp monitor. It is a sequence diagram for demonstrating the measurement and detection signal generation by a control part. It is the schematic which shows the state which attached the signal lamp monitor to the laminated signal lamp of another aspect. It is a front view which shows the main body of the signal light monitor which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a front view which shows the modification of a signal lamp monitor. It is the schematic which shows the state which attached the signal lamp monitor which concerns on 3rd Embodiment to the laminated signal lamp. It is a figure explaining the modification of the method of fixing the sensor block of a signal light monitor. It is a front view which shows the detection part of a signal lamp monitor. It is the schematic which shows the example of attachment of a signal light monitor. It is the schematic which shows the state which attached the signal lamp monitor which concerns on 5th Embodiment to the laminated signal lamp. It is a figure which shows the modification of the block which concerns on 1st-5th embodiment, (a) is sectional drawing, (b) is explanatory drawing. It is a front view which shows the detection part of the signal lamp monitor which concerns on 6th Embodiment. It is the schematic which shows the state which attached the signal lamp monitor of 6th Embodiment to the laminated signal lamp. It is a front view which shows the main body of the signal light monitor which concerns on 7th Embodiment. It is a front view which shows the main body of the signal light monitor which concerns on 8th Embodiment. It is a top view which shows the main body of the signal light monitor which concerns on 8th Embodiment. It is the top view (a) and front view (b) which show a main body fixing tool. It is a perspective view which shows the whole structure of the signal lamp monitor which concerns on 9th Embodiment. It is a top view of the main body of the signal light monitor shown in FIG. It is a top view of the main body of the signal lamp monitor shown in FIG. 24, Comprising: The state which permeate | transmitted the case is shown. It is a front view of the main body of the signal light monitor shown in FIG. It is a front view which shows the detection part of the signal lamp monitor shown in FIG. It is a block diagram of the signal lamp monitor shown in FIG.

Hereinafter, various embodiments of a signal light monitor according to the present disclosure will be specifically described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1 to 7 are explanatory diagrams of the signal lamp monitor A1 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of the signal lamp monitor A1, and shows a state where the signal lamp monitor A1 is attached to the laminated signal lamp 900. FIG. 2 is a front view of the main body of the signal light monitor A1. FIG. 3 is a plan view of the main body of the signal lamp monitor A1. FIG. 3 shows a state where the cover 103 (see FIG. 2) is removed. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of the relay block and the sensor block. FIG. 5A is a front view of the sensor block, and FIG. 5B is a rear view of the sensor block. FIG. 6 is a simplified diagram showing a circuit configuration of the signal lamp monitor A1. FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a management system provided with a signal lamp monitor A1.

As shown in FIG. 1, the signal light monitor A1 is used by being attached to a laminated signal light 900. The laminated signal lamp 900 is a signal lamp for notifying an operator of the operating state of a production apparatus in a factory. The laminated signal lamp 900 is formed in a cylindrical shape by stacking a plurality of light emitting portions 901 to 903, and is provided with an attachment portion 904. The laminated signal lamp 900 is mounted so that the light emitting units 901 to 903 are arranged in the vertical direction by fixing the mounting unit 904 to, for example, the top of the production apparatus. The laminated signal lamp 900 receives a signal indicating an operating state (“state signal”) from the production apparatus, and causes the light emitting units 901 to 903 to emit light according to the signal. Each of the light emitting units 901, 902, and 903 emits red, yellow, and blue light, for example. The operator can know the operating state of the production apparatus by the light emission state (lighting, blinking, extinguishing) and light emission color of the laminated signal lamp.

The signal light monitor A1 includes a main body 100 and a detection unit 200. The main body 100 is placed on the top of the laminated signal lamp 900. The detection unit 200 extends vertically downward along the side surface of the laminated signal lamp 900 from the end of the bottom surface of the main body 100. The signal lamp monitor A1 detects the light emitted from the laminated signal lamp 900 by the detection unit 200, identifies the light emission state (lighted, blinking, extinguished) and the light emission color based on the detected light, and transmits the identification result as a radio signal. . In the following, the vertical direction is the y direction (y1-y2 direction), the direction from the center of the main body 100 toward the detection unit 200 in the horizontal plane is the z direction (z1-z2 direction), and the y direction and the direction orthogonal to the z direction are x Direction (x1-x2 direction).

First, the main body 100 will be described. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the main body 100 includes a housing 101, a circuit board 110, a wireless module 120, a switch 130, a plurality of variable resistors 140, a battery holder 150, and a connector 160. Although not shown in the figure, the main body 100 includes other circuit elements as appropriate.

The housing 101 houses, for example, a circuit board 110, a wireless module 120, a switch 130, a variable resistor 140, a battery holder 150, and a connector 160. The housing 101 includes a case 102 and a cover 103. The case 102 is made of, for example, a synthetic resin, but is not limited to this. The case 102 has a bottomed cylindrical shape with a relatively small dimension measured in a direction parallel to the central axis. The circuit board 110 is fitted in the opening 102 a of the case 102. A cutout 102 b for attaching the detection unit 200 is provided on a part of the side wall and the bottom surface of the case 102. A part of the back surface 110b of the circuit board 110 is exposed by the notch 102b. In this embodiment, since the detection unit 200 extends downward from the bottom surface of the main body 100, the diameter of the bottom surface of the case 102 (main body 100) is made larger than the diameter of the upper surface of the stacked signal lamp 900 to be placed (FIG. 1). reference). Depending on how the detection unit 200 is attached, the diameter of the bottom surface of the case 102 may be smaller than the diameter of the top surface of the laminated signal lamp 900. Although the shape of the bottom surface of the case 102 is circular according to the shape of the top surface of the laminated signal lamp 900, the present disclosure is not limited to this. The bottom surface of the case 102 may have a rectangular shape or other shapes, for example.

The cover 103 protects the circuit board 110, the antenna 123, and the like, and is configured to cover the case 102. A part of the cover 103 has a bottomed cylindrical shape with a relatively small dimension measured in a direction parallel to the central axis. Further, the cover 103 is provided with a hollow projecting portion that accommodates the antenna 123 integrally with the cylindrical portion. The shape of the cover 103 is not limited to this example. The cover 103 is made of a synthetic resin such as an acrylic resin, for example. The cover 103 is configured to transmit light so that the solar cell 122 (described later) can receive light. When the solar cell 122 is not disposed inside, the cover 103 may be made of an opaque material.

The circuit board 110 has a base material made of an insulating material such as glass epoxy resin and a wiring pattern formed on the base material. The circuit board 110 is circular and has a main surface 110a and a back surface 110b. The main surface 110a and the back surface 110b face opposite sides in the thickness direction (y direction) of the circuit board 110. The radio module 120, the switch 130, the variable resistor 140, and the battery holder 150 are mounted on the main surface 110a. As shown in FIG. 3, the wireless module 120 has a long shape along the z direction, and is arranged so that the center thereof corresponds to the center of the main surface 110a. The switch 130 and the variable resistor 140 are disposed on the x2 direction side of the wireless module 120, and the battery holder 150 is disposed on the x1 direction side of the wireless module 120. With this arrangement, the diameter of the circuit board 110 can be close to the longitudinal dimension of the wireless module 120. In addition, the arrangement position of each member is not limited to this example. As shown in FIG. 2, the wireless module 120 is spaced from the circuit board 110. Therefore, a circuit element or the like can be disposed between the wireless module 120 and the circuit board 110. A connector 160 is mounted on the back surface 110b. In the illustrated example, the connector 160 is disposed near the edge of the circuit board 110, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. The circuit board 110 is fitted into the opening 102a with the back surface 110b facing the inside of the case 102, and is fixed to the case 102 with, for example, screws. Therefore, the main surface 110 a of the circuit board 110 is exposed from the case 102, but most of the back surface 110 b is hidden by the case 102. On the circuit board 110, a current detection circuit 111 (see FIG. 6) and other circuit elements are also mounted. For example, a member that the operator does not need to directly operate or visually recognize is mounted on the back surface 110b.

In this embodiment, the wireless module 120 performs communication conforming to the EnOcean communication standard that employs battery-less wireless transmission technology. The wireless module 120 includes a module substrate 121, a solar cell 122, and an antenna 123. The module substrate 121 has a base material made of an insulating material such as glass epoxy resin and a wiring pattern formed on the base material. The module substrate 121 has a rectangular plate shape and has a main surface 121a and a back surface 121b. The main surface 121a has the solar cell 122 and the antenna 123 mounted thereon. The back surface 121b is equipped with circuit elements constituting various circuits, electronic components such as a CPU and a memory, a capacitor for charging power generated by the solar cell 122, and the like. Various circuits include a communication circuit, a control circuit, a voltage conversion circuit, and the like. The solar cell 122 is arranged with the surface opposite to the light receiving surface 122 a facing the module substrate 121. The solar cell 122 generates electric power by the light received by the light receiving surface 122a. The antenna 123 is a normal mode type helical antenna in which a conductor wire is spirally wound, and is disposed on the main surface 121a of the module substrate 121 so that the central axis is parallel to the y direction. In the illustrated example, the lower end of the antenna 123 is disposed in the vicinity of the edge of the module substrate 121. The antenna 123 may have another configuration such as a monopole antenna. The wireless module 120 is fixed to the circuit board 110 with the back surface 121b of the module board 121 facing the circuit board 110 and being separated from the circuit board 110. The wireless module 120 can perform wireless communication using the power generated by the solar battery 122 (or the power charged in the capacitor). For this reason, the wireless module 120 incorporates a wireless circuit with extremely low power consumption.

The communication standard of the wireless module 120 is not limited to the EnOcean communication standard. For example, communication conforms to communication standards such as Bluetooth® (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), UWB (Ultra® Wide® Band), Z-Wave, Wi-Fi (Wireless® Fidelity), and Wi-SUN (registered trademark). You may make it perform.

As shown in FIG. 6, each variable resistor 140 is connected in series to the photodiode 225 and the like, and the sensitivity of the photodiode 225 and the like is individually adjusted by changing the resistance value. The resistance value of the variable resistor 140 can be changed by, for example, inserting the tip of a minus driver into the adjustment groove 141 (see FIG. 2) and rotating it. By changing the resistance value, the current flowing through the photodiode 225 or the like changes, and sensitivity adjustment is performed. Each variable resistor 140 is arranged such that the adjustment groove 141 faces the same direction.

The battery holder 150 is a holder for mounting an auxiliary battery (for example, a lithium battery). When power generation by the solar battery 122 is not performed and no power is supplied from the capacitor, the auxiliary battery supplies power. Therefore, normally, no power is supplied from the auxiliary battery.

The switch 130 is a switch for operating the signal light monitor A1. For example, the switch 130 is used to transmit various data and signals related to the state of the signal lamp monitor A1. As shown in FIG. 3, the switch 130 includes a cylindrical push button 131, for example. In the example shown in the figure, the push button 131 has a shape that extends long in a direction (x2 direction) orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the wireless module 120. The switch 130 outputs an operation signal to the control circuit of the wireless module 120 when the push button 131 is pressed. The control circuit generates predetermined signals by reading predetermined data or detecting the state of the signal lamp monitor A1 according to the input of the operation signal. The generated signal is transmitted to the management apparatus 800 (see FIG. 7) by the communication circuit of the wireless module 120. As an example, when the switch 130 is pressed, the presence / absence of the battery in the battery holder 150 and the voltage are detected, and a signal corresponding to the detection result is transmitted to the management device 800.

The connector 160 is a connector for connecting the detection unit 200 to the main body 100. The connector 160 includes, for example, five female terminals. Each female terminal is electrically connected to the wiring pattern of the circuit board 110. The connector 160 is disposed at the end of the back surface 110b of the circuit board 110 in the z1 direction. A cutout 102 b is provided on the z1 direction side of the case 102. Therefore, the connector 160 is exposed without being covered by the case 102. Connector 160 is arranged so that the opening for inserting the male terminal is directed in the y2 direction.

The detection unit 200 includes a plurality of relay blocks 210 and sensor blocks 220, 230, 240, 250 as shown in FIG.

The relay block 210 connects the sensor blocks 220, 230, 240, 250 to the main body 100. As shown in FIG. 4, each relay block 210 includes a case 211, a relay board 212, and connectors 213 and 214. The case 211 is made of, for example, a synthetic resin. In the present embodiment, the case 211 is formed of a synthetic resin (for example, ABS resin) containing an additive for reducing the amount of light transmission, and the inner surface is colored black for light shielding. In the present embodiment, in order to improve the light shielding property of the case 211, an additive is added and the inner surface is colored, but only one of them may be handled. The cross section of the case 211 (the cross section perpendicular to the y direction) is U-shaped (that is, a shape having a relatively long base and side edges that stand up from both ends of the base). The relay substrate 212 is disposed inside the case 211 having a U-shaped cross section. The relay substrate 212 includes a base material made of an insulating material such as glass epoxy resin and a wiring pattern 212a formed on the base material. In the present embodiment, the wiring pattern 212a includes five conductive line portions (212a), but the present disclosure is not limited to this. The relay substrate 212 is fixed to the case 211 with the surface on which the wiring pattern (conductive line portion) 212a is formed facing outward. The connector 213 is a connector for connecting to the connector 160 of the main body 100, the connector 214 of another relay block 210, or the connector 214 of the sensor block 220, 230, 240, 250. The connector 213 includes five male terminals 213a, and each male terminal 213a is electrically connected to one of the five conductive line portions 212a. The connector 214 is a connector for connecting to the connector 213 of the other relay block 210 and sensor blocks 220, 230, 240, 250. The connector 214 includes five female terminals, and each female terminal is electrically connected to one of the five conductive line portions 212a. That is, each male terminal 213 a of the connector 213 is electrically connected to any one female terminal of the connector 214.

4 and 5, the sensor block 220 includes a case 211, a sensor substrate 222, and connectors 213 and 214. The case 211 of the sensor block 220 has the same configuration as the case 211 of the relay block 210. Similarly to the relay substrate 212 of the relay block 210, the sensor substrate 222 has a base material made of an insulating material such as glass epoxy resin and a wiring pattern 212a formed on the base material. Regarding these members (case, sensor board, connector), the other sensor blocks 230, 240, and 250 have the same configuration as the sensor block 220. However, the sensor block 250 does not include the connector 214, and the terminal ends of the five wiring patterns are connected to each other (see FIG. 6).

As shown in FIG. 6, the sensor blocks 220, 230, 240, and 250 include photodiodes 225, 235, 245, and 255, respectively. In each sensor block, the photodiodes 225, 235, 245, or 255 are mounted on the sensor substrate 222, and are electrically connected to the photodiodes so that the wiring pattern 212a forms a predetermined current path. As can be understood from FIG. 6, the current path formed by the wiring pattern 212a can be different for each sensor block. As a result, for example, the photodiode 225 of the sensor block 220 is connected to the current detection circuit 111 of the main body 100 via the leftmost conduction path and the rightmost conduction path, but the photodiode 235 of the sensor block 230 is The current detection circuit 111 is connected via the second conduction path from the left side and the rightmost conduction path. Such a difference in current path can be realized by appropriately changing the connection state of the wiring pattern 212a in each sensor block.

As an example, FIGS. 5A and 5B show details of the wiring pattern 212a in the sensor block 220 (and other sensor blocks). In FIG. 5B, the case 211 is shown by a broken line. Note that the wiring pattern 212a shown in FIG. 5 may include a path that is not actually used (current does not flow). In short, the circuit as shown in FIG. 6 is configured. The wiring pattern 212a may be appropriately modified as necessary (for each sensor block, for example, by bridging a predetermined portion with solder).

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5A, five conductive line portions each extending in the y direction are formed on the surface of the sensor substrate 222. In the example shown in the drawing, the two on the right side are substantially linear, but the three on the left side are partially bent (for example, due to the convenience of wiring). The four on the left part partially overlap with the photodiode 225, but are electrically insulated from the photodiode 225. The connectors 213 and 214 of the sensor block 220 have the same configuration as the connectors 213 and 214 of the relay block 210. That is, in the sensor block 220, each male terminal 213a of the connector 213 is electrically connected to any one female terminal of the connector 214 through a corresponding one conductive line portion. The light receiving surface 225 a of the photodiode 225 faces away from the sensor substrate 222 (the side away from the sensor substrate 222).

Further, in the sensor block 220, the rightmost conductive line part is formed with a first extension part extending from the straight line part to the left side and a second extension part extending to the right side. In the example shown in the figure, the first extension portion extends perpendicularly to the straight line portion of the conductive line portion, and the second extension portion extends obliquely downward with respect to the straight line portion. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The first extension on the left side is connected to a first terminal (not shown) formed on the back surface of the photodiode 225. On the other hand, the second extension portion on the right side is connected to the wiring pattern 212a formed on the back surface of the sensor substrate 222 via the first through hole 212b (the right side through hole in FIG. 5A). .

On the back surface of the sensor substrate 222, the first through hole 212b (the left side through hole in FIG. 5B) is the protective element 212c and the second through hole 212b (the right side through hole in FIG. 5B). As shown in FIG. 5A, the terminal is connected to the left terminal (not shown) formed on the back surface of the photodiode 225. In the example shown in FIG. 5A, a bent conductive connecting portion 212d is formed between the second through-hole 212b and the photodiode 225, and the second through-hole is formed via the connecting portion. The hole 212b and the photodiode 225 are electrically connected.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 5B, four conductive strips 212e each extending in the y direction are formed on the back surface of the sensor substrate 222. In the drawing, the uppermost end of the rightmost conductive strip 212e is connected to the rightmost male terminal 213a. The lower end of the second conductive strip 212e from the right is connected to the second female terminal from the right. The upper end of the third conductive strip 212e from the right is connected to the third male terminal 213a from the right. The lower end of the fourth conductive strip 212e from the right is connected to the fourth female terminal from the right. Furthermore, in the sensor block 220, the lower end portion of the rightmost conductive strip 212e and the horizontal straight portion of the wiring pattern 212a are electrically connected via a bridging portion 212f made of a conductive material (for example, solder). Yes. As understood from the circuit diagram of FIG. 6, the position where the bridging portion 212 f is formed is different for each of the sensor blocks 220, 230, 240 and 250.

As described above, the wiring pattern 212a on the back surface shown in FIG. 5B is connected to either the male terminal 213a or the female terminal. Which terminal is connected depends on the sensor blocks 220, 230, 240 and 250. In this way, the circuit configuration shown in FIG. 6 can be realized by preparing a plurality of sensor blocks having the same configuration and subsequently forming the bridging portion 212f at an appropriate position.

As shown in FIG. 1, the detection unit 200 has a structure in which sensor blocks 220, 230, 240, and 250 are connected by six relay blocks 210. Specifically, in order from the top, the first relay block 210, the second relay block 210, the first sensor block 220, the third relay block 210, the second sensor block 230, and the fourth relay block 210. The fifth relay block 210, the third sensor block 240, the sixth relay block 210, and the fourth sensor block 250 are connected to each other. The first relay block 210 is directly connected to the main body 100 (that is, not via another relay block or a sensor block). When the main body 100 is placed on the top of the laminated signal lamp 900, the detection unit 200 extending downward from the bottom surface of the main body 100 is arranged along the side surface of the laminated signal lamp 900. The positions of the sensor blocks 220, 230, and 240 in the y direction are positions corresponding to the light emitting units 901, 902, and 903, respectively. As shown in FIG. 4, the photodiodes (225, etc.) of each sensor block (220, etc.) have their light receiving surfaces (225a, etc.) oriented in the z2 direction. Therefore, each photodiode can receive light emitted from the light emitting unit (901, etc.). In the present embodiment, a photodiode is employed as the detecting means or the light receiving means, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, a phototransistor may be used instead of the photodiode.

As shown in FIG. 6, the photodiodes 225, 235, 245, and 255 of the sensor blocks 220, 230, 240, and 250 have variable resistors 140 connected in series, and are connected to the current detection circuit 111 in parallel with each other. The current detection circuit 111 detects the current flowing through each photodiode 225, 235, 245, 255 by detecting the voltage between the terminals of each variable resistor 140, and outputs a current signal to the wireless module 120. Based on the input current signal, the wireless module 120 detects the light emission state (lit, blinking, or extinguished) of each light emitting unit of the laminated signal lamp 900. In the example shown in FIG. 1, since only three light emitting units are provided, the photodiode 255 does not operate, and the sensor block 250 is only used to ensure the connection of the entire signal lamp monitor A1. It is.

Specifically, the wireless module 120 detects the light emitting state of the light emitting unit 901 based on the current flowing through the photodiode 225, detects the light emitting state of the light emitting unit 902 based on the current flowing through the photodiode 235, and the current flowing through the photodiode 245. To detect the light emission state of the light emitting unit 903. The wireless module 120 generates a detection signal corresponding to these detection results, and transmits the detection signal via the antenna 123. In the example illustrated in FIG. 6, the current detection circuit 111 is provided separately from the wireless module 120, but the wireless module 120 itself may detect the current.

FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram illustrating a management system using the signal light monitor A1. In the figure, the signal lamp monitor A1 includes a power supply unit 310, a sensor unit 320, a control unit 330, and a transmission unit 340. The power supply unit 310 supplies power to the control unit 330 and the transmission unit 340. The solar cell 122 and capacitor of the wireless module 120, an auxiliary battery mounted on the battery holder 150, a voltage conversion circuit provided on the module substrate 121, and the like correspond to the power supply unit 310. The sensor unit 320 detects light emitted from the laminated signal lamp 900 and inputs it to the control unit as a current signal. The detection unit 200, the variable resistor 140, the current detection circuit 111, and the like correspond to the sensor unit 320. The control unit 330 generates a detection signal based on the current signal input from the sensor unit 320 and outputs the detection signal to the transmission unit 340. A control circuit or the like provided on the module substrate 121 corresponds to the control unit 330. The transmission unit 340 receives the detection signal from the control unit 330 and transmits it wirelessly. A communication circuit, an antenna 123, and the like provided on the module substrate 121 correspond to the transmission unit 340.

The control unit 330 identifies the emission color based on the current signal input from the sensor unit 320. The control unit 330 identifies which light emitting unit 901, 902, or 903 (for example, the light emission color is different) emits light depending on which of the sensor blocks 220, 230, 240, and 250 the current flows. In this embodiment, when a current flows through the photodiode 225 of the sensor block 220, it is identified that the light emitting unit 901 (red) emits light. When a current flows through the photodiode 235 of the sensor block 230, the light emitting unit 902 ( (Yellow) is identified as emitting light, and when a current flows through the photodiode 245 of the sensor block 240, the light emitting unit 903 (blue) is identified as emitting light.

The control unit 330 identifies the light emission state (lit, blinking, extinguished) based on the current signal input from the sensor unit 320. In general, the measurement for identifying the light emission state is performed a plurality of times, and the time (measurement time) required for each measurement is appropriately set. As an example, the control unit 330 identifies the “lighting” state when the current continues for a measurement time (for example, 3 seconds) (when the photodiode continues to receive light). On the other hand, when the state in which no current flows during the measurement time continues (when the state in which the photodiode does not receive light continues), the control unit 330 identifies the “light-off” state. In addition, when the current flowing state and the non-flowing state are alternately switched during the measurement time, the control unit 330 identifies the “flashing” state.

When there is no change in the light emission state between the previous measurement and the current measurement, a predetermined pause time (for example, 7 seconds) is provided after the end of the current measurement. Therefore, when there is no change in the light emission state for a relatively long time, the control unit 330 performs measurement every time a predetermined time (one measurement time + 1 pause time; for example, 10 seconds) elapses (more To be precise, start the measurement).

On the other hand, if there is a change in the light emission state between the previous measurement and the current measurement, the next measurement is performed immediately without providing any downtime. The control unit 330 generates (and transmits) a detection signal based on the light emission state identified by the measurement. According to such a configuration, the detection signal can be generated in a short time (for example, about 3 to 13 seconds) after the light emission state changes.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the measurement start timing (“first timing”) differs depending on whether the light emission state is changed or not, but the present disclosure is not limited to this.

As described above, when there is no change in the light emission state, the control unit 330 performs the next measurement after a predetermined pause time. When the number of cases in which the light emission state does not change continuously reaches the predetermined number of times (“state unchanged number of times”), the control unit 330 detects the detection signal based on the light emission state identified by the last measurement. Is generated. That is, even when the light emission state does not continuously change, the control unit 330 generates a detection signal based on a predetermined condition. In the case where there is no change in the light emission state, the timing for generating the detection signal (“second timing”) is determined according to the measurement time, the pause time, and the number of state unchanged times. For example, when the measurement time is 3 seconds, the pause time is 7 seconds, and the number of state unchanged times is 3, the second timing is every 30 seconds.

In the present embodiment, the second timing (detection signal generation timing) differs depending on whether or not there is a change in the light emission state. As described above, when a change in the light emission state is detected, a detection signal is generated based on the measurement result immediately after the detection. When there is no change in the light emission state, a detection signal is generated after a predetermined number of measurements are performed. Of course, the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the detection signal may be generated at a constant time interval regardless of the change / no change in the light emission state.

The detection signal can include multiple types of information. For example, the detection signal of the present embodiment includes information for specifying the signal lamp monitor A1, information indicating the emission color, and information indicating the light emission state. The information for specifying the signal lamp monitor A1 is a unique number (stored) previously assigned (stored) to the signal lamp monitor A1, for example, a MAC address of the wireless module 120, an ID number, or the like. The information indicating the emission color is information indicating which color light emission state the detection signal has (that is, information indicating which sensor block 220, 230, 240, 250 has detected). ). The information indicating the light emission state is information indicating whether the light emission state is “lit”, “off”, or “flashing”. In the case of “flashing”, information indicating the flashing speed (flashing frequency) may be included. The information indicating the light emission state is, for example, “00” for “light off”, “04” for “light on”, and “01”, “02”, “ 03 "or the like.

The control unit 330 causes the transmission unit 340 to wirelessly transmit the generated detection signal. Electric power required at this time is supplied from the power supply unit 310 to the transmission unit 340 under the control of the control unit 330. After the transmission unit 340 wirelessly transmits the detection signal, the control unit 330 stops the power supply from the power supply unit 310 to the transmission unit 340.

FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram for explaining measurement by the control unit 330 and detection signal generation. FIG. 5A shows an example of the light emission state of any one of the light emitting units of the laminated signal lamp 900. FIG. FIG. 5B shows the light emission state measured and identified by the control unit 330. FIG. 5C shows a comparison result performed based on the light emission state identified by the control unit 330. FIG. 4D shows the transmission state of the detection signal generated based on the comparison result by the control unit 330.

First, measurement starts at time t1. For convenience of explanation, this measurement is referred to as a “first” measurement. The measurement result of the first measurement is obtained 3 seconds after the time t1, and in the illustrated example, the light emission state is identified as the “light-off” state. The identification result is compared with the identification result obtained in the previous measurement (for example, “turned off” state), and the light emission state is determined to be “no change”.

Thereafter, the first pause time (for example, 7 seconds) elapses, and at time t2, the second measurement is performed, and the light emission state is identified as the “flashing” state from the measurement result. Then, a comparison is made with the identification result (“light-off” state) in the first measurement, and the light emission state is determined to be “changed”. Immediately after the determination, the third measurement is performed at time t3, and the light emission state is identified as the “flashing” state from the measurement result. A detection signal is generated and transmitted based on this light emission state (“flashing” state). The actual light emission state (see FIG. 8A) of the laminated signal lamp 900 changes from the “light-off” state to the “flashing” state from time t1 to time t2. That is, there is a time difference Td ₁ from this actual change time to the detection signal transmission. Time difference Td ₁ is, (i) time from the actual change to the time t2, (ii) two of the measurement time (e.g., a total of six seconds), and (iii) from the end of the second measurement of the third The time until the measurement start time is added. However, since the time of (iii) is very short, a detection signal is generated (and transmitted) in the time (for example, about 6 to 13 seconds) obtained by adding (i) and (ii) above. ing.

Subsequently, the fourth measurement is performed at time t4 after the second pause time has elapsed, and the light emission state is identified as the “flashing” state. Then, a comparison with the identification result (“flashing” state) in the third measurement is performed, and the light emission state is determined to be “no change”. After the third pause time has elapsed, the fifth measurement is performed at time t5. At this time, the same determination is made.

Subsequently, the sixth measurement is performed at time t6 after the fourth pause time has elapsed, and the light emission state is identified as the “flashing” state from the measurement result. Therefore, the light emission state is “no change” even at this stage. In the measurement at times t4, t5, and t6, since the light emission state was determined to be “no change” three times in succession, for example, based on the identification result (“flashing” state) in the measurement started at time t6, A detection signal is generated and transmitted. Thus, when there is no change in the light emission state, the detection signal is transmitted every time a predetermined time (30 seconds in the illustrated example) elapses.

Subsequently, the seventh measurement is performed at time t7 after the fifth pause time has elapsed. At this time, the measurement time overlaps with the actual change timing of the light emission state (see FIGS. 8A and 8B), and the time necessary for identifying the light emission state is not sufficient. For this reason, the light emission state cannot be identified from the measurement result, and the result is in an “unknown” state. In this case, it is determined that the light emission state is “changed” in comparison with the identification result (“flashing” state) in the sixth measurement. Immediately after the determination, the eighth measurement is performed at time t8, and the light emission state is identified as the “light-off” state from the measurement result. A detection signal is generated and transmitted based on the identified light emission state (“light-off” state). The actual light emission state of the laminated signal lamp 900 changes from the “flashing” state to the “light-off” state from time t7 to the end of the eighth measurement (see FIG. 8A). The time difference Td ₂ from this actual change to detection signal transmission is, for example, about 3 to 6 seconds.

The measurement and detection signal generation sequence by the control unit 330 is not limited to the above. For example, instead of periodically measuring, the measurement may be performed when the photodiode 225 or the like receives light.

As shown in FIG. 7, the management system may include a plurality of signal lamp monitors A1 together with the management device 800. The management system is a system that centrally manages the operating states of a plurality of production apparatuses in a factory, for example. Each signal lamp monitor A1 is installed in a laminated signal lamp 900 attached to the production apparatus. Each signal lamp monitor A1 wirelessly transmits the detection signal generated by the control unit 330 by the transmission unit 340. The management apparatus 800 includes a receiving unit 810, a control unit 820, a storage unit 830, and a display unit 840. The receiving unit 810 receives the detection signal transmitted from each signal lamp monitor A1 and outputs it to the control unit 820. The control unit 820 stores information included in the input detection signal in the storage unit 830. The control unit 820 causes the display unit 840 to display information stored in the storage unit 830 in accordance with a program or an operation of the operator. For example, the management device 800 may be an integrated device including a reception unit 810, a control unit 820, a storage unit 830, and a display unit 840. Alternatively, it is a system in which a general-purpose computer that functions as a control unit 820 and a storage unit 830 by a program and a receiver that functions as a reception unit 810 that is arranged near each signal lamp monitor A1 are connected by a local area network or the Internet. May be. Unlike this embodiment, a communication circuit may be incorporated in the laminated signal lamp itself.

Next, the assembly and installation procedure of the signal light monitor A1 will be described.

First, the detection unit 200 is assembled according to each light emission position of the laminated signal lamp 900. Specifically, the same number (or at least the same number) of sensor blocks as the number of light emitting portions of the laminated signal lamp 900 are prepared. These sensor blocks and a necessary number of relay blocks are connected end-to-end to configure the detection unit 200. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the light emitted from the three light emitting units 901, 902, and 903 of the laminated signal lamp 900 is received by the three sensor blocks 220, 230, and 240 (three photodiodes 225, 235, and 245). The detection unit 200 is assembled. As shown in FIG. 4, the sensor blocks 220, 230, 240, and 250 are connected by arranging the connector 213 on the y1 side and the connector 214 on the y2 side. The detection unit 200 is assembled by adjusting the number of relay blocks 210 according to the vertical dimension of the light emitting unit 901 and the like of the laminated signal lamp 900. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 9A, two adjacent sensor blocks (220 and 230; 230 and 250) are connected by one relay block 210. Further, the uppermost sensor block 220 and the main body 100 are connected using another relay block 210. Thereby, the signal lamp monitor A1 is completed. In this example, the sensor block 240 is not used.

In the example of FIG. 9B, the laminated signal lamp 900 has two light emitting units 901 and 902. In this case, for example, two sensor blocks 220 and 250 are used, and the two relay blocks 210 are connected therebetween. One relay block 210 is also arranged between the uppermost sensor block 220 (connector 213) and the main body 100 (connector 160).

Next, the signal light monitor A1 is attached to the laminated signal light 900. Specifically, the main body 100 of the signal lamp monitor A1 is placed on the top of the laminated signal lamp 900. What is necessary is just to adhere | attach the bottom face of the main body 100 and the upper surface of the laminated signal lamp 900, for example with a double-sided tape. Alternatively, a recess having the same shape as the top surface of the laminated signal lamp 900 is formed on the bottom surface of the main body 100 (the bottom surface of the case 102 shown in FIG. 2), and the recess is fitted to the upper end of the laminated signal lamp 900. Also good. When the main body 100 is placed on the top of the laminated signal lamp 900, the detection unit 200 extending in the vertical direction from the bottom surface of the main body 100 is disposed along the side surface of the laminated signal lamp 900.

Next, the operation and effect of the signal lamp monitor A1 will be described.

The signal lamp monitor A1 includes a detection unit 200 that detects light emitted from the laminated signal lamp 900. The signal lamp monitor A1 identifies the light emission state (lighted, blinking, extinguished) and the light emission color based on the light detected by the detection unit 200, and generates a detection signal based on the identification result. The signal lamp monitor A1 transmits this detection signal by radio. The signal lamp monitor A1 can be easily attached to the laminated signal lamp 900 simply by placing the main body 100 on a part of the laminated signal lamp 900 (the uppermost part in the illustrated example). The signal lamp monitor A1 detects light emitted from the laminated signal lamp 900 to the outside (light indicating the operating state of the production apparatus). Therefore, for example, there is no need to provide wiring for transmitting a signal or the like between the signal lamp monitor A1 and the laminated signal lamp 900 (or production apparatus). In addition, since the solar cell 122 and the power supply capacitor are provided, there is no need to provide a power line for supplying power from the outside. Therefore, the signal lamp monitor A1 can be easily attached to the laminated signal lamp 900 in a short time. Moreover, since it is attached to the conventionally used laminated signal lamp 900, it can be introduced at a lower cost than the case of newly purchasing a laminated signal lamp incorporating a communication circuit.

As described above, the wireless module 120 includes the solar cell 122. The wireless module 120 performs communication in accordance with the EnOcean communication standard. The communication standard adopts a battery-less wireless transmission technology, and can perform wireless communication with small power. Therefore, the signal light monitor A1 can perform wireless communication without using a dry battery or the like. Thereby, the labor of battery replacement can be saved.

The wireless module 120 includes a capacitor for charging the power generated by the solar battery 122. Therefore, even when the solar cell 122 cannot generate power, it is possible to supply electric power charged in the capacitor. The main body 100 includes an auxiliary battery mounted on the battery holder 150. Therefore, even when the solar battery 122 cannot generate power and cannot supply power from the capacitor, it is possible to supply power from the auxiliary battery.

The detection signal generated by the control unit 330 is transmitted to the outside by the transmission unit 340. At this time, the power supply unit 310 supplies power to the transmission unit 340 only while the detection signal is transmitted. Thereby, power consumption can be suppressed. Moreover, the control part 330 produces | generates a detection signal in a comparatively long time interval, when there is no change in a light emission state. Thereby, power consumption can be suppressed. On the other hand, when there is a change in the light emission state, the control unit 330 immediately generates a detection signal. Thereby, it is possible to quickly notify the management apparatus 800 of a change in state.

The detection unit 200 is configured by assembling a required number of sensor blocks and relay blocks. Therefore, the suitable detection part 200 can be provided efficiently according to the dimension etc. of the laminated signal lamp 900.

The main body 100 is mounted, for example, on the top of the laminated signal lamp 900. The antenna 123 is arranged on the main body 100 so that the central axis extends in the vertical direction. The antenna 123 can radiate electromagnetic waves evenly around the central axis. Thereby, the electromagnetic waves radiated from the antenna 123 can reach a wide range. Of course, the orientation of the antenna 123 can be changed as appropriate, and the present disclosure is not limited to this example.

2 and 3, the light receiving surface 122a of the solar cell 122 is vertically upward. According to this configuration, the solar cell 122 easily receives light from above. Of course, the direction of the light receiving surface 122a can be changed as appropriate, and the present disclosure is not limited to this example.

As shown in FIG. 6, a variable resistor 140 is connected to each photodiode 225 and the like. Therefore, the sensitivity of each photodiode can be individually adjusted by adjusting the resistance value of the variable resistor 140. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, each variable resistor 140 is arranged such that the arrangement surface of the adjustment groove 141 faces the horizontal direction (for example, the x2 direction). Therefore, it is easy to adjust the resistance value even when the main body 100 is placed on the top of the laminated signal lamp 900. As shown in FIG. 3, in this embodiment, the variable resistor 140 is provided at a position that does not overlap the wireless module 120 in plan view. According to the configuration in which the arrangement surface of the adjustment groove 141 faces in the horizontal direction, even when the variable resistor 140 is arranged between the circuit board 110 and the wireless module 120, the resistance value can be easily adjusted. . Moreover, it is also possible to arrange | position another component in the arrangement position of the variable resistor 140 shown in FIG.

Unlike the present embodiment, the arrangement surface of the adjustment groove 141 of the variable resistor 140 can be directed to another direction, for example, the y1 direction. In this case, the weighting due to the adjustment of the resistance value acts perpendicularly (or substantially perpendicular) to the surface of the circuit board 110. Therefore, for example, the variable resistor 140 is prevented from being peeled off from the circuit board 110 during the adjustment of the resistance value.

The switch 130 is arranged so that the push button 131 extends in the horizontal direction (for example, the x2 direction). Therefore, it is easy to press the push button 131 even when the main body 100 is placed on the top of the laminated signal lamp 900. Further, the switch 130 may be disposed between the circuit board 110 and the wireless module 120. Unlike the present embodiment, the push button 131 may be configured to extend upward in the vertical direction, for example.

The laminated signal lamp 900 shown in FIG. 1 includes three light emitting units 901, 902, and 903. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the number of light emitting units of the laminated signal lamp 900 can be changed as appropriate. The illustrated signal lamp monitor A1 includes four sensor blocks 220, 230, 240, and 250. Therefore, the light emitting section can support up to four laminated signal lamps 900. As described above, the detection unit 200 can be configured by combining an appropriate number of sensor blocks and relay blocks according to the number and dimensions of the light emitting units. For example, if the number of light emitting units is five, the relay block 210 is increased so that the current path shown in FIG. 6 (for example, one current path is considered to be formed for one photodiode) is increased by one. What is necessary is just to comprise the sensor block 220 grade | etc., And the main body 100. FIG. Further, the signal lamp monitor A1 has only one light-emitting unit, and can correspond to a single-color signal lamp that notifies the operating state based only on the light-emitting state (lighting, blinking, and extinguishing).

In the wireless module 120 described above, the module substrate 121 and the solar cell 122 are integrally configured, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. The module substrate 121 and the solar cell 122 may be arranged apart from each other. The increase in the degree of freedom of member arrangement in this way contributes to making the housing 101 smaller or thinner.

10 to 29 show other embodiments. In these drawings, the same or similar elements as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

FIG. 10 is a front view of the main body of the signal light monitor according to the second embodiment. The signal lamp monitor A2 shown in FIG. 10 differs from the signal lamp monitor A1 (see FIG. 2) according to the first embodiment in the arrangement position of the wireless module 120.

In the signal lamp monitor A2, the wireless module 120 is fixed to the side surface of the case 102 so that the light receiving surface 122a of the solar cell 122 faces in the horizontal direction (z1 direction). In this case, the solar cell 122 can receive light emitted from the laminated signal lamp 900 and generate electric power.

In addition, you may make it change only arrangement | positioning of the solar cell 122 instead of changing arrangement | positioning of the whole radio | wireless module 120. FIG. For example, the arrangement position of the wireless module 120 may be the same as that of the signal lamp monitor A1 according to the first embodiment, and only the solar battery 122 may be arranged so that the light receiving surface 122a faces the z1 direction.

Further, as shown in FIG. 11A, the light receiving surface 122a of the solar cell 122 may be directed in the z2 direction. Such a configuration is advantageous for receiving light from the z2 direction, for example, when the laminated signal lamp 900 is disposed near the ceiling of a room in the factory and there is little light from the y1 direction. Also in this case, the arrangement of the solar modules 122 may be changed instead of changing the arrangement of the entire wireless module 120. Further, as illustrated in FIG. 11B, at least a part of the wireless module 120 may be disposed so as to be positioned in the y1 direction with respect to the case 102. Further, a plurality of solar cells 122 may be provided. For example, a solar cell 122 may be added to the signal lamp monitor A1 according to the first embodiment, and the light receiving surface 122a of the added solar cell 122 may be disposed in the z1 direction.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of the signal light monitor according to the third embodiment. The signal lamp monitor A3 shown in FIG. 12 differs from the signal lamp monitor A1 (see FIG. 1) according to the first embodiment in the configuration of the detection unit 200.

In the detection unit 200 of the third embodiment, the sensor blocks 220, 230, 240, 250 and the main body 100 are connected not by the relay block but by the relay cable 290. The relay cable 290 is formed by connecting a connector 291 and a connector 292 similar to the connector 213 and the connector 214 of the relay block 210 according to the first embodiment with a flexible cable 293. The sensor blocks 220, 230, and 240 are fixed to the light emitting units 901, 902, and 903, for example, with double-sided tape. Instead of the relay cable 290, connection may be made with a flexible connection member such as a flexible substrate.

Also in the present embodiment, the detection unit 200 can flexibly cope with the configuration of the laminated signal lamp 900. Furthermore, the interval between adjacent sensor blocks can be freely set within the range of the length of the relay cable 290.

The fixing means for the light emitting part of the sensor block is not limited to double-sided tape. FIG. 13 shows a modification of the method for fixing the sensor block.

FIG. 13A shows a case where the sensor block 220 is fixed by two block support portions 701 extending in the y2 direction from the main body 100 (not shown). The two block support portions 701 are provided with recesses 701a facing each other at predetermined intervals in the y direction. The case 211 of the sensor block 220 is provided with a convex portion 211a that protrudes in the x1 direction and the x2 direction, respectively. The sensor block 220 is fixed between the two block support portions 701 so that the two convex portions 211a are engaged with the concave portions 701a located in the light emitting portion 901, respectively. Alternatively, the sensor block 220 may be configured to be slidable in the y direction along the two block support portions 701.

FIG. 13B shows an example in which the sensor block 220 is fixed by one block support portion 702 extending in the y2 direction. A groove portion 702a extending in the y direction is provided on the surface of the block support portion 702 facing the x1 direction. The case 211 of the sensor block 220 is provided with a fixing portion 211b extending in the z1 direction. The sensor block 220 can be fixed to a predetermined position (for example, a position corresponding to the light emitting portion 901) of the block support portion 702 by fixing the fixing portion 211b to the groove portion 702a with a screw 211c. In addition, you may make it fix with members other than the screw | thread 211c.

FIG. 14 is a front view showing the detection unit 200 of the signal light monitor according to the fourth embodiment. The signal lamp monitor A4 shown in FIG. 14 differs from the signal lamp monitor A1 (see FIG. 4) in the configuration of the detection unit 200 according to the first embodiment.

In the detection unit 200 according to the fourth embodiment, one detection block 260 includes a plurality of photodiodes (four photodiodes 225, 235, 245, and 255 in the illustrated example). For example, the detection block 260 extends the case 211 and the sensor substrate 222 of the sensor block 220 according to the first embodiment in the y direction, and the four photodiodes 225, 235, 245, and 255 are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval. It corresponds to what is mounted on 222 in a line. That is, in the present embodiment, a plurality of photodiodes are mounted on a single common sensor substrate. The detection block 260 is connected to the main body 100 by connecting the connector 213 to the connector 160 of the main body 100.

In this embodiment, it is not necessary to assemble the detection unit 200 as in the first embodiment, and only the detection block 260 is connected to the connector 160 of the main body 100. Therefore, the signal lamp monitor can be configured and attached to the laminated signal lamp 900 in a shorter time.

In the fourth embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 15B and 15C, a necessary number of spacers 105 are prepared, and these are arranged between the upper surface of the laminated signal lamp 900 and the lower surface of the main body 100 of the signal lamp monitor A4. I am trying to arrange it. Accordingly, the photodiodes 225, 235, and 245 can be arranged at appropriate positions so that the light emitted from the light emitting units 901, 902, and 903 can be received. As shown in FIG. 15A, the spacer 105 is not necessarily used depending on the case.

FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing an overall configuration of a signal lamp monitor according to the fifth embodiment. The signal lamp monitor A5 shown in FIG. 16 differs from the signal lamp monitor A1 (see FIG. 1) according to the first embodiment in the configuration of the detection unit 200.

The detection unit 200 according to the fifth embodiment corresponds to, for example, a configuration in which the relay cable 290 according to the third embodiment is added to the detection block 260 according to the fourth embodiment. The detection unit 200 is connected to the connector 213 of the detection block 260 and the connector 292 of the relay cable 290, and is connected to the main body 100 by connecting the connector 291 of the relay cable 290 to the connector 160 of the main body 100. . The detection block 260 is fixed to a position where the photodiodes 225, 235, and 245 can receive light emitted from the light emitting units 901, 902, and 903, for example, with double-sided tape, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. is not. Instead of the relay cable 290, connection may be made with a flexible connection member such as a flexible substrate.

In this embodiment, the detection block 260 can be displaced in the y direction within the range of the length of the relay cable 290. Therefore, compared with the fourth embodiment, the range of the laminated signal lamp 900 that can be handled is widened.

FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining a modification example regarding the sensor blocks 220 and the like of the first to fifth embodiments described above. Specifically, FIG. 17A is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the sensor block 220 according to the modification is attached to the laminated signal lamp 900. FIG. 17B is an explanatory diagram of a sensor block 220 according to a modification.

In the sensor block 220 according to the present modification, the two walls of the case 211 that are separated in the x direction are configured to be extended in the z2 direction, for example, compared to the example illustrated in FIG. A lid 223 and a transparent plate 224 are disposed between the two walls. The lid 223 and the transparent plate 224 are arranged outside the sensor substrate 222, that is, on the z2 direction side of the sensor substrate 222. The lid 223 is a rectangular plate made of the same material as the case 211, for example, and has a window 223a as an opening. The window portion 223 a is provided so as to be positioned in front of the photodiode 225 in a state where the lid 223 is disposed in the case 211. The transparent plate 224 is, for example, a rectangular plate that transmits light, and is disposed on the z2 direction side of the lid 223. Instead, the transparent plate 224 may be disposed on the z1 direction side of the lid 223. The transparent plate 224 can be made of a transparent synthetic resin or glass, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. The sensor block 220 is fixed so that the front ends of the two walls are in contact with the side surface of the laminated signal lamp 900 (see FIG. 17A).

The length of the two walls (the length when viewed in the cross section of FIG. 17A) is such that the side surface of the laminated signal lamp 900 is transparent when the tip of each wall is brought into contact with the side surface of the laminated signal lamp 900. The length is set so as not to contact the plate 224 (or the lid 223). By appropriately setting the length of this wall (for example, sufficiently long), even when used for a plurality of laminated signal lamps 900 having different diameters, the side surface of the laminated signal lamp 900 does not contact the transparent plate 224 (or the lid 223). In addition, it is possible to prevent a gap from being formed between the side surface of the laminated signal lamp 900 and the tip portions of the two walls.

The light emitted from the laminated signal lamp 900 is received by the photodiode 225 through the window 223a. On the other hand, other unnecessary light can be blocked by the case 211 and the lid 223. As a result, the photodiode 225 can be prevented from receiving light as noise. Further, by closing with the transparent plate 224, it is possible to prevent dust and the like from entering the inside of the case 211 from the window portion 223a. Of course, the present disclosure is not limited to this, and only one of the lid 223 and the transparent plate 224 may be disposed. Further, the transparent plate 224 may be smaller than the illustrated example, and may have a size that covers the window 223a of the lid 223. Alternatively, in the transparent plate 224, light other than the portion corresponding to the window portion 223a may be colored so as not to pass light. In this case, since the (partially transparent) transparent plate 224 can function as a lid, the lid 223 is not necessarily provided. Further, if a material having flexibility and light shielding properties is disposed in the portion of the case 211 that contacts the laminated signal lamp 900, it is convenient for suppressing the intrusion of external light.

In the sensor block 220 according to this modification, a groove 211d extending in the x direction is provided on the bottom outer surface of the case 211 (surface facing the z1 direction). In the example illustrated in FIG. 17B, the groove 211d is disposed at the center of the bottom outer surface in the y direction, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The groove 211d is used to fix the sensor block 220 to the laminated signal lamp 900 by the fixing band 211e. That is, by disposing a part of the fixed band 211e in the groove portion 211d, it is possible to prevent the positional displacement of the fixed band 211e with respect to the sensor block 220. As a result, the sensor block 220 and the laminated signal lamp 900 are fixed to each other. Can be stabilized.

18 and 19 show a signal lamp monitor according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 18 is a front view showing the detection unit 200. FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration, and shows a state viewed from the z1 direction. The signal lamp monitor A6 shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 is different from the signal lamp monitor A1 according to the first embodiment (see FIGS. 1 and 4) in the configuration of the detection unit 200.

The detection unit 200 according to the sixth embodiment includes a single detection board 270. The detection board 270 corresponds to the detection block 260 according to the fourth embodiment in which the sensor board 222 is the flexible printed board 226 and the case 211 is omitted. That is, the detection board 270 has four photodiodes 225, 235, 245, and 255 mounted in a line at a predetermined interval on a flexible printed board 226 that extends in the y direction, and a connector 213 at the end on the y1 direction side. Is installed. The detection board 270 is connected to the main body 100 by connecting the connector 213 to the connector 160 of the main body 100. The detection substrate 270 is wound around the laminated signal lamp 900 so that each photodiode 225, 235, 245 can receive light emitted from the light emitting units 901, 902, 903, for example, It is fixed with double-sided tape. The method for fixing the detection substrate 270 to the laminated signal lamp 900 is not limited. In order not to block the light emitted from the laminated signal lamp 900, the flexible printed circuit board 226 is preferably transparent.

In the present embodiment, it is possible to deal with various laminated signal lamps 900 by changing how the detection board 270 is wound. For example, when the dimension of the light emitting units 901, 902, and 903 in the y direction is shorter, the winding angle (the angle formed between the detection substrate 270 and the y direction) is increased, and when the dimension is longer, the winding angle is set. Just make it smaller. Further, in this embodiment, there is no need to assemble the detection unit 200 as in the first embodiment, the detection board 270 is connected to the connector 160, and the detection board 270 is simply wound around the laminated signal lamp 900 and fixed. It can be easily attached to the laminated signal lamp 900 in a short time.

FIG. 20 is a front view showing the main body 100 of the signal light monitor according to the seventh embodiment. The signal lamp monitor A7 shown in the figure is different from the signal lamp monitor A1 according to the first embodiment (see FIG. 2) in that light emitted from the laminated signal lamp 900 is guided to the main body 100.

The signal lamp monitor A7 of the seventh embodiment includes a light guide 400, a light guide case 500, and a color sensor 600 instead of the detection unit 200 of the first embodiment. The color sensor 600 is mounted on the end of the main surface 110a of the circuit board 110 in the z1 direction so that the light receiving surface 600a faces the z1 direction. The light guide case 500 that houses the light guide 400 is fixed to the end of the circuit board 110 in the z1 direction so that the longitudinal direction is the y direction.

The light guide 400 is a member that guides light emitted from the laminated signal lamp 900 to the main body 100. The light guide 400 has an elongated shape with the y direction as a longitudinal direction as a whole, and has a substantially circular cross section in the present embodiment. The light guide 400 is made of a transparent material, and is made of an acrylic resin such as polymethyl methacrylate resin (abbreviated as PMMA resin). The light guide 400 includes an incident surface (light detection surface) 401, reflection surfaces 402 and 403, and an emission surface 404. The incident surface 401 is a surface on which light emitted from the laminated signal lamp 900 is incident. The incident surface 401 extends in the y direction of the light guide 400 and continues from a position below the bottom surface of the main body 100 to the vicinity of the end in the y2 direction. The incident surface 401 faces in the z2 direction, and faces the side surface of the laminated signal lamp 900 ( light emitting units 901, 902, and 903) in a state where the main body 100 is placed on the top of the laminated signal lamp 900. . The reflective surface 402 is a surface that reflects the light incident from the incident surface 401 in the y1 direction. The reflective surface 402 is in the same range as the range of the incident surface 401 in the y direction, and faces the incident surface 401. The reflection surface 403 is a surface for reflecting light traveling in the y1 direction in the z2 direction. The reflection surface 403 is an end surface of the light guide 400 in the y1 direction, and is inclined 45 ° with respect to the y direction. The emission surface 404 is a surface that emits the light reflected by the reflection surface 403. The emission surface 404 faces the light receiving surface 600a of the color sensor 600.

The light incident from the incident surface 401 is reflected by the reflecting surface 402 and travels in the y1 direction, is reflected by the reflecting surface 403, travels in the z2 direction, and is emitted from the emitting surface 404. The light emitted from the emission surface 404 is incident on the light receiving surface 600 a of the color sensor 600, that is, received by the color sensor 600. Since the incident surface 401 is formed so as to cover all of the light emitting portions 901, 902, and 903 when the signal lamp monitor A7 is attached to the laminated signal light 900, light emitted from any of the light emitting portions 901, 902, and 903 is incident. Is done. Therefore, the light emitted from any one of the light emitting units 901, 902, and 903 or a mixed light thereof is also incident on the light receiving surface 600a of the color sensor 600.

The light guide case 500 is for holding the light guide 400 and preventing light from leaking from the light guide 400 or light from the outside being incident. The light guide body 500 accommodates the light guide 400 while exposing the entrance surface 401 and the exit surface 404 of the light guide 400, and is made of, for example, white resin.

The color sensor 600 outputs information on the light received by the light receiving surface 600a to the control unit 330. Based on the input information, the controller 330 identifies which of the light emitting units 901, 902, and 903 is incident. The control unit 330 also identifies the light emission state based on the input information.

21 and 22 show a signal lamp monitor according to the eighth embodiment. FIG. 21 is a front view showing the main body 100. FIG. 22 is a plan view showing the main body 100. The signal lamp monitor A8 shown in FIGS. 21 and 22 is different from the signal lamp monitor A1 according to the first embodiment (see FIGS. 2 and 3) in that light emitted from the laminated signal lamp 900 is guided to the main body 100.

As in the seventh embodiment, the signal lamp monitor A8 of the eighth embodiment guides light emitted from the laminated signal lamp 900 to the main body 100 by the light guide. On the other hand, in the signal lamp monitor A8, the light emitted from the light emitting units 901, 902, and 903 is not guided by a single light guide, but three light guides that individually guide the light emitted from the light emitting units 901, 902, and 903. Have a body. Specifically, the signal light monitor A8 includes light guides 400, 410, 420, light guide cases 500, 510, 520, and photodiodes 225, 235, 245. The photodiodes 225, 235, and 245 are mounted on the end in the z1 direction of the main surface 110a of the circuit board 110 so that the light receiving surfaces 225a, 235a, and 245a face the z1 direction. The photodiodes 225, 235, and 245 are arranged in this order from the x2 direction to the x1 direction. The longitudinal direction of the light guide case 500 containing the light guide 400, the light guide case 510 containing the light guide 410, and the light guide case 520 containing the light guide 420 is the y direction. Then, the circuit board 110 is fixed to the end of the circuit board 110 in the z1 direction in this order from the x2 direction toward the x1 direction.

The light guide 400 and the light guide case 500 are the same as the light guide 400 and the light guide case 500 of the seventh embodiment, but the dimension in the y direction is short, and the incident surface 401 emits light. It is provided only at a position facing the portion 901. Therefore, the light guide 400 guides only the light emitted from the light emitting unit 901 to the main body 100. The light guide 410 and the light guide case 510 are the same as the light guide 400 and the light guide case 500 according to the seventh embodiment, but are provided only at a position where the incident surface 411 faces the light emitting unit 902. It has been. Therefore, the light guide 410 guides only the light emitted from the light emitting unit 902 to the main body 100. The light guide 420 and the light guide case 520 are the same as the light guide 400 and the light guide case 500 according to the seventh embodiment, but are provided only at a position where the incident surface 421 faces the light emitting unit 903. It has been. Therefore, the light guide 420 guides only the light emitted from the light emitting unit 903 to the main body 100.

The photodiodes 225, 235, and 245 are the same as the photodiodes 225, 235, and 245 according to the first embodiment, and receive the light guided by the light guides 400, 410, and 420, respectively. Accordingly, the photodiode 225 receives light emitted from the light emitting unit 901, the photodiode 235 receives light emitted from the light emitting unit 902, and the photodiode 245 receives light emitted from the light emitting unit 903. The controller 330 identifies the emission color and the issuance state based on the current flowing through the photodiodes 225, 235, and 245, as in the first embodiment.

In the first to eighth embodiments described above, the case where the main body 100 is directly placed on the top of the laminated signal lamp 900 has been described, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. A fixing tool for fixing the main body 100 may be placed on the top of the laminated signal lamp 900, and the main body 100 may be attached to the fixing tool. FIG. 23 is a view for explaining a body fixture 750 which is an example of such a fixture. FIG. 23A is a plan view of the main body fixture 750 attached to the laminated signal lamp 900. FIG. FIG. 23B is a front view of the main body fixture 750 attached to the laminated signal lamp 900.

The main body fixture 750 is a circular plate made of, for example, synthetic resin. The body fixing tool 750 includes a notch 750a extending in the z2 direction from the end in the z1 direction, a contact part 750b extending in the y1 direction from the end in the z2 direction, and closer to the z1 direction of the surface facing the y1 direction. , And two protrusions 750c arranged with the notch 750a interposed therebetween. The material and shape of the main body fixture 750 are not limited. The main body fixture 750 is fixed to the uppermost part of the laminated signal lamp 900 with, for example, a double-sided tape. At this time, the main body fixture 750 is fixed to the laminated signal lamp 900 so that the screw for disassembling the laminated signal lamp 900 is positioned at the notch 750a (see FIG. 23A). Then, the end of the main body 100 on the z2 direction side is brought into contact with the contact portion 750b, and the projecting portion 750c is fitted into the hole 102c provided on the bottom surface of the main body 100 (case 102). It fixes to the fixing tool 750 (refer FIG.23 (b)).

The main body 100 can be easily attached to and detached from the laminated signal lamp 900 by using the main body fixture 750. Further, when the main body 100 is detached from the main body fixing tool 750, a screw for disassembling the laminated signal lamp 900 is located in the notch 750a of the main body fixing tool 750. By removing the screw, the laminated signal lamp 900 can be disassembled and maintained. Therefore, even after the main body 100 is attached to the laminated signal lamp 900, maintenance of the laminated signal lamp 900 can be easily performed. In addition, the main body fixing tool 750 can be adapted to the laminated signal lamp 900 having various diameters because the head of the screw is exposed by the notch 750a.

FIGS. 24 to 29 show a signal lamp monitor according to the ninth embodiment. FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing an overall configuration of a signal lamp monitor according to the ninth embodiment. FIG. 25 is a plan view of the main body of the signal light monitor. FIG. 26 is a plan view of the main body and shows a state in which the cover 103 is transmitted. In FIG. 26, the cover 103 is indicated by a broken line. FIG. 27 is a front view of the main body of the signal light monitor. In FIG. 27, a part of the internal configuration is indicated by a broken line. FIG. 28 is a front view showing the detection unit of the signal light monitor. In FIG. 28, the lid 223 is transmitted, and the internal configuration is indicated by a broken line. FIG. 29 is a block diagram of the signal lamp monitor. The signal lamp monitor A9 shown in FIGS. 24 to 29 is different from the signal lamp monitor A1 according to the first embodiment (see FIGS. 1 to 7) in the shape of the main body 100 and the like. Below, it demonstrates centering around difference with signal lamp monitor A1.

As shown in FIG. 24, the signal light monitor A9 includes a main body 100, a spacer 105, an attachment 106, and a detection unit 200. The spacers 105 are stacked in a necessary number according to the laminated signal lamp 900 on which the signal lamp monitor A9 is arranged, and are fixed to the bottom surface of the main body 100 with screws. The attachment 106 is attached to the spacer 105 farthest from the main body 100. Then, the attachment 106 is fixed to the upper surface of the laminated signal lamp 900, whereby the signal lamp monitor A9 is attached to the laminated signal lamp 900.

As shown in FIGS. 24 to 27, in the present embodiment, the casing 101 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The case 102 and the cover 103 are made of, for example, white synthetic resin, and each have a bottomed rectangular tube shape.

As shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, the case 102 includes a support portion 102d. The support part 102d is formed upright in the y1 direction from the case 102, and supports the wireless module 120.

As shown in FIGS. 24, 25, and 27, the cover 103 includes a bottom plate 103a. The bottom plate 103a is a part that forms the bottom of the cover 103, and is orthogonal to the y direction. The bottom plate 103a includes a protruding portion 103b. The protruding portion 103b is formed so as to stand upright with respect to the bottom plate 103a and protrude in the y1 direction. The protrusion 103b has a rectangular shape in plan view, and is disposed near the edge on the x1 direction side of the bottom plate 103a and near the edge on the z2 direction side. The protrusion 103b includes a reflective surface 103c, a protrusion opening 103d, and a lid 103e. The reflective surface 103c is a surface facing the x2 direction side among the side surfaces orthogonal to the bottom surface plate 103a of the protruding portion 103b. The protrusion opening 103d is an opening formed across the surface facing the y1 direction and the surface facing the z1 direction of the protrusion 103b. The lid 103e is a lid for closing the protrusion opening 103d. The bottom plate 103a has an opening 103f. The opening 103f is a rectangular opening formed in the bottom plate 103a, and is disposed on the x2 direction side of the protrusion 103b. The opening 103f is arranged in accordance with the position of the solar cell 122 of the wireless module 120 housed in the housing 101, and the light receiving surface 122a of the solar cell 122 is exposed from the opening 103f. Therefore, the light traveling from the y1 direction side of the main body 100 enters the light receiving surface 122a of the solar cell 122. In the present embodiment, since the protrusion 103b is provided on the bottom plate 103a, the light traveling from the x2 direction side of the main body 100 is reflected by the reflection surface 103c of the protrusion 103b (the broken line in FIG. 27). The light receiving surface 122a of the solar cell 122 is incident.

25 and 26, the cover 103 includes a partition wall 103g. The partition wall 103g is formed upright on the y2 direction side from the bottom plate 103a, reaches the vicinity of the main surface 110a of the circuit board 110, and extends in the z direction. The partition wall 103g divides the main surface 110a of the circuit board 110 into a region on the x1 direction side and a region on the x2 direction side. The region on the x1 direction side overlaps the protruding portion 103b in plan view. Therefore, the operator can operate the members arranged in the region on the x1 direction side by opening the lid 103e and from the protruding portion opening 103d. On the other hand, since the region on the x2 direction side is separated by the partition wall 103g, the operator cannot operate the members arranged in the region on the x2 direction side.

The circuit board 110 fitted into the opening of the case 102 is also rectangular. The main surface 110a of the circuit board 110 is divided into a region on the x1 direction side and a region on the x2 direction side by the partition wall 103g. In the region on the x1 direction side, a switch 130, a reset switch 132, a variable resistor 140, a slide switch 133, an LED 134, and a battery holder 150 are arranged. These members can be operated by an operator.

On the other hand, the wireless module 120 is arranged in the region on the x2 direction side. The wireless module 120 includes a connector 124 on the back surface 121 b of the module substrate 121. A connector 110 c is disposed on the main surface 110 a of the circuit board 110. The wireless module 120 is mounted on the circuit board 110 in a state of being separated from the circuit board 110 by connecting the connector 124 to the connector 110c. The wireless module 120 is supported by a support portion 102 d provided on the case 102. Between the wireless module 120 and the circuit board 110, a member that does not need to be operated by an operator (or should not be touched by the operator) is disposed. These members are separated from the projecting portion opening 103d by the partition wall 103g, and further, disposed between the wireless module 120 and the circuit board 110, so that operation and contact by the operator can be prevented.

In this embodiment, the antenna 123 of the wireless module 120 is arranged so that the central axis extends in the z1 direction. In this embodiment, it is designed so that metal parts are not arranged around the antenna 123 as much as possible so that electromagnetic waves radiated from the antenna 123 are not reflected by the surrounding metal. For example, metal parts such as the battery holder 150 are disposed on the z2 direction side, and the antenna 123 is disposed on the z1 direction side. In addition, in the main surface 110a of the circuit board 110, the region where the antenna 123 is located is designed so that wiring is not provided as much as possible. Therefore, although the antenna 123 does not extend in the y1 direction, communication can be performed without any problem.

In the present embodiment, the main body 100 includes a reset switch 132 in addition to the switch 130. The reset switch 132 is a switch for resetting the state of the wireless module 120 to the initial state. The reset switch 132 also includes a push button 131. In the present embodiment, the switch 130 is used to transmit the ID number set in the signal light monitor A9 to the management device 800. As illustrated in FIG. 29, when the operator presses the pressing button 131, an operation signal from the switch 130 or the reset switch 132 is input to the control unit 330. When the operation signal from the switch 130 is input, the control unit 330 reads the ID number from the memory and causes the transmission unit 340 to transmit the ID number. The control unit 330 performs a reset process when an operation signal from the reset switch 132 is input. The switch 130 and the reset switch 132 are arranged so that the push button 131 extends in the y1 direction. The variable resistor 140 is arranged such that the surface on which the adjustment groove 141 is arranged faces the y1 direction.

In this embodiment, the battery holder 150 is configured to mount a cylindrical lithium battery (for example, CR2). The controller 330 detects the voltage in order to monitor the presence / absence of the battery in the battery holder 150 and the voltage, and periodically transmits a signal corresponding to the detection result to the management apparatus 800.

In the present embodiment, the main body 100 further includes a slide switch 133 and an LED 134.

The slide switch 133 is a switch for switching the operation mode. As illustrated in FIG. 29, the control unit 330 switches the operation mode by switching the control based on the input from the slide switch 133. As shown in FIG. 26, the slide switch 133 includes two changeover switches. One switch is a switch for switching between the normal mode and the energy saving mode. While the switch is switched to the normal mode, the measurement interval for identifying the light emission state is 10 seconds, and the periodic detection signal transmission interval is 30 seconds (similar to the first embodiment). On the other hand, while the switch is switched to the energy saving mode, the measurement interval for identifying the light emission state is 60 seconds, and the periodic detection signal transmission interval is 30 minutes. In the case of the energy saving mode, the measurement interval and the transmission interval become long, so that the power consumed can be suppressed. Note that the set times of the measurement interval and the transmission interval are not limited to these examples, and can be changed as appropriate. The other switch is provided as a spare switch. A predetermined operation mode is set in the spare switch, for example, when a future version upgrade is performed.

The LED 134 is for notifying the communication state, and lights up while the signal lamp monitor A9 is transmitting a detection signal. As illustrated in FIG. 29, the control unit 330 outputs a current to the LED 134 while the transmission unit 340 transmits a detection signal. As a result, the LED 134 is lit.

In the present embodiment, the connector 160 is disposed at the end of the main surface 110a of the circuit board 110 on the z1 direction side, and the relay cable 290 is connected thereto. The relay cable 290 passes through the gap between the case 102 and the cover 103, and the connector 292 is outside the housing 101 and is connected to the detection unit 200.

As shown in FIGS. 24 and 28, in the present embodiment, the detection unit 200 is configured by one detection block 260, as in the fourth embodiment. In this embodiment, the case 211 is formed of a synthetic resin (for example, ABS resin) to which an additive for reducing the amount of light transmission is added in order to improve the light shielding property, and the inner surface is for light shielding. It is colored black. Note that the material of the case 211 is not limited. In this embodiment, in order to improve the light shielding property of the case 211, an additive is added and the inner surface is colored. However, only one of them may be used. The case 211 further extends in the y1 direction, and includes an attachment portion 211f at the end in the y1 direction. The attachment portion 211 f is for attaching the detection block 260 to the main body 100. First, the connector 213 is connected to the connector 292 outside the housing 101, and the attachment block 211f is fixed to the cover 103 of the main body 100 with screws as shown in FIG. Attached to.

As shown in FIG. 28, the case 211 has a wall in the x1 direction side and a wall in the x2 direction side that extends in the z2 direction side as in the modified example of the sensor block 220, and the space between the two walls. In addition, a lid 223 and a transparent plate 224 are disposed. The lid 223 is a rectangular plate made of the same material as the case 211, and four windows 223a are provided in accordance with the positions of the photodiodes 225, 235, 245, and 255. In the present embodiment, the detection block 260 includes a partition plate 227. The partition plate 227 is made of the same material as the case 211, and the length of the long side is equal to the distance between the wall on the x1 direction side and the wall on the x2 direction side of the case 211, and the length of the short side is the sensor substrate 222 and the lid. It is the same as the distance to H.223. The partition plate 227 is disposed between the sensor substrate 222 and the lid 223 so as to be orthogonal thereto. The partition plates 227 are disposed between the photodiodes 225, 235, 245, and 255, at five locations on the y1 direction side of the photodiode 225, and on the y2 direction side of the photodiode 255. Accordingly, each of the photodiodes 225, 235, 245, and 255 is blocked by the partition plate 227, the case 211, the substrate 222, and the lid 223, and receives only the light that passes through the window portion 223a. In addition, the material of the lid | cover 223 and the partition plate 227 is not limited.

Also in this embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, it is possible to easily add a communication function to the laminated signal lamp 900 in a short time and at a low cost. Furthermore, the light receiving surface 122a of the solar cell 122 is exposed from the opening 103f, and the reflecting surface 103c is disposed on the x1 direction side of the opening 103f. Therefore, the light traveling from the x2 direction side of the main body 100 is reflected by the reflecting surface 103 c and enters the light receiving surface 122 a of the solar cell 122. Thereby, the solar cell 122 can effectively use not only the light traveling from the y1 direction side but also the light traveling from the x2 direction side, and can increase the generated electric power.

The protrusion 103b includes a protrusion opening 103d and a lid 103e. Accordingly, the operator can open the lid 103e and operate a member disposed below the protruding portion 103b (in the y2 direction) from the protruding portion opening 103d. Further, by closing the lid 103e, it is possible to prevent dust and dirt from entering the main body 100. Further, since the cover 103 includes the partition wall 103g, an operator can be prevented from operating and contacting a member disposed in a region separated from the partition wall 103g from the protruding portion opening 103d.

Support portion 102d is formed in case 102 and supports wireless module 120. Therefore, the wireless module 120 can be prevented from tilting. Accordingly, a gap is generated between the light receiving surface 122a of the solar cell 122 and the opening 103f, and dust and dust can be prevented from entering the main body 100 from the gap.

The slide switch 133 can switch the operation mode between the normal mode and the energy saving mode. When the mode is switched to the energy saving mode, the measurement interval and the transmission interval become longer than when the mode is switched to the normal mode, and the consumed power is suppressed. Therefore, the operator can select the normal mode in which measurement and signal transmission are frequently performed and the energy saving mode in which power consumption can be suppressed by switching the slide switch 133.

The signal lamp monitor according to the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment. The specific configuration of each part of the signal light monitor according to the present disclosure can be varied in design in various ways.

Claims (32)

1. A signal lamp monitor attached to a signal lamp that informs information by light,
   Detection means for detecting light;
   A control unit that generates a detection signal based on at least the detection;
   A transmission unit for transmitting the detection signal by wireless communication;
   With
   The signal light monitor, wherein the transmission unit includes an antenna disposed vertically above the detection means.
2. The signal lamp monitor according to claim 1, wherein the antenna extends vertically upward.
3. The signal light monitor according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a housing that houses the control unit and the transmission unit and is placed on the top of the signal light.
4. 4. The signal lamp monitor according to claim 1, wherein the detecting means is a light receiving means.
5. The signal light monitor according to claim 4, wherein the light receiving means includes a plurality of light receiving units.
6. The signal light monitor according to claim 5, wherein the light receiving means includes at least three light receiving units.
7. The signal lamp monitor according to claim 5, further comprising a plurality of sensor boards each mounting the plurality of light receiving units.
8. Further comprising at least one relay board for connecting the plurality of sensor boards;
   One of the plurality of sensor boards and the relay board each include a connector,
   The signal lamp monitor according to claim 7, wherein the one sensor board and the relay board are connected by the connector to form a current path.
9. The signal lamp monitor according to claim 7, further comprising a relay cable for connecting the plurality of sensor boards.
10. The signal lamp monitor according to claim 5, further comprising a common sensor substrate on which the plurality of light receiving units are mounted.
11. The signal lamp monitor according to claim 10, wherein the sensor substrate is a flexible printed circuit board.
12. The signal lamp monitor according to claim 10, wherein the sensor board is arranged to be movable in a vertical direction along a side surface of the signal lamp.
13. A case in which the cross-section is U-shaped, and the sensor substrate is disposed on the inner part thereof;
    A lid attached to the case so as to face the sensor substrate;
    Further comprising
    The lid is provided with a window portion facing the light receiving surface of the light receiving means,
    The signal lamp monitor according to claim 7, wherein the lid is separated from the signal lamp in a state where the case is in contact with the signal lamp.
14. The signal lamp includes a plurality of light emitting portions that emit different colors,
    The plurality of light receiving units is the same number as the plurality of light emitting units,
    The signal light monitor according to claim 5, wherein each of the plurality of light receiving units is disposed at a position where the light emitted from the plurality of light emitting units can be received.
15. A light guide for guiding the light of the signal lamp to the housing;
    A light receiving means disposed in the housing for receiving the light guided by the light guide;
    Further comprising
    The signal lamp monitor according to claim 3, wherein the detection unit is configured by an incident surface of the light guide.
16. The signal lamp includes a plurality of light emitting units that emit different colors,
    The light receiving means is a color sensor,
    The signal lamp according to claim 15, wherein the control unit identifies which light emitting unit emits light based on information output from the color sensor, and generates the detection signal according to an identification result. monitor.
17. The signal lamp includes a plurality of light emitting units that emit different colors,
    The light receiving means includes the same number of light receiving units as the plurality of light emitting units,
    The signal light monitor according to claim 15, wherein the light guide includes the same number of individual light guides as the plurality of light emitting units.
18. The signal lamp monitor according to claim 3, further comprising a solar cell for supplying power to the transmitter.
19. The signal lamp monitor according to claim 18, wherein the solar cell has a light receiving surface facing a light emitting surface of the signal lamp.
20. The signal lamp monitor according to claim 18, wherein the solar cell has a light receiving surface facing a side opposite to the signal lamp when the casing is placed on the signal lamp.
21. The signal light monitor according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the transmitting unit is a power-saving wireless module integrated with the solar cell.
22. 4. The signal light monitor according to claim 3, further comprising a switch for a predetermined operation.
23. The signal lamp monitor according to claim 22, wherein the switch includes a pressing button that is pressed downward in the vertical direction when the casing is placed on the signal lamp.
24. The signal lamp monitor according to claim 22, wherein the switch includes a pressing button that is pressed in a horizontal direction when the casing is placed on the signal lamp.
25. In the configuration further comprising a variable resistor,
    The signal lamp monitor according to claim 3, wherein the detection unit is a light receiving unit, and the variable resistor is connected to the light receiving unit.
26. 26. The signal lamp according to claim 25, wherein the variable resistor has a resistance value adjustment surface, and the resistance value adjustment surface faces upward in a vertical direction when the casing is placed on the signal lamp. monitor.
27. The variable resistor has a resistance value adjustment surface, and when the housing is placed on the signal lamp, the resistance value adjustment surface is parallel to a vertical direction and is outside the housing. 26. The signal light monitor according to claim 25, which faces toward.
28. The signal lamp monitor according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the control unit generates the detection signal at one of two different timings according to a state of the signal lamp.
29. The signal lamp monitor according to claim 28, further comprising a switch for switching the timing interval.
30. The housing includes a protrusion formed on a surface opposite to a surface placed on the signal lamp,
    The signal lamp monitor according to claim 3, wherein the protrusion includes a protrusion opening that communicates with the inside of the housing and a lid for closing the protrusion opening.
31. The solar cell further includes a solar cell disposed in the housing such that a light receiving surface faces the opposite surface,
    The housing further includes an opening formed at a position where the light receiving surface faces.
    The signal lamp monitor according to claim 30, wherein the protrusion further includes a reflection surface that reflects light from the outside toward the opening.
32. The signal lamp monitor according to claim 30 or 31, wherein the casing further includes a partition wall for separating a part of the housing from the protrusion opening.

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