WO2023084793A1

WO2023084793A1 - U-bolt, monitoring apparatus, and monitoring method

Info

Publication number: WO2023084793A1
Application number: PCT/JP2021/041973
Authority: WO
Inventors: 利基中西; 大樹小林; 淳荒武; 洋介櫻田
Original assignee: 日本電信電話株式会社
Priority date: 2021-11-15
Filing date: 2021-11-15
Publication date: 2023-05-19
Also published as: JPWO2023084793A1

Abstract

A U-bolt (1) according to the present invention is provided with: a pair of shaft portions (111) that are aligned along a first direction and extend in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; threaded portions (12) respectively provided in the pair of shaft portions (111); and electronic parts (15) that are respectively provided in the pair of shaft portions and detect the descent of a nut (4).

Description

U-bolt, monitoring device and monitoring method

The present disclosure relates to U-bolts, monitoring devices and monitoring methods.

Conventionally, U-bolts are used to fix fasteners such as piping to fastened objects such as frames and walls. A U-bolt is a U-shaped bolt in which two linear shafts are connected by a bridge. By inserting the shaft of the U bolt into each of the two through-holes provided in the object to be fastened with the object to be fastened inside the U bolt and tightening the nuts from the ends of each of the two shafts, the U The object to be fastened can be fixed by sandwiching it between the bolt and the object to be fastened. FIG. 22 shows a structure when a fastening object such as a pipe is fixed to a fastening object with a U-bolt. When fixing things such as piping with U bolts, the left and right nuts are tightened to fix the things to be fastened, such as piping, but when used outdoors for a long period of time, the nuts may loosen due to deterioration over time. , Fastened objects such as pipes may come off, and hardware such as fastened objects may come off. Furthermore, there is a risk that the loosening of the nut will eventually cause the nut to come off from the U-bolt, causing the nut to fall and cause an accident involving contact with a person, automobile, or the like. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary to prevent the nut from completely loosening and falling off.

A nut that is more difficult to loosen than before has been developed, but when used to tighten a U-bolt, it is necessary to tighten the left and right nuts with the same tightening force. Non-Patent Document 1 describes a performance evaluation of a super slit nut (SSN) with a new anti-loosening mechanism. However, since it is very difficult to equalize the tightening force on the left and right sides of the U-bolt, the performance of the locking nut is not exhibited, and the nut may eventually fall off due to loosening. As a conventional technique, a technique has been developed for detecting falling objects such as falling rocks using a cable sensor. Non-Patent Document 2 describes the results of examination of the applicability of a rock slope collapse or rockfall monitoring system using a cable sensor to various locations. However, this technology is intended for heavy falling objects such as falling rocks that fall over a long distance, so it is not suitable for detecting falling U-bolt nuts, which fall over a short distance and are light in weight.

The object of the present disclosure, which has been made in view of such circumstances, is to provide a U-bolt that has both a mechanism that does not fall even if the nut coupled to the U-bolt is loosened and a mechanism that detects the drop due to the loosening of the nut, and the loosening of the nut from the U-bolt. To provide a monitoring device and a monitoring method for monitoring descent by In this specification, the term "nut drop" means that the nut is completely removed from the shaft portion, and the term "nut drop" means that the nut is separated from the threaded portion provided on the shaft portion. It means that it is caught by a member mounted on the tip side of the part (a base part, a rod-shaped member, an insulated wire, etc., which will be described later).

In order to solve the above problems, a U-bolt according to the present disclosure is a U-bolt that uses a nut to fasten a fastener, and is arranged in a first direction and in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. A pair of extending shaft portions, a threaded portion provided on each of the pair of shaft portions, and an electronic component provided on each of the pair of shaft portions for detecting the descent of the nut are provided.

In order to solve the above problems, a monitoring device according to the present disclosure is a monitoring device that monitors the descent of a nut from a U-bolt, and includes an electronic component that detects the descent of the nut and a detection result of the electronic component. a U-bolt having a transmitter, a receiver that receives the detection result transmitted from the transmitter, a control unit that determines whether the nut is lowered based on the detection result, and the control unit and an alert issuing unit that issues an alert when it is determined that the nut is descending.

In order to solve the above problems, a monitoring method according to the present disclosure is a monitoring method for monitoring the descent of a nut from a U-bolt, comprising the step of detecting the descent of the nut by a monitoring device; a step of transmitting a detection result to be detected; a step of receiving the detection result; a step of determining whether or not the nut is lowered based on the detection result; , and issuing an alert.

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to detect a descent due to the loosening of the nut and prevent a fall due to the loosening of the nut.

It is a figure showing an example of composition of U bolt concerning a 1st embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a structure in which a base portion having an elastic member attached to one end thereof is housed in a hole formed in a shaft portion of a U-bolt; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the base portion is accommodated inside the open hole when the nut is attached; It is a figure which shows the state which a base protrudes on the outer side of a perforation hole after nut attachment. It is a figure which shows the state which a base part becomes a stopper at the time of nut descent. It is the figure which made the shape of the base part which attached the elastic member to the one end cylindrical. It is the figure which processed the shape of the base part which attached the elastic member to the one end in the taper shape. It is a figure which shows the structural example of U bolt which mounts a contact-type sensor or a distance sensor. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the positional states of the nut and the contact sensor or the distance sensor when the nut is tightened and when the nut is lowered; It is a descent judgment table of a nut. It is a figure which shows the structural example of U bolt which mounts the electronic component which has a switch. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the positional states of the nut and the switch when the nut is tightened and when the nut is lowered; It is a descent judgment table of a nut. It is a figure which shows the structural example of U bolt which mounts the electronic component which has a metal plate. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the positional states of the nut and the metal plate when the nut is fastened and when the nut is lowered; It is a descent judgment table of a nut. It is a figure which shows the structural example of U bolt which mounts the electronic component which has a reed switch. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the positions of the nut in which the magnet is embedded and the reed switch when the nut is fastened and when the nut is lowered; It is a descent judgment table of a nut. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a U-bolt in which a rod-like member is passed through a through-hole penetrating the shaft portion according to the second embodiment; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the structure of a U-bolt in which a contact sensor is mounted on a rod-shaped member; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the positional states of the nut and the contact sensor when the nut is tightened and when the nut is lowered; It is a descent judgment table of a nut. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a contact-type sensor mounting portion of a U-bolt cut in the Y-axis direction; FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the shaft of the U-bolt cut in the Y-axis direction; It is a figure which shows the wiring route to a contact-type sensor. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the structure of a U-bolt in which a distance sensor is mounted on a rod-shaped member; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the positional states of the nut and the distance sensor when the nut is tightened and when the nut is lowered; It is a descent judgment table of a nut. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a U-bolt in which a switch is mounted on a rod-shaped member; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the positional states of the nut and the switch when the nut is tightened and when the nut is lowered; It is a descent judgment table of a nut. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a U-bolt in which a metal plate is mounted on a rod-shaped member; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the positional states of the nut and the metal plate when the nut is fastened and when the nut is lowered; It is a descent judgment table of a nut. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a U-bolt in which a reed switch is built into a rod-shaped member; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the positional states of the nut and the reed switch when the nut is tightened and when the nut is lowered; It is a descent judgment table of a nut. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a U-bolt in which an insulated wire is passed through a through-hole penetrating the shaft portion according to the third embodiment, and a reed switch connected by the insulated wire is built in the through-hole penetrating the shaft portion. . FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a U-bolt in which a reed switch is built in a through hole penetrating the shaft; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the positional states of the nut and the reed switch when the nut is tightened and when the nut is lowered; It is a descent judgment table of a nut. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a monitoring device according to a fourth embodiment; FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a monitoring device according to a fifth embodiment; FIG. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a monitoring device according to a sixth embodiment; FIG. FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing an example of a monitoring method executed by a monitoring device according to a fourth embodiment; FIG. It is a figure which shows the structure when piping is fixed with a U-bolt.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a U-bolt 1 according to the first embodiment.

The U-bolt 1 according to this embodiment is made of metal such as steel. As shown in FIG. 1, the U-bolt 1 includes a body portion 11 including a shaft portion 111A and a shaft portion 111B, a bridge portion 112, a threaded portion 12, a base portion 14A and a base portion 14B, an electronic component 15A and and an electronic component 15B. A U-bolt 1 is a U-bolt that fastens a fastener 7 using a nut 4 . Hereinafter, the base portion 14A and the base portion 14B are referred to as the base portion 14 when not distinguished from each other. Hereinafter, the electronic component 15A and the electronic component 15B are referred to as the electronic component 15 when not distinguished from each other. Moreover, below, the electronic component 15A and the electronic component 15B are collectively referred to as a pair of electronic components 15. As shown in FIG.

The shaft portion 111A and the shaft portion 111B are aligned in the first direction and extend in a direction orthogonal to the first direction. Hereinafter, as shown in FIG. 1, the direction in which the

shaft portions

111A and 111B are arranged side by side is referred to as the X-axis direction (first direction), and the direction in which the

shaft portions

111A and 111B extend. A direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction is referred to as a Z-axis direction (third direction). Hereinafter, the shaft portion 111A and the shaft portion 111B are collectively referred to as a pair of shaft portions 111. As shown in FIG. Moreover, below, when not distinguishing the axial part 111A and the axial part 111B, it is called the axial part 111. As shown in FIG.

The bridge portion 112 connects one end of each of the pair of shaft portions 111 . The bridge portion 112 is symmetrical with respect to a virtual straight line OY (hereinafter referred to as “virtual line OY”) extending in the Y-axis direction including the U-shaped vertex O formed by the U-bolt 1 . Moreover, the bridge portion 112 is provided at one end of each of the pair of shaft portions 111 and has a shape bent in a semicircular shape. Since the bridge portion 112 configured in this manner is provided at one end of the pair of shaft portions as described above, the U-bolt 1 forms a U-shape as a whole.

The threaded portion 12 has a threaded structure. The threaded portion 12 is provided on each of the pair of shaft portions 111 .

As shown in FIG. 1, a fastener 7 such as a pipe is placed inside the U-shaped U-bolt 1 (the space surrounded by the pair of shaft portions 111 and the bridge portion 112). In a state in which the fastening object 7 is arranged inside the U-bolt 1, the shaft portion 111A and the shaft portion are inserted into the pair of through-holes 5 provided in the fastening object 8 such as support hardware from one surface side of the fastening object 8, respectively. 111B is inserted. By inserting the

shaft portions

111A and 111B into the pair of through holes 5 respectively, the screw portions 12 of the

shaft portions

111A and 111B protrude to the other side of the object 8 to be fastened. A threaded portion 12 protruding from the other side of the fastened object 8 is tightened by a nut 4 . In addition, the nut 4 has a screw thread to be screwed with the screw thread of the threaded portion 12 . As a result, the fastening object 7 is sandwiched between the U-bolt 1 and the fastening object 8 and fixed.

The base portion 14 is a metal or resin pedestal on which the electronic component 15 is mounted. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a structure in which a base portion on which an electronic component is mounted, with an elastic member attached to one end thereof, is housed in a hole formed in the shaft portion of a U-bolt. The U-bolt 1 includes an elastic member s connected to the inner walls of the open holes 13 formed in each of the pair of shaft portions 111, and a base portion 14 connected to the elastic member s. It is mounted at a position facing the nut 4 of the base portion 14 . As shown in FIG. 2, the shaft portion 111 of the U-bolt 1 is provided with an aperture 13, and the inner wall of the aperture 13 is provided with a base portion 14 for mounting an electronic component 15 thereon by an elastic member s. . This structure serves to prevent the base 14 from falling after the nut 4 is installed. In order to prevent the base portion 14 from dropping out of the hole 13 and falling due to damage to the elastic member s due to the impact of the nut 4 falling, or to prolonged steady state of the elastic member s due to deterioration over time, the opening is provided. A stopper stp may be provided on the outer periphery of the hole 13 . The stopper stp is provided by welding the same metal material as the metal forming the shaft portion 111 to the outer periphery of the open hole 13 . Further, even if the stopper stp is not provided, the base portion 14 can be prevented from falling down by filling the inside of the hole 13 with a resin such as an adhesive and fixing the base portion 14 . Although the shape of the aperture 13 does not matter, it is easier to process if it is circular.

The electronic component 15 is provided on each of the pair of shaft portions 111 . Electronic component 15 detects the descent of nut 4 . The electronic component 15 includes (1) a contact sensor that detects the descent of the nut when it contacts the nut 4;
(2) A distance sensor that detects the descent of the nut 4 when the distance to the nut 4 becomes equal to or less than a threshold value, (3) A switch that closes the movable contact and the fixed contact by pressing the movable contact when the nut is contacted, ( 4) a metal plate that, when in contact with the nut 4, conducts an electrical circuit formed between the nut 4 and the washer 6; a reed switch on which a magnetic field produced by the magnet acts to close the contacts.

FIG. 3A is a diagram showing a state in which the base portion is accommodated inside the open hole when the nut is attached. As shown in FIG. 3A, one end of the base portion 14 is tapered. That is, when the base portion 14 is attached to the shaft portion 111, the base portion 14 is processed so as to taper from the apex side of the shaft portion 111 toward the tip side thereof. Therefore, when the nut 4 is passed upward through the shaft portion 111 when the nut 4 is tightened, the base portion 14 is pushed into the open hole 13, so that the nut 4 can be easily passed. FIG. 3B is a diagram showing a state in which the base protrudes outside the drilled hole after the nut is attached. As shown in FIG. 3B, after the nut 4 is passed through, the base portion 14 protrudes outside the open hole 13 and acts as a stopper. FIG. 3C is a diagram showing a state in which the base portion 14 serves as a stopper when the nut is lowered. As shown in FIG. 3C, when the nut 4 is lowered, one end of the base portion 14 is tapered so that the base portion 14 serves as a stopper and the nut 4 is completely removed from the shaft portion 111. Prevents it from falling off. The shape of the open hole 13 provided in the shaft portion 111 is not limited, but a circular shape facilitates processing.

FIG. 4A is a diagram in which the shape of the base with the elastic member attached to one end is cylindrical. The elastic member s is, for example, a spring. As shown in FIG. 4A, when the elastic force of the elastic member s increases, or when the stationary state of the elastic member s becomes longer due to deterioration over time, etc., the exposed portion exp where the base portion 14 is exposed from the shaft portion 111 of the U-bolt 1 becomes become longer. The longer the exposed portion exp, the more likely the base portion 14 will fall off the shaft portion 111 when the nut is tightened or dropped. Therefore, it is desirable to add a function to prevent the base portion 14 from coming off even when the elastic force of the elastic member s increases or when the steady state of the elastic member s increases. FIG. 4B is a diagram of a tapered base portion having an elastic member attached to one end thereof. As shown in FIG. 4B, when the shape of the tip of the base portion 14 is processed into a tapered shape and a stopper stp welded with the same metal material as the metal constituting the shaft portion 111 is fitted to the outer periphery of the open hole 13, The effect of preventing falling off can be obtained.

FIG. 5A is a diagram showing a configuration example of a U-bolt equipped with a contact sensor or distance sensor. The electronic component 15 mounted on the U-bolt 1A is a contact sensor 151 or a distance sensor 152. FIG. The U-bolt 1A uses a contact sensor 151 or a distance sensor 152 that measures the distance to the nut 4 by irradiating the object (nut 4) with ultrasonic waves, infrared rays, lasers, etc. Descent may be detected. The contact sensor 151 is a sensor that detects contact with an object (the nut 4). In FIG. 5A, an upward dashed arrow indicates that the distance sensor 152 irradiates the nut 4 with ultrasonic waves, infrared rays, laser, or the like. FIG. 5B is a diagram showing the positional states of the nut and the contact sensor or the distance sensor when the nut is tightened and lowered. In FIG. 5B, the left figure is when the nut 4 is tightened, and the right figure is when the nut 4 is lowered. When the nut 4 descends, the base portion 14 serves as a stopper and the nut 4 stops descending.

Fig. 5C is a nut descent determination table. In FIG. 5C, a contact sensor will be described as an example. It is desirable that the contact sensor 151 can determine whether or not the nut is in contact with the contact sensor 151 by 0 or 1. If the contact sensor 151A comes into contact with the nut (there is contact), it judges that it is "dropped", and if it does not come into contact (no contact), it judges that it is "no drop". The contact sensor 151B also makes determinations in the same manner as the contact sensor 151A.

FIG. 6A is a diagram showing a configuration example of a U-bolt equipped with an electronic component having a switch. Electronic component 15 mounted on U-bolt 1B has switch 153 . In the U-bolt 1B, the switch 153 is mounted on the base portion 14 so that the electronic component 15 having the switch 153 detects the descent of the nut 4. As shown in FIG. When the nut 4 is loosened and falls on the switch 153, the switch 153 mounted on the base portion 14 is closed, and the descent of the nut 4 is detected by conducting an electric circuit. FIG. 6B is a diagram showing the positional states of the nut and the switch when the nut is tightened and lowered. In FIG. 6B, the left figure is when the nut 4 is tightened, and the right figure is when the nut 4 is lowered. When the nut 4 is tightened, the switch 153 is open and the electrical circuit is not conducted. On the other hand, when the nut 4 is lowered, the switch 153 is closed to conduct the electric circuit.

Fig. 6C is a nut descent judgment table. If the switch 153A is closed by lowering the nut, it is determined to be "lowering", and if it is opened without lowering the nut, it is determined to be "no lowering". The switch 153B also makes a determination in the same manner as the switch 153A.

FIG. 7A is a diagram showing a configuration example of a U-bolt on which an electronic component having a metal plate is mounted. Electronic component 15 mounted on U-bolt 1C has metal plate 154 . In FIG. 7A, base 14 is formed using an insulator. FIG. 7B is a diagram showing the positions of the nut and the metal plate when the nut is fastened and lowered. As shown in FIG. 7B, a metal plate 154 to which an insulated wire w is attached is provided on the base portion 14, and the insulated wire w is attached to the washer 6. As shown in FIG. An insulated wire w means a wire covered with an insulating coating (the same shall apply hereinafter). When the nut 4 descends, the metal plate 154, the nut 4, and the washer 6 are brought into a conductive state, and the descent of the nut 4 is detected by conducting a series of electric circuits. Also, when the insulated wire w is attached to the body of the U-bolt 1C instead of the washer 6, the metal plate 154A and the metal plate 154B cannot be distinguished, but the contact between the nut 4 and the metal plate 154 makes the electric circuit conductive. , and the descent of the nut 4 is detected. Furthermore, in the case of the base portion 14 made of metal, lowering of the nut 4 can be detected without providing a new metal plate 154 by covering the portion other than the contact point between the base portion 14 and the nut 4 with an insulator.

Fig. 7C is a nut descent determination table. If the washer, nut, and metal plate 154A come into contact with each other and a series of electrical circuits are conducted, "Drop" occurs. judge. The metal plate 154B is determined similarly to the metal plate 154A.

FIG. 8A is a diagram showing a configuration example of a U-bolt equipped with an electronic component having a reed switch. The electronic component 15 mounted on the U-bolt 1D has a reed switch 155. As shown in FIG. In the U-bolt 1D, the magnet 16 is embedded in the nut 4 and the reed switch 155 is mounted on the base portion 14. As shown in FIG. FIG. 8B is a diagram showing the positions of the nut in which the magnet is embedded and the reed switch when the nut is fastened and lowered. When the nut is fastened, the magnetic field around the reed switch 155, which has a long distance from the nut 4 with the magnet 16 embedded therein, is weak and the reed switch 155 is open. The magnetic field increases and reed switch 155 closes.

Fig. 8C is a nut descent judgment table. If the magnetic field generated by the magnet is strong and the reed switch 155A is closed, it is determined to be "drop", and if the magnetic field around the reed switch 155A is weak and the reed switch 155A is open, it is determined to be "no drop". The reed switch 155B also makes a determination in the same manner as the reed switch 155A.

According to the U-bolt 1 according to the present disclosure, the base portion 14 provided on the shaft portion 111 functions as a stopper to prevent the nut 4 from falling. Detect the descent.

(Second embodiment)
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a U-bolt in which a rod-like member for mounting an electronic component is passed through a through hole penetrating the shaft portion according to the second embodiment.

The U-bolt 2 according to this embodiment is made of metal such as steel. As shown in FIG. 9, the U-bolt 2 includes a body portion 11 including

shaft portions

111A and 111B, a bridge portion 112, a threaded portion 12,

electronic components

15A and 15B, and a rod-shaped member 17. And prepare. A U-bolt 2 according to the present embodiment differs from the U-bolt 1 according to the first embodiment in that a rod-shaped member 17 is provided instead of the base portion 14 . The same reference numerals as in the first embodiment are assigned to the same configurations as in the first embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted as appropriate.

The U-bolt 2 includes a rod-shaped member 17 passed through through holes TH formed in the pair of shaft portions 111 . The electronic component 15 is mounted or built into the rod-like member 17 at a position facing the nut 4 . As shown in FIG. 9, the U-bolt 2 is provided with a through hole TH in the shaft portion 111, and after the nut 4 is tightened, a rod-shaped member 17 having an electronic component 15 mounted thereon is passed through the through hole TH so that the nut 4 is attached to the shaft. It is prevented from falling off completely from the part 111. - 特許庁An electronic component 15 mounted on a rod-like member 17 detects the descent of the nut 4. As shown in FIG. The rod-shaped member 17 is processed flat on the vertex side so that the electronic component 15 can be easily mounted and the descent of the nut 4 can be easily detected. The method of attaching the electronic component 15 to the rod-like member 17 is welding, adhesive, or the like, but the mounting method is not limited. The mounting position of the electronic component 15 may be any position on the rod-like member 17 as long as the position where the nut 4 contacts (opposes).

Detachment prevention members 18 are provided outside the

shafts

111A and 111B to prevent the rod-shaped member 17 from being detached from the shaft 111. The detachment prevention treatment is performed, for example, by using an adhesive, a nut, or the like after passing the nut 4, but the method of the treatment is not limited.

FIG. 10A is a diagram showing the structure of a U-bolt in which a contact sensor is mounted on a rod-shaped member. The electronic component 15 mounted on the U-bolt 2A is a contact sensor 151. As shown in FIG. The U-bolt 2A detects that the nut 4 has come down by mounting a contact sensor 151 that can detect that the nut 4 has come into contact with the U-bolt 2A. FIG. 10B is a diagram showing the positional states of the nut and the contact sensor when the nut is tightened and lowered. In FIG. 10B, the left figure shows the positional state of the nut 4 and the contact sensor 151 when the nut 4 is tightened, and the right figure shows the positional state of the nut 4 when the nut 4 is lowered. When the nut 4 descends, the rod-like member 17 on which the contact sensor 151 is mounted acts as a stopper, and the nut 4 stops descending.

Fig. 10C is a nut descent judgment table. Although the contact sensor 151 is not limited, it is desirable that it can determine whether or not the nut is in contact with the contact sensor 151 by 0 or 1. If the contact sensor 151A comes into contact with the nut (there is contact), it judges that it is "dropped", and if it does not come into contact (no contact), it judges that it is "no drop". The contact sensor 151B also makes determinations in the same manner as the contact sensor 151A.

FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view of the area indicated by AA in FIG. 10A, and is a cross-sectional view of the contact-type sensor mounting portion of the U-bolt cut in the Y-axis direction. AA cross section in FIG. 10A is a cross section taken along the Y-axis direction (second direction) of the contact sensor 151B. FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of the region indicated by BB in FIG. 10A, and is a cross-sectional view of the shaft portion of the U-bolt cut in the Y-axis direction. A BB cross section in FIG. 10B is a cross section obtained by cutting the shaft portion 111B of the U bolt 2A in the Y-axis direction (second direction).

FIG. 11C is a diagram showing the wiring route to the contact sensor. In FIG. 11C, when the insulated wire w is embedded in the rod-shaped member 17 as shown in the left diagram, it is desirable to attach the rod-shaped member 17 with the contact sensor 151 pre-mounted to a U-bolt. is not embedded in the rod-like member 17, it is desirable to attach the contact sensor 151 after attaching the rod-like member 17 to the U-bolt.

FIG. 12A is a diagram showing the structure of a U-bolt in which a distance sensor is mounted on a rod-shaped member. The electronic component 15 mounted on the U-bolt 2A is a distance sensor 152. As shown in FIG. That is, the U-bolt 2A measures the distance to the nut 4 by irradiating the object (the nut 4) with ultrasonic waves, infrared rays, laser, etc. in addition to contact with the nut 4, thereby preventing the nut 4 from falling. may be detected. In FIG. 12A , an upward dashed arrow indicates that the distance sensor 152 irradiates the nut 4 with ultrasonic waves, infrared rays, laser, or the like. It is desirable that the distance sensor 152 is a simple distance sensor that can determine whether or not the distance between the object and the nut 4 is equal to or less than a threshold value. FIG. 12B is a diagram showing the positional states of the nut and the distance sensor when the nut is tightened and lowered. In FIG. 12B, the left figure shows the positional state of the nut and the distance sensor when the nut 4 is tightened, and the right figure shows the positional state of the nut and the distance sensor when the nut 4 is lowered. When the nut 4 descends, the rod-like member 17 on which the distance sensor 152 is mounted serves as a stopper, and the nut 4 stops descending.

Fig. 12C is a nut descent judgment table. It is desirable that the distance sensor 152 can determine whether the nut is lowered by 0 or 1. The distance sensor 152A determines "descent" when the distance to the nut is equal to or less than the threshold, and determines "no descent" when the distance is greater than the threshold (no contact). The distance sensor 152B also makes determinations in the same manner as the distance sensor 152A.

FIG. 13A is a diagram showing a configuration example of a U-bolt in which a switch is mounted on a rod-shaped member. Electronic component 15 mounted on U-bolt 2B has switch 153 . The U-bolt 2B detects the descent caused by the loosening of the nut 4 by mounting the switch 153 on the rod-shaped member 17. As shown in FIG. When the nut 4 is loosened and falls onto the switch 153, the switch 153 is closed and the electrical circuit is conducted, thereby detecting the descent of the nut 4. This mechanism is similar to a tact switch. FIG. 13B is a diagram showing the positional states of the nut and the switch when the nut is tightened and lowered. When the nut 4 is lowered, the rod-like member 17 on which the switch 153 is mounted acts as a stopper to stop the nut 4 from descending.

Fig. 13C is a nut descent determination table. If the nut is lowered and the switch 153A is closed, it is determined to be "down", and if the nut is not lowered and the switch 153A is open, it is determined to be "not lowered". The switch 153B also makes a determination in the same manner as the switch 153A.

FIG. 14A is a diagram showing a configuration example of a U-bolt in which a metal plate is mounted on a rod-shaped member. Electronic component 15 mounted on U bolt 2C has metal plate 154 . In FIG. 14A, the rod-shaped member 17 body is formed using an insulator. FIG. 14B is a diagram showing the positional states of the nut and the metal plate when the nut is fastened and lowered. As shown in FIG. 14B, a metal plate 154 to which an insulated wire w is attached is provided on the insulator, and the washer 6 is provided with the insulated wire w. When the nut 4 descends, the metal plate 154, the nut 4, and the washer 6 are brought into a conductive state, and the descent of the nut 4 is detected by conducting a series of electric circuits. Also, when the insulated wire w is attached to the body of the U bolt 2C instead of the washer 6, A and B cannot be distinguished, but the contact between the nut 4 and the metal plate 154 causes the electric circuit to be in a conductive state, and the nut 4 drop is detected. On the other hand, when using the metal rod-shaped member 17, the descent of the nut 4 can be detected without providing a new metal plate 154 by covering the area other than the contact area between the rod-shaped member 17 and the nut 4 with an insulator. be done. Further, when the nut 4 is lowered, the rod-shaped member 17 on which the metal plate 154 is mounted serves as a stopper, and the nut 4 is stopped from descending.

Fig. 14C is a nut descent determination table. If the nut descends and the electric circuit connecting the metal plate 154A, the nut and the washer becomes conductive, it is determined to be "dropped". Metal plate 154B is also determined in the same manner as metal plate 154A.

FIG. 15A is a diagram showing a configuration example of a U-bolt in which a reed switch is built into a rod-shaped member. The electronic component 15 mounted on the U-bolt 2D has a reed switch 155. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 15A, the U-bolt 2D has a magnet 16 embedded in the nut 4 and a reed switch 155 built in a rod-shaped member 17 containing an insulated wire w. The reed switch 155 is connected to the insulated wire w. Two insulated wires w may be used as in the third embodiment described later. FIG. 15B is a diagram showing the positional states of the nut and the reed switch when the nut is tightened and lowered. When the nut 4 is fastened, if the distance from the magnet 16 is long, the magnetic field around the reed switch 155 is weak and the reed switch 155 is open. Therefore, the magnetic field generated by the magnet 16 is strengthened and the reed switch 155 is closed. The position of the reed switch 155 is not limited as long as it is affected by the magnetic field, but it is desirable that the reed switch 155 is embedded in the shaft portion 111 where the peripheral magnetic field is strongest when the nut 4 in which the magnet 16 is embedded is lowered.

Fig. 15C is a nut descent determination table. If the nut in which the magnet is embedded is lowered and the reed switch 155A is closed, it is determined to be "down", and if the nut is not lowered and the reed switch 155A is open, it is determined to be "not lowered". The reed switch 155B also makes a determination in the same manner as the reed switch 155A.

According to the U-bolt 2 according to the present disclosure, the rod-shaped member 17 passed through the shaft portion 111 functions as a stopper to prevent the nut 4 from falling, and various electronic components 15 mounted on the rod-shaped member 17 detects that the nut 4 has fallen.

(Third embodiment)
FIG. 16 shows a configuration example of a U-bolt in which an insulated wire is passed through a through-hole passing through the shaft portion according to the third embodiment, and a reed switch connected by the insulated wire is built in the through-hole passing through the shaft portion. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing;

The U-bolt 3 according to this embodiment is made of metal such as steel. As shown in FIG. 16, the U-bolt 3 includes a body portion 11 including

shaft portions

111A and 111B, a bridge portion 112, a threaded portion 12,

electronic components

15A and 15B, and an insulated wire 19. , provided. The U-bolt 3 according to the present embodiment differs from the U-bolt 2 according to the second embodiment in that an insulated wire 19 is provided instead of the rod-shaped member 17 . The same reference numerals as in the second embodiment are assigned to the same configurations as in the second embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted as appropriate.

FIG. 17A is a diagram showing a configuration example of a U-bolt in which a reed switch is built into a through-hole penetrating the shaft. The electronic component 15 mounted on the U-bolt 3 has a reed switch 155 . The U-bolt 3 includes an insulated wire 19 covered with an insulating coating and passed through a through hole TH formed in the pair of shaft portions 111 . The reed switch 155 is built in a through hole TH formed in each of the pair of shaft portions 111 and connected by an insulated wire 19 . The reed switches 155 are built in the through holes TH formed in the pair of shaft portions 111 respectively. Two insulated wires 19 are passed through the hole TH. When the nut 4 with the magnet 16 embedded therein drops, it is hooked on the two insulated wires 19 to prevent the nut 4 from falling. The insulated wire 19 is fixed with an adhesive or the like so as not to move, although any method such as welding may be used. FIG. 17B is a diagram showing the positions of the nut and the reed switch when the nut is tightened and lowered. When the nut 4 is tightened, the distance between the nut 4 in which the magnet 16 is embedded and the reed switch 155 is long, so the magnetic field around the reed switch 155 is weak and the reed switch 155 is open. However, when the nut 4 is lowered, the distance between the magnet 16 and the reed switch 155 is short and the magnetic field by the magnet 16 is strong, so the reed switch 155 is closed.

Fig. 17C is a nut descent determination table. If the nut in which the magnet is embedded is lowered and the reed switch 155A is closed, it is determined to be "down", and if the nut is not lowered and the reed switch 155A is open, it is determined to be "not lowered". The reed switch 155B also makes a determination in the same manner as the reed switch 155A.

According to the U-bolt 3 according to the present disclosure, the two insulated wires 19 passed through the shaft portion 111 function as stoppers to prevent the nut 4 from falling, and furthermore, the through hole formed in the shaft portion contains the The reed switch 155 detects that the nut 4 with the magnet 16 embedded therein has been lowered.

(Fourth embodiment)
FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a monitoring device according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 18 , a monitoring device 20 according to the fourth embodiment includes a parent device 30 and U bolts 40 . Master device 30 has receiver 31 , controller 32 , alert generator 33 , and first power supply 34 . The U-bolt 40 has any one of the U-bolts 1, 1A to 1D, 2, 2A to 2D, and 3 described above and a transmitter 41. Monitoring device 20 monitors the descent of nut 4 from U-bolt 40 . Configurations that are the same as those of the first to third embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the first to third embodiments, and description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. In FIG. 18, the detection result by the electronic component 15 is denoted by d, the determination result by the control unit 32 by o, and the power supply by the first power supply 34 by e.

As shown in FIG. 18, the base unit 30 determines whether or not the nut 4 is lowered based on the detection result d transmitted from the U-bolt 40, and issues an alert when determining that the nut 4 is lowered. . The base unit 30 has a first power supply 34, and by supplying power e to the U-bolt 40, the U-bolt 40 detects the descent of the nut 4 and provides power for transmitting the detection result d. When monitoring the detection result d by wire, power feeding and monitoring can be performed simultaneously. The first power supply 34 not only supplies power to the U-bolt 40, but also supplies power to the receiver 31, controller 32, and alert generator 33 of the parent device 30. FIG. Furthermore, the first power supply 34 can be operated efficiently by limiting the frequency of monitoring to once a day, once a month, or the like, as necessary, instead of always.

The receiving unit 31 receives the detection result d transmitted from the transmitting unit 41 of the U bolt 40. The receiver 31 outputs the detection result d to the controller 32 . Transmission of the detection result d from the transmission unit 41 of the U bolt 40 to the reception unit 31 of the base unit 30 may be performed by wired communication, wireless communication such as Wi-Fi, or a combination thereof. good.

The control unit 32 determines whether or not the nut 4 is lowered based on the detection result d from the U bolt 40 input from the receiving unit 31 . When determining that the nut 4 is lowered, the control section 32 outputs the determination result o to the alert issuing section 33 . The control unit 32 determines whether only one nut 4A is lowered, when only the other nut 4B is lowered, or when both

nuts

4A and 4B are lowered, and outputs the determination result o. It can be output to the alert issuing unit 33 . When the control unit 32 determines that neither of the nuts 4A and 4B has been lowered, it continues to monitor the lowering of the nut 4 by the U-bolt 40 .

When the controller 32 determines that the nut 4 is descending, the alert issuing section 33 inputs the determination result o indicating that the nut 4 is descending from the controller 32 and issues an alert. The alert issuing unit 33 issues alert A when only one nut 4A is lowered, and alert B when only the other nut 4B is lowered. Also, when the nuts 4A and 4B are lowered, an alert C is issued.

The first power supply 34 includes a solar panel 341, a charge controller 342, and a battery 343. The first power supply 34 includes an electronic component 15 for detecting the lowering of the nut 4 and a transmitter 41 for transmitting the detection result d, which is provided in the U-bolt 40, and a receiver for receiving the detection result d, which is provided in the main unit 30. Power is supplied to the unit 31, the control unit 32 that determines whether or not the nut 4 is lowered, and the alert issuing unit 33 that issues an alert.

The solar panel 341 performs photovoltaic power generation by receiving sunlight and generates electricity. However, photovoltaic power generation cannot generate power at night or during bad weather. Therefore, it is desirable to store the electricity generated by the solar panel 341 in the battery 343 when the weather is good during the day.

The charge controller 342 is connected between the solar panel 341 and the battery 343. The charge controller 342 is a device that prevents overcharging, overdischarging, or reverse current flow of the battery 343, and is an essential device for safely charging the battery 343. FIG.

The battery 343 receives and stores the electricity generated by the solar panel 341 via the charge controller 342. The electricity stored in the battery 343 provides power for performing a series of operations for monitoring the detection result d performed in cooperation with the receiving unit 31, the control unit 32, and the alert issuing unit 33 of the master device 30. , power is supplied from the base unit 30 to the U bolt 40 connected by wire.

The U-bolt 40 includes an electronic component 15 that detects the descent of the nut 4, and a transmitter 41 that transmits the detection result. The electronic component 15 and the transmitter 41 of the U-bolt 40 may receive power e from the first power supply 34 of the master device 30 connected by wire.

The electronic component 15 constituting the U-bolt 40 is either one of a contact sensor 151 and a distance sensor 152, or an electronic component having one of a switch 153, a metal plate 154, and a reed switch 155. , and the descent of the nut 4 is detected. The electronic component 15 outputs the detection result d of detecting whether or not the nut 4 is lowered to the transmission section 41 .　

The transmission unit 41 transmits the detection result d by the electronic component 15 to the reception unit 31 of the parent device 30 .　

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of a monitoring method executed by the monitoring device 20 according to the fourth embodiment.

At step S10, the electronic component 15 of the U-bolt 40 detects the descent of the

nut

4A or 4B.

In step S20, the transmission unit 41 of the U bolt 40 transmits the detection result d to the reception unit 31 of the parent device 30.

At step S30, the receiving unit 31 of the master device 30 receives the detection result d.

At step S40, the control unit 32 of the parent device 30 determines whether or not the nut 4A is lowered. If the nut 4A is not lowered, proceed to S50. If the nut 4A is lowered, proceed to S60.

At step S50, the control unit 32 of the parent device 30 determines whether or not the nut 4B is lowered. If the nut 4B is lowered, proceed to S80. If the nut 4B is not lowered, the process returns to S10 to continue monitoring.

At step S60, the control unit 32 of the parent device 30 determines whether or not the nut 4B is lowered. If the nut 4B is not lowered, proceed to S70. If the nut 4B is lowered, proceed to S90.

At step S70, the control unit 32 of the parent device 30 issues an alert A notifying that the nut 4A has been lowered.

At step S80, the control unit 32 of the parent device 30 issues an alert B that informs that the nut 4B has been lowered.

At step S90, the control unit 32 of the parent device 30 issues an alert C to notify the descent of the nuts 4A and 4B.

According to the monitoring device 20 according to the present disclosure, by constantly monitoring the drop of the nut 4 from the shaft portion 111 of the U-bolt 40 and issuing an alert when it is determined that the nut 4 has dropped, The descent of the nut 4 and the like can be known. In addition, the monitoring device 20 is provided with the first power source 34 having a photovoltaic power generation function in the main unit 30, so that the monitoring device 20 can constantly monitor the descent of the nut 4 in the U-bolt 40 installed in a place where electric wires cannot be laid. It becomes possible to cover electric power.

(Fifth embodiment)
FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a monitoring device according to the fifth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 19, a monitoring device 20A according to the fifth embodiment includes a parent device 30A and U bolts 40A. 30 A of master|base stations have the receiving part 31, the control part 32, the alert issuing part 33, and the 1st power supply 34. FIG. The U-bolt 40A has any one of the U-bolts 1, 1A to 1D, 2, 2A to 2D, 3 described above, a transmitter 41, and a second power supply 43. The monitoring device 20A monitors the descent of the nut 4 from the U-bolt 40A. Configurations that are the same as those of the first to fourth embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the first to fourth embodiments, and description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. In FIG. 19, the detection result by the electronic component 15 is denoted by d, the determination result by the control unit 32 by o, the power supply by the first power supply 34 by e1, and the power supply by the second power supply by e2.

The first power supply 34 supplies electric power e1 to the receiving unit 31 that receives the detection result d provided in the parent device 30A, the control unit 32 that determines whether or not the nut 4 is lowered, and the alert issuing unit 33 that issues an alert. .

The detection result d may be wirelessly transmitted from the transmission unit 41 of the U bolt 40A to the reception unit 31 of the parent device 30A. By wirelessly transmitting and receiving the detection result d, it becomes possible to monitor the detection result d without exposing the insulated wires.

The second power supply 43 is composed of a vibration power generator 431 and a battery 432 .

The vibration power generator 431 is a power generator that converts the pressure generated on the vibration surface due to vibration into electric power using a piezoelectric element or the like. A bridge attachment facility using the U-bolt 40A is affected by vehicle vibration. Therefore, by providing the vibration power generator 431 in the U-bolt 40A main body, power supply from the main unit 30A becomes unnecessary.

The battery 432 stores the electricity generated by the vibration power generator 431 and supplies power e2 to the electronic component 15 and the transmitter 41 of the U-bolt 40A. Also, similarly to the first power source 34 of the

parent devices

30 and 30A, by limiting the frequency of monitoring the detection result to once a day, once a month, etc., instead of always, as necessary, The second power supply 43 can be efficiently operated.

In addition, the power supply e to the U bolt 40A may be performed by contactless power supply (wireless power supply) when the installation distance between the parent device 30A and the U bolt 40A is short.

According to the monitoring device 20A according to the present disclosure, by constantly monitoring the drop of the nut 4 from the shaft portion 111 of the U-bolt 40A and issuing an alert when it is determined that the nut 4 has dropped, The descent of the nut 4 and the like can be known. In addition to the first power supply 34 built in the main unit 30A, the U bolt 40A incorporates a second power supply 43 having a vibration power generation function, so that the U bolt 40A installed in a place where electric wires cannot be laid. It becomes possible to cover the electric power for constantly monitoring the descent of the nut 4 .

(Sixth embodiment)
FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a monitoring device according to the sixth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 20, a monitoring device 20B according to the sixth embodiment includes a parent device 30B, U bolts 40A, and U bolts 40B. Master device 30</b>B has receiver 31 , controller 32 , alert generator 33 , and first power supply 34 . The U-bolt 40A has any one of the U-bolts 1, 1A to 1D, 2, 2A to 2D, and 3 described above and a transmitter 41. The U-bolt 40B has any one of the U-bolts 1, 1A to 1D, 2, 2A to 2D, and 3 described above and a transmitter 41. Monitoring device 20B monitors the descent of nut 4 from U-bolt 40A or U-bolt 40B. Configurations that are the same as those of the first to fifth embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the first to fifth embodiments, and description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. In FIG. 20, d1 is the detection result of the U-bolt 40A by the electronic component 15, d2 is the detection result of the U-bolt 40B by the electronic component 15, o is the determination result by the control unit 32, e1 is the power supply by the first power supply 34, and U Power supply from the second power supply of volts 40A is denoted by e2, and power supply by the second power supply of U-volts 40B is denoted by e3.

The monitoring device 20A monitors the detection result of one U-bolt (U-bolt 40A), whereas the monitoring device 20B according to the present embodiment simultaneously monitors the detection results of a plurality of U-bolts.

As with the parent device 30A, the first power supply 34 that constitutes the parent device 30B includes a receiving unit 31 that receives the detection results d1 and d2 provided in the parent device 30B, a control unit 32 that determines whether or not the nut 4 is lowered, and an alert issuing unit 33 that issues an alert. Also, similarly to the U-bolt 40A, the battery 432 of the U-bolt 40B stores electricity generated by the vibration power generator 431, and supplies power e3 to the electronic component 15 and the transmitter 41 of the U-bolt 40B.

According to the monitoring device 20B according to the present disclosure, by constantly monitoring the descent of the nut 4 from the shaft portion 111 of the plurality of U-bolts 40 and issuing an alert, U Bolt 40 can be known.

Although the above embodiments have been described as representative examples, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications and substitutions can be made within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present invention should not be construed as limited by the embodiments described above, and various modifications and changes are possible without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

1, 1A to 1D,
2, 2A to 2D, 3,
40, 40A,

40B U-bolt

4, 4A, 4B Nut 5 Through hole 6 Washer 7 Fastened object 8 Fastened object 11

Main body

111, 111A, 111B Shaft 112 Bridge 12 Threaded portion 13 Open hole (in the U-bolt shaft drilled holes)
14, 14A,

14B Base

15, 15A,

15B Electronic component

151, 151A,

151B Contact sensor

152, 152A,

152B Distance sensor

153, 153A,

153B Switch

154, 154A,

154B Metal plate

155, 155A,

155B Reed switch

16 , 16A, 16B magnet 17 rod-shaped member 18 detachment prevention member 19 insulated wire (wire covered with insulating coating)
20, 20A,

20B monitoring device

30, 30A, 30B parent device 31 receiving unit 32 control unit 33 alert issuing unit 34 first power source 341 solar panel 342

charge controller

343, 422 battery 41 transmitting unit 42 second power source 421 vibration power generation machine

Claims

A U-bolt that uses a nut to fasten a fastener,
a pair of shaft portions aligned in a first direction and extending in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction;
a screw portion provided on each of the pair of shaft portions;
an electronic component provided on each of the pair of shafts for detecting the descent of the nut;
U-bolts with
an elastic member connected to an inner wall of an open hole formed in each of the pair of shaft portions;
a base having one end tapered and connected to the elastic member;
2. The U-bolt of claim 1, wherein the electronic component is mounted on the base opposite the nut.
A rod-shaped member passed through a through-hole formed in the pair of shafts,
2. The U-bolt according to claim 1, wherein said electronic component is mounted on or built into said rod-shaped member at a position facing said nut.
The electronic component is
a contact sensor that detects the descent of the nut upon contact with the nut;
a distance sensor that detects the descent of the nut when the distance to the nut is equal to or less than a threshold;
a switch that closes the movable contact and the fixed contact by depressing the movable contact when the nut is contacted;
a metal plate that, when in contact with the nut, conducts an electrical circuit formed between it and the washer of the nut; a reed switch in which a magnetic field acts to close the contacts,
4. A U-bolt according to any one of claims 1 to 3, having any one of
an insulated wire covered with an insulating coating passed through through-holes formed in the pair of shafts;
The electronic component has a reed switch,
2. The U-bolt according to claim 1, wherein said reed switch is built in a through hole formed in each of said pair of shafts and connected by said insulated wire.
A monitoring device for monitoring the descent of a nut from a U-bolt, comprising:
a U-bolt having an electronic component that detects the descent of the nut, and a transmitter that transmits a detection result of the electronic component;
a receiving unit that receives the detection result transmitted from the transmitting unit;
a control unit that determines whether or not the nut is lowered based on the detection result;
an alert issuing unit that issues an alert when the control unit determines that the nut is lowered;
monitoring device.
The monitoring device according to claim 6, wherein the parent device further includes a first power supply that supplies power to the electronic component, the transmission unit, the reception unit, the control unit, and the alert generation unit.
A monitoring method for monitoring the descent of a nut from a U-bolt, comprising:
With monitoring equipment,
detecting the descent of the nut;
a step of transmitting a detection result of detecting the descent of the nut;
receiving the detection result;
a step of determining whether or not the nut is lowered based on the detection result;
issuing an alert when it is determined that the nut is falling;
monitoring methods, including;