counter unit

Abstract

A counter unit (10) is provided which deals with both cases of a state where common signal terminals or power supply terminals are connected with a common wiring and a case where they are preferably connected with circuits insulated from each other. The counter unit (10) includes a switching section (15) which switches between a non-insulated circuit (16) which connects at least any one of a plurality of common signal terminals (COMA, COMB, COMC) and a plurality of power supply terminals (IOV, IOG) with a common wiring and an insulated circuit (17) which connects at least any one of a plurality of common signal terminals and a plurality of power supply terminals with circuits insulated from each other.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a counter unit that counts input digital pulses. BACKGROUND

[0002] Conventionally, in control systems, there is known a counter unit having a plurality of input channels and capable of counting multi-channel count values (see, for example, Patent Literature 1). Among these counter units, a non-isolated input type that inputs pulse signals output from a three-phase encoder is predominant.

[0003] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0004] PATENT LITERATURE

[0005] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-222019 SUMMARY

[0006] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0007] A counter unit corresponding to the three-phase encoder output includes three input channels corresponding to pulse signals of three phases. For such a counter unit having a plurality of input channels, an output machine in which an output channel is one, such as a flow meter or a linear scale, is considered. At this time, if the output machines are connected while a common signal line is not insulated among the output machines, but the output machines are connected to the machines in which the output channel is one, respectively, the following problems are caused. That is, when any of the output machines generates an electrical disturbance due to noise or a failure of an electrical system, an output of the other output machines is sometimes affected via the common signal line.

[0008] Therefore, as a method of connecting a plurality of output machines while insulating a common signal line among the output machines, the following three methods are considered. That is, (1) a method of connecting each output machine to each input channel via an isolator, (2) a method of connecting each output machine to each counter unit, respectively, and (3) a method of using input channels sparingly by making a set of input channels insulated from each other correspond to one output machine, and the like. However, there are problems that these methods cause an increase in cost and an expansion of the size of machines.

[0009] An embodiment of the present application is made in view of the above-described circumstances, and aims at achieving a technique capable of dealing with both a case where a common signal terminal or a power supply terminal is connected with a common wiring among a plurality of output machines without a problem and a case where it is preferable to connect them with circuits insulated from each other.

[0010] Technical means for solving the problem

[0011] To solve the problem, a counter unit of an embodiment of the present application includes: a plurality of signal input terminals that respectively input pulse signals output from a plurality of output machines outside; at least any one of a plurality of common signal terminals and a plurality of power supply terminals, the plurality of common signal terminals being respectively connected to common signal lines of the plurality of output machines, the plurality of power supply terminals respectively supplying power to the plurality of output machines; and a switching section that switches between a non-isolated circuit that connects at least any one of the plurality of common signal terminals and the plurality of power supply terminals with a common wiring, and an isolated circuit that connects at least any one of the plurality of common signal terminals and the plurality of power supply terminals with circuits that are insulated from each other.

[0012] Effects of the invention

[0013] According to an embodiment of the present application, both a case where there is no problem in a state where common signal terminals or power supply terminals are connected with a common wiring in a plurality of output machines, and a case where it is preferable to connect them with circuits that are insulated from each other, can be dealt with. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the outline structure of a control system using the counter unit of Embodiment 1 of the present application.

[0015] Figure 2 is a wiring connection diagram of the counter unit of Embodiment 1 in a non-isolated mode.

[0016] Figure 3 is a diagram schematically showing the state of wiring connection of the counter unit of Embodiment 1 in a non-isolated mode.

[0017] Figure 4 is a wiring connection diagram of the counter unit of Embodiment 1 in an isolated mode.

[0018] Figure 5 is a diagram schematically showing the state of wiring connection of the counter unit of Embodiment 1 in an isolated mode.

[0019] Figure 6 is a wiring connection diagram of the counter unit of Embodiment 2 in a non-isolated mode.

[0020] Figure 7 is a wiring connection diagram of the counter unit of Embodiment 2 in an isolated mode.

[0021] Figure 8Fig. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a state of connection of a wiring of the counter unit of Embodiment 2 in the insulation mode.

[0022] Figure 9 Fig. 3 is a diagram schematically showing a state of connection of a wiring of the counter unit of Embodiment 3.

[0023] Figure 10 Fig. 4 is a wiring connection diagram of the counter unit of Embodiment 3 in the non-insulation mode.

[0024] Figure 11 Fig. 5 is a wiring connection diagram of the counter unit of Embodiment 3 in the insulation mode.

[0025] [Explanation of Symbols]

[0026] 1: Control system

[0027] 10, 210: Counter unit

[0028] 12A, 12B, 12C: Signal processing input section (open set signal processing section)

[0029] 15, 215: Switching section

[0030] 16: Non-insulation circuit

[0031] 17: Insulation circuit

[0032] 21: USB communication section (switching reception section)

[0033] 22: Common power supply section

[0034] 23: Individual power supply section

[0035] 25: Signal input terminal group

[0036] 26: Common signal terminal group

[0037] 27: Power supply terminal group

[0038] 30: PLC

[0039] 50, 250: Output machine

[0040] 51: Three-phase output machine

[0041] 52: Single-phase output machine

[0042] 124, 224: Insulation power supply circuit

[0043] 212A, 212B: Signal processing input section (line driver signal processing section)

[0044] 223: Non-insulation power supply circuit DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Hereinafter, an embodiment of one aspect of the present application (hereinafter also referred to as "the present embodiment") will be described based on the drawings.

[0046] §1. Applicable cases

[0047] (Overall outline of the control system)

[0048] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an outline structure of the control system 1 as a whole including the counter unit 10. As shown in the figure, the control system 1 includes the counter unit 10 and a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) 30. The control system 1 also includes a plurality of output machines 50 that output pulse signals. Furthermore, the control system 1 can also include a notebook Personal Computer (PC) 40 as a setting machine. Figure 1

[0049] In the control system 1, the counter unit 10 receives as input the pulse signals generated by the output machines 50, and measures the state of a workpiece or the like using a count value that counts the number of pulses of the received pulse signals. Furthermore, the counter unit 10 sends information represented by the count value that counts the pulse signals output by the output machines 50 to the PLC 30 at every control cycle of the PLC 30.

[0050] The counter unit 10 includes a signal input terminal group 25 having a plurality of signal input terminals A, B, Z that respectively input pulse signals output from one or more output machines 50 outside.

[0051] Furthermore, the counter unit 10 includes a common signal terminal group 26 having a plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC that are connected to one or more output machines 50, and a power supply terminal group 27 having a plurality of power supply terminals IOV, IOG that respectively supply power to one or more output machines 50.

[0052] Furthermore, the counter unit 10 includes a non-isolation circuit 16 that connects at least any one of the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC and the plurality of power supply terminals IOV, IOG with a common wiring, and an isolation circuit 17 that connects at least any one of the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC and the plurality of power supply terminals IOV, IOG with circuits that are insulated from each other.

[0053] ​Furthermore, the counter unit 10 includes a switching unit 15, which switches which of the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC and the plurality of power supply terminals IOV, IOG are connected to the non-insulated circuit 16 and the insulating circuit 17.

[0054] In a configuration where no problem occurs when one or more output devices 50 connected to the counter unit 10 are connected to the common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC or the power supply terminals IOV, IOG with a common wiring, the counter unit 10, through the function of the switching unit 15, connects at least one of the multiple common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC and the multiple power supply terminals IOV, IOG to the non-insulated circuit 16.

[0055] On the other hand, in the case where one or more output machines 50 connected to the counter unit 10 are connected to a structure in which common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC or power supply terminals IOV, IOG are connected to each other in a circuit that is insulated from each other, the counter unit 10 connects at least one of the multiple common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC and the multiple power supply terminals IOV, IOG to the insulated circuit 17 through the function of the switching unit 15.

[0056] In this way, the counter unit 10 can handle two situations depending on the structure of the one or more output machines 50 connected to it: a situation where there is no problem when the common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC or power supply terminals IOV, IOG are connected with common wiring, and a situation where they are preferably connected with circuits that are insulated from each other.

[0057] §2. Structural Examples

[0058] [Implementation Method 1]

[0059] The following is for reference Figures 1 to 5 The structure of the counter unit 10 in Embodiment 1 will be described in detail below. Figure 1 As shown, the counter unit 10 can be communicatively connected to one or more output devices 50. The output device 50 is an NPN type open-collector output device, such as a three-output encoder that outputs three-phase pulse signals of phases A, B, and Z, or an encoder, flow meter, or linear scale that outputs a single-phase pulse signal of open-collector output.

[0060] The output machine 50 is not limited to an NPN type machine, and can also be a PNP type machine of the open set output type. In the following description, the output machine 50 that outputs a three-phase pulse signal is also referred to as a three-phase output machine 51, and an output machine such as a flow meter or a linear scale that outputs an open set single-phase pulse signal is also referred to as a single-phase output machine 52. The counter unit 10 receives a pulse signal generated by the output machine 50 as an input, and measures a state of a workpiece or the like using a count value that counts the number of pulses of the received pulse signal.

[0061] The counter unit 10 is communicably connected to the PLC 30 via a field network, for example, and transmits and receives data with the PLC 30. The PLC 30 is a control device (controller) that comprehensively controls the entire control system 1. The counter unit 10 and the PLC 30 transmit and receive data at a fixed cycle at every control cycle of the PLC 30. For example, the counter unit 10 transmits information represented by a count value that counts a pulse signal output by the output machine 50 to the PLC 30 at every control cycle of the PLC 30.

[0062] Further, the user can change the switching operation in the switching section 15 of the counter unit 10 using an operation of a setting program (tool) running on the notebook PC 40.

[0063] In addition, in the present embodiment, as an example of a setting machine, a structure in which the notebook PC 40 is connected to the counter unit 10 is exemplified, but is not limited to the notebook PC 40, and any terminal machine including a display section including a liquid crystal panel or the like and an operation section including a touch panel, a keyboard, a mouse, or the like can be used as the setting machine. Further, a structure can also be such that the PLC 30 functions as a setting machine, and transmits an instruction for changing the switching operation in the switching section 15 from the PLC 30 to the counter unit 10.

[0064] (Structure of Counter Unit 10)

[0065] The counter unit 10 includes a communication section 11, a signal processing section 12, a signal input terminal group 25, a common signal terminal group 26, and a power supply terminal group 27. Further, the counter unit 10 includes a switching section 15, a non-isolated circuit 16, an isolated circuit 17, a common power supply section 22, and a respective power supply section 23. Furthermore, the counter unit 10 includes a Universal Serial Bus (USB) communication section 21.

[0066] The communication section 11 repeatedly performs communication with the PLC 30 at every control cycle of the PLC 30, and executes transmission and reception of data. The communication section 11 is realized using an integrated circuit such as a communication integrated circuit (IC), for example.

[0067] The counter unit 10 and the PLC 30 can also be communicably connected to each other via a field network, for example. As the field network connecting the counter unit 10 and the PLC 30, various industrial Ethernet (registered trademark) can typically be used. As the industrial Ethernet (registered trademark), for example, EtherCAT (registered trademark), Profinet IRT, MECHATROLINK (registered trademark)-III, Powerlink, SERCOS (registered trademark)-III, CIP Motion, and the like are known, any of which can be employed. Further, a field network other than the industrial Ethernet (registered trademark) can also be used. For example, if motion control is not performed, DeviceNet, CompoNet / IP (registered trademark), and the like can also be used.

[0068] Furthermore, the counter unit 10 can be integrally formed with the PLC 30 or communicably connected to the PLC 30 via an internal bus.

[0069] The signal processing section 12 processes the pulse signals output from the one or more output machines 50. The signal processing section 12 counts the number of pulses of the pulse signals output from the output machines 50 according to a set value set in advance, and measures the state of the workpiece or the like using the count value. The measurement result obtained by the signal processing section 12 is transmitted to the PLC 30 via the communication section 11 at the output timing adjusted according to the set value.

[0070] The signal processing section 12 is implemented by software using a central processing unit (CPU) or a micro processing unit (MPU), for example. Furthermore, the signal processing section 12 can also be implemented by hardware, for example, using a counter function or the like inside the MPU, and can also be implemented using an IC such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0071] The signal input terminal group 25 includes a plurality of signal input terminals that respectively input the pulse signals output from the one or more output machines 50. In the signal input terminal group 25, at least three signal input terminals A, B, and Z are provided.

[0072] The common signal terminal group 26 includes a plurality of common signal terminals each connected to a common signal line of the one or more output machines 50. In the common signal terminal group 26, at least three common signal terminals COMA, COMB, and COMC are provided.

[0073] The power supply terminal group 27 includes a plurality of power supply terminals IOV, IOG that supply power to one or a plurality of output machines 50, respectively. In the power supply terminal group 27, at least one pair of power supply terminals IOV, IOG is provided.

[0074] The common power supply section 22 supplies power to the non-insulated circuit 16. The common power supply section 22 is able to supply power to a plurality of output machines 50 each connected to the plurality of power supply terminals IOV, IOG via the non-insulated circuit 16.

[0075] The individual power supply sections 23 are provided in each of the insulated circuits 17 insulated from each other. Each of the individual power supply sections 23 supplies power to the corresponding insulated circuit 17. Each of the individual power supply sections 23 supplies power to the output machine 50 via the corresponding insulated circuit 17.

[0076] The non-insulated circuit 16 and the insulated circuits 17 are each connectable to the plurality of signal input terminals A, B, Z, the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC, and the plurality of power supply terminals IOV, IOG.

[0077] The switching section 15 switches the connection of at least any one of the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC and the plurality of power supply terminals IOV, IOG between the non-insulated circuit 16 and the insulated circuits 17. The switching section 15 includes, for example, a hardware switch such as a relay switch or a switch IC, and switches the connection of the wiring between the non-insulated circuit 16 and the insulated circuits 17 by switching the hardware switch. Also, as described above, the switching section 15 switches the hardware switch based on the instruction made by the setting program running on the notebook PC 40.

[0078] The USB communication section 21 includes a USB port and communicates with the notebook PC 40 via a USB cable connected to the USB port. The USB communication section 21 receives a signal indicating the instruction made by the setting program running on the notebook PC 40. The signal indicating the instruction made by the setting program running on the notebook PC 40 received by the USB communication section 21 includes an instruction of the switching operation by the switching section 15, and the USB communication section 21 functions as a switching reception section that receives the instruction of the switching operation via the communication line.

[0079] Thus, the counter unit 10 receives an instruction of the switching operation by the switching section 15 from the notebook PC 40 via the USB communication section 21, and the switching section 15 performs switching between the non-isolated circuit 16 and the isolated circuit 17 according to the instruction. Thus, the switching operation between the non-isolated circuit 16 and the isolated circuit 17 by the switching section 15 can be controlled from the outside of the counter unit 10 via the communication line.

[0080] (Connecting to Non-Isolated Circuit)

[0081] Figure 2 and Figure 3 is a diagram showing a connection state of the wiring in the non-isolated mode using the non-isolated circuit 16 in which the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC and the plurality of power supply terminals IOV, IOG are connected by the wiring in common by the function of the switching section 15. As shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the case of using the three-phase output machine 51, the counter unit 10 is used in the non-isolated mode.

[0082] In the non-isolated mode, the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC and the plurality of power supply terminals IOV, IOG of the counter unit 10 are connected to the non-isolated circuit 16 by the switching section 15. The non-isolated circuit 16 connects the input sections for the signal processing section 12, i.e., the signal processing input sections 12A, 12B, 12C to the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC by the common connection line, and connects the plurality of power supply terminals IOV, IOG to the common power supply section 22. The signal processing input sections (open set signal processing sections) 12A, 12B, 12C process the pulse signals output from the output machine 50 in the open set, and transmit to the signal processing section 12.

[0083] The plurality of signal input terminals A, B, Z inputting the signals from the output machine 50 are each connected to the signal processing input sections 12A, 12B, 12C. The potentials of the power supply terminals IOV, IOG are common among the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC via the non-isolated circuit 16.

[0084] As shown in Figure 3 the signal lines of the three phases from the three-phase output machine 51 are connected to the signal input terminals A, B, Z of the counter unit 10, respectively, and the power supply lines from the three-phase output machine 51 are connected to the power supply terminals IOV, IOG of the counter unit 10, respectively. In addition, Figure 3 (and the later-described Figure 5 and Figure 8In the example shown in FIG. 1, the counter unit 10 is shown to include, as an example, a sensor input terminal that inputs an output from a sensor, and a sensor power supply terminal that performs power supply to the sensor.

[0085] (Connecting to Insulated Circuit)

[0086] Figure 4 and Figure 5 is a view showing a connection state of a wire in an insulated mode using the insulated circuit 17 that connects the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC to each other in an insulated manner, and connects each of the common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC to the power supply terminals IOV, IOG in an insulated circuit by the function of the switch 15. As shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the case of using the plurality of single-phase output machines 52 connected, the counter unit 10 is used in the insulated mode, as shown in

[0087] In the insulated mode, the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC and the plurality of power supply terminals IOV, IOG of the counter unit 10 are connected to the insulated circuit 17 by the switch 15. The insulated circuit 17 connects the signal processing input sections 12A, 12B, 12C to the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC in an insulated circuit, respectively, and connects the plurality of power supply terminals IOV, IOG to the respective power supply sections 23 in an insulated circuit.

[0088] Further, the plurality of signal input terminals A, B, Z are each connected to the signal processing input sections 12A, 12B, 12C.

[0089] As shown in Figure 5 Between the common signal terminals of the single-phase output machines 52 and the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC of the counter unit 10, the respective power supply sections 23 are connected. The respective power supply sections 23 can also be provided outside the counter unit 10. By providing the respective power supply sections 23 outside the counter unit 10, it is possible to provide a counter unit 10 that can be used in the non-insulated mode and the insulated mode without increasing the size of the counter unit 10.

[0090] According to these configurations, it is possible to switch the use of the counter unit 10 between the case of using in the non-insulated mode and the case of using in the insulated mode. Thus, the counter unit 10 can cope with both of the following cases, i.e., the case of connecting the three-phase output machine 51 that outputs three-phase pulse signals of one output A, B, Z phase to the counter unit 10, and the case of connecting the single-phase output machines 52 that output single-phase pulse signals of one to three sets to the counter unit 10.

[0091] Furthermore, in the non-isolated mode where the power supply terminals 10V and 10G are connected by a common wiring, power can be supplied from the common power supply unit 22 to multiple output machines 50 from the counter unit 10 side. Therefore, it is possible to eliminate the need to prepare separate components for power supply on the output machine 50 side.

[0092] Furthermore, when the counter unit 10 is used in an isolated mode, the common signal terminals COMA, COMB, and COMC do not share a potential. Therefore, without the need for external equipment such as isolators, it is possible to prevent the sharing of noise and other effects from the output device 50 among the common signal terminals COMA, COMB, and COMC.

[0093] [Implementation Method 2]

[0094] The following describes Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, components having the same function as those described in Embodiment 1 are labeled with the same symbols and their descriptions are not repeated. Moreover, the overall structure and use of the control system 1... Figure 1 The block diagram is the same as the structure described in Embodiment 1, so its description is omitted.

[0095] In the counter unit 10 of embodiment 2, each power supply unit 23 is provided inside the counter unit 10 and is disposed in each insulating circuit 17 that is insulated from each other.

[0096] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the wiring connection status of the counter unit 10 in non-insulated mode. Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the wiring connection status of the counter unit 10 in the insulation mode. Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the wiring configuration when multiple single-phase output devices 52 are connected to the counter unit 10 in the isolation mode.

[0097] like Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 As shown, the counter unit 10 includes a power supply unit 123. The power supply unit 123 includes an isolated power supply circuit 124. The power supply unit 123 can switch between supplying power to the non-isolated circuit 16 and supplying power to the isolated circuit 17 via the isolated power supply circuit 124. That is, in the non-isolated mode, the power supply unit 123 functions as a common power supply unit, while in the isolated mode, it functions as a separate power supply unit together with the isolated power supply circuit 124.

[0098] The insulated power supply circuit 124 is a circuit that converts the power from the power supply unit 123 into a three-system output that is insulated from each other. The three-system output is set as the insulated power supply output unit 124b.

[0099] existFigure 6 In the non-isolation mode shown, the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC and the plurality of power supply terminals IOV, IOG of the counter unit 10 are connected to the non-isolation circuit 16 through the switching section 15. The non-isolation circuit 16 connects the input sections for the signal processing section 12, i.e., the signal processing input sections 12A, 12B, 12C, to the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC with a common connection line, and connects the plurality of power supply terminals IOV, IOG to the power supply section 123.

[0100] The plurality of signal input terminals A, B, Z, which input signals from the output machine 50, are each connected to the signal processing input sections 12A, 12B, 12C. The potentials of the power supply terminals IOV, IOG are common among the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC via the non-isolation circuit 16.

[0101] Figure 7 In the isolation mode shown, the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC of the counter unit 10 are connected to the isolation circuit 17 through the switching section 15. The isolation circuit 17 connects the plurality of common signal terminals COMA, COMB, COMC to the isolation power supply output sections 124b respectively with circuits that are isolated from each other, and connects the signal processing input sections 12A, 12B, 12C to the isolation power supply output sections 124b respectively with circuits that are isolated from each other.

[0102] Thus, the power supply section 123 provided inside the counter unit 10 is able to supply power to the non-isolation circuit in the non-isolation mode, and is able to supply power to the isolation circuit 17 respectively with circuits that are isolated from each other in the isolation mode. Thus, as shown in Figure 8 The counter unit 10 does not need to prepare a member for power supply on the output machine 50 side, and is able to connect a plurality of output machines 50 to the isolation circuit 17 with circuits that are isolated from each other for use. Thus, a counter unit 10 that is able to cope with both the non-isolation mode and the isolation mode without using an external power supply can be provided.

[0103] [Embodiment 3]

[0104] Embodiment 3 of the present application will be described below. Also, for the sake of convenience in description, the same reference numerals are assigned to members having the same function as the members described in Embodiment 1, and the description thereof will not be repeated. Also, the structure of the control system 1 as a whole is the same as that described in Embodiment 1 using the block diagram shown in Figure 1 , and thus the description thereof will be omitted.

[0105] Figure 10 is a view showing the connection state of the wiring of the counter unit 210 of Embodiment 3 in the non-isolation mode.Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the wiring connection status of the counter unit 210 in the insulation mode. Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 The counter unit 210 shown is a single-phase line driver input type counter unit corresponding to the line driver output type output device 250. The counter unit 210 is not limited to a structure corresponding to a single-phase input, and can also be a structure corresponding to a two-phase input. Figure 9 This diagram schematically illustrates the wiring configuration when multiple line driver output type output machines 250 are connected to a counter unit 210 corresponding to a two-phase input.

[0106] like Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 As shown, multiple output devices 250 are connected to the counter unit 210. The output devices 250 are, for example, line-driver output type encoders. Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 In the example shown, two encoders 251 and 252 are connected to the counter unit 210.

[0107] The counter unit 210 includes a pair of power supply terminals IOV1 and IOG1 connected to the encoder 251; and a pair of power supply terminals IOV2 and IOG2 connected to the encoder 252. Furthermore, the counter unit 210 includes a signal input terminal D1 connected to the signal line from the encoder 251. + D1 - ; and signal input terminal D2 connected to the signal line from encoder 252. + D2 - The counter unit 210 receives signal input from terminal D1. + D1 - With signal input terminal D2 + D2 - Input single-phase pulse signals respectively.

[0108] For signal input terminal D1 + With signal input terminal D1 - The input signals are respectively inverted polarities. Furthermore, for signal input terminal D2... + With signal input terminal D2 - Input signals with reversed polarity.

[0109] In the counter unit 210, the signal processing unit 12 inputs the signal to terminal D2. + D2 - The difference between them is processed as a signal from encoder 252.

[0110] In the counter unit 210, the power supply section 222 is switchably connected to the non-isolation power supply circuit 223 and the isolation power supply circuit 224. Further, the counter unit 210 includes a switching section 215 that switches connection of the power supply section 222 to the non-isolation power supply circuit 223 to supply electric power to the electric power supply terminals IOV, IOG via the non-isolation power supply circuit 223 or to the isolation power supply circuit 224 to supply electric power to the electric power supply terminals IOV, IOG via the isolation power supply circuit 224. That is, the power supply section 222 functions as a common power supply section together with the non-isolation power supply circuit 223 in the non-isolation mode and functions as a separate power supply section together with the isolation power supply circuit 224 in the isolation mode.

[0111] The isolation power supply circuit 224 is a circuit that converts electric power from the power supply section 222 into double-system outputs that are insulated from each other. The double-system outputs are provided as the isolation power supply output section 224b.

[0112] Figure 10 In the illustrated non-isolation mode, the plurality of electric power supply terminals IOV, IOG of the counter unit 210 are connected to the non-isolation power supply circuit 223 via the switching section 215. The non-isolation power supply circuit 223 connects the plurality of electric power supply terminals IOV, IOG to the power supply section 222 with a common connection line.

[0113] A plurality of signal input terminals D + , D - Each of the signal processing input sections 212A, 212B is connected to an input section of the signal processing section 12, i.e., a signal processing input section (line driver signal processing section). The signal processing input sections 212A, 212B process pulse signals output from the line driver of the output machine 250 and transmit the signals to the signal processing section 12.

[0114] Figure 11 In the illustrated isolation mode, the plurality of electric power supply terminals IOV, IOG of the counter unit 210 are connected to the isolation power supply circuit 224 via the switching section 215. The isolation power supply circuit 224 connects the plurality of electric power supply terminals IOV, IOG to the power supply section 222 with circuits that are insulated from each other.

[0115] Thus, the power supply section 222 provided inside the counter unit 210 is able to supply power to the non-isolation power supply circuit 223 in the non-isolation mode, and is able to supply power to the plurality of isolation power supply output sections 224b of the isolation power supply circuit 224, which are isolated from each other, respectively, in the isolation mode. Thus, the counter unit 210 does not need to prepare a member for power supply on the output machine 250 side, and is able to use the plurality of line driver input type output machines 250 connected to the isolation power supply circuit 224, which are isolated from each other. Therefore, it is possible to provide a counter unit 210 that is able to cope with both the non-isolation mode and the isolation mode without using an external power supply.

[0116] As shown in FIG. 6, the counter unit 210 can also be a line driver input type unit corresponding to two-phase input. Also, the counter unit 210 can be configured to correspond to two-phase input and to be connectable to a plurality of output machines 251, 252. Figure 9

[0117] For example, the counter unit 210 includes a signal input terminal C1, C1, which connects a signal line from one phase of one of the encoders 251, and a signal input terminal D1, D1, which connects a signal line from another phase of the encoder 251. Also, the counter unit 210 includes a signal input terminal C2, C2, which connects a signal line from one phase of another encoder 252, and a signal input terminal D2, D2, which connects a signal line from another phase of the encoder 252. + - + - + - + -

[0118] In the non-isolation mode, the power supply terminals IOV1, IOG1 and the power supply terminals IOV2, IOG2 are connected to the non-isolation power supply circuit 223. On the other hand, in the isolation mode, the power supply terminals IOV1, IOG1 and the power supply terminals IOV2, IOG2 are connected to the isolation power supply circuit 224 in a state of being isolated from each other, respectively.

[0119] Thus, the counter unit 210 of the line driver input type corresponding to two-phase input, like the counter unit corresponding to single-phase input, is able to use a plurality of output machines 250 connected to the isolation power supply circuit 224, which are isolated from each other, thereby being able to cope with both the non-isolation mode and the isolation mode without using an external power supply.

[0120] (SUMMARY)

[0121] ​​​​​​​​​The counter unit of one embodiment of the present application includes a plurality of signal input terminals that respectively input pulse signals output from a plurality of output machines outside; at least any one of a plurality of common signal terminals that are respectively connected to common signal lines of the plurality of output machines and a plurality of power supply terminals that respectively supply power to the plurality of output machines; and a switching section that switches between a non-insulation circuit that connects at least any one of the plurality of common signal terminals and the plurality of power supply terminals with a common wiring and an insulation circuit that connects at least any one of the plurality of common signal terminals and the plurality of power supply terminals with circuits insulated from each other.

[0122] According to the structure, both a case where there is no problem in a state where the common signal terminals or the power supply terminals are connected with a common wiring in the plurality of output machines and a case where it is preferable to connect them with circuits insulated from each other can be dealt with. Thus, it is possible to eliminate the necessity of using a channel with a margin, or preparing a plurality of counter units depending on use, or interposing an isolator in the case where insulation is needed between the plurality of output machines.

[0123] The counter unit of one embodiment of the present application can further include a common power supply section that supplies power to the non-insulation circuit.

[0124] According to the structure, in the case where there is no problem in a state where the common signal terminals or the power supply terminals are connected with a common wiring in the plurality of output machines, it is possible to supply power to the plurality of output machines from the counter unit side. Thus, it is possible to eliminate the necessity of separately preparing a member for power supply on the output machine side.

[0125] The counter unit of one embodiment of the present application can be such that the insulation circuits each include a separate power supply section that supplies power to the insulation circuit.

[0126] According to the structure, in the case where it is preferable to connect the common signal terminals or the power supply terminals with circuits insulated from each other in the plurality of output machines, it is possible to supply power to the plurality of output machines from the counter unit side. Thus, it is possible to eliminate the necessity of separately preparing a member for power supply on the output machine side.

[0127] The counter unit of one embodiment of the present application can be such that the switching section is a relay switch or a switch IC.

[0128] According to the structure, it is possible to switch between the non-insulation circuit and the insulation circuit by a hardware switch such as a relay switch or a switch IC, and thus it is possible to set a state in which they are actually insulated.

[0129] The counter unit of one embodiment of the present application can further include an open set signal processing section that processes the pulse signal output by the output machine open set.

[0130] The counter unit of one embodiment of the present application can be such that the signal input terminal is provided with at least three, the common signal terminal is provided with at least three, and the power supply terminal is provided with at least one pair.

[0131] According to the structure, it is possible to cope with a case of a three-output type encoder that connects the pulse signals of the outputs A, B, and Z phases, and a case of an encoder that connects one to three open set output single-phase pulse signals.

[0132] The counter unit of one embodiment of the present application can further include a line driver signal processing section that processes the pulse signal output by the output machine line driver.

[0133] The counter unit of one embodiment of the present application further includes a switching reception section that receives an instruction of a switching operation by the switching section via a communication line.

[0134] According to the structure, it is possible to control the switching operation from the outside via the communication line.

[0135] The present application is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various changes can be made within the scope of the claims, and embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical features disclosed in the different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A counter unit comprising: a plurality of signal input terminals each inputting a pulse signal output from an external output machine; a signal processing section counting a number of pulses of the pulse signal; at least either of a plurality of common signal terminals each connected to a common signal line of a plurality of the output machines and a plurality of power supply terminals each supplying power to a plurality of the output machines; and a switching section switching between a non-isolation circuit connecting at least either of the plurality of common signal terminals and the plurality of power supply terminals with a common wiring and an isolation circuit connecting at least either of the plurality of common signal terminals and the plurality of power supply terminals with circuits insulated from each other.

2. The counter unit according to claim 1, further comprising: a common power supply section supplying power to the non-isolation circuit.

3. The counter unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the isolation circuits each include a separate power supply section supplying power to the isolation circuit.

4. The counter unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the switching section is a relay switch or a switch integrated circuit.

5. The counter unit according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: an open set signal processing input section processing the pulse signal output from the output machine open set and sending to the signal processing section.

6. The counter unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the signal input terminals are provided with at least three, the common signal terminals are provided with at least three, the power supply terminals are provided with at least one pair.

7. The counter unit according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: a line driver signal processing input section processing the pulse signal output from the output machine line driver and sending to the signal processing section.

8. The counter unit according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: a switching reception section receiving an instruction of a switching operation by the switching section via a communication line.

Images