Sensor network system, sensor power supply device and method, communication device and method

Abstract

The present application provides a sensor network system, a sensor power supply device and method, a communication device and method, which can be wire-saving. The sensor network system (1) has: a control device (3); an interface device (13, 15) connected to the control device (3) in a communicable manner; a sensor (17, 19) connected to the interface device (13, 15) in a communicable manner; a sensor power supply device (5) arranged between the communication path of the interface device (13, 15) and the control device (3), which supplies power for operating the sensor (17, 19) to the sensor (17, 19) via the interface device (13, 15) or the like, and supplies power for operating the sensor (21) to the sensor (21) via a cable (41) or the like.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to sensor network systems, sensor power supply devices, communication devices, sensor power supply methods, and communication methods. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a communication system comprising: a slave device; a master device connected to the slave device at a higher level; and at least one lower slave device connected to the slave device at a lower level. The slave device comprises: a first connector; a second connector; a switching unit connected to either the first connector or the second connector; and a communication unit connected to the first connector and the switching unit. The communication unit transmits and receives a first communication signal with the first connector and transmits and receives a second communication signal with the switching unit. The switching unit switches the connection destination between the first connector and the second connector according to the connection configuration with the master device and the lower slave device.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6731602

[0006] In recent years, the increasing demand for miniaturization of industrial machinery has led to a greater need for reduced wiring in sensor network systems. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention was made in view of the following problems, and its object is to provide a sensor network system, a sensor power supply device, a communication device, a sensor power supply method, and a communication method that can reduce wiring.

[0008] To address the aforementioned issues, according to one aspect of the present invention, a sensor network system is provided, comprising: a control device; an interface device communicatively connected to the control device; a sensor communicatively connected to the interface device; and a sensor power supply device disposed between the communication paths of the interface device and the control device, supplying power to the sensor via the interface device for enabling the sensor to operate.

[0009] Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present invention, a sensor network system is provided, comprising: a control device; an interface device communicatively connected to the control device; a sensor communicatively connected to the interface device; and a communication device disposed between the interface device and the control device in a communication path, the communication device comprising: a first communication circuit for communicating with the control device; a second communication circuit for communicating with the sensor via the interface device; and an insulation circuit that isolates the first communication circuit from the second communication circuit.

[0010] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, a sensor power supply device is applied, which is a sensor power supply device for a sensor network system, the sensor network system having: a control device; an interface device connected to the control device in a communicative manner; and a sensor connected to the interface device in a communicative manner, wherein the sensor power supply device is disposed between the communication path of the interface device and the control device, and supplies power to the sensor via the interface device for operating the sensor.

[0011] Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present invention, a communication device is applied, which is a communication device for a sensor network system, the sensor network system comprising: a control device; an interface device communicatively connected to the control device; and a sensor communicatively connected to the interface device, wherein the communication device comprises: a first communication circuit disposed between the interface device and the control device for communicating with the control device; a second communication circuit for communicating with the sensor via the interface device; and an insulation circuit that isolates the first communication circuit from the second communication circuit.

[0012] Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present invention, a sensor power supply method is applied, which is a sensor power supply method for a sensor network system, the sensor network system having: a control device; an interface device connected to the control device in a communicable manner; and a sensor connected to the interface device in a communicable manner, wherein the sensor power supply method has the following steps: supplying power for operating the sensor to the sensor via the interface device between the communication path of the interface device and the control device.

[0013] Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present invention, a communication method for a sensor network system is applied, the sensor network system comprising: a control device; an interface device connected to the control device in a communicable manner; and a sensor connected to the interface device in a communicable manner, wherein the communication method comprises the step of: isolating a first communication circuit for communicating with the control device and a second communication circuit for communicating with the sensor via the interface device between the communication paths of the interface device and the control device.

[0014] According to the sensor network system of the present invention, wiring can be reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the overall structure of the sensor network system involved in the implementation method.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the circuit structure of a sensor power supply device.

[0017] Figure 3 This is an example illustrating the internal structure of cables used in sensor network systems, equivalent to... Figure 1 Sectional view of section III-III.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the overall structure of a sensor network system in Comparative Example 1, where power from an external power source is supplied separately to the interface device or sensor.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the overall structure of a sensor network system involving a variation of connecting sensors in series.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the overall structure of the sensor network system in Comparative Example 2, where, in a modified example where sensors are connected in series, power from an external power source is supplied separately to the interface device or the sensor.

[0021] Label Explanation

[0022] 1 Sensor Network System

[0023] 3 Control devices

[0024] 5. Sensor power supply device (communication device)

[0025] 7. Noise Filter (External Power Supply)

[0026] 9 AC / DC power supply unit (external power supply unit)

[0027] 13 Interface Devices

[0028] 15 Interface Device

[0029] 17 sensors

[0030] 19 sensors

[0031] 21 sensors

[0032] 23 Drive Unit

[0033] 27 Power Protection Circuit

[0034] 31 Insulation Section

[0035] 45 bypass circuit

[0036] 49 Bypass Circuit

[0037] 53 control panel

[0038] 55 Upper-side internal circuit (first circuit)

[0039] 57 Lower-side internal circuit (second circuit)

[0040] 59. Upper-side internal power supply circuit (first internal power supply circuit)

[0041] 61. Upper-side communication circuit (first communication circuit)

[0042] 65 Lower-side internal power supply circuit (second internal power supply circuit)

[0043] 67 Sensor Power Supply Circuit

[0044] 69. Lower-level communication circuit (second communication circuit)

[0045] 71 Communication Control Circuit

[0046] 73 Insulated Circuit

[0047] 100 Sensor Network System Detailed Implementation

[0048] The embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] <1. Overall Structure of Sensor Network System>

[0050] Reference Figure 1 An example of the overall structure of the sensor network system 1 according to the embodiment will be described. Furthermore, in Figure 1 The diagram of the power supply system that supplies electricity to drive the motor is omitted.

[0051] like Figure 1As shown, the sensor network system 1 includes a control device 3, a sensor power supply device 5, a noise filter 7, an AC / DC power supply device 9, a branch device 11, interface devices 13 and 15, and sensors 17, 19, and 21.

[0052] The control device 3 controls the drive device 23. The drive device 23 is, for example, a motor-driven mechanism system such as a robot or industrial machinery. The control device 3 is, for example, a motor control device such as a servo amplifier, a multi-axis controller, a programmable logic controller (PLC), a motion controller, etc. The control device 3 has a connector 3a that connects to the cable 25. The cable 25 internally has a power line (not shown) for supplying control power from the control device 3 to the sensor power supply device 5, and a signal line (not shown) for communication between the control device 3 and the sensor power supply device 5.

[0053] Sensor power supply device 5 (an example of a communication device) supplies power to sensors 17, 19, and 21 to enable their operation. Sensor power supply device 5 supplies power to sensors 17 and 19 via interface devices 13 and 15. Sensor power supply device 5 is positioned between the interface devices 13 and 15 and the communication path of control device 3. Sensor power supply device 5 has a power protection circuit 27 that supplies power from external power source 29 to sensors 17, 19, and 21 via the power protection circuit 27. Sensor power supply device 5 has an insulation portion 31 that allows the upper-side internal circuitry 55 (see below) including communication circuitry for communication with control device 3 to pass through. Figure 2 ) and the lower-side internal circuitry 57 for supplying power to sensors 17, 19, and 21 (see below). Figure 2 Insulation. The sensor power supply device 5 has a connector 5a connected to cable 25, a connector 5b connected to cable 33, and a connector 5c connected to cable 35.

[0054] The noise filter 7 removes components other than the specified frequency from the power supplied from the external power source 29 (e.g., single-phase AC 100V or 200V). The AC / DC power supply unit 9 converts the AC power supplied from the external power source 29 into DC power of a specified voltage (e.g., 24V). The DC power converted by the AC / DC power supply unit 9 is supplied to the sensor power supply unit 5 via cable 33. The noise filter 7 and the AC / DC power supply unit 9 are examples of an external power supply unit. Furthermore, the noise filter 7 can be configured, for example, according to the power supply environment, operating environment, etc.

[0055] Branch device 11 is connected to the lower side (opposite to control device 3) of sensor power supply device 5 via cable 35. Cable 35 internally has power lines 77a and 77b for supplying power from sensor power supply device 5 to sensors 17, 19, and 21 (see below). Figure 3 ), and signal line 79 (see below) for communication between sensor power supply device 5 and sensors 17, 19, 21. Figure 3 Cable 35 is connected to connector 11a of branching device 11. Branching device 11 branches the aforementioned power and signal lines into multiple branches. Figure 1 In the example shown, the branching device 11 has a connector 11b connected to cable 37, a connector 11c connected to cable 39, and a connector 11d connected to cable 41, branching the power line and signal line into, for example, three branches. Alternatively, the number of branches can be more than three (two or four or more).

[0056] Interface device 13 is connected to the lower side of branch device 11 via cable 37. Cable 37 internally has a power line (not shown) for supplying power from sensor power supply device 5 to sensor 17 via branch device 11, and a signal line (not shown) for communication between sensor power supply device 5 and sensor 17. Cable 37 is connected to connector 13a of interface device 13. Interface device 13 performs digital signal input and output to sensor 17 as an external device. Interface device 13 has an insulating portion 43 that insulates circuitry including communication circuitry for communication with control device 3 (not shown) and circuitry for supplying power to sensor 17 (not shown). Interface device 13 has a bypass circuit 45 for supplying power from sensor power supply device 5 to each sensor 17 by bypassing the insulating portion 43. Bypass circuit 45 is, for example, an external wiring connecting connector 13b and connector 13c. Alternatively, bypass circuit 45 may be configured as internal circuitry of interface device 13.

[0057] One or more connectors 13c of the interface device 13 are connected in a communicative manner (in...) Figure 1 (For example, there are four sensors 17.) Besides digital sensors (such as pressure sensors) that detect various information and output digital signals, sensors 17 can also be various switches, relays, solenoids, etc., that correspond to digital signals. That is, any sensor 17 can be a digital input / output device that performs digital signal input and output with the interface device 13.

[0058] The interface device 13 transmits the signals received from the sensor 17 to the control device 3 via the branch device 11 and the sensor power supply device 5. In addition, the interface device 13 supplies power from the sensor power supply device 5 via the branch device 11 to each sensor 17 via the bypass circuit 45 and the connector 13c.

[0059] Interface device 15 is connected to the lower side of branch device 11 via cable 39. Cable 39 internally has a power line (not shown) for supplying power from sensor power supply device 5 to sensor 19 via branch device 11, and a signal line (not shown) for communication between sensor power supply device 5 and sensor 19. Cable 39 is connected to connector 15a of interface device 15. Interface device 15 inputs and outputs analog signals to sensor 19 as an external device. Interface device 15 has an insulation portion 47 that insulates circuitry including communication circuitry for communication with control device 3 (not shown) and circuitry for supplying power to sensor 19 (not shown). Interface device 15 has a bypass circuit 49 for supplying power from sensor power supply device 5 to each sensor 19 by bypassing insulation portion 47. Bypass circuit 49 is, for example, an external wiring that connects connector 15b to each sensor 19.

[0060] One or more connectors (in) of the interface device 15 are connected in a communicative manner to the connector 15c. Figure 1 (For example, there are four sensors 19.) Sensors 19 can be analog sensors (such as pressure sensors) that detect various information and output analog signals, or they can be various switches, relays, solenoids, etc., that correspond to analog signals. In other words, sensors 19 can simply be analog input / output devices that exchange analog signals with the interface device 15.

[0061] The interface device 15 transmits the signals received from the sensor 19 to the control device 3 via the branch device 11 and the sensor power supply device 5. In addition, the interface device 15 supplies power from the sensor power supply device 5 to each sensor 19 via the branch device 11 via the bypass circuit 49.

[0062] Sensor 21 is connected to the lower side of branch device 11 via cable 41. Cable 41 internally includes a power line (not shown) for supplying power from sensor power supply device 5 to sensor 21 via branch device 11, and a signal line (not shown) for communication between sensor power supply device 5 and sensor 21. Sensor 21 is, for example, an encoder that detects the rotational position or speed of motor 51. Sensor 21 operates using power supplied from sensor power supply device 5 via branch device 11. Sensor 21 transmits the detected rotational position or speed of motor 51 to control device 3 via branch device 11 and sensor power supply device 5.

[0063] The control device 3, sensor power supply device 5, noise filter 7, and AC / DC power supply device 9 are arranged inside the control panel 53. The branch device 11, interface devices 13 and 15, sensors 17, 19 and 21, and motor 51 are arranged inside or outside or near the drive device 23.

[0064] Furthermore, the structure of the sensor network system 1 described above is an example and is not limited to the above content. For example, it is not necessary to provide the branch device 11. For example, it can be omitted in the case where any one of the interface devices 13, 15 or sensor 21 is connected to the sensor power supply device 5. Alternatively, an interface device can be provided between the branch device 11 and the sensor 21, or the sensor 21 can be connected to the interface devices 13 and 15.

[0065] <2. Circuit Structure of Sensor Power Supply Device>

[0066] Reference Figure 2 An example of the circuit structure of the sensor power supply device 5 will be described.

[0067] like Figure 2 As shown, the sensor power supply device 5 has an upper-side internal circuit 55, a lower-side internal circuit 57, and the aforementioned insulating part 31.

[0068] The upper-side internal circuit 55 (an example of the first circuit) includes circuitry for communicating with the control device 3. The lower-side internal circuit 57 (an example of the second circuit) includes circuitry for supplying power to the sensors 17, 19, and 21. The upper-side internal circuit 55 and the lower-side internal circuit 57 are insulated from each other by means of an insulating portion 31. The insulating portion 31 has an insulating circuit 73, which will be described later. The insulating portion 31 may also be constructed, for example, by an insulating separator or the like.

[0069] The upper-side internal circuit 55 includes an upper-side internal power supply circuit 59, an upper-side communication circuit 61, and a grounding circuit 63. The upper-side internal power supply circuit 59 (an example of a first internal power supply circuit) generates power used in the upper-side internal circuit 55 based on power supplied from the control device 3 via a power line within the cable 25. The upper-side communication circuit 61 (an example of a first communication circuit) uses the power generated by the upper-side internal power supply circuit 59 to communicate with the control device 3 via a signal line within the cable 25.

[0070] The lower-side internal circuit 57 includes the aforementioned power protection circuit 27, lower-side internal power circuit 65, sensor power circuit 67, lower-side communication circuit 69, communication control circuit 71, and grounding circuits 74 and 75. The power protection circuit 27 is located upstream of the lower-side internal power circuit 65 and the sensor power circuit 67 (on the external power supply 29 side), protecting the circuit from overcurrent (including short circuits) or overvoltage, reverse voltage, etc. The power protection circuit 27 is, for example, composed of an electronic fuse. The lower-side internal power circuit 65 (an example of a second internal power circuit) generates the power used in the lower-side internal circuit 57 based on the power supplied from the AC / DC power supply device 9. The sensor power circuit 67 supplies power to sensors 17, 19, and 21 for operation based on the power supplied from the AC / DC power supply device 9. The sensor power circuit 67 is configured, for example, as a wiring branch between the power protection circuit 27 and the lower-side internal power circuit 65 and connected to connector 5c.

[0071] The lower-side communication circuit 69 (an example of a second communication circuit) uses power generated by the lower-side internal power supply circuit 65 to communicate with sensors 17, 19, and 21. The lower-side communication circuit 69 communicates with sensors 17 and 19 via branch device 11 and interface devices 13 and 15, and communicates with sensor 21 via branch device 11.

[0072] The communication control circuit 71 is connected, for example, to the lower-side communication circuit 69 of the insulating circuit 73. The communication control circuit 71 controls the communication between the control device 3 and the interface devices 13, 15 or the sensors 17, 19, 21 via the upper-side communication circuit 61 and the lower-side communication circuit 69.

[0073] An insulating circuit 73 is connected between the upper-side communication circuit 61 and the lower-side communication circuit 69, connecting the upper-side communication circuit 61 and the lower-side communication circuit 69 in an insulated yet communicative manner.

[0074] The circuit structure of the sensor power supply device 5 described above is an example and is not limited to the above content. For example, the communication control circuit 71 can also be connected to the upper-side communication circuit 61 of the insulation circuit 73.

[0075] Furthermore, the circuits described above are not limited to examples of circuit division. For example, they can be constructed with fewer circuits or with further subdivided circuits. Additionally, the sensor power supply device 5 can be equipped with all of the aforementioned circuits through actual hardware, or with a portion of its functionality installed through a program executed by the CPU.

[0076] <3. Internal Structure of Cables>

[0077] Reference Figure 3 An example of the internal structure of the cable used in the sensor network system 1 will be described. Here, the cable 35 connecting the sensor power supply device 5 and the branch device 11 will be used as an example. Figure 3 It is equivalent to Figure 1 Sectional view of section III-III.

[0078] like Figure 3 As shown, cable 35 internally has a pair of power lines 77a and 77b and a signal line 79. Power line 77a is connected to the sensor power circuit 67 via connector 5c, and power line 77b is connected to the ground circuit 75 via connector 5c. Signal line 79 is connected to the lower-side communication circuit 69 via connector 5c. Alternatively, cable 35 may also have unused wiring in addition to the three wires mentioned above. Other cables 25, 37, 39, and 41 can also be configured similarly to cable 35, having a pair of power lines and one signal line.

[0079] <4. Effects of the Implementation Method>

[0080] As described above, the sensor network system 1 of this embodiment includes: a control device 3; interface devices 13 and 15 connected to the control device 3 in a communicable manner; sensors 17 and 19 connected to the interface devices 13 and 15 in a communicable manner; and a sensor power supply device 5 disposed between the interface devices 13 and 15 and the control device 3, which supplies power to the sensors 17 and 19 via the interface devices 13 and 15 for operating the sensors 17 and 19.

[0081] In a sensor network system 1 where the control device 3 and sensors 17 and 19 are communicatively connected via interface devices 13 and 15, two power supply systems are required: an internal power supply for internal circuits such as communication circuits and an external power supply for operating sensors 17 and 19. For example, in... Figure 4In the case of the sensor network system 1A shown in Comparative Example 1, where the power of the external power supply 29 is supplied separately to the interface device 13 or the sensor 19, the number of wiring around the interface device 13 and the sensor 19 increases, and external power supply devices such as noise filter 7 and AC / DC power supply device 9 are required on the drive device 23 side.

[0082] In the sensor network system 1 of this embodiment, a sensor power supply device 5 is configured between the communication paths of the interface devices 13 and 15 and the control device 3, supplying power for operating sensors 17 and 19 via the interface devices 13 and 15. This allows the power used in internal circuits such as communication circuits and the power used to operate sensors 17 and 19 to be shared, concentrating the power supply system into a single system. Therefore, wiring reduction is possible around the interface devices 13 and 15 and sensors 17 and 19. Furthermore, in addition to wiring reduction, an external power supply device is not required on the drive device 23 side, thus enabling miniaturization of the drive device 23, which, for example, facilitates high-density and integration of factory lines, production lines, etc., using the drive device 23.

[0083] Furthermore, by reducing the power cords within cables 35, 37, 39, and 41 to a single pair, the outer diameter of the cable can be reduced, improving its maneuverability and ease of installation. Moreover, since the internal wiring can be thickened, limitations on the available power capacity can be mitigated.

[0084] In addition, in this embodiment, the sensor power supply device 5 may also include: an upper-side internal circuit 55, which includes circuitry for communicating with the control device 3; a lower-side internal circuit 57, which includes circuitry for supplying power to the sensors 17 and 19 via the interface devices 13 and 15; and an insulating portion 31, which insulates the upper-side internal circuit 55 and the lower-side internal circuit 57.

[0085] The upper-side internal circuit 55 operates using power supplied from the control device 3, while the lower-side internal circuit 57 operates using power supplied from the external power source 29. Since these circuits use different power systems, they are preferably isolated from each other.

[0086] In a structure where power from external power source 29 is supplied separately to interface device 13 or sensor 19, as in Comparative Example 1 described above, interface devices 13 and 15 possess the aforementioned insulating structure (insulating parts 43 and 47), thereby ensuring functional insulation of the system. In this embodiment, sensor power supply device 5 possesses the aforementioned insulating structure, thereby enabling a system where the power supply system is a single system, saving wiring and ensuring functional insulation. Therefore, each device constituting sensor network system 1 can operate properly.

[0087] Alternatively, in this embodiment, the lower-side internal circuit 57 may also include a sensor power supply circuit 67, which supplies power to the sensors 17, 19, and 21 based on power supplied from the external power source 29 via the noise filter 7 and the AC / DC power supply device 9 to operate the sensors 17, 19, and 21. In this case, by placing the external power supply device such as the noise filter 7 and the AC / DC power supply device 9 near the sensor power supply device 5 (e.g., within the control panel 53), an external power supply device on the drive device 23 side is not required, thus enabling miniaturization of the drive device 23.

[0088] In addition, in this embodiment, the upper-side internal circuit 55 may also have an upper-side internal power supply circuit 59 that generates the power used in the upper-side internal circuit 55 based on the power supplied from the control device 3, and the lower-side internal circuit 57 may also have a lower-side internal power supply circuit 65 that generates the power used in the lower-side internal circuit 57 based on the power supplied from the external power source 29. The insulating part 31 may also insulate the upper-side internal power supply circuit 59 and the lower-side internal power supply circuit 65.

[0089] The upper-side internal power supply circuit 59 generates the power used in the upper-side internal circuit 55 based on the power supplied from the control device 3. On the other hand, the lower-side internal power supply circuit 65 generates the power used in the lower-side internal circuit 57 based on the power supplied from the external power source 29. Since these power supply circuits have different power systems, they are preferably isolated from each other.

[0090] In this embodiment, the upper-side internal power supply circuit 59 and the lower-side internal power supply circuit 65 are isolated in the sensor power supply device 5. Therefore, wiring can be simplified on the drive device 23 side and functional isolation can be ensured, enabling each device constituting the sensor network system 1 to operate properly. In addition, the power supplied from the external power source 29 to the sensor power supply device 5 can be shared as power used in the lower-side internal circuit 57 and power used to operate the sensors 17, 19, and 21, allowing the power supply system to be centralized into one system.

[0091] In addition, in this embodiment, the upper-side internal circuit 55 may also have an upper-side communication circuit 61 that uses power generated by the upper-side internal power supply circuit 59 to communicate with the control device 3, and the lower-side internal circuit 57 may also have a lower-side communication circuit 69 that uses power generated by the lower-side internal power supply circuit 65 to communicate with the sensors 17, 19, and 21. The insulating part 31 may also have an insulating circuit 73 that is connected between the upper-side communication circuit 61 and the lower-side communication circuit 69, connecting the upper-side communication circuit 61 and the lower-side communication circuit 69 in an insulated but communicative manner.

[0092] The upper-side communication circuit 61, which communicates with the control device 3, operates based on power supplied from the control device 3. On the other hand, the lower-side communication circuit 69, which communicates with the sensors 17, 19, and 21, operates based on power supplied from the external power source 29. Since these communication circuits have different power systems, they are preferably isolated from each other.

[0093] In this embodiment, the upper-side communication circuit 61 and the lower-side communication circuit 69 are isolated in the sensor power supply device 5. Therefore, wiring can be simplified on the drive device 23 side and functional isolation can be ensured, so that each device constituting the sensor network system 1 can operate properly.

[0094] In addition, in this embodiment, the sensor power supply device 5 may also have a communication control circuit 71, which is connected to the upper side (upper side communication circuit 61 side) or lower side (lower side communication circuit 69 side) of the insulation circuit 73 to control the communication between the control device 3 and the interface devices 13, 15 or the sensors 17, 19, 21.

[0095] In this configuration, communication between the control device 3 and sensors 17, 19, and 21 can be achieved while ensuring functional isolation between the upper-side communication circuit 61 and the lower-side communication circuit 69. Furthermore, the communication control circuit 71 can be located on either the upper or lower side of the insulating circuit 73, thus increasing design flexibility.

[0096] In addition, in this embodiment, the lower-side internal circuit 57 may also have a power protection circuit 27, which is located upstream of the lower-side internal power circuit 65 and the sensor power circuit 67 to protect the circuit.

[0097] In a configuration where the power from the external power supply 29 is supplied separately to the interface device 13 or the sensor 19, as in Comparative Example 1 described above, a power protection circuit needs to be installed between the external power supply device and the interface device 13 or the sensor 19, making the wiring around the interface devices 13, 15, and sensors 17, 19 complex. In this embodiment, the sensor power supply device 5 has a power protection circuit 27, thus reducing the wiring around the interface devices 13, 15, and sensors 17, 19, and protecting the internal circuits of the sensor power supply device 5 and the interface devices 13, 15 from overcurrent (including short circuits), overvoltage, reverse voltage, etc.

[0098] In addition, in this embodiment, the interface devices 13 and 15 may also have bypass circuits 45 and 49 for supplying power from the sensor power supply device 5 to the sensors 17 and 19 by bypassing the insulating portions 43 and 47.

[0099] In conventional structures, such as Comparative Example 1 described above, where power from external power source 29 is supplied separately to interface device 13 or sensor 19, functional insulation is ensured by providing interface devices 13 and 15 with circuits for communicating with control device 3, circuits for supplying power from external power source to sensors 17 and 19, and insulating parts 43 and 47 that insulate these circuits.

[0100] In this embodiment, by providing bypass circuits 45 and 49 that bypass the insulating parts 43 and 47, power for operating the sensors 17 and 19 can be supplied from the sensor power supply device 5 to the sensors 17 and 19 via interface devices 13 and 15. Therefore, existing interface devices with insulating parts 43 and 47 can be used, and a system that centralizes the power supply system into one system, saving wiring, can be realized.

[0101] In addition, in this embodiment, the control device 3 and the sensor power supply device 5 can also be configured in the control panel 53, and the interface devices 13, 15 and the sensors 17, 19, 21 can also be configured in the drive device 23 controlled by the control device 3.

[0102] In this case, by arranging the sensor power supply device 5 inside the control panel 53, an external power supply device is not required on the drive device 23 side. In addition, by reducing wiring around the interface devices 13, 15, and sensors 17, 19, the drive device 23 can be miniaturized.

[0103] Furthermore, the sensor network system 1 of this embodiment includes: a control device 3; interface devices 13 and 15, which are communicatively connected to the control device 3; sensors 17 and 19, which are communicatively connected to the interface devices 13 and 15; and a sensor power supply device 5, which is disposed between the communication paths of the interface devices 13 and 15 and the control device 3. The sensor power supply device 5 includes: an upper-side communication circuit 61 for communicating with the control device 3; a lower-side communication circuit 69 for communicating with the sensors 17 and 19 via the interface devices 13 and 15; and an insulation circuit 73 that isolates the upper-side communication circuit 61 from the lower-side communication circuit 69.

[0104] In the sensor network system 1, where the control device 3 and sensors 17 and 19 are communicatively connected via interface devices 13 and 15, at nodes such as interface devices 13 and 15, a higher-level communication circuit for communicating with the control device 3 and a lower-level communication circuit for communicating with the sensors 17 and 19 are required. The higher-level communication circuit operates using power supplied from the control device 3, while the lower-level communication circuit operates using power supplied from an external power source 29. Since these circuits use different power systems, they are preferably isolated from each other.

[0105] Assuming that, as in Comparative Example 1 described above, the power from the external power source 29 is supplied separately to the interface device 13 or the sensor 19, the interface devices 13 and 15 have the aforementioned insulation structure, thereby ensuring the functional insulation of the system. However, the number of wiring around the interface devices 13 and 15, and the sensors 17 and 19 increases, and an external power supply device is required on the drive device 23 side.

[0106] In this embodiment, a sensor power supply device 5, which serves as a communication device, is configured between the communication paths of the interface devices 13 and 15 and the control device 3. This sensor power supply device 5 has the aforementioned insulation structure. Therefore, the power used in the lower-side communication circuit 69 and the power used to operate the sensors 17 and 19 can be shared, allowing the power supply system to be centralized into one system. This enables wiring reduction around the interface devices 13 and 15, and the sensors 17 and 19. Furthermore, besides reducing wiring, an external power supply device is not required on the drive device 23 side, thus enabling miniaturization of the drive device 23.

[0107] <5. Variations>

[0108] The disclosed implementation methods are not limited to those described above, and various modifications can be made without departing from their spirit and technical concept. Examples of such modifications will be described below.

[0109] (5-1. Case where the sensor is directly connected)

[0110] In the foregoing embodiments, the case where multiple sensors are branched and connected to the sensor power supply device 5 (also known as star connection or T-branch connection) has been described, but the connection configuration of the sensors is not limited to the above. For example, multiple sensors may also be connected in series (also known as daisy chain connection or cascade connection) to the sensor power supply device 5.

[0111] Figure 5 This illustrates an example of the structure of the sensor network system 100 in this modified example. Additionally, in Figure 5 In the middle, regarding the aforementioned Figure 1The same structures are labeled with the same reference numerals, and descriptions are omitted where appropriate.

[0112] like Figure 5 As shown, the sensor network system 100 includes a control device 3, a sensor power supply device 5, a noise filter 7, an AC / DC power supply device 9, multiple (e.g., two) sensors 21, an interface device 13, and sensors 17. The sensor power supply device 5 is positioned between the interface device 13 and the control device 3 in the communication path. The two sensors 21 and the interface device 13 are connected in series with the sensor power supply device 5 via cables 83, 85, and 87. Cables 83, 85, and 87 each have internal power lines (not shown) for supplying power from the sensor power supply device 5 to the sensors 21 and 17, and signal lines (not shown) for communication between the sensor power supply device 5 and the sensors 21 and 17. The sensor power supply device 5 supplies power to operate the sensors 21 and 17 via cables 83, 85, 87 or the interface device 13. The noise filter 7 can be configured, for example, depending on the power supply environment and the operating environment. The functions and structures of the devices constituting the nodes of the sensor network system 100 are the same as in the embodiment described above, and therefore, no further explanation is provided.

[0113] In a sensor network system 100 where the control device 3 and the sensor 17 are communicatively connected via the interface device 13, two power supply systems are required: an internal power supply for internal circuits such as communication circuits and an external power supply for operating the sensor 17. For example, ... Figure 6 In the case of the sensor network system 100A shown in Comparative Example 2, which adopts a structure that directly supplies power from the external power supply 29 to the interface device 13, there are many wirings around the interface device 13, and external power supply devices such as noise filter 7 and AC / DC power supply device 9 are required on the drive device 23 side.

[0114] In the sensor network system 100 of this modified example, the power used in internal circuits such as communication circuits and the power used to operate sensors 21 and 17 can be shared, and the power supply system can be centralized into one system. Therefore, wiring reduction around the interface device 13 and sensor 17 can be achieved. In addition, besides wiring reduction, an external power supply device is not required on the drive device 23 side, so the drive device 23 can be miniaturized, which can help to increase the density and integration of factory lines, production lines, etc. that use the drive device 23.

[0115] Furthermore, the structure of the sensor network system 100 described above is an example and is not limited to the above content. For example, the number of sensors 21 may be more than 2, or none may be provided. In addition, multiple interface devices 13 may be connected in series, or one or more interface devices 15 may be connected in series instead of interface devices 13.

[0116] (5-2. Others)

[0117] In the sensor network systems 1 and 100 described above, the sensor power supply device 5 may, for example, possess at least one of the branching function based on the branching device 11 or the interface function based on the interface devices 13 and 15. In this case, a device with a function equivalent to that of the sensor power supply device 5 can be omitted, simplifying the system structure. Furthermore, the power supplied to the sensors 17, 19, and 21 need not be the same value as the power supplied from the AC / DC power supply device 9. For example, a transformer may be installed between the sensor power supply device 5 and the sensors 17, 19, and 21 to transform the power before supplying it.

[0118] In addition to those already described above, methods based on the above embodiments and variations can also be appropriately combined and utilized. Furthermore, although not all examples have been shown, the above embodiments and variations can be implemented with various modifications without departing from their spirit.

[0119] The problems and effects to be solved by the above-described embodiments and modifications are not limited to those described above. Problems not described above may also be solved or effects not described above may also be achieved through the embodiments or modifications. In addition, sometimes only a part of the described problems or only a part of the described effects may be solved.

Claims

1. A sensor network system, comprising: Control device; An interface device that is communicatively connected to the control device; A sensor that is communicatively connected to the interface device; as well as A sensor power supply device is disposed between the communication path of the interface device and the control device, and is located closer to the external power source relative to the interface device. It supplies power from the external power source to the sensor via the interface device to enable the sensor to operate. The sensor power supply device has the following features: A first circuit is used to communicate with the control device; A second circuit, located near the external power supply side and used to supply power to the sensor via the interface device; and An insulating part that insulates the first circuit from the second circuit.

2. The sensor network system according to claim 1, wherein, The second circuit has a sensor power supply circuit that supplies power to the sensor to enable the sensor to operate, based on power supplied from an external power supply device.

3. The sensor network system according to claim 2, wherein, The first circuit has a first internal power supply circuit that generates the power used in the first circuit based on the power supplied from the control device. The second circuit has a second internal power supply circuit that generates the power used in the second circuit based on the power supplied from the external power supply device. The insulating portion isolates the first internal power circuit from the second internal power circuit.

4. The sensor network system according to claim 3, wherein, The first circuit has a first communication circuit for communicating with the control device using power generated by the first internal power supply circuit. The second circuit has a second communication circuit that uses power generated by the second internal power supply circuit to communicate with the sensor via the interface device. The insulating part has an insulating circuit connected between the first communication circuit and the second communication circuit, connecting the first communication circuit and the second communication circuit in an insulated but communicative manner.

5. The sensor network system according to claim 4, wherein, The sensor power supply device has a communication control circuit, which is connected to the first communication circuit side or the second communication circuit side of the insulating circuit to control the communication between the control device and the interface device.

6. The sensor network system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein, The second circuit has a power protection circuit, which is located upstream of the second internal power circuit and the sensor power circuit to protect the circuit.

7. The sensor network system according to claim 1, wherein, The interface device has a bypass circuit for supplying power from the sensor power supply device to the sensor, bypassing the insulation portion.

8. The sensor network system according to claim 1, wherein, The control device and the sensor power supply device are located within the control panel. The interface device and the sensor are configured in a drive device controlled by the control device.

9. A sensor network system, comprising: Control device; An interface device that is communicatively connected to the control device; The sensor, which is communicatively connected to the interface device; and A communication device is configured between the interface device and the control device in the communication path. The communication device has: A first communication circuit is used to communicate with the control device; A second communication circuit is used to communicate with the sensor via the interface device; An insulating circuit that insulates the first communication circuit from the second communication circuit; and A communication control circuit, connected to either the first or second communication circuit side of the insulating circuit, controls the communication between the control device and the interface device. The interface device has an insulating portion that insulates the communication circuit for communicating with the control device and the circuit for supplying power to the sensor.

10. A sensor power supply device, which is a sensor power supply device for a sensor network system. The sensor network system has the following characteristics: Control device; An interface device, which is communicatively connected to the control device; and The sensor is connected to the interface device in a communicative manner. in, The sensor power supply device is configured between the communication path of the interface device and the control device, and is located closer to the external power source than the interface device. It supplies power from the external power source to the sensor via the interface device to enable the sensor to operate. The sensor power supply device has the following features: A first circuit is used to communicate with the control device; A second circuit, located near the external power supply side and used to supply power to the sensor via the interface device; and An insulating part that insulates the first circuit from the second circuit.

11. A communication device for a sensor network system. The sensor network system has the following characteristics: Control device; An interface device, which is communicatively connected to the control device; and The sensor is connected to the interface device in a communicative manner. in, The communication device is configured between the interface device and the control device in the communication path. The communication device has: A first communication circuit is used to communicate with the control device; A second communication circuit is used to communicate with the sensor via the interface device; An insulating circuit that isolates the first communication circuit from the second communication circuit; as well as A communication control circuit, connected to either the first or second communication circuit side of the insulating circuit, controls the communication between the control device and the interface device. The interface device has an insulating portion that insulates the communication circuit for communicating with the control device and the circuit for supplying power to the sensor.

12. A sensor power supply method, which is a sensor power supply method for a sensor network system. The sensor network system has the following characteristics: Control device; An interface device, which is communicatively connected to the control device; and The sensor is connected to the interface device in a communicative manner. in, The sensor power supply method includes the following steps: supplying power from the external power source to the sensor via the interface device to enable the sensor to operate, through a sensor power supply device configured between the interface device and the control device and located closer to the external power source side relative to the interface device. The sensor power supply device includes: A first circuit is used to communicate with the control device; A second circuit, located near the external power supply side and used to supply power to the sensor via the interface device; and An insulating part that insulates the first circuit from the second circuit.

13. A communication method for a sensor network system. The sensor network system has the following characteristics: Control device; An interface device, which is communicatively connected to the control device; and The sensor is connected to the interface device in a communicative manner. in, The interface device has an insulating portion that insulates the communication circuit for communicating with the control device and the circuit for supplying power to the sensor. The communication method includes the following steps: isolating a first communication circuit for communicating with the control device and a second communication circuit for communicating with the sensor via the interface device between the communication paths of the interface device and the control device through an insulation circuit; and controlling the communication between the control device and the interface device on either the first or second communication circuit side of the insulation circuit.

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