Sensor device and gas monitoring system

Abstract

The present application provides a sensor device and a gas monitoring system. The sensor device detects a gas leak in the ground and has a sensor module having a first sensor that detects a gas; a processing circuit that processes a detection result output from the first sensor; a communication module that communicates with the sensor module and transmits information processed by the processing circuit to the outside of the sensor device; a first power supply that is a power source for the sensor module; and a second power supply that is a power source for the communication module. The sensor module further has a housing that houses the first sensor and has a conical closed space that is tapered downward; and a waterproof filter or a dustproof filter that is installed below the first sensor in the housing to separate the closed space into upper and lower spaces.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on September 5, 2018, with application number 201880038600.3 and entitled "Sensor Device and Gas Monitoring System". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a sensor device and a gas monitoring system for detecting gases leaked into the ground. Background Technology

[0003] In recent years, vigorous efforts have been made across various sectors to realize a hydrogen society. In particular, fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen stations using hydrogen as fuel have been introduced to the market, and infrastructure such as hydrogen supply pipelines is being improved. Under these circumstances, the importance of sensors that detect hydrogen leaks, as institutions ensuring the safety and security of a hydrogen society, has increased.

[0004] For example, in the sensor system described in Patent Document 1, multiple sensors are pre-configured underground (in concrete). These sensors monitor multiple parameters related to the gas and the environment other than the gas, and after processing the monitored parameters, they are wirelessly output to the outside of the sensors.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2004-515757 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0009] Traditional gas detection systems pre-install sensors within concrete, making them unsuitable for replacement or maintenance. Consequently, they cannot be applied to gas monitoring systems that constantly monitor for gas leaks.

[0010] The purpose of this invention is to provide a sensor device and a gas monitoring system that can always monitor gas leaks.

[0011] Methods used to solve problems

[0012] To address the aforementioned issues, a sensor device according to one aspect of the present invention is a sensor device for detecting underground gas leaks, comprising: a sensor module having a first sensor for detecting gas; a processing circuit for processing the detection results output from the first sensor; a communication module for communicating with the sensor module and transmitting the information processed by the processing circuit to the outside of the sensor device; a first power source for the sensor module; and a second power source for the communication module. The sensor module further comprises: a housing housing the first sensor and having a conical, conical, sealed space that tapers downwards; and a waterproof or dustproof filter installed below the first sensor within the housing to separate the sealed space into upper and lower spaces.

[0013] Furthermore, a gas monitoring system according to one aspect of the present invention is a gas monitoring system for detecting underground gas leaks, comprising: at least one sensor device for detecting the gas and outputting a detection result; and a gateway for receiving the detection result; the sensor device comprising: a sensor module having a first sensor for detecting the gas; a processing circuit for processing the detection result output from the first sensor; a communication module for communicating with the sensor module and transmitting the information processed by the processing circuit to the outside of the sensor device; a first power source for powering the sensor module; and a second power source for powering the communication module; the sensor module further comprising a conical housing housing the first sensor, and a waterproof or dustproof filter disposed below the first sensor within the housing; the sensor module being disposed as a plug in a drain hole formed in a borehole at least partially buried underground.

[0014] Invention Effects

[0015] According to the present invention, a sensor device and a gas monitoring system capable of constantly monitoring gas leaks can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is an overall diagram of the gas monitoring system according to Embodiment 1.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the sensor device according to Embodiment 1.

[0018] Figure 3A This is a perspective view showing the structure of the sensor device according to Embodiment 1.

[0019] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of the sensor device for line IIIB-IIIB shown.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the sensor circuit according to Embodiment 1.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the communication module according to Embodiment 1.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the sensor module and communication module according to Embodiment 1.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the connection between the sensor module and the communication module in Implementation Method 1.

[0024] Figure 8 This is a diagram used to illustrate the operation of the gas monitoring system according to Embodiment 1.

[0025] Figure 9 This is a flowchart showing the order in which the leakage points of the gas monitoring system according to Embodiment 1 are determined.

[0026] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the sensor module according to Embodiment 2.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the connection between the sensor module and the communication module in embodiment 2.

[0028] Figure 12 This is an overall diagram of the gas monitoring system according to Embodiment 3.

[0029] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the sensor module and communication module according to embodiment 3.

[0030] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing another example of the sensor device according to embodiment 6. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] Furthermore, in the figures, elements that substantially represent the same structure, action, and effect are given the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted. Additionally, the numerical values, materials, compositions, shapes, film-forming methods, and connection relationships between constituent elements described below are merely illustrative examples used to specifically illustrate embodiments of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these. Furthermore, any constituent elements in the following embodiments that are not described in the independent claims representing the highest-level concept are described as arbitrary constituent elements.

[0033] (Implementation Method 1)

[0034] [1. Structure of a Gas Monitoring System]

[0035] Figure 1 This is an overall diagram of the gas monitoring system 1 according to this embodiment. The gas monitoring system 1 is a system that always detects leaks of gas supplied by a pipeline 3 buried in the ground 2. Hereinafter, the gas supplied by the pipeline 3 is assumed to be hydrogen-containing gas, and the gas monitoring system 1 for detecting hydrogen leaks will be described. Hydrogen-containing gas refers to a general term for gases composed of molecules having hydrogen atoms, and as an example, it may include hydrogen, methane, ethanol, etc.

[0036] like Figure 1 As shown, the gas monitoring system 1 consists of at least one sensor device 10 buried in the ground 2 and a gateway 20. The sensor device 10 is, for example, positioned above a pipeline 3 that serves as a transport path for hydrogen-containing gas. The sensor device 10 detects hydrogen-containing gas leaking from the pipeline 3. The structure of the sensor device 10 will be described in detail later.

[0037] In addition, the sensor device 10 transmits and receives data with the gateway 20. For example, the sensor device 10 transmits information about a gas leak detected by the sensor device 10 and information about the location of the gas leak to the gateway 20.

[0038] Gateway 20 is a relay device such as a base station and router. Gateway 20 is equipped with a GPS (Global Positioning System) module. Gateway 20 uses the GPS module to detect the location of gas leaks.

[0039] Information about a gas leak sent to gateway 20 is transmitted from gateway 20 to maintenance service 7 via cloud system 6. Maintenance service 7 then knows the location of the gas leak and can take appropriate measures to address it.

[0040] [2. Structure of the sensor device]

[0041] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the sensor device 10 according to this embodiment. The sensor device 10 is as follows... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, it includes a sensor module 100 and a communication module 110. The structure of the sensor module 100 and the communication module 110 will be described in detail later.

[0042] Sensor module 100 and communication module 110, for example, Figure 1As shown, a hand hole 130 is installed within the ground 2. The hand hole 130 has sufficient space inside to allow operation by inserting a hand through the opening. Furthermore, a cover 140 is disposed above the hand hole 130 to cover the opening of the hand hole 130. That is, the structure is such that the cover 140 is disposed on the surface of the ground 2.

[0043] [2-1. Structure of the sensor module]

[0044] The structure of the sensor module 100 will be described below. Figure 3A This is a perspective view showing the structure of the sensor device 10 according to this embodiment. Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of the sensor device 10 for line IIIB-IIIB shown. Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the sensor circuit 102 according to this embodiment.

[0045] like Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the sensor module 100 has a housing 101, a sensor circuit 102, and a filter 103.

[0046] The housing 101 is, for example, made of aluminum alloy, such as Figure 3A As shown, it has a conical shape. Furthermore, as described later, the sensor device 10 is disposed as a drain plug in the drain hole of the probe hole 130, so the housing 101 has a conical shape. However, the shape of the housing 101 is not limited to this; it can also be a pyramidal shape or other shapes.

[0047] Furthermore, a sensor circuit 102 is disposed on the conical bottom surface of the housing 101. The sensor circuit 102 is as follows: Figure 4 As shown, it has a detection unit 105 and a power supply unit 106. The detection unit 105 includes a gas sensor 105a, a temperature sensor 105b, an A / D converter 105c, a processor 105d, and a memory 105e.

[0048] Gas sensor 105a is a hydrogen sensor for detecting hydrogen molecules. In this embodiment, gas sensor 105a is a first sensor. Gas sensor 105a has two opposing electrodes and a metal oxide layer disposed between the two electrodes.

[0049] One of the two electrodes is made of a material that has a catalytic effect, such as platinum (Pt), iridium (Ir), or palladium (Pd), or an alloy containing at least one of them, which dissociates hydrogen atoms from gas molecules containing hydrogen atoms.

[0050] Furthermore, one of the two electrodes may be made of a material with a standard electrode potential lower than that of the metal constituting the metal oxide, such as tungsten (W), nickel (Ni), tantalum (Ta), titanium (Ti), aluminum (Al), tantalum nitride (TaN), or titanium nitride (TiN). Additionally, a higher standard electrode potential indicates greater resistance to oxidation. Furthermore, the other electrode may also be made of a material that has a catalytic effect, such as platinum (Pt), iridium (Ir), or palladium (Pd), or an alloy containing at least one of these, which dissociates hydrogen atoms from gas molecules containing hydrogen atoms.

[0051] The metal oxide layer is composed of an oxide containing one metal selected from the group consisting of, for example, transition metals capable of taking multiple oxidation states, tin, and aluminum. The parent metal of the oxide may also be selected from at least one of transition metals such as tantalum (Ta), hafnium (Hf), titanium (Ti), zirconium (Zr), niobium (Nb), tungsten (W), nickel (Ni), iron (Fe), chromium (Cr), cobalt (Co), manganese (Mn), vanadium (V), cerium (Ce), and copper (Cu), and tin (Sn) and aluminum (Al).

[0052] Furthermore, the metal oxide layer can be a single layer or a two-layer structure consisting of two metal oxide layers with different oxygen contents. Additionally, the metal oxide layer can also contain oxygen-deficient metal oxides.

[0053] Temperature sensor 105b is a sensor that detects temperature as at least one parameter related to the surrounding environment in which sensor device 10 is configured. In this embodiment, temperature sensor 105b is a second sensor. A thermocouple is used, for example, in temperature sensor 105b. By providing temperature sensor 105b, detection unit 105 can detect hydrogen gas leakage or other malfunctions based on temperature changes in the surrounding environment of sensor device 10.

[0054] Furthermore, the second sensor is not limited to a temperature sensor; for example, it may be composed of at least one of a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a pressure sensor. Additionally, a combination of a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a pressure sensor may be used. Furthermore, the second sensor may also be a flood sensor that detects flooding of the sensor device 10, as described later.

[0055] Temperature sensor 105b is disposed below gas sensor 105a. Therefore, an anomaly can be detected by temperature change detected by temperature sensor 105b before it is detected by gas sensor 105a, thus preventing gas sensor 105a from being damaged by an anomaly. Furthermore, not limited to temperature sensor 105d, humidity sensors, pressure sensors, and flooding sensors can also be disposed below gas sensor 105a in the same manner as temperature sensor 105d. For example, when a flooding sensor is disposed below gas sensor 105a, it is possible to prevent the sensor module 100 from being flooded, thus preventing gas sensor 105a from flooding and malfunctioning. Additionally, in the case of a flooding sensor, it is preferable to dispose of it near the apex of housing 101.

[0056] The A / D converter 105c is a converter that exchanges analog and digital signals between the gas sensor 105a, the temperature sensor 105b, and the processor. In this embodiment, the A / D converter 105c is a processing circuit. For example, the A / D converter 105c converts analog data such as the hydrogen detection quantity detected by the gas sensor 105a and the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 105b into digital data and supplies it to the processor 105d.

[0057] Processor 105d processes the detection results of hydrogen quantity and temperature, etc., detected by gas sensor 105a and temperature sensor 105b, and outputs them to the outside of sensor module 100. Processor 105d encrypts the detection results from gas sensor 105a and temperature sensor 105b, and outputs the encrypted detection results to the outside of sensor module 100. For example, as described later, sensor module 100 is connected to communication module 110 via communication cabling, and processor 105d sends the encrypted detection results to communication module 110 via the communication cabling. In this case, processor 105d can send the detection results to communication module 110 either once or multiple times.

[0058] The memory 105e is a storage unit that stores the detection results from the gas sensor 105a and the temperature sensor 105b, which are output from the processor 105d. In this embodiment, the memory 105e is a first memory. The memory 105e may also store the detection results from the gas sensor 105a and the temperature sensor 105b, which are encrypted in the processor 105d. The detection results stored in the memory 105e are read by the processor 105d and output to the communication module 110. At this time, the sensor module 100 may output all the detection results to the communication module 110, or it may output only a portion of the detection results, such as only the detection results when hydrogen gas is detected, to the communication module 110.

[0059] Furthermore, in the sensor circuit 102, the power supply unit 106 is a power source used to supply power to the detection unit 105. In this embodiment, the power supply unit 106 is a first power source. The power supply unit 106 includes a battery 106a and a DC-DC converter 106b.

[0060] Battery 106a is a power supply battery. DC-DC converter 106b converts the DC voltage output from battery 106a into a specified DC voltage and supplies it to detection unit 105.

[0061] Furthermore, filter 103 is a waterproof filter used to prevent water from entering the sensor module 100. Filter 103 is, for example, made of a porous polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membrane. Filter 103 is disposed in the sensor module 100 at a position lower than the sensor circuit 102 with a specified thickness. This prevents water from seeping into the sensor circuit 102 from the conical apex of the housing 101 in contact with the ground 2. Therefore, malfunctions of the sensor circuit 102 can be prevented. Additionally, filter 103 is not limited to a waterproof filter; it can also be a dust filter.

[0062] [2-2. Structure of the Communication Module]

[0063] Next, the structure of the communication module 110 will be described. Figure 5 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the communication module 110 in this embodiment.

[0064] The communication module 110 has a communication unit 112 and a power supply unit 113.

[0065] The communication unit 112 includes an antenna 112a, a communication circuit 112b, and a memory 112c. The communication circuit 112b transmits and receives signals to and from the gateway 20 via the antenna 112a. In addition, the communication circuit 112b receives detection results from the gas sensor 105a and the temperature sensor 105b output from the sensor module 100 via the aforementioned communication wiring.

[0066] Memory 112c is a memory that stores the detection results received from sensor module 100. In this embodiment, memory 112c is a second memory. The detection results stored in memory 112c are read out by communication circuit 112b and sent to gateway 20.

[0067] The power supply unit 113 is a power source used to supply power to the communication unit 112. In this embodiment, the power supply unit 113 is a second power source. The power supply unit 113 includes a battery 113a and a DC-DC converter 113b. Since the structure of the power supply unit 113 is the same as that of the power supply unit 106 described above, a detailed description is omitted.

[0068] [2-3. Configuration of sensor module and communication module]

[0069] Here, the configuration relationship between the sensor module 100 and the communication module 110 is explained. Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the sensor module 100 and the communication module 110 in this embodiment.

[0070] As described above, the sensor module 100 and the communication module 110 are configured inside the probe 130.

[0071] like Figure 6 As shown, the probe hole 130 has an internal space. Furthermore, an opening is provided above the probe hole 130. A cover 140 is configured to cover the opening of the probe hole 130. Additionally, a drain hole 131 is provided at the bottom of the probe hole 130 to drain water that has entered the interior of the probe hole 130 to the outside.

[0072] The sensor device 10 has a communication module 110 and a sensor module 100 corresponding to the communication module 110 inside the probe 130. Alternatively, the sensor device 10 may also have a communication module 110 and multiple sensor modules 100 corresponding to the communication module 110.

[0073] The sensor module 100 and the communication module 110 are configured separately. By configuring the sensor module 100 and the communication module 110 separately, in the event of a failure of either the sensor module 100 or the communication module 110, only the faulty sensor module 100 or the communication module 110 can be replaced.

[0074] The sensor module 100 is disposed in the drain hole 131 at the bottom of the probe hole 130. More specifically, the sensor module 100 is disposed near the apex of the conical housing 101 from the inside of the probe hole 130 toward the outside of the drain hole 131. Thus, the sensor module 100 can also function as a drain plug for the probe hole 130.

[0075] Alternatively, the sensor module 100 can be configured outside the drain hole 131. For example, a dedicated hole for configuring the sensor module 100 can be provided inside the probe hole 130, and the sensor module 100 can be configured in this hole.

[0076] The communication module 110 is positioned above the sensor module 100. For example, the communication module 110 is as follows: Figure 6 As shown, the sensor module 110 is located on the side of the cover 140 facing the interior of the probe hole 130. Therefore, the communication module 110 is positioned above the sensor module 100. Consequently, the sensor module 100 is positioned closer to the pipeline 3 than the communication module 110. Therefore, hydrogen-containing gas can be detected with high sensitivity and precision.

[0077] In addition, the sensor module 100 and the communication module 110 can be configured separately or as an integrated unit, as described later.

[0078] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates the connection between the sensor module 100 and the communication module 110 in this embodiment. Figure 7 As shown, sensor module 100 and communication module 110 are connected via communication cable 150. As described above, sensor module 100 is disposed in a drain hole 131 at the bottom of probe hole 130. Communication module 110 is disposed in a cover 140 opposite the bottom of probe hole 130. Communication cable 150 is as follows... Figure 7 As shown, the sensor module 100 is connected to the communication module 110 and configured along the side of the inside of the probe hole 130. Alternatively, the communication cable 150 can also be embedded in the wall of the probe hole 130.

[0079] Furthermore, as will be described later, the sensor module 100 and the communication module 110 may also be structures that each have a wireless communication unit and are connected wirelessly.

[0080] [3. Operation of the gas monitoring system]

[0081] Here, the detection operation of hydrogen-containing gas using gas monitoring system 1 will be explained. Figure 8 This is a diagram used to illustrate the operation of the gas monitoring system 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the order in which the leak locations of the gas monitoring system 1 according to Embodiment 1 are determined. In this embodiment, as an example, for example... Figure 8 The following description illustrates a scenario where one gateway 20 corresponds to five sensor devices 10.

[0082] Furthermore, since multiple sensor devices 10 are provided, even if at least one of the multiple sensor modules 100 fails, the location of the hydrogen-containing gas leak can still be detected by the other sensor modules 100.

[0083] In addition, multiple sensor devices 10 can be used as Figure 1As shown, the gas monitoring system 1 can be arranged in a straight line with equal intervals above the pipeline 3 located on the ground 2, or it can be arranged in a non-straight line with non-equal intervals above the pipeline 3. Hereinafter, as a more general example, the operation of the gas monitoring system 1 when multiple sensor devices 10 are arranged in a non-straight line with non-equal intervals will be described. Furthermore, the arrangement of the multiple sensor devices 10 is defined by designating one horizontal direction as the x-direction, the direction that is horizontal and orthogonal to the x-direction as the y-direction, and the direction that is orthogonal to both the x- and y-directions as the z-direction, expressed using coordinates in the x, y, and z directions. Additionally, t represents time.

[0084] Each sensor device 10 communicates with the gateway 20, sending the detection results of hydrogen-containing gas to the gateway 20. For example, the communication between the sensor device 10 and the gateway 20 is performed at time intervals Δt. That is, the gateway 20 receives the detection results of hydrogen-containing gas from the sensor device 10 every time interval Δt (step S10). At this time, communication can be performed from each sensor device 10 to the gateway 20 at the same timing, or communication can be performed sequentially.

[0085] If a hydrogen-containing gas leak is detected by at least one sensor device 10 (as in step S11), the gateway 20 receives the location information of the sensor device 10 along with the hydrogen-containing gas detection result as hydrogen-containing gas leak information (step S12). The location information of the sensor device 10 is, for example, information represented by the coordinates in the x, y, and z directions as described above. For example, when configured in... Figure 8 When the sensor device 10 at the location of P1 detects a leak of hydrogen gas, the gateway 20 receives the coordinates of the location of P1 and the time (x1, y1, z1, t1) when the leak was detected.

[0086] Alternatively, sensor device 10 can also send ID information instead of location information. In this case, gateway 20 can also pre-establish a correspondence between the ID information and location information of each sensor device 10 and save it in the base station.

[0087] Furthermore, if no hydrogen gas leak is detected by the multiple sensor devices 10 (no in step S11), the gateway 20 receives the detection result of hydrogen gas from the sensor devices 10 again at time intervals Δt.

[0088] Furthermore, if hydrogen gas leakage also occurs in other sensor devices 10 (as in step S13), the gateway 20 receives the hydrogen gas detection result and the location information of the sensor devices 10 as hydrogen leakage information in the other sensor devices 10. For example, in the configuration of Figure 8 P shown nIf the location sensor device 10 detects a hydrogen gas leak, the gateway 20 receives P n The location coordinates and the time when the leak was detected (x n y n , z n , t n Furthermore, based on the time t1 at which the hydrogen-containing gas leak is detected by the sensor device 10 located at P1 and the time t1 at which the leak is detected by the sensor device 10 located at P1, the leak is further measured by the time t1 at which the leak is detected by the sensor device 10 located at P1. n The location sensor device 10 detects the hydrogen gas leak at time t. n The time difference t is used to detect the location of hydrogen gas leaks.

[0089] The time difference t does not exceed the specified set time t limt In the case of (as in step S14), gateway 20 calculates the location of the hydrogen-containing gas leak (step S16). At this time, gateway 20 uses a GPS module to detect the location of the hydrogen-containing gas leak. The GPS module can calculate the coordinates of the leak location P based on the distances of four satellites to the leak location P. The leak location is calculated using an iterative successive calculation method (Newton's method). The specific calculation method is well-known and therefore omitted.

[0090] Using GPS calculations, gateway 20 determined that there was a hydrogen gas leak at a location on pipeline 3, which is close to P1.

[0091] Furthermore, the time difference t does not exceed the specified set time t. limt In the case of (No in step S14), the gateway 20 determines that there is no leakage of hydrogen gas at the location of pipeline 3 which is close to the location of P1, which is a false alarm (step S15).

[0092] Furthermore, if no hydrogen gas leakage occurs in the other sensor devices 10 (no in step S13), the gateway 20 also determines it to be a false alarm (step S15).

[0093] In this way, the location of the hydrogen gas leak is detected. Then, the location of the hydrogen gas leak is transmitted from gateway 20 to maintenance service 7 via cloud system 6.

[0094] Furthermore, the communication interval between the sensor device 10 and the gateway 20 can be the same as or different from the hydrogen gas detection interval of the sensor module 100. If the communication interval between the sensor device 10 and the gateway 20 differs from the hydrogen gas detection interval of the sensor module 100, the sensor module 100 or the communication module 110 can, as described above, temporarily store the hydrogen gas detection result in the memory 105e or 112c, and then read it from the memory 105e or 112c and send it to the gateway 20 in accordance with the communication timing.

[0095] In addition, the sensor device 10 can send the detection results of hydrogen to the gateway 20 either according to a specified period or only when hydrogen gas is detected.

[0096] [4. Effects, etc.]

[0097] According to the gas monitoring system 1 and sensor device 10 of this embodiment, the detection result of hydrogen-containing gas detected by sensor module 100 can be sent to gateway 20 via communication module 110. Furthermore, the detection result of hydrogen-containing gas can be notified from gateway 20 to maintenance service 7 via cloud system 6. Moreover, since sensor device 10 is disposed within probe 130, maintenance service 7 can inspect and maintain sensor device 10. Furthermore, in the event of sensor device 10 failure, maintenance service 7 can replace sensor device 10. Therefore, through the gas monitoring system 1 of this embodiment, maintenance service 7 can always monitor for gas leaks.

[0098] (Implementation Method 2)

[0099] Next, the gas monitoring system 1 of Embodiment 2 will be described.

[0100] The difference between the gas monitoring system 1 of this embodiment and the gas monitoring system 1 shown in Embodiment 1 is that the sensor module 100a has a communication circuit 109 for wireless communication with the communication module 110.

[0101] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the sensor module 100a according to this embodiment. Figure 10 As shown, the sensor module 100a of this embodiment includes a sensor circuit 102a, power supplies 107 and 108, and a communication circuit 109.

[0102] The sensor circuit 102a has the same structure as the detection unit 105 of the sensor circuit 102 shown in Embodiment 1. The sensor circuit 102a does not have a power supply unit 106 and operates by being powered by a power supply 107 located externally to the sensor circuit 102a. That is, in this embodiment, the power supply 107 is a first power supply. The sensor circuit 102a is connected to the power supply 107 via wiring. Since the structure of the power supply 107 is the same as that of the power supply unit 106 shown in Embodiment 1, its description is omitted.

[0103] Furthermore, the sensor module 100a has a communication circuit 109 instead of the communication wiring used for communicating with the communication module 110. The communication circuit 109 is a communication circuit used by the sensor module 100a to communicate wirelessly with the communication module 110. The communication circuit 109 receives the detection results sent from the sensor module 100a using an antenna (not shown) and then outputs them to the communication module 110.

[0104] Furthermore, unlike the communication module 110 shown in Embodiment 1, the communication circuit 109 does not have its own communication circuit 109. Instead, it operates by being powered by a power supply 108 located external to the communication circuit 109. That is, in this embodiment, the power supply 108 is a second power supply. The communication circuit 109 is connected to the power supply 108 via wiring. Since the structure of the power supply 108 is the same as that of the power supply 107 described above, its description is omitted.

[0105] Figure 11 This diagram illustrates the connection between the sensor module 100a and the communication module 110 according to this embodiment. As described above, the sensor module 100a is disposed in a drain hole 131 located at the bottom of the probe hole 130. The communication module 110 is disposed in a cover 140 opposite to the bottom of the probe hole 130. In this case, the distance between the sensor module 100a and the communication module 110 can be any distance, as long as it allows for wireless communication between them.

[0106] In this way, communication between the sensor module 100a and the communication module 110 can also be carried out wirelessly. As a result, there is no need to prepare communication wiring, thus increasing the flexibility of the configuration position of the sensor module 100a and the communication module 110.

[0107] (Implementation Method 3)

[0108] Next, the gas monitoring system 1 of Embodiment 3 will be described.

[0109] The difference between the gas monitoring system 1 of this embodiment and the gas monitoring system 1 shown in Embodiment 1 is that the sensor device 10 is disposed on the road stud 240.

[0110] Figure 12 This is an overall diagram of the gas monitoring system 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the sensor module 100 and the communication module 110 in this embodiment.

[0111] In the gas monitoring system 1 of this embodiment, the sensor device 10 is disposed on road studs 240. Road studs 240 are rivets used to indicate road boundaries, etc., and are partially embedded in the ground 2. For example, road studs 240 are disposed at predetermined intervals along the center line of a lane and the boundary lines between lanes and side lanes. Road studs 240 are formed of metal or polycarbonate resin, etc., and the portion of the road stud 240 embedded in the ground 2, such as... Figure 12 The sensor module 100 and communication module 110 constituting the sensor device 10 are shown.

[0112] 240 rail spikes Figure 13 As shown, the device includes a main body 241, a foot 242, and a reflector 243. The foot 242 is located below the main body 241 and is embedded in the ground 2. The main body 241 is disposed on the surface of the ground 2. The reflector 243 is disposed within the main body 241 in a position easily visible to drivers and pedestrians traveling or walking in the lanes and side lanes.

[0113] The sensor module 100 is positioned such that a cone-shaped front end protrudes from the foot 242 of the road spike 240. Thus, the front end of the sensor module 100 is configured to contact the ground 2 when buried in it. Furthermore, the communication module 110 of the sensor device 10 is disposed on the foot 242, which is closer to the ground surface than the sensor module 100. Alternatively, the communication module 110 may also be disposed on the main body 241.

[0114] Therefore, the sensor module 100 is positioned closer to the pipeline 3 that transports hydrogen-containing gas than the communication module 110. Furthermore, since the communication module 110 is positioned closer to the ground than the sensor module 100, it facilitates communication with the gateway 20. The sensor module 100 and the communication module 110 can be connected via communication wiring, similar to the sensor device 10 shown in Embodiment 1, or they can communicate wirelessly.

[0115] Furthermore, the sensor module 100 and the communication module 110 can both be configured on the road stud 240, or only the sensor module can be configured on the road stud 240. Additionally, the sensor module 100 and the communication module 110 can be integrated into one unit and configured on the road stud 240, or... Figure 13The spike 240 is shown separately disposed on the front end side of the foot 242 and the ground surface side of the foot 242 or the main body 241. Furthermore, the shape of the spike 240 is not limited to... Figure 13 As shown, it can also be other shapes.

[0116] (Implementation Method 4)

[0117] Next, the gas monitoring system 1 of Embodiment 4 will be described.

[0118] The difference between the gas monitoring system 1 of this embodiment and the gas monitoring system 1 shown in embodiment 1 is that at least one of the detection sensor module 100 and communication module 110 is faulty.

[0119] The sensor module 100 and the communication module 110 communicate at a predetermined time interval, with the sensor module 100 sending a detection result to the communication module 110 indicating whether hydrogen-containing gas has been detected by the sensor module 100.

[0120] Here, if the sensor module 100 is unable to communicate with the communication module 110 for a certain period of time, it determines that the communication module 110 is faulty. In the event of a fault in the communication module 110, the sensor module 100 stores the detection result of hydrogen gas in the memory 105e. Furthermore, when the fault in the communication module 110 is resolved and communication between the sensor module 100 and the communication module 110 is restored, the sensor module 100 sends the hydrogen gas detection result stored in the memory 105e to the communication module 110. At this time, the sensor module 100 may send only the detection result information indicating the detection of hydrogen gas to the communication module 110, or it may send all the detection results to the communication module 110.

[0121] Furthermore, if the communication module 110 is unable to communicate with the sensor module 100 for a certain period of time, it determines that the sensor module 100 is faulty. The communication module 110 then sends the determination result to the gateway 20. This determination result is then communicated from the gateway 20 to the maintenance service 7 via the cloud system 6. Thus, the maintenance service 7 is able to detect the abnormality of the sensor module 100.

[0122] (Implementation Method 5)

[0123] Next, the gas monitoring system 1 of embodiment 5 will be described.

[0124] The gas monitoring system of this embodiment differs from the gas monitoring system 1 shown in Embodiment 1 in that the sensor module 100 has a humidity sensor as the second sensor.

[0125] The humidity sensor is not shown in the diagram, but it is positioned near the apex of the conical housing 101 of the sensor module 100. Since the area near the apex of the housing 101 of the sensor module 100 contacts the ground 2, it is able to detect the humidity of the ground 2.

[0126] Here, if the humidity detected by the humidity sensor is above 90%, the sensor module 100 determines that the sensor module 100 is flooded. Therefore, the sensor module 100 can detect abnormalities before it is completely flooded (humidity 100%). Thus, the maintenance service 7 can detect flooding of the sensor module 100 in advance, thereby preventing sensor module 100 malfunctions.

[0127] In addition, in this embodiment, a humidity level of 90% or higher detected by the humidity sensor is judged as flooding. However, the humidity level for flooding is not limited to 90% and can be appropriately changed depending on the environment in which the sensor module 100 is configured.

[0128] (Implementation Method 6)

[0129] Next, the gas monitoring system 1 of Embodiment 6 will be described.

[0130] The gas monitoring system of this embodiment differs from the gas monitoring system 1 shown in Embodiment 1 in that it has a power generation device as the power source for the sensor module 100 and the communication module 110. The power generation device is, for example, a solar power generation panel.

[0131] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating another example of the sensor device 10 according to this embodiment. (As shown...) Figure 14 As shown, the sensor device 10 of this embodiment has multiple solar power generation panels 140a on the upper surface of the cover 140. The multiple panels 140a charge the battery 113a of the communication module 110, which is disposed on the lower surface of the cover 140, inside the probe hole 130. Therefore, the communication module 110 can use the power generated by solar power to communicate with the gateway 20. Alternatively, the communication module 110 can also use the power generated by solar power to communicate with the sensor module 100.

[0132] Furthermore, the electricity generated by solar power is not limited to being stored in the battery 113a of the communication module 110, but can also be stored in the battery 106a of the sensor module 100. In addition, other energy storage devices for storing the electricity generated by solar power can be provided instead of the battery 106a and the battery 113a.

[0133] In addition, the power source for the sensor module and the communication module is not limited to solar power generation devices; for example, it can also be other power generation devices such as vibration-based power generation devices.

[0134] Furthermore, either the power source for the sensor module 100 or the communication module 110 may have a power generation device, or only one of the sensor module 100 and the communication module 110 may have a power generation device. Alternatively, the sensor module 100 and the communication module 110 may share the same power generation device, or they may have different power generation devices.

[0135] (Other implementation methods)

[0136] The above description describes several embodiments of the gas sensor and gas detection system according to the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Various modifications conceived by those skilled in the art, as well as configurations constructed by combining the constituent elements of each embodiment, can be included within the scope of the present invention as long as they do not depart from its spirit.

[0137] For example, the gas sensor described above is designed to detect hydrogen-containing gas, but it can also be a gas sensor that detects gases other than hydrogen-containing gas.

[0138] Furthermore, the aforementioned sensor device is not limited to being configured in a probe hole; for example, it can also be configured in a manhole that a person can enter.

[0139] Furthermore, the second sensor device is not limited to temperature sensors, humidity sensors, pressure sensors, and flooding sensors; it can also be a sensor that detects other parameters useful for preventing damage to the sensor device.

[0140] In addition, the gateway has a GPS module, so the gas monitoring system can also use GPS to determine the sensor module whose parameters are detected by the second sensor.

[0141] Furthermore, the shape of the sensor device is not limited to the aforementioned cone or pyramid shape; it can also be other shapes.

[0142] Industrial availability

[0143] The gas sensor of the present invention is useful as a hydrogen sensor for detecting leaks of hydrogen from hydrogen delivery paths, such as hydrogen supply pipelines, where it is always necessary to detect gas leaks.

[0144] Label Explanation

[0145] 1. Gas monitoring system

[0146] 2. Ground

[0147] 3. Pipelines (transportation path)

[0148] 6. Cloud System

[0149] 7. Maintenance Services

[0150] 10 Sensor Devices

[0151] 20 Gateways

[0152] 100, 100a sensor modules

[0153] 101 housing

[0154] 102, 102a sensor circuit

[0155] 103 Filter

[0156] 105 Testing Department

[0157] 105A Gas Sensor (Sensor 1)

[0158] 105b temperature sensor (second sensor)

[0159] 105c A / D Converter (Processing Circuit)

[0160] 105d processor

[0161] 105e memory (first memory)

[0162] 106 Power Supply Section (Power Supply Unit 1)

[0163] 106A and 113A batteries

[0164] 106b DC-DC converter

[0165] 107 Power Supply Circuit (Power Supply No. 1)

[0166] 108 power supply circuit (secondary power supply)

[0167] 109, 112b communication circuits

[0168] 110 Communication Module

[0169] 112 Ministry of Communications

[0170] 112a antenna

[0171] 112c memory (second memory)

[0172] 113 Power Supply Section (Second Power Supply)

[0173] 113b DC-DC converter

[0174] 130 probe hole

[0175] 131 Drain hole

[0176] 150 Communication cabling

[0177] 140 lids

[0178] 140a panel (power generation unit)

[0179] 240 rivets

[0180] 241 Main Body

[0181] 242 Feet

[0182] 243 Reflector

Claims

1. A sensor device for detecting a leak of a gas in the ground, wherein, Having: a sensor module having a first sensor that detects a gas; a processing circuit that processes a detection result output from the first sensor; a communication module that communicates with the sensor module and transmits information processed by the processing circuit to the outside of the sensor device; a first power source that is a power source of the sensor module; and a second power source that is a power source of the communication module, the sensor module further has: a housing that houses the first sensor and has a conical closed space that is tapered downward; and a waterproof filter or a dustproof filter that is installed in the housing below the first sensor to separate the closed space into upper and lower spaces, the sensor module is disposed as a peg in a drain hole formed in the bottom of at least a part of a borehole that is buried in the ground, and the sensor module is disposed so that the vertex of the housing is near the inside of the borehole toward the outside of the drain hole.

2. The sensor device according to claim 1, wherein the sensor module has: a housing; the first sensor disposed in the housing; the processing circuit; and the first power source that supplies power to the first sensor and the processing circuit.

3. The sensor device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first sensor is a hydrogen sensor that detects hydrogen molecules.

4. The sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further having a second sensor that detects at least one parameter related to the surrounding environment of the sensor device.

5. The sensor device according to claim 4, wherein the second sensor is disposed below the first sensor.

6. The sensor device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the second sensor is at least one of a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a pressure sensor.

7. The sensor device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the second sensor is a submergence sensor that detects a submergence condition of the sensor module.

8. The sensor device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the second sensor is a humidity sensor; the sensor module determines that the sensor module is submerged when the humidity detected by the humidity sensor is 90% or more.

9. The sensor device according to claim 2, wherein at least a part of the housing has a conical or pyramidal shape.

10. The sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the communication module is disposed above the sensor module.

11. The sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein there is one communication module and one sensor module corresponding to the communication module.

12. The sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein there is one communication module and a plurality of sensor modules corresponding to the communication module.

13. The sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the sensor module and the communication module are configured in one body. ​ 14. The sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein The sensor module is provided separately from the communication module.

15. The sensor device according to claim 14, wherein The sensor module is connected to the communication module by a communication wiring.

16. The sensor device according to claim 14, wherein The sensor module is connected to the communication module wirelessly.

17. The sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein The sensor module transmits the detection result to the communication module multiple times.

18. The sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein The sensor module outputs all of the detection results to the communication module.

19. The sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein The sensor module outputs the detection result only when a gas is detected to the communication module.

20. The sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein The sensor module encrypts the detection result, and outputs the encrypted detection result to the communication module.

21. The sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein The sensor module has a detection interval for the gas that is different from a transmission interval for transmitting the detection result from the sensor module to the communication module.

22. The sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein The sensor module has a first memory that stores the detection result, and encrypts and stores the detection result in the first memory.

23. The sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein The communication module has a second memory that stores the detection result, and stores the detection result received from the sensor module in the second memory.

24. The sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein At least one of the first power supply and the second power supply has a power generation device.

25. A gas monitoring system for detecting a leak of a gas in the ground, wherein, There are provided: at least one sensor device that detects a gas and outputs a detection result; and a gateway that receives the detection result; The sensor device has: a sensor module that has a first sensor that detects a gas; a processing circuit that processes the detection result output from the first sensor; a communication module that communicates with the sensor module and transmits information processed by the processing circuit to the outside of the sensor device; a first power supply that is a power source for the sensor module; and a second power supply that is a power source for the communication module, The sensor module further has a conical housing that houses the first sensor, and a waterproof filter or a dustproof filter below the first sensor in the housing, The sensor module is provided as a plug in a drain hole that is formed in the bottom of at least a part of a borehole that is buried in the ground, and the sensor module is provided so that the apex of the housing is near the inside of the borehole and the outside of the drain hole.

26. The gas monitoring system according to claim 25, wherein The first sensor is a hydrogen sensor that detects hydrogen molecules.

27. The gas monitoring system according to claim 25 or 26, wherein The sensor module is disposed in at least a portion of the rivet that is buried in the ground.

28. The gas monitoring system according to any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein The sensor module is disposed above the gas delivery path in the ground.

29. The gas monitoring system according to any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein A plurality of the sensor modules are provided, and the plurality of the sensor modules are disposed at non-constant intervals or non-constant lines.

30. The gas monitoring system according to any one of claims 25 to 29, wherein A plurality of the sensor modules are provided, and a leakage position of the gas is calculated based on a difference in detection time of the gas in the plurality of the sensor modules.

31. The gas monitoring system according to any one of claims 25 to 30, wherein A global positioning system (GPS) module is further provided, and the GPS module is used to calculate the leakage position of the gas.

32. The gas monitoring system according to claim 31, wherein The GPS module is disposed in the gateway.

33. The gas monitoring system according to claim 31 or 32, wherein The sensor module further includes a second sensor that detects at least one parameter related to the surrounding environment of the sensor device; The GPS module determines the sensor module that detects the parameter by the second sensor.

34. The gas monitoring system according to any one of claims 25 to 33, wherein In a case where the sensor module and the communication module cannot communicate for a certain time, the communication module determines that the sensor module is malfunctioning.

35. The gas monitoring system according to claim 34, wherein The communication module transmits the determination result to the gateway when it is determined that the sensor module is malfunctioning.

36. The gas monitoring system according to any one of claims 25 to 35, wherein In a case where the sensor module and the communication module cannot communicate for a certain time, the sensor module determines that the communication module is malfunctioning.

37. The gas monitoring system according to any one of claims 25 to 36, wherein A plurality of the sensor modules are provided, and the leakage position of the gas is calculated even in a case where at least one of the sensor modules is malfunctioning.

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