Sensor device system

Abstract

The sensor device system includes: a sensor unit; a first communication device (91) capable of transmitting output information output from the sensor unit or result information based on the output information, and capable of communication based on a first communication standard; a second communication device (92) capable of communication based on a second communication standard different from the first communication standard; and a control unit (5) capable of controlling the operation of the sensor unit, the first communication device (91), and the second communication device (92), wherein the second communication device (92) is capable of receiving control data from the control unit (5).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to sensor device systems. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an inventory notification system for managing the remaining amount of kerosene stored in ordinary households, etc. The inventory notification system disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes: an inventory detection mechanism such as a pressure sensor; a transmitting terminal that transmits the remaining kerosene data detected by the inventory detection mechanism via wireless means; a receiving terminal that receives the remaining kerosene data transmitted from the transmitting terminal; and an inventory management device that stores the remaining data received from the receiving terminal and notifies the remaining amount of kerosene. Existing technical documents Patent documents

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-86941 Summary of the Invention

[0004] In the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, for example, when it is necessary to send control data to sensors (such as an inventory detection mechanism in Patent Document 1) for maintenance, the control data needs to be sent to a transmitting terminal used to send remaining quantity data to external devices. That is, the sensors use a single communication device to send remaining quantity data and receive control data, which has the potential for communication delays and other drawbacks.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for sensor device systems that can communicate with different communication devices depending on the purpose of the data.

[0006] The technical point of the sensor device system of the present invention is a sensor device system comprising: a sensor unit; a first communication device capable of transmitting output information output from the sensor unit or result information based on the output information, and capable of communication based on a first communication standard; a second communication device capable of communication based on a second communication standard different from the first communication standard; and a control unit capable of controlling the operation of the sensor unit, the first communication device, and the second communication device, wherein the second communication device is capable of receiving control data from the control unit.

[0007] Based on this technology, communication devices can be selected to conduct data communication according to the purpose (communication objective) of the data to be communicated.

[0008] Furthermore, preferably, the first communication device is capable of communicating according to a communication standard that can handle long-distance wireless communication as the first communication standard.

[0009] Based on this technology, it is possible to remotely monitor the output information from the sensor unit.

[0010] Furthermore, preferably, the second communication device is capable of communicating according to a communication standard that can handle short-range wireless communication as the second communication standard.

[0011] Based on this technology, for example, it is possible to visually identify the device that is the object of maintenance (the communication object of control data) from among multiple devices (e.g., while confirming the action), and perform maintenance work accordingly.

[0012] Alternatively, preferably, the sensor unit measures the time from when the transmitted radio wave is reflected by the container and received by the sensor unit, thereby measuring the distance between the sensor unit and the container, and outputting the measured distance as the result information.

[0013] Based on this configuration, a general-purpose sensor (a liquid level sensor in the form of ToF) can be used to construct the sensor unit.

[0014] Alternatively, preferably, the sensor unit transmits millimeter-wave sensors as the radio waves.

[0015] According to this configuration, the sensor unit uses millimeter waves in a frequency band different from those used in the communication of the first and second communication devices, thereby suppressing interference and other effects on the communication of the first and second communication devices.

[0016] Alternatively, the sensor unit preferably has a magnetic sensor that detects the state of the measured object by checking changes in the magnetic field.

[0017] Based on this configuration, the sensor unit can be constructed using a general-purpose magnetic sensor, and can be configured as a current sensor device, an instrument metering sensor device, etc.

[0018] Furthermore, preferably, the sensor device system has a computation unit that calculates the result information based on the output information.

[0019] Based on this structure, it is possible to output the result information calculated from the output information.

[0020] Additionally, preferably, the sensor device system further includes: a power supply unit that supplies power to the sensor unit, the computing unit, the control unit, the first communication device, and the second communication device; and a housing having a receiving space that accommodates the sensor unit, the computing unit, the control unit, the first communication device, the second communication device, and the power supply unit, the receiving space being liquid-tight.

[0021] Based on this design, it can be used in outdoor and other locations where waterproofing is required.

[0022] Additionally, preferably, the sensor device system also has a first external device capable of receiving the output information or the result information via the first communication device.

[0023] Based on this configuration, output information or result information can be sent to the first external device.

[0024] Additionally, preferably, the sensor unit is capable of outputting estimation source information needed to estimate the remaining amount of contents contained in the container.

[0025] Based on this configuration, it is possible to send an estimate of the remaining amount of contents contained in the container as output information or result information. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a schematic representation of the residual estimation system in the implementation method. Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the container and the remaining amount estimation device in the embodiment. Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the container shown in Figure 2 with the remaining quantity estimation device installed. Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the remaining quantity estimation device shown in Figure 2. Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the remaining quantity estimation device shown in Figure 2. Figure 6A This is a diagram illustrating an example of measurement result information from an implementation method. Figure 6B This is a diagram illustrating an example of measurement result information from an implementation method. Figure 6C This is a diagram illustrating an example of measurement result information from an implementation method. Figure 7 This is a graph illustrating an example of the relationship between the depth of the container and the remaining amount in an embodiment. Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a residual estimation system for other implementation methods. Detailed Implementation

[0027] Hereinafter, a residual quantity estimation system (an example of a sensor device system) having a residual quantity estimation device (an example of a sensor device) will be described as an example of a sensor device system equipped with a sensor device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, the constituent elements of the embodiments described below can be combined with each other as long as they do not contradict each other. In addition, for each of the constituent elements constituting the various forms of the embodiments described below, examples will be described, including their materials, shapes, sizes, quantities, and arrangements; as long as the same function can be achieved, arbitrary design modifications are possible.

[0028] [Residual Amount Estimation System] Reference Figures 1-3 This describes the general configuration of the remaining quantity estimation system 200, which has a remaining quantity estimation device 100. Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the general structure of the residual estimation system 200. Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of container T and the remaining quantity estimation device 100. Figure 3 Is Figure 2 The cross-sectional view shown shows the container T with the remaining quantity estimation device 100 installed.

[0029] like Figure 1 As shown, the residual quantity estimation system 200 has a function for estimating the amount contained in container T (refer to...). Figure 2 The container C (refer to) Figure 3 The remaining quantity estimation device 100 estimates the remaining quantity Ra of the measured quantity C. It also includes a first external device 201 and a second external device 202 configured to communicate with the remaining quantity estimation device 100. Furthermore, the container C is an example of a measured object, and the remaining quantity Ra of the container C is an example of the state of the measured object.

[0030] [First External Device] The first external device 201 is, for example, a monitoring device for monitoring the remaining quantity Ra of the container C. The first external device 201 is capable of communication with the remaining quantity estimation device 100 based on a long-distance wireless standard (an example of a first communication standard) that accommodates a first communication distance (1 km or more in this embodiment). In this embodiment, the first external device 201 is a server located on a network such as a cloud server provided by a telecommunications company, configured to communicate with the base station via the remaining quantity estimation device 100.

[0031] [Second External Device] The second external device 202 is, for example, a maintenance management device for performing maintenance on the remaining quantity estimation device 100. The second external device 202 is capable of communication with the remaining quantity estimation device 100 based on a short-range wireless standard (an example of a second communication standard different from the first communication standard) that accommodates a second communication distance (up to 300m in this embodiment). In this embodiment, the second external device 202 is an information processing terminal such as a mobile phone or smartphone, configured to communicate with the remaining quantity estimation device 100 within a distance (range) from which the remaining quantity estimation device 100 can be visually observed.

[0032] [container] like Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, the container T has a container body T1, a cylindrical opening T2 protruding from the container body T1, and a cover T3 that closes the opening T2. In this embodiment, the container T is a kerosene canister, and the contents C are kerosene.

[0033] The main body T1 of the container includes a bottom surface T11, a side surface T12, and a top surface T13. The bottom surface T11, the side surface T12, and the top surface T13 constitute a storage space TS for accommodating (storing) the contents C (see reference). Figure 3 The opening T2 connects the storage space TS to the outside of the container T. The opening T2 is located on the upper surface T13 of the container body T1, opposite the bottom surface T11, and protrudes in a direction perpendicular to the upper surface T13, away from the bottom surface T11. The diameter (inner diameter) of the opening T2 is, for example, 50 mm to 65 mm, and has a smaller area than the upper surface T13 when viewed from the direction perpendicular to the upper surface T13. Furthermore, the upper surface T13 is, for example, 5000 mm. 2 Above 7000mm 2 the following.

[0034] The container C is supplied to the storage space TS through the opening T2 and is contained within the storage space TS (stored within the storage space TS). The opening T2 is configured to accommodate a cover T3, which closes the container. The cover T3 is made of resin, and a remaining quantity estimation device 100 is mounted on the cover T3. That is, the remaining quantity estimation device 100 is disposed opposite to the bottom surface T11 of the container body T1.

[0035] Furthermore, in the following, with the cover T3, on which the remaining amount estimation device 100 is installed, installed on the opening T2, the direction from the remaining amount estimation device 100 toward the bottom surface T11 of the container body T1 is called the "vertical direction Z", the side in the vertical direction Z on which the bottom surface T11 is located is called the "lower side Z1", and the opposite side (the side on which the remaining amount estimation device 100 is located) is called the "upper side Z2".

[0036] [Remaining quantity estimation device] The remaining quantity estimation device 100 estimates the remaining quantity Ra of the contents C contained in container T. Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the remaining quantity estimation device 100.

[0037] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, the remaining quantity estimation device 100 includes a housing 1, a lens section 2, a substrate 3, and a power supply section 4 (see reference). Figure 5 ), Control Unit 5 (refer to) Figure 5 Sensor Unit 6 (refer to) Figure 4 Storage Unit 7 (refer to) Figure 5 ), Remaining quantity estimation section 8 (refer to) Figure 5 ), and Communications Department 9 (see reference) Figure 5 Furthermore, the residual estimation unit 8 is an example of an arithmetic unit.

[0038] [case] The housing 1 is insulating and is made of resin. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the housing 1 is positioned and held in place by the cover T3, which covers the container T. Between the housing 1 and the cover T3, a space 1S is formed to accommodate the lens section 2, the substrate 3, the power supply section 4, the control section 5, the sensor section 6, the storage section 7, the remaining quantity estimation section 8, and the communication section 9 (see reference). Figure 4 In this embodiment, the accommodating space 1S is liquid-tight. The accommodating space 1S is liquid-tight, for example, by coating the gap between the cover T3 and the housing 1 with a sealing material such as adhesive or grease.

[0039] [Lens section] Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 The lens section 2 shown improves the sensitivity of the sensor section 6. The lens section 2 includes a lens 21 (convex lens) and a lens holder 22 that holds the lens 21. The lens 21 is a resin lens, made of resin, and is held in a raised position on the container T side by the lens holder 22 so that it faces the sensor section 6. In this embodiment, the lens holder 22 is independently constructed from the cover T3 and is supported by the cover T3 of the container T. Alternatively, the lens holder 22 may be integrally constructed with the cover T3.

[0040] [Substrate] On the substrate 3, a power supply unit 4, a control unit 5, a sensor unit 6, a storage unit 7, a remaining quantity estimation unit 8, and a communication unit 9 are mounted. In this embodiment, the sensor unit 6 is disposed on one side of the substrate 3, namely the first side 31 (see reference). Figure 4 On the other side of substrate 3, namely the second side 32, a power supply unit 4, a control unit 5, a storage unit 7, a remaining energy estimation unit 8, and a communication unit 9 (see reference) are arranged. Figure 5 The substrate 3 is housed in the housing 1 such that the side (first surface 31) where the sensor part 6 is disposed becomes the lower side Z1, and is mounted on the cover T3 (see reference). Figure 3 ).

[0041] [Power Supply Section] The power supply unit 4 supplies power to various parts of the remaining energy estimation device 100. The power supply unit 4 includes a power circuit 41 and a battery unit 42. The power circuit 41 converts the power from the battery unit 42 (DC-AC conversion and / or voltage conversion) and supplies the converted power to various parts of the remaining energy estimation device 100 (control unit 5, sensor unit 6, storage unit 7, remaining energy estimation unit 8, and communication unit 9). In this embodiment, the battery unit 42 is a built-in primary battery, but the battery unit 42 may also be a secondary battery, or a combination of a self-generating device and a secondary battery.

[0042] [Control Department] The control unit 5 is capable of controlling the operation of each part of the remaining quantity estimation device 100. The control unit 5 is capable of power supply control for the power supply unit 4 and communication control for the communication unit 9. The control unit 5 is also capable of updating the firmware of devices such as the sensor unit 6 and the communication unit 9. Furthermore, the control unit 5 is composed of a microcontroller or similar device equipped with a processor.

[0043] [Sensor Department] The sensor unit 6 outputs estimated source information C1, which (an example of output information) is used to estimate the remaining amount Ra of the contents C contained in the container T. In this embodiment, the sensor unit 6 is a distance measuring sensor (millimeter-wave distance measuring sensor) that uses radio waves (millimeter waves) to measure the distance between itself and the object being measured. Figure 3 As shown, the sensor unit 6 measures the time until the radio wave emitted from the transmitting unit of the sensor unit 6 is reflected by the reflecting surface and received by the receiving unit (light-receiving element) of the sensor unit 6. That is, the sensor unit 6 is a Time-of-Flight (ToF) type liquid level sensor, which is non-contact with the container C and can measure the distance between it and the container C. In addition, the transmission and reception efficiency of the radio wave of the sensor unit 6 is improved because the radio wave passes through the lens 21 of the lens unit 2.

[0044] The reflective surface includes the boundary surface F of the container C (in this embodiment, the liquid surface of kerosene), the bottom surface T11 of the container T, and the wall surface constituting the opening T2 of the container T. In this embodiment, the relative permittivity εr of the container C is "2", which is greater than the relative permittivity εr of air, which is "1 (approximately 1)". That is, the relative permittivity εr varies with the boundary surface F of the container C as the boundary. Furthermore, it is preferable that the gas (air) present between the sensor section 6 and the boundary surface F does not contain water vapor.

[0045] The sensor unit 6 outputs measurement result information C2, representing the distance between itself and the measured object, based on the measured time (see reference). Figures 6A to 6C ).

[0046] Figures 6A to 6C These are diagrams representing an example of the measurement result information C2 output by the sensor unit 6. Figures 6A to 6C The vertical axis represents the reflection intensity Ri of the radio wave transmitted from the sensor unit 6, and the horizontal axis represents the measurement distance ds between the sensor unit 6 and the reflecting surface. Figure 6A This is an example of measurement result information C2 output from sensor unit 6 when the estimated remaining amount Ra of container C is full. Figure 6B This is an example of measurement result information C2 output from sensor unit 6 when the estimated remaining amount Ra of container C is empty. Figure 6C This is an example of measurement result information C2 output from sensor unit 6 when the remaining amount Ra of the container C is neither full nor empty, which is a presumed specific amount. Furthermore, "full" refers, for example, to the remaining amount Ra of the container C when the capacity of the container C contained in the storage space TS is equal to the capacity that the container T can hold (hereinafter referred to as "possible storage capacity"). "Empty" refers, for example, to the remaining amount Ra of the container C when the capacity of the container C contained in the storage space TS is "0". However, the capacity of the container C when it is presumed to be full and the capacity of the container C when it is presumed to be empty can be adjusted by the administrator of the remaining amount estimation device 100, and the allowable range described later can also be set. Furthermore, when the remaining amount Ra of the container C is the possible storage capacity, it is preferable to set the container C to a full state, so that there is an area of ​​air a few centimeters between the cover T3 and the container C.

[0047] like Figures 6A to 6C As shown, in this embodiment, two thresholds (a first threshold d1 and a second threshold d2) are set relative to the measurement distance ds (the distance between the reflecting surface of the radio wave and the sensor unit 6) shown in the measurement result information C2 output by the sensor unit 6.

[0048] [First Threshold] The first threshold d1 is a threshold preset based on the specifications of the sensor unit 6 and / or the container T. Specifically, the first threshold d1 is preset by the manager or others based on the sensitivity characteristics of the sensor unit 6 (the distance from the sensor unit 6 that causes instability in distance measurement), the shape of the container T (e.g., the shape of the opening T2), and the size of the container T (e.g., the size of the opening T2). In this embodiment, the first threshold d1 is set based on considering the sensitivity characteristics of the sensor unit 6 (the distance at which the sensor unit 6 can output an accurate value). Figure 3 The distance between the first dividing line L1 and the sensor unit 6 shown.

[0049] The first dividing line L1, for example, is set as a boundary between two regions based on the sensitivity characteristics of the sensor unit 6. One region includes the measurement distance ds output by the sensor unit 6, which receives electromagnetic waves reflected by the wall surface constituting the opening T2 (excluding the boundary surface F and the bottom surface T11) as a reflective surface. The other region includes the measurement distance ds output by the sensor unit 6, which receives electromagnetic waves reflected by the boundary surface F or the bottom surface T11 as a reflective surface, excluding the wall surface constituting the opening T2. In this embodiment, the first dividing line L1 is set as the boundary surface F (liquid surface) of the container C when the remaining amount Ra of the container C is estimated to be full (considered as full) based on the sensitivity characteristics of the sensor unit 6. Figure 3 In the example shown, the position is set at a predetermined distance from the lower end of the opening T2. However, the first dividing line L1 can also be set at the lower end of the opening T2.

[0050] [Second Threshold] The second threshold d2 is preset based on the distance (actual distance) between the second dividing line L2 and the sensor unit 6. In this embodiment, the second dividing line L2 is preset by the manager or others as the bottom surface T11 of the container T. That is, the second threshold d2 is set to a value equal to the value representing the actual distance between the sensor unit 6 and the bottom surface T11 (hereinafter referred to as "bottom surface distance dt").

[0051] [Permissible Scope] In this embodiment, permissible ranges (first permissible range R1 and second permissible range R2) are set relative to the first dividing line L1 and the second dividing line L2, respectively.

[0052] The first permissible range R1 and the second permissible range R2 are, for example, set relative to the first dividing line L1 and the second dividing line L2, respectively, to cross each of the first dividing line L1 and the second dividing line L2. Specifically, the first permissible range R1 and the second permissible range R2 are set to include values ​​(equivalent to a few centimeters to tens of centimeters) such that the upper Z2 (sensor section 6 side) and lower Z1 (bottom surface T11 side) of each of the first dividing line L1 and the second dividing line L2 are included. The values ​​set for the first permissible range R1 and the second permissible range R2 are predetermined by the administrator or others.

[0053] By setting a first allowable range R1 and a second allowable range R2, individual differences such as the characteristics of the sensor unit 6 (sensor IC) can be absorbed, and the estimation of the remaining amount Ra can be made more flexible. For example, by setting the first allowable range R1, deviations in the sensitivity characteristics of the sensor unit 6 can be accommodated. Furthermore, by setting the second allowable range R2, for example, when the remaining amount Ra of the container C is extremely low, the remaining amount Ra of the container C can be estimated to be empty (considered as empty).

[0054] Furthermore, the second allowable range R2 is set such that the measurement distance ds shown in the measurement result information C2 output from the sensor unit 6 when the actual remaining amount Ra of the container C is full exceeds such a value (such as including the third measurement result information C23 described later in the measurement result information C2).

[0055] In addition, the following, such as Figures 6A to 6C As shown, the area below the upper limit of the first permissible range R1 is called "first region A1", the area exceeding the upper limit of the first permissible range R1 but below the upper limit of the second permissible range R2 is called "second region A2", and the area exceeding the upper limit of the second permissible range R2 is called "third region A3". Furthermore, in the measurement result information C2 output from the sensor unit 6, the measurement result information C2 contained in the first region A1 is called "first measurement result information C21", the measurement result information C2 contained in the second region A2 is called "second measurement result information C22", and the measurement result information C2 contained in the third region A3 is called "third measurement result information C23".

[0056] The sensor unit 6 outputs measurement result information C2 that includes at least one of the first measurement result information C21, the second measurement result information C22, and the third measurement result information C23. The first measurement result information C21 can be output by the sensor unit 6, for example, by receiving electromagnetic waves reflected by the wall surface constituting the opening T2 as a reflective surface. That is, the measurement distance ds shown in the first measurement result information C21 appearing in the first region A1 may not accurately indicate the distance between the sensor unit 6 and the container C, and is unsuitable for estimating the remaining quantity Ra of the container C. Therefore, the measurement distance ds shown in the first measurement result information C21 (the measurement distance ds included in the first region A1) is not conducive to estimating the remaining quantity Ra of the container C. Thus, it is possible to suppress the decrease in the accuracy of the sensor unit 6.

[0057] The second measurement result information C22 can be output, for example, by the sensor unit 6 that receives electromagnetic waves reflected by the boundary surface F (liquid surface) or the bottom surface T11 of the container T as a reflecting surface. That is, the second measurement result information C22 appearing in the second region A2 indicates the distance between the sensor unit 6 and the container C or the bottom surface T11, which is suitable for estimating the remaining amount Ra of the container C. Therefore, the measurement distance ds shown in the second measurement result information C22 (the measurement distance ds included in the second region A2) is used to estimate the remaining amount Ra of the container C.

[0058] The third measurement result information C23 is the measurement result information C2 output as a result of the change in the transmission speed of the radio waves (change in the distance measurement) caused by the presence of the container C. Specifically, when the container C, which has a higher relative permittivity εr than air, remains in the container T, it can be output by the sensor unit 6 that receives the radio waves reflected by the bottom surface T11 of the container T.

[0059] For example, when transmitting radio waves with the container C fully loaded, the radio waves are transmitted only through the container C (not through the air). Conversely, when transmitting radio waves with the container C in a "0" state (empty state), the radio waves are transmitted only through the air (not through the container C). As mentioned above, the relative permittivity εr "2" of the container C is greater than the relative permittivity εr "1" of the air. Therefore, the measured distance ds (apparent distance) to the bottom surface T11 of the container T, as shown by the measurement result information C2 output from the sensor unit 6, becomes larger than the bottom surface distance dt, which is the actual distance, and a value exceeding the second threshold d2 is output (i.e., the third measurement result information C23).

[0060] In detail, theoretically, the bottom surface distance dt between the sensor unit 6 and the bottom surface T11 can be calculated by summing the distance from the sensor unit 6 to the boundary surface F of the container C and the depth dc of the container C. However, as described above, when there is a container C with a relative permittivity εr greater than "1", the measurement distance ds shown in the measurement result information C2 output from the sensor unit 6 will show a value larger than the actual bottom surface distance dt. That is, the depth dc1 (measurement distance ds) of the container C calculated based on the measurement result information C2 output from the sensor unit 6 becomes a value larger than the actual depth dc of the container C. As long as the container C does not contain multiple media with different relative permittivity εr, it is assumed that there is only one second measurement result information C22. Therefore, it can be assumed that the third measurement result information C23, which shows a distance (value) larger than the second measurement result information C22, shows the distance between the sensor unit 6 and the reflecting surface (bottom surface T11) when the bottom surface T11 is the reflecting surface. That is, the measurement distance ds shown in the third measurement result information C23 appearing in the third region A3 does not indicate the distance between the sensor unit 6 and the container C, and is not suitable for estimating the remaining amount Ra (specific value) of the container C. Therefore, the measurement distance ds shown in the third measurement result information C23 (the measurement distance ds included in the third region A3) is not conducive to estimating the remaining amount Ra (specific value) of the container C. Furthermore, although it is also considered that the third measurement result information C23 may not be output based on the sensitivity characteristics such as the ranging limit distance of the sensor unit 6 (sensor IC), the size of the container T, the relative permittivity εr of the container C, etc., the accuracy of estimating the remaining amount Ra of the container C will not be affected because the third measurement result information C23 is not used for estimating the remaining amount Ra of the container C.

[0061] [Storage Department] Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 The storage unit 7 shown is composed of a non-volatile semiconductor memory or the like. The storage unit 7 is configured to store container-specific information C3 based on the specifications of the container T installed in the remaining quantity estimation device 100, and estimation-related information C4 related to the estimation of the remaining quantity Ra of the contents C stored in the container T. Furthermore, the storage unit 7 also stores information representing a first threshold d1, a second threshold d2, a first allowable range R1, and a second allowable range R2.

[0062] [Container-specific information] The container-specific information C3 is information related to the inherent specifications (sizes) of the container T. The container-specific information C3 includes information representing the bottom surface distance dt between the sensor unit 6 fixed to the lid T3 and the bottom surface T11 of the container T. In this embodiment, the container-specific information C3 is obtained by measuring the sensor unit 6 installed on the lid T3 when the container T is empty of the contents C (that is, when the remaining amount Ra of the contents C is empty). However, the container-specific information C3 can be set based on the specifications (catalog value) of the container T, or it can be set as a value actually measured by a measuring instrument or the like.

[0063] [Presumed Related Information] Estimated correlation information C4 is information representing the relationship between the measurement result information C2 output from the sensor unit 6 and the remaining amount Ra of the container C (see reference). Figure 7 ). Figure 7 This is a graph illustrating an example of the relationship between the depth dc of container C and the remaining amount Ra of container C. Figure 7 The horizontal axis represents the depth dc of the container C, and the vertical axis represents the remaining quantity Ra of the container C. Furthermore, the depth dc of the container C represents the boundary surface F of the container C. Figure 3 The actual distance between the sensor section 6 (upper side Z2) shown and the bottom surface T11 of the container T.

[0064] [Estimated Remaining Amount] The remaining quantity estimation unit 8 has a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The remaining quantity estimation unit 8 estimates the remaining quantity Ra of the container C based on the measurement result information C2 output from the sensor unit 6 and the information stored in the storage unit 7 (container-specific information C3 and estimation association information C4).

[0065] In this embodiment, the remaining quantity estimation unit 8 estimates the remaining quantity Ra of the container C by utilizing the phenomenon that the transmission speed of the radio wave changes due to the change in the relative permittivity εr of the container C (change in the distance measured). Specifically, as described above, the remaining quantity Ra of the container C is estimated by utilizing the phenomenon that the measurement distance ds output by the sensor unit 6, which receives the reflected wave reflected from the bottom surface T11 of the container T, is greater than the actual bottom surface distance dt (the actual distance between the sensor unit 6 and the bottom surface T11).

[0066] Specifically, such as Figures 6A to 6CAs shown, the remaining quantity estimation unit 8 estimates the remaining quantity Ra without using the measurement distance ds (the measurement distance ds below the upper limit of the first allowable range R1) that is included in the first region A1 from the measurement distance ds output by the sensor unit 6. In this embodiment, the remaining quantity estimation unit 8 determines whether it is included in the second region A2 (the region that exceeds the upper limit of the first allowable range R1 and is below the upper limit of the second allowable range R2), thereby estimating the remaining quantity Ra of the container C. Furthermore, if the measurement distance ds shown in the measurement result information C2 (the second measurement result information C22) is below the first allowable range R1, the remaining quantity estimation unit 8 can also determine that the remaining quantity Ra of the container C is full.

[0067] When the remaining quantity estimation unit 8 determines that the measurement distance ds is not included in the second region A2, it determines whether the measurement distance ds exceeds the upper limit of the second allowable range R2. If it determines that the measurement distance ds exceeds the upper limit of the second allowable range R2, it estimates that the remaining quantity Ra of the container C is full.

[0068] When the remaining quantity estimation unit 8 determines that the measurement distance ds output by the sensor unit 6 is included in the second region A2 (the measurement distance ds exceeds the upper limit of the first allowable range R1 and is below the upper limit of the second allowable range R2), it determines whether the measurement distance ds is included in the second allowable range R2 (above the lower limit and below the upper limit of the second allowable range R2). If it determines that it is included in the second allowable range R2 (i.e., the measurement distance ds is a value close to the distance between the sensor unit 6 and the bottom surface T11), the remaining quantity Ra of the container C is estimated to be "0" (empty). On the other hand, if it determines that the measurement distance ds is not included in the second allowable range R2 (i.e., the measurement distance ds is a value far from the distance between the sensor unit 6 and the bottom surface T11), the remaining quantity Ra of the container C is calculated based on the measurement distance ds.

[0069] [Calculation of Residual Quantities] When the remaining quantity Ra of the container C is full, the remaining quantity estimation unit 8 calculates and outputs remaining quantity result information C5 (an example of result information) based on the estimation source information C1, for example, a value preset as the remaining quantity Ra (the capacity of the container C when it is estimated to be full). When the remaining quantity Ra is empty, it outputs remaining quantity result information C5 indicating "0". Furthermore, when the remaining quantity Ra of the container C is neither full nor empty, the remaining quantity estimation unit 8 calculates the remaining quantity Ra of the container C and outputs remaining quantity result information C5 indicating the calculation result. Hereinafter, the process of calculating the remaining quantity Ra is sometimes referred to as "remaining quantity estimation processing".

[0070] [Ministry of Communications] The communication unit 9 is capable of transmitting and receiving data representing the remaining quantity result information C5 output from the remaining quantity estimation unit 8. The communication unit 9 has an antenna (not shown). The antenna may be, for example, an antenna component mounted on the substrate 3, a patterned antenna formed on the surface of the substrate 3, an antenna built into a communication IC mounted on the substrate 3, or it may be connected to an antenna component disposed in the accommodating space 1S via a communication wire or the like.

[0071] The communication unit 9 has a first communication unit 91 (an example of a first communication device) and a second communication unit 92 (an example of a second communication device) with different communication distances (communication standards). In addition, the container-specific information C3 stored in the storage unit 7 can be input to the storage unit 7 of the remaining quantity estimation device 100 via the first communication unit 91 or the second communication unit 92.

[0072] The first communication unit 91 is capable of communication based on long-range wireless standards. The first communication unit 91 is configured as a communication device based on long-range wireless standards. In this embodiment, the first communication unit 91 is configured as a communication device based on LPWA (Low Power Wide Area). Furthermore, the first communication unit 91 can be a communication device based on 5G, LTE, etc.

[0073] The first communication unit 91 is configured to be able to send signals to a reference. Figure 1 The first external device 201, as described, transmits remaining quantity result information C5 estimated by the remaining quantity estimation unit 8. That is, the first external device 201 is configured to receive the remaining quantity result information C5 output from the remaining quantity estimation unit 8. The first external device 201 has a first external communication unit (not shown) capable of communication based on the same communication standard as the first communication unit 91, and is capable of communication with the first communication unit 91 based on a long-range wireless standard. Therefore, the remaining quantity Ra of the container T output from the remaining quantity estimation device 100 can be remotely monitored. By monitoring the remaining quantity Ra, the container C can be replenished to the container T at appropriate timings via the replenishment service system for the container C.

[0074] The second communication unit 92 is capable of communication based on short-range wireless standards. The second communication unit 92 is configured with a communication device based on short-range wireless standards. In this embodiment, the second communication unit 92 is configured with a communication device based on BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy). However, the second communication unit 92 can also be a device based on other standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), WiFi, Private LoRa, Z-Wave, ZigBee (registered trademark), Thread, Matter, etc.

[0075] Second Communications Department 92 (from reference) Figure 1The second external device 202 described receives control data for the remaining amount estimation device 100 (control unit 5). That is, the second external device 202 is configured to transmit control data for the remaining amount estimation device 100. The second external device 202 has a second external communication unit (not shown) capable of communication based on the same communication standard as the second communication unit 92, and can perform communication with the second communication unit 92 based on a short-range wireless standard (e.g., wireless communication with the remaining amount estimation device 100 via P to P).

[0076] The above embodiments describe the case where sensor unit 6 is a millimeter-wave sensor for ranging. However, sensor unit 6 is not limited to a millimeter-wave sensor for ranging; for example, it could also be a magnetic sensor that detects changes in a magnetic field. Magnetic sensors include Hall sensors that use the Hall effect to detect magnetic fields (magnetic fields) non-contactly, MR sensors that use the magnetoresistive effect to detect magnetic fields (magnetic fields) non-contactly, and MI sensors that use the magnetoresistive effect to detect magnetic fields (magnetic fields) non-contactly. The sensing method is not particularly limited when sensor unit 6 is a magnetic sensor. When sensor unit 6 is a magnetic sensor, the sensor module can be used as a current sensor module in a current monitoring system that detects and monitors current values ​​non-contactly, or it can be used as a probe sensor module in an instrument monitoring system that detects and monitors pointer values ​​of instruments such as pressure gauges non-contactly. Alternatively, the sensor unit 6 can be a capacitive sensor, an accelerometer, an ultrasonic sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a light sensor, an image sensor, a camera using an image sensor, etc., and the sensor unit 6 can output information about the contents C in a non-contact manner, and can be used in a system that monitors the status of a device equipped with a sensor module based on the output information.

[0077] [Effects of the Implementation Method] The residual amount estimation device 100 constructed above has the following effects.

[0078] (1) The communication device (first communication unit 91 or second communication unit 92) can be selected to communicate data according to the purpose (communication purpose) of the data to be communicated. In addition, since there are multiple communication devices (communication mechanisms), even if one of the two communication devices (communication mechanisms) fails, communication can still be carried out through the other communication device (communication mechanism), thereby suppressing the reduction of convenience.

[0079] (2) It is possible to remotely monitor the output information (remaining amount Ra of the container C) from the sensor unit 6. In addition, if LPWA is used as a communication standard based on long-range wireless communication, power consumption can be reduced. Thus, for example, if the battery unit 42 is a primary battery, the battery replacement interval can be extended.

[0080] (3) For example, it is possible to visually confirm, from among multiple devices (remaining quantity estimation devices 100), the remaining quantity estimation device 100 that is the object of maintenance (communication object of control data) (e.g., while confirming the operation), and on this basis, communication (transmission of control data) with the desired remaining quantity estimation device 100 can be performed. Therefore, for example, maintenance work (e.g., firmware update) can be performed while confirming the operation of the remaining quantity estimation device 100 at the configuration location where the remaining quantity estimation device 100 is configured. In addition, maintenance work can be performed without disassembling the remaining quantity estimation device 100. Moreover, the remaining quantity estimation device 100 and the second external device 202 can communicate without communication lines (wireless communication via P to P), so that even if the communication lines provided by the telecommunications industry or the like fail, communication with the remaining quantity estimation device 100 can be performed without being affected by the communication line failure (control data can be transmitted). Furthermore, due to the short-range communication, the communication time is also short, and communication delays are unlikely to occur, thus improving the immediacy of controlling the remaining quantity estimation device 100 (transmitting control data). Additionally, the short-range communication simplifies individual identification by eliminating complex cipher methods and multi-factor authentication, further enhancing immediacy.

[0081] Furthermore, the improved immediacy simplifies the inspection process during production. Specifically, after turning on the power to the remaining quantity estimation device 100 in the final product state and confirming its operation, the power can be turned off before shipment. Therefore, after shipment, once installed in the container T at the point of use, the remaining quantity estimation device 100 can be turned on, suppressing battery consumption from the time of shipment until actual use.

[0082] (4) According to the above embodiment, a general-purpose sensor (a liquid level sensor of the ToF type) can be used to construct the sensor unit 6. For example, it can be incorporated into a water volume monitoring system that can monitor the water level of a river.

[0083] (5) According to the above embodiment, the sensor unit 6 uses millimeter waves with a frequency band different from that used in the communication of the first communication unit 91 and the second communication unit 92, so it is possible to suppress interference with the communication of the first communication unit 91 and the second communication unit 92. In addition, millimeter waves can penetrate resin, so even when disposed on the lid T3 of the container T made of insulating material, the distance to the contents C can be measured. For example, compared with the case where a light sensor is used as the sensor unit 6, which requires the lid to be configured to allow light to pass through, material costs and processing costs can be reduced. Alternatively, if the lid cannot be configured to allow light to pass through, the remaining amount estimation device 100 is required to have a size that can pass through the opening T2 of the container T (miniaturization), but if it is a millimeter wave sensor, miniaturization is not required.

[0084] (6) According to the above embodiment, interference with communication with the first communication unit 91 and the second communication unit 92 can be avoided. In addition, the sensor unit 6 can be constructed using a general-purpose device such as a Hall sensor, MR sensor or MI sensor, or other magnetic sensor. In addition, the remaining amount estimation device 100 can be configured as a current sensor module or a probe sensor module.

[0085] (7) According to the above implementation method, the result information C5 based on the estimated source information C1 can be output.

[0086] (8) According to the above embodiments, it can be used in places where waterproofing is required, such as outdoors. Furthermore, without disassembling the housing 1, maintenance work (such as firmware updates) can be performed on the internal electronic equipment (e.g., sensor unit 6, communication unit 9, etc.) while the housing 1 is kept in a liquid-tight state (sealed state).

[0087] According to the above implementation, it is possible to send the estimated source information C1 or the result information C5 to the first external device 201.

[0088] According to the above implementation, the estimated result of the remaining amount Ra of the contents C contained in the container T can be sent as the estimated source information C1 or the remaining amount result information C5.

[0089] [Other Implementation Methods] (1) In the above embodiment, the remaining quantity estimation device 100 has a control unit 5, a storage unit 7, a remaining quantity estimation unit 8, and a communication unit 9. However, the storage unit 7 and the remaining quantity estimation unit 8 may also be provided in a device different from the remaining quantity estimation device 100 (for example, as shown in FIG. 9, a first external device 201 different from the remaining quantity estimation device 100 is included in the remaining quantity estimation system). The first external device 201 may also have an external storage unit 201a capable of storing container-specific information C3 and an external remaining quantity estimation unit 201b capable of estimating the remaining quantity Ra. Furthermore, the storage unit 7 and the remaining quantity estimation unit 8 may also be provided in both the remaining quantity estimation device 100 and the first external device 201. That is, the housing 1 of the remaining quantity estimation device 100 only needs to accommodate at least the lens unit 2, the substrate 3, the sensor unit 6, and the communication unit 9, and the power supply unit 4, the control unit 5, the storage unit 7, and the remaining quantity estimation unit 8 may also be accommodated in a housing different from the housing 1. This simplifies the configuration of the surplus estimation device 100. As a result, it reduces the cost required for the surplus estimation device 100.

[0090] (2) In the above embodiments, the case where the housing 1 is composed of a single unit has been described, but the housing 1 may also be composed of multiple segments. In addition, the substrate 3 is not limited to being composed of one unit, but may also be composed of multiple units.

[0091] (3) In addition, the above embodiments describe a liquid-tight configuration of the accommodating space 1S by applying a sealing material such as adhesive or grease to the gap between the cover T3 and the housing 1, but there is no particular limitation on making the accommodating space 1S liquid-tight. The accommodating space 1S can also be liquid-tight, for example, by placing an O-ring between the cover T3 and the housing 1. Alternatively, it can be liquid-tight by ultrasonically welding the cover T3 and the housing 1. Furthermore, as part of the cover T3, a component that is breathable but impermeable to liquid can be used. In addition, the housing 1 can be configured as a dustproof specification or an explosion-proof specification. That is, the housing 1 can be configured as a waterproof specification, a dustproof specification, an explosion-proof specification, etc., by injecting a sealing material such as potting material.

[0092] (4) In the housing 1 described in the above embodiment, a waterproof connector (not shown) can also be assembled. Therefore, by connecting the antenna to the connector, it can be disposed outside the housing 1. Alternatively, by connecting the battery section 42 to the connector, it can be disposed outside the housing 1. Therefore, components occupying a large volume can be disposed outside the housing 1. That is, by assembling a waterproof connector to the housing 1, the liquid tightness of the housing 1's containing space 1S can be maintained while miniaturizing the remaining quantity estimation device 100.

[0093] (5) In the above embodiments, the case where the container C is kerosene has been described, but the container C is not limited to kerosene. It can be any substance whose relative permittivity εr is "approximately 1" or more (preferably "2" or more) than that of air and which can be contained in the container T. For example, it can be an organic substance (organic solvent). In addition, the container C is not limited to a liquid and can also be a solid or a mixture of liquid and solid. However, the container C is preferably free of air. Furthermore, the container T can be appropriately changed depending on the container C it contains.

[0094] (6) In the above embodiment, the first permissible range R1 is set to cross the first dividing line L1, but the first permissible range R1 can also be set not to cross the first dividing line L1 (it can be only on one side of the upper Z2 (sensor part 6 side) and the lower Z1 (bottom surface T11 side). The same applies to the second permissible range R2.

[0095] (7) In the above embodiment, a first allowable range R1 is set for the first dividing line L1, but the first allowable range R1 may not be set. The same applies to the second allowable range R2. Industrial applicability

[0096] This invention enables automatic detection and remote monitoring of the state of the measured object, thereby allowing the use of a sensor device system that optimizes the frequency and timing of maintenance and replenishment of the measured object. Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0097] 1: Shell 1S: Capacity 4: Power Supply Section 5: Control Department 6: Sensor Department 8: Residual quantity estimation section (calculation section) 9: Ministry of Communications 91: 1st Communication Department (1st Communication Device) 92: 2nd communication unit (2nd communication device) 200: Residual Amount Estimation System (Sensor Device System) C: Container C1: Estimated source information (output information) C5: Remaining quantity result information (result information) T: Container.

Claims

1. A sensor device system, wherein, have: Sensors section; The first communication device is capable of transmitting output information output from the sensor unit or result information based on the output information, and is capable of communication based on the first communication standard. A second communication device, capable of communication based on a second communication standard different from the first communication standard; and The control unit is capable of controlling the operation of the sensor unit, the first communication device, and the second communication device. The second communication device is capable of receiving control data from the control unit.

2. The sensor device system according to claim 1, wherein, The first communication device is capable of communicating according to a communication standard that can handle long-distance wireless communication as the first communication standard.

3. The sensor device system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The second communication device is capable of communicating according to a communication standard that can handle short-range wireless communication as the second communication standard.

4. The sensor device system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The sensor measures the time from when the transmitted radio wave is reflected by the container and received by the sensor, thereby measuring the distance between the sensor and the container, and outputting the measured distance as the result information.

5. The sensor device system according to claim 4, wherein, The sensor unit transmits millimeter-wave sensors as radio waves.

6. The sensor device system according to claim 3, wherein, The sensor unit has a magnetic sensor that detects the state of the measured object by checking changes in the magnetic field.

7. The sensor device system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, It has a computation unit that calculates the result information based on the output information.

8. The sensor device system according to claim 7, wherein, It also has: A power supply unit that supplies power to the sensor unit, the computing unit, the control unit, the first communication device, and the second communication device; and The housing has a receiving space that accommodates the sensor unit, the computing unit, the control unit, the first communication device, the second communication device, and the power supply unit. The containment space is liquid-tight.

9. The sensor device system according to claim 1, wherein, It also has a first external device capable of receiving the output information or the result information via the first communication device.

10. The sensor device system according to claim 1, wherein, The sensor unit is capable of outputting estimation source information needed to estimate the remaining amount of contents contained in the container.

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