Device for detecting fiber optic cable breaks, system for identifying fiber optic cable breaks, method for detecting a break in a fiber optic cable and program

Abstract

A system for identifying fiber optic cable breaks (1), comprising a master device (100) and one or more slave devices (200-A, 200-B) controlled by the master device (100), each slave device being connected to another device via a transmitting fiber optic cable and a receiving fiber optic cable for communication with each other, wherein the detector (202) in a slave device (200-A), which serves as a data receiver in communication via the fiber optic cables, detects a break in the receiving fiber optic cable connected to the slave device (200-A), and the transmitter (203) sends a break detection frame indicating the detection of a break in the receiving fiber optic cable to the master device (100) via Internet Protocol (IP) communication when the break in the receiving fiber optic cable is detected.

Description

Technical area

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for detecting fiber optic cable breaks, a system for identifying fiber optic cable breaks, a method for detecting a fiber optic cable break, and a program. State of the art

[0002] Some techniques for detecting an abnormality in communication lines are known in a system including a master device and slave devices controlled by the master device, which are connected to each other via communication lines. For example, Patent Literature 1 discloses that in a system including a master device, slave devices, and commercially available branch devices connected to each other via LAN lines, a slave device determines an abnormality in the LAN lines using reflected waves and notifies the master device of the determination results. List of citationsPatent literature

[0003] Patent Literature 1: Unpublished Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-139820 Brief description of the inventionTechnical problem

[0004] By comparison, in a typical existing system including a master device and slave devices connected to each other for transmission and reception over fiber optic cables, the slave device detects a link failure event in the receiving fiber optic cable, thus detecting a break in the receiving fiber optic cable. The slave device then sends a dedicated signal indicating the detection of the break to another slave device connected to the receiving fiber optic cable in which the break is detected, i.e., the slave device that serves as the data transmitter in communication over the fiber optic cable in which the break is detected. The slave device that detected the break suspends data transmission to the slave device that serves as the data transmitter in communication over the fiber optic cable in which the break is detected.When the slave device, which serves as the data sender in communication over the fiber optic cable in which the break is detected, receives the dedicated signal, this slave device suspends data transmission to the slave device that detected the break. The master device then detects the suspension of data transmission between the slave device that detected the break and the slave device that serves as the data sender in communication over the fiber optic cable in which the break is detected. The master device thus identifies the fiber optic cable between the slave device that detected the break and the slave device that serves as the data sender in communication over the fiber optic cable in which the break is detected as a broken fiber optic cable.

[0005] However, the above-mentioned dedicated signal cannot be detected by commercially available branch devices. In the case where such a commercially available branch device is arranged between the slave device that detected the break and the slave device that serves as the data transmitter in communication over the fiber optic cable in which the break is detected, the dedicated signal cannot be sequentially received by the slave device that serves as the data transmitter in communication over the fiber optic cable in which the break is detected. Thus, the slave device that serves as the data transmitter in communication over the fiber optic cable in which the break is detected cannot suspend data transmission to the slave device that detected the break. As a result, there is a problem in that the broken fiber optic cable cannot be identified in the system including the commercially available branch device.

[0006] The present disclosure is made in consideration of the above-mentioned circumstances, and an object of the present disclosure is to provide an optical fiber cable breakage detection apparatus independent of a commercially available branch device included in the system, an optical fiber cable breakage identification system, an optical fiber cable breakage detection method, and a program capable of achieving the detection of a broken optical fiber cable. Solution to the problem

[0007] To achieve the above object, a fiber optic cable break detection device according to the present disclosure is included in a fiber optic cable break identification system, which system comprises a master device and one or more slave devices controlled by the master device, each connected to another device via a transmitting fiber optic cable and a receiving fiber optic cable to communicate with each other.The fiber optic cable break detection device comprises: a detection device in one of the slave devices, which serves as a data receiver when communicating via the fiber optic cables, for detecting any break in the receiving fiber optic cable connected to the slave device; and a transmission device for transmitting a break detection frame indicating the detection of a break in the receiving fiber optic cable to the master device via Internet Protocol (IP) communication when the detection device detects the break in the receiving fiber optic cable. Advantageous effects of the invention

[0008] The present disclosure can provide a fiber optic cable break detection device independent of a commercially available branch device included in the system, a fiber optic cable break identification system, a fiber optic cable break detection method, and a program capable of achieving the identification of a broken fiber optic cable. Short description of the drawings Fig. 1 illustrates an exemplary configuration of a fiber optic cable break identification system according to an embodiment; Fig. 2 illustrates a hardware configuration of an information processing apparatus according to the embodiment; Fig. 3 illustrates a functional configuration of the fiber optic cable break identification system according to the embodiment; Fig. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a process of a slave device included in the fiber optic cable break identification system according to the embodiment; and Fig. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a process of a master device included in the fiber optic cable break identification system according to the embodiment. Description of embodimentsEmbodiment

[0009] A system for identifying fiber optic cable breaks 1 according to one embodiment is configured to identify a break in optical fiber cables that connect the devices included in the system.

[0010] As in Fig. 1, the fiber optic cable break identification system 1 includes a master device 100, one or more slave devices 200-1, ..., and 200-i (i: a natural number equal to or greater than 1), and one or more branch devices 300-1, ..., and 300-j (j: a natural number equal to or greater than 1). In the following description, the slave devices 200-1, ..., and 200-i are collectively referred to as "slave devices 200" unless reference is made to a specific one of the slave devices. The branch devices 300-1, ..., and 300-j are collectively referred to as "branch devices 300" unless reference is made to a specific one of the branch devices. Fig. 1 illustrates an example of the fiber optic cable break identification system including a master device 100, three slave devices 200, and two branch devices 300 connected in a ring shape.

[0011] The master device 100 controls the slave devices 200. A typical example of the master device 100 is a programmable logic controller (PLC) for controlling factory automation (FA) devices.

[0012] The slave devices 200 are controlled by the master device 100. A typical example of the slave devices 200 is an FA device. Each of the slave devices 200 has the functions of a fiber optic cable break detection device 500, as described below. The fiber optic cable break detection device 500 performs a function of detecting a break in a fiber optic cable connected to the slave device 200.

[0013] The branch devices 300 each forward the communication between the slave devices 200 or the communication between a respective slave device 200 and the master device 100. A typical example of the branch device 300 is a hub.

[0014] In the fiber optic cable break identification system 1, the master device 100 and the one or more slave devices 200 controlled by the master device are each connected to another device via a transmitting fiber optic cable and a receiving fiber optic cable in order to be able to communicate with each other.

[0015] For example, as in Fig. 1, the master device 100 is connected to a fiber optic cable 410-1, which serves as the transmitting fiber optic cable in communication with the slave device 200-1, and to a fiber optic cable 420-1, which serves as the receiving fiber optic cable in communication with the slave device 200-1. The master device 100 is also connected to a fiber optic cable 420-6, which serves as the transmitting fiber optic cable in communication with the slave device 200-3, and to a fiber optic cable 410-6, which serves as the receiving fiber optic cable in communication with the slave device 200-3. The master device 100 is considered to be connected to a fiber optic cable 420-5, which serves as the transmitting fiber optic cable in communication with the slave device 200-3, and to a fiber optic cable 410-5, which serves as the receiving fiber optic cable in communication with the slave device 200-3.

[0016] The slave device 200-1 is connected to the fiber optic cable 420-1, which serves as the transmitting fiber optic cable when communicating with the master device 100, and to the fiber optic cable 410-1, which serves as the receiving fiber optic cable when communicating with the master device 100. The slave device 200-1 is also connected to a fiber optic cable 410-2, which serves as the transmitting fiber optic cable when communicating with the slave device 200-2, and to a fiber optic cable 420-2, which serves as the receiving fiber optic cable when communicating with the slave device 200-2. The slave device 200-1 is considered to be connected to a fiber optic cable 410-3, which serves as the transmitting fiber optic cable in communication with the slave device 200-2, and to a fiber optic cable 420-3, which serves as the receiving fiber optic cable in communication with the slave device 200-2.

[0017] Slave device 200-2 is connected to fiber optic cable 420-3, which serves as the transmitting fiber optic cable when communicating with slave device 200-1, and to fiber optic cable 410-3, which serves as the receiving fiber optic cable when communicating with slave device 200-1. Slave device 200-2 is considered to be connected to fiber optic cable 420-2, which serves as the transmitting fiber optic cable when communicating with slave device 200-1, and to fiber optic cable 410-2, which serves as the receiving fiber optic cable when communicating with slave device 200-1. The slave device 200-2 is also connected to a fiber optic cable 410-4, which serves as the transmitting fiber optic cable in communication with the slave device 200-3, and to a fiber optic cable 420-4, which serves as the receiving fiber optic cable in communication with the slave device 200-3.

[0018] The slave device 200-3 is connected to the fiber optic cable 420-4, which serves as the transmitting fiber optic cable when communicating with the slave device 200-2, and to the fiber optic cable 410-4, which serves as the receiving fiber optic cable when communicating with the slave device 200-2. The slave device 200-3 is also connected to the fiber optic cable 410-5, which serves as the transmitting fiber optic cable when communicating with the master device 100, and to the fiber optic cable 420-5, which serves as the receiving fiber optic cable when communicating with the master device 100. The slave device 200-3 is considered to be connected to the fiber optic cable 410-6, which serves as the transmitting fiber optic cable in communication with the master device 100, and is considered to be connected to the fiber optic cable 420-6, which serves as the receiving fiber optic cable in communication with the master device 100.

[0019] Fig. 2 illustrates an exemplary hardware configuration of an information processing device 10 that performs functions of both the master device 100 and the slave devices 200.

[0020] The information processing device 10 includes a processor 11 that executes various processes, a main data memory 12 that serves as the work area of ​​the processor 11, an auxiliary data memory 13 that stores various types of data to be used in the processes of the processor 11, and a communicator 14 for communicating with external devices. The main data memory 12, the auxiliary data memory 13, and the communicator 14 are each connected to the processor 11 via buses 15.

[0021] The processor 11 includes a central processing unit (CPU) that executes various processes. The processor 11 executes a program stored in the auxiliary data memory 13, thereby performing various functions of the information processing device 10.

[0022] The main data memory 12 includes a random access memory (RAM). The main data memory 12 receives a program loaded from the auxiliary data memory 13. The main data memory 12 serves as the work area of ​​the processor 11.

[0023] Auxiliary data memory 13 includes non-volatile memory, such as electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). Auxiliary data memory 13 stores the program and various types of data used in processes of processor 11. Auxiliary data memory 13 provides processor 11 with data to be used by processor 11 and stores data supplied by processor 11 according to instructions from processor 11.

[0024] Communicator 14 includes a network interface circuit for communicating with external devices. Communicator 14 receives signals from external devices and outputs data indicated by the signals to processor 11. Communicator 14 also sends signals indicating the data output from processor 11 to external devices.

[0025] Below, with reference to Fig. Three functions of the fiber optic cable break identification system 1 are described. The fiber optic cable break identification system 1 includes slave devices 200, each of which includes the fiber optic cable break detection device 500. In the following description, the slave device 200 serving as the data receiver in communication over a broken fiber optic cable is referred to as "slave device 200-A," and the slave device 200 serving as the data transmitter in communication over the broken fiber optic cable is referred to as "slave device 200-B."

[0026] In an exemplary case where the fiber optic cable 410-2 or 410-3 is in the Fig. 1 is broken, the slave device 200-A, which serves as the data receiver in communication via the broken fiber optic cable, corresponds to the slave device 200-2, and the slave device 200-B, which serves as the data transmitter in communication via the broken fiber optic cable, corresponds to the slave device 200-1.

[0027] Functions of the fiber optic cable break detection device 500 will first be described below. The fiber optic cable break detection device 500 has functional components including a receiver 201 that receives data from another device included in the fiber optic cable break identification system 1, a detector 202 that detects a break, and a transmitter 203 that transmits data to another device included in the fiber optic cable break identification system 1.

[0028] Receiver 201 receives data from another device included in fiber optic cable break identification system 1 via a receiving fiber optic cable. Receiver 201 is implemented by processor 11 and communicator 14.

[0029] In particular, the receiver 201 receives data from any of the master device 100 and the other slave devices 200. In the Fig. In the exemplary system configuration shown in Figure 1, the receiver 201 of the slave device 200-2 receives data from the slave device 200-1 via the fiber optic cables 410-2 and 410-3. The receiver 201 of the slave device 200-2 also receives data from the slave device 200-3 via the fiber optic cable 420-4.

[0030] Upon receiving an optical signal, the receiver 201 detects a link up event and a link down event in the receiving fiber optic cable.

[0031] For example, the receiver 201 of the slave device 200-2 detects a link present event and a link failure event in the fiber optic cable 410-3 or 420-4. In an exemplary case of a break in the Fig. 1, the receiver 201 of the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A) detects a link failure event in the fiber optic cable 410-3.

[0032] The detector 202 in the slave device 200, which serves as the data receiver during communication over the fiber optic cable, detects any break in the receiving fiber optic cable connected to this slave device 200. The detector 202 is implemented by the processor 11. The detector 202 is an example of a detection device.

[0033] Specifically, the detector 202 monitors the detection status in the receiving fiber optic cable through the receiver 201, and detects a break in the receiving fiber optic cable when the receiver 201 detects a link failure event in the receiving fiber optic cable. For example, when the receiver 201 of the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A), which serves as the data receiver in the communication via the fiber optic cables 410-2 and 410-3, detects a link failure event in the fiber optic cable 410-3, the detector 202 detects that a break has occurred in the fiber optic cable 410-2 or 410-3 connected to the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A).

[0034] The transmitter 203 transmits data via a transmitting fiber optic cable to another device included in the fiber optic cable break identification system 1. The transmitter 203 is implemented by the processor 11 and the communicator 14. The transmitter 203 is an example of a transmitting device and a first transmitting device.

[0035] Specifically, transmitter 203 sends data to any of the master device 100 and the other slave devices 200. For example, transmitter 203 of slave device 200-2 sends data to slave device 200-1 via fiber optic cables 420-2 and 420-3. Transmitter 203 of slave device 200-2 sends data to slave device 200-3 via fiber optic cable 410-4.

[0036] The transmitter 203 sends a break detection frame indicating the detection of a break in the receiving fiber optic cable to the master device 100 via IP communication when the detector 202 detects the break in the receiving fiber optic cable.

[0037] The break detection frame sent by the slave device 200 indicates that a break is detected in the receiving fiber optic cable connected to the slave device 200.

[0038] The break detection frame contains information identifying the receiving fiber optic cable connected to the slave device 200 transmitting this frame. A typical example of this information indicates the number of the communication port connected to the fiber optic cable. For example, since the slave device 200-2 is connected to fiber optic cables 410-3 and 420-4 serving as receiving fiber optic cables, the break detection frame transmitted by the transmitter 203 of the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A) contains the information about the number of the communication port connected to the fiber optic cable 410-3 or 420-4 in which a break is detected.

[0039] When the detector 202 of the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A) detects a break in the fiber optic cable 410-2 or 410-3, the transmitter 203 sends, for example, a break detection frame containing the information about the number of the communication port connected to the fiber optic cable 410-3 to the master device 100 via IP communication.

[0040] Alternatively, the break detection frame may include identification information for identifying the slave device that serves as the data sender when communicating over the receiving fiber optic cable in which the break is detected. Examples of the identification information include the media access control (MAC) addresses or the Internet Protocol (IP) addresses assigned to the slave devices 200.

[0041] The identification information about the devices included in the fiber optic break identification system 1 is obtained in the fiber optic break identification system 1, for example, according to a known protocol such as the Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP), or according to a protocol uniquely developed by the administrator or user of the fiber optic break identification system 1. The identification information can be obtained before or after the detection of a break by the slave device 200.

[0042] For example, when the detector 202 of the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A) detects the break in the fiber optic cable 410-2 or 410-3, the transmitter 203 sends a break detection frame containing the MAC address and IP address of the slave device 200-1, which serves as the data transmitter in the communication via the fiber optic cables 410-2 and 410-3, to the master device 100 via IP communication.

[0043] In addition, the transmitter 203 suspends data transmission to the slave device 200, which serves as the data transmitter in communication over the receiving fiber optic cable in which the break is detected.

[0044] For example, the transmitter 203 of the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A) suspends the data transmission over the fiber optic cables 420-2 and 420-3 to the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B), which serves as the data transmitter in the communication over the fiber optic cables 410-2 and 410-3.

[0045] Below are the functions of the Fig. 3 is described. The master device 100 has functional components including a receiver 101 that receives data from each slave device 200, an identifier 102 that identifies the slave device 200 serving as the data transmitter in communication over the broken receiving fiber optic cable, a transmitter 103 that sends data to each slave device 200, a configuration information updater 104 that updates configuration information, and a detector 105 that detects a break.

[0046] Receiver 101 receives data from each slave device 200 included in fiber optic cable break identification system 1 via the receiving fiber optic cable. Receiver 101 is implemented by processor 11 and communicator 14. Receiver 101 is an example of a receiving device.

[0047] For example, receiver 101 of master device 100 receives data from slave device 200-1 via fiber optic cable 420-1. Receiver 101 of master device 100 also receives data from slave device 200-3 via fiber optic cables 410-5 and 410-6.

[0048] The receiver 101 receives the break detection frame from the slave device 200.

[0049] For example, the receiver 101 of the master device 100 receives from the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A) the break detection frame containing the information about the number of the communication port connected to the fiber optic cable 410-3.

[0050] Alternatively, the receiver 101 of the master device 100 receives from the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A) the break detection frame containing the MAC address and the IP address of the slave device 200-1, which serves as the data transmitter in the communication via the fiber optic cables 410-2 and 410-3.

[0051] The identifier 102 identifies the slave device 200, which serves as the data transmitter in communication over the receiving fiber optic cable, in which the break is detected, as indicated by the break detection frame received by the receiver 101. The identifier 102 is implemented by the processor 11. The identifier 102 is an example of an identification device.

[0052] For example, the identifier 102 identifies the slave device 200, which serves as the data transmitter in the communication over the receiving fiber optic cable in which the break is detected, based on the configuration information stored in the master device 100.

[0053] The configuration information includes identification information for identifying the devices included in the Fiber Optic Break Identification System 1 and information indicating the connection relationship between the devices. A typical example of the configuration information includes the MAC addresses and IP addresses of each device and information about which communication port each device uses when communicating with another device.

[0054] For example, the receiver 101 of the master device 100 receives the break detection frame containing the communication port number connected to the fiber optic cable 410-3 from the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A). In this case, the identifier 102 of the master device 100 refers to the MAC address and IP address of the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A), the communication port number, and the configuration information, thus identifying the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B) as the slave device 200 serving as the data sender in communication via the fiber optic cable 410-2 or 410-3 in which the break is detected.

[0055] In another example, the receiver 101 of the master device 100 receives the break detection frame containing the MAC address and IP address of the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B) from the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A). In this case, the identifier 102 identifies the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B) as the slave device 200 serving as the data transmitter in communication over the broken fiber optic cable based on the MAC address and IP address contained in the received break detection frame. In this case, the step of referring to the configuration information to identify the slave device serving as the data transmitter in communication over the broken fiber optic cable can be skipped.

[0056] Transmitter 103 transmits data via the transmitting fiber optic cable to each slave device 200 included in fiber optic cable break identification system 1. Transmitter 103 is implemented by processor 11 and communicator 14. Transmitter 103 is an example of a second transmitting device.

[0057] For example, transmitter 103 of master device 100 sends data to slave device 200-1 via fiber optic cable 410-1. Transmitter 103 of master device 100 also sends data to slave device 200-3 via fiber optic cables 420-5 and 420-6.

[0058] The transmitter 103 sends to the slave device 200 serving as the data transmitter as identified by the identifier 102, a transmission suspension frame to instruct the slave device serving as the data transmitter to suspend data transmission to the slave device 200 serving as the data receiver in communication over the receiving fiber optic cable in which the break is detected as indicated by the break detection frame.

[0059] The transmission suspension frame sent from the master device 100 to the slave device 200-B contains an instruction to cause the slave device 200, which serves as the data transmitter in communication over the fiber optic cable in which the break is detected, to suspend data transmission to the slave device 200, which serves as the data receiver. A typical example of the transmission suspension frame contains identification information about the slave device 200, which serves as the data receiver.

[0060] For example, the transmitter 103 of the master device 100 sends a suspend transmission frame containing the MAC address and the IP address of the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A) to the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B).

[0061] The slave device 200 serving as the data transmitter, upon receiving the transmission suspension frame, suspends data transmission to the slave device 200 serving as the data receiver in communication over the fiber optic cable in which the break is detected.

[0062] For example, when the receiver 201 of the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B) receives from the master device 100 the transmission suspension frame containing the identification information about the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A), the transmitter 203 of the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B) suspends the data transmission to the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A), which serves as the data receiver in the communication via the fiber optic cables 410-2 and 410-3.

[0063] Additionally, the transmitter 103 initiates the transmission of a cyclic frame to the slave device 200, which serves as the data transmitter, as identified by the identifier 102. The cyclic frame is sent for regular data exchange between the devices on the same network.

[0064] For example, the transmitter 103 suspends the transmission of a cyclic frame to the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B).

[0065] The configuration information updater 104 updates the configuration information when the identifier 102 identifies the slave device 200 that serves as the data transmitter in the communication over the receiving fiber optic cable in which the break is detected. The configuration information updater 104 is implemented by the processor 11.

[0066] For example, when the identifying means 102 identifies the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B) as the slave device 200 serving as the data transmitter in the communication via the receiving optical fiber cable in which the break is detected, the configuration information updating means 104 determines that the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B) is disconnected, and updates the information included in the configuration information indicating the connection relationship to information indicating the disconnection of the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B).

[0067] Detector 105 detects any break in the receiving fiber optic cable. Detector 105 is implemented by processor 11.

[0068] Specifically, detector 105 monitors the detection status in the receiving fiber optic cable through receiver 101, and detects a break in the receiving fiber optic cable when receiver 101 detects a link failure event in the receiving fiber optic cable. For example, if receiver 101 of master device 100 detects a link failure event in fiber optic cable 410-6, detector 105 detects a break in fiber optic cable 410-5 or 410-6.

[0069] When the detector 105 detects a break in the fiber optic cable, the identifier 102 refers to the configuration information and the number of the communication port connected to the fiber optic cable in which the break is detected, and identifies the slave device 200 that serves as the data transmitter in communication over the fiber optic cable in which the break is detected. The transmitter 103 then sends a transmission suspension frame to the slave device 200 identified by the identifier 102. The configuration information updater 104 then updates the configuration information.

[0070] For example, if detector 105 detects a break in fiber optic cable 410-5 or 410-6, identifier 102 identifies slave device 200-3 (slave device 200-B) as the slave device 200 that serves as the data transmitter in communication over fiber optic cables 410-5 and 410-6. Transmitter 103 then sends a suspend transmission frame to slave device 200-3 and suspends transmission of a cyclic frame to slave device 200-3. The configuration information updating means 104 then determines that the slave device 200-3 (slave device 200-B) is disconnected, and updates the information included in the configuration information indicating the connection relationship to information indicating the disconnection of the slave device 200-3 (slave device 200-B).

[0071] The following is a description of the flow chart of Fig. 4 describes a process executed by each of the slave devices 200 according to the embodiment. Fig. For example, the process shown in Figure 4 is executed in response to the activation of the slave device 200.

[0072] The detector 202 in the slave device 200, which serves as the data receiver in communication via the fiber optic cable, determines whether any break is detected in the receiving fiber optic cable connected to this slave device 200 (step S101). If the detector 202 determines that the break is detected in the receiving fiber optic cable (step S101; YES), the transmitter 203 sends a break detection frame indicating the detection of a break in the receiving fiber optic cable to the master device 100 via IP communication (step S102). The transmitter 203 then suspends data transmission to the slave device 200, which serves as the data transmitter in communication via the receiving fiber optic cable in which the break is detected (step S103). The process then returns to step S101.Otherwise, if the detector 202 determines that no break is detected in the receiving fiber optic cable (step S101; NO), the receiver 201 determines whether a transmission suspension frame is received from the master device 100 (step S104).

[0073] For example, when the receiver 201 of the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A), which serves as the data receiver in communication over the fiber optic cables 410-2 and 410-3, detects a link failure event in the fiber optic cable 410-3, the detector 202 of the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A) detects that there is a break in the fiber optic cable 410-2 or 410-3 connected to the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A). The transmitter 203 of the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A) then sends a break detection frame containing the MAC address and IP address of the slave device 200-1, which serves as the data transmitter in the communication via the fiber optic cables 410-2 and 410-3, to the master device 100 via the IP communication. The transmitter 203 of the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A) then suspends the data transmission to the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B) via the fiber optic cables 420-2 and 420-3.Otherwise, when the receiver 201 of the slave device 200-1, which serves as the data receiver in the communication via the fiber optic cables 420-2 and 420-3, does not detect a break in the fiber optic cables 420-2 and 420-3, the receiver 201 determines whether a transmission suspension frame is received from the master device 100.

[0074] In step S104, if the receiver 201 determines that the transmission suspension frame is received from the master device 100 (step S104; YES), the transmitter 203 suspends data transmission to the slave device serving as the data receiver during communication over the receiving optical fiber cable in which the break is detected as indicated by the break detection frame (step S105). Otherwise, if the receiver 201 determines that no transmission suspension frame is received from the master device 100, the process returns to step S101 (step S104; NO).

[0075] For example, if the receiver 201 of the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B) receives a transmission suspension frame containing the identification information about the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A) from the master device 100, the transmitter 203 of the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B) suspends data transmission to the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A). Otherwise, if the receiver 201 of the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B) does not receive a transmission suspension frame from the master device 100, the process returns to step S101.

[0076] Below, with reference to the flow chart of Fig. 5 describes a process executed by the master device 100 according to the embodiment. Fig. For example, the process illustrated in Figure 5 is executed in response to the activation of the master device 100.

[0077] The receiver 101 determines whether a break detection frame is received from any slave device 200 (step S201). If the receiver 101 determines that the break detection frame is received from any slave device 200 (step S201; YES), the identifier 102 identifies the slave device 200 serving as the data transmitter in communication over the receiving fiber optic cable in which the break is detected, as indicated by the break detection frame received from the receiver 101 (step S202). Otherwise, if the receiver 101 determines that no break detection frame is received from the slave devices 200 (step S201; NO), the detector 105 determines whether any break in the fiber optic cables is detected (step S206).

[0078] For example, when the receiver 101 of the master device 100 receives from the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A) a break detection frame containing the MAC address and IP address of the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B) serving as the data sender in the communication via the fiber optic cables 410-2 and 410-3, the identifier 102 identifies the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B) as the slave device 200 serving as the data sender in the communication via the broken fiber optic cable based on the MAC address and IP address included in the break detection frame. Otherwise, if the receiver 101 determines that no break detection frame is received from the slave device 200, the detector 105 determines whether any break in the fiber optic cables 420-1, 410-5 and 410-6 is detected.

[0079] The transmitter 103 sends a transmission suspension frame to the slave device 200 serving as the data transmitter as identified by the identifier 102, instructing the slave device 200 to suspend data transmission to the slave device 200 serving as the data receiver in communication over the receiving fiber optic cable in which the break is detected as indicated by the break detection frame (step S203). Furthermore, the transmitter 103 suspends transmission of a cyclic frame to the slave device 200 serving as the data transmitter as identified by the identifier 102 (step S204). The configuration information updater 104 then updates the configuration information (step S205). The process then returns to step S201.

[0080] For example, the transmitter 103 of the master device 100 sends a transmission suspension frame containing the MAC address and IP address of the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A) to the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B). The transmitter 103 also suspends transmission of a cyclic frame to the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B). The configuration information updater 104 then determines that the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B) is disconnected and updates the connection information included in the configuration information based on information indicating the disconnection of the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B).

[0081] If the detector 105 detects a break in the fiber optic cable in step S206 (step S206; YES), the process proceeds to step S202 and the following steps. Otherwise, if the detector 105 does not detect a break in the fiber optic cable (step S206; NO), the process returns to step S201.

[0082] For example, when the detector 105 detects a break in the fiber optic cable 410-5 or 410-6, the identifier 102 identifies the slave device 200-3 (slave device 200-B) as the slave device 200 serving as the data transmitter in communication via the fiber optic cables 410-5 and 410-6. The transmitter 103 then sends a transmission suspension frame to the slave device 200-3 and suspends the transmission of a cyclic frame to the slave device 200-3. The configuration information updater 104 then updates the information included in the configuration information indicating the connection relationship to information indicating the disconnection of the slave device 200-3 (slave device 200-B).

[0083] In response to a break in a fiber optic cable in the system according to the embodiment, the slave device that has detected the break notifies the master device of the break using the widely used general purpose Internet protocol. The system can thus achieve the detection and identification of the break in the fiber optic cables independently of a commercially available branch device included in the system.

[0084] In some existing techniques, the master device analyzes the cyclic frames sent and received within the system, detects the interruption of transmission and reception between the devices, and thus identifies the broken fiber optic cable. In contrast, in the technique according to the embodiment, the master device is able to identify the broken fiber optic cable without analyzing cyclic frames because the master device receives a break detection frame containing information for identifying the broken fiber optic cable from the slave device that has detected the broken fiber optic cable. The technique according to the embodiment can omit the analysis process of the master device and thus reduce the processing load on the master device.

[0085] Several existing methods for detecting cable breaks using reflected waves are known. These methods require dedicated break detection mechanisms, such as a pulse transmitter and a signal diagnostic device, in addition to the data exchange mechanisms for control. In contrast, the technique according to the embodiment does not require a dedicated break detection mechanism, as the detection is based on the detection of a link down event. This technique can therefore identify a break in fiber optic cables with a simple structure.

[0086] In the embodiment, the break detection frame may include identification information for identifying the slave device serving as the data sender in communication over the broken fiber optic cable. The master device is thus able to identify the slave device serving as the data sender in communication over the broken fiber optic cable based on the configuration information without having to identify the slave device serving as the data sender in communication over the broken fiber optic cable. The master device therefore has a reduced processing load. Modifications

[0087] The above-described embodiment of the present disclosure may be varied and revised into various modifications.

[0088] Although the transmitter 203 transmits a break detection frame to the master device 100 in the above-described embodiment, this configuration is merely an example. The transmitter 203 may further transmit the break detection frame via IP communication to a slave device serving as the data transmitter in communication over the receiving optical fiber cable in which the break is detected. Upon receiving the break detection frame, the slave device serving as the data transmitter suspends data transmission to the slave device serving as the data receiver in communication over the receiving optical fiber cable in which the break is detected, as indicated by the break detection frame.

[0089] For example, when the detector 202 of the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A) detects the break in the fiber optic cable 410-2 or 410-3, the transmitter 203 sends a break detection frame not only to the master device 100 but also to the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B) via IP communication.

[0090] When the receiver 201 of the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B) receives the break detection frame from the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A), the transmitter 203 of the slave device 200-1 (slave device 200-B) suspends the data transmission to the slave device 200-2 (slave device 200-A), which serves as the data receiver in the communication via the fiber optic cables 410-2 and 410-3.

[0091] That is, the slave device serving as the data sender during communication over the fiber optic cable in which the break is detected receives the break detection frame and then suspends data transmission to the slave device serving as the data receiver. The slave device serving as the data sender can thus suspend data transmission at an earlier time than the slave device, which suspends data transmission after receiving the transmission suspension frame from the master device 100. This modification can achieve fail-safe operations in the system, reducing, for example, system downtime and the time to action in the event of an abnormality.

[0092] Although Fig.While Figure 5 illustrates the process performed by the master device in the above-described embodiment, the timing of each step of the process is merely an example. For example, the order of steps S203 to S205 may be reversed.

[0093] An operation program defining the operations of the optical fiber break detection device according to the above-described embodiment can be applied to an existing personal computer or an existing information terminal device, thus causing the personal computer or the information terminal device according to the embodiment to function as the optical fiber break detection device.

[0094] Such a program may be distributed by any method. For example, the program may be stored and distributed on a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium, such as a CD-ROM (compact disk read-only memory), a DVD (digital versatile disk), or a memory card. The program may also be distributed over a communications network, such as the Internet.

[0095] The foregoing describes some exemplary embodiments for illustrative purposes. Although the foregoing discussion has shown specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. This detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the invention will be defined only by the appended claims, along with the full range of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. Industrial applicability

[0096] The present disclosure can provide a fiber optic cable break detection device independent of a commercially available branch device included in the system, a fiber optic cable break identification system, a fiber optic cable break detection method, and a program capable of achieving the identification of a broken fiber optic cable. List of reference symbols 1 system for identifying fiber optic cable breaks 10 Information processing device 11 processor 12 main data storage 13 Auxiliary data storage 14 Communicator 15 buses 100 master devices 101, 201 recipients 102 Identification device 103, 203 channels 104 Configuration Information Update Facility 105, 202 detector 200, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-i, 200-A, 200-B Slave device 300, 300-1, 300-2, 300-j branch device 410-1, 410-2, 410-3, 410-4, 410-5, 410-6, 420-1, 420-2, 420-3, 420-4, 420-5, 420-6 fiber optic cables 500 Device for detecting fiber optic cable breaks QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] JP 2021 - 139 820

[0003]

Claims

[1] A device for detecting fiber optic cable breaks in a system for identifying fiber optic cable breaks, comprising a master device and one or more slave devices controlled by the master device, the master device and the one or more slave devices each being connected to another device via a transmitting fiber optic cable and a receiving fiber optic cable in order to be able to communicate with each other, the device for detecting fiber optic cable breaks comprising: a detection device in one of the slave devices, which serves as a data receiving device during communication via the fiber optic cables, to detect any break in the receiving fiber optic cable connected to the slave device; and a transmitting device for transmitting a break detection frame indicating the detection of a break in the receiving optical fiber cable to the master device via Internet Protocol (IP) communication when the detecting device detects the break in the receiving optical fiber cable. [2] The optical fiber cable break detection device according to claim 1, wherein the transmitting means transmits the break detection frame containing identification information for identifying one of the slave devices serving as a data transmitter in communication via the receiving optical fiber cable in which the break is detected. [3] A fiber optic cable break detection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the transmitting device further transmits the break detection frame via IP communication to one of the slave devices that serves as a data transmitter when communicating via the receiving fiber optic cable in which the break is detected, and the slave device serving as the data sender, upon receiving the break detection frame, suspends data transmission to the slave device serving as the data receiver when communicating over the receiving fiber optic cable in which the break is detected as indicated by the break detection frame. [4] A system for identifying fiber optic cable breaks, comprising a master device and one or more slave devices controlled by the master device, the master device and the one or more slave devices each being connected to another device via a transmitting fiber optic cable and a receiving fiber optic cable in order to be able to communicate with each other, the system for identifying fiber optic cable breaks comprising: a detection device in one of the slave devices, which serves as a data receiver when communicating via the fiber optic cables, to detect any break in the receiving fiber optic cable connected to the slave device; a first transmitting device for transmitting a break detection frame indicating the detection of a break in the receiving optical fiber cable to the master device via IP communication when the detecting device detects the break in the receiving optical fiber cable; a receiving device for receiving the break detection frame; an identification device for identifying one of the slave devices serving as a data transmitter in a communication over the receiving optical fiber cable in which the break is detected as indicated by the break detection frame received by the receiving device; and a second transmitting means for transmitting a transmission suspension frame to the slave device serving as the data transmitter, as identified by the identifying means, to instruct the slave device serving as the data transmitter to suspend data transmission to the slave device serving as the data receiver in communication over the receiving fiber optic cable in which the break is detected as indicated by the break detection frame. [5] A method for detecting a break in a fiber optic cable in a fiber optic cable break identification system comprising a master device and one or more slave devices controlled by the master device, the master device and the one or more slave devices each being connected to another device via a transmitting fiber optic cable and a receiving fiber optic cable to be able to communicate with each other, the method comprising: Detecting any break in the receiving fiber optic cable connected to the slave device in one of the slave devices that serves as a data receiver in the communication over the fiber optic cables; and Sending a break detection frame indicating the detection of a break in the receiving fiber optic cable to the master device via IP communication when the break is detected in the receiving fiber optic cable. [6] A program in a system for identifying fiber optic cable breaks, comprising a master device and one or more slave devices, the master device and the one or more slave devices each being connected to another device via a transmitting fiber optic cable and a receiving fiber optic cable for communication with each other, the program being configured to cause a computer to act as: a detection device in one of the slave devices, which serves as a data receiver when communicating via the fiber optic cables, to detect any break in the receiving fiber optic cable connected to the slave device; and a transmitting device for transmitting a break detection frame indicating the detection of a break in the receiving optical fiber cable to the master device via IP communication when the detecting device detects the break in the receiving optical fiber cable.

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