Communication equipment, measurement device, spindle device, and method for operating rolling facility and communication machine

Abstract

A communication device includes a reception part for wirelessly receiving a signal from a transmission part disposed at a rotatable member movable along a first direction, and a guide part configured to guide movement of the reception part along the first direction.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a communication device, a measurement apparatus, a spindle apparatus, a rolling mill facility, and a method for operating a communication device.BACKGROUND

[0002] The operating state of a rotatable member that rotates during operation may be monitored.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a monitoring system for monitoring vibration, torque, temperature, or the like of a shaft coupling (rotatable member) constituting a rolling mill. This monitoring system includes a sensor unit and a transmitter attached to the shaft coupling, and a communication device (information communication device) capable of wirelessly communicating with the sensor unit via the transmitter. Signals indicating measured values of vibration, torque, temperature, or the like of the shaft coupling acquired by the sensor unit are wirelessly sent to the communication device via the transmitter, and data of these measured values is collected by the communication device.Citation ListPatent Literature

[0004] Patent Document 1: JP5194229BSUMMARYProblems to be Solved

[0005] A rotatable member provided with a measurement part (sensor, etc.) or a transmission part (transmitter, etc.) may be moved in a specific direction. For example, in a rolling mill, the position of a mill roll in the axial direction, the vertical direction, and / or the rolling direction (i.e., the traveling direction of a metal plate (rolled material)) may be changed for the purpose of adjusting the thickness or shape of a rolled material. At this time, the position of a rotatable member (spindle apparatus, etc.) connected to the mill roll is also changed together with the mill roll. Thus, when the position of the rotatable member is changed, the position of the transmission part (transmitter of Patent Document 1) disposed at the rotatable member is also changed together with the rotatable member. Therefore, the distance between the transmission part and a reception part (communication device of Patent Document 1) in the movement direction of the rotatable member changes, leading to degraded communication accuracy.

[0006] In view of the above circumstances, an object of at least one embodiment of the present invention is to provide a communication device, a measurement apparatus, a spindle apparatus, a rolling mill facility, and a method for operating a communication device with good communication accuracy.Solution to the Problems

[0007] A communication device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention includes: a reception part for wirelessly receiving a signal from a transmission part disposed at a rotatable member movable along a first direction; and a guide part configured to guide movement of the reception part along the first direction.

[0008] Further, a measurement apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the present invention includes: a measurement part for measuring an amount representing a state of the rotatable member; and the above-described communication device. The transmission part of the communication device is configured to receive a signal indicating a measured value from the measurement part.

[0009] Further, a spindle apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the present invention includes: a spindle outer cylinder provided with internal teeth on an inner peripheral surface; a spindle inner cylinder provided with external teeth on an outer peripheral surface, the external teeth meshing with the internal teeth; and the above-described measurement apparatus. The rotatable member includes the spindle inner cylinder, and the measurement part includes a temperature sensor disposed at the spindle inner cylinder so as to measure a temperature of a meshing part of the internal teeth and the external teeth.

[0010] Further, a rolling mill facility according to at least one embodiment of the present invention includes: a mill roll; a spindle apparatus for transmitting rotation of a motor to the mill roll; and the above-described measurement apparatus attached to the spindle apparatus.

[0011] Further, a method for operating a communication device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention is a method for operating the above-described communication device, including a step of moving the reception part along the first direction.Advantageous Effects

[0012] At least one embodiment of the present invention provides a communication device, a measurement apparatus, a spindle apparatus, a rolling mill facility, and a method for operating a communication device with good communication accuracy.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a rolling mill facility according to some embodiments. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a communication device and a measurement apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a communication device and a measurement apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a schematic configuration diagram of a control device according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a schematic side view of a transmission part according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view orthogonal to the axial direction of a transmission part according to an embodiment (cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 5). FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a spindle apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a spindle apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of a communication device and a measurement apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an example of a spindle carrier apparatus for supporting a spindle apparatus. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is intended, however, that unless particularly identified, dimensions, materials, shapes, relative positions, and the like of components described in the embodiments shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0015] In the present specification, a spindle of a rolling mill facility will be described as an example of a rotatable member to which the communication device and the measurement apparatus according to some embodiments are applied. However, the communication device and the measurement apparatus according to the present invention can also be applied to a rotatable member other than the spindle, or a rotatable member constituting equipment other than the rolling mill facility.(Configuration of Rolling Mill Facility)

[0016] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a rolling mill facility to which the communication device according to some embodiments is applied. FIGs. 2, 3, and 9 are each a schematic diagram more specifically showing the communication device and the measurement apparatus applied to the rolling mill facility according to an embodiment.

[0017] As shown in FIGs. 1 to 3 and 9, the rolling mill facility 1 includes a mill roll 8 for rolling a metal plate S, a motor 2 (see FIG. 1) for driving the mill roll 8, and a power transmission part 3 (see FIG. 1) for transmitting power of the motor 2 to the mill roll 8. Further, the rolling mill facility 1 shown in FIGs. 1 to 3 and 9 includes a measurement apparatus 64 for measuring the amount (temperature, torque, etc.) indicating the state of a rotatable member 24 constituting the rolling mill facility 1.

[0018] The mill roll 8 is configured to roll the metal plate S, and includes a pair of work rolls 12A and 12B for sandwiching the metal plate S from above and below to apply a load to the metal plate S, and a pair of intermediate rolls 14A and 14B and a pair of backup rolls 16A and 16B disposed on opposite sides of the pair of work rolls 12A and 12B from the metal plate S, respectively. The intermediate roll 14A is disposed between the work roll 12A and the backup roll 16A, and the intermediate roll 14B is disposed between the work roll 12B and the backup roll 16B. Each mill roll 8 is rotatably supported by a bearing (not shown in FIGs. 1, 3, and 9) accommodated in a bearing box. In FIG. 2, only the work roll 12B among the mill rolls 8 is shown, and the work roll 12B is rotatably supported by a bearing 13. The bearing that supports each mill roll 8 may be supported by a housing 18 (see FIG. 3).

[0019] The power transmission part 3 includes a gear 4 driven by the motor 2 and a spindle apparatus 6. The gear 4 is connected to the motor 2, and the spindle apparatus 6 is connected to the motor 2 via the gear 4. Further, the mill roll 8 is connected to the motor 2 via the gear 4 and the spindle apparatus 6. The power of the motor 2 is transmitted to the mill roll 8 via the gear 4 and the spindle apparatus 6.

[0020] The rolling mill facility 1 includes a roll reduction device 20 (see FIG. 3; for example, a hydraulic cylinder) for applying a load to the pair of work rolls 12A and 12B to reduce the thickness of the metal plate S. The reduction amount by the roll reduction device 20 is adjusted so that the plate thickness or the shape of the metal plate S after passing through the mill roll 8 approaches a target value. When the roll reduction device 20 operates and the position of the piston of the hydraulic cylinder is changed, the positions of the work rolls 12A and 12B in the vertical direction (rolling-down direction) are changed according to the change in the position of the piston, and the position of the spindle apparatus 6 connected to the work rolls 12A and 12B in the vertical direction (rolling-down direction) is changed.

[0021] That is, in some embodiments, the spindle apparatus 6 is movable in the vertical direction (rolling-down direction) by the roll reduction device 20.

[0022] Further, the rolling mill facility 1 may include a shift device 22 (see FIG. 2; for example, a hydraulic cylinder) for shifting the work rolls 12A and 12B in the axial direction. During rolling of the metal plate S, the work rolls 12A and 12B (see FIG. 2) provided with tapered portions 11 (see FIG. 2) at axial end portions may be appropriately shifted in the axial direction by the shift device 22, whereby the shape of the metal plate S and edge drop at an end portion can be controlled. When the shift device 22 operates and, for example, the position of the piston of the hydraulic cylinder is changed, the positions of the work rolls 12A and 12B in the axial direction are changed according to the change in the position of the piston, and the position of the spindle apparatus 6 connected to the work rolls 12A and 12B in the axial direction is changed.

[0023] That is, in some embodiments, the spindle apparatus 6 is movable in the axial direction by the shift device 22.

[0024] Further, as shown in FIG. 9, for example, the rolling mill facility 1 may be configured such that the work rolls 12A and 12B can be offset to the entry side and / or exit side (i.e., movable in the rolling direction) in the rolling direction (i.e., the traveling direction of the metal plate). As shown in FIG. 9, in a state where the work rolls 12A and 12B are offset in the rolling direction, the center position C1 of the work rolls 12A and 12B in the rolling direction is shifted from the center position C0 of the rolling mill (i.e., the rolling-down position by the roll reduction device 20) in the rolling direction by an offset amount Lo. By appropriately offsetting the work rolls 12A and 12B, vibration or periodic plate thickness fluctuation occurring during rolling can be suppressed, or high plate shape control characteristics can be maintained.

[0025] In an embodiment, the rolling mill facility 1 is configured such that a variable offset amount Lo can be set, and before starting operation of the rolling mill facility 1, the offset amount of the work rolls 12A and 12B may be changed to be a predetermined offset amount Lo, and then the operation of the rolling mill facility 1 may be started. In this case, the same offset amount Lo may be maintained (that is, the positions of the work rolls 12A and 12B in the rolling direction may be fixed) from the start of operation to the stop of operation of the rolling mill facility 1. When the offset amount of the work rolls 12A and 12B is changed, the positions of the work rolls 12A and 12B in the rolling direction are changed, and the position of the spindle apparatus 6 connected to the work rolls 12A and 12B in the rolling direction is changed.

[0026] In an embodiment, the rolling mill facility 1 may include an offset device 26 (see FIG. 9; for example, a hydraulic cylinder) for offsetting the work rolls 12A and 12B. In this case, the offset amount Lo can be dynamically changed during operation of the rolling mill facility 1. When the offset device 26 operates and, for example, the position of the piston of the hydraulic cylinder is changed, the positions of the work rolls 12A and 12B in the rolling direction are changed according to the change in the position of the piston, and the position of the spindle apparatus 6 connected to the work rolls 12A and 12B in the rolling direction is changed. The offset device 26 (hydraulic cylinder, etc.) may be configured to drive the work rolls 12A and 12B in the rolling direction via a bearing box accommodating a bearing that supports the work rolls 12A and 12B, a support mechanism provided at the entry side and the exit side of the work rolls 12A and 12B, or the like.

[0027] That is, in some embodiments, the spindle apparatus 6 is movable in the rolling direction by the offset device 26, or by manual position adjustment of the work rolls 12A and 12B before the start of operation of the rolling mill facility 1 or the like.(Configuration of Measurement Apparatus and Communication Device)

[0028] The measurement apparatus 64 shown in FIGs. 1 to 3 and 9 is configured to measure the amount indicating the state of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) connected to the work roll 12B.

[0029] As shown in FIGs. 1 to 3 and 9, the measurement apparatus 64 according to some embodiments includes a measurement part 56 for measuring the amount (e.g., temperature or torque) representing the state of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24), and a communication device 30 including a transmission part 32 and a reception part 34.

[0030] The measurement part 56 is configured to measure the amount (e.g., temperature or torque) representing the state of the spindle apparatus 6. The measurement part 56 may include a temperature sensor (thermocouple, etc.) capable of measuring the temperature of the spindle apparatus 6, or a strain gauge for measuring the strain of the spindle apparatus 6 that can be converted into torque. The measurement part 56 may be attached to the spindle apparatus 6.

[0031] The transmission part 32 is configured to rotate together with the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24). The transmission part 32 is configured to receive a signal indicating a measured value of the amount representing the state of the spindle apparatus 6 from the measurement part 56. The transmission part 32 and the measurement part 56 are connected via electrical wiring, and the signal from the measurement part 56 is sent to the transmission part 32 via the electrical wiring.

[0032] FIG. 5 is a schematic side view of the transmission part 32 according to an embodiment, and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the transmission part 32 according to an embodiment orthogonal to the axial direction. As shown in FIGs. 2, 3, 5, 6, and 9, the transmission part 32 includes an annular member 48 disposed on the outer peripheral side of the rotatable member 24. The annular member 48 is configured to rotate together with the spindle apparatus 6. Further, the transmission part 32 includes a circumferential antenna 50 disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the annular member 48. The signal from the measurement part 56 may be amplified by an amplifier 52 and then sent to the antenna 50.

[0033] The reception part 34 is provided separately from the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) and the transmission part 32, and is configured to wirelessly receive a signal from the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24).

[0034] In the communication device 30 according to an embodiment, when the transmission part 32 receives the signal from the measurement part 56, the resistance of the antenna 50 of the transmission part 32 changes according to the voltage of the signal, and accompanying this resistance change, the impedance consisting of resistance and self-inductance changes at the reception part 34, and the voltage of an antenna of the reception part 34 changes. Therefore, from the voltage change of the antenna of the reception part 34, the signal level (corresponding to the measured value by the measurement part 56) of the signal received by the transmission part 32 from the measurement part 56 can be calculated.

[0035] Power may be supplied from the reception part 34 to the transmission part 32. For example, by supplying voltage to the antenna of the reception part 34, an induced electromotive force may be generated in a coil of the antenna of the transmission part 32 to operate the transmission part 32.

[0036] In some embodiments, the reception part 34 is guided to move along the movement direction (first direction) of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) by a guide part 36.

[0037] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) is movable along the axial direction (first direction) of the mill roll 8, and the reception part 34 is guided to move along the axial direction by the guide part 36.

[0038] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) is movable along the vertical direction (rolling-down direction) (first direction), and the reception part 34 is guided to move along the vertical direction by the guide part 36.

[0039] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) is movable along the rolling direction (traveling direction of metal plate S) (first direction), and the reception part 34 is guided to move along the rolling direction by the guide part 36.

[0040] The guide part 36 may include a linear guide for guiding the reception part 34 along the first direction. The linear guide may include a ball screw or a rail extending along the first direction, and the reception part 34 may be configured to move on the ball screw or the rail.

[0041] With the communication device 30 according to the above-described embodiments, since the reception part 34 is movable along the first direction which is the movement direction of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24), the reception part 34 can be moved so as to follow the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24). Thus, since the distance between the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) and the reception part 34 is easily maintained, even if the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) moves in the first direction by the shift device 22 or the roll reduction device 20, the signal (e.g., signal indicating measurement data acquired by the measurement part 56) from the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) can be accurately received by the reception part 34.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 3, or FIG. 9, in some embodiments, the communication device 30 may include a drive part 38 for moving the reception part 34 along the first direction. The drive part 38 may include a motor for rotating the ball screw (guide part 36), or a cylinder for moving the reception part 34 along the rail (guide part 36).

[0043] According to the above-described embodiments, since the reception part 34 is moved according to the position of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) in the first direction by the drive part 38, the reception part 34 can be moved so as to follow the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) in the first direction.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 3, or FIG. 9, in some embodiments, the communication device 30 may include a control device 100 for controlling the drive part 38.

[0045] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the reception part 34 may be moved along the guide part 36 (that is, along the first direction) by manually operating the drive part 38 without using the control device, or by manually operating the reception part 34 directly.

[0046] Hereinafter, a procedure for controlling the drive part 38 mainly using the control device 100 will be described, but part or all of the procedure described below may be performed manually.

[0047] FIG. 4 is a schematic configuration diagram of the control device 100 according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the control device 100 includes a target position acquisition part 102, an actual position acquisition part 104, and a control part 106.

[0048] The target position acquisition part 102 is configured to acquire a target position of the reception part 34 in the first direction.

[0049] In an embodiment, the target position acquisition part 102 may be configured to determine the target position of the reception part 34 on the basis of a detection result of the position of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) in the first direction. For example, the target position acquisition part 102 may determine the target position of the reception part 34 so as to be within a predetermined range from the position (detected position) of the spindle apparatus 6 in the first direction.

[0050] For example, the rolling mill facility 1 may be provided with a first position detection part 42 (see FIGs. 2, 3, and 9) for detecting the position of the spindle apparatus 6 in the first direction. The first position detection part 42 may be configured to detect the position of a cylinder in the first direction of a drive device (shift device 22 (FIG. 2), roll reduction device 20 (FIG. 3), offset device 26 (FIG. 9), etc.) for driving the spindle apparatus 6 (and the work roll 12B) in the first direction. The first position detection part 42 may include a rotation detector such as an encoder, or an absocoder for position detection. Then, the target position acquisition part 102 may acquire the position of the spindle apparatus 6 in the first direction on the basis of the position of the cylinder in the first direction detected by the first position detection part 42.

[0051] The position of the cylinder detected by the first position detection part 42 indicates the position of the spindle apparatus 6 in the first direction, and also indicates the position of the work roll 12B in the first direction. Therefore, a signal indicating the position of the cylinder detected by the first position detection part 42 may be sent to a host control device 200 for controlling the rolling mill facility 1, and used for control of the above-described drive device (shift device 22, roll reduction device 20, etc.). Further, the target position acquisition part 102 may acquire the position of the cylinder detected by the first position detection part 42, or the position of the spindle apparatus 6 acquired from the position of the cylinder, from the host control device 200.

[0052] Alternatively, in an embodiment, the target position acquisition part 102 may be configured to determine the target position of the reception part 34 on the basis of a predetermined target position in the first direction of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) acquired from the host control device 200 for controlling a machine including the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24). In the rolling mill facility 1, the target position of the spindle apparatus 6 may be set in advance according to operation conditions (plate thickness, material, or the like of the rolled material). In such a case, as described above, the target position of the reception part 34 can be determined based on the preset target position of the spindle. For example, the target position acquisition part 102 may determine the target position of the reception part 34 so as to be within a predetermined range from the target position of the spindle apparatus 6 in the first direction.

[0053] Alternatively, in an embodiment, the target position acquisition part 102 may be configured to acquire a set value for the position of the work rolls 12A, 12B or the spindle apparatus 6 in the first direction, and determine the target position of the reception part 34 in the first direction on the basis of the set value. The set value may be a value scheduled in advance, or may be a value input through an input device (e.g., keyboard, touch panel, or other input terminal) before the start of operation or during operation. These set values may be stored in a storage part (not shown) of the control device 100.

[0054] A correlation between the set value and the target position of the reception part 34 in the first direction may be stored in advance in the storage part (not shown) of the control device 100, and the target position acquisition part 102 may determine the target position of the reception part 34 in the first direction on the basis of the correlation acquired from the storage part.

[0055] The actual position acquisition part 104 is configured to acquire the actual location (actual position) of the reception part 34 in the first direction.

[0056] In an embodiment, the communication device 30 includes a second position detection part 40 (position detection part; see FIGs. 2, 3, and 9) for detecting the position of the reception part 34 in the first direction, and the actual position acquisition part 104 may acquire the position of the reception part 34 detected by the second position detection part 40 as the actual position. The second position detection part 40 may detect the position of the reception part 34 in the first direction on the basis of the position of the drive part 38 (the rotation angle of the motor or the position of the cylinder) for driving the reception part 34. The second position detection part 40 may include a rotation detector such as an encoder, or an absocoder for position detection.

[0057] The control part 106 is configured to control the drive part 38 on the basis of the target position of the reception part 34 acquired by the target position acquisition part 102 and the actual position of the reception part 34 acquired by the actual position acquisition part 104.

[0058] In an embodiment, the control part 106 is configured to control the drive part 38 so that a deviation between the actual position acquired by the actual position acquisition part 104 and the target position acquired by the target position acquisition part 102 approaches zero.

[0059] According to the above-described embodiments, since the drive part 38 is controlled based on the target position and the actual position of the reception part 34, the reception part 34 can be appropriately moved in the first direction so as to follow the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) according to the position of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) in the first direction. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) and the reception part 34 is easily maintained, even if the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) moves in the first direction, the signal from the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) can be accurately received by the reception part 34.

[0060] The control device 100 includes a calculator with a processor (such as CPU), a main storage device (memory device; such as RAM), an auxiliary storage device, an interface, and the like. The control device 100 receives signals indicating detected values from the first position detection part 42 and / or the second position detection part 40, or signals from the host control device 200 via the interface. The processor is configured to process the signals thus received. Also, the processor is configured to process programs loaded into the main storage device. Thereby, the function of each functional unit (target position acquisition part 102, actual position acquisition part 104, and / or control part 106) is implemented.

[0061] Processing contents in the control device 100 is implemented as the programs executed by the processor. The programs may be stored in, for example, the auxiliary storage device. When the programs are executed, these programs are loaded into the main storage device. The processor is configured to read out the programs from the main storage device to execute instructions included in the programs.

[0062] As described above, in some embodiments, the communication device 30 includes the amplifier 52 for amplifying the signal (signal from the measurement part 56) sent from the transmission part 32 to the reception part 34. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6, for example, the amplifier 52 is disposed in a recess 49 that is recessed from an inner peripheral surface 48a of the annular member 48 constituting the transmission part 32.

[0063] In the above-described embodiments, since the amplifier 52 is disposed in the recess 49 that is recessed from the inner peripheral surface 48a of the annular member 48 constituting the transmission part 32, uneven weight balance in the circumferential direction of the annular member 48 can be suppressed compared to the case where, for example, the amplifier 52 is provided protruding from the inner peripheral surface 48a or the outer peripheral surface of the annular member 48. Thus, it is possible to suppress vibration that may occur during rotation of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24).

[0064] In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, a counterweight 54 having a weight comparable to that of the amplifier 52 may be provided at a position opposite to the amplifier 52 across the center of the annular member 48 (that is, at a position 180 degrees away from the amplifier 52 in the circumferential direction). The counterweight 54 may be disposed in the recess 49 that is recessed from the inner peripheral surface 48a of the annular member 48 constituting the transmission part 32.

[0065] In this way, by providing the counterweight 54 having a weight comparable to that of the amplifier 52 at the position opposite to the amplifier 52 across the center of the annular member 48, uneven weight balance in the circumferential direction of the annular member 48 can be suppressed more effectively. Thus, it is possible to suppress vibration that may occur during rotation of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) more effectively.

[0066] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the spindle apparatus 6 according to an embodiment. The spindle apparatus 6 shown in FIG. 7 includes a spindle outer cylinder 6A provided with internal teeth 7A on the inner peripheral surface, and a spindle inner cylinder 6B (rotatable member 24) provided with external teeth 7B on the outer peripheral surface, the external teeth 7B meshing with the internal teeth 7A. Further, the spindle apparatus 6 includes a thermocouple 58 (temperature sensor) for measuring the temperature of the spindle apparatus 6 as the measurement part 56 of the measurement apparatus 64. The thermocouple 58 is disposed at the spindle inner cylinder 6B so as to measure the temperature of a meshing part of the internal teeth 7A and the external teeth 7B. As shown in the figure, the thermocouple 58 may be connected to the amplifier 52 by wiring that passes through a hole 9 in the spindle inner cylinder 6B.

[0067] According to the above-described embodiments, since the reception part 34 of the communication device 30 is movable along the first direction which is the movement direction of the spindle apparatus 6, the reception part 34 can be moved so as to follow the spindle apparatus 6. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle apparatus 6 and the reception part 34 is easily maintained, even if the spindle apparatus 6 moves in the first direction, the signal (signal indicating measurement data related to the temperature of the meshing part of the internal teeth 7A and the external teeth 7B acquired by the thermocouple 58 (temperature sensor)) from the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle inner cylinder 6B (rotatable member 24) can be accurately received by the reception part 34.

[0068] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing the spindle apparatus 6 according to an embodiment. The spindle apparatus 6 shown in FIG. 8 includes a strain gauge 60 for measuring the torque of the spindle apparatus 6 as the measurement part 56 of the measurement apparatus 64. The strain gauge 60 may be attached to the surface of the spindle inner cylinder 6B, and may be configured to detect strain in two directions, for example, the compression direction and tensile direction. As shown in the figure, the strain gauge 60 may be connected to the amplifier 52 via wiring. Further, a junction box 62 may be provided between the strain gauge 60 and the amplifier 52.

[0069] According to the above-described embodiments, since the reception part 34 of the communication device 30 is movable along the first direction which is the movement direction of the spindle apparatus 6, the reception part 34 can be moved so as to follow the spindle apparatus 6. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle apparatus 6 and the reception part 34 is easily maintained, even if the spindle apparatus 6 moves in the first direction, the signal (signal indicating measurement data related to the torque of the spindle acquired by the strain gauge 60) from the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle inner cylinder 6B (rotatable member 24) can be accurately received by the reception part 34.

[0070] In the above description, embodiments in which the reception part 34 is movable along the first direction (axial direction, vertical direction, and / or rolling direction) which is the movement direction of the rotatable member 24 have been described. However, in some embodiments, the rotatable member 24 may be movable along the first direction (e.g., axial direction) and a second direction (e.g., vertical direction) intersecting the first direction, and the reception part 34 may also be movable along the first direction and the second direction.

[0071] That is, the communication device 30 according to some embodiments may include a reception part 34 for wirelessly receiving a signal from the transmission part 32 disposed at the rotatable member 24, a first guide part configured to guide movement of the reception part 34 along the first direction, and a second guide part configured to guide movement of the reception part 34 along the second direction.

[0072] Assuming a direction perpendicular to the rolling direction in a plan view is defined as the axial direction, for example, when performing pair-cross rolling, the work rolls 12A and 12B may be moved so that respective axes of the work rolls 12A and 12B are inclined with respect to the axial direction so as to cause the pair of work rolls 12A and 12B to cross each other in a plan view. At this time, focusing on each portion of the work rolls 12A and 12B, each portion moves in the rolling direction (first direction) and the axial direction (second direction) intersecting it according to the inclination angle of the work rolls 12A and 12B with respect to the axial direction (that is, moves in a combined direction of the first direction and the second direction).

[0073] In this case, the work rolls 12A and 12B and the spindle apparatuses 6 (rotatable members 24) respectively connected to the work rolls 12A and 12B are movable along the rolling direction (first direction) and the axial direction (second direction). In this case, the reception part 34 may be movable along the rolling direction (first direction) and the axial direction (second direction). Further, the communication device 30 may include a first guide part configured to guide movement of the reception part 34 along the rolling direction (first direction), and a second guide part configured to guide movement of the reception part 34 along the axial direction (second direction).

[0074] In the above-described embodiments, since the reception part 34 of the communication device 30 is movable along the first direction and the second direction which are the movement directions of the rotatable member 24, the reception part 34 can be moved so as to follow the movement of the rotatable member 24 in the first direction and the movement in the second direction. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part 32 disposed at the rotatable member 24 and the reception part 34 is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member 24 moves in the first direction, the signal (e.g., signal indicating measurement data acquired by the measurement part 56) from the transmission part 32 disposed at the rotatable member 24 can be accurately received by the reception part 34.

[0075] In some embodiments, when there is a possibility that the rotatable member 24 moves unexpectedly in the first direction (e.g., vertical direction, axial direction, and / or rolling direction), the reception part 34 may be moved along the first direction using the guide part 36 so as to retract (move away) the reception part 34 from the rotatable member 24.

[0076] Here, FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an example of a spindle carrier apparatus for supporting the spindle apparatus in the rolling mill facility. The spindle carrier apparatus serves to support the spindle apparatus 6 released from constraint by the work rolls 12A and 12B when the work rolls 12A and 12B are removed from the spindle apparatus 6, such as when replacing the work rolls 12A and 12B.

[0077] The spindle carrier apparatus 70 shown in FIG. 10 includes arm parts 72A and 72B disposed on both sides (entry side and exit side in the rolling direction) of the spindle apparatus 6, respectively, rollers 73A and 73B disposed at tip portions of the arm parts 72A and 72B, and cylinders 76A and 76B for driving the arm parts 72A and 72B. The arm parts 72A and 72B are rotatable around fulcrums 74A and 74B, and the positions of the arm parts 72A and 72B and the rollers 73A and 73B can be adjusted by expanding and contracting the cylinders 76A and 76B.

[0078] During rolling of the metal plate S, the spindle carrier apparatus is retracted from the spindle apparatus 6 so as not to interfere with the spindle apparatus 6. Specifically, in the illustrated spindle carrier apparatus 70, the positions of the tip portions of the arm parts 72A and 72B including the rollers 73A and 73B are lowered by operation of the cylinders 76A and 76B.

[0079] On the other hand, when replacing the work rolls 12A and 12B, as shown in FIG. 10, the positions of the tip portions of the arm parts 72A and 72B are raised to positions where the rollers 73A and 73B contact the spindle apparatus 6 by operation of the cylinders 76A and 76B. At this time, the positions of the tip portions of the arm parts 72A and 72B including the rollers 73A and 73B may be slightly shifted between the entry side and the exit side due to a difference in operation of the cylinders 76A and 76B or the like. In this case, as shown in FIG. 10, the center position C2 of the spindle apparatus 6 is shifted to the entry side or the exit side in the rolling direction with respect to the center position C0 of the rolling mill. Then, a possibility that the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) and the reception part 34 in the vicinity of the spindle apparatus 6 come into contact with each other increases.

[0080] Thus, in preparation for the case where the position of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) in the rolling direction deviates from an intended position, when replacing the work rolls 12A and 12B or the like, the reception part 34 may be moved by a sufficient amount along the rolling direction (first direction) using the guide part 36 so as to move the reception part 34 away from the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) for retraction. Alternatively, the position of the spindle apparatus 6 may be detected using a position detector such as a camera, and on the basis of the detection result, the reception part 34 may be controlled to move along the rolling direction (first direction) so that the distance between the spindle apparatus 6 and the reception part 34 becomes equal to or larger than a predetermined value.

[0081] In some embodiments, the communication device 30 may include a retraction mechanism for retracting (or moving away) the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 from the rotatable member 24.

[0082] According to the above-described embodiments, since the retraction mechanism for retracting the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 from the rotatable member 24 is provided, for example, even if there is a possibility that the rotatable member 24 moves during a shutdown period of the rotary machine including the rotatable member 24, contact between the rotatable member 24 and the reception part 34 or the guide part 36 can be suppressed by retracting the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 from the rotatable member 24 using the retraction mechanism.

[0083] In FIG. 9, the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 in a normal position during normal use (during operation of the rotary machine including the rotatable member 24) are shown by solid lines, and the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 in a retracted position retracted (that is, moved away) from the rotatable member 24 by the retraction mechanism according to an embodiment are shown by two-dot-dash lines.

[0084] In the example shown in FIG. 9, the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 are movable between the normal position and the retracted position by rotating around the rotation center axis by the retraction mechanism. In the illustrated example, the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 are rotatable around the rotation center axis extending along the axial direction. In another example, the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 may be rotatable around the rotation center axis extending along a direction (e.g., vertical direction) other than the axial direction.

[0085] Alternatively, the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 may be movable between the normal position and the retracted position by translating in any direction (e.g., rolling direction or vertical direction) by the retraction mechanism.

[0086] The contents described in the above embodiments would be understood as follows, for instance. [1] A communication device (30) according to at least one embodiment of the present invention includes: a reception part (34) for wirelessly receiving a signal from a transmission part (32) disposed at a rotatable member (24) movable along a first direction; and a guide part (36) configured to guide movement of the reception part along the first direction.

[0087] With the above configuration [1], since the reception part of the communication device is movable along the first direction which is the movement direction of the rotatable member, the reception part can be moved so as to follow the rotatable member. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal (e.g., signal indicating measurement data acquired by the measurement part) from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0088] [2] In some embodiments, in the above configuration [1], the communication device includes a drive part (38) for moving the reception part along the first direction. The drive part is configured to move the reception part according to a position of the rotatable member in the first direction.

[0089] With the above configuration [2], since the drive part is configured to move the reception part according to the position of the rotatable member in the first direction, the reception part can be moved in the first direction so as to follow the rotatable member. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0090] [3] In some embodiments, in the above configuration [2], the communication device includes a control device (100) for controlling the drive part. The control device includes: a target position acquisition part (102) configured to acquire a target position of the reception part in the first direction; an actual position acquisition part (104) configured to acquire an actual position of the reception part in the first direction; and a control part (106) configured to control the drive part on the basis of the target position and the actual position.

[0091] With the above configuration [3], since the drive part is controlled based on the target position and the actual position of the reception part, the reception part can be appropriately moved in the first direction so as to follow the rotatable member according to the position of the rotatable member in the first direction. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0092] [4] In some embodiments, in the above configuration [3], the target position acquisition part is configured to determine the target position of the reception part on the basis of a detection result of a position of the rotatable member in the first direction.

[0093] With the above configuration [4], since the target position of the reception part is determined based on the detection result of the position of the rotatable member in the first direction, the reception part can be appropriately moved in the first direction so as to follow the rotatable member according to the detection result of the position of the rotatable member in the first direction. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0094] [5] In some embodiments, in the above configuration [3], the target position acquisition part is configured to determine the target position of the reception part on the basis of a target position of the rotatable member in the first direction acquired from a host control device (200) for controlling a machine including the rotatable member.

[0095] With the above configuration [5], since the target position of the reception part is determined based on the target position of the rotatable member in the first direction acquired from the host control device, the reception part can be appropriately moved in the first direction so as to follow the rotatable member according to the target position of the rotatable member in the first direction. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0096] [6] In some embodiments, in any one of the above configurations [3] to [5], the control part is configured to control the drive part so that a deviation between the actual position and the target position approaches zero.

[0097] With the above configuration [6], since the drive part is controlled so that the deviation between the actual position and the target position of the reception part in the first direction approaches zero, the reception part can be appropriately moved in the first direction so as to follow the rotatable member according to the position of the rotatable member in the first direction. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0098] [7] In some embodiments, in any one of the above configurations [3] to [6], the communication device includes a position detection part (the above-described second position detection part 40) for detecting a position of the reception part in the first direction. The actual position acquisition part is configured to acquire the position of the reception part detected by the position detection part as the actual position.

[0099] With the above configuration [7], since the position of the reception part in the first direction detected by the position detection part is acquired as the actual position, the drive part can be appropriately controlled based on the actual position of the reception part thus acquired and the target position of the reception part.

[0100] [8] In some embodiments, in any of the above configurations [1] to [7], the communication device includes: the transmission part including an annular member (48) disposed on an outer peripheral side of the rotatable member; and an amplifier (52) for amplifying the signal sent from the transmission part to the reception part. The amplifier is disposed in a recess (49) that is recessed from an inner peripheral surface (48a) of the annular member.

[0101] With the above configuration [8], since the amplifier is disposed in the recess recessed from the inner peripheral surface of the annular member provided with the transmission part, uneven weight balance in the circumferential direction of the annular member can be suppressed. Thus, it is possible to suppress vibration that may occur during rotation of the rotatable member.

[0102] [9] In some embodiments, in any of the above configurations [1] to [8], the communication device includes a retraction mechanism for retracting the reception part and the guide part from the rotatable member.

[0103] With the above configuration [9], since the retraction mechanism for retracting the reception part and the guide part from the rotatable member is provided, for example, even if there is a possibility that the rotatable member moves during a shutdown period of the rotary machine including the rotatable member, contact between the rotatable member and the reception part or the guide part can be suppressed by retracting the reception part and the guide part from the rotatable member using the retraction mechanism.

[0104]

[10] A measurement apparatus (64) according to at least one embodiment of the present invention includes: a measurement part (56) for measuring an amount representing a state of the rotatable member; and the communication device (30) described in any one of [1] to [9] above. The transmission part of the communication device is configured to receive a signal indicating a measured value of the amount representing the state of the rotatable member from the measurement part.

[0105] With the above configuration

[10] , since the reception part of the communication device is movable along the first direction which is the movement direction of the rotatable member, the reception part can be moved so as to follow the rotatable member. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal (signal indicating measurement data acquired by the measurement part) from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0106]

[11] A spindle apparatus (6) according to at least one embodiment of the present invention includes: a spindle outer cylinder (6A) provided with internal teeth (7A) on an inner peripheral surface; a spindle inner cylinder (6B) provided with external teeth (7B) on an outer peripheral surface, the external teeth meshing with the internal teeth; and the measurement apparatus (64) described in

[10] above. The rotatable member includes the spindle inner cylinder. The measurement part includes a temperature sensor disposed at the spindle inner cylinder so as to measure a temperature of a meshing part of the internal teeth and the external teeth.

[0107] With the above configuration

[11] , since the reception part of the communication device is movable along the first direction which is the movement direction of the spindle apparatus, the reception part can be moved so as to follow the spindle apparatus. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the spindle apparatus and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the spindle apparatus moves in the first direction, the signal (signal indicating measurement data related to the temperature of the meshing part of the internal teeth and the external teeth acquired by the temperature sensor) from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0108]

[12] A rolling mill facility (1) according to at least one embodiment of the present invention includes: a mill roll (8); a spindle apparatus (6) for transmitting rotation of a motor to the mill roll; and the measurement apparatus (64) described in

[10] above, attached to the spindle apparatus.

[0109] With the above configuration

[12] , since the reception part of the communication device is movable along the first direction which is the movement direction of the spindle apparatus, the reception part can be moved so as to follow the spindle apparatus. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the spindle apparatus and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the spindle apparatus moves in the first direction, the signal (signal indicating measurement data acquired by the measurement part) from the transmission part disposed at the spindle apparatus can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0110]

[13] A method for operating a communication device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention is a method for operating the communication device (30) described in any one of [1] to [5] above, the method including a step of moving the reception part along the first direction.

[0111] With the above method

[13] , since the reception part of the communication device is movable along the first direction which is the movement direction of the rotatable member, the reception part can be moved so as to follow the rotatable member. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal (e.g., signal indicating measurement data acquired by the measurement part) from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0112]

[14] In some embodiments, in the above method

[13] , the method includes: a step of acquiring a target position of the reception part in the first direction; and a step of acquiring an actual position of the reception part in the first direction. In the step of moving, a position of the reception part in the first direction is adjusted based on the target position and the actual position.

[0113] With the above method

[14] , since the position of the reception part is adjusted based on the target position and the actual position of the reception part, the reception part can be appropriately moved in the first direction so as to follow the rotatable member according to the position of the rotatable member in the first direction. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0114] Embodiments of the present invention were described in detail above, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and various amendments and modifications may be implemented.

[0115] In the present specification, an expression of relative or absolute arrangement such as "in a direction", "along a direction", "parallel", "orthogonal", "centered", "concentric" and "coaxial" shall not be construed as indicating only the arrangement in a strict literal sense, but also includes a state where the arrangement is relatively displaced by a tolerance, or by an angle or a distance whereby it is possible to achieve the same function.

[0116] For instance, an expression of an equal state such as "same", "equal", and "uniform" shall not be construed as indicating only the state in which the feature is strictly equal, but also includes a state in which there is a tolerance or a difference that can still achieve the same function.

[0117] Further, an expression of a shape such as a rectangular shape or a cylindrical shape shall not be construed as only the geometrically strict shape, but also includes a shape with unevenness or chamfered corners within the range in which the same effect can be achieved.

[0118] On the other hand, an expression such as "comprise", "include", and "have" are not intended to be exclusive of other components.

[0119] 1Rolling mill facility 2Motor 3Power transmission unit 4Gear 6Spindle apparatus 6ASpindle outer cylinder 6BSpindle inner cylinder 7AInternal teeth 7BExternal teeth 8Mill roll 9Hole 11Tapered portion 12AWork roll 12BWork roll 13Bearing 14AIntermediate roll 14BIntermediate roll 16ABackup roll 16BBackup roll 18Housing 20Roll reduction device 22Shift device 24Rotatable member 26Offset device 30Communication device 32Transmission part 34Reception part 36Guide part 38Drive part 40Second position detection part 42First position detection part 48Annular member 48aInner peripheral surface 49Recess 50Antenna 52Amplifier 54Counterweight 56Measurement part 58Thermocouple 60Strain gauge 62Junction box 64Measurement apparatus 70Spindle carrier apparatus 72A, 72BArm part 73A, 73BRoller 74A, 74BFulcrum 76A, 76BCylinder 100Control device 102Target position acquisition part 104Actual position acquisition part 106Control part 200Host control device SMetal plate

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0014]Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is intended, however, that unless particularly identified, dimensions, materials, shapes, relative positions, and the like of components described in the embodiments shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0015]In the present specification, a spindle of a rolling mill facility will be described as an example of a rotatable member to which the communication device and the measurement apparatus according to some embodiments are applied. However, the communication device and the measurement apparatus according to the present invention can also be applied to a rotatable member other than the spindle, or a rotatable member constituting equipment other than the rolling mill facility.

(Configuration of Rolling Mill Facility)

[0016]FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a rolling mill facility to which the communic...

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a communication device, a measurement apparatus, a spindle apparatus, a rolling mill facility, and a method for operating a communication device.BACKGROUND

[0002] The operating state of a rotatable member that rotates during operation may be monitored.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a monitoring system for monitoring vibration, torque, temperature, or the like of a shaft coupling (rotatable member) constituting a rolling mill. This monitoring system includes a sensor unit and a transmitter attached to the shaft coupling, and a communication device (information communication device) capable of wirelessly communicating with the sensor unit via the transmitter. Signals indicating measured values of vibration, torque, temperature, or the like of the shaft coupling acquired by the sensor unit are wirelessly sent to the communication device via the transmitter, and data of these measured values is collected by the communication device.Citation ListPatent Literature

[0004] Patent Document 1: JP5194229BSUMMARYProblems to be Solved

[0005] A rotatable member provided with a measurement part (sensor, etc.) or a transmission part (transmitter, etc.) may be moved in a specific direction. For example, in a rolling mill, the position of a mill roll in the axial direction, the vertical direction, and / or the rolling direction (i.e., the traveling direction of a metal plate (rolled material)) may be changed for the purpose of adjusting the thickness or shape of a rolled material. At this time, the position of a rotatable member (spindle apparatus, etc.) connected to the mill roll is also changed together with the mill roll. Thus, when the position of the rotatable member is changed, the position of the transmission part (transmitter of Patent Document 1) disposed at the rotatable member is also changed together with the rotatable member. Therefore, the distance between the transmission part and a reception part (communication device of Patent Document 1) in the movement direction of the rotatable member changes, leading to degraded communication accuracy.

[0006] In view of the above circumstances, an object of at least one embodiment of the present invention is to provide a communication device, a measurement apparatus, a spindle apparatus, a rolling mill facility, and a method for operating a communication device with good communication accuracy.Solution to the Problems

[0007] A communication device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention includes: a reception part for wirelessly receiving a signal from a transmission part disposed at a rotatable member movable along a first direction; and a guide part configured to guide movement of the reception part along the first direction.

[0008] Further, a measurement apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the present invention includes: a measurement part for measuring an amount representing a state of the rotatable member; and the above-described communication device. The transmission part of the communication device is configured to receive a signal indicating a measured value from the measurement part.

[0009] Further, a spindle apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the present invention includes: a spindle outer cylinder provided with internal teeth on an inner peripheral surface; a spindle inner cylinder provided with external teeth on an outer peripheral surface, the external teeth meshing with the internal teeth; and the above-described measurement apparatus. The rotatable member includes the spindle inner cylinder, and the measurement part includes a temperature sensor disposed at the spindle inner cylinder so as to measure a temperature of a meshing part of the internal teeth and the external teeth.

[0010] Further, a rolling mill facility according to at least one embodiment of the present invention includes: a mill roll; a spindle apparatus for transmitting rotation of a motor to the mill roll; and the above-described measurement apparatus attached to the spindle apparatus.

[0011] Further, a method for operating a communication device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention is a method for operating the above-described communication device, including a step of moving the reception part along the first direction.Advantageous Effects

[0012] At least one embodiment of the present invention provides a communication device, a measurement apparatus, a spindle apparatus, a rolling mill facility, and a method for operating a communication device with good communication accuracy.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a rolling mill facility according to some embodiments. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a communication device and a measurement apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a communication device and a measurement apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a schematic configuration diagram of a control device according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a schematic side view of a transmission part according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view orthogonal to the axial direction of a transmission part according to an embodiment (cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 5). FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a spindle apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a spindle apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of a communication device and a measurement apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an example of a spindle carrier apparatus for supporting a spindle apparatus. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is intended, however, that unless particularly identified, dimensions, materials, shapes, relative positions, and the like of components described in the embodiments shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0015] In the present specification, a spindle of a rolling mill facility will be described as an example of a rotatable member to which the communication device and the measurement apparatus according to some embodiments are applied. However, the communication device and the measurement apparatus according to the present invention can also be applied to a rotatable member other than the spindle, or a rotatable member constituting equipment other than the rolling mill facility.(Configuration of Rolling Mill Facility)

[0016] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a rolling mill facility to which the communication device according to some embodiments is applied. FIGs. 2, 3, and 9 are each a schematic diagram more specifically showing the communication device and the measurement apparatus applied to the rolling mill facility according to an embodiment.

[0017] As shown in FIGs. 1 to 3 and 9, the rolling mill facility 1 includes a mill roll 8 for rolling a metal plate S, a motor 2 (see FIG. 1) for driving the mill roll 8, and a power transmission part 3 (see FIG. 1) for transmitting power of the motor 2 to the mill roll 8. Further, the rolling mill facility 1 shown in FIGs. 1 to 3 and 9 includes a measurement apparatus 64 for measuring the amount (temperature, torque, etc.) indicating the state of a rotatable member 24 constituting the rolling mill facility 1.

[0018] The mill roll 8 is configured to roll the metal plate S, and includes a pair of work rolls 12A and 12B for sandwiching the metal plate S from above and below to apply a load to the metal plate S, and a pair of intermediate rolls 14A and 14B and a pair of backup rolls 16A and 16B disposed on opposite sides of the pair of work rolls 12A and 12B from the metal plate S, respectively. The intermediate roll 14A is disposed between the work roll 12A and the backup roll 16A, and the intermediate roll 14B is disposed between the work roll 12B and the backup roll 16B. Each mill roll 8 is rotatably supported by a bearing (not shown in FIGs. 1, 3, and 9) accommodated in a bearing box. In FIG. 2, only the work roll 12B among the mill rolls 8 is shown, and the work roll 12B is rotatably supported by a bearing 13. The bearing that supports each mill roll 8 may be supported by a housing 18 (see FIG. 3).

[0019] The power transmission part 3 includes a gear 4 driven by the motor 2 and a spindle apparatus 6. The gear 4 is connected to the motor 2, and the spindle apparatus 6 is connected to the motor 2 via the gear 4. Further, the mill roll 8 is connected to the motor 2 via the gear 4 and the spindle apparatus 6. The power of the motor 2 is transmitted to the mill roll 8 via the gear 4 and the spindle apparatus 6.

[0020] The rolling mill facility 1 includes a roll reduction device 20 (see FIG. 3; for example, a hydraulic cylinder) for applying a load to the pair of work rolls 12A and 12B to reduce the thickness of the metal plate S. The reduction amount by the roll reduction device 20 is adjusted so that the plate thickness or the shape of the metal plate S after passing through the mill roll 8 approaches a target value. When the roll reduction device 20 operates and the position of the piston of the hydraulic cylinder is changed, the positions of the work rolls 12A and 12B in the vertical direction (rolling-down direction) are changed according to the change in the position of the piston, and the position of the spindle apparatus 6 connected to the work rolls 12A and 12B in the vertical direction (rolling-down direction) is changed.

[0021] That is, in some embodiments, the spindle apparatus 6 is movable in the vertical direction (rolling-down direction) by the roll reduction device 20.

[0022] Further, the rolling mill facility 1 may include a shift device 22 (see FIG. 2; for example, a hydraulic cylinder) for shifting the work rolls 12A and 12B in the axial direction. During rolling of the metal plate S, the work rolls 12A and 12B (see FIG. 2) provided with tapered portions 11 (see FIG. 2) at axial end portions may be appropriately shifted in the axial direction by the shift device 22, whereby the shape of the metal plate S and edge drop at an end portion can be controlled. When the shift device 22 operates and, for example, the position of the piston of the hydraulic cylinder is changed, the positions of the work rolls 12A and 12B in the axial direction are changed according to the change in the position of the piston, and the position of the spindle apparatus 6 connected to the work rolls 12A and 12B in the axial direction is changed.

[0023] That is, in some embodiments, the spindle apparatus 6 is movable in the axial direction by the shift device 22.

[0024] Further, as shown in FIG. 9, for example, the rolling mill facility 1 may be configured such that the work rolls 12A and 12B can be offset to the entry side and / or exit side (i.e., movable in the rolling direction) in the rolling direction (i.e., the traveling direction of the metal plate). As shown in FIG. 9, in a state where the work rolls 12A and 12B are offset in the rolling direction, the center position C1 of the work rolls 12A and 12B in the rolling direction is shifted from the center position C0 of the rolling mill (i.e., the rolling-down position by the roll reduction device 20) in the rolling direction by an offset amount Lo. By appropriately offsetting the work rolls 12A and 12B, vibration or periodic plate thickness fluctuation occurring during rolling can be suppressed, or high plate shape control characteristics can be maintained.

[0025] In an embodiment, the rolling mill facility 1 is configured such that a variable offset amount Lo can be set, and before starting operation of the rolling mill facility 1, the offset amount of the work rolls 12A and 12B may be changed to be a predetermined offset amount Lo, and then the operation of the rolling mill facility 1 may be started. In this case, the same offset amount Lo may be maintained (that is, the positions of the work rolls 12A and 12B in the rolling direction may be fixed) from the start of operation to the stop of operation of the rolling mill facility 1. When the offset amount of the work rolls 12A and 12B is changed, the positions of the work rolls 12A and 12B in the rolling direction are changed, and the position of the spindle apparatus 6 connected to the work rolls 12A and 12B in the rolling direction is changed.

[0026] In an embodiment, the rolling mill facility 1 may include an offset device 26 (see FIG. 9; for example, a hydraulic cylinder) for offsetting the work rolls 12A and 12B. In this case, the offset amount Lo can be dynamically changed during operation of the rolling mill facility 1. When the offset device 26 operates and, for example, the position of the piston of the hydraulic cylinder is changed, the positions of the work rolls 12A and 12B in the rolling direction are changed according to the change in the position of the piston, and the position of the spindle apparatus 6 connected to the work rolls 12A and 12B in the rolling direction is changed. The offset device 26 (hydraulic cylinder, etc.) may be configured to drive the work rolls 12A and 12B in the rolling direction via a bearing box accommodating a bearing that supports the work rolls 12A and 12B, a support mechanism provided at the entry side and the exit side of the work rolls 12A and 12B, or the like.

[0027] That is, in some embodiments, the spindle apparatus 6 is movable in the rolling direction by the offset device 26, or by manual position adjustment of the work rolls 12A and 12B before the start of operation of the rolling mill facility 1 or the like.(Configuration of Measurement Apparatus and Communication Device)

[0028] The measurement apparatus 64 shown in FIGs. 1 to 3 and 9 is configured to measure the amount indicating the state of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) connected to the work roll 12B.

[0029] As shown in FIGs. 1 to 3 and 9, the measurement apparatus 64 according to some embodiments includes a measurement part 56 for measuring the amount (e.g., temperature or torque) representing the state of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24), and a communication device 30 including a transmission part 32 and a reception part 34.

[0030] The measurement part 56 is configured to measure the amount (e.g., temperature or torque) representing the state of the spindle apparatus 6. The measurement part 56 may include a temperature sensor (thermocouple, etc.) capable of measuring the temperature of the spindle apparatus 6, or a strain gauge for measuring the strain of the spindle apparatus 6 that can be converted into torque. The measurement part 56 may be attached to the spindle apparatus 6.

[0031] The transmission part 32 is configured to rotate together with the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24). The transmission part 32 is configured to receive a signal indicating a measured value of the amount representing the state of the spindle apparatus 6 from the measurement part 56. The transmission part 32 and the measurement part 56 are connected via electrical wiring, and the signal from the measurement part 56 is sent to the transmission part 32 via the electrical wiring.

[0032] FIG. 5 is a schematic side view of the transmission part 32 according to an embodiment, and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the transmission part 32 according to an embodiment orthogonal to the axial direction. As shown in FIGs. 2, 3, 5, 6, and 9, the transmission part 32 includes an annular member 48 disposed on the outer peripheral side of the rotatable member 24. The annular member 48 is configured to rotate together with the spindle apparatus 6. Further, the transmission part 32 includes a circumferential antenna 50 disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the annular member 48. The signal from the measurement part 56 may be amplified by an amplifier 52 and then sent to the antenna 50.

[0033] The reception part 34 is provided separately from the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) and the transmission part 32, and is configured to wirelessly receive a signal from the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24).

[0034] In the communication device 30 according to an embodiment, when the transmission part 32 receives the signal from the measurement part 56, the resistance of the antenna 50 of the transmission part 32 changes according to the voltage of the signal, and accompanying this resistance change, the impedance consisting of resistance and self-inductance changes at the reception part 34, and the voltage of an antenna of the reception part 34 changes. Therefore, from the voltage change of the antenna of the reception part 34, the signal level (corresponding to the measured value by the measurement part 56) of the signal received by the transmission part 32 from the measurement part 56 can be calculated.

[0035] Power may be supplied from the reception part 34 to the transmission part 32. For example, by supplying voltage to the antenna of the reception part 34, an induced electromotive force may be generated in a coil of the antenna of the transmission part 32 to operate the transmission part 32.

[0036] In some embodiments, the reception part 34 is guided to move along the movement direction (first direction) of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) by a guide part 36.

[0037] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) is movable along the axial direction (first direction) of the mill roll 8, and the reception part 34 is guided to move along the axial direction by the guide part 36.

[0038] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) is movable along the vertical direction (rolling-down direction) (first direction), and the reception part 34 is guided to move along the vertical direction by the guide part 36.

[0039] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) is movable along the rolling direction (traveling direction of metal plate S) (first direction), and the reception part 34 is guided to move along the rolling direction by the guide part 36.

[0040] The guide part 36 may include a linear guide for guiding the reception part 34 along the first direction. The linear guide may include a ball screw or a rail extending along the first direction, and the reception part 34 may be configured to move on the ball screw or the rail.

[0041] With the communication device 30 according to the above-described embodiments, since the reception part 34 is movable along the first direction which is the movement direction of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24), the reception part 34 can be moved so as to follow the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24). Thus, since the distance between the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) and the reception part 34 is easily maintained, even if the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) moves in the first direction by the shift device 22 or the roll reduction device 20, the signal (e.g., signal indicating measurement data acquired by the measurement part 56) from the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) can be accurately received by the reception part 34.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 3, or FIG. 9, in some embodiments, the communication device 30 may include a drive part 38 for moving the reception part 34 along the first direction. The drive part 38 may include a motor for rotating the ball screw (guide part 36), or a cylinder for moving the reception part 34 along the rail (guide part 36).

[0043] According to the above-described embodiments, since the reception part 34 is moved according to the position of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) in the first direction by the drive part 38, the reception part 34 can be moved so as to follow the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) in the first direction.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 3, or FIG. 9, in some embodiments, the communication device 30 may include a control device 100 for controlling the drive part 38.

[0045] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the reception part 34 may be moved along the guide part 36 (that is, along the first direction) by manually operating the drive part 38 without using the control device, or by manually operating the reception part 34 directly.

[0046] Hereinafter, a procedure for controlling the drive part 38 mainly using the control device 100 will be described, but part or all of the procedure described below may be performed manually.

[0047] FIG. 4 is a schematic configuration diagram of the control device 100 according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the control device 100 includes a target position acquisition part 102, an actual position acquisition part 104, and a control part 106.

[0048] The target position acquisition part 102 is configured to acquire a target position of the reception part 34 in the first direction.

[0049] In an embodiment, the target position acquisition part 102 may be configured to determine the target position of the reception part 34 on the basis of a detection result of the position of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) in the first direction. For example, the target position acquisition part 102 may determine the target position of the reception part 34 so as to be within a predetermined range from the position (detected position) of the spindle apparatus 6 in the first direction.

[0050] For example, the rolling mill facility 1 may be provided with a first position detection part 42 (see FIGs. 2, 3, and 9) for detecting the position of the spindle apparatus 6 in the first direction. The first position detection part 42 may be configured to detect the position of a cylinder in the first direction of a drive device (shift device 22 (FIG. 2), roll reduction device 20 (FIG. 3), offset device 26 (FIG. 9), etc.) for driving the spindle apparatus 6 (and the work roll 12B) in the first direction. The first position detection part 42 may include a rotation detector such as an encoder, or an absocoder for position detection. Then, the target position acquisition part 102 may acquire the position of the spindle apparatus 6 in the first direction on the basis of the position of the cylinder in the first direction detected by the first position detection part 42.

[0051] The position of the cylinder detected by the first position detection part 42 indicates the position of the spindle apparatus 6 in the first direction, and also indicates the position of the work roll 12B in the first direction. Therefore, a signal indicating the position of the cylinder detected by the first position detection part 42 may be sent to a host control device 200 for controlling the rolling mill facility 1, and used for control of the above-described drive device (shift device 22, roll reduction device 20, etc.). Further, the target position acquisition part 102 may acquire the position of the cylinder detected by the first position detection part 42, or the position of the spindle apparatus 6 acquired from the position of the cylinder, from the host control device 200.

[0052] Alternatively, in an embodiment, the target position acquisition part 102 may be configured to determine the target position of the reception part 34 on the basis of a predetermined target position in the first direction of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) acquired from the host control device 200 for controlling a machine including the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24). In the rolling mill facility 1, the target position of the spindle apparatus 6 may be set in advance according to operation conditions (plate thickness, material, or the like of the rolled material). In such a case, as described above, the target position of the reception part 34 can be determined based on the preset target position of the spindle. For example, the target position acquisition part 102 may determine the target position of the reception part 34 so as to be within a predetermined range from the target position of the spindle apparatus 6 in the first direction.

[0053] Alternatively, in an embodiment, the target position acquisition part 102 may be configured to acquire a set value for the position of the work rolls 12A, 12B or the spindle apparatus 6 in the first direction, and determine the target position of the reception part 34 in the first direction on the basis of the set value. The set value may be a value scheduled in advance, or may be a value input through an input device (e.g., keyboard, touch panel, or other input terminal) before the start of operation or during operation. These set values may be stored in a storage part (not shown) of the control device 100.

[0054] A correlation between the set value and the target position of the reception part 34 in the first direction may be stored in advance in the storage part (not shown) of the control device 100, and the target position acquisition part 102 may determine the target position of the reception part 34 in the first direction on the basis of the correlation acquired from the storage part.

[0055] The actual position acquisition part 104 is configured to acquire the actual location (actual position) of the reception part 34 in the first direction.

[0056] In an embodiment, the communication device 30 includes a second position detection part 40 (position detection part; see FIGs. 2, 3, and 9) for detecting the position of the reception part 34 in the first direction, and the actual position acquisition part 104 may acquire the position of the reception part 34 detected by the second position detection part 40 as the actual position. The second position detection part 40 may detect the position of the reception part 34 in the first direction on the basis of the position of the drive part 38 (the rotation angle of the motor or the position of the cylinder) for driving the reception part 34. The second position detection part 40 may include a rotation detector such as an encoder, or an absocoder for position detection.

[0057] The control part 106 is configured to control the drive part 38 on the basis of the target position of the reception part 34 acquired by the target position acquisition part 102 and the actual position of the reception part 34 acquired by the actual position acquisition part 104.

[0058] In an embodiment, the control part 106 is configured to control the drive part 38 so that a deviation between the actual position acquired by the actual position acquisition part 104 and the target position acquired by the target position acquisition part 102 approaches zero.

[0059] According to the above-described embodiments, since the drive part 38 is controlled based on the target position and the actual position of the reception part 34, the reception part 34 can be appropriately moved in the first direction so as to follow the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) according to the position of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) in the first direction. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) and the reception part 34 is easily maintained, even if the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) moves in the first direction, the signal from the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) can be accurately received by the reception part 34.

[0060] The control device 100 includes a calculator with a processor (such as CPU), a main storage device (memory device; such as RAM), an auxiliary storage device, an interface, and the like. The control device 100 receives signals indicating detected values from the first position detection part 42 and / or the second position detection part 40, or signals from the host control device 200 via the interface. The processor is configured to process the signals thus received. Also, the processor is configured to process programs loaded into the main storage device. Thereby, the function of each functional unit (target position acquisition part 102, actual position acquisition part 104, and / or control part 106) is implemented.

[0061] Processing contents in the control device 100 is implemented as the programs executed by the processor. The programs may be stored in, for example, the auxiliary storage device. When the programs are executed, these programs are loaded into the main storage device. The processor is configured to read out the programs from the main storage device to execute instructions included in the programs.

[0062] As described above, in some embodiments, the communication device 30 includes the amplifier 52 for amplifying the signal (signal from the measurement part 56) sent from the transmission part 32 to the reception part 34. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6, for example, the amplifier 52 is disposed in a recess 49 that is recessed from an inner peripheral surface 48a of the annular member 48 constituting the transmission part 32.

[0063] In the above-described embodiments, since the amplifier 52 is disposed in the recess 49 that is recessed from the inner peripheral surface 48a of the annular member 48 constituting the transmission part 32, uneven weight balance in the circumferential direction of the annular member 48 can be suppressed compared to the case where, for example, the amplifier 52 is provided protruding from the inner peripheral surface 48a or the outer peripheral surface of the annular member 48. Thus, it is possible to suppress vibration that may occur during rotation of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24).

[0064] In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, a counterweight 54 having a weight comparable to that of the amplifier 52 may be provided at a position opposite to the amplifier 52 across the center of the annular member 48 (that is, at a position 180 degrees away from the amplifier 52 in the circumferential direction). The counterweight 54 may be disposed in the recess 49 that is recessed from the inner peripheral surface 48a of the annular member 48 constituting the transmission part 32.

[0065] In this way, by providing the counterweight 54 having a weight comparable to that of the amplifier 52 at the position opposite to the amplifier 52 across the center of the annular member 48, uneven weight balance in the circumferential direction of the annular member 48 can be suppressed more effectively. Thus, it is possible to suppress vibration that may occur during rotation of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) more effectively.

[0066] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the spindle apparatus 6 according to an embodiment. The spindle apparatus 6 shown in FIG. 7 includes a spindle outer cylinder 6A provided with internal teeth 7A on the inner peripheral surface, and a spindle inner cylinder 6B (rotatable member 24) provided with external teeth 7B on the outer peripheral surface, the external teeth 7B meshing with the internal teeth 7A. Further, the spindle apparatus 6 includes a thermocouple 58 (temperature sensor) for measuring the temperature of the spindle apparatus 6 as the measurement part 56 of the measurement apparatus 64. The thermocouple 58 is disposed at the spindle inner cylinder 6B so as to measure the temperature of a meshing part of the internal teeth 7A and the external teeth 7B. As shown in the figure, the thermocouple 58 may be connected to the amplifier 52 by wiring that passes through a hole 9 in the spindle inner cylinder 6B.

[0067] According to the above-described embodiments, since the reception part 34 of the communication device 30 is movable along the first direction which is the movement direction of the spindle apparatus 6, the reception part 34 can be moved so as to follow the spindle apparatus 6. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle apparatus 6 and the reception part 34 is easily maintained, even if the spindle apparatus 6 moves in the first direction, the signal (signal indicating measurement data related to the temperature of the meshing part of the internal teeth 7A and the external teeth 7B acquired by the thermocouple 58 (temperature sensor)) from the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle inner cylinder 6B (rotatable member 24) can be accurately received by the reception part 34.

[0068] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing the spindle apparatus 6 according to an embodiment. The spindle apparatus 6 shown in FIG. 8 includes a strain gauge 60 for measuring the torque of the spindle apparatus 6 as the measurement part 56 of the measurement apparatus 64. The strain gauge 60 may be attached to the surface of the spindle inner cylinder 6B, and may be configured to detect strain in two directions, for example, the compression direction and tensile direction. As shown in the figure, the strain gauge 60 may be connected to the amplifier 52 via wiring. Further, a junction box 62 may be provided between the strain gauge 60 and the amplifier 52.

[0069] According to the above-described embodiments, since the reception part 34 of the communication device 30 is movable along the first direction which is the movement direction of the spindle apparatus 6, the reception part 34 can be moved so as to follow the spindle apparatus 6. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle apparatus 6 and the reception part 34 is easily maintained, even if the spindle apparatus 6 moves in the first direction, the signal (signal indicating measurement data related to the torque of the spindle acquired by the strain gauge 60) from the transmission part 32 disposed at the spindle inner cylinder 6B (rotatable member 24) can be accurately received by the reception part 34.

[0070] In the above description, embodiments in which the reception part 34 is movable along the first direction (axial direction, vertical direction, and / or rolling direction) which is the movement direction of the rotatable member 24 have been described. However, in some embodiments, the rotatable member 24 may be movable along the first direction (e.g., axial direction) and a second direction (e.g., vertical direction) intersecting the first direction, and the reception part 34 may also be movable along the first direction and the second direction.

[0071] That is, the communication device 30 according to some embodiments may include a reception part 34 for wirelessly receiving a signal from the transmission part 32 disposed at the rotatable member 24, a first guide part configured to guide movement of the reception part 34 along the first direction, and a second guide part configured to guide movement of the reception part 34 along the second direction.

[0072] Assuming a direction perpendicular to the rolling direction in a plan view is defined as the axial direction, for example, when performing pair-cross rolling, the work rolls 12A and 12B may be moved so that respective axes of the work rolls 12A and 12B are inclined with respect to the axial direction so as to cause the pair of work rolls 12A and 12B to cross each other in a plan view. At this time, focusing on each portion of the work rolls 12A and 12B, each portion moves in the rolling direction (first direction) and the axial direction (second direction) intersecting it according to the inclination angle of the work rolls 12A and 12B with respect to the axial direction (that is, moves in a combined direction of the first direction and the second direction).

[0073] In this case, the work rolls 12A and 12B and the spindle apparatuses 6 (rotatable members 24) respectively connected to the work rolls 12A and 12B are movable along the rolling direction (first direction) and the axial direction (second direction). In this case, the reception part 34 may be movable along the rolling direction (first direction) and the axial direction (second direction). Further, the communication device 30 may include a first guide part configured to guide movement of the reception part 34 along the rolling direction (first direction), and a second guide part configured to guide movement of the reception part 34 along the axial direction (second direction).

[0074] In the above-described embodiments, since the reception part 34 of the communication device 30 is movable along the first direction and the second direction which are the movement directions of the rotatable member 24, the reception part 34 can be moved so as to follow the movement of the rotatable member 24 in the first direction and the movement in the second direction. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part 32 disposed at the rotatable member 24 and the reception part 34 is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member 24 moves in the first direction, the signal (e.g., signal indicating measurement data acquired by the measurement part 56) from the transmission part 32 disposed at the rotatable member 24 can be accurately received by the reception part 34.

[0075] In some embodiments, when there is a possibility that the rotatable member 24 moves unexpectedly in the first direction (e.g., vertical direction, axial direction, and / or rolling direction), the reception part 34 may be moved along the first direction using the guide part 36 so as to retract (move away) the reception part 34 from the rotatable member 24.

[0076] Here, FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an example of a spindle carrier apparatus for supporting the spindle apparatus in the rolling mill facility. The spindle carrier apparatus serves to support the spindle apparatus 6 released from constraint by the work rolls 12A and 12B when the work rolls 12A and 12B are removed from the spindle apparatus 6, such as when replacing the work rolls 12A and 12B.

[0077] The spindle carrier apparatus 70 shown in FIG. 10 includes arm parts 72A and 72B disposed on both sides (entry side and exit side in the rolling direction) of the spindle apparatus 6, respectively, rollers 73A and 73B disposed at tip portions of the arm parts 72A and 72B, and cylinders 76A and 76B for driving the arm parts 72A and 72B. The arm parts 72A and 72B are rotatable around fulcrums 74A and 74B, and the positions of the arm parts 72A and 72B and the rollers 73A and 73B can be adjusted by expanding and contracting the cylinders 76A and 76B.

[0078] During rolling of the metal plate S, the spindle carrier apparatus is retracted from the spindle apparatus 6 so as not to interfere with the spindle apparatus 6. Specifically, in the illustrated spindle carrier apparatus 70, the positions of the tip portions of the arm parts 72A and 72B including the rollers 73A and 73B are lowered by operation of the cylinders 76A and 76B.

[0079] On the other hand, when replacing the work rolls 12A and 12B, as shown in FIG. 10, the positions of the tip portions of the arm parts 72A and 72B are raised to positions where the rollers 73A and 73B contact the spindle apparatus 6 by operation of the cylinders 76A and 76B. At this time, the positions of the tip portions of the arm parts 72A and 72B including the rollers 73A and 73B may be slightly shifted between the entry side and the exit side due to a difference in operation of the cylinders 76A and 76B or the like. In this case, as shown in FIG. 10, the center position C2 of the spindle apparatus 6 is shifted to the entry side or the exit side in the rolling direction with respect to the center position C0 of the rolling mill. Then, a possibility that the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) and the reception part 34 in the vicinity of the spindle apparatus 6 come into contact with each other increases.

[0080] Thus, in preparation for the case where the position of the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) in the rolling direction deviates from an intended position, when replacing the work rolls 12A and 12B or the like, the reception part 34 may be moved by a sufficient amount along the rolling direction (first direction) using the guide part 36 so as to move the reception part 34 away from the spindle apparatus 6 (rotatable member 24) for retraction. Alternatively, the position of the spindle apparatus 6 may be detected using a position detector such as a camera, and on the basis of the detection result, the reception part 34 may be controlled to move along the rolling direction (first direction) so that the distance between the spindle apparatus 6 and the reception part 34 becomes equal to or larger than a predetermined value.

[0081] In some embodiments, the communication device 30 may include a retraction mechanism for retracting (or moving away) the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 from the rotatable member 24.

[0082] According to the above-described embodiments, since the retraction mechanism for retracting the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 from the rotatable member 24 is provided, for example, even if there is a possibility that the rotatable member 24 moves during a shutdown period of the rotary machine including the rotatable member 24, contact between the rotatable member 24 and the reception part 34 or the guide part 36 can be suppressed by retracting the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 from the rotatable member 24 using the retraction mechanism.

[0083] In FIG. 9, the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 in a normal position during normal use (during operation of the rotary machine including the rotatable member 24) are shown by solid lines, and the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 in a retracted position retracted (that is, moved away) from the rotatable member 24 by the retraction mechanism according to an embodiment are shown by two-dot-dash lines.

[0084] In the example shown in FIG. 9, the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 are movable between the normal position and the retracted position by rotating around the rotation center axis by the retraction mechanism. In the illustrated example, the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 are rotatable around the rotation center axis extending along the axial direction. In another example, the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 may be rotatable around the rotation center axis extending along a direction (e.g., vertical direction) other than the axial direction.

[0085] Alternatively, the reception part 34 and the guide part 36 may be movable between the normal position and the retracted position by translating in any direction (e.g., rolling direction or vertical direction) by the retraction mechanism.

[0086] The contents described in the above embodiments would be understood as follows, for instance. [1] A communication device (30) according to at least one embodiment of the present invention includes: a reception part (34) for wirelessly receiving a signal from a transmission part (32) disposed at a rotatable member (24) movable along a first direction; and a guide part (36) configured to guide movement of the reception part along the first direction.

[0087] With the above configuration [1], since the reception part of the communication device is movable along the first direction which is the movement direction of the rotatable member, the reception part can be moved so as to follow the rotatable member. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal (e.g., signal indicating measurement data acquired by the measurement part) from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0088] [2] In some embodiments, in the above configuration [1], the communication device includes a drive part (38) for moving the reception part along the first direction. The drive part is configured to move the reception part according to a position of the rotatable member in the first direction.

[0089] With the above configuration [2], since the drive part is configured to move the reception part according to the position of the rotatable member in the first direction, the reception part can be moved in the first direction so as to follow the rotatable member. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0090] [3] In some embodiments, in the above configuration [2], the communication device includes a control device (100) for controlling the drive part. The control device includes: a target position acquisition part (102) configured to acquire a target position of the reception part in the first direction; an actual position acquisition part (104) configured to acquire an actual position of the reception part in the first direction; and a control part (106) configured to control the drive part on the basis of the target position and the actual position.

[0091] With the above configuration [3], since the drive part is controlled based on the target position and the actual position of the reception part, the reception part can be appropriately moved in the first direction so as to follow the rotatable member according to the position of the rotatable member in the first direction. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0092] [4] In some embodiments, in the above configuration [3], the target position acquisition part is configured to determine the target position of the reception part on the basis of a detection result of a position of the rotatable member in the first direction.

[0093] With the above configuration [4], since the target position of the reception part is determined based on the detection result of the position of the rotatable member in the first direction, the reception part can be appropriately moved in the first direction so as to follow the rotatable member according to the detection result of the position of the rotatable member in the first direction. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0094] [5] In some embodiments, in the above configuration [3], the target position acquisition part is configured to determine the target position of the reception part on the basis of a target position of the rotatable member in the first direction acquired from a host control device (200) for controlling a machine including the rotatable member.

[0095] With the above configuration [5], since the target position of the reception part is determined based on the target position of the rotatable member in the first direction acquired from the host control device, the reception part can be appropriately moved in the first direction so as to follow the rotatable member according to the target position of the rotatable member in the first direction. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0096] [6] In some embodiments, in any one of the above configurations [3] to [5], the control part is configured to control the drive part so that a deviation between the actual position and the target position approaches zero.

[0097] With the above configuration [6], since the drive part is controlled so that the deviation between the actual position and the target position of the reception part in the first direction approaches zero, the reception part can be appropriately moved in the first direction so as to follow the rotatable member according to the position of the rotatable member in the first direction. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0098] [7] In some embodiments, in any one of the above configurations [3] to [6], the communication device includes a position detection part (the above-described second position detection part 40) for detecting a position of the reception part in the first direction. The actual position acquisition part is configured to acquire the position of the reception part detected by the position detection part as the actual position.

[0099] With the above configuration [7], since the position of the reception part in the first direction detected by the position detection part is acquired as the actual position, the drive part can be appropriately controlled based on the actual position of the reception part thus acquired and the target position of the reception part.

[0100] [8] In some embodiments, in any of the above configurations [1] to [7], the communication device includes: the transmission part including an annular member (48) disposed on an outer peripheral side of the rotatable member; and an amplifier (52) for amplifying the signal sent from the transmission part to the reception part. The amplifier is disposed in a recess (49) that is recessed from an inner peripheral surface (48a) of the annular member.

[0101] With the above configuration [8], since the amplifier is disposed in the recess recessed from the inner peripheral surface of the annular member provided with the transmission part, uneven weight balance in the circumferential direction of the annular member can be suppressed. Thus, it is possible to suppress vibration that may occur during rotation of the rotatable member.

[0102] [9] In some embodiments, in any of the above configurations [1] to [8], the communication device includes a retraction mechanism for retracting the reception part and the guide part from the rotatable member.

[0103] With the above configuration [9], since the retraction mechanism for retracting the reception part and the guide part from the rotatable member is provided, for example, even if there is a possibility that the rotatable member moves during a shutdown period of the rotary machine including the rotatable member, contact between the rotatable member and the reception part or the guide part can be suppressed by retracting the reception part and the guide part from the rotatable member using the retraction mechanism.

[0104]

[10] A measurement apparatus (64) according to at least one embodiment of the present invention includes: a measurement part (56) for measuring an amount representing a state of the rotatable member; and the communication device (30) described in any one of [1] to [9] above. The transmission part of the communication device is configured to receive a signal indicating a measured value of the amount representing the state of the rotatable member from the measurement part.

[0105] With the above configuration

[10] , since the reception part of the communication device is movable along the first direction which is the movement direction of the rotatable member, the reception part can be moved so as to follow the rotatable member. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal (signal indicating measurement data acquired by the measurement part) from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0106]

[11] A spindle apparatus (6) according to at least one embodiment of the present invention includes: a spindle outer cylinder (6A) provided with internal teeth (7A) on an inner peripheral surface; a spindle inner cylinder (6B) provided with external teeth (7B) on an outer peripheral surface, the external teeth meshing with the internal teeth; and the measurement apparatus (64) described in

[10] above. The rotatable member includes the spindle inner cylinder. The measurement part includes a temperature sensor disposed at the spindle inner cylinder so as to measure a temperature of a meshing part of the internal teeth and the external teeth.

[0107] With the above configuration

[11] , since the reception part of the communication device is movable along the first direction which is the movement direction of the spindle apparatus, the reception part can be moved so as to follow the spindle apparatus. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the spindle apparatus and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the spindle apparatus moves in the first direction, the signal (signal indicating measurement data related to the temperature of the meshing part of the internal teeth and the external teeth acquired by the temperature sensor) from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0108]

[12] A rolling mill facility (1) according to at least one embodiment of the present invention includes: a mill roll (8); a spindle apparatus (6) for transmitting rotation of a motor to the mill roll; and the measurement apparatus (64) described in

[10] above, attached to the spindle apparatus.

[0109] With the above configuration

[12] , since the reception part of the communication device is movable along the first direction which is the movement direction of the spindle apparatus, the reception part can be moved so as to follow the spindle apparatus. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the spindle apparatus and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the spindle apparatus moves in the first direction, the signal (signal indicating measurement data acquired by the measurement part) from the transmission part disposed at the spindle apparatus can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0110]

[13] A method for operating a communication device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention is a method for operating the communication device (30) described in any one of [1] to [5] above, the method including a step of moving the reception part along the first direction.

[0111] With the above method

[13] , since the reception part of the communication device is movable along the first direction which is the movement direction of the rotatable member, the reception part can be moved so as to follow the rotatable member. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal (e.g., signal indicating measurement data acquired by the measurement part) from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0112]

[14] In some embodiments, in the above method

[13] , the method includes: a step of acquiring a target position of the reception part in the first direction; and a step of acquiring an actual position of the reception part in the first direction. In the step of moving, a position of the reception part in the first direction is adjusted based on the target position and the actual position.

[0113] With the above method

[14] , since the position of the reception part is adjusted based on the target position and the actual position of the reception part, the reception part can be appropriately moved in the first direction so as to follow the rotatable member according to the position of the rotatable member in the first direction. Thus, since the distance between the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member and the reception part is easily maintained, even if the rotatable member moves in the first direction, the signal from the transmission part disposed at the rotatable member can be accurately received by the reception part.

[0114] Embodiments of the present invention were described in detail above, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and various amendments and modifications may be implemented.

[0115] In the present specification, an expression of relative or absolute arrangement such as "in a direction", "along a direction", "parallel", "orthogonal", "centered", "concentric" and "coaxial" shall not be construed as indicating only the arrangement in a strict literal sense, but also includes a state where the arrangement is relatively displaced by a tolerance, or by an angle or a distance whereby it is possible to achieve the same function.

[0116] For instance, an expression of an equal state such as "same", "equal", and "uniform" shall not be construed as indicating only the state in which the feature is strictly equal, but also includes a state in which there is a tolerance or a difference that can still achieve the same function.

[0117] Further, an expression of a shape such as a rectangular shape or a cylindrical shape shall not be construed as only the geometrically strict shape, but also includes a shape with unevenness or chamfered corners within the range in which the same effect can be achieved.

[0118] On the other hand, an expression such as "comprise", "include", and "have" are not intended to be exclusive of other components.

[0119] 1Rolling mill facility 2Motor 3Power transmission unit 4Gear 6Spindle apparatus 6ASpindle outer cylinder 6BSpindle inner cylinder 7AInternal teeth 7BExternal teeth 8Mill roll 9Hole 11Tapered portion 12AWork roll 12BWork roll 13Bearing 14AIntermediate roll 14BIntermediate roll 16ABackup roll 16BBackup roll 18Housing 20Roll reduction device 22Shift device 24Rotatable member 26Offset device 30Communication device 32Transmission part 34Reception part 36Guide part 38Drive part 40Second position detection part 42First position detection part 48Annular member 48aInner peripheral surface 49Recess 50Antenna 52Amplifier 54Counterweight 56Measurement part 58Thermocouple 60Strain gauge 62Junction box 64Measurement apparatus 70Spindle carrier apparatus 72A, 72BArm part 73A, 73BRoller 74A, 74BFulcrum 76A, 76BCylinder 100Control device 102Target position acquisition part 104Actual position acquisition part 106Control part 200Host control device SMetal plate

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0014]Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is intended, however, that unless particularly identified, dimensions, materials, shapes, relative positions, and the like of components described in the embodiments shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0015]In the present specification, a spindle of a rolling mill facility will be described as an example of a rotatable member to which the communication device and the measurement apparatus according to some embodiments are applied. However, the communication device and the measurement apparatus according to the present invention can also be applied to a rotatable member other than the spindle, or a rotatable member constituting equipment other than the rolling mill facility.

(Configuration of Rolling Mill Facility)

[0016]FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a rolling mill facility to which the communic...

Claims

1. A communication device, comprising: a reception part for wirelessly receiving a signal from a transmission part disposed at a rotatable member movable along a first direction; and a guide part configured to guide movement of the reception part along the first direction.

2. The communication device according to claim 1, comprising a drive part for moving the reception part along the first direction, wherein the drive part is configured to move the reception part according to a position of the rotatable member in the first direction.

3. The communication device according to claim 2, comprising a control device for controlling the drive part, wherein the control device includes: a target position acquisition part configured to acquire a target position of the reception part in the first direction; an actual position acquisition part configured to acquire an actual position of the reception part in the first direction; and a control part configured to control the drive part on the basis of the target position and the actual position.

4. The communication device according to claim 3, wherein the target position acquisition part is configured to determine the target position of the reception part on the basis of a detection result of a position of the rotatable member in the first direction.

5. The communication device according to claim 3, wherein the target position acquisition part is configured to determine the target position of the reception part on the basis of a target position of the rotatable member in the first direction acquired from a host control device for controlling a machine including the rotatable member.

6. The communication device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the control part is configured to control the drive part so that a deviation between the actual position and the target position approaches zero.

7. The communication device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, comprising a position detection part for detecting a position of the reception part in the first direction, wherein the actual position acquisition part is configured to acquire the position of the reception part detected by the position detection part as the actual position.

8. The communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising: the transmission part including an annular member disposed on an outer peripheral side of the rotatable member; and an amplifier for amplifying the signal sent from the transmission part to the reception part, wherein the amplifier is disposed in a recess that is recessed from an inner peripheral surface of the annular member.

9. The communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a retraction mechanism for retracting the reception part and the guide part from the rotatable member.

10. A measurement apparatus, comprising: a measurement part for measuring an amount representing a state of the rotatable member; and the communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the transmission part of the communication device is configured to receive a signal indicating a measured value of the amount representing the state of the rotatable member from the measurement part.

11. A spindle apparatus, comprising: a spindle outer cylinder provided with internal teeth on an inner peripheral surface; a spindle inner cylinder provided with external teeth on an outer peripheral surface, the external teeth meshing with the internal teeth; and the measurement apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the rotatable member includes the spindle inner cylinder, and wherein the measurement part includes a temperature sensor disposed at the spindle inner cylinder so as to measure a temperature of a meshing part of the internal teeth and the external teeth.

12. A rolling mill facility, comprising: a mill roll; a spindle apparatus for transmitting rotation of a motor to the mill roll; and the measurement apparatus according to claim 10, attached to the spindle apparatus.

13. A method for operating the communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, the method comprising a step of moving the reception part along the first direction.

14. The method for operating the communication device according to claim 13, comprising: a step of acquiring a target position of the reception part in the first direction; and a step of acquiring an actual position of the reception part in the first direction, wherein, in the step of moving, a position of the reception part in the first direction is adjusted based on the target position and the actual position.

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