Measurement system, measurement method, and program

Abstract

To mitigate a burden of an operator.SOLUTION: A measurement system 10 comprises a measurement unit 11 and an output unit 12. The measurement unit 11 measures a current consumption amount of a first portion L111 of a transmission line L1 between a master unit 20 and a terminal device 301 that is nearest to the master unit 20 of one or more terminal devices 30, for a communication system 100 in which the master unit 20 and one or more terminal devices 30 that communicate with the master unit 20 perform power supply and communication through the transmission line L1. The output unit 12 performs outputting associated with necessity / unnecessity of addition of an amplifier 40 between the master unit 20 and any terminal device 30 of the one or more terminal devices 30, on the basis of a measurement result of the measurement unit 11.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a measurement system, a measurement method, and a program, and more particularly, to a measurement system, a measurement method, and a program for measuring the amount of current consumed by a transmission line through which a parent unit and one or more terminals supply power and communicate with each other. [Background technology]

[0002] A lighting control system is disclosed in Patent Document 1. The lighting control system of Patent Document 1 includes a transmission line, a monitoring terminal, a main control device, a control terminal, and a lighting load.

[0003] The transmission line transmits a control signal and a transmission signal. The monitoring terminal is connected to the transmission line and outputs a control signal to the transmission line for controlling the lighting state of the lighting load. The main control device includes a transmitting / receiving means connected to the transmission line and transmitting a transmission signal to the transmission line, and a main control means that, when the transmitting / receiving means receives a control signal output from the monitoring terminal, controls the transmitting / receiving means to transmit a transmission signal corresponding to the control signal to the transmission line. The control terminal is connected to the transmission line and receives the transmission signal from the main control device. The lighting load is controlled by the control terminal in response to the transmission signal.

[0004] The wall switch device as a monitoring terminal includes a power generation unit that generates a predetermined DC voltage from a transmission signal (control signal) transmitted to a transmission line and supplies operating power to each circuit unit such as a control unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2007-157337 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In a communication system such as the lighting control system of Patent Document 1, it is desirable to reduce the burden on workers who connect terminals such as monitoring terminals to transmission lines.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to reduce the burden on workers. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A measurement system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a measurement unit and an output unit. The measurement unit measures the current consumption of a portion of the transmission line between a parent unit and one or more terminal units that communicate with the parent unit, the terminal unit being the closest to the parent unit, for a communication system in which the parent unit and one or more terminal units that communicate with the parent unit receive power and communicate with each other via a transmission line. The output unit outputs information about the need for an additional amplifier between the parent unit and any one of the one or more terminal units based on the measurement result of the measurement unit.

[0009] A measurement system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a measurement unit and an output unit. The measurement unit measures the current consumption of a portion of the transmission line between a parent unit, one or more terminal units communicating with the parent unit, and an existing amplifier provided between at least one of the one or more terminal units and the parent unit, for a communication system in which the parent unit supplies power and communicates with the parent unit via a transmission line. The output unit outputs, based on the measurement result of the measurement unit, information regarding the necessity of adding an amplifier between the existing amplifier and any one of the at least one terminal units.

[0010] A measurement method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a measurement step and an output step. The measurement step includes measuring the current consumption of a portion of the transmission line between a parent unit and one or more terminal units that communicate with the parent unit, the terminal unit being the closest to the parent unit, for a communication system in which the parent unit and one or more terminal units that communicate with the parent unit perform power supply and communication via a transmission line. The output step includes outputting, based on the measurement result of the measurement step, whether or not an amplifier needs to be added between the parent unit and any of the one or more terminal units.

[0011] A measurement method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a measurement step and an output step. The measurement step includes measuring the current consumption of a portion of the transmission line between a parent device, one or more terminal devices communicating with the parent device, and an existing amplifier provided between at least one of the one or more terminal devices and the parent device, for a communication system in which the parent device supplies power and communicates with the parent device via a transmission line. The output step includes outputting, based on a measurement result of the measurement step, whether or not an amplifier needs to be added between the existing amplifier and any of the at least one terminal devices.

[0012] A program according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a program for causing one or more processors to execute the measurement method. Effect of the Invention

[0013] According to the present disclosure, there is an advantage that it is possible to reduce the burden on workers. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a communication system in which a measurement system according to an embodiment of the present invention is used. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a format of a transmission signal used in the above communication system. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic circuit diagram of an output section included in the measurement system. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front view of the above measurement system. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a method of using the above measurement system. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a method of using the measurement system. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a method of using the measurement system. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a method of using the measurement system. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a measurement method according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a master unit equipped with a measurement system according to the first modified example. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of an amplifier equipped with a measurement system according to the second modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] The measurement system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Each of the drawings described in the following embodiments is a schematic diagram, and the ratio of the size and thickness of each component in the drawing does not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratio.

[0016] (1) Implementation form (1.1) Overview The measurement system 10 of this embodiment is used in a communication system 100, and is a system that measures the amount of current consumed in a transmission line L1 included in the communication system 100 and outputs based on the measurement result. The communication system 100 includes a master unit 20 (transmission unit) and one or more terminal devices 30 connected to a two-wire transmission line L1 (see FIG. 1). In the communication system 100, the master unit 20 and the one or more terminal devices 30 perform power supply and communication via the transmission line L1. An example of this type of communication system 100 is a device control system such as a lighting control system.

[0017] In the communication system 100, the operating power of the parent unit 20 is supplied from an external power source such as a commercial power source AC1. On the other hand, the operating power of the terminal unit 30 is supplied by rectifying and stabilizing a transmission signal Si1 transmitted from the parent unit 20 via a transmission line L1. Therefore, the terminal unit 30 can operate without power supply from an external power source such as the commercial power source AC1.

[0018] However, in the communication system 100, there is a limit to the number of terminal devices 30 that can be connected to the transmission line L1. Specifically, each of the terminal devices 30 operates by "consuming" the current flowing through the transmission line L1. In the communication system 100, if the total amount of current consumed by one or more terminal devices 30 connected to the transmission line L1 (hereinafter, for convenience, also referred to as the "total current consumption amount") exceeds the amount of current that can be supplied from the parent device 20 or the like to the transmission line L1 (hereinafter, for convenience, also referred to as the "supplyable current amount"), the operation may become unstable or may not operate normally. In the communication system 100, if the total current consumption amount exceeds the supplyable current amount, it is necessary to additionally connect to the transmission line L1 an amplifier 40 that operates with power from an external power source such as a commercial power source AC1 and has a function of amplifying the current flowing through the transmission line L1.

[0019] However, the amount of current consumed by one terminal device 30 may differ depending on the type of terminal device 30. In addition, for example, when a new terminal device 30 is added due to renewal of the communication system 100, since there is an existing terminal device 30 (already connected to the transmission line L1), it is necessary to consider the amount of current consumed by the existing terminal device 30 in order to calculate the total amount of current consumption. Therefore, a worker who performs work such as connecting the terminal device 30 to the transmission line L1 must consider the amount of current consumed by each terminal device 30 and the amount of current consumed by the existing terminal device 30, and also consider whether or not an amplifier 40 needs to be added to the transmission line L1. This can be a heavy burden on the worker.

[0020] Therefore, the measurement system 10 according to one aspect of the present embodiment has a function of outputting whether or not an amplifier 40 needs to be added based on the measurement result of the current consumption of the transmission line L1. Specifically, the measurement system 10 is used for a communication system 100 in which a parent unit 20 and one or more terminal units 30 that communicate with the parent unit 20 perform power supply and communication via the transmission line L1. As shown in FIG. 1, the measurement system 10 includes a measurement unit 11 and an output unit 12. The measurement unit 11 measures the current consumption of the transmission line L1. The measurement unit 11 measures the current consumption of a portion L111 of the transmission line L1 between the parent unit 20 and a terminal unit 301 that is closest to the parent unit 20 among the one or more terminal units 30. The output unit 12 outputs whether or not an amplifier 40 needs to be added between the parent unit 20 and the terminal unit 30 based on the measurement result of the measurement unit 11.

[0021] According to the measurement system 10 of the embodiment, the output unit 12 outputs information on whether or not an amplifier 40 needs to be added between the parent unit 20 and the terminal unit 30 based on the measurement result of the measurement unit 11. Therefore, a worker who connects the terminal unit 30 to the transmission line L1 can determine whether or not an amplifier 40 needs to be added by checking the output of the measurement system 10. This can reduce the burden on the worker.

[0022] 1, when there is an existing amplifier 40 (already connected to the transmission line L1), a current is supplied from the parent unit 20 to a transmission line L11 between the parent unit 20 and the existing amplifier 40 in the transmission line L1. On the other hand, a current is supplied from the existing amplifier 40 to a transmission line L12 in a portion of the transmission line L1 beyond the existing amplifier 40, for example, a portion between the existing amplifier 40 and the (next) existing amplifier 40 beyond it, or a portion between the existing amplifier 40 and the end of the transmission line L1. Therefore, for the transmission line L12 in the portion of the transmission line L1 beyond the existing amplifier 40, the amount of current that can be supplied from the existing amplifier 40 needs to be equal to or greater than the total amount of current consumed by the terminal unit 30 connected to the transmission line L12 in the portion of the transmission line L1 beyond the existing amplifier 40.

[0023] Therefore, the measurement system 10 according to one aspect of the present embodiment is used for a communication system 100 in which a parent device 20, one or more terminal devices 30 that communicate with the parent device 20, and an existing amplifier 40 perform power supply and communication via a transmission line L1. Here, the existing amplifier 40 is provided between at least one terminal device 30A of the one or more terminal devices 30 and the parent device 20. Note that the "terminal device 30A" refers to a terminal device 30 that is farther from the parent device 20 (ahead of the existing amplifier 40) than the existing amplifier 40, among the one or more terminal devices 30. As shown in FIG. 1, the measurement system 10 includes a measurement unit 11 and an output unit 12. The measurement unit 11 measures the current consumption of a portion L121 of the transmission line L1 between the existing amplifier 40 and a terminal device 301A that is closest to the existing amplifier 40 among the at least one terminal device 30A. Then, the output unit 12 outputs information on whether or not an amplifier 40 needs to be added between the existing amplifier 40 and the terminal unit 30A based on the measurement result of the measurement unit 11. This allows a worker who connects the terminal unit 30 to the transmission line L1 to determine whether or not an amplifier 40 needs to be added by checking the output of the output unit 12, thereby reducing the burden on the worker.

[0024] (1.2) Details The measurement system 10 of this embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 8. As described above, the measurement system 10 is used in a communication system 100 including a master unit 20 and one or more terminal units 30 connected to a two-wire transmission line L1.

[0025] (1.2.1) Communication Systems The communication system 100 of this embodiment is a lighting control system that controls the operation of multiple lighting fixtures 50. As shown in Fig. 1, the communication system 100 includes a transmission line L1, a master unit 20, and one or more (six in the example of Fig. 1) terminal devices 30. The one or more terminal devices 30 are connected in parallel to each other via the two-wire transmission line L1.

[0026] 1, the communication system 100 may further include one or more existing amplifiers 40. The amplifier 40 is a device (repeater) that repeats and amplifies a transmission signal Si1 (including a signal superimposed on the transmission signal Si1) transmitted via a transmission line L1. The communication system 100 may not include an existing amplifier 40.

[0027] For convenience, in the following, in the transmission line L1, a portion between the parent unit 20 and the existing amplifier 40 may be referred to as a "transmission line L11." In the example of Fig. 1, some (three in the example of Fig. 1) of one or more (six in the example of Fig. 1) terminal units 30 are connected to the transmission line L11.

[0028] For convenience, in the following description, the portion L111 of the transmission line L11 between the parent device 20 and the terminal device 301 that is the closest to the parent device 20 among the one or more terminal devices 30 may be referred to as the "first portion L111." In addition, in the transmission line L11, the portion other than the first portion L111 (the portion between the terminal device 301 that is the closest to the parent device 20 and the existing amplifier 40) may be referred to as the "second portion L112."

[0029] For convenience, in the following description, a portion of the transmission line L1 beyond the existing amplifier 40, for example, a portion of the transmission line L1 between the existing amplifier 40 and the (next) existing amplifier 40 beyond it, or a portion between the existing amplifier 40 and the end of the transmission line L1, may be referred to as a "transmission line L12". In the example of FIG. 1, at least one (three in the example of FIG. 1) terminal unit 30A out of one or more (six in the example of FIG. 1) terminal units 30 is connected to the transmission line L12. As described above, the "terminal unit 30A" refers to a terminal unit 30 that is farther from the parent unit 20 than the existing amplifier 40 out of one or more terminal units 30.

[0030] For convenience, in the following description, the portion L121 of the transmission line L12 between the existing amplifier 40 and the terminal unit 301A that is the closest to the existing amplifier 40 among the at least one terminal unit 30A may be referred to as the "first portion L121." In addition, in the transmission line L12, the portion other than the first portion L121 (the portion beyond the terminal unit 301A that is the closest to the existing amplifier 40) may be referred to as the "second portion L122."

[0031] The master unit 20 and one or more terminal units 30 (and amplifiers 40) constitute a time division multiplexing transmission system in which data transmission from the master unit 20 to the terminal units 30 and data transmission from the terminal units 30 to the master unit 20 are performed in a time division manner.

[0032] 1, in the communication system 100 of this embodiment, the one or more terminals 30 include a "control terminal 31" and a "monitoring terminal 32." In this embodiment, each of the one or more terminals 30 is either a control terminal 31 or a monitoring terminal 32.

[0033] Control terminal 31 is a device that controls the equipment to be controlled (for example, lighting fixture 50). Control terminal 31 is connected to the equipment to be controlled (lighting fixture 50). Control terminal 31 has a function of controlling a relay built into control terminal 31 or a remote control relay in accordance with a message sent from parent unit 20, and controlling the on / off of lighting fixture 50. In this disclosure, a "message" is a set of data that is written in a specific format and is transmitted and received between devices.

[0034] Specifically, control terminal 31 controls the on / off of lighting fixture 50, for example, by turning on / off a relay (or a remote control relay) provided on the power supply path to lighting fixture 50. Although not shown in Fig. 1, the device (lighting fixture 50) controlled by control terminal 31 operates on power from an external power source such as commercial power source AC1. The relay is provided on the power supply path from this external power source to lighting fixture 50.

[0035] In the example of FIG. 1, control terminal 31 is separate from lighting fixture 50 to be controlled. However, this is not limited, and control terminal 31 may be configured as one unit with lighting fixture 50 to be controlled. Control terminal 31 may also have a function to control the dimming or color of lighting fixture 50. One control terminal 31 may have multiple relays and control the on / off of multiple lighting fixtures 50 by turning the multiple relays on / off. Control terminal 31 has a memory that stores its own address, which is individually assigned to it. If control terminal 31 has multiple relays, a unique address is stored in the memory for each relay.

[0036] The monitoring terminal device 32 is, for example, configured with a switch device or a sensor device that is attached to a wall or the like and accepts user operations. The sensor device here is, for example, a human sensor, an illuminance sensor, or a temperature sensor. The monitoring terminal device 32 transmits a message to the parent unit 20 when a specific event occurs, for example, when the monitoring terminal device detects a user operation on any of the multiple switches included in the switch device, or when a sensor detects the presence of a person. For example, when the monitoring terminal device 32 detects a user operation on any of the multiple switches, it transmits a message corresponding to the operated switch. The monitoring terminal device 32 has a memory that stores its own address that is individually assigned. When the monitoring terminal device 32 has multiple switches, a unique address is stored in the memory for each switch.

[0037] The master unit 20 repeatedly transmits a transmission signal Si1 having a signal format, for example, as shown in the upper part of Fig. 2, to the two-wire transmission line L1. The transmission signal Si1 is a time-division signal having a voltage waveform divided into a plurality of periods in the time axis direction. In the example of Fig. 2, the transmission signal Si1 is a multipolar (±24V) time-division multiplexed signal consisting of a preliminary interruption period T1, a preliminary period T2, a transmission period T3, a reply period T4, an interruption period T5, a short circuit detection period T6, and a pause period T7.

[0038] The preliminary interrupt period T1 is a period for detecting the presence or absence of an interrupt signal Si10. The preliminary period T2 is a period set in accordance with the interrupt period T5 and the short circuit detection period T6. The transmission period T3 is a period for the parent unit 20 to transmit data (message) to the terminal unit 30. The reply period T4 is a period for the parent unit 20 to receive return data (message) from the terminal unit 30. The interrupt period T5 is a period for detecting the presence or absence of an interrupt signal Si10. The short circuit detection period T6 is a period for detecting a short circuit. The pause period T7 is a period for when processing is not completed in time.

[0039] The parent unit 20 normally transmits a transmission signal Si1 whose mode data is the normal mode, and periodically changes the address data included in the transmission period T3 of this transmission signal Si1 to perform constant polling, sequentially accessing one or more terminal devices 30. During constant polling, a terminal device 30 whose address data included in the transmission period T3 matches its own address receives the message included in this transmission period T3. Then, as shown in the lower part of Fig. 2, in the next reply period T4, the parent unit 20 superimposes a signal Si11 representing a message (e.g., ACK) on the transmission signal Si1 and transmits the message to the parent unit 20. As a result, the parent unit 20 and the terminal device 30 communicate with each other using the transmission signal Si1 transmitted through the transmission line L1.

[0040] When a specific event occurs, such as when a switch is operated, the monitoring terminal device 32 generates an interrupt signal Si10 by superimposing it on the transmission signal Si1. When the master device 20 detects the interrupt signal Si10 generated by the monitoring terminal device 32 during the preliminary interrupt period T1 or interrupt period T5 of the transmission signal Si1, the master device 20 switches the mode data included in the transmission period T3 of the transmission signal Si1 from the normal mode to the interrupt polling mode. In the interrupt polling mode, the master device 20 acquires the address of the monitoring terminal device 32 that is the source of the interrupt signal Si10, thereby identifying the address of the monitoring terminal device 32 that is the source of the interrupt signal Si10. Then, the master device 20 transmits a message for a reply request to the monitoring terminal device 32 that is the source of the identified interrupt signal Si10, and receives a message for monitoring (monitoring message) from the monitoring terminal device 32.

[0041] Upon receiving a monitoring message from the monitoring terminal 32, the master unit 20 transmits a control message (control message) to the control terminal 31 corresponding to the address included in the monitoring message. The control message transmitted at this time includes at least the control content and the address to which the control message is to be sent. The control terminal 31 that receives the control message (specified by the address of the control message) controls the on / off of the lighting fixture 50 to be controlled, in accordance with the control content of the control message.

[0042] Thus, in communication system 100, when a specific event occurs in monitoring terminal 32 and generates interrupt signal Si10, parent unit 20 transmits a control message to control terminal 31. In short, in communication system 100, monitoring terminal 32 and control terminal 31 communicate with each other via parent unit 20 as a transmission unit according to a polling-selecting protocol. As a result, for example, when a switch on monitoring terminal 32 is operated, a relay is controlled in control terminal 31 corresponding to this switch, thereby controlling lighting fixture 50 corresponding to this switch.

[0043] In the communication system 100, as described above, one or more terminal devices 30 are connected in parallel to each other. Therefore, the parent device 20 needs to output a current to the transmission line L1 that is equal to or greater than the total amount of current consumption of each of the one or more terminal devices 30 so that the amount of current required by all of the one or more terminal devices 30 connected in parallel can be secured. Therefore, the number of terminal devices 30 that can be connected to the transmission line L1 needs to be limited so that the total amount of current consumed by the terminal devices 30 connected to the transmission line L1 (total current consumption amount) is equal to or less than the amount of current that can be supplied from the parent device 20 (and the amplifier 40) (available current amount). If the total current consumption amount exceeds the available current amount, an additional amplifier 40 needs to be connected to the transmission line L1. Here, the maximum rated output current of each of the parent device 20 and the amplifier 40 is, for example, about 500 mA. The current consumption of the terminal device 30 varies depending on the type of the terminal device 30, and is within a range of about 1 mA to several hundreds of mA per terminal device 30, for example.

[0044] (1.2.2) Measurement System The measurement system 10 measures the amount of current consumed in the transmission line L1, and based on the measurement result, outputs information regarding the necessity of adding an amplifier 40 to the transmission line L1.

[0045] The measurement system 10 of this embodiment performs a first output when the current consumption amount in the transmission line L1 exceeds a first value. The first value is set to, for example, 500 mA, which is the maximum rated output current of the parent unit 20 (or the amplifier 40). In other words, when the measurement system 10 outputs the first output, it means that the current consumption amount in the transmission line L1 exceeds the maximum rated output current (500 mA) of the parent unit 20 (or the amplifier 40) and an amplifier 40 needs to be added.

[0046] Furthermore, the measurement system 10 of this embodiment performs a second output when the current consumption in the transmission line L1 is less than a second value (<first value). The second value is set to a value smaller than the maximum rated output current of the parent unit 20 (or the amplifier 40), for example. The second value is, for example, 400 mA. In other words, when the measurement system 10 outputs the second output, it means that the current consumption in the transmission line L1 is a value smaller than the maximum rated output current of the parent unit 20 (or the amplifier 40), and there is no need to add an amplifier 40. The second output is different from the first output.

[0047] Furthermore, the measurement system 10 of this embodiment performs a third output when the current consumption amount in the transmission line L1 is less than the first value and exceeds the second value. The fact that the measurement system 10 outputs the third output means that the current consumption amount in the transmission line L1 does not exceed the maximum rated output current of the parent unit 20 (or the amplifier 40) and therefore no additional amplifier 40 is required, but caution is required since there is a possibility that an additional amplifier 40 will be required when a new terminal unit 30 is connected. The third output is different from the first output and the second output.

[0048] When the amount of current consumed in the transmission line L1 is a first value, the measurement system 10 may perform a first output or a third output. When the amount of current consumed in the transmission line L1 is a second value, the measurement system 10 may perform a second output or a third output.

[0049] In short, the measurement system 10 of this embodiment outputs whether or not the amplifier 40 needs to be added in three stages.

[0050] More specifically, the measurement system 10 includes a measurement section 11 and an output section 12 as shown in FIG.

[0051] The measuring unit 11 measures the amount of current flowing through the transmission line L1. The measuring unit 11 is a so-called clamp ammeter. The clamp ammeter is used by arranging an internal core so as to "sandwich" one of the electric wires of the two-wire transmission line L1, and is configured to output a detection current corresponding to the current flowing through the electric wire. The detection method of the clamp ammeter may be a current transformer method, a Hall element method, a fluxgate method, or another detection method.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 3, the measurement unit 11 also includes a detection resistor 111 that converts the detected current into a voltage.

[0053] The measuring unit 11 is not limited to a clamp ammeter. For example, the detection resistor 111 of the measuring unit 11 may be directly inserted into one electric wire of the transmission line L1 (for example, by cutting the electric wire once, inserting the detection resistor 111 between the wires, and then reconnecting the wires).

[0054] The output section 12 outputs information on whether or not an amplifier 40 needs to be added based on the measurement result of the measurement section 11 .

[0055] As shown in FIG. 3, the output section 12 includes an amplifier section 13, a comparator section 14, a logic operation section 15, and a light emitter section 16.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 3, the amplifier unit 13 includes an operational amplifier 131, resistors 132 and 133, a variable resistor 134, and a capacitor 135.

[0057] The non-inverting input terminal of the operational amplifier 131 is connected to the detection resistor 111. The detection resistor 111 is connected between the non-inverting input terminal of the operational amplifier 131 and ground.

[0058] The inverting input terminal of the operational amplifier 131 is connected to the ground via a resistor 132. In addition, the inverting input terminal of the operational amplifier 131 is connected to the output terminal of the operational amplifier 131 via a resistor 133 and a variable resistor .

[0059] A positive power supply terminal of the operational amplifier 131 is connected to a constant voltage source. A connection point between the positive power supply terminal of the operational amplifier 131 and the constant voltage source is connected to ground via a capacitor 135. The capacitor 135 is a bypass capacitor (decoupling capacitor) for the operational amplifier 131. A negative power supply terminal of the operational amplifier 131 is connected to ground.

[0060] If the voltage detected by the detection resistor 111 (the voltage input to the non-inverting input terminal of the operational amplifier 131) is “Vin”, the resistance value of the resistor 132 is “R2”, the resistance value of the resistor 133 is “R3”, and the resistance value of the variable resistor 134 is “Rv”, the output voltage Vout of the operational amplifier 131 is expressed by the following equation (1). [Number 1] Vout=(1+(R3+Rv) / R2)Vin...(1)

[0061] In the amplifier 13, the resistance value Rv of the variable resistor 134 can be changed to adjust the output voltage Vout.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 3, the comparison section 14 includes a first voltage dividing resistor 141, a second voltage dividing resistor 142, a third voltage dividing resistor 143, a first comparator 144, a second comparator 145, and capacitors 146 and 147.

[0063] The first voltage dividing resistor 141 to the third voltage dividing resistor 143 are connected in series between a constant voltage source and ground. The first voltage dividing resistor 141 is connected to the constant voltage source, the second voltage dividing resistor 142 is connected to the first voltage dividing resistor 141, the third voltage dividing resistor 143 is connected to the second voltage dividing resistor 142, and the third voltage dividing resistor 143 is connected to ground. The first voltage dividing resistor 141 to the third voltage dividing resistor 143 divide the voltage from the constant voltage source.

[0064] A non-inverting input terminal of the first comparator 144 is connected to the connection point between the first voltage dividing resistor 141 and the second voltage dividing resistor 142. An inverting input terminal of the first comparator 144 is connected to the output terminal of the operational amplifier 131. The output voltage Vout of the operational amplifier 131 is input to the inverting input terminal of the first comparator 144.

[0065] The positive power supply terminal of the first comparator 144 is connected to a constant voltage source. The connection point between the positive power supply terminal of the first comparator 144 and the constant voltage source is connected to ground via a capacitor 146 serving as a bypass capacitor. The negative power supply terminal of the first comparator 144 is connected to ground.

[0066] The first comparator 144 outputs a high-level voltage (the voltage at the positive power supply terminal) if the voltage at the non-inverting input terminal is higher than the voltage at the inverting input terminal. The first comparator 144 outputs a low-level voltage (the voltage at the negative power supply terminal) if the voltage at the non-inverting input terminal is lower than the voltage at the inverting input terminal.

[0067] Here, the resistance values ​​of the first voltage dividing resistor 141 to the third voltage dividing resistor 143 are set so that the output of the first comparator 144 switches depending on whether the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 exceeds a first value (500 mA). Here, the resistance values ​​of the first voltage dividing resistor 141 to the third voltage dividing resistor 143 are set so that the output voltage of the first comparator 144 becomes a Low level when the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 exceeds the first value (500 mA), and the output voltage of the first comparator 144 becomes a High level when the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 is less than the first value.

[0068] A non-inverting input terminal of the second comparator 145 is connected to the connection point between the second voltage dividing resistor 142 and the third voltage dividing resistor 143. An inverting input terminal of the second comparator 145 is connected to the output terminal of the operational amplifier 131. The output voltage Vout of the operational amplifier 131 is input to the inverting input terminal of the second comparator 145.

[0069] The positive power supply terminal of the second comparator 145 is connected to a constant voltage source. The connection point between the positive power supply terminal of the second comparator 145 and the constant voltage source is connected to ground via a capacitor 147 serving as a bypass capacitor. The negative power supply terminal of the second comparator 145 is connected to ground.

[0070] The second comparator 145 outputs a high-level voltage (the voltage at the positive power supply terminal) if the voltage at the non-inverting input terminal is higher than the voltage at the inverting input terminal. The second comparator 145 outputs a low-level voltage (the voltage at the negative power supply terminal) if the voltage at the non-inverting input terminal is lower than the voltage at the inverting input terminal.

[0071] The resistance values ​​of the first voltage dividing resistor 141 to the third voltage dividing resistor 143 are set so that the output of the second comparator 145 switches depending on whether the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 exceeds a second value (400 mA). Here, the resistance values ​​of the first voltage dividing resistor 141 to the third voltage dividing resistor 143 are set so that the output voltage of the second comparator 145 becomes a Low level when the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 exceeds the second value (400 mA), and the output voltage of the second comparator 145 becomes a High level when the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 is less than the second value.

[0072] In short, when the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 exceeds a first value (500 mA), both the first comparator 144 and the second comparator 145 output a low-level voltage. When the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 is less than a second value (400 mA), both the first comparator 144 and the second comparator 145 output a high-level voltage. When the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 is less than the first value and exceeds the second value, the first comparator 144 outputs a high-level voltage, and the second comparator 145 outputs a low-level voltage.

[0073] 3, the logic operation unit 15 includes an OR circuit 151, a NAND circuit 152, an XNOR circuit 153, and resistors 154 and 155. The resistors 154 and 155 are pull-up resistors.

[0074] Of the two input terminals of each of the OR circuit 151, the NAND circuit 152, and the XNOR circuit 153, one input terminal is connected to the output terminal of the first comparator 144, and the other input terminal is connected to the output terminal of the second comparator 145.

[0075] When the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 exceeds the first value, both the first comparator 144 and the second comparator 145 output a low-level voltage, so that the output voltage of the OR circuit 151 is low, the output voltage of the NAND circuit 152 is high, and the output voltage of the XNOR circuit 153 is high.

[0076] When the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 is less than the first value and exceeds the second value, the first comparator 144 outputs a high-level voltage and the second comparator 145 outputs a low-level voltage, so that the output voltage of the OR circuit 151 is high, the output voltage of the NAND circuit 152 is high, and the output voltage of the XNOR circuit 153 is low.

[0077] When the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 is less than the second value, both the first comparator 144 and the second comparator 145 output a high-level voltage, so that the output voltage of the OR circuit 151 is high, the output voltage of the NAND circuit 152 is low, and the output voltage of the XNOR circuit 153 is high.

[0078] The first comparator 144 may be configured to output a low-level voltage when the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 is a first value (in which case, the output voltage of the OR circuit 151 is low), or may be configured to output a high-level voltage (in which case, the output voltage of the XNOR circuit 153 is low).

[0079] In addition, the second comparator 145 may be configured to output a low-level voltage when the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 is a second value (in which case, the output voltage of the XNOR circuit 153 becomes low level), or may be configured to output a high-level voltage (in which case, the output voltage of the NAND circuit 152 becomes low level).

[0080] As shown in FIG. 3, the light-emitting section 16 includes a first light-emitting element 161, a second light-emitting element 162, a third light-emitting element 163, and resistors 164-166.

[0081] The first light emitting element 161 is connected to the output terminal of the OR circuit 151 via a resistor 164. The second light emitting element 162 is connected to the output terminal of the NAND circuit 152 via a resistor 165. The third light emitting element 163 is connected to the output terminal of the XNOR circuit 153 via a resistor 166. In addition, the first light emitting element 161 to the third light emitting element 163 are connected to a constant voltage source.

[0082] When the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 exceeds the first value, the output voltage of the OR circuit 151 becomes a low level, so that a current is supplied from the constant voltage source to the first light emitting element 161, causing the first light emitting element 161 to emit light. On the other hand, the second light emitting element 162 and the third light emitting element 163 do not emit light.

[0083] Here, the first light emitting element 161 is, for example, a red light emitting element, so that when the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 exceeds the first value and an amplifier 40 needs to be added, the light emitting unit 16 emits red light.

[0084] When the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 is less than the second value, the output voltage of the NAND circuit 152 becomes a low level, so that a current is supplied from the constant voltage source to the second light emitting element 162, causing the second light emitting element 162 to emit light. On the other hand, the first light emitting element 161 and the third light emitting element 163 do not emit light.

[0085] The second light emitting element 162 is, for example, a green light emitting element, so that when the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 is less than the second value and no additional amplifier 40 is required, the light emitting unit 16 emits green light.

[0086] When the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 is less than the first value and exceeds the second value, the output voltage of the XNOR circuit 153 becomes low level, so that a current is supplied from the constant voltage source to the third light-emitting element 163, causing the third light-emitting element 163 to emit light. On the other hand, the first light-emitting element 161 and the second light-emitting element 162 do not emit light.

[0087] The third light-emitting element 163 is, for example, a yellow light-emitting element, and therefore, when the current value of the current flowing through the transmission line L1 is between the first value and the second value and requires attention, the light-emitting unit 16 emits yellow light.

[0088] In short, in the measurement system 10 of this embodiment, the output unit 12 performs a first output (light emission from the first light-emitting element 161) when it is necessary to add an amplifier 40 based on the measurement result of the measurement unit 11, and performs a second output (light emission from the second light-emitting element 162) when it is not necessary to add an amplifier 40. This allows the worker to determine whether or not it is necessary to add an amplifier 40 by checking the output of the output unit 12, making it possible to further reduce the burden on the worker.

[0089] Furthermore, when the measurement result of the measurement unit 11 is a predetermined value between the first output and the second output, the output unit 12 outputs a third output (light emission of the third light-emitting element 163) different from the first output and the second output. This allows the worker to take measures such as preparing an additional amplifier 40 in advance when the third output is performed, thereby further reducing the burden on the worker.

[0090] Furthermore, the output unit 12 performs a first output (light emission from the first light-emitting element 161) when the measurement result of the measurement unit 11 exceeds a first value, and performs a second output different from the first output (light emission from the second light-emitting element 162 or the third light-emitting element 163) when the measurement result of the measurement unit 11 is less than the first value. This makes it possible to further reduce the burden on the worker.

[0091] Furthermore, the output unit 12 performs a first output (light emission from the first light-emitting element 161) when the measurement result of the measurement unit 11 exceeds a first value, performs a second output (light emission from the second light-emitting element 162) when the measurement result of the measurement unit 11 is less than a second value that is smaller than the first value, and performs a third output (light emission from the third light-emitting element 163) when the measurement result of the measurement unit 11 is less than the first value and exceeds the second value. This makes it possible to further reduce the burden on the worker.

[0092] Moreover, the output unit 12 has a light emitting unit 16, and performs output by emitting light from the light emitting unit 16. This makes it easier for an operator to confirm whether or not an amplifier 40 needs to be added.

[0093] The light emitting unit 16 outputs differently depending on the light emitting state. The light emitting state is, for example, a color (emission color). This allows the operator to more easily check whether or not the amplifier 40 is required to be added.

[0094] 4, the measurement system 10 of this embodiment further includes a housing 19. The housing 19 holds the measurement unit 11 and the output unit 12.

[0095] As shown in Fig. 1, the measurement system 10 (housing 19) is formed separately from the parent device 20 and the terminal device 30. As shown in Fig. 4, the housing 19 is a rectangular box. The housing 19 has a shape and size that allows it to be carried by an operator or the like. In short, the measurement system 10 of this embodiment is a portable measurement tool (measurement instrument).

[0096] In the measurement unit 11, a clamp ammeter (a portion including a core) is provided outside the housing 19. The clamp ammeter may be connected to the housing 19 by a cable, or may be provided so as to protrude from one surface (e.g., the top surface) of the housing 19. In the measurement unit 11, the detection resistor 111 is accommodated inside the housing 19.

[0097] The output unit 12 is accommodated inside a housing 19. As shown in Fig. 4, the housing 19 has a first window 191, a second window 192, and a third window 193. The first light-emitting element 161 to the third light-emitting element 163 of the light-emitting unit 16 of the output unit 12 face the first window 191 to the third window 193, respectively. The light emitted by the first light-emitting element 161 to the third light-emitting element 163 is emitted to the outside of the housing 19 through the first window 191 to the third window 193, respectively.

[0098] (1.2.3) How to use An example of a method of using the measurement system 10 of this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0099] The measurement system 10 is used, for example, when performing work to add a new terminal device 30 to a transmission line L1 of a (existing) communication system 100 installed in a facility. In the following, it is assumed that the communication system 100 shown in Fig. 1 has already been installed in the facility. Note that in the existing communication system 100, the measurement system 10 is not connected to the transmission line L1.

[0100] Before adding the new terminal device 30, a worker who performs the work of adding the terminal device 30 first goes to the installation location of the parent device 20 with the measurement system 10. Then, as shown in FIG. 1, the current of the first portion L111 of the transmission line L11 drawn from the parent device 20 is measured using the measurement system 10, and it is confirmed that the light-emitting unit 16 is emitting green or yellow light. The worker also goes to the installation location of the existing amplifier 40 with the measurement system 10. Then, as shown in FIG. 1, the current of the first portion L121 of the transmission line L12 drawn from the amplifier 40 is measured using the measurement system 10, and it is confirmed that the light-emitting unit 16 is emitting green or yellow light. At this time, if the light-emitting unit 16 is emitting yellow light, it is more likely that the amplifier 40 will need to be added when the new terminal device 30 is added to the transmission line L1 (than when it is emitting green light), so the worker may prepare the additional amplifier 40 in advance.

[0101] If the light emitting unit 16 emits red light when measuring the current of the transmission line L11 or L12 of the existing communication system 100, there is a possibility that a malfunction such as aging or a failure has occurred in the devices (parent unit 20, terminal unit 30, existing amplifier 40) in the existing communication system 100 or the transmission line L1, or that a terminal unit 30 has been added without permission without using the measurement system 10. In that case, the worker may perform an inspection of the existing communication system 100.

[0102] Next, the worker connects the terminal unit 30 to the transmission line L1.

[0103] In one example, the worker connects an additional terminal unit 30 (hereinafter, referred to as "additional terminal unit 309") to the transmission line L11 as shown in Fig. 5. After connecting the additional terminal unit 309 to the transmission line L11, the worker measures the current of the first portion L111 of the transmission line L11 using the measurement system 10. At this time, if the light-emitting unit 16 emits green or yellow light, the worker determines that it is not necessary to add the amplifier 40 to the transmission line L11, and ends the work.

[0104] On the other hand, if the light-emitting unit 16 is emitting red light, the worker determines that it is necessary to add an amplifier 40 to the transmission line L11. The worker adds the amplifier 40 (hereinafter, referred to as an "additional amplifier 409") to the second portion L112 of the transmission line L11, in other words, performs the work of temporarily disconnecting the second portion L112 at some point and reconnecting it by inserting the additional amplifier 409, thereby adding the amplifier 40 to the transmission line L11 as shown in FIG. 6.

[0105] Thereafter, the worker may use the measurement system 10 to measure the current in the first portion L111 of the transmission line L11 again and confirm that the light-emitting unit 16 is emitting green or yellow light. The worker may also use the measurement system 10 to measure the current in the portion of the transmission line L13 that is drawn out from the additional amplifier 409 of the transmission line L1, more specifically, the amount of current consumption in the portion L131 of the transmission line L13 between the additional amplifier 409 and the terminal device 30 closest to the additional amplifier 409, and confirm that the light-emitting unit 16 is emitting green or yellow light.

[0106] In another example, the worker connects the terminal unit 30 (additional terminal unit 309) to the transmission line L12 as shown in Fig. 7. After connecting the additional terminal unit 309 to the transmission line L12, the worker measures the current in the first portion L121 of the transmission line L12 using the measurement system 10. At this time, if the light-emitting unit 16 emits green or yellow light, the worker determines that it is not necessary to add the amplifier 40 to the transmission line L12, and ends the work.

[0107] On the other hand, if the light-emitting unit 16 emits red light, the worker determines that it is necessary to add an amplifier 40 to the transmission line L12. The worker adds the amplifier 40 (additional amplifier 409) to the second portion L122 of the transmission line L12, in other words, performs the work of temporarily disconnecting the second portion L122 at some point and reconnecting it by inserting the additional amplifier 409, thereby adding the amplifier 40 to the transmission line L12 as shown in FIG.

[0108] Thereafter, the worker may use the measurement system 10 to measure the current in the first portion L121 of the transmission line L12 again, and confirm that the light-emitting unit 16 is emitting green or yellow light. The worker may also use the measurement system 10 to measure the current in the portion of the transmission line L13 that is drawn out from the additional amplifier 409 of the transmission line L1, more specifically, the amount of current consumption in the portion L131 of the transmission line L13 between the additional amplifier 409 and the terminal device 30 closest to the additional amplifier 409, and confirm that the light-emitting unit 16 is emitting green or yellow light.

[0109] It should be noted that if the light emitting unit 16 emits red light during measurement after the additional amplifier 409 is connected, the worker may perform the work of adding a further amplifier 40 or the work of inspecting the communication system 100.

[0110] Moreover, it goes without saying that the amplifier 409 added in the current work will become the existing amplifier 40 in the next work.

[0111] In this way, by using the measurement system 10 of the present embodiment, when a worker adds a terminal unit 30 to an existing transmission line L1, the worker can easily determine whether or not the amplifier 40 needs to be added. This reduces the burden on the worker.

[0112] The method of using the measurement system 10 is not limited to the above example, and appropriate steps may be added or omitted.

[0113] Furthermore, the use of the measurement system 10 is not limited to the addition of a new terminal device 30 to the transmission line L1 of an existing communication system 100, but may also be used for the installation of a new communication system 100, inspection of the communication system 100, etc.

[0114] (2) Variations The above embodiment is merely one of various embodiments of the present disclosure. The above embodiment can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved. In addition, the same function as the measurement system 10 according to the above embodiment may be embodied in a measurement method, a computer program, or a non-transitory recording medium having a computer program recorded thereon.

[0115] Specifically, the measurement method according to one embodiment includes a measurement step ST1 and an output step ST2, as shown in Fig. 9. The measurement step ST1 includes measuring the amount of current consumption of a portion (first portion L111) of the transmission line L1 between the parent unit 20 and a terminal unit 301, which is the closest to the parent unit 20, among the one or more terminal units 30, for a communication system 100 in which the parent unit 20 and one or more terminal units 30 communicating with the parent unit 20 perform power supply and communication via a transmission line L1. The output step ST2 includes outputting, based on the measurement result of the measurement step ST1, whether or not an amplifier 40 needs to be added between the parent unit 20 and any one of the one or more terminal units 30.

[0116] 9, the measurement method according to one embodiment includes a measurement step ST1 and an output step ST2. The measurement step ST1 includes measuring the current consumption of a portion (first portion L121) of the transmission line L1 between the existing amplifier 40 and the terminal 301A closest to the existing amplifier 40 among the at least one terminal 30A, for a communication system 100 in which the parent unit 20, one or more terminals 30 communicating with the parent unit 20, and at least one terminal 30A among the one or more terminals 30, perform power supply and communication through the transmission line L1. The output step ST2 includes outputting information on the necessity of adding an amplifier 40 between the existing amplifier 40 and any one of the at least one terminals 30A based on the measurement result of the measurement step ST1.

[0117] A program according to one aspect is a program for causing one or more processors to execute the above-described measurement method. The program may be provided in a form recorded on a non-transitory recording medium or the like.

[0118] Modifications of the above embodiment are listed below. The above embodiment and the modifications described below can be applied in appropriate combinations.

[0119] (2.1) Variation 1 The measurement system 10 of this modified example will be described with reference to Fig. 10. In the measurement system 10 of this modified example, the description of the same configuration as that of the measurement system 10 of the above embodiment may be omitted as appropriate.

[0120] As shown in FIG. 10, in a measurement system 10 of this modified example, a measurement unit 11 and an output unit 12 are included in a parent unit 20.

[0121] More specifically, in the measurement system 10 of this modified example, the measurement unit 11 includes detection resistors 111 connected to the two electric wires L101 and L102 of the two-wire transmission line L1. The detection resistors 111 are housed in the housing of the parent unit 20, for example.

[0122] Moreover, the output unit 12 (light-emitting unit 16) is housed, for example, in the housing of the parent unit 20. The housing of the parent unit 20 is provided with first to third windows, and the first to third light-emitting elements 161 to 163 of the light-emitting unit 16 face the first to third windows, respectively.

[0123] In the measurement system 10 of this modified example as well, the output regarding the necessity of adding an amplifier 40 is performed from the output section 12, so that it is possible to reduce the burden on the operator.

[0124] It should be noted that the measuring unit 11 does not need to perform measurements all the time, but only needs to be able to perform measurements when performing work to add a terminal device 30 or when performing work to inspect the communication system 100. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which a switch is connected between the detection resistor 111 and the electric wire of the transmission line L1, and a current flows through the detection resistor 111 only when the switch is turned on.

[0125] (2.2) Variation 2 The measurement system 10 of this modified example will be described with reference to Fig. 11. In the measurement system 10 of this modified example, the description of the same configuration as that of the measurement system 10 of the above embodiment may be omitted as appropriate.

[0126] 11, in the measurement system 10 of this modification, the measurement unit 11 and the output unit 12 are included in an existing amplifier 40. The measurement unit 11 and the output unit 12 are housed in a housing of the amplifier 40. The measurement unit 11 and the output unit 12 can be configured similarly to the measurement system 10 of the first modification.

[0127] In the measurement system 10 of this modified example as well, the output regarding the necessity of adding an amplifier 40 is performed from the output section 12, so that it is possible to reduce the burden on the operator.

[0128] Of course, the newly added amplifier 40 may also include the measurement section 11 and the output section 12.

[0129] (2.3) Other Modifications In one modified example, the communication system 100 is not limited to a device control system such as a lighting control system, but may be another communication system such as a device control system for an air conditioning system, a management system, etc. The lighting control system may use a communication method such as DALI (registered trademark).

[0130] In one modified example, the communication system 100 is not limited to a lighting control system, but may be, for example, an automatic fire alarm system, or a system for monitoring a building and controlling devices within the building.

[0131] In one modified example, light-emitting unit 16 is not limited to a configuration in which the measurement result of measuring unit 11 is notified in three stages, and may be a configuration in which the measurement result is notified in two stages or four or more stages.

[0132] In one modified example, the light-emitting unit 16 may include two or more (three) light-emitting elements that emit white light, and color filters arranged in front of each light-emitting element. The color filters may be provided in the windows (first window 191 to third window 193) of the housing 19. In other words, the light-emitting unit 16 may include a part of the housing 19 (first window 191 to third window 193).

[0133] In one modified example, the light-emitting unit 16 is not limited to a configuration in which different light-emitting modes (colors) are output by switching on and off (three) independent light-emitting elements (first light-emitting element 161 to third light-emitting element 163), but may output different light-emitting modes (colors) by changing the light-emitting color of a single light-emitting element.

[0134] In one modified example, the light emitting unit 16 is not limited to a configuration in which the measurement result of the measuring unit 11 is notified by the emitted light color, and may notify the measurement result by the emitted light intensity. For example, the light emitting unit 16 may be a level meter.

[0135] In one modified example, the output unit 12 is not limited to a configuration including a light emitting unit 16, but may be configured to include, for example, a communication unit that wirelessly transmits information based on the measurement results of the measurement unit 11 to an external communication device (e.g., a portable information terminal, etc.).

[0136] In one modified example, a device in the communication system 100, for example, the parent unit 20 or the amplifier 40, may include a short circuit detection unit that detects a short circuit in the transmission line L1. The short circuit detection unit determines that a short circuit has occurred when a current exceeding a threshold flows in the transmission line L1. The threshold is not particularly limited, but is, for example, 1000 mA.

[0137] (3) Description As can be seen from the above embodiment and modifications, the following aspects are disclosed in this specification.

[0138] The measurement system (10) of the first aspect includes a measurement unit (11) and an output unit (12). The measurement unit (11) measures the amount of current consumption of a portion (first portion L111) of the transmission line (L1) between the parent unit (20) and one or more terminal units (30) that are closest to the parent unit (20) among the one or more terminal units (30), for a communication system (100) in which a parent unit (20) and one or more terminal units (30) that communicate with the parent unit (20) perform power supply and communication via a transmission line (L1). The output unit (12) outputs, based on the measurement result of the measurement unit (11), information regarding the necessity of adding an amplifier (40) between the parent unit (20) and any one of the one or more terminal units (30).

[0139] According to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the burden on the worker.

[0140] The measurement system (10) of the second aspect includes a measurement unit (11) and an output unit (12). For a communication system (100) in which a parent unit (20), one or more terminal units (30) communicating with the parent unit (20), and an existing amplifier (40) provided between at least one terminal unit (30A) of the one or more terminal units (30) and the parent unit (20) perform power supply and communication via a transmission line (L1), the measurement unit (11) measures the amount of current consumption of a portion (first portion L121) of the transmission line (L1) between the existing amplifier (40) and a terminal unit (301A) that is closest to the existing amplifier (40) among the at least one terminal unit (30A). The output unit (12) outputs, based on the measurement result of the measurement unit (11), information regarding the need for an additional amplifier (40) between the existing amplifier (40) and any one of the at least one terminal unit (30A).

[0141] According to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the burden on the worker.

[0142] In the measurement system (10) of the third aspect, in the first or second aspect, the output section (12) performs a first output as an output when it is necessary to add an amplifier (40) based on the measurement result of the measurement section (11). The output section (12) performs a second output different from the first output as an output when it is necessary to add an amplifier (40) based on the measurement result of the measurement section (11).

[0143] According to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the burden on the worker.

[0144] In the measurement system (10) of the fourth aspect, in the third aspect, the output section (12) outputs a third output different from the first output and the second output when the measurement result of the measurement section (11) is a predetermined value between the case where the first output is produced and the case where the second output is produced.

[0145] According to this embodiment, when the third output is performed, the operator can take measures such as preparing an additional amplifier (40) in advance, thereby further reducing the burden on the operator.

[0146] In the measurement system (10) of the fifth aspect, in the first or second aspect, the output unit (12) performs a first output as an output when the measurement result of the measurement unit (11) exceeds a first value. The output unit (12) performs a second output different from the first output as an output when the measurement result of the measurement unit (11) is less than the first value.

[0147] According to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the burden on the worker.

[0148] In the measurement system (10) of the sixth aspect, in the first or second aspect, the output unit (12) performs a first output as an output when the measurement result of the measurement unit (11) exceeds a first value. The output unit (12) performs a second output as an output when the measurement result of the measurement unit (11) is less than a second value that is smaller than the first value. The output unit (12) performs a third output as an output when the measurement result of the measurement unit (11) is less than the first value and exceeds the second value.

[0149] According to this embodiment, it is possible to reduce the burden on the worker. Furthermore, when the third output is performed, the worker can take measures such as preparing an additional amplifier (40) in advance, thereby further reducing the burden on the worker.

[0150] In the measurement system (10) of the seventh aspect, in the first or second aspect, the output section (12) has a light-emitting section (16). The output section (12) performs output by light emission from the light-emitting section (16).

[0151] This embodiment makes it easier for the worker to confirm whether or not an additional amplifier (40) is required.

[0152] In the measurement system (10) of the eighth aspect, in the seventh aspect, the light-emitting unit (16) produces different outputs according to different light-emitting modes.

[0153] In the measurement system (10) of the ninth aspect, the measurement unit (11) is included in the parent unit (20) in the first aspect.

[0154] According to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the burden on the worker.

[0155] In the measurement system (10) of the tenth aspect, the measurement unit (11) is included in an existing amplifier (40) in the second aspect.

[0156] According to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the burden on the worker.

[0157] In the measurement system (10) of the eleventh aspect, in the second aspect, the measurement unit (11) is held in a housing (19) separate from both the parent unit (20) and the existing amplifier (40).

[0158] According to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the burden on the worker.

[0159] The measurement method of the twelfth aspect includes a measurement step (ST1) and an output step (ST2). The measurement step (ST1) includes measuring the amount of current consumption of a portion (first portion L111) of the transmission line (L1) between the parent unit (20) and one or more terminal units (30) that are closest to the parent unit (20) among the one or more terminal units (30), for a communication system (100) in which the parent unit (20) and one or more terminal units (30) that communicate with the parent unit (20) perform power supply and communication via the transmission line (L1). The output step (ST2) includes outputting, based on the measurement result of the measurement step (ST1), whether or not an amplifier (40) is required to be added between the parent unit (20) and any one of the one or more terminal units (30).

[0160] According to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the burden on the worker.

[0161] The measurement method of the thirteenth aspect includes a measurement step (ST1) and an output step (ST2). The measurement step (ST1) includes measuring the current consumption of a portion (first portion L121) of the transmission line (L1) between the existing amplifier (40) and a terminal (301A) of the at least one terminal (30A) that is closest to the existing amplifier (40) for a communication system (100) that supplies power and communicates with a parent unit (20), one or more terminal units (30) that communicate with the parent unit (20), via a transmission line (L1). The output process (ST2) includes providing an output regarding the necessity of adding an amplifier (40) between the existing amplifier (40) and any one of the at least one terminal unit (30A) based on the measurement result of the measurement process (ST1).

[0162] According to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the burden on the worker.

[0163] A program according to a fourteenth aspect is a program for causing one or more processors to execute the measurement method according to the twelfth or thirteenth aspect.

[0164] According to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the burden on the worker. [Explanation of symbols]

[0165] 10. Measurement System 11 Measurement section 12 Output section 16 Light emitting part 19. Cabinet 20 Parent unit 30,30A terminal 301,301A Terminal 40 Amplifier 100 Communication Systems L1 Transmission Line L111 1st part (transmission line) L121 1st part (transmission line) ST1 Measurement process ST2 output process

Claims

1. a measurement unit for measuring a current consumption of a portion of the transmission line between a parent device and one or more terminal devices that communicate with the parent device, the portion being closest to the parent device, for a communication system in which the parent device and one or more terminal devices that communicate with the parent device perform power supply and communication via a transmission line; and an output unit that outputs information regarding the necessity of adding an amplifier between the parent device and any one of the one or more terminal devices based on the measurement result of the measurement unit. Measurement system.

2. a measurement unit for measuring a current consumption of a portion of the transmission line between a parent unit, one or more terminal units communicating with the parent unit, and an existing amplifier provided between at least one of the one or more terminal units and the parent unit, the portion of the transmission line being used for power supply and communication, the measurement unit being configured to measure a current consumption of a portion of the transmission line between the existing amplifier and a terminal unit among the at least one terminal unit that is closest to the existing amplifier; and an output unit that outputs information regarding the necessity of adding an amplifier between the existing amplifier and any one of the at least one terminal unit based on a measurement result of the measurement unit. Measurement system.

3. The output unit, based on the measurement result of the measurement unit, providing a first output as the output when the additional amplifier is required; When the addition of the amplifier is not necessary, a second output different from the first output is provided as the output. The measurement system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The output unit is When the measurement result of the measurement unit is a predetermined value between the case where the first output is performed and the case where the second output is performed, a third output different from the first output and the second output is performed as the output. The measurement system of claim 3 .

5. The output unit is When the measurement result of the measurement unit exceeds a first value, a first output is performed as the output; When the measurement result of the measurement unit is less than the first value, a second output different from the first output is output as the output. The measurement system according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The output unit is When the measurement result of the measurement unit exceeds a first value, a first output is performed as the output; When the measurement result of the measurement unit is less than a second value that is smaller than the first value, a second output is performed as the output; When the measurement result of the measurement unit is less than the first value and exceeds the second value, a third output is performed as the output. The measurement system according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The output unit is A light emitting portion is provided. The output is performed by emitting light from the light emitting unit. The measurement system according to claim 1 or 2.

8. The light emitting unit outputs differently depending on different light emitting modes. The measurement system of claim 7.

9. The measuring unit is included in the parent unit. The measurement system of claim 1 .

10. The measurement unit is included in the existing amplifier. The measurement system of claim 2 .

11. The measuring unit is held in a housing separate from both the parent unit and the existing amplifier. The measurement system of claim 2 .

12. a measuring step for measuring a current consumption amount of a portion of the transmission line between a parent device and one or more terminal devices that communicate with the parent device, the portion being closest to the parent device among the one or more terminal devices, for a communication system in which the parent device and one or more terminal devices communicate with the parent device through a transmission line to receive power and perform communication; and an output step of performing an output regarding the necessity of adding an amplifier between the parent unit and any one of the one or more terminal units based on the measurement result of the measurement step. Measurement method.

13. a measurement step for measuring a current consumption of a portion of the transmission line between a parent unit, one or more terminal units communicating with the parent unit, and an existing amplifier provided between at least one of the one or more terminal units and the parent unit, the portion performing power supply and communication via a transmission line, the existing amplifier and one of the at least one terminal unit that is closest to the existing amplifier; and an output step of performing an output regarding the necessity of adding an amplifier between the existing amplifier and any one of the at least one terminal device based on the measurement result of the measurement step. Measurement method.

14. A program for causing one or more processors to execute the measurement method according to claim 12 or 13.

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