Screw fastener and monitoring system

Abstract

To provide a screw fastener for enabling preset arbitrary places of various structures including buildings to be imaged on a steady basis or at predetermined timing.SOLUTION: A screw fastener capable of fastening joint parts of fastened members which configurate a structure includes: an imaging part which is integrally or separately provided and which images the surroundings so as to acquire image information; and a transmission part for transmitting the image information acquired by the imaging part to the outside.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a screw fastener and a monitoring system. [Background technology]

[0002] Currently, a wide variety of components are used in a variety of situations, including buildings that form spaces such as buildings, houses, and halls, structures such as bridges, steel towers, and dams (hereinafter referred to as structures), various means of transportation including automobiles, bicycles, and trains, mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, power generation facilities, chemical plants, etc. (hereinafter referred to as structures), etc. Furthermore, a wide variety of materials are used for these structures, including steel, resin, rubber, stone, concrete, wood, ceramic, and glass.

[0003] For example, when we look at buildings alone, there are a variety of things related to social infrastructure, such as houses, apartment buildings, school buildings, train stations, airport terminals, hospitals, municipal offices, bridges, tunnels, etc. These buildings maintain their shape using a variety of structural materials, such as pillars, beams, floors, ceilings, bolts, nuts, and reinforced concrete. In addition to structural materials, various parts and equipment, such as window glass and doors, are also used, and they are constructed into a variety of shapes and structures using a variety of materials.

[0004] Structural materials are intended to be used over a long period of time, but deterioration is inevitable due to exposure to external forces such as thermal expansion and contraction caused by temperature fluctuations, deterioration over time, and shocks from earthquakes, etc. If deterioration is left unchecked, there is a risk of disasters resulting in loss of life.

[0005] Furthermore, disasters such as typhoons, tornadoes, and earthquakes, which are expected to become larger in size in the future, can place excessive stress and load on window glass, causing cracks and chipping. If left unattended, this can lead to the window glass breaking and the risk of injury.

[0006] Therefore, in the future, it will be important to be able to quantitatively and widely monitor and maintain various components such as building materials, in order to prevent accidents and disasters and achieve disaster mitigation and prevention (national resilience).

[0007] Furthermore, a technique has been proposed in the past in which defects on the surface of concrete are photographed by a camera such as a high-definition camera, and defect inspection is performed while viewing the image (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0008] In addition, a technology has been proposed in which a drone equipped with a camera is remotely controlled to fly, photograph structures such as dams, buildings, and viaducts, and then use the photographed images to inspect the structures (for example, Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-30961 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-194069 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] However, there are currently a huge number of buildings, for example, and it is practically impossible to prioritize the building materials that need maintenance or to determine which structural materials within a single building should be maintained intensively.

[0011] Furthermore, even when conducting visual inspections or inspections using camera images, it is still necessary to go to the site, and there is a problem that conducting regular inspections of a huge number of buildings, etc. on an ongoing basis is extremely difficult from the standpoints of securing the necessary personnel, the time required for travel to the site and inspections, and the danger involved.

[0012] Furthermore, while drone photography allows inspection of areas that workers cannot easily reach, there are cases where drones cannot fly due to strong rain or wind, or even if they do fly, they cannot maintain their position. In other words, drone-based inspections may not be possible at all depending on the weather, and inspections can only be performed when the drone is flying. This limits the times when inspections are possible.

[0013] The present invention was made through intensive research by the inventor in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a screw fastener and a monitoring system that can capture images of any predetermined location on various structures, including buildings, constantly or at predetermined timings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] A screw fastener according to one embodiment of the present invention is a screw fastener capable of fastening the joints between fastened members that constitute a structure, and includes an imaging unit, arranged integrally or separately, that images the surrounding area and acquires image information, and a transmitting unit that transmits the image information acquired by the imaging unit to the outside.

[0015] The screw fastener also has an analysis unit that performs analysis to detect the detection target from the image acquired by the imaging unit, and the transmission unit transmits information about the detection target detected by the analysis unit to the outside together with the image information.

[0016] Furthermore, the detection targets for the threaded fastener are corrosion, damage, deformation, loosening of the fastener, displacement, discoloration, deterioration, stains, detachment, gaps, coming off, clogging, and / or adhesion of foreign matter.

[0017] The screw fastener further includes an image processing unit in which the imaging unit includes a plurality of optical systems and imaging elements, and which combines images captured by the plurality of imaging elements to generate a spherical image.

[0018] The screw fastener has a shaft portion having a threaded portion on its outer periphery, the imaging unit is disposed on the end face of the shaft portion, and the shape of the shaft portion as viewed in the axial direction is within the diameter of the shaft portion.

[0019] In addition, the screw fastener has a shaft portion having a threaded portion on its outer periphery and a head portion formed at one end of the shaft portion, the imaging unit is arranged on the top surface of the head portion, and the shape of the shaft portion when viewed in the axial direction is contained within the outline of the head portion.

[0020] The screw fastener has a nut shape, the imaging unit is disposed on an end face of the nut shape, and the shape of the nut shape when viewed in the axial direction is contained within the outline of the nut shape.

[0021] The screw fastener also has a sound acquisition unit that acquires surrounding sound, and the transmission unit transmits the sound acquired by the sound acquisition unit.

[0022] The screw fastener also has a position information acquisition unit that acquires position information and an orientation information acquisition unit that acquires orientation information, and the transmitter transmits the position information and the orientation information.

[0023] The screw fastener also has a threaded portion that can fasten a plurality of members together.

[0024] A monitoring system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a screw fastener capable of fastening the joints between fastened members that constitute a structure, and which is arranged either integrally or separately, and which comprises an imaging unit that images the surrounding area to obtain image information, and a transmitting unit that transmits the image information to the outside; a monitoring device that comprises a communication unit capable of communicating with the screw fastener and receives the image information; and an analysis unit that performs analysis to detect a detection target from an image based on the image information.

[0025] The monitoring system detects corrosion, damage, deformation, loosening of fasteners, displacement, discoloration, deterioration, stains, detachment, gaps, dislodgment, clogging, and / or adhesion of foreign matter. The monitoring system further includes an image processing unit in which the imaging unit includes a plurality of optical systems and imaging elements, and which combines images of the screw fastener captured by the plurality of imaging elements to generate a spherical image.

[0026] In addition, in the monitoring system, the screw fastener has a shaft portion with a threaded portion on its outer periphery, the imaging unit is arranged on the end face of the shaft portion, and the shape of the shaft portion when viewed in the axial direction is within the diameter of the shaft portion.

[0027] In addition, the monitoring system has a shaft portion in which the screw fastener has a threaded portion on its outer periphery and a head portion formed at one end of the shaft portion, the imaging unit is arranged on the top surface of the head, and the shape of the shaft portion when viewed in the axial direction is contained within the outline of the head.

[0028] In addition, in the monitoring system, the screw fastener has a nut shape, the imaging unit is arranged on the end face of the screw fastener, and the shape of the screw fastener when viewed in the axial direction is contained within the outline of the screw fastener.

[0029] The monitoring system also includes a voice acquisition unit that acquires voices around the screw fastener, and the transmission unit transmits the voices acquired by the voice acquisition unit.

[0030] The monitoring system is also characterized in that it has a position information acquisition unit that acquires position information of the screw fastener and an orientation information acquisition unit that acquires orientation information, and the transmitting unit transmits the position information and the orientation information.

[0031] Furthermore, in the monitoring system, the monitoring device has a display unit that displays the image information and / or the detection target.

[0032] The monitoring system also includes a notification unit that notifies that the monitoring device has detected a detection target.

[0033] In addition, in the monitoring system, the screw fastener has a threaded portion that can fasten a plurality of members together. [Effects of the Invention]

[0034] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a screw fastener and a monitoring system that can capture images of any predetermined location on various structures, including buildings, at all times or at specified times. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0035] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a monitoring system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 1A and 1B are diagrams showing the appearance of an image information acquisition type fastening member according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an imaging unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the arrangement of imaging units. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of installation of an image information acquisition type fastening member in a building. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the arrangement of an imaging unit. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the arrangement of an imaging unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a female thread portion provided with an imaging unit. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an image information acquisition type fastening member having a light-transmitting cover on the head portion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] An embodiment of a monitoring system using image-acquiring fastening members of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a monitoring system 1 of this embodiment. The monitoring system 1 has a plurality of image-acquiring fastening members 10 and a monitoring device 100, and the image-acquiring fastening members 10 and the monitoring device 100 are connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other wirelessly or via a wire.

[0037] 2 is a diagram showing the appearance of an image-capture type fastening member 10 according to this embodiment. The image-capture type fastening member 10 includes a fastener 12, an imaging unit 20 capable of capturing moving and / or still images, and the like. The fastener 12 has a shape similar to that of a bolt. For example, the fastener 12 is composed of a head 14 having a hexagonal outer shape and a shank 16 (threaded portion) having a male screw helical groove formed on at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface.

[0038] The imaging unit 20 is a digital camera attached to the fastener 12 that can capture images of the area to be monitored, and is a spherical camera in this case that captures spherical (360°) panoramic images. The imaging unit 20 is sized so as not to protrude radially outward from the head 14. In other words, the imaging unit 20 has a shape that fits within the contour of the outer peripheral surface of the head 14 when viewed in the axial direction of the fastener 12.

[0039] 3 is a block diagram showing the imaging section 20. The imaging section 20 has a control section 22 that comprehensively controls the operation of each section, and the control section 22 is connected to an imaging unit 24, an image processing section 25, a storage section 26, an analysis section 28, a transmission / reception section 30, a position information acquisition section 32, a direction sensor 34, a power supply section 36, etc.

[0040] The imaging unit 24 includes an optical system including a fisheye lens or an ultra-wide-angle lens, a zoom lens, and a focus lens, and an imaging element such as a CCD or CMOS that generates an imaging signal based on subject light incident on the imaging surface. The imaging unit 24 is not limited to one, and may be multiple.

[0041] For example, when the viewing angle of the optical system is 180° or more, the imaging section 20 is configured with two imaging units 24a and 24b as shown in FIG. 4(a). That is, the imaging section 20 is configured with the imaging unit 24a including the optical system 40a and the imaging element 42a, and the imaging unit 24b including the optical system 40b and the imaging element 42b. The imaging units 24a and 24b are arranged so that the optical axes of the optical systems 40a and 40b are aligned on the same line. As a result, one of the imaging units 40a and 40b captures the rear side, which is outside the imaging range of the other, making it possible to capture a celestial sphere panoramic image.

[0042] Furthermore, by using three or more imaging units 24, blind spots in the imaging range can be further eliminated. For example, imaging unit 24 may be configured by arranging four imaging units facing in different directions by 90° in a plane parallel to the plane on which camera unit 20 is fixed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4(b), imaging element 42a is arranged facing the direction of θ=0°, imaging element 42b is arranged facing the direction of θ=180°, imaging element 42c is arranged facing the direction of θ=90°, and imaging element 42d is arranged facing the direction of θ=270°. In this way, objects that lie between the imaging elements 42a and 42b but outside both imaging ranges can be imaged by the imaging elements 42c and 42d, and objects that lie between the imaging elements 42c and 42d but outside both imaging ranges can be imaged by the imaging elements 42a and 42b, making it possible to obtain a panoramic image with no blind spots.

[0043] Furthermore, the imaging unit 20 may further include a rotation mechanism that rotates the optical system and the imaging elements, and an operation circuit that can remotely operate the rotation mechanism. In this way, even if the viewing angles of the optical systems 40a, 40b and the imaging elements 42a, 42b are each less than 180°, imaging in approximately all directions can be achieved by operating the rotation mechanism in accordance with instructions received via the transmitting / receiving unit 30.

[0044] The image processing unit 25 creates panoramic image data by performing various image processing on the imaging signals generated by the imaging elements of the imaging unit 24. Specifically, the panoramic image data is created by performing a synthesis process that connects image data based on the imaging signals generated by the multiple imaging elements. Of course, the image processing by the image processing unit 25 is not limited to this, and may include known image processing such as A / D conversion, pixel interpolation, resizing, and color correction.

[0045] The storage unit 26 stores the unique ID of the image information acquisition type fastening member 10, as well as the processing results of each unit. The storage unit 26 may also store image data based on the imaging signals generated by each imaging unit 24, which are the basis of the panoramic image data.

[0046] The analysis unit 28 performs image analysis to detect detection targets present within the monitored area (shown in the panoramic image). Examples of detection targets include loosening, corrosion (rust, etc.), damage (peeling, peeling, missing parts, cracks, scratches, etc. of paint, etc.), dirt, deformation (bending, warping, breaking, expansion and contraction including stretching and shrinking), displacement (sinking, movement, tilting, etc.), discoloration, deterioration, stains, detachment, gaps, loosening, clogging (such as soil and sand), adhesion of foreign matter, burning, scorching, disappearance, etc., of fasteners such as bolts and nuts, including the fastener 12 itself, shown in the panoramic image. Furthermore, foreign matter includes moisture, including raindrops and snow, salt, bird droppings, sand, dust, pollen, etc., which may cause stress or corrosion on components.

[0047] The detection method for the detection target may be, for example, to set a reference luminance for each subject and detect areas where the luminance changes relative to the reference luminance as the detection target. Note that detection based on luminance changes cannot obtain good image data when the sun has set and there is little visible light, compared to bright daytime hours. Similarly, good image data cannot be obtained in shaded areas that are largely shielded from sunlight.

[0048] Therefore, an infrared light irradiating unit (not shown) may be provided around the imaging unit 20, on the top surface and / or peripheral surface of the head 14, etc., and when the amount of light is low, infrared light may be irradiated, the state in which infrared light is irradiated may be set as the reference brightness, and the detection target may be detected while irradiating infrared light. Also, instead of the infrared light irradiating unit, a light emitting element such as an LED may be provided, and imaging by the imaging unit 20 may be performed while irradiating the imaging range with light from the light emitting element. In addition, known visual inspections using image recognition AI technology based on machine learning may be applied to inspect, analyze, and detect abnormalities in the detection target.

[0049] Furthermore, the analysis unit 28 may detect the object of detection (loosening of the image-information acquisition type fastener 10 itself) by detecting the difference between an image captured at a certain point in time and an image captured thereafter. Specifically, when loosening occurs in the fastener 12, the imaging unit 20 rotates together with the fastener 12 in the loosening direction, and the optical axis of the optical system of the imaging unit 24 moves. Therefore, for example, by storing an image captured when the member is fastened as a reference image in advance in the storage unit 26, and comparing the image captured by the imaging unit 20 with the reference image to detect differences such as positional displacement of the subject within the image, it becomes possible to detect loosening that has occurred in the fastener 12 and determine the loosening rotation angle.

[0050] Of course, the purpose of comparing images taken at one time and another time to perform difference detection is not limited to detecting looseness that has occurred in the device itself, but may also be used to detect looseness in other fasteners, for example.

[0051] Furthermore, the analysis unit 28 may detect a person or the like as a detection target and track the detection target when it moves. When the detection target is a person, the detection target may be detected using face detection or human body detection technology, and the detection target detected by, for example, position prediction or template matching may be tracked.

[0052] The transmitter / receiver 30 transmits and receives data to and from the monitoring device 100 via an antenna (not shown). For example, it transmits panoramic image data and receives various other information. The location information acquisition unit 32 acquires location information by receiving signals from an external source, such as a GPS satellite or wireless LAN, or may register location information acquired in advance by some other method. The orientation sensor 34 includes a geomagnetic sensor or the like and detects the orientation of the image information acquisition type fastening member 10 as a reference. The power supply unit 36 ​​supplies the power required for the operation of each unit. The power supply unit 36 ​​may be connected to an external power source (not shown) or a battery (not shown) that supplies power. Alternatively, a power generation element capable of generating power by receiving various forms of energy from external sources, such as heat, light, vibration, pressure, or radio waves, may be connected to supply the required power.

[0053] The monitoring device 100 is an information processing terminal capable of receiving panoramic image data and displaying panoramic images, and includes a communication unit 110 for transmitting and receiving various types of data, and a display unit 112 for displaying a panoramic image based on the received panoramic image data. The monitoring device 100 may be, for example, a smartphone capable of displaying panoramic images, a mobile phone (feature phone), a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a wearable device (head-mounted display, eyeglasses, etc.), a tablet device, a laptop PC, a desktop PC, or any other type of computer or monitor with an arithmetic circuit. The monitoring device 100 may communicate directly with the image information acquisition fastening member 10, or may transmit and receive data via a distribution server or the like.

[0054] Next, the application of the image information acquisition type fastening member 10 to a structure will be described. Fig. 5 is an enlarged view of a building to which the image information acquisition type fastening member 10 of this embodiment is applied. The image information acquisition type fastening member 10 can be used, for example, as a screw fastener that fastens fastened members that make up a building. Furthermore, the image information acquisition type fastening member 10 is disposed so that the imaging unit 20 is exposed when the members are fastened together.

[0055] 5, image information acquisition type fastening members 10, which serve as screw fastening members, are fastened using connection plates 56 to a plurality of locations, such as joints connecting pillars 52 made of square cylindrical steel material extending vertically in a building 50, and joints connecting beams 54 made of H-shaped steel material, or so-called H-steel, extending horizontally from the pillars 52. These image information acquisition type fastening members 10 serve as parts that join the structural materials (frame materials) of the building 50. The imaging unit 20 is exposed on the outside of the structural material so that it can capture images of the surrounding area.

[0056] It is preferable to select locations where the axial directions (fastening directions) of the multiple image-information acquisition type fastening members 10 are different from one another. In this way, panoramic images can be acquired from a variety of different positions and directions, making it possible to monitor the surface condition of the building 50 and the surrounding situation while understanding them.

[0057] Next, a process for displaying a panoramic image captured by the image information acquisition type fastening member 10 on the monitoring device 100 will be described. The image information acquisition type fastening member 10 fastening the structural materials of the building 50 is imaged by the imaging section 20. That is, the control section 22 captures the image by the imaging section 20 and acquires image data. The control section 22 creates panoramic image data from the image data. Specifically, when the imaging section 20 includes multiple imaging units 24, the control section 22 synthesizes the image data from each imaging unit 24 by the image processing section 25 to create panoramic image data.

[0058] The control unit 22 performs an analysis process on the panoramic image data to detect the detection target using the analysis unit 28. In the analysis process, an appropriate detection method is used, such as detecting the detection point from a change in brightness as described above, or detecting the detection point by face detection, human body detection, or the like.

[0059] The control unit 22 also acquires position information from the position information acquisition unit 32 and orientation information that is the detection result from the orientation sensor 34, and stores the panoramic image data, detection target, position information, and orientation information in association with one another in the storage unit 26. The control unit 22 transmits monitoring image information that combines the unique ID, panoramic image data, detection target, position information, and orientation information stored in the storage unit 26 to the monitoring device 100 via the transmission / reception unit 30.

[0060] The monitoring device 100 displays a monitoring image on the display unit 112 based on the received monitoring image information. In addition to a panoramic image, the monitoring image also displays the shooting position, direction, detection target, etc. based on the position information. For a monitoring image including a detection target, for example, a frame image surrounding the detection target is superimposed on the panoramic image. Specifically, one frame is displayed for each detection target, and the detection target is contained within the frame, thereby making the detection target visible. Therefore, when there are multiple detection targets, multiple frame images are displayed, allowing the detection targets to be reliably visually recognized. By displaying a monitoring image on the display unit 112 in this way, the situation around the image information acquisition type fastening member 10 installed in a building can be monitored even from a remote location.

[0061] Furthermore, if the panoramic image is a moving image, the control unit 22 continuously performs analysis processing by the analysis unit 29 while capturing the moving image, and transmits monitoring image information over time to the monitoring device 100. The monitoring device 100 updates the monitoring image displayed on the display unit 112 every time it receives monitoring image information.

[0062] As explained above, the image information acquisition type fastening member 10 is used to fasten members together, and at the same time, the imaging unit 20 captures images of the surrounding area to obtain a panoramic image, making it possible to constantly monitor almost any location in a monitored object such as a structure, including a building. Furthermore, analysis is performed to detect the target from the panoramic image, making it possible to easily check for loose fasteners, corrosion, damage, dirt, deformation, displacement, adhesion of foreign matter, etc. in members via the monitoring device 100, thereby reducing the time and effort required for workers to inspect structures, etc. on-site.

[0063] Furthermore, the detection target detected in the monitored area can be confirmed through the monitoring image displayed on the display unit 112 of the monitoring device 100. Furthermore, when the monitoring image, which is a moving image, is displayed, it becomes possible to confirm changes in the detection target over time, etc.

[0064] In the above-described embodiment, the analysis of the panoramic image is performed by the analysis unit of the image-information acquiring fastening member, but this is not limited to this, and the analysis of the panoramic image may be performed in the monitoring device. Specifically, the monitoring device is provided with an analysis unit, and the analysis unit analyzes the panoramic image data received from the image-information acquiring fastening member to detect the detection target. In this way, the processing load on the control unit of the imaging unit is reduced, and the processing speed of the entire monitoring system can be improved.

[0065] Alternatively, the monitoring device 100 may perform image processing. That is, the imaging section 20 may include the imaging unit 24 and the transmitting / receiving section 30, and the monitoring device may include image processing means and analysis means, so that the imaging data acquired by the imaging section is transmitted to the monitoring device. The monitoring device may then create panoramic image data from the imaging data and analyze the panoramic image data.

[0066] Furthermore, although the monitoring image displayed on the display unit 112 of the monitoring device 100 includes a panoramic image, it is also possible to simply display the detection target. In this way, it is possible to confirm the presence of the detection target.

[0067] Alternatively, a server may be provided to manage data transmission and reception between the image-capturing fastening member and the monitoring device, and the server may perform analysis to detect the target. In this case, the image-capturing fastening member may transmit a unique ID, panoramic image data, location information, and orientation information to the server. The server may then create monitoring image information in addition to the information it receives about the target detected through analysis, and send the information to the monitoring device.

[0068] A monitoring system constructed using such image information acquisition type fasteners, a monitoring device, and a server also makes it easy to check for loose fasteners, corrosion, damage, dirt, deformation, displacement, and foreign matter adhesion of components via the monitoring device, thereby reducing the time and effort required for workers to inspect structures, etc. Furthermore, since analysis processing is performed on the management server, the processing speed of the entire monitoring system can be improved.

[0069] The image information acquisition type fastening member 10 may also be equipped with an audio acquisition unit having a microphone or the like for acquiring surrounding audio. In this case, by capturing images and acquiring audio, it becomes possible to check for abnormalities such as strange noises that are not visible in the image.

[0070] Although the imaging unit 20 has been described as being provided on the top surface of the head 14, this is not limited to this. It may be provided on the tip side of the shaft 16 as shown in FIG. 6(a), or may be provided on both ends of the top surface of the head 14 and the tip surface of the shaft 16 as shown in FIG. 6(b).

[0071] Furthermore, the image information acquisition type fastening member 10 may have a fastener 12 that is only a shank without a head, and may have an imaging unit 20 disposed on one end surface of the fastener 12 as shown in Figure 6(c), or may have an imaging unit 20 disposed on each of both end surfaces of the fastener 12 as shown in Figure 6(d). In such cases, the shape and size of the imaging unit 20 are set so that it fits within the contour formed by the root portion of the male thread of the shank 16 when viewed in the axial direction.

[0072] Of course, the imaging unit 20 may be provided on the side surface of the head 14 (or the shaft 16). For example, as shown in FIG. 7( a), one or more recesses 60 may be formed radially inward on the circumferential surface of the head 14, and the imaging unit 24 may be disposed in the recess 60 to form the imaging unit 20. As shown in FIGS. 7( b) and 7(c), a plurality of imaging units 24 may be disposed at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction to form the imaging unit 20. The depth of the recess 60 is set so that the imaging units 24 do not protrude outward from the circumferential surface of the head 14. Furthermore, in order to supply power to the imaging unit 20, a hole may be provided in the top surface of the head 14 along the axis of the head 14 and through part of the recess 60, and the power source and the imaging unit 20 may be connected through the hole.

[0073] Furthermore, the area to be monitored, the image of which is captured by the image capturing unit 20, is not limited to being omnidirectional, but can be set as appropriate.

[0074] In addition, an accessory shoe may be provided on the imaging unit 20, and a shoe attachment portion may be provided on the end face of the head 14 or shaft 16 of the fastener 12, and the accessory shoe may be inserted into the shoe attachment portion, thereby holding the imaging unit 20 in a detachable manner relative to the fastener 12.

[0075] If the imaging unit 20 is detachable, the imaging unit 20 can be removed when fastening the fastener 12 to the workpiece. Since the imaging unit 20 can be attached after the fastener 12 is fastened, there is no risk of the tightening tool or the like coming into contact with the imaging unit 20, and the workability of tightening can be improved.

[0076] Furthermore, although the image information acquisition type fastening member has a bolt-like fastener, an imaging unit may also be provided on a nut-shaped fastener. That is, the imaging unit 20 may be disposed on one closed end surface of the female thread portion 60 of the cap nut shape shown in Fig. 8. In this case as well, the shape and size of the imaging unit 20 are set so that it fits within the outer periphery of the female thread portion 60 when viewed in the axial direction.

[0077] The image capturing unit may also be provided on a washer-shaped fastener. That is, the image capturing unit may be configured to be disposed on the end face or peripheral surface of the washer.

[0078] The image capturing unit may capture images in accordance with instructions received via the transmitting / receiving unit, and may further transmit panoramic image data stored in the storage unit based on the instructions. In this way, images can be captured and transmitted at desired times in response to remote instructions via the monitoring device.

[0079] Furthermore, the image information acquisition type fastening member 10 or the monitoring device 100 may have a determination unit that determines the situation of the detection target. The determination unit may make a determination based on preset determination criteria, but the accuracy of the determination process may be improved by a learning process that utilizes machine learning.

[0080] The condition of the detection object is, for example, the condition of damage, the progress of abnormality in the detection object over time, etc. The judgment category can be set, for example, as follows. Judgment category A: No detection target was found or the abnormality was minor and no repair work was required. Judgment category B: Repairs are required depending on the situation. Judgment category C: From the perspective of preventive maintenance, repairs etc. need to be carried out promptly. Judgment category D: From a safety standpoint, repairs etc. must be carried out promptly. Judgment category E: Urgent action is necessary from a safety standpoint. Judgment category F: Other, emergency response required. Judgment category G: Maintenance work is required. Judgment category H: Further investigation is required. Judgment category I: Follow-up investigation is necessary.

[0081] When each of these judgment categories is set, the monitoring device 100 can perform a notification operation according to the judgment result. Specifically, in the case of a judgment category other than judgment category A, a notification is made that repairs, emergency response, maintenance work response, detailed investigation response, or follow-up investigation response is required. As a notification method, for example, the judgment category is displayed on the display unit 112, or the response content according to the category is displayed. It is also possible to notify by audio output from a speaker (not shown).

[0082] Furthermore, it goes without saying that the monitoring device 100 may simply notify that a detection target is present, regardless of whether or not a determination has been made.

[0083] Civil engineering structures (structures) include bridges, metal structures, railways, roads, ports, coasts, rivers, power plants and power generation facilities, dams, tunnels, land improvement structures, disaster prevention structures, and agricultural civil engineering structures. Bridges include girder bridges, cable-stayed bridges, truss bridges, arch bridges, rigid frame bridges, and suspension bridges. Metal structures include tower structures, storage structures, sluice gates and locks, penstocks, composite structures, water supply systems, sewers, and various pipelines, including those for the distribution of gas and oil. Railways include tracks, track structures, roadbeds, railway stations, signaling, security, and communication facilities, high-speed railways, special railways, cableways, and urban railways. Roads include roadbeds, pavements, asphalt pavements, concrete pavements, gravel roads, and dust-prevention roads. Ports include basins, breakwaters, and revetments. , jetties, piers, quays, piers, sheds, loading and unloading facilities and land facilities, ship and vehicle communication facilities, fishing ports, navigational markers, etc.; coasts include coastal structures; rivers include levees and revetments, erosion control facilities, river structures, and canals; power generation facilities and equipment include water intake facilities, reservoirs, regulating ponds, nuclear power plants, thermal power plants, hydroelectric power plants, tidal power plants, geothermal power plants, wave power plants, and wind power plants; dams include gravity dams, fill-type dams, and arch dams; tunnels include tunnel structures; and land improvement structures include land reclamation, dredging, irrigation, drainage, land reclamation, and soil addition.

[0084] The structures that can be realized by each component of a building include stone masonry, brick, wood, wooden structure, storehouse structure, steel frame (S), light gauge steel frame (LGS), heavy steel frame, plain concrete, reinforced concrete (RC), steel-reinforced concrete (SRC), concrete-filled steel tubular structure, concrete block (CB), reinforced concrete block, steel-concrete composite structure, prestressed concrete (PC), membrane structure, wall structure, frame structure, masonry, air-membrane structure (single membrane), air-membrane structure (double membrane), air-membrane structure (air beam), rigid frame structure, wall-mounted rigid frame, braced rigid frame, braced structure, core structure, tube structure, truss structure, vault structure, shell structure, cable (hanging) structure, pin structure, space frame, arch, dome shell, earthquake-resistant structure, base-isolated structure, vibration-damping structure, rigid structure, flexible structure, and seismic isolation structure.

[0085] Household appliances include video equipment (display devices) such as televisions and projectors, video equipment (recording and playback devices) such as video tape recorders, DVD recorders, Blue-ray Disc recorders, HDD recorders, DVD players, and Blue-ray Disc players, video equipment (photography devices) such as video cameras and digital cameras, audio equipment (recording and playback devices) such as wire recorders, tape recorders, mini-disc recorders, radio cassette players, and IC recorders, audio equipment (playback devices) such as analog players, CD players, amplifiers, and radios, audio equipment (reproduction devices) such as speakers and headphones, white goods, and information appliances. [Explanation of symbols]

[0086] 1...surveillance system, 10...image information acquisition type fastening member, 12...fastening body, 14...head, 16...shaft, 20...imaging section, 22...control section, 24...imaging unit, 25...image processing section, 26...memory section, 28...analysis section, 30...transmitting / receiving section, 32...position information acquisition section, 34...orientation sensor, 36...power supply section, 100...surveillance device.

Claims

1. A screw fastener capable of fastening a joint between fastened members that constitute a structure, an imaging unit that is disposed integrally or separately and captures an image of the surroundings to acquire image information; a transmitting unit that transmits image information acquired by the imaging unit to an outside.

2. an analysis unit that performs analysis to detect a detection target from the image acquired by the imaging unit, 2. The screw fastener according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit transmits information about the detection target detected by the analysis unit together with the image information to an outside source.

3. 3. The threaded fastener according to claim 2, wherein the detection target is corrosion, damage, deformation, loosening of the fastener, displacement, discoloration, deterioration, stains, detachment, gaps, coming off, clogging, and / or adhesion of foreign matter.

4. the imaging unit includes a plurality of optical systems and imaging elements; 4. The screw fastener according to claim 1, further comprising an image processing unit that combines images captured by the plurality of image capturing elements to generate a spherical image.

5. a shaft portion having a threaded portion on its outer periphery, 5. The screw fastener according to claim 1, wherein the imaging unit is disposed on an end face of the shank, and the shape of the shank as viewed in the axial direction is within the diameter of the shank.

6. A shaft portion having a threaded portion on its outer periphery and a head portion formed at one end of the shaft portion, 5. The screw fastener according to claim 1, wherein the imaging unit is disposed on the top surface of the head, and the shape of the shank when viewed in the axial direction is within the outline of the head.

7. Nut-shaped, 5. The screw fastener according to claim 1, wherein the imaging unit is disposed on an end face of the nut shape, and the shape of the nut shape when viewed in the axial direction is within the outline of the nut shape.

8. a sound acquisition unit for acquiring surrounding sounds; 8. The screw fastener according to claim 1, wherein the transmitting section transmits the voice acquired by the voice acquiring section.

9. a location information acquisition unit that acquires location information; a direction information acquisition unit that acquires direction information, 9. The screw fastener according to claim 1, wherein the transmitter transmits the position information and the orientation information.

10. 10. The image information acquisition type fastening means according to claim 1, further comprising a threaded portion capable of fastening a plurality of members together.

11. a screw fastener capable of fastening a joint between fastened members that constitute a structure, the screw fastener comprising: an imaging unit that captures an image of the surroundings to acquire image information, and a transmitting unit that transmits the image information to the outside, the imaging unit being disposed integrally or separately; a monitoring device including: a communication unit capable of communicating with the screw fastener and receiving the image information; and an analysis unit that performs analysis to detect a detection target from an image based on the image information; A monitoring system comprising:

12. The monitoring system according to claim 11, wherein the detection target is corrosion, damage, deformation, loosening of fasteners, displacement, discoloration, deterioration, stains, detachment, gaps, dislodgment, clogging and / or adhesion of foreign matter.

13. the imaging unit includes a plurality of optical systems and imaging elements; 13. The monitoring system according to claim 11, wherein the screw fastener comprises an image processing unit that combines images captured by the plurality of image capturing elements to generate a spherical image.

14. The screw fastener has a shank having a threaded portion on its outer periphery, 14. The surveillance system according to claim 11, wherein the imaging unit is disposed on an end face of the shaft portion, and the shape of the shaft portion as viewed in the axial direction is within the diameter of the shaft portion.

15. The screw fastener has a shank having a threaded portion on its outer periphery and a head formed at one end of the shank, 14. The surveillance system according to claim 11, wherein the imaging unit is disposed on the top surface of the head, and the shape of the shaft unit as viewed in the axial direction is within the outline of the head.

16. The screw fastener has a nut shape, The monitoring system according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that the imaging unit is arranged on the end face of the screw fastener, and the shape of the screw fastener when viewed in the axial direction is within the outline of the screw fastener.

17. The screw fastener has a sound acquisition unit that acquires surrounding sound, 17. The monitoring system according to claim 11, wherein the transmitting unit transmits the sound acquired by the sound acquiring unit.

18. The screw fastener is a location information acquisition unit that acquires location information; a direction information acquisition unit that acquires direction information, 18. The monitoring system according to claim 11, wherein the transmitting unit transmits the position information and the direction information.

19. 19. The monitoring system according to claim 11, wherein the monitoring device has a display unit that displays the image information and / or the detection target.

20. 20. The monitoring system according to claim 11, wherein the monitoring device has a notification means for notifying that a detection target has been detected.

21. 21. The monitoring system according to claim 11, wherein the screw fastener has a threaded portion capable of fastening a plurality of members together.

Images