Control system

Abstract

To provide a control system capable of remotely controlling an apparatus without relying on a grid or wired communication line connected to the outside at a site where the apparatus to be controlled is deployed and without incurring extra costs such as personnel expenses for a site manager.SOLUTION: A control system has, in a local area (LA), a sensor, a local area computer (LAC) that processes sensing data, a LAC-controlled apparatus, a first wireless communication device (1-WCD) that transmits the processed data, a storage battery that supplies electricity to the sensor and the like, and a solar power generation device that stores electricity in the storage battery deployed, and has, in a management area (MA) different from the LA, a second wireless communication device (2-WCD) that receives the transmitted processed data and a management area computer (MAC) that processes the processed data from the 2-WCD deployed. The apparatus can be remotely controlled within the unmanned LA by commands from the MAC via the 2-WCD, 1-WCD, and LAC.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a control system for devices deployed within a local area. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, in Japan, a shortage of successors to the agricultural industry has been pointed out due to the declining birthrate and aging population. Furthermore, for similar reasons, labor shortages are becoming a problem not only in agriculture but in various other fields and regions. To solve these problems, there is a demand for the introduction of remote control systems that use equipment deployed across vast tracts of land (on-site). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US2015 / 0237217 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] There are cases where systems like the one described above have already been introduced. However, in reality, the energy supply (electricity supply) for the equipment at the site of such systems is not independent (autonomous) and relies on external supplies from the power company's power grid. Furthermore, with regard to the communication network for remote control, communication with the outside world is essentially dependent on communication cables (wired). In such cases, if the grid or communication cables are cut or damaged due to a natural disaster such as an earthquake, fire, or bad weather, it becomes difficult to operate the system.

[0005] Furthermore, in rural areas and remote areas, grid and wired backhaul lines are often insufficient, so if you want to introduce the above system in such areas, you may first need to install those grid and wired backhaul lines.

[0006] Incidentally, an example of a communication device is a mobile wireless communication device stored in a backpack that is carried by a person (Patent Document 1). It is also described that the communication device is equipped with a simple solar panel or the like to supply power for communication. However, if a natural disaster occurs and the communication cables are damaged, and the roads to the site are blocked, the person in charge (site manager) carrying the communication device will be unable to reach the site and unable to restart the system, even if they try to communicate with the site. On the other hand, if a person is to be stationed on-site, additional costs such as accommodation, food delivery, and labor costs will be incurred, creating cost problems. Furthermore, the communication device is not designed to supply electricity to the various devices on-site.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a control system that can remotely control equipment at a site where the equipment to be controlled is deployed, without relying on a grid or wired communication line connected to the outside, and without incurring extra costs such as labor costs for a site manager. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides a control system for devices deployed in a local area, comprising: In the local area, A sensor, a local area computer for processing data acquired by the sensor; said device controllable by said local area computer; a first wireless communication device capable of transmitting processed data from the local area computer; a battery that supplies electricity to the sensor, the local area computer, the appliance, and the first wireless communication device; a solar power generation device that stores electricity in the storage battery, In a management area in a region different from the local area, a second wireless communication device capable of receiving the processing data transmitted from the first wireless communication device; a management area computer that processes the processing data from the second wireless communication device; The present invention provides a control system characterized in that the device can be remotely controlled within the unmanned local area by commands from the management area computer via the second wireless communication device, the first wireless communication device, and the local area computer.

[0009] Such a remotely controllable control system of the present invention supplies electricity generated by a solar power generation device via a storage battery to sensors, local area computers, equipment, and a first wireless communication device within an unmanned local area (site), making it possible to create a system that does not require an external power company grid for the operation of equipment, etc. Furthermore, since communication (reception and transmission of processing data, reception and transmission of commands from the management area computer) at least between the unmanned local area (first wireless communication device) and the outside, and further between the management area (second wireless communication device) and the outside, is wireless, the system does not require wired communication lines (such as communication cables) between the local area and the outside (or between the management area and the outside). In this way, it is self-sufficient in terms of power, and is physically independent in terms of communication lines (no cables) and can communicate with the outside world, making it an off-grid control system in two respects. For this reason, even if a natural disaster occurs near the site and the site is physically cut off and isolated, on-site equipment can continue to operate by receiving commands from the control area computer.

[0010] Furthermore, because the local area is unmanned (in other words, because it is a control system that can remotely control equipment without the presence of an on-site manager), it can continue to operate even in the event of a natural disaster, and there is no need to incur extra costs such as the labor costs of a resident on-site manager, as mentioned above. Note that "unmanned" here means that there is no need for an administrator to be present on-site or to visit under normal circumstances in order to operate the control system normally (to remotely control equipment normally). This means that an on-site administrator in the local area (for example, in terms of communication lines, an on-site administrator carrying a mobile wireless communication device as mentioned above) is not required under normal circumstances. Note that, if a sudden problem occurs, such as equipment failure, a repair person can naturally visit and retrieve or repair the equipment.

[0011] As described above, the present invention is an unmanned local area and is equipped with facilities for off-grid operation in the two aspects described above, making it a truly autonomous control system in a local area.

[0012] More particularly, the local area computer may have event trigger and / or predictive control capabilities for coordinating communication of the process data to the management area computer.

[0013] Such a system can eliminate the need for constant communication, thereby enabling savings in communication costs, etc. Furthermore, efficient communication is possible, and power consumption by the first wireless communication device can be reduced, thereby saving power from the storage battery. Also, control and management tailored to the characteristics of the local area become possible.

[0014] The control system further includes a communications satellite; The communication between the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device may be via the communication satellite.

[0015] With this, even if the local area is located in a mountainous region, it is possible to easily communicate with the management area.

[0016] Alternatively, the control system further includes a base station and a switching center; The communication between the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device may be via the base station and a switching center.

[0017] Such a system would allow for easy communication between local areas, such as plains, where communication is relatively easy, and management areas.

[0018] The device may also be an actuator.

[0019] In this way, the device of the present invention can be a so-called actuator that can convert an electric signal or the like into physical movement.

[0020] In this case, the actuator may be one or more of a work machine, a drone, and a vending machine.

[0021] In this way, the present invention can use the above-mentioned various machines as actuators.

[0022] The device may also be an alarm device.

[0023] In this way, an alarm device capable of issuing a notification or the like can be used as the device in the present invention.

[0024] The sensor may be one or more of a camera, a thermometer, a hygrometer, a sunshine meter, a rain gauge, a wind meter, a sound-collecting microphone, a soil sensor, and a laser sensor.

[0025] In this way, the above-mentioned various sensors can be used as the sensor in the present invention.

[0026] the sensor, the local area computer, the first wireless communication device, the storage battery, and the solar power generation device are provided in each of the plurality of local areas, The second wireless communication device in the management area can be capable of communicating with the first wireless communication device in each of the areas.

[0027] This system allows for the remote control of devices in multiple local areas from one management area, which is convenient and centralizes management. Also, local areas can be set according to the characteristics of each area, making it easier to control each area more appropriately.

[0028] The management area computer may also have a simulation function based on the processing data from the local area computer.

[0029] With such a system, the simulation function can be used to learn a model through, for example, a simulation of plant growth on-site, and the results can be fed back to the control of on-site equipment to be used to improve plant growth.

[0030] The control area computer may be of an automatic or manual type for issuing the command.

[0031] An automatic system can be used to create a simpler control system. Also, depending on the content of the processed data from the second wireless communication device, it is possible to have a supervisor in the controlled area make a judgment and manually issue commands with more appropriate content and timing. [Effects of the Invention]

[0032] The control system of the present invention allows communication from the site (local area) to the outside without relying on the power company grid or wired communication lines (communication cables). Furthermore, it allows remote control of equipment deployed at the site from the management area. Furthermore, there is no need for a manager to be present at the site for remote control; unmanned control is possible at the site, which is advantageous in terms of cost. Furthermore, because it is an autonomous control system at the site, it can continue to operate satisfactorily even if the site is physically isolated due to a natural disaster or other reasons. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0033] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing an example (communication satellite) of a control system according to the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing another example (base station and exchange) of the control system of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing another example (multiple local areas) of the control system of the present invention. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0034] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present invention is not limited thereto. As mentioned above, even if a remote control system for equipment deployed in a certain area (site) is constructed, if the connection to the outside world is wired, for example, if a natural disaster occurs and the connection is physically cut off, it becomes difficult to control the equipment, etc. A system that can continue to operate even in such cases and is also cost-effective is required.

[0035] Therefore, the present inventors conducted extensive research and found that if the above devices can be remotely controlled by transmitting and receiving data and commands via wireless communication between an unmanned local area (sensor, local area computer, device, first wireless communication device, storage battery, solar power generation device) and a management area (second wireless communication device, management area computer), the device can be made off-grid in terms of power and communication lines for operating the device, and an autonomous device control system can be constructed on-site without incurring extra costs such as labor costs in the local area. In other words, the present inventors found that the above-mentioned problems can be solved and a truly autonomous control system can be realized only when the three points of an unmanned local area, off-grid in terms of power using the above-mentioned configuration, and off-grid in terms of communication lines are met. Even if a combination of only one or two of these elements had previously existed, the need to combine the remaining element for true autonomous control had not been recognized (in other words, the problem that true autonomous control would not be possible with two or fewer elements had not even been recognized, and therefore there was no motivation to combine the remaining element), but through the current research of the present inventors, they have finally discovered the importance of combining all three elements. In this way, the present invention was completed.

[0036] For the sake of simplicity, the following abbreviations may be used for various terms. Local Area...LA (Local Area) Local Area Computer (LAC) Management Area...MA (Management Area) Management Area Computer: MAC (Management Area Computer) First wireless communication device: 1-WCD (Wireless Communication Device) Second wireless communication device: 2-WCD (Wireless Communication Device)

[0037] Fig. 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing an example of a control system of the present invention. Here, a system for controlling equipment on farmland will be described first, but the present invention is not limited to farmland. First, in the control system 1 of the present invention, there are two areas: a local area (LA), which is farmland, i.e., the site, and a management area (MA), which is an area different from the LA and is used to remotely control the equipment 2 deployed in the LA. A typical example of an MA is an urban area (such as a room in a building). Another example of LA is a remote area from an urban area. The system of the present invention is particularly effective when effectively utilizing remote mountainous areas, remote islands, or the surrounding areas of remote rural areas as uninhabited farmland. However, in the present invention, MA and LA are not limited to these.

[0038] The overall structure of each area will be outlined below. First, within the LA, there are at least a sensor 3 for monitoring the environment within the LA, a local area computer (LAC) that processes data acquired by the sensor 3, a device 2 that can be controlled by the LAC, a first wireless communication device (1-WCD) that can transmit processed data from the LAC, a storage battery 4 that supplies electricity to these (sensor 3, LAC, device 2, 1-WCD), and a solar power generation device 5 that stores electricity in the storage battery 4. On the other hand, within the MA, at least a second wireless communication device (2-WCD) capable of receiving processing data transmitted from the 1-WCD and a management area computer (MAC) for processing the processing data from the 2-WCD are provided. Device 2 can be remotely controlled within the LA by commands from MAC via 2-WCD, 1-WCD, and LAC.

[0039] The configuration of each area will be explained in detail below. (Local Area) Examples of the sensor 3, which is an environmental monitoring device, include a camera (such as an IP camera), a thermometer, a hygrometer, a sunshine meter, a rain gauge, an anemometer, a sound-collecting microphone, a soil sensor, and a laser sensor. These are commercially available and can be easily obtained. A data logger having a sensor unit can also be used. The number of sensors is not particularly limited, and FIG. 1 shows an example in which two sensors are installed. In particular, cameras, sound-collecting microphones, and laser sensors can be useful in detecting unauthorized entry into LA and the intrusion of pests such as monkeys, wild boars, and deer.The other sensors mentioned above are also useful for measuring weather conditions that affect crops (extreme heat, cold, dryness, heavy rain, gusts of wind, typhoons, tornadoes, soil contamination, and fertilizer amounts). The deployment may be one of these, or multiple of these. Of course, the sensors are not limited to these, and the necessary type can be determined and deployed depending on the content to be measured. For example, fire detectors, seismic intensity meters, etc. can be deployed and used to detect fires, earthquakes, etc.

[0040] The LAC that processes various data (sensing data) from the sensor 3 (data logger) can be, for example, a commercially available computer that has a built-in program designed for processing the sensing data. The LAC also has a built-in program that can control device 2 based on commands from the MAC. Control commands from the LAC to the device 2 and data from the sensor 3 to the LAC may be transmitted either wired (such as a LAN cable) or wirelessly (such as Wi-Fi).

[0041] Here, data processing refers to, for example, storing the data, performing calculations using the data, outputting the calculation results, etc. Other examples include data compression and selection. The sensing data stored in the LAC can be sent directly to the MAC of the MA via 1-WCD or the like via continuous communication. On the other hand, the LAC can be equipped with both an event trigger function and a predictive control function, or both. The event trigger function adjusts communication to the MAC in the MA regarding data processed by the LAC. The predictive control function predicts and estimates the volume and content of future data communication as well as future power consumption based on past information accumulated in this control system and information obtained from outside via 1-WCD, etc., and controls the operation of this control system based on this prediction. An example of an event trigger is a calculation program that adjusts the timing of communication (determines whether to communicate), using a threshold. For example, a program can be configured that sets a threshold according to the type of sensing data and determines whether communication to the MAC is permitted only when the sensing data value reaches or exceeds that threshold. If sensor 3 is a thermometer, communication permission can be granted every time the temperature data changes by 1°C. If sensor 3 is a camera, image data can be saved at predetermined intervals, and if the percentage of pixels whose color or brightness has changed compared to the immediately preceding saved data exceeds a predetermined value, permission can be granted to transmit image data or video data before and after the event, assuming that a pest or person has crossed in front of the camera. Alternatively, a laser sensor can make a similar decision to grant communication permission when a laser is blocked, or a sound-collecting microphone can detect a dB level above a predetermined value. This function can be useful for selecting the data to be communicated and the timing of that communication. As an example of predictive control, future solar power generation amounts can be predicted based on weather forecast information obtained via 1-WCD, etc., and future required communication volume can be predicted based on the timing and amount of information of past sensing data accumulated in the LAC. By controlling the compression and reduction of transmitted data based on the remaining battery capacity and even stopping 1-WCD, it is possible to prevent loss of control due to power loss.

[0042] As mentioned above, continuous communication is also possible depending on the type of sensing data. However, continuous communication can increase communication costs, especially when the amount of data is large, such as video data, or when monitoring one-off events such as the invasion of pests. Furthermore, since the majority of data may not be problematic, this can lead to an increase in essentially unnecessary data from a management perspective. The event trigger function is extremely effective in reducing such communication costs and avoiding increased management efforts on the MA side due to unnecessary data. By providing an event trigger function and a predictive control function according to the climate around the LA and the frequency of pest appearances, it is possible to further utilize the system for communication with MAC (and ultimately for controlling device 2 and managing the LA itself) that is suited to the characteristics of the area around the LA.

[0043] The event trigger function has been described above as being effective in reducing communication costs, but this function is also most effective in saving power. As mentioned above, 1-WCDs and the like are supplied with electricity generated by a solar power generation device 5 and stored in a storage battery 4, but this independent power supply and independent power storage capacity are generally limited in quantity. Therefore, it is important to make effective use of electricity, and it is indeed desirable to be able to consume it efficiently. Therefore, event trigger functions for efficient use of power include adjusting data communication based on events, such as whether or not to compress (information compress) the processing data being communicated, whether or not to select (whether or not to drop) the data, and, as mentioned earlier, adjusting the timing of communication. Depending on the amount and nature of the information (processing data) being sent and received (requirements for real-timeness, tolerance for delays, whether or not information can be compressed or lost, etc.), necessary buffering and compression can be performed, and the 1-WCD's power can be switched on and off as appropriate, minimizing its power consumption. A program that effectively adjusts data communications and switches the 1-WCD's power supply can be created and built into the LAC. This minimizes power consumption within the LA, and can extremely effectively reduce the risk of power shortages due to communications within the LA.

[0044] An example of an efficient communication and effective power utilization method using the predictive control function is given below. The amount of power required by the LA and its time-varying pattern are predicted from past data and transmission / reception information predictions. Meanwhile, the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 5 is predicted from weather forecasts and past data. Appropriate power consumption control is performed based on the power generation prediction, power consumption prediction, and the capacity of the storage battery 4. As an appropriate power consumption control, if good weather is forecast to continue, power generation is expected to increase, making it possible to carry out continuous communication of large amounts of uncompressed data. On the other hand, if bad weather is forecast to continue, power generation is expected to decrease, making it possible to control the system by switching to ultra-compressed, small-volume, intermittent communication. Because this is intermittent communication, power consumption can be reduced by turning off the power of the 1-WCD when not in communication. This prediction function also makes it possible to control devices 2, such as actuators 6, connected to the LA so as not to cause a loss of capacity in the storage battery 4. This predictive control is extremely effective, as a loss of storage battery capacity means that the MAC loses control over the LAC.

[0045] The 1-WCD can wirelessly connect the processed data from the LAC to a backhaul line (described later) as needed, and transmit it to the 2-WCD via the backhaul line. Conversely, it can receive MAC commands sent from the 2-WCD wirelessly from the backhaul line and transmit them to the LAC. An example is a combination of a router and an antenna. The 1-WCD may be built into the LAC, or may be separated from the LAC as a separate, independent device. Figure 1 shows an example in which the 1-WCD is built into the LAC.

[0046] The device 2 may be, for example, an actuator 6, and more specifically, may be a work machine, a drone, or the like. Examples of farm machinery include brush cutters, tractors, rice transplanters, sprinklers, pest control machines, combines and other harvesting machines, dryers, transporters, packaging machines, and various robots with arms and hands. These can be used to automate the entire process of farmland maintenance, from growing and harvesting crops to packaging, transporting, and other shipping tasks, all under the control of an LAC. Drones can also be controlled to patrol the LA, etc. The built-in camera can be used to monitor the LA (if necessary, communication with MAC via LAC or 1-WCD is possible), and the built-in speaker and its operation can be controlled to scare away pests and warn intruders.

[0047] Furthermore, a machine other than the actuator 6 may be installed as the device 2. For example, an alarm device 7 may be installed. It can emit a loud sound, a light, or display text or images on a built-in monitor. Alternatively, it may be configured to notify a security guard or other person in an area far from the LA. The security guard who receives this notification can then rush to the LA as an emergency situation.

[0048] In this way, one or more actuators 6 can be provided, or one or more devices different from the actuator 6, such as an alarm device 7, can be provided. Alternatively, it is also possible to provide both the actuator 6 and the alarm device 7.

[0049] The storage battery 4 may be any type that can supply electricity to the devices 2, etc., and is not particularly limited. It may be a liquid battery, an all-solid-state battery, a semi-solid battery, etc. Various types of storage batteries may be used, such as lead-acid batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium-ion batteries, and NAS batteries. The number of storage batteries is also not particularly limited, and an appropriate number may be provided depending on the number of devices 2, etc.

[0050] The type of the solar power generation device 5 is not particularly limited as long as it can store in the storage battery 4 the electricity required to operate the device 2 and the like (that is, it can generate electricity). For example, it can be a fixed solar panel (solar panel), or a solar tracking type altazimuth-type solar panel (where the solar altitude axis and solar azimuth axis intersect at the center of the axis).

[0051] Alternatively, a CROAS (registered trademark) type (solar tracking type) solar panel may be used. This type allows the horizontal position of the solar panel surface to be freely selected by twisting and crossing two axes (each axis of the two axes crosses without penetrating each other as a single axis). The two east-west and north-south axes of this frame do not pass through each bearing as a single through axis, but rather have a mechanism in which each of the two bearings rotates on a single virtual through axis, so the positions of these bearings can be freely selected, allowing the two axes to twist and intersect at right angles. Therefore, one of the features is that the distance (δ) from the intersection of the two virtual straight through axes can be freely selected, allowing them to twist and intersect. In particular, with this type, it is possible to store electricity in the storage battery 4 more efficiently while operating the solar panel to track sunlight more easily and with less power. The tracking type photovoltaic power generation device 5 can operate using part of the electricity stored in the storage battery 4 through its own power generation, or a separate backup storage battery may be provided for operation.

[0052] In addition, around the solar power generation device 5 and the storage battery 4, a DC isolator, a charge controller, an inverter, etc. may be provided as needed.

[0053] (Administration area) The 2-WCD must be able to wirelessly receive the processed data sent from the 1-WCD and also be able to wirelessly send commands from the MAC (described later) to the outside (backhaul line) and ultimately to the 1-WCD. An example is the combination of a router and an antenna. The 2-WCD may be built into the MAC, or may be separated from the MAC as a separate, independent device. Figure 1 shows an example in which it is built into the MAC.

[0054] The MAC that processes the processed data from 2-WCD can be, for example, a commercially available computer that has a built-in program for processing the processed data. It also transmits control commands for device 2 based on the results of processing the processed data to the LAC via 2-WCD and 1-WCD. For example, the received processing data can be subjected to a predetermined calculation, and a control command pattern corresponding to the numerical value obtained by the calculation can be set in advance for the device 2. Then, when the processing data is actually received, the control command based on the set pattern corresponding to the numerical value obtained by the calculation can be automatically transmitted (automatic system). Such an automatic system is very simple. Alternatively, the received processed data (or the calculated data obtained by subjecting the processed data to a specified calculation) is output to a monitor or the like (audio output is also possible), and a supervisor in front of the MAC (a manager within the MA) can make an appropriate judgment and issue a command (manual type). With such a manual type, irregular processed data can be easily handled at the supervisor's discretion, and more appropriate commands can also be issued.

[0055] The MAC can also have a simulation function based on processed data from the LAC. For example, based on the processed data, it can recreate the climatic conditions and other environmental conditions of the LA in the digital twin cyberspace and perform model learning through a crop cultivation simulation. Then, based on the good learning results obtained, the MAC can send appropriate commands to the LAC to appropriately control Equipment 2 within the LA. In this way, by feeding back the simulation results to the control of Equipment 2, it is possible to harvest better crops more efficiently. In particular, at the start of the day (morning), appropriate control commands are sent to the LAC based on the simulation results based on the previous day's sensing data to control the equipment for that day (feedback), and the sensing data as the control results for that day is sent to the MAC in the evening for evaluation.At this time, depending on the discrepancy between the simulation results calculated in the morning and the sensing data as the actual control results, the simulation parameters can be fine-tuned and used for the simulation to be performed in the morning of the next day.

[0056] The configurations of the LA and MA have been described in detail above, but the following will further explain the communication (backhaul line) between 1-WCD and 2-WCD. (Backhaul line: satellite communication) Although the 1-WCD and the 2-WCD can communicate directly with each other wirelessly, such direct communication becomes difficult when they are far apart. Therefore, the control system 1 of the present invention can further include a communication satellite 8, as shown in FIG. 1. If necessary, an earth station 9 (antenna) for transmitting and receiving (transmitting and receiving) signals to and from the communication satellite 8 may also be installed. In this case, wireless communication occurs from the 1-WCD to the earth station 9 (LA side), the communication satellite 8, the earth station 9 (MA side), and back to the 2-WCD (the same applies to communication in the reverse direction). In FIG. 1, the earth station 9 (LA side) and the earth station 9 (MA side) are respectively outside the LA and the MA, but they can also be deployed inside the LA or the MA.

[0057] With communication via such communication satellites 8, it is possible for the LA to easily communicate with the MA even if it is located in a mountainous or remote area. The LA can connect with the MA no matter where it is located on Earth, making it a truly effective means of communication. Furthermore, it is easy to communicate large amounts of data. An example is low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite communications. For example, the STARLINK (registered trademark) service allows transmission to a satellite constellation at an altitude of 550 km via a service link, and then transmission to an earth station via a feeder link to create a backhaul line.

[0058] [experiment] A demonstration experiment was conducted to establish and evaluate a backhaul line using the above-mentioned communication satellite in an example of the control system 1 of the present invention. We used the STARLINK service (STANDARD plan) to evaluate the satellite communication backhaul line. We prepared a commercially available laptop [LAC], a LAN side router and antenna [1-WCD], and a Tokyo region VPS (Virtual Private Server) [2-WCD and MAC]. This laptop was connected to the LAN side router and antenna via Wi-Fi at 50cm intervals, and the communication quality between the laptop and the Tokyo region VPS was measured. For throughput measurements, TCP packets were sent to a server on the VPS with five parallel streams for 30 seconds. For latency measurements, the ping command was sent to the VPS five times to calculate the average RTT (Round-Trip Time). These measurements were then performed every minute for one hour and the average was calculated. The results for an 802.11ac (MCS9, RSSI=31.5dbm) connection were UL throughput of 17.5Mbps, DL throughput of 94.4Mbps, and latency of 60.1ms. This confirmed that it is possible to transmit large volumes of data, including video data, with delays within a practically acceptable range.

[0059] (Backhaul line: mobile communication) Furthermore, if the terrain between LA and MA is relatively free of obstructions such as mountains and is a plain where communication is relatively easy, another form of the control system of the present invention can be used, as shown in Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 2, the system can further include a base station 10 and a switching station 11, as in mobile communications. In this case, the base station 10 (LA side) receives the radio signal from 1-WCD, converts it into an electrical or optical signal, and transmits it to the exchange 11 via a communication cable, and then transmits it from the exchange 11 (or via another exchange 11 if necessary) to a base station 10 (MA side) near the MA, converts it into radio waves, and wirelessly communicates with 2-WCD (the same applies to communication in the reverse direction). This can also be easily achieved by communication via such base station 10 and exchange 11.

[0060] With the device control system of the present invention as described above, the LA can self-sufficiently supply power to devices, etc., and can communicate with the outside world without a physical communication cable, and can even communicate with the MA side, making it possible to fully self-sufficiently control devices within the LA unmanned. Therefore, there is no need to incur extra costs such as on-site labor costs. Even if the LA is physically isolated due to a natural disaster, etc., it is possible to control devices and manage the LA.

[0061] While Figures 1 and 2 have been described using an example in which there is one LA, multiple LAs may be set, as shown in another example in Figure 3. Here, an example of three different LAs is shown. However, this is not limited to this, and two or four or more LAs may be set. The number of LAs set can be determined based on the characteristics of each area, and there is no upper limit. For simplicity, only the LAC and 1-WCD are shown for the LA in Figure 3, but in reality, equipment and the like are also deployed within the LA as in Figures 1 and 2. In this case, the relationship between LA and MA is many-to-one. That is, devices are deployed in each area of ​​multiple LAs, while there is only one MA (one 2-WCD and one MAC), and the 2-WCD of the single MA communicates with the 1-WCD in each area of ​​the multiple LAs.

[0062] This system allows for easy remote control of equipment in multiple LAs using a single MA MAC. It also allows for centralized management of sensing data and equipment control data for each area, which is desirable from a management perspective. Furthermore, when environmental characteristics such as climate vary from region to region, it is more desirable to divide these areas into multiple small LAs based on their characteristics, rather than managing them as a single, vast LA, and create a system that allows for the acquisition of sensing data using sensors and the control of equipment in each area. By acquiring data that reflects the characteristics of each area and appropriately weighting control parameters based on those characteristics, equipment can be controlled more appropriately and precisely, enabling effective management of each area.

[0063] The above has described the use of agricultural land remote from urban areas as LA, but as mentioned above, the LA (and MA) in this invention is not limited to this. For example, the LA may be a section of an urban area (in a park, in a city, in a commercial facility, etc.). It may also be an empty space along a road. As with agricultural land, this is usually uninhabited. In this case, an example of a device (actuator) is a vending machine. For example, it is equipped with sensors (such as a button press sensor corresponding to the product, or a cashless IC card reader), a built-in LAC, an LAC-controlled drive unit that ejects stored products to the outlet, and a 1-WCD. When data related to product purchases is acquired by the above sensors, it is transmitted to the MAC via the LAC, 1-WCD, and 2-WCD. An automatic command to allow product ejection activates the drive unit, enabling unmanned vending of products such as drinking water and food. In addition, when a purchase is made, personal information read from the IC card is transmitted to the MAC, allowing management of purchase history and electronic money (such as billing for purchases).

[0064] Furthermore, other sensors (such as a seismic intensity meter) may be installed, and if a natural disaster in the surrounding area is confirmed by these sensors and the built-in LAC, as an emergency measure, the product entrance door or other emergency door can be automatically unlocked by command from the MAC, allowing people who have evacuated to the LA to freely remove the products inside. If an alarm device that emits sound or uses a monitor is also installed, it will be possible to easily notify those in the vicinity of the emergency measures, and it will be possible to automatically supply products to evacuees more quickly.

[0065] Another example of the vending machine mentioned above is a vending machine that does not sell food products, but sells electricity by integrating it with a storage battery for supplying electricity to other devices (or a storage battery dedicated to the vending machine itself is also acceptable). For example, when sensing data related to a purchase is acquired from an IC card reader or the like and an automatic command is sent from the MA, the vending machine can be made ready to supply electricity from a power outlet such as a wall socket. Then, mobile phones, electrically assisted bicycles, electric vehicles, etc. can be charged through the power outlet.

[0066] In addition, a water purification facility can be set up as an LA along a river in a valley or along the sea, and equipment such as a pump and water purifiers can be installed within the facility, and the water purification facility can be remotely controlled and operated from an MA set up in a distant urban area.

[0067] The present specification includes the following aspects. [1]: A control system for devices deployed within a local area, In the local area, A sensor, a local area computer for processing data acquired by the sensor; said device controllable by said local area computer; a first wireless communication device capable of transmitting processed data from the local area computer; a battery that supplies electricity to the sensor, the local area computer, the appliance, and the first wireless communication device; a solar power generation device that stores electricity in the storage battery, In a management area in a region different from the local area, a second wireless communication device capable of receiving the processing data transmitted from the first wireless communication device; a management area computer that processes the processing data from the second wireless communication device; A control system in which the equipment can be remotely controlled within an unmanned local area by commands from the management area computer via the second wireless communication device, the first wireless communication device, and the local area computer. [2]: The control system of [1] above, wherein the local area computer has both an event trigger function and a predictive control function for coordinating the communication of the processing data to the management area computer. [3]: the control system further includes a communications satellite; The control system according to [1] or [2] above, wherein communication between the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device is via the communication satellite. [4]: the control system further includes a base station and a switching center; The control system according to [1] or [2] above, wherein communication between the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device is via the base station and a switching center. [5]: The control system of any one of [1] to [4] above, wherein the device is an actuator. [6]: The control system of [5] above, wherein the actuator is one or more of a work machine, a drone, and a vending machine. [7]: The control system of any of [1] to [6] above, wherein the device is an alarm device. [8]: The control system of any one of [1] to [7] above, wherein the sensor is one or more of a camera, a thermometer, a hygrometer, a sunshine meter, a rain gauge, a wind meter, a sound-collecting microphone, a soil sensor, and a laser sensor. [9]: the sensor, the local area computer, the first wireless communication device, the storage battery, and the solar power generation device are installed in each of the plurality of local areas; The control system according to any one of [1] to [8] above, wherein the second wireless communication device in the management area is capable of communicating with the first wireless communication device for each of the areas.

[10] : The control system according to any one of [1] to [9] above, wherein the management area computer has a simulation function based on the processed data from the local area computer.

[11] : The control area computer is a control system according to any one of [1] to

[10] above, in which the issuance of the command is automatic or manual.

[0068] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. The above-described embodiments are merely examples, and anything that has substantially the same configuration as the technical idea described in the claims of the present invention and that exhibits similar effects is included within the technical scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0069] 1...control system of the present invention, 2...device, 3...sensor, 4...storage battery, 5...solar power generation device, 6...actuator, 7...alarm device, 8...Communication satellite, 9...Earth station, 10...Base station, 11...Switching center, LA...Local Area, LAC...Local Area Computer, MA...Management area, MAC...Management area computer, 1-WCD...first wireless communication device, 2-WCD...second wireless communication device.

Claims

1. A control system for devices deployed within a local area, comprising: In the local area, A sensor, a local area computer for processing data acquired by the sensor; said device controllable by said local area computer; a first wireless communication device capable of transmitting processed data from the local area computer; a battery that supplies electricity to the sensor, the local area computer, the appliance, and the first wireless communication device; a solar power generation device that stores electricity in the storage battery, In a management area in a region different from the local area, a second wireless communication device capable of receiving the processing data transmitted from the first wireless communication device; a management area computer that processes the processing data from the second wireless communication device; A control system characterized in that the equipment can be remotely controlled within the unmanned local area by commands from the management area computer via the second wireless communication device, the first wireless communication device, and the local area computer.

2. 2. The control system of claim 1, wherein said local area computer has event trigger and / or predictive control capabilities for coordinating communication of said process data to said management area computer.

3. the control system further comprises a communications satellite; 2. The control system according to claim 1, wherein communication between the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device is via the communication satellite.

4. the control system further comprises a base station and a switching center; 2. The control system according to claim 1, wherein communication between the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device is via the base station and a switching center.

5. 2. The control system of claim 1, wherein the device is an actuator.

6. The control system of claim 5 , wherein the actuator is one or more of a work machine, a drone, and a vending machine.

7. 2. The control system according to claim 1, wherein the device is an alarm device.

8. 2. The control system according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is one or more of a camera, a thermometer, a hygrometer, a sunshine meter, a rain gauge, a wind meter, a sound collecting microphone, a soil sensor, and a laser sensor.

9. the sensor, the local area computer, the first wireless communication device, the storage battery, and the solar power generation device are provided in each of the plurality of local areas, The control system according to claim 1 , wherein the second wireless communication device in the management area is capable of communicating with the first wireless communication device in each of the areas.

10. 2. The control system according to claim 1, wherein said management area computer has a simulation function based on said processing data from said local area computers.

11. 11. The control system according to claim 1, wherein the control area computer issues the command automatically or manually.

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