Device, installation method, and program

Abstract

To provide a device, an installation method, and a program with which installation work is easily performed, and the psychological burdens of operators can be mitigated.SOLUTION: There is provided a device 1 for distance measurement, comprising: a sensor device 10 having an ultrasonic transmission / reception unit for transmitting an ultrasonic wave and receiving a reflected wave having been reflected at a measurement plane; and an attachment unit 20 for attaching the sensor device 10 to a structure 8 which is an immobile physical body. The attachment unit 20 includes a support unit 21 which exhibits a linear shape and supports the sensor device 10, and a joint unit 22 for coupling the support unit 21 to the immobile physical object so as to be parallel to the measurement plane. The joint unit 22 has a function to switch between a semi-fixed state in which the support unit 21 is held so as to be rotatable around the axial direction of the support unit 21 and a fixed state in which the support unit 21 is unable to rotate.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus, an installation method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, with the spread of IoT (Internet of Things), there has been an increasing need to use data from various sensors for infrastructure monitoring, etc. Among these, water level sensors that use ultrasonic sensors are being used for monitoring river flooding, etc. (See, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] The ultrasonic water level sensor is installed directly above the river and measures the time it takes for the ultrasonic waves to bounce back to calculate the distance. When the water level rises due to a flood or other event, the time it takes for the ultrasonic waves to be reflected becomes shorter, making it possible to detect a rise in the water level. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 8-094753 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] To accurately measure the water level of a river, the ultrasonic sensor must be installed so that the direction in which it transmits ultrasonic waves is perpendicular to the river's water surface (i.e., the ultrasonic sensor must be installed horizontally). If the ultrasonic sensor is not installed horizontally, problems such as changes in the time it takes for the wave to reflect or the reflected wave not returning can occur.

[0006] For this reason, in the past, when installing an ultrasonic sensor, a level was used to check that the equipment was level. This required the worker to lean over the bridge or other structure, a task that required great care. Therefore, installing an ultrasonic sensor was very time-consuming and placed a great psychological burden on the worker.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and provides an apparatus, an installation method, and a program that make installation easy and reduce the psychological burden on the worker. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above problem, the device of the present invention is a distance measurement device comprising a sensor device having an ultrasonic transmitter / receiver unit that transmits ultrasonic waves and receives reflected waves reflected from the measurement surface, and an attachment unit for attaching the sensor device to an immovable object, and is linear in shape and comprises a support unit that supports the sensor device, and a joint unit that connects the support unit to the immovable object so that the support unit is parallel to the measurement surface, and is characterized in that the joint unit has the function of switching the support unit between a semi-fixed state in which it is held rotatable around the axial direction of the support unit, and a fixed state in which it cannot rotate.

[0009] Furthermore, the installation method of the present invention is a method for installing a sensor device for distance measurement, wherein the sensor device has an ultrasonic transmitter / receiver unit that transmits ultrasonic waves and receives reflected waves reflected from a measurement surface, and is fixed to a linear support part, and is parallel to the measurement surface and rotatable around the axial direction of the support part; and an actual installation process in which, with the ultrasonic transmitter / receiver unit transmitting ultrasonic waves at a predetermined interval, the support part and the sensor device are rotated together, and the support part is fixed in a state in which the ultrasonic transmitter / receiver unit is facing in the direction in which the received strength of the reflected waves is greatest.

[0010] Furthermore, the program of the present invention is a program executed by a computer of a distance measurement sensor device or a computer of a terminal communicatively connected to the sensor device, wherein the sensor device has an ultrasonic transmitter / receiver unit that transmits ultrasonic waves and receives reflected waves reflected from a measurement surface, and is fixed to a linear support part, the support part is arranged parallel to the measurement surface and rotatable around the axial direction of the support part, and the program causes the computer to function as a first processing part that changes the information notified to an operator from first information to second information based on the ultrasonic transmitter / receiver unit transmitting ultrasonic waves at predetermined intervals and the rotation of the support part changing the reception intensity of the reflected waves from a first reception intensity to a second reception intensity. The program of the present invention is a program executed by a computer of a distance measurement sensor device or a computer of a terminal connected to the sensor device so as to be able to communicate with the sensor device, the sensor device having an ultrasonic transmitter / receiver unit that transmits ultrasonic waves and receives reflected waves reflected from a measurement surface, the sensor device being fixed to a linear support part, the support part being arranged so as to be parallel to the measurement surface and rotatable around the axial direction of the support part, and causing the computer to function as an installation support processing unit that causes the ultrasonic transmitter / receiver unit to transmit ultrasonic waves at predetermined intervals and notifies an operator to rotate the support part and the sensor device together, records the maximum value of the received strength of the reflected waves, and after recording the maximum value of the received strength, causes the ultrasonic transmitter / receiver unit to transmit ultrasonic waves at predetermined intervals and notifies the operator to rotate the support part and the sensor device together again, and notifies the operator of the direction in which the received strength closest to the maximum value of the recorded received strength was detected so that the operator can recognize it. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, the installation work is easy and the psychological burden on the worker can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1]1 is a perspective view of an apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a sensor device. [Figure 3] 3 is an example of a flowchart illustrating steps of a method for installing the device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 10A and 10B are conceptual diagrams for explaining the process of adjusting the angle of the sensor device. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the relationship between the angle of the sensor device and the reception intensity of the reflected wave. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Each drawing is merely a schematic illustration to allow a sufficient understanding of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated examples. Furthermore, in this embodiment, explanations of configurations not directly related to the present invention or well-known configurations may be omitted. In addition, in each drawing, common or similar components are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations thereof will be omitted.

[0014] [First embodiment] <Configuration of the device according to the first embodiment> A distance measuring device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a perspective view of the device 1 according to the first embodiment. An example of an object to be measured by the device 1 is the water surface of a river or the like, and the device 1 measures the distance between the sensor device 10 and the water surface. In the following description, an example of an object to be measured is the water surface of a river or the like. The water surface is an example of a "measurement surface."

[0015] The "X-axis direction," "Y-axis direction," and "Z-axis direction" in the description of the device 1 follow the arrows in Fig. 1. These directions are defined for the convenience of explanation and do not limit the present invention. The Z-axis direction shown in Fig. 1 is the vertical direction (i.e., a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane (measurement surface)), and the X-axis and Y-axis directions are directions perpendicular to the Z-axis direction (i.e., directions parallel to the horizontal plane (measurement surface)). The X-axis direction is assumed to be a direction away from the structure 8 to which the device 1 is fixed.

[0016] The device 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes a sensor device 10 with a communication function and an attachment part 20. The sensor device 10 is a device (water level sensor) that measures the distance to the water surface, which is the measurement target, and calculates the water level based on the measurement result. The mounting unit 20 is a component for mounting the sensor device 10 to a structure 8. The structure 8 is, for example, a bridge. The structure 8 is an example of an "immovable object." An immovable object is an object whose position does not change (especially vertical displacement) over time (and even if it does, it is extremely small).

[0017] The configuration of the sensor device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 2 (and Fig. 1 as appropriate). Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of the sensor device 10. As shown in FIG. 2, the sensor device 10 includes a solar panel 11, an ultrasonic sensor 12, a measurement processing unit 13, a wireless communication processing unit 14, and an installation support processing unit 15.

[0018] The measurement processing unit 13, the wireless communication processing unit 14, and the installation support processing unit 15 are realized, for example, by executing a program; specifically, they are realized when a CPU (Central Processing Unit) constituting a computer reads a processing program stored in a ROM (Read Only Memory) or storage, expands it into a RAM (Random Access Memory), and executes it.

[0019] The solar panel 11 is a panel-shaped component for generating electricity from sunlight and converting light energy into electrical energy. The sensor device 10 operates using the electricity generated by the solar panel 11 as its power source.

[0020] The ultrasonic sensor 12 is a sensor that measures distance by utilizing the reflection of ultrasonic waves, and includes an ultrasonic transmitter 12a and an ultrasonic receiver 12b. The ultrasonic wave transmitting unit 12a is a unit that transmits ultrasonic waves (transmitted waves), and the ultrasonic wave receiving unit 12b is a unit that receives reflected waves of the transmitted waves transmitted from the ultrasonic wave transmitting unit 12a. The ultrasonic wave transmitting unit 12a and the ultrasonic wave receiving unit 12b may be configured as a single component (ultrasonic transmitting / receiving unit). The ultrasonic wave receiving unit 12b has a function of measuring the reception intensity of the reflected waves.

[0021] Ultrasonic wave transmitting unit 12a and ultrasonic wave receiving unit 12b are installed facing the object to be measured (the water surface in this embodiment) so that the object can be measured. In this embodiment, ultrasonic wave transmitting unit 12a transmits ultrasonic waves in the vertical direction. Ultrasonic wave receiving unit 12b receives reflected waves of the ultrasonic waves transmitted from ultrasonic wave transmitting unit 12a from the vertical direction or from a direction at a predetermined angle from the vertical direction (approximately vertical direction).

[0022] Measurement processing unit 13 controls the operation of ultrasonic transmitter 12a and ultrasonic receiver 12b, and measures the time interval between the transmitted ultrasonic wave (transmitted wave) and the received ultrasonic wave (reflected wave). Measurement processing unit 13 also calculates the distance from ultrasonic sensor 12 to the water surface based on the measurement results, and determines the water level from that distance. Note that ultrasonic sensor 12 can also perform some of the functions of measurement processing unit 13 described here.

[0023] The wireless communication processing unit 14 has communication functions such as LTE (Long Term Evolution), 4G, 5G, 6G, etc., which are represented by mobile phone networks, and / or multi-hop wireless communication using a frequency band such as "920 MHz", and is capable of communicating with the maintenance terminal 2 and the water level data monitoring terminal 3. The maintenance terminal 2 is a PC (Personal Computer) operated by a person who manages the device 1. The water level data monitoring terminal 3 is a PC operated by a person who manages the device 1, and is a PC operated by a person who manages another device 1 (not shown). The wireless communication processing unit 14 transmits, for example, data obtained by the measurement processing unit 13 (such as the measurement results of the received strength of the reflected wave, the time interval between the transmitted wave and the reflected wave, and the distance from the ultrasonic sensor 12 to the water surface) so that it can be viewed on the maintenance terminal 2. Furthermore, the wireless communication processing unit 14 transmits, for example, data obtained by the measurement processing unit 13 (such as the distance from the ultrasonic sensor 12 to the water surface) so that it can be confirmed by the water level data monitoring terminal 3.

[0024] The installation support processing unit 15 has a function of supporting the installation work of the sensor device 10. The installation support processing unit 15 notifies the worker whether the ultrasonic transmitter 12a and the ultrasonic receiver 12b are installed facing vertically (i.e., whether ultrasonic waves are being transmitted vertically). The installation support processing unit 15 estimates the directions of the ultrasonic transmitter 12a and the ultrasonic receiver 12b based on the reception intensity of the reflected waves. Details of the installation support processing unit 15 will be described later. Note that some of the functions of the installation support processing unit 15 can also be executed by the maintenance terminal 2.

[0025] The mounting portion 20 shown in FIG. The support part 21 serves to support the sensor device 10 and keep it at a specific position on the water surface. The joint part 22 serves to connect the support part 21 to the structure 8.

[0026] The support part 21 is a linear tubular or rod-shaped member. The cross-sectional shape of the support part 21 (the cross-sectional shape corresponding to the plane formed by the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction) is, for example, circular. The material of the support part 21 is strong enough to support the sensor device 10, and may be, for example, a metal with excellent rust resistance such as aluminum, a metal that has been treated with rust prevention treatment such as painting or resin coating, resin, fiber reinforced plastic (FRP), or carbon. In this embodiment, the support part 21 will be described assuming that it is a cylindrical steel material (also referred to as a "single pipe") used in construction work. The support part 21 is disposed parallel to the measurement surface (here, the water surface). The joint part 22 is provided at one end of the support part 21, and the sensor device 10 is provided near the other end.

[0027] The joint part 22 holds the support part 21 parallel to the measurement surface (here, the water surface). The joint part 22 has the function of semi-fixing the support part 21 so that it can rotate clockwise and / or counterclockwise around the X-axis direction, and of fixing the support part 21 so that it cannot rotate. The worker installs the sensor device 10 in the semi-fixed state, and then fixes the sensor device 10 once the orientation of the sensor device 10 has been determined. The sensor device 10 remains in the fixed state while it is measuring the water level.

[0028] The configuration and shape of the joint part 22 can be appropriately selected taking into consideration the shape of the structure 8, the shape of the support part 21, the weight of the sensor device 10, the distance from the structure 8 to the sensor device 10, etc. In this embodiment, the structure 8 is assumed to be a railway bridge, and the joint part 22 is assumed to be fixed to the side wall of the railway bridge. Specifically, it is assumed that the structure 8 that the joint part 22 contacts is flat, and the angle between the structure 8 and the measurement surface (here, the water surface) is perpendicular.

[0029] The joint 22 shown in FIG. 1 includes a holding portion 22a, a flange portion 22b, a fixing means 22c, and a fastening means 22d.

[0030] The holding portion 22a is a portion into which the support portion 21 is inserted. The holding portion 22a has a shape (cylindrical in this case) corresponding to the support portion 21. The inner diameter of the holding portion 22a is slightly larger than the outer shape of the support portion 21, and the support portion 21 can be rotated in a state where it is inserted into the holding portion 22a. The holding portion 22a may have a groove formed therein or may have a shape with a portion cut out (approximately cylindrical).

[0031] One or more through holes (not shown) are formed in the holding portion 22a, and fastening means 22d are attached to the holes. The fastening means 22d is, for example, a screw or a bolt, and fastens the support portion 21 to the holding portion 22a. By weakening the fastening force of the fastening means 22d, the support portion 21 becomes semi-fixed and rotatable. By strengthening the fastening force of the fastening means 22d, the support portion 21 becomes fixed and cannot rotate. Note that instead of or in addition to fastening with the fastening means 22d, threads may be formed on the inner peripheral surface of the holding portion 22a and the outer peripheral surface of the support portion 21.

[0032] The flange portion 22b is a portion that protrudes radially outward from the holding portion 22a. One or more through holes (not shown) are formed in the flange portion 22b, and fixing means 22c are attached to the flange portion 22b. The fixing means 22c is, for example, a screw or a bolt, and fixes the joint portion 22 to the structure 8. The cross-sectional shape of the flange portion 22b that comes into contact with the structure 8 (the cross-sectional shape corresponding to the plane formed by the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction) is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a circular shape, a rectangular shape, or the like.

[0033] <Installation method of the device according to the first embodiment> A method for installing the device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5 (and also with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 as appropriate). Fig. 3 is an example of a flowchart showing steps of the installation method for the device 1 according to the first embodiment. Fig. 4 is an image diagram for explaining steps of adjusting the angle of the sensor device 10. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the relationship between the angle of the sensor device 10 and the reception intensity of the reflected wave.

[0034] (Preparation process: S1) As shown in FIG. 3, the worker fixes the joint portion 22 to the structure 8, and also fixes the sensor device 10 to the support portion 21 (step S1).

[0035] (Temporary installation process: S2, S3) Next, the worker installs the support part 21 in a semi-fixed state on the joint part 22 (step S2). At the stage of step S2, the support part 21 is not completely fixed to the joint part 22, so the support part 21 can be rotated around the X-axis direction.

[0036] Next, the worker rotates the support unit 21 around the X-axis direction, and the sensor device 10 transmits and receives test ultrasonic waves (step S3). For example, the worker sets the sensor device 10 to the "installation support mode (temporary installation process)." In the installation support mode (temporary installation process), the installation support processing unit 15 controls the ultrasonic sensor 12 to transmit test ultrasonic waves at predetermined intervals (e.g., every few milliseconds to several hundred milliseconds) and record the reception intensity. The installation support processing unit 15 also notifies the worker to rotate the sensor device 10. For example, when the vertical direction is set to "0°," the worker rotates the sensor device 10 operating in the installation support mode (temporary installation process) around the X-axis direction within a range of "-45° to +45°." Since the support unit 21 and the sensor device 10 are fixed, the sensor device 10 is rotated by operating the support unit 21. When the sensor device 10 is rotated at a constant speed, the relationship between the rotation angle and the reception intensity of the reflected wave is generally as shown in FIG. 5.

[0037] As shown in Figure 5, when the rotation angle is on the negative side, the received strength of the reflected wave increases as the rotation angle approaches the vertical direction. When the rotation angle is on the positive side, the received strength of the reflected wave decreases as the rotation angle moves away from the vertical direction. When the ultrasonic sensor 12 is facing vertically (when the rotation angle is "0°"), the received strength of the reflected wave is at its strongest.

[0038] Figure 4(a) shows the state of the sensor device 10 at time 901 in Figure 5, and Figure 4(d) shows the relationship between time and ultrasonic wave intensity at time 901 in Figure 5. Figure 4(b) shows the state of the sensor device 10 at time 902 in Figure 5, and Figure 4(e) shows the relationship between time and ultrasonic wave intensity at time 902 in Figure 5. Figure 4(c) shows the state of the sensor device 10 at time 903 in Figure 5, and Figure 4(f) shows the relationship between time and ultrasonic wave intensity at time 903 in Figure 5.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 4(e), at time 903 (when the ultrasonic sensor 12 is facing vertically), the time T34 from transmitting the transmitted wave to receiving the reflected wave is short, and the strength of the reflected wave (received strength) is strong. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 4(d), at time 901 (when the ultrasonic sensor 12 is not facing vertically), the time T12 from transmitting the transmitted wave to receiving the reflected wave is long, and the strength of the reflected wave (received strength) is weak. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 4(f), at time 903 (when the ultrasonic sensor 12 is not facing vertically), the time T56 from transmitting the transmitted wave to receiving the reflected wave is long, and the strength of the reflected wave (received strength) is weak.

[0040] The installation support processing unit 15 acquires the relationship between the rotation angle and the reception strength of the reflected wave shown in Fig. 5, and determines, based on the graph in Fig. 5, that the maximum value of the reception strength is the reception strength when the ultrasonic sensor 12 is facing vertically. The installation support processing unit 15 then records the maximum value of the reception strength. The installation support processing unit 15 notifies the worker that recording of the maximum value of the reception strength (the reception strength when the ultrasonic sensor 12 is facing vertically) has been completed.

[0041] (Main installation process: S4) Next, the worker sets the sensor device 10 to "installation support mode (actual installation process)". In the installation support mode (actual installation process), the installation support processing unit 15 controls the ultrasonic sensor 12 to transmit and receive test ultrasonic waves at predetermined intervals (for example, every few milliseconds to several hundred milliseconds). The installation support processing unit 15 also notifies the worker to rotate the sensor device 10 again. The worker rotates the support unit 21 again around the X-axis direction.

[0042] For example, the worker rotates the sensor device 10 operating in the installation support mode (main installation process) around the X-axis direction in a range of -45° to +45°, assuming that the vertical direction is 0°. The worker may rotate the sensor device 10 multiple times, alternating between clockwise and counterclockwise. The installation support processing unit 15 compares the received wave strength with the maximum value of the received wave strength recorded in step S3 (the received wave strength when the ultrasonic sensor 12 is facing vertically), and notifies the worker when the received wave strength of the reflected wave becomes the same as the recorded maximum value (or when it approaches a predetermined range). The installation support processing unit 15 may also notify the worker according to the strength of the received wave strength. When notifying the worker according to the strength of the received wave strength, it is desirable to enable the worker to recognize that the received wave strength is at its maximum.

[0043] The installation support processing unit 15 notifies the worker of the strength of the reception strength, for example, by sound. As an example, the weaker the reception strength, the longer the interval between sounds, and the stronger the reception strength, the shorter the interval between sounds. Also, the weaker the reception strength, the lower the volume of the sound, and the stronger the reception strength, the higher the volume of the sound. The sound notifying the strength of the reception strength may be output, for example, from the sensor device 10 or the maintenance terminal 2 (see FIG. 2).

[0044] The installation support processing unit 15 also notifies the worker of the strength of the reception strength, for example, by display. One example is a display using a level meter, where the weaker the reception strength, the smaller the value on the level meter, and the stronger the reception strength, the larger the value on the level meter. Instead of or in addition to the level meter display, the strength of the reception strength may be expressed by a color display. For example, the color may change to five levels (red, orange, yellow, light blue, and blue) depending on the strength of the reception strength. Also, instead of or in addition to the level meter display, the strength of the reception strength may be expressed by a numerical display. For example, the weakest reception strength is defined as "0" and the strongest reception strength is defined as "10," and the strength of the reception strength is expressed as an integer between "0 and 10." The display notifying the strength of the reception strength may be output, for example, from the maintenance terminal 2 (see FIG. 2).

[0045] Based on the information notified by the installation support processing unit 15, the worker recognizes that the ultrasonic sensor 12 is facing vertically, and fastens the support unit 21 to the joint unit 22 using the fastening means 22d. That is, the worker fixes the support unit 21 in the direction in which the received strength of the reflected wave is strongest (step S4). This completes the installation work of the device 1 (including the angle adjustment of the sensor device 10).

[0046] As described above, the device 1 according to the first embodiment does not require the installation work to be performed with a spirit level placed on the sensor device 10 (the sensor device 10 can be oriented vertically without using a spirit level). This makes the installation work easy and highly convenient for workers. In particular, while the installation work of the conventional sensor device 10 required the worker to lean over a bridge or the like, this is not necessary when installing the device 1 according to the first embodiment. This reduces the psychological burden on the worker during the installation work.

[0047] [Second embodiment] <Configuration of the device according to the second embodiment> A distance measuring device 101 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the distance measuring device 101 according to the second embodiment. 6 includes a sensor device 10 with a communication function and an attachment unit 120. In the second embodiment, the configuration of the attachment unit 120 differs from that in the first embodiment.

[0048] The mounting portion 120 shown in Fig. 6 is a component for mounting the sensor device 10 to a structure 8. The structure 8 is, for example, a bridge. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the structure 8 is a railway bridge, and that the device 101 is fixed to a railing of the railway bridge. The attachment portion 120 includes a support portion 121 , a joint portion 122 , a pillar portion 123 , a base portion 124 , and a joint portion 125 .

[0049] The support part 121 serves to support the sensor device 10 and keep it at a specific position on the water surface. The joint part 122 serves to connect the support part 121 to the pillar part 123. The pillar part 123 serves to make it easier to attach the support part 121 to the structure 8. The base part 124 is the foundation of the pillar part 123. The joint part 125 serves to connect the pillar part 123 to the structure 8.

[0050] The support part 121 may be the same member as the support part 21 according to the first embodiment, and is a linear tubular or rod-like member. The cross-sectional shape of the support part 121 (the cross-sectional shape corresponding to the plane formed by the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction) is, for example, circular. The support part 121 is disposed parallel to the measurement surface (here, the water surface). The joint part 122 is provided at one end of the support part 121, and the sensor device 10 is provided near the other end.

[0051] The joint part 122 holds the support part 121 parallel to the measurement surface (here, the water surface). The joint part 122 has the function of semi-fixing the support part 121 so that it can rotate clockwise and / or counterclockwise around the X-axis direction, and of fixing the support part 121 so that it cannot rotate. The worker installs the sensor device 10 in the semi-fixed state, and then fixes the sensor device 10 once the orientation of the sensor device 10 has been determined. The sensor device 10 remains in the fixed state while it is measuring the water level.

[0052] The joint portion 122 includes a first holding portion 122a, a second holding portion 122b, a fixing means 122c, and a fastening means 122d.

[0053] The first holding portion 122a is a portion into which the support portion 121 is inserted. The first holding portion 122a has a shape (here, cylindrical) corresponding to the shape of the support portion 121. The inner diameter of the first holding portion 122a is slightly larger than the outer shape of the support portion 121, and the support portion 121 can be rotated while inserted into the first holding portion 122a. The axial direction of the first holding portion 122a is the X-axis direction.

[0054] One or more through holes (not shown) are formed in the first holding portion 122a, and fastening means 122d are attached to the holes. The fastening means 122d are, for example, screws or bolts, and fasten the support portion 121 to the first holding portion 122a. By weakening the fastening force of the fastening means 122d, the support portion 121 becomes semi-fixed and rotatable. By strengthening the fastening force of the fastening means 122d, the support portion 121 becomes fixed and cannot rotate. Note that instead of or in addition to fastening with the fastening means 122d, threads may be formed on the inner circumferential surface of the first holding portion 122a and the outer circumferential surface of the support portion 121.

[0055] The second holding portion 122b is a portion into which the pillar portion 123 is inserted. The second holding portion 122b has a shape (here, cylindrical) corresponding to the pillar portion 123. The axial direction of the second holding portion 122b is the Y-axis direction. One or more through holes (not shown) are formed in the second holding portion 122b, and fixing means 122c are attached to the second holding portion 122b. The fixing means 122c is, for example, a screw or a bolt, and fixes the joint portion 122 to the pillar portion 123.

[0056] The pillar 123 is a linear tubular or rod-like member. There are no particular limitations on the cross-sectional shape of the pillar 123, and it may be, for example, circular or rectangular. The pillar 123 is disposed perpendicular to the measurement surface (here, the water surface). A base 124 is provided at one end (lower end) of the pillar 123, and a joint 125 is provided near the other end (near the upper end).

[0057] The base portion 124 is fixed to the structure 8 by fixing means 124a, and the column portion 123 is fixed by fixing means 124b. The joint part 125 is fixed to the structure 8 by fixing means 125a, and is also fixed to the column part 123 by fixing means 125b. Note that if the strength required for fixing can be ensured by using the base part 124 to fix the structure 8, the joint part 125 can be omitted.

[0058] The device 101 according to the second embodiment described above can also achieve the same effects as the first embodiment.

[0059] [Third embodiment] <Configuration of the device according to the third embodiment> A distance measuring device 201 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the distance measuring device 201 according to the third embodiment. 7 includes a sensor device 10 with a communication function and an attachment portion 220. In the third embodiment, the configuration of the attachment portion 220 differs from that in the second embodiment.

[0060] The mounting portion 220 shown in FIG. 7 is a component for mounting the sensor device 10 to the structure 8. The attachment portion 220 includes a support portion 221 , a joint portion 222 , a pillar portion 223 , a base portion 224 , a joint portion 225 , an auxiliary portion 226 , a joint portion 227 , and a joint portion 228 . The support portion 221, the pillar portion 223, the base portion 224 and the joint portion 225 have the same configuration as the support portion 121, the pillar portion 123, the base portion 124 and the joint portion 125 in the second embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0061] The joint portion 222 serves to connect the support portion 221 to the column portion 223. The auxiliary portion 226 serves to assist the support portion 221 in maintaining a state parallel to the measurement surface.

[0062] The joint part 222 holds the support part 221 parallel to the measurement surface (here, the water surface). The joint part 222 has the function of semi-fixing the support part 221 so that it can rotate clockwise and / or counterclockwise around the X-axis direction, and of fixing the support part 221 so that it cannot rotate. The worker installs the sensor device 10 in the semi-fixed state, and then fixes the sensor device 10 once the orientation of the sensor device 10 has been determined. The sensor device 10 remains in the fixed state while it is measuring the water level.

[0063] The joint part 222 has a T-shape in a side view (when viewed in the Y-axis direction). The joint part 222 includes a first holding part 222a, a second holding part 222b, a fixing means 222c, and a fastening means 222d.

[0064] The first holding portion 222a is a portion into which the support portion 221 is inserted. The first holding portion 222a is formed to protrude from the side surface of the second holding portion 222b. The first holding portion 222a has a shape (here, cylindrical) corresponding to the support portion 221. The inner diameter of the first holding portion 222a is slightly larger than the outer shape of the support portion 221, and the support portion 221 can be rotated with the support portion 221 inserted into the first holding portion 222a. The axial direction of the first holding portion 222a is the X-axis direction.

[0065] The first holding portion 222a has one or more through holes (not shown) formed therein, and fastening means 222d are attached thereto. The fastening means 222d is, for example, a screw or a bolt, and fastens the support portion 221 to the first holding portion 222a. By weakening the fastening force of the fastening means 222d, the support portion 221 becomes semi-fixed and rotatable. By strengthening the fastening force of the fastening means 222d, the support portion 221 becomes fixed and cannot rotate. Note that instead of or in addition to fastening with the fastening means 222d, threads may be formed on the inner circumferential surface of the first holding portion 222a and the outer circumferential surface of the support portion 221.

[0066] The second holding portion 222b is a portion into which the pillar portion 223 is inserted. The axial direction of the second holding portion 222b is the Z-axis direction. The second holding portion 222b has a shape (cylindrical in this case) corresponding to the pillar portion 223. One or more through holes (not shown) are formed in the second holding portion 222b, and fixing means 222c are attached to the second holding portion 222b. The fixing means 222c is, for example, a screw or a bolt, and fixes the joint portion 222 to the pillar portion 223.

[0067] The auxiliary part 226 is a linear tubular or rod-like member. The cross-sectional shape of the auxiliary part 226 is not particularly limited and may be, for example, circular or rectangular. The auxiliary part 226 connects the support part 221 and the pillar part 223. A joint part 227 is installed at one end of the auxiliary part 226 by a fixing means (not shown), and is fixed between the joint part 222 of the pillar part 223 and the base part 224 by a fixing means 227a. Furthermore, a joint part 228 is installed at the other end of the auxiliary part 226 by a fixing means 226a, and is fixed between the joint part 222 of the support part 221 and the sensor device 10 by a fixing means 228a. In addition, auxiliary part 226, joint part 227, and joint part 228 are intended to further fix support part 221 and pillar part 223 using fixing means 226a, fixing means 227a, and fixing means 228a after an operator has installed sensor device 10 in a semi-fixed state and set joint part 222 in a fixed state once the direction of sensor device 10 has been determined.

[0068] The distance measuring device 201 according to the third embodiment described above can also achieve the same effects as the first embodiment.

[0069] [Fourth embodiment] <Configuration of the device according to the fourth embodiment> A distance measuring device 301 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a perspective view of the distance measuring device 301 according to the fourth embodiment. 8 includes a sensor device 10 with a communication function and an attachment unit 320. In the fourth embodiment, the configuration of the attachment unit 320 differs from that in the third embodiment.

[0070] The mounting portion 320 shown in FIG. 8 is a component for mounting the sensor device 10 to the structure 8. The attachment portion 320 includes a support portion 321 , a joint portion 322 , a pillar portion 323 , a base portion 324 , a joint portion 325 , an auxiliary portion 326 , and a joint portion 328 . The support portion 321, joint portion 322, pillar portion 323 and base portion 324 have the same configuration as the support portion 221, joint portion 222, pillar portion 223 and base portion 224 in the third embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0071] The joint part 325 has a V-shape in a side view (when viewed in the Y-axis direction). The joint part 325 is fixed to the structure 8 by fixing means 325a. The joint part 325 also fixes the column part 323 by fixing means 325b, and also fixes the auxiliary part 326 by fixing means 325c. In addition, if the strength required for fixing the structure 8 to the pillar portion 323 can be ensured by fixing the structure 8 using the base portion 324, the joint portion 325 may be omitted in order to fix the pillar portion 323 to the structure 8 using the fixing means 325a.

[0072] The auxiliary part 326 is a linear tubular or rod-like member. The cross-sectional shape of the auxiliary part 326 is not particularly limited and may be, for example, circular or rectangular. The auxiliary part 326 connects the support part 321 and the pillar part 323. A joint part 325 is installed at one end of the auxiliary part 326 by fixing means 325b and 325c and fixed to the upper end of the pillar part 223. A joint part 328 is installed at the other end of the auxiliary part 326 by fixing means 326a and fixed between the joint part 322 of the support part 321 and the sensor device 10 by fixing means 328a. In addition, auxiliary part 326, joint part 325, and joint part 228 are intended to further fix support part 321 and column part 323 using fixing means 325a, 325b, 325c, 326a, and 328a, after an operator has installed sensor device 10 in a semi-fixed state and set joint part 222 in a fixed state once the direction of sensor device 10 has been determined.

[0073] The distance measuring device 301 according to the fourth embodiment described above can also achieve the same effects as the first embodiment.

[0074] Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to this and can be practiced within the scope of the claims.

[0075] For example, although each embodiment is intended to measure the water level, the distance measurement is not limited to the water level.

[0076] [Modification of the second embodiment] The joint portion 122 shown in FIG. 6 has a structure in which two cylindrical members (first holding portion 122a and second holding portion 122b) are combined. However, the joint portion 122 is not limited to that described in the embodiment. For example, each of the first holding portion 122a and second holding portion 122b may have a structure in which two members are combined. For example, they may be a combination of semicircular members, or a combination of a plate-shaped member and a U-shaped member. Furthermore, the first holding portion 122a and second holding portion 122b themselves may have a function for generating a fastening force (for example, a clamp). The configuration described here is an example of a "substantially cylindrical holding portion."

[0077] Furthermore, joint portion 122 was installed between base portion 124 and joint portion 125 of pillar portion 123 (near the center of pillar portion 123). However, the installation location of joint portion 122 is not limited to the position described in the embodiment, and joint portion 122 may be installed, for example, at the upper end portion of pillar portion 123. In that case, it is also possible to use joint portion 122 that is L-shaped or T-shaped in side view, or has some other shape.

[0078] [Modification of the third embodiment] The joint part 222 shown in Fig. 7 is a member having a T-shape in side view. However, the joint part 222 may have a structure in which two cylindrical members are combined together as in the second embodiment (see Fig. 6).

[0079] Furthermore, joint portion 222 was installed between base portion 224 and joint portion 225 of pillar portion 223 (near the center of pillar portion 223). However, the installation location of joint portion 222 is not limited to the position described in the embodiment, and joint portion 222 may be installed, for example, at the upper end portion of pillar portion 223. In that case, it is also possible to use joint portion 222 that is L-shaped in side view or has some other shape.

[0080] [Modification of the fourth embodiment] The joint part 322 shown in Fig. 8 is a member having a T-shape in side view. However, the joint part 322 may have a structure in which two cylindrical members are combined together as in the second embodiment (see Fig. 6).

[0081] [Modifications of the first to fourth embodiments] Furthermore, after the devices 1, 101, 201, 301, and 401 are installed, if the direction of the ultrasonic sensor 12 deviates from the vertical direction, the direction of transmitting ultrasonic waves may be automatically corrected. In the following, the device 1 will be used as an example for explanation, but the same can be realized for the devices 101, 201, 301, and 401.

[0082] For example, the ultrasonic transmitter 12a of the ultrasonic sensor 12 includes a gravity sensor. The gravity sensor measures the gravity values ​​in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions. The sensor device 10 also includes a rotation mechanism that rotates the ultrasonic sensor 12 in the X-axis and Y-axis directions. Based on the gravity values ​​in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions measured by the gravity sensor, the sensor device 10 rotates the ultrasonic sensor 12 horizontally (the direction in which ultrasonic waves are transmitted is vertical) around one or both of the X-axis and Y-axis directions so that the gravity value in the X-axis direction becomes small (e.g., below a predetermined value, or "0 G"), the gravity value in the Y-axis direction becomes small (e.g., below a predetermined value, or "0 G"), and the gravity value in the Z-axis direction becomes large (e.g., above a predetermined value, or "1 G").

[0083] In the embodiment, when installing the sensor device 10, the maximum value of the reception strength is recorded during the first rotation, and the direction of the ultrasonic sensor 12 is adjusted based on the maximum value of the reception strength recorded during the second rotation. However, the maximum value of the reception strength when the sensor device 10 is oriented vertically may be predicted in advance, and the direction of the ultrasonic sensor 12 may be adjusted based on the prediction.

[0084] Furthermore, mathematical characteristics (for example, slope (differential)) near the vertical direction may be calculated in advance from the graph showing the relationship between rotation angle and reception intensity shown in FIG. 5, and the direction of the ultrasonic sensor 12 may be adjusted based on this information.

[0085] In addition, information on the reception strength of reflected waves may be obtained from a sensor device 10 that has already been installed in an environment similar to that of the sensor device 10 being installed, and the direction of the ultrasonic sensor 12 may be adjusted based on that information. [Explanation of symbols]

[0086] 1,101,201,301 equipment 2 Maintenance terminal 3. Water level data monitoring terminal 8 Structures 10 Sensor Device 11. Solar panels 12 Ultrasonic Sensor 12a Ultrasonic transmitter 12b Ultrasonic receiver 13 Measurement processing section 14 Wireless communication processing unit 15 Installation Support Department 20,120,220,320 Mounting part 21,121,221,321 Support part 22,122,222,322 Joint 22a Holding part 22b Flange 22c Fixing means 22d Fastening means 122a,222a 1st holding part 122b,222b 2nd holding part 122c,222c Fixing means 122d,222d Fastening means 123,223,323 Pillar part 124,224,324 Base 125,225,325 Joint 226,326 Auxiliary part

Claims

1. 1. A device for measuring distances, comprising: a sensor device having an ultrasonic transmitter / receiver unit that transmits ultrasonic waves and receives the waves reflected from the measurement surface; a mounting portion for mounting the sensor device to an immovable object; The mounting portion is a linear support portion that supports the sensor device; a joint portion that connects the support portion to the immovable object so as to be parallel to the measurement surface, The joint portion has a function of switching the support portion between a semi-fixed state in which the support portion is held rotatably around the axial direction of the support portion and a fixed state in which the support portion is not rotatable. An apparatus characterized in that

2. The joint portion is a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical holding portion into which the support portion can be inserted; a flange portion protruding radially outward from the holding portion, The flange portion is fixed to the immovable object by a fixing means, The support portion is fastened to the holding portion by a fastening means such that the fastening force can be adjusted.

2. The device of claim 1 .

3. The mounting portion further includes a column portion erected on the immovable object, The joint portion is a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical first holding portion into which the support portion can be inserted; a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical second holding portion into which the column portion can be inserted, the second holding portion is fixed to the column portion by a fixing means; The support portion is fastened to the first holding portion by a fastening means in such a way that the fastening force can be adjusted.

2. The device of claim 1 .

4. the mounting portion further includes an auxiliary portion that assists the support portion in being parallel to the measurement surface, The auxiliary portion connects the support portion and the column portion.

4. The device according to claim 3.

5. A method for installing a sensor device for distance measurement, comprising: The sensor device has an ultrasonic transmitting / receiving unit that transmits ultrasonic waves and receives the reflected waves reflected from the measurement surface, and is fixed to a linear support part, a temporary installation step of arranging the support part in a state in which the support part is parallel to the measurement surface and rotatable about an axial direction of the support part; a final installation process of rotating the support unit and the sensor device together while the ultrasonic transmitting / receiving unit transmits ultrasonic waves at predetermined intervals, and fixing the support unit in a state where the ultrasonic transmitting / receiving unit is facing in a direction in which the received strength of the reflected waves is maximum, An installation method characterized by:

6. A program executed by a computer of a distance measurement sensor device or a computer of a terminal communicably connected to the sensor device, The sensor device has an ultrasonic transmitting / receiving unit that transmits ultrasonic waves and receives the reflected waves reflected from the measurement surface, and is fixed to a linear support part; the support part is arranged in a state parallel to the measurement surface and rotatable about an axial direction of the support part, The computer The ultrasonic wave transmitting / receiving unit transmits ultrasonic waves at predetermined intervals, a first processing unit that changes information to be notified to an operator from first information to second information based on a change in reception intensity of the reflected wave from a first reception intensity to a second reception intensity due to rotation of the support unit; A program to function as a

7. the information notified to the worker is audio information, The first processing unit changes intervals between sounds in the audio information from a first interval to a second interval.

7. The program according to claim 6.

8. the information notified to the worker is audio information, The first processing unit changes the volume of the audio information from a first volume to a second volume.

7. The program according to claim 6.

9. the information notified to the worker is display information, The first processing unit changes the value of the level meter in the display information from a first value to a second value.

7. The program according to claim 6.

10. the information notified to the worker is display information, The first processing unit changes the color of the display information from a first color to a second color.

7. The program according to claim 6.

11. A program executed by a computer of a distance measurement sensor device or a computer of a terminal communicably connected to the sensor device, The sensor device has an ultrasonic transmitting / receiving unit that transmits ultrasonic waves and receives the reflected waves reflected from the measurement surface, and is fixed to a linear support part; the support part is arranged in a state parallel to the measurement surface and rotatable about an axial direction of the support part, The computer The ultrasonic transmitting and receiving unit transmits ultrasonic waves at predetermined intervals, and the operator is instructed to rotate the support unit and the sensor device as a unit, and the maximum value of the received strength of the reflected waves is recorded; an installation support processing unit that, after recording the maximum value of the reception strength, causes the ultrasonic transmitting / receiving unit to transmit ultrasonic waves at predetermined intervals, notifies the worker to rotate the support unit and the sensor device together again, and notifies the worker so as to recognize the direction in which the reception strength closest to the maximum value of the recorded reception strength is detected; A program to function as a

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