Sensor device, terminal device, and sensor system

Abstract

To enable the detection of corrosion inside a measured object through a simple configuration and to effectively notify the detection results.SOLUTION: A sensor device (10) includes: an operation transmission unit (13) that transmits an operation signal indicating the device's operation; and a timer (16) that determines the transmission timing for transmitting the operation signal from the operation transmission unit (13). The operation transmission unit (13) transmits the operation signal at the transmission timing determined by the timer (16). The timer (16) reduces the interval between transmission timings in response to changes in a resistance value of a resistor (167) whose resistance value changes according to the progression of corrosion.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a sensor device, a terminal device, and a sensor system. [Background technology]

[0002] There are known techniques for non-destructively measuring the internal state of a measurement target. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a method for evaluating the safety of an earth retaining structure constructed using reinforcing materials, using a corrosion sensor that detects corrosion of the reinforcing materials and RFID (Radio Frequency Identification). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-084542 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the conventional configuration leaves room for improvement in terms of effectively notifying the detection result when corrosion is detected inside the measurement object.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to enable detection of corrosion inside a measurement object and effective notification of the detection results using a simple configuration. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In some embodiments, the sensor device comprises: (1) an activation transmitting unit that transmits an activation signal that indicates activation of the device; a timer that determines a transmission timing for transmitting the activation signal from the activation transmitter; Equipped with the activation transmitter transmits the activation signal at the transmission timing determined by the timer; The timer reduces the interval of the transmission timing in response to a change in the resistance value of a resistor whose resistance value changes in response to the progress of corrosion.

[0007] In this way, the sensor device reduces the interval between transmission timings of the activation signals from the activation transmitter in response to changes in the resistance value of the resistor, which changes in response to the progression of corrosion. Therefore, it is possible to notify the device receiving the activation signals from the sensor device of the degree of corrosion around the sensor device based on the reception interval of the activation signals.

[0008] In one embodiment, (2) In the sensor device of (1), Further comprising a sensor for acquiring a measurement value of a surrounding physical quantity, The actuation transmitter may transmit a signal including the measurement value acquired by the sensor as the actuation signal.

[0009] In this way, the sensor device transmits a signal including a measurement value obtained by the sensor as an actuation signal, and is therefore able to notify the device receiving the actuation signal of the measurement value of a surrounding physical quantity.

[0010] In one embodiment, (3) In the sensor device of (2), The actuation transmitting unit may transmit, as the actuation signal, a signal including the measurement value most recently acquired by the sensor.

[0011] In this way, the activation transmission unit transmits a signal including the measurement value most recently obtained by the sensor as an activation signal, so the sensor only needs to perform measurement immediately before the activation transmission unit transmits the activation signal, making it possible to reduce power consumption in the sensor device.

[0012] In one embodiment, (4) In any one of the sensor devices (1) to (3), The activation transmitter may transmit the activation signal by wireless communication.

[0013] In this way, the sensor device transmits the activation signal by wireless communication, which makes it possible to reduce the installation costs of the sensor device.

[0014] In one embodiment, (5) In any one of the sensor devices (1) to (4), a corrosion transmitter that transmits, via wireless communication, a corrosion signal that indicates that corrosion has progressed to a certain degree at the transmission timing; a shielding unit that blocks the corrosion signal transmitted from the corrosion transmitting unit; Further provided with The shielding portion may have a function of blocking the corrosion signal that decreases as corrosion progresses.

[0015] In this way, the sensor device blocks the corrosion signal using the shielding portion, the function of which is reduced as the corrosion progresses. Therefore, the sensor device can notify devices that can communicate with the sensor device that corrosion around the sensor device is progressing by receiving the corrosion signal.

[0016] In one embodiment, (6) In the sensor device of (5), The shielding portion may be made of iron.

[0017] In this way, since the shielding portion is made of iron, the sensor device can be constructed inexpensively.

[0018] In one embodiment, (7) In any one of the sensor devices (1) to (6), a rechargeable battery that supplies power to drive the timer; a power receiving unit that receives power for charging the battery; may further comprise:

[0019] In this way, the sensor device is powered by a rechargeable battery, and therefore can be installed anywhere and in a variety of environments.

[0020] In some embodiments, the sensor device comprises: (8) a corrosion transmitter that transmits, via wireless communication, a corrosion signal indicating that corrosion has progressed to a certain degree at a predetermined transmission timing; a shielding unit that blocks the corrosion signal transmitted from the corrosion transmitting unit; Equipped with The function of the shielding portion to block the corrosion signal decreases as corrosion progresses.

[0021] In this way, the sensor device blocks the corrosion signal using the shielding portion, the function of which is reduced as the corrosion progresses. Therefore, the sensor device can notify devices that can communicate with the sensor device that corrosion around the sensor device is progressing by receiving the corrosion signal.

[0022] In one embodiment, In the sensor device of (9)(8), The shielding portion may be made of iron.

[0023] In this way, since the shielding portion is made of iron, the sensor device can be constructed inexpensively.

[0024] In one embodiment, (10) In the sensor device of (8) or (9), a rechargeable battery that supplies power to drive the corrosion transmitter; a power receiving unit that receives power for charging the battery; may further comprise:

[0025] In this way, the sensor device is powered by a rechargeable battery, and therefore can be installed anywhere and in a variety of environments.

[0026] In some embodiments, a terminal device (11) A terminal device capable of communicating with any one of the sensor devices (1) to (7), The control unit is configured to cause an output unit to output an alert when the interval between reception of the activation signal from the sensor device falls below a predetermined threshold.

[0027] In this way, if the interval between receiving activation signals falls below a predetermined threshold, the terminal device can output an alert to the output unit, effectively informing the user that corrosion has progressed around the sensor device.

[0028] In some embodiments, a terminal device (12) A terminal device capable of communicating with any one of the sensor devices of (8) to (10), The control unit controls the output unit to output an alert when the second signal is received from the sensor device.

[0029] In this way, when the terminal device receives a corrosion signal from a corrosion transmitting unit that is shielded by a shielding unit, it outputs an alert to the output unit, thereby effectively informing the user that corrosion around the sensor device has progressed significantly.

[0030] In some embodiments, a terminal device (13) A terminal device capable of communicating with the sensor device of (7) or (10), The control unit controls the power supply unit to supply power to the sensor device when a signal is not received from the sensor device for a predetermined period of time.

[0031] In this way, the terminal device can start supplying power when it has not received a signal from a sensor device powered by a rechargeable battery for more than a predetermined period of time, thereby charging the sensor device at an appropriate time.

[0032] In some embodiments, the sensor system includes: (14) A sensor system comprising a sensor device according to any one of (1) to (7) and a terminal device according to (11).

[0033] In this way, in the sensor system, the sensor device reduces the interval between transmission timings of transmitting activation signals from the activation transmitter in response to changes in the resistance value of the resistor, which changes in response to the progression of corrosion. Therefore, it is possible to notify the terminal device receiving the activation signals from the sensor device of the degree of corrosion around the sensor device based on the reception interval of the activation signals.

[0034] In some embodiments, the sensor system includes: (15) A sensor system comprising a sensor device according to any one of (8) to (10) and a terminal device according to (12).

[0035] In this way, in the sensor system, the sensor device blocks the corrosion signal using the shielding part, the function of blocking the corrosion signal of which decreases as corrosion progresses. Therefore, the sensor device can notify a terminal device that can communicate with the sensor device that corrosion around the sensor device is progressing by receiving the corrosion signal. [Effects of the Invention]

[0036] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to detect corrosion inside a measurement object and effectively notify the detection result with a simple configuration. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0037] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a sensor system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the sensor device of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 3 is a circuit diagram showing an example of the configuration of the timer in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] 3 is a graph illustrating an example of the operation of the first transmission unit in FIG. 2. [Figure 5]3 is a graph illustrating an example of the operation of the second transmission unit in FIG. 2. [Figure 6] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the terminal device of FIG. 1. [Figure 7] 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the terminal device of FIG. 1; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0038] <Comparative Example> The configuration of the comparative example (Claim 1 of Patent Document 1) is "A method for evaluating the safety of an earth retaining structure constructed using a reinforcing material, comprising at least the steps of installing at least one corrosion sensor in the reinforcing material to detect corrosion, installing an RFID tag in the soil or a wall panel to collect information from the corrosion sensor and output data using an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) method, and acquiring measurement values ​​from the RFID tag using the RFID method."

[0039] The configuration of the comparative example acquires information about the corrosion of the reinforcement material in response to an operator's instructions to the device, so the operator cannot know the corrosion status of the reinforcement material unless the operator performs the measurement himself. Also, the configuration of the comparative example acquires measurements using an RFID system, so a device compliant with the RFID system must be installed. Thus, the configuration of the comparative example leaves room for improvement in terms of effectively notifying the detection result when corrosion is detected inside the measurement object.

[0040] <Embodiment> Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, parts having the same configuration or function are denoted by the same reference numerals. In the description of this embodiment, duplicated descriptions of the same parts may be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0041] (Sensor System 1) 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a sensor system 1 according to one embodiment. The sensor system 1 includes a sensor device 10 and a terminal device 30. The sensor system 1 estimates, for example, corrosion of rebar and wood around the sensor by measuring the current temperature and humidity inside a measurement target 80 and detecting corrosion of iron or other corrodible parts built into the sensor device 10 that has occurred due to a past history of water intrusion or the like. The corrodible parts may include, for example, an environment-dependent resistor 167 and a shielding unit 15 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) described below.

[0042] The sensor device 10 is installed inside a measurement target 80 that is difficult for an operator to directly access, and detects information regarding moisture intrusion, a corrosive environment, and the like. The measurement target 80 is, for example, any object, including solids, liquids, and gases, that is difficult for humans to enter, in a building or other structure, including a factory or plant. The sensor device 10 transmits the detection results to the terminal device 30. The sensor device 10 transmits a signal including the detection results to the terminal device 30 via any wireless communication, such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or a wireless local area network (LAN). The sensor device 10 transmits a signal using electromagnetic waves in a highly penetrating frequency range, thereby enabling the signal to reach the terminal device 30 with high reliability, regardless of the presence or absence of obstacles. However, the sensor device 10 may also be communicatively connected to the terminal device 30 via a wired cable. As described below, the sensor device 10 operates using power from a rechargeable battery 17 (see FIG. 2).

[0043] The terminal device 30 notifies an operator of the detection result and alarms, etc., of the sensor device 10 based on the signal received from the sensor device 10. The terminal device 30 includes a receiving unit 331 and a wireless power supply unit 361. The receiving unit 331 is an example of a communication unit 33 (see FIG. 4) described later, and receives a signal including the detection result transmitted from the terminal device 30. The wireless power supply unit 361 is an example of a power supply unit 36 ​​(see FIG. 4) described later, and wirelessly transmits power to the sensor device 10 for charging the battery 17. The terminal device 30 is, for example, a PC (Personal Computer), but may also be a tablet terminal, a smartphone, or any other general-purpose device, or any non-general-purpose device.

[0044] (Sensor device 10) Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the sensor device 10 of Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the sensor device 10 includes a measurement unit 20, a timer 16, a battery 17, and a power receiving unit 18.

[0045] The measurement unit 20 measures information relating to moisture intrusion, the corrosive environment, and the like around the sensor device 10. The measurement unit 20 includes a controller 11, a temperature and humidity sensor 12, a first transmission unit 13, a second transmission unit 14, and a shielding unit 15.

[0046] The controller 11 controls the overall operation of the sensor device 10. The controller 11 may include one or more processors and storage devices. In one embodiment, the "processor" may be, but is not limited to, a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor specialized for a specific process. The storage device may include any storage module, such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), a read-only memory (ROM), and a random access memory (RAM). The storage device may function as, for example, a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device, or a cache memory. The storage device stores any information used in the operation of the sensor device 10.

[0047] The temperature and humidity sensor 12 measures the ambient temperature and humidity. The temperature and humidity sensor 12 measures the temperature using, for example, a temperature sensor integrated circuit (IC), but may also measure the temperature using other methods such as a resistance temperature detector, a thermocouple, or a bimetal. The temperature and humidity sensor 12 measures the humidity using, for example, a MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) capacitance sensor, but may also measure the humidity using other methods such as an electrical resistance sensor. Note that the temperature and humidity sensor 12 may be a sensor that measures other physical quantities such as sound, vibration, gas, or illuminance instead of or in addition to the ambient temperature and humidity.

[0048] The first transmission unit 13 as an activation transmission unit transmits a signal (first signal) including measured values ​​of physical quantities such as temperature and humidity measured by the temperature and humidity sensor 12 to the terminal device 30 during the period when the timer 16 drives the measurement unit 20. The first signal functions as an activation signal that indicates the operation of the device. The first transmission unit 13 transmits the signal including the measured values ​​of temperature and humidity via wireless communication, but may also transmit via wired communication.

[0049] The second transmission unit 14, which serves as a corrosion transmission unit, transmits a predetermined signal (a second signal, for example, dummy data) via wireless communication during the period when the timer 16 drives the measurement unit 20. The second signal functions as a corrosion signal, which is a signal indicating that corrosion has progressed to a certain extent. The first transmission unit 13 and the second transmission unit 14 may transmit different signals, so that the terminal device 30 receiving the signal can identify whether the device that transmitted the signal is the first transmission unit 13 or the second transmission unit 14. For example, the first transmission unit 13 and the second transmission unit 14 may transmit a signal including header information indicating whether the signal is transmitted by the first transmission unit 13 or the second transmission unit 14.

[0050] The shielding unit 15 shields the area around the second transmitter 14 and blocks the wireless signal transmitted from the second transmitter 14. As corrosion of the shielding unit 15 progresses, its ability to block the wireless signal from the second transmitter 14 decreases. For example, the shielding unit 15 may be made of iron or other materials that corrode depending on environmental conditions, including temperature and humidity. Therefore, if the area around the sensor device 10 is prone to corrosion, the shielding unit 15 corrodes over time. As the corrosion of the shielding unit 15 progresses, holes appear in the shielding unit 15, and the terminal device 30 receives signals transmitted from the second transmitter 14. Alternatively, if an abnormality occurs, such as a change or crack in the insulator around the second transmitter 14, the terminal device 30 also receives signals from the second transmitter 14. Therefore, when the terminal device 30 receives a signal transmitted from the second transmitter 14, it can detect that corrosion is progressing around the sensor device 10.

[0051] The timer 16 drives the measuring unit 20, which includes the first transmitting unit 13 and the second transmitting unit 14, at a period corresponding to the degree of corrosion of an environment-dependent resistor 167 (see FIG. 3 ), which will be described later. As a result, the first transmitting unit 13 transmits a signal at a frequency corresponding to the degree of corrosion of the environment-dependent resistor 167. Therefore, the terminal device 30 can not only obtain the measured values ​​of temperature and humidity from the signal transmitted from the first transmitting unit 13, but also detect the degree of corrosion around the sensor device 10 based on the frequency of receiving the signal.

[0052] The battery 17 supplies power to drive each component of the sensor device 10. The battery 17 may be a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion battery, a sodium ion battery, or a potassium ion battery.

[0053] The power receiving unit 18 receives power transmitted from the power supply unit 36 ​​(for example, the wireless power supply unit 361) of the terminal device 30 and charges the battery 17 with the power.

[0054] Fig. 3 is a circuit diagram showing an example configuration of the timer 16 in Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 3, the timer 16 includes a timer IC 160, a diode 161, resistors 162, 164, and 168, capacitors 163 and 169, switches 165 and 166, and an environment-dependent resistor 167. As shown in Fig. 3, the timer 16 is connected to the measurement unit 20 and the battery 17.

[0055] The timer IC 160 has a VDD terminal, a DONE terminal, a DRV terminal, and a GND terminal. The VDD terminal is an input terminal to which the positive terminal of the battery 17 is connected. The DONE terminal is an input terminal that inputs a LOW or HIGH signal. The DRV terminal is an output terminal that outputs a LOW or HIGH DC (Direct Current) signal. The GND terminal is an input terminal that is connected to ground (e.g., the negative terminal of the battery 17). When the input signal to the DONE terminal switches from LOW to HIGH, the timer IC 160 sets the output signal to the DRV terminal to LOW. The timer IC 160 switches the output signal to the DRV terminal from LOW to HIGH after a predetermined time (first time) has elapsed since a HIGH signal was input to the DONE terminal. The timer IC 160 may be configured using any commercially available timing device having such functions.

[0056] The timer IC 160 may include a counter that counts a count value using a clock signal of a predetermined frequency, and may measure the passage of the first time period when the count value of the counter reaches a predetermined value. In this case, the timer IC 160 may determine that the signal input to the DONE terminal has switched from LOW to HIGH when the voltage of the signal input to the DONE terminal becomes greater than a predetermined threshold. When the timer IC 160 determines that the signal input to the DONE terminal has switched HIGH, it may forcibly set the output signal of the DRV terminal to LOW and reset the count value of the counter.

[0057] In the configuration of FIG. 3, when both switches 165 and 166 are turned ON, the measurement unit 20 is driven by the application of voltage from the battery 17. The condition for switch 165 to be turned ON is that the output signal from the DRV terminal of timer IC 160 is HIGH. The condition for switch 166 to be turned ON is that charge accumulates in capacitor 169 and the voltage across the terminals of capacitor 169 becomes sufficiently high. Therefore, the condition for measurement unit 20 to be driven is that the output signal from the DRV terminal of timer IC 160 is HIGH and the voltage across the terminals of capacitor 169 becomes sufficiently high. Note that in the configuration of FIG. 3, switches 165 and 166 are n-type MOSFETs (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors), but they may be configured using other methods, such as mechanical relays.

[0058] In the timer 16, the diode 161, resistors 162, 164, 168, capacitors 163, 169, and switches 165, 166 are highly resistant to the environment. The electrical characteristics of these devices are unlikely to change due to the temperature, humidity, etc., around the sensor device 10. On the other hand, the environment-dependent resistor 167 is not highly resistant to the environment and gradually deteriorates. Specifically, the resistance value of the environment-dependent resistor 167 gradually increases due to the influence of the temperature, humidity, etc., around the sensor device 10.

[0059] The operation of the timer 16 after the DRV terminal output of the timer IC 160 becomes HIGH will now be described. When the DRV terminal output signal is HIGH, current continues to be supplied from the DRV terminal to the capacitor 169 via the resistor 168. The output voltage of the timer IC 160 is divided according to the resistance values ​​of the resistor 168 and the environment-dependent resistor 167, which are connected in series. Therefore, if the environment-dependent resistor 167 is not corroded and has a low resistance, the voltage at the DRV terminal is applied almost entirely to the resistor 168, and only a small voltage is generated between the terminals of the capacitor 169. In this case, the gate-source voltage of the switch 166 is insufficient, and the switch 166 does not turn ON. In other words, no current flows through the measurement unit 20, and the measurement unit 20 does not operate. Note that even if the resistance value of the environment-dependent resistor 167 is low, charge accumulates in the capacitor 169 over time. As a result, when the DRV terminal output is HIGH, the switch 166 also turns ON over time, and the measurement unit 20 operates.

[0060] As the resistance of the environment-dependent resistor 167 increases due to corrosion, the voltage across the capacitor 169 increases. If the DRV terminal of the timer IC 160 continues to output a HIGH signal for a certain period of time, the voltage across the capacitor 169 exceeds the voltage threshold for turning on the switch 166, turning on the switch 166. In this case, the switches 165 and 166 are simultaneously turned on, and the measurement unit 20 operates. The time it takes for the voltage across the capacitor 169 to exceed the voltage threshold depends on the resistance of the environment-dependent resistor 167. The larger the resistance of the environment-dependent resistor 167, i.e., the more corrosion progresses, the faster the voltage across the capacitor 169 reaches the voltage threshold for turning on the switch 166. The time (second time) from when the output of the DRV terminal of the timer IC 160 switches from LOW to HIGH until the switch 166 turns on decreases as the resistance of the environment-dependent resistor 167 increases.

[0061] When both switches 165 and 166 are turned ON, current also flows through resistors 164 and 162 and capacitor 163 via diode 161 connected to the positive terminal of battery 17. Accordingly, charge accumulates in capacitor 163, causing the voltage across capacitor 163 to rise. After a certain time, when the voltage across capacitor 163 exceeds a predetermined threshold, timer IC 160 determines that the input signal to its DONE terminal has switched from LOW to HIGH. As a result, timer IC 160 switches the output signal from its DRV terminal to LOW and resets its counter. The time (third time) from when both switches 165 and 166 are turned ON until the input signal to its DONE terminal switches from LOW to HIGH is a certain time determined by the circuit constants of the circuit including resistors 162 and 164 and capacitor 163.

[0062] When the output signal from the DRV terminal of the timer IC 160 switches from HIGH to LOW, the charge stored between the terminals of the capacitor 163 is discharged via the resistor 164. The diode 161 acts to prevent current from flowing into the measurement unit 20 during the discharge process of the capacitor 163. As a result, the input to the DONE terminal becomes zero, and the circuit unit (including the diode 161, resistors 162 and 164, and capacitor 163) that controls the drive time of the measurement unit 20 is reset.

[0063] Meanwhile, when the output signal from the DRV terminal of the timer IC 160 becomes LOW, the charge accumulated in the capacitor 169 is discharged via the environment-dependent resistor 167 and the switch 166. As a result, the circuit section (including the environment-dependent resistor 167, resistor 168, and capacitor 169) that controls the timing for turning on the switch 166 is reset.

[0064] After the first time period has elapsed again, the output signal of the DRV terminal of the timer IC 160 switches from LOW to HIGH, and the above sequence is repeated.

[0065] The operations of the first transmitter 13 and the second transmitter 14 based on the control of the timer 16 as described above will be described with reference to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5. Fig. 4 is a graph illustrating an example of the operation of the first transmitter 13 in Fig. 2. Fig. 5 is a graph illustrating an example of the operation of the second transmitter 14 in Fig. 2.

[0066] In Figure 4, the horizontal axis represents time. Graph 101 shows the change over time in the resistance value of the environment-dependent resistor 167. In the example of Figure 4, the resistance value of the environment-dependent resistor 167 remains unchanged at R1 until time t1. Between time t1 and time t2, the environment-dependent resistor 167 deteriorates, and the resistance value of the environment-dependent resistor 167 increases from R1 to R2 (>R1). After time t2, the resistance value of the environment-dependent resistor 167 remains constant at R2.

[0067] Graph 102 shows the distribution of the time during which the measurement unit 20 is continuously driven. The aforementioned third time T3 corresponds to the time (transmission timing) during which the measurement unit 20 is continuously driven. The sum of the first time T1 and the second time T2 (T1 + T2) corresponds to the time during which the measurement unit 20 stops driving. Therefore, graph 102 shows lines of length T3 distributed at intervals of T1 + T2. At time T3, the sensor device 10 performs measurement using the temperature and humidity sensor 12 and transmits signals from the first transmitter 13 and the second transmitter 14. The first transmitter 13 may transmit, as the first signal, a signal including a measurement value of a physical quantity measured by the temperature and humidity sensor 12 immediately before transmitting the signal. As described above, the lengths of times T1 and T3 are constant, but the length of time T2 decreases as the deterioration of the environment-dependent resistor 167 progresses. Therefore, the intervals on graph 102 between time t1 and time t2 become narrower as time passes. In this way, the interval (T1+T2) at which the measuring unit 20 operates becomes smaller depending on the degree of deterioration of the environmentally dependent resistor 167, so the terminal device 30 can detect the degree of corrosion around the sensor device 10 based on the interval at which it receives a signal from the first transmitting unit 13.

[0068] In FIG. 5, the horizontal axis represents time. Graph 103 schematically shows the degree of corrosion of shielding portion 15. In the example of FIG. 5, the degree of corrosion of shielding portion 15 does not change until time t3. Between time t3 and time t4, corrosion of shielding portion 15 progresses. After time t4, the degree of corrosion of shielding portion 15 remains constant. At time t4, corrosion has progressed to the point where holes have appeared in shielding portion 15.

[0069] Graph 104 shows the change in the strength of the signal received by the terminal device 30 from the second transmitter 14. Until time t3, the strength of the signal received from the second transmitter 14 is P1. Between time t3 and time t4, the shielding portion 15 corrodes, making it easier for the signal from the second transmitter 14 to reach the terminal device 30. Therefore, between time t3 and time t4, the strength of the signal received from the second transmitter 14 increases from P1 to P2 (>P1). After time t4, the strength of the signal received from the second transmitter 14 remains constant at P2. Because P1 is 0 or a very small value, the terminal device 30 can detect that corrosion is progressing significantly around the sensor device 10 based on the signal received from the second transmitter 14.

[0070] As described above, the resistance value of the environment-dependent resistor 167 increases as corrosion progresses due to the surrounding environment, such as water, and as a result, the cycle at which the timer 16 is turned on becomes shorter. Therefore, the longer the sensor device 10 is exposed to a corrosive environment and the more it deteriorates, the more frequently the terminal device 30 receives the temperature and humidity data transmitted from the first transmission unit 13. As the deterioration around the sensor device 10 progresses further, the terminal device 30 also becomes able to communicate with the second transmission unit 14. Therefore, the sensor device 10 can detect corrosion inside the measurement object and effectively notify the detection result with a simple configuration.

[0071] (Terminal device 30) Fig. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the terminal device 30 in Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 4, the terminal device 30 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, a communication unit 33, an input unit 34, an output unit 35, and a power supply unit 36.

[0072] The control unit 31 includes one or more processors. In one embodiment, the "processor" may be, but is not limited to, a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor specialized for a specific process. The control unit 31 is communicably connected to each component of the terminal device 30 and controls the operation of the entire terminal device 30.

[0073] The storage unit 32 includes any storage module, such as an HDD, SSD, ROM, and RAM. The storage unit 32 may function as, for example, a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device, or a cache memory. The storage unit 32 stores any information used in the operation of the terminal device 30. For example, the storage unit 32 may store system programs, application programs, and various information received by the communication unit 33. The storage unit 32 is not limited to being built into the terminal device 30, and may be an external database or an external storage module.

[0074] The communication unit 33 includes any communication module that can communicate with the sensor device 10 using any communication technology including Bluetooth (registered trademark). The communication unit 33 may further include a communication control module for controlling communication with the sensor device 10, and a storage module for storing communication data such as identification information required for communication with the sensor device 10.

[0075] The input unit 34 includes one or more input interfaces that receive input operations from an operator and acquire input information based on the operator's operations. For example, the input unit 34 may be, but is not limited to, a physical key, a capacitance key, a pointing device, a touch screen integrated with the display of the output unit 35, or a microphone that receives voice input.

[0076] The output unit 35 includes one or more output interfaces that output information to the operator and notify the operator. For example, the output unit 35 is, but is not limited to, a display that outputs information as an image or a speaker that outputs information as sound. Such a display may be, for example, a liquid crystal panel display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. At least one of the input unit 34 and the output unit 35 may be configured integrally with the terminal device 30 or may be provided separately.

[0077] The power supply unit 36 ​​supplies power to the sensor device 10. The power supply unit 36 ​​is realized as, for example, a wireless power supply unit 361, but may also supply power to the sensor device 10 via a wired cable.

[0078] The functions of the terminal device 30 can be realized by executing a computer program (program) according to this embodiment on a processor included in the control unit 31. That is, the functions of the terminal device 30 can be realized by software. The computer program causes a computer to execute processing of steps included in the operation of the terminal device 30, thereby causing the computer to realize functions corresponding to the processing of each step. That is, the computer program is a program for causing a computer to function as the terminal device 30 according to this embodiment.

[0079] Some or all of the functions of the terminal device 30 may be realized by a dedicated circuit included in the control unit 31. That is, some or all of the functions of the terminal device 30 may be realized by hardware. Furthermore, the terminal device 30 may be realized by a single computer or by multiple computers working together.

[0080] Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the terminal device 30 of Fig. 1. The operation of the terminal device 30 described with reference to Fig. 7 may correspond to one of the control methods of the terminal device 30. The operation of each step in Fig. 7 may be executed based on the control of the control unit 31 of the terminal device 30. The following processing is executed in a situation where the sensor device 10 drives the measurement unit 20 at a predetermined timing, as shown by the graph 102 of Fig. 4.

[0081] In step S1, the control unit 31 receives a signal from the sensor device 10 via the communication unit 33.

[0082] In step S2, the control unit 31 determines whether a predetermined fixed time has elapsed since the last time a signal was received from the sensor device 10. This fixed time may be set to a value greater than the maximum value of the total time (T1+T2) of the first and second times. If the fixed time has elapsed (Yes in step S2), the control unit 31 proceeds to step S3; if not (No in step S2), the control unit 31 proceeds to step S4.

[0083] In step S3, the control unit 31 supplies power to the sensor device 10 via the power supply unit 36. Therefore, if the terminal device 30 does not confirm reception of a signal from the sensor device 10 for a certain period of time, the control unit 31 can automatically start charging the terminal device 30. When the power supply to the sensor device 10 is finished, the control unit 31 returns to step S1.

[0084] In step S4, the control unit 31 determines whether or not a signal has been received from the sensor device 10. If a signal has been received (Yes in step S4), the control unit 31 proceeds to step S5, and if not (Yes in step S4), the control unit 31 returns to S1.

[0085] In step S5, the control unit 31 determines whether the signal received in step S4 is only a signal from the first transmission unit 13 of the sensor device 10, or whether it also includes a signal from the second transmission unit 14. If the signal from the second transmission unit 14 is also included (Yes in step S5), the control unit 31 proceeds to step S6, and if not (No in step S5), the control unit 31 proceeds to step S7.

[0086] In step S6, the control unit 31 issues an alarm notification via the output unit 35. The terminal device 30 receives a signal from the second transmission unit 13 when corrosion of the shielding unit 15 of the sensor device 10 has progressed. Therefore, the control unit 31 notifies the operator by displaying information indicating that corrosion of the sensor device 10 has progressed on the display of the output unit 35 or by outputting a sound from the speaker. After completing the processing of step S6, the control unit 31 returns to step S1.

[0087] In step S7, the control unit 31 records in the storage unit 32 the temperature and humidity data including the measured values ​​of temperature and humidity contained in the signal received from the first transmission unit 13 in step S4.

[0088] In step S8, the control unit 31 records in the storage unit 32 the time that has elapsed since the previous reception of a signal from the first transmission unit 13 until the reception of the signal in step S4.

[0089] In step S9, the control unit 31 determines whether the reception interval recorded in step S8 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. If the reception interval recorded in step S8 is equal to or less than the threshold (Yes in step S9), the control unit 31 proceeds to step S10, and if not (No in step S9), the control unit 31 returns to step S1.

[0090] In step S10, the control unit 31 issues an alarm via the output unit 35. As described above, the interval at which the signal is transmitted from the first transmission unit 13 becomes shorter as the deterioration of the environment-dependent resistor 167 of the timer 16 progresses. Therefore, the control unit 31 notifies the operator by displaying information indicating the progression of corrosion of the sensor device 10 on the display of the output unit 35 or by outputting a sound from the speaker. After completing the processing of step S10, the control unit 31 returns to step S1.

[0091] As described above, the terminal device 30 detects the presence or absence and degree of deterioration in the vicinity of the sensor device 10 based on the reception interval of a signal from the first transmitter 13 of the sensor device 10 and whether or not a signal is received from the second transmitter 14. If deterioration is detected, the terminal device 30 notifies the operator with an alarm. Therefore, the operator can easily recognize the deterioration of the measurement target 80 without having to perform the measurement himself.

[0092] It should be noted that a signal from the second transmission unit 14 is received when the degree of corrosion is severe, such as when a hole appears in the shielding unit 15. Therefore, in step S6, the control unit 31 may issue an alarm that is more emphasized than the alarm issued in step S10. For example, in step S6, the control unit 31 may display a more eye-catching image, display information urging the replacement of the sensor device 10, or combine the display of an image with the output of sound or vibration.

[0093] As described above, the sensor system 1 detects moisture intrusion into locations of the measurement target 80, such as inside a solid or in a gas, that are environmentally difficult for an operator to access, and detects information about the corrosive environment, including water, temperature, and humidity. Specifically, the sensor device 10 includes a measurement unit 20 having a first transmission unit 13 that transmits signals, and a timer 16 that determines multiple drive periods for driving the measurement unit 20. Here, the first transmission unit 13 transmits signals during multiple drive periods (transmission timings) determined by the timer 16. The timer 16 reduces the intervals between the multiple drive periods (transmission timings) in response to changes in the resistance value of the environment-dependent resistor 167, which is a resistor whose resistance value changes as corrosion progresses.

[0094] Therefore, the sensor system 1 can detect corrosion inside the measurement object 80 and effectively notify the detection results with a simple configuration, without providing a special reader device such as an RFID reader on the operator side or specially processed parts on the sensor side. The sensor device 10 transmits signals via wireless communication from the first transmitter 13 and the second transmitter 14 and is powered by the battery 17, thereby enabling non-destructive inspection of various measurement objects 80. Note that, in this embodiment, the resistance value of the environment-dependent resistor 167 increases as corrosion progresses, but the sensor device 10 may also include, as the environment-dependent resistor 167, a resistor whose resistance value decreases as corrosion progresses.

[0095] In the sensor system 1, the terminal device 30 can detect a corrosive environment caused by water or the like around the sensor device 10 based on the frequency of receiving signals from the first transmission unit 13 and the presence or absence of a signal from the second transmission unit 14. The sensor device 10 also transmits from the first transmission unit 13 a signal including a measurement value of at least one of the temperature and humidity measured by the temperature and humidity sensor 12. Therefore, the sensor system 1 can effectively notify not only the measurement values ​​of physical quantities including temperature and humidity, but also information about the corrosive environment caused by water or the like around the sensor device 10.

[0096] The sensor device 10 has a simple configuration and can be manufactured compactly and inexpensively. The measurement unit 20 of the sensor device 10 operates only during the multiple drive periods determined by the timer 16, allowing the sensor device 10 to operate with low power consumption. For example, when corrosion is not advanced, the intervals between drive periods during which the measurement unit 20 is driven are large, allowing the sensor device 10 to operate for a long period without charging. The sensor system 1 notifies the user of an alert via the terminal device 30 depending on the degree of corrosion. Therefore, the sensor device 10 itself can detect a corrosive environment early and notify the user as necessary, without relying on the operator's measurement timing.

[0097] Additionally, the sensor device 10 increases the frequency of measurements by the temperature and humidity sensor 12 as corrosion progresses. This allows the sensor system 1 to quickly identify the time and date when corrosion will worsen, as well as the route of water intrusion. The sensor system 1 can easily detect a critical corrosive environment by treating the leaked radio waves from the second transmitter 14, which is covered by the shielding part 15 containing iron foil, as an alarm signal.

[0098] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments. For example, multiple blocks shown in the block diagrams may be integrated, or one block may be divided. Multiple steps shown in the flowcharts may be executed in parallel or in a different order depending on the processing capabilities of the device executing each step, or as needed, instead of being executed in chronological order as described. Other modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0099] 1 Sensor System 10 Sensor device 11 Controller 12 Temperature and humidity sensor 13 First Transmission Unit 14 Second transmission unit 15 Shielding part 16 Timers 160 Timer IC 161 Diode 162 Resistance 163 Capacitor 164 Resistance 165 Switch 166 Switch 167 Environment-dependent resistance 168 Resistance 169 Capacitor 17 Batteries 18 Power receiving unit 20 Measurement section 30 Terminal Equipment 31 Control Unit 32 Storage section 33 Communications Department 331 Receiving Unit 34 Input section 35 Output section 36 Power supply unit 361 Wireless Power Supply Unit 80 Measurement Objects Graphs 101-104

Claims

1. an activation transmitting unit that transmits an activation signal that indicates activation of the device; a timer that determines a transmission timing for transmitting the activation signal from the activation transmitter; Equipped with the activation transmitter transmits the activation signal at the transmission timing determined by the timer; the timer reduces the interval of the transmission timing in response to a change in the resistance value of a resistor whose resistance value changes in response to the progress of corrosion; Sensor device.

2. Further comprising a sensor for acquiring a measurement value of a surrounding physical quantity, the actuation transmitting unit transmits a signal including the measurement value acquired by the sensor as the actuation signal; The sensor device according to claim 1 .

3. the actuation transmitting unit transmits, as the actuation signal, a signal including the measurement value most recently acquired by the sensor; The sensor device according to claim 2 .

4. The sensor device according to claim 1 , wherein the activation transmitter transmits the activation signal by wireless communication.

5. a corrosion transmitter that transmits, via wireless communication, a corrosion signal that indicates that corrosion has progressed to a certain degree at the transmission timing; a shielding unit that blocks the corrosion signal transmitted from the corrosion transmitting unit; Further provided with the function of the shielding portion to block the corrosion signal decreases as corrosion progresses. The sensor device according to claim 1 .

6. The sensor device according to claim 5 , wherein the shielding portion is made of iron.

7. a rechargeable battery that supplies power to drive the timer; a power receiving unit that receives power for charging the battery; The sensor device of claim 1 further comprising:

8. a corrosion transmitter that transmits, via wireless communication at a predetermined transmission timing, a corrosion signal that indicates that corrosion has progressed to a certain degree; a shielding unit that blocks the corrosion signal transmitted from the corrosion transmitting unit; Equipped with the function of the shielding portion to block the corrosion signal decreases as corrosion progresses. Sensor device.

9. The sensor device according to claim 8 , wherein the shielding portion is made of iron.

10. a rechargeable battery that supplies power to drive the corrosion transmitter; a power receiving unit that receives power for charging the battery; The sensor device of claim 8 further comprising:

11. A terminal device capable of communicating with the sensor device according to claim 1, a control unit that causes an output unit to output an alert when the interval between reception of the activation signal from the sensor device falls below a predetermined threshold; Terminal device.

12. A terminal device capable of communicating with the sensor device according to claim 8, a control unit that outputs an alert to an output unit when the corrosion signal is received from the sensor device; Terminal device.

13. A terminal device capable of communicating with the sensor device according to claim 7 or 10, a control unit that causes a power supply unit to supply power to the sensor device when a signal is not received from the sensor device for a predetermined time period; Terminal device.

14. A sensor system comprising: the sensor device according to claim 1; and the terminal device according to claim 11.

15. A sensor system comprising: the sensor device according to claim 8; and the terminal device according to claim 12.

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