Function expansion device

Abstract

To easily provide a function requested by a user to a digital sensor.SOLUTION: The function expansion device includes a first connection end connected to the digital sensor, a second connection end connected to a higher-level device that communicates with the digital sensor, a pass-through unit that transmits a signal between the first connection end and the second connection end, and an additional function unit that provides an additional function of executing predetermined processing on the digital sensor, the higher-level device, or the signal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a function expansion device. [Background technology]

[0002] Analog sensors are used in sensor devices such as analyzers and field instruments that measure various physical quantities in industrial processes. Analog sensors are detectors that convert the measured physical quantity into an electrical signal and send it to an external device. They then output the electrical signal to a converter, which calculates the measured value from the electrical signal and transmits it to a host computer. The converter is installed in a heavy, stationary housing and is equipped with various input / output terminals for transmitting the electrical signals received from the analog sensor to the host computer, as well as operating functions such as a display screen for easy on-site operation.

[0003] Such analog sensors are measuring instruments that are designed to be connected to a heavy converter for measurement. In contrast, digital sensors have a detector and a digital communication unit that calculates measurement values ​​from electrical signals and transmits them as digital signals to a host. This makes digital sensors portable measuring instruments that do not require a converter. Such digital sensors improve operability by allowing the detector and digital communication unit to be separated, or by allowing the detector, which requires periodic calibration or replacement due to deterioration over time, to be separated as a single unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2007 / 0110620 [Patent Document 2] US Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0026518 [Patent Document 3] US Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0242349 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, there is a trade-off between the expandability of analog sensors using converters and the portability of digital sensors, making it difficult to provide digital sensors that fully meet the functions required by users.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and has as its object to provide a function expansion device that can easily provide the functions that a user requests from a digital sensor. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the function expansion device of the present invention is characterized by having a first connection end connected to a digital sensor, a second connection end connected to a higher-level device that communicates with the digital sensor, a pass-through unit that transmits signals between the first connection end and the second connection end, and an additional function unit that provides an additional function of performing predetermined processing on the digital sensor, the higher-level device, or the signal. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, a function expansion device is provided that can easily provide the functions that a user requests from a digital sensor. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a usage pattern of the function expansion device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an outline of a system using an analog sensor. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an outline of a system using a digital sensor. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the function expansion device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a function expansion device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a function expansion device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a function expansion device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a function expansion device according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a function expansion device according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a function expansion device according to the seventh embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Below, examples of the function expansion device disclosed in this application will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Furthermore, the same elements will be given the same reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted as appropriate. Each embodiment can be combined as appropriate within a range that does not contradict.

[0011] <Embodiment 1> Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating a usage form of the function expansion device disclosed in the present application. As shown in Fig. 1, the function expansion device 10 disclosed in the present application is connected to or attached to each digital sensor 100 to expand the function of the digital sensor 100. In other words, the function expansion device 10 is a function expansion part (expansion attachment) having a mechanism that can be directly attached to or detached from the digital sensor 100 as an external device, so that additional functions such as on-site operation input, which were previously handled by the converter used in the analog sensor 110, can be selectively expanded as needed while maintaining the small size and weight of the digital sensor 100.

[0012] Before describing the function expansion device disclosed in this application, an overview and problems of a system using a widely used analog sensor 110 and a system using a digital sensor 100 will be described.

[0013] (Regarding a system using an analog sensor 110) Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an overview of a system using an analog sensor 110. As shown in Fig. 2, the system using the analog sensor 110 includes an analog sensor 110 including a detector 111 that measures various physical quantities, a converter 200, and a host host 300, each of which is separate and connected by a cable or the like. In a system using an analog sensor, the physical quantity measured by the detector 111 is converted into an electrical signal of current or voltage, which is then further converted by the converter 200 into an analog signal such as 4-20 mA or digital communication such as Modbus RTU, and transmitted to the host host 300, such as a control device.

[0014] The analog sensor 110 is a device including a detector 111 that converts a measured physical quantity into an electrical signal. A desired physical quantity calculated by a system using the analog sensor 110 is calculated based on the electrical signal from the analog sensor 110 using a calculation formula based on the measurement theory formula of the detector circuit and a correction calculation using a calibration coefficient for correcting individual errors in the electrical circuit. However, the calculation, correction calculation, storage of the correction coefficient, etc. are performed by the converter 200, not the analog sensor 110. Therefore, the analog sensor 110 is a device that is assumed to be connected to the converter 200 for measurement.

[0015] The converter 200 is a device that calculates a measurement value from the electrical signal of the analog sensor 110 and transmits the calculated value to the host 300. The converter 200 is a stationary device housed in a heavy housing. The converter 200 is equipped with various input / output terminals for receiving electrical signals from the detector, calculating measurement values ​​and storing numerical values ​​such as coefficients, transmitting and receiving information to and from the host 300, a display screen for easily performing on-site work such as maintenance, and operation functions.

[0016] The upper host 300 is a recorder that records measurement values, a control device that controls the entire system based on the measurement values, or a monitoring device that monitors the entire system that uses each sensor based on the measurement values. Note that the measurement values ​​of the upper host 300 are the measurement values ​​transmitted from the converter 200 in the case of a system that uses the analog sensor 110, and are the measurement values ​​transmitted from the digital sensor 100 in the case of a system that uses the digital sensor 100.

[0017] (Regarding a system using the digital sensor 100) Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an overview of a system using the digital sensor 100. As shown in Fig. 3, the system using the digital sensor 100 includes the digital sensor 100 and a higher-level host 300, which are separate from each other and connected by a cable or the like.

[0018] Digital sensor 100 converts the detected physical quantity into an electrical signal, calculates a measurement value from the electrical signal, digitizes the measurement value, and transmits the digital signal to upper host 300. Digital sensor 100 has a detection unit 101, a digital communication unit 102, and a connection unit 103. Digital sensor 100 is, for example, a liquid analyzer such as a pH sensor, a conductivity meter, or a dissolved oxygen meter (DO meter).

[0019] The detection unit 101 converts the measured physical quantity into an electrical signal of current or voltage. It corresponds to the detector 111 of the analog sensor in FIG. 2. The digital communication unit 102 calculates a measurement value from the electrical signal received from the detection unit 101. The digital communication unit 102 converts the calculated measurement value into a digital signal and transmits the digital signal to the upper host 300 via the connection unit 103. The connection unit 103 connects the upper host 300 and the digital sensor 100 via various wired communications using a cable or various wireless communications including short-range communications.

[0020] Since the digital communication unit 102 is included in the configuration of the digital sensor 100, the digital sensor does not require the converter 200. This has the advantages of reducing installation costs and saving space.

[0021] (Regarding the issues) As shown in Figure 3, a system using a digital sensor does not require the converter 200. This offers advantages such as reduced converter installation costs, space savings, and reduced maintenance work due to the compact and lightweight design. However, this system does not include additional functions such as on-site operation input, signal conversion for various communications, and a display screen, which were previously handled by the conventional converter 200, which can be inconvenient for users who require additional functions. In other words, there is a trade-off between the expandability provided by the converter 200 and the portability of the system using the digital sensor, and therefore the functionality that users require from a digital sensor cannot be provided.

[0022] When performing on-site maintenance on a system using an analog sensor, the user can easily operate the converter 200's display screen and perform operations such as holding the output. On the other hand, when performing on-site maintenance on a system using a digital sensor, the digital sensor 100 does not have an operating terminal, so the user must perform operations such as disconnecting it from the instrumentation loop on the host 300 side. Furthermore, when a user wants to temporarily view data that is not normally sent to the host for troubleshooting, for example, the user must reconfigure the wiring including the digital sensor 100, making the work more difficult. This makes it difficult for the user to perform the work.

[0023] Furthermore, the digital sensors 100 that make up a system using digital sensors generally operate with low power consumption, roughly equivalent to that of a two-wire instrument. Therefore, a power supply means may be required for the user to temporarily communicate with or operate the digital sensors 100. Therefore, the user must wire a power supply device to each digital sensor 100 in advance as a power supply means.

[0024] Furthermore, after the initial installation of a system using analog sensors, a user may wish to use a protocol other than the existing protocol. In this case, this is possible by operating or expanding the functionality of the converter 200, which supports the other protocol. On the other hand, after the initial installation of a system using digital sensors, a user may wish to use a protocol other than the communication protocol output by the digital sensor 100. In this case, the user must purchase a compatible digital sensor. If a compatible digital sensor or analog sensor is not available, the user will have to install an external signal converter, etc. In particular, if a user wishes to use a new communication protocol in addition to an existing communication protocol, this requires not only the installation but also wiring modifications, such as branching existing wiring, which further increases engineering costs and becomes expensive.

[0025] Furthermore, if all of the additional functions of the converter 200 in a system using an analog sensor were to be incorporated into the housing of the digital sensor 100, the benefits of compactness and light weight would be diminished, the price would increase, and it would be disadvantageous to users who do not need the additional functions.

[0026] As mentioned above, there is a trade-off between the expandability of an analog sensor due to its converter and the portability of a digital sensor, making it difficult to provide a digital sensor that fully meets the functions required by users.

[0027] (Explanation of the function expansion device) Therefore, the function extension device 10 disclosed in the present application includes a connection unit 20a connected to the digital sensor 100, a connection unit 20b connected to a higher-level host 300 that communicates with the digital sensor 100, a pass-through unit that transmits signals between the connection units 20a and 20b, and an additional function unit 32 that provides an additional function of executing predetermined processing on the digital sensor 100, the higher-level host 300, or the signal. Note that the connection unit 20a is an example of a first connection end portion according to the present application, and the connection unit 20b is an example of a second connection unit according to the present application. Also, the higher-level host is an example of a higher-level device according to the present application.

[0028] That is, the function expansion device 10 maintains transmission of the signal from the digital sensor 100 between the connection unit 20a and the connection unit 20b, while performing any additional processing by the additional function unit 32. Therefore, the function expansion device 10 can easily provide, as an additional function, a predetermined function required by the user from among the functions performed by the converter 200.

[0029] In this way, the function expansion device 10 can realize a system using the digital sensor 100 that has the necessary and sufficient functions for the user while maintaining the advantages of the small size and light weight of the digital sensor 100 and the cost balance.

[0030] Furthermore, the function expansion device 10 is a device that can be easily attached to and detached from the digital sensor 100 and the upper host 300, and is an extension attachment that can be directly attached to or detached from the digital sensor 100. Specifically, the function expansion device 10 is attached to the digital sensor 100 and connected to the upper host 300 via a cable, wirelessly, or the like. The function expansion device 10 has a structure that embodies any additional function while transmitting (hereinafter referred to as pass-through) the signal output by the digital sensor 100 to the upper host. Furthermore, since multiple function expansion devices 10 can be connected in multiple stages, it is possible to flexibly add or remove functions while maintaining communication with the upper host 300.

[0031] (Functional configuration) 4 is a diagram showing the configuration according to the first embodiment of the function expansion device 10. A functional configuration of the above-mentioned function expansion device 10 will be described. As shown in FIG. 4, the function expansion device 10 has a connection unit 20a, a connection unit 20b, and a control unit 30.

[0032] The connection part 20a is connected to the connection part 103 of the digital sensor 100. The connection part 20a is, for example, a male-female pin connector, a 4-20 mA input / output terminal with a digital communication function such as HART (Highway Addressable Remote Transducer) communication, etc. The connection part 20a and the connection part 103 may be directly coupled, or may be connected by wire, wirelessly, etc.

[0033] The connection unit 20b is connected to the connection unit 301 of the upper host 300. The connection unit 20b is, for example, a male-female pin connector, a 4-20 mA input / output terminal with a digital communication function such as HART communication, etc. The connection unit 20b and the connection unit 301 may be directly coupled, or may be connected by wire, wirelessly, etc.

[0034] Furthermore, multiple function expansion devices 10 can be connected in multiple stages. Therefore, the connection parts 20a and 20b are configured to be connectable to each other. Furthermore, the connection parts 20a and 20b are configured to be detachable. If the connection parts 20a and 20b are not compatible with the connection parts 103 or 301, a conversion adapter may be used to convert them into compatible terminals.

[0035] The control unit 30 is responsible for overall control of the function expansion device 10. The control unit 13 has a pass-through unit 31 and an additional function unit 32. Here, the control unit 30 can be realized by, for example, an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0036] The pass-through unit 31 transmits signals received between the connection unit 20a and the connection unit 20b to each other. For example, the pass-through unit 31 transmits a signal received by the connection unit 20a from the digital sensor 100 to the connection unit 20b, and transmits a signal received by the connection unit 20b from the upper host 300 to the connection unit 20a. The pass-through unit 31 may transmit the received signal as is, or may make a change to the received signal, such as temporarily fixing the value of the received signal.

[0037] The pass-through unit 31 may also add any data to the received signal. For example, the pass-through unit 31 outputs the self-diagnosis information and identifier of the function expansion device 10 to a predetermined data address area on the communication line, thereby enabling the upper host 300 to grasp the state of the digital sensor 100 including a series of function expansion devices 10.

[0038] The additional function unit 32 executes functions that extend the digital sensor 100. Various functions that were previously handled by the conventional converter 200 can be set in this additional function unit 32, and only the functions necessary for the user can be set. The additional function unit 32 can add one or more additional functions without interrupting communication between the digital sensor 100 and the upper host 300 via the pass-through unit 31. Examples of functions executed by the additional function unit 32 are described below.

[0039] For example, an operation input function is set in the additional function unit 32. The operation input function corresponds to the operation input function at the site that was previously handled by the conventional converter 200, and is a function for operating the digital sensor 100. An example of the operation input function is a hardware hold switch (HOLD switch). The function of the HOLD switch is to prevent abnormal values ​​measured by the digital sensor 100 from being transmitted to the upper host 300 when, for example, an abnormal value is detected during on-site maintenance work.

[0040] Specifically, the additional function unit 32 instructs the pass-through unit 31 to execute a value fixation process that fixes the communication content of the signal from the digital sensor 100 to the upper host 300 at the value immediately before the HOLD switch was pressed while the HOLD switch is ON. By adding this function, for example, when performing maintenance on the digital sensor 100 on-site, the user can remove the upper host 300 from the control loop simply by pressing the HOLD switch. This eliminates the need for the user to perform tasks such as removing the upper host 300 from the instrumentation loop on the upper host 300 side, greatly simplifying the work.

[0041] For example, a short-range wireless communication function is set in the additional function unit 32. The short-range wireless communication function is a function that executes a signal transfer process to transmit contents such as values ​​transmitted by the pass-through unit 31 and other values ​​in the digital sensor 100 received by the connection unit 20a to a connected device via short-range wireless communication. Note that the short-range wireless communication function can also receive various data from the connected device.

[0042] Specifically, the additional function unit 32 acquires the contents of the digital sensor 100, such as values ​​transmitted by the pass-through unit 31 to the upper host 300 or values ​​received by other connection unit 20a via short-range communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), and transfers the acquired contents via short-range communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). By adding this function, for example, when troubleshooting, a user can temporarily check the status of the digital sensor 100 simply by connecting to short-range wireless communication using a device such as a smartphone. This eliminates the need for work such as installing new equipment or reconfiguring wiring including the digital sensor 100 when the user wants to temporarily view data that is not normally transmitted to the upper host, thereby improving work efficiency.

[0043] For example, a display function is set in the additional function unit 32. The display function is a function that executes display processing to display the contents of values ​​transmitted by the pass-through unit 31, values ​​in the digital sensor 100 received by the other connection unit 20a, etc.

[0044] Specifically, the additional function unit 32 acquires values ​​transmitted by the pass-through unit 31 to the upper host 300 or values ​​in the digital sensor 100 received by other connection units 20a, and displays the acquired contents. By adding this function, for example, when performing maintenance on the digital sensor 100 on-site, the user can easily check the status of the digital sensor 100 by simply connecting the function expansion device 10 to the digital sensor 100 without needing a terminal such as a smartphone. This eliminates the need for a terminal such as a smartphone for the user to install new equipment, reconfigure wiring including the digital sensor 100, and further simplifies the process.

[0045] For example, a power supply function is set in the additional function unit 32. The power supply function is a function that executes a power supply process to supply power to the digital sensor 100 and the like.

[0046] Specifically, the additional function unit 32 supplies power to the digital sensor 100 that is operating with low power consumption. By adding this function, when the user needs power to execute temporary communication or operation, power can be supplied simply by connecting the function expansion device 10 to the digital sensor 100. This eliminates the need for the user to wire a power supply device to the digital sensor 100 or the like in advance as a power supply means, thereby improving work efficiency.

[0047] (effect) As described above, by connecting the function expansion device 10 to the digital sensor 100, the user can add various functions to the digital sensor 100. This does not require complicated work, and the user can significantly improve the efficiency of work such as maintenance and inspection.

[0048] The function expansion device 10 allows users to externally install only the functions they need from among the on-site functions that were previously handled by the conventional converter 200. This allows users to add the functions they need while still taking advantage of the advantages of the digital sensor 100, such as its small size, light weight, and space saving. Furthermore, because only the functions necessary for the user can be added, a necessary and sufficient cost balance can be achieved.

[0049] <Embodiment 2> In the first embodiment, an example in which one additional function is set in the function expansion device 10 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and multiple additional functions can be set in the function expansion device 10. Therefore, in the second embodiment, an example in which multiple additional functions are set in the function expansion device 10 will be described.

[0050] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the configuration of a function expansion device 10 according to a second embodiment. As shown in Fig. 5, the function expansion device 10 according to the second embodiment has a plurality of additional function units 32, unlike the function expansion device 10 according to the first embodiment. The function expansion device 10 according to the second embodiment is a device that expands the function of a digital sensor 100, and has components in common with the function expansion device 10 according to the first embodiment. The following describes the processing content of the function expansion device 10 according to the second embodiment that differs from that of the function expansion device 10 according to the first embodiment. Note that a description of the configuration and processing that are the same as those of the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0051] The function expansion device 10 according to the second embodiment has additional function units 32a to 32d in the control unit 30, and the user sets additional functions selected by the user in each additional function unit. This results in the function expansion device 10 having a plurality of functions required by the user set therein.

[0052] For example, an operation function is set in additional function unit 32a, a short-range communication function in additional function unit 32b, a HOLD switch in additional function unit 32c, and a power supply function in additional function unit 32d. Then, during maintenance and inspection, the user turns on the HOLD switch to fix the value to be transmitted to the upper host. At the same time or in parallel, the user can check the status of digital sensor 100 on their smartphone using the short-range communication function, while operating digital sensor 100 using the operation input function, and supply the digital sensor 100 with the power required for the operation.

[0053] (effect) In the second embodiment, a plurality of functions selected by the user can be set collectively in the function expansion device 10. Therefore, maintenance and inspection can be performed using only the function expansion device 10 in which only the necessary functions for each plant are set without excess or deficiency. Therefore, there is no need to prepare a plurality of function expansion devices 10, which contributes to cost reduction.

[0054] <Embodiment 3> In the second embodiment, an example in which a plurality of additional functions are set in the function expansion device 10 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the function expansion device 10 of the first embodiment can be connected in multiple stages. Therefore, in the third embodiment, a multi-stage configuration of the function expansion device 10 will be described.

[0055] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of a function expansion device 10 according to a third embodiment. The function expansion device 10 according to the third embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 6, the function expansion device 10A and the function expansion device 10B according to the third embodiment have the same configuration, and have the "connection unit 20a, connection unit 20b, and control unit 30" described in the first embodiment. The usage form of the function expansion device 10 according to the third embodiment is the same as in the first embodiment, in that a higher-level host 300, a function expansion device 10A, a function expansion device 10B, and a digital sensor 100 are connected. Note that a description of the same configuration and processing as in the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0056] For example, the additional function unit 32 of the function expansion device 10A is set to a HOLD switch function, and the additional function unit 32 of the function expansion device 10B is set to a near-field communication function. The connection unit 20a of the function expansion device 10A and the connection unit 20b of the function expansion device 10B may be connected directly, by wire such as a cable, or wirelessly, and are detachably connected. Then, during maintenance and inspection, for example, the user turns on the HOLD switch of the function expansion device 10A to fix the value to be transmitted to the upper host. At the same time, the user can check the status of the digital sensor 100 on their smartphone using the near-field communication function of the function expansion device 10B.

[0057] (effect) In the third embodiment, various functions are set for each function expansion device 10. By freely combining and connecting the function expansion devices 10 on-site, the user can easily add functions required for maintenance and inspection to the digital sensor 100. Furthermore, in the third embodiment, multiple function expansion devices 10 may be required, but the function expansion devices 10 can be separated individually. For example, when a specific additional function unit 32 becomes unnecessary for a certain digital sensor 100, the function expansion device 10 in which the additional function unit 32 is set can be separated and used for another digital sensor 100. Therefore, the function expansion device 10 can flexibly respond to changes in the functional configuration of the digital sensor 100.

[0058] Furthermore, since the function expansion device 10 is small and lightweight, it is possible to carry a plurality of function expansion devices 10 and to easily connect the function expansion devices 10 to each other. The user can easily expand the functions of the digital sensor 100.

[0059] <Embodiment 4> Incidentally, in the first to third embodiments, examples have been described in which the function expansion device 10 provides any additional function, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the function expansion device 10 can output some kind of instruction to the digital sensor 100. Therefore, in the fourth embodiment, a function expansion device 10 that outputs an instruction to the digital sensor 100 will be described.

[0060] 7 is a diagram showing a configuration of a fourth embodiment of the function expansion device 10. The function expansion device 10 according to the fourth embodiment is a device that expands the function of the digital sensor 100 and adjusts two or more transmission signals to the digital sensor 100 so as not to cause crosstalk.

[0061] 7, the function expansion device 10 according to the fourth embodiment has a connection unit 20a, a connection unit 20b, and a control unit 30, and the control unit 30 has a bus arbitration unit 33 in addition to a pass-through unit 31 and an additional function unit 32. Note that a description of the "control unit 30, pass-through unit 31, and additional function unit 32," which are components common to the function expansion device 10 according to the first embodiment, will be omitted. Here, the bus arbitration unit 33, which executes processing different from that of the function expansion device 10 according to the first embodiment, will be described.

[0062] The bus arbitration unit 33 adjusts the order and timing of transmission signals to the digital sensor 100. For example, the bus arbitration unit 33 is required when the function expansion device 10 issues a command to the digital sensor 100. As shown in Fig. 7, the bus arbitration unit 33 transmits command 1 from the upper host 300 (or another function expansion device 10 connected to the upper level) and command 2 from the function expansion device 10 to the digital sensor 100 based on a preset arbitrary order of priority and timing.

[0063] For example, the bus arbitration unit 33 is set to a time interval of 500 ms during which a command from the upper host 300 is given priority. The additional function unit 32 of the function extension device 10 transmits command 2 to the bus arbitration unit 33. In the cases of (1) and (2) below, the bus arbitration unit 33 waits to send command 2 to the digital sensor 100. In cases other than (1) and (2), the bus arbitration unit 33 transmits command 2 to the digital sensor 100 via the connection unit 20a without waiting.

[0064] (1) is a case where the bus arbitration unit 33 has already received command 1 from the upper host 300, etc. In this case, the bus arbitration unit 33 waits to send command 2 until it has finished sending a reply to command 1 that it is currently receiving to the upper host 300, etc.

[0065] (2) is the case where a time interval of 500 ms has already elapsed since the reply to the last command 1 was sent to the upper host 300, etc. In this case, if there is a next command 1, the bus arbitration unit 33 waits to send command 2 until the next command 1 has been sent to the digital sensor 100. Furthermore, if there is no next command 1, the bus arbitration unit 33 waits to send command 2 until the silent interval of command 1 has elapsed for 500 ms.

[0066] When the standby state in the case of (1) or (2) is released, the bus arbitration unit 33 transmits the command 2 to the digital sensor 100 via the connection unit 20b.

[0067] Command 1 is, for example, a command to periodically obtain the main measurement value and status of the digital sensor 100 from the upper host 300 (a command to check the main measurement value and status of the digital sensor), and command 2 is, for example, a command to calibrate the digital sensor 100 during maintenance inspection or the like (a calibration command), or a command to check the status of the digital sensor 100 from the user (a command to check the status of the digital sensor). Note that each command is merely an example and is not limited to this.

[0068] If the function set in the additional function unit 32 can be realized using communication data transmitted from a device other than the function expansion device 10, the bus arbitration unit 33 is not essential.

[0069] The function expansion device 10 is connected on the premise that the upper host 300 periodically issues command 1 to check the status of the digital sensor 100. In this case, the function expansion device 10 acquires the data when passing through communication data (measured values, etc.) in response to command 1 from the digital sensor 100. For example, if a display function is set in the additional function unit 32 of the function expansion device 10, the additional function unit 32 acquires the passed-through data and displays it on the display screen.

[0070] The digital sensor 100 also has a function to voluntarily transmit the state of the digital sensor 100 to the upper host 300 at regular intervals. In this case, the function extension device 10 attached to the digital sensor 100 acquires communication data passed through from the digital sensor 100 to the upper host 300.

[0071] (effect) In the fourth embodiment, after installing the digital sensor 100, if the user wants to use a communication protocol different from the communication protocol output to the digital sensor 100, the user can add a function expansion device 10 having a bus arbitration unit 33 that supports the different communication protocol. This allows the user to expand the loop configuration while maintaining the existing loop configuration, simply by adding a new function expansion device 10. This eliminates the need for the user to introduce a corresponding digital sensor, an external signal converter, etc., thereby significantly reducing costs. Furthermore, the user is no longer required to perform difficult tasks such as branching existing wiring, thereby significantly improving work efficiency.

[0072] <Embodiment 5> In the first to fourth embodiments, the function expansion devices 10 are described as being connected in series (vertical direction), but this is not limiting, and the function expansion devices 10 can also be connected in parallel (horizontal direction). Therefore, in the fifth embodiment, the function expansion devices 10 connected in parallel will be described.

[0073] 8 is a diagram showing a configuration of a function expansion device 10 according to a fifth embodiment. The function expansion device 10 according to the fifth embodiment is a device that can be connected to another function expansion device 10C (which may be another upper host) through a connection unit 20c in addition to the connection unit 20b. Therefore, the function expansion device 10 according to the fifth embodiment executes pass-through between the connection units 20a and 20b and branch pass-through between the connection units 20a and 20c while expanding the function of the digital sensor 100. The connection unit 20c is an example of a third connection unit according to the present invention.

[0074] 8, the function expansion device 10 according to the fifth embodiment has a connection unit 20c in addition to the connection units 20a, 20b, and control unit 30. Furthermore, the control unit 30 has a pass-through branch unit 31b in addition to the pass-through unit 31a, additional function unit 32, and bus arbitration unit 33. Furthermore, the function expansion device 10C has the connection units 20a, 20b, and control unit 30, and the control unit 30 has the pass-through unit 31 and additional function unit 32.

[0075] Here, explanations of the "control unit 30, pass-through unit 31, and additional function unit 32" of each function expansion device, which are components common to the function expansion device 10 according to the first embodiment, will be omitted. Here, explanations will be given of the pass-through branch unit 31b and the bus arbitration unit 33 of the function expansion device 10, which execute processes different from those of the function expansion device 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0076] The connection unit 20c has the same configuration as the connection unit 20b, and is configured to be connectable to the function expansion device 10 or the upper host 300. The connection unit 20c may be always connected to the function expansion device 10 or the like, or may be temporarily connected to the function expansion device 10 or the like when necessary.

[0077] The pass-through branching unit 31b branches the pass-through being executed. The pass-through branching unit 31b branches the pass-through between the connection unit 20a and the connection unit 20b being executed by the pass-through unit 31a, and also executes it between the connection unit 20a and the connection unit 20c. The function of the pass-through branching unit 31b may be set in the additional function unit 32.

[0078] The bus arbitration unit 33 adjusts the pass-through based on a preset arbitrary priority and timing. In addition to the functions of the fourth embodiment, the bus arbitration unit 33 controls the pass-through unit 31a and the pass-through branching unit 31b so that the pass-through and the branched pass-through do not mix with each other.

[0079] For example, a HOLD switch function is set in the additional function unit 32 of the function expansion device 10, and a display function is set in the additional function unit 32 of the function expansion device 10C. During maintenance and inspection, the user turns on the HOLD switch of the function expansion device 10. This fixes the value sent from the digital sensor 100 to the upper host 300. After that, the user connects the function expansion device 10C to the connection unit 20c. Then, the value of the digital sensor 100 that has not been fixed by the branch pass-through is displayed on the display unit of the function expansion device 10C, allowing the user to check the status of the digital sensor 100.

[0080] (effect) In the fifth embodiment, in addition to the upper host 300, data can be transmitted in any communication protocol by branch pass-through even to another upper host (or another function expansion device 10C). When necessary, the user can temporarily obtain data that is not normally transmitted by the digital sensor 100 simply by connecting the function expansion device 10C to another function expansion device 10 to the connection section 20c. This eliminates the need for the user to disconnect and reconnect the wiring of the digital sensor 100, greatly improving convenience.

[0081] <Embodiment 6> Incidentally, in the first to fifth embodiments, examples have been described in which the function expansion device 10 provides any additional function to the digital sensor 100, but the present invention is not limited to this, and by connecting the function expansion device 10 with a function expansion device 10D, it is possible to assist the function expansion device 10 and expand its functions. Therefore, in the sixth embodiment, a function expansion device 10 and a function expansion device 10D that assist or expand the functions of another function expansion device 10 will be described.

[0082] 9 is a diagram showing the configuration of a function expansion device 10 and a function expansion device 10D according to a sixth embodiment. The function expansion device 10 according to the sixth embodiment is a device that can be connected to another function expansion device 10D through a connection section 20c in addition to a connection section 20b. The function expansion device 10D according to the sixth embodiment is a device that assists or expands the function of another function expansion device 10.

[0083] 9, the function expansion device 10 according to the sixth embodiment has a connection unit 20c in addition to a connection unit 20a, a connection unit 20b, and a control unit 30. The control unit 30 has a pass-through unit 31 and an additional function unit 32.

[0084] The function expansion device 10D according to the sixth embodiment has a connection section 20a and a control section 30, and the control section 30 has an auxiliary function section in addition to an additional function section 32.

[0085] Note that the explanation of the "control unit 30, pass-through unit 31, and additional function unit 32" which are components common to the function expansion device 10 according to the first embodiment will be omitted. Here, the explanation will be given of the auxiliary function unit 34 of the function expansion device 10D which executes processing different from that of the function expansion device 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0086] The additional function unit 32 of the function expansion device 10D has the same functions as the additional function unit 32 of the function expansion device 10 according to the first embodiment, but does not add functions to the digital sensor 100 but to the function expansion device 10. Furthermore, the function expansion device 10 according to the sixth embodiment does not have the bus arbitration unit 33 and the pass-through branch unit 31b, and therefore does not execute branch pass-through for the connection unit 20c. The function expansion device 10D has only the connection unit 20a, and therefore does not execute pass-through.

[0087] For example, the auxiliary function unit 34 can be set with functions to assist the function expansion device 10, such as a display function, a data recording function, and a power supply function.

[0088] For example, a user connects a function expansion device 10D, in which a display function is set in the auxiliary function unit 34, to 20c of the function expansion device 10. This allows the user to check the status inside the function expansion device 10 and diagnose the function expansion device 10.

[0089] (effect) In the sixth embodiment, connecting a function expansion device 10d to the function expansion device 10 can assist the function expansion device 10 with display functions, data recording, power supply, etc. By temporarily connecting and using the function expansion device 10d, a user can share the function expansion device 10, eliminating the need for new equipment or wiring, and providing high cost-effectiveness.

[0090] <Embodiment 7> Incidentally, in the first to sixth embodiments, examples have been described in which the function expansion device 10 is connected to another function expansion device 10, a digital sensor 100, or a higher-level host 300, but the present invention is not limited to this, and an external device 400 can be connected to the function expansion device 10. Therefore, in the seventh embodiment, a function expansion device 10 connected to an external device 400 will be described.

[0091] 10 is a diagram showing a configuration of a seventh embodiment of the function expansion device 10. The function expansion device 10 according to the seventh embodiment is a device that can be connected to an external device 400 through a connection unit 20c. The external device 400 is a power supply device, a 4-20 mA input device, or the like.

[0092] 10, the function expansion device 10 according to the seventh embodiment has a connection unit 20c in addition to the connection units 20a, 20b, and control unit 30. Note that a description of the "connection units 20a, 20b, and control unit 30" which are components common to the function expansion device 10 according to the first embodiment will be omitted. Here, the connection unit 20c which is different from the function expansion device 10 according to the first embodiment will be described. Note that the function expansion device 10 according to the seventh embodiment does not have the bus arbitration unit 33 and the pass-through branch unit 31b, and therefore does not execute branch pass-through for the connection unit 20c.

[0093] The connection section 20c is connected to an external device and may be, for example, a coupling terminal, a 4-20 mA output terminal, a digital contact input / output terminal, or a wired power input terminal.

[0094] For example, a user connects a function expansion device 10, whose additional function unit 32 has a signal conversion function, to a digital sensor 100, and connects a 4-20 mA input device that controls the opening and closing of a valve to the connection unit 20c of the function expansion device 10. In this case, the digital sensor 100 corresponds to a pH meter. The function expansion device 10 converts the value measured by the digital sensor 100 into an analog signal. The function expansion device 10 transmits the converted signal to the 4-20 mA input device. The 4-20 mA input device controls the opening and closing of a valve based on the received pH value.

[0095] (effect) In the seventh embodiment, the user can convert digital signals to analog signals and also connect to a 4-20 mA input device simply by connecting the function expansion device 10 to the digital sensor 100. Furthermore, the digital sensor 100 can be equipped with various input / output terminals and a power supply terminal for receiving auxiliary power by using the function expansion device 10. This allows the user to link with peripheral devices without the need to install a converter or reconfigure wiring, improving convenience.

[0096] [Numerical values, etc.] The functions and the like described in the above embodiment are merely examples and can be changed as desired. The flow of the described process can also be changed as appropriate within a consistent range.

[0097] The above-described function expansion device 10 can be realized by a digital circuit unless it is necessary for the additional function unit 32, so it can be easily diverted to other digital sensors 100 for measurement objects, increasing reusability. Specifically, for example, by rewriting the firmware or FPGA that embodies the function expansion device 10, it can be diverted to other digital sensors 100.

[0098] 〔system〕 The information including the processing procedures, control procedures, specific names, various data and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be changed arbitrarily unless otherwise specified.

[0099] Furthermore, the components of each device shown in the figure are functional concepts and do not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown. In other words, all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit depending on various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0100] Furthermore, all or any part of the processing functions performed by each device may be realized by a CPU and a program analyzed and executed by the CPU, or may be realized as hardware using wired logic.

[0101] (others) Some examples of combinations of the disclosed technical features are set out below.

[0102] (1) A function expansion device having a first connection end connected to a digital sensor, a second connection end connected to a higher-level device that communicates with the digital sensor, a pass-through unit that transmits signals between the first connection end and the second connection end, and an additional function unit that provides an additional function that performs predetermined processing on the digital sensor, the higher-level device, or the signal.

[0103] (2) The function expansion device according to (1), wherein the first connection end or the second connection end has a connection terminal configured to be physically attached to the digital sensor or the higher-level device.

[0104] (3) The first connection end or the second connection end has a connection terminal with a physically attachable structure, a connection terminal for connecting via a wire, and a connection terminal for connecting wirelessly, and is a function expansion device described in (1) or (2) that connects to the digital sensor or the higher-level device using any of the connection terminals.

[0105] (4) A function expansion device described in any one of (1) to (3), wherein the second connection end has a connection terminal that can be connected to the first connection end of another function expansion device that has the same first connection end, second connection end, pass-through unit, and additional function unit as the function expansion device.

[0106] (5) A function expansion device according to any one of (1) to (4), further comprising a bus arbitration unit that outputs a first signal output from the higher-level device to the digital sensor and received at the second connection end, and a second signal output from the additional function unit to the digital sensor, from the first connection end to the digital sensor in an order based on a predetermined priority.

[0107] (6) The function expansion device according to any one of (1) to (5), further comprising a third connection terminal for connecting to another device different from the digital sensor and the host device.

[0108] (7) The function expansion device according to (6), further comprising a pass-through branching section for transmitting signals between the first connection end and the third connection end.

[0109] (8) A function expansion device described in (6) or (7), in which the third connection end is connected to an input device having an output of 4-20 mA, and the additional function unit converts the value transmitted from the first connection end into an analog signal and transmits it to the input device via the third connection end.

[0110] (9) A function expansion device described in any one of (1) to (8), wherein the additional function unit, upon receiving a user operation, executes a numerical value fixing process on the pass-through unit to fix the value of the signal to the value immediately before the user operation.

[0111] (10) The function expansion device according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein the additional function unit executes a signal transfer process for transferring the signal being transmitted by the pass-through unit to short-range communication.

[0112] (11) The function expansion device according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein the additional function unit executes a display process for displaying the value of the signal being transmitted by the pass-through unit.

[0113] (12) The function expansion device according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein the additional function unit executes a power supply process to supply power to the digital sensor. [Explanation of symbols]

[0114] 10. Function expansion device 20 Connection 30 Control Unit 31 Pass-through section 32 Additional function section 33 Bus Arbitration Department 34 Auxiliary function section 100 Digital Sensor 101 Detection unit 102 Digital Communications Department 103 Connection 110 Analog Sensor 111 Detector 200 converter 300 Top Hosts 301 Connection 400 External device

Claims

1. a first connection end for connecting to a digital sensor; a second connection terminal connected to a host device that communicates with the digital sensor; a pass-through section for transmitting signals between the first connection end and the second connection end; an additional function unit that provides an additional function of executing predetermined processing on the digital sensor, the host device, or the signal; A function expansion device comprising:

2. the first connection end or the second connection end has a connection terminal configured to be physically attached to the digital sensor or the higher-level device; 2. The function expansion device according to claim 1.

3. the first connection end or the second connection end has a connection terminal having a physically attachable structure, a connection terminal for wired connection, and a connection terminal for wireless connection, and is connected to the digital sensor or the higher-level device using any of the connection terminals; 2. The function expansion device according to claim 1.

4. the second connection end has a connection terminal connectable to the first connection end of another function expansion device having the same first connection end, the same second connection end, the same pass-through unit, and the same additional function unit as the function expansion device, 2. The function expansion device according to claim 1.

5. 2. The function expansion device according to claim 1, further comprising a bus arbitration unit that outputs, from the first connection end to the digital sensor, a first signal that is output from the higher-level device to the digital sensor and received at the second connection end, and a second signal that is output from the additional function unit to the digital sensor, in an order based on a predetermined priority.

6. 2. The function expansion device according to claim 1, further comprising a third connection terminal for connecting to another device different from said digital sensor and said host device.

7. 7. The function expansion device according to claim 6, further comprising a pass-through branch section for transmitting signals between the first connection end and the third connection end.

8. The third connection end is connected to an input having an output of 4-20 mA; the additional function unit converts the value transmitted from the first connection end into an analog signal and transmits the analog signal to the input device via the third connection end; 7. The function expansion device according to claim 6.

9. the additional function unit, in response to a user operation, executes a numerical value fixing process on the pass-through unit to fix the value of the signal to the value immediately before the user operation.

2. The function expansion device according to claim 1.

10. the additional function unit executes a signal transfer process for transferring the signal being transmitted by the pass-through unit to a short-range communication.

2. The function expansion device according to claim 1.

11. the additional function unit executes a display process for displaying the value of the signal being transmitted by the pass-through unit.

2. The function expansion device according to claim 1.

12. the additional function unit executes a power supply process to supply power to the digital sensor.

2. The function expansion device according to claim 1.

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