Simulation device, simulation method, and program

Abstract

To provide a simulation device and the like that can easily simulate a power line communication network.SOLUTION: A simulation device 10 comprises: an arrangement setting unit 20 that sets arrangement of a power line communication network; a parameter setting unit 30 that sets an electrical parameter of the power line communication network; a simulation execution unit 40; and a result output unit 50 that outputs an electrical characteristic obtained by simulation performed by the simulation execution unit 40. The arrangement setting unit 20 includes: an information acquisition unit 22 that acquires structural information indicating structure of a building in which the power line communication network is installed and positional information of one or more components included in the power line communication network; and a display information output unit 28 that causes a display unit 14 that displays information about the power line communication network to display a drawing based on the structural information and to display, superposed on the drawing, at least a part of the power line communication network based on the positional information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a simulation device, a simulation method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, power line communication (PLC) is used to communicate information using power lines. In order to design and build a power line communication network (hereinafter also referred to as a "PLC network"), a technique for estimating the electrical characteristics of the PLC network by simulation has been proposed (for example, see Non-Patent Documents 1 to 3). [Prior art documents] [Non-patent literature]

[0003] [Non-Patent Document 1] Mikio Mizutani, "Research on High-Speed ​​Power Line Communication Methods in Home Networks", Doctoral Dissertation, Kyushu Institute of Technology, 2014 [Non-Patent Document 2] Tooraj Esmailian, Frank R. Kschischang and P. Glenn Gulak, "In-building power lines as high-speed communication channels:channel characterization and a test channel ensemble", INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS, 2003; 16:381-400 [Non-Patent Document 3] Bernhard Gade, Andreas M. Lehmann, Jorg Deutschmann, and Johannes B. Huber, "A Power Line Communication Topology Module for ns-3 and DCE", IEEE International Conference on Smart Grid Communications 23-26 October 2017, pp.295-301 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] It is possible to estimate the electrical characteristics of a PLC network by designing the network and using the simulation methods described in Non-Patent Documents 1 to 3. However, to design a PLC network suitable for a building, specialized knowledge about PLC, electrical wiring, and architecture is required. For this reason, it is not easy to simulate a PLC network suitable for a building.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve such problems, and has an object to provide a simulation device and the like that can easily simulate a PLC network. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, a simulation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a simulation device that calculates electrical characteristics of a power line communication network, and includes a layout setting unit that sets the layout of the power line communication network, a parameter setting unit that sets electrical parameters of the power line communication network, a simulation execution unit that simulates the power line communication network, and a result output unit that outputs the electrical characteristics determined by the simulation by the simulation execution unit, wherein the layout setting unit has an information acquisition unit that acquires structural information indicating a structure of a building in which the power line communication network is arranged and position information of one or more components included in the power line communication network, and a display information output unit that displays a drawing based on the structural information on a display unit that displays information related to the power line communication network, and displays at least a portion of the power line communication network based on the position information superimposed on the drawing.

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, a simulation method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a simulation method for calculating electrical characteristics of a power line communication network, and includes a layout setting step of setting the layout of the power line communication network, a parameter setting step of setting electrical parameters of the power line communication network, a simulation execution step of simulating the power line communication network, and a result output step of outputting the electrical characteristics obtained by the simulation execution step, wherein the layout setting step includes an information acquisition step of acquiring structural information indicating a structure of a building in which the power line communication network is arranged and position information of one or more components included in the power line communication network, and a display information output step of displaying a drawing based on the structural information and displaying at least a portion of the power line communication network based on the position information superimposed on the drawing.

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, a program according to an embodiment of the present disclosure causes a computer to execute the above simulation method. Effect of the Invention

[0009] The present disclosure makes it possible to provide a simulation device and the like that can easily simulate a PLC network. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an outline of a functional configuration of a simulation device according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the placement setting unit according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a parameter setting unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the simulation execution unit according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a computer that realizes the functions of the simulation device according to the embodiment by software. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a first flowchart showing the flow of the simulation method according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a second flowchart showing the flow of the simulation method according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image showing the structure of a building displayed on the display unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of position information and identification information of a power line according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the arrangement of power lines and electrical devices displayed on the display unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the position information and the identification information of the electrical device according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for inputting identification information of a power line included in the PLC network according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a method for inputting identification information of a PLC device included in the PLC network according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for inputting a noise model of a home electric appliance according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a graph showing a part of the topology of the PLC network according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating electrical parameters of power lines included in a PLC network stored in a parameter storage unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating electrical parameters of electrical devices included in a PLC network stored in a parameter storage unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing parameters set in a PLC device and stored in a parameter storage unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing parameters of a power control ID stored in a parameter storage unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display unit when inputting conditions for a simulation according to the embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a method for inputting conditions for a simulation according to an embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of a simulation result output by the simulation execution unit according to the embodiment. [Diagram 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of a throughput included in a simulation result output by the simulation execution unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating an example of SNR (Signal-Noise Ratio) included in a simulation result output by a simulation execution unit according to the embodiment. [Diagram 25]FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of a display form of a simulation result according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that each of the embodiments described below shows a specific example of the present disclosure. The numerical values, shapes, materials, standards, components, the arrangement and connection forms of the components, steps, and the order of steps shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. In addition, among the components in the following embodiments, components that are not described in the independent claims showing the highest concept of the present disclosure are described as optional components. In addition, each figure is not necessarily a strict illustration. In each figure, substantially the same configuration is given the same symbol, and duplicated explanations may be omitted or simplified.

[0012] (Embodiment) A simulation device and a simulation method according to an embodiment will be described.

[0013] [1. Configuration] First, the configuration of a simulation device according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an outline of the functional configuration of a simulation device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0014] The simulation device 10 is a device that calculates electrical characteristics of a PLC network. As shown in Fig. 1, the simulation device 10 functionally includes a GUI (Graphical User Interface) tool 16. In this embodiment, the simulation device 10 further includes an input unit 12, a display unit 14, and a storage unit 18.

[0015] The input unit 12 is a device for inputting information necessary for a simulation. As the input unit 12, for example, input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse, and communication devices for receiving signals can be used.

[0016] The display unit 14 is a device that displays information related to the PLC network. For example, the display unit 14 displays information necessary for simulating the configuration of the PLC network, the simulation results, a diagram showing the structure of the building in which the PLC network is installed, etc. As the display unit 14, for example, a liquid crystal display panel, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display panel, etc. can be used.

[0017] The storage unit 18 is a storage device that stores information related to the simulation. The storage unit 18 stores, for example, parameters used in the simulation, data of the simulation results, etc. In this embodiment, the storage unit 18 has an input data storage unit 82, a parameter storage unit 84, and a result storage unit 86.

[0018] The input data storage unit 82 stores information necessary for setting the arrangement of the PLC network used in the simulation. The input data storage unit 82 stores, for example, structural information indicating the structure of the building in which the PLC network is arranged, and position information of one or more components included in the PLC network. The structural information includes information indicating the shape and dimensions of at least a part of the building. The structural information includes, for example, information corresponding to a floor plan of the building. In addition, the position information includes, for example, information corresponding to an electrical wiring diagram. Note that the structural information and the position information may be integrated. For example, information in which a floor plan and an electrical wiring diagram are integrated may be stored in the input data storage unit 82 as structural information and position information.

[0019] The parameter storage unit 84 stores parameters used in the simulation. In the present embodiment, the parameter storage unit 84 stores electrical parameters of one or more components included in the power line communication network. Specifically, the parameter storage unit 84 stores one or more pieces of identification information corresponding to the one or more components, respectively. The parameter storage unit 84 also stores electrical parameters of the one or more components associated with the one or more pieces of identification information, respectively.

[0020] The result storage unit 86 stores data of the simulation results, such as the transmission characteristics and throughput of the PLC network obtained by the simulation.

[0021] The GUI tool 16 is a processing unit that displays information about the simulation on the display unit 14 and executes the simulation. The GUI tool 16 has a layout setting unit 20, a parameter setting unit 30, a simulation execution unit 40, and a result output unit 50.

[0022] The placement setting unit 20 is a processing unit that sets the placement of the PLC network. The placement setting unit 20 sets the placement of the PLC network based on information input from the input unit 12. The placement setting unit 20 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the placement setting unit 20 according to this embodiment. Note that FIG. 2 also shows the input unit 12, the display unit 14, the input data storage unit 82, and the parameter setting unit 30. As shown in FIG. 2, the placement setting unit 20 has an information acquisition unit 22, a network setting unit 24, a structure setting unit 26, and a display information output unit 28.

[0023] The information acquisition unit 22 acquires structural information indicating the structure of the building in which the PLC network is placed, and position information of one or more components included in the PLC network. The one or more components include one or more power lines. The one or more components may include one or more electrical devices. The position information of the one or more power lines includes information corresponding to the arrangement and length of each of the one or more power lines. For example, the position information of the one or more power lines may include coordinates of the end points and via points of each of the one or more power lines. The one or more electrical devices may include one or more power line communication devices (hereinafter also referred to as "PLC devices") that perform power line communication, one or more home appliances that do not perform power line communication, and the like.

[0024] Furthermore, the information acquiring unit 22 acquires one or more pieces of identification information corresponding to one or more components included in the PLC network. Specifically, the information acquiring unit 22 acquires identification information such as product names and model numbers for identifying components such as power lines, PLC devices, and home appliances included in the PLC network.

[0025] The information acquisition unit 22 may acquire information from the input unit 12 or may acquire information from the input data storage unit 82. Also, based on an instruction from the input unit 12, the information acquisition unit 22 may acquire information stored in the input data storage unit 82. For example, the input unit 12 may instruct the information acquisition unit 22 to acquire specific structural information stored in the input data storage unit 82. Also, the input unit 12 may instruct the information acquisition unit 22 to acquire information corresponding to the electrical wiring system diagram stored in the input data storage unit 82 as position information. In this way, the position information may include information corresponding to the electrical wiring system diagram. The information acquisition unit 22 outputs the acquired position information of one or more power lines and position information of one or more electrical devices to the network setting unit 24. Also, the information acquisition unit 22 outputs the acquired structural information to the building setting unit 26.

[0026] The network setting unit 24 sets the configuration of the PLC network based on the position information of one or more components included in the PLC network acquired by the information acquisition unit 22. In other words, the network setting unit 24 determines the arrangement of each of the one or more components included in the PLC network and the connection relationship between each of the one or more components and other components. The network setting unit 24 outputs information about the set PLC network to the display information output unit 28 and the parameter setting unit 30.

[0027] The structure setting unit 26 sets the structure of the structure in which the PLC network is to be placed, based on the structure information acquired by the information acquisition unit 22. For example, the structure setting unit 26 determines the layout of the building in which the PLC network is to be placed. The structure setting unit 26 outputs information on the set structure of the building to the display information output unit 28.

[0028] The display information output unit 28 causes the display unit 14, which displays information related to the PLC network, to display a drawing based on the structural information, and also causes at least a part of the PLC network based on the position information to be superimposed on the drawing. For example, the display information output unit 28 causes the display unit 14 to display a drawing based on the structural information of the building input from the building setting unit 26. The drawing based on the structural information includes, for example, a floor plan of the building. Furthermore, the display information output unit 28 causes at least a part of the PLC network to be superimposed on the floor plan based on the information of the PLC network input from the network setting unit 24.

[0029] The parameter setting unit 30 shown in FIG. 1 is a processing unit that sets electrical parameters of the PLC network. The parameter setting unit 30 sets electrical parameters of one or more components of the PLC network set in the placement setting unit 20. More specifically, the parameter setting unit 30 sets electrical parameters of one or more components acquired from the parameter storage unit 84 as electrical parameters of the PLC network based on one or more pieces of identification information acquired by the placement setting unit 20. The parameter setting unit 30 will be described with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the parameter setting unit 30 according to the present embodiment. Note that FIG. 3 also shows the placement setting unit 20, the parameter storage unit 84, and the simulation execution unit 40. As shown in FIG. 3, the parameter setting unit 30 has an electrical parameter acquisition unit 32, a topology creation unit 34, and a parameter determination unit 36.

[0030] The electrical parameter acquisition section 32 acquires electrical parameters of one or more components from the parameter storage section 84 based on one or more pieces of identification information acquired by the layout setting section 20 .

[0031] The topology creation unit 34 creates a topology of the PLC network based on information related to the layout of the PLC network set by the layout setting unit 20. Specifically, the topology creation unit 34 creates a topology including the length of each branch of the PLC network formed by power lines and the connection relationship with other branches based on the information related to the layout of the PLC network.

[0032] The parameter determination unit 36 ​​determines parameters to be used in the simulation based on the electrical parameters acquired by the electrical parameter acquisition unit 32 and the topology of the PLC network created by the topology creation unit 34. The parameter determination unit 36 ​​outputs the determined parameters to the simulation execution unit 40.

[0033] The simulation execution unit 40 shown in Fig. 1 is a processing unit that performs a simulation of a PLC network. The simulation execution unit 40 may be capable of performing a simulation based on a plurality of algorithms that can be used in the simulation of a PLC network. The simulation execution unit 40 may perform a simulation based on, for example, one specified algorithm among the plurality of algorithms. Examples of algorithms that can be used in a PLC network include a method of approximating a PLC network with a lumped constant circuit (signal lumped RLC model), a method of cascading and stacking calculations of an F matrix (see Non-Patent Document 2, Non-Patent Document 3, etc.), and a branch model attenuation estimation method (BMAE) (see Non-Patent Document 1, etc.).

[0034] The simulation execution unit 40 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the simulation execution unit 40 according to this embodiment. Note that Fig. 4 also shows the input unit 12, the display unit 14, the result storage unit 86, the parameter setting unit 30, and the result output unit 50. As shown in Fig. 4, the simulation execution unit 40 has a condition acquisition unit 42 and an execution unit 44.

[0035] The condition acquisition unit 42 acquires parameters used in the simulation from the parameter setting unit 30. The condition acquisition unit 42 may acquire conditions of the simulation input from the input unit 12. For example, the condition acquisition unit 42 may acquire information related to an algorithm used in the simulation from the input unit 12. The condition acquisition unit 42 may also cause the display unit 14 to display, for example, a plurality of algorithms that can be used in the simulation. The user may specify one of the plurality of algorithms displayed on the display unit 14 using the input unit 12. The condition acquisition unit 42 outputs information corresponding to the parameters and conditions used in the simulation to the execution unit 44.

[0036] The execution unit 44 executes a simulation using the parameters and conditions input from the condition acquisition unit 42. The execution unit 44 outputs a result of the simulation to at least one of the result storage unit 86 and the result output unit 50. Specifically, the execution unit 44 outputs the electrical characteristics of the PLC network determined by the simulation.

[0037] The result output unit 50 shown in FIG. 1 is a processing unit that outputs electrical characteristics obtained by the simulation performed by the simulation execution unit 40. The result output unit 50 outputs the electrical characteristics obtained by the simulation to the display unit 14, for example, to cause the display unit 14 to display the electrical characteristics. The result output unit 50 may output at least one of the throughput and the signal-noise ratio (SNR) in the PLC network. The result output unit 50 may also output the cost of the PLC device. The result output unit 50 may output the electrical characteristics specified by the input unit 12 to the display unit 14. Specifically, the result output unit 50 causes the display unit 14 to display a list of electrical characteristics that can be output, and the user may specify at least one of the multiple electrical characteristics displayed on the display unit 14 using the input unit 12. The result output unit 50 may acquire the electrical characteristics obtained by the simulation from the result storage unit 86.

[0038] [2. Hardware configuration] Next, a hardware configuration of the simulation device 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a computer 1000 that realizes the functions of the simulation device 10 according to the present embodiment by software.

[0039] 5, the computer 1000 includes an input device 1001, an output device 1002, a CPU 1003, an internal storage 1004, a RAM 1005, a reading device 1007, a transmission / reception device 1008, and a bus 1009. The input device 1001, the output device 1002, the CPU 1003, the internal storage 1004, the RAM 1005, the reading device 1007, and the transmission / reception device 1008 are connected by the bus 1009.

[0040] The input device 1001 is a user interface device such as a keyboard, a mouse, an input button, a touch pad, a touch panel display, etc., and accepts user operations. The input device 1001 may be configured to accept voice operations and remote operations using a remote control or the like in addition to accepting touch operations by the user. The input device 1001 is an example of the input unit 12 of the simulation device 10.

[0041] The output device 1002 is a device that outputs a signal from the computer 1000, and may be a device that serves as a user interface such as a signal output terminal, a display, a speaker, etc. The output device 1002 is an example of the display unit 14 of the simulation apparatus 10.

[0042] The built-in storage 1004 is a flash memory or the like. The built-in storage 1004 may store in advance at least one of a program for implementing the functions of the simulation device 10 and an application that utilizes the functional configuration of the simulation device 10. The built-in storage 1004 is an example of the storage unit 18 of the simulation device 10. At least a part of the storage unit 18 does not need to be included in the computer 1000.

[0043] The RAM 1005 is a random access memory, and is used to store data and the like when a program or application is executed.

[0044] The reading device 1007 reads information from a recording medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. The reading device 1007 reads the above-mentioned programs and applications from a recording medium on which the programs and applications are recorded, and stores the programs and applications in the built-in storage 1004. At least a part of the storage unit 18 of the simulation device 10 may be realized by an external storage such as a USB memory connected to the reading device 1007.

[0045] The transmitting / receiving device 1008 is a communication circuit for performing wireless or wired communication. The transmitting / receiving device 1008 communicates with, for example, a server device connected to a network, downloads the above-mentioned programs and applications from the server device, and stores them in the built-in storage 1004. At least a part of the storage unit 18 of the simulation device 10 may be realized by, for example, a server device connected to the network.

[0046] The CPU 1003 is a central processing unit that copies programs, applications, etc. stored in the internal storage 1004 to the RAM 1005, and sequentially reads out instructions included in the copied programs, applications, etc. from the RAM 1005 and executes them.

[0047] [3. Simulation method] Next, a simulation method used in the simulation device 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 7. Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 are first and second flowcharts, respectively, showing the flow of the simulation method according to the present embodiment.

[0048] 6, first, structural information indicating the structure of the building in which the PLC network is arranged is input from the input unit 12 (S10). The structural information is input, for example, by a user using the input unit 12. The structural information itself may be input from the input unit 12, or information specifying the structural information stored in the input data storage unit 82 may be input.

[0049] Next, the information acquisition unit 22 of the layout setting unit 20 acquires the structural information (S12). The information acquisition unit 22 may acquire the structural information from the input unit 12, or may acquire the structural information from the input data storage unit 82 based on information that specifies the structural information input from the input unit 12.

[0050] Next, the placement setting unit 20 causes the display unit 14 to display a drawing based on the structural information (S14). Specifically, the structure setting unit 26 of the placement setting unit 20 sets the structure of the structure in which the PLC network is placed based on the structural information, and the display information output unit 28 causes the display unit 14 to display a drawing showing the structure of the structure set based on the structural information. Here, an image displayed on the display unit 14 by the placement setting unit 20 will be described with reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of an image showing the structure of the structure displayed on the display unit 14 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, a drawing selection window 14ws and a drawing window 14wd are displayed on the display unit 14. The drawing window 14wd is a display area in which the structure of the structure and the PLC network are drawn. As shown in FIG. 8, for example, a floor plan 14f of the structure is displayed on the drawing window 14wd of the display unit 14 based on the structural information. The drawing selection window 14ws is a display area for selecting components of the PLC network. The drawing selection window 14ws displays selection buttons 14s1 to 14s7 for selecting and drawing a power line, an electric device, etc. that can be components of a PLC network. In the example shown in Fig. 8, the drawing selection window 14ws displays a selection button 14s1 for selecting a power line, a selection button 14s2 for selecting a distribution board, a selection button 14s3 for selecting a switchboard, a selection button 14s4 for selecting a PLC device, a selection button 14s5 for selecting an outlet, a selection button 14s6 for selecting a joint box (registered trademark), and a selection button 14s7 for selecting a home appliance.

[0051] Returning to FIG. 6, following step S14, position information of one or more components included in the PLC network is input from the input unit 12 to the layout setting unit 20. For example, position information of one or more power lines is input as one or more components (S16). Specifically, the user may input the position information of the power lines by selecting a selection button 14s1 of the drawing selection window 14ws shown in FIG. 8 using a mouse or the like included in the input unit 12. For example, the start point and the end point of the wiring position of the power line may be input using a keyboard or the like included in the input unit 12, or may be input using a mouse or the like. In addition, when the position information of one or more power lines is stored in the input data storage unit 82, information specifying the position information stored in the input data storage unit 82 may be input from the input unit 12. For example, when the input data storage unit 82 stores information corresponding to an electrical wiring system diagram including the position information of one or more power lines, information specifying the electrical wiring system diagram may be input from the input unit 12.

[0052] Here, the position information of the power line will be described with reference to FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the position information and identification information of the power line according to the present embodiment. The example of the position information of the power line shown in FIG. 9 includes a power line ID, a start point and an end point of the arrangement position of the power line, and a power line model ID. The power line ID is an ID for identifying a power line included in a PLC network. The power line model ID is identification information for identifying electrical parameters of the power line. The power line model ID may include, for example, a product name, a model number, etc. of the power line. Input of the identification information such as the power line model ID will be described later.

[0053] 6, following step S16, the information acquisition unit 22 of the placement setting unit 20 acquires position information of one or more power lines (S18). The information acquisition unit 22 may acquire the position information from the input unit 12, or may acquire the position information from the input data storage unit 82 based on information that specifies the position information input from the input unit 12.

[0054] Next, the placement setting unit 20 causes the display unit 14 to display a drawing based on the position information of one or more power lines (S20). Specifically, the network setting unit 24 of the placement setting unit 20 receives the position information from the information acquisition unit 22 and outputs the position information to the display information output unit 28 as a part of the PLC network. The display information output unit 28 causes the display unit 14 to display a diagram showing the positions of one or more power lines set based on the position information, superimposed on a drawing based on the structural information of the building. Here, the diagram showing the positions of one or more power lines will be described with reference to FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the placement of power lines and electrical devices displayed on the display unit 14 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the power lines WR0001 to WR0008 included in the PLC network 14ds are displayed superimposed on the floor plan 14f displayed in the drawing window 14wd of the display unit 14. 10 also displays electric devices DV001-DV006, DV100-DV103, and DV201-DV206, which will be described later. In this way, since the position information of each power line can be input while displaying the floor plan 14f and the power lines WR0001-WR0008 in an overlapping manner, the placement of each power line in the building can be easily set. For example, the position where an outlet is to be placed on the wall of the building can be easily set as one end of the wiring position of each power line.

[0055] Returning to FIG. 6, following step S20, position information of one or more components other than the power lines included in the PLC network is input from the input unit 12 to the layout setting unit 20. For example, position information of one or more electrical devices is input as the one or more components (S22). Specifically, the user may select one of the selection buttons 14s2 to 14S7 of the drawing selection window 14ws shown in FIG. 8 using a mouse or the like included in the input unit 12 to input the position information of the electrical device. For example, the position of the electrical device may be input using a keyboard or the like included in the input unit 12, or may be input using a mouse or the like. In addition, when the position information of one or more electrical devices is stored in the input data storage unit 82, information specifying the position information stored in the input data storage unit 82 may be input from the input unit 12.

[0056] Here, the position information of an electric device will be described with reference to FIG. 11. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the position information and identification information of an electric device according to this embodiment. The example of the position information of an electric device shown in FIG. 11 includes an electric device ID, coordinates indicating the arrangement position of the electric device, and an electric device model ID. The electric device ID is an ID for identifying each electric device included in the PLC network. The electric device model ID is identification information for identifying electrical parameters of the electric device. The electric device model ID is, for example, the product name and model number of the electric device.

[0057] 6, following step S22, the information acquisition unit 22 of the layout setting unit 20 acquires position information of one or more electrical devices (S24). The information acquisition unit 22 may acquire the position information from the input unit 12, or may acquire the position information from the input data storage unit 82 based on information that specifies the position information input from the input unit 12.

[0058] Next, the placement setting unit 20 causes the display unit 14 to display a drawing based on the position information of one or more electrical devices (S26). Specifically, the network setting unit 24 of the placement setting unit 20 receives the position information from the information acquisition unit 22 and outputs the position information to the display information output unit 28 as a part of the PLC network. The display information output unit 28 causes the display unit 14 to display a diagram showing the positions of one or more electrical devices set based on the position information, superimposed on a diagram based on the structural information of the building. Here, the diagram showing the positions of one or more electrical devices will be described with reference to FIG. 10. As shown in FIG. 10, the electrical devices DV001 to DV006, DV100 to DV103, and DV201 to DV206 are displayed superimposed on the floor plan 14f displayed in the drawing window 14wd of the display unit 14. In this way, the position information of each electrical device can be input while the floor plan 14f and each electrical device are displayed superimposed on the display unit 14, so that the placement of each electrical device in the building can be easily set. For example, among the electric devices, the positions of outlets (see electric devices DV201 to DV206 shown in FIG. 10) can be easily set to positions corresponding to the walls of the building, etc. Also, among the electric devices, the positions of home appliances (see electric device DV000 shown in FIG. 10) can be intuitively set to match the layout of the building.

[0059] 6, following step S26, identification information of one or more components included in the PLC network is input from the input unit 12 to the placement setting unit 20 (S28). For example, a user uses a mouse or the like included in the input unit 12 to select each component displayed on the display unit 14 and inputs the identification information of the selected component. In response to this, the placement setting unit 20 acquires the input identification information (S30).

[0060] Here, as examples of components, a method for inputting identification information of a power line and a PLC device will be described with reference to Fig. 12 and Fig. 13. Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 are diagrams showing an example of a method for inputting identification information of a power line and a PLC device included in a PLC network according to the present embodiment.

[0061] When inputting the identification information of a power line, for example, when one power line included in the PLC network displayed on the display unit 14 is selected using a mouse or the like, a power line attribute edit window W11 as shown in FIG. 12 is displayed. In the power line attribute edit window W11, input fields for setting the attributes of the power line, such as a power line model input field, are displayed. When the power line model input field in the power line attribute edit window W11 is selected using a mouse or the like, a power line model selection window W12 as shown in FIG. 12 is displayed. In the power line model selection window W12, one or more power line model IDs, which are an example of the identification information, are displayed. Note that information on one or more power line model IDs is stored in, for example, the input data storage unit 82, and the placement setting unit 20 acquires the information from the input data storage unit 82.

[0062] Next, the power line model ID corresponding to the selected power line is selected from the power line model selection window W12 using a mouse or the like, thereby inputting the power line model ID, which is identification information of the power line. When the power line model ID is selected, a power line model editing window W13 as shown in FIG. 12 may be displayed. The power line model editing window W13 is an input field for editing the electrical parameters of the power line. In this way, when the power line model ID matching the power line is not displayed in the power line model selection window W12, the electrical parameters of the power line can be edited to appropriate values ​​by editing the electrical parameters of the other power line model IDs. The power line model editing window W13 includes, for example, an external file input field, a model parameter field, and the like. In the external file input field, for example, a file stored in the input data storage unit 82 or the like can be specified, thereby setting the electrical parameters of the power line to the electrical parameters recorded in the file. The model parameter field displays the electrical parameters, and each electrical parameter can be edited from the input unit 12.

[0063] When inputting identification information of a PLC device, for example, by selecting one PLC device included in the PLC network displayed on the display unit 14 using a mouse or the like, a PLC device attribute edit window W21 as shown in Fig. 13 is displayed. The PLC device attribute edit window W21 displays input fields for setting the attributes of the PLC device, such as a PLC model input field. The PLC device attribute edit window W21 may also include input fields for inputting PLC device settings, such as power control setting, master / terminal setting, multihop on / off, and delay, as shown in Fig. 13.

[0064] When the PLC model input field in the PLC device attribute editing window W21 is selected using a mouse or the like, a PLC model selection window W22 as shown in FIG. 13 is displayed. One or more PLC model IDs, which are an example of identification information, are displayed in the PLC model selection window W22. By selecting a PLC model ID corresponding to the selected PLC device from the PLC model selection window W22 using a mouse or the like, the PLC model ID, which is the identification information of the PLC device, can be input. When a PLC model ID is selected, a PLC model editing window W23 as shown in FIG. 13 may be displayed. The PLC model editing window W23 is an input field for editing the electrical parameters of the PLC device. In this way, when a PLC model ID matching the PLC device is not displayed in the PLC model selection window W22, the electrical parameters of the PLC device can be edited to appropriate values ​​by editing the electrical parameters of another PLC model ID. The PLC model editing window W23 includes an external file input field, a model parameter field, and the like, similar to the power line model editing window W13 shown in FIG. 12. The electrical parameters of the PLC device can also be edited in the same way as the electrical parameters of the power line.

[0065] Also, for example, parameters other than the identification information of the electrical devices included in the PLC network may be input. For example, a noise model of a home appliance may be input. Here, a method of inputting a noise model of a home appliance will be described with reference to FIG. 14. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a method of inputting a noise model of a home appliance according to the present embodiment. When inputting a noise model of a home appliance, for example, when one home appliance included in the PLC network displayed on the display unit 14 is selected using a mouse or the like, a home appliance attribute editing window W31 as shown in FIG. 14 is displayed. In the home appliance attribute editing window W31, an input field for setting parameters of the home appliance, such as a noise model input field, is displayed.

[0066] When the noise model input field in the home appliance attribute editing window W31 is selected using a mouse or the like, a noise model selection window W32 as shown in FIG. 14 is displayed. One or more noise model IDs are displayed in the noise model selection window W32. By selecting a noise model ID corresponding to a selected home appliance from the noise model selection window W32 using a mouse or the like, the noise model ID corresponding to the noise model of the home appliance can be input. When a noise model ID is selected, a noise model editing window W33 as shown in FIG. 14 may be displayed. The noise model editing window W33 is an input field for editing the noise model corresponding to the noise model ID of the home appliance. In this way, when the noise model ID corresponding to the noise model of the home appliance is not displayed in the noise model selection window W32, the noise model of the home appliance can be edited to an appropriate model by editing parameters corresponding to other noise model IDs. The noise model editing window W33 includes an external file input field, a model parameter field, and the like, similar to the power line model editing window W13 shown in FIG. 14. The noise model ID of the home appliance can also be edited in the same way as the electrical parameters of the power line.

[0067] Although examples of methods for inputting the identification information of the power line and the PLC device have been described above, the identification information of other electric devices can also be input in a similar manner.

[0068] Returning to Fig. 6, following step S30, the placement setting unit 20 sets the placement of the PLC network based on the acquired position information, identification information, etc. (S32). Specifically, it sets the identification information of one or more components included in the PLC network, the position information of each component, and the connection state between each component. The placement setting unit 20 outputs information related to the set placement of the PLC network to the parameter setting unit 30. As described above, when the electrical parameters of each component are edited, the edited electrical parameters are also output to the parameter setting unit 30.

[0069] Next, as shown in FIG. 7, the parameter setting unit 30 acquires information relating to the layout of the PLC network from the layout setting unit 20 (S34).

[0070] Next, the parameter setting unit 30 creates a topology of the PLC network based on information related to the layout of the PLC network (S36). Specifically, the topology creation unit 34 of the parameter setting unit 30 creates a topology including the length of each branch of the PLC network formed by power lines and the connection relationship with other branches based on information related to the layout of the PLC network. Here, the topology created by the topology creation unit 34 will be described with reference to FIG. 15. FIG. 15 is a graph showing a part of the topology of the PLC network according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 15, the topology creation unit 34 sets a branch ID indicating a branch included in the topology, the power line length, an electric device or branch connected to each end of the branch, and a power line model ID which is an example of identification information of the power line constituting the branch.

[0071] Next, the parameter setting unit 30 acquires electrical parameters of one or more components included in the PLC network (S38). Specifically, the electrical parameter acquisition unit 32 of the parameter setting unit 30 acquires electrical parameters of one or more components from the parameter storage unit 84 based on one or more pieces of identification information acquired by the arrangement setting unit 20. Here, the electrical parameters stored in the parameter storage unit 84 will be described with reference to Figs. 16 and 17. Figs. 16 and 17 are diagrams showing electrical parameters of power lines and electrical devices included in the PLC network stored in the parameter storage unit 84 according to the present embodiment, respectively. As shown in Figs. 16 and 17, the parameter storage unit 84 stores electrical parameters of one or more components associated with one or more pieces of identification information. For example, ABCD parameters (in other words, F parameters) are stored as the electrical parameters of the power lines as shown in Fig. 16. For example, impedance, S (Scattering) parameters, noise equations, and the like are stored as the electrical parameters of the electrical devices as shown in Fig. 17. The parameter storage unit 84 may also store device type information of the electric devices as shown in Fig. 17. For example, an air conditioner and a television are stored as device type information of the electric devices whose device model IDs are DM000 and DM001 shown in Fig. 17, respectively.

[0072] Furthermore, the electrical parameter acquisition unit 32 of the parameter setting unit 30 may acquire parameters set in each electrical device. For example, parameters set in a PLC device may be acquired. Here, the parameters set in the PLC device and stored in the parameter storage unit 84 will be described with reference to Figs. 18 and 19. Fig. 18 is a diagram showing parameters set in the PLC device stored in the parameter storage unit 84 according to this embodiment. Fig. 19 is a diagram showing parameters of power control IDs stored in the parameter storage unit 84 according to this embodiment.

[0073] 18, as parameters set in the PLC device, for example, a power control ID, a setting state of master or terminal, and a setting state of multi-hop on or off are stored in a parameter storage unit 84. These parameters may be changeable from the input unit 12, etc. Also, as shown in FIG. 19, the power control ID is an ID indicating a combination of transmission power in each carrier.

[0074] The electrical parameters stored in the parameter storage unit 84 as described above are acquired by the electrical parameter acquisition unit 32 .

[0075] 7, following step S38, the parameter setting unit 30 determines parameters of the PLC network (S40). Specifically, the parameter determination unit 36 ​​of the parameter setting unit 30 determines parameters including the topology and electrical parameters of the PLC network based on the acquired electrical parameters and the created topology.

[0076] Next, the simulation execution unit 40 acquires the parameters of the PLC network from the parameter setting unit 30 (S42). Specifically, the condition acquisition unit 42 of the simulation execution unit 40 acquires, from the parameter setting unit 30, the parameters to be used in the simulation.

[0077] Next, simulation conditions are input from the input unit 12 to the simulation execution unit 40 (S44). Specifically, the simulation conditions include an algorithm used in the simulation, a required specification of the PLC network, and the like. Note that the simulation conditions may also include parameters set in an electric device such as a PLC device. Here, a method of inputting the simulation conditions will be described with reference to Figs. 20 and 21. Fig. 20 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display unit 14 when the simulation conditions according to this embodiment are input. Fig. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a method of inputting the simulation conditions according to this embodiment.

[0078] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 20, the simulation execution unit 40 displays a simulation condition setting button, which is a button for starting input of simulation conditions, on the display unit 14. The user can start input of simulation conditions by selecting the simulation condition setting button using, for example, a mouse. When the simulation condition setting button is selected, the simulation execution unit 40 displays, for example, a condition setting window as shown in FIG. 21 on the display unit 14. Various simulation conditions are displayed in the condition setting window. In the example shown in FIG. 21, an algorithm and a required throughput used in the simulation are displayed. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 21, a list of algorithms and a required throughput are displayed in the condition setting window. The list of algorithms shown in FIG. 21 includes three algorithms that can be used in the simulation. The algorithm to be used in the simulation can be specified by selecting one of the algorithms in the list shown in FIG. 21 using, for example, a mouse. In addition, when the required throughput input field is selected using a mouse, a required throughput value can be input, and a desired value can be input using a keyboard.

[0079] Returning to FIG. 7, following step S44, the condition acquisition unit 42 of the simulation execution unit 40 acquires the simulation conditions input from the input unit (S46).

[0080] Next, the execution unit 44 of the simulation execution unit 40 executes a simulation based on the parameters of the PLC network acquired by the condition acquisition unit 42 and the simulation conditions (S48).

[0081] Next, the execution unit 44 of the simulation execution unit 40 outputs the simulation result to at least one of the result storage unit 86 and the result output unit 50 (S50). In this embodiment, the execution unit 44 outputs the electrical characteristics obtained by the simulation to both the result storage unit 86 and the result output unit 50. Here, the simulation result output by the execution unit 44 will be described with reference to Figs. 22 to 24. Fig. 22 is a diagram showing an example of the simulation result output by the simulation execution unit 40 according to this embodiment. Figs. 23 and 24 are diagrams showing examples of SNR and throughput included in the simulation result output by the simulation execution unit 40 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 22, the result is output for each simulation condition ID indicating the condition under which the simulation was performed, and the result is assigned a result ID for identifying the result. In the example shown in Fig. 22, the simulation result includes SNR and throughput. For example, the result ID of the simulation result when the simulation condition ID is CD001 is S001. The SNR included in the simulation result is assigned SN001 as an SNRID, and the throughput included in the simulation result is assigned TH001 as a throughput ID. As shown in FIG. 23, the SNR included in the simulation result is associated with the SNRID. In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 23, the simulation result of the SNR between a pair of PLC devices is associated with the SNRID. The SNR is shown as the power (dBm) at each frequency of the signal and the noise. In addition, as shown in FIG. 24, the throughput included in the simulation result is associated with the throughput ID. In the example shown in FIG. 24, the simulation result of the throughput between a pair of PLC devices is associated with the throughput ID. In this way, a table in which the result ID, the simulation condition ID, the SNRID, and the throughput ID are associated with each other, and a table showing the SNR and the throughput, which are specific simulation results, are output as simulation results. Note that other simulation results may be output.For example, if the throughput is less than the required throughput, the number of PLC devices that needs to be added to satisfy the required throughput may be output. The number of PLC devices is calculated, for example, by the simulation execution unit 40. The simulation execution unit may calculate the required number of PLC devices and their arrangement by adding a PLC device to a branch between a pair of PLC devices that does not satisfy the required throughput and repeating the simulation until the required throughput is satisfied.

[0082] Furthermore, if the simulation conditions do not include the placement of the PLC devices, the simulation execution unit 40 may determine the placement of the PLC devices and output the determined placement of the PLC devices as part of the simulation results. For example, the simulation execution unit may perform a simulation by placing one PLC device for each branch included in the PLC network, and repeating the process of adding a PLC device to a branch between a pair of PLC devices that does not satisfy the required throughput until the required throughput is satisfied, thereby determining the number of PLC devices required and their placement. Note that the cost of the PLC devices, etc. may be output as the simulation results.

[0083] Next, the result output unit 50 acquires the simulation results from the simulation execution unit 40 (S52). The result output unit 50 may acquire the simulation results from the simulation execution unit 40, or may acquire them from the result storage unit 86.

[0084] Next, the result output unit 50 causes the display unit 14 to display a result list including a list of electrical characteristics obtained by the simulation (S54). For example, the result output unit 50 displays a result list including SNR, throughput, the number of PLC devices, the cost of the PLC devices, etc.

[0085] Next, a result item to be displayed is selected from the result list from the input unit 12 (S56). Specifically, the user can select a result item to be displayed by using a mouse or the like to select an electrical characteristic or the like included in the result list displayed on the display unit 14.

[0086] Next, the result output unit 50 displays the result selected from the input unit 12 on the display unit 14 (S58). For example, when the throughput is selected from the result list, the result output unit 50 selects the throughput from the results output by the simulation execution unit 40 and displays it on the display unit 14. The result output unit 50 may display the simulation result in the form of a table, a graph, or the like, or may display it together with a diagram of the PLC network. Here, the display mode of the simulation result will be described with reference to FIG. 25. FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of a display mode of the simulation result according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 25, the diagram of the PLC network and the simulation result may be displayed together on the display unit 14. In the example shown in FIG. 25, the throughput value of the branch is displayed for each branch of the PLC network. Such a display makes it easy to understand the relationship between the throughput and the PLC network. Also, a mark may be attached to a power line whose throughput is less than the required throughput, such as the power lines whose power line IDs are WR001 and WR002 in FIG. 25. In FIG. 25, a dashed line is displayed along the power line as a mark. 25, any throughput value that is less than the required throughput may be marked with an underline or other marking, making it easy to find any portion that does not satisfy the required specifications.

[0087] Furthermore, if the required throughput is not satisfied, the location where the PLC device should be added may be displayed. In Fig. 25, the PLC device (electrical device DV007) to be added is displayed near the distribution board (electrical device DV101). Furthermore, the PLC device to be added may be displayed in a different display mode from the PLC devices that have already been placed. In Fig. 25, the PLC devices that have already been placed include solid line frames, and the PLC device to be added includes dashed line frames.

[0088] Also, as shown in FIG. 25, the number of PLC devices necessary to satisfy the required throughput and the cost thereof may be displayed on the display unit 14.

[0089] As described above, according to the simulation method of the present embodiment, even a user who does not have extensive knowledge of PLC networks, electrical wiring, architecture, and the like can easily simulate a PLC network.

[0090] [3. Summary] As described above, the simulation device 10 according to the present embodiment calculates the electrical characteristics of a PLC network. The simulation device 10 includes an arrangement setting unit 20 that sets the arrangement of the PLC network, a parameter setting unit 30 that sets electrical parameters of the PLC, a simulation execution unit 40 that simulates the PLC network, and a result output unit 50 that outputs the electrical characteristics calculated by the simulation by the simulation execution unit 40. The arrangement setting unit 20 includes an information acquisition unit 22 that acquires structural information indicating the structure of the building in which the PLC network is arranged and positional information of one or more components included in the PLC network, and a display information output unit 28 that displays a drawing based on the structural information on a display unit 14 that displays information related to the PLC network, and displays at least a part of the PLC network based on the positional information so as to be superimposed on the drawing.

[0091] In this way, the PLC network can be displayed overlaid on a drawing based on the structural information of the building, making it easy to set the layout of the PLC network in the building. Therefore, even users who do not have extensive knowledge of electrical wiring, architecture, etc. can easily perform simulations.

[0092] In addition, in the simulation device 10 according to the present embodiment, the drawing based on the structural information may include a floor plan of the building.

[0093] This allows users to display the floor plan and PLC network components such as power lines on top of each other while inputting the location information of each component, making it easy to set the placement of each component within a building.

[0094] Furthermore, in the simulation device 10 according to the present embodiment, the one or more components included in the PLC network may include one or more electric devices.

[0095] This makes it possible to simulate PLC networks that include electrical devices other than power lines, thereby obtaining more accurate simulation results.

[0096] In addition, in simulation device 10 according to the present embodiment, the one or more electric devices included in the PLC network may include one or more PLC devices.

[0097] This makes it possible to simulate a PLC network including PLC devices, thereby obtaining accurate simulation results that reflect the electrical characteristics of the PLC devices.

[0098] Furthermore, in the simulation device 10 according to this embodiment, the information acquisition unit 22 of the placement setting unit 20 may acquire one or more pieces of identification information corresponding to one or more components, respectively. The parameter setting unit 30 may set, based on the one or more pieces of identification information acquired by the placement setting unit 20, the electrical parameters of the one or more components acquired from a parameter storage unit 84 that stores one or more pieces of identification information and electrical parameters of the one or more components associated with the one or more pieces of identification information, as electrical parameters of the PLC network.

[0099] This allows users to set the electrical parameters of a PLC network by inputting only the identification information, without having to input the electrical parameters of each component, making it easy to perform simulations.

[0100] Furthermore, in simulation device 10 according to the present embodiment, each of the one or more pieces of identification information may include a product name of a corresponding component among the one or more components.

[0101] This allows users to set the electrical parameters of components in a PLC network simply by inputting the product name as identification information, making simulations easy.

[0102] In the simulation device 10 according to the present embodiment, the simulation execution section 40 may be capable of performing a simulation based on each of a plurality of algorithms.

[0103] This makes it possible to select a more appropriate algorithm and perform a simulation depending on factors such as the PLC network configuration.

[0104] In the simulation device 10 according to the present embodiment, the result output unit 50 may output at least one of the throughput and the SNR in the PLC network.

[0105] This makes it possible to verify whether the PLC network configuration is appropriate for carrying out PLC.

[0106] In the simulation device 10 according to the present embodiment, the result output section 50 may output the cost of the PLC device.

[0107] This makes it possible to estimate not only the electrical characteristics of a PLC network but also its cost through simulation.

[0108] Furthermore, the simulation method according to the present embodiment is a simulation method for calculating electrical characteristics of a PLC network, and includes an arrangement setting step of setting the arrangement of the PLC network, a parameter setting step of setting electrical parameters of the PLC network, a simulation execution step of simulating the PLC network, and a result output step of outputting the electrical characteristics obtained by the simulation execution step. The arrangement setting step includes an information acquisition step of acquiring structural information indicating the structure of a building in which the PLC network is arranged and position information of one or more components included in the PLC network, and a display information output step of displaying a drawing based on the structural information and displaying at least a part of the PLC network based on the position information superimposed on the drawing.

[0109] In this way, the PLC network can be displayed overlaid on a drawing based on the structural information of the building, making it easy to set the layout of the PLC network in the building. Therefore, even users who do not have extensive knowledge of electrical wiring, architecture, etc. can easily perform simulations.

[0110] (Variations, etc.) Although the simulation device 10 according to the present disclosure has been described above based on each embodiment, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. As long as it does not deviate from the gist of the present disclosure, various modifications conceivable by a person skilled in the art to each embodiment and other forms constructed by combining some of the components of each embodiment are also included within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0111] For example, in the above embodiment, the simulation device 10 includes the input unit 12, the display unit 14, and the storage unit 18, but the simulation device 10 does not have to include these. For example, the simulation device 10 may be used by being connected to an external input unit, display unit, and storage unit.

[0112] In the simulation method of the present embodiment, the position information of the power lines and the electrical devices is input in order, but the input order of the position information is not particularly limited. When the position information of the power lines and the electrical devices is input, the identification information may also be input.

[0113] In the simulation method of the present embodiment, all of the power lines and electrical devices included in the PLC network are input from the input unit 12, but at least some of the power lines and electrical devices included in the PLC network may be input from the input data storage unit 82. For example, the input data storage unit 82 may store information corresponding to an electrical wiring system diagram, and the position information acquired by the information acquisition unit 22 of the layout setting unit 20 may include information corresponding to the electrical wiring system diagram. This makes it possible to reduce the amount of position information input from the input unit 12, making it easier to perform the simulation.

[0114] In addition, in the present embodiment, the result output unit 50 outputs the simulation results to the display unit 14, but the output form of the result output unit 50 is not limited to this. For example, the result output unit 50 may output the simulation results to a printer or the like.

[0115] The following forms may also be included within the scope of one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

[0116] (1) Some of the components included in the simulation device 10 may be a computer system including a microprocessor, a ROM, a RAM, a hard disk unit, a display unit, a keyboard, a mouse, etc. A computer program is stored in the RAM or the hard disk unit. The microprocessor operates according to the computer program to achieve its functions. Here, the computer program is composed of a combination of multiple instruction codes that indicate commands for a computer to achieve a predetermined function.

[0117] (2) Some of the components included in the simulation device 10 may be composed of one system LSI (Large Scale Integration). The system LSI is an ultra-multifunctional LSI manufactured by integrating multiple components on a single chip, and specifically, is a computer system including a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, etc. A computer program is stored in the RAM. The system LSI achieves its functions by the microprocessor operating in accordance with the computer program.

[0118] (3) Some of the components included in the simulation device 10 may be configured as an IC card or a standalone module that can be attached to each device. The IC card or the module is a computer system configured with a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, etc. The IC card or the module may include the ultra-multifunction LSI. The microprocessor operates according to a computer program, causing the IC card or the module to achieve its functions. The IC card or the module may be tamper-resistant.

[0119] (4) Furthermore, some of the components included in the above-described simulation device 10 may be the computer program or the digital signal recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, such as a flexible disk, a hard disk, a CD-ROM, an MO, a DVD, a DVD-ROM, a DVD-RAM, a BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc), a semiconductor memory, etc. Also, they may be the digital signal recorded on such a recording medium.

[0120] In addition, some of the components included in the above-mentioned simulation device 10 may transmit the computer program or the digital signal via a telecommunications line, a wireless or wired communication line, a network such as the Internet, data broadcasting, etc.

[0121] (5) The present disclosure may be realized as the above-described methods. It may also be realized as a computer program for implementing these methods by a computer, or as a digital signal comprising the computer program. Furthermore, the present disclosure may be realized as a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium, such as a CD-ROM, on which the computer program is recorded.

[0122] (6) The present disclosure may also provide a computer system having a microprocessor and a memory, the memory storing the computer program, and the microprocessor operating in accordance with the computer program.

[0123] (7) The program or the digital signal may also be implemented by another independent computer system by recording it on the recording medium and transferring it, or by transferring the program or the digital signal via the network, etc.

[0124] (8) The above-described embodiments and modifications may be combined with each other. [Industrial Applicability]

[0125] The present disclosure can be used, for example, as a simulation device for designing a PLC network to be placed in a building. [Explanation of symbols]

[0126] 10 Simulation device 12 Input section 14 Display section 14ds PLC network 14th floor floor plan 14s1, 14s2, 14s3, 14s4, 14s5, 14s6, 14s7 selection buttons 14wd Drawing Window 14ws Drawing selection window 16 GUI Tools 18 Memory section 20 Placement setting section 22 Information Acquisition Department 24 Network Settings 26 Building Setting Section 28 Display information output unit 30 Parameter setting section 32 Electrical parameter acquisition section 34 Topology Creation Department 36 Parameter determination section 40 Simulation Execution Department 42 Condition Acquisition Section 44 Executive Department 50 Result output section 82 Input data storage unit 84 Parameter storage section 86 Result storage 1000 Computers 1001 Input Device 1002 Output device 1003 CPU 1004 Internal Storage 1005 RAM 1007 Reading device 1008 Transmitting and receiving device 1009 Bus W11 Power Line Attributes Edit Window W12 Power Line Model Selection Window W13 Power Line Model Editing Window W21 PLC device attribute editing window W22 PLC model selection window W23 PLC model editing window W31 Home Appliance Attributes Editing Window W32 Noise Model Selection Window W33 Noise Model Editing Window

Claims

1. A simulation device for calculating electrical characteristics of a power line communication network, comprising: A layout setting unit that sets a layout of the power line communication network; a parameter setting unit that sets electrical parameters of the power line communication network; A simulation execution unit that performs a simulation of the power line communication network; a result output unit that outputs the electrical characteristics obtained by the simulation performed by the simulation execution unit, The arrangement setting unit is an information acquisition unit that acquires structural information indicating a structure of a building in which the power line communication network is installed and position information of one or more components included in the power line communication network; a display information output unit that displays a drawing based on the structural information on a display unit that displays information related to the power line communication network, and that displays at least a part of the power line communication network based on the position information so as to be superimposed on the drawing. Simulation device.

2. The drawings include a floor plan of the building. The simulation device according to claim 1 .

3. The location information includes information corresponding to an electrical wiring diagram. The simulation device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The one or more components include one or more electrical devices. The simulation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The one or more electrical devices include one or more power line communication devices that perform power line communication. The simulation device according to claim 4.

6. the information acquisition unit acquires one or more pieces of identification information corresponding to the one or more components, The parameter setting unit sets, based on the one or more pieces of identification information acquired by the placement setting unit, the electrical parameters of the one or more components acquired from a parameter storage unit that stores the one or more pieces of identification information and the electrical parameters of the one or more components associated with the one or more pieces of identification information, as electrical parameters of the power line communication network. The simulation device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. Each of the one or more pieces of identification information includes a product name of a corresponding component among the one or more components. The simulation device according to claim 6.

8. The simulation execution unit can perform the simulation based on each of a plurality of algorithms. The simulation device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The result output unit outputs at least one of a throughput and a signal-to-noise ratio in the power line communication network. The simulation device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The result output unit outputs the cost of the power line communication device. The simulation device according to claim 5.

11. 1. A simulation method for calculating electrical characteristics of a power line communication network, comprising: A configuration setting step of setting a configuration of the power line communication network; a parameter setting step of setting electrical parameters of the power line communication network; a simulation execution step of simulating the power line communication network; a result output step of outputting the electrical characteristics obtained by the simulation execution step, The placement setting step includes: an information acquisition step of acquiring structural information indicating a structure of a building in which the power line communication network is installed and position information of one or more components included in the power line communication network; and a display information output step of displaying a drawing based on the structural information and displaying at least a part of the power line communication network based on the position information so as to be superimposed on the drawing. Simulation method.

12. A program for causing a computer to execute the simulation method according to claim 11.

Images