Connector Hub System

Abstract

The number of sensor probes can be increased or decreased as needed. The system includes one or more detection devices (14) that detect physical and chemical quantities, changes therein, and / or the state of the monitored object, a connector hub (1) connected to the detection devices (14) and having a plurality of terminals (11) that input detection data from the detection devices (14), and a control unit (15) mounted on the connector hub (1) and including a processing device (16) and a storage device (18). The storage device (18) of the connector hub (1) includes a data memory (81) that stores the detection data collected from the detection devices (14), and the connector hub (1) further includes a coupling device (22) that allows other connector hubs (2-10) to be detachably connected.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector hub system that monitors all detection data input to multiple connector hubs. [Background technology]

[0002] When physical and chemical quantities of a monitored object are acquired by a sensor, output as an electrical signal, and the driving of a device or the like is controlled based on the signal, a known configuration of a control system (single dedicated board type) is shown in Fig. 11. Fig. 11 includes a sensor probe 114, a dedicated board 99 electrically connected to the probe 114, and a control device 112 electrically connected to the dedicated board 99 and that controls the operation of a driven device (not shown) in accordance with a drive program based on the signal from the dedicated board 99.

[0003] In the control system shown in FIG. 11, a dedicated board 99 is required for each specific probe 114. In other words, one dedicated board 99 cannot be connected to any probe other than the specific probe 114 (it is not versatile). Therefore, when using multiple different types of sensors, as shown in FIG. 12, multiple pairs of probes 114a-114d and corresponding dedicated boards 99a-99d must be connected to the control device 112. However, in this multi-series (parallel) dedicated board type control system (four series in FIG. 12), the drive program and control method become complicated, and the single control device 112 is burdened, resulting in a decrease in information processing capacity and processing speed. Furthermore, if a single control system (FIG. 11) is to be configured for two or more series in order to increase the number of probes 114, the drive program of the control device 112 must be changed.

[0004] FIG. 13 shows the concept of a control system (single-series dedicated board type) in which dedicated boards 99a-99d connected to each probe 114a-114d are connected in series, with the aim of increasing the number of probes while avoiding a control system with more than two series. However, because the dedicated boards 99a-99d are designed to connect only to specific probes 114a-114d, in practice, the boards cannot be connected in series as shown in FIG. 13 (they lack scalability and ultra-versatility). In other words, the concept of FIG. 13 is practically impossible. Even if the system shown in FIG. 13 could be realized, if a failure 131 or maintenance is required in one of the dedicated boards 99a-99d or in part of the transmission path, the serial transmission path will be interrupted, preventing communication between the dedicated boards 99c-99d beyond the location of the failure 131 and the control device 112. Furthermore, a single-series system makes it easy for information to be extracted in bulk by hacking.

[0005] Patent Document 1 discloses a sensor device including a control board with a microcontroller, a dedicated sensor board with a sensor element, and a relay board between the control board and the sensor board. Figure 14, based on the concept of Patent Document 1, shows a control system (single connector hub / multiple series dedicated board type) that uses a connector hub 101 as a relay device, physically and electrically connects dedicated boards 99a-99d to connection terminals 111 of the connector hub 101, and can increase or decrease the number of probes 114a-114d within a certain range as needed. However, the connection terminals 111 of the connector hub 101 in Figure 14 cannot connect more than a predetermined number of dedicated boards 99a-99d (four channels in Figure 14). Furthermore, because the connection terminals 111 are fixed terminals that are fixed to either analog or digital, input or output, the terminal type cannot be changed as needed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] International Publication WO2017 / 149625 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a connector hub system that solves the problems of the prior art. Specifically, the present invention provides a connector hub system that allows the number of sensor probes to be increased or decreased as needed. The present invention provides a connector hub system that does not require a dedicated circuit board and can maintain normal operation even if some of the multiple connector hubs stop functioning. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The connector hub system of the present invention includes one or more detection devices 14, 24 that detect physical and chemical quantities, changes therein, and / or conditions to be monitored; connector hubs 1, 2 that are connected to the detection devices 14, 24 and have multiple terminals 11 that input detection data from the detection devices 14, 24; and a control unit 15 mounted on the connector hubs 1, 2 and including a processing device 16 and a memory device 18. The memory device 18 of the connector hub 1 includes a data memory 81 that stores detection data collected from the detection devices 14, and the connector hubs 1, 2 further include a coupling device 22 to which other connector hubs 3-10 can be detachably connected. The connector hub system also includes a monitoring device 13 that is communicatively connected to the data memory 81 of the connector hubs 1, 2 and monitors the detection data from the detection devices 14, 24. The connector hubs 1, 2 include multiple connector hubs, and the monitoring device 13 is connected in series to the multiple connector hubs 1, 2 to monitor the proximal end connector hub 1 closest to the monitoring device 13 and monitor all detection data input to the multiple connector hubs 1, 2. The connector hub system of the present invention is equipped with a coupling device 22, which allows for the detachable connection of another connector hub 3-10 when there is a shortage of probes or terminals or when a large number of data detection requests arise. This allows the number of sensor probes 14 connected to the terminals 11 to be freely increased or decreased as needed. Furthermore, when an additional connector hub 3-10 is connected via the coupling device 22, the data memory 81 of the connector hubs 1 and 2 can store or save not only the detection data obtained from the first connector hub 1, but also the detection data obtained from the additional connector hub 3-10. In the present invention, the monitoring device 13 is connected in series to multiple connector hubs 1, 2, and by monitoring only the proximal-end connector hub 1, it is possible to monitor all detection data obtained from one or more connector hubs 1, 2 in a single series, avoiding the conventional problems of program complexity and reduced processing speed caused by multi-series (parallel) systems. Also, when multiple connector hubs 1, 2 are connected in series to the monitoring device 13, each connector hub is provided with a memory device 18, so data can be stored in any of the connector hubs 1, 2, and data can be reliably backed up even if a failure or disconnection occurs in one of the connector hubs.

[0009] The connector hubs 1, 2 include at least a proximal end connector hub 1 and a terminal connector hub 2 connected to the proximal end connector hub 1, and the data memory 81 of the proximal end connector hub 1 is a total data memory 81 that stores all detection data collected from all connector hubs. The monitoring device 13 includes one or more selected from a personal computer, a mobile device, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet, and a programmable logic controller, as well as a dedicated device and a board equipped with a monitoring program, and the monitoring device 13 can update, rewrite or change the thresholds and programs stored in the memory device 18 of the connector hubs 1 and 2 via wired or wireless communication. The connector hubs 1, 2 include at least a proximal end connector hub 1 and a terminal connector hub 2 connected to the proximal end connector hub 1, and the memory device 18 of the proximal end connector hub 1 includes a total drive memory 83 that stores all drive programs that control the driven devices 21a-21c connected to all of the connector hubs 1, 2, and the monitoring device 13 is connected to the total drive memory 83 and monitors all drive programs stored in the total drive memory 83. The processing device 16 of the control unit 15 includes an AD conversion unit 62 that converts detection data based on analog signals input from the detection devices 14, 24 to terminals 11 of the connector hubs 1, 2 into digital signals, a digital receiving unit 63 that receives detection data based on digital signals input to terminals 11 of the connector hubs 1, 2 and detection data converted into digital signals by the AD conversion unit 62, an accumulation processing unit 65 that accumulates the detection data received by the digital receiving unit 63 in each data memory 81a of the storage device 18, a comparison unit 67 that compares the numerical value of the detection data received by the digital receiving unit 63 or accumulated in each data memory 81a with a threshold value stored in a threshold database 82 of the storage device 18, and a drive transmitting unit 68 that outputs a drive signal to the driven devices 21a-21c connected to the terminals 11 of the connector hubs 1, 2 based on the comparison result by the comparison unit 67. The system further includes a calibration unit 64 that calibrates the detection data by taking into account the calibration coefficients stored in the calibration database 84 through calculations, and a comparison unit 67 compares the numerical value of the detection data after calibration by the calibration unit 64 with a threshold value. The digital receiver 63 further includes a data transmitter 66 for transmitting the detected data to the outside of the connector hubs 1 and 2 so that the detected data received by the digital receiver 63 can be saved or accumulated. The multiple connector hubs 1, 2 include a master connector hub 1M including an auxiliary communication device 19 capable of wired or wireless communication with the outside, and one or more slave connector hubs 2S that are successively subordinate to the master connector hub 1M and do not include the auxiliary communication device 19, and the master connector hub 1M and the slave connector hubs 2S form a series of master-slave systems MS1, and the processing device 16 of the slave connector hub 2S includes a data transmission unit 66 that transmits detection data collected from the detection device 24 of the slave connector hub 2S to at least the master connector hub 1M.

[0010] The control method includes a step of assigning a terminal type of digital input, analog input, digital output, or analog output to each terminal 11 of the connector hubs 1 and 2; a step of detecting physical quantities and chemical quantities of the monitored object, changes therein, and / or the state of the monitored object by a plurality of detection devices 14 and 24; a step of inputting detection data from the detection devices 14 and 24 to the plurality of terminals 11 for which the terminal type has been determined; a step of converting the detection data by analog signals input to the terminals 11 from analog signals to digital signals by an AD conversion unit 62; The process includes a step of receiving the detection data converted into a digital signal by the conversion unit using the digital receiving unit 63, a step of storing the detection data received by the digital receiving unit 63 in each data memory 81a of the storage device 18 using the storage processing unit 65, a step of comparing the numerical value of the detection data received by the digital receiving unit 63 or stored in each data memory 81a with a threshold value stored in the threshold database 82 of the storage device 18 using the comparison unit 67, and a step of outputting a drive signal to the driven devices 21a-21c connected to the terminals 11 of the connector hubs 1, 2 using the drive transmitting unit 68 based on the comparison result by the comparison unit 67. a step of serially connecting at least a proximal master slave system MS1 and a distal master slave system MS2 to the monitoring device 13; when communication on a transmission path 26 is interrupted in the proximal master slave system MS1, the master connector hub 4M of the distal master slave system MS2 detects that the detected data is not transmitted to the master connector hub 1M of the proximal master slave system MS1 through the transmission path 26, and wirelessly connects the distal master slave system MS2 and the monitoring device 13 via an auxiliary communication device 19 of the master connector hub 4M of the distal master slave system MS2; and a process of monitoring the detection data and driving programs of all master slave systems beyond at least the distal master slave system MS2 by monitoring the data memory 81 and all driving memories 83, wherein each of the proximal and distal master slave systems MS1, MS2 comprises a master connector hub 1M, 4M including an auxiliary communication device 19 capable of communicating with the outside, and one or more slave connector hubs 2S, 3S, 5S sequentially subordinate to the master connector hub 1M, 4M, wherein the one or more slave connector hubs 2S, 3S, 5S include one or more master connector hubs and / or one or more slave connector hubs 2S, 3S, 5S that do not include the auxiliary communication device 19. a step of providing a plurality of master-slave systems MS1, MS2 each including a master connector hub 1M, 4M including an auxiliary communication device 19 capable of communicating with the outside, and one or more slave connector hubs 2S, 3S, 5S successively slaved to the master connector hub 1M, 4M; a step of wirelessly connecting the auxiliary communication device 19 of the nearest master-slave system MS2 that cannot be connected by wire to the first master-slave system MS1 when the other master-slave systems MS2 cannot be connected by wire due to long distance, environmental conditions, natural objects, or artificial obstacles; The method includes a process in which the system MS2 transmits detection data and driving programs of all master-slave systems beyond itself to the master connector hub 1M of the first master-slave system MS1, a process in which all data memories 81 and all driving memories 83 of the master connector hub 1M of the first master-slave system MS1 store the detection data and driving programs, respectively, and a process in which, when the situation 33 in which a wired connection is not possible is resolved, the wireless connection is stopped, and the one or more slave connector hubs 2S, 3S, 5S include one or more master connector hubs including an auxiliary communication device 19, and / or one or more slave connector hubs 2S, 3S, 5S that do not include an auxiliary communication device 19. The control method includes a process of assigning a terminal type to each terminal: digital input, analog input, digital output, or analog output. This allows the terminal type to be selected freely, eliminating the need for a dedicated sensor board, which was previously required for fixed terminals (terminals whose terminal type cannot be selected or changed).

[0011] The control program is a program for causing a computer to execute the connector hub system. Based on the detection data obtained from the detectors 14 and 24, the driven devices 21a-21c can be reliably driven and controlled, thereby enabling efficient operation of the driven devices 21a-21c. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] The connector hub system of the present invention allows the number of sensor probes and controlled devices to be increased or decreased as needed, and does not require a dedicated sensor board, providing a connector hub system with excellent versatility and expandability. Furthermore, by monitoring only the leading proximal end of multiple connector hubs, the monitoring processing load can be reduced, allowing for safe and reliable control of driven devices without malfunction. Furthermore, data can be moved as needed within this connector hub system, making it effective against hacking and terrorism. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a connector hub system (first embodiment); [Figure 2] A block diagram showing the configuration of the control unit shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Block diagram showing a connector hub system (second embodiment) [Figure 4] Block diagram showing a connector hub system (third embodiment) [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a connector hub system (fourth embodiment) for implementing a control method. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a connector hub system (fifth embodiment) for implementing the control method. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a connector hub system (sixth embodiment) for implementing the control method. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a connector hub system (seventh embodiment) for implementing the control method. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a connector hub system (eighth embodiment) implementing the control method. [Figure 10] 1 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a sensor calibration using a connector hub system implementing a control method. [Figure 11] Block diagram showing a conventional control system (single dedicated board type) [Figure 12] Block diagram showing a conventional control system (multi-series dedicated board type) [Figure 13]Block diagram showing a conventional control system (single-line dedicated board type) [Figure 14] Block diagram showing a conventional control system (single connector hub, multi-series dedicated board type) DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 10. The following embodiment is an example and is not intended to limit the present invention. 1 shows a connector hub system (first embodiment). The system includes a plurality of detection devices 14 that detect physical and chemical quantities, changes therein, and / or conditions to be monitored, and a connector hub 1 having a plurality of terminals 11 to which detection data from the detection devices 14 is input.

[0015] Detector 14 and detector 24 shown in Figures 3 and subsequent figures are sensors or measuring instruments that output one or more detection data selected from environmental information such as light, temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, position, distance, and level; gas component information such as odor, gas concentration, and toxicity; liquid component information such as water hardness, water viscosity, hydrogen ion concentration (pH), nitrogen content, ammonia, residual chlorine, salinity, conductivity, color, turbidity, chemical substances, and radioactivity; mass information such as water level, pressure, liquid volume, remaining gas volume, remaining powder volume, flow rate, and weight; material information such as material hardness and material characteristics (distinguishing between wood, metal, glass, etc.); speed information such as flow rate, speed, and time; electrical energy information such as power consumption and voltage; and operational information such as the opening and closing of solenoid valves and lamps, button switches, pumps, and other devices that indicate usage status. Detector 14 also includes a sensor probe, electronic element, camera, microphone, etc. that outputs physical or chemical phenomena as electrical signals. The monitored physical quantities include, for example, force, light, electromagnetic waves, temperature, sound, speed, acceleration, etc., and the monitored chemical quantities include, for example, pH, concentration, density, toxicity, etc.

[0016] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , one connector hub 1 is provided with six terminals (CN1-CN6) 11, including terminals CN1-CN3 to which sensor probes Pr1-Pr3 are connected as input terminals. The number and size of the terminals 11, and the number and type of the connected sensor probes Pr1-Pr3, are not limited. The terminals 11 can be selected and changed to either digital or analog input terminals or digital or analog output terminals, and are therefore referred to as virtual terminals, virtual input / output terminals, or variable terminals. The connector hub 1 is equipped with a control unit 15, which includes a storage device 18 including volatile memory (RAM) and nonvolatile memory (ROM). The storage device 18 of the connector hub 1 includes a data memory 81 that accumulates detection data collected from the detection device 14 of the connector hub 1. The data memory 81 can store all past and current detection data within its capacity. The detection data stored in the data memory 81 can be monitored from outside the connector hub 1 via a processing device (central processing unit, CPU) 16 and a data bus (not shown). The control unit 15 can be operated by an operating system (OS). The connector hub 1 in FIG. 1 further includes a coupling device 22 to which other connector hubs 2-10 can be detachably connected. In the block diagram of FIG. 1, the coupling device 22 is schematically shown by a single frame, but it can be composed of two or more ports (examples of which are shown in FIGS. 3 and 9) or interfaces. The coupling device 22 is not limited as long as it is capable of transmitting and receiving data, but a versatile universal serial bus (USB) or local area network (LAN) connector, or a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth interface is preferred. By unifying the standards between the connector hub 1 and the other connector hubs 2-10, for example by unifying the OS used in the control unit 15, multiple coupled connector hubs can operate without any problems.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the control unit 15. The processing device 16 of the control unit 15 includes an AD conversion unit 62 that converts analog detection data input from the detection device 14 to the terminals 11 of the connector hub 1 into digital signals, and a digital receiving unit 63 that receives the digital detection data input to the terminals 11 of the connector hub 1 and the detection data converted to digital signals by the AD conversion unit 62. The AD conversion unit 62 and the digital receiving unit 63 generate input signals required for the control unit 15, eliminating the need for a dedicated sensor board in the present invention. The control unit 15 also includes a storage processing unit 65 that stores the detection data received by the digital receiving unit 63 in each data memory 81a of the storage device 18, with or without the intervention of a calibration unit 64 (described later). An optional data transmission unit 66 may be provided to transmit the detection data received by the digital receiving unit 63 or stored in each data memory 81a to an external device of the connector hub 1. The AD conversion unit 62 is an analog-to-digital (AD) converter that samples, quantizes, and encodes an analog signal to convert it into a digital signal, and includes, for example, a flash type, successive approximation type, pipeline type, delta-sigma type, or double integral type AD converter. Each data memory 81a may be a part of the data memory (all data memories) 81 shown in FIG. 1, or may be independent from the data memory 81. Each data memory 81a stores detection data obtained only from the connector hub 1.

[0018] The control unit 15 in FIG. 2 may further include a comparison unit 67 that compares the numerical values of the detection data received by the digital receiving unit 63 or stored in each data memory 81a with threshold values stored in a threshold value database 82 in the storage device 18, and a drive transmission unit 68 that outputs digital or analog drive signals to the driven devices 21a-21c that may be connected to the terminals 11 of the connector hub 1 based on the comparison results by the comparison unit 67. The threshold value database 82 stores threshold value data associated with the type and information of the detection device 14 (e.g., an upper threshold value of pH 8.6 and a lower threshold value of pH 5.8 if the detection device 14 is a pH sensor). The threshold values can be rewritten remotely by the monitoring device 13, or on-site by a connectable personal computer, a programmable logic controller (PLC) 12 (FIG. 5) mounted on the connector hub, or the like.

[0019] FIG. 3 shows a connector hub system (third embodiment). A description of components identical to those in FIG. 1 will be omitted. This system includes a proximal-end connector hub 1 and a distal-end connector hub 2 connected to the proximal-end connector hub 1, each of which serves as a series of multiple connector hubs having multiple terminals 11 to which detection data from detection devices 14 and 24 is input. Each of the two consecutive connector hubs 1 and 2 has six terminals (CN1-CN6) 11, including terminals CN1-CN3 to which sensor probes Pr1-Pr3 are connected as input terminals and terminals CN4-CN6 to which driven devices 21a-21c are connected as output terminals. The number and type of driven devices 21a-21c are not limited. A control unit 15 of the connector hubs 1 and 2 includes a storage device 18 and a processing device (central processing unit, CPU) 16 that controls the operation of the external driven devices 21a-21c based on input detection data in accordance with commands from a drive program stored in the storage device 18. Since each connector hub 1, 2 is provided with a storage device 18, data can be stored in at least one of all connector hubs 1, 2, and data can be reliably backed up in the event of a partial failure or disconnection.

[0020] As shown in Figure 3, a monitoring device 13 is connected in series to a series of multiple connector hubs 1 and 2. The monitoring device 13 includes one or more of a storage device, a processing device, an input device (keyboard, numeric keypad, mouse, touch panel, buttons, etc.), and an output device (display, speaker, etc.). The monitoring device 13 is a device or user interface that can communicate with the connector hubs 1 and 2 via wired or wireless communication and monitors the multiple detection data and driving programs acquired from the detection devices 14 and 24. The monitoring device 13 may be a device fixed in a monitoring and control room or a portable device, and can update, rewrite, or change the thresholds and programs stored in the storage device 18 via communication. The term "program" is a generic term that includes a driving program, a monitoring program, and a control program, as well as programs, algorithms, operation system programs, and application programs other than these driving, monitoring, and control programs. The terms "driving program," "monitoring program," and "control program" in this specification are also intended to include the respective algorithms, operation system programs, and application programs. The thresholds and programs in the storage device 18 can also be updated, etc., from devices other than the monitoring device 13. The monitoring device 13 and devices other than the monitoring device 13 are, for example, one or more selected from a personal computer, a mobile device, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet, and a programmable logic controller (PLC, programmable controller, sequencer). The monitoring device 13 further includes a dedicated device and board equipped with a monitoring program or a dedicated operating system (OS).

[0021] The series of two connector hubs 1, 2 in Figure 3 includes a proximal end connector hub 1, one of which is directly connected to the monitoring device 13 via a transmission line 27, and a distal end connector hub 2, which is connected to the other of the proximal end connector hubs 1 via a transmission line 26. Although Figure 3 shows a connector hub system having only two connector hubs, one or more connector hubs may be provided between the proximal end connector hub 1 and the distal end connector hub, as in Figures 5 and onwards.

[0022] The storage device 18 of the proximal end connector hub 1 includes a total data memory 81 that stores detection data collected from the detection devices 14, 24 of all connector hubs. The detection devices 14, 24 of all connector hubs include not only the detection device 14 connected to the terminal 11 of the proximal end connector hub 1, but also the detection device 24 connected to the terminal 11 of the distal connector hub 2, and detection devices connected to one or more connector hubs (not shown) between the proximal end connector hub 1 and the distal connector hub 2. The total data memory 81 can store all past and current detection data within its capacity. Because all detection data is stored in the total data memory 81 of the proximal end connector hub 1, the monitoring device 13 or a user of the monitoring device 13 can view the detection data of all connector hubs 1, 2 by accessing only the proximal end connector hub 1. In other words, the connector hub system shown in FIG. 3 can monitor all consecutive connector hubs in a single system by monitoring only the storage device 18 of the proximal end connector hub 1, thereby avoiding the system complexity and slowdown in processing speed that would occur due to multiple systems.

[0023] The storage device 18 of the proximal end connector hub 1 further includes a total drive memory 83 in which all drive programs controlling the driven devices 21a-21c connected to the connector hubs 1 and 2 are stored. The monitoring device 13 can check the drive programs of all connector hubs 1 and 2 by monitoring the total drive memory 83 of the proximal end connector hub 1. Furthermore, the monitoring device 13 can automatically or manually update and change the drive programs and thresholds after checking the detection data and drive programs. The coupling device 22 of the connector hub 1 in FIG. 3 has one port 22a connected to the monitoring device 13 via a transmission line 27 and the other port 22b connected to the connector hub 2 via a transmission line 26. The coupling device 22 of the connector hub 2 in FIG. 3 has one port 22a connected to the connector hub 1 via the transmission line 26 and the other port 22b in an open state, i.e., a state in which it can be connected to another connector hub 3-10. As a result, in this connector hub system, one or more other connector hubs 3-10 can be additionally and detachably connected in series to the connecting device 22 of the terminal connector hub 2.

[0024] The control method will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. The operations of the proximal-end connector hub 1 and the distal-end connector hub 2 are similar, so unless otherwise noted, the control method of the proximal-end connector hub 1 will be mainly described. First, the monitoring device 13 assigns and sets the terminal type (terminal type) of each terminal 11 of the detection device 14. The terminal type is either a digital input terminal, an analog input terminal, a digital output terminal, or an analog output terminal. In this embodiment, for example, the monitoring device 13 assigns and sets terminals CN1 and CN2 as analog input terminals, terminal CN3 as digital input terminals, and terminals CN4-CN6 as digital output terminals. Next, the analog signal probes Pr1 and Pr2 are electrically connected to terminals CN1 and CN2, respectively, the digital signal probe Pr3 is connected to terminal CN3, and the digital signal driven devices (e.g., valves) 21a-21c are connected to terminals CN4-CN6, respectively, to start the connector hub system.

[0025] 1 and 3, physical quantities and the like to be monitored are continuously or intermittently detected by a plurality of detectors 14 and converted into electrical signals. Detection data from the detectors 14 in the form of electrical signals is input to the connector hub 1 through a plurality of terminals 11. In this embodiment, analog signals are input from terminals CN1 and CN2, and a digital signal is input from terminal CN3, as detection data, to the connector hub 1. The detection data in the form of an analog signal input to terminal CN3 of the connector hub 1 is converted from an analog signal to a digital signal by an AD converter 62.

[0026] The detection data input to the terminal CN3 of the connector hub 1 as a digital signal is directly received by the digital receiver 63, while the detection data input to the terminals CN1 and CN2 as analog signals is converted to digital data by the AD converter 62 as described above and then received by the digital receiver 63. The detection data received by the digital receiver 63 is then linked to information such as the sensor type, time, terminal number, time, and usage conditions by the storage processor 64, via the calibration unit 64 (described later) as needed, and stored in each data memory 81a of the storage device 18. The detection data received by the digital receiver 63 may be transmitted by the data transmitter 66 to a storage device other than each data memory 81a, such as the monitoring device 13, the cloud storage 39, the programmable logic controller 12, and / or the storage device 18 of another connector hub, for storage, accumulation, or storage. The data transmitter 66 also transmits the detection data obtained from the connector hub 2 to the overall detection data memory 81 of the connector hub 1.

[0027] Furthermore, a comparison unit 67 executes a process of comparing the numerical values of the detection data received by the digital receiving unit 63 or stored in each data memory 81a with the threshold values stored in the threshold database 82 of the storage device 18. Based on the comparison result by the comparison unit 67, a drive transmitting unit 68 outputs a drive signal to the driven devices 21a-21c connected to the terminals 11 of the connector hub 1. The drive signal is output as a digital signal directly or after being converted into an analog signal by a DA converter, depending on the request of the driven devices 21a-21c. For example, in the case of pH control of the liquid in the tank 78 (Figure 10(b)), when the detected data value is pH 9.0 and the upper threshold value stored in the threshold database 82 is pH 8.8, the comparison unit 67 determines that the detected data value is higher than the threshold value, and the drive transmission unit 68 outputs a drive signal to, for example, the pH adjustment pump 21a (Figure 10(b)) electrically connected to terminal CN4, and by starting the pH adjustment pump 21a, the operation of reducing the pH (injecting acid) is performed on the liquid in the tank 78.

[0028] FIG. 4 shows a third embodiment of a connector hub system. Description of components identical to those in FIGS. 1 and 3 will be omitted. In this connector hub system, multiple connector hubs 1 and 2, including a proximal connector hub 1 and a distal connector hub 2, include a master connector hub 1M including an auxiliary communication device 19 capable of wired or wireless communication with the outside world, and one or more slave connector hubs 2S successively subordinate to the master connector hub 1M, forming a series of master-slave systems. In FIG. 4, the slave connector hub 2S includes one slave connector hub 2S that does not include the auxiliary communication device 19. The series of master connector hubs 1M and slave connector hubs 2S constitute a master-slave system (hereinafter referred to as the "MS system") MS1. The auxiliary communication device 19 can establish communication with the monitoring device 13 through a wireless transmission path 28, which serves as a bypass separate from the existing transmission path 27 between the monitoring device 13 and the MS system MS1. Because the auxiliary communication device 19 and the wireless transmission path 28 are provided, the MS system MS1 and the monitoring device 13 do not need to be located in close proximity.

[0029] The processing device 16 of the slave connector hub 2S shown in FIG. 4 includes a data transmission unit 66 that transmits detection data collected from the multiple detection devices 24 of the slave connector hub 2S to at least the master connector hub 1M. The data transmission unit 66 sequentially transmits the detection data input from the terminals 11 to the master connector hub 1M (stream processing). Alternatively, the data transmission unit 66 may periodically collectively transmit (batch processing) the detection data temporarily stored in each data memory 81a (FIG. 2) by the storage processing unit 65 (FIG. 2). Furthermore, when the connector hubs are separated by a long distance, one or more repeaters (repeater hubs) 23 may be provided between the connector hubs 1M and 2S to amplify the detection data signals from the detection devices 14 and 24 and stabilize the signals. The repeater 23 can also be applied to the connector hub systems shown in FIG. 3 and FIGS. 5 to 10. While the embodiment of FIG. 4 shows an MS system MS1, a master-master system (hereinafter referred to as an "MM system") may also be configured by the master connector hub 1M and one or more master connector hubs subordinate to it.

[0030] 5 shows a fourth embodiment of a connector hub system for implementing a control method. This system includes a monitoring device 13, a first master-slave system MS1 connected to the monitoring device 13 via a transmission path 27, and a second master-slave system MS2 connected to the other end of the first master-slave system MS1. Each of the first and second master-slave systems MS1 and MS2 includes a master connector hub 1M including an auxiliary communication device 19 capable of communicating with the outside, and one or more subordinate connector hubs 2S sequentially subordinate to the master connector hub 1M. The one or more subordinate connector hubs are one or more master connector hubs and / or one or more slave connector hubs that do not include the auxiliary communication device 19, and each of the first and second master-slave systems MS1 and MS2 may constitute an MS system or an MM system.

[0031] The first MS system MS1 as a first master-slave system shown in FIG. 5 includes one master connector hub 1M and two slave connector hubs 2S and 3S, while the second MS system MS2 as a second master-slave system includes one master connector hub 4M and one slave connector hub 5S. In the master connector hubs 1M and 4M shown in FIG. 5, the total data memory 81 and total drive memory 83 function to store all detection data and drive programs, as in the previous embodiment. A programmable logic controller (PLC) 12 shown in FIG. 5 can be installed in each master connector hub 1M and 2M to complement the control unit 15 or monitoring device 13. For example, the drive program and other programs can be updated or rewritten on-site using the PLC's user interface (e.g., a touch panel).

[0032] 5, a control method using the connector hub system first provides a plurality of master-slave systems MS1 and MS2, each including a master connector hub 1M including an auxiliary communication device 19 capable of wired or wireless communication with the outside of the system, and one or more slave connector hubs 2S serially subordinate to the master connector hub 1M. At least a proximal first MS system MS1 and a distal second master-slave system MS2 are then connected in series to a monitoring device 13. That is, a second MS system MS2 is directly connected to the first MS system MS1 on the side opposite to the monitoring device 13. Next, a total data memory 81 and a total drive memory 83 are provided in the storage device 18 of the master connector hub 4M of the second MS system MS2.

[0033] In the connector hub system of Figure 5, if a communication interruption (marked with an x in Figure 5) 31 occurs in the transmission path 26 within the first MS system MS1 due to an electrical fault, physical disconnection, or the like, the master connector hub 4M on the end side closest to the interruption 31 detects that detection data is not being transmitted to the master connector hub 1M via the transmission path 26. If transmission is unsuccessful after multiple attempts, the master connector hub 4M establishes a wireless transmission path 28 with the monitoring device 13 via its auxiliary communication device 19. That is, the monitored functions for the entire data memory 81 and entire drive memory 83 of the proximal end connector hub are switched from the master connector hub 1M to the master connector hub 4M of the second MS system MS2. This allows the monitoring device 13 to monitor the entire data memory 81 and entire drive memory 83 of the master connector hub 4M of the second MS system MS2 via the wireless transmission path 28, thereby monitoring the detection data and drive programs of at least all MS systems beyond the second MS system MS2.

[0034] FIG. 6 shows a fifth embodiment of a connector hub system for implementing a control method. This system includes two master-slave systems, a first and a second MS system MS1 and MS2, but illustrates a situation 33 in which the two systems cannot be connected by wire. Situation 33 occurs when a wired connection is not possible due to, for example, long distances, environmental conditions, natural objects, man-made obstacles, etc. While FIG. 6 illustrates a situation 33 in which the second MS system MS2 cannot be connected by wire immediately before, there may also be situations in which a third or subsequent MS system (not shown) cannot be connected by wire immediately before. In the system of FIG. 6, only the master connector hub 1M functions as the overall data memory 81 and the overall drive memory 83. The rest of the configuration is substantially the same as in FIG. 5, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0035] The control method using the connector hub system of Figure 6 first provides multiple master-slave systems, each including a master connector hub 1M including an auxiliary communication device 19 capable of communicating with the outside, and one or more slave connector hubs 2S that are successively slaved to the master connector hub 1M. In this control method, as shown in Figure 6, one slave connector hub 2S that does not include an auxiliary communication device 19 is used as the one or more slave connector hubs, and first and second MS systems MS1 and MS2 are configured as multiple master-slave systems.

[0036] When the second MS system MS2 cannot be connected by wire to the first MS system MS1 directly connected to the monitoring device 13 (FIG. 6), the auxiliary communication device 19 of the second MS system MS2, which is closest to the monitoring device 13 that cannot be connected by wire, is wirelessly connected to the auxiliary communication device 19 of the first MS system MS1 via a wireless transmission path 35. Next, the second MS system MS2, which is closest to the monitoring device 13 that cannot be connected by wire, transmits the detection data and driving programs of all MS systems beyond itself (MS systems beyond the third MS system are not shown in FIG. 6) to the master connector hub 1M of the first MS system MS1. Furthermore, the total data memory 81 and total driving memory 83 of the master connector hub 1M of the first MS system MS1 respectively store the detection data and driving programs transmitted from the second MS system MS2. In the embodiment of FIG. 6, when the situation 33 in which a wired connection is not possible is resolved, the wireless connection via the wireless transmission path 35 is stopped, and when the situation 33 reoccurs, the wireless transmission path 35 can be reconnected.

[0037] FIG. 7 shows a sixth embodiment of a connector hub system implementing the control method. FIGS. 7(a)-(c) show a series of first, second, and third master-slave (MS) systems MS1-MS3 and a fourth master-master (MM) system MM4 connected in series to a monitoring device 13, forming a daisy chain. The first MS system MS1 includes one master-connect hub 1M and two slave-connect hubs 2S and 3S, the second MS system MS2 includes one master-connect hub 4M and one slave-connect hub 5S, the third MS system MS3 includes one master-connect hub 6M and two slave-connect hubs 7S and 8S, and the fourth MM system MM4 includes two master-connect hubs 9M and 10M.

[0038] 7(a) shows a normal state in which the detection data and drive programs of all connector hubs are stored in the total data memory 81 and total drive memory 83 of the master connector hub 1M via the transmission path 26, and the monitoring device 13 can monitor all detection data and drive programs by accessing only the master connector hub 1M via the transmission path 27. FIG. 7(b) shows a connector hub system in which, in preparation for the possibility of data loss for some reason, all detection data and drive programs of the master connector hub 1M are backed up in advance in one or more of multiple master connector hubs 4M, 9M, and 10M via the normal transmission path 26 or the wireless transmission path 35. In this system, detection data and the like can be stored not only in the master connector hubs 4M, 9M, and 10M but also in cloud storage 39 and electromagnetically recordable storage devices of other external devices (not shown) using the auxiliary communication device 19. Figure 7(c) shows a connector hub system in which, for example, in case information passing through transmission path 27 is hacked, the communication path of all detection data and driving programs of master connector hub 1M can be switched from the normal transmission path 27 to a wireless transmission path 28, i.e., the source of transmission can be switched manually, automatically or randomly from master connector hub 1M to another master connector hub (9M in Figure 7(c)).

[0039] In the control method shown in FIG. 7, detection data and drive programs stored in the storage devices 18 of one or more connector hubs are transmitted to the storage devices 18 of other connector hubs via a normal transmission path 26 or via a wireless transmission path 35 using an auxiliary communication device 19. Specifically, in FIG. 7(b), all detection data and other data stored in the storage device 18 of the master connector hub 1M is transmitted via the wireless transmission path 35 to one or more of the master connector hubs 4M, 9M, and 10M and cloud storage 39 for backup purposes. Meanwhile, in FIG. 7(c), the data is moved to the master connector hub 9M via the transmission path 26 to prevent information extraction. This switches the source of storage of detection data and other data and the source of transmission to the monitoring device 13 from one connector hub to another. As a result, in the connector hub system of FIG. 7(b), if some of the connector hubs where detection data and other data are stored fail or are damaged, the backup prevents complete loss of data. In Fig. 7(c), for example, the storage source and transmission source of detected data are switched (1M → 9M) automatically or randomly by a randomization program, or manually, and the transmission path to the monitoring device 13 is switched to wireless transmission path 28'. The system in Fig. 7(c) makes it difficult to identify the transmission source from outside, improves the deterrent effect of hacking, and solves the problems of a single-series (serial) system.

[0040] FIG. 8 shows a seventh embodiment of a connector hub system for implementing the control method. FIG. 8(a) shows MS systems MS1-MS4 each controllably connected to water treatment devices 21a-21d as driven devices. The water treatment devices 21a-21d include electrically controllable devices such as motor pumps, valves, filters, aeration devices, agitators, ozone generators, sterilant manufacturing machines, filter presses, heat exchangers, control panels, and other water treatment ancillary equipment. FIG. 8(a) shows a state in which multiple MS systems MS1-MS4 are each connected to a monitoring device 13 via different (multiple) transmission paths 40a-40d. That is, the monitoring device 13 in FIG. 8(a) must monitor all of the multiple MS systems MS1-MS4. On the other hand, FIG. 8(b) shows a connector hub system in which multiple MS systems MS1-MS4 are connected in series via a wireless transmission path 35, with the nearest MS system MS1 directly connected to the monitoring device 13 via a wireless transmission path 28.

[0041] In the control method shown in Figure 8, multiple MS systems MS1-MS4 (Figure 8(a)), which are wirelessly connected to monitoring device 13 via separate transmission paths 40a-40d and drive and control the operation of each water treatment device 21a-21d, are wirelessly connected to each other in series via wireless transmission path 35 to form a single system (Figure 8(b)). By forming the systems into a single system, only the nearest MS system MS1, from which all detection data is collected, is monitored via transmission path 28, making it possible to monitor the operation of all water treatment devices 21a-21d connected to MS systems MS1-MS4, thereby reducing the burden on monitoring device 13.

[0042] Figure 9 shows an eighth embodiment of a connector hub system for implementing the control method. The system includes a series of multiple connector hubs (three slave connector hubs 2S, 3S, and 4S in Figure 9) and three master connector hubs 1M-1, 1M-2, and 1M-3 directly connected to the most proximate of the multiple connector hubs via transmission lines 26. The most proximate slave connector hub 2S in Figure 9 is connected to the three master connector hubs 1M-1, 1M-2, and 1M-3 via the first, second, and third ports 22a, 22b, and 22c of its coupling device 22 and separate transmission lines 26a, 26b, and 26c, while it is connected to slave connector hub 3S via the fourth port 22d of the coupling device 22 and transmission line 26. Each of the three master connector hubs 1M-1, 1M-2, and 1M-3 shares the probes operatively connected to the slave connector hubs 2S, 3S, and 4S and the detection data obtained from the probes. The three master connector hubs 1M-1, 1M-2, and 1M-3 are each connected to a different destination 13, 43, or 53 via wireless transmission paths 28, 37, and 38 or a wired transmission path (not shown). Conventionally, all of the detection data obtained from the slave connector hubs 2S, 3S, and 4S is consolidated and stored in a single cloud storage, and each user retrieves the detection data from the cloud storage for their own purposes. However, if the cloud storage is hacked, all of the detection data may be stolen. Therefore, the system shown in Figure 9 stores processed or unprocessed detection data in the data memories 81 of the master connector hubs 1M-1, 1M-2, and 1M-3, depending on the purpose of use. This prevents the risk of all of the detection data being stolen from the cloud storage, providing an effective security measure. Furthermore, the privacy of users with different purposes is ensured.

[0043] 9, detection data from a series of multiple connector hubs 2S, 3S, and 4S is processed or not processed depending on the purpose of use and stored in each of multiple data memories 81 of multiple master connector hubs 1M-1, 1M-2, and 1M-3. The detection data stored in data memory 81 is transmitted to multiple different destinations 13, 43, and 53 via auxiliary communication device 19. This allows the detection data to be transmitted to destinations 13, 43, and 53 with different purposes of use in different ways (for example, by changing the transmission frequency and selecting necessary information).

[0044] In the first to eighth embodiments, all detection data is mainly stored in the total data memory 81 and each data memory 81a, and all driving programs are mainly stored in the total driving memory 83. However, all detection data and driving programs may also be saved, accumulated, or stored in the monitoring device 13, the cloud storage 39, the PLC 12, or another existing or new storage device inside or outside the connector hub system via a wired or wireless transmission path or a connection to the terminal 11. In addition, in the above embodiments, the driving programs, thresholds, and terminal methods are mainly set by the monitoring device 13. However, these may also be set by the PLC 12 or another internal or external device via a wired or wireless transmission path or a connection to the terminal 11. Furthermore, in the embodiments of FIGS. 4 to 6, 8, and 9, a master-slave (MS) system is shown, but a master-master (MM) system may also be configured using a master connector hub and one or more master connector hubs subordinate to it. A power supply (not shown) may be connected to or installed in all connector hubs, or a power supply may be connected to or installed in only one or more connector hubs to supply power to the other connector hubs. Also, an uninterruptible power supply may be connected to or installed in the connector hubs as a backup power supply.

[0045] The present invention may also be a control program that functions as a connector hub system and a control method for driving a driven device. In this case, the processing content of each function of each unit is described in the control program, and the processing of each unit can be realized on the computer by executing the control program on the computer. For example, the control program is stored in the storage device 18 of the control unit 15, and the processing operation of the control program can be controlled and processed by the processing device 16 connected to the storage device 18. The control program may also be executed by another external device (not shown) including a storage device and processing device, as well as the monitoring device 13. The storage device may be a computer-readable storage medium, such as a magnetic storage device, an optical disk, a magneto-optical storage medium, a semiconductor memory, a USB memory, or an SD memory card.

[0046] FIG. 10(a) shows a calibration system for a detection device 14 using a connector hub system implementing a control method, and FIG. 10(b) shows an embodiment in which the calibrated detection device 14 is applied to actual driven devices 21a-21c. The connector hub system in FIG. 10(a) includes a calibration connector hub 0 including at least a terminal 11 and a control unit 15, and probes Pr1 and Pr2 of the detection device 14 connected to two terminals CN1 and CN2 of the calibration connector hub 0, respectively. The probes Pr1 and Pr2 are shown immersed in calibration solutions 71 and 72. The calibration connector hub 0 is used for calibration purposes and has the same configuration and function as the connector hub 1 shown in FIG. 1. The probes Pr1 and Pr2 are probes of the detection device 14 that require periodic or irregular calibration. The detection device 14 is a sensor or measuring instrument that measures, for example, temperature, humidity, hydrogen ion concentration (pH), residual chlorine concentration, conductivity, chromaticity, turbidity, water level, liquid volume, flow rate, flow velocity, power consumption, mass, etc.

[0047] In a method for calibrating a detection device 14 using the calibration system shown in FIG. 10(a), first, a calibration connector hub 0, probes Pr1 and Pr2, and calibration solutions 71 and 72 are prepared. Then, probes Pr1 and Pr2 are electrically connected to terminals CN1 and CN2 of the calibration connector hub 0, and the probes Pr1 and Pr2 are immersed in the calibration solutions 71 and 72 contained in containers. For example, in the case of probe Pr1 of a pH sensor, the calibration solution 71 is a standard solution of oxalate, phthalate, neutral phosphate, or borate. In the case of probe Pr2 of a conductivity meter, the calibration solution 72 is, for example, a potassium chloride standard solution. Next, power is applied to the calibration connector hub 0, and actual measurements are measured with probes Pr1 and Pr2 immersed in the respective standard solutions. The actual measurements are compared with pre-stored reference values, and unique calibration coefficients based on the differences are assigned to each probe Pr1 and Pr2. Each calibration coefficient is associated with a corresponding probe Pr1, Pr2 and stored in the storage device 18 of the calibration connector hub 0. Although two different probes Pr1, Pr2 are shown in FIG. 10(a), one or more probes of the same or different types may be connected to the terminal 11. Also, multiple probes of the same type may be successively attached to the terminal CN1, and the correction coefficients of each probe may be successively acquired. The calibration of FIG. 10(a) may be performed not only at the site where the probes Pr1, Pr2 are actually used, but also at a location other than the site of use, such as a manufacturing plant or laboratory for the probes Pr1, Pr2.

[0048] 10(b) shows an embodiment in which probes Pr1 and Pr2 for which calibration coefficients have been obtained are actually applied to a water treatment system 80. The water treatment system 80 in Fig. 10(b) includes probes Pr1 and Pr2 connected to input terminals CN1 and CN2, respectively, of a connector hub 1, a pH adjustment pump 21a, a bypass valve 21b, and a secondary filtration valve 21c as driven devices connected to output terminals CN4, CN5, and CN6, respectively, a primary filter 73 that purifies raw water supplied from a raw water pipe 77, a secondary filter 74 that includes a treatment mechanism for reducing conductivity, and a filtration tank 78 in which treated water from the primary and secondary filters 73 and 74 is stored via filtration pipes 79 and 89 and in which probes Pr1 and Pr2 are immersed. The connector hub 1 acquires the calibration coefficients of the probes Pr1 and Pr2 stored in the calibration connector hub 0, for example, from the calibration connector hub 0 mounted on the monitoring device 13 via the transmission path 27, and stores them in the calibration database 84 (Figure 2).

[0049] In FIG. 10(b), the calibration unit 64 (FIG. 2) calculates the detection data obtained from the probes Pr1 and Pr2 using the calibration coefficients stored in the calibration database 84. The calibration unit 64 then compares the calibrated detection data with a threshold value and transmits a drive signal based on the comparison result to the driven devices 21a-21c. For example, the calibration unit 64 (FIG. 2) processes the pH detection data obtained from the probe Pr1 of the pH sensor in the filtered water tank 78 via the input terminal CN1 using the calibration coefficient for the probe Pr1 stored in the calibration database 84. Based on the comparison result between the calibrated detection data and the threshold value, a drive signal is transmitted to the pH adjustment pump 21a via the output terminal CN4 and the signal path 76a. The drive signal includes a signal to start the pH adjustment pump 21a, which injects an acid or alkali pH adjuster 75 into the raw water pipe 77, a signal to stop the injection, and a signal to determine the pump motor rotation speed.

[0050] For example, if the probe Pr2 in the filtered water tank 78 is a conductivity meter probe, the detected conductivity data obtained through the input terminal CN2 is processed by the calibration unit 64 (FIG. 2) using the calibration coefficient of the probe Pr2 stored in the calibration database 84, and based on the result of comparing the detected data value after the calibration process with a threshold value, a drive signal is sent to the bypass valve 21b and the secondary filtration valve 21c through the output terminals CN5 and CN6 and the signal paths 76b and 76c. The drive signal includes a signal for opening / closing the bypass valve 21b and / or the secondary filtration valve 21c and a signal for determining the opening degree of each valve. The following are examples of connector hub systems. [1] The system includes one or more detection devices 14 for detecting physical and chemical quantities, changes therein, and / or conditions of the monitored objects; a connector hub 1 having a plurality of terminals 11 connected to the detection devices 14 and receiving the detection data from the detection devices 14; and a control unit 15 mounted on the connector hub 1 and including a processing device 16 and a storage device 18. The storage device 18 of the connector hub 1 includes a data memory 81 for storing the detection data collected from the detection devices 14. The connector hub 1 also includes a coupling device 22 that allows other connector hubs 2-10 to be detachably connected. Because the connector system includes the coupling device 22, when there is a shortage of probes or terminals or when a large number of data detection needs arise, other connector hubs 2-10 can be additionally and detachably connected. This allows the number of sensor probes 14 connected to the terminals 11 to be freely adjusted as needed. Furthermore, when an additional connector hub 2-10 is connected via the coupling device 22, the data memory 81 of the connector hub 1 can store or preserve not only the detection data obtained from the first connector hub 1, but also the detection data obtained from the additional connector hub 2-10. [2] The connector hubs 1 and 2 include at least a proximal end connector hub 1 and a distal end connector hub 2 connected to the proximal end connector hub 1. The data memory 81 is provided in the storage device 18 of the proximal end connector hub 1 and is a total data memory 81 that stores all detection data collected from all connector hubs. The coupling device 22 is provided in the distal end connector hub 2. [3] The system includes a monitoring device 13 connected to the data memory 81 of the connector hubs 1 and 2 to monitor the detection data from the detection devices 14 and 24. The monitoring device 13 may include one or more devices selected from a personal computer, a mobile device, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet, a programmable logic controller, and a dedicated device or board equipped with a monitoring program. The monitoring device 13 can update, rewrite, or change the thresholds and programs stored in the memory device 18 of the connector hubs 1 and 2 via wired or wireless communication. A connecting device 22 is provided on the distal connector hub 2 to allow one or more additional connector hubs 3-10 to be additionally and detachably connected. In this case, the monitoring device 13 is connected in series to the multiple connector hubs 1 and 2 and monitors only the proximal connector hub 1, thereby enabling the monitoring of all detection data obtained from one or more connector hubs 1 and 2 in a single system, avoiding the conventional problems of complex programs and slow processing speeds that arise from multi-system (parallel) systems. Furthermore, when multiple connector hubs 1, 2 are connected in series to the monitoring device 13, each connector hub is provided with a memory device 18, so data can be stored in either connector hub 1, 2, and data can be reliably backed up even if a failure or disconnection occurs in one of the connector hubs. [4] The connector hubs 1, 2 include at least a proximal end connector hub 1 and a terminal connector hub 2 connected to the proximal end connector hub 1, and the storage device 18 of the proximal end connector hub 1 includes a total drive memory 83 that stores all drive programs that control the driven devices 21a-21c connected to all of the connector hubs 1, 2, and the monitoring device 13 is connected to the total drive memory 83 and monitors all of the drive programs stored in the total drive memory 83. [5] The processing device 16 of the control unit 15 includes an AD conversion unit 62 that converts the detection data, which is an analog signal input from the detection devices 14, 24 to the terminals 11 of the connector hubs 1, 2, into a digital signal, a digital receiving unit 63 that receives the detection data, which is a digital signal input to the terminals 11 of the connector hubs 1, 2, and the detection data converted into a digital signal by the AD conversion unit 62, and an accumulation processing unit 65 that accumulates the detection data received by the digital receiving unit 63 in each data memory 81a of the storage device 18. [6] Further included is a comparison unit 67 that compares the numerical value of the detection data received by the digital receiving unit 63 or stored in each data memory 81a with the threshold value stored in the threshold database 82 of the storage device 18, and a drive transmitting unit 68 that outputs a drive signal to the driven devices 21a-21c connected to the terminals 11 of the connector hubs 1 and 2 based on the comparison result by the comparison unit 67. [7] The digital receiver 63 further includes a data transmitter 66 that transmits the detected data to the outside of the connector hubs 1 and 2 so that the detected data received by the digital receiver 63 can be saved or accumulated. [8] The multiple connector hubs, including at least a proximal end connector hub 1 and a distal end connector hub 2, include a master connector hub 1M including an auxiliary communication device 19 capable of wired or wireless communication with the outside, and one or more slave connector hubs 2S that are successively subordinate to the master connector hub 1M and do not include the auxiliary communication device 19, and the master connector hub 1M and the slave connector hubs 2S form a series of master-slave systems MS1, and the processing device 16 of the slave connector hub 2S includes a data transmission unit 66 that transmits detection data collected from the detection device 24 of the slave connector hub 2S to at least the master connector hub 1M. [9] A repeater 23 for stabilizing the detection data signals from the detection devices 14 and 24 is provided between the connector hubs 1M and 2S. [Industrial Applicability]

[0051] The control method and control program can be used in any electronic device, system, plant, or industrial complex that is controlled using a sensor. [Explanation of symbols]

[0052] 1-10: Connector hub, 11: Terminal, 13: Monitoring device, 14, 24: Detection device, 15: Control unit, 16: Processing device, 18: Storage device, 19: Auxiliary communication device, 21a-21c: Driven device, 23: Repeater, 26: Transmission path, 35: Wireless transmission path, 62: AD conversion unit, 63: Digital receiving unit, 65: Storage processing unit, 67: Comparison unit, 68: Drive transmitting unit, 81: Data memory (all data memories), 81a: Each data memory, 83: All drive memories, MS: Master-slave system,

Claims

1. one or more detection devices for detecting physical and chemical quantities, changes therein, and / or conditions to be monitored; a connector hub connected to the detection device and having a plurality of terminals for inputting detection data from the detection device; a control unit mounted on the connector hub and including a processing unit and a storage unit; the storage device of the connector hub includes a data memory for storing detection data collected from the detection device; In a connector hub system, the connector hub further includes a coupling device to which another connector hub can be detachably connected, a monitoring device communicatively connected to the data memory of the connector hub for monitoring the detection data from the detection device; The connector hub includes a plurality of connector hubs; A connector hub system characterized in that the monitoring device is connected in series to multiple connector hubs, monitors the proximal end connector hub closest to the monitoring device, and monitors all detection data input to the multiple connector hubs.

2. The connector hub includes at least a proximal end connector hub and a distal end connector hub connected to the proximal end connector hub; 2. The connector hub system of claim 1, wherein the data memory of the proximal end connector hub is a total data memory that stores all detection data collected from all connector hubs.

3. The monitoring device includes one or more selected from a personal computer, a mobile device, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet, a programmable logic controller, and a dedicated device or board equipped with a monitoring program; 2. The connector hub system according to claim 1, wherein the monitoring device can update, rewrite or change the thresholds and programs stored in the storage device of the connector hub via wired or wireless communication.

4. The connector hub includes at least a proximal end connector hub and a distal end connector hub connected to the proximal end connector hub; the storage device of the proximal end connector hub includes a total drive memory that stores all drive programs that control the driven devices connected to all connector hubs; 2. The connector hub system of claim 1, wherein the monitoring device is connected to all the drive memories and monitors all the drive programs stored in the all the drive memories.

5. The processing unit of the control unit an AD converter that converts detection data, which is an analog signal input from the detection device to a terminal of the connector hub, into a digital signal; a digital receiving unit that receives detection data based on a digital signal input to a terminal of the connector hub and detection data converted into a digital signal by an AD converting unit; an accumulation processing unit that accumulates the detection data received by the digital receiving unit in each data memory of the storage device; a comparison unit that compares the numerical values of the detected data received by the digital receiving unit or stored in each data memory with the thresholds stored in the threshold database of the storage device; 2. The connector hub system according to claim 1, further comprising a drive transmitting section that outputs a drive signal to a driven device connected to the terminal of the connector hub based on the comparison result by the comparing section.

6. a calibration unit that calibrates the detection data by taking into account the calibration coefficients stored in the calibration database through calculation; 6. The connector hub system according to claim 5, wherein the comparator compares the value of the detection data after calibration by the calibrator with a threshold value.

7. 6. The connector hub system of claim 5, further comprising a data transmitter that transmits the received detection data to an external device of the connector hub so that the received detection data can be stored or accumulated in the digital receiver.

8. The plurality of connector hubs include a master connector hub including an auxiliary communication device capable of wired or wireless communication with the outside, and one or more slave connector hubs that are serially subordinate to the master connector hub and do not include an auxiliary communication device; A series of master-slave systems are configured using master connector hubs and slave connector hubs, 2. The connector hub system according to claim 1, wherein the processing device of the slave connector hub includes a data transmission unit that transmits detection data collected from the detection device of the slave connector hub to at least the master connector hub.

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