Communication control system and communication control method

Abstract

To provide a communication control system and the like that can prevent wireless communication between another device and a facility from being blocked.SOLUTION: A communication control system 1 is a communication control system that controls outputs of a plurality of communication units in a facility 10 including the plurality of communication units. A mobile object exists in a space 70 where the facility 10 is disposed. The communication control system includes a switching plan creation unit 12 for acquiring movement information regarding movement of the mobile object and controlling switching of the outputs of the plurality of communication units based on the movement information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a communication control system and a communication control method.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a system in which an automated guided vehicle (AGV) and production equipment (equipment) cooperate in a factory via a navigation device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, in the space where equipment is arranged (for example, the space in a factory), moving bodies such as workers and automated guided vehicles are moving, and depending on the position of the moving body, communication between other devices such as a wireless base station and the equipment may be inhibited. However, Patent Document 1 does not disclose a technique for suppressing communication interference between other devices such as a wireless base station and the equipment.

[0005] Therefore, the present disclosure provides a communication control system and a communication control method capable of suppressing interference with wireless communication between other devices and equipment.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A communication control system according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a communication control system for controlling the output of a plurality of communication units in a production facility equipped with a plurality of communication units, wherein a moving object exists in the space in which the production facility is located, and the system includes an acquisition unit that acquires movement information relating to the movement of the moving object, and a control unit that controls the switching of the output of the plurality of communication units based on the movement information.

[0007] A communication control method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a communication control method for controlling the output of a plurality of communication units in a production facility equipped with a plurality of communication units, wherein a moving object exists in the space where the production facility is located, movement information relating to the movement of the moving object is acquired, and the switching of the output of the plurality of communication units is controlled based on the movement information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a communication control system, etc., can suppress interference between wireless communication between other devices and equipment. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic plan view showing the configuration of the communication control system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the integrated system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the equipment according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the communication control system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the equipment according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic plan view showing the configuration of the communication control system according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the equipment according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 8]Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the integrated system according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the equipment according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the communication control system according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a schematic plan view showing the configuration of the communication control system according to Embodiment 4. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the equipment according to Embodiment 4. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the operation of the equipment according to Embodiment 4. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows an example of antenna arrangement in equipment according to another embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] (Background leading to this disclosure) Traditionally, production equipment (hereinafter simply referred to as "equipment") located within a factory space (for example, a production floor) may communicate wirelessly with a wireless base station located within that factory space. For example, the operation of the equipment may be controlled via wireless communication.

[0011] On the other hand, within a factory environment, there are people (e.g., workers) and mobile objects such as AGVs. If these mobile objects are located in the area between a wireless base station and equipment, radio waves may be blocked, potentially disrupting communication between the wireless base station and the equipment. Furthermore, factories are expected to become even more automated in the future, and the high-speed, low-latency fifth-generation mobile communication (commonly known as 5G), which is expected to enable this automation, or the sixth-generation mobile communication expected to emerge after 2030, will utilize high-frequency bands of several tens of GHz or more (such as the 28GHz band in 5G), making communication even more susceptible to interference.

[0012] In addition, in the upstream communication (communication from the facility to the wireless base station 20), which is important for realizing the CPS (Cyber-Physical System) in the factory, as the mobile body approaches the facility, the shielding effect becomes significant, and it is difficult to solve the above problems with normal diversity.

[0013] Therefore, the inventors of the present application have intensively studied a communication control system and the like that can suppress communication interference between other devices such as a wireless base station and the facility, and have devised the following communication control system and the like.

[0014] Hereinafter, each embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Each of the embodiments described below shows general or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions and connection forms of the components, steps, order of steps, etc. 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, the components not described in the independent claims will be described as optional components.

[0015] In addition, each figure is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily drawn precisely. In each figure, the same reference numerals are given to substantially the same configurations, and duplicate descriptions may be omitted or simplified.

[0016] In this specification, "plan view" means looking at (overlooking) the space where the facility is arranged from above.

[0017] In this specification, terms indicating the relationship between the same or equivalent elements, terms indicating the shape of elements such as rectangular shapes, as well as numerical values and numerical ranges are not expressions representing only strict meanings, but expressions meaning including substantially equivalent ranges, for example, a difference of about several percent (for example, about 10%).

[0018] (Embodiment 1) Hereinafter, the communication control system according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5.

[0019] [1-1. Configuration of the Communication Control System] First, the configuration of the communication control system according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. Figure 1 is a schematic plan view showing the configuration of the communication control system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0020] As shown in Figure 1, the communication control system 1 comprises an integrated system 10, a wireless base station 20, multiple pieces of equipment 30, multiple pieces of equipment 40, a first mobile body 50, and a second mobile body 60. The number of mobile bodies included in the communication control system 1 is not limited to two; it may be one or more. Furthermore, the integrated system 10, the first mobile body 50, and the second mobile body 60 do not necessarily have to be included in the communication control system 1. The arrows shown in Figure 1 indicate an example of the direction of movement of the first mobile body 50 and the second mobile body 60.

[0021] The communication control system 1 is, for example, an information processing system for controlling wireless communication in a space 70 within a factory. The space 70 contains a first production line L1 composed of multiple pieces of equipment 30 and a second production line L2 composed of multiple pieces of equipment 40. The communication control system 1 is, for example, a system that performs wireless communication compliant with the 5G standard (5G wireless communication method), but it may also be a system that performs wireless communication compliant with 4G or LTE (Long Term Evolution).

[0022] The integrated system 10 communicates wirelessly with multiple devices 30, multiple devices 40, a first mobile unit 50, and a second mobile unit 60 via a wireless base station 20, and manages the operation of each device in an integrated manner. The integrated system 10 may be located, for example, inside the factory, outside the factory (remotely located), or within space 70. The integrated system 10 may also be implemented by a cloud server. The integrated system 10 is an example of a control device.

[0023] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the integrated system 10 according to this embodiment.

[0024] As shown in Figure 2, the integrated system 10 comprises a communication unit 11, a switching plan creation unit 12, and a storage unit 13. The integrated system 10 is composed of a microcontroller (i.e., an IC with a processor and memory), and each function of the integrated system 10 is realized by the processor executing a computer program stored in memory.

[0025] The communication unit 11 is a communication interface for communicating with each device in space 70 via the wireless base station 20.

[0026] The switching plan creation unit 12 is a control unit for controlling the switching of the outputs of multiple antennas provided by each of the multiple pieces of equipment 30 and multiple pieces of equipment 40 (hereinafter referred to as equipment 30 etc. when not distinguished). In this embodiment, the switching plan creation unit 12 controlling the switching of the outputs of multiple antennas means creating a switching plan P2 for switching the multiple antennas and transmitting it to the equipment 30 etc. In this embodiment, the switching plan creation unit 12 creates a switching plan P2 based on the travel plan P1 of the first mobile body 50 and the second mobile body 60, which are automatic mobile robots. For example, the switching plan creation unit 12 creates a switching plan P2 individually for each of the pieces of equipment 30 etc.

[0027] The memory unit 13 stores various information necessary for the operation of the integrated system 10. The memory unit 13 also stores various information necessary for controlling the equipment 30, the first mobile unit 50, and the second mobile unit 60. The memory unit 13 is implemented using semiconductor memory, but is not limited to this.

[0028] In this embodiment, the storage unit 13 stores the travel plans P1 of the first mobile body 50 and the second mobile body 60. The travel plan P1 includes the routes and times on which the first mobile body 50 and the second mobile body 60 travel. The travel plan P1 may also include information about the time periods when the first mobile body 50 and the second mobile body 60 approach the equipment 30, etc. (for example, the time periods when they pass through the equipment 30, etc.). Furthermore, if the first mobile body 50 and the second mobile body 60 are transport robots that transport goods, the travel plan P1 may also include the time when they stop in front of the equipment 30, etc. to perform work on the equipment 30, etc. The travel plan P1 is, for example, created in advance and stored in the storage unit 13. The travel plan P1 may also be updated. The travel plan P1 is an example of travel information related to the movement of a mobile body.

[0029] The travel plan P1 may also be created by a processing unit (not shown) provided in the integrated system 10. The processing unit may, for example, generate the travel plan P1 based on production plan information relating to the production plan of products produced by the first production line L1 and the second production line L2. The production plan information includes information such as the type of product, the number of products to be produced, information on the components that make up the product, the scheduled start time of production, and the scheduled end time of production.

[0030] The processing unit calculates, based on production plan information, which items to transport, when, to which equipment on which production line, and in what quantity, and generates work information including this information. The processing unit sends a request to at least one of the multiple mobile bodies, including the first mobile body 50 and the second mobile body 60, to send a response containing information about the mobile body in order to confirm which mobile body is available for work. This information indicates the status of at least one of the multiple mobile bodies, and is, for example, execution information regarding the execution of transport work. For example, the execution information includes information indicating the execution status, such as whether the transport work is in progress or on standby, information indicating the reservation status, information indicating the period during which the transport work can be performed, information indicating the time when the transport work can be started, and location information for performing the work.

[0031] The processing unit obtains a response to the request, determines the mobile body to perform the task based on the obtained response, and creates a travel plan P1 (in this case, a transport plan) that includes the details of the work to be performed by the determined mobile body.

[0032] Furthermore, the travel plan P1 includes information such as the type of goods to be transported, the quantity of goods to be transported, the scheduled start time of the transport operation (deadline for starting the transport operation), the scheduled end time of the transport operation (deadline for finishing the transport operation), and the destination of the goods. The destination of the goods is information indicating which of the facilities 30 etc. the goods will be transported to.

[0033] Thus, the travel plan P1 is generated through mutual communication between the integrated system 10 and multiple mobile units.

[0034] Referring again to Figure 1, the wireless base station 20 is a wireless base station capable of performing wireless communication between the equipment 30, the first mobile unit 50 and the second mobile unit 60 and the integrated system 10. In this embodiment, one wireless base station 20 is located within space 70. The wireless base station 20 is, for example, a 5G wireless base station, also referred to as a gNB (next generation NodeB). The connection between the wireless base station 20 and the integrated system 10 may be a wireless connection or a wired connection. The wireless base station 20 is an example of a relay device.

[0035] Equipment 30, etc., is production equipment used in factories, etc., and for example, performs processing on products. The multiple pieces of equipment 30 that make up the first production line L1 may be, for example, equipment for mounting components on substrates brought in from the upstream side (left side of the paper) to produce mounted substrates (an example of a product). The multiple pieces of equipment 30 may be production equipment for supplying substrates, production equipment for performing solder printing, production equipment for performing component mounting work, and production equipment for performing reflow work, etc. Equipment 30, etc., is also referred to as mounting machines or component mounting equipment, etc.

[0036] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the equipment 30 according to this embodiment. In Figure 3, only the components for switching the antenna output of the equipment 30 are shown. Note that the configuration of equipment 40 may be the same as that of equipment 30, and its explanation is omitted.

[0037] As shown in Figure 3, the equipment 30 comprises a first antenna 31a and a second antenna 31b, a switching control unit 32, and a storage unit 33. The switching control unit 32 and the storage unit 33 are composed of microcontrollers (i.e., ICs equipped with a processor and memory), and the functions of the switching control unit 32 and the storage unit 33 are realized by the processor executing a computer program stored in the memory.

[0038] The first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b are antennas for transmitting and receiving data (transmitting and receiving radio waves) between the equipment 30 and the integrated system 10 via the wireless base station 20. In this embodiment, data transmission and reception are performed using either the first antenna 31a or the second antenna 31b. The first antenna 31a is a component of the first communication unit (first communication circuit), and the second antenna 31b is a component of the second communication unit (second communication circuit). In other words, the first communication unit includes the first antenna 31a, and the second communication unit includes the second antenna 31b.

[0039] The data includes, but is not limited to, the status of the equipment 30 and its components, the inspection results of the products, and at least one of the images of the products.

[0040] As shown in Figure 1, the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b are positioned at different locations on the equipment 30 in a plan view. When the shape of the equipment 30 is rectangular in a plan view, the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b are installed at two opposing positions on the equipment 30. Figure 1 shows an example where the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b are positioned at two diagonally opposite positions (diagonal positions) on the equipment 30 in a plan view.

[0041] Furthermore, the number of antennas installed in the equipment 30 is not limited to two, but may be three or more. Also, the equipment 30 may be equipped with multiple receivers (for example, a first receiver (first communication unit) and a second receiver (second communication unit)) instead of the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b.

[0042] The switching control unit 32 controls the switching of the outputs of the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b provided by the equipment 30. In this embodiment, the switching control unit 32 controlling the switching of antenna outputs means switching the antenna radiating radio waves from one of the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b to the other, based on the switching plan P2 stored in the storage unit 33. The switching control unit 32 may include, for example, a processing unit (not shown) that performs processing related to the radiated radio waves and a switch that exclusively switches the connection between one of the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b.

[0043] The storage unit 33 stores various information necessary for the operation of the equipment 30. In this embodiment, the storage unit 33 stores a switching plan P2, which is a plan for switching from one of the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b to the other. The switching plan P2 includes, for example, the timing of the antenna switching and information identifying the target antenna. The storage unit 33 is implemented by a semiconductor memory, but is not limited to this.

[0044] The switching plan P2 is information created by the integrated system 10 and received via either the first antenna 31a or the second antenna 31b.

[0045] The equipment 40 includes a first antenna 41a and a second antenna 41b. The arrangement of the first antenna 41a and the second antenna 41b may be the same as or different from that of the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b.

[0046] Referring again to Figure 1, the first mobile body 50 and the second mobile body 60 are autonomous mobile bodies that move in space 70. The first mobile body 50 and the second mobile body 60 are, for example, robots that perform transport operations and may perform transport operations based on commands from the integrated system 10. Alternatively, the first mobile body 50 and the second mobile body 60 are robots that perform operations or support operations such as replenishing equipment 30 with items (e.g., parts) consumed by equipment 30, and may perform operations or support operations based on commands from the integrated system 10.

[0047] In this embodiment, the first mobile body 50 and the second mobile body 60 are automated mobile robots. Automated mobile robots are, for example, wheeled, crawler, or legged (including walking) robots, and may also be, for example, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), automated flying drones, etc. The transport operation includes transporting items (e.g., parts, jigs and fixtures) used in the equipment 30, etc. In this case, the travel plan P1 may be a transport plan that includes the location where the items (parts) consumed in the equipment 30, etc. are supplied, and operations using jigs and fixtures.

[0048] The item in question may be, for example, an item that houses electronic components, such as a carrier tape containing the components or a reel on which the carrier tape is wound.

[0049] The first mobile unit 50 and the second mobile unit 60 can communicate with the integrated system 10 via the wireless base station 20, and their movement is controlled based on the travel plan P1 from the integrated system 10.

[0050] The first mobile unit 50 moves, for example, along the first production line L1. When the first mobile unit 50 transports parts, etc., used in the equipment 30, the first mobile unit 50 moves along the vicinity of the first production line L1 (i.e., the vicinity of the equipment 30). In this case, the first mobile unit 50 may interfere with communication between the equipment 30 and the radio base station 20. When the equipment 30 is communicating with the first antenna 31a, for example, when the first mobile unit 50 is located in the area between the first antenna 31a and the radio base station 20, communication between the equipment 30 and the radio base station 20 may be interfered with.

[0051] The second mobile unit 60 moves, for example, along the second production line L2. When the second mobile unit 60 transports parts used in the equipment 40, the second mobile unit 60 moves along the vicinity of the second production line L2 (i.e., the vicinity of the equipment 40). In this case, the second mobile unit 60 may interfere with communication between the equipment 40 and the radio base station 20. When the equipment 40 is communicating using the first antenna 41a, for example, when the second mobile unit 60 is located in the area between the first antenna 41a and the radio base station 20, communication between the equipment 40 and the radio base station 20 may be interfered with.

[0052] The following section, "Operation of the Communication Control System," describes a communication control method that can suppress communication interference caused by such mobile objects.

[0053] [1-2. Operation of the Communication Control System] Next, the operation of the communication control system 1 configured as described above will be explained with reference to Figures 4 and 5. Figure 4 is a sequence diagram showing the operation (communication control method) of the communication control system 1 according to this embodiment. Although only one of the equipment 30 is shown in Figure 4, the integrated system 10 transmits a switching instruction corresponding to each of the equipment 30.

[0054] As shown in Figure 4, the switching plan creation unit 12 of the integrated system 10 acquires the travel plan P1 by reading it from the storage unit 13 (S11). The switching plan creation unit 12 functions as an acquisition unit that acquires the travel plan P1. The switching plan creation unit 12 may accept input of the travel plan P1 from the operator via an input unit such as a keyboard or mouse, or it may receive the travel plan P1 via the communication unit 11.

[0055] Next, the switching plan creation unit 12 generates a switching plan P2 for controlling the switching of the outputs of multiple antennas based on the travel plan P1 (S12). The switching plan creation unit 12 functions as a control unit for controlling the switching of the outputs of multiple antennas. The switching plan creation unit 12 also stores information for each of the equipment 30, such as the coordinates of the antennas and which antenna is currently being used for communication. The coordinates may be global coordinates or relative coordinates with respect to a reference point in space 70.

[0056] The switching plan creation unit 12 creates a switching plan P2 to switch the antenna used for wireless communication with the wireless base station 20 from one of the multiple antennas located closer to the mobile object to an antenna located further away from the mobile object. The switching plan creation unit 12 also creates a switching plan P2 to switch to the other antenna if the mobile object obstructs communication between one antenna and the wireless base station 20.

[0057] The switching plan creation unit 12 creates a switching plan P2 such that, when equipment 30 is communicating using the first antenna 31a, the first antenna 31a which is located closer to the first mobile body 50, is switched to the second antenna 31b which is located further away from the first mobile body 50, when equipment 30 is communicating using the first antenna 31a. The switching plan creation unit 12 also creates a switching plan P2 such that, when the first mobile body 50 moves to a position that obstructs communication between the first antenna 31a and the radio base station 20, the antenna used for communication is switched from the first antenna 31a to the second antenna 31b.

[0058] Based on the travel plan P1, the switching plan creation unit 12 can identify the time period during which the first mobile unit 50 is in an area that obstructs communication between the first antenna 31a and the radio base station 20. The switching plan creation unit 12 creates a switching plan P2 so that the first mobile unit 50 switches from the first antenna 31a to the second antenna 31b before it reaches that area (before that time period begins).

[0059] The switching plan creation unit 12 creates a switching plan P2 for each of the multiple pieces of equipment 30 and each of the multiple pieces of equipment 40. The switching plan P2 may include information indicating the timing of antenna switching within a predetermined period, or it may include information indicating the timing of the next antenna switching.

[0060] Next, the switching plan creation unit 12 transmits a switching instruction to the equipment 30 via the communication unit 11, and the equipment 30 receives the switching instruction via either the first antenna 31a or the second antenna 31b (S21). The switching plan creation unit 12 then transmits, for example, the created switching plan P2 to the equipment 30. The equipment 30 stores the received switching plan P2 in the storage unit 33.

[0061] Next, the equipment 30 switches the antenna output based on a switching instruction (an example of a switching plan P2) (S21). In this embodiment, the switching control unit 32 of the equipment 30 switches the antenna used for communication with the wireless base station 20 from one of the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b to the other based on the switching instruction.

[0062] Next, the equipment 30 transmits and receives data using the switched antenna (S22). As a result, communication with the wireless base station 20 is performed using an antenna located farther away from the mobile device, thus suppressing interference from the mobile device.

[0063] Furthermore, after the first mobile body 50 has passed the equipment 30, the switching control unit 32 may continue communication with the switched antenna, or it may switch the antenna back to communication with the antenna before the switch.

[0064] Furthermore, if the travel plan P1 is updated, the integrated system 10 acquires the updated travel plan P1 (S14).

[0065] Next, the switching plan creation unit 12 generates an updated switching plan P2 based on the updated travel plan P1 (S15).

[0066] Next, the switching plan creation unit 12 transmits the updated switching instruction to the equipment 30 via the communication unit 11, and the equipment 30 receives the updated switching instruction via either the first antenna 31a or the second antenna 31b (S16). The equipment 30 replaces the switching plan P2 stored in the storage unit 33 with the updated switching plan P2.

[0067] Next, equipment 30 switches the antenna output based on the updated switching instructions (updated switching plan P2) (S23).

[0068] Next, equipment 30 transmits and receives data using the antenna switched based on the updated switching instruction (S24). This makes it possible to suppress interference from the mobile body with communication even when the travel plan P1, which may be updated according to the production status of equipment 30, etc., is updated.

[0069] Thus, when the travel plan P1 is updated, the switching plan creation unit 12 may control the switching of the antenna output based on the updated travel plan P1.

[0070] Next, the operation of equipment 30 will be explained with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the operation (communication control method) of equipment 30 according to this embodiment.

[0071] As shown in Figure 5, the equipment 30 receives a switching instruction from the integrated system 10 via either the first antenna 31a or the second antenna 31b (S101). Step S101 corresponds to steps S13 and S16 shown in Figure 4. The switching instruction includes information indicating the antenna to be used after the switch and the timing for switching the antennas.

[0072] Next, the switching control unit 32 has a timer function and determines whether or not it is time to switch the antenna (S102). If the switching control unit 32 determines that it is time to switch the antenna (Yes in S102), it switches the antenna used for communication (S103). Step S103 corresponds to steps S21 and S23 shown in Figure 4.

[0073] Next, the equipment 30 transmits and receives data using the switched antenna (S104). Step S104 corresponds to steps S22 and S24 shown in Figure 4.

[0074] For example, if equipment 30 is communicating (sending and receiving data) using the first antenna 31a, and the first mobile device 50 approaches equipment 30, continuing to communicate using the first antenna 31a may disrupt the communication. In this embodiment, in such a case, the antenna used for communication is switched from the first antenna 31a to the second antenna 31b, which is located farther away from the first mobile device 50, thereby suppressing disruption to communication between equipment 30 and the wireless base station 20.

[0075] [1-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, the communication control system 1 according to this embodiment is a communication control system that controls the output of multiple antennas in a facility 30 equipped with multiple antennas (an example of multiple communication units), wherein a mobile body (for example, a first mobile body 50, etc.) exists in the space 70 where the facility 30 is located, and the system includes an acquisition unit that acquires movement information related to the movement of the mobile body, and a control unit for controlling the switching of the outputs of the multiple antennas based on the movement information (for example, a switching plan creation unit 12 serves as both the acquisition unit and the control unit).

[0076] As a result, the output of multiple antennas is switched based on movement information, so the communication control system 1 can suppress the mobile object from interfering with communication between the equipment 30 and other devices (e.g., relay devices). Therefore, the communication control system 1 can suppress communication interference between other devices (e.g., relay devices) and the equipment 30.

[0077] Furthermore, the multiple antennas include a first antenna 31a and a second antenna 31b positioned at different locations on the equipment 30, and the switching plan creation unit 12 controls the switching of the antenna used for wireless communication with the wireless base station 20 (an example of a first relay device) from the first antenna 31a to the second antenna 31b when a moving object approaches the first antenna 31a.

[0078] As a result, the communication control system 1 can switch the antenna used for communication to another antenna when a moving object approaches the antenna being used for communication. Therefore, the communication control system 1 can more reliably suppress communication interference between the wireless base station 20 and the equipment 30.

[0079] Furthermore, the switching plan creation unit 12 controls the system to switch from the first antenna 31a to the second antenna 31b if the moving object obstructs communication between the first antenna 31a and the wireless base station 20.

[0080] This allows the communication control system 1 to switch the antenna used for communication to another antenna when communication is interrupted. Therefore, the communication control system 1 can more reliably suppress communication interference between the wireless base station 20 and the equipment 30.

[0081] Furthermore, the moving object is an automated mobile robot, and the movement information includes the automated mobile robot's travel plan P1. The switching plan creation unit 12 determines the timing for switching based on the travel plan P1.

[0082] As a result, since the travel plan P1 is used, the switching plan creation unit 12 can easily determine the timing for switching.

[0083] Furthermore, when the travel plan P1 is updated, the switching plan creation unit 12 controls the switching from the first antenna 31a to the second antenna 31b based on the updated travel plan P1.

[0084] As a result, the communication control system 1 can suppress communication interference between other devices and equipment 30 even when the travel plan P1 is updated.

[0085] Furthermore, the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b may be installed at two opposing positions on the equipment 30 in a plan view of the equipment 30.

[0086] This allows the distance between the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b to be increased, making it easier to suppress communication interference between other devices and equipment 30.

[0087] Furthermore, the communication control system 1 is connected to the radio base station 20 and includes an integrated system 10 (an example of a control device) that transmits information (e.g., switching plan P2) to the equipment 30 via the radio base station 20 for controlling the switching of multiple antennas, including the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b. The integrated system 10 is capable of communicating with a mobile device, and the switching plan creation unit 12 (acquisition unit and control unit) is built into the integrated system 10.

[0088] This allows the antenna switching to be managed by an integrated system 10 that can communicate with the mobile object (for example, to control the mobile object).

[0089] Furthermore, as described above, the communication control method according to this embodiment is a communication control method for controlling the output of multiple antennas in equipment 30 equipped with multiple antennas (an example of multiple communication units), wherein a moving object exists in the space 70 where the equipment 30 is located, movement information regarding the movement of the moving object is acquired (S11), and the switching of the output of the multiple antennas is controlled based on the movement information (S12, S13).

[0090] This achieves the same effect as the communication control system 1 described above.

[0091] (Embodiment 2) In Embodiment 1, an example of switching the antenna used for communication was described as switching the antenna output. However, switching the antenna output is not limited to switching the antenna used for communication; it may also involve switching the phase of the radio waves radiated from the antenna. The communication control system according to this embodiment will now be described with reference to Figures 6 and 7.

[0092] [2-1. Configuration of the Communication Control System] First, the configuration of the communication control system according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a schematic plan view showing the configuration of the communication control system 1a according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, the wireless base station 20 shown in Embodiment 1 will be referred to as wireless base station 20a for identification purposes.

[0093] As shown in Figure 6, the communication control system 1a according to this embodiment includes a wireless base station 20b in addition to the communication control system 1 according to Embodiment 1. The wireless base station 20b is connected to the integrated system 10. Furthermore, the wireless base station 20b is positioned differently from the wireless base station 20a in a plan view. Thus, the communication control system 1a includes two or more wireless base stations. Information regarding the installation locations (e.g., coordinates) of the two or more wireless base stations, or information regarding the output (phase of radio waves) of multiple antennas when communicating with each of the two or more wireless base stations, is stored in the storage unit 13.

[0094] Equipment 30 emits radio waves from both the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b, and by controlling the phase of these radio waves, it is possible to emit directional radio waves. By controlling the phase of the radio waves emitted from the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b, equipment 30 can switch between communicating with either the radio base station 20a or 20b.

[0095] In this embodiment, the directivity of radio waves transmitted from the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b is controlled by phase control so that communication is less likely to be disrupted by a mobile object among the wireless base stations 20a and 20b. In this embodiment, among the multiple wireless base stations, the wireless base station that communicates with the equipment 30 is switched according to the location of the mobile object.

[0096] Although Figure 6 shows an example where the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b are positioned diagonally opposite each other, in this embodiment, the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b may be positioned side by side. Alternatively, the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b may be positioned close together.

[0097] [2-2. Operation of the Communication Control System] Next, the operation of the communication control system 1a configured as described above will be explained with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the operation (communication control method) of the equipment 30 according to this embodiment.

[0098] As shown in Figure 7, the equipment 30 receives a switching instruction from the integrated system 10 via at least one of the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b (S101). Step S101 corresponds to steps S13 and S16 shown in Figure 4. The switching instruction includes information such as the phase to be switched and the timing for switching the phase. The switching instruction is obtained from the integrated system 10.

[0099] Next, the switching control unit 32 determines whether it is time to switch the phase of the radio waves from the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b (S102a). If the switching control unit 32 determines that it is time to switch the phase of the radio waves (Yes in S102a), it switches the phase of the radio waves from the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b (S103a). The switching control unit 32 has a function, for example, to output the input signal with a phase shift. Step S103a corresponds to steps S21 and S23 shown in Figure 4.

[0100] Next, the equipment 30 transmits and receives data using the switched phase of the radio waves (S104). Step S104 corresponds to steps S22 and S24 shown in Figure 4.

[0101] For example, when the first mobile device 50 is located in the region between at least one of the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b and the radio base station 20a, and there is a risk that the first mobile device 50 may interfere with communication between the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b and the radio base station 20a, the switching control unit 32 switches the phase of the radio waves radiated by at least one of the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b to communicate with the radio base station 20b using the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b.

[0102] [2-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, in the communication control system 1a according to this embodiment, the equipment 30 has a first antenna 31a and a second antenna 31b, and the equipment 30 can communicate with a wireless base station 20b (an example of a second relay device) which is located at a different position from the wireless base station 20a (an example of a first relay device) in space 70. When the switching plan creation unit 12 is communicating with the wireless base station 20a using the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b, when a moving object approaches between at least one of the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b and the wireless base station 20a, the switching plan creation unit 12 switches the phase of the radio waves radiated by at least one of the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b to communicate with the wireless base station 20b using the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b.

[0103] As a result, when a moving object approaches an area that interferes with communication between the wireless base station 20a and the equipment 30, the communication destination can be switched to the wireless base station 20b, which is located at a different position from the wireless base station 20a. Therefore, the communication control system 1a can more reliably suppress communication interference between the wireless base stations 20a and 20b and the equipment 30.

[0104] (Embodiment 3) In Embodiment 1, an example was described in which the integrated system 10 creates the switching plan P2, but the switching plan P2 may also be created by equipment 30, etc. The communication control system according to this embodiment will now be described with reference to Figures 8 to 10.

[0105] [3-1. Configuration of the Communication Control System] First, the configuration of the communication control system according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 8. Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the integrated system 10b according to this embodiment.

[0106] As shown in Figure 8, the integrated system 10b according to this embodiment includes a control unit 14 in place of the switching plan creation unit 12 of the communication control system 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0107] The control unit 14 performs control to transmit the travel plan P1 to each of the devices 30b, etc. The control unit 14 transmits the travel plan P1 to the devices 30b, etc. at predetermined time intervals or whenever the travel plan P1 is updated.

[0108] Figure 9 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the equipment 30b according to this embodiment.

[0109] As shown in Figure 9, the equipment 30b according to this embodiment includes a switching plan creation unit 34 and a timing unit 35 in addition to the equipment 30 of Embodiment 1.

[0110] The switching plan creation unit 34 creates a switching plan P2 that switches the outputs of the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b equipped with its own equipment, based on the travel plan P1. The function of the switching plan creation unit 34 is the same as that of the switching plan creation unit 12 in Embodiment 1, and therefore its description is omitted.

[0111] The timing unit 35 is a timer device that measures the current date and time. The timing unit 35 is implemented, for example, by a real-time clock.

[0112] In this embodiment, the storage unit 33 stores the installation location (e.g., coordinates) or dimensions (e.g., length / depth / height) of the equipment.

[0113] Thus, in this embodiment, the equipment 30b, etc., is provided with a processing unit that generates the switching plan P2.

[0114] [3-2. Operation of the Communication Control System] Next, the operation of the communication control system configured as described above will be explained with reference to Figure 10. Figure 10 is a sequence diagram showing the operation (communication control method) of the communication control system according to this embodiment.

[0115] As shown in Figure 10, the control unit 14 of the integrated system 10b transmits the travel plan P1 to the equipment 30b via the communication unit 11, and the equipment 30b receives the travel plan P1 via either the first antenna 31a or the second antenna 31b (S31). The equipment 30b stores the received travel plan P1 in the storage unit 33.

[0116] Next, the switching plan creation unit 34 creates a switching plan P2 for switching from one of the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b to the other, based on the travel plan P1 (S41). The switching plan creation unit 34 can identify the time period when the first mobile body 50 is in an area that obstructs communication between the first antenna 31a and the radio base station 20 when communicating using the first antenna 31a, and creates a switching plan P2 to switch from the first antenna 31a to the second antenna 31b before the first mobile body 50 reaches that position (before that time period begins). The switching plan creation unit 34 creates a switching plan P2 that includes, for example, the switching timing (for example, the time to switch). The switching plan creation unit 34 outputs the switching plan P2 to the timing unit 35.

[0117] Next, the timing unit 35 counts the time (S42) and determines whether or not it is time to switch (S43). If the timing unit 35 determines that it is time to switch, it outputs information indicating that it is time to switch to the switching control unit 32.

[0118] Next, when the timing unit 35 determines that it is time to switch (Yes in S43), the switching control unit 32 switches the antenna output (S44).

[0119] Next, equipment 30b transmits and receives data using the switched antenna (S45).

[0120] Furthermore, if the timing unit 35 is not yet at the switching timing (No in S43), it counts the time until the switching timing is reached.

[0121] [3-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, in the communication control system according to this embodiment, the switching plan creation unit 34 (an example of an acquisition unit and a control unit) is built into the equipment 30. Note that the switching plan creation unit 34 is built into each of the equipment 30, etc.

[0122] This makes it possible to suppress frequent communication related to switching antennas from the integrated system 10b to equipment 30, etc.

[0123] (Embodiment 4) In Embodiment 1, an example was described in which a switching plan P2 is created based on a travel plan P1, but the switching plan P2 may also be created without using the travel plan P1. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which a switching plan P2 is created based on sensing results obtained by sensing a moving object. The communication control system according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 11 to 13.

[0124] [4-1. Configuration of the Communication Control System] First, the configuration of the communication control system according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 11 and 12. Figure 11 is a schematic plan view showing the configuration of the communication control system 100 according to this embodiment.

[0125] As shown in Figure 11, the communication control system 100 according to this embodiment includes a wireless base station 20, equipment 130, a first mobile unit 50, and a second mobile unit 60. The communication control system 100 does not include a control device that comprehensively controls multiple mobile units, unlike the integrated system 10 shown in Embodiment 1.

[0126] The first mobile unit 50 and the second mobile unit 60 communicate with each other and cooperate in control, forming a so-called multi-agent system. In other words, the first mobile unit 50 and the second mobile unit 60 communicate with each other, recognize the status of their own devices, and drive (or transport) based on that. In such a multi-agent system, there is no driving plan P1 as shown in Embodiment 1, etc., so in this embodiment, the equipment 130, etc., predicts movement information (e.g., driving information) related to the movement of multiple mobile units.

[0127] Furthermore, at least one of the first mobile body 50 and the second mobile body 60 may be a person, such as a worker.

[0128] Figure 12 is a block diagram showing the configuration of equipment 130 according to this embodiment. Note that the configuration of equipment 140 may be the same as that of equipment 130, and its description is omitted.

[0129] As shown in Figure 12, the equipment 130 does not have the storage unit 33 and switching plan creation unit 34 of the equipment 30b according to Embodiment 3, and further includes a sensor unit 136 and a prediction unit 137.

[0130] The sensor unit 136 detects moving objects near the equipment 130 on which the sensor unit 136 is mounted, from among a plurality of moving objects, including the first moving object 50 and the second moving object 60. As a sensing result, the sensor unit 136 acquires time-series data of the positions of the nearby moving objects. It can also be said that the sensor unit 136 detects the movement paths of the moving objects near the equipment 130.

[0131] The sensor unit 136 includes one or more sensors capable of sensing the position of a moving object in the vicinity of the equipment 130, and may consist of, for example, an imaging device (e.g., a stereo camera), a distance sensor, or any other sensor, or a combination of two or more of these.

[0132] The prediction unit 137 predicts the movement of the detected moving object based on the detection result (an example of sensing result) of the sensor unit 136. For example, the prediction unit 137 predicts the time (arrival time) when the detected moving object approaches the equipment 130 on which the prediction unit 137 is mounted, based on the detection result of the sensor unit 136. Approaching means when the moving object approaches within a predetermined distance from the equipment 130 or the first antenna 31a. The predetermined distance is a distance at which communication between the first antenna 31a and the wireless base station 20 is not obstructed, and is predetermined, for example, according to the positional relationship between the first antenna 31a and the wireless base station 20. The result of the movement prediction (for example, the arrival time) is an example of movement information related to the movement of the moving object. The arrival time is, for example, the time when the moving object approaches within a predetermined distance range.

[0133] The prediction unit 137 performs motion prediction using, for example, a machine learning model. The machine learning model takes the detection result of the moving object detected by the sensor unit 136 as input and outputs a motion prediction of the moving object (for example, arrival time). For example, the prediction unit 137 outputs when the moving object will approach the first antenna 31a.

[0134] A machine learning model is a pre-trained model. A machine learning model is, for example, a multi-layered neural network model, but is not limited to this. If multiple moving objects are automated mobile robots, the machine learning model is trained using machine learning with time-series data of the automated mobile robots' positions as input data and the arrival times of the automated mobile robots at equipment 130 as ground truth data. Similarly, if multiple moving objects are people such as workers, the machine learning model is trained using machine learning with time-series data of the people's positions as input data and the arrival times of the people at equipment 130 as ground truth data. The positions of the automated mobile robots or people may be relative positions to equipment 130, or they may be positions indicated by global coordinates.

[0135] Furthermore, the prediction unit 137 may determine the timing for switching the antenna output (an example of a switching plan P2) based on the motion prediction (e.g., arrival time) output by the machine learning model. For example, the prediction unit 137 may determine that the arrival time is the timing for switching. In this way, the prediction unit 137 determines the timing for switching the antenna output based on the sensing results obtained from sensing the movement of a moving object (e.g., an automated mobile robot or a worker). For example, the prediction unit 137 predicts the time it will take for the moving object to approach the first antenna 31a based on the sensing results obtained from sensing the moving object, and determines the antenna switching timing based on the predicted time. In this way, the prediction unit 137 also functions as a control unit.

[0136] The timing unit 35 determines whether or not the arrival time has arrived, based on the result of the motion prediction (for example, the arrival time) predicted by the prediction unit 137.

[0137] When the timing unit 35 determines that the time has arrived, the switching control unit 32 switches the antenna output.

[0138] The equipment 130 does not necessarily have to include a sensor unit 136. The sensor unit 136 may be located outside the equipment 130 (for example, on the ceiling), and the prediction unit 137 may acquire sensing results sensed by the externally located sensor unit 136.

[0139] [4-2. Operation of the Communication Control System] Next, the operation of the communication control system 100 configured as described above will be explained with reference to Figure 13. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the operation (communication control method) of the equipment according to this embodiment. In the following, an example will be described in which the equipment 130 communicates using the first antenna 31a and the first mobile body 50 approaches the first antenna 31a.

[0140] As shown in Figure 13, the sensor unit 136 acquires time-series data of the position of the first mobile object 50 by sensing the first mobile object 50 (S201). The time-series data may be data for a predetermined period, or data until the first mobile object 50 reaches a predetermined position outside a predetermined distance. The sensor unit 136 outputs the time-series data to the prediction unit 137. The predetermined position may be, for example, an area near an area where the first mobile object 50 may interfere with communication.

[0141] Next, the prediction unit 137 predicts the time period during which the first mobile object 50 will approach, based on the time-series data (S202). For example, the prediction unit 137 predicts the period during which the first mobile object 50 will approach the equipment 130 (for example, the first antenna 31a). In other words, the prediction unit 137 predicts the period during which communication between the radio base station 20 and the equipment 130 (for example, the first antenna 31a) may be disrupted. Note that the prediction unit 137 only needs to predict when the first mobile object 50 will approach the equipment 130 (for example, the first antenna 31a) (i.e., the arrival time).

[0142] Steps S102 and beyond are the same as those shown in Figure 5, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0143] [4-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, in the communication control system 100 according to this embodiment, the moving object is an automated mobile robot or a worker, and the prediction unit 137 (an example of a control unit) determines the timing for switching based on the sensing results obtained by sensing the automated mobile robot or worker.

[0144] This allows the antenna output to be switched based on sensing results, even when there is no travel plan for the moving object.

[0145] Furthermore, the movement information includes prediction results regarding the movement of the moving object based on the sensing results obtained by sensing the moving object, and the prediction unit 137 determines the timing for switching based on the prediction results.

[0146] This allows the antenna output to be switched based on the sensing results, even when the moving object is moving arbitrarily.

[0147] (Other embodiments) Although embodiments have been described above, this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments.

[0148] For example, in each of the embodiments described above, the first antenna and the second antenna are shown to be positioned at two diagonally opposite positions on the equipment in a plan view, but the invention is not limited to this, and for example, the arrangement shown in Figure 14 may also be used. Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of antenna arrangement in equipment 30 according to another embodiment. Note that only equipment 30 and the first mobile unit 50 are shown in Figure 14.

[0149] As shown in Figure 14, the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b may be positioned in a plan view of the equipment 30 at a location where the direction in which the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b are aligned (vertical direction) intersects with the direction of movement of the first mobile body 50 (left-right direction). For example, the direction in which they are aligned and the direction of movement may be orthogonal in a plan view. Also, the direction in which the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b are aligned may be orthogonal to the direction in which the multiple equipment 30 are aligned in a plan view.

[0150] As described above, the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b may be arranged such that, in a plan view of the equipment 30, the direction in which the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b are aligned intersects with the direction of movement of the moving body.

[0151] As a result, the first antenna 31a and the second antenna 31b are positioned according to the direction of movement of the mobile body, making it easier to suppress communication interference between other devices and equipment 30.

[0152] Furthermore, although the above embodiments describe an example in which the plan view shape of the equipment is rectangular, the plan view shape of the equipment is not limited to rectangular, and may be polygonal, circular, or the like.

[0153] Furthermore, the equipment layouts shown in each of the above embodiments are merely examples and are not limited thereto. For example, multiple pieces of equipment may be arranged at predetermined intervals.

[0154] Furthermore, while a wireless base station was used as an example of a relay device in each of the above embodiments, the relay device may be, for example, a wireless router or the like.

[0155] Furthermore, while embodiments 1 to 3 described above illustrate an example where the equipment's memory unit stores the switching plan and the switching control unit reads the switching plan from the memory unit to execute the antenna switching, the invention is not limited to this. The equipment may not have a memory unit for storing the switching plan, and the switching control unit may be directly controlled by an integrated system. For example, the integrated system may send a switching instruction when it is time to switch the antenna, and the switching control unit may be configured to immediately execute the antenna switching upon receiving the switching instruction from the integrated system.

[0156] Furthermore, in the above embodiment 4, an example was described in which the time it takes for a moving object to approach the equipment is predicted based on the sensing results obtained from sensing the moving object. However, the equipment may obtain prediction results from an external device (for example, an external server). In other words, the equipment does not need to have a function to predict the time it takes for a moving object to approach the equipment.

[0157] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, each component may be implemented by being composed of dedicated hardware or by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may also be implemented by a program execution unit such as a CPU or processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory.

[0158] Furthermore, the order in which each step in the flowchart is performed is illustrative for the purpose of specifically illustrating this disclosure, and may be in a different order. Also, some of the above steps may be performed simultaneously (in parallel) with other steps, and some of the above steps may not be performed.

[0159] Furthermore, the general or specific embodiments of this disclosure may be implemented as a system, apparatus, method, integrated circuit, computer program, or recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM. They may also be implemented in any combination of systems, apparatus, methods, integrated circuits, computer programs, and recording media.

[0160] Furthermore, the division of functional blocks in the block diagram is just one example; multiple functional blocks can be implemented as a single functional block, a single functional block can be divided into multiple parts, or some functions can be moved to other functional blocks. In addition, the functions of multiple functional blocks with similar functions can be processed in parallel or time-sharing by a single piece of hardware or software.

[0161] Furthermore, at least one of the integrated systems and equipment according to each of the above embodiments may be implemented as a single device or as a plurality of devices. When at least one of the integrated systems and equipment is implemented as a plurality of devices, the components of that at least one may be distributed among the plurality of devices in any way. When at least one is implemented as a plurality of devices, the method of communication between the plurality of devices is not particularly limited and may be wireless communication or wired communication. In addition, wireless communication and wired communication may be combined between the devices.

[0162] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, each component of the integrated system and equipment may be realized by being composed of dedicated hardware or by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may be realized by a program execution unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory. Also, for example, each component may be a circuit (or integrated circuit). These circuits may constitute a single circuit as a whole, or they may be separate circuits. Furthermore, each of these circuits may be a general-purpose circuit or a dedicated circuit.

[0163] Furthermore, one aspect of this disclosure may be a computer program that causes a computer to perform each characteristic step included in the communication control method shown in any of Figures 4, 5, 7, 10, and 13.

[0164] Furthermore, for example, the program may be a program to be executed by a computer. Also, in one aspect of this disclosure, such a program may be recorded on a computer-readable non-temporary recording medium. For example, such a program may be recorded on a recording medium and distributed or made available. For example, by installing the distributed program on a device having another processor and having that processor execute the program, it becomes possible to have that device perform the above-mentioned processes.

[0165] Furthermore, this disclosure also includes forms obtained by applying various modifications to each of the above embodiments that a person skilled in the art could conceive, or forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions of each embodiment without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. [Industrial applicability]

[0166] This disclosure is particularly useful for systems that control communication between equipment in a factory and a wireless base station. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0167] 1, 1a, 100 Communication Control System 10, 10b Integrated System 11 Communications Department 12, 34 Switching Plan Creation Unit (Control Unit) 13, 33 Storage section 14 Control Unit 20, 20a Wireless base station (1st relay device) 20b Wireless base station (second relay device) Equipment (production equipment) 30, 30b, 40, 130, 140 31a, 41a First antenna 31b, 41b Second Antenna 32 Switching control unit 35 Timing section 50 First Mobile Unit 60 Second Mobile Unit 70 space 136 Sensor section 137 Prediction Unit (Control Unit) L1 Production Line 1 L2 Second Production Line P1 Driving Plan P2 Switchover Plan

Claims

1. A communication control system for controlling the output of multiple communication units in a production facility equipped with multiple communication units, A moving object exists in the space where the aforementioned production equipment is located. An acquisition unit that acquires movement information relating to the movement of the aforementioned moving body, The system includes a control unit that controls the switching of the outputs of the plurality of communication units based on the movement information, The plurality of communication units each have a first antenna and a second antenna located in the production equipment. The first and second antennas are positioned diagonally opposite each other in a plan view of the production equipment. Communication control system.

2. The plurality of communication units have a first antenna and a second antenna that are arranged at different locations on the production equipment. The control unit controls the antenna used for wireless communication with the first relay device to switch from the first antenna to the second antenna when the moving object approaches the first antenna. The communication control system according to claim 1.

3. The plurality of communication units each have a first antenna and a second antenna located in the production equipment. The production equipment is also capable of communicating with a second relay device located at a different position from the first relay device in the space. When the control unit is communicating with the first relay device using the first antenna and the second antenna, if the moving object approaches between at least one of the first antenna and the second antenna and the first relay device, the control unit switches the phase of the radio waves emitted by at least one of the first antenna and the second antenna to communicate with the second relay device using the first antenna and the second antenna. The communication control system according to claim 1.

4. The control unit controls the switching to occur when the moving object obstructs communication between the first antenna and the first relay device. The communication control system according to claim 2 or 3.

5. The aforementioned mobile body is an automated mobile robot, The aforementioned movement information includes the travel plan of the automated mobile robot, The control unit determines the timing for performing the switching based on the travel plan. The communication control system according to claim 2 or 3.

6. When the travel plan is updated, the control unit controls the switching based on the updated travel plan. The communication control system according to claim 5.

7. The aforementioned mobile entity is an automated mobile robot or a worker. The control unit determines the timing for the switch based on the sensing results obtained from sensing the automated mobile robot or the worker. A communication control system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. The aforementioned movement information includes prediction results regarding the movement of the moving object based on sensing results obtained by sensing the moving object, The control unit determines the timing for performing the switching based on the prediction result. The communication control system according to claim 7.

9. The acquisition unit and the control unit are built into the production equipment. A communication control system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. The system further comprises a control device connected to the first relay device, which transmits information for controlling the switching to the production equipment via the first relay device, The control device is capable of communicating with the mobile body, The acquisition unit and the control unit are built into the control device. The communication control system according to claim 5.

11. A communication control method for controlling the output of multiple communication units in a production facility equipped with multiple communication units, The plurality of communication units each have a first antenna and a second antenna located in the production equipment. The first antenna and the second antenna are positioned diagonally opposite each other in a plan view of the production equipment. The aforementioned communication control method is: A moving object exists in the space where the aforementioned production equipment is located. Obtain movement information relating to the movement of the aforementioned moving body, Based on the aforementioned movement information, the switching of the outputs of the multiple communication units is controlled. Communication control method.

12. The first antenna and the second antenna communicate using the same frequency. A communication control system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

Images