Container position notification device and valve device

Abstract

To provide a container position notification device X that easily finds a cylinder container 2 to which a container valve 10 is attached even when mounting a protective cap 4 for protecting the container valve 10, and a valve device.SOLUTION: A container position notification device X issues a notification on a current location of a cylinder container 2 filled with fluid, the container position notification device comprising an antenna 50 that receives and transmits various signals, and a transmitter 40 that transmits a signal indicating the current location via the antenna 50. The antenna 50 is configured to be fixable to an antenna fixing part 32 adjacent to a protective cap 4 that protects a container valve 10 attached to the cylinder container 2.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a container position notification device and a valve device that are attached to a cylinder container filled with a fluid such as high-pressure gas, for example.

Background Art

[0002] A cylinder with a container valve attached thereto is filled with a fluid such as gas at a filling factory and then transported to a place of use such as a home, office, factory, or construction site. After that, the used cylinder is collected and transported, and at the filling factory, the cylinder is refilled with a fluid such as gas.

[0003] However, recently, there has been a problem that used cylinders are illegally discarded in a place different from the filling factory or the place of use, for example, in a mountain forest. If corrosion occurs in such discarded cylinders, for example, there is a risk that highly dangerous fluids such as harmful gases and high-pressure gases will leak out.

[0004] Therefore, it is desirable to discover and collect used cylinders discarded in a place different from the filling factory or the place of use at an early stage. Thus, technologies for assisting in the discovery and collection of discarded used cylinders have been proposed. For example, in Patent Document 1, a valve device is proposed that includes a transmitter for transmitting a signal indicating the current location to a container valve attached to a cylinder container in which a fluid is stored.

[0005] Furthermore, in Patent Document 1, by controlling the transmission and suspension of the signal indicating the current location based on the internal pressure of the cylinder container or by a switch that detects the open / closed state of an on-off valve, the signal indicating the current location can be transmitted over a long period.

[0006] Incidentally, generally speaking, a protective cap is fitted to the cylinder container, and the container valve is protected by the protective cap. In that case, as described in Patent Document 1, the transmitter is covered by the protective cap along with the container valve, so there was a risk that the transmission of the signal indicating the current location would be hindered by the protective cap. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-56416 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] In view of the above-mentioned problems, the present invention aims to provide a container location notification device and a valve device that facilitate the discovery of a cylinder container to which a container valve is attached, even when a protective cap is fitted to protect the container valve. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] This invention relates to a container location notification device for notifying the current location of a cylinder container filled with fluid, comprising an antenna for receiving and transmitting various signals, and a transmitter for transmitting a signal indicating the current location via the antenna, wherein the antenna is configured to be fixable to the outer surface of a protective cap protecting a container valve attached to the cylinder container, or to a portion adjacent to the protective cap. The transmitter is located within a protected area protected by the protective cap, the antenna is located outside the protected area, and is provided with a connecting wire that enables communication between the antenna and the transmitter, the antenna is fixed to an antenna fixing part adjacent to the cap mounting part for attaching the protective cap on the opposite side from the container valve, and the connecting wire is inserted through a through hole that penetrates the antenna fixing part from the surface of the cap mounting part surrounded by the protective cap. It is characterized by the following:

[0010] The above-mentioned connecting wires refer to wires in which the conductor is covered with an insulating sheath, or optical fiber cables, etc. The cap mounting portion and antenna fixing portion may be integrated with the cylinder container or be separate from the cylinder container. Furthermore, if they are separate from the cylinder container, the cap mounting portion and antenna fixing portion may be attached or fixed to the cylinder container by screwing or crimping.

[0011] According to this invention, since the antenna is fixed to the outer surface of the protective cap or to a portion adjacent to the protective cap, the antenna can be positioned outside the protected area protected by the protective cap. Therefore, the transmitter can transmit a signal indicating its current location without it being obstructed by the protective cap.

[0012] This allows the container location notification device to reliably inform a recovery worker, for example, who is searching for the cylinder using a terminal capable of receiving a signal indicating the current location, of the current location of the container valve. Therefore, the container location notification device can easily locate the cylinder container to which the container valve is attached, even when a protective cap is fitted to protect the container valve.

[0013] Also, The transmitter is located within the protected area protected by the protective cap. The aforementioned antenna is located outside the protected area. The antenna and the transmitter are provided with a connecting wire that enables communication between them, the antenna being fixed to an antenna fixing part adjacent to the cap mounting part for attaching the protective cap on the opposite side from the container valve, and the connecting wire being inserted through a through hole that penetrates the antenna fixing part from the surface of the cap mounting part surrounded by the protective cap. doing .

[0014] This configuration That Since the connecting wire that connects the antenna and the transmitter is inserted through a through-hole that penetrates the antenna fixing part from the surface of the cap mounting part surrounded by the protective cap, the connecting wire can be routed from within the protected area to outside the protected area without hindering the attachment or detachment of the protective cap.

[0015] Therefore, the container position notification device eliminates the need to remove the connecting wire each time the protective cap is attached or detached, and also prevents the connecting wire from being pinched between the protective cap and the cap mounting part.

[0016] Furthermore, if, for example, a transmitter is installed on a container valve, the antenna is fixed to the antenna fixing part adjacent to the cap mounting part. Therefore, the transmitter and antenna do not rotate relative to each other as the protective cap rotates when it is attached to the cap mounting part. Therefore, the container position notification device can prevent the connection electric wire connecting the antenna and the transmitter from being twisted or pulled as the protective cap is attached or detached.

[0017] In addition, since the container position notification device can protect the connection electric wire by the protective cap and the through-hole, it can prevent, for example, contact between the connection electric wire and the trees around the disposal site. Therefore, the container position notification device can prevent the disconnection of the connection electric wire, and thus can reliably transmit the signal indicating the current location.

[0018] As another aspect of the present invention, the antenna may be formed in a flexible thin plate shape and fixed along the surface of the antenna fixing portion. According to this configuration, the protruding amount of the antenna can be suppressed as compared with a rod-shaped antenna. Therefore, the container position notification device can prevent damage to the antenna due to contact with trees around the disposal site, for example.

[0019] As another aspect of the present invention, the cap attachment portion and the antenna fixing portion constitute an adapter that is separate from the cylinder container and attached to the cylinder container, and the antenna may be fixed to the antenna fixing portion of the adapter. According to this configuration, the connection electric wire can be routed without processing the existing cylinder container, and the antenna can be easily attached to the existing cylinder container via the adapter.

[0020] As another aspect of the present invention, it may be provided on the container valve and include detection means for detecting the state of the cylinder container, and the transmitter may transmit the signal indicating the current location based on the state of the cylinder container detected by the detection means.

[0021] The detection means for detecting the state of the cylinder container refers to one or more of means for detecting the internal pressure of the cylinder container, means for detecting the internal temperature or external temperature of the cylinder container, means for detecting the flow rate of the fluid stored in the cylinder container, and means for detecting the remaining amount of the fluid stored in the cylinder container.

[0022] According to this configuration, since a signal indicating the current location is transmitted based on the state of the cylinder container, it is possible to prevent the signal indicating the current location from being constantly transmitted. Therefore, for example, compared with the case where the signal indicating the current location is constantly transmitted, the container position notification device can suppress the power consumption of the transmitter.

[0023] As a result, the container position notification device can ensure a longer operating time of the transmitter that operates with, for example, a built-in battery, so that the signal indicating the current location can be reliably transmitted over a long period.

[0024] Also, as an aspect of this invention, the antenna is integrally provided on the transmitter, includes a connection electric wire connecting the detection means and the transmitter, the transmitter is fixed to an antenna fixing portion adjacent to the container valve on the opposite side of the cap attachment portion for attaching the protective cap, and the connection electric wire may be inserted through a through hole penetrating the antenna fixing portion from the surface of the cap attachment portion surrounded by the protective cap.

[0025] According to this configuration, since the transmitter integrally provided with the antenna is fixed to the antenna fixing portion adjacent to the cap attachment portion, the detection means and the transmitter integrally provided with the antenna do not rotate relative to each other as the protective cap rotates when attaching it to the cap attachment portion. Therefore, the container position notification device can prevent the connection electric wire connecting the detection means and the transmitter from being twisted or pulled as the protective cap is attached and detached.

[0026] Furthermore, since the connecting wire that connects the detection means and the transmitter is inserted through a through hole that penetrates the antenna fixing part from the surface of the cap mounting part surrounded by the protective cap, the container position notification device can route the connecting wire without hindering the attachment and detachment of the protective cap.

[0027] Therefore, the container position notification device eliminates the need to remove the connecting wire each time the protective cap is attached or detached, and also prevents the connecting wire from being pinched between the protective cap and the cap mounting part.

[0028] In addition, the container location notification device can protect the connecting wires with a protective cap and through-holes, thus preventing contact between the connecting wires and, for example, trees around the disposal site. Therefore, the container location notification device can prevent disconnection of the connecting wires, and thus reliably transmit a signal indicating the current location.

[0029] In another aspect of this invention, the cap mounting portion and the antenna fixing portion may be separate from the cylinder container and constitute an adapter that is attached to the cylinder container, and the transmitter, which is integrally equipped with the antenna, may be fixed to the antenna fixing portion of the adapter.

[0030] This configuration allows for the routing of connecting wires without modifying existing cylinder containers, and enables the easy attachment of a transmitter with an integrated antenna to existing cylinder containers via an adapter.

[0031] In another aspect of this invention, the container valve may be provided with a detection means for detecting the state of the cylinder container, and the transmitter may transmit a signal indicating the current location in association with information indicating the state of the cylinder container detected by the detection means.

[0032] With this configuration, in addition to a signal indicating the current location, information indicating the status of the cylinder container is transmitted. For example, a recovery worker searching for the cylinder using a terminal capable of receiving the signal indicating the current location can be informed of the current location of the cylinder valve and the status of the cylinder container. This makes it easier for the container location notification device to find and recover dangerous cylinder containers, such as those that pose a risk of explosion.

[0033] In another aspect of this invention, the antenna may include a receiving antenna for receiving various signals and a transmitting antenna for transmitting various signals, and the transmitter may include a receiving module that receives a predetermined signal for identifying the current location via the receiving antenna and a transmitting module that transmits location information based on the predetermined signal for identifying the current location as a signal indicating the current location via the transmitting antenna.

[0034] The aforementioned specified signals refer to signals transmitted from GPS satellites, or signals transmitted from base stations established to search for container valves, etc. This configuration allows a receiving antenna located outside the protected area of ​​the protective cap to more reliably receive a predetermined signal for determining the current location.

[0035] This allows the container location notification device to reliably inform collection companies and remote operators of the container valve's exact current location, making it easier to locate cylinders with the container valve attached.

[0036] In another aspect of this invention, the transmitter may also include a transmission module provided in the container valve and equipped with detection means for detecting the state of the cylinder container, the transmitter transmitting a signal indicating the current location via the antenna, a battery for supplying power to the transmission module, and a switching means for switching the on state and off state of the transmission module based on the state of the cylinder container detected by the detection means. This configuration allows the transmission module to switch between on and off states based on the status of the gas cylinder, thereby reducing battery consumption.

[0037] Therefore, the container location notification device can reliably transmit a signal indicating the current location over a long period of time through the cooperation of an antenna located outside the protected area protected by the protective cap and a switching means that switches the transmitting module between the on and off states.

[0038] In another aspect of this invention, the device may include a pressure sensor for detecting the internal pressure of the cylinder container and a temperature sensor for measuring the ambient temperature or the temperature of the cylinder container, and the transmitter may transmit a signal indicating the current location via the antenna based on the internal pressure of the cylinder container and the ambient temperature or the temperature of the cylinder container.

[0039] The temperature of the cylinder container mentioned above refers to either the internal temperature of the cylinder container or the surface temperature of the cylinder container. With this configuration, since the detection means includes a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor, it can transmit a signal indicating the current location in response to changes in the internal pressure of the cylinder container due to temperature changes.

[0040] For example, a container location notification device can transmit a signal indicating the current location only when the temperature of the cylinder is low and the internal pressure of the cylinder is high. This makes it easier for the container location notification device to detect and recover dangerous cylinders that may explode due to increased internal pressure when the temperature of the cylinder rises.

[0041] In another aspect of this invention, the transmitter may be equipped with a transmission interval control means that transmits the signal indicating the current location at intervals of a predetermined time or longer. The above-mentioned specified time or longer refers to a relatively long period of time that takes into account the fact that the discarded container valve-equipped cylinder container will hardly move, or a period of time during which the power of the battery built into the transmitter will not run out prematurely, for example, several tens of minutes or more, several hours or more, or several tens of hours or more.

[0042] This configuration allows for a reduction in the number of times a signal indicating the current location is transmitted, compared to, for example, a continuous transmission of a signal indicating the current location, thereby reducing the power consumption of the transmitter. Therefore, the container location notification device can ensure a longer operating time for the transmitter, which is powered by a built-in battery, for example.

[0043] As a result, the container location notification device can reliably transmit a signal indicating the current location over a long period of time through the cooperation of an antenna located outside the protective range protected by the protective cap and a transmission interval control means that transmits a signal indicating the current location at intervals of a predetermined time or longer.

[0044] Furthermore, this invention relates to a valve device attached to a cylinder container filled with fluid, comprising: a container valve having a valve body with a fluid passage formed inside through which the fluid flows, and an on / off valve for opening and closing the fluid passage; an antenna for receiving and transmitting various signals; a transmitter that transmits a signal indicating the current location via the antenna; and an antenna fixing part adjacent to a cap mounting part on the opposite side from the container valve to a cap mounting part to which a protective cap protecting the container valve is attached, and to which the antenna is fixed. The transmitter is located within a protected area protected by the protective cap, the antenna is located outside the protected area, and is provided with a connecting wire that enables communication between the antenna and the transmitter, the antenna being fixed to an antenna fixing part adjacent to the cap mounting part for attaching the protective cap on the opposite side from the container valve, and the connecting wire being inserted through a through hole that penetrates the antenna fixing part from the surface of the cap mounting part surrounded by the protective cap. It is characterized by the following:

[0045] According to this invention, since the antenna is fixed to the antenna fixing part adjacent to the cap mounting part on the opposite side from the container valve, the antenna can be positioned outside the protected area protected by the protective cap. Therefore, the transmitter can transmit a signal indicating its current location without it being obstructed by the protective cap.

[0046] This allows the valve device to reliably inform recovery personnel, for example, who are searching for the cylinder using a terminal capable of receiving a signal indicating the current location, of the current location of the container valve. Therefore, even when a protective cap is attached to protect the container valve, the valve device makes it easy to find the cylinder container to which the container valve is attached.

[0047] Furthermore, the transmitter is located within the protected area protected by the protective cap, the antenna is located outside the protected area, and a connecting wire is provided to enable communication between the antenna and the transmitter. The antenna is fixed to an antenna fixing part adjacent to the cap mounting part for attaching the protective cap, on the opposite side from the container valve, and the connecting wire is inserted through a through hole that penetrates the antenna fixing part from the surface of the cap mounting part surrounded by the protective cap. Therefore, the connecting wire connecting the antenna and the transmitter is inserted through a through hole that penetrates the antenna fixing part from the surface of the cap mounting part surrounded by the protective cap, allowing the connecting wire to be routed from within the protected area to outside the protected area without hindering the attachment and detachment of the protective cap.

[0048] In one embodiment of this invention, the container valve is provided with a detection means for detecting the state of the cylinder container, and the transmitter may transmit a signal indicating the current location based on the state of the cylinder container detected by the detection means.

[0049] This configuration prevents the constant transmission of a location signal because it transmits a location signal based on the state of the cylinder container. Therefore, compared to a case where the location signal is constantly transmitted, the valve device can reduce the power consumption of the transmitter.

[0050] This allows the valve device to ensure a longer operating time for transmitters powered by, for example, a built-in battery, thus enabling reliable transmission of location signals over extended periods.

[0051] In another aspect of this invention, the container valve may be provided with a detection means for detecting the state of the cylinder container, and the transmitter may transmit a signal indicating the current location in association with information indicating the state of the cylinder container detected by the detection means.

[0052] With this configuration, in addition to a signal indicating the current location, information indicating the status of the cylinder container is transmitted. For example, a recovery worker searching for the cylinder using a terminal capable of receiving the signal indicating the current location can be informed of the current location of the cylinder valve and the status of the cylinder container. This makes it easier for the valve device to detect and recover dangerous cylinder containers that may pose a risk of explosion, for example.

[0053] In another aspect of this invention, the cap mounting portion and the antenna fixing portion may be separate from the container valve and constitute an adapter that is attached to the cylinder container, and the antenna may be fixed to the antenna fixing portion of the adapter. This configuration allows for easy attachment of the container valve and antenna to existing cylinder containers. [Effects of the Invention]

[0054] The present invention provides a container location notification device and a valve device that facilitate the discovery of a cylinder container to which a container valve is attached, even when a protective cap is fitted to protect the container valve. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0055] [Figure 1] A front view showing the external appearance of the gas cylinder. [Figure 2] A front view showing the external appearance of the valve assembly in its disassembled state. [Figure 3] A block diagram showing the internal configuration of the transmitter. [Figure 4] A flowchart illustrating the processing operation of the transmission module. [Figure 5] A flowchart illustrating the processing steps for setting the collection order. [Figure 6] An explanatory diagram illustrating the relationship between outside temperature and internal pressure. [Figure 7] A diagram showing the configuration of the container location notification system. [Figure 8] A front view showing the appearance of the cylinder in Example 2. [Figure 9] A front view showing the appearance of the cylinder in Example 3. [Figure 10] An explanatory diagram illustrating the general layout of the opening / closing detection mechanism. [Figure 11] A block diagram showing the internal configuration of the transmitter. [Figure 12] A front view showing the appearance of the cylinder in Example 4. [Figure 13] A configuration diagram showing the configuration of a container location notification system in another embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0056] One embodiment of this invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. [Examples]

[0057] In Example 1, a valve device 3 that can be attached to a cylinder container 2 filled with a fluid such as high-pressure gas will be described using Figures 1 to 3. Figure 1 shows a front view of cylinder 1, Figure 2 shows a front view of valve device 3 in its disassembled state, and Figure 3 shows a block diagram of transmitter 40.

[0058] Furthermore, in Figure 2, a portion of the adapter 30 is shown in a partial cross-sectional view to clarify its configuration. Furthermore, the upper side of Figure 1 (the side with the rotating handle 12) is above the valve device 3, and the lower side of Figure 1 (the side with the cylinder container 2) is below the valve device 3.

[0059] As shown in Figure 1, the cylinder 1 of Example 1 comprises an existing cylinder container 2 for storing a fluid such as gas, a valve device 3 attached to the cylinder container 2, and a protective cap 4 that protects the container valve 10 of the valve device 3. The protective cap 4 is roughly bell-shaped with an open bottom, and in Embodiment 1, it is formed to be attachable to the adapter 30 of the valve device 3, which will be described later.

[0060] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the valve device 3 of Example 1 includes a container valve 10 capable of regulating the flow of a fluid such as gas, a pressure sensor 20 for measuring the internal pressure of the cylinder container 2, and an adapter 30 for attaching a protective cap 4 to an existing cylinder container 2.

[0061] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the valve device 3 includes a transmitter 40 that transmits a signal indicating the current location, an antenna 50 for receiving and transmitting various signals, and a connecting wire 60 that connects the transmitter 40 to the antenna 50. In Embodiment 1, the pressure sensor 20, adapter 30, transmitter 40, antenna 50, and connecting wire 60 described above constitute a container location notification device X that notifies the current location of the cylinder container 2.

[0062] As shown in Figure 1, in this container position notification device X, the pressure sensor 20, transmitter 40, and connecting wire 60 are arranged within the protective range S of the protective cap 4, which is enclosed by the protective cap 4 and adapter 30, while the antenna 50 is located outside the protective range S.

[0063] More specifically, the container valve 10 of the valve device 3, as shown in Figure 2, consists of a valve body 11 attached to the cylinder container 2, an on / off valve (not shown), a spindle (not shown), and a rotating handle 12 attached to the valve body 11. Since the container valve 10 is constructed using well-known technology, a detailed illustration of it will be omitted here, and a brief explanation will be provided.

[0064] As shown in Figure 2, the valve body 11 of the container valve 10 has, in a front view, a mounting portion 11a that is screwed into a threaded hole 2a provided on the inner upper surface of the cylinder container 2 from above, and a substantially cylindrical body portion 11b that extends upward from the upper end of the mounting portion 11a.

[0065] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the valve body 11 is integrally formed with an outlet portion 11c extending from the body portion 11b toward one of the orthogonal directions (left side in Figure 2), which is perpendicular to the vertical direction, and a safety valve connection portion 11d extending from the body portion 11b toward the other orthogonal direction (right side in Figure 2).

[0066] Furthermore, the outlet section 11c is formed so that a fitting 6a (see Figure 1) of a pipe 6 such as a hose or piping that connects an externally installed device to the valve body 11 can be screwed into it. On the other hand, the safety valve connection section 11d is formed so that a container safety valve 13 can be screwed into it.

[0067] Inside the valve body 11, a fluid channel (not shown) is formed, which connects the internal space (not shown) of the body portion 11b to the outside and serves as a passage through which a fluid such as gas flows.

[0068] This fluid passage is integrally formed by a first passage (not shown) that passes through the mounting portion 11a and connects the internal space of the body portion 11b to the outside, a second passage (not shown) that passes through the outlet portion 11c and connects the internal space of the body portion 11b to the outside, and a third passage (not shown) that passes through the safety valve connection portion 11d and connects the first passage to the outside.

[0069] Furthermore, the on-off valve of the container valve 10 is screwed into a valve chamber (not shown) located at the bottom of the internal space of the body portion 11b. This on-off valve is configured to open and close the communication between the first and second fluid passages of the fluid flow path, thereby regulating the flow of fluids such as gas.

[0070] Furthermore, the spindle of the container valve 10 is a valve stem that extends vertically and is disposed within the internal space of the valve body 11. It is integrally formed by arranging a substantially rectangular prism-shaped valve fitting portion that fits into the on / off valve, a substantially cylindrical shaft portion that is rotatably supported by the valve body 11, and a substantially rectangular prism-shaped handle fitting portion into which the rotating handle 12 fits, coaxially from the bottom up.

[0071] Furthermore, the pressure sensor 20 of the valve device 3 is fixed to the valve body 11 of the container valve 10 with its tip exposed to the internal space of the valve body 11. This pressure sensor 20 is connected to the transmitter 40 (transmission control unit 43b of the transmission module 43, which will be described later) and has the function of detecting the internal pressure of the cylinder container 2 and outputting a signal indicating the detected internal pressure to the transmitter 40.

[0072] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the adapter 30 of the valve device 3 is integrally formed by coaxially arranging a substantially annular threaded portion 31 into which the protective cap 4 is screwed, and a substantially annular antenna fixing portion 32 having an inner diameter approximately the same as the inner diameter of the threaded portion 31 and an outer diameter larger than the outer diameter of the threaded portion 31.

[0073] The adapter 30 is integrally formed by connecting the screw portion 31 and the antenna fixing portion 32 in that order from top to bottom. Specifically, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the threaded portion 31 is formed in a substantially annular shape with an outer diameter larger than the neck ring 5 of the cylinder container 2. Furthermore, a male thread is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the threaded portion 31, into which the protective cap 4 is screwed.

[0074] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the antenna fixing portion 32 is formed in a substantially disc shape with a predetermined thickness in the vertical direction. The antenna 50, which will be described later, is fixed to the outer circumferential surface of this antenna fixing portion 32.

[0075] As shown in Figure 2, the inner circumferential surface 30a of such an adapter 30 has a female thread that screws onto a male thread provided on the outer circumferential surface of the neck ring 5. Furthermore, the adapter 30 has a through-hole 30b that extends from the upper surface of the threaded portion 31 through to the outer surface of the antenna fixing portion 32, thereby connecting the inside and outside of the protected area S.

[0076] More specifically, as shown in Figure 2, the through-hole 30b is a through-hole located radially outward from the inner circumferential surface 30a, through which the connecting wire 60, described later, is inserted. This through-hole 30b consists of a hole portion extending downward from the upper surface of the screw-fitting portion 31 and a hole portion extending radially outward from the adapter 30 inside the antenna fixing portion 32, forming a through-hole from the upper surface of the screw-fitting portion 31 to the outer circumferential surface of the antenna fixing portion 32.

[0077] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the transmitter 40 of the valve device 3 is fastened and fixed to the valve body 11 of the container valve 10. As shown in Figure 3, this transmitter 40 includes an ambient temperature sensor 41, a receiving module 42, a transmitting module 43, and a battery 44.

[0078] Specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the ambient temperature sensor 41 of the transmitter 40 is housed and held inside the transmitter 40 in a state that allows it to measure the ambient temperature around the valve device 3. This ambient temperature sensor 41 is connected to the transmission control unit 43b of the transmission module 43, which will be described later, and has the function of measuring the ambient temperature around the valve device 3 and outputting a signal indicating the measured ambient temperature to the transmission module 43.

[0079] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the receiving module 42 of the transmitter 40 is connected to the antenna 50 via a connecting wire 60, which will be described later. This receiving module 42 consists of a receiving unit 42a that receives GPS signals from the Global Positioning System (hereinafter referred to as GPS) satellite 101 (see Figure 7) via the antenna 50, and a receiving control unit 42b that controls various operations in the receiving module 42.

[0080] More specifically, the receiving unit 42a has the function of receiving GPS signals via the antenna 50 (receiving antenna 51, which will be described later) and the function of passing the received GPS signals to the receiving control unit 42b. On the other hand, the receiving control unit 42b consists of hardware components such as a CPU and memory, and software components such as programs and data.

[0081] This receiving control unit 42b has the function of controlling the operation of the receiving unit 42a connected via a predetermined bus, the function of calculating location information indicating the current location based on GPS signals, and the function of passing the location information to the transmitting module 43.

[0082] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the transmitting module 43 of the transmitter 40 is connected to the antenna 50 via a connecting wire 60 (described later) and consists of a transmitting unit 43a that wirelessly transmits a signal indicating the current location via the antenna 50, and a transmitting control unit 43b that controls various operations in the transmitting module 43.

[0083] More specifically, the transmitting unit 43a has the function of receiving a signal indicating the current location from the transmitting control unit 43b, and the function of wirelessly transmitting the received signal indicating the current location via the antenna 50 (transmitting antenna 52, which will be described later). On the other hand, the transmission control unit 43b consists of hardware components such as a CPU and memory, and software components such as programs and data. Furthermore, the transmission control unit 43b stores a unique identification code 43c that identifies the transmitter 40.

[0084] This transmission control unit 43b has the function of controlling the operation of the transmission unit 43a connected via a predetermined bus, the function of acquiring the signal from the pressure sensor 20 as the detected pressure, and the function of acquiring the signal from the ambient temperature sensor 41 as the ambient temperature.

[0085] Furthermore, the transmission control unit 43b has an elapsed time measurement function as a means for measuring the elapsed time since the transmission of a signal indicating the current location, and various processing functions related to the exchange of various information with the receiving module 42.

[0086] Furthermore, the battery 44 of the transmitter 40 is either a primary or secondary battery and is installed in the transmitter 40 in a replaceable state. This battery 44 is connected to the receiving module 42 and the transmitting module 43.

[0087] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the antenna 50 of the valve device 3 is connected to both the receiving module 42 and the transmitting module 43 of the transmitter 40 via connecting wires 60. This antenna 50 is provided for receiving GPS signals and wirelessly transmitting signals indicating the current location.

[0088] More specifically, as shown in Figures 1 and 3, the antenna 50 includes a receiving antenna 51 for receiving various signals and a transmitting antenna 52, which is separate from the receiving antenna 51 and for transmitting various signals. In this antenna 50, the receiving antenna 51 is connected to the receiving module 42 via a connecting wire 60, and the transmitting antenna 52 is connected to the transmitting module 43 via a connecting wire 60.

[0089] As shown in Figure 1, the receiving antenna 51 is a flexible, thin plate or film-like structure formed in a long, rectangular strip shape in a predetermined direction. A connecting wire 60, which is led out from the through-hole 30b of the adapter 30, is connected to one end of the receiving antenna 51 in the longitudinal direction.

[0090] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 1, the transmitting antenna 52 is a flexible thin plate or film, formed in a long strip shape in a predetermined direction. A connecting wire 60, which is led out from the through hole 30b of the adapter 30, is connected to one end of the transmitting antenna 52 in the longitudinal direction.

[0091] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, such an antenna 50 is curved along the outer surface of the antenna fixing portion 32 of the adapter 30, with one main surface exposed, and is adhesively fixed to the outer surface of the antenna fixing portion 32, or to a recessed portion provided on the outer surface of the antenna fixing portion 32. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the receiving antenna 51 and the transmitting antenna 52 are positioned in opposite directions from the through hole 30b in the circumferential direction of the antenna fixing part 32.

[0092] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the connecting wire 60 of the valve device 3 is configured by connecting a first connecting wire 61, one end of which is connected to the transmitter 40, and a second connecting wire 62, one end of which is connected to the antenna 50. The connecting wire 60 is routed by inserting the second connecting wire 62 through the through hole 30b of the adapter 30.

[0093] More specifically, as shown in Figure 2, the connecting wire 60 electrically connects the transmitter 40 and the antenna 50 by connecting the connector 61a at the end of the first connecting wire 61 and the connector 62a at the end of the second connecting wire 62 above the adapter 30, i.e., within the protective range S of the protective cap 4.

[0094] Next, the processing operation of the transmitter 40 in the valve device 3 described above will be explained using Figures 4 to 6. Figure 4 shows a flowchart of the processing operation of the transmission module 43, Figure 5 shows a flowchart of the processing operation of the retrieval order setting process, and Figure 6 shows an explanatory diagram illustrating the relationship between ambient temperature and internal pressure.

[0095] With power supplied from the battery 44, the transmission control unit 43b of the transmission module 43, which has started processing operations, determines whether or not it has acquired location information indicating the current location based on the GPS signal from the receiving module 42, as shown in Figure 4 (step S201). If location information has not been obtained from the receiving module 42 (step S201: No), the transmission control unit 43b waits until location information is obtained.

[0096] On the other hand, if location information is obtained from the receiving module 42 (step S201: Yes), the transmission control unit 43b determines whether the detected pressure detected by the pressure sensor 20 is greater than 0 MPa, as shown in Figure 4 (step S202).

[0097] If the detected pressure is 0 MPa (step S202: No), the transmission control unit 43b returns to step S201 and suspends the transmission of the signal indicating the current location, because even if cylinder 1 has been discarded, the risk of explosion or other dangers is low.

[0098] On the other hand, if the detected pressure exceeds 0 MPa (step S202: Yes), the transmission control unit 43b starts a recovery priority setting process to set the recovery priority of cylinder 1 based on the remaining amount of fluid (step S203).

[0099] Specifically, when the recovery order setting process is started, the transmission control unit 43b sets a pressure threshold Ps, which indicates the threshold of the internal pressure of the cylinder container 2, based on the ambient temperature detected by the ambient temperature sensor 41, as shown in Figure 5 (step S211).

[0100] In this case, as shown in Figure 6, the transmission control unit 43b calculates the internal pressure value at the current ambient temperature based on a state relation equation V that shows the relationship between the ambient temperature and the internal pressure of the cylinder container 2, and sets the calculated internal pressure value as the pressure threshold Ps.

[0101] The state relationship equation V between ambient temperature and internal pressure is, for example, an equation that shows the change in internal pressure in response to a change in ambient temperature when the ambient temperature changes, starting from a state where the fluid has been filled to a predetermined filling pressure under a predetermined ambient temperature.

[0102] Once the pressure threshold Ps is set, the transmission control unit 43b determines whether the detected pressure detected by the pressure sensor 20 is less than or equal to the pressure threshold Ps (step S212). For example, as shown in Figure 6(a), if the detected pressure P1 at the current ambient temperature T1 is less than or equal to the pressure threshold Ps (step S212: Yes), the transmission control unit 43b determines that there is little fluid remaining in the cylinder container 2 (step S213).

[0103] In this case, even if the outside temperature rises above the current outside temperature T1, the internal pressure of cylinder container 2 is unlikely to rise to a pressure that poses a risk of explosion or other dangers. Therefore, the transmission control unit 43b generates attribute information indicating that the recovery priority of cylinder 1 is low and temporarily stores it (step S214), then terminates the recovery priority setting process and proceeds to step S204 in Figure 4.

[0104] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 6(b), for example, if the detected pressure P2 at the current ambient temperature T2 exceeds the pressure threshold Ps (step S212: No), the transmission control unit 43b determines that there is a large amount of fluid remaining in the cylinder container 2 (step S215). In this case, when the outside temperature rises above the current outside temperature T2, the internal pressure of the cylinder container 2 will rise even further than the detected pressure P2, increasing the risk of explosion or other dangers.

[0105] Therefore, the transmission control unit 43b generates attribute information indicating that cylinder 1 has a high recovery priority and temporarily stores it (step S216), then terminates the recovery priority setting process and proceeds to step S204 in Figure 4.

[0106] Once the retrieval order setting process is complete, the transmission control unit 43b transmits the location information acquired in step S201 as a signal indicating the current location via the transmission antenna 52 for a predetermined time, as shown in Figure 4 (step S204).

[0107] In this case, the transmission control unit 43b transmits location information, which is associated with a unique identification code 43c that identifies the transmitter 40 and attribute information indicating the retrieval priority acquired in step S203, as a signal indicating the current location.

[0108] Subsequently, the transmission control unit 43b starts counting the elapsed time since the location information was transmitted (step S205). Then, the transmission control unit 43b determines whether or not 24 hours or more have elapsed since the start of the elapsed time count (step S206).

[0109] If the elapsed time is less than 24 hours (step S206: No), the transmission control unit 43b pauses the transmission of the signal indicating the current location by waiting for the elapsed time to reach 24 hours or more.

[0110] On the other hand, if the elapsed time is 24 hours or more (step S206: Yes), the transmission control unit 43b resumes transmitting the signal indicating the current location by returning the process to step S201.

[0111] In this way, the transmission control unit 43b repeats the processes from step S201 to step S206 until the power supply from the battery 44 is interrupted, thereby transmitting a signal indicating the current location and pausing transmission.

[0112] Next, the container location notification system 100, which allows the current location of the valve device 3 of the cylinder 1 described above, will be briefly explained using Figure 7, which shows the configuration diagram of the container location notification system 100.

[0113] As shown in Figure 7, this container location notification system 100 consists of a valve device 3 that receives GPS signals transmitted by GPS satellites 101, a server 104 that receives signals indicating the current location transmitted by the valve device 3 via a relay device 102 and a communication line 103 such as an internet line or telephone line, and a user terminal 105 used by operators or cylinder recovery companies in remote locations.

[0114] The relay device 102 is, for example, a device installed at a communication base station set up by a telecommunications carrier, or a device installed by a company that provides the container location notification system 100. This relay device 102 has the function of receiving a signal indicating the current location transmitted by the valve device 3, and the function of transmitting the received signal indicating the current location to the server 104 via the communication line 103.

[0115] Furthermore, the server 104 has the function of receiving a signal indicating the current location transmitted by the relay device 102, and the function of associating and storing the location information obtained from the signal indicating the current location, attribute information indicating the retrieval priority, and the identification code 43c.

[0116] Furthermore, the server 104 has the function of acquiring map information showing a map from an external source, and the function of associating location information, attribute information, identification code 43c, and map information and transmitting them to the user terminal 105.

[0117] The user terminal 105 is, for example, a personal computer, a tablet, a mobile phone, or a dedicated terminal. This user terminal 105 has the function of acquiring location information, attribute information, identification code 43c, and map information in association with each other from the server 104 via the communication line 103, and the function of displaying the current location of the valve device 3, along with the recovery priority, on a map for viewing based on the location information, attribute information, identification code 43c, and map information.

[0118] In this container location notification system 100, the server 104 acquires a signal indicating the current location transmitted from the valve device 3, and the server 104 transmits location information to the user terminal 105, thereby informing remote operators and cylinder recovery companies of the current location of the valve device 3 and the recovery priority.

[0119] As described above, the container location notification device X of Embodiment 1, which notifies the current location of the cylinder container 2 filled with fluid, is equipped with an antenna 50 for receiving and transmitting various signals, and a transmitter 40 that transmits a signal indicating the current location via the antenna 50. Furthermore, the antenna 50 is configured to be fixable to an antenna fixing part 32 adjacent to a protective cap 4 that protects the container valve 10 attached to the cylinder container 2.

[0120] With this configuration, since the antenna 50 is fixed to the antenna fixing part 32 adjacent to the protective cap 4, the antenna 50 can be positioned outside the protected area S protected by the protective cap 4. Therefore, the transmitter 40 can transmit a signal indicating its current location without being obstructed by the protective cap 4.

[0121] This allows the container location notification device X to reliably inform a recovery worker searching for the cylinder using, for example, a terminal capable of receiving a signal indicating the current location, of the current location of the container valve 10. Therefore, the container location notification device X can easily locate the cylinder container 2 to which the container valve 10 is attached, even when the protective cap 4 protecting the container valve 10 is fitted.

[0122] Furthermore, the transmitter 40 is located within a protected area S protected by the protective cap 4, and the container position notification device X includes a connecting wire 60 that enables communication between the antenna 50 and the transmitter 40.

[0123] The antenna 50 is fixed to an antenna fixing part 32 adjacent to the threaded portion 31 into which the protective cap 4 is screwed, on the opposite side from the container valve 10, and the connecting wire 60 is inserted through a through hole 30b that penetrates the antenna fixing part 32 from the upper surface of the threaded portion 31 surrounded by the protective cap 4.

[0124] With this configuration, the connecting wire 60 that connects the antenna 50 and the transmitter 40 is inserted through a through hole 30b that penetrates the antenna fixing part 32 from the surface of the screw part 31 surrounded by the protective cap 4. Therefore, the container position notification device X can route the connecting wire 60 from the protected area S to outside the protected area S without hindering the attachment and detachment of the protective cap 4.

[0125] Therefore, the container position notification device X eliminates the need to remove the connecting wire 60 each time the protective cap 4 is attached or detached, and also prevents the connecting wire 60 from being pinched between the protective cap 4 and the threaded portion 31.

[0126] Furthermore, since the transmitter 40 is provided on the container valve 10 and the antenna 50 is fixed to the antenna fixing part 32 adjacent to the threaded part 31, the transmitter 40 and the antenna 50 do not rotate relative to each other as the protective cap 4 rotates when it is attached to the threaded part 31. Therefore, the container position notification device X can prevent the connecting wire 60 that connects the antenna 50 and the transmitter 40 from being twisted or pulled when the protective cap 4 is attached or detached.

[0127] In addition, the container location notification device X can protect the connecting wire 60 with the protective cap 4 and through hole 30b, thus preventing contact between the connecting wire 60 and, for example, trees around the disposal site. Therefore, the container location notification device X can prevent disconnection of the connecting wire 60, and thus reliably transmit a signal indicating the current location.

[0128] Furthermore, since the antenna 50 is formed in a flexible, thin plate shape and is fixed along the surface of the antenna fixing part 32, the container location notification device X can reduce the amount of protrusion of the antenna 50 compared to a rod-shaped antenna. Therefore, the container location notification device X can prevent damage to the antenna 50 due to contact with trees around the disposal site, for example.

[0129] Furthermore, the threaded portion 31 and the antenna fixing portion 32 are separate from the cylinder container 2 and constitute an adapter 30 that is attached to the cylinder container 2. The antenna 50 is fixed to the antenna fixing portion 32 of the adapter 30.

[0130] With this configuration, the connecting wires 60 can be routed without modifying the existing cylinder container 2, and the antenna 50 can be easily attached to the existing cylinder container 2 via the adapter 30.

[0131] Furthermore, the container location notification device X is installed on the container valve 10 and includes detection means (pressure sensor 20 and ambient temperature sensor 41) for detecting the state of the cylinder container 2. The transmitter 40 then transmits a signal indicating the current location based on the state of the cylinder container 2 detected by the detection means.

[0132] With this configuration, a signal indicating the current location is transmitted based on the state of the cylinder container 2, thus preventing the continuous transmission of the signal indicating the current location. Therefore, compared to, for example, a case where the signal indicating the current location is continuously transmitted, the container location notification device X can reduce the power consumption of the transmitter 40.

[0133] As a result, the container location notification device X can ensure a longer operating time for the transmitter 40, which is powered by the built-in battery 44, and thus reliably transmit a signal indicating the current location over a long period of time.

[0134] Furthermore, the antenna 50 includes a receiving antenna 51 that receives various signals and a transmitting antenna 52 that transmits various signals, and the transmitter 40 includes a receiving module 42 that receives GPS signals via the receiving antenna 51 and a transmitting module 43 that transmits location information based on GPS signals as a signal indicating the current location via the transmitting antenna 52.

[0135] With this configuration, the receiving antenna 51, which is located outside the protected area S protected by the protective cap 4, can more reliably receive GPS signals. This allows the container location notification device X to reliably inform collection companies and remote operators of the more detailed current location of the container valve 10, making it easier to locate the cylinder container 2 to which the container valve 10 is attached.

[0136] Furthermore, the container position notification device X is installed on the container valve 10 and includes detection means (pressure sensor 20 and ambient temperature sensor 41) for detecting the state of the cylinder container 2. The transmitter 40 includes a transmitting module 43 that transmits a signal indicating the current location via a transmitting antenna 52, a battery 44 that supplies power to the transmitting module 43, and a switching means (transmission control unit 43b) that switches the transmitting module 43 between an on state and an off state based on the state of the cylinder container 2 detected by the detection means.

[0137] With this configuration, the transmission module 43 is switched between on and off states based on the state of the cylinder container 2, thereby reducing the consumption of the battery 44. Therefore, the container location notification device X can reliably transmit a signal indicating the current location over a long period of time through the cooperation of the transmitting antenna 52, which is located outside the protected area S protected by the protective cap 4, and the switching means (transmission control unit 43b) that switches the on and off states of the transmitting module 43.

[0138] Furthermore, the container location notification device X includes a pressure sensor 20 that detects the internal pressure of the cylinder container 2 and an ambient temperature sensor 41 that measures the ambient temperature. The transmitter 40 then transmits a signal indicating the current location via the transmitting antenna 52, based on the internal pressure of the cylinder container 2 and the ambient temperature.

[0139] With this configuration, since it is equipped with a pressure sensor 20 and an ambient temperature sensor 41, it can transmit a signal indicating the current location in response to changes in the internal pressure of the cylinder container 2 due to changes in ambient temperature. For example, the container location notification device X can transmit a signal indicating the current location only when the ambient temperature outside the cylinder 2 is low and the internal pressure inside the cylinder 2 is high.

[0140] This makes it easier for the container location notification device X to detect and recover dangerous cylinder containers 2 that may explode due to increased internal pressure when the ambient temperature rises.

[0141] Furthermore, because the transmitter 40 is equipped with a transmission control unit 43b that transmits a signal indicating the current location at intervals of 24 hours or more, the container location notification device X can reduce the number of times it transmits a signal indicating the current location compared to, for example, a case where it continuously transmits a signal indicating the current location, thereby reducing the power consumption of the transmitter 40. Therefore, the container position notification device X can ensure a longer operating time for the transmitter 40, which is powered by the built-in battery 44.

[0142] As a result, the container location notification device X can reliably transmit a signal indicating its current location over a long period of time through the cooperation of the antenna 50, which is located outside the protective range S protected by the protective cap 4, and the transmission control unit 43b, which transmits a signal indicating its current location at intervals of 24 hours or more.

[0143] Furthermore, the valve device 3 of Embodiment 1, which is attached to the cylinder container 2 filled with fluid, comprises a valve body 11 having a fluid passage formed inside through which the fluid flows, a container valve 10 having an on / off valve for opening and closing the fluid passage, an antenna 50 for receiving and transmitting various signals, and a transmitter 40 that transmits a signal indicating the current location via the antenna 50.

[0144] Furthermore, the valve device 3 includes a threaded portion 31 into which a protective cap 4 protecting the container valve 10 is screwed, and an antenna fixing portion 32 adjacent to the threaded portion 31 on the opposite side from the container valve 10, to which the antenna 50 is fixed.

[0145] With this configuration, the antenna 50 is fixed to the antenna fixing part 32, which is adjacent to the threaded part 31 on the opposite side from the container valve 10, so that the antenna 50 can be positioned outside the protected area S protected by the protective cap 4. Therefore, the transmitter 40 can transmit a signal indicating its current location without being obstructed by the protective cap 4.

[0146] This allows the valve device 3 to reliably inform a recovery worker, for example using a user terminal 105, of the current location of the container valve 10. Therefore, even when the protective cap 4 protecting the container valve 10 is attached to the valve device 3, the cylinder container 2 to which the container valve 10 is attached can be easily found.

[0147] Furthermore, the valve device 3 is installed on the container valve 10 and is equipped with detection means (pressure sensor 20 and ambient temperature sensor 41) for detecting the state of the cylinder container 2. The transmitter 40 then transmits a signal indicating the current location based on the state of the cylinder container 2 detected by the detection means.

[0148] With this configuration, a signal indicating the current location is transmitted based on the state of the cylinder container 2, thus preventing the continuous transmission of the signal indicating the current location. Therefore, compared to, for example, a case where the signal indicating the current location is continuously transmitted, the valve device 3 can reduce the power consumption of the transmitter 40.

[0149] As a result, the valve device 3 can ensure a longer operating time for the transmitter 40, which is powered by the built-in battery 44, and thus reliably transmit a signal indicating the current location over a long period of time.

[0150] Furthermore, the threaded portion 31 and the antenna fixing portion 32 are separate from the container valve 10 and constitute an adapter 30 that is attached to the cylinder container 2. Furthermore, since the antenna 50 is fixed to the antenna fixing part 32 of the adapter 30, the valve device 3 can be easily attached to an existing cylinder container, including the container valve and antenna. [Examples]

[0151] The valve device 7 of Example 2 differs from that of Example 1 described above in that the transmitter is located outside the protective range S of the protective cap 4. This valve device 7 of Example 2 will be explained with reference to Figure 8. Figure 8 shows a front view of cylinder 1 in Example 2. Furthermore, components identical to those in Example 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0152] As shown in Figure 8, the valve device 7 of Example 2 includes a container valve 10 capable of regulating the flow of a fluid such as gas, a pressure sensor 20 for measuring the internal pressure of the cylinder container 2, and an adapter 30 for attaching the protective cap 4 to an existing cylinder container 2.

[0153] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8, the valve device 7 includes an antenna-integrated transmitter 70 that has an antenna built in for receiving and transmitting various signals, and a connecting wire 80 that connects the pressure sensor 20 to the antenna-integrated transmitter 70. In Embodiment 2, the pressure sensor 20, adapter 30, antenna-integrated transmitter 70, and connecting wire 80 described above constitute a container location notification device X that notifies the current location of the cylinder container 2.

[0154] As shown in Figure 8, in this container position notification device X, the pressure sensor 20 and connecting wire 80 are located within the protective range S of the protective cap 4, which is enclosed by the protective cap 4 and the adapter 30, while the antenna-integrated transmitter 70 is located outside the protective range S.

[0155] Although detailed illustrations are omitted, the antenna-integrated transmitter 70 includes an ambient temperature sensor, a receiving module, a transmitting module, and a battery, similar to those in Embodiment 1. Furthermore, the antenna-integrated transmitter 70 incorporates a receiving antenna for receiving various signals and a transmitting antenna for transmitting various signals.

[0156] Furthermore, the antenna-integrated transmitter 70 is configured to transmit a signal indicating the current location by performing the processing from steps S201 to S206 in Figure 4, similar to the transmitter 40 in Embodiment 1.

[0157] As shown in Figure 8, such an antenna-integrated transmitter 70 is fixed to the upper surface of the antenna fixing portion 32 of the adapter 30. Furthermore, the antenna-integrated transmitter 70 is connected to the pressure sensor 20 via a connecting wire 80 inserted through a through hole 30b provided in the adapter 30.

[0158] As described above, the container positioning device of Embodiment 2 is equipped with an antenna (receiving antenna and transmitting antenna) for receiving and transmitting seed signals, and an antenna-integrated transmitter 70 that transmits a signal indicating the current location via the antenna. Furthermore, the antenna of the antenna-integrated transmitter 70 is configured to be fixable to an antenna fixing part 32 adjacent to a protective cap 4 that protects the container valve 10 attached to the cylinder container 2.

[0159] Furthermore, the valve device 7 of Example 2 includes a valve body 11 and a container valve 10 having an on / off valve, an antenna (receiving antenna and transmitting antenna) for receiving and transmitting various signals, and an antenna-integrated transmitter 70 that transmits a signal indicating the current location via the antenna.

[0160] Furthermore, the valve device 7 includes a threaded portion 31 into which a protective cap 4 protecting the container valve 10 is screwed, and an antenna fixing portion 32 adjacent to the threaded portion 31 on the opposite side from the container valve 10, to which the antenna-integrated transmitter 70 is fixed.

[0161] Therefore, the container positioning device and valve device 7 of Example 2, similar to Example 1 described above, can easily detect the cylinder container 2 to which the container valve 10 is attached, even when a protective cap 4 protecting the container valve 10 is fitted.

[0162] Furthermore, the container positioning device and valve device 7 of Embodiment 2 have an antenna integrally provided with the antenna-integrated transmitter 70, and are equipped with a connecting wire 80 that connects the pressure sensor 20 and the antenna-integrated transmitter 70.

[0163] The antenna-integrated transmitter 70 is fixed to the antenna fixing part 32 adjacent to the threaded portion 31 into which the protective cap 4 is screwed, on the opposite side from the container valve 10, and the connecting wire 80 is inserted through a through hole 30b that penetrates the antenna fixing part 32 from the upper surface of the threaded portion 31 surrounded by the protective cap 4.

[0164] With this configuration, since the antenna-integrated transmitter 70, which has an integrated antenna, is fixed to the antenna fixing part 32 adjacent to the screw-fitting part 31, the pressure sensor 20 and the antenna-integrated transmitter 70 do not rotate relative to each other as the protective cap 4 rotates when it is attached to the screw-fitting part 31. Therefore, the container position notification device X can prevent the connecting wire 80 that connects the pressure sensor 20 and the antenna-integrated transmitter 70 from being twisted or pulled when the protective cap 4 is attached or detached.

[0165] Furthermore, since the connecting wire 80 that connects the pressure sensor 20 and the antenna-integrated transmitter 70 is inserted through a through hole 30b that penetrates the antenna fixing part 32 from the surface of the screw-fitting part 31 surrounded by the protective cap 4, the container position notification device X can route the connecting wire 80 without hindering the attachment and detachment of the protective cap 4.

[0166] Therefore, the container position notification device X eliminates the need to remove the connecting wire 80 each time the protective cap 4 is attached or detached, and also prevents the connecting wire 80 from being pinched between the protective cap 4 and the screw portion 31.

[0167] In addition, the container location notification device X can protect the connecting wire 80 with the protective cap 4 and through hole 30b, thus preventing contact between the connecting wire 80 and, for example, trees around the disposal site. Therefore, the container location notification device X can prevent disconnection of the connecting wire 80, and thus reliably transmit a signal indicating the current location.

[0168] Furthermore, the threaded portion 31 and the antenna fixing portion 32 are separate from the cylinder container 2 and constitute an adapter 30 that is attached to the cylinder container 2. The antenna-integrated transmitter 70 is fixed to the antenna fixing portion 32 of the adapter 30. With this configuration, the connecting wires 80 can be routed without modifying the existing cylinder container 2, and the antenna-integrated transmitter 70 can be easily attached to the existing cylinder container 2 via the adapter 30. [Examples]

[0169] The valve device 8 of Example 3 differs from that of Example 1 in that it is equipped with an open / close detection mechanism that detects the open / closed state of the on / off valve, instead of the pressure sensor 20 described above. This valve device 8 of Example 3 will be explained with reference to Figures 9 to 11.

[0170] Figure 9 shows a front view of the valve device 8 in Embodiment 3, Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the general layout of the opening / closing detection mechanism 14, Figure 10(a) shows an exploded perspective view of the opening / closing detection mechanism 14, Figure 10(b) shows a downward perspective view of the outer gear 147, and Figure 11 shows a block diagram of the transmitter 40. Furthermore, components identical to those in Example 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0171] As shown in Figure 9, the valve device 8 of Example 3 includes a container valve 10 having an open / close detection mechanism 14 between the valve body 11 and the rotating handle 12, and an adapter 30 for attaching the protective cap 4 to an existing cylinder container 2.

[0172] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, the valve device 8 includes a transmitter 40 that transmits a signal indicating the current location, an antenna 50 for receiving and transmitting various signals, and a connecting wire 60 that connects the transmitter 40 to the antenna 50. In Embodiment 3, the container location notification device X2, which notifies the current location of the cylinder container 2, is configured with the container valve 10 opening / closing detection mechanism 14, adapter 30, transmitter 40, antenna 50, and connecting wire 60.

[0173] As shown in Figure 9, in this container position notification device X2, the open / close detection mechanism 14, the transmitter 40, and the connecting wires 60 are arranged within the protective range S of the protective cap 4, which is enclosed by the protective cap 4 and the adapter 30, while the antenna 50 is located outside the protective range S.

[0174] More specifically, as shown in Figure 9, the container valve 10 of the valve device 8 consists of a valve body 11 attached to the cylinder container 2, an on / off valve (not shown), a spindle (not shown), a rotating handle 12, and an on / off detection mechanism 14 that detects the open / closed state of the on / off valve, all mounted on the valve body 11.

[0175] As shown in Figure 10(a), the opening / closing detection mechanism 14 of the container valve 10 consists of a planetary gear section 141 having a sun gear 145 that fits into the handle fitting portion of the spindle, a lower case 142 and an upper case 143 that house the planetary gear section 141, and a limit switch 144 mounted on the lower case 142.

[0176] Specifically, as shown in Figure 10(a), the planetary gear section 141 consists of a sun gear 145 that is fitted to the spindle and rotates synchronously, two planetary gears 146 that mesh with the sun gear 145, and an outer gear 147 that meshes with the two planetary gears 146 and rotates coaxially with the sun gear 145.

[0177] To elaborate further on the outer gear 147, as shown in Figure 10(b), the lower surface of the outer gear 147 has a recess 147a formed therein, which is recessed upward in a range of approximately 300° in the circumferential direction. Furthermore, on the lower surface of the outer gear 147, the portion that protrudes downward relative to the recess 147a, that is, the convex portion 147b, is defined as the convex portion 147b in a range of approximately 60° in the circumferential direction, excluding the recess 147a.

[0178] In this outer gear 147, when the on / off valve is in the fully closed position that blocks the fluid passage, the end of the protrusion 147b on the counterclockwise side in a plan view is in contact with the limit switch 144, which will be described later.

[0179] Furthermore, the limit switch 144 of the opening / closing detection mechanism 14 is a switch that can be switched between an ON state and an OFF state by pressing its tip, which is formed in a substantially hemispherical shape, as shown in Figure 10(a), and is connected to the transmitter 40 via an electric wire cord 144a.

[0180] This limit switch 144 incorporates a microswitch with normally open contacts. When the tip is not pressed, the microswitch contacts are separated, resulting in an OFF state. When the tip is pressed, the microswitch contacts come into contact, resulting in an ON state.

[0181] In other words, the limit switch 144 is configured to remain in the OFF state when the valve is in a position other than the fully closed position, by facing the recess 147a of the outer gear 147 in a non-contact state, and to become ON when the valve is in the fully closed position, by contacting the end of the protrusion 147b of the outer gear 147 on the counterclockwise side in a plan view.

[0182] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, the transmitter 40 of the valve device 8 is fastened and fixed to the valve body 11 of the container valve 10. As shown in Figure 11, this transmitter 40 includes a receiving module 42, a transmitting module 43, and a battery 44. The battery 44 of the transmitter 40 is connected to the receiver module 42 and the transmitter module 43 via the limit switch 144.

[0183] Therefore, the battery 44 is configured to be electrically connected to the receiving module 42 and the transmitting module 43 when the limit switch 144 is ON, and to be disconnected from the receiving module 42 and the transmitting module 43 when the limit switch 144 is OFF.

[0184] In other words, the valve device 8 is configured such that the open / close detection mechanism 14 functions as a switching means that switches between an ON state in which the receiving module 42 and the transmitting module 43 are functional, and an OFF state in which the receiving module 42 and the transmitting module 43 are not functional.

[0185] In the case of the valve device 8 of this embodiment 3, the transmitter 40 starts processing when the on / off valve of the container valve 10 is in the fully closed position, that is, when the limit switch 144 is ON.

[0186] In this case, the transmission control unit 43b of the transmitter 40 repeatedly performs steps S201 and S204 to S206 of the above-described embodiment 1 to notify the user terminal 105 of the current location of the valve device 8.

[0187] As described above, the container positioning device of Embodiment 3 is equipped with an antenna 50 for receiving and transmitting various signals, and a transmitter 40 that transmits a signal indicating the current location via the antenna 50. Furthermore, the antenna 50 is configured to be fixable to an antenna fixing part 32 adjacent to a protective cap 4 that protects the container valve 10 attached to the cylinder container 2.

[0188] Furthermore, the valve device 8 of Embodiment 3 includes a valve body 11 and a container valve 10 having an on / off valve, an antenna 50 for receiving and transmitting various signals, and a transmitter 40 that transmits a signal indicating the current location via the antenna 50.

[0189] Furthermore, the valve device 8 includes a threaded portion 31 into which a protective cap 4 protecting the container valve 10 is screwed, and an antenna fixing portion 32 adjacent to the threaded portion 31 on the opposite side from the container valve 10, to which the antenna 50 is fixed.

[0190] Therefore, the container positioning device and valve device 8 of Example 3, similar to Example 1 described above, can easily detect the cylinder container 2 to which the container valve 10 is attached, even when a protective cap 4 protecting the container valve 10 is fitted.

[0191] Furthermore, the container positioning device and valve device 8 are provided on the container valve 10 and include detection means (open / close detection mechanism 14) for detecting the state of the cylinder container 2. The transmitter 40 includes a transmitting module 43 that transmits a signal indicating the current location via a transmitting antenna 52, a battery 44 that supplies power to the transmitting module 43, and a switching means (limit switch 144) that switches the transmitting module 43 between an on state and an off state based on the state of the cylinder container 2 detected by the detection means.

[0192] With this configuration, the transmission module 43 is switched between on and off states based on the state of the cylinder container 2, thereby reducing the consumption of the battery 44. Therefore, the container location notification device X2 can reliably transmit a signal indicating its current location over a long period of time through the cooperation of the antenna 50, which is located outside the protected area S protected by the protective cap 4, and the limit switch 144, which switches the on and off states of the transmission module 43. [Examples]

[0193] The valve device 9 of Example 4 differs from that of Example 1 in that it does not have the adapter described above. This valve device 9 will be explained with reference to Figure 12. Figure 12 shows a front view of cylinder 1 in Example 4. Furthermore, components identical to those in Example 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0194] As shown in Figure 12, the cylinder 1 of Example 4 comprises an existing cylinder container 2, a valve device 9 attached to the cylinder container 2, and a protective cap 4 fitted to the neck ring 5 of the cylinder container 2 to protect the container valve 10 of the valve device 9.

[0195] As shown in Figure 12, the valve device 9 includes a container valve 10, a pressure sensor 20 for measuring the internal pressure of the cylinder container 2, a transmitter 40 for transmitting a signal indicating the current location, an antenna 50 for receiving and transmitting various signals, and a connecting wire 60 for connecting the transmitter 40 to the antenna 50.

[0196] In Embodiment 4, the pressure sensor 20, transmitter 40, antenna 50, and connecting wire 60 described above constitute a container location notification device X that notifies the current location of the cylinder container 2.

[0197] As shown in Figure 12, in this container position notification device X, the pressure sensor 20, transmitter 40, and connecting wire 60 are positioned within the protective range S of the protective cap 4, which is enclosed by the neck ring 5 and protective cap 4 of the cylinder container 2, while the antenna 50 is positioned outside the protective range S.

[0198] Specifically, if the portion of the neck ring 5 into which the protective cap 4 is screwed is called the screw portion 5a, then the neck ring 5 of the cylinder container 2 is composed of an upper screw portion 5a and an antenna fixing portion 5b that is adjacent to the screw portion 5a below and to which the antenna 50, which will be described later, is fixed, as shown in Figure 12. As shown in Figure 12, such a neck ring 5 has a through hole 5c formed therein that penetrates from the upper surface of the threaded portion 5a to the outer surface of the antenna fixing portion 5b.

[0199] More specifically, the through-hole 5c is located radially outward from the screw hole (not shown) of the cylinder container 2, and is a through-hole through which a connecting wire 60 is inserted to enable communication between the transmitter 40 and the antenna 50.

[0200] This through-hole 5c consists of a portion extending downward from the upper surface of the screw-fitting portion 5a and a portion extending radially outward from the neck ring 5 inside the antenna fixing portion 5b, forming a through-hole that extends from the upper surface of the screw-fitting portion 5a to the outer circumferential surface of the antenna fixing portion 5b.

[0201] Furthermore, the antenna 50 of the valve device 9 includes a receiving antenna 51 connected to the receiving module 42 (see Figure 3) of the transmitter 40 via a connecting wire 60, and a transmitting antenna 52 connected to the transmitting module 43 (see Figure 3) via a connecting wire 60.

[0202] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12, unlike in Embodiment 1, the antenna 50 is fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the antenna fixing portion 5b of the neck ring 5. More specifically, as shown in Figure 12, the receiving antenna 51 and the transmitting antenna 52 are flexible, thin plate-like or film-like structures formed in a long, rectangular strip shape in a predetermined direction. A connecting wire 60, which is led out from a through hole 5c provided in the neck ring 5, is connected to one end of the receiving antenna 51 and the transmitting antenna 52 in the longitudinal direction.

[0203] The receiving antenna 51 and the transmitting antenna 52 are curved along the outer surface of the antenna fixing portion 5b of the neck ring 5, and with one main surface exposed, they are adhesively fixed to the outer surface of the antenna fixing portion 5b, or adhesively fixed to a recessed portion provided on the outer surface of the antenna fixing portion 5b. The receiving antenna 51 and the transmitting antenna 52 are arranged in the same manner as in Embodiment 1, facing in opposite directions from the through hole 5c in the circumferential direction of the antenna fixing portion 5b.

[0204] As described above, the container positioning device of Embodiment 4 is equipped with an antenna 50 for receiving and transmitting various signals, and a transmitter 40 that transmits a signal indicating the current location via the antenna 50. Furthermore, the antenna 50 is configured to be fixable to an antenna fixing part 5b adjacent to a protective cap 4 that protects the container valve 10 attached to the cylinder container 2.

[0205] Therefore, the container positioning device of Example 4, similar to Example 1 described above, can easily locate the cylinder container 2 to which the container valve 10 is attached, even when a protective cap 4 protecting the container valve 10 is fitted.

[0206] In the correspondence between the structure of this invention and the embodiments described above, The detection means of this invention corresponds to the pressure sensor 20, ambient temperature sensor 41, and open / close detection mechanism 14 of the embodiment. The same applies to the following: The transmitter is compatible with transmitter 40 and transmitter 70 with built-in antenna. The portion adjacent to the protective cap corresponds to the antenna fixing portion 32 and the antenna fixing portion 5b. The cap mounting portion corresponds to the threaded portion 31 and the threaded portion 5a. The switching means corresponds to the transmission control unit 43b and the limit switch 144. The temperature sensor corresponds to the ambient temperature sensor 41, This invention is not limited to the configuration of the embodiments described above, and many other embodiments can be obtained.

[0207] Specifically, in the embodiment described above, the protective cap 4 protecting the container valve 10 is roughly bell-shaped with an open bottom, but it is not limited to this, and may be any suitable shape, such as a cylindrical protective cap with an open top, or a cylindrical protective cap with a part of its circumferential surface open.

[0208] Furthermore, although the protective cap 4 is configured to be screwed onto the threaded portion 31 of the adapter 30 and the threaded portion 5a of the neck ring 5, the design is not limited to this, and any suitable mounting structure such as crimping may be used as long as the protective cap can be attached. For example, a mounting structure may be used that restricts the movement of the protective cap away from the adapter, while also allowing the protective cap to rotate relative to the adapter.

[0209] Furthermore, in Examples 1 to 3, the adapter 30 was integrally formed with the screw portion 31 and the antenna fixing portion 32, but the invention is not limited to this. Any adapter of an appropriate shape may be used as long as it can be attached to the cylinder container 2 and the protective cap 4 can be attached.

[0210] For example, the adapter may consist of a threaded portion into which the protective cap 4 and the container valve 10 are screwed, an antenna fixing portion into which the antenna 50 is fixed, and a shaft portion that is screwed into the threaded hole 2a of the cylinder container 2, and also have an opening that penetrates from the upper surface of the threaded portion to the lower surface of the shaft portion.

[0211] Furthermore, although the antenna 50 and the antenna-integrated transmitter 70 are fixed to the antenna fixing parts 32 and 5b adjacent to the protective cap 4, the invention is not limited to this, and the antenna may be fixed to the outer surface of the protective cap 4. Even in this case, the antenna can be positioned outside the protected area S protected by the protective cap 4, thus achieving the same effects as the embodiment described above.

[0212] Furthermore, although the antenna-integrated transmitter 70 was fixed to the adapter 30 in Example 2, the invention is not limited to this. In configurations without an adapter 30, such as the cylinder 1 in Example 4, the antenna-integrated transmitter 70 may be fixed to the antenna fixing portion 5b adjacent to the threaded portion 5a of the neck ring 5 or to the outer surface of the protective cap 4.

[0213] Furthermore, although the connecting wires 60 and 80 were led out to the outside through through holes 30b and 5c, the method is not limited to this, and the connecting wires may also be led out to the outside through openings provided in the protective cap 4. Furthermore, although the antenna 50 is shown as a thin plate or film, it is not limited to these, and may also be a rod-shaped antenna, a box-shaped antenna, or a block-shaped antenna. Furthermore, although the receiving antenna 51 and transmitting antenna 52 are configured separately and referred to as antenna 50, the antenna is not limited to this, and an antenna in which the receiving antenna and transmitting antenna are integrated may also be used.

[0214] Furthermore, in the circumferential direction of the antenna fixing parts 32 and 5b, the receiving antenna 51 and the transmitting antenna 52 are arranged facing in opposite directions from the through holes 30b and 5c, respectively. However, the design is not limited to this, and the receiving antenna 51 and the transmitting antenna 52 may be arranged facing in the same direction from the through holes 30b and 5c.

[0215] Furthermore, although the ambient temperature was measured using the ambient temperature sensor 41 of the transmitter 40, the system is not limited to this; a temperature sensor that measures the internal temperature of the cylinder container 2 or the surface temperature of the cylinder container 2 may also be used. Furthermore, although the transmitter 40 has a built-in battery 44, it is not limited to this, and a transmitter with a separate battery may also be used. Furthermore, the valve devices 3, 7, 8, and 9 are not limited to the configurations described above, and may also be valve devices equipped with a cover that integrally covers, for example, the container valve 10 and the pressure sensor 20.

[0216] Furthermore, although the transmitter 40 is described as having a receiving control unit 42b that controls the operation of the receiving unit 42a and a transmitting control unit 43b that controls the operation of the transmitting unit 43a, it is not limited to this, and a transmitter having a single receiving / transmitting control unit that controls the operation of the receiving unit and the transmitting unit may also be used.

[0217] Furthermore, in Examples 1, 3, and 4, the transmitter 40 was directly attached and fixed to the valve body 11 of the container valve 10. However, the system is not limited to this configuration, and the transmitter may be indirectly attached and fixed to the valve body 11 via a bracket or other component. Alternatively, the transmitter 40 may be fixed to the inner surface of the protective cap 4 within the protected area S protected by the protective cap 4, or the transmitter 40 may be fixed to the upper surface of the screw portion 31.

[0218] Furthermore, although the detection means for detecting the state of the cylinder container 2 has been described as a pressure sensor 20, an ambient temperature sensor 41, or an open / close detection mechanism 14, it is not limited to these, and other detection means such as a limit switch for detecting the connection of the pipe 6 or a sensor for detecting the remaining amount and flow rate of fluid stored in the cylinder container 2 may also be used.

[0219] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the switching means for switching the ON and OFF states of the transmission module 43 was the transmission control unit 43b, and in Embodiment 3, it was the limit switch 144 of the opening / closing detection mechanism 14. However, the invention is not limited to these, and a valve device equipped with a switching means that appropriately combines these may also be used.

[0220] Furthermore, the valve device may not be equipped with detection means (pressure sensor 20, ambient temperature sensor 41, open / close detection mechanism 14) for detecting the state of the cylinder container 2. In this case, it is desirable that the transmitter 40 repeatedly transmits a signal indicating its current location at time intervals of 24 hours or more, by performing steps S201, S204 to S206 of Figure 4 described above in the processing operation performed by the transmission control unit 43b of the transmitter 40.

[0221] Furthermore, although the transmitter 40 is described as transmitting a signal indicating the current location based on the GPS signal received by the receiving module 42, it is not limited to this configuration. The transmitter may also consist of a receiving module that receives a request signal requesting the transmission of a signal indicating the current location, and a transmitting module that wirelessly transmits a signal indicating the current location when it receives the request signal.

[0222] In this case, the container location notification system 100 is composed of a valve device 106 having the aforementioned transmitter, a plurality of relay devices 107, a server 108, and a user terminal 109, as shown in Figure 13.

[0223] Then, the server 108 sends a request signal requesting the transmission of a signal indicating the current location, and the valve device 106, upon receiving the request signal, transmits a signal indicating its current location to the server 108. This allows the container location notification system 100 to acquire the location information of the valve device 106 at the user terminal 109. Therefore, the container location notification device X and the container location notification system 100 can achieve the same effects as in the embodiment described above.

[0224] Furthermore, in step S202 of Figure 4 in the processing operation of the transmission control unit 43b, the transmission of the signal indicating the current location was suspended when the detected pressure was 0 MPa. However, this is not limited to this, and the signal indicating the current location may also be transmitted when the detected pressure is 0 MPa. In this case, location information associated with attribute information indicating that the recovery priority of cylinder 1 is low is transmitted as the signal indicating the current location.

[0225] Furthermore, in step S206 of Figure 4 in the processing operation of the transmission control unit 43b, the elapsed time determination criterion is set to 24 hours or more, but it is not limited to this, and an appropriate time length such as 12 hours or more may be used. In this case, it is desirable to set a relatively long time interval, taking into account that the discarded cylinder 1 hardly moves. Alternatively, the criteria for determining elapsed time may be set to an appropriate length of time, depending on the capacity of the battery 44, such as several tens of minutes or more, several hours or more, or several tens of hours or more.

[0226] Furthermore, although a signal indicating the current location was transmitted at time intervals of 24 hours or more, the system is not limited to this. The signal indicating the current location may also be transmitted at specific times, such as at night when the internal pressure of the cylinder container 2 tends to decrease, or at specific times when the internal pressure fluctuations of the cylinder container 2 are small.

[0227] Furthermore, in the processing operation of the transmission control unit 43b, in addition to the processing content of the embodiment described above, it may determine whether or not fluid refilling is necessary based on the internal pressure of the cylinder container 2 detected by the pressure sensor 20, and if the internal pressure requires refilling, it may transmit location information associated with an identification code as a signal indicating the current location.

[0228] Furthermore, in the processing operation of the transmission control unit 43b, a signal indicating the current location was transmitted based on the state of the cylinder container 2 detected by the pressure sensor 20 and the ambient temperature sensor 41, but this is not limited to this. For example, the information indicating the detected pressure of the cylinder container 2 detected by the pressure sensor 20 and / or the information indicating the ambient temperature detected by the ambient temperature sensor 41 may be used as information indicating the state of the cylinder container 2, and the transmitter 40 may associate the information indicating the state of the cylinder container 2 with a signal indicating the current location and transmit it via the transmitting antenna 52.

[0229] In this case, the trigger for transmitting information indicating the status of the cylinder container 2 and a signal indicating the current location will be an appropriate trigger such as the detected pressure detected by the pressure sensor 20, the ambient temperature detected by the ambient temperature sensor 41, or a predetermined time interval.

[0230] According to this, in addition to a signal indicating the current location, information indicating the status of the cylinder container 2 is transmitted. For example, a recovery worker searching for the cylinder 1 using a user terminal 105 capable of receiving a signal indicating the current location can be informed of the current location of the container valve 10 and the status of the cylinder container 2. This makes it easier for the container location notification devices X, X2 and valve devices 3, 7, 8, 9 to detect and recover dangerous cylinder containers 2 that may be at risk of explosion, for example.

[0231] Furthermore, in a transmitter 40 that does not have a receiving module 42, for example, information indicating the detected pressure of the cylinder container 2 detected by the pressure sensor 20 and / or information indicating the ambient temperature detected by the ambient temperature sensor 41 may be used as information indicating the state of the cylinder container 2, and the transmitter 40 may transmit information indicating the state of the cylinder container 2, associated with a unique identification code 43c that identifies the transmitter 40, via a transmitting antenna 52 provided on the outer surface of the protective cap 4 or a part adjacent to the protective cap 4.

[0232] In this case, for example, the server 104 is pre-registered with information indicating a predetermined usage location for the cylinder 1 equipped with the transmitter 40 and an identification code 43c associated with it. The trigger for transmitting information indicating the status of the cylinder container 2 and the identification code 43c will be an appropriate trigger such as the detected pressure detected by the pressure sensor 20, the ambient temperature detected by the ambient temperature sensor 41, or a predetermined time interval.

[0233] With this configuration, information indicating the status of the cylinder container 2 and an identification code 43c can be transmitted via the transmitting antenna 52 fixed to the outer surface of the protective cap 4 or a part adjacent to the protective cap 4. Therefore, the transmitter 40 can transmit information indicating the status of the cylinder container 2 and an identification code 43c without being obstructed by the protective cap 4.

[0234] Furthermore, since the designated usage location of the cylinder 1 can be identified based on the identification code 43c transmitted from the transmitter 40, the timing for replacing the cylinder 1 used at the designated usage location, or the timing for refilling the fluid, can be notified to recovery companies or remote operators.

[0235] In this case, for example, by attaching a sticker with information corresponding to the identification code 43c printed on it to the cylinder container 2 in advance, even if multiple cylinders 1 are installed at a designated usage location, the cylinder 1 can be easily identified based on the transmitted identification code 43c. In addition, since the receiving module 42 and receiving antenna 51 can be eliminated, the number of components can be reduced, the transmitter 40 can be made smaller, and power consumption can be reduced. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0236] 2… Cylinder container 3, 7, 8, 9… Valve device 4… Protective cap 10…Container valve 11… Valve body 14…Open / Close Detection Mechanism 20…Pressure sensor 30…Adapter 30b,5c...Through hole 31,5a...Threaded part 32,5b... Antenna mounting section 40…Transmitter 41... Outdoor temperature sensor 42…Receiver module 43…Transmitter module 43b...Transmission control unit 44... Battery 50… Antenna 51…Receiving antenna 52…Transmitting antenna 60, 80... connecting wires 70… Transmitter with built-in antenna 144... Limit switch S...Protection range X,X2…Container position notification device

Claims

1. A container location notification device that notifies the current location of a cylinder container filled with fluid, Antennas for transmitting and receiving various signals, The system is equipped with a transmitter that transmits a signal indicating the current location via the antenna, The aforementioned antenna, It is configured to be fixable to the outer surface of the protective cap that protects the container valve attached to the cylinder container, or to a portion adjacent to the protective cap, The transmitter is located within the protected area protected by the protective cap. The aforementioned antenna is located outside the protected area. The antenna and the transmitter are connected by a connecting wire, enabling communication between them. The aforementioned antenna, The antenna fixing portion is fixed to the cap mounting portion for which the protective cap is attached, on the opposite side from the container valve, The aforementioned connecting wire, A through hole that penetrates the antenna fixing portion from the surface of the cap mounting portion surrounded by the protective cap. Container location notification device.

2. The aforementioned antenna, It is formed in a flexible, thin plate shape and fixed along the surface of the antenna fixing part. The container position notification device according to claim 1.

3. The cap mounting portion and the antenna fixing portion are, The adapter is separate from the aforementioned cylinder container and is attached to the cylinder container. The antenna is fixed to the antenna fixing part of the adapter. A container position notification device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The container valve is provided with a detection means for detecting the state of the cylinder container, The aforementioned transmitter is Based on the state of the cylinder detected by the detection means, a signal indicating the current location is transmitted. The container position notification device according to claim 1.

5. The antenna is integrally provided with the transmitter. The system includes a connecting wire that connects the detection means and the transmitter. The aforementioned transmitter, The antenna fixing portion is fixed to the cap mounting portion for which the protective cap is attached, on the opposite side from the container valve, The aforementioned connecting wire, A through hole that penetrates the antenna fixing portion from the surface of the cap mounting portion surrounded by the protective cap. The container position notification device according to claim 4.

6. The cap mounting portion and the antenna fixing portion are, The adapter is separate from the aforementioned cylinder container and is attached to the cylinder container. The transmitter, which is integrally equipped with the aforementioned antenna, The antenna fixing portion of the adapter is fixed The container position notification device according to claim 5.

7. The container valve is provided with a detection means for detecting the state of the cylinder container, The aforementioned transmitter is The signal indicating the current location is associated with information indicating the state of the cylinder container detected by the detection means and transmitted. The container position notification device according to claim 1.

8. The aforementioned antenna, It is equipped with a receiving antenna that receives various signals and a transmitting antenna that transmits various signals. The aforementioned transmitter, A receiving module that receives a predetermined signal for determining the current location via the receiving antenna, The system includes a transmitting module that transmits location information based on the predetermined signal for identifying the current location as a signal indicating the current location via the transmitting antenna. The container position notification device according to claim 1.

9. The container valve is provided with a detection means for detecting the state of the cylinder container, The aforementioned transmitter, A transmitting module that transmits a signal indicating the current location via the antenna, A battery that supplies power to the transmission module, The system includes a switching means for switching the on state and the off state of the transmission module based on the state of the cylinder container detected by the detection means. The container position notification device according to claim 1.

10. A pressure sensor for detecting the internal pressure of the cylinder container, It includes an ambient temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the cylinder container, The aforementioned transmitter, Based on the internal pressure of the cylinder container and the ambient temperature or the temperature of the cylinder container, a signal indicating the current location is transmitted via the antenna. The container position notification device according to claim 1.

11. The aforementioned transmitter, The system includes a transmission interval control means for transmitting the signal indicating the current location at intervals of a predetermined time or longer. The container position notification device according to claim 1.

12. A valve device attached to a cylinder container filled with fluid, A container valve having a valve body with a fluid passage formed inside through which a fluid flows, and an on / off valve for opening and closing the fluid passage, Antennas for transmitting and receiving various signals, A transmitter that transmits a signal indicating the current location via the antenna, The container valve is protected by a cap mounting portion, to which a protective cap is attached. The cap mounting portion is adjacent to the container valve on the opposite side from the container valve, and the antenna is fixed to the antenna. The transmitter is located within the protected area protected by the protective cap. The aforementioned antenna is located outside the protected area. The antenna and the transmitter are connected by a connecting wire, enabling communication between them. The aforementioned antenna, The antenna fixing portion is fixed to the cap mounting portion for which the protective cap is attached, on the opposite side from the container valve, The aforementioned connecting wire, It is inserted through a through hole that penetrates the antenna fixing portion from the surface of the cap mounting portion surrounded by the protective cap. Valve device.

13. The container valve is provided with a detection means for detecting the state of the cylinder container, The aforementioned transmitter is Based on the state of the cylinder detected by the detection means, a signal indicating the current location is transmitted. The valve device according to claim 12.

14. The container valve is provided with a detection means for detecting the state of the cylinder container, The aforementioned transmitter is The signal indicating the current location is associated with information indicating the state of the cylinder container detected by the detection means and transmitted. The valve device according to claim 12.

15. The cap mounting portion and the antenna fixing portion are, The adapter is separate from the container valve and is attached to the cylinder container. The antenna is fixed to the antenna fixing part of the adapter. The valve device according to any one of claims 12 to 14.

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